<p><strong>American postdoctoral researcher and ERA Postdoctoral Fellow William Morton came to CEITEC Masaryk University from the United Kingdom two years ago to join Robert Vácha’s research group. During his time in Brno, he focused on computational research of disordered proteins and experienced not only the Czech research environment, but also everyday life in the city. Now, as he prepares to return to the UK, he reflects on what CEITEC has given him, where he sees room for improvement, and why science depends not only on excellent results, but also on ordinary day-to-day conversations between researchers.&nbsp;</strong></p><h5><strong>When you were looking for your next research step, what made CEITEC stand out to you?</strong></h5><p>For me, the decision was primarily about people rather than place. I had already spent a month in Brno during my PhD, so I knew the environment and had a sense that I enjoyed both the institute and the city. But the key factor was the opportunity to work with <strong>Robert Vácha</strong>. I knew that his expertise aligned perfectly with where my research was heading, and I made a conscious decision not to apply elsewhere until I knew whether I could join his group. Once that opportunity came through, the decision was straightforward.</p><h5><strong>Before coming here, what were your expectations about Brno and CEITEC – and what turned out to be completely different, in a good way?</strong></h5><p>Honestly, I didn’t have strong expectations. I had seen Prague, but I knew Brno would be different, so I arrived with a fairly open mind. What surprised me most was how rich the city is despite its size. At first glance, Brno seems small, but it offers an incredible variety of communities, activities, and hidden places. Whatever your interests are, you can usually find people who share them and spaces that support them. That depth and accessibility of life here was something I didn’t expect at all.</p><h5><strong>How has your day-to-day life in Brno felt as an international researcher? If someone from abroad was hesitating about moving here, what would you tell them?</strong></h5><p>Day-to-day life can be quite intense, especially at the beginning. As an early-career researcher, you’re expected to quickly become independent, manage your own projects, build collaborations, and often mentor others at the same time. In my case, I arrived while still finishing my PhD, so I was navigating two major transitions at once, while also adapting to a new country.</p><p>That said, Brno is a place where this transition feels manageable. One of the reasons I’ve come to really enjoy living here is that despite its size, the city offers everything I need both professionally and personally. It’s easy to find communities, activities, and a good balance outside the lab.</p><p>If someone from abroad was hesitating about moving here, I’d say to expect a steep learning curve at first, but also a very rewarding experience once you settle in.</p><h5><strong>What has it been like working within your team here – how would you describe the collaboration and overall atmosphere?</strong></h5><p>Within Robert Vácha’s group, one of the biggest strengths is the breadth of expertise. There’s a really wide range of computational techniques in the group, and people are generally very willing to help each other and share knowledge. That creates an environment where you can learn a lot very quickly.</p><p>One thing I realised during my time here is how important it is to create spaces where researchers – not only group leaders, but also early-career people working directly on experiments and data – can openly discuss and challenge each other’s ideas. Those conversations are incredibly valuable. They help people improve their research, prepare for criticism, and feel more connected to the wider scientific community around them. And I don’t think this necessarily starts with big institutional goals or public-facing topics.