At UC San Diego, researchers are using patient-derived brain organoids and spaceflight to explore whether aging-associated biology can be accelerated in orbit. With advanced proteomics enabled by the Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Astral Mass Spectrometer (MS), the team is gaining deeper insight into complex brain biology and new possibilities for studying neurodegenerative disease.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Neuroscience_Takes_Flight_How_Collaboration_Spaceflight_and_Orbitrap_Astral_MS_Are_Opening_a_New_Window_into_Brain_Aging_6b56e04145.webp" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Neuroscience Takes Flight: How Collaboration, Spaceflight, and Orbitrap Astral MS Are Opening a New Window into Brain Aging" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Neuroscience_Takes_Flight_How_Collaboration_Spaceflight_and_Orbitrap_Astral_MS_Are_Opening_a_New_Window_into_Brain_Aging_6b56e04145.webp 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="512"><h3>Introduction</h3>Neurodegenerative diseases remain among the most difficult conditions to study. Researchers cannot easily or safely biopsy living brain tissue, and even sophisticated disease models can take years to reveal meaningful biological change. At UC San Diego, Drs. Aline Martins and Alysson Muotri are taking a different approach: creating patient-derived brain organoids from skin cells and sending them to space to explore whether low Earth orbit can accelerate aging-associated biology. Preliminary data suggest that 30 days in space may compress roughly 10 years of aging biology into a much shorter experimental window, opening the door to a faster path for understanding neurodegeneration and evaluating new therapeutic ideas.<h3>A study design built around biology</h3>The real power of this work begins with the study design. Rather than relying on generalized models, the researchers begin with skin cells from patients and generate 3D mini-brain organoids that can model diseases such as Alzheimer’s while preserving critical patient context. That gives the team a more human-relevant system for studying how aging and disease unfold over time. Spaceflight adds a second dimension: a research environment that is exceptionally difficult to reproduce on Earth, but one that may help reveal the molecular and cellular drivers of neurodegeneration faster than conventional studies allow. The Integrated Space Stem Cell Orbital Research (ISSCOR) Center at UC San Diego have begun to explore this broader approach to study how space-related stressors influence brain aging and cognitive decline, with potential relevance to diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. Once those organoids return to Earth, the next challenge is extracting as much insight as possible from every sample.<h3>Enabling deeper insight from limited samples</h3>Brain organoids are inherently heterogeneous, with multiple cell subtypes that may respond differently to aging and environmental stress.To extract deeper biological insight from the organoid samples, the researchers describe the<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/836"> Orbitrap Astral MS </a>as central to their investigation. They highlight that the high sensitivity required for single-cell proteomics is essential for revealing how the space environment affects distinct cell populations and the Orbitrap Astral MS helps unlock deeper biological insight.That distinction is important: the value of the Orbitrap Astral MS analytical workflow is not simply generating more data but importantly helping the team resolve more of the biology within a complex model.<h3>How Orbitrap Astral MS helps push biology further</h3>At Thermo Fisher Scientific, we work alongside researchers pursuing bold scientific questions by developing technologies that help them see deeper into complex biology.Aline describes Orbitrap Astral MS as a major advance for the sensitivity and resolution this research requires. Its synchronized data acquisition capabilities and parallel ion processing across dual high-resolution accurate-mass analyzers with maximized instrument utilization help deliver deeper coverage, higher sensitivity, faster throughput, and accurate, precise quantitation across demanding biological workflows.For studies like this one, those capabilities help researchers get more from limited sample material, uncover subtle disease-relevant changes, and translate an inventive experimental design into deeper biological insight, faster.<h3>Looking ahead</h3>The power of this research lies in the convergence of ideas. Patient-derived brain organoids offer a human-relevant model of disease. Spaceflight may serve as an aging accelerator. Advanced proteomics helps researchers understand what complex biological models are revealing with greater depth and clarity, while single-cell proteomics unlocks a view into cell-specific changes that can drive disease biology. Together, this approach could give scientists a faster and more informative way to study late-onset diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. This initiative between UC San Diego and Thermo Fisher Scientific shows how collaborations across the scientific community can open new doors in neuroscience and accelerate discovery in ways that matter. As researchers continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, studies like this one point to a future where deeper biological insight can be reached faster and with greater potential to improve human health.<h3>Learn more</h3><ul><li>Listen to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://corporate.thermofisher.com/us/en/index/newsroom/Our-stories/Brains-in-space.html">interview with Dr. Aline Martins</a> for more on the scientific vision behind this research and its implications for brain aging and neurodegenerative disease.</li><li>Learn more about <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/proteomics-mass-spectrometry/single-cell-proteomics.html">Thermo Fisher Scientific single-cell proteomics solutions</a> and how they help researchers gain deeper insight from limited and complex samples.</li><li>Explore the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/836">Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Astral MS</a> and see how it helps researchers achieve deeper biological insight with faster throughput, higher sensitivity, and accurate, precise quantitation across advanced workflows.</li></ul><blockquote>Visit us on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/">LinkedIn:</a>&nbsp;#BrainOrganoids #SpaceBiology #Neurodegeneration #OrbitrapAstralMS</blockquote>

