From the Editorpublications.iupac.org/ci/2005/2703/may05.pdf · 2019-02-27 · From the Editor CHEMISTRY International The News Magazine of the International Union of Pure and

From the Editor

CHEMISTRY InternationalThe News Magazine of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC)

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Managing Editor: Fabienne MeyersProduction Editor: Chris BrouwerDesign: CB Communications

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SubscriptionsSix issues of Chemistry International (ISSN 0193-6484) will be published bimonthly in 2005 (onevolume per annum) in January, March, May, July,September, and November. The 2005 subscriptionrate is USD 99.00 for organizations and USD 45.00for individuals. Subscription orders may be placeddirectly with the IUPAC Secretariat. AffiliateMembers receive CI as part of their Membershipsubscription, and Members of IUPAC bodies receiveCI free of charge.

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ISSN 0193-6484

Due to some fortuitous coincidences, this issue of CI is focused onthe role of chemistry in addressing the major challenges facingAfrica. Some compelling perspectives are provided on how the

continent's problems might be addressed by a concerned internationalcommunity of chemists.

The issue starts with the reflections of our current past president, PietSteyn, who reminds us of his own experience and the challenges of ourchanging world. From his home country of South Africa he considerswhat role IUPAC should play and what kind of rewards and challenges arefaced by those involved in the business of the Union.

Next, a feature on page 8 addresses the “food question.” Written byIkenna Onyido, the article reports on the progress and development ofCHEMRAWN XII, which will explore how to use chemistry to increase sus-tainable agriculture and human well-being. While CHEMRAWN XII willfocus primarily on Sub-Saharan Africa, the “food question” constitutes a

worldwide challenge. An importantbackground paper on the subjectwas presented by Gbolagade Ayoolaat a workshop held last August inArusha, Tanzania, after the 9thChemistry Conference in Africa. Thatpaper, as Onyido describes it, isstimulating, very informative, and

well researched. Ayoola discusses the roots of the food security problemand provides a framework for the proactive engagement of the scientificcommunity. CI readers are encouraged to look behind these printedpages and review the CHEMRAWN project online. In order for the con-ference to tackle these pressing issues, support is needed from stake-holders and donor agencies. Interested parties should contact ProfessorIkenna Onyido, chairman of the conference steering committee.

In the recently initiated series on emerging issues in developing coun-tries, Nelson Torto discusses, from Botswana, the challenges of practicinganalytical chemistry in Sub-Saharan Africa (see page 11). His pragmaticvision comes across with enthusiasm. He too welcomes your comments.

Fabienne [email protected]/publications/ci

Past President’s Column 2

FeaturesJoseph Priestley: Radical Thinker by Mary Ellen Bowden 4CHEMRAWM XII: Exploring Solutions to Africa’s Food Crisis

by Ikenna Onyido 8

Up for DiscussionEmerging Issues in Developing Countries: Challenges of

Practicing Analytical Chemistry in Sub-Saharan Africa by Nelson Torto 11

Simples and Compounds Letters from Eric Scerri and John E. Hammond 12

IUPAC WireThe IUPAC Poster Prize Program 14Making an imPACt 16Coplen Honored 16Subcommittee Members Teach Short Course

on Medicinal Chemistry 17Remembering Two Prominent IUPAC Members 18

The Project PlacePublic Understanding of Science: Identifying IUPAC’s Niche 19Uncertainty Estimation and Figures of Merit for Multivariate

Calibration 19A Joint OPCW–IUPAC Project on Education and Outreach

Regarding Chemical Weapons 20Categorizing Hydrogen Bonding and Other Intermolecular

Interactions 20Comparable pH Measurements by Metrological Traceability 21Equilibria in Solution: A Software Aid 22Provisional Recommendations IUPAC Seeks Your Comments 24

Making an imPACtPractical Guide for Measurement and Interpretation of

Magnetic Properties 25

BookwormAn Ontology on Property for Physical, Chemical, and

Biological Systems 26Spectroscopy of Partially Ordered Macromolecular Systems 27

Conference CallCoordination Chemistry by Silvia E. Catillo-Blum 28Polymer Networks 2004 by Ferenc Horkay 28Trace Elements in Food by Michael Bickel 30Chemical Education and Sustainable Development

by Natalia P. Tarasova 31Chemistry for Agriculture by Adam Pawelczyk 33

Where 2B & Y 34

Mark Your Calendar 37

Beijing General Assembly Schedule inside back cover

Section head cont NEWCHEMISTRY International May-June 2005 Volume 27 No. 3

Contents

Affiliate Members will find enclosed with this issue their certificate andcard for 2005–2006. See www.iupac.org/affiliates for more information.

Past President’s Column

2 CHEMISTRY International May-June 2005

Looking Back andPondering the Future

by Piet Steyn

IUPAC has played, and is des-tined to continually play, avitally important role in advanc-

ing the “worldwide role of chem-istry for the benefit of mankind.” Asan international non-governmentalorganization of member countries,IUPAC focuses on the needs ofboth the developed and the devel-oping world. At this stage of my

IUPAC career, the time is apposite to be reflective onthe role of IUPAC in developing countries, such as myhome country of South Africa, and to revisit my per-sonal involvement in IUPAC, which always brought megreat joy and satisfaction.

Within IUPAC, we should always strive to con-tribute to attaining the six long-range goals of theUnion. I fully subscribe to the pursuit of these loftygoals:

provide leadership as a worldwide scientific organi-zation that objectively addresses global issuesinvolving the chemical sciencesfacilitate the advancement of research in thechemical sciences through the tools that it pro-vides for international standardization and scien-tific discussionassist chemistry-related industry in its contributionto sustainable development, wealth creation, andimprovement in the quality of lifefoster communication among individual chemistsand scientific organizations, with special emphasison the needs of chemists in developing countriesutilize its global perspective and network to con-tribute to the enhancement of chemistry education,the career development of young chemical scien-tists, and the public appreciation of chemistrybroaden its national membership base and seekthe maximum feasible diversity in membership ofIUPAC bodies in terms of geography, gender, andage

As far as I can remember, the first IUPAC-sponsored

symposium in South Africa, broadly directed at industryand the environment, was held in 1969 at the Universityof the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. This event pre-sented to many young South Africans, including myself,the first opportunity to participate in a truly interna-tional chemistry symposium in our country. During theperiod of isolation in South Africa, IUPAC sponsored anumber of top-quality meetings and ensured invaluablelinks to the international world of science. In August1982, I was intimately involved in the organization of the13th IUPAC Symposium on the Chemistry of NaturalProducts, Pretoria. In July 1985, I acted as organizingchairman of the 6th IUPAC International Symposium onMycotoxins and Phycotoxins, held in Pretoria. In 1996, Ialso organized a one-day IUPAC symposium titled “ASustainable Environment—National and InternationalPerspectives.”

Over the years, IUPAC contributed extensively topolymer sciences in Africa by co-sponsoring work-shops on this subject at the UNESCO Centre ofPolymer Science at Stellenbosch University. In fact, 12South African chemists served the international scien-tific world by their membership on IUPAC Divisionsand various committees, including CHEMRAWN,Chemistry Education, and Chemistry and Industry.Currently, James Bull of Cape Town University servesas scientific editor of Pure and Applied Chemistry, theflagship journal of the Union. Three more scientists arecurrently involved in IUPAC projects, and 16 are IUPACfellows.

Scientists from South Africa and from a number ofother countries benefited from IUPAC’s strong standon the ICSU principle of the free circulation of all bonafide scientists. IUPAC sponsorship of scientific meet-ings always guarantees scientific quality, merit, andexcellence. It is therefore not surprising that SouthAfrican chemists, who longed to be part of the inter-national world of science and learning, initially joinedIUPAC in its Affiliate Membership Program. In additionto the 30 or so Members and Fellows, South Africaalso counts 50 IUPAC Affiliates. To be an Affiliate is agood way to learn gradually about IUPAC and stayacquainted with the Union’s activities. I would like tomake a plea to readers of Chemistry International toshare with your colleagues your experiences withIUPAC and motivate them to become affiliates.

As a South African, I am deeply committed to thescience-based technological development of theAfrican continent, a continent rich in human potentialand natural resources. However, it is disconcerting

3CHEMISTRY International May-June 2005

that only two countries from Africa—South Africa andEgypt—retain full membership in the Union despiteseveral concerted efforts to lobby support for increas-ing membership in the Union. The value of research atuniversities and at research institutes in Africa is cur-rently receiving the attention of highly influentialinternational bodies. Perhaps the year 2005 could wit-ness the dawn of a new era of science and technologyfor Africa.

While IUPAC is an organization whose formal mem-bers are chemical societies or academies, it is never-theless “all about people.” Top chemists worldwidecontribute to IUPAC on a voluntary basis toward theworldwide advancement of chemistry. Since 1973, as ayoung chemist from a developing country, until thepresent, I have had the won-derful opportunity of inter-acting with the IUPACleadership, particularly inmore recent years veryclosely with Presidents Bard,Zamaraev, Fischli, Jortner,and Hayes. It was equally sat-isfying to collaborate withSecretary Generals GuyOurisson, Tom West, Gerrit den Boef, and Ted Becker.

I was elected in 1973 during the Munich (Germany)General Assembly as an associate member of the FoodContaminants Commission of what was then theApplied Chemistry Division. I contributed to the chem-istry of mycotoxins—toxic substances produced byfungi—and in subsequent years actively participated inthe many IUPAC-sponsored mycotoxin symposiums.

In subsequent years I was elected vice-presidentand president (1991–1995) of the Applied ChemistryDivision and played a key role, under the leadership ofAlbert Fischli, in its reconfiguration into the successfulChemistry and the Environment Division.

At the General Assembly in 1999, I was electedIUPAC president; serving as vice president (presidentelect) in 2000–2001 and president in 2002–2003.Now, as direct past president, I also serve on theScientific Advisory Committee of the 40th IUPACCongress: Innovation in Chemistry, which will takeplace in Beijing in August 2005. As planned, theCongress stands to contribute significantly to the sci-ence-based development of China and the Far Easterncountries. IUPAC is dedicated to ensuring the successof the Congress in Beijing, and I make now a second

plea to readers to actively participate in this high-pro-file scientific event.

A distinct highlight of my IUPAC career was work-ing as a member of the Strategy Development andImplementation Committee under the inspirationalleadership of Joshua Jortner and Ted Becker. Theteam effort led to the transformation of IUPAC froman old-fashioned commission-driven organization to avibrant modern project-driven organization. It wasmost gratifying to learn at the Bureau meeting inSlovenia in October 2004 that the project system is, infact, working well.

Many good things developed over the last fewyears. I have already alluded to the IUPAC vision state-ment and the defining of our six long-term goals. In

addition, more recently, theGovernance Structure Com-mittee was established underthe leadership of Leiv Sydnes,my highly valued colleagueand the current IUPAC presi-dent. To alleviate financialmarket fluctuations and easeour national membershipdues, mechanisms were

developed, with the help of the Finance Committeeand the Treasurer Christoph Buxtorf, to enable thebilling of national subscriptions in national currencies.In addition, IUPAC received much credit for its profes-sional advice to the Organization for the Prohibition ofChemical Weapons on the impact of scientificadvances of the Chemical Weapons Convention.

In December 2003, as IUPAC president, I partici-pated in a conference devoted to research and edu-cation in the Middle East. The meeting succeeded inattracting top-level chemists from the Middle Easterncountries and undoubtedly led to a better under-standing among the scientists living in that part of theworld.

A conspicuous point in IUPAC’s environmentalactivities was, beyond a doubt, the SCOPE/IUPACSymposium on Endocrine Active Substances held inYokohama, Japan, in November 2002. The papersemanating from the workshop filled a record editionof Pure and Applied Chemistry. I wish to pay specialhomage to our dear colleague Junshi Miyamoto, whoas president of the Chemistry and the EnvironmentDivision, inspired this scientific triumph. In April 2003,while the outcome of this project was being finalized,

It is disconcerting that only twocountries from Africa—SouthAfrica and Egypt—retain full

membership in the Uniondespite several concerted

efforts . . .

continued on page 7

Chemical Heritage Foundation’sExhibit on Joseph Priestley IncludesRare Instruments and Papers

by Mary Ellen Bowden

Visiting Philadelphia before the end of July2005? The Chemical Heritage Foundation isholding an exhibit, Joseph Priestley, Radical

Thinker, that chemists should not miss.

Although Joseph Priestley (1733–1804) is bestremembered for his contributions to chemistry, hismany pursuits included theology, politics, education,and several areas of scientific inquiry. At the entranceto the exhibit, an air pump (on loan from the FranklinInstitute) that belonged to Priestley when he lived inNorthumberland, Pennsylvania, from 1794 to 1804,serves as a reminder of his fame as a natural philoso-pher. But nearby representations of a dozen or so ofPriestley’s friends and foes give the visitor an earlyindication of Priestley’s importance in eighteenth-cen-tury politics and religion as well.

A portrait of Antoine-Laurent Lavoisier, one of thetwo other contenders for title of “discoverer” of oxy-gen, is mounted on a wall near images and itemsrelated to members of the Lunar Society ofBirmingham and founders of the Industrial Revolution.Their ranks include Matthew Boulton and James Wattas well as Josiah Wedgwood, who is represented byhis famous jasperware plaques and a commemorativeplate.

A portrait of King George III’s prime minister,William Pitt the Younger, is included because he wasone of Priestley’s most resolute political foes. In onedisplay case, Priestley’s Experiments andObservations on Different Kinds of Air, volume I

(1774), open to its dedication page,acknowledges the patronage from1773 to 1780 of another politician,William Petty, Earl of Shelburne.Great political thinkers were amongPriestley’s sparring partners, includ-ing Edmund Burke and ThomasPaine, who, as different as their the-ories were from each other, wereonce Priestley’s admirers but even-tually became his foes. JeremyBentham, another political theorist,once wrote that he owed toPriestley the famous phrase “thegreatest happiness of the greatestnumber.”

Priestley’s fame and influence in America precededhis arrival there by decades. He maintained personalfriendships with both Benjamin Franklin and JohnAdams from the days when those men were Americandiplomats in London (though his relationship withAdams soured over time). Priestley’s writings on reli-gion, politics, education, and natural philosophy werewell known to many more Americans, includingThomas Jefferson and various ministers leaningtowards Unitarianism, as well as those religious lead-ers who were scandalized by doubts raised byPriestley concerning the divinity of Jesus.

In the main exhibit area beckon the brass and glassof Priestley’s career as a natural philosopher. On loanfrom Dickinson College, a reflecting telescope, micro-scope, surveyor’s compass, and voltaic pile (thoughtto be a gift from Alessandro Volta to Priestley) imme-diately alert the viewer that Priestley thoroughly pur-sued several sciences other than chemistry. HisHistory and Present State of Electricity (1767), inspiredby Benjamin Franklin, was Priestley’s first book in thesciences.

The exhibit’s most eye-catching apparatus is theSmithsonian Institution’s reproduction of one ofPriestley’s burning glasses, used to focus sunlightthrough lenses as a relatively clean way of heatingsubstances to high temperatures. Magnificent originalglassware (also from the Smithsonian) from Priestley’sNorthumberland laboratory shines in a nearby exhibitcabinet. After his arrival in Northumberland—a 130-mile wagon ride over bumpy roads from Philadelphia—Priestley continued to obtain the bulk of his glass-ware from England. The pneumatic trough that is mostemblematic of Priestley’s research on “airs” (gases) is


The exhibition entrance at the ChemicalHeritage Foundation.

Joseph Priestley: Radical Thinker

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depicted in blown-upillustrations from Experi-ments and Observationson Different Kinds of Air.

Modern chemistsmight be interested tofollow the details of howPriestley originally dis-covered oxygen, whichdid not actually takeplace on the oft-citeddate of 1 August 1774. Onthat date he thought hehad produced “phlogisti-cated nitrous air” (N2O)from mercury calx (MgO)heated in a vessel set in atrough of mercury, sincea lighted candle flared inthe air so produced. Itwas in March 1775—months after his return

from France, where he had mentioned this experimentto Lavoisier—that Priestley resumed his experimenta-tion with mercury calx. This time, he carried out a suc-cession of tests on the air produced. He observed thatwhen he conducted his “nitrous air” (NO) test for the“goodness” of “common” or atmospheric air (the redfumes generated [NO2] indicated in reality the pres-ence of oxygen), a candle would burn or a mousecould breathe in the remains of a sample of this air.Reiteration of the tests led him to the conclusion thathe had produced an air five times better than atmos-pheric air. He named this new substance “dephlogisti-cated air.”

