<div>In 2025, two outstanding young female researchers, Drs. Filipa Oliveira and Stella Gonsales, both originally from outside the Czech Republic, received prestigious JUNIOR STAR grants from the Czech Science Foundation (GAČR). JUNIOR STAR enables early career researchers to establish their own independent research groups and significantly advance their scientific careers. Their projects reflect cutting-edge research in materials science and sustainable chemistry, highlighting the international reach and welcoming research environment at UCT Prague.Dr. Stella Gonsales is also a&nbsp;laureate of the Dagmar Procházková Fund, which supports promising scientific projects in sustainable and advanced organic chemistry. Another recipient of this grant is Dr.&nbsp;Anna Valunchene, whose research complements UCT Prague’s&nbsp;sustainability goals. This dual funding underlines Stella’s&nbsp;remarkable achievements and the wide scope of innovative research at UCT Prague.Both Filipa and Stella are actively looking for motivated students and researchers to join their teams, offering a&nbsp;unique opportunity to work at the forefront of science in a&nbsp;vibrant and supportive environment.</div><div><h3>Interview with Filipa Oliveira: Pioneering tubular MXenes for supercapacitor energy storage</h3><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_V_prestizni_soutezi_GACR_uspely_dve_zahranicni_vedkyne_z_VSCHT_2_da6e538579.jpeg" alt="VŠCHT Prague: JUNIOR STAR Grants at UCT Prague: Two talented women from abroad driving innovation in science: Filipa Oliveira" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_V_prestizni_soutezi_GACR_uspely_dve_zahranicni_vedkyne_z_VSCHT_2_da6e538579.jpeg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="1500" height="999"><h5>Congratulations on receiving the JUNIOR STAR grant. What does this achievement mean for you and how will it influence your next steps?</h5>Thank you. It’s&nbsp;a huge achievement to receive this prestigious grant. It gives me the opportunity to establish my own research group here at UCT Prague. The JUNIOR STAR program supports talented young scientists in building their teams and accessing resources. This means I&nbsp;now have the support to focus fully on my research about tubular MXenes and their application in supercapacitors.<h5>Why are tubular MXenes so innovative for energy storage?</h5>MXenes are a family of 2D materials with a layered, accordion-like structure and known for their excellent electrical conductivity. Our innovation is to produce them with a tubular morphology, combining the high conductivity and redox activity in superior ion-transport tubular architectures. Their open, hollow structure increases surface area, ion diffusion and charge transport. This could translate to faster, more efficient supercapacitors, critical for sustainable energy technologies.<h5>How did your scientific interest lead you to this field?</h5>Global challenges around green energy made me focus on materials that can improve energy storage. MXenes stood out because changes in the composition and structure can significantly change their properties. I&nbsp;was curious about how tuning different metallic elements in a&nbsp;tubular morphology can impact how MXenes perform and how to optimize them for practical applications.<h5>What challenges have you encountered?</h5>One major challenge is their stability: MXenes oxidize quickly which deteriorates performance. Another challenge is understanding how synthesis conditions of both MXenes and their precursors (MAX phases) must be adapted to create and preserve tubular morphologies since their synthesis mechanisms differ from conventional MXenes. Additionally, effectively communicating the project in the funding proposal to show to reviewers why I&nbsp;should obtain this funding was also a&nbsp;challenge, but thanks to mentorship and collaboration, I&nbsp;overcame these hurdles.<h5>What motivates you most about working at UCT Prague?</h5>The support from colleagues and the excellent technical infrastructure make it a&nbsp;great place to work. Also, being a&nbsp;former member of Professor Sofer’s&nbsp;leading group in 2D&nbsp;materials is inspiring and led me to this achievement.