Neuroscience Takes Flight: How Collaboration, Spaceflight, and Orbitrap Astral MS Are Opening a New Window into Brain Aging

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezLCMS Library in the week of 29th 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 technical note by KNAUER, application note by Shimadzu and posters by Thermo Fisher Scientific / HPLC Symposium and Waters Corporation / AOAC!<h3>1. KNAUER: Efficient separation of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) from oil matrices using GPC</h3><ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/VTN_00_XX_knauer_applichrom_gpc_f1d7f1a236.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Phthalates are chemical compounds primarily used as plasticizers in polymers to enhance the flexibility and elasticity of materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) [1]. Since plasticizers are not covalently bound to the polymer chains, they have the potential to leach into the contacting media and contribute to contamination [2]. With the widespread and increasing use of plastic materials, the risk of phthalate release and human exposure continues to rise. As a result, and due to their potentially harmful effects on human health, phthalates have attracted growing scientific and regulatory attention in recent years [1]. Oil-rich food products can leach lipophilic phthalates from their packaging [3]. Throughout the production and packaging process, polymeric components such as tubing, containers, and caps may serve as potential sources of contamination. For the analysis of phthalates in such oil matrices, sample cleanup is an essential step. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC), based on sizeexclusion principles, is widely applied as an effective cleanup technique prior to subsequent analytical determination.<h4>MATERIALS &amp; METHODS</h4>The samples were dissolved in the eluent mixture and filtered through a 0.45 µm PTFE filter prior to analysis. For both olive oil and canola oil, an additional sample spiked with DEHP was prepared and likewise filtered before analysis. Chromatographic analysis was performed using an isocratic method with an eluent composition of ethyl acetate/heptane (50:50 v/v) at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. Detection was carried out by UV absorbance at 254 nm. The injection volume was 8 µL using a full-loop injection mode. The column temperature was maintained at 25°C. Separation was achieved on an AppliChrom® OleoSep column (10 µm, 300 × 8 mm). The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1630">AZURA® Semi Preparative GPC System</a> was used.<h4>CONCLUSION</h4>GPC sample preparation is an effective approach for separating phthalates from high-molecular-weight matrices such as edible oils. In this study, the successful separation of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) from three different oil samples was demonstrated. Based on these results, it can be assumed that other phthalates with lower molecular weights (&lt; 390 Da) can also be effectively separated under same conditions. The KNAUER AZURA® GPC semi preparative system (Fig. 4) in combination with the AppliChrom® OleoSep GPC column provides a robust and efficient setup for sample preparation in phthalate analysis, offering rapid separation, high resolution, and minimal solvent consumption due to the short analysis time.<h3>2. Shimadzu: Analysis of Chloride and Sulfate Ions in Bioethanol Using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/lcms/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=Nexera+IC">Nexera IC Ion Chromatograph</a></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/an_01_01211_en_55cbf3e64f.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h5>User Benefits</h5><ul><li>Analysis of chloride and sulfate ions in fuel ethanol can be conducted in accordance with ASTM D7319-221) .</li><li>Accurate quantitative determination, exhibiting excellent linearity and repeatability, can be achieved at concentration levels significantly below the limits specified by the ASTM criteria.</li></ul>First-generation bioethanol produced from raw materials such as corn and sugarcane has been utilized to achieve carbon neutrality. However, research and development for second-generation bioethanol produced from non-food, cellulose-based raw materials is also underway to avoid competition with food crops. In Japan, eight companies, including Toyota Motor Corporation, have formed the “Research Association of Biomass Innovation for Next Generation Automobile Fuels” (raBit) to advance research on next-generation bioethanol technologies. Shimadzu participates as a supporting member and promotes research and development through analytical technology cooperation.