The development of analytical methods for the detection and quantitation of drugs and metabolites in a range of biological matrices is a challenging process. Forensic toxicology labs need a reproducible and reliable methodology to ensure the robustness of the data and the quality of the results. They also need robust and sensitive instrumentation that can detect drugs at trace levels with high specificity, especially when it comes to novel psychoactive substances (NPS), which can be difficult to monitor and control.
Clinical
Articles and information related to the needs, concerns and requirements of a modern clinical mass spectrometry laboratory, from deployment and maintenance of industry-established core quantitative assays to researching and developing future applications and analytical techniques
The costly consequences of unplanned downtime
Unplanned downtime is a formidable adversary that businesses across various industries strive to minimize. Defined as the unexpected interruption of regular operations, unplanned downtime can wreak havoc on productivity, profitability and customer satisfaction. In this article, we delve into the causes of unplanned downtime, its far-reaching consequences and strategies to mitigate its impact.
Back to the new basics: Part 3 | LC vs. LC-MS and what it means for your lab
In this final installment of our “Back to the new basics” series, we take one more look at analytical techniques and best practices in the lab, and opportunities to improve efficiency. Here, we explore the basic principles of high-performance liquid chromatography (LC) and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and how these techniques can affect a lab’s efficiency and productivity.
Back to the new basics: Part 2 | Do I need a single quadrupole or a triple quadrupole system?
In this second installment of our 3-part “Back to the new basics” series, we continue to look at ways to improve lab productivity by using efficient techniques. The number of instrument options out there can be mind-boggling. Finding the right instrument—one that offers varying degrees of sensitivity, selectivity and specificity to meet your analytical needs—can be an intimidating challenge.
Back to the new basics: Part 1 | Making the leap from GC-MS to LC-MS
Producing accurate results quickly in a demanding environment is no easy feat for analytical scientists. What’s more, many of us are constantly questioning ourselves—I certainly am—about whether we are employing the best technique for the analysis at hand.
It’s an overwhelming thought, considering the wide range of tools that are available to choose from, each of which offers varying levels of capacity, sensitivity, selectivity, specificity and cost. How do you meet the unique needs of your organization without breaking the bank? I get it, and I’m not here to convince you it’s easy. My aim is to guide you through the process to help you make the right decision for you.
Top questions about the exposome of PFAS revealed
According to the CDC, the exposome is “the measure of all the exposures of an individual in a lifetime and how those exposures relate to health.”
Breaking down the SCIEX Triple Quad™ 7500 LC-MS/MS System – QTRAP® Ready
Sensitivity and robustness carry different meanings in the world of mass spectrometry. Generally, sensitivity refers to an instrument’s ability to achieve lower limits of detection (LOD). Robustness, on the other hand, refers to an instrument’s ability to consistently...
Worth the Journey – From Immunoassay to LC-MS/MS Adoption
The journey to mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) adoption from immunoassay can be complicated, but certainly rewarding. While immunoassay has been considered the default methodology for decades, they can be susceptible to interferences and cross-reactivity, especially for...
3 Advantages of Clinical Mass Spectrometry
Are you thinking about replacing existing immunoassay technology with clinical mass spectrometry? Keep reading to discover how the 3 “S”s will help you make the decision. 1. How does sensitivity play a role? Many of the analytes measured in a clinical chemistry lab...
Improving Patient Care Through Translational Mass Spectrometry
Featuring: Wake Forest® Baptist Health Steven Wong, Ph.D., DABCC (TC), FACB, Past President AACC, Professor of Pathology, serves as Director of the Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology Core Laboratory and is Co-director of the Clinical and Translational Mass Spectrometry...