What do chromatography, gemstones, rainbows and even cats have in common? At KNAUER’s latest Girls’ Day in Berlin, 15 schoolgirls explored exactly that question. Through a series of hands-on activities, they discovered how HPLC instruments are developed and manufactured, learned the basics of spectroscopy and chromatography, and met women working across science, engineering, product management and company leadership.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_1_A_student_observes_the_rainbow_spectrum_of_white_light_8ef24d9700.jpeg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 1 A student observes the rainbow spectrum of white light." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_1_A_student_observes_the_rainbow_spectrum_of_white_light_8ef24d9700.jpeg 228w," sizes="100vw" width="624" height="427"><h4>A Day to Explore STEM Careers</h4>Girls’ Future Day, widely known as Girls’ Day, gives schoolgirls across Germany an opportunity to experience professions in which women are still underrepresented. Instead of learning about careers only in the classroom, participants can spend a day inside companies, laboratories and technical workplaces and see what these jobs actually involve.KNAUER has participated in Girls’ Day for 17 years, and demand for places has become consistently high. The attraction is easy to understand: visitors do not simply listen to presentations. They can experiment, assemble components, talk directly with employees and discover how science and engineering are applied in everyday work.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_2_Hands_on_experience_and_wonder_at_Girls_Day_2025_98da525b3a.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 2 - Hands-on experience and wonder at Girls’ Day 2025: 13 interested girls assembled pump heads, learned what HPLC is, and how such equipment is developed" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_2_Hands_on_experience_and_wonder_at_Girls_Day_2025_98da525b3a.jpg 125w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="1280"><blockquote>“That moment when the girls realize, with sparkling eyes, just how cool science can be—that’s exactly why I love Girls’ Day. It’s worth every bit of the effort!” – Dr. Kristin Folmert, chemist and product manager at KNAUER</blockquote><h4>From Laboratory Instruments to a Wide Range of Careers</h4>At KNAUER wissenschaftliche Geräte GmbH, laboratory instrumentation is designed, developed, manufactured, tested and marketed from Berlin for customers around the world.That requires far more than chemists alone. The company brings together people working in mechanical production, logistics, media design, mechatronics, software development, science, product management and company management.For the participating girls, this offered a chance to meet women following very different career paths and to see that a technology company can provide opportunities across many disciplines.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_3_The_girls_learned_what_chromatography_and_HPLC_are_a7db4e8eb3.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 3 - The girls learned what chromatography and HPLC are, what they are used for, and how a UV/Vis detector works. They then built their own handheld spectroscope and experimented with white light and various color filters." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_3_The_girls_learned_what_chromatography_and_HPLC_are_a7db4e8eb3.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="609"><h4>Women in Science and Technology at KNAUER</h4>Women account for 37% of KNAUER’s workforce, with particularly strong representation in scientific and management positions. The company reports a gender pay gap of 1.84% for 2026, compared with an unadjusted German gender pay gap of 16% in 2025. Women also hold 44% of leadership positions at KNAUER, including several positions performed on a part-time basis.The company emphasizes practical measures intended to make technical careers accessible to a wider range of employees. These include flexible work models, support for childcare and technical solutions such as indoor cranes for handling heavy components.During Girls’ Day, these policies become less abstract. Participants meet scientists, engineers and managers who can describe how they entered their professions and how their careers developed.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_4_During_a_visit_to_the_equipment_development_department_scientist_Thy_Vu_talks_about_her_career_at_KNAUER_3bd9af2786.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 4 - During a visit to the equipment development department, scientist Thy Vu talks about her career at KNAUER. She wrote her bachelor’s thesis here and then worked as a student assistant in development during her master’s program. Subsequent to completing her master’s degree, she accepted a permanent position at KNAUER in the development department. Today, she is developing the pump drive of the future and tells the fascinated girls which gemstones are used in such a pump (sapphires and rubies)." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_4_During_a_visit_to_the_equipment_development_department_scientist_Thy_Vu_talks_about_her_career_at_KNAUER_3bd9af2786.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="614"><h4>Role Models and First-Hand Career Insights</h4>Several KNAUER employees are also involved in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13080121/">International Women in Chromatography</a>, a network supporting women and non-binary professionals working in chromatography.Throughout the day, the students encountered women at different stages of their careers: from university students and young scientists to experienced product managers, developers and Managing Director Alexandra Knauer.The message was not simply that STEM careers are available to women, but that scientific and technical work can take many forms. Networking, curiosity, willingness to ask questions and confidence in one’s own abilities were recurring themes throughout the event.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_5_A_girl_works_intently_and_with_great_care_on_her_spectroscope_ed94a2a049.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 5 - A girl works intently and with great care on her spectroscope. None of the girls glance at their phones; they are all polite, and many feel comfortable asking questions openly. We are very excited about this generation of bright young talents." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_5_A_girl_works_intently_and_with_great_care_on_her_spectroscope_ed94a2a049.jpg 127w," sizes="100vw" width="405" height="496"><h4>Learning HPLC by Doing</h4>The scientific part of the day began with the basic principles of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).To make separation easier to understand, the group first experimented with light and heavy balls inside a large glass column. From there, the discussion moved to the individual components of an HPLC system.One analogy compared an HPLC instrument with the human body: the pump moves liquid much like the heart circulates blood, separation takes place in the column, and the detector observes the separated compounds through their interaction with light.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_6_The_HPLC_and_its_various_modules_depicted_as_human_organs_855ab67aac.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 6 - The HPLC and its various modules, depicted as human organs." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_6_The_HPLC_and_its_various_modules_depicted_as_human_organs_855ab67aac.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1210" height="670"><h4>Building a Spectroscope and Seeing Light Differently</h4>Each participant then constructed a small handheld spectroscope.The task required both careful reading and manual dexterity, particularly when fitting the delicate lens. Working together, the girls quickly developed better ways to complete the assembly—a small example of how real development projects evolve through cooperation and continuous improvement.Once finished, the spectroscopes revealed the spectrum of white light as a rainbow together with visible spectral features. Colored filters placed between the light source and the spectroscope then demonstrated how absorption changes the observed spectrum.This connected the practical activity with concepts introduced earlier in the day: visible light, wavelength, absorption and how optical signals eventually become peaks in HPLC detection.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_7_A_11_year_old_girl_gazes_fascinated_at_her_rainbow_4f713de2ae.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 7 - A 11-year-old girl gazes fascinated at her rainbow and notices that while all the colors are visible, some areas are brighter while others are quite dark. “Is the spotlight not pure white, or is my spectroscope absorbing light?” Such clever questions arise when girls are encouraged to explore things for themselves." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_7_A_11_year_old_girl_gazes_fascinated_at_her_rainbow_4f713de2ae.jpg 200w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="800"><h4>Inside Instrument Development and Manufacturing</h4>The program then moved from theory into KNAUER’s production environment.In the mechanical manufacturing area, participants saw CNC machines and robotic systems producing precision components for laboratory instruments. They could watch parts of an HPLC pump head taking shape directly from metal components and learn why accurate machining is essential for reliable instrument performance.<blockquote>“This is like science fiction!” – Mariko Stahr, Girls’ Day participant</blockquote>In the development department, engineer Thy Vu demonstrated her work on pump-drive technology and explained how developers investigate parameters such as motor torque. The girls were also able to handle some of the materials used inside an HPLC pump.One detail generated particular interest: components made from sapphire and ruby. This opened a discussion about material properties, crystal structures and why instrument developers benefit from understanding chemistry as well as engineering.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_8_Thomas_Mueller_explains_to_the_girls_how_CNC_machines_mill_the_housing_for_a_pump_head_bd714b9b50.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 8 - Thomas Müller explains to the girls how CNC machines mill the housing for a pump head from a block of metal and why precision is crucial in this process. On the left is one of the robotic arms that continues working even at night, allowing employees to focus solely on daytime work and more demanding tasks. " srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_8_Thomas_Mueller_explains_to_the_girls_how_CNC_machines_mill_the_housing_for_a_pump_head_bd714b9b50.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1278" height="468"><h4>Assembling a Real HPLC Pump Head</h4>The final practical station brought the participants into instrument assembly.Each girl was given the opportunity to assemble a pump head herself. The work proved more demanding than it initially appeared, requiring both hands to coordinate several components accurately.With guidance from KNAUER training supervisor Ronald Berger, the participants completed their assemblies before each pump head underwent a final technical check to verify that the pistons moved correctly.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_9_A_girl_is_screwing_the_check_valve_with_the_check_valve_holder_i_cf84fb4375.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 9 - A girl is screwing the check valve with the check valve holder into the pump head. Everything is then tightened using a torque wrench." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_9_A_girl_is_screwing_the_check_valve_with_the_check_valve_holder_i_cf84fb4375.jpg 179w," sizes="100vw" width="376" height="327">The day concluded with lunch and another opportunity to speak with Managing Director Alexandra Knauer, who has long supported initiatives intended to improve the visibility of women and encourage young people to consider STEM careers.Participants received certificates and “I love HPLC” bags with small gifts before leaving KNAUER with their own impressions of what a future in science and technology could look like.<h4>So Where Do the Cats and Rainbows Come In?</h4>The rainbow seen through a spectroscope provides a simple demonstration of the same basic optical principle used in many analytical measurements.When white light is dispersed, its different wavelengths become visible as a spectrum. If part of that light is absorbed by an object or substance, the resulting spectrum changes. Measuring which wavelengths are absorbed can therefore reveal information about the material interacting with the light.The article illustrates the idea with a deliberately simple example: a cat sitting in front of a light source may absorb most of the light, but its silhouette still provides information about what is blocking the beam.Similarly, analytical detectors can obtain information about molecules by measuring how they interact with light.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_10_The_cat_actually_absorbs_all_the_light_af8452f58d.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 10 - The cat actually absorbs all the light, but its outline still lets us know that there’s a fluffy cat sitting there. In HPLC, a[SD5.1] molecule’s light absorption also tells us a great deal about its identity. " srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_10_The_cat_actually_absorbs_all_the_light_af8452f58d.jpg 236w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="676">The same principle also helps explain the colors of evening sunlight. When sunlight travels through a longer path in the atmosphere, shorter-wavelength blue light is scattered more strongly, leaving proportionally more of the longer-wavelength red and orange light reaching the observer.For the students at KNAUER, concepts such as these transformed HPLC and spectroscopy from abstract scientific terminology into something they could build, observe and discuss themselves.And that is ultimately the purpose of Girls’ Day: to show young people that science and technology are not distant subjects confined to textbooks, but fields full of practical questions, creative problem solving and possible future careers.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun With KNAUER – A Girls' Day Full of Rainbows

