The paper presents a study leading to a new acute toxicity test on embryonic and juvenile organisms of the great pond snail (Lymnaea stagnalis Linnaeus). Sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and ammonium hydroxide were used as waterborne toxicants in laboratory experiments. The exposure time was 24 h. Tests were conducted in 5–10 replications for each toxicant. The toxicity of the substances was classif...

After the significant population decline of several pelagic fish species in the Northern Sacramento-San Joaquin (SSJ) Estuary (CA, USA) in 2002, a study was performed to monitor water column toxicity using the amphipod Hyalella azteca. From January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2007, water samples were collected biweekly from 15 to 16 sites located in large delta channels and main-stem rivers, select...

Although glufosinate ammonium herbicides are considered safe when used properly, ingestion of the undiluted form can cause grave outcomes. Recently, we treated a 34-yr-old man who ingested glufosinate ammonium herbicide. In the course of treatment, the patient developed apnea, mental deterioration, and sixth cranial nerve palsy; he has since been discharged with full recovery after intensive ca...

Three different ionene polymers with varying quaternary ammonium moieties were used as a proof of concept for the formulation of antisense oligonucleotides, which are capable of inhibiting Renilla luciferase messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA). Cationic vesicles, consisting of cationic polymer, antisense oligonucleotide (Luc) and non-ionic surfactant polysorbate 80, were investigated regarding th...

The gastric pathogen Helicobacter pylori possesses a highly active urease to support acid tolerance. Urea hydrolysis occurs inside the cytoplasm, resulting in the production of NH3 that is immediately protonated to form NH4 (+). This ammonium must be metabolized or effluxed because its presence within the cell is counterproductive to the goal of raising pH while maintaining a viable proton moti...

Developing Hormosira banksii embryos, used as bioassays in toxicity studies, identified ammonium as a toxicant in secondary treated sewage effluent discharged at Boags Rocks, Victoria, Australia. Ammonium did not affect fertilization but had a significant effect on germination at 48 h and cell division at 72 h with most damage occurring in the first 48 h. Ammonium showed a similar effect as who...