<h5><strong>Tasty beer starts with knowing what’s in your hops. Explore how online SPE makes bitter acid analysis in hops faster and more reliable.</strong></h5><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_326238593f.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_326238593f.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="512"></p><h3><strong>How can you detect bitter acid profiles quickly, reliably, and more sustainably?</strong></h3><p>For craft brewers and beer lovers alike, a refreshing experience is all about flavor.</p><p>So how can you achieve the desired bitterness in your beer? The answer is not just about the recipe. Finding the right flavor profile starts with the bitter acids present in the starting hops material.</p><div><div><p>Hops (the heart of your favorite beer) are the source of the brew’s distinctive flavor tied to bitterness and aroma.</p><p>At the molecular level, bitterness is driven by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814622016338">α- and β-bitter acids</a>, like humulones and lupulones, whose concentrations determine the final sensory profile of the beer (<strong>Figure 1</strong>).</p><p>Accurately characterizing these compounds in each batch allows brewers to unlock the full potential of every variety of hops.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_2_6435757c03.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors: Figure 1. General chemical structure of hop bitter acids." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_2_6435757c03.jpeg 222w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="493"></p><p>While conventional analytical methods rely on long, manual sample preparation steps and hazardous solvents, laboratories now strive for greener and more efficient workflows.</p><p>And moving from manual to online sample preparation is one of the easiest ways your lab can reduce waste and — most importantly — improve reliability with automation.</p><h3><strong>Key takeaways</strong></h3><ul><li>Online SPE reduces hands-on work, shortens turnaround time, and supports more sustainable methods by cutting solvent use and eliminating single-use cartridges.</li><li>Automated UHPLC workflows are easier for new users to execute, offering more reproducible quantifications of α- and β-bitter acids in hops.</li><li>Accurate bitter acid profiles help brewers distinguish hop varieties and control flavor with confidence.</li></ul><h3><strong>Comparing offline vs. online solid phase extraction for bitter acid HPLC analysis</strong></h3><p>If you’ve spent long hours in the lab preparing samples for hops analysis, you’re not alone.</p><p>Manual sample preparation often takes the most time in hops analysis, an area where online <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/industrial/chromatography/chromatography-learning-center/chromatography-consumables/sample-prep.html">solid phase extraction</a> (SPE) can make a real difference. Here’s why.</p><p>Manual SPE has a lot of manual steps. Extraction. Cartridge loading. Washing. Elution. And sometimes solvent exchange or reduction. All before your actual analysis begins. This labor-intensive workflow can take up to an hour and depends strongly on operator skillsets, making reproducibility a challenge for new hires.</p><h3><strong>Online SPE analysis provides key benefits like:</strong></h3><ul><li>Hands-off workflow free of cartridges, manifolds, or vacuum steps.</li><li>Column washing and re-equilibration occur in parallel with separation.</li><li>SPE step is complete in just two minutes.</li><li>Minimizes operator-dependent variability.</li><li>Uses less than 8 mL of solvent.</li></ul><p>Let’s explore what this technique looks like in practice.</p><h3><strong>Online SPE for analyzing α- and β-bitter acids in hops standard solutions.</strong></h3><p>Changing your sample preparation from manual to automated isn’t complicated. With the right tools you can fully integrate online SPE with your UHPLC system (<strong>Figure 2</strong>).</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_3_4fb14243b4.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors: Figure 2. Schematic workflow for the determination of bitter acids in hops. The process involves clean up and instrumental analysis using the Thermo Scientific Vanquish Online SPE UHPLC System." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_3_4fb14243b4.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="323"></p><h3><strong>The process for analyzing a hops standard solution is straightforward:</strong></h3><ol><li>First, extract hop samples with ethanol (a greener alternative to toluene or diethyl ether in conventional methods).</li><li>Inject the extract directly into your instrument for analysis. Bitter acids retain<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1970"><strong> on the SPE column</strong></a> while matrix interferences that can comprise quantitation are removed.</li><li>Next, backflush the SPE column to transfer the analytes to the<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/423"><strong> analytical column </strong></a>for separation. While this separation is taking place, the SPE column is washed and re-equilibrated in parallel, keeping the total run time to 15 minutes, with the separation of all six major bitter acids in a single analysis (<strong>Figure 3</strong>).</li></ol><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_4_1e47405e3c.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors: Figure 3. UV chromatogram of hop bitter acids in standard solution (1-cohumulone, 2-humulone, 3-adhumulone, 4-colupulone, 5-lupulone, 6-adlupulone)." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_4_1e47405e3c.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="347"></p><h3><strong>Online SPE for analyzing α- and β-bitter acids in real hops samples</strong></h3><p>Analytical labs need methods that are accurate and reliable for brewers to develop distinct and reproducible flavor profiles across batches.</p><p>To assess the applicability of online SPE UHPLC methods for hops analysis, we analyzed bitter acid profiles from four species — Sultana, Barbe Rouge, Azacca, and Sabro.</p><p>The concentration of α-acids dominated all samples, while each hops species exhibited distinct profiles in terms of α-acid and β-acid content, making them suitable for different brewing strategies (<strong>Figure 4</strong>).</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_5_3a179217db.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors: Figure 4. Bitter acid profiles in four different hop species, error bars display SD (n=6). To check method consistency, we measured each hops extract six times. Variation between measurements was low, with relative standard deviation below 3.5 % across all hops species." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_5_3a179217db.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="410"></p><ul><li>For testing labs, this process translates into a workflow that is easy to run, fast, and delivers reliable results without added complexity.</li><li>For craft brewers, reliability means clear, trustworthy insights into hops bitter acid profiles, for better hop selection and more precise control of bitterness and flavor in your beer.</li></ul><h3><strong>From carefully procured samples to tasty sips</strong></h3><p>Efficient UHPLC workflows support faster results, less solvent use, and reliable bitterness data for brewers. And online SPE turns those advantages into practical, day-to-day benefits for brewers and labs alike.</p><ul><li>Less hands-on skills required for lab analysts</li><li>Faster results from labs to brewers</li><li>A more sustainable way to work</li><li>Clear insights into hops flavor</li></ul><p>To learn more about the method and see the full application data, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/cn_004238_hplc_vanquish_online_spe_bitter_acids_hops_cn004238_na_en_587a5d300b.pdf"><strong>check out our application note today</strong></a>.</p><h3><strong>FAQs</strong></h3><div><div><h5><strong>What are the key compounds in hops analyzed by HPLC?</strong></h5><p>Bitter acids, namely α-acids and β-acids, especially the six major bitter acids (humulones and lupulones) that define hop bitterness and are required for quality control and brewing decisions.</p></div><div><h5><strong>What column types are recommended for hop acid separations?</strong></h5><p>Classical C18 Silica columns are ideal for bitter acids separation. UHPLC compatible columns with particle size ≤ 2 µm boost analysis with higher flow rate, thus shorter analysis time and solvent consumption.</p></div><div><h5><strong>What’s the best workflow for hops analysis?</strong></h5><p>A typical workflow for hop analysis consists of three main steps: extraction of the target compounds, clean-up of co-extracted matrix components, and instrumental analysis by HPLC or UHPLC. To keep this workflow efficient and reproducible, you should minimize manual handling and add in automation when possible. Integrating online SPE into your LC instrument allows sample clean-up to run automatically, reducing hands-on time, solvent use, and variability while delivering faster, more reliable results.</p></div></div><blockquote><p><strong>Visit us on&nbsp;</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/"><strong><u>LinkedIn:</u></strong></a>&nbsp;#UHPLC #Automation</p></blockquote></div></div>