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezLCMS Library in the week of 21st September 2026? Check out new documents from the field of liquid phase, especially HPLC and LC/MS techniques!<blockquote>👉 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library">SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT LCMS AND RELATED TECHNIQUES</a></blockquote><blockquote>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques? Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezGCMS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezICPMS</a> libraries.</blockquote>This week we bring you application notes by KNAUER and Shimadzu, technical note by Thermo Fisher Scientific and poster by Waters Corporation / SOFT!<h3>1. KNAUER: Precise Catechin Profiling in Various Types of Tea</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/VFD_0198_knauer_precise_catechin_profiling_in_various_types_of_tea_d607cde5ba.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Fresh tea leaves contain high concentrations of catechins, which have many beneficial properties. These include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory as well as antimicrobial effects, and it is even claimed that they have the potential to prevent cancer [1]. In addition, the taste and mouthfeel of a tea strongly depend on its catechin profile. The catechin content of tea leaves varies based on cultivation area, age and variety, as well as on how they are fermented, processed and packed. Therefore, the catechin content is an important marker for the quality of tea.&nbsp;The analysis of catechins can be challenging. The structural similarity of the catechin isomers and other closely related compounds result in similar behavior and a difficult separation (Fig. 1). Catechins possess many phenolic hydroxyl groups, which are prone to secondary interactions, like hydrogen bonding. Classical as well as highly endcapped C18 columns offer only limited retention and selectivity for catechins. Therefore, the KNAUER column portfolio has been expanded to include a pentafluorophenyl (PFP)-modified stationary phase (Eurospher II 100-3 PFP column 50 x 2 mm). It offers optimal separation of the catechins based on hydrophilic, hydrophobic and π-π-interactions. The column withstands acidic eluents (pH 1.5–10) as well as 100 % aqueous conditions, which are beneficial for the retention of hydrophilic compounds. The KNAUER Gradient Prediction Tool assisted with the challenging method development which is described in detail in the TechNote “The Gradient Prediction Tool: Method Development for the Separation of Catechins from Tea”. Here, the application of the optimized method for the identification and quantification of catechins in tea extracts is shown. The seven compounds specified in ISO-14502-2 (2005), as well as two additional catechins known as (+)-gallocatechin and (–)-gallocatechin gallate, were quantified.<h4>MATERIAL AND METHODS</h4><ul><li>Pump: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/2374">P8.1L</a>; high pressure gradient&nbsp;</li><li>Liquid Handler: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1454">LH 8.1L </a>With FastWash station, and Robotic cooler. Loop: 20 µl.</li><li>Thermostat: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/2376">CT 2.1L&nbsp;</a></li><li>Detector: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/2424">DAD 6.1L&nbsp;</a></li><li>Flow cell: Analytical LightGuide flow cell (50 mm, 6 µl)&nbsp;</li><li>Software: ClarityChrom 10.1</li></ul><h4>CONCLUSION&nbsp;</h4>The application note demonstrates the reliable separation and quantification of catechins and caffeine in tea extracts using the new KNAUER PFP column. Using an optimised gradient predicted with the KNAUER Gradient Prediction Tool, nine tea-related compounds were separated in under 23 minutes. The tested tea samples showed different catechin content highlighting how strongly tea composition depends on the product type and processing.<h3>2. Shimadzu: New Derivatization Method for Quantitative Analysis of Δ⁹-THC-COOH in Urine</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/an_01_01215_en_c98174629b.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h5>User Benefits</h5><ul><li>The risk of limited availability of stable isotope-labeled standards can be avoided by synthesizing internal standards through derivatization.&nbsp;</li><li>The derivatizing agent IPPAH and its corresponding stable isotope IPPAH-d6 can be synthesized easily and inexpensively from acetone (or acetone-d6).&nbsp;</li><li>This approach achieves sufficient sensitivity and quantitative accuracy for the determination of Δ⁹-THC-COOH in urine.</li></ul>In Japan, the Cannabis Control Act and the Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act were amended in December 2024. While cannabis was legalized for industrial and medical uses, stricter cannabis regulations have been enacted to prevent harm from its abuse. The primary psychoactive cannabinoid, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THC), is extensively metabolized in the body and is excreted mainly in urine and feces as 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC (Δ⁹-THC-COOH) and its glucuronide conjugates. Consequently, Δ⁹-THC-COOH must be analyzed to confirm cannabis use. For LC-MS/MS quantitation, the stable isotope-labeled internal standard Δ⁹-THC-COOH-d3 is commonly used to correct for matrix effects. However, most suppliers of stable isotope standards are located in the U.S., making these standards difficult to obtain due to import procedures. Furthermore, there may be additional importrelated supply risks for stable isotope standards in the future.&nbsp;This Application News describes a technique for quantitating Δ⁹-THC-COOH using an internal standard that is synthesized easily and inexpensively by derivatization with IPPAH (1- isopropylpiperidine carboxylic acid hydrazide), which characteristically reacts with carboxyl groups, and its corresponding stable isotope IPPAH-d6.<h4>Analysis Conditions&nbsp;</h4>LC-MS/MS analysis conditions are shown in Table 1. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/lcms/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=Nexera+XR">Nexera XR</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/lcms/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=LCMS-8050">LCMS-8050 systems</a> were used.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Derivatization with IPPAH and its stable isotope analog, IPPAHd6, enabled the simple and inexpensive preparation of an internal standard. This approach provides sufficient sensitivity and accuracy for the determination of Δ⁹-THC-COOH in urine. Most stable isotope-labeled standards are supplied by foreign manufacturers, creating a risk of delays or difficulties in procurement due to import/export regulations. By synthesizing the internal standard through derivatization, this risk can be minimized.