The exhibit attempts to give a sympathetic accountof the appeal of “phlogiston” to Priestley, Scheele,Lavoisier (initially), and virtually all their chemical con-temporaries. As a substance that could be transferredfrom one compound to another and dramaticallychanged the properties of the substances to which itunited, phlogiston explained a number of importantreactions. Despite Priestley’s frequently proclaimeddistrust of the role of theories in natural philosophyand his declared willingness to give up the theory ofphlogiston should it be disproved, he clung to it untilhis dying day. Contributing to that obstinacy may wellhave been his astuteness as an observer. Repeatedlyhe produced results that Lavoisier and other oxygenchemists could not explain—disregarding the fact that

oxygen explanations seemed to work pretty well onthe whole, if not in every circumstance.

Two items in the exhibit bracket Priestley’s longfight with the oxygen chemists. One is a manuscriptcopy of Priestley’s “Experiments Relating toPhlogiston and the Conversion of Water into Air”(read before the Royal Society in 1783), in whichPriestley responded formally for the first time toLavoisier’s attacks on phlogiston. The first presenta-tion of Priestley’s research to the AmericanPhilosophical Society was a reading by SamuelVaughan in 1784 of this manuscript. An inscribed copyof Priestley’s final chemical work, The Doctrine ofPhlogiston Established, and that of the Composition ofWater Refuted (Northumberland, 1800), demon-strates poignantly thatPriestley never gave up.

The exhibit also delves intoPriestley’s religion and politics.As a Dissenter, he vigorouslyargued in books, pamphlets,and sermons that establishedchurches, such as the Churchof England, had corruptedChristianity, that all peopleshould enjoy religious free-dom, and that the ideals ofboth the American and Frenchrevolutions should beapplauded. As a consequenceof these views, Priestley wasmade public enemy numberone by political and religiousleaders in Birmingham, wherehe served as minister of NewMeeting from 1780 to 1791.Forewarned of possible vio-lence, Priestley did not attenda dinner held 14 July 1791 tocommemorate the secondanniversary of the storming ofthe Bastille. Disappointed at

“Yours is one of the few lives precious tomankind, and for the continuance ofwhich every thinking man is solicitous . . .”Thomas Jefferson to Joseph Priestley, 21 March 1801

Double-lens burning glassreplica. Image courtesy of

the Smithsonian Institution,National Museum of

American History, BehringCenter.

Engraving from Expérienceset Observations sur differ-entes espèces d’Air; Roy G.Neville Historical ChemicalLibrary; Chemical HeritageFoundation.

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not finding Priestley among the diners, the rioters setfire to New Meeting, Priestley’s home and laboratory,and a score of other buildings belonging to otherBirmingham Dissenters.

This stretch of the exhibit is particularly enriched bya dozen eighteenth-century political cartoons givensome years ago to the Chemical Heritage Foundationby Derek Davenport, professor emeritus of chemistryat Purdue University. In one cartoon, Priestley—withcharacteristic pointy nose and curly wig—breathes firefrom a pulpit occupied by three Unitarian ministers. Inanother, he leads a toast with a chalice and calls forKing George’s head to be placed on the emptyCommunion plate that he bears. In still another, heconsoles the king, who is about to be beheaded, thatby his execution he isdoing a great service tothe nation.

Like today’s politicalbuttons, here, too, aremedals lent by RoyOlofson, professor emeri-tus of chemistry atPennsylvania State Uni-versity. Commissioned byfriends and foes, thesemedals show Priestley as ascion of democratic idealsor a threat to public safety.

Lent by the Pennsylva-nia Historical and MuseumCommission, the lock andkey salvaged from Priest-ley’s house in Birminghamis a remarkable relic sym-bolizing the strife of thisperiod in Priestley’s life. So, too, is Priestley’s letter ofresignation to his Birmingham congregation, writtenfrom London, where he and his family fled immedi-ately after the riots. He believed that his return toBirmingham could only bring further harm to hisfriends. This is the author-retained copy now held bythe American Philosophical Society.

In 1794, under threat of arrest, Priestley and his wifemoved to the United States to join their three sons,who were planning to set up a utopian society in cen-tral Pennsylvania. Although the utopia did not materi-alize, the family settled there, and Priestley made veryoccasional trips to Philadelphia. Even in the UnitedStates he proved to be a controversial figure. In

Philadelphia, only the Universalists—who like theUnitarians believed in universal salvation—permittedhim to preach from their pulpit. His preaching was soeffective that it inspired the founding in 1796 of theFirst Unitarian Church in Philadelphia. Off in the hin-terlands of Pennsylvania, Priestley’s supposed sympa-thies with efforts to entangle the United States in analliance with France against Britain almost landed himin prison under the terms of the Alien and SeditionActs of 1798.

The exhibit also includes a corner with some of thetextbooks written by Priestley. He spent many yearsas a teacher and educational adviser, usually combin-ing such activities with preaching. Perhaps the mostradical aspect of his pedagogy was his insistence that

the study of modern his-tory be part of the curricu-lum intended for youngmen preparing to becomemerchants or members ofthe gentry or for youngwomen preparing to betheir wives. In the UnitedStates, Priestley continuedto enjoy a reputation as agreat educator. Thetrustees of the Universityof Pennsylvania electedhim professor of chem-istry, a position that hedeclined. Among othersigns of this veneration,Jefferson turned to him foradvice in founding theUniversity of Virginia.

The exhibit concludeswith reflections on the Priestley heritage, including aproof for the American Chemical Society’s PriestleyMedal. For browsing, there is an eight-foot shelf of booksabout Priestley, including the recently published secondvolume of Robert Schofield’s magnum opus, TheEnlightened Joseph Priestley: A Study of His Life andWork from 1773 to 1804 (Pennsylvania State UniversityPress, 2004).

Acknowledgement

Joseph Priestley, Radical Thinker is generously spon-sored by the Lounsbery Foundation. CHF has con-tributed texts, images, and objects from its own

Joseph Priestley: Radical Thinker

Dr. Priestley’s House and Laboratory, Fair Hill.Hulmondel after painting by Exted, lithograph; cour-

tesy of the Archives and special collections,Dickinson College, Carlisle, PA; photograph by

Gregary Tobias.

collections, including theRoy G. Neville HistoricalChemical Library and theDerek Davenport Collection,and gratefully acknowledgesthe loan of objects from thefollowing people and institu-tions: Archives and SpecialCollections, Dickinson Col-lege, The American Philo-sophical Society, Edgar FahsSmith Collection, Universityof Pennsylvania Library,Franklin Institute ScienceMuseum, Joseph PriestleyHouse, Pennsylvania Histor-ical and Museum Comm-ission, The Library Company of Philadelphia, Roy A.Olofson, Robert E. Schofield, Smithsonian Institution,National Museum of American History, Behring Center,

Special Collections Library,The Pennsylvania StateUniversity Libraries.

The exhibit is open to thepublic weekdays between 10a.m. and 4 p.m. at theChemical Heritage Found-ation, 315 Chestnut Street,Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.For more information or toarrange group visits orguided tours, please e-mail< j o s e p h p r i e s t l e y @chemheritage.org> or call215-925-2222.

Mary Ellen Bowden is senior research histo-rian at the Chemical Heritage Foundation in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

www.chemheritage.org


Dumourier Dining in State at St. James, on the15th of May, 1793. James Gillray (British,

1757–1815), hand-colored etching. Derek A.Davenport Collection, CHF.

Junshi Miyamoto passed away unexpectedly after ashort illness.

Also during my presidency, the naming of element110, darmstadtium, took place during the Councilmeeting in Ottawa. I am delighted that much progresshas been made on this important front and that ele-ment 111 was finally named roentgenium this pastNovember 2004.

Now in its sixth year, it is gratifying to continuereceiving excellent essays from young researchersapplying for the IUPAC Prize for Young Chemists. The60 applications from 22 countries entered for the2005 award are currently being evaluated and it isexpected that the prize winners for this year will beannounced shortly. It will be a privilege to meet andreward these young chemists in a ceremony held atthe coming Congress in Beijing in August.

The Future

IUPAC as a scientific Union is fortunate to have a closerelationship to the chemical industry. However, we are

also exposed daily to the rapidly changing world. It ismost disconcerting, for instance, to learn about theclosure of a chemistry department at a well-estab-lished university. I believe the future lies in attractingthe brightest young minds to the chemical sciencesand by involving them in challenging multidisciplinaryresearch programs. Recent IUPAC-sponsored meet-ings already point the way, as evident from the topicsof these meetings: bio-informatics, electronicallyactive polymers, high-temperature materials, biophys-ical complexity, plasma chemistry, and spectroscopyand macromolecular systems. I am sure that thesetopics and the challenges of nanotechnology and itsapplications will satisfy the brightest of youngchemists. Indeed, the future is not what it used tobe.

Pieter S. Steyn <[email protected]> is the IUPAC past president and chairman of thecommittee adjudicating the Prize for Young Chemists. He has been involved withthe Union since 1973 and is currently senior director of Research Development atStellenbosch University in South Africa.

continued from page 3

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The Chemical Heritage Foundation’s Exhibit

Past President’s Column


Exploring Solutionsto Africa’s Food Crisisby Ikenna Onyido

olving Africa’s hunger crisis, in which at least38 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa aresuffering exceptional food shortages, clearlywill require a multitude of political, economic,

and scientific efforts. One promising project—spear-headed by IUPAC’s CHEMRAWN Committee—is tryingto boost sustainable agriculture in Africa throughchemistry. The main focus of the project is organizingthe CHEMRAWN XII Conference on Chemistry,Sustainable Agriculture, and Human Well Being inSub-Saharan Africa, which will most likely be held in2007. Although details of the conference are beingworked out, a foundation of enthusiastic support hasdeveloped across the African continent since a pre-liminary workshop was held 7 August 2004 in Arusha,Tanzania.

On behalf of the CHEMRAWN Committee, a one-dayworkshop was convened as part of the program of theInternational Chemistry Conference in Africa, whichtook place 2–7 August 2004 at the Arusha InternationalConference Center. The 34 participants who attendedthe workshop were drawn from 12 African countries aswell as Sweden, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands,and Bangladesh.

The workshop galvanized “grassroots” support forCHEMRAWN XII by elucidating how the vast array ofanalytical and problem-solving tools of the chemicalsciences can contribute to the quest for food securityin sub-Saharan Africa. Participants were unanimous inwelcoming the objectives of CHEMRAWN XII as com-prehensive, insightful, and adequate for driving a pro-ductive dialogue on ways to promote sustainableagriculture with substantial contributions from chem-istry and chemists. Participants also agreed that itwould be more meaningful for CHEMRAWN XII to beheld in a country where the problems to be discussedduring the conference really exist in tangible forms,such as Ethiopia, Tanzania, Kenya, or Angola.

The focal point of the conference was a back-ground paper, titled The Food Question in Sub-Saharan Africa and the Challenge of ScientificAgriculture, delivered by Professor Gbolagade B.Ayoola, an agricultural economist from the Universityof Agriculture, Makurdi, Nigeria. Ayoola is presentlyPolicy Economist to the International FertilizerDevelopment Center (IFDC)—Marketing InputsRegionally (MIR) project. The paper gave an overviewof the nature and dimensions of the food question andidentified the role of scientific agriculture in address-ing the food problem in sub-Saharan Africa. The paperso nicely framed the issues that participants sug-gested it be incorporated into the documentationused to raise funds and support for the conference.Following are some highlights:

Background to the Food Question—Using a hypo-thetical food problem tree, Ayoola identifies theroot causes of the food problem in the region as (i)poverty, (ii) aberrant and conflicting policies bynational and global bodies, and (iii) socio-eco-nomic discontinuities. The stem of the hypotheticaltree represents the main axis of the food problemwhich consists of (i) inadequate availability of foodand (ii) lack of access to available food. The cumu-lative effects of these are the evident symptoms ofthe food problem, such as starvation, pestilence,and squalor. Some African Perspectives—According to Ayoola,some of the major causes of the grim food securitysituation are subsistence food production byresource- and infrastructure-poor farmers who areunable to adopt proven technologies; focus onexportable cash crops at the expense of sustain-able farming; weak relationship between agricul-

S

What is CHEMRAWN?The CHEMRAWN Committee is a standingCommittee of IUPAC. The acronym CHEMRAWNstands for Chemical Research Applied to WorldNeeds. The committee has organized a number ofimportant conferences that have dealt with specificproblems of global concern or with global implica-tions, bringing together scientists, governmentleaders and policy makers, the private sector,donor agencies, and non-governmental agencies toexamine the problems and come up with action-able recommendations. Concrete follow-up actionsand programs are evolved in these conferencesand these are supervised, managed, and imple-mented by each conference’s Future ActionCommittee (March-April 2003 CI, p. 6).

www.iupac.org/standing/chemrawn.html

CHEMRAWN XII

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ture and industry; limited access to food due topoverty; and widespread incidence of HIV/AIDS,which limits the number of laborers available foragriculture. The Challenge of Scientific Agriculture—Ayoolastates that the long-term objective of food securitycan only be attained by attacking the issues at theroot of the problem, using the two main action pil-lars of technology advancement and market devel-opment, wherein the challenges of scientificagriculture can be located. He identifies a numberof areas that hold promise for scientific agriculture:genetic engineering and bio-control, process tech-nology and management (fertilizers, pesticides,etc.), and product technology (post-harvestpreservation, processing, storage, etc.). The IFDC Model—Ayoola argues that steady scien-tific intervention together with integration of marketsor regional circumstances is superior to ad hoc foodaid as a mode for addressing the food question.

The paper is well researched and very informative. Itnot only forms a basis for discussion, but also will stim-ulate chemists to address issues of sustainable agricul-ture in sub Saharan African.

The second half of the workshop was devoted to afree discussion among the participants on the follow-ing question: “In What Ways Can ChemistryContribute to Food Security and SustainableAgriculture?” Following is a summary of the contribu-tions from participants.

Professor Saka of Malawi suggested that chemistryand chemists can help improve crop/livestock pro-duction and utilization in the following ways:

carry out soil fertility studies that will lead to for-mulation of fertilizers for different soil types andthe utilization of organic matter and wastes for theproduction of fertilizersdevelop more effective disease and pest controlmanagement, including biopesticides forcrops/livestock and stored productsresearch better post-harvest handling methods andfood fortificationexploit non-traditional plants for indigenous fruitsand vegetables

According to Professor Bukuru of Burundi, there isa woeful lack of interface between governments inAfrica and scientists, especially chemists, which meansthat decisions regarding the food problem are notinformed by sound science. So even though there aremany chemists in Africa engaged in research on vari-ous themes relating to the food problem, the results oftheir research are often not brought to the attentionof the decision/policy makers. Therefore, Bukuru sug-gested, the various African chemical societies shouldcollect all relevant research regarding sustainableagriculture and summarize and disseminate it to rele-vant authorities. In general, he stated, avenues should

Workshop Objectivesarticulate the issues that concern chemistry andchemists in the drive for sustainable agriculturein sub-Saharan Africa as well as collate views onthe way forwardgather information on existing or planned proj-ects and conferences on food and nutrition inAfrica and seek ways to ensure that CHEM-RAWN XII acts in concert and cooperation withsuch effortsbrainstorm on how to galvanize professional,financial, and political support in Africa andbeyond for the projectenlist the interest, support, and participation oftop African chemists in the project

CHEMISTRY International May-June 2005

Hypothetical Food Problem Tree. Excerpted from“The Food Question in Sub-Saharan Africa and theChallenge of Scientific Agriculture,” by G. Ayoola.This paper is available online at www.iupac.org/publications/ci/2005/2703/2_crXII.html.


be explored to bring chemists and decision/policymakers together, to act cooperatively in matters relat-ing to enhancing food production and availability.

Professor Jondiko of Kenya suggested the follow-ing areas in which chemists could help increase foodproduction:

production of fertilizers and pesticides from naturalsourcesefficient use of water and reduction of transpira-tion rates of crop plantschemically induced germination of seedsfood conservation technologies that are chemistrybasedagri-waste processing (e.g., rice and wheat husks,maize storers, fruit peels, etc.) to produce rawmaterials for animal feed and fertilizer industries

Dr. Keriko of Kenya provided a compelling exampleof how chemists can help develop sustainable agricul-ture. He discussed how the Jomo Kenyatta Universityis helping to rehabilitate the yellow oleander plant(Theveta peruviana), a drought resistant plant usedfor seed oil production in poor, dry areas of Kenya.The plant is traditionally used as a hedge, for the pro-vision of shade and generally as an ornamental plant.According to Keriko, the plant has a hard seed whoseinner kernel, which is 30% of the seed, contains 61% oil.Analysis of the oil reveals a fatty acid composition thatis similar to the oil commonly used in the manufactureof soaps and detergents. Keriko said that the project isutilizing the oil in the manufacture of soap and cos-metics and is exploring its use as bio-diesel for dieselengines; as well as investigating its edibility.

