Trends in education in analytical chemistry

Summary At the session of the WPAC of Fechem on education in analytical chemistry it was concluded that it is now essential to include chemometrics and basic knowledge of computers in all courses on analytical chemistry.

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Tendenzen in der analytisch-chemischen Ausbildung

Zusammenfassung Bei einer Tagung der WPAC über die Lehre auf dem Gebiet der analytischen Chemie wurde bei der Betrachtung neuer Aspekte festgestellt, daß vor allem Chemometrie und Grundkenntnisse in Computertechnik in die Ausbildung aufgenommen werden sollten.

     

Biological nanostructures: platforms for analytical chemistry at the sub-zeptomolar level

The analysis and manipulation of molecules at the sub-zeptomolar level (i.e., from 1 to 600 molecules) remains the unconquered frontier of analytical chemistry. While some techniques offer sensitivity to single molecules, there are no established tools for the manipulation of such small quantities of material. Scanning probe lithography has begun to provide practicable means to manipulate biological organisation on length scales of 100 nm and less, and three promising approaches (dip-pen nanolithography, nanoshaving, and scanning near-field photolithography) are reviewed. Each offers extraordinary spatial resolution combined with the capability for use under ambient and, in some cases, fluid conditions. These techniques offer a multitude of strategies that may at last make the manipulation of handfuls of molecules--and perhaps single molecules--a practical possibility for the analytical chemist.     

Standardization, quality control and education in analytical chemistry

Quality matters have always been an intrinsic component of any curriculum in analytical chemistry. The realizations in the past have shown a wide variability in different countries. With the on-going internationalization of trade this is not a satisfactory situation as the goal of a measurement science supporting this globalization must encompass compatible measurement systems. In order to meet these requirements as soon as possible, and not just with future generations of yet-to-be-trained college graduates, a vigorous program of postgraduate education in analytical quality assurance is necessary in all countries, many of which have already recognized this need and introduced special courses dealing with these topics.This contribution presents a compilation of the most important current developments in analytical quality assurance as these also define the most urgent needs to reshape the educational process for graduates and post-graduates alike. Quantitative concepts are emphasized and the correlations between them are highlighted. Suggestions for topics to be covered in a 4-day post-graduate course on analytical quality assurance are given, based on more than five years of experience.Dedicated to my mother, Dr. med. univ. Gerda Wegscheider, on the occasion of her 70th birthday     

S-nitrosothiol chemistry at the single-molecule level

SNO patrol: S-Nitrosothiols (RSNO) are important molecules involved in cell signaling, which control physiological processes such as vasodilation and bronchodilation. By using the protein pore α-hemolysin as a nanoreactor, the biological chemistry of RSNO has been investigated at the single-molecule level.     

Nucleation in analytical chemistry

Precipitation involves two processes, nucleation and subsequent crystal growth. The nucleation process is of extreme importance in determining the number and size of the final crystalline particles. The significance of experimental studies of nucleation is discussed and the need for further research indicated.     

Chemiluminescence in analytical chemistry

Analytical applications based on chemiluminescence are reviewed. Analyses in the gas phase for atmospheric pollutants such as sulphur compounds, ozone and oxides of nitrogen are described. The commonest chemiluminescent systems used in the liquid phase are then discussed. Their applications as indicators in different types of titration are outlined. Determinations of organic and inorganic substances are classified according to their action as oxidant, catalyst or inhibitor. Special applications are described in fields such as forensic science, microbiology, polymer technology, radiation chemistry and flow mechanics.     

Quality in analytical chemistry

Summary In order to enhance the quality of analyticochemical statements it is common practice, to optimize the analytical method. But furthermore it is also necessary to fit the design of the study including sampling procedures and calibrations to the aims of the investigation and its consequences as close as possible. The presentation of results should mention all premises which were not empirically tested. To prevent misinterpretation of the results, their respective field of application should be specified. As regards the characterization of methods, it must be explained whether it is to be valid for a specific analysis series, for a measuring system or for the method as such. Thus, the quality in analytical chemistry is measurable in terms of the scientific nature of the statements; that is in terms of their degree of objective verifiability and in terms of their deduction by recognized methods of all disciplines involved, including statistics.     

Markers in analytical chemistry

The growing use of markers in analytical literature in the 10 years, 1991-2000, is presented and discussed because of their relevance in modern analytical chemistry. The complementary and contradictory aspects of markers and others related words, such as tracer, indicator, index, labelling compound, etc., are clarified. To offer a general overview, several classifications of markers are outlined. The main distinction between markers is their internal or external fitness for purpose. Selected examples are assessed on this basis.     

Ultrasound in analytical chemistry

Ultrasound is a type of energy which can help analytical chemists in almost all their laboratory tasks, from cleaning to detection. A generic view of the different steps which can be assisted by ultrasound is given here. These steps include preliminary operations usually not considered in most analytical methods (e.g. cleaning, degassing, and atomization), sample preparation being the main area of application. In sample preparation ultrasound is used to assist solid-sample treatment (e.g. digestion, leaching, slurry formation) and liquid-sample preparation (e.g. liquid–liquid extraction, emulsification, homogenization) or to promote heterogeneous sample treatment (e.g. filtration, aggregation, dissolution of solids, crystallization, precipitation, defoaming, degassing). Detection techniques based on use of ultrasonic radiation, the principles on which they are based, responses, and the quantities measured are also discussed.