Meeting EU Drinking Water Standards: The Critical Role of Sample Prep in Trace Contaminant Analysis

Although modern agriculture needs to be based on accurate real-time data on soil, plant, and environmental conditions, affordable, sufficiently sensitive, and robust monitoring devices for this purpose are currently missing. According to scientists, low-cost sensors based on new smart materials and printing technologies offer a suitable solution. The results of multidisciplinary research thus far and proposals for the development of these devices have been presented by researchers from Czechia, Great Britain, Spain, and the USA in a review article in the prestigious journal <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-68778-6#Abs1">Nature Communications</a>.“Sensor technologies for monitoring plant health are still in their infancy. Only simple sensors capable of monitoring basic parameters such as pH, soil moisture, or temperature are commonly available on the market. However, if farmers are to face current challenges, including climate change, and ensure sufficient food for humanity, they need much more effective tools that will enable them to monitor, for example, various pathogens, including bacteria and fungi. In our opinion, a suitable solution is a combination of new smart materials and printing for the production of inexpensive, durable, and scalable materials,” said the article’s first author, David Panáček from CATRIN, who worked on the study during his internship at Imperial College London.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CATRIN_Soucasne_senzory_nestaci_Vedci_navrhuji_novou_cestu_ke_sledovani_zdravi_rostlin_b4014952a3.jpg" alt="CATRIN: David Panáček" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CATRIN_Soucasne_senzory_nestaci_Vedci_navrhuji_novou_cestu_ke_sledovani_zdravi_rostlin_b4014952a3.jpg 208w," sizes="100vw" width="1536" height="1152">Sensors for monitoring plant health, for example, lag behind similar devices used in human medicine. According to the authors, advances in materials science, which will enable the development of scalable sensor technologies, play a key role in this potential shift. “Printing techniques, including inkjet printing, screen printing, aerosol printing, 3D printing, and direct laser writing, offer flexible ways to produce flexible sensors, large-area sensors, and sensors integrated directly into plants. The review article summarizes recent advances in printable low-dimensional materials for agricultural sensors, analyzes their physico-chemical properties in relation to sensor performance, and discusses key challenges and future opportunities requiring interdisciplinary integration,” said one of the corresponding authors, Michal Otyepka.The research brought together materials scientists, chemists, biologists, sensing experts, and printing technology specialists. Materials research and the use of graphene-based smart materials were led by scientists from CATRIN at Palacký University and VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava. Plant biologists from CATRIN contributed their knowledge of plant development, their responses to stress conditions, and the monitoring of their properties. Researchers from Imperial College London took care of the electronics, while representatives from<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/companies/36"> CEITEC – VUT</a> focused on printing technologies. The team also included leading experts in sensing from the Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology in Barcelona, and Joseph Wang of the University of California San Diego, the “father of sensing and electrochemistry,” also contributed his extensive knowledge.“This is a groundbreaking study on this topic, which has managed to attract some truly big names in their respective fields. Last but not least, the study demonstrates that interdisciplinarity at CATRIN gives rise to completely new and promising research topics, such as plant sensing and its use for studying plant-environment interactions and smart agriculture,” added another corresponding author, Nuria De Diego.

Current sensors are not good enough. Scientists propose a new way to monitor plant health

