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On the importance of color in mass spectrometry imaging

Journal Article · · Journal of Mass Spectrometry
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1002/jms.4898· OSTI ID:1906283
 [1];  [1];  [1];  [2];  [2];  [1]
  1. North Carolina State Univ., Raleigh, NC (United States)
  2. Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States)
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Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) data visualization relies on heatmaps to show the spatial distribution and measured abundances of molecules within a sample. Non-uniform color gradients such as jet are still commonly used to visualize MSI data, increasing the probability of data misinterpretation and false conclusions. Also, the use of non-uniform color gradients and the combination of hues used in common colormaps makes it challenging for people with color vision deficiencies (CVDs) to visualize and accurately interpret data. Here we present best practices for choosing a colormap to accurately display MSI data, improve readability, and accommodate all CVDs. We also provide other resources on the misuse of color in the scientific field and resources on scientifically derived colormaps presented herein.

Research Organization:
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE; National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Grant/Contract Number:
AC05-76RL01830; R01GM087964
OSTI ID:
1906283
Report Number(s):
PNNL-SA-178154
Journal Information:
Journal of Mass Spectrometry, Vol. 57, Issue 12; ISSN 1076-5174
Publisher:
WileyCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

References (14)

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Multiple Infusion Start Time Mass Spectrometry Imaging of Dynamic SIL-Glutathione Biosynthesis Using Infrared Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Electrospray Ionization journal November 2021
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Mass Spectrometry Imaging: A Review of Emerging Advancements and Future Insights journal December 2017
The Munsell Color System: A scientific compromise from the world of art journal September 2014
Optimizing colormaps with consideration for color vision deficiency to enable accurate interpretation of scientific data journal August 2018

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47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION
colormap
CVD
data visualization
MSI