<h5>How do&nbsp;you see your professional development going in the future?</h5>The grant will help me build my own team, acquire equipment, and develop collaborations. My long-term vision is to contribute significantly to sustainable energy solutions and scientific progress both locally and internationally.<h5>You are looking for new team members. What kind of students or scientists do&nbsp;you need?</h5>We are currently welcoming enthusiastic master's&nbsp;students, PhD candidates, and postdocs who are passionate about materials science and eager to explore new frontiers in MXenes and energy storage. If you love curiosity-driven research and want to be part of a&nbsp;growing international team, we encourage you to join us.<h3>Interview with Stella Gonsales: Catalysis as a&nbsp;key to polymer recycling</h3><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_V_prestizni_soutezi_GACR_uspely_dve_zahranicni_vedkyne_z_VSCHT_3_3d0ded6274.jpeg" alt="VŠCHT Prague: JUNIOR STAR Grants at UCT Prague: Two talented women from abroad driving innovation in science: Stella Gonsales" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_V_prestizni_soutezi_GACR_uspely_dve_zahranicni_vedkyne_z_VSCHT_3_3d0ded6274.jpeg 233w," sizes="100vw" width="1499" height="1000"><h5>Congratulations on your JUNIOR STAR grant and also being awarded the Dagmar Procházková Fund. What does receiving both mean to you and how will they shape your work?</h5>Thank you. Both grants are hugely important. The JUNIOR STAR grant allows me to expand my group and resources for research into catalytic recycling of polymers, while the Dagmar Procházková Fund supports complementary projects such as synthesizing new biodegradable polymers. Together, they help tackle the plastic waste problem from multiple scientific angles.<h5>Could you explain your research in layperson’s&nbsp;terms?</h5>Most plastics have strong carbon-carbon bonds. We insert more cleavable double bonds into polymers that can be broken down by catalytic reactions called olefin metathesis, making recycling on a&nbsp;molecular level more feasible.<h5>What makes the JUNIOR STAR grant particularly important for your research and career development?</h5>The JUNIOR STAR grant is a&nbsp;prestigious and highly competitive funding opportunity aimed at excellent early-career scientists within eight years of completing a&nbsp;Ph.D. It provides up to 25&nbsp;million CZK over five years, allowing recipients to establish independent research groups and pursue innovative scientific topics. This grant is crucial for building a&nbsp;solid foundation, acquiring necessary equipment, and recruiting talented team members, enabling the pursuit of ambitious projects that can significantly contribute to both the Czech scientific community and global challenges.<h5>What collaborations support your research?</h5>The collaboration between UCT Prague and the Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry (IOCB) of the Czech Academy of Sciences primarily provides financial and technical support. The cooperation helps with funding, access to advanced equipment, and operational resources needed for running research projects.<h5>What advice would you give young scientists aiming to succeed?</h5>I&nbsp;encourage thinking outside the box and combining diverse knowledge you acquire during your career to address complex problems that are exciting and relevant to you.<h5>Your laboratory bears the name of Otto Wichterle and was ceremonially opened in the presence of Professor Kamil Wichterle. How does Wichterle’s&nbsp;legacy inspire you personally?</h5>Wichterle’<s>’</s>s&nbsp;innovative spirit motivates me to push creative boundaries and pursue novel solutions in sustainable chemistry.<h5>What are your visions for the future?</h5>I&nbsp;aim to build a&nbsp;research group that advances sustainable polymer recycling, contributing to environmental responsibility and the circular economy.<h5>You are recruiting people for your team. What skills do&nbsp;they need to have?</h5>We are looking for talented Ph.D. students and postdocs experienced in air-sensitive catalysis techniques. If you want to contribute to transformative research in sustainable chemistry and join a&nbsp;dynamic team, this is a&nbsp;great opportunity.</div>