&nbsp;It is known that the presence of chloride and sulfate ions in fuel ethanol can form engine residue, leading to reduced engine performance. ASTM D4806-252) specifies fuel ethanol quality as criterion of chloride ion must not exceed 6.7 mg/kg and that of sulfate ion must not exceed 4 mg/kg. ASTM D7319-22 includes test methods for chloride and sulfate ions in fuel ethanol using ion chromatography.&nbsp;In this application, we present an example of the analysis of chloride and sulfate ions in bioethanol using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/lcms/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=Nexera+IC">Nexera IC</a> in accordance with ASTM D7319-22.<h4>Conclusion</h4>Chloride and sulfate ions in bioethanol were determined using a Nexera IC system in accordance with ASTM D7319-22. The method offers high sensitivity, linearity, and repeatability, enabling reliable quantification at concentrations well below ASTM-specified limits, thus supporting effective quality control and regulatory compliance of fuel ethanol.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific / HPLC Symposium: LC-MS analysis of intact and subunit-level mAb enabled by a novel monodisperse supermacroporous reversed-phase platform</h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/po_004763_ccs_surepac_protein_reverse_phase_mabs_separation_po004763_na_en_56199ec50d.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are structurally complex biotherapeutics that require multi-level analytical characterization to ensure product quality, safety, and efficacy. LC-MS analysis is routinely applied at the intact protein and subunit levels to assess molecular mass, heterogeneity, and structural integrity. Enzymatic subunit generation, such as IdeS digestion, enables targeted domain-level characterization while reducing analytical complexity compared to full peptide mapping. Achieving high-performance reversed-phase separations across intact and subunit-level workflows remains challenging, as chromatographic columns optimized for intact proteins often compromise performance of smaller subunits. Consequently, multiple columns are required to support comprehensive mAb characterization.&nbsp;In this study, we evaluate a reversed-phase separation column based on a novel 2.5 μm monodisperse supermacroporous (SMP) polymeric stationary phase for unified LC-MS analysis of monoclonal antibodies under intact, reduced, and IdeSdigested conditions. The SMP resin’s uniform particle size and highly accessible pore structure enable efficient separation of both small and large analytes, including intact mAbs, reduced subunits (LC and HC), and IdeS-generated fragments such as scFc and F(ab′)₂. Using the SurePac Protein RP MDi column, baseline separation of these species was achieved within a 10- minute gradient, providing a fast, all-in-one LC-MS approach for mAb variant characterization.<h4>Materials and methods</h4><h5>Instruments&nbsp;</h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/744">Thermo Scientific Vanquish Horizon UHPLC system</a>; <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/401">Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Exploris 480 mass spectrometer</a> with Thermo Scientific OptaMax NG ion source.&nbsp;<h5>Data analysis&nbsp;</h5>The UHPLC system with mass spectrometer were operated with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1758">Thermo Scientific Xcalibur 4.7 software</a>. Full MS spectra of intact mAbs and mAb fragments were analyzed using Thermo Scientific Freestyle 1.8 and BioPharma Finder 5.4 software that utilizes the ReSpect and Xtract algorithms for molecular mass determination.<h4>Conclusions&nbsp;</h4><ul><li>A SurePac Protein RP column enabled a rapid (10 min) separation of mAb LC, HC, scFc, and F(ab′)₂ fragments, with major proteoforms identified by mass agreement.&nbsp;</li><li>The SurePac Protein RP column supports comprehensive intact and subunit-level mAb characterization in a single workflow, with strong separation performance across mAb fragments.</li></ul><h3>4. Waters Corporation / AOAC: IMPROVED PURIFICATION OUTCOMES FOR PROBLEMATIC COMPOUNDS USING AN INERT COLUMN WITH POLAR SORBENT</h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/720009616_AOAC_f65ea1b771.