A team led by scientists from CEITEC Masaryk University has uncovered the infection mechanism of tailed bacteriophages – a group of viruses that infect bacteria. These phages target, among others, Staphylococcus aureus, a major cause of bacterial infections that is often resistant to antibiotics. The bacterium belongs to a group of Gram-positive bacteria characterised by an exceptionally thick cell wall. Although the infection mechanisms of some other bacteriophages have been described previously, the way tailed phages infecting Staphylococcus aureus and other thick-walled bacteria invade their hosts had remained unknown. The researchers have now revealed how such a bacteriophage breaches the protective barrier of the bacterial cell and delivers its genetic material inside. Their findings could contribute to the development of new strategies for combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria.Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most common sources of bacterial infections in humans. It can cause skin infections, pneumonia, and even life-threatening bloodstream infections. Moreover, many of its strains have become resistant to commonly used antibiotics, increasing interest in alternative treatment approaches such as bacteriophage therapy.“Bacteriophages are the most abundant biological entities on Earth and have been infecting bacteria for billions of years. Yet we still do not fully understand how they overcome the cell wall of certain Gram-positive bacteria. By reconstructing the bacteriophage structure before and after it attaches to a bacterial cell, we were able to reveal this process,” says <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ceitec.eu/jan-binovsky-ph-d/u91173?page=publication">Ján Bíňovský</a> of CEITEC Masaryk University, who led the study together with Marta Šiborová.Bacteriophage 812, investigated in this study, specifically infects Staphylococcus aureus. The researchers discovered that once it recognises the correct host, the protein structure at the tip of its tail undergoes extensive rearrangements. Individual components of this structure, which resembles a lunar landing module, reorganise into a new configuration that enables the virus to firmly attach to the bacterial surface. At the same time, a mechanism is activated that triggers contraction of the phage tail.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Jak_zabit_zlateho_stafylokoka_novy_pohled_na_viry_ktere_si_poradi_s_bakteriemi_01c86d5e42.jpg" alt="CEITEC/Plevka Lab: How to Kill Staphylococcus Aureus: A New Insight into Viruses That Can Defeat Bacteria: Phage before attachment to the bacterial cell." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Jak_zabit_zlateho_stafylokoka_novy_pohled_na_viry_ktere_si_poradi_s_bakteriemi_01c86d5e42.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="4339" height="1600"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Jak_zabit_zlateho_stafylokoka_novy_pohled_na_viry_ktere_si_poradi_s_bakteriemi_2_53422574db.jpg" alt="CEITEC/Plevka Lab: How to Kill Staphylococcus Aureus: A New Insight into Viruses That Can Defeat Bacteria: Phage attached to the bacterial cell." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Jak_zabit_zlateho_stafylokoka_novy_pohled_na_viry_ktere_si_poradi_s_bakteriemi_2_53422574db.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="4085" height="1600">“The process resembles the release of an extended spring. The bacteriophage tail contracts to approximately half of its original length, and the released energy drives the central tube through the bacterium's protective layers. The virus can then deliver its genetic material into the cell and initiate infection,” explains Marta Šiborová.Unlike many other bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus possesses an exceptionally thick cell wall. The researchers therefore investigated in detail how the bacteriophage overcomes this barrier. They found that the virus employs a combination of mechanical force and enzymatic activity. Some components of its infection apparatus likely disrupt teichoic acids, which form the outer protective layer of the bacterial cell wall. Other proteins then degrade peptidoglycan, the main structural component of the cell wall. Finally, the bacteriophage penetrates the inner lipid membrane, allowing its central tube to enter the bacterial cell.The findings show that the bacteriophage does not function as a simple "needle", but rather as a sophisticated nanomachine composed of dozens of cooperating proteins.Although this is fundamental research, the findings may prove important for future medical applications. Bacteriophages are considered one of the promising alternatives for treating infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.“If we want to use bacteriophages therapeutically in the future – or even engineer them for specific medical applications – we first need to understand in detail how they work. Our study provides fundamental insight into how bacteriophages recognise their hosts and initiate infection,” says <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ceitec.eu/pavel-plevka-ph-d/u26854">Pavel Plevka</a>, structural biologist and head of a research group at CEITEC Masaryk University.<blockquote>The study, published in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1038/s44318-026-00834-9">EMBO Journal</a>, also involved researchers from the Faculty of Science, Masaryk University.</blockquote><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Jak_zabit_zlateho_stafylokoka_novy_pohled_na_viry_ktere_si_poradi_s_bakteriemi_3_fba5a65145.jpg" alt="CEITEC/Plevka Lab: How to Kill Staphylococcus Aureus: A New Insight into Viruses That Can Defeat Bacteria: Black = protein structure at the tip of the tail after the conformational change; red = portion of the tail that has begun to contract; blue = portion of the tail that remains extended." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Jak_zabit_zlateho_stafylokoka_novy_pohled_na_viry_ktere_si_poradi_s_bakteriemi_3_fba5a65145.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="782"><blockquote><h4>The original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1038/s44318-026-00834-9">Conformational changes of the baseplate regulating tail contraction of Staphylococcus phage 812</a></h4>Ján Bíňovský, Marta Šiborová, Maryna Zlatohurska, Jiří Nováček, Pavol Bárdy, Roman Baška, Karel Škubník, Tibor Botka, Martin Benešík, Roman Pantuček, Konstantinos Tripsianes &amp; Pavel PlevkaEMBO J (2026)<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s44318-026-00834-9">https://doi.org/10.1038/s44318-026-00834-9</a>&nbsp;<h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0</a></h6></blockquote>

