This leaflet is intended to help participants in quantitative proficiency testing (PT) schemes to better understand the performance assessment made by the PT provider [1-4].<h3>Performance assessment parameters&nbsp;</h3><h4>Assigned value&nbsp;</h4>In order to assess individual performances, the results reported by participants are compared to the value assigned by the PT provider (xpt). ISO 13528 [1] suggests five different ways to obtain xpt (Figure 1). In this context, the design of the PT scheme must reflect the objectives of the scheme, comparing results either to a predetermined xpt (independent from the participant results), or to a value derived from the reported results. The PT provider is responsible for defining xpt , taking into account the advantages and disadvantages of the various possibilities when establishing metrological traceability or estimating the uncertainty of the assigned value, u(xpt).<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Figure_1_e5ef5d1f9c.jpg" alt="Eurachem - Figure 1 Options for obtaining the assigned value, Xpt" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Figure_1_e5ef5d1f9c.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="640" height="382"><h4>Uncertainty of the assigned value&nbsp;</h4>The uncertainty of the assigned value u(xpt) can be estimated in at least five different ways [1], each corresponding to the value assignment strategy illustrated in Figure 1. The different uncertainty evaluation methods are listed in Figure 2. This uncertainty can be reported as a standard uncertainty (u (xpt)), or as an expanded uncertainty U (xpt) with a coverage factor k, where U (xpt) = k . u (xpt). The choice of k will impact the level of confidence (e.g. approximately 95 % for k = 2).<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Figure_2_f41ebc0c61.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Figure 2 Options for obtaining the uncertainity of the assigned value, u(Xpt)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Figure_2_f41ebc0c61.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="727" height="378"><h4>Standard deviation for proficiency assessment&nbsp;</h4>Five possibilities are suggested by ISO 13528 to set the standard deviation for proficiency assessment spt (Figure 3). The chosen approach must comply with the objectives of the PT scheme.&nbsp;<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Figure_3_f09cb3969e.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Figure 3 Options for obtaining the standard deviation for proficiency assesment" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Figure_3_f09cb3969e.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="638" height="355">Two approaches for performance assessments use spt as shown in Table 1.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Table_1_Scoring_for_performance_assessment_3dd03aa3fb.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Table 1 - Scoring for performance assessment." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Table_1_Scoring_for_performance_assessment_3dd03aa3fb.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1390" height="571"><h3>Performance assessment&nbsp;</h3>All performance assessments are based on the difference between the participant’s results (xi) and the assigned value (xpt) divided by a normalisation factor (Table 1).&nbsp;<ul><li>The percent difference D% is the normalised difference expressed as a percentage of xpt , for which a prescribed maximum relative permissible error (dE% = dE / xpt) is defined by the PT provider.&nbsp;</li><li>The z score (unitless) compares the participant’s deviation from the assigned value with the standard deviation for proficiency assessment (spt). When the uncertainty of the assigned value is significant (u(xpt) &gt; 0.3 spt), the z’ score should be used instead, to include the contribution of u(xpt) in the denominator.&nbsp;</li><li>The zeta (ζ) score (unitless) states whether the laboratory’s result agrees with the assigned value within the respective uncertainty. The denominator is the combined (standard) uncertainty of the assigned value u(xpt) and the (standard) measurement uncertainty reported by the laboratory u(xi). An unsatisfactory zeta score can either be caused by an inappropriate estimation of the measured quantity value (e.g. concentration, content), or of its measurement uncertainty, or both.&nbsp;</li><li>The En score (unitless), unlike the zeta score, uses a combination of expanded uncertainties as the normalisation factor. This combination corresponds to a confidence interval of approximately 95 %. En scores are often used in metrology comparisons among calibration laboratories.</li></ul><h3>Interpretation of performance scores&nbsp;</h3>According to ISO 13528:2022 clause 9.4.2, the conventional interpretation of the z, z’ and ζ scores is as follows:&nbsp;<ul><li>A result that gives |score| ≤ 2.0 is considered to be acceptable, indicating satisfactory performance.&nbsp;</li><li>A result that gives 2.0 &lt; |score| &lt; 3.0 is considered to give a warning signal, indicating questionable performance.&nbsp;</li><li>A result that gives |score| ≥ 3.0 is considered to be unacceptable (or action signal), indicating unsatisfactory performance.&nbsp;</li></ul>Similarly, |En| &lt; 1 and |D%| &lt; dE% indicate successful (acceptable) performance.

