LCGC Europe/HTC-15 Innovation Award
November 7th 2017The LCGC Europe/HTC-15 Innovation Award was launched to celebrate the work of scientists who are innovatively evolving the field of hyphenated techniques. The winner of the award will present their research at the HTC-15 conference, which will be held in Cardiff at the Cardiff City Hall from 24–26 January 2018. The winner will receive a plaque and a 1000 Euro travel grant award and free registration to the conference and social programme.
The LCGC Blog: Underutilized Methods for Optimizing LC–MS Sensitivity
November 7th 2017I hear the words “struggling for sensitivity” so often when speaking to folks using LC–MS for bioanalysis, environmental analysis, metabolomics, proteomics, and a host of other applications where target analytes are present at low concentrations in complex matrices. We spend fortunes on MS/MS instruments to increase specificity of detection in order to improve sensitivity. Some of us go to great lengths to optimize sample extraction and HPLC conditions in order to minimize matrix suppression effects and improve specificity and hence sensitivity.
Managing Heterogeneity with Incremental Sampling Methodology
November 1st 2017Incremental sampling methodology laboratory processing is used to produce an appropriately sized subsample that has the analytes of interest at the same concentration as the large incremental sample collected in the field. The end goal is to produce results that represent the conditions at the site and facilitate good decisions.
34 Years of LC Troubleshooting: An Interview with John Dolan
November 1st 2017Dwight Stoll, the new editor of “LC Troubleshooting,” asks John Dolan about the current state of chromatography training, John’s toughest troubleshooting challenge, the most common chromatographic mistakes, and what he foresees for the future.
Managing Heterogeneity with Incremental Sampling Methodology
November 1st 2017Perhaps the largest source of error with sampling and sample preparation, especially with solid and semisolid samples, is the sample heterogeneity. Generally, sample heterogeneity is managed by sample homogenization, such as grinding and mixing, as well as use of an appropriately large sample size. Incremental sampling methodology (ISM) involves structured composite sampling and a processing method to create an unbiased estimate of the mean concentration of soil contaminants. Hence, ISM is emerging as a preferred methodology for conducting field environmental sampling. In this month’s instalment of “Sample Preparation Perspectives”, we describe the application of ISM to laboratory subsampling protocols.