 How to Kill Staphylococcus Aureus: A New Insight into Viruses That Can Defeat Bacteria 

Rotary evaporation has long been a staple in laboratories for removing solvents from samples efficiently. However, as technology advances and the demand for higher throughput and more efficient processes increases, alternative methods are becoming more attractive. One such alternative is <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=338">Organomation's S-EVAP evaporators</a>. For laboratories interested in processing several samples simultaneously, the S-EVAP offers significant advantages over multiple rotary evaporators.<h3>Understanding Rotary Evaporation</h3>Rotary evaporation is a technique widely used in chemical and biochemical labs to remove solvents from samples by applying heat and reducing pressure to induce evaporation. The process involves a rotating flask, which increases the surface area for evaporation, making it efficient for solvent removal. Despite its effectiveness, rotary evaporation has limitations, especially when dealing with high-throughput requirements or multiple samples simultaneously.<h3>Criteria for Choosing an Alternative</h3>When selecting an alternative to rotary evaporation, several factors need to be considered:<ul><li>Efficiency: How quickly and effectively can the alternative remove solvents?</li><li>Cost-effectiveness: What is the initial investment and operating cost?</li><li>Ease of use: How user-friendly is the equipment?</li><li>Applicability: Can the alternative handle a variety of solvents and sample types?</li><li>Scalability: Is the method suitable for processing multiple samples simultaneously?</li></ul><h3>Alternatives to Rotary Evaporation</h3><h4>1. Organomation's S-EVAP Evaporators</h4>Organomation's S-EVAP evaporators, available in<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1904"> Kuderna-Danish (KD)</a> and<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1905"> round-bottom (RB)</a> flask models, are designed for laboratories requiring high throughput and efficient solvent removal.&nbsp;<ul><li>S-EVAP KD is available in 8 or 10 position models and can handle sample sizes up to 500 mL</li><li>S-EVAP RB models also offer 8 or 10 positions with capacities up to 250 mL per sample</li></ul>The S-EVAP system is tailored for general evaporation and concentration of analytical or environmental samples using various glassware configurations to meet specific method requirements under controlled and reproducible conditions.This system features rapid solvent evaporation with solvent vapor recovery, achieving solvent recoveries exceeding 96% by volume under ideal conditions.&nbsp;It can operate with cold tap water or a recirculating chiller system, ensuring efficient cooling. The digital controlled water bath provides even and uniform heating without scorching the final samples.&nbsp;The parallel water manifold system ensures even cooling water distribution to each condenser, while the rotary water manifold allows unlimited instrument rotation for easy front loading without condenser tubing entanglement.<h5>Advantages of S-EVAP Over Rotary Evaporation:</h5><ul><li>Higher Throughput: The S-EVAP can process multiple samples simultaneously, significantly increasing throughput compared to using several rotary evaporators.</li><li>Cost-Effectiveness: Although the initial investment may be higher than a single rotary evaporator, the S-EVAP's ability to handle multiple samples at once reduces the need for additional equipment. Lower maintenance costs and reduced need for additional space and infrastructure.</li><li>Ease of Use: User-friendly design with straightforward controls and easy maintenance. Reduced handling time compared to managing multiple rotary evaporators, allowing technicians to focus on other tasks.</li><li>Consistency and Precision: Uniform evaporation conditions ensure consistent results across all samples. Precise control over temperature allows for tailored evaporation conditions for different sample types.</li><li>Space Efficiency: A single S-EVAP unit occupies less space compared to multiple rotary evaporators, making it ideal for labs with limited bench space.</li></ul><h5>Integration in EPA Method 1699</h5>Rotary Evaporator Usage:<ul><li>Initial Solvent Reduction: Rotary evaporators are used first to remove bulk solvent from the sample extract. This step efficiently reduces the volume of the extract to a manageable level under reduced pressure, ensuring that the majority of the solvent is removed without significant loss of analytes.</li><li>Controlled Conditions: The rotary evaporator's ability to control temperature and vacuum precisely helps in handling large initial volumes and reducing them quickly.