How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors

<p><strong>In the week of June 29, the following webinars await you in the field of liquid phase and especially HPLC and LC/MS.</strong></p><blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinars"><strong>👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</strong></a></h4><p><strong>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database</strong> with over <strong>5 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars</strong>.</p></blockquote><h5><strong>1. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Insights from an IC specialist: To be suppressed or not suppressed?</strong></h5><ul><li>Tu, 30.6.2026 09:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6310">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Join Thermo Fisher’s Ask the Experts session to learn how suppressor technology impacts ion chromatography performance, sensitivity, reliability, maintenance, and troubleshooting.</p><h5><strong>2. SCIEX: Advancing Proteomics with ZenoTOF: From Single-Cell Analysis to Plasma Biomarker Discovery</strong></h5><ul><li>Tu, 30.6.2026 11:30 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6311">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Discover how ZenoTOF high-resolution mass spectrometry is accelerating single-cell proteomics and plasma biomarker discovery through enhanced sensitivity, throughput, and automation.</p><h5><strong>3. Agilent Technologies: Measuring Diverse Samples with UV/VIS Spectrometers and Integrating Spheres</strong></h5><ul><li>Tu, 30.6.2026 20:30 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6052">Registration</a></li></ul><p>This webinar will discuss diffuse transmission and reflection UV/VIS measurements, including how to perform measurements with Agilent’s Cary 60 UV/VIS Spectrometer.</p><h5><strong>4. Waters Corporation: Informatics series #33 Tips, Tricks and Best Practices</strong></h5><ul><li>Th, 2.7.2026 11:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6315">Registration</a></li></ul><p>This interactive session revisits essential features, shortcuts, and practical techniques in Empower software that can streamline everyday laboratory work and reduce unnecessary effort.</p><h5><strong>5. Waters Corporation: Unlocking Therapeutic Peptide Characterisation (GLP-1RAs) with Cyclic IMS</strong></h5><ul><li>Th, 2.7.2026 15:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6313">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Discover how cyclic ion mobility spectrometry (cyclic IMS) improves characterization of GLP-1 analogues and therapeutic peptides, supporting development, quality control, and regulatory submissions.</p><h5><strong>6. Agilent Technologies: Spectral Flow Cytometry Masterclass - Session 1</strong></h5><ul><li>Fr, 3.7.2026 07:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6316">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Learn how full-spectrum flow cytometry enables high-dimensional cell analysis. Explore spectral flow technology, experimental design, and applications in immunology, oncology, and vaccine research.</p>