JUNIOR STAR Grants at UCT Prague: Two talented women from abroad driving innovation in science

The clean laboratories of the CEITEC Nano research infrastructure at CEITEC Brno University of Technology house a four-meter-tall TITAN transmission electron microscope for researching materials at the atomic level. This scientific device underwent two significant upgrades this year, entailing the addition of two state-of-the-art technologies: an electromagnetic lens aberration corrector for scanning transmission electron microscopy and an electron energy loss spectrometer equipped with cameras featuring today's most sensitive sensors. Thanks to these upgrades, TITAN has become a state-of-the-art device that can only be found in a few of the world's most advanced laboratories in this configuration.The TITAN Themis microscope was manufactured in 2015 by FEI (now Thermo Fisher Scientific) and has been in use at CEITEC BUT since 2016. At the time of its acquisition, it was one of the most powerful commercially available electron microscopes; however, it lacked a corrector for optical defects in the lenses that form the narrow electron beam scanning the sample. This meant limited resolution and a lower ability to analyze the chemical composition and physical properties of materials at the atomic level."The latest generation S-CORR aberration corrector allows the electron beam to be focused to a size up to twice smaller than an atom, while also providing a higher electron current. This has led to a significant increase in the resolution and analytical capabilities of the microscope," explains Jan Michalička, guarantor of the TITAN microscope. "Thanks to the new corrector, our microscope achieves the world's highest standard in resolution, specifically less than 50 picometers at an acceleration voltage of 300 keV." For better understanding, he adds a comparison: "Imagine the ratio of the size of a golf ball to that of planet Earth. That is exactly the ratio of an atom measuring 100 pm to a golf ball." Thanks to this resolution, scientists are not only able to image individual atoms, but also to determine their chemical nature through further analysis. This is of fundamental importance, for example, for the development of new catalysts for a more environmentally friendly chemical industry.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_8ebd8d7245.jpg" alt="CEITEC/CEITEC BUT archive: Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories: Differences in resolution before and after the installation of the aberration corrector." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_8ebd8d7245.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="904">The new corrector also allows the microscope to achieve high resolution even with low-energy electrons. This is crucial for studying highly sensitive materials such as graphene and other two-dimensional structures, which would be damaged by a stronger electron beam. "Electrons interact strongly with the sample and can damage it at the atomic level, for example, by changing its structure and chemical composition. With the new corrector, we can achieve atomic resolution even at the lowest acceleration voltage of 60 keV, allowing us to study even very sensitive materials in a virtually unchanged state," says Jan Michalička.<h4>The additional installation of a corrector at the CEITEC laboratory is unique worldwide</h4>Correctors of optical defects in electromagnetic lenses are an exceptional technology that has completely changed the world of electron microscopy. For a long time, they were considered technically impossible, and the absence of correctors essentially prevented research into the structure and properties of materials at the atomic level. It was not until the 1990s that a group of four scientists – Harald Rose, Max Haider, Knut Urban, and Ondřej Křivánek – succeeded in implementing this technology, for which they received the prestigious Kavli Prize in 2020. “Correctors basically consist of a pair of complex lenses, each containing a series of magnetic multipoles. In the case of the correctors invented by the first three scientists mentioned above, defects are removed by two hexapole lenses. Our new corrector is based on the same concept,” adds Jan Michalička.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_2_c7e74d8554.jpeg" alt="CEITEC/CEITEC BUT archive: Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories: Delivered aberration corrector prior to installation, with the TITAN microscope in the background." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_2_c7e74d8554.jpeg 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="2133">The additional installation of a corrector is unique in itself nowadays. Similarly complex technologies are usually installed during the manufacture of microscopes in the factory, in this case in the Netherlands. However, in Brno, the microscope was successfully upgraded with a corrector under the limited conditions of the laboratory. The installation of the corrector took about four months and required the dismantling of a large part of the microscope. "With this installation, we basically went back to the time when the four scientists mentioned above placed their prototype corrector on an older microscope, thus improving its performance," says Jan Michalička with a smile, adding that the most difficult part was the precise adjustment of the corrector and the entire optics of the microscope in order to achieve top parameters. "Even though most things are now controlled by computers, there are only a few people in the world who can install and tune a corrector to the highest level of accuracy. We are therefore extremely pleased to have had such experts at our disposal here."