</li></ul>S-EVAP Evaporator Usage:<ul><li>Further Concentration: After the rotary evaporation step, the concentrated extract is transferred to the S-EVAP system. The S-EVAP evaporators, including the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1904">S-EVAP-KD</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1905">S-EVAP-RB</a> models, are designed to handle smaller volumes and provide a final concentration of the sample.</li><li>Solvent Recovery: The S-EVAP systems offer efficient solvent recovery, with the S-EVAP-RB capable of achieving solvent recoveries exceeding 96% by volume under ideal conditions. This high recovery rate is crucial for environmental and analytical labs that aim to minimize solvent waste and ensure consistent results.</li><li>Even Heating and Cooling: The S-EVAP-RB features a digital controlled water bath for uniform heating, preventing scalding of the final samples. Additionally, the parallel water manifold system ensures even cooling to each condenser, enhancing the efficiency and reproducibility of the evaporation process.</li></ul>Benefits of Tandem Use<ul><li>Enhanced Efficiency: Using both systems in tandem allows for the initial large volume reduction by the rotary evaporator, followed by precise final concentration using the S-EVAP. This combination maximizes throughput and ensures high-quality results.</li><li>Cost and Space Efficiency: The rotary evaporator handles the bulk of the solvent reduction, reducing the strain on the S-EVAP system. This distribution of workload helps in maintaining the equipment and optimizing laboratory space.</li><li>Method Compliance: Following this tandem approach ensures compliance with EPA Method 1699, which outlines specific procedures for pesticide analysis in various environmental samples.</li></ul>Organomation's S-EVAP evaporators, when used in conjunction with rotary evaporators, provide an efficient and reliable solution for laboratories performing high-throughput solvent evaporation tasks, such as those required by EPA Method 1699. This tandem use ensures precise control over the evaporation process, high solvent recovery rates, and consistent sample preparation, making it an ideal approach for environmental and analytical laboratories.<h4>2. Buchi's Syncore Evaporators</h4>Buchi's Syncore evaporators are advanced evaporation systems designed to provide high throughput and efficiency. They use parallel evaporation technology, allowing simultaneous processing of multiple samples under controlled conditions.<ul><li>Applications: Drug discovery, natural product extraction and chemical synthesis</li><li>Advantages: High efficiency with parallel evaporation capabilities, advanced safety features and precise control over evaporation parameters</li><li>Limitations: Potential cost considerations and specific application limitations</li></ul><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://explore.organomation.com/s-evap-rb-vs-buchi-syncore-download">Download our S-EVAP-RB vs Buchi Syncore comparison with pricing!</a><h4>3. Freeze Drying (Lyophilization)</h4>Freeze drying, also known as lyophilization, is a dehydration process used to preserve perishable materials or make them more convenient for transport. The process involves three main stages: freezing, primary drying (sublimation), and secondary drying (desorption).<ul><li>Applications: Pharmaceuticals, food industry, biological samples.</li><li>Advantages: Long-term stability of dried products.</li><li>Limitations: High cost and time-consuming process.</li></ul>For a more in-depth review, please visit our piece on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/types-of-laboratory-evaporators">Types of Laboratory Evaporators</a>.<h4>4. Centrifugal Evaporation</h4>Centrifugal evaporation is a technique used to remove solvents from samples by combining centrifugal force, vacuum, and heat. This method is particularly effective for drying samples rapidly and efficiently, making it ideal for high-throughput laboratories.<ul><li>Applications: Used for concentrating and drying biological samples, drug formulations, and other compounds that require gentle handling. Ideal for processing DNA, RNA, proteins, and other sensitive biomolecules.</li><li>Advantages: The combination of centrifugal force and vacuum significantly speeds up the evaporation process compared to traditional methods. Multiple samples can be processed simultaneously, making it suitable for high-volume laboratories.</li></ul>Limitations:<ul><li>Equipment Cost: High-quality centrifugal evaporators can be expensive to purchase and maintain.