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><div><div><section><div><div><div><div><div><div>Whether the goal is to obtain enough intermediate for the next step in a synthetic scheme, to polish a final product, or to create a suitable standard for compound identification, preparative liquid chromatography remains a primary technique for isolating compounds from complex mixtures. Recovering the target compound at the desired purity and yield in the least amount of time is of utmost importance.&nbsp;Polar targets that do not retain, or “sticky” compounds that seemingly disappear on the column are two groups that many consider to be ’problematic’ in purification. “Sticky” compounds, also known as non-specific adsorbers (NSAs), are metal-sensitive targets what can adsorb to positively charged metal surfaces in the LC system flow path and column, making them difficult to detect and collect effectively. Although other methods, such as column pre-conditioning, can be implemented for isolating compounds known to be interactive, this option can be time-consuming and lead to sample loss and excessive solvent waste.&nbsp;Although lab scale purifications in which tens to hundreds of milligrams of target compound are isolated from crude mixtures are still performed routinely, the trend toward smaller scale purification is becoming more prevalent. Laboratories are increasingly opting to isolate only a few milligrams of target compound for preliminary studies. Successful target candidates are then isolated in greater amounts to satisfy ensuing experiments. Whether the objective is to isolate a small amount of target compound for exploratory studies, or to purify greater amounts for their use as reference standards, a column which can resolve eluting impurities efficiently is required.&nbsp;Echinacea is an herbaceous flowering plant in the daisy family1,2 and is one of the most important medical herbs widely used to treat the common cold and other infectious diseases.3 One of the most abundant compounds in echinacea is chicoric acid (Figure 1), a phenylpropanoid and caffeic acid derivative.4,5 In this scale-up study, chicoric acid, a suspected “sticky” target polar compound was isolated from a complex echinacea tea extract using two inert XSelect HSS T3 MaxPeak Premier OBD Columns with different particle sizes and dimensions (3.5 μm 10 x 100 mm and 5 μm 10 x 150 mm). The MaxPeak Premier OBD preparative HPLC columns are considered ’inert’ because they are enabled with Waters High Performance Surface (HPS) Technology. The chicoric acid isolated using the 3.5 μm column was of equivalent UV purity to the product isolated using the 5 μm column, with a 34% savings in run time. Smaller particle preparative isolations using columns with inert hardware are a practical option for those laboratories where reduced amounts of target are needed for projects conducted on accelerated timelines.<h4>METHODS</h4><ul><li>Analytical Columns and flow rate: ACQUITY Premier HSS T3 and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1952">ACQUITY UPLC HSS T3 Columns</a>; 1.8 μm, 2.1x50 mm; 0.35 mL/min&nbsp;</li><li>Prep Columns and flow rate: XSelect HSS T3 OBD Prep Column and XSelect Premier HSS T3 OBD Prep (custom) Columns, 5 μm, 10x150 mm; XSelect Premier HSS T3 OBD Prep Column, 3.5 μm, 10x100 mm; 5.4 mL/min</li></ul><h5>Instrumentation&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Analytical: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/198">ACQUITY UPLC H-Class System</a>; Quaternary Solvent Manager, Sample Manager FTN-H, Column Manager, TUV Detector, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1543">ACQUITY QDa Detector&nbsp;</a></li><li>Prep: Waters AutoPurification System; 2545 Binary Gradient Module, 2767 Sample Manager, System Fluidics Organizer, 2998 Photodiode Array Detector</li></ul><h4>CONCLUSIONS&nbsp;</h4><ul><li>Chicoric acid was analyzed and isolated using analytical and preparative MaxPeak Premier HSS T3 Columns with inert surfaces, which increased the peak area and height for improved detection and collection.&nbsp;</li><li>Chicoric acid was successfully isolated using 3.5 and 5 μm XSelect Premier HSS T3 OBD Prep Columns and fraction pool analysis showed equivalent UV purity, which suggests the viability of incorporating small particle preparative chromatography into the purification workflow.&nbsp;</li><li>3.5 μm preparative columns improve purification process efficiency and promote sustainability by reducing method run time, solvent usage, and fraction lyophilization time.&nbsp;</li><li>Inert MaxPeak Premier column hardware, OBD Technology, and small particle preparative columns are well-suited for the demands of the purification laboratory when results must be generated efficiently to satisfy accelerated production timelines</li></ul></div></div></div></div></div></div></section></div></div>