</p><p>It mostly requires cooperation, communication, and leadership that creates opportunities for those interactions to happen regularly.</p><h5><strong>I heard you were receiving rather unique ‘packages’ from your neighbours – can you tell me a bit about that experience and what it says about life here?</strong></h5><p>Yes – this was one of my favourite parts of living here. I would occasionally get a knock on my window, and there would be jars of tomatoes, homemade syrup, pastries, or herbs from my neighbour.</p><p>More broadly, I found that people in the Czech Republic are incredibly kind, even without a shared language. I had many experiences – whether with neighbours or complete strangers – where people were welcoming and generous without expecting anything in return. That says a lot about the culture here.</p><h5><strong>Finding housing is often one of the first challenges when moving abroad – how was your experience in Brno?</strong></h5><p>I was fortunate to receive help with housing from CEITEC Welcome Officer, so my personal experience was relatively smooth. In fact, the apartment I originally stayed in is now being used by another postdoc arriving to Robert Vácha’s group, which says a lot about how important that kind of support network can be.</p><p>At the same time, I know from others that finding housing in Brno can be quite difficult, especially for non-EU researchers who need formal rental contracts for visa and administrative purposes. There are many informal rental options available, but they don’t always meet the official requirements, which makes the whole process more stressful and complicated.</p><p>I think departments like the CEITEC Welcome Office do a huge amount to help international researchers navigate this, but it also shows how important it is to make the system itself more accessible for highly qualified people coming from abroad.</p><h5><strong>Did you find it difficult to settle in without speaking Czech, or were you able to navigate most situations comfortably in English?</strong></h5><p>In general, it’s very manageable to live in Brno using English. You might encounter occasional misunderstandings, but if you approach situations with patience and flexibility, it works well.</p><p>I found that most interactions were positive, and people were generally willing to help – even when communication wasn’t perfect.</p><h5><strong>You’re now moving on to your next position – what are you taking with you from Brno into this next chapter?</strong></h5><p>I’m taking both professional experience and a broader perspective on research environments. The experience of working independently, managing multiple responsibilities, and navigating an international setting will be valuable wherever I go next.</p><h5><strong>If a young researcher was considering CEITEC, what would be your honest pitch to them?</strong></h5><p>My honest advice would be to focus on finding the right research group – and by that, I mean the whole environment around you. Not only the supervisor, but also the PhD students, technicians, and postdocs you’ll work with every day. Those relationships shape your experience much more than people sometimes expect.</p><p>I think if you find the right fit, you can absolutely succeed at CEITEC, have a really wonderful experience, and take advantage of everything the institute offers.</p><p>I would also encourage people to take the interview process seriously – not just as candidates trying to get a position, but also as an opportunity to evaluate whether the group feels right for them. If that fit is there, CEITEC offers strong support and a great environment to grow.</p>