</li><li>Limited Sample Types: Not all sample types are suitable for centrifugal evaporation, particularly those that require very specific temperature or pressure conditions.</li><li>Technical Expertise: Requires trained personnel to operate the equipment and optimize conditions for different sample types.</li></ul><h4>5. Vacuum Distillation</h4>Vacuum distillation is a technique used to separate mixtures of liquids by utilizing reduced pressure, which lowers the boiling points of the components. This method is particularly useful for separating heat-sensitive compounds that might decompose at higher temperatures.<ul><li>Applications: Used to purify reaction products and separate mixtures in organic synthesis. Essential for refining crude oil into various fractions, such as gasoline, diesel, and lubricants.</li><li>Advantages: Achieves high levels of purity by effectively separating components based on their boiling points. Reduces the risk of thermal decomposition by operating at lower temperatures. Applicable to a wide range of substances, including complex mixtures and heat-sensitive materials.</li></ul>Limitations:<ul><li>Complex Setup: Requires specialized equipment and careful control of vacuum and temperature conditions.</li><li>High Cost: Initial investment and maintenance costs can be high.</li><li>Technical Skill: Operators need to be skilled in managing the distillation process to achieve optimal results.</li></ul><h4>6. Spray Drying</h4>Spray drying is a process used to convert liquid materials into dry powders by rapidly drying them with a hot gas. This technique is widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries for creating stable, shelf-stable powders.<ul><li>Applications: Used to produce powdered milk, coffee, eggs, and flavors. Employed in the production of powdered drugs and formulations.</li><li>Advantages: Efficiently converts liquids into dry powders in a short time. Allows precise control over the size and distribution of the powder particles.</li></ul>Limitations:<ul><li>High Energy Consumption: Requires significant energy to heat the drying gas.</li><li>Thermal Degradation: High temperatures can cause thermal degradation of sensitive compounds.</li><li>Complexity: Requires careful control of operating conditions to achieve desired product characteristics.</li></ul><h4>7. Simple Distillation</h4>Simple distillation is a basic method used to separate liquids with significantly different boiling points. It involves heating the mixture to vaporize the more volatile component, which is then condensed and collected.<ul><li>Applications: Used to purify solvents, water, and other liquids by removing impurities. Ideal for separating simple mixtures of two components with different boiling points.</li><li>Advantages: Easy to set up and operate with minimal equipment. Low initial investment and operating costs. Effective for separating mixtures with large differences in boiling points.</li></ul>Limitations:<ul><li>Limited Precision: Not suitable for separating complex mixtures or components with close boiling points.</li><li>Scalability Issues: Less efficient for large-scale industrial processes.</li><li>Thermal Degradation: Higher temperatures can cause degradation of heat-sensitive components.</li></ul><h4>8. Microwave-Assisted Evaporation</h4>Microwave-assisted evaporation is a technique that uses microwave energy to heat and evaporate solvents from samples. This method is efficient and rapid, making it suitable for various laboratory applications.<ul><li>Applications: Used to speed up reactions and solvent removal in organic synthesis. Employed for drying drug formulations and preparing samples for analysis.</li><li>Advantages: Microwaves heat samples quickly and uniformly, reducing evaporation time.</li></ul>Limitations:<ul><li>Equipment Cost: Microwave evaporators can be expensive to purchase and maintain.</li><li>Sample Compatibility: Not all samples are suitable for microwave heating, particularly those with low dielectric properties.</li><li>Safety Concerns: Requires careful handling to avoid overheating and potential hazards.</li></ul><h3>Conclusion</h3>For laboratories that need to process several samples simultaneously, Organomation's S-EVAP evaporators present a compelling alternative to rotary evaporation. By offering higher throughput, cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and space efficiency, the S-EVAP can streamline laboratory workflows and improve overall productivity. As technology continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest advancements in evaporation methods will ensure that labs can maintain optimal performance and efficiency.