News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 40, 2026

Pressurized Liquid Extraction: Principle, Method, and Workflow

Article

Product

Application

Academy

Video

Science and research

Poster

A unique company dedicated to serving science helping our customers drive productivity and accelerate results. Through our premier brands – Thermo Scientific, Applied Biosystems, Invitrogen, Fisher Scientific and Unity Lab Services.

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Everything from the world of analytical chemistry in one place. We connect people in solving their problems. At Labrulez you will find all the necessary information easily, quickly and clearly. Stop searching and start finding.

LabRulez

Phenomenex is a global technology leader committed to developing novel analytical chemistry solutions that solve the separation and purification challenges of researchers in industrial, government and academic laboratories.

Phenomenex

New Food magazine

Metrohm

Agilent Technologies

Bruker

Shimadzu Corporation

Spectroscopy & Separation Science

The increasing popularity of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and the increasing problem of food fraud have provided the need for quality and authenticity control. Typical problems are the mislabeling of protected designation of origin (PDO) or edible oil adulteration. In this presentation we give an overview about the capabilities of different mass spectrometric methods to accurately determine the PDO of EVOO.
<ul>
<li>Multi-class LC-MS and GC-MS methodologies together with statistical methods enable the discrimination between different PDOs, identifying potential origin markers.</li>
<li>The combined use of non-targeted and targeted approaches enhances the outcome of the study. GC-APCI-QTOF preserves the pseudo-molecular ion information, which is a great advantage and facilitates the identification.</li>
<li>Co-eluting isomers maybe PDO markers and these can be identified and characterized by timsTOF technology.</li>
<li>Rapid LC-free, magnetic resonance mass spectrometry (MRMS) analysis was used for mapping and quality control assessment of EVOO using statistical methods which allows for clustering according to geographical origin, harvesting year, cultivation practice and the oil production procedure.</li>
</ul>
<h5>Key Topics</h5>
<ul>
<li>Introduction to food authenticity using the example of EVOO and the application of new software tools, in combination with UHPLC-QTOF and GC-APCI-QTOF, to identify origin markers.</li>
<li>Introduction into timsTOF technology and the separation of isomeric markers by timsTOF.</li>
<li>Application of LC-free, magnetic resonance mass spectrometry (MRMS) for rapid quality control assessment of extra virgin olive oil.</li>
</ul>
<h5>Who should attend?</h5>
<ul>
<li>Scientist working in the field of food research and foodomics interested in determining authenticity and/or adulteration of edible oils.</li>
<li>Scientists wishing to learn about powerful new techniques to separate isobaric isomers by mass spectroscopic techniques.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Carsten Baessmann
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Carsten Baessmann is responsible for the development of new mass spectrometry-based solutions in the applied markets. His responsibilities include managing collaborations with leading researchers in food, environmental, forensics and clinical analysis. He is also responsible for driving the necessary hardware and software development. Dr. Baessmann holds a PhD in physical chemistry from the Technical University of Munich in the development of new mass spectrometric and laser spectroscopic methods. He has held various management positions in research and development and application development at Bruker for 22 years.
</blockquote>

Pixabay/engin akyurt: Application of new mass spectrometric methods and workflows to determine authenticity of food

Application of new mass spectrometric methods and workflows to determine authenticity of food

Whether you develop HPLC methods, run QC samples or perform contract analyses, longer analysis times cost more and FAST LC columns can help you reduce those costs.
In this seminar we will look at:
<ul>
<li>Easy-to-follow steps for converting existing methods
</li>
<li>Developing new, faster methods on existing equipment
</li>
<li>System improvements and adjustments, like flow path connections and detector acquisition rates that can help you get the best performance with your existing system.
</li>
</ul>
We’ll also discuss when and why to consider an enhanced UHPLC systems.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Rita Steed (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Rita Steed began supporting the LC column line for Agilent in 1999. As a Chromatography Specialist (first with Chromatography, Inc., then directly for Agilent), Rita worked on-site with researchers in Pharmaceutical and other industries presenting technical seminars and assisting researchers with troubleshooting and method development. Rita has over 20 years of Chromatography experience in the Biotechnology, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical industries. She has held positions in Research, Sales, and Technical Service. Rita has earned degrees in Microbiology and Life Sciences/Biochemistry. In her current position, she is an inside Application Engineer supporting LC columns.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: High Resolution Fast LC - Easier Than You Think with Simple Changes

High Resolution Fast LC - Easier Than You Think with Simple Changes

Developing new, faster methods on existing HPLC equipment.