Professor Bashir of Sudan emphasized the impor-tance of establishing sustainable agricultural practicesthat are based on what is available to the farmer. Forexample, he said, much of agriculture in sub-SaharanAfrica is rain-fed and the yields of crops are low, espe-cially in areas with low volumes and short periods of rain-fall. While there is the need to move into the culture andpractice of irrigated agriculture, he noted that chemistscan do the following things to assist the farmer:

conduct studies on soils and mechanisms for therelease of bound phosphate through the additionof indigenous materials such as organic matterinvestigate how to use natural products as pesti-cides, fertilizers, and food preservatives.formulate fertilizers that are consistent with the dif-ferent requirements of the various soil typesimprove the animal feed industry through research

into alternatives to concentrates and vitaminsdevelop a biotechnological approach to breedingfor resistance to diseases and drought

One way that chemistry can help address the foodquestion in Africa, stated Professor Åkerblom ofSweden, is to encourage the use of what is available.In this regard, she said, food preservation is veryimportant. The food chemist can engage in researchon how to improve the nutritional value of the foodsthat are available. Simple methodologies that resultfrom such research can then be disseminated.

Participants commended the CHEMRAWNCommittee for this laudable initiative. They urged thatno efforts should be spared in organizing the confer-ence because of its inherent potential as a platform forconcerted action by chemists to help transform agri-culture and increase food production and availabilityin sub-Saharan Africa.

Ikenna Onyido <[email protected]>, is professor of chemistry and Directorof the Center for Agrochemical Technology at the University of Agriculture, inMakurdi, Nigeria. He is chairman of the CHEMRAWN XII project.

www.iupac.org/projects/2001/2001-086-1-021.html

Objectives of CHEMRAWN XIICHEMRAWN XII is intended to focus attention onthe food situation in sub-Saharan Africa andexplore ways for chemistry to help make a differ-ence. The objectives of CHEMRAWN XII are sum-marized as follows:

highlight the roles of chemistry in agricultureand recent advances in the chemical aspects ofsoil fertility and management, pest manage-ment, post-harvest technology, biotechnology,and high-value agricultural productsidentify constraints to scientific sustainable agri-culture in the region in the areas of policy andknowledge gapsprovide examples of successful research inchemistry that are relevant to agriculture.develop strategies for transfer and adaptationof low-cost technologies that have worked else-wherepromote other strategic issues relevant to thequest for sustainable agriculture (e.g., private-sector participation, training and involvement ofyoung African chemists in agriculture relatedresearch, gender issues, etc.)

CHEMRAWN XII


A forum for members and member organizations to shareideas and concerns.Send your comments by e-mail to <[email protected]>.

Emerging Issues inDeveloping CountriesThis series, coordinated by Jan-Åke Jönsson, seeks toinform readers, explore new ideas, and promote dis-cussion on themes related to developing countries andemerging analytical communities. The first article inthis series, “How Can IUPAC Facilitate InternationalCollaborative Research?” was published in the March-April 2005 CI. If you wish to contribute to this series,please contact <[email protected]>.

Challenges of Practicing AnalyticalChemistry in Sub-Saharan Africa

by Nelson Torto

Practicing analytical chemistry can be rewardingand challenging as it impacts on agriculture,health, and the environment. Therefore, analyti-

cal chemistry is an important tool for helping peopleliving in poverty. For example, analytical chemistrycan reveal harmful pathogens or substances in air anddrinking water that are making people sick.

It is generally the research needs of the developedworld that dictate the pace and direction of analyticalchemistry research. Thus, because of the huge gapbetween the developed and the developing world inthe ability to harness technology, analytical chemistryneeds and demands are different in the two worlds.

The challenge for analytical chemists working in Sub-Saharan Africa is to maintain a role in their own country,and also to keep in pace with, and establish a profileamongst international colleagues. To achieve this aimthey have to publish in international journals with a highimpact factor, and attend key conferences where theirresearch findings can be presented. The problems pre-sented by such a situation are twofold. For chemistsfrom developing countries, the cutting-edge researchnecessary for recognition might have no relevance tothe critical research, such as developing life-savingmedicine, that is a priority in their home countries. Thisoccurs because either there is no parallel thinkingamongst administrators to adopt the findings or simplyno capacity to institute the new technologies. Secondly,the research findings published in international journalsmight be inaccessible to colleagues within the regionwhere similar experiences need to be shared.

The obvious problem is that there is no mechanismfor disseminating analytical chemistry findings thatmight help disadvantaged populations, but might notnecessarily be cutting edge. It is likely that two neigh-boring scientists might never be able to share theirfindings simply because of poor access to interna-tional publications. Through IUPAC it might be possi-ble to explore a mechanism by which regionallyimportant research findings can be reviewed, evalu-ated, and published, thus ensuring widespread access.

In a recent IUPAC-sponsored conference organizedby the Southern and Eastern Africa Network ofAnalytical Chemists (SEANAC), it was very clear thatmost analytical chemists in Africa were working onvarious aspects of metal and pesticide analysis. Thesemight not necessarily be hot research topics, but theemphasis on these fields would indicate that there is aneed to evaluate and document these research find-ings for the better good of those who are still con-cerned about such issues.

Up for Discussion


Connectivity is another major problem that is facedby many scientists. Many institutions, almost 15 yearsafter the introduction of reliable and fast connectivitythrough the Internet, are still struggling to maintainreliable e-mail and Internet service. There are very fewcountries in Africa that have institutions with a robuste-mail system. It is not uncommon for an institution tobe cut-off from the rest of the world for several weeks.The limitations imposed by poor connectivity canmake it hard to be a reputable scientist. For example,scientists may be unable to receive weekly alerts fromjournals, to communicate with other scientists, and torespond in a timely fashion to communications fromjournal editors.

There are other challenges that need to be noted,including the acquisition and maintenance of scientificinstrumentation and locating reliable suppliers ofchemicals. Because suppliers are mainly from thedeveloped world, it is not always possible to get theservice that would ensure maximizing the usage ofinstrumentation. Generally, service delivery is slow,and at times unpredictable. In order to address theselimitations, the Network of Users of ScientificEquipment of Southern Africa (NUSESA), has beenestablished as an initiative for scientific users to shareexperiences, spare parts, and instrumentation.Similarly, the Network for Analytical and Bioassay inAfrica (NABSA) also provides free analytical services,mainly mass spectrometry and NMR analysis to scien-tists in Africa. These initiatives ensure that theresearch efforts of those who can’t access advancedinstrumentation are not restricted.

The acquisition of chemicals is a special problemfor scientists who live in small countries that are alsolandlocked. Major suppliers have given rights to a fewvendors through which all orders should be made.Although this might have been a good idea in the past,as it generally lowered the freight costs, with theadvent of secure Internet connections and creditcards, it is not justifiable that the old system continuesto operate. Such an arrangement is complicated bythe recent events of September 11. Chemicalsimported especially from the USA may require permitsthat are only issued for transport to one country with-out an allowance for further export to a landlockedcountry. A direct purchase by credit card could cir-cumvent this problem, rather than the present vendorscenario.

A single solution for all these problems is not feasi-ble. However SEANAC addresses these issues by col-

laborating with other networks such as NUSESA,NABSA, and the African Network for Analysis ofPesticides. This collaboration has resulted in work-shops, conferences, and short visits that allow analyti-cal chemists to share facilities, expertise, andexperiences, and thus maximize resources. Most ofwhat has been achieved to date is credited to the con-tinued financial support through Sida/SAREC (theSwedish International Development CoopertionAgency, Department for Research Cooperation), eitherdirectly or through the International Programme in theChemical Sciences at Uppsala University, Sweden. TheChemistry Department at the University of Botswana,because it is endowed with state-of-the-art facilitiesthat include NMR (300 and 600 mHz), LC/GC-MS,SEM/TEM, XRD and ICP/MS, has generously assistedmost of the networks by either hosting short coursesor researchers. One hopes that as more universitiesand organizations become involved, including IUPAC,some of these issues might find a solution sooner so asto allow scientist to focus on addressing pressing mat-ters in the agriculture, health, and environment sectors.

Nelson Torto <[email protected]> is a lecturer in general and analytical chem-istry at the University of Botswana, with strong links to the University of Lund(Sweden) from which he obtained his Ph.D. His research interests are in the areasof sampling and sample handling for biological and environmental samples. Tortojoined the IUPAC Analytical Chemistry Division (ACD) in 2004 as a provisional mem-ber. He has been actively involved in promoting analytical chemistry in Botswanaand on the African continent in general. In addition, he played a leading role in theformation of the Southern and Eastern Africa network for Analytical Chemists,which held its inaugural conference in July 2003 in Gaborone (Botswana) (seeTeamwork, the ACD newsletter <www.iupac.org/divisions/V/Teamwork>, issueNo. 6, Nov 2003). He is working on the creation of channels for the promotion, edu-cation, and training of African scientists and standardized curriculum for analyticalchemistry.

Simples and Compounds

In the Jan-Feb 2005 CI, Claudio Giomini, Mario E.Cardinali, and Liberato Cardellini, put forth a rationalefor replacing the term “element” with simple sub-stance. They wrote, “To make a clear-cut distinctionbetween elements and elementary substances, wesuggest replacing the latter term with “simple sub-stances,” a term that, according to Scerri and Laing,was employed, with this meaning, by Mendeleev him-self.” The following letters were received in response.

Up for Discussion

by Eric Scerri

Iwould like to express my agreement with Giomini,Cardinali, and Cardellini for drawing attention tothe fact that substances like diatomic oxygen and

electrolytic copper occur as simple substances.1

However, two qualifications should be made. As theauthors state, I have previously also made this point,and have invoked the name of Mendeleev for also hav-ing doing so.2 Nevertheless, Mendeleev used a slightlydifferent term, namely “simple body.”

More importantly, the authors seem to deny the sta-tus of elementhood altogether to simple substances.This appears a little excessive given the entrencheduse of the term “element” to mean a simple substancesuch as diatomic oxygen that can be isolated.

The notion of a simple body was first introduced byLavoisier as a means of ridding chemistry from all talkof elements as the invisible principles of the ancientGreek philosophers and alchemists. This is how mod-ern chemistry was born, by denying the metaphysicalaspect of elements. But as many authors have pointedout, neither Lavoisier nor anyone else has quite suc-ceeded in eradicating the more philosophical sense ofthe term element. Although we need to recognize themetaphysical foundations of chemistry, we cannothope to deny substances like di-oxygen—that can beisolated—their status as “elements.”

What the authors might consider doing is drawingon the dual sense of the term element. They couldmake a distinction between element as a simple sub-stance and element as a basic substance, the latter ofwhich they clearly allude to in their description of “ele-ment.” This terminology was first proposed by theradiochemist Fritz Paneth who was in fact responsiblefor the term “simple substance” that the authors seemto have adopted.3

References1. C. Giomini, M.E. Cardinali, L. Cardellini, Chemistry

International, 2005 (1), 18.2. E.R. Scerri, Minds and Molecules, N. Bhushan, S.

Rosenfeld (eds.), New York, Oxford UniversityPress, 2000, 51–72.

3. F.A. Paneth, Foundations of Chemistry, 2003, 5,113–145. Reprinted from a translation of a lecturegiven in 1931.

Eric Scerri <[email protected]> teaches in the chemistry department at UCLA inLos Angeles, California, USA and is the editor of Foundations of Chemistry,<www.kluweronline.com/issn/1386-4238>.

by John E. Hammond

Ibelieve the change suggested by Giomini et al (Jan-Feb 2005 CI, p.18) is not necessary. Chemists gen-erally understand the difference between elements

and elementary substances and use the term “ele-ment” as a shorthand descriptor. I do not know anychemist who would not understand that diamond,graphite, or fullerenes are all different forms of the ele-ment carbon—the common names take care of differ-entiation. Non-chemists are unlikely to understand thedistinction and could become further confused byhaving “two types of elements.”

John E. Hammond <[email protected]> is in the R&D Department ofWm. Wrigley Jr. Co. in Chicago, Illinois, USA.

13

No more “emf”As a follow-up to Vladimir Simeon’s question aboutreplacing the term “electromotive force,” published inthe November-December 2004 CI, p.18, ChristopherBrett, vice president of the Physical and BiophysicalChemistry Division, informed CI that the issue has beena concern of the former Commission onElectrochemistry since the publication of the 2nd editionof the “Green Book”* in 1993. As Simeon rightly pointedout, the name is inconsistent with its meaning and theword “force” is misleading, since potential differencesare not forces.

Beginning in 1997, an extensive revision of theElectrochemistry section of the “Green Book” was car-ried out by the Commission on Electrochemistry. Therevisions include the removal of “electromotive force”and “emf.” In referring to an electrochemical cell, onlythe terms “cell potential” or “potential difference of anelectrochemical cell” are recommended.

The 3rd edition of the “Green Book” in which therevised section on Electrochemistry will appear, is highlyanticipated. The Green Book will clarify this and otherissues and be an important aid and source of recom-mended terminology and symbols, both for electro-chemists and for the wider chemical community.

* I. Mills, et al, IUPAC Quantities, Units and Symbols in PhysicalChemistry, 2nd ed., Blackwell, Oxford 1993.

Up for Discussion

CHEMISTRY International May-June 2005

IUPAC Wire


The IUPAC Poster Prize Program

With the recent advent of the IUPAC PosterPrizes program, National Adhering Org-anizations and eligible IUPAC-sponsored

conferences gained a strategic tool to encourage inter-est in conferences among young chemists. The PosterPrizes recognize outstanding poster presentations atIUPAC Congresses, at IUPAC division/standing com-mittee-sponsored conferences, and at designatednational meetings. Each NAO may pick one conferenceper year at which to award IUPAC Poster Prizes.

As explained by the secretary general David StC.Black in his column in the January-February 2005 CI(p. 2), division or standing committee-sponsored, orso-called “core,” conferences are specifically driven byIUPAC divisions and standing committee to the extentthat they take responsibility for ensuring the continuityof a series. This usually means that the committee isinvolved in the selection of the organizers and the loca-tion of future conferences to ensure geographicaldiversity. The committee may also review the confer-ence program, help select the plenary and invited lec-turers, and assist with promotion efforts. With theseguidelines in mind, divisions and standing committeesbenefit from the Poster Prizes program because it pro-vides an extra incentive to maintain IUPAC’s relation-ship with recognized conferences throughout theworld. Conferences sponsored by IUPAC and nationalmeetings of NAOs also benefit by being able to offer aprize that is associated with IUPAC, which often bol-sters the participation in and credibility of a meeting.

The IUPAC Poster Prizes program was imple-mented in 2004 following a suggestion from PresidentLeiv Sydnes. The Executive Committee officiallyapproved the program at its meeting in April 2004. Itwas felt that implementing such a program wouldbenefit IUPAC and provide incentives to youngerchemists to attend conferences they might not other-wise attend. The program will also serve as a meansfor recognizing IUPAC’s international activities.

Each eligible conference that chooses to implementthe IUPAC Poster Prizes typically awards two prizes.The conference organizers oversee the selection ofprizewinners. Each prize recipient receives a certifi-cate signed by the IUPAC president, a copy of theIUPAC Gold Book (Compendium of ChemicalTerminology), and a two-year subscription to CI.

In 2004, prizes were awarded at four internationalconferences and four national meetings, even thoughthe program was only initiated in mid-July. The astute

reader of CI might have noticed mentions of theseposter prizes in recent issues. The 2004 recipients, alllisted in the table below, are congratulated for theirposter presentations.