Exploring Alternatives to Rotary Evaporation in Modern Laboratories

<h3>How about a coffee break along with a bite of LC? Here you go!</h3><h4>Welcome to the webinar series dedicated to Liquid Chromatography: LC Coffee Breaks Free Webinar Series</h4>Each episode focuses on answering a specific challenge faced by chromatographers, helping you improve efficiency, solve problems faster, and stay up to date with the latest trends in Liquid Chromatography.<h4>Episode 1 Mastering Overpressure - Prevention and Solutions that Work</h4><ul><li>📆August 06, 2026</li><li>🕑14:00 CEST</li><li>Speaker: Walter Migliaccio (Sales Application Chemist, Waters)</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6410">Registration</a></li></ul>Overpressure is a common LC challenge that can lead to downtime and unreliable results.&nbsp;Learn or review how to:<ul><li>Identify key causes and solve them</li><li>Prevent issues in practical ways</li></ul><h4>Episode 2 Strategies to Identify and Reduce Carryover</h4><ul><li>📆September 15, 2026</li><li>🕑14:00 CEST</li><li>Speaker: Andrea Hoehnel (Senior Sales Applications Chemist, Waters)</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6418">Registration</a></li></ul>Carryover can compromise accuracy and productivity in LC analyses.&nbsp;Join this webinar to:<ul><li>gain actionable insights into detecting carryover sources&nbsp;</li><li>implement effective solutions for more robust and reproducible results.</li></ul><h4>Episode 3 From RI to CAD: How Universal LC Detectors Compare in Real World Performance</h4><ul><li>📆October 15, 2026</li><li>🕑14:00 CEST</li><li>Speaker: Pawel Bigos (Senior Scientist, Waters Corporation)</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6419">Registration</a></li></ul>What will you learn<ul><li>Gain practical understand on detectors ideal use cases</li><li>Learn how to select the right universal detector to improve your analysis</li></ul><h4>Episode 4 Why My Method Doesn't Transfer Smoothly?</h4><ul><li>📆November 5, 2026</li><li>🕑14:00 CET</li><li>Speaker: Norris Wong (Senior Evaluation Scientist, Waters Corporation)</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6420">Registration</a></li></ul>Method transfer issues can lead to delays, inconsistent data, and costly rework.Join this webinar to:<ul><li>Understand the root causes of transfer failures</li><li>Learn best practices for achieving reliable, reproducible liquid chromatography methods across different systems and environments</li></ul><h4>Episode 5 Binary or Quaternary? Choosing the Fit-for-Purpose Gradient System</h4><ul><li>📆December 17, 2026</li><li>🕑14:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6421">Registration</a></li></ul>Clearly understand the strengths, limitations, and impact of your gradient systems can make the difference in your method performances.Join this webinar to:&nbsp;<ul><li>Learn what to consider to select the best solution for your needs</li><li>Get practical tips to optimize your separations and support your analytical goals</li></ul><h4>Why you should attend</h4><ul><li>Get practical, users insights you can immediately apply in your daily LC laboratory work.&nbsp;</li><li>In just a short coffee-break session, you'll gain valuable tips on troubleshooting, method development, method transfer, technology updates, column chemistries, and real-world applications.</li></ul>

LC Coffee Breaks - Free Webinar Series from Waters Corporation

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Since its establishment in 2011, CEITEC has quickly developed into a cutting-edge infrastructure for research which performs highly alongside the best institutes in Europe. Among the main priorities of CEITEC are the promotion of a motivating and dynamic international scientific environment, the provision of state-of-the-art research infrastructure, and the policy of open communication and equal opportunities.

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Agilent Technologies

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Trace level analysis like pesticide residue testing comes with specific challenges and performing this analysis in cannabis can be a frustrating experience. Establishing a robust method can help mitigate long term problems but method criteria and performance parameters can be difficult to choose without the benefit of consensus methods and a long history of detailed published methods. It can be hard to know where to start with method fundamentals and how to experimentally determine performance. Luckily, the chemical contaminants community has developed excellent practices that can be used. It is important to understand fundamental criteria and options for determining performance because these directly impact the quality of testing and ability to meet regulatory requirements.
I often help people with pesticide testing in cannabis and will discuss some of the most important method criteria and performance experiments needed when establishing a pesticide method in your lab. This presentation will answer these common questions.
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Presenter: Julie Kowalski, Ph.D. (onsultant at jkSS)
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Julie Kowalski is a technical consultant primarily serving the cannabis and hemp testing market. She earned her graduate degree in Analytical Chemistry from Pennsylvania State University. Her professional experience includes troubleshooting, method development and validation for GC, GC-MS, LC, and LC-MS/MS in addition to pesticide residue analysis and chromatography method development. She worked at a technology provider for over ten years and recently served as Scientific Director and Chief Scientific Officer for a cannabis testing lab. She has previously served as the President of the North American Chemical Residue Workshop, served on AOAC Expert Review Panels, the Cannabis Scientific Task Force for Washington State and is currently chairing the AOAC CASP Chemical Contaminants Working Group.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Pesticide Analysis FAQs with Julie Kowalski, Cannabis and Hemp Testing Consultant

Pesticide Analysis FAQs with Julie Kowalski, Cannabis and Hemp Testing Consultant