Easier Than You Think with Simple Changes

Operating an HPLC can be overwhelming to a new user.
There are many pitfalls or “gotchas”. Even the issue of what tubing and fittings are compatible and which are not can be a serious impediment to successfully operating the HPLC.
In this talk, we will discuss:
<ul>
<li>The importance of connections
</li>
<li>Mobile Phase considerations
<ul>
<li>Quality
</li>
<li>Preventing microbial growth
</li>
<li>Sample/solvent compatibility
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Column Characteristics; Their importance and limitations
</li>
<li>The importance of sample prep
</li>
</ul>
Avoiding these pitfalls can help you achieve long-term, reliable results.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Rita Steed (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Rita Steed began supporting the LC column line for Agilent in 1999. As a Chromatography Specialist (first with Chromatography, Inc., then directly for Agilent), Rita worked on-site with researchers in Pharmaceutical and other industries presenting technical seminars and assisting researchers with troubleshooting and method development. Rita has over 20 years of Chromatography experience in the Biotechnology, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical industries. She has held positions in Research, Sales, and Technical Service. Rita has earned degrees in Microbiology and Life Sciences/Biochemistry. In her current position, she is an inside Application Engineer supporting LC columns.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: New to HPLC? Tips for Avoiding Beginner Pitfalls

New to HPLC? Tips for Avoiding Beginner Pitfalls

What tubing and fittings are compatible and which are not can be a serious impediment to successfully operating the HPLC.

GPC/SEC, Gel Permeation Chromatography or Size Exclusion Chromatography, is a non-interactive chromatographic technique that separates analytes based on their size in solution.
It is often used in laboratories for determination of a polymers&#39; molecular weight distribution but has many other uses.
In this talk we will:
<ul>
<li>Review GPC theory
</li>
<li>Discuss why molecular weight distribution is important
</li>
<li>Look at the different types of columns and their uses
</li>
<li>Cover key column selection criteria
</li>
<li>Show how key parameters like concentration, particle size, and injection volume can affect your separation
</li>
</ul>
We will also look at examples of common mistakes and pitfalls relating to solvent choice, calibration standards, and combining columns in series.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jean Lane (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Jean has been employed with Agilent since Nov 2010 in technical and applications support and has a primary role supporting Agilent’s full line of LC columns and consumables, which also includes support for Agilent’s GPC/SEC product line. She came to Agilent thru acquisition of Varian and the former Polymer Laboratories. Jean has 20 plus years of technical and applications support for both HPLC and GPC consumable products. In addition to practical chromatography experience in the laboratory, she has had many, many years in her technical role involving customer support providing assistance and troubleshooting for customer chromatography issues.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Gel Permeation Chromatography Basics and Beyond

Gel Permeation Chromatography Basics and Beyond

GPC/SEC, Gel Permeation Chromatography or Size Exclusion Chromatography.

The technique of Gel Permeation Chromatography is conceptually simple: It is a separation based on size where no enthalpic interactions are observed.
In practice, GPC is often much more involved yielding involved method development and data that can be difficult to interpret. Though GPC can seem mystifying at times 90% of the success is achieved by using the proper columns for your application.
During this e-seminar we will discuss what is new in GPC column technology, different types of stationary phases, and how to choose the best columns which yield:
<ul>
<li>Improved resolution
</li>
<li>Improved reproducibility
</li>
<li>Improved accuracy
</li>
<li>Improved analysis time
</li>
</ul>
The goal of the e-seminar is to illustrate how proper GPC column selection can make the difference between good and great chromatography.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Michael Kruger (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Achieving Superior GPC Results Through the Correct Column Selection

Achieving Superior GPC Results Through the Correct Column Selection

What is new in GPC column technology, different types of stationary phases, and how to choose the best columns.

