International Year of Chemistry 2011: Clinical Chemistry celebrates.

The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) have designated 2011 as the International Year of Chemistry (IYC2011). This special designation is meant to celebrate the achievements of chemistry and its contributions to mankind and is aimed at, under the unifying theme of “chemistry— our life, our future,” enhancing the public appreciation of chemistry in meeting world needs, increasing young persons’ interest in chemistry, and promoting the creative future of chemistry (1 ). Since the early applications of synthetic chemistry in ancient Egyptian times 4000 years ago, chemistry has evolved, in its multiple subdisciplines, to enhance and touch many aspects of our lives, including the food we eat, the medicine we use, and the energy we consume. Clinical chemistry, a name purportedly coined by Charles Henry Ralfe (1842–1896) of London Hospital when he used it as the title of his 1883 treatise, is one of the younger disciplines in chemistry. It has grown from a mere intellectual curiosity in the 19th century into a sophisticated scientific discipline and an integral component of the contemporary practice of medicine. Clinical Chemistry is pleased to partake in the celebration of the IYC2011 by publishing during the year several articles and new features prepared by inspiring scientists and award-winning writers that highlight various aspects of our profession. Some of these articles will be prepared in collaboration with sister institutions and entities, such as the Chemical Heritage Foundation, the École Supérieure de Physique et de Chimie Industrielles in Paris, and the AACC History Division. Although we are appreciative of everyone’s input and effort in this endeavor, we are particularly indebted to Michal Meyer, editor in chief of Chemical Heritage magazine of the Chemical Heritage Foundation, and are grateful for her contributions and insights. All of our IYC2011 activities will be disseminated in multiple ways to the scientific and general communities and made available to everyone in an effort to enhance the visibility of chemistry and celebrate our profession. Below is a list of some of the planned activities. All the articles and features listed below will be published in the Clinical Chemist section of Clinical Chemistry. Podcasts related to these features will be available at www.clinchem.org.