William S. Morton: The Best Part of Living in Brno? Probably the Tomatoes Through the Window 

<p><strong>If you’re considering a nitrogen generator for your lab, one of the first questions that often comes up is: “What kind of maintenance am I signing up for?”</strong></p><p>It’s a fair concern. Many labs are used to equipment that requires frequent service, costly parts, or ongoing vendor support. The good news is that the<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1902"><strong> NITRO-GEN nitrogen generator</strong></a> was specifically designed to keep <strong>maintenance simple, infrequent, and affordable</strong>.</p><p>In fact, compared to many laboratory nitrogen generators, it offers one of the<strong> lowest overall maintenance burdens</strong>, making it an easy transition for labs looking to move away from gas cylinders without adding complexity.</p><h3><strong>Simple Maintenance, Minimal Time Commitment</strong></h3><ul><li>For most labs, maintaining the NITRO-GEN comes down to one straightforward task: <strong>periodic filter replacement</strong>.</li></ul><p>The system uses a<strong> two-stage filtration setup</strong>. The coarse filter, which serves as the first stage, captures larger particulates from your compressed air supply and protects the rest of the system. This element should be replaced about <strong>once per year</strong>. Downstream, the fine filter removes smaller contaminants and typically lasts much longer, generally <strong>2–5 years</strong>, depending on usage and air quality.</p><p>Replacing the coarse filter annually is key. Not only does it maintain consistent nitrogen output, but it also helps extend the life of the fine filter, keeping overall maintenance both minimal and cost-effective.</p><p>Actual filter lifespan will vary depending on how heavily the generator is used and how clean your incoming compressed air is. However, most labs find that these intervals are more than sufficient to keep the system running smoothly. And if you ever need to access the filters, it’s quick and easy—just unscrew the rear plate of the generator to reach the filter elements. <strong>No specialized tools or service calls required</strong>.</p><h3><strong>Low Maintenance Costs Without the Surprises</strong></h3><p>Beyond the low frequency of maintenance, the cost of keeping a NITRO-GEN running is also very low.</p><p>With the coarse filter replaced annually and the fine filter only occasionally,<strong> typical annual maintenance costs are under $100</strong>. That’s a fraction of what many labs expect when evaluating nitrogen generation systems, and significantly lower than the ongoing costs associated with gas cylinders or more complex generators.</p><p>There are also clear indicators when maintenance is needed. If you notice a drop in nitrogen flow or that the drain port is no longer draining properly, it’s likely time to replace one or both filter elements. These simple visual and performance cues make it easy to stay ahead of maintenance without overthinking it.</p><h3><strong>How NITRO-GEN Compares to Other Nitrogen Generators</strong></h3><p>Not all nitrogen generators are created equal—especially when it comes to maintenance.</p><p>Many laboratory nitrogen generators rely on more complex technologies such as pressure swing adsorption (PSA) or multi-stage membrane systems. While these approaches are effective at producing nitrogen, they often come with additional maintenance considerations that aren’t always obvious upfront.</p><ul><li><strong>PSA systems</strong>, for example, use adsorption columns filled with specialized materials along with valves that continuously switch during operation. Over time, these components can require servicing or replacement, and the systems are highly sensitive to moisture and oil in the compressed air supply, making air preparation and filtration even more critical.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/how-do-membrane-nitrogen-generators-work"><strong>Membrane-based generators </strong></a>are somewhat simpler, but still depend heavily on consistent air quality and multiple pre-filtration stages. If those upstream systems aren’t maintained properly, performance can decline and internal components may need replacement.</li></ul><p>Across both types of systems, maintenance often extends beyond the generator itself. Supporting equipment like air compressors, dryers, and filtration systems typically require their own upkeep, adding to the total cost and complexity of ownership.</p><p><strong>The NITRO-GEN was designed with a different philosophy:</strong> keep nitrogen generation simple and accessible for the lab environment. Instead of relying on complex internal systems, it focuses on a streamlined design where routine upkeep is limited to quick, infrequent filter changes. There are no adsorption beds to replace, no complex valve systems to service, and no specialized maintenance procedures required.</p><h3><strong>A Simpler Alternative to Gas Cylinders</strong></h3><p>For labs currently relying on nitrogen cylinders, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/how-much-could-i-save-switching-to-a-nitrogen-generator"><strong>switching to a generator</strong></a> can feel like trading one set of responsibilities for another. But with the NITRO-GEN, that tradeoff is minimal.</p><p>Instead of managing tank deliveries, monitoring supply levels, and handling cylinder changes, you get a reliable, on-demand nitrogen source with only occasional, low-cost maintenance. The result is a more streamlined workflow, fewer interruptions, and greater long-term cost control.</p><h3><strong>The Bottom Line</strong></h3><p>If maintenance concerns have been holding you back from switching to a nitrogen generator, the NITRO-GEN was built to eliminate that barrier.</p><p>With one quick annual filter replacement, infrequent long-term maintenance, and annual costs under $100, it’s one of the simplest and most cost-effective nitrogen generation solutions available for laboratory use.</p>

How Much Maintenance Does the NITRO-GEN generator really require?