Achieving Superior GPC Results - Correct Column Selection

Karl Fischer (KF) titration is an industry standard method for measuring water content in all types of substances.
However, for various reasons some substances are not suitable for a direct Karl Fischer titration:
<ul>
<li>They release their water only slowly
</li>
<li>The water is released at high temperature only
</li>
<li>The substances are poorly soluble in KF solvents
</li>
<li>They undergo side reactions with KF reagents
</li>
<li>They contaminate the titration cell or the electrodes
</li>
</ul>
By using the KF oven technique, the above-mentioned problems can be avoided. This makes the KF oven technique a perfect solution for the analysis of difficult samples.
By viewing this webinar you will learn…
<ul>
<li>how to analyse difficult samples
</li>
<li>how to properly prepare your titration system with KF oven
</li>
<li>how to prepare your sample
</li>
<li>how to select the optimal heating temperature
</li>
<li>which reagents and which water standards you should use to obtain accurate results
</li>
</ul>
After viewing this webinar you will know how to perform accurate titrations using the Karl Fischer oven technique. Additionally, the speakers will reveal tips and tricks to help you in the daily routine. The webinar will finish with live Q&amp;A session.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Michael Margreth (Senior Product Specialist Titration, Metrohm International Headquarters, Switzerland)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Michael Margreth studied chemistry at the University of Applied Science in Muttenz, Switzerland. He joined Metrohm in 2005 as an application specialist and gained titration experience in the application laboratory. Since 2008 he mainly focuses on Karl Fischer titration and the determination of water.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Agnieszka Kossakowska (HYDRANAL Marketing Specialist, Honeywell Research Chemicals)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Agnieszka Kossakowska joined Honeywell in March 2016 as a marketing specialist providing technical support and onsite seminars for Honeywell’s Hydranal™ reagents for Karl Fischer titration. Agnieszka has more than 10 years of experience in analytical chemistry and conducts training across Europe, Middle East &amp; Africa, Latin America and Asia.
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Metrohm: Tips and tricks to analyze difficult samples using the Karl Fischer oven technique

Tips and tricks to analyze difficult samples using the Karl Fischer oven technique

How to perform accurate titrations using the Karl Fischer oven technique.

Analyze samples using the Karl Fischer oven technique

High-resolution, accurate-mass (HRAM) mass spectrometers (MS) are a class of MS instrumentation with capability to resolve complex sample matrix and to allow identification of compounds by measuring their accurate masses.
In particular, those coupled to liquid chromatograph (HRAM LC/MS) have been used extensively for structural elucidation of unknown compounds primarily in chemical industry (impurity analysis) and biological researches (proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics), but also increasingly in forensic science, food safety and environmental testing. Given the recent reduction of instrumentational cost, it will not take many more years until HRAM analysis becomes a versatile tool for all industries and researches. 
The key performance attribute underlying all application fields is mass measurement accuracy (MMA) as it affords molecular specificity and reduction of false positive results. MMA is given in the specification of HRAM instruments in parts-per-million (ppm), frequently stating a result of a set of representative measurements e.g. “&lt;1 ppm RMS”. However, this by itself does not convey how repeatably and reproducibly this MMA can be achieved. 
The webinar describes various metrics that are relevant to statistical interpretation of MMA, which explain why mass resolution of 30,000 is more than sufficient for mass measurement at sub-ppm accuracy. Using the Shimadzu LCMS-9030 quadrupole time-of-flight MS, the rationale and strength of instrument stability for consistently achieving sub-ppm MMA has been demonstrated in small molecules.
Learning objectives:
Discuss how various parameters affect the accuracy of mass measurement Demonstration of mass drift caused by temperature change Learn how to assess whether a HRAM MS is practically capable of measuring at sub-ppm mass accuracy
<blockquote>
Presenter: Atsuhiko (Ash) Toyama, PhD (MS Application Specialist, Analytical &amp; Measuring Instruments Division, Shimadzu Corporation)
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<blockquote>
Ash Toyama has 10 years of proteomics research experience. His areas of expertise include not only proteomics but also quantitative mass spectrometry with particular focus on bioanalysis, metabolomics and endocrinology. At Shimadzu Corporation he played roles in academic research collaborations, application development and specification development of mass spectrometers. Ash holds a Master of Science degree in Biochemistry from University of Cambridge, UK, and was granted a Ph.D. degree in Biological Sciences from University of Tokyo for his research on clinical proteomics.
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Shimadzu: Understand the rationale behind the Q-TOF LC/MS that stably sustains sub-ppm mass accuracy.

Understand the rationale behind the Q-TOF LC/MS that stably sustains sub-ppm mass accuracy.

Various metrics that are relevant to statistical interpretation of MMA, which explain why mass resolution of 30,000 is more than sufficient.

