Atomic Spectrometry Update–Clinical and biological materials, food and beverages

Abstract

The thirteenth Clinical and Biological Materials, Food and Beverages Update was written with reference to over 500 published and conference papers. As usual, we have seen new developments, a very broad range of applications and a few controversial issues that have been aired. Topics which were noted in previous recent Updates, such as high resolution ICP-MS, the interest in selenium and its speciation, and in vivo measurement of lead in bone, have continued to feature prominently. A burst of enthusiasm is evident for the use of enzymes and for tetramethylammonium hydroxide, for solubilization of tissues. Neither approach is really new but the attraction of microwave heated digestion systems has tended to obscure other procedures for sample preparation. In similar vein the collection of blood onto filter-paper for the subsequent measurement of lead was thought to be redundant but has been revived by some workers. The new reports of this technique stimulated a lively correspondence in one journal, with conflicts of opinion as to the extent of contamination from the paper. Very strong views were expressed without an apparent meeting of minds. We are sure that this Update is comprehensive and we trust that it will also be enjoyable to readers.