Webinars LabRulezLCMS Week 27/2026

<p><strong>The international standard ISO/IEC 17025 [1] clause 7.7.2 with regards to ensuring the validity of results, requires a laboratory to participate in proficiency testing (PT) and/or to participate in interlaboratory comparisons (ILCs) other than PT. However, no guidance as to what these other ILCs might be, or indeed how they might compare in relation to PT, is provided. This leaflet aims to outline other ILCs available, pointing out some of the limitations as compared to PT.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>There are three major types of ILCs in which a group of laboratories analyses identical portions from a homogeneous, stable test sample, with each type being characterized by its intended purpose [2,3]:</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Interlaboratory_comparisons_other_than_proficiency_testing_2_d9263807fb.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Interlaboratory comparisons other than proficiency testing" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Interlaboratory_comparisons_other_than_proficiency_testing_2_d9263807fb.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1507" height="607"></p><p>A key point is that PT is an ILC that is designed to specifically evaluate the performance of participants, providing them with an infrastructure to monitor and assess the validity of their results. This is not the key purpose of the two other ILCs, and thus depending on their intended purpose they have a number of limitations that laboratories need to be aware of when using them rather than PT. Only proficiency testing should have been conducted in full compliance to the competency standard ISO/IEC 17043 [4].&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Evaluation of measurement procedure performance&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>These ILCs, are designed to assess how a particular measurement procedure performs and whether it is fit for its intended purpose. These ILCs are often referred to as a ‘method performance study’ or a ‘collaborative study’ [2]. Some limitations of using such ILCs for monitoring laboratory performance as an alternative to PT are:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>All participants use the same measurement procedure i.e. the measurement procedure that is being validated. Unless the measurement procedure is being routinely used by the participating laboratory such an ILC will not assess the routine performance of the laboratory using their own routine measurement procedure. Nor does it enable them to compare their performance with other laboratories using alternative measurement procedures.&nbsp;</li><li>The measurement procedure is likely to be new, so participants may not have established stable procedures and quality control, so performance may not reflect routine use.&nbsp;</li><li>The report from such an ILC would not provide information on the performance of the participant, if the statistical model used makes the assumption that all laboratories perform with equal variability.</li><li>The design of the study may require the participants to assess multiple samples and/or to undertake multiple replicate analysis on the test materials. This may not be representative of the routine measurements or tests undertaken by the laboratory.&nbsp;</li><li>The conclusion of the ILC might be that the measurement procedure being assessed is not valid.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Interlaboratory_comparisons_other_than_proficiency_testing_3_a53ecd2f5d.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Interlaboratory comparisons other than proficiency testing" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Interlaboratory_comparisons_other_than_proficiency_testing_3_a53ecd2f5d.jpg 157w," sizes="100vw" width="570" height="566"></p><h4><strong>Characterisation of candidate reference materials&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>These are ILCs that assign a property value to a candidate reference material, usually with a stated measurement uncertainty. These are often referred to as a ‘material certification study’ [2]. Limitations of using such ILCs as an alternative to PT are:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>The analysis of the candidate reference material is likely to require additional care in exercising the routine measurement procedure, such as substantially more replication, and/or may require quite different reporting formats (e.g. all valid replicates instead of a mean result). Thus, such an ILC will not necessarily provide an evaluation of the performance of the laboratory based on the routine use of their measurement procedures.&nbsp;</li><li>The report from such an ILC may include the results from the participating laboratories but would not provide information on the performance of each laboratory.&nbsp;</li><li>Participating laboratories may be required to assess multiple samples and/or to undertake multiple replicate analysis on the candidate reference materials. Thus this may not be representative of the routine measurements or tests undertaken by the laboratory.&nbsp;</li></ul><h4><strong>Other ILCs&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Some other ILCs, whilst not being conducted in full compliance of the requirements of ISO/IEC 17043, may be designed to evaluate participant performance. These would include small ILCs as defined by EA‑2/21 [5] or split sample ILCs i.e. where a portion of a single sample is sent to two or three laboratories. Whilst these ILCs are specifically designed to evaluate participant performance, they may not provide a comprehensive comparison that a PT might provide. In such cases the laboratory needs to evaluate carefully the competence of the organization managing the ILC and the suitability of the service externally provided (ISO/IEC 17025 clause 6.6).</p>

Interlaboratory comparisons other than proficiency testing

Article

Webinars

Academy

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

Eurachem is a European network promoting international traceability of chemical measurements and good analytical practice. It provides expert guidance, supports method validation, uncertainty evaluation, proficiency testing, and facilitates discussion on technical and policy issues in analytical quality.