In this episode of the Concentrating on Chromatography podcast, host David Oliva interviews Ainslie Chen about her cutting-edge research on hemoglobin variant testing using liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HR-MS). Ainslie discusses her novel method for separating and identifying hemoglobin subunits with mass shifts less than 1 Da, overcoming critical limitations in conventional clinical assays.Hear firsthand how her team developed an LC-HR-MS workflow using a C4 reversed-phase column, tackled technical challenges (including why C18 columns fell short), and achieved unprecedented sensitivity for variant detection in both adult and neonatal samples. The conversation touches on the potential of mass spectrometry to revolutionize clinical diagnostics, the importance of reproducibility, barriers to adoption in routine labs, and how teamwork drives scientific innovation.Perfect for analytical chemists, clinical laboratorians, and anyone interested in the future of protein variant analysis, this episode also features Ainslie’s advice for early-career scientists and insights from her first ACS poster presentation.<h4>Key Highlights:</h4><ul><li>Motivation behind improving hemoglobinopathy testing &nbsp;</li><li>Technical advantages of LC-HR-MS over gene sequencing and CE &nbsp;</li><li>The crucial role of the C4 column in resolving challenging samples &nbsp;</li><li>Critical parameters for reproducible LC-HR-MS workflows &nbsp;</li><li>Barriers and outlook for clinical adoption of advanced mass spectrometry &nbsp;</li><li>The value of teamwork and mentorship in scientific research &nbsp;</li><li>Direct insights from recent ACS conference experiences</li></ul><h3>Video transcription</h3>In this interview, Ainslie Chen discusses her research on improving the detection and identification of hemoglobin variants using liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS). The work addresses limitations of conventional hemoglobinopathy testing, which often struggles to resolve very small mass differences between closely related hemoglobin subunits. Because even a single amino-acid substitution can significantly alter hemoglobin structure and function, high analytical resolution is essential for accurate diagnosis of conditions such as anemia and sickle cell disease.Chen explains why her team selected LC-HRMS over established clinical techniques like capillary electrophoresis and gene sequencing. While sequencing offers excellent accuracy, it is time-consuming, costly, and requires extensive sample preparation, making it impractical for routine clinical workflows. Capillary electrophoresis enables subunit separation but lacks the resolving power needed to distinguish variants differing by less than one Dalton. In contrast, high-resolution mass spectrometry provides both structural specificity and sensitivity, enabling confident identification of subtle hemoglobin variants with minimal sample preparation.A key methodological insight from the project was the use of a C4 reversed-phase LC column instead of the more common C18 column. Chen describes how the shorter carbon chain and larger pore size of C4 columns improved protein elution and reduced denaturation, leading to more reproducible separations. Critical parameters for reproducibility included consistent mobile-phase composition (0.1% formic acid in water and acetonitrile), controlled temperature (60 °C for LC, ~320 °C capillary temperature), and stable chromatographic conditions.Beyond hemoglobin analysis, Chen highlights the broader potential of high-resolution mass spectrometry in proteoform analysis and clinical diagnostics, including emerging applications in cancer detection. She acknowledges current barriers to clinical adoption—such as energy demands and instrument infrastructure—but points to advances like miniaturized mass spectrometers as promising steps toward wider use. The interview concludes with advice for young scientists: don’t hesitate to reach out to mentors, embrace collaboration, and view analytical chemistry as a versatile tool that bridges medicine, biology, environmental science, and beyond.<blockquote>This text has been automatically transcribed from a video presentation using AI technology. It may contain inaccuracies and is not guaranteed to be 100% correct.</blockquote><blockquote><h4>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</h4>Dive into the frontiers of chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation with host David Oliva. Each episode features candid conversations with leading researchers, industry innovators, and passionate scientists who are shaping the future of analytical chemistry. From decoding PFAS detection challenges to exploring the latest in AI-assisted liquid chromatography, this show uncovers practical workflows, sustainability breakthroughs, and the real-world impact of separation science. Whether you’re a chromatographer, lab professional, or researcher you'll discover inspiring content!You can find Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast in podcast apps:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL">Spotify</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185">Apple podcast</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography">podscan</a></li></ul>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos">YouTube channel</a></blockquote>

Unlocking Hemoglobin Variant Detection: LC-HR-MS Breakthrough with Ainslie Chen

Article

Video

Environment

Scientific article

Interview

Science and research

The Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute (CATRIN) at Palacký University is a cutting-edge scientific hub dedicated to advancing research in the fields of nanotechnology, biotechnology, and biomedicine. At its core, CATRIN boasts outstanding scientific teams, featuring international researchers. We emphasize interdisciplinarity, foster global collaborations, and work to translate our research findings into practical applications.

CATRIN

Organomation, founded in 1959, designs and manufactures high-quality nitrogen evaporators and extraction systems. Known for innovation and durability, their lab instruments are used globally for efficient sample preparation with strong customer support.

Organomation

Watrex SPR-200 Solvent saver

Watrex SPR-200 Solvent Recycler is designed to save up to 90% of mobile phase during isocratic HPLC.

This Solvent Recycler saves up to 90% of mobile phase by redirection of the pure solvent to the solvent reservoir during the isocratic HPLC. The stand alone device is powered by 5 V DC from power adapter or from computer USB port. Working parameters (Threshold and Delay) are easily set on the display using a membrane keyboard.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_Watrex_SPR_200_Solvent_saver_I_Nputs_694d991f2c.jpg" alt="Watrex: Watrex SPR-200 Solvent saver - INputs">The SPR-220™ Solvent Recycler continuously monitors the output signal of the chromatography detector and displays its current value on the built-in display. A highresolution analog-to-digital converter provides data for further evaluation in the built-in processor. If the input signal level exceeds a preset value (Threshold), the SPR-200 will redirect the flow to the waste.When the signal drops, the solvent recycler waits for the transport delay and then switches the mobile phase back to the reservoir. An autosampler injection marker connected to the SPR-200 ZERO input can be used to zero the input signal at the time of injection.<h3>FEATURES</h3><ul><li>Stand alone operation</li><li>Detachable valve</li><li>Possibility of manual Waste/Recycle switching</li></ul><h3>TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION</h3><ul><li>Detector compatibility: compatible with any HPLC detector</li><li>Connection: 1/16″ O.D. tubing, 1/4″-28 flat bottom fittings</li><li>Maximum pressure: 30 p.s.i./0,2 MPa</li><li>Wetted material: PEEK, PTFE</li><li>Input range: +/- 1 V or +/- 100 mV, user selectable</li><li>Computer connection: μUSB</li><li>TTL/contact closure input: configurable (ZERO, start, valve position)</li><li>Power: 5V DC/&lt;100 mA (power supply or computer USB port)</li><li>User interface: large character LCD alphanumeric display + membrane keypad</li></ul><h3>Ordering information:</h3><h5>PN/Component:</h5><ul><li>SPR200-001 SPR-200 Solvent Recycler, PEEK version (Price 1 250 € ex VAT)</li><li>SPR200-002 SPR-200 Solvent Recycler, PTFE version (Price 1 250 € ex VAT)</li></ul>You can also visit this product on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?s=SPR-200+Solvent&amp;post_type=product&amp;dgwt_wcas=1?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_produkty">Watrex website</a>.