News and information on IUPAC, its fellows, and memberorganizations.See also www.iupac.org/news

2004 IUPAC Poster Prize RecipientsSolubility Phenomena—ISSP 2004—Aveiro, Portugal, 25-29 July 2004Ada Villafafila Garcia (Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby), “Solid-Liquid-Vapour Equilibrium for Sparingly Soluble Salts Found in NaturalWaters”

Mara G. Freire Martins (University of Aveiro), “Oxygen Solubility inPerflurocarbon Emulsions and Water Solubility in Pure Perflurocarbons”

Organic Synthesis—ICOS-15—Nagoya, Japan, 1-6 Aug. 2004

Natalie A. Miller (Australian National University), “Synthesis andReactions of Substituted Dendralenes”

Toshifumi Dohi (Osaka University), “Preparation and Reactivity of NovelRecyclable Hypervalent Iodine(III) Reagents”

Eun Joo Kang (Seoul National University), “Synthesis of SCH 351448”

Chemical Education—ICCE 18—Istanbul, Turkey, 3-8 Aug. 2004

Maryam Dorri (Chemistry Group, Tabriz, Iran), “Green Chemistry, GreenCulture”

Polymer Networks—Bethesda, MD, USA, 15-19 Aug. 2004

Ashish Batra (Cornell University), “Physical Gels of “Model”Polydimethylsiloxane Ionomers”

Samir A. Shah (Wake Forest University), “Quantification of BiopolymerFilament Structure”

Poland

Annual Meeting of the Polish Chemical Society, Wroclaw, Sept. 2004

W. Bury (Warsaw University of Technology), “Structure and Reactivity ofAlkylzinc Carboxylates”

Roman Joachimiak (Nara Institute of Science and Technology), “BileAcids: Fundamental Building Blocks for Artificial Ion Channels”

Dorota Samson-Lazinska (Instytut Farmaceutyczny), “Spectroskopicand Crystallographic Studies on Polymorphism of Imatinibe Mesylane”

South Africa

Chromatography—Mass Spectrometry 2004 Symposium, Pretoria, 17-20 Oct. 2004

Maria Fernandes-Whaley (University of Pretoria)

N. Nkosi (University of Pretoria)

Chemical Society located in Taipei, China2004 Annual Meeting of the Chinese Chemical Society —Taipei, Chung-Hsing University, 19-21 Nov. 2004

Yi-Lung Yang (National Chi Nan University), “Synthesis,Photoluminescent, and Electrochemical Properties of NovelTriphenylamine-Containing Aromatic Polyamides and Polyimides”

Pakistan15th National Chemistry Conference: Department of Chemistry, Quaid-I-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan, 24-26 Nov. 2004

Samina Nazir (Quaid-I-Azam University), “Synthesis and BiologicalScreening of Chalcones”

Asifa Nigar (Quaid-I-Azam University), “Synthesis and Characterizationof Ferrocene Based Polyamides”

Iftikhar. A. Awan (University of Peshawar), “Kinetics and Mechanism forthe Gas Phase Thermal Decomposition of some HalogenatedHydrocarbons”


It has been encouraging to see that NAOs and con-ference organizers appreciate IUPAC’s efforts to stim-ulate outstanding poster presentations. Professor MikeScurrell, who is organizing the 2005 CarmanSymposium, hosted by the South African ChemicalInstitute, has responded warmly to this program.While informing the Secretariat that the conferencewill award IUPAC Poster Prizes on behalf of SouthAfrica’s NAO, he wrote:

“As a regular organizer of conferences we are wellaware of the importance of awarding prizes forposter presentations, particularly for younger con-tributors. Over the past few years we have beenastounded by the very significant increase in thequality of posters that are now a far cry from someof the hastily compiled sheets of research resultsthat were very common in the past. The lure of aprize, be it a medal, cash, certificate, or similarreally can focus the mind on producing a high-quality product and can ensure a high state of pre-paredness on the part of the presenter when theposter session is held, in order that some mean-ingful discussion and interaction can take place.We assess poster quality not only on the appear-ance of the item, which, with modern software canachieve a very impressive level, but also on the sci-entific content and the way the poster medium isused to convey the essential message quickly andaccurately. We also acknowledge the ability of thepresenter(s) to engage with those viewing theposter. In the specific case of IUPAC prizes, thereis the additional benefit of helping us bring toeveryone’s attention the work of the organizationby raising awareness of the Union at conferencegatherings.”

So far in 2005, 11 NAOs have reported that IUPACPoster Prizes will be awarded at a national event;these are listed in the table on the right.

Starting with this issue of CI, each IUPAC-spon-sored conference eligible to award poster prizes willbe flagged in the Mark Your Calendar section (page37), as well as online. Over the most typical two tothree-year cycle, no less than 27 “core” series will beeligible to award IUPAC poster prizes.

Details and guidelines can be found at <www.iupac.org/news/archives/2004/poster_prizes.html>.

2005 National Events at Which Poster Prizes Will Be Awarded

Australia

Connect 2005, Chemical Challenges for the 21st Century, Sydney, 3-7July 2005 AustriaAustrian Chemical Society, University of Leoben, 19-22 Sept. 2005

Canada88th Canadian Chemistry Conference, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, 28May – 1 June 2005 DenmarkAnnual meeting of the Danish Chemical Society, Odense, 9 June 2005

GermanyGesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker, “GDCh-Jahrestagung”, Duesseldorf,11-14 Sept. 2005

India7th Chemical Research Society of India’s (CRSI) National Symposium,Bombay, Feb. 2005, India

Korea

96th National Meeting of the Korean Chemical Society, Yonsei University,Wonju, 21-22 Oct. 2005

Pakistan16th National Chemistry Conference: Pakistan at Bahauddin ZakariaUniversity, Dec. 2005

Serbia and Montenegro

Annual meeting of the Serbian Chemical Society, Belgrade, 24-25 Jan. 2005

South AfricaCarman Symposium (South African Chemical Institute), Midrand,Johannesburg, 17-18 Nov. 2005Spain30th Biannual meeting of the Royal Society of Chemistry of Spain, Lugo,19-23 Sept. 2005


Making an imPACt

As James Bull demonstrated in his recent fea-ture article (March-April 2005 CI, p. 13), theUnion Journal Pure and Applied Chemistry—of

which he is scientific editor—is getting some attentionthese days. Not only are the contents of the journalgarnering interest, but also its format and online avail-ability. The year 2005 is seeing many changes in thejournal production workflow, starting with the fullimplementation of the online submission and peer-review system (March-April 2005 CI, p. 24). Also,starting with the January issue, all metadata for theonline edition are generated using a new procedurebased on the extraction of information from the filesproduced for the printed edition. All HTML abstractpages have up-to-date format classification XHTML1.0. The ability to harvest these data, coupled with fur-ther programming, now allow the journal to take partin CrossRef.

CrossRef is a collaborative, cross-publisher refer-ence-linking service that turns citations into hyper-links, allowing researchers to navigate online literatureat the article level. CrossRef is a wholly independentassociation of scholarly and professional publishers—large and small, commercial and non-profit, traditionaland non-traditional—that cooperate to provide refer-ence links into and out of their electronic content. Assuch, CrossRef serves as the citation linking backbonefor all scholarly literature online, facilitating and trans-forming the flow of information.

Each manuscript indexed with a unique DOI (DigitalObject Identifier) can be retrieved more easily now. Totry for yourself the basic DOI function, visit<www.crossref.org> and simply type the followingexample into DOI Resolver: 10.1351/pac200577010119.This shall take you directly to the following PACabstract page: <www.iupac.org/publications/pac/2005/7701/7701x0119.html>.

As a small publisher with only one journal, IUPACmade the decision to participate in CrossRef recogniz-ing the benefit of increased accessibility and visibility.Given PAC’s limited resources, the practical imple-mentation took some time, but the engagement andwill of Bohumir Valter was instrumental to the entire

transformation. His serv-ice to PAC, providedthrough Document DataServices, supplementsthe existing work per-formed by the produc-tion editor CherylWuzbacher and CherylBush.

As Bohumir Valtermentioned, a lot of workis still required to getPAC fully integrated withCrossRef, but step-by-step the modification ofthe journal workflow andthe site will take place.

While IUPAC is making progress with improving thecurrent production of PAC, one should also note thesteady progress made posting older issues of PAConline. In mid-February, a milestone was reached with25000 pages of PAC scanned.

Document Data Services started this project in fall2003, following the recommendation of theCommittee on Printed and Electronic Publication at itsmeeting during the 2003 General Assembly. Therestoration process includes black and white scanningat 600 dpi and 300 dpi for pages with color andhalftone figures, TIFF conversion to searchable PDF,indexation of the scanned article, and also rebindingof the original paper copies. To assure the quality ofthe archive, all digitalized pages are reviewed andmanually retouched if needed. The resulting files arearchived on CD and made available on the PAC Website. The project will be completed in 2006.

www.iupac.org/publications/pac

Coplen Honored

Tyler B. Coplen has been granted the highesthonor of the U.S. Departmentof the Interior, the

Distinguished Service Award, forhis outstanding contributions to theU.S. Geological Survey in the fieldof isotope geochemistry andhydrology. Dr. Coplen is an interna-tionally recognized leader in theanalysis of light stable isotopes. He

IUPAC Wire

is one of the worlds’ most experienced analysts andforemost authorities on the stable isotope geochem-istry of natural materials associated with the hydro-logic cycle. He has built, operated, and continues toimprove automated systems for mass spectrometersthat drive the technology for such analyses. Technicalexperts around the world seek his advice.

Dr. Coplen produced a large body of work usingstable isotope data that led to an improved under-standing of the movement of both ground water andsurface water. His work on isotope techniques hasbeen instrumental in elucidating many physical, bio-logical, and chemical processes that mediate waterqualities and contribute to the solution of complexproblems requiring interdisciplinary collaboration.

At IUPAC, Coplen has been a member of theInorganic Chemistry Division since 2000, and is also amember of the subcommittee on Isotopic AbundanceMeasurements. He has contributed as lead author toIUPAC technical reports on isotope-abundance varia-tions of selected elements, and on atomic weights ofthe elements.

Subcommittee Members TeachShort Course on MedicinalChemistry

The Subcommittee on Medicinal Chemistry andDrug Development of the IUPAC Chemistry andHuman Health Division (Div VII) held its last

meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to coincide with theXI Summer School in Pharmaceutical and MedicinalChemistry at the Laboratory of the Federal Universityof Rio de Janeiro. About 200 students participated inthe Summer School, organized by Professor Eliezer J.Barreiro. Within the framework of this SummerSchool, the subcommittee members taught a shortcourse (a total of 11 hours) entitled “Highlights inMedicinal Chemistry” in which about 40 postgradu-ate students and postdoctoral researchers partici-pated. The subcommittee met all day on 13 February,while the course went from 14–18 February 2005.

The short course was distinctive because most ofthe lecturers are also inventors of drugs, so they pro-vided real insight into the process of new drug dis-

covery. The caliber of lecturers, the excellent organi-zation of Prof. Barreiro, and the interest of the stu-dents created a good atmosphere. The subcommitteewas very satisfied with the weeklong format andschedule and agreed that such events will spark inter-est in IUPAC among young scientists.

For more information contact Robin Ganellin <[email protected]>, chairman ofthe Subcommittee on Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Development.

www.iupac.org/divisions/VII/VII.M


Highlights in Medicinal Chemistry—Short Course Program

Session 1“Past Approaches to Drug Discovery—An Historical Survey,” Prof. RobinGanellin (RG, University College London, UK)

“Drug Discovery in Traditional Medicine,” Dr. Mukund Chorghade (MC,Chorghade Enterprises, USA)

“Design and Discovery of Viramune—A Marketed Anti-AIDS Drug,” Dr.John Proudfoot (JP, Boehringer-Ingelheim, USA)

Session 2“Current AIDS Therapeutics—Examples of Modern Drug Discovery atWork,” JPProcess Chemistry, MC

Session 3Design of a Peptidase Inhibitor, RG

Session 4“Medicinal Chemistry of Antiulcer Agents,” Dr. Jörg Senn-Bilfinger (AltanaPharma, Germany)

“Esmolol—The Birth of Soft Drug Technology—and Beyond,” Prof. PaulW. Erhardt (PWE, University of Toledo, USA)

Drug Metabolism and Drug Design, PWE

Session 5“Analog-Based Drug Discovery (an IUPAC project),” Dr. Janos Fischer(Richter Ltd, Hungary)

“Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs): Their Damage and the Effort for theirInhibition,” Prof. Eli Breuer (Hebrew University Jerusalem)

Three IUPAC members with a group of Brazilian postgradu-ate students during the summer school: 3rd from the left,Janos Fischer; 5th: Eliezer J. Barreiro; and 6th: Eli Breuer.

Look on theinside back cover for the

General Assembly ScheduleIUPAC Wire


Remembering Prominent IUPACMembers

Roger Cohen-AdadThe members of IUPAC’s Solubility DataCommittee have dedicated the next issueof Pure and Applied Chemistry (vol. 77,issue 3) to the memory of Professor RogerElie Cohen-Adad, 83, who died in August2004 in France. The issue contains lecturesfrom the 11th ISSP (Aveiro, Portugal, July2004), which Cohen-Adad had beenunable to attend because of his illness.Cohen-Adad was one of the most promi-

nent members of the solubility data community.The most notable of Cohen-Adad’s research activities

were centered on phase diagrams and kinetics, and ledto 160 publications, 3 patents, and supervision of 60 the-ses. He achieved a world-wide reputation for his investi-gations of the solubility and crystallization processes invarious water-salt systems, the construction of theirphase diagrams and the application of the latter. Inrecent years, his efforts were devoted to the thermody-namic simulation of water-salt systems and the predic-tion of their behavior under various conditions.

His international recognition as a scientist is basedon his professional activities within IUPAC as well ashis scientific work. In 1978 he was appointed as anassociate member of the Solubility Data Commissionof IUPAC, and from 1985-1990 was a titular member.His contributions to the work of the commissioninclude co-editorship of Vol. 47 of the Solubility DataSeries, Alkali Metal and Ammonium Chlorides in Waterand Heavy Water (Binary Systems) (1991), and co-authorship of two chapters in the monograph, The

Experimental Determination of Solubilities (2003).A longer notice is published in the March 2005

issue of Pure and Applied Chemistry, which featurespapers based on presentations at the 11thInternationbal Symposium on Solubility Phenomena(Aviero, Protugual, 25–29 July 2004).

www.iupac.org/publications/pac/2005/7703

H. Steffen PeiserDr. H. Steffen Peiser, 87, a chemist and a physicist whowas the principal liaison officer at the NationalInstitute of Standards and Technology for the StateDepartment, the United Nations, and other interna-tional-related organizations interested in the physicalsciences, died 10 February 2005 at his home inGaithersburg, Maryland, USA.

Much of his early work at the institute focused oncrystallography, which he believed was at the center ofall materials science and engineering. Peiser joined theformer National Bureau of Standards in 1957, workingfirst as a bench scientist in the field of crystallography.He directed the mass and scale section beginning in1959, and in 1962 he was appointed chief of the crystalchemistry section. He retired officially from NIST in1979, but continued scientific work until his death.

Dr. Peiser wrote more than 130 scientific papers andwas honored by many scientific organizations. He wascommitted to sharing the benefits of metrology—thescience of measurements—with developing economiesthroughout the world. He traveled to more than 60countries, mostly to help them establish sound meas-urement capabilities to foster industrial growth.

IUPAC Wire

IUPAC e-news is available to anyoneTo sign up for e-news, log on to<www.iupac.org/news/e-news.html>


Public Understanding of Science:Identifying IUPAC’s Niche

Enhancing the public understanding of science meansdifferent things to different stakeholders, and has dif-ferent meaning in the diverse global contexts repre-sented by the IUPAC community. Yet, enhancing thepublic understanding of chemistry is a key element ofIUPAC’s mission. Because a large number of otherorganizations are already active in the field, determin-ing the particular role that IUPAC can and should play,without reinventing the wheel, requires careful analy-sis. The Committee on Chemistry Education (CCE)approved a project that aims to help identify appro-priate involvement for IUPAC in this area, as well as togive direction to the CCE, which is charged with fos-tering public understanding through its work toimprove chemistry education.

The project will have four stages:1. A workshop for the task group members to prepare

a preliminary report, with recommendations, oneffective public understanding of science initiativesbased upon a review of the literature. The work-shop will be held over three days in Edmonton,Canada, in May 2005.

2. A special workshop within the Beijing IUPACGeneral Assembly in August 2005 to consider thereport from (1) above and to produce a draft reportto the IUPAC Bureau on the role for IUPAC in pro-moting public understanding of science.Participants would be the Task Group; CCE—including the Associate Members representing thescientific divisions of IUPAC; representative(s) ofthe Committee on Chemistry and Industry (COCI);CHEMRAWN; and others that the IUPAC ExecutiveCommittee may nominate. The report will identifywhat further work, if any, needs to be undertakento develop an IUPAC consensus on the role andstrategy of IUPAC in the public understanding of

science. Following the creation of that draft report,there would be consultation within IUPAC on thosefindings, with feedback to the Task Group.

3. A symposium within, and other contributions to,the 19th ICCE on Chemistry and ChemicalEducation for Humanity in Korea in August 2006.The workshops in (1) & (2) will inform the develop-ment of the program which will stimulate furtheradvice on IUPAC’s role and strategy.

4. Task group members will attend the 19th ICCE andproduce a final report based upon the feedbackfrom consultations. The report will be to the IUPACBureau enabling it to determine its role and strat-egy on public understanding of science and toengage with other scientific unions, ICSU, and otherstakeholders to agree on overarching strategy andassociated activities.

All task group members are members of the CCEsubcommittee on the Public Understanding ofChemistry, and include Peter Mahaffy, Bob Bucat,Tony Ashmore, and Choon Do. The group welcomesyour comments and suggestions on “best practices”and appropriate roles for IUPAC in building publicunderstanding of chemistry. Contact Peter Mahaffy<[email protected]> with your suggestions.


Uncertainty Estimation and Figuresof Merit for Multivariate Calibration

With the ever-increasing sophistication of analyticalinstruments, multivariate calibration methods are con-tinually evolving, each with its own underlyingassumptions and statistical properties. The main pur-pose of these methods is to produce valid predictionsfrom highly unselective data (e.g., the quantificationfrom near-infrared spectra). A wide variety of multi-variate methods have been developed, broadly classi-fied in terms of the tensorial order of the instrumentaldata. Important conceptual differences exist betweenfirst-order methods employing vector data, and sec-ond-order methods using matrix data, particularlysince the latter make possible the quantification in thepresence of unknown interferents. This is alsoreflected in the approaches followed for the estima-tion of figures of merit.