Eurachem

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

Separation Science

Phenomenex

C&EN

Waters Corporation

<h4><strong>The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School - An Educational Journey to Master Food &amp; Environmental Analysis</strong></h4><p>Unlock the full potential of LC-MS techniques with our immersive and educational sessions at the Waters Virtual F&amp;E Late Summer School 2024. From September 24th to 26th, engage with leading experts and discover cutting-edge methods for environmental and food analysis.</p><h5><strong>Why attend?</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Comprehensive Learning:</strong> Dive deep into advanced LC-MS techniques and gain practical knowledge to enhance your laboratory's analytical capabilities.</li><li><strong>Expert Insights:</strong> Learn from industry leaders and gain firsthand experience through detailed modules on chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation.</li><li><strong>Regulatory Compliance:</strong> Stay ahead with the latest insights on EU regulations for PFAS analysis in food and water, ensuring your lab meets stringent standards.</li></ul><h3><strong>Episode #6: Automated Sample Preparation | F&amp;E Summer School - Day 2 - Module 2</strong></h3><p>This Module builds on the previous one by adding automation to the sample preparation methods. The Andrew+™ pipetting robot offers fully automated liquid handling using electronic pipettes and labware holders called Dominos for a full walk-away automation solution.</p><p>Creating the connected laboratory, Andrew+ is part of the OneLab™ ecosystem, executing laboratory protocols designed in OneLab software. This flexible architecture enables you to effortlessly transition from laborious manual pipetting procedures to error-free, fully-robotized lab workflows – without any knowledge of programming, laboratory robotics or automation engineering. and explains processes the Andrew+ pipetting robot can take over in your lab.</p><p>The European Union has adopted Commission Recommendation (EU) 2022/1431 to monitor PFAS in fruits, vegetables, milk and baby food. To achieve quantification at lowest levels of PFAS in food matrices, sample preparation is required which comprise of many pipetting steps and can be time-consuming and error prone. We will demonstrate an automate workflow for the analysis of PFAS in milk using a pipetting robot and stacked dual-phase SPE cartridges to meet EU 2022/1431 levels.</p><h5><strong>What you'll learn:</strong></h5><p>Possibilities to automat liquid handling processes in LC and LC-MS e.g.</p><ul><li>Serial dilution</li><li>Calibration curve</li><li>Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong>Xavier Rodríguez (Business Development Manager Chemistry Group, Southern Europe, Waters)</p><p>Xavier is part of the European Market Development Team. He works as an Application Specialist with focus on sample prep and has more than 20 years of experience in solving sample prep challenges.</p><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong>Daniel Ng PhD (Principal Scientist, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Daniel Ng received his PhD from the University of Manchester in mass spectrometry proteomics. He worked for 5 years at the Waters mass spectrometry headquarters in Wilmslow, UK, as a service support development engineer specializing in mass spectrometry instrumentation. In 2019, he took up a new role as a principal scientist at the International Food and Water Research Centre (Waters) in Singapore focusing on using advanced instrumentation to answer analytical challenges in the food and water industry. Since 2023, Daniel has lead the Food, Environmental and Material Science Analytical Professional Service team in the Asia-Pacific Region, developing analytical solutions to meet key challenges that customers face.</p></blockquote>

Waters Corporation: The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School

Automated Sample Preparation

The Andrew+™ pipetting robot offers fully automated liquid handling using electronic pipettes and labware holders.

<h4>Key Learning Points:</h4><ul><li><strong>Identify the common challenges associated with solid phase extraction methods</strong><br>&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Understand and troubleshoot the recovery, contamination and reproducibility issues</strong><br>&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Learn how to find and apply solutions to develop robust and reproducible extraction methods for their sample preparation needs</strong></li></ul><h4>Who Should Attend:</h4><ul><li>Any scientists who wants to learn about solid phase extraction and it’s associated challenges, common troubleshooting steps and solutions to develop robust and reproducible extraction methods for their sample preparation needs</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presnter: </strong>Namrata Saxena (Technical Manager, Phenomenex)</p><p>Namrata is the Technical Manager for the Asia-Pacific region in Phenomenex and is based in Sydney, Australia. As a member of the global technical team, she is responsible for assisting external customers as well as internal marketing and sales teams of Phenomenex for multifarious technical queries. She specifically support company’s bio-products portfolio through external and internal seminars/webinars, trainings and also contribute in biologics related technical content creation.</p><p>Before joining Phenomenex she had worked as a Product Specialist and spent several years in stationary phase chemistry, column manufacturing and method development groups in a German company Bischoff Chromatography GmbH.</p><p>Namrata has a post graduate degree with specialization in Analytical Chemistry. Her competence and focus lies in biotherapeutics characterization through liquid chromatography, antibodies and oligonucleotide chemistry, gene therapy and new bio-therapeutic modalities.</p></blockquote>

Phenomenex: Solid Phase Extraction Troubleshooting Tips and Tricks

Solid Phase Extraction Troubleshooting Tips and Tricks

Identify the common challenges associated with solid phase extraction methods.