Watrex LSS-205 Liquid Sensing System

Liquid Sensing System LSS-205 is a universal sensing system for monitoring the level of your chromatographic system liquids.

Universal sensing system for monitoring the level of your chromatographic system liquids. The daily task in the chromatographic laboratory is the manipulation of mobil phases. The operator must check the supply of solvents at the inlet of the device and regular monitor the condition of the waste solvent container. The LSS-205 greatly simplifies these tasks.<blockquote>Price: 578<bdi>&nbsp;€ ex VAT</bdi></blockquote>LSS-205 is a universal accessory for any (chromatographic) system. The level sensors used in the LSS-205 system are contactless, do not require immersion in liquid, and are installed on the outer shell of a non-metallic solvent container. The method of mounting the sensor allows placement on a container of virtually any shape and size.The LSS-205 central unit is ready to process the signal from up to five liquid sensors, which can be individually set to trigger an alarm in the event of a missing or present liquid. The error status of the individual sensors is indicated optically directly on the central unit and the alarm can be accompanied by an acoustic signal. An external loud siren suitable for a noisy environment is available as an option to the central unit.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_LSS_205_Liquid_Sensing_System_33_0fd5d29a02/Watrex-LSS-205-Liquid-Sensing-System-33.jpg" alt="Watrex LSS-205 Liquid Sensing System"><h3>FEATURES</h3><ul><li>Simple operation</li><li>Flexible in application</li><li>Multiple connection option</li><li>Starter kit contents: central unit, one sensor, light bar, power supply</li><li>Color touch panel control</li></ul><h3>TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION</h3><ul><li>Power supply: 5V DC (wall mount power supply or USB port of PC)</li><li>Number of liquid sensors: 1 – 5</li><li>Alarm condition: individually adjustable for each sensor (off, missing liquid, liquid present)</li><li>Internal alarm indication: high intensity LED for each sensor</li><li>Internal acoustic alarm: 80dB, common for all sensors</li><li>External optical signaling: connector on the central unit</li><li>External acoustic alarm: optional 105 dB external horn</li><li>Alarm signal for external devices: logic (open collector), relay switching contact</li><li>Computer connection: micro USB connector, simple text communication protocol</li><li>Firmware update: possible in field</li><li>Dimension: 130x80x30 mm</li><li>Weight: 250 g</li><li>Sensor dimensions: 50x30x15 mm</li><li>Sensor connection cable: 2 m length</li><li>Sensor mounting: plastic holder with flexible silicon tube (length 700 mm, other lengths on request)</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_LSS_205_Liquid_Sensing_System_6_7b35aadbb7/Watrex-LSS-205-Liquid-Sensing-System-6.jpg" alt="Watrex LSS-205 Liquid Sensing System - level sensor"><h3>Ordering information:</h3><h5>PN/Component:</h5><ul><li>40-0728 Starter Kit (incl. 1 sensor + light)</li><li>40-0738 LSS-205 Additional Sensor</li><li>40-0841 LSS-205 Additional 2 Sensors</li><li>40-0842 LSS-205 Additional 3 Sensors</li><li>40-0843 LSS-205 Additional 4 Sensors</li><li>40-0838 LSS-205 External Alarm Horn</li></ul>You can also visit this product on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/obchod/chromatography/dedicated-instruments/lss-205-starter-kit/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_produkty">Watrex website</a>.

Watrex UFO Solvent Recycler

UFO Solvent Recycler saves up to 90% of mobile phase by redirection of the pure solvent to the solvent reservoir during the isocratic HPLC.