Understand the rationale behind the Q-TOF LC/MS

Routine testing laboratories continue to strive for efficient and reliable sample throughput. Multiresidue pesticides is an example of this, where the generic extraction offered by QuEChERS has streamlined sample preparation. However, for comprehensive pesticide testing, both liquid and gas chromatography are typically required.
<h3>Join us to learn about:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Fit-for-purpose, comprehensive analysis of pesticides in a selection of foodstuffs, by LC- and GC-MS/MS</li>
<li>Key considerations and easy-to-use tools to maximise your method performance</li>
<li>Testing in compliance with the relevant guidelines of SANTE 11813/2017</li>
</ul>
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Presenter: Kari Organtini, Ph.D. (Senior Scientist, Waters Corporation)
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<blockquote>
Kari received her Ph.D. from Penn State studying the occurrence of dioxins and furans in fire debris. Since 2015 she has been a Senior Scientist at Waters focusing on food and environmental sample analysis.
</blockquote>

Pixabay/Jerzy Górecki: Maximizing Mass Spectrometry Capabilities in Food Analyses for Multiresidues

Maximizing Mass Spectrometry Capabilities in Food Analyses for Multiresidues

There is increased concern regarding the authenticity of basmati rice throughout the world. For years, traders have been passing off a lesser quality rice as the world&#39;s finest long-grained, aromatic rice, basmati, in key markets like the US, Canada and the EU.
In this on-demand webinar, we describe a proof of principle method to assess the authenticity of basmati rice using the latest advancements in high resolution GC-MS and informatics technologies. Volatile compounds of interest were extracted from heated dry rice via SPME and headspace. Following a generic GC separation, detection was performed using a SYNAPT G2-Si MS run in HDMSE mode. Collection of a HDMSE dataset offers a high level of specificity owing to the orthogonal nature of the ion mobility separation to the GC separation.
Progenesis QI, the latest OMICS informatics package from Waters, is designed to utilize the 4-dimensional data produced during a SYNAPT G2-Si HDMSE acquisition. Initially, alignment of all injections was performed followed by the unique peak co-detection process resulting in the same number of analyte measurements in every sample and no missing values. Data from all isotopes and adducts of a parent compound were then deconvoluted giving a single robust and accurate quantitative measurement for that parent compound. The peak picking and deconvolution algorithms ensure a high quality compound table where adducts and isotopes are grouped with the parent m/z. Compounds of interest from the rice samples were highlighted using various multivariate statistical techniques such as PCA and identified using elucidation tools and relevant database searches within the software platform.
This workflow has general applicability to many areas of discovery OMICS and food research where biomarkers differentiating between two or multiple groups are required.
<h3>What will I learn?</h3>
<ul>
<li>An experimental workflow to evaluate the authenticity of foodstuffs</li>
<li>A basic workflow for the discovery of volatile biomarkers between multiple groups of samples</li>
<li>The basics of HDMSE data independent acquisition</li>
<li>How Progenesis QI is used to analyze metabolomics data</li>
</ul>
<h3>Who should attend?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Food research scientists</li>
<li>Metabolomics research scientists</li>
<li>Biomarker research scientists</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Robert Tonge, Ph.D. (Senior Product Manager, OMICS Informatics, Waters Corporation)
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<blockquote>
Dr Robert Tonge is Senior Product Manager for OMICS Informatics at Waters Corporation, Manchester UK. Robert has been at Waters for 4 years in both Product Development and Field Marketing and has approaching 20 years experience in OMICS science. He trained initially in Biochemistry and Toxicology before moving to &#39;Big Pharma&#39; where he worked in Discovery and Translational Research across a wide variety of disease areas from cancer, cardiovascular disease and infection research.
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<blockquote>
Presenter: Gareth Cleland, Ph.D. (Principal Scientist, Food &amp; Environmental Business, Waters Corporation)
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Dr Gareth Cleland is a Principal Scientist within the Food and Environment Business Operations at Waters Headquarters, USA. Following his Chemistry studies, he started his professional career working as a Development Chemist for a small coatings company in Oxfordshire, UK. He joined Waters Corporation in 2002 and has held various roles within the organization, both UK and US based, over the last 12 years.
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Pixabay/Trung Hieu Dang: Discovery OMICS and Progenesis QI for Food Authenticity Testing