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: High-throughput quantitative proteomics with Evosep Eno and the Orbitrap Astral Zoom Mass Spectrometer</h3><ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/tn_004544_ov_astralzoom_evosepeno_htp_proteomics_tn004544_na_en_f31db9084e.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>High-throughput proteomics is a critical enabling technology for large clinical studies, high-content drug screening, and systems biology research, allowing for comprehensive and quantitative analysis of complex proteomes across large sample cohorts within practical timeframes. As biological and translational studies expand in scale and complexity, the ability to generate deep and reproducible proteome measurements across thousands of samples has become increasingly essential for robust biomarker discovery, network-level systems modeling, and downstream analyses. In these contexts, accurate and precise protein quantitation must be maintained without sacrificing throughput, placing stringent demands on the performance and robustness of both LC instruments and mass spectrometers.&nbsp;To meet these increasing analytical demands, the Evosep Eno was developed as a high‑throughput LC system that combines robustness, ease of use, and highly reproducible chromatography. It offers six standardized methods: 30, 60, 100, 200, 300, and 500 samples per day (SPD), allowing users to select the throughput that aligns best with their study goals.1 These predefined methods ensure consistent gradient delivery, highly stable retention times, and reproducible system performance across instruments and laboratories.2 By reducing LC‑related variability and simplifying everyday operation, the Evosep Eno offers a strong and consistent foundation for large‑scale proteomics workflows, particularly those relying on short gradients and high reproducibility required for downstream quantitative analysis.<h4>Experiment</h4><h5>Instrumentation&nbsp;</h5><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/lcms/library?mainauthorItems=291&amp;search=evosep+eno">Evosep Eno&nbsp;</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1959">Orbitrap Astral Zoom Mass Spectrometer&nbsp;</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/2464">Thermo Scientific™ EASY-Spray™ Ion Source&nbsp;</a></li><li>Evosep™ Pod for EASY-Spray Ion Source</li></ul><h5>Software&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Biognosys Spectronaut® 19.7 software&nbsp;</li><li>MacCoss Lab Software Skyline-Daily V25.1</li></ul><h4>Summary&nbsp;</h4><h5>Seamless and easy integration for high-throughput proteomics&nbsp;</h5>Evosep Eno integrates seamlessly with the Orbitrap Astral Zoom Mass Spectrometer, supported by EASY-Spray source-compatible columns, emitters, and the Evosep Pod column oven for a simple, streamlined, high-throughput workflow.&nbsp;<h5>Deep proteome coverage at 500 SPD&nbsp;</h5>Optimized MS parameters for the standard 500 SPD Evosep Eno gradient enabled identification of more than 6,500 protein groups and 71,000 modified peptides from three replicates of 200 ng Pierce HeLa Digest/PRTC Standard.<h5>Reproducible quantitation across standard gradients&nbsp;</h5>Across all standard Evosep Eno gradients, the workflow delivered highly reproducible label-free quantification, with median protein group %CVs at or below 5.2%, while identifying more than 10,500 protein groups and 190,000 modified peptides from five replicates of 200 ng Pierce HeLa Digest/PRTC Standard at 30 SPD.&nbsp;<h5>Robust chromatography at ultra-high throughput&nbsp;</h5>Chromatographic performance remained stable and robust at 500 SPD, with nearly 100 consecutive runs showing PRTC retention time standard deviations below 0.4 seconds and a median of 6 DPPP.&nbsp;<h5>Strong linearity for confident quantitation&nbsp;</h5>Quantitative performance remained strong at 500 SPD, with PRTC peptides showing excellent linearity across the active gradient (R² &gt;0.98) when spiked from attomolar to femtomolar concentrations.<h3>4. Waters Corporation / SOFT: COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF HIGH RESOLUTION MASS SPECTROMETRY ACQUISITION STRATEGIES FOR THE DETECTION AND ANALYSIS OF ILLICIT DRUG SUBSTANCES</h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/720009592_0bd2b5ee6a.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><div><div><section><div><div><div><div><div><div>The poster compares two high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry acquisition strategies for toxicology screening: targeted Tof-MRM and data-independent Tof-MSE, both implemented on a Waters <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1148">Xevo MRT MS</a> coupled to an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/199">ACQUITY UPLC I-Class FTN PLUS System</a>. The aim was to determine whether these approaches could meet routine service requirements for drug testing while also broadening the number of substances that can be detected beyond conventional targeted panels. Urine samples were prepared across a wide concentration range for 20 target analytes, and the methods were also applied to 20 anonymized authentic urine samples.Both workflows used a 15-minute LC separation on an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1952">ACQUITY HSS C18 column</a> under positive electrospray ionization. In the targeted Tof-MRM mode, selected precursor ions were isolated and fragmented, with quantifier and qualifier ions monitored for sensitive quantitative analysis. In contrast, Tof-MSE operated in a data-independent mode, alternating between low and elevated collision energies to collect accurate-mass precursor and fragment-ion information for a broad range of compounds. Data were processed in the waters_connect platform using MS Quan for Tof-MRM and UNIFI with the Waters Toxicology Library, containing more than 2,100 drugs and metabolites, for Tof-MSE.The targeted Tof-MRM method provided the highest sensitivity, with limits of detection ranging from 0.05 to 0.5 ng/mL in fortified urine. The broader Tof-MSE workflow achieved LODs of approximately 0.5 to 5 ng/mL. When both strategies were applied to authentic urine samples, they showed excellent qualitative agreement. Importantly, Tof-MSE detected additional compounds outside the predefined target panel, including commonly encountered medications, benzodiazepines, antidepressants, and illicit drug substances that would not have been captured by the targeted method alone.Overall, the study shows that Tof-MRM can deliver sensitivity comparable to conventional tandem-quadrupole LC-MS/MS for targeted urinary drug analysis, while Tof-MSE adds broader sample characterization and retrospective screening capability. Used together, the two acquisition strategies provide a flexible approach that combines sensitive quantification of predefined analytes with expanded screening for unexpected or previously untargeted drug substances in complex biological samples.</div></div></div></div></div></div></section></div></div>