Understanding PT performance assessment

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;<h5>When you were looking for your next research step, what made CEITEC stand out to you?</h5>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 Robert Vácha. 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.<h5>Before coming here, what were your expectations about Brno and CEITEC – and what turned out to be completely different, in a good way?</h5>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.<h5>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?</h5>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.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.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.<h5>What has it been like working within your team here – how would you describe the collaboration and overall atmosphere?</h5>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.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.It mostly requires cooperation, communication, and leadership that creates opportunities for those interactions to happen regularly.<h5>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?</h5>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.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.<h5>Finding housing is often one of the first challenges when moving abroad – how was your experience in Brno?</h5>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.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.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.<h5>Did you find it difficult to settle in without speaking Czech, or were you able to navigate most situations comfortably in English?</h5>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.I found that most interactions were positive, and people were generally willing to help – even when communication wasn’t perfect.<h5>You’re now moving on to your next position – what are you taking with you from Brno into this next chapter?</h5>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.<h5>If a young researcher was considering CEITEC, what would be your honest pitch to them?</h5>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.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.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.

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

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 15th June 2026? Check out new documents from the field of spectroscopy/spectrometry and related techniques!<blockquote>👉 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library">SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT SPECTROSCOPY/SPECTROMETRY RELATED TECHNIQUES</a></blockquote><blockquote>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques? Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezLCMS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezGCMS</a> libraries.</blockquote>This week we bring you technical note by Agilent Technologies, application note by Shimadzu and other document by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Smooth Migration from Single Quadrupole ICP-MS to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500">Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ</a></h3>Automated method transfer using the Batch Conversion Tool of Agilent OpenLab ICP-MS software<ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/te_batch_conversion_tool_9500_icp_ms_5994_9214en_agilent_0a1bba76e2.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Transitioning from a single quadrupole (SQ) ICP-MS to a triple quadrupole ICP-MS (ICP-QQQ) might appear daunting or disruptive, usually requiring the redevelopment of analytical methods and workflows. Users often wonder if they can reuse existing batches and whether routine processes will be interrupted during this switch.&nbsp;Switching from SQ ICP-MS to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500">Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ</a> involves minimal disruption. Agilent provides a solution that enables smooth, automated transfer of existing SQ ICP-MS methods to the 9500 ICP-QQQ, all while preserving the current batch logic and analytical purpose.This note explains how the Batch Conversion Tool in Agilent OpenLab ICP-MS software facilitates automated batch conversion. It allows users to seamlessly transition from SQ ICP-MS to the 9500 ICP-QQQ without needing to rebuild methods or alter their existing workflows.&nbsp;Three key aspects of method migration are addressed in this document:&nbsp;<ul><li>The design concept and conversion behavior of the Batch Conversion Tool, detailing which batch elements are preserved or adapted during conversion.&nbsp;</li><li>It also explains the rationale behind the available conversion options and how the advanced cell technologies of the 9500, such as Advanced Helium Mode (AHM) and Air cell mode, support operational continuity and potential performance improvements after migration.&nbsp;</li><li>Additionally, it outlines a typical end-to-end migration workflow, including methods for reviewing the postconversion process and assessing data quality using built-in indicators.&nbsp;</li></ul>These points collectively show that switching from SQ ICP-MS to the 9500 ICP-QQQ can be seamless. They also illustrate how to carry out method transfer in a controlled and transparent manner, providing a practical framework for refining the method when necessary.<h4>What is the Batch Conversion Tool?&nbsp;</h4>The Batch Conversion Tool is a feature of OpenLab ICP-MS software that transforms batches created for Agilent SQ ICP-MS systems into formats compatible with the 9500 ICP-QQQ (see Figure 1).&nbsp;Batches made for <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7700">Agilent 7700</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7800">7800</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7850">7850</a>, and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7900">7900 </a>ICP-MS instruments using Agilent ICP-MS MassHunter or OpenLab ICP-MS software can be imported and converted. During this process, the tool applies predefined rules to produce a batch suitable for the 9500, all while maintaining the original batch setup.&nbsp;These conversion rules are based on Agilent’s over 10 years of experience in ICP-QQQ development and applications. By harnessing this expertise, the Batch Conversion Tool automatically implements optimal measurement conditions and reaction strategies for each analyte, ensuring strong interference control and consistent analytical performance post-migration.Manually recreating batch components like element selections, isotope settings, and QC configurations can be time-consuming. Alternatively, the Batch Conversion Tool automates this process, usually finishing within seconds.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The Batch Conversion Tool in Agilent OpenLab ICP-MS software allows for easy, automated transfer of existing SQ ICP-MS batches to the Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ, without affecting current analytical workflows.