While univariate calibration leads to relatively sim-

Information about new, current, and complete IUPACprojects and related initiatives.See also www.iupac.org/projectsThe Project Place


ple models, and the associated uncertainty estimationand figures of merit are thoroughly covered in severalofficial documents, multivariate calibration does notenjoy a similar status in this regard. Uncertainty esti-mation and figures of merit for multivariate calibrationmethods have become subjects of active research,especially in the field of chemometrics.

This work is intended as an introduction to multi-variate calibration from a chemometrics perspectiveand as a review of the various proposals to generaliz-ing the well-established univariate methodology tothe multivariate domain.

Uncertainty and figures of merit are subjects ofinterest to IUPAC’s Analytical Chemistry Division, asestablished within the general aims of the Division,and also in the terms of reference of its InterdivisionalWorking Party on Harmonization of QualityAssurance.

For more information and comments contact the Task Group Chairman Alejandro C.Olivieri <[email protected]>.


A Joint OPCW–IUPAC Project onEducation and Outreach RegardingChemical WeaponsIn the IUPAC report on chemical weapons (Pure Appl.Chem. 74(12), 2323–2352, 2002), stress was laid onthe importance of spreading knowledge of theConvention on Chemical Weapons and educatingchemists and the public on the ethical aspects of these

terrible applications of our sci-ence. The Committee onChemistry Education (CCE) ischarged with overseeing edu-cational aspects of IUPAC’sactivities, and the mattercame before the committee atits meetings. The committeewas uncertain about how toproceed, for there is a fine linebetween educating in favor ofprohibition and educating,accidentally, for propagation.At its meeting in Istanbul inAugust 2004, the CCE estab-lished a working party (led by

Natalia Tarasova) to explore the question of how toproceed.

To take the matter forward, IUPAC President LeivSydnes and Task Group Chairman Peter Atkins estab-lished contact with the Organization for theProhibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), based inThe Hague, and attended the States Signatories ses-sion in January 2005. From that meeting, and a par-ticularly fruitful meeting with Ralf Trapp (OPCW), wefound a way forward. A meeting now planned for nextJuly will explore the feasibility of a conference to dis-cover if there are ways ahead in addressing problemsof insinuating ethical aspects into already overbur-dened chemical curricula. Readers who have strongviews are encouraged to send them to Atkins, who willtry to compile a discussion document for the comingmeeting.

For more information and comments contact the Task Group Chairman Peter Atkins<[email protected]>.


Categorizing Hydrogen Bonding andOther Intermolecular Interactions

This project aims to 1) take a comprehensive look atintermolecular interactions and classify them and 2)create a modern definition of the hydrogen bond, tak-ing into account all current experimental and theoret-ical information, and including hydrogen bondedsystems both in gaseous and condensed phases, aswell as in chemical and biological systems.

Hydrogen bonding has fascinated chemists andbiologists for several decades now and is central tochemistry and biology. The original definition ofhydrogen bonding invoked two electronegative atoms(X and Y) interacting through a hydrogen atom as inX-H Y. Initially X and Y were found to be mostly N,O and F which led to the mentioning of these atoms aspart of the definition of hydrogen bonds in varioussources (including the IUPAC Gold Book). Hydrogenbonding was inferred by the difference in physicalproperties between otherwise chemically similar sys-tems such as are found between H2O and H2S.However, now it is well known that both H2O and H2Sform a hydrogen bonded (H2X)2 dimer in the gasphase. Spectroscopic red shift in XH stretching fre-quency was among the first experimental evidence

Project Place


used for inferring hydrogen bonds. Now there are sev-eral hydrogen bonded systems that appear to showblue shift in XH stretching frequency. More interest-ingly, these systems have CH as the hydrogen bonddonors, which was against conventional wisdom. TheCH O interactions have been well established nowin organic and biological systems through crystallinestructure analysis and NMR methods. Traditionally,hydrogen bond acceptors interact through a lone pairor p bonded pair electrons. However, optically activehydrogen bonded complexes involving radicals havebeen found in the atmosphere. Matrix experimentsand theoretical studies have shown that a CH3 radicalcould form a complex with H2O, which could be rep-resented as C HO. Are these one electron hydrogenbonds with C as the acceptor? There have beenreports on X-H σ interactions where σ electrons actas hydrogen bond acceptors. Dihydrogen bonds havebeen observed in which H in XH (X=electronegative)interacts with another hydrogen in MH (typically ametal hydride) with partial negative charge. Moreover,there have been numerous reports on H2 molecularcomplexes in the literature—should these be regardedas containing hydrogen bonds?

Electrostatic interaction was identified as the dom-inant factor for hydrogen bonds. Recent NMR andCompton scattering experiments have given evidencefor partial covalency in hydrogen bonds. Dispersionforces have been shown to dominate hydrogenbonded complexes of second row hydrides (HCl andH2S). Chlorine monofluoride (ClF) has been shown toform weakly bound complexes with bases very muchlike HF and these have been identified as chlorinebonded complexes. Such chlorine bonding interac-tions have been observed in crystal structures as well.Hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interactions, and vander Waals interactions are all loosely and interchange-ably used in the field. Often van der Waals forces areequated with dispersion forces, though the origin ofvan der Waals forces (from the equation named afterhim) should include all intermolecular forces. Shouldrare gas complexes such as Ar-Ne be called Londonmolecules instead of van der Waals molecules, as onlyLondon dispersion forces contribute to the stabiliza-tion of Ar-Ne? Should Ar-HF be called hydrogenbonded or van der Waals complex? This project willattempt to give a modern definition of a hydrogenbond that is as inclusive as possible. Also, intermolec-ular interactions will be categorized logically consider-ing the physical forces involved.

The task group is chaired by Elangannan Arunan(Bangalore, India) and Steve Scheiner (Utah, USA).Other members are Ibon Alkorta (Madrid, Spain),David C. Clary (Oxford, UK), Robert H. Crabtree (NewHaven, USA), Joseph J. Dannenberg (NY, NY, USA),Gautam R. Desiraju (Hyderabad, India), Henrik G.Kjaergaard (Otago, New Zealand), Roger A. Klein(Bonn, Germany), Karl Kleinermanns (Düsseldorf,Germany), Anthony C. Legon (Exeter, UK), BenedettaMennucci (Pisa, Italy), David J. Nesbitt, (Colarado,USA) and Joanna Sadlej (Warsaw, Poland).

The Task Group will hold a workshop in Pisa from5–9 September 2005. All the participating members ofthe Task Group will be presenting a summary of theirrecent work in the area of hydrogen bonding andmolecular interactions and will also give their viewsabout the classification of inter- and intra-molecularinteractions. The Task Group will hold several rounds ofdiscussion during the workshop. It is intended that aprovisional position paper will be produced at its con-clusion. There will also be sufficient room for an addi-tional 25–30 non-task group participants to take part inthe workshop. Anyone interested in participatingshould contact either Elangannan Arunan<[email protected]> or Roger Klein <[email protected]>.

For more information, contact the Task Group Chairman Elangannan Arunan<[email protected]>. Comments and suggestions from IUPAC members oranyone else interested in the project are welcome.


Comparable pH Measurements byMetrological Traceability

After the completion of “The Measurement of pH.Definitions, Standards, and Procedures (IUPACRecommendations 2002),” Pure Appl. Chem. 74,2169–2200 (2002), a workshop on the “Importance ofTraceable pH Measurements in Science andTechnology” was held at PTB/Braunschweig,Germany, in September 2001. The workshop, whichwas organized and promoted by members of this pro-ject’s task group, attracted a wide range of partici-pants and revealed priorities and strong interest fromthe concerned community for continuing action. Themeeting set the following objectives:

to implement traceability chains for pH values in

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routine measurements in order to achieve targetuncertainties for specific applicationsto develop educational and quality control tools forreference and testing laboratories under the obser-vation of chemical and metrological principlesto improve the comparability and the assessmentof pH values

The project, which has the support of the AnalyticalChemistry Division, the Physical and BiophysicalDivision, the Chemistry and Environment Division, andthe Committee on Chemistry and Industry, is sched-uled to take three years and will be carried out in twoparts pertaining to pH measurements in complexmatrices:

Part I—pH Measurements in water quality monitor-ing and assessmentPart II—pH Measurements of clinical, biochemical,and environmental relevance

The task group consists of worldwide experts in thefield, which aims to impact the scientific communitydue to both the relevance of the subject and the mul-tiple scientific aspects involved in pH measurementand assessment.

For more information contact the Task Group Chairman Maria Filomena Camões<[email protected]>.


Equilibria in Solution: A Software Aid

Igor V. Sukhno, Vladimir Y. Buzko, and Leslie D. Pettit,members of the task group for the project titled IonicStrength Corrections for Stability Constants (project #2000-003-1-500) are reporting the availability of Aq-Solutions, a software package of programs for thequantitative treatment of equilibria in solution.

Aq-Solutions consists of a controlling program(Aq_Solutions.exe). This gives access to a suite of pro-grams which, it is planned, will be regularly extendedand updated. Programs are included for the quantita-tive correction of stability constants for ionic strengthchanges and temperature changes, for the calculationof gas solubilities, for speciation and for titration sim-ulations.

SIT corrects stability constants for changes in ionicstrength using SIT (Specific Interaction Theory) and toestimate SIT parameters with full statistics. The pro-gram contains an editable database of published SITparameters. It also provides routines to inter-convertmolarities (c) and molalities (m), and lg Kc and lg Km.A version of the SIT program to correct stability con-stants for changes in seawater salinity and in elec-trolyte mixtures (fluids) is in preparation.

Electrolytes calculates electrolyte activity coeffi-cients, osmotic coefficients and the activity of waterusing Pitzer and the Lin-Tseng-Lee equations. Theprogram can also be used to calculate ionic activitycoefficients using the Millero-Pitzer method. A versionof the Electrolytes program, which will calculate theionic activity coefficients for the most important ionsin seawater is in preparation.

Acid-base calculates the composition of acid-basesystems at equilibrium in electrolyte solutions and

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seawater. It will also calculate H+ activity coefficientsfor correction of paH to p[H+] in different ionic media.The concept of apparent equilibrium constant is usedto calculate equilibrium constants for more than 260mono and polycarboxylic acids with background ions.A version of the Acid-base program to calculate theH+ activity coefficient in seawater at different salinity(chlorinity), and at different temperatures, is in prepa-ration.

Temperature effects is an aid for the study and pre-diction of the temperature dependence of lg K usingeight thermodynamic equations: —Van’t Hoff equation —Isobar equation—Extended Isobar equation—Clarke-Glew equation—Extended Clarke-Grew equation—DQUANT equation—Valentiner equation—Blandamer-Robertson-Scott equation

Full statistics are included.

Gas solubility calculates O2 solubility in water, 22electrolyte solutions, natural fluids, and seawater as a

function of temperature, concentration, and salinity. Aprogram to calculate the solubilities of other gasses isin preparation.

Speciation calculates and displays species distribu-tion curves for complexes (including insolublespecies). Speciation can be displayed as a function ofpH, pL (any reactant), or total reactant concentration,and as either percentages or species concentrations(log values). When insoluble phases are present, lg Svalues may also be plotted. Both graphs and tables ofnumeric values may be displayed, printed, or saved todisk. The sensitivity of speciation curves to errors in lg Kvalues can be demonstrated graphically.

Titration Simulations simulates M-L titration curvesin real time and display speciation dynamically.Species L, HL, H2L, ML, ML2, MHL, and MH-1L may beincluded and stability constants adjusted in real time.Titration curves, speciation curves, and pi-charts arecalculated in real time.

Other programs are in preparation and will beincluded at a later date. These include programs forelectrode calibration, for properties of individual elec-trolyte solutions, and their mixtures (solubility, den-sity, viscosity, ∆Cp, freezing-point, boiling-point,surface tension), as well as for water properties as afunction of temperature, pressure, and concentrationof individual electrolytes or electrolyte mixtures (aw,pKw, ∆Hw, ∆Cp, viscosity, density).

A preliminary version of the suite of programs may bedownloaded from <www.iupac.org/projects/2000/2000-003-1-500.html> or from <www.acadsoft.co.uk>.

Please send questions and comments to the authors. Igor V. Sukhno<[email protected]> and Vladimir Y. Buzko <[email protected]> areboth from the Department of Chemistry of the Kuban State University, inKrasnodar, Russia. Leslie D. Pettit <[email protected]>, Academic Software,Yorks, UK, is task group chairman.


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Graphical Representation ofConfiguration

The configuration of compounds is determined by therelationship of atoms in three dimensional space, yetchemical structures are most commonly depicted intwo dimensional media such as printed publications orcomputer screens. Recommendations are providedfor the display of three-dimensional stereochemicalinformation in two-dimensional diagrams in ways thatavoid ambiguity and are likely to be well-understoodby all viewers. Examples are provided for all types ofstereochemical configuration, with explanations ofwhich styles are preferred and which should beavoided.

Comments by 31 July 2005Jonathan Brecher CambridgeSoft Corporation100 Cambridge Park Drive Cambridge, MA 02140, USATEL: +1 617-588-9307FAX: +1 617-588-9380E-MAIL: [email protected]

www.iupac.org/reports/provisional/abstract05/brecher_310705.html

Terminology of Polymers ContainingIonizable or Ionic Groups and ofPolymers Containing Ions

This document defines the most commonly usedterms relating to polymers containing ionizable orionic groups and to polymers containing ions.Inorganic materials such as phosphates and silicatesthat also may be considered ionic polymers areexcluded from the present document. Only thoseterms that could be defined without ambiguity areconsidered. Terms subsidiary to the main terms areprinted in bold type in notes to the main terms.

Comments by 31 May 2005Prof. Przemyslaw KubisaPolska Akademia NaukCentrum Badan Molek. i Makromolek.Sienkiewicza 112PL-90 363 Lódz, PolandTEL/FAX:+[48 ] (42) 684 4014/7126E-MAIL: [email protected]

www.iupac.org/reports/provisional/abstract04/kubisa_310505.html

IUPAC Seeks Your CommentsProvisional recommendations are drafts of IUPAC recommendations on terminology, nomenclature, and sym-bols made widely available to allow interested parties to comment before the recommendations are finallyrevised and published in Pure and Applied Chemistry.

Want to know which of these is the preferred diagram, and why?Read the provisional recommendations to find out.

Provisional Recommendations

BECOME AN IUPAC AFFILIATEget involved in IUPAC activitiessupport your National Adhering Organization

For more information:visit www.iupac.org/affiliatescontact your local AMP coordinatorwrite to the IUPAC Secretariat

e-mail <[email protected]> fax +1 919 485 8706


Practical Guide to Measurement andInterpretation of MagneticProperties (IUPAC Technical Report)

S. Hatscher, H. Schilder, H. Lueken, and W. Urland

Pure and Applied Chemistry

Vol. 77, No. 2, pp. 497-511 (2005)

In today’s magnetochemistry, superconducting quan-tum interference device (SQUID) magnetometers arewidely used. Automated measurements of high accu-racy are state of the art and have the aim to fully char-acterize magnetic properties of compounds andmaterials. The findings serve to determine electronicconfiguration of the magnetic center, interatomicexchange interactions, diamagnetic contributions,metallic character, superconductivity, spin-glassbehaviour, superparamagnetism, and more. To takefull advantage of experimental data, special attentionshould be given to: appropriate units, purity of thesample, measurement conditions, suitable graphicalpresentation of the results, and adequate models. Thispractical guide collects subjects that should be takeninto consideration in order to present reliable magne-tochemical results in a standardized way, to allow cor-rect statements about the electronic structure of thesubstance under investigation, and to allow compari-son between measurements. We presuppose that thereader is familiar with the basic laws and terminologyof magnetochemistry.

This report points out rules to protect the magne-tochemist from pitfalls in both measurement andinterpretation of magnetic data. Carefully chosenmagnetic field strengths during magnetic susceptibil-ity measurements guarantee the recording of genuinedata. With the help of examples, the effect of toostrong applied fields is demonstrated producing mag-netic saturation and, for example, quenching of weakferro- or antiferromagnetic spin-spin couplings. Inconsequence, the data run the risk of being misinter-preted unless model susceptibility equations areapplied that take the field dependence of χm into con-sideration. Recommendations are given for the pres-entation of experimental and theoretical data. Thelimited applicability of the most overworked formulain paramagnetism, the Curie-Weiss law χm = C/(T –θ), isclearly presented (magnetically condensed systems,pure spin magnetism). While rough and ready suscep-tibility formulae are applicable to specific 3d and 4fsystems, the complex situation for the remaining dand f centers, including actinides, demands computerprograms that consider simultaneously interelectronicrepulsion, ligand field potential, spin-orbit coupling,interatomic exchange interactions, and applied mag-netic field.

www.iupac.org/publications/pac/2005/7702/7702x0497.html

Recent IUPAC technical reports and recommendationsthat affect the many fields of pure and applied chemistry.See also www.iupac.org/publications/pacMaking an imPACt

I U P A C

Advancing WorldwideChemistry


An Ontology1 on Property for Physical,Chemical, and Biological Systems

by René Dybkaer

APMIS Suppl. 2004 (117):1-210. PMID: 15588029ISBN 87 9900100

Recently, one of the most distinguished scientists inlaboratory medicine, Dr. René Dybkaer, defended adissertation at the University of Copenhagen.According to Dr. Anders Kallner, former president ofthe Chemistry and Human Health Division, this remark-able work will have implications far beyond clinicalchemistry. Dybkaer, who turned 80 recently and is stillvery active, was once chairman of the IUPACCommission of Clinical Chemistry.