News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 39, 2026

Proper care and maintenance of HPLC columns are essential for getting accurate results and saving on replacement costs. Extending the HPLC column life not only ensures consistent performance but also reduces downtime and the need for frequent replacements.Routine maintenance is equally essential for sustaining column functionality. Correct handling of the column is paramount, ensuring strict compliance with the manufacturer’s specifications regarding pressure, pH, flow rate, and temperature.In the next section, we will explore these best practices in greater detail, offering further guidance on essential HPLC column maintenance strategies. Whether you’re working in a high-throughput lab, or conducting occasional analyses, these strategies will help you get the most out of your <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products?category=48&amp;manufacturerItems=50">HPLC columns</a>.<h3>Essential Guidelines for Extending HPLC Column Life</h3>By adopting these simple yet effective practices, you can greatly extend the HPLC column life while ensuring reliable, high-quality results in your analyses.<h4>Proper Column Handling</h4>HPLC columns should be handled with care to prevent physical damage or shock. The pump should not be started at high flow rates; instead, the flow rate should be gradually increased over several minutes. A pump pressure limit should be set to protect the column from over pressuring, as sudden pressure changes can lead to voids, negatively affecting the column’s performance.<h4>HPLC Column Conditioning and Equilibration</h4>Conditioning is a critical step for preparing a new or stored HPLC column by replacing the storage solvent with the desired mobile phase. Care must be taken to avoid introducing immiscible solvent mixtures into the column. Universally miscible solvents such as THF (tetrahydrofuran) or IPA (isopropyl alcohol) can be useful for this process when moving from normal phase to reversed phase solvent systems. Care must also be taken to ensure that solvents that may be damaging to a specific stationary phase are avoided.For example, if a reversed-phase column experiences phase collapse due to 100% aqueous mobile phases, it should be reactivated. This process involves running 100% acetonitrile at a high flow rate and a temperature as high as 60°C. It is essential to ensure no solid buffers precipitate from residual solvents. Depending on the column condition, between 50 and 100 column volumes are needed for complete reactivation and equilibration, restoring the column’s efficiency for future use.<h4>Optimizing Operating Conditions</h4>Optimizing operating conditions is paramount to enhancing HPLC column efficiency and prolonging their operational lifespan. A fundamental aspect of this is strict adherence to the manufacturer’s recommended temperature, pH and pressure parameters.Deviating from these limits, particularly by operating at elevated temperatures, can significantly hasten the degradation of the stationary phase and hardware, thereby compromising overall performance. Elevated temperatures can also narrow the pH operating range, exacerbating the risk of column degradation through phenomena such as peak broadening or diminished efficiency.Effective pressure management is equally crucial. Sudden pressure surges or mechanical shocks can result in bed voiding, leading to poor chromatographic performance, such as split peaks and reduced separation efficiency. Gradual ramping of flow and pressure, implemented each time the column is initiated, mitigates these risks. Many modern HPLC systems are equipped with automated flow-pressure ramping capabilities, ensuring smoother transitions and reducing the potential for column damage.In addition, vigilant monitoring of the mobile phase's pH is vital to the maintenance of HPLC column integrity. Deviations from the optimal pH range can cause significant harm to the stationary phase. For instance, leads to ligand hydrolysis which leads to a loss of stationary phase functionality and diminished column performance over time. High pH can lead to silica degradation. This weakens the silica structure, causing particle dissolution, void formation, and loss of column efficiency. Maintaining the pH within optimal boundaries is essential for preserving the column’s structural integrity and ensuring consistent chromatographic performance.Furthermore, incorporating inline filters and guard columns into the system serves as a proactive measure to prevent particulates and harsh sample matrices from damaging the analytical column. These preventive tools significantly enhance operational conditions and safeguard the column from contamination, ultimately contributing to extended HPLC column lifetime and reliable performance.<h4>Regular Column Maintenance</h4>Effective routine maintenance is paramount to extending the HPLC column lifetime and ensuring the consistent performance of HPLC columns. A critical aspect of this maintenance is the thorough washing of the column after each use to eliminate residual sample components and mobile phase contaminants.The cleaning process generally involves performing an isocratic or gradient wash using a solvent system similar to the one previously used on the column but substituting the buffer with HPLC-grade water. This helps effectively remove any residual buffer components from the column. This meticulous cleaning process is vital to preventing the accumulation of impurities that could compromise the stationary phase and lead to decreased efficiency over time.Post-cleaning, it is imperative to end-cap the column before storage to prevent the stationary phase from drying out, a condition that can negatively impact the column’s future performance. Proper capping or sealing ensures that the column remains in optimal condition, safeguarding its structural integrity and readiness for subsequent analyses.Additionally, utilizing an older HPLC system as a dedicated wash station can further streamline maintenance practices, freeing up live systems for active use. Consistently adhering to a rigorous cleaning and storage regimen not only enhances the longevity of HPLC columns but also guarantees the delivery of precise and reliable analytical results.For severe contamination or pressure buildup, backflushing may be necessary to dislodge tightly bound contaminants. However, backflushing should only be performed when absolutely necessary, as it can stress the column packing material. It is essential to consult the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting this method.