<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 15th June 2026? Check out new documents from the field of the gas phase, especially GC and GC/MS techniques!</strong></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-size:20px;">👉 </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library"><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT GCMS AND RELATED TECHNIQUES</strong></span></a></p></blockquote><blockquote><p><strong>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques?</strong> Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezLCMS</strong></a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezICPMS</strong></a> libraries.</p></blockquote><p>This week we bring you brochure by <strong>Agilent Technologies, </strong>application note<strong> </strong>by<strong> Shimadzu</strong>, presentation by <strong>MDCW / Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili </strong>and poster by<strong> Waters Corporation!</strong></p><h3><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8860B"><strong>Agilent 8860B Gas Chromatograph</strong></a></h3><ul><li>Brochure</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ds_8860_gas_chromatograph_5994_9066en_agilent_f4d445178f.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><p>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8860B"><strong>Agilent 8860B gas chromatograph</strong></a> delivers reliable, repeatable performance for routine analyses, combining proven GC expertise with simplified operation. A bright color touchscreen provides quick access to system setpoints, configuration details, flowpath information, and live signal plots to easily monitor run progress. For deeper control, the built‑in Agilent GC Assist interface—optimized for tablets, PCs, and mobile devices—offers advanced system intelligence, including remote status checks, self‑guided diagnostics, maintenance tools, and method and sequence&nbsp;editing. The 8860B supports full electronic pneumatics control (EPC) or electronic pneumatics regulation (EPR), enabling precise, automated or electronically adjusted gas management. Both EPC and EPR use robust 7th‑generation microchannel architecture, designed for superior protection against contaminants and improved long-term reliability.</p><h4><strong>GC system capabilities&nbsp;</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Retention time repeatability: </strong>&lt; 0.03% or 0.003 minutes&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Area repeatability:&nbsp;</strong><ul><li>&lt; 1.0% RSD&nbsp;</li><li>The 8860B display comes with physical start/stop buttons for manual analysis&nbsp;</li><li>Easy access to maintenance and service modes from the GC&nbsp;Assist interface, including autonomous leak checks&nbsp;</li><li>The GC Assist interface provides remote connectivity enabling you to monitor your smart GC system, check system logs, and perform diagnostics tests, from inside or outside the laboratory&nbsp;</li><li>Atmospheric pressure and temperature compensation are built into every system, so results do not change, even when the laboratory environment does.</li></ul></li><li><strong>Simultaneously supports&nbsp;</strong><ul><li>Two inlets&nbsp;</li><li>Three detectors &nbsp;</li><li>Support for up to any combination of three valves total:&nbsp;<ul><li>Up to four heated gas sample valves&nbsp;</li><li>Up to two liquid sampling valves&nbsp;</li></ul></li><li>Dual sample introduction capabilities:&nbsp;<ul><li>Supports two <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7693A"><strong>7693A</strong></a> autoinjectors with capacity for 16&nbsp;sample vials&nbsp;</li><li>Supports one 7693A autoinjector and automatic sampler tray with capacity for 150 sample vials&nbsp;</li><li>Supports one 7650A autoinjector with capacity for 50 sample vials with one 7693A with capacity for 16&nbsp;sample vials&nbsp;</li><li>Supports one <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=PAL3"><strong>PAL3</strong></a> autosampler&nbsp;</li></ul></li></ul></li><li><strong>Instrument dimensions&nbsp;</strong><ul><li><strong>Height:</strong> 49 cm (19.2 in)&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Width:</strong> 58 cm (22.9 in), 68 cm with side-mounted detector&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Depth</strong>: 54 cm (21.3 in)&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Typical weight</strong>: 51 kg (112 lb)</li></ul></li></ul><h3><strong>2. MDCW / Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili: GcDUO: A Batch Processing Framework Integrating PARAFAC and PARAFAC2 for GC×GC-MS Data Analysis</strong></h3><ul><li>Presentation</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/O_10_Llambrich_54914668f8.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><p>The presentation introduces <strong>GcDUO</strong>, an open-source batch-processing framework developed for the analysis of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC×GC-MS) data. The tool was designed to address one of the main challenges in GC×GC-MS workflows: extracting meaningful chemical information from highly complex multidimensional datasets while reducing dependence on proprietary software. GcDUO combines the strengths of <strong>PARAFAC</strong> and <strong>PARAFAC2</strong> chemometric algorithms to perform automated peak detection, deconvolution, compound annotation, and quantification across large batches of samples.