It is typical for scientific disciplines, such as labora-tory medicine, to need to present the outcomes ofexaminations of a multitude of properties of many dif-ferent types of objects. The special language used ineach discipline is mostly found in texts on metrology,notably the International Vocabulary of Basic andGeneral Terms in Metrology (VIM 1993). These sources,however, are partially conflicting, have not been estab-lished in a coherent fashion using adequate termino-logical procedures, and by definition relate only toquantities, ignoring all properties without magnitude.

Drawing on a variety of texts, it proves possible toform a comprehensive domain ontology around“property” with systematic definitions and terms con-structed by using the tools provided in recent ISOInternational Standards on terminology work, supple-mented by a few extra concepts to clarify the discus-sion. The backbone of the concept system is furnishedby “system” including “component” and associatedwith “property”, further connected by consecutiveassociative relations to “examination procedure”,“examination”, “property value”, and “property valuescale”. The description is supplemented by “kind-of-property” to indicate a generic concept for mutuallycomparable properties.

From each of these vertebral superordinate con-cepts, specific concepts are intensively defined andgiven systematic terms using the modifiers ‘nominal’,‘ordinal’, ‘differential’, and ‘rational’. Each of the ensuingcoordinate concepts corresponds to a typical allowedmathematical and statistical treatment of the property

values (i.e., fundamentally the respective applicabilityof the operators (=, #), (>, =, <), (+, -), and (x, :) in fourincreasing sets obtained by cumulation to the right.

For the narrower field of metrology, ignoring nomi-nal properties, an alternative concept system is pre-sented based on “quantity”, which covers all propertieshaving magnitude. The following subordinate levelseparates “ordinal quantity” and “unitary quantity”, thelatter covering in its turn the specific concepts “differ-ential quantity” and “rational quantity”.

Supplementary concepts comprise “examinand”and “measurand”, “examination method” and “meas-urement method”, “examination principle” and “meas-urement principle”, “true property value” and“examined property value”, as well as the well known“measurement”, “quantity value”, and “numericalvalue”. Also “examination result” and “measurementresult” with respective “examination uncertainty” and“measurement uncertainty”, as well as “quantity valuescale” are defined.

For differential and rational properties, the concept“metrological unit” is essential to their measurementand expression of unitary quantity values, althoughthe term for a unit does not indicate the kind-of-quan-tity. Furthermore, great advantage accrues from cre-ating a “system of metrological units”, preferably auniversal “coherent system of metrological units”.Currently, this is the “International System of Units,”SI, formed from specific concepts of “base metrologi-cal unit” (seven in all) and “coherent derived metro-logical unit” (a large number), with multiples andsubmultiples obtained by SI prefixes; these conceptsare defined as well as “off-system metrological unit”and “in-system metrological unit”. The lack of a spe-cial term for “metrological unit one” is discussed withsupport for the proposal ‘uno’ by the CIPMConsultative Committee for Units. The BIPM Brochureon the SI has no formal definitions, but a concept sys-tem can be inferred from the text. Its insistence that“SI unit” only comprises base and coherent derivedmetrological units creates practical problems; a modi-fied concept diagram that solves them is suggested.

The further abstraction of “unitary kind-of-quantity”via “metrological unit” leads to “metrological dimen-sion”, which is a powerful tool in “dimensional analysis”based upon the defining algebraic relationshipbetween unitary kinds-of-quantity. As is the case formetrological unit, a metrological dimension does notidentify a unique corresponding unitary kind-of-quan-tity. Also “base metrological dimension” and “derived

Books and publications hot off the press.See also www.iupac.org/publications

Bookworm

1 Ontology, n. the branch of metaphysics that studies the natureof existence (Random House Dictionary)Ontology n. philosophy concerned with the nature of being(Oxford Dictionary)


metrological dimension” can be defined, as well as themuch discussed “derived metrological dimension one”.

The designations for singular properties have beengiven a syntactic structure and semantic rules during40 years of work within IUPAC, the IFCC (InternationalFederation of Clinical Chemistry and LaboratoryMedicine), and lately the CEN (Comité Européen deNormalisation). It is proposed that the tripartite gen-eral concept comprising “system”, “component”, and“kind-of-property” enters into the definition of “dedi-cated kind-of-property”. It is shown that the CENTechnical Committee 251 semantic model for defini-tions and terms of specific concepts utilizing genera-tive patterns can be applied in formingrepresentations of such dedicated kinds-of-property.

Finally, it proves possible to regard representationsof individual concepts under “property” and “propertyvalue” in a mathematical and logical formalism oper-ating according to the definition of a given dedicated

kind-of-property. Examples are given for relation orfunction within Set Theory or Object-OrientedAnalysis. The Set-Theoretical relation appears mostflexible and leads to a definition of “Set-Theoreticalrepresentation of dedicated kind-of-property”.

The outcome of the investigation is a concept sys-tem with definitions and systematic terms permittingunambiguous description of dedicated kinds-of-prop-erty (except those involving vectors and tensors),designations for singular properties, and examinationresults encountered in laboratory work.

René Dybkaer is working at the Department of Standardization in LaboratoryMedicine at the Frederiksberg Hospital and at the Faculty of Health Sciences at theUniversity of Copenhagen. Dybkaer has been an active member in IUPAC since the1970s, and is currently involved with the Interdivisional Working Party forHarmonization of Quality Assurance (of the Analytical Chemistry Division) and theSubcommittee on Nomenclature, Properties, and Units in Laboratory Medicine (ofthe Chemistry and Human Health Division).

Spectroscopy of Partially OrderedMacromolecular Systems

J. Kahovec (editor)Macromolecular Symposia, Vol. 220Wiley-VCH, 2005, pp. 1-175ISBN 3-527-31323-0

Partial order has become one of the most importantthemes of scientific research in the field of both natu-ral and synthetic macromolecular systems.

Indeed, some kind of dynamic order is the prereq-uisite of any function of a molecular system, be it cat-alytic function of, for example, some complex ofenzymes or some targeted mechanical, electrical, oroptical function of a nanoscale molecular device. Theclassical tools for examining order, such as diffraction,scattering, or microscopy, often fail to reflect partialorder in a satisfactory way. At the same time, molecu-lar spectroscopy, mostly represented by nuclear mag-netic resonance (NMR) and vibrational (infrared andRaman) spectroscopy, has shown the ability to exam-ine order in such systems on a semi-local or evenlarger scale, although its primary objective is the localaspect of molecular structure.

Partial order can sometimes offer a challenge tospectroscopic methods. For instance, lowered localmobility due to molecular ordering can broaden sig-nals in high-resolution NMR and lead to their complete

loss in extreme cases. In a complementary way, highlymobile disordered molecules could resist detection bycross-polarization in solid-state NMR. However prima-rily unpleasant, these phenomena were turned into anadvantage and ingeniously utilized in the characteri-zation of structure.

The two main branches of spectroscopic observa-tion of molecules, vibrational and NMR spectroscopy,have been known to reveal somewhat complementaryaspects of structure from the points of view of theirtime-window (molecular dynamics) and locality ofreflected structural motifs. With the development ofnew theoretical and experimental approaches, bothmethods gradually overcame their respective limita-tions in the recent decade. Nonetheless, their remain-ing differences are an additional source of valuableinformation for the examination of partial order inmacromolecular systems.

All these and other aspects were addressed by aninternational conference on the Spectroscopy ofPartially Ordered Macromolecular Systems, which washeld 21-24 July 2003 in Prague, Czech Republic. It wasorganized under the auspices of IUPAC by the Instituteof Macromolecular Chemistry, Academy of Sciences ofthe Czech Republic as the 22nd of its annual discussionconferences on macromolecules. In this volume, someof the most important contributions are reproduced.

www.iupac.org/publications/macro/2005/220_contents.html


Reports from recent conferences and symposiaSee also www.iupac.org/symposia

Coordination Chemistryby Silvia E. Castillo-Blum

The XXXVIth International Conference onCoordination Chemistry was a Mexican-American JointMeeting that took place in Mérida, Yucatán, México,from 18–23 July 2004. This international meeting isbiennial, and in keeping with its tradition covered newdevelopments in coordination chemistry, includingbioinorganic chemistry, nano- and supramolecularchemistry, catalysis, main group element coordinationchemistry, d and f element coordination chemistry,functional materials, and reaction mechanisms.

ICCC36 attracted 1150 participants from 57 differ-ent countries. The meeting was held under the aus-pices of IUPAC and the Mexican Academy of Scienceand the Division of Inorganic Chemistry of theAmerican Chemical Society.

The scientific program embraced all aspects ofmodern coordination chemistry. There were 10 ple-nary lectures, whose authors and titles are as follows:

Claudio Luchinat (University of Florence, Italy)“Metal Ions in Life Sciences Today”Daniel G. Nocera (MIT, USA) “The MolecularChemistry of Renewable Energy”Martin Schröder (University of Nottingham, UK)“Redox Active Macrocyclic Complexes: But Whereis the Electron?”Marcetta Y. Darensbourg (Texas A&M University,USA) “Models of Organometallic ReactionMechanisms in Metalloenzymes: the Hydrogenases”Jean Claude Bünzli (Swiss Federal Institute ofTechnology, Lausanne, Switzerland) “ControllingFunctionalities in 4f-4f and 4f-3d PolymetallicEdifices”Bart Hessen (University of Groningen, TheNetherlands) “Coordination Chemistry of CationicTransition-Metal and Lanthanide Organometallics:Implications for Catalyst Action and Stability”Michel Verdaguer (Université Pierre et Marie Curie,France) “Molecular Magnetism: From CoordinationChemistry to Nanosciences. A Way Paved withOxalate and Cyanid Complexes” Angeles Paz-Sandoval(Cinvestav, I.P.N., México)“Half-Open Metalloceneswith Heterodienyl Ligands”Jinwoo Cheon (Yonsei University,Korea) “Shaping the Architecture ofInorganic Nanocrystals”

Ian Manners (University of Toronto, Canada)“Catalytic Routes to Rings, Chains, andMacromolecules Based on Main Group Elements”

In addition, 70 invited lectures and 270 oral contri-butions were presented in eight parallel sessions.Additionally, 510 posters were presented in two after-noon posters sessions.

The pleasant environment, the special ambience ofthe conference location, and the Mexican hospitalitycontributed considerably to the great success ofICCC36. The conference also featured an exhibitionthat included publications, scientific equipment, andchemical companies.

The program of the conference was released in theform of a book of abstracts and also in a CD version.Publications related to the conference will appear in aspecial issue of Coordination Chemistry Reviews ded-icated to ICCC36.

The next conference in this series, ICCC37, will beheld 13–18 August 2006 in Cape Town, South Africa.The chairman is Prof. Klaus Kock. The Web site for thisconference is <www.sun.ac.za/chemistry/37iccc>.

Dr. Silvia E. Castillo-Blum <[email protected]> is a professor in theInorganic Chemistry Department at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México.Castillo-Blum served as the conference secretary for ICCC36.

Polymer Networks 2004by Ferenc Horkay

The Polymer Networks 2004 Conference (17thPolymer Networks Meeting) was held in Bethesda,Maryland, USA, from 15–19 August 2004. The confer-ence was organized under the auspices of IUPAC bythe National Institutes of Health (NIH), the NationalInstitute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and thePolymer Networks Group.

The conference chairs were Dr. Eric Amis (NIST)and Dr. Ferenc Horkay (NIH). Financial

support was obtained from theNational Institute of Child Healthand Human Development, NIST,and the National Institute of

Biomedical Imaging and Bioengin-eering.The conference is part of a series of

biennial international meetings that began in

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Strasbourg, France, in 1975. The Polymer NetworksConference series has developed through the years tobecome a unique forum for the discussion of all topicsrelevant to the formation, structure, properties, andapplications of synthetic and biological networks andgels. The theme for the Polymer Networks 2004Conference was “Research of Gelation Phenomenaand Properties of Synthetic and Biopolymer Gels.” Themost recent advances from eight topical categorieswere presented and discussed:

Phase Transition in Synthetic and Biopolymer GelsAssociating/Self-Assembly SystemsPolyelectrolytes and Intelligent GelsControlled Synthesis of NetworksTissue Engineering and Hydrogel ScaffoldsNano-Particles in Diagnostics and TherapeuticsGene and Drug DeliverySimulation and Modeling of Polymer Networks

The scientific program featured 24 invited lectures,72 contributed talks, and 92 poster contributions. Theinvited lectures (complete list available at <www.polymer.nichd.nih.gov>) were delivered by thefollowing individuals:

Kristi Anseth (University of Colorado)Peter Basser (NIH)Frank Bates (University of Minnesota)Ben Chu (State University of New York, StonyBrook)Edmund DiMarzio (NIST, University of Maryland)Jack Douglas (NIST)Erik Geissler (University of Grenoble)Alan Grodzinsky (MIT)Gregory B. McKenna (Texas Tech University)Murugappan Muthukumar (University ofMassachusetts)Ralph Nossal (NIH)Adrian Parsegian (NIH)Costas Patrickios (University of Cyprus)Buddy Ratner (University of Washington)Simon Ross-Murphy (King’s College)Ron Siegel (University of Minnesota)Rocky Tuan (NIAMS, NIH)Julius Vancso (University of Twente)Pedro Verdugo (University of Washington)Newell Washburn (NIST)Miklos Zrinyi (University of Budapest)

Professor RobertF.T. Stepto (UMIST,Manchester, UK), theofficial IUPAC repre-sentative, gave anexcellent lectureabout the IUPACorganization.

Overall, the con-ference was a majorsuccess, with over300 attendees andtwice the number ofpaper submissions asin earlier years. Theattendees repre-sented 26 differentcountries spanningfive different conti-nents. Contributedtalks were held intwo parallel sessions.The posters were ondisplay for the dura-tion of the conference, and extended lunch breaks anda designated poster session allowed ample opportu-nity for discussion of them. Both IUPAC and thePolymer Networks Group gave poster awards for beststudent presentations. The IUPAC Poster Prizes wereawarded to Ashish Batra (Cornell University) andSamir A. Shah (Wake Forest University).

The conference succeeded in maintaining a veryhigh scientific standard and providing an interdiscipli-nary forum for physical scientists, engineers, biolo-gists, and clinicians to meet and discuss their work,exchange ideas, and assess the latest developments inthis rapidly expanding field of science.

A selection of the papers from the conference willbe published in Macromolecular Symposia. The nextmeeting in the series, Polymer Networks 2006, will beheld in Sheffield, England, UK.

Ferenc Horkay <[email protected]> is a researcher in the Section on TissueBiophysics and Biomimetics at the National Institute of Child Health and HumanDevelopment of the National Institutes of Health. Dr. Horkay was one of the organ-izers of Polymer Networks 2004.

DNA (green) polymer network in theairway secretion from a cystic fibrosispatient, overlaid with the computerassisted identification of the polymerfilaments (yellow). Measurements ofthe DNA polymer network, and itseffect on the viscoelastic propertiesof the secretions, can be used toimprove the respiratory function ofpatients with cystic fibrosis. From theposter “Quantification of BiopolymerFilament Structure,” by IUPAC PosterPrize Winner Samir A. Shah.


Trace Elements in Foodby Michael Bickel

The 2nd International IUPAC Symposium on TraceElements in Food (TEF-2) was held 7–8 October 2004in Brussels, Belgium. The objectives of the conferencewere as follows:

present state-of-the-art analytical methods for theenforcement of legal limits of trace elements infooddisseminate new ideas and findings within the sci-entific communityprovide a forum for the exchange of new ideas andexperiences among R&D organizations, govern-ments, and industrybring together experts in the field with newcomers

Approximately 100 participants from 25 countriesattended the IUPAC-sponsored conference, whichwas organized by the Institute for Reference Materialsand Measurement’s (IRMM) Food Safety and Qualityunit. The conference, which featured 26 lectures (12invited) and 56 posters, was organized into the fol-lowing four sessions:

Session 1: Trace Element Bioavailability, Toxicology,and Nutritional Aspects Session 2: Trace Elements in the Food Chain,Including Effects of Processing and Legislation Session 3: Fortified Food Supplementation—Legislation, Manufacturing, and Labelling Standards Session 4: Advances in Trace Element Analysis inFood (Special attention was paid to trace elementspeciation, quality control, and quality assurance.)