<p><strong>Measurement of FT4 and FT3 is typically performed by immunoassay, however these can be prone to suffer from interferences and a lack of selectivity. Currently, the accepted gold standard for the measurement of FT4 and FT3 is using equilibrium dialysis (ED) and combined with the use of LC-MS/MS can overcome the issues with immunoassay in the measurement of FT4 and FT3. However, the equilibrium dialysis procedure can be quite time consuming and often being performed overnight.</strong></p><p>Here, we describe a simple clinical research method to perform ED using a commercially available device followed by sample preparation by solid phase extraction (SPE) and UPLC-MS/MS analysis using the Waters™ ACQUITY™ UPLC and analytically sensitive Xevo™ TQ Absolute Mass Spectrometer for clinical research. Data analysis and review has been simplified with the use of the waters_connect™ with QUAN Review Software. This has allowed for the complete workflow including equilibrium dialysis to be performed within a typical working day.</p><p>Simplified Equilibrium Dialysis for the UPLC-MS/MS Analysis of Free Testosterone (FT) for Clinical Research</p><p>Historically, the measurement of free testosterone in human serum has presented a challenge for laboratory scientists, with such a large portion bound and the complexity and time involved in “gold standard” equilibrium dialysis. With a simple, fast, workflow combined with the analytical sensitivity afforded by the Waters Xevo™ TQ Absolute Mass Spectrometer, a newly developed, precise, accurate and selective clinical research method will be presented.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Robert Wardle (Senior Clinical Scientist, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Robert Wardle is currently a Senior Scientist employed at Waters Corporation in Wilmslow, UK, performing research and development of applications and products for Clinical Research. His primary area of research is vitamins and in particular vitamin D metabolites, steroid hormones and in-depth knowledge of offline and online automation.</p><p>Robert joined Waters in 2010 as a Clinical Validation Scientist, playing a key role in verification activities for the MassTrak XE Immunosuppressants kit available in the EU. He moved into his current role as a Senior Scientist in 2013, where he developed clinical research methods for a range of applications including vitamin D metabolites, estrogens, a large panel of steroid hormones and more recently this application on free T4 and free T3.</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Stephen Balloch (Senior Clinical Scientist, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Stephen Balloch graduated from the University of York (UK) with a Master’s degree in Chemistry, which included a strong focus on analytical chemistry. Subsequently he worked as a laboratory scientist in a GLP compliant research facility, progressing to Study Director. And, since 2010, he has been part of the clinical team at Waters (Wilmslow, UK). His principal focus has been on the development and validation of bioanalytical methods according to CLSI guidelines, with a focus on therapeutic drug monitoring. Additionally, he has supported newborn screening, vitamin and steroid analysis, including this clinical research method for free testosterone</p></blockquote>

Free Testosterone and Free T3/T4

Simplified Equilibrium Dialysis and SPE Method for the UPLC™-MS/MS Analysis of Free Thyroxine (FT4) and Triiodothyronine (FT3) for Clinical Research.

<p><strong>By attending this webinar, you will:</strong></p><ul><li>Learn about method development steps undertaken to provide a robust and sensitive method for sample preparation of antibiotics in honey</li><li>Gain an understanding of the Biotage sample preparation workflow and the benefits of automation</li><li>Discover the challenges faced when developing a sample preparation method for antibiotics in honey</li></ul><p><strong>Event Overview</strong></p><p><strong>This presentation will detail different approaches to sample preparation for the analysis of antibiotics from honey prior to analysis on LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography coupled to tandem Mass Spectrometry). It will compare different solid phase extraction (SPE) techniques to traditional QuEChERS and present Biotage's automatable cartridge SPE for QuEChERS clean-up.</strong></p><p>We will also discuss method development steps undertaken to fully optimize different sample preparation procedures for effective matrix removal and optimal recoveries for a panel of antibiotics from honey. The presentation will cover challenges faced during the development stages along with actions taken to overcome the issues as we develop an efficient sample preparation method. We will highlight the benefits of automating the methods within a laboratory to free up analysts' time and ensure good reproducibility.</p><p>The presentation is aimed at laboratories that undertake food analysis and are interested in optimizing the clean-up of their food samples to produce accurate and reliable results. The focus will be on the best strategies used to fully remove matrix interferences while maintaining high recoveries and good reproducibility in honey testing.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Thomas Smith (EMEA Applications Laboratory Team Leader, Biotage)</p><p>Thomas has been with Biotage since July 2022 and is supporting customers to streamline their sample preparation approaches and help them automate their manual, labour-intensive tasks in the laboratory. Prior to this, Thomas worked in a toxicology lab analyzing hair for drugs of abuse and alcohol markers. His main role was to automate a method to increase reproducibility and turnaround time to meet the growing sample numbers.</p></blockquote>