</p><p>The workflow begins with raw GC×GC-MS data imported from CDF files and converted into a four-dimensional matrix. Regions of interest (ROIs) are automatically selected using a watershed algorithm, allowing relevant chromatographic features to be isolated from the background. PARAFAC decomposition is then applied to separate overlapping compounds into their individual first-dimension retention times, second-dimension retention times, and mass spectra. Compound identification is performed using spectral similarity calculations, retention index information, and comparison against reference libraries, creating a consensus-based annotation strategy that improves confidence in identifications.</p><p>To further improve quantitative performance, GcDUO incorporates a constrained PARAFAC2 approach that can model chromatographic peak shifts between samples while preserving accurate peak integration. The framework was evaluated using benchmark GC×GC datasets containing fragrances, allergens, food-related compounds, and breath-analysis samples. Validation studies showed strong detection and annotation performance, including successful identification of most compounds in independent datasets such as FruityBeer and BreathMix. Quantitative comparisons with the widely used <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/41"><strong>ChromaTOF software</strong></a> demonstrated highly comparable retention times and peak areas for a range of volatile compounds, indicating that GcDUO can deliver results similar to established commercial platforms.</p><p>The authors conclude that GcDUO provides a powerful open-source alternative for GC×GC-MS data processing. The framework supports automated deconvolution, annotation, and quantification without requiring strict trilinearity assumptions often associated with traditional chemometric approaches. Although computational cost and user expertise remain important considerations, GcDUO offers performance comparable to gold-standard commercial software while expanding access to advanced GC×GC-MS data analysis for metabolomics, environmental, food, fragrance, and other analytical applications. The software is freely available through GitHub, supporting broader adoption and further development by the scientific community.</p><h3><strong>3. Shimadzu: Discrimination of Coffee Bean Species Based on Aroma Compounds</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01123_en_c8ac025ba9.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h5><strong>User Benefits</strong></h5><ul><li>Qualitative analysis of aroma compounds can be easily performed using the Smart Aroma Database.</li><li>Intuitive statistical analysis and exploration of characteristic compounds are possible using eMSTAT Solution.</li><li>The AOC -6000 multifunctional autosampler system enables the analysis of aroma compounds without sample pretreatment.</li></ul><p>Common coffee bean types are broadly classified into two types: Coffea arabica (Arabica) and Coffea canephora (Robusta). Among them, Arabica is superior in flavor and is highly favored as a specialty beverage. However, in recent years, there have been multiple reports of products sold claiming to be 100% Arabica while being adulterated with Robusta<sup>1)</sup>. A reported method for discriminating between the two is the analysis of lipophilic extracts of coffee beans using a benchtop NMR spectrometer<sup>1)</sup>. This method uses 16-O-Methylcafestol, which is present in Robusta but almost undetectable in Arabica, as a marker. However, it requires complicated pretreatment such as extraction and concentration.&nbsp;</p><p>Therefore, in this Application News, we investigated a method to discriminate between Arabica and Robusta more easily and rapidly using GC-MS/MS and the statistical analysis software eMSTAT Solution.</p><h5><strong>Sample and Analytical Methods&nbsp;</strong></h5><p>Commercially available coffee beans roasted at the same roastery were used as samples. Four brands of Arabica (Kilimanjaro, Brazil Bourbon, Mandheling G1, Brazil No.2 #18) and two brands of Robusta (Vietnam Robusta, Java Robusta) were prepared (Table 1). Each brand was individually crushed with a mill, and 1 g was weighed and sealed in a screw vial.</p><p>Volatile compounds were concentrated and introduced into the GC-MS using the HS-SPME method and then analyzed under the conditions registered in the GC-MS(/MS) Smart Aroma Database (Table 2). The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMSTQ8040+NX"><strong>GCMS-TQTM8040 NX</strong></a> and the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=AOC-6000"><strong>AOC-6000 multifunctional autosampler</strong></a> system were used as the analytical instruments (Fig. 1). To verify whether rapid analysis is possible, a temperature ramp of 10˚C/min was adopted, and a low-polarity column was used to obtain stable retention times for each compound. Data acquisition was performed in Scan mode or MRM mode, and each sample was analyzed three times.</p><h4><strong>Exploration of Characteristic Aroma Compounds for Arabica and Robusta&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Next, we investigated which compounds contribute to the discrimination between Arabica and Robusta. The PCA score plot (Fig. 4) reflects the differences in the tendencies of each group, with Arabica distributed on the left side and Robusta on the right side, clearly separated along the first principal component (PC1) axis. Referring to the corresponding loading plot, compounds located on the left side of the origin tend to have higher area values in Arabica, which is also positioned on the left in the score plot. On the other hand, compounds on the right side tend to show higher values in Robusta, which is located on the right in the score plot. In other words, the difference in the balance of these compoundsisthe main factorseparating the two groups. First, Arabica was commonly rich in compounds such as 5-Methyl furfural, Acetoin, and Furaneol acetate. MS chromatograms analyzed using LabSolutions Insight GCMS are shown in Fig. 7. In eMSTAT Solution, not only score plots and loading plots but also box plots can be easily drawn, making it possible to easily visualize and compare the distribution tendencies of each compound. From the box plots of the above compounds (Fig. 8), it was visually confirmed that all of them are contained in abundance in Arabica. These compounds are sometimes described as having a roasted or creamy quality, and it can be inferred that this result supports the characteristics of Arabica, which issuperior in aroma and acidity.