This compact device saves up to 90% of mobile phase by redirection of the pure solvent to the solvent reservoir during the isocratic HPLC. The device is powered by 5 V DC from computer USB port or power adapter. Working parameters (Threshold and Delay) are set using user friendly software.<blockquote>Price: 635<bdi>&nbsp;€ ex VAT</bdi></blockquote>The UFO Solvent Recycler continuously monitors the output signal of the chromatography detector and displays its current value in the application on computer. A high-resolution analog-to-digital converter provides data for further evaluation in the built-in processor.If the input signal level exceeds a preset value (Threshold), the UFO recycler will redirect the flow to the waste. When the signal drops, the solvent recycler waits for the transport delay and then switches the mobile phase back to the reservoir. An autosampler injection marker connected to the UFO recycler START input can be used to zero the input signal at the time of injection.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UFO_schema_6a4cdc0ed4/UFO_schema.png" alt="Watrex: Principle and process of mobile phase recycling during isocratic HPLC using the UFO system"><h3>FEATURES</h3><ul><li>Very compact design</li><li>Simple operation</li></ul><h3>TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION</h3><ul><li>Detector compatibility: compatible with any HPLC detector</li><li>Connection: 1/16″ O.D. tubing, 1/4″-28 flat bottom fittings</li><li>Maximum pressure: 30 p.s.i./0,2 MPa</li><li>Wetted material: PEEK, PTFE</li><li>Input range: +/- 1 V or +/- 100 mV, user selectable</li><li>Computer connection: USB-A</li><li>TTL/contact closure input: configurable (ZERO, start, valve position)</li><li>Power: 5V DC/&lt;100 mA (power supply or computer USB port)</li><li>User interface: PC Windows based software</li></ul><h3>Ordering information:</h3><h5>PN/Component:</h5><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/obchod/chromatography/dedicated-instruments/ufo-solvent-recycler-peek-version/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_produkty">UFO000-001</a> UFO™ Solvent Recycler , PEEK version</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/obchod/chromatography/dedicated-instruments/ufo-solvent-recycler-ptfe-version/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_produkty">UFO000-002</a> UFO™ Solvent Recycler , PTFE version</li></ul>

Watrex PCRS-300 Post-column derivatization

The PCRS-300 post-column reaction system is a combination of a precision low-pulse high-pressure pump and thermostat in one unit.

Compact system for post-column derivatization consisting of low-pulse reagent pump with selector valve and tempered reaction chamber for reaction coil.<blockquote>Price: 5 033<bdi>&nbsp;€ ex VAT</bdi></blockquote>A selector valve at the inlet of the pump allows choice between reagent and flushing solvent. The system is controlled through color touch panel placed on the front of main unit.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_PCRS_300_3_d3a79a1a57/Watrex-PCRS-300-3.jpg" alt="Watrex: Schematic of the Watrex PCRS-300 low-pulse pump system for post-column derivatisation"><h3>FEATURES</h3><ul><li>Very low pulse reagent delivery</li><li>Excellent temperature stability</li><li>Heating up to 150°C</li><li>Number of reagent coil options</li><li>Thermal fuse against overheating</li><li>Color touch panel control</li></ul><h3>TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION</h3><ul><li>Wetted materials: PEEK, PTFE, HDPE, ruby, sapphire</li><li>Flow rate range: 0,01 – 9,99 ml/min</li><li>Flow rate accuracy: &lt; 2%</li><li>Temperature range: up to 150 °C</li><li>Temperature stability: &lt; +/- 0,1 °C</li><li>Liquid connections: Inlet – 1/8″, 1/4″-28 flat bottom; Outlet – 1/16″, UNF 10-32</li><li>Connections: USB, TTL I/O control (ready out, shutdown in)</li><li>Control: build-in color touch panel</li><li>Dimensions: 310 x 270 x 170 mm (WxDxH, main unit)</li><li>Power requirements: 19-20V DC/4,7A</li></ul><h3>Ordering information:</h3><h5>PN/Component:</h5><ul><li>PCRS300-001 Post Column Reaction System</li><li>PCRS300-002 Reaction coil select from 250µl - 2000µl in Stainless Steel</li><li>PCRS300-003 Reaction coil select from 500µl - 1000µl in PEEK</li><li>PCRS300-004 Reaction coil select from 500µl - 1000µl in PTFE</li><li>PCRS300-999 Reaction coil , customized</li></ul>You can also visit this product on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/obchod/chromatography/dedicated-instruments/pcrs-300-post-column-reaction-system-2/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_produkty">Watrex website</a>.

Products from category HPLC accessories focused on HPLC distributed by WATREX Prague - page 1

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Unlocking Hemoglobin Variant Detection: LC-HR-MS Breakthrough with Ainslie Chen

Current sensors are not good enough. Scientists propose a new way to monitor plant health

Meeting EU Drinking Water Standards: The Critical Role of Sample Prep in Trace Contaminant Analysis