Separation Science: How to Prepare Honey Samples for Efficient Analysis of Antibiotics

How to Prepare Honey Samples for Efficient Analysis of Antibiotics

This presentation will detail different approaches to sample preparation for the analysis of antibiotics from honey prior to analysis on LC-MS/MS

How to Prepare Honey Samples for Analysis of Antibiotics

<h4><strong>Key Learning Points</strong></h4><ul><li>Understand recovery and reproducibility in the context of Solid Phase Extraction</li><li>Discover the causes of commonly encountered Solid Phase Extraction problems</li><li>Learn how to successfully troubleshoot a Solid Phase Extraction problem quickly and efficiently</li></ul><h4><strong>Who Should Attend</strong></h4><ul><li>Any scientist who is interested in improving their SPE extraction method recovery and reproducibility.</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Speaker: </strong>Kevin Zhao (Sr. Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)</p><p>Kevin Zhao has 5 years of experience in biochemistry research, 4 years of Protein/Cancer research with the CSULA-City of Hope Cancer Collaborative, and over 12 years with Phenomenex. Mr. Zhao is a member of a global Technical Support Team, providing problem-solving, troubleshooting, and application assistance for customers worldwide in the fields of chromatography (liquid and gas) and sample preparation. The industries he supports include pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, clinical research and toxicology, food safety, environmental analysis, fuels, and specialty chemicals.</p><p>Mr. Zhao received his B.S. in Biology from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, his M.S. in Biochemistry from California State University, Los Angeles, and an MBA from the University of the Incarnate Word.</p></blockquote>

Phenomenex: SPE Troubleshooting: Unlock Maximum Recovery with Expert Tips!

SPE Troubleshooting: Unlock Maximum Recovery with Expert Tips!

Learn how to successfully troubleshoot a Solid Phase Extraction problem quickly and efficiently

SPE Troubleshooting: Unlock Maximum Recovery with Expert

<div><div><p><strong>Let's go back to the Basics of Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry, Data Analysis and Trouble-shooting: understanding the importance of the basics will enable you to be more effective in your daily laboratory life.</strong></p><p>This journey started in 2024 and we are now pleased to invite you to join us to go deeper in fundamentals, troubleshooting and application specific topics.</p><h3><strong>EPISODE 1: SPE Troubleshooting - Keys to Success!</strong></h3><p><strong>What will you learn?</strong></p><ul><li>What are the critical steps in a SPE protocol</li><li>How to overcome the most common challenges</li></ul><p><strong>What's next?</strong></p><ul><li>Check out the full Webinar Series Episodes List <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&amp;eventid=4817889&amp;sessionid=1&amp;key=B9182AE813B3F8A30217606156F96B75&amp;groupId=5901784&amp;sourcepage=register"><strong>here</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>Not sure to be able to attend live sessions?&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li>Register today and watch the webinars on-demand</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Xavier Rodriguez (Principal Applications Specialist, Chemistry, Europe, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Xavier is part of the European Market Development Team. He works as an Application Specialist with focus on sample prep and has more than 20 years of experience in solving sample prep challenges.</p></blockquote></div></div>

Waters Corporation: Back to Basics Advanced Webinar Series 2025

Back to Basics Advanced - Troubleshooting: Sample Prep

What are the critical steps in a SPE protocol and how to overcome the most common challenges 

