Clearly, the result of a measurement is significantly enhanced by a statement of its reliability or uncertainty. The uncertainty can be evaluated by the use of statistical methods and by a consideration of the possible systematic errors that might be associated with the measurement(s). Guidance on the estimation of uncertainties can be found in the Guide to the expression of uncertainty in measurement

(1995) and in Guidelines for evaluating and expressing the uncertainty of NIST measurement results ( Taylor and selleck chemical Kuyatt, 1994). When assigning uncertainties to measurement results in a publication, it is critical to also give the basis for these uncertainties. Several standards documents that are specifically intended for the field of biothermodynamics have been published. Included in these documents are discussions of the fine points of experiments such as useful test reactions as well as guidance and recommendations regarding nomenclature, symbols, and the reporting of results. Specific topics that have been covered are: isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) (Schwarz et al., 2008), differential scanning calorimetry (Hinz and Schwarz, 2001), isothermal microcalorimetry and solution calorimetry

(Wadsö and Goldberg, 2001), and cellular systems (Belaich et al., 1982). Additionally, general recommendations regarding terminology, symbols, and units in biothermodynamics have been dealt with in several publications dating back to 1976 (Alberty et al., 1994; Alberty signaling pathway et al., 2011, Wadsö, 1985 and Wadsö et al., 1976). The most recent publication by Alberty

et al. (2011) contains a thorough discussion of most of the quantities commonly dealt with in biothermodynamics and, as done by its predecessors 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase in the series, gives recommendations regarding terminology, symbols, and units. Particular attention is given in this document to the apparent equilibrium constant K′, the calorimetrically determined enthalpy of reaction ΔrH(cal), the standard transformed Gibbs energy of reaction ΔrG′°, the standard transformed enthalpy of reaction ΔrH′°, changes in binding of a ligand ΔrN(X), and the standard apparent electrode potential of a cell E′° – quantities that are of primary importance in biothermodynamics. Recommendations for Terminology and Databases for Biochemical Thermodynamics ( Alberty et al., 2011) also gives explicit recommendations for the reporting of experimental results in biothermodynamics. These recommendations are important and provide useful guidance to researchers in this field. The recommendations follow. “The usefulness and lasting value of an experimental investigation are made possible and enhanced by a careful reporting of the results of the investigation. In this regard, there are several matters that require attention: • The identity of the principal substances used in the investigation must be stated. This can be accomplished by use of standard (e.g.