&nbsp;</p><p>On the other hand, a compound found in abundance in Robusta was p-Vinylguaiacol. This compound is known to cause an offflavor similar to a medicinal odor in sake, and its content was low in Arabica. From this, it was suggested that p-Vinylguaiacol may be one of the compounds contributing to the bitterness and offtastes characteristic of Robusta.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>In this Application News, we investigated the discrimination of coffee bean types based on aroma compounds using the triple quadrupole gas chromatograph mass spectrometer <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMSTQ8040+NX"><strong>GCMSTQ8040 NX</strong></a> and the GC-MS(/MS) <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=Smart+Aroma+Database"><strong>Smart Aroma Database</strong></a> for aroma analysis.&nbsp;</p><p>Four types of Arabica and two types of Robusta were analyzed as samples. Analysis using Scan data confirmed a tendency for the two types to separate. Subsequently, data was acquired in MRM mode, which offers higher sensitivity and selectivity, and detailed analysis was performed using the statistical analysis software eMSTAT Solution. As a result, the two groups were clearly separated in PCA and cluster analysis, demonstrating the effectiveness of discrimination by this method. Additionally, a discrimination model was developed and validated, confirming that highly accurate discrimination is possible.&nbsp;</p><p>From the above results, we conclude that the discrimination of coffee beans by aroma compound analysisis highly feasible using this method. Furthermore, this method enables a comprehensive workflow, from discrimination to the identification of characteristic compoundsfor each type.</p><h3><strong>4. Waters Corporation: Improvements to the Analysis of PBDEs in Environmental Matrices: Transitioning from EI Magnetic Sector to GC-APCI TQ MS/MS</strong></h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/720009372_7abfa9f0e9.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>This poster evaluates the transition of polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) analysis in environmental samples from traditional electron ionization high-resolution magnetic sector GC-MS to a modern <strong>GC-APCI triple quadrupole MS/MS (GC-APCI TQ MS/MS)</strong> workflow. PBDE flame retardants are highly regulated due to their environmental persistence and potential health risks, making accurate and reliable analytical methods essential. The study investigated whether a GC-APCI MS/MS approach could match or exceed the performance of established GC-HRMS methods while offering greater flexibility and modernization opportunities.</p><p>The method was developed on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/554"><strong>Waters Xevo TQ Absolute mass spectrometer</strong> </a>equipped with APCI ionization and an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890"><strong>Agilent 8890 GC</strong></a>. A key innovation was the use of <strong>nitrogen as the carrier gas instead of helium</strong>, helping laboratories reduce dependence on helium supplies and mitigate increasing helium costs. By applying nitrogen flow ramping, the authors maintained chromatographic resolution and runtime comparable to the reference helium-based method without requiring changes in column dimensions. The approach also reduced the risk of thermal degradation of highly brominated compounds such as BDE 209 and achieved faster elution while preserving peak shape and separation quality.</p><p>For quantitative analysis, up to six MRM transitions per analyte were monitored, taking advantage of the characteristic isotope patterns of brominated compounds. The use of multiple transitions improved selectivity and sensitivity, while Waters waters_connect software enabled summation of MRM signals to enhance signal-to-noise ratios near detection limits. Excellent calibration performance was achieved across more than three orders of magnitude, with correlation coefficients above 0.999 for all analytes. Internal standards and recovery standards demonstrated strong reproducibility, and quality control samples showed precision typically below 15% RSD and acceptable accuracy across low, medium, and high concentration levels.</p><p>The authors conclude that an all-nitrogen GC-APCI TQ MS/MS configuration can successfully meet the performance criteria established for PBDE analysis by reference EI GC-HRMS methods. The workflow maintains critical chromatographic separations, delivers accurate quantitative results, and offers a platform that could potentially combine PBDE determination with other halogenated flame retardants in a single analytical method. These findings demonstrate that GC-APCI TQ MS/MS represents a robust and practical modernization strategy for environmental PBDE analysis.</p></div></div></div></div></div></div></section></div></div></div></div></div></div></section>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 25, 2026