Following are some summarized highlights fromthe conference:

The conference covered the effects of selenium—both toxic and beneficial—including concentrationand speciation analysis; behavior in metabolism,concentrations in soil, feed stuff, and animals;intake through natural and fortified products; rolein illness prevention (cancers, liver necrosis); andtoxic effects due to overdoses.Other toxic metals, such as lead and cadmium, andessential ones like iron, manganese, and zinc werewidely discussed in terms of their occurrence in thefood chain and their local and/or regional concen-tration or speciation.Interest is slowly developing in trace elements(e.g., the platinum group of elements), which have

been quite neglected with respect to food matters.New species of elements, such as arsenosugars,arsenolipids, or thioarsenic compounds, were dis-cussed.Isotope specific methods are of steadily growingimportance in the food analysis sector. Mass spec-trometry-based methods are increasingly used toobtain results in straightforward concentrationdetermination, speciation, determination of geo-graphical origin, and food authentication. A partic-ular method involves using ICP-MS, both high andlow resolution, coupled to liquid chromatographydevices, most often HPLC. But, many new methodsusing “conventional” apparati are being developedthat aim to reveal more different species at thesame time. Faster, less tedious methods for samplepreparation and analysis are being sought, andperformance parameters are being pushed to fur-ther limits.At the same time, quality assurance and qualitycontrol of analytical results is increasingly stressed,mainly due to existing or emerging requirementsfrom customers or regulators of the laboratories.Related issues, such as the use of reference materi-als, use of proficiency testing, metrological mat-ters, and chemometry are increasingly the subjectof vigorous debate.

As a whole, the field of trace elements in food is alively research area that generates interest andinvolvement from researchers, authorities, industry,and, of course, consumers, who often trigger interestfrom the other sectors.

TEF-3 will be held in October 2008 in Pau, France.It will be organized by Ryszard Lobinski.

Dr. Michael Bickel <[email protected]> served as the chairman of theOrganizing Committee for TEF-2. He currently works at the Institute for ReferenceMaterials and Measurements in Belgium.

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Chemical Education andSustainable Developmentby Natalia P. Tarasova

The 2nd International Conference on ChemicalEducation and Sustainable Development took place16–18 November 2004 in Moscow, Russia. It was heldat D. Mendeleyev University of Chemical Technologyof Russia and at the headquarters of the RussianAcademy of Sciences. The conference was sponsoredby IUPAC, the Russian Academy of Sciences, theRussian Regional Environmental Center, theDepartment of Usage of Natural Resources andProtection of the Environment of MoscowGovernment, and the Institute of Chemistry andProblems of Sustainable Development of the D.Mendeleyev University.

The conference was dedicated to the U.N. Decadeof Education for Sustainable Development (July-August 2004 CI, p. 3). In December 2002, the U.N.General Assembly adopted a resolution to observe aU.N. Decade of Education for SustainableDevelopment, lasting from 2005 to 2014.

Education as the foundation of sustainable devel-opment was reaffirmed at the Johannesburg Summit,as was the commitment embodied in Chapter 36 ofAgenda 21 of the Rio Summit in 1992. Education wasrecognized as a tool for addressing important ques-tions such as rural development, health care, commu-nity involvement, HIV/AIDS, theenvironment, and wider ethical/legalissues such as human values and humanrights.

There is no universal model of educa-tion for sustainable development. Whilethere will be overall agreement on theconcept, there will be nuanced differ-ences according to local contexts, prior-ities, and approaches. Each countrymust define its own priorities andactions. The goals, emphases, andprocesses must, therefore, be locallydefined to meet the local environmen-tal, social, and economic conditions inculturally appropriate ways.

Education for sustainable develop-ment is equally relevant and critical forboth developed and developing coun-tries. That is why more that 250 partici-pants from Russia and CIS countries, as

well as from Greece, UK, Italy, USA, and Iran gatheredin Moscow to share ideas and thoughts. Attendeesrepresented different levels of educational systems,academia, and research institutions.

The program consisted of 9 plenary lectures, 68oral presentations, and nearly 80 posters. The plenarylectures covered the problems of sustainable develop-ment and demonstrated the interdisciplinary charac-ter of the issue and stressed the role of chemistry ineducation for sustainable development. The presenta-tions and posters were organized in the following foursessions:

Social and Economic Aspects of SustainableDevelopmentEducation for Sustainable Development andEnvironmental Problems Problems of Energy- and Resource-Saving in theContext of Education for Sustainable DevelopmentEducation for Sustainable Development andIndustrial Safety

Following is a list of the plenary lecturers and theirlecture topics:

Dennis Meadows (Laboratory for InteractiveLearning, USA), “The Limits to Growth: 30 YearsLater”Pavel D. Sarkisov (Mendeleyev University, Moscow,Russia), “Problems of Energy- and Resource-Conservation in Chemical Technology and

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(L to R) E. Lokteva (Russia), N. Tarasova (Russia), L. Tryetyakova (Russia),A. Taherpour (Iran), D. Meadows (USA), [Bronze Head of D. Mendeleyev], G.Yagodin (Russia), O. Nefedov (Russia), P. Sarkisov (Russia), C. Otter (UK), P.Atkins (UK), P. Tundo (Italy), V. Ivanov (Russia), and V. Petrosyan (Russia).


Sustainable Development”Peter Atkins (Oxford, UK), “CommunicatingChemistry: the Challenge”Yury D. Tretiyakov (Moscow State University,Russia), “Creators of the New Knowledge:Experience of Interdisciplinary EducationalProgrammes in Moscow State University”Gennady A. Yagodin (D. Mendeleyev University,Moscow, Russia), “Education in EnvironmentalSciences and Sustainable Development as a Basisof School Education”Pietro Tundo (Universita ca Foscari di Venezia,Italy), “Green Chemistry as a Tool for Education”Natalya P. Tarasova (D. Mendeleyev University,Moscow, Russia), “Adaptation to Changes in theContext of Modern Education”V.S. Timofeev (Lomonosov Moscow StateAcademy of Fine Chemical Technology, Russia),“Lifetime Learning as an Important Instrument ofSustainable Development of Industry and Society”A.E. Kostin (Corporative Social Responsibility,Russian Center), “Distribution of SustainableDevelopment Ideas and Corporative SocialResponsibility of Businesses in Russia”

The scientific level of the symposia was very high asevidenced by intense discussions after the presenta-tions. Representatives of the chemical industry, NGOs,researchers, and educators exchanged thoughts andideas. The poster sessions were also very lively, withthe students and young researchers presenting theirdata with great enthusiasm.

Two one-day satellite workshops for high schooland college chemistry teachers attracted a lot ofattention. The workshop “What Sustainability ReallyMeans for Us” (Organized by D. Meadows) demon-strated how to use interactive methods while teachingcomplex problems of systems dynamics. Meadowswas the leader of the research group for the Club ofRome’s project in the early 1970s that resulted in thefamous publication The Limits to Growth. The work-shop “New Technologies in Chemical Education:Salters Chemistry” (organized by Chris Otter,

University of York, UK, and T. Myassoedova, D.Mendeleyev University, Moscow) aimed to introducethe Salters approach to Russian-speaking countries.The second Russian edition of Salters Chemistry willbe published in May 2005, so the teachers had anexcellent chance to pose questions about the contentand the context of the book.

The final general discussion during the last plenarysession showed the similarity of problems faced bychemistry education in different countries: chemopho-bia, financial issues, and difficulties in the implementa-tion of interdisciplinary programs. The participantsadopted the Recommendations of the Conference,which have been forwarded to the official bodies ofthe Russian Federation and CIS countries.

The United Nations Decade of Education forSustainable Development was officially launched on 1March 2005 in New York. The UN Secretary-GeneralKofi Annan and UNESCO’s Koïchiro Matsuura werepresent at the ceremony. Following the internationallaunch, a series of regional and national launches ofthe Decade will take place throughout 2005. TheInternational Conference in Moscow might be consid-ered the forerunner of the Decade. The chemists andchemistry educators who came to Moscow helped ful-fill the IUPAC mission as they contributed to theworldwide understanding and application of thechemical sciences, to the betterment of humankind.

For more information and abstracts of papers fromthe conference, please refer to the Web site<www.muctr.ru/~congress2/index2.htm>.

For background information on the UN Decade ofEducation for Sustainable Development, and an elec-tronic version of the Draft InternationalImplementation Scheme for the U.N. Decade ofEducation for Sustainable Development, please referto <www.unesco.org/education>.

Natalia Tarasova <[email protected]> is director of the Institute of Chemistryand Problems of Sustainable Development at D. Mendeleyev University of ChemicalTechnology of Russia. She is a titular member on the IUPAC Committee onChemistry Education.

Conference Call


Chemistry for Agricultureby Adam Pawelczyk

The “Chemistry for Agriculture” series of conferences,organized annually since the 1960s, over time estab-lished a reputation as a conference with a thorough,interdisciplinary approach to chemistry, agriculture,and environmental protection. Nevertheless, it wasonly with the most recent conference that it attainedtrue international status. The XXXth InternationalConference “Chemistry for Agriculture,” took place30 November–3 December 2004 at the famousPriessnitz health resort in the town of Jesenik, CzechRepublic.

The conference attracted over 200 participantsfrom Poland, Belgium, Ukraine, Czech Republic,Slovenia, Italy, Sweden andNetherlands. Attendees includedrepresentatives of scientific institu-tions, industry, agriculture, and busi-nesses affiliated with agriculturalchemistry and technology, pure andapplied chemistry, and environmentprotection.

The main topics of the confer-ence were as follows:

chemistry—basic research technology of mineral fertilizers,feed phosphates, and other addi-tives phosphorus and nitrogen prob-lem in the environmentecotoxicology development in the production ofchemical agents for agriculturenew methods of chemical products application inagriculture impact of chemical products on plant and animalproduction harmful substances in agriculture and the environ-ment

The conference was inaugurated by HenrykGórecki, chairman of the Conference ScientificCommittee and member of the State Committee forScientific Research, who discussed the event’s richhistory, progression, prospects, and aims. Górecki

emphasized how the conference provides specialistsof different branches of science and industry with aunique opportunity to debate problems related tochemistry, agriculture, and the environment.

Keynote speakers were invited to give presenta-tions covering a wide range of topics, including stabi-lization of Cu(III), food design, feed supplements,agroterrorism, processing of wastes into fertilizers,toxic gas sensors, mercury, ecological fuel, biopesti-cides, herbicides, and detoxicating preparations.

The poster sessions featured 224 posters that dealtwith agriculture and environmental protection relatedaspects of chemistry. The sessions stimulated livelydiscussions and generated a number of questionsfrom the attentive and information-hungry audience.

The Conference Scientific Committee chose thebest poster presentation, which wasawarded to Grazyna Kaup of theUniversity of Agriculture (Szczecin,Poland) by Pawel Kafarski, dean ofthe Faculty of Chemistry.

The main organizers of the eventwere as follows: Wroclaw Universityof Technology (Poland); Institute ofMineral Fertilizers, Pulawy (Poland);Institute of Inorganic Chemistry,Gliwice (Poland); University ofAgriculture, Wroclaw (Poland); and,AGROPHOS Scientific-ResearchCenter of Chemistry, Agrochem-istry and Environment Protection,Wroclaw (Poland).

The conference is becomingincreasingly more renowned, andthus, with each consecutive year, it

is attended by a wider audience. The organizers of theevent anticipate the publication of a book that willinclude all presentations given during the conference.

The next conference will be held again in Jesenik,Czech Republic, in early December 2005. That confer-ence was recently granted IUPAC sponsorship.

Adam Pawelczyk <[email protected])> has been the chairman of theOrganizing Committee since 1998. He is a teacher at the Institute of InorganicTechnology and Mineral Fertilizers, Wroclaw University of Technology (Poland).

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Where 2B & Y


Upcoming IUPAC-sponsored eventsSee also www.iupac.org/symposiafor links to specific event Web site

Analytical Spectroscopy4–9 September 2005, Antwerp, Belgium

The 34th edition of the Colloquium SpectroscopicumInternationale (CSI XXXIV) will take place in Antwerp,Belgium, on 4–9 September 2005. Since the first con-ference (France 1949) in this outstanding series, CSIhas established itself as the premier forum for presen-tation and discussion of new developments in allbranches of analytical spectroscopy. The aim of thisconference is to allow spectroscopists from around theworld to enhance contacts and exchange experiences.Following the tradition of the preceding CSI confer-ences, emphasis will be on new developments andapplications of spectroscopy in analytical chemistry.

The program will consist of invited plenary lectures,

oral contributions in parallel sessions introduced byinvited keynote speakers, and poster sessions. Thesubjects within the scope of the conference includethe following:

Spectroscopic Techniques and Methodologiesatomic plasma spectrometry (ICP, GD, AAS, etc.)molecular spectroscopy (UV-Vis, NMR, Raman, IR)organic and inorganic mass spectrometryx-ray spectrometry (XRF, XRD, XANES, PIXE, etc.)hybrid techniqueslaser technologiesimaging techniquesquality control and chemometry

Applications of Spectroscopymaterials and industrial processesenvironmental and geochemical analysisarchaeometry and cultural heritagebiological and food analysisclinical and pharmaceutical analysisspeciationmicro, surface, and interface analysismass spectrometry in post-genomics and proteomicson-line analysisminiaturization and nano-technologyactinides in the environment

See Mark Your Calendar on page 38 for contact information

www.csixxxiv.ua.ac.be

Chemical Thermodynamics27 June–2 July 2005, Moscow, Russia

The Russian International Conference on ChemicalThermodynamics (RCCT-2005) will be held 27 June–2 July 2005 at the Moscow State University (MSU),Moscow, Russia. It is being organized by MSU and theRussian Academy of Sciences, under the auspices andsponsorship of IUPAC, IACT, and Elsevier. It is antici-pated that 400–500 delegates from 26 countries willattend. The official languages of the conference will beEnglish and Russian.

The aim of the conference is to review recentachievements in experimental thermodynamics andexplore likely future developments. The program isfocused on new experimental and theoretical resultsin the following fields: general topics of chemical ther-

modynamics, individual substances, solutions andmelts, heterogeneous systems, and complex thermo-dynamic systems. Special attention will be paid to theproblems of consistence, systematization and stan-dardization of thermodynamic data, databases, novelmaterials on the base of specific substances, and com-posites.

The scientific program comprises plenary lectures,parallel oral sessions, poster sessions, “round tables,”and an exhibition of instruments and equipment.Preliminary topics for the “round tables” include ther-modynamics of nanostructures, systems in the exter-nal fields, and teaching chemical thermodynamics.


www.chem.msu.su/eng/events/rcct/welcome.html

Crystallography <www.iucr2005.it>23–31 August 2005, Florence, Italy

Solid State Chemistry <www.shef.ac.uk/materials/ecsscx>29 August–2 September 2005, Sheffield, England, UK

Polymer Science and Technology <www.ispst2005.aut.ac.ir>27–29 September 2005, Tehran, Iran

Enzymes <www.royalsoc.ac.uk>14–15 November 2005, London, England, UK

Liquid Crystals <www.royalsoc.ac.uk>5–6 December 2005, London, England, UK

Other Upcoming Conferences

Ionic Polymerization23–28 October 2005, Goa, India

The International Symposium on Ionic Polymerization(IP 2005), which is IUPAC sponsored, is the 17th in theseries of biannual symposia which began in 1976 inAkron, Ohio, USA. IP 2005 will address contemporaryresearch, both fundamental and applied, in the areasof anionic, cationic, and ring opening polymerizations.Papers related to other techniques of controlled poly-merization are welcome in so far as they help under-

stand the limitation or broaden the scope of anionic,cationic, and ring opening polymerization.

A special session is also planned on the physics ofmaterials (e.g., structures, morphology, self-organiza-tion of supermolecular structures, rheology, and mod-eling) prepared by techniques of controlledpolymerization (anionic, cationic, ROP).


www.ncl-india.org/ip2005


Radiochemistry17–21 October 2005, Beijing, China

The Third International Conference of Asia-PacificSymposium on Radiochemistry (APSORC-05) will beheld 17–21 October 2005 in Beijing, China. The firstAPSORC was held in Kumamoto, Japan (1997), and thesecond in Fukuoka, Japan (2001). The conference pro-vides an international forum for presentation and discus-sion of current and emerging sciences in all fields ofradiochemistry and nuclear chemistry, and their applica-tion in various other fields. Scientists, engineers, and stu-dents from universities, institutes, laboratories, andindustries throughout the world are encouraged to par-ticipate and make contributions to this conference.

In addition to the discussions of the most recentexperimental data and theoretical principles in allareas related to nuclear and radiochemistry, the sym-posium will also focus on the future frontiers ofresearch in the field. The scientific program will con-sist of a series of invited plenary and keynote lecturesfollowed by presentations of invited and contributedpapers in oral and poster sessions.