How to Extend the Lifetime of HPLC Columns?

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Based in Berlin, KNAUER is a medium-sized, owner-managed company that has been serving the sciences since 1962. We develop and manufacture scientific instruments of superior quality for liquid chromatography, including: Analytical HPLC/UHPLC, Preparative HPLC, Fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC), Multi-column chromatography/Simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatography. High pressure dosing, in-line detection systems, and osmometry are additional business areas.

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Do you have an older method that is no longer meeting your needs? Are you trying to decide if it’s worth updating it? Or have you already chosen to update but are now asking yourself, “Where do I go from here?”
Modernizing a legacy method can improve accuracy, ruggedness, and sample throughput.
In this webinar, we will look at the decision-making process and steps to make it happen, including:
<ul>
<li>Is the goal to reduce analysis time and/or improve resolution?
</li>
<li>What HPLC parameters will be key to success?
</li>
<li>What are the column options, and will they work with your instrumentation?
</li>
<li>How do I navigate the allowable adjustments to USP methods?
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Mark Powell (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Mark Powell is an Applications Engineer located at Agilent’s Little Falls site in Wilmington, DE. Before joining Agilent in 2011, Mark worked in the pharmaceutical industry synthesizing, purifying and analyzing drug candidates. He provides applications assistance and technical support for Agilent’s HPLC columns and consumables.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Method Makeover: Updating Older HPLC Methods

Method Makeover: Updating Older HPLC Methods

Modernizing a legacy method can improve accuracy, ruggedness, and sample throughput.

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are a class of toxic natural compounds found in various plant species worldwide. Many PAs have been identified as contaminants in tea, dried herbs, and herbal dietary supplements. The presence of PAs in these products is mainly associated with co-harvest of PA-containing weeds. Considering PA are genotoxic carcinogens to humans, maximum levels have been set by the European Commission in Regulation 2020/2040 for a number of commodities. This talk will cover challenges and pitfalls encountered in quantitative LC-MS/MS analysis of PAs. Results generated during optimization experiments and validation of an LC-MS/MS method in a wide range of matrices will be presented.
Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:
<ul>
<li>Information on pyrrolizidine alkaloids and contamination of dietary supplements and ingredients including applicable legislation.
</li>
<li>Overview of pitfalls and challenges that need to be addressed in quantitative pyrrolizidine alkaloid analysis.
</li>
<li>Summary of experiments and results collected during optimization and validation of internal LC-MS/MS method.
</li>
</ul>
Who Should Attend: food testing lab personnel, researchers and regulators interested in pyrrolizidine alkaloid testing.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Lukas Vaclavik, PhD (Eurofins Food Chemistry Testing, Madison, WI)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Lukas Vaclavik currently works as technical manager at Eurofins Food Chemistry Testing and supports the area of contaminant and residue testing. Prior to joining Eurofins, Lukas worked at the CFSAN of the U.S. FDA. Lukas has authored or co-authored over 40 scientific publications focused on chromatographic and mass spectrometric analysis of chemical residues, contaminants and adulterants. He received his Ph.D. in Food Chemistry and Analysis from the University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czech Republic.
</blockquote>

Agilent: Use of LC-MS/MS Technique for Quantitative Analysis of Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids in Dietary Supplements and Foods

Use of LC-MS/MS Technique for Quantitative Analysis of Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids in Dietary Supplements and Foods

This talk will cover challenges and pitfalls encountered in quantitative LC-MS/MS analysis of Pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