Article

Product

Application

Scientists

Presentation

Poster

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.

CEITEC

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

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

Organomation

New Food magazine

The Analytical Scientist

LECO

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Spectroscopy & Separation Science

<p><strong>This e-seminar focuses on the application of nominal and high resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry coupled to gas chromatography and thermal inlet systems for the comprehensive quantitative and/or qualitative analysis of petroleum derived matrices, from middle distillates to vacuum residues.</strong></p>
<h3><strong>Highlights include:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Adoption of GCxGC towards high temperature and phase considerations</li>
<li>Determination of boiling point distribution by high temp GCxGC</li>
<li>Classification according to compound class</li>
<li>Derivation of absolute quantitative information</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Thomas Groeger (Joint Mass Spectrometry Centre, Univ of Rostock and Helmholtz Zentrum Muenchen)</strong></p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/SatyaPrem: High Temp GCxGC of Light Crude Oil and High Boilers

High Temp GCxGC of Light Crude Oil and High Boilers

<p><strong>The identification of unknown compounds in one of the most challenging tasks for analytical chemists due to the wide scope of the analysis and the importance of arriving at a confident conclusion. The challenges exist from generic sample preparation, through to instrumental detection and software processing to isolate  and make confident compound identifications. The applications of extractable and leachable impurities in food or bio/pharmaceutical products, food safety and metabolomics are areas where unknown’s analysis is essential. Finding a high risk leached impurity in the production pipeline or a food contaminant can lead to costly delays or product withdrawal. High resolution accurate mass spectrometry (HRAM) using Orbitrap technology offers a new dimension in confidence for rapid, simple unknown identification. We present workflows for unknown identification using GC Orbitrap based mass spectrometry and spectral libraries that can allow you to insure that a comprehensive picture of your sample is obtained.</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Dominic Roberts (Product Marketing Manager GC/GC-MS EMEA, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Runcorn, UK)</strong></p>
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Thermo Fisher Scientific: Confident identification of unknowns using GC Orbitrap MS

Confident identification of unknowns using GC Orbitrap MS

<p><strong>In high-throughput environmental, food and forensic labs, time is essential when facing constant pressure to generate accurate and reliable results as quickly as possible. Offering class-leading sensitivity and uptime, the new Thermo Scientific ISQ 7000 Single Quadrupole GC-MS and TSQ 9000 Triple Quadrupole GC-MS/MS greatly increase data confidence and minimize routine maintenance, boosting laboratory efficiency and productivity .</strong></p>
<p>This webinar will provide an insight of the advanced technology behind the new ISQ 7000 and TSQ 9000 systems, and the main benefits delivered to the end user. Discover how it is possible to eliminate up to 98% of the downtime of the instrument during regular maintenance procedures or how to reach an extra level of sensitivity when new regulatory requirements are challenging.</p>
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<p><strong>Presenter: Daniela Cavagoni (Product Marketing Manager GC-MS and Autosamplers, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Rodano (MI), Italy)</strong></p>
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Thermo Fisher Scientific: New Source Technologies for GC-MS and GC-MS/MS

New Source Technologies for GC-MS and GC-MS/MS

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


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

Maximizing Mass Spectrometry Capabilities in Food Analyses for Multiresidues

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


Pixabay/Trung Hieu Dang: Discovery OMICS and Progenesis QI for Food Authenticity Testing