In this first episode, we’ll take a look at an essential yet very challenging part of the analytical workflow: Sample Preparation. We will explore alternatives to the standard one-variable-at-a-time approach (OVAT) using Design of Experiment (DoE) and we will address how the blissful synergy with automation makes method development not only faster and more time/cost effective, but also capable of finding the right answer across the whole of the experimental space.
In the second half of the webinar, Camilla will be joined by Phil Kay - a learning manager for JMP, a division of SAS Institute. He is among the leading minds in Design of Experiments and has a long history of guiding data analytical solutions for industrial organisations around the world. Phil is a long time collaborator of Anatune so we couldn’t be happier that he’s agreed to be part of the series.
<h3>Method Development With Camilla Liscio</h3>
Method development is the place where analytical science resembles art; sound analytical methods are often rather elegant.
Method development is where analysts use their craft and expertise to find the optimum solution to analytical problems. If it’s a tough one, they may need to think outside the box and find unconventional solutions.
Method development specialists are often the innovators in our industry, who stretch the limits of technology’s current capabilities.
They, more than most, need the self confidence to believe that when they take on a complicated problem, they can see it through, coming up with something that will be fit-for-purpose.
Without this confidence, there is a tendency to copy what others are doing, play it safe and miss the innovations that will get you ahead of the game.
Bearing in mind that once in place, these methods may be there for ten years, it’s certainly worth trying to push the limits of what’s possible.
Unfortunately, the drive toward more specialised job-roles, means most laboratories have just a handful of chemists responsible for all their method development.
These members of staff don’t just need analytical skills, they also need to understand the context of the problem and the regulatory environment.
These skills come with practice and time served. Good people are not easy to find.
What we need is a new generation of specialised method developers.
The people with the ability to train the next generation are often as busy as they are experienced and have little time to transfer their knowledge.
In the opinion of the Community of Analytical Measurement Science, (CAMS UK), the shortage of method development skills is one of the biggest potential threats to the long term health of the analytical sciences.
We want to do our bit, by sharing our hard won expertise, so we have put together a three part webinar series, covering the most important aspects of modern method development.
We’ll look at the three stages of method development: Sample Preparation, Instrumental Analysis and Data Processing.
Camilla Liscio will take you through the fundamentals of each stage, before being joined by an industry specialist to discuss some of their best tips for excellent method development.
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Presenter: Camilla Liscio
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Camilla is one Anatune’s most experienced and effective method developers. Her background in metrology – the science of measurement and statistics – give her a deep understanding of the mathematics underpinning all of analytical science.
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This, coupled with her years solving complex analytical problems for LGC and Anatune puts her on extremely strong foundations for method development.
</blockquote>
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If you aspire to become a rising star in your organisation or know anyone earmarked for great work, this is a must attend series.
</blockquote>

Pixabay/michelprado: 1/3 Method Development With Camila Liscio: Sample Prep

1/3 Method Development With Camila Liscio: Sample Prep

Episode 2 of the method development series focusses on instrument analysis, specifically hyphenated techniques (GC-MS and LC-MS). We’ll delve into some of the atypical options for dealing with poor sensitivity and matrix interference.
We’ll be joined by our expert guest Colin Towers – Technical Support Chemist at Crawford Scientific. We’ll discuss the most relevant (sometimes unconventional) tips and tricks to help you add to your method development tool kit.
Colin has decades of experience in solving practical method development problems and is one of an ever decreasing breed of analysts with an intimate knowledge of what’s going on under the hood of your analyser.
<h3>Method Development With Camilla Liscio</h3>
Method development is the place where analytical science resembles art; sound analytical methods are often rather elegant.
Method development is where analysts use their craft and expertise to find the optimum solution to analytical problems. If it’s a tough one, they may need to think outside the box and find unconventional solutions.
Method development specialists are often the innovators in our industry, who stretch the limits of technology’s current capabilities.
They, more than most, need the self confidence to believe that when they take on a complicated problem, they can see it through, coming up with something that will be fit-for-purpose.
Without this confidence, there is a tendency to copy what others are doing, play it safe and miss the innovations that will get you ahead of the game.
Bearing in mind that once in place, these methods may be there for ten years, it’s certainly worth trying to push the limits of what’s possible.
Unfortunately, the drive toward more specialised job-roles, means most laboratories have just a handful of chemists responsible for all their method development.
These members of staff don’t just need analytical skills, they also need to understand the context of the problem and the regulatory environment.
These skills come with practice and time served. Good people are not easy to find.
What we need is a new generation of specialised method developers.
The people with the ability to train the next generation are often as busy as they are experienced and have little time to transfer their knowledge.
In the opinion of the Community of Analytical Measurement Science, (CAMS UK), the shortage of method development skills is one of the biggest potential threats to the long term health of the analytical sciences.
We want to do our bit, by sharing our hard won expertise, so we have put together a three part webinar series, covering the most important aspects of modern method development.
We’ll look at the three stages of method development: Sample Preparation, Instrumental Analysis and Data Processing.
Camilla Liscio will take you through the fundamentals of each stage, before being joined by an industry specialist to discuss some of their best tips for excellent method development.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Camilla Liscio
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Camilla is one Anatune’s most experienced and effective method developers. Her background in metrology – the science of measurement and statistics – give her a deep understanding of the mathematics underpinning all of analytical science.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
This, coupled with her years solving complex analytical problems for LGC and Anatune puts her on extremely strong foundations for method development.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
If you aspire to become a rising star in your organisation or know anyone earmarked for great work, this is a must attend series.
</blockquote>