<p><strong>Extracting PFAS from dirty matrices is a challenging task. With the finalization of the EPA Method 1633 (Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Aqueous, Solid, Biosolids, and Tissue Samples by LC-MS/MS), the scientific community is closer to reaching that goal. However, the basic pH method in EPA 1633 is not suitable for some of the most complicated matrices, including lipid-rich, full-fish homogenates. Basic methods are lipid-limited and there is an increased likelihood of incomplete separation of PFAS due to significant matrix interferences. This poses a challenge for analyzing PFAS in whole fish (as opposed to fillets or organs) which can provide valuable information about both human and animal exposure through consumption.</strong></p><p>In addition, many methods focus on the analysis of PFAS in fish fillets with the primary purpose of informing human consumption advisories. However, this is likely not representative of the PFAS burden consumed by aquatic predators, who generally eat most of the fish, if not all. Some internal organs, such as the liver, have higher concentrations of PFAS than the fillet. Analyzing the homogenate of a whole fish provides a holistic view of animal exposure through consumption, as well as exposure for the fish itself.</p><p>We developed an extraction method that can be used to analyze linear perfluorocarboxylic &amp; perfluorosulfonic acids in lipid-rich, full-fish homogenates. Recoveries of PFCAs &amp; PFSAs were between 73 and 104%, which is comparable, if not improved from, the acceptable range in EPA 1633. This method allowed us to analyze homogenized Pacific Herring and Chinook salmon samples. EPA Method 1633 was tested on these samples, but there was no recovery of target analytes. Using the method in this presentation, linear PFCAs were detected 54% of the time with an average concentration and SEM of 5.2±1.9 ng/g ww. Linear PFSAs were detected in 73% of samples with an average concentration of 1.6±0.2 ng/g ww. As with most other biological samples, the profile of linear PFSAs was predominantly PFOS, which had a detection frequency of 73% and an average concentration of 1.4±0.2 ng/g ww..</p><p>While this method does have trade-offs with EPA Method 1633, including a smaller amenable suite of analytes, it can be used to determine trophic magnification of PFAS more accurately. Additionally, this method can be used on banked fish samples that have been homogenized before storage, providing an opportunity for historical sample analysis.</p><p><strong>Key Objectives:</strong></p><ul><li>Understand the limitations of the basic pH method in EPA 1633 when analyzing lipid-rich, full-fish homogenates.</li><li>Explore a new extraction method that can be used to analyze linear perfluorocarboxylic and perfluorosulfonic acids for a more efficient and accurate analysis.</li></ul><div><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Richard Jack, Ph.D., (Global Market Development Manager, Phenomenex)</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Sydney Brady (Ph.D. Candidate, Indiana University O´Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Bloomington, IN)</p></blockquote></div>

Phenomenex: Eliminating Matrix Effects in Lipid-rich, Full-Fish Homogenates

Eliminating Matrix Effects in Lipid-rich, Full-Fish Homogenates

Join this webinar to understand the limitations of the basic pH method in EPA 1633 when analyzing lipid-rich, full-fish homogenates.

Eliminating Matrix Effects in Fish Homogenates

<h4><strong>Key Learning Points</strong></h4><ul><li>Learn how to select the ideal SPE sorbent based on your analytes and impurities.</li><li>Review different SPE separation modes, and SPE stationary phases.</li><li>Walk through step-by-step sorbent selection examples.</li></ul><h4><strong>Who Should Attend</strong></h4><ul><li>Anyone new to SPE who wants to get familiar with SPE retention mechanisms.</li><li>Anyone who has a basic understanding of SPE and would like to explore sorbent options.&nbsp;</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Speaker: </strong>Koen Askamp (Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)</p><p>Koen Askamp is a Technical Specialist in Phenomenex. He was awarded his BSc and MSc degrees in Molecular Life Sciences at Wageningen University in the Netherlands and joined Phenomenex in 2020 as Technical Sales Consultant. Koen became part of Phenomenex’s global technical support team in 2022 and assists laboratories in training chromatographers and developing analytical methods.</p></blockquote>

Phenomenex: SPE Sorbent Quest: Discovering the Ideal Solution

SPE Sorbent Quest: Discovering the Ideal Solution

Learn how to select the ideal SPE sorbent based on your analytes and impurities.

<p><strong>Drugs of abuse LC-MS/MS analysis in whole blood can be challenging due to the complexity of the matrix. This challenge is amplified when targeting large panels of analytes spanning multiple drug classes, where matrix interferences and variability can significantly impact data quality. Robust and efficient sample preparation is essential to ensure accurate, reproducible results.</strong></p><p>In this webinar, we present a comparative study of solid-phase extraction (SPE), supported liquid extraction (SLE), and other protein and phospholipids removal extraction techniques. Using a broad panel of analytes spanning multiple drug classes, we evaluate each technique for recovery, matrix effects, and reproducibility. We also examine the role of automation in streamlining the sample prep process, improving consistency, and supporting high-throughput analysis in clinical and forensic testing environments.</p><h5><strong>By attending this presentation, you will:</strong></h5><ul><li>Comparing the performance of SPE, SLE, PLD and PPT techniques for the extraction of drugs of abuse from whole blood, focusing on recovery, matrix effects, and reproducibility.</li><li>Evaluating the impact of sample preparation on the overall accuracy and reliability of LC-MS/MS analysis in forensic and clinical toxicology applications.</li><li>The benefits and considerations of automating sample prep workflows to increase throughput, reduce variability, and enhance lab efficiency.</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Kyle Dukes &nbsp;(Application Scientist, Biotage)</p><p>Kyle Dukes is a dedicated Application Scientist at Biotage specializing in sample prep workflows for LC-MS/MS analysis in clinical, forensic toxicology and bioanalysis. He supports fellow scientists with analytical method development and optimization. &nbsp;Kyle holds a Master’s degree in Analytical Chemistry from Clemson University.<br>esraa-abojasser</p><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Esraa AboJasser (Analytical Testing Market Manager, Biotage)</p><p>Esraa AboJasser is the Analytical Testing Market Manager for Biotage. She drives growth through developing and promoting innovative solutions that help laboratories enhance their sample prep workflows. With 10 years of experience in sample preparation and chromatography, she has helped scientists across multiple fields simplify workflows and achieve more reliable results.<br>&nbsp;</p></blockquote>