LC-MS/MS for Analysis of Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids

Size exclusion chromatography (SEC), also known as gel permeation chromatography (GPC) is a powerful technique for analyzing the molecular weight and structure of polymers. Concentration detection is an essential component of GPC/SEC, as it allows for the determination of sample concentration at each point in the elution process. This information is used to calculate the molecular weight of the polymer.
In this webinar, our expert speakers will discuss the benefits and challenges associated with using conventional concentration detectors such as refractive index detectors. In addition, they will discuss and critique the use of the evaporative light scattering detector (ELSD) for polymer characterization. Finally, they will describe its use in conjunction with other detectors such as viscometers and light scattering detectors to provide a comprehensive study of the polymer.
Key learning objectives
<ul>
<li>Understand the use of concentration detectors in GPC/SEC</li>
<li>Discover the benefits and challenges associated with refractive index detectors</li>
<li>Learn what advantages an ELSD can bring to the characterization of macromolecules</li>
</ul>
Who should attend?
<ul>
<li>Polymer scientists</li>
<li>Polymer engineers</li>
<li>Polymer analysts</li>
<li>Plastic technologists</li>
<li>Macromolecular scientists/technicians</li>
</ul>
<h4>View other webinars in this series here:</h4>
<ul>
<li>Part 1: <a href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/3690">Unraveling the Intricacies of Size Exclusion Chromatography – Strength and Limitations</a>
</li>
<li>Part 3: <a href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/3692">Characterization of Macromolecules by SEC-Light Scattering</a>
</li>
<li>Part 4: <a href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/3693">Concepts, Challenges and Applications for 2D-LC of Polymers</a>
</li>
</ul>
Certificate of attendance
All webinar participants can request a certificate of attendance, including a learning outcomes summary, for continuing education purposes.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Miroslav Janco (Principal Research Scientist, Dow Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Miroslav Janco is a principal research scientist in the Analytical Sciences team of Core R&amp;D at Dow Chemical. His research is focused on separation and characterization of polymers by GPC/SEC, HPLC, and LC CAP modes using conventional (RI, UV, ELSD) and enhanced detections (LS, VIS) as well as coupled (2D-LC) and online hyphenated techniques (LC-ICP/MS, LC-NMR). He has advanced these capabilities for elucidation of structural heterogeneity in synthetic polymers and the establishment of process-structure-property relationships. His latest contribution to the field of polymer separation and characterization is the development of advanced polymer chromatography.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Stephen O’Donohue (Site Director, Agilent Technologies Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Stephen O’Donohue is the site director for the Agilent Gel Permeation Chromatography specialty detector group based in Shropshire, UK. With over 35 years of experience in the industry, designing and developing concentration and molecular weight sensitive detectors for Polymer Laboratories, Varian, and now Agilent, he has developed a strong knowledge of macromolecular characterization by GPC.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jemima Arnold (Editorial Assistant, SelectScience)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Jemima studied Cellular and Molecular Medicine at the University of Bristol, UK, and as a member of the Editorial team, she now plays an integral role in shaping the content on SelectScience.
</blockquote>

SelectScience: Detection in Gel Permeation Chromatography / Size Exclusion Chromatography

Detection in Gel Permeation Chromatography / Size Exclusion Chromatography

We will discuss the benefits and challenges associated with using conventional concentration detectors such as refractive index detectors.

Detection in GPC/SEC

In this live webinar, we will introduce the brand new Thermo Scientific™ Hypersil GOLD™ Peptide LC Column, designed for all peptide separation, including excellent retention of hydrophilic peptides and separation of deamidated species in a single run. This column is ideal for the development and manufacturing of biopharmaceuticals, achieving minimal RSD% and impeccable lot-to-lot consistency.
Following a product presentation of this advanced technology, you will get a chance to hear testimonies and results from our customers and early-adopters in the field. Finally, our experts will proceed to dive deeper into the related applications, such as peptide mapping and monitoring as part of the Multi-Attribute Method (MAM), to provide you with the solutions to resolve all your peptide challenges. We hope to see you there! 
Learning Points:
<ul>
<li>Introduction to the new Hypersil GOLD Peptide LC Column</li>
<li>Hear from early adopters about their use of this advanced technology</li>
<li>Dive deeper into the related applications to resolve all peptide challenges</li>
</ul>
Who should attend?
<ul>
<li>Biopharmaceutical research scientists</li>
<li>Analytical scientists from biopharma companies working on or interested in peptide mapping and monitoring</li>
<li>PhD students and scientists looking to advance their knowledge of peptide mapping and monitoring</li>
</ul>
Short notice:
Can&#39;t attend the live broadcast? No problem! Register anyway and you will automatically receive the link to the webinar recording. 
<blockquote>
Presenter: Serdar Bilgesoy (Product Manager Premier LC columns, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
As the Global Product Manager for LC Columns at Thermo Fisher Scientific, Serdar brings over 15 years of experience in analytical instruments across various roles in product management, sales, marketing, application, and service responsibilities. He has specialized in segments such as Life Sciences, Clinical, Pharma, Biopharma, and Forensics. He is an experienced Application, Sales, and Marketing Executive in HPLC, LC-MS/MS, LC-MS/TOF, and MALDI-TOF instruments, possessing sophisticated marketing knowledge, a vast sales network, technical background, and innovative solutions expertise.
</blockquote>

ThermoFisher Scientific: Resolve all your peptide challenges: deep dive into new separation technology and applications

Resolve all your peptide challenges: deep dive into new separation technology and applications

We will introduce the brand new Thermo Scientific™ Hypersil GOLD™ Peptide LC Column, designed for all peptide separation.

Peptide challenges: new separation technology

Microbes, the oldest and most abundant life forms on Earth, reside within us in staggering numbers, outweighing our own cells. These microscopic marvels not only play a critical role in our health but also hold the key to groundbreaking discoveries, from antibiotics to gene editing.
Here&#39;s an astonishing piece of information: over 90% of Earth&#39;s microbes remain uncharacterized, forming this immense hidden realm called the Dark Microbiome. This unexplored territory brims with immense potential for future advancements in medicine, biotechnology, and drug discovery.
In this insightful webinar, you will discover:
<ul>
<li>The unique role of Mass Spectrometry-based proteomics in unlocking the functional capabilities of microbiomes (aka. Metaproteomics) and its profound impact on understanding health and disease.</li>
<li>How we use the groundbreaking capabilities of the timsTOF Ultra mass spectrometer to reach unprecedented depth, sensitivity, and quantitative analysis of complex microbiome samples.</li>
<li>How we push the boundaries of sensitivity to achieve sub-pg peptide detection, paving the way to discover new biology.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: David Gómez-Varela, Ph.D. (Systems Biology of Pain, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria)
</blockquote>

Bruker: Clinical Proteomics: Ultra-sensitive mass spectrometry sheds light on the microbiome

Ultra-sensitive mass spectrometry sheds light on the microbiome

You will discover the role of Mass Spectrometry-based proteomics and the capabilities of the timsTOF Ultra mass spectrometer.