Pixabay/michelprado: 2/3 Method Development With Camila Liscio: Analysis

2/3 Method Development With Camila Liscio: Analysis

In the third and final episode of the Method Development Series, we will consider Data Processing - the last but by no means least part of the analytical workflow. Software portfolio capabilities have improved tremendously in the past decade, allowing analysts to count on an increasingly diverse toolkit. Camilla is incredibly passionate about this stage of the analytical process so from her perspective, she’s left the best to last.
Camilla will be in discussion with a long time collaborator of Anatune (we’ll reveal who this is, shortly). This discussion promises to provide a diverse and thought-provoking insight into data analysis with one of the best in the business.
<h3>Method Development With Camilla Liscio</h3>
Method development is the place where analytical science resembles art; sound analytical methods are often rather elegant.
Method development is where analysts use their craft and expertise to find the optimum solution to analytical problems. If it’s a tough one, they may need to think outside the box and find unconventional solutions.
Method development specialists are often the innovators in our industry, who stretch the limits of technology’s current capabilities.
They, more than most, need the self confidence to believe that when they take on a complicated problem, they can see it through, coming up with something that will be fit-for-purpose.
Without this confidence, there is a tendency to copy what others are doing, play it safe and miss the innovations that will get you ahead of the game.
Bearing in mind that once in place, these methods may be there for ten years, it’s certainly worth trying to push the limits of what’s possible.
Unfortunately, the drive toward more specialised job-roles, means most laboratories have just a handful of chemists responsible for all their method development.
These members of staff don’t just need analytical skills, they also need to understand the context of the problem and the regulatory environment.
These skills come with practice and time served. Good people are not easy to find.
What we need is a new generation of specialised method developers.
The people with the ability to train the next generation are often as busy as they are experienced and have little time to transfer their knowledge.
In the opinion of the Community of Analytical Measurement Science, (CAMS UK), the shortage of method development skills is one of the biggest potential threats to the long term health of the analytical sciences.
We want to do our bit, by sharing our hard won expertise, so we have put together a three part webinar series, covering the most important aspects of modern method development.
We’ll look at the three stages of method development: Sample Preparation, Instrumental Analysis and Data Processing.
Camilla Liscio will take you through the fundamentals of each stage, before being joined by an industry specialist to discuss some of their best tips for excellent method development.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Camilla Liscio
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Camilla is one Anatune’s most experienced and effective method developers. Her background in metrology – the science of measurement and statistics – give her a deep understanding of the mathematics underpinning all of analytical science.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
This, coupled with her years solving complex analytical problems for LGC and Anatune puts her on extremely strong foundations for method development.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
If you aspire to become a rising star in your organisation or know anyone earmarked for great work, this is a must attend series.
</blockquote>

Pixabay/michelprado: 3/3 Method Development With Camila Liscio: Data Processing

3/3 Method Development With Camila Liscio: Data Processing

Reversed phase is the most common mode of HPLC but if it’s not working for you, don’t despair, there are other options. Perhaps HILIC, Chiral, IEX, GPC/SEC, Affinity, SFC, or HIC might be better suited to your sample type.
In this seminar, we will look at additional chromatographic techniques and discuss:
<ul>
<li>Mechanism of separation
</li>
<li>Column selection and available chemistries
</li>
<li>Typical method and eluent conditions
</li>
</ul>
Becoming familiar with other modes of chromatography and investigating alternative chemistry options can result in an improved separation or provide additional information for your sample.
<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: There is More to HPLC Than Reversed Phase; Exploring Other Options