Separation Science: Sample Prep Strategies for Multi-Class Drug Analysis in Whole Blood

Sample Prep Strategies for Multi-Class Drug Analysis in Whole Blood

In this webinar, we present a comparative study of SPE, SLE and other protein and phospholipids removal extraction techniques.

Sample Prep for Multi-Class Drug Analysis in Blood

<p><strong>As PFAS regulations evolve and testing expands into more challenging matrices, effective sample preparation is a fundamental step in ensuring reliable and reproducible analysis. In this webinar, we examine solid-phase extraction (SPE) for PFAS analysis, exploring new applications and automation strategies designed to meet the demands of increasingly complex samples.</strong></p><p>This session will highlight three new and relevant applications of PFAS sample preparation from environmental and food-based matrices, including:</p><ul><li>Sample preparation and PFAS determination from fish tissue in accordance with EPA Method 1633</li><li>Automated SPE workflows for the determination of PFAS in aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) supported by the Andrew+ robot</li><li>Analysis of PFAS in products of animal origin, with a focus on egg matrices</li></ul><p>Whether working towards regulatory compliance or improving lab efficiency, we will discuss ways to increase reproducibility, reduce matrix effects, and streamline PFAS workflows. This includes how newer SPE formats like Oasis WAX/GCB and GCB/WAX for PFAS Analysis can help simplify cleanup and improve results across a range of PFAS applications, from food to environmental samples.&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Chelsea Plummer (Senior Product Marketing Manager, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Chelsea Plummer is a Senior Product Marketing Manager at Waters with a background in bioanalytical mass spectrometry. She holds a BS from Purdue University and a PhD from The University of Alabama, where her research focused on the analysis of small molecules and peptides using both quantitative and high-resolution mass spectrometry. She has been at Waters for 9 years, and currently leads product initiatives related to sample preparation, with a specific focus on solid-phase extraction (SPE) for PFAS analysis and other complex matrices. She is passionate about delivering innovative solutions and that help customers achieve high-quality, reproducible results across a wide variety of application areas including pharmaceuticals, food, and environmental analysis.</p><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong>Kari Organtini, PhD (Principal Scientist, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Kari Organtini is a principal scientist at Waters Corporation and has been with the company for eight years. She received her PhD from Penn State University in 2015 studying the occurrence of dioxins and furans in fire debris and their implications to first responder health. At Waters, Kari is part of the PFAS Program in the Testing and Lab Services Group. Kari has developed applications using both LC and GC techniques for a variety of applications ranging from pesticides to persistent organic pollutants during her career. She is currently the scientific lead for developing PFAS applications at Waters.</p><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong>Margot Lee (Senior Scientist, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Margot Lee is a Senior Scientist at Waters Corporation, where she develops applications for PFAS analysis. With a background in biology and a career in analytical chemistry, she joined the PFAS team in summer 2024 after contributing to the validation of Waters’ dual-phase SPE cartridges. Her current work focuses on solid-phase extraction of complex food matrices. In this webinar, she will present PFAS data from eggs, demonstrating a streamlined method using real-world samples from backyard chickens.</p><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong>Daniel Ng PhD (Principal Scientist, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Daniel Ng received his PhD from the University of Manchester in mass spectrometry proteomics. He worked for 5 years at the Waters mass spectrometry headquarters in Wilmslow, UK, as a service support development engineer specializing in mass spectrometry instrumentation. In 2019, he took up a new role as a principal scientist at the International Food and Water Research Centre (Waters) in Singapore focusing on using advanced instrumentation to answer analytical challenges in the food and water industry. Since 2023, Daniel has led the Food, Environmental and Material Science Analytical Professional Service team in the Asia-Pacific Region, developing analytical solutions to meet key challenges that customers face.</p></blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Advancing Approaches to PFAS Sample Prep in Emerging Food and Environmental Samples

Advancing Approaches to PFAS Sample Prep in Emerging Food and Environmental Samples

This session will highlight three new and relevant applications of PFAS sample preparation from environmental and food-based matrices.

LCMS webinars focusing on SPE - page 3