Ultra-sensitive mass spectrometry and the microbiome

By attending this eSeminar, you will:
<ul>
<li>Gain practical insights into optimizing sample preparation in alignment with EPA Method 1633’s regulatory requirements by the use of dual-phase SPE cartridges, covering background analysis, MDL studies, and recoveries</li>
<li>Benefit from real-world experiences from Complete Environmental Testing, offering valuable insights on navigating EPA 1633 in an end-to-end workflow, while utilizing dual-phase SPE cartridges to improve laboratory efficiency</li>
<li>Understand key details for successful PFAS analysis</li>
<li>Learn how to optimize analysis for ultra-short chain PFAS compounds</li>
<li>See how to expand the range of PFAS compounds to analyze in a single run</li>
</ul>
<h4>Event Overview</h4>
Separation Science, in collaboration with its sponsors Waters and Restek, is pleased to bring you an upcoming online eSeminar focusing on advances in PFAS analysis. This unique event will bring together key experts in the field and provide an interactive learning environment for scientists working in this industry.
<h4>Presentations</h4>
Efficiency in EPA Method 1633: Validation and Implementation Strategies
by Jeffrey Smith, Director of Operations, Complete Environmental Testing (CET)
Join us for a presentation focused on optimizing EPA Method 1633 in your laboratory highlighting the validation and implementation of dual-phase WAX and GCB cartridges. EPA 1633 establishes a method for the determination of 40 PFAS from challenging matrices such as non-potable waters, soils, biosolids, and tissue. For these matrix types, sample preparation has moved beyond the use of a WAX cartridge alone. GCB has been added to the sample preparation workflow to provide additional sample cleanup. We will discuss the full EPA 1633 workflow, including topics such as background analysis for soils and water, MDLs achieved, observed recovery in authentic samples, and the practical advantages of dual-phase cartridges in reducing manual labor steps compared to loose GCB in EPA 1633.
This presentation is designed for scientists, laboratory managers, and others looking to implement and validate EPA Method 1633 or optimize their sample preparation process in their current workflow. Join us as Complete Environmental Testing shares experiences on working with the complex matrices in EPA 1633 and breaks down advantages in their method workflow with the use of dual-phase SPE cartridges.
Untapped Ultrashort-chain PFAS Analysis Combined with Routine PFAS Analysis in a Single LC-MS/MS Run
by Mike Chang, Market Development Manager, Restek Corporation
Starting from measuring C8 many decades ago, today’s PFAS testing requires a lot more chromatography capabilities when an extended list of PFAS analysis is desired. Chain length ranging from C1 to C18 and a functional group changing from carboxylic acids to ethers, sulfonamides, and more, with multiple oxygens in the structure, can be challenging for a chromatograph all in one run. In this presentation, we will see examples of a combined PFAS panel analyzed in one run with chain length from C1 and above, in addition to AFFF and FTS compounds.
<h4>What you need to know:</h4>
Date: 16 April, 2024
Start times:
<ul>
<li>Broadcast 1: 9 am BST (London) / 10 am CEST (Paris/Berlin) / 1:30 pm IST (New Delhi) / 4 pm SGT (Singapore)
</li>
<li>Broadcast 2: 10 am PDT (Los Angeles) / 12 pm CDT (Chicago) / 1 pm EDT (New York)
</li>
</ul>
Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jeffrey Smith (Director of Operations, Complete Environmental Testing (CET))
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Jeffrey Smith holds a BS in Chemistry from Quinnipiac University. He has been working in environmental analytical chemistry for 18 years, with experience in several disciplines, including GC/MS and LC-MS/MS. Jeffrey now serves as the director of operations at Complete Environmental Testing. For the past few years, his focus as director has been building the PFAS department at CET from the ground up, including method development and researching LC/MS/MS instrumentation for the laboratory. Jeffrey serves on several PFAS work groups and is an active member of the Reasonable Confidence QA/QC Protocols work group for the state of Connecticut.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Mike Chang (Market Development Manager, Restek Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
With an analytical chemistry background and 15+ years of experience in the chromatography industry, from instrumentation to applications, Mike is the key liaison to testing agencies and industries, bringing better ways of measuring contaminants in the environment and food. He has been chairing PFAS sessions and presenting PFAS topics at various conferences.
</blockquote>

Advances in PFAS Analysis

Understand essential details for successful PFAS analysis and optimize EPA Method 1633 in your lab.

Liquid handling is one of the most important yet also tedious tasks in the analytical laboratory. Only the correct volume of sample, solvent, reagent, titrant, or auxiliary solution makes sure analytical results are accurate and reproducible.
In this webinar, Jennifer Lüber, Product Specialist Liquid Handling and Lab Robotics at Metrohm International Headquarters, will give you an introduction to the automation of liquid handling. After a brief overview of the capabilities of various dosing systems, Jennifer will demonstrate how the automation of basic liquid handling tasks will help you improve the quality of your analytical results while freeing up valuable time for other tasks. From this, a path forward can emerge to an automation solution that supports your analytical workflow best.
During a Q&amp;A session at the end of her webinar you can ask Jennifer any questions you may have about liquid handling and the solutions from Metrohm. Join us on April 17 and get inspired by what’s possible when it comes to the automation of your liquid handling!
Key learnings of this webinar:
<ul>
<li>Better results, less risk of errors – the benefits of automated liquid handling</li>
<li>When to automate and what: How to find the best automation solution to support your analytical workflow</li>
<li>Tips and tricks how to keep your system at peak performance</li>
</ul>
Who should attend?
Lab technicians, chemists, and everybody else performing liquid handling tasks in the laboratory.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jennifer Lüber (Product Specialist for Liquid Handling and Lab Robotics, Metrohm International Headquarters)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Jennifer Lüber is currently the Product Specialist for Liquid Handling and Lab Robotics at Metrohm International Headquarters in Switzerland. She finished her apprenticeship as a Lab Technician in 2014 and joined the Competence Center Titration at Metrohm International Headquarters in 2015. In 2020 Jennifer received her bachelor degree in business process management and in 2023, she joined the Competence Center Liquid Handling and Lab Robotics to support the team with her experience.
</blockquote>

Metrohm: Automated liquid handling – the key to accurate and reproducible results

Automated liquid handling – the key to accurate and reproducible results

In this webinar, we will give you an introduction to the automation of liquid handling.

