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Current Project

Analytical Chemistry Division (V)
and
Physical and Biophysical Chemistry Division (I)

 

Number: 2003-056-2-500

Title: Standard definitions of terms relating to mass spectrometry

Task Group
Chairman:
Kermit K. Murray

Members: Robert K. Boyd, Marcos N. Eberlin, G. John Langley, Liang Li, Yasuhide Naito, and Jean-Claude Tabet

Objective:
To update and extend the definitions of terms related to the field of mass spectrometry.

Description:
Widely accepted standard definitions of terms are necessary for clear communication in the discussion and dissemination of results. This is particularly important for multidisciplinary fields such as mass spectrometry. During the last decade of the 20th century, the field of mass spectrometry has seen a revolutionary change in practice and scope. The introduction of soft ionization methods for the analysis of biological molecules has expanded the scope of mass spectrometry from its early roots in the analysis of inorganic and organic species into the fields of biology and medicine. This expansion in scope and length of time since the last update of standard terms and definitions make it important to undertake a revision of these terms at this time.

Definitions of terms for mass spectrometry is under the purview of IUPAC Analytical Chemistry Division (Division V). The most recent edition of these terms and definitions can be found in Chapter 12 of the Compendium of Analytical Nomenclature (“Orange Book”), prepared in 1993, with addenda in 1993 and 1994. The goal of this project is to update these terms and definitions in close conjunction with the mass spectrometry journals, national mass spectrometry societies, and the International Mass Spectrometry Society.

Sources of mass spectrometry nomenclature that will be reviewed include, the Orange Book, Price, P., "Standard Definitions of Terms Relating to Mass Spectrometry," J. Am. Soc. Mass Spectrom. 1991, 2, 336-348, David Sparkman, “Mass Spectrometry Desk Reference” Global View Publishing, 2000, and various web-based glossaries (Spectroscopynow.com, I-mass.com, genomicglossaries.com, etc.).

Progress:
In March 2004, to facilitate discussion, a website msterms.com has been set up that has links to on-line versions of the current terminology and discussion forums for comments and suggestions.
> www.msterms.com

The site is in the user editable “Wiki” format and has information related to the project, news and project updates. The current and revised list of terms is posted on the site and can be freely edited and commented upon.

The Project was publicly introduced at the 2004 American Society for Mass Spectrometry meeting in Nashville, Tennessee, 23-27 May 2004. A poster presentation entitled "Updating the List of Terms and
Definitions for Mass Spectrometry" was on display all week.
> Nov 2004 report update (pdf file - 13KB)

> May 2006 report update (pdf file - 13KB)

Aug 2006 - A manuscript is being prepared for publication in Pure Appl. Chem. A final document is submitted to public review comments until 31 Jan 2007.
> see provisional recommendations

 

Last Update: 6 Sep 2006

<project announcement published in Chem. Int 26(3), p. 23>

If you want to update this information, contact us by e-mail
Do not forget to include the Project Number,
your name and relation with that project


Page last modified 6 September 2006.
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