Discovery OMICS and Progenesis QI for Food Authenticity Testing

<p><strong>This webinar will provide an overview on the topic of analyzing various fat species in foods and methods to determine various classes from total fat to various lipid fractions and the wide variety of analyses available for fat determination. Topics discussed will include the analyses of fatty acid methyl esters (FAMES) in foods and the use of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC x GC) for the enhanced separation of highly complex mixtures. Advances in GC column stationary phases and new phases based on ionic liquid technology for the analyses of saturated and polyunsaturated FAMES will be discussed aswell as the use of GC×GC in the field of food lipid analysis. The considerable advantages of the two-dimensional approach (both with and without MS detection), in experiments related to a series of lipid volatiles (fatty acids, sterols, oxidation products, fatty alcohols, etc) will be illustrated.</strong></p>
<h3><strong>Featured in this webinar:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Overview the wide variety of methods available for the analysis of fat in foods.</li>
<li>Examine traditional and new classes of GC Stationary Phases for the evaluation of various FAME species.</li>
<li>Discuss the power of two-dimensional gas chromatography (GCxGC) for separating highly complex mixtures and how it can be combined with mass spectrometry for analyzing volatile and semi-volatile analytes</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Len Sidisky (R&amp;D Manager, Gas Separations Business Unit, Sigma-Aldrich)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Len discusses traditional and new stationary phases for FAME analyses and how these can be used to resolve various fatty acid species.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Len holds a Masters of Food Science from Penn State University and is the author of numerous papers, seminars, and other presentations on capillary gas chromatographic and SPME theory, techniques and applications. He has lectured worldwide, including the United States, Europe, Japan, China and in South America on various chromatographic techniques primarily focusing on capillary GC, SPME and air monitoring devices/ adsorbents.</p>
</blockquote>
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<p><strong>Presenter: Dr. Peter Q. Tranchida (Associate Professor, Food Chemistry in the Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Product Sciences, University of Messina)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr. Tranchida discusses the use of GC×GC in the field of food lipid analysis. The considerable advantages of the two-dimensional approach (both with and without MS detection), in experiments related to a series of lipid volatiles (fatty acids, sterols, oxidation products, fatty alcohols, etc) will be illustrated and discussed. </p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr. Tranchida focuses on the study of complex food samples using advanced chromatography processes, such as fast and very-fast GC systems. An emphasis of his work is the evaluation of ultimate generation stationary phases (i.e., ionic liquids), and the development and application of classical multidimensional and comprehensive chromatography systems. In the field of GC×GC, he has performed applications, method optimization studies, and introduced a new form of flow modulation. At the”9th GC×GC symposium” he was awarded the “John Phillips Award” for outstanding achievements in the field of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography. He has co-authored 100 scientific papers, 16 book chapters, and 240 oral/poster presentations.</p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/engin akyurt: Novel Techniques and New Advances in the Analyses of Fat species in Foods

Novel Techniques and New Advances in the Analyses of Fat species in Foods

<p>To obtain a univocal identification we need three independent pieces of analytical information. Flavor and fragrance components are usually separated by gas chromatography and identified with MS spectral comparison and linear retention indices (LRI). However, diastereomeric or positional isomers can present identical retention behavior and MS spectra, and can cause misidentification. The development of a unique condensed-phase FTIR provides the solution - a simple post-column split combines it with a GC-MS instrument, using the GC to separate the components and MS (TOF) and FTIR spectrometers to give structural elucidation in a single analysis.</p>
<h3><strong>Learning Objectives of Webinar</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>When GC-MS in not enough: unique condensed phase GC-FTIR.</li>
<li>Importance of the linear retention index (LRI) in the identification procedure.</li>
<li>Comprehensive flavor and fragrance MS (TOF) / FTIR library: application for real essential oil and perfume samples.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: William W. Carson, PE, Chief Technology officer, DANI Instruments INC</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Developer of scientific and biotech separation, analysis and purification systems. He has led highly successful start-up through Fortune 500 groups developing and commercializing chromatography, membrane and hyphenated spectroscopy systems. Bill’s 30+ issued US Patents have generated over $1 Billion in sales. In 1986 he received the Millipore Prize for Innovation. In 2008 he was the winner of the R&amp;D 100 Award for the development of the DiscovIR LC a direct deposition, desolvation system which hyphenated HPLC to FTIR.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Margita Utczás, PhD, Product manager Libraries, Chromaleont srl</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Margita Utczás graduated in 2007 in Chemical engineering, then in 2009 in Biomedical engineering and in 2013 she received a PhD in Chemical Sciences at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. She was a post doctoral fellow at the University of Messina and later worked at Chromaleont as a GC-MS specialist. She has just become the responsible of the analytical department of the Center of Sports Nutrition Science at the University of Physical Education of Budapest and currently she is an external consultant of her former workplace, Chromaleont. Her main research interests include: supercritical extraction and enzymatic resolution techniques, gas chromatographic techniques coupled to mass spectrometry and FTIR and their applications to the study of bioactive and flavor and fragrance compounds.</p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/djedj: Univocal Identification of Flavor and Fragrance Compounds Using GC-MS (TOF) / Condensed Phase FTIR with an Extensive Library

GCMS webinars focusing on GC/MS - page 77