Automated liquid handling

The European Union (EU) has one of the highest levels of food safety standards in the world, largely due to the extensive body of legislation in place, which ensures that food is safe. The rules apply from farm to fork, whether food is produced in the EU or imported from elsewhere in the world.
One key tool used to react rapidly to food and feed safety crises and incidents is the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) which enables information to be shared rapidly and efficiently between food control authorities in Member States and the European Commission when a risk to health has been identified. In this way, countries can act rapidly and in a coordinated manner to avert food safety risks before they can harm consumers including the management of costly product recalls.
<h5>What will I learn?</h5>
In this webinar, you will learn about how RASFF operates as applied to residues and contaminants in food of animal origin, some historical trends (veterinary drug residues), and emerging threats (PFAS). 
We will also delve into the analytical methods suitable for determination of key chemical hazards, for checking compliance with EU regulations, which will avoid RASFF notifications, both prior to export but also for official control within the EU (and elsewhere).
<blockquote>
Presenter: Simon HIRD, Ph.D, MRSC, CChem. (Strategic Analyst, Testing and Laboratory Services, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Simon Hird has worked for Waters since 2014 as a Principal Scientist, in the Food and Environmental Market area and now as a Strategic Analyst in Waters’ new Testing and Laboratory Service business unit. Simon contributes to scientific projects, is involved in the commercialisation of new technologies, and provides advice, training, and context to various parts of the Waters organisation and to customers globally. Simon instructs on internationally recognised training courses, such as SARAF, GFoRSS and for AOAC India section. Simon continues to be invited to present at international conferences and has 24 peer-reviewed publications, including one of the most downloaded Trends in Analytical Chemistry articles, “Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry for the determination of chemical contaminants in food”. Prior to joining Waters, Simon spent almost 20 years at a government laboratory in the UK (now called Fera Science), where he had various roles associated with residues testing and food authenticity before leading an LC-MS/MS team responsible for determination of residues and contaminants in food and environmental samples.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Moderator: Moderator - Joanne Ho, Ph.D. (Food and Environmental, APAC Market Development Manager, Waters Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Joanne Ho is the Food and Environmental Market Development at Waters Corporation. She received her PhD in Chemistry from the University of New South Wales, Australia. During her career, Joanne has developed applications using LC and LC-MS techniques for a variety of applications ranging from active ingredients like organic acids to food contaminant residues like mycotoxins. Joanne is part of the Asia Pacific team and works with customers in the region to understand their analytical challenges and helps address them with Waters solutions.
</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Historical and Emerging Trends for Residues and Contaminants in Products of Animal Origin

Historical and Emerging Trends for Residues and Contaminants in Products of Animal Origin

Learn how RASFF operates as applied to residues and contaminants in food of animal origin, veterinary drug residues, and PFAS.

Residues and Contaminants in Products of Animal Origin

Event Program
<ul>
<li>Introduction</li>
<li>Temperature effects on sensors</li>
<li>Temperature effects on buffers/solutions</li>
<li>Temperature compensation on the part of the sensor</li>
<li>Temperature compensation on the part of the buffers</li>
<li>Summary</li>
<li>Q&amp;A and feedback</li>
</ul>
The temperature plays a critical role in pH measurements. Achieving accurate pH values is not only about the chemical composition of a solution but also about understanding the impact of temperature fluctuations. Temperature can significantly influence the behavior of pH electrodes and the characteristics of the sample, making it essential to understand its effects on pH measurements. Challenges arise when temperature differentials between the electrode and the sample lead to unstable readings, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of temperature&#39;s influence on pH.
During our webinar, you will learn about the relationship between temperature and pH. From the temperature dependence of the dissociation constant of water to the impact of temperature on the activity coefficient and acid constants, we will see the complexities of temperature effects on pH measurements. Understanding these nuances can help you enhance the accuracy and reliability of your pH measurements, ensuring precise results across diverse temperature conditions.
Register now for our upcoming webinar to gain valuable insights into the effect of temperature on pH and deepen your understanding of this relationship. Join us and gain the knowledge to optimize your pH measurements and achieve consistent, reliable results.
<h5>How does temperature affect pH measurements?</h5>
Temperature can significantly impact pH measurements by altering the behavior of pH electrodes and the characteristics of the sample. Temperature changes can cause the pH electrode to drift until the temperature of the electrode and the sample become equal, leading to unstable readings. Additionally, the temperature dependence of the dissociation constant of water and the solution&#39;s activity coefficient and acid constants can cause changes in the H+ concentration and real pH value changes.
<h5>How can I compensate for temperature effects on pH measurements?</h5>
Temperature compensation tables have been determined for standard buffer solutions, which can be programmed into pH meters to ensure the correct pH value is used for the buffer at the temperature at which the calibration is performed. However, it is almost impossible to compensate for the temperature coefficient of every sample solution, making it essential to measure samples at the same temperature to make accurate comparisons.
<h5>What are the best practices for handling pH electrodes in temperature-sensitive environments?</h5>
To ensure accurate pH measurements in temperature-sensitive environments, it is crucial to use the correct pH electrode for the specific sample and give the electrode enough time to equilibrate and to maintain the electrode properly.
When measuring in samples that do not consist of easy-to-measure clear, aqueous solutions, problems of electrical or chemical origin can occur, which should be addressed by following the manufacturer&#39;s instructions for electrode handling and maintenance.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr Reena Mascarenhas
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Reena is an electrochemist, working for METTLER TOLEDO, with over five years of experience in training others in various aspects of the field. Her in-depth understanding, technical expertise, and engaging and informative training style make her a prominent speaker for this webinar.
</blockquote>

Mettler-Toledo: Temperature Effects on pH Measurement

Temperature Effects on pH Measurement

A Live Webinar to Understand the Relation between Varying Temperature and pH.

Christian Rohrer, Director Sales and Marketing at Tosoh Bioscience GmbH, will present the next edition of Tosoh Tuesday, a webinar series held by Chromatography Experts.
On Tuesday, April 16, Corey Meadows, Product Specialist Bioanalysis at Tosoh Bioscience, dives into the analysis of antibody-drug conjugates and their drug-antibody ratio by hydrophobic interaction chromatography.
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are dual-action cancer biotherapeutics, where monoclonal antibodies carrying tumor-killing payloads specifically bind to cancer cells and accelerate cancer cell death. Characterizing the ratio of tumor-killing payload to cancer-binding antibody (DAR) is a critical quality attribute needed to determine the potential potency of a given ADC candidate. This webinar features HIC as a solution for quantifying DARs in ADC biotherapeutics. An overview of ADC and HIC fundamentals will be presented, targeting analytical method development scientists seeking insights for mobile-phase and stationary-phase selections for separating variable conjugated ADC variants.
After the webinar, ask your questions during the live Q&amp;A session. 
<blockquote>
Presenter: Christian Rohrer (Director Sales and Marketing at Tosoh Bioscience GmbH)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Corey Meadows (Product Specialist Bioanalysis at Tosoh Bioscience)
</blockquote>

Tosoh Bioscience: Tosoh Tuesday - Hydrophobic Interaction Chromatography as a Platform for Characterizing ADCs

Hydrophobic Interaction Chromatography as a Platform for Characterizing ADCs

Hydrophobic Interaction Chromatography as a Platform for Characterizing Antbody-Drug Conjugates