The symposium will be held at the Grand ViewGarden Hotel in Beijing <www.gvghotel.com>, a four-star hotel with a big, beautiful garden.


www.ihep.ac.cn/apsorc2005

Polymer Science26–29 July 2005; Fukuoka, Japan

The 8th SPSJ International Polymer Conference (IPC2005) on “Emerging Horizons in Polymer Science andTechnology” will be held 26–29 July 2005 in Fukuoka,Japan. IPC is a series of comprehensive meetings thatSPSJ has proudly organized since 1984, to provide theworld polymer community with a forum to discussstate-of-the-art topics and fundamental subjects ofcontemporary interest and future importance in poly-mer science and technology. The conference will fea-ture the following sessions:

Selected Topic SymposiaFrontiers in Polymerization Chemistry and CatalysisDynamics in PolymersFusion of Macromolecular, Supramolecular, andOrganic Chemistry

Polymers in Information-Driven SocietyPolymers in BionanotechnologyPolymer R & D in Industry: Policy and Perspective

General TopicsPolymer Synthesis and ReactionsStructure and Physical Properties of PolymersPolymer ProcessingFunctional PolymersHigh Performance PolymersBio-Related Polymers

The three-day scientific program will include 54invited lectures and over 600 contributed papers. On-line registration is now available at the Web site below.


www.spsj.or.jp/english-index.htm

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9–12 May 2005 • Polymer Blends • Bruges, BelgiumJoint Meeting of the 8th European Symposium on Polymer Blends and Eurofillers 2005Prof. Philippe Dubois, Service des Matériaux Polymères et Composites, Université de Mons-Hainaut, Place duParc, 20, B-7000 Mons, Belgium, Tel.: +32 65 373480, Fax: +32 65 373484, E-mail: [email protected]

4–9 June 2005 • Polymers and Biopolymers • Réduit, Mauritius 8th UNESCO School and IUPAC Conference on Macromolecules: “Polymers for Africa”Dr. Dhanjay Jhurry, Department of Chemistry, University of Mauritius, Réduit, Mauritius, Tel.: +230 454 1041 - ext 1472, Fax: +230 465 6928, E-mail: [email protected]

20–24 June 2005 • Polymer Systems • St. Petersburg, Russia5th International Symposium on Molecular Mobility and Order in Polymer SystemsProf. A.A. Darinskii, Institute of Macromolecular Compounds, Russia Academy of Sciences, Bolshoi pr. 31, St. Petersburg, 199004, Russia, Tel.: +7 812 218 8750, Fax: +7 812 218 6869, E-mail: [email protected]

26–30 June 2005 • Polymeric Materials • Prague, Czech Republic23rd Discussion Conference PMM Current and Future Trends in Polymeric MaterialsProf. Miroslav Raab (Chairman), c/o P.M.M. Secretariat, Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry AS CR,Heyrovského nám. 2 CZ - 162 06 Praha 6, Czech Republic, Tel.: + 420 296 809 281, Fax: +420 809 296 410, E-mail: [email protected]

27 June––2 July 2005 • Chemical Thermodynamics • Moscow, RussiaRussian International Conference on Chemical Thermodynamics (RCCT-2005)Dr. A. Ya. Borshchevsky, Chemisty Department, Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory, 119992 Moscow ,Russia, Tel.: +7 095 939 53 96, Fax: +7 095 939 12 40, E-mail: [email protected]

10–14 July 2005 • Polymer Gels • Prague, Czech Republic68th Prague Meeting on Macromolecules and 44th Microsymposium on “Polymer Gels and Networks”Prof. Michal Ilavsky, Academy of the Sciences, Insitute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Heyrovského nám. 2 CZ-162 06 Prague 6, Czech Republic, Tel.: +420 296 809 281, Fax: +420 809 296 410,E-mail: [email protected]

10–15 July 2005 • Electrical and Related Properties of Organic Solids (ERPOS 10) • Cargese, Corsica, France10th International ERPOS Conference - Electrical and Related Properties of Organic Solids and Polymers Dr. Jean-Michael Nunzi, Laboratorie POMA, UMR-CNRS 6136, Universite d’Angers2, Boulevard Lavoisier, F-49045 Angers cedex 01, France, Tel.: +33 0 2 4173 5364, Fax: +33 0 2 4173 5216, E-mail: [email protected]

17–21 July 2005 • Organometallic Chemistry • Geneva, Switzerland 13th International Symposium on Organometallic Chemistry Directed Towards Organic Synthesis (OMCOS-13),Prof. E. Peter Kündig, Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Geneva, 30 Quai Ernest Ansermet, CH1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland, Tel.: +41 22 379 6526, Fax: +41 22 328 7396, E-mail: [email protected]

17–22 July 2005 • Carotenoids • Edinburgh, Scotland14th International Symposium on CarotenoidsProf. Andrew J. Young, School of Biological and Earth Sciences, John Moores University, Byrom St.Liverpool L3 3AF, UK, Tel.: +44 151 231 2173 / 3575, Fax: + 44 151 207 3224, E-mail: [email protected]

26–29 July 2005 • Polymer Science and Technology • Fukuoka, JapanThe 8th SPSJ International Polymer Conference (IPC 2005)Prof. Mitsuo Sawamoto, Department of Polymer Chemistry, Kyoto University, Graduate School of Enginerring,Katsura, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 615-8510, Japan, Tel.: +81 75 383 2600, Fax: +81 75 383 2601, E-mail: [email protected]

31 July–5 August 2005 • Heterocyclic Chemistry • Palermo, Italy20th International Congress of Heterocyclic ChemistryProf. Girolamo Cirrincione, Dipartimento Farmacochimico Toss. E Biol., Università degli Studi di Palermo, ViaArchirafi 32, I- 90123 Palermo, Italy, Tel.: +39 0916161606, Fax: +39 0916169999, E-mail: [email protected]

indicates Division or Standing Committee sponsored event at which IUPAC poster prizes might be awarded. Read more about this on p. 14.

IUPAC poster prizes to be awarded

Mark Your CalendarUpcoming IUPAC-sponsored eventsSee also www.iupac.org/symposiafor links to specific event Web site

7–12 August 2005 • Plasma Chemistry • Toronto, Ontario, Canada 17th International Symposium on Plasma ChemistryProf. Javad Mostaghimi, Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, University of Toronto, 40 St. GeorgeStreet, Room 8260, Toronto ON M5S 1A4, Canada, Tel.: +1 416 978 5604, Fax: 1 416 978 7753, E-mail: [email protected]

13–21 August 2005 • IUPAC 43rd General Assembly • Beijing, China —See schedule on inside back cover—IUPAC Secretariat, Tel.: +1 919 485 8700, Fax: +1 919 485 8706, E-mail: [email protected]

14–19 August 2005 • IUPAC 40th Congress—Innovation in Chemistry • Beijing, China Prof. Xibai Qiu, IUPAC-2005 Secretariat, c/o Chinese Chemical Society, PO Box 2709, Beijing 100080, China,Tel.: +86 (10) 62568157, Fax: +86 (10) 62568157, E-mail: [email protected]

14–18 August 2005 • Novel Aromatic Compounds • St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada11th International Symposium on Novel Aromatic Compounds (ISNA-11)Dr. Graham Bodwell, Department of Chemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s NL, Canada,Tel.: +1-709-737-8406, Fax: +1-709-737-3702, E-mail: [email protected]

21–25 August 2005 • Solution Chemistry • Portoroz, Slovenia International Conference on Solution ChemistryProf. Vojko Vlachy, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Aškerceva 5, POB537, SL 1001 Ljubljana, Slovenia, E-mail: [email protected]

30 August–3 September 2005 • Learning Science • Barcelona, SpainEuropean Science Education Research Association—”Contributions of Research to Enhancing Students’ Interestin Learning Science”Dr. Roser Pinto, CRECIM Centre de Recerca per a l’Educacio Cientifica i Matematica, Campus de la UAB-EdificiG5, E-08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain, Tel.: +34 93 5813206, Fax: +34 93 5811169, E-mail: [email protected]

4–9 September 2005 • Analytical Spectroscopy • Antwerp, BelgiumColloquium Spectroscopicum Internationale XXXIVProf. Rene Van Grieken, Department of Chemistry, University of Antwerp, B-2610 Antwerp, Belgium, Tel.: +32 3 820 2362, Fax: +32 3 820 2376, E-mail: [email protected]

5–9 September 2005 • Nanostructured Advanced Materials • Stellenbosch, South Africa 3rd IUPAC Workshop on New Directions in Chemistry—Workshop on Nanostructured Advanced Materials (WAM III)Prof. R.D. Sanderson, University of Stellenbosch, Department of Chemistry & Polymer Science, Private Bag X1,Matieland 7602, South Africa, E-mail: [email protected]

10–13 September 2005 • Macromolecule-Metal Complexes • Tirrenia (Pisa), Italy 11th IUPAC International Symposium on Macromolecule-Metal Complexes (MMC-11)Prof. Francesco Ciardelli, Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry Department, University of Pisa, via Risorgimento,35, I-56126 Pisa, Italy, Tel.: +39 0502219229, Fax: +39 0502219320, E-mail: [email protected]

11–15 September 2005 • Boron Chemistry • Sendai, Japan12th International Meeting on Boron ChemistryProf. Yoshinori Yamamoto, Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tohoku University, Sendai,Japan 980-8578, Tel.: +81 22 217 6581, Fax: +81 22 217 6784, E-mail: [email protected]

12–18 September 2005 • Analytical Chemistry • Kiev, UkraineInternational Congress on Analytical Chemistry and Chemical Analysis (AC&CA-05)Prof. Vladimir Zaitsev, Chemistry Department, Kiev National University, 60 Vladimirskaya, Kiev 01033, Ukraine,Tel.: +380 44-2393345, Fax: +380 44-2393345, E-mail: [email protected]

13––16 September 2005 • Polymers for Advanced Technologies • Budapest, Hungary8th International Symposium Polymers for Advanced Technologies Prof. Gyorgy Marosi, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Department of Organic ChemicalTechnology, Muegyetem rkp. 3, H-1111 Budapest, Hungary, Tel.: +36 1 4633654, Fax: +36 1 4631150, E-mail:[email protected]


Mark Your Calendar

17–21 October 2005 • Radiochemistry • Beijing, ChinaThird Asia-Pacific Symposium on Radiochemistry (APSORC ‘05)Prof. Z. F. Chai, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yu Quan Rd. 19B, P.O. Box 918Beijing 100039, China, Tel.: +86 10 8823 3191, Fax: +86 10 8823 3191, E-mail: [email protected]

23––28 October 2005 • Ionic Polymerization • Goa, India International Symposium on Ionic Polymerization Prof. S. Sivaram, National Chemistry Laboratory, Polymer Chemistry Division, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune,Maharashtra, 411 008 India, Tel.: +91 20 2589 3030, Fax: +91 20 2586 3355, E-mail: [email protected]

December 2005 • Groundwater Contamination • Dhaka, Bangladesh Bangladesh Workshop on Origins and Remediation of Groundwater Contamination by ArsenicDr. Satinder Ahuja, Senior Research Fellow, Novartis Corporation (retired), 1061 Rutledge Court, Calabash, NC28467 United States, Tel.: +1 910 287-2765, E-mail: [email protected]

6––9 December 2005 • Agriculture • Jesenik, Czech RepublicXXXIth International Conference - Chemistry for AgricultureDr. Adam Pawelczyk, Wroclaw University of Technology, Smoluchowskiego 25, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland, Tel.: +48 (0) 71-3202930, Fax: +48 (0) 71-3203469, E-mail: [email protected]

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10–13 January 2006 • Green Chemistry • Delhi, IndiaSecond International Symposium on Green/Sustainable ChemistryProf. M. Kidwai, Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi, Delhi-110007, India, Fax: +91 11 27666235, E-mail: [email protected]

2–7 April 2006 • Photochemistry • Kyoto, Japan XXIst IUPAC Symposium of PhotochemistryProf. Masahiro Irie, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kyushu University, Graduate School ofEngineering, Hakozaki 6-10-1, Fukuoka, Japan, Tel.: +81 92 642 3556, Fax: +81 92 642 3568, E-mail: [email protected]

11–15 June 2006 • Organic Synthesis • Merida, Yucatan, Mexico 16th International Conference on Organic Synthesis (ICOS 16)Dr. Eusebio Juaristi, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Departamento de Quimica, Avenida IPN#2508, Esquina Ticoman, Mexico City, DF, 07360, Mexico, Tel: +52 55 50613722, Fax: +52 55 57477113, E-mail: [email protected]

25–30 June 2006 • Analytical Sciences • Moscow, RussiaInternational Congress on Analytical SciencesProf. Vladimir P. Kolotov, Vernadsky Institute of Geochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 19,Kosygin Str., Moscow B-334 119991 Russia, Tel.: +7 (095) 137 04 86, Fax: +7 (095) 938 20 54, E-mail: [email protected]

6–11 August 2006 • Pesticide Chemistry • Kobe, Japan 11th International Congress of Pesticide ChemistryDr. Hisashi Miyagawa, Division Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto606-8502, Japan, Tel.: +81 75 753 6118, Fax: +81 75 753 6123, E-mail: [email protected]

12–17 August 2006 • Chemical Education • Seoul, Korea 19th International Conference on Chemical EducationProf. Choon H. Do, Sunchon National University, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, 315Maegok-dong, Sunchon,, Chonnam 540-742, Korea, Tel.: +82 61 750 3565, Fax: +82 61 750 3565, E-mail:[email protected]

13–18 August 2006 • Coordination Chemistry • Cape Town, South Africa37th International Conference on Coordination ChemistryProf. K.R. Koch, Department of Chemistry, Univsersity of Stellenbosch, Private Bage X1Matieland, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa, Tel.: +[27] 21 808 3020, Fax: +[27] 21 808, E-mail: [email protected]


Mark Your Calendar



7–22 September 2006 • High Temperature Materials • Vienna, Austria 12th International Conference on High Temperature Materials Chemistry (HTMC XII)Prof. Dr. Adolf Mikula, Wahringstr. 42, A-1090 Vienna, Austria, Tel.: +43 4277 52606, Fax: +43 4277 52679, E-mail: [email protected]

16–20 October 2006 • Chemistry and Chemical Engineering • Havana City, Cuba27th Latin American Congress on Chemistry and 6th International Congress of Chemistry and ChemicalEngineeringProf. Alberto J. Núñez Sellés, Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Sociedad Cubana de Quimica, Ave 21 &200, Rpto. Atabey, Apdo. 16042 Havana, CP 11600, Cuba, Tel.: +53 7 218 178, Fax: +53 7 273 6471, E-mail: [email protected]

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21–25 May 2007 • Mycotoxins and Phycotoxins • Istanbul, Turkey XIIth International Symposium on Mycotoxins and PhycotoxinsDr. Hamide Z. Senyuva, Tubitak-Atal, Konya Yolu No. 67, Besevler, 06530, Ankara, Turkey, Tel.: +90 312 2124620/ext.14, Fax: +90 312 2123749, E-mail: [email protected]

22–27 July 2007 • Novel Aromatic Compounds • Tsuna-Gun, Japan12th International Symposium on Novel Aromatic Compounds (ISNA-12)Prof. Yoshito Tobe, Division of Frontier Materials Science, Osaka University, Toyonaka, Osaka University,Japan, Tel.: +81 6 6850 6225, Fax: +81 6 6850 6229, E-mail: [email protected]

2–6 August 2007 • Organometallic Chemistry • Nara, Japan 14th International Symposium on Organometallic Chemistry Directed towards Organic Synthesis (OMCOS-14)Prof. Kazuhiko Takai, Department of Applied Chemistry, Okayama University, Faculty of Engineering,Tsushimanaka 3-1-1, Okayama 700-8530, Japan, Tel.: +81 86 251 8097, Fax: +81 86 251 8094, E-mail: [email protected]

VisasIt is a condition of sponsorships that organizers ofmeetings under the auspices of IUPAC, in consideringthe locations of such meetings, should take all possi-ble steps to ensure the freedom of all bona fidechemists from throughout the world to attend irre-spective of race, religion, or political philosophy.IUPAC sponsorship implies that entry visas will begranted to all bona fide chemists provided applicationis made not less than three months in advance. If a visais not granted one month before the meeting, theIUPAC Secretariat should be notified without delay bythe applicant.

IUPAC Poster PrizesIUPAC Poster Prizes can be awarded at Division- orStanding Committee–sponsored event. The events areflagged in the previous calendar pages. For moreinformation, contact the IUPAC Secretariat.

How to Apply for IUPACSponsorshipConference organizers are invited to complete anApplication for IUPAC Sponsorship (AIS) preferably 2years and at least 12 months before the Conference.Further information on granting sponsorhsip isincluded in the AIS and is available upon request fromthe IUPAC Secretariat or online.<www.iupac.org/symposia/application.html>.

Mark Your Calendar


Documents

From the Editorpublications.iupac.org/ci/2005/2703/may05.pdf · 2019-02-27 · From the Editor CHEMISTRY International The News Magazine of the International Union of Pure and