There is More to HPLC Than Reversed Phase; Exploring Other Options

There is More to HPLC: Exploring Other Options

Improper LC connections can create bad chromatography.
In this presentation we will discuss:
<ul>
<li>Types of fittings – what is the best option?
</li>
<li>The importance of using the correct capillary
</li>
<li>How improper connections can affect the chromatogram
</li>
<li>How to make a good connection
</li>
</ul>
Something as simple as a connection can potentially cause chromatography problems that may take you a long time to troubleshoot. Careful attention to making a good connection can reduce frustration and save time troubleshooting.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Golnar Javadi (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Golnar Javadi is an applications engineer providing online applications assistance and technical support for LC columns and supplies, Sample Preparation products, and Spectroscopy supplies.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Before joining Varian and then Agilent, Golnar worked in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries on method development and quality control. She also taught college level chemistry courses for a few years.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Golnar then joined Varian as a technical support specialist, providing customers with method development assistance and technical support on Sample Preparation (SPE, SLE, and Filtration), HPLC, GC, ToxiLab and DAT. After the Varian-Agilent merger, Golnar joined Agilent Technologies as an Applications Engineer. She provides technical support to customers on Sample Preparation products, Liquid Chromatography columns, and Spectroscopy supplies.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: All About LC Connections – The Importance of Making a Great One

All About LC Connections – The Importance of Making a Great One

Improper LC connections can create bad chromatography.

LC Connections – The Importance of Making a Great One

Porous particle sizes have decreased to sub-two micron (STM). Separations formerly done on 5 micron particles can now be accomplished on much shorter STM columns in a fraction of the time with equal or better resolution.
For more complex separations, longer columns can generate high plate counts but at much higher pressure. Recently, an alternative particle design, the superficially porous particle (SPP), has developed. The particle concept has been around for over 40 years but the current version consists of a small solid core (e.g., 1.7-µm in diameter) surrounded by a thin porous shell (e.g., 0.5-µm thick) making a 2.7-µm particle diameter.
The efficiency of these SPPs is similar to the STM because of:
<ul>
<li>Consistent spherical shape
</li>
<li>Rapid solute mass transfer
</li>
<li>Narrow particle size distribution
</li>
</ul>
The larger particle size results in a much lower pressure drop when compared to STM particles, making them compatible with older 400 bar instruments as well as UHPLC systems.
This seminar will look at both types of particles and discuss when you might choose one over the other. Examples of pertinent applications will be cited.
<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: Practical Aspects of High Performance Column Selection in LC: Superficially Porous (SPP) or Sub-two Micron (STM)

Practical Aspects of High Performance Column Selection in LC: Superficially Porous (SPP) or Sub-two Micron (STM)

Both types of particles and discuss when you might choose one over the other.

Superficially Porous (SPP) or Sub-two Micron (STM)

Whether your chromatography suddenly changes or you’re not able to reproduce a method from, e.g. a pharmacopeia, isolating the source of the problem can be a challenge.
In this seminar we will develop your troubleshooting skills as we:
Discuss common chromatography problems
<ul>
<li>Pressure
</li>
<li>Peak Shape
</li>
<li>Retention
</li>
<li>Look at how to isolate the problem
</li>
<li>Chemistry related
</li>
<li>Hardware/software
</li>
</ul>
We will also talk about ways to prevent future problems.
<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: What's Wrong With My Chromatography? Is it the Column, Method or Instrument

What's Wrong With My Chromatography? Is it the Column, Method or Instrument

Develop your troubleshooting skills. Common chromatography problems.

What's Wrong With My Chromatography?

Wiley&#39;s mass spectral libraries are a powerful tool for the identification of organic compounds in complex mixtures by mass spectrometry.
This series of seminars will demonstrate the use of the NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) software suite for accessing Wiley, NIST, and even user-generated libraries. The software includes MS Search, MS Interpreter, and AMDIS plus ChemSketch for structural drawing. The series should be useful to a wide variety of research and developments scientists involved in medical, environmental, industrial, forensic, and biological disciplines.
Initial sessions will primarily discuss electron ionization gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (EI GC/MS) data. However, many of the principles are applicable to tandem spectra obtained by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) which will be discussed in the latter part of the series.
<blockquote>
Presenter: James Little (Mass Spectral Interpretation Services)
</blockquote>

Wiley: Spectral Searches with NIST MS Search

Spectral Searches with NIST MS Search

The use of the NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) software suite for accessing Wiley, NIST, and even user-generated libraries.