&nbsp;By maintaining batch structure and analytical intent, users can switch to the 9500 ICP-QQQ without needing to rebuild methods or disrupt daily operations. The tool also offers structured conversion options to help users harness the advanced features of the 9500 platform.&nbsp;Additionally, migration from non-Agilent ICP-MS systems can be streamlined through element list import via the Method Advisor, providing an efficient way to create methods when transitioning to Agilent equipment. Overall, moving from SQ ICP-MS to the 9500 ICP-QQQ is a smooth, controlled process that ensures continuity and offers opportunities for method enhancement.<h3>2. Shimadzu: Static Puncture Strength of Geotextile Products Usinga 50mmProbe</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_07_2603_en_2470aa6ee5.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Geotextiles are permeable geosynthetic materials, typically made from polypropylene or polyester, available in woven and non-woven forms. They provide separation, filtration, drainage, and reinforcement, improving soil stability, load distribution, and the durability of infrastructure such as roads, railways, embankments, landfills, and retaining structures.&nbsp;During transportation, installation, and service geotextiles can be exposed to concentrated loads and sharp objects which can reduce the effectiveness of materials therefore puncture resistance is a critical parameter for evaluating geotextile durability. The puncture resistance of geotextiles are commonly determined as per ASTM D62411) and ISO 122362), which measures the force required to penetrate the fabrics using a standard plunger. Overall, puncture resistance testing plays a vital role in ensuring the long-term durability and reliability of geotextilesin demanding engineering applications.&nbsp;The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=AGS-X2">Shimadzu AGS-X2 series Universal Testing Machine </a>is a high-precision universal testing system designed for accurate evaluation of mechanical properties such as tensile, compression, and puncture resistance. It features advanced control technology, high data acquisition rates, and reliable load measurement, ensuring consistent and reproducible results. The system is operated using TRAPEZIUMX-V software, enabling efficient test control, data acquisition, and analysis that complies with national and international standards.<h4>2. Test Method&nbsp;</h4>The test was conducted on the non-woven geotextile using the AGS-50kNX2D UTM, shown in the Figure 1. Two different samples (1000 and 400 GSM) were procured from the market and five specimens were prepared from various areas of each sample. Table 1 shows testing apparatus and test conditions and Figure 2 shows the typical clamping and loading system.<h4>4. Conclusion</h4>The test results are consistent across multiple specimens and exhibit gradual deformation behavior. This indicates that the material can withstand high penetration forces without sudden failure, demonstrating its ability to effectively resist localized stresses.&nbsp;Geotextiles are available in different GSM values, representing mass per unit area and directly influence their mechanical and physical performance. Lower GSM geotextiles are lighter, flexible and lower thickness making them suitable for applications involving moderate loads. In contrast higher GSM geotextiles are thicker and denser, offering significantly higher puncture resistance and making them suitable for heavy duty applications.&nbsp;The Shimadzu’s universal testing machine AGS-X2 series demonstrated accurate, stable, and repeatable performance for conducting puncture resistance testing in accordance with ASTM D6241 and ISO 12236. The system provided precise control of crosshead speed, reliable load measurement, and clear identification of the initial peak load as required by the standard. The high-resolution load–displacement data acquisition enabled accurate determination of puncture strength and displacement at maximum force. Overall, the Shimadzu system ensures compliance with ASTM D6241 and ISO 12236 requirements and offers a dependable solution for quality control, research, and material comparison of geotextiles.¨<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Small parts analysis with the Niton Apollo LIBS Analyzer</h3><ul><li>Other document (Smart note)</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/small_parts_analysis_with_the_niton_apollo_libs_analyzer_sn1608_en_c69d4c0695.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Small parts and precision components are critical to product quality and safety. Their limited surface areas and complex geometries make them some of the most challenging items to analyze accurately. Traditional optical emission spectroscopy (OES) delivers excellent accuracy but often lacks the portability needed for challenging environments.&nbsp;The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2000">Thermo Scientific™ Niton™ Apollo™ Handheld Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) Analyzer</a> changes the equation by delivering accurate analysis of steel and stainless steel in a portable format.<h4>A lower cost of ownership, with repeatability and reliability you can trust&nbsp;</h4>For industries where a single incorrect part can have significant consequences, consistency is crucial. The Apollo analyzer delivers the dependable features you need, in a unit designed to save users time and money over the long term:&nbsp;<ul><li>Carbon detection – Detects carbon for equivalent carbon content (C.E.) for welding &amp; L/H grade ID of stainless steel&nbsp;</li><li>Efficient argon use – Optimized purge minimizes gas consumption.&nbsp;</li><li>Reduced downtime – Portable OES-like accuracy eliminates long lab lead time.</li><li>Rugged durability – Field-ready build lowers repair and replacement costs.&nbsp;</li><li>Ease of training – Intuitive interface reduces errors and onboarding costs.</li><li>Designed to perform – Reliable data across a wide range of finishes and geometries&nbsp;</li></ul>By combining technical performance with durability and efficiency, the Apollo analyzer delivers the lowest total cost of ownership in its class.&nbsp;<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The Niton Apollo LIBS analyzer sets the standard for small parts analysis. With its unique argon seal and updated small nose design, it delivers repeatable, OES-like accuracy unmatched by any other handheld LIBS device for the analysis of steel and stainless-steel including carbon. Add in a lower total cost of ownership, and the Apollo analyzer becomes the clear choice for manufacturers and inspectors who demand precision, reliability, and value.

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

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 25, 2026

Understanding PT performance assessment