<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_4_b2cf95fb5c.jpeg" alt="CEITEC/CEITEC BUT archive: Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories: Installation of the aberration corrector – removal of the condenser." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_4_b2cf95fb5c.jpeg 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="2133"><h4>New spectrometer will enable scientists to see more</h4>The second and equally important upgrade to the TITAN microscope is the installation of the latest generation GIF Continuum HR electron energy loss spectrometer by Gatan. This is an approximately two-meter-long device installed horizontally under the microscope, whose main component is a magnetic prism that separates the electron beam according to their energy losses. The spectra of these losses provide enormous information about the sample, principally at the atomic level, as they are characteristic of the given state of the atoms, such as the valence arrangement of their electron shell. In combination with the new corrector, the spectra can be used to analyze the chemical bonds, arrangement in the crystal lattice, or the entire range of physical properties of atomic nanostructures down to the level of individual atoms.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_8_fdab871ef5.jpeg" alt="CEITEC/CEITEC BUT archive: Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories: Installation of the spectrometer beneath the microscope, magnetic prism." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_8_fdab871ef5.jpeg 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="2133">An essential part of the spectrometer are the state-of-the-art K3 and Stela cameras, which can directly detect and count individual electrons. At the same time, these cameras are extremely fast and their sensors capture data without noise. "These features of our cameras are key to measuring sensitive or dynamically changing samples and allow us to obtain information that was previously invisible to electron microscopes," says Jan Michalička.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_9_d8b87903f2.jpeg" alt="CEITEC/CEITEC BUT archive: Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories: Installed high-performance spectrometer cameras." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_9_d8b87903f2.jpeg 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="2133">Last but not least, the spectrometer will open up completely new possibilities for measuring the magnetic properties of atomic structures. The new spectrometer will also be used for such experiments within the project TERAFIT, which financed this upgrade, and which focuses on research into materials for ultra-high capacity, speed, and energy efficiency in information technology. "The device is fully prepared for advanced experiments and the use of modern software tools, including artificial intelligence," adds Vojtěch Uhlíř, head of the Nanomagnetism and Spintronics research group at CEITEC BUT and one of the TERAFIT project investigators, highlighting the advantages of the spectrometer.Together with the corrector, the spectrometer represents a breakthrough in the analysis of material properties, and according to Jan Michalička, CEITEC now has one of the most powerful microscopes available. “In modern materials science, for example, in the development of magnetic memories, quantum materials, or 2D structures, it is necessary to see not only atoms, but also their behaviour in real time, including magnetic states. And it is this spectrometer that pushes the boundaries of what we can see and analyze.” Michal Urbánek, head of the CEITEC Nano laboratories and coordinator of the large research infrastructure <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.czechnanolab.cz/">CzechNanoLab</a>, agrees with him, adding that the device can now contribute to scientific knowledge on a global scale. “Thanks to its integration into the large CzechNanoLab research infrastructure, this state-of-the-art microscope is accessible not only to scientists from CEITEC, but also to other institutions in the Czech Republic and abroad.”<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_10_7a2b57cc6d.jpeg" alt="CEITEC/CEITEC BUT archive: Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories: Final configuration of the TITAN microscope after installation of the aberration corrector and spectrometer." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_10_7a2b57cc6d.jpeg 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="2133"><blockquote>Do you want to know more? Read the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ceitec.eu/upgrade-of-titan-transmission-electron-microscope-ranks-ceitec-among-elite-laboratories-expert-version/t11696?secret=40ab0267-ec7e-11f0-8f5d-2ed9ab825d4b">expert version</a> of this article.</blockquote>

Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories

Scientists at IOCB Prague are uncovering new details of gene transcription. They have identified a previously unknown molecular mechanism by which the transcription of genetic information from deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) into ribonucleic acid (RNA) can be initiated. The researchers focused on a specific class of molecules known as alarmones, which are found in cells across a wide range of organisms and whose levels often increase under conditions of cellular stress. The results were published in the prestigious scientific journal Nature Chemical Biology.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_bc2bfffa6c.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague/Tomáš Belloň: Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription: Dr. Hana Cahová, head of the Chemical Biology of Nucleic Acids research group." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_bc2bfffa6c.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1335"><div>Molecules of ribonucleic acid can carry a variety of chemical modifications at one end, known as caps. In eukaryotic organisms, including human cells, the best-known cap plays an important role in RNA stability and in regulating its subsequent fate. In recent years, however, it has become clear that alternative, non-canonical RNA caps also exist, although their formation and the mechanisms by which they are attached to RNA remain only partially understood. These include alarmone caps, formed by dinucleoside polyphosphate molecules, that protect cellular RNA at moments when the cell is under threat.In their study, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://cahova.group.uochb.cz/en">Dr. Hana Cahová</a> and colleagues examined bacterial RNA polymerase and investigated how this enzyme can initiate transcription using dinucleoside polyphosphates (NpNs) instead of the standard RNA building blocks. For the first time, the scientists described, at the atomic level, how RNA bearing an alarmone cap can be generated directly at the initiation of gene transcription. They also observed that NpNs bind through a different type of base pairing than is typically observed.The work was significantly shaped by Valentina Serianni from Hana Cahová’s team, who demonstrated the ability of dinucleoside polyphosphates to initiate gene transcription, and by Jana Škerlová, who focused on the structural analysis of RNA polymerase. Using cryogenic electron microscopy data, she showed how dinucleoside polyphosphate molecules bind within the active site of RNA polymerase – that is, the core of the enzyme where genetic information is transcribed. Together, their findings help to elucidate the processes that accompany the transcription of genetic information from DNA to RNA.Hana Cahová adds: “We’re describing something that truly occurs in cells and that we’re now able to observe directly at the level of individual molecules. This allows us to answer fundamental questions about cellular processes, such as how cells adapt to stress. RNA plays a central role in this, as it carries the cascade of information underlying any cellular response – for example, to threatening conditions caused by nutrient deprivation or temperature shock.”<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_2_0fe88ff9e9.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague/Tomáš Belloň: Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription: Dr. Tomáš Kouba, head of the Cryogenic Electron Microscopy core facility." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_2_0fe88ff9e9.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1335"><div>Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) was central to the project. This part of the work was led by Dr. Tomáš Kouba, one of the authors of the study. “Cryogenic electron microscopy allows us to freeze biological molecules in a state very close to their natural form and then determine their three-dimensional structure. This makes it possible to look directly into the active centers of enzymes and observe their function down to the atomic level,” he explains.Last year, IOCB Prague opened a new <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://cryoem.group.uochb.cz/en">cryo-EM center</a> that is unique within the Czech research environment. State-of-the-art cryogenic electron microscopes are housed in a specially designed building and enable the study of biological processes with exceptional structural precision.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_3_4d881e7a58.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague: Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription: This work shows how NpnNs initiate bacterial transcription. Cryo-EM reveals how nucleobases pair with the template: one in canonical and one in reverse Watson–Crick mode, providing a structural basis for their function as non-canonical RNA caps." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_3_4d881e7a58.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1077"><blockquote><h4>The Original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41589-025-02134-5">Molecular insight into 5′ RNA capping with NpnNs by bacterial RNA polymerase</a></h4>Valentina M. Serianni, Jana Škerlová, Anna Knopp Dubánková, Anton Škríba, Hana Šváchová, Tereza Vučková, Anatolij Filimoněnko, Milan Fábry, Pavlína Řezáčová, Tomáš Kouba &amp; Hana Cahova&nbsp;Nat. Chem. Biol. 21 (2026)<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41589-025-02134-5">https://doi.org/10.1038/s41589-025-02134-5</a><h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0</a></h6></blockquote><h4>Abstract</h4>RNA capped with dinucleoside polyphosphates has been discovered in bacteria and eukaryotes only recently. The likely mechanism of this specific capping involves direct incorporation of dinucleoside polyphosphates by RNA polymerase as noncanonical initiating nucleotides. However, how these compounds bind into the active site of RNA polymerase during transcription initiation is unknown. Here, we explored transcription initiation in vitro, using a series of DNA templates in combination with dinucleoside polyphosphates and model RNA polymerase from Thermus thermophilus. We observed that the transcription start site can vary on the basis of the compatibility of the specific template and dinucleoside polyphosphate. Cryo-electron microscopy structures of transcription initiation complexes with dinucleoside polyphosphates revealed that both nucleobase moieties can pair with the DNA template. The first encoded nucleotide pairs in a canonical Watson–Crick manner, whereas the second nucleobase pairs noncanonically in a reverse Watson–Crick manner. Our work provides a structural explanation of how dinucleoside polyphosphates initiate RNA transcription.</div></div>

Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription

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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.

CEITEC

The University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague is a natural centre of first-rate study and research in the area of chemistry in Czechia and is one of the country's largest educational and research institutions focused on technical chemistry, chemical and biochemical technologies, material and chemical engineering, food chemistry, and environmental studies.

UCT Prague

The Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague) is a leading scientific institution in the Czech Republic, recognized internationally. Its primary mission is basic research in the fields of chemical biology and medicinal chemistry, organic and material oriented chemistry, chemistry of natural compounds, biochemistry and molecular biology, physical chemistry, theoretical chemistry, and analytical chemistry. 

Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences

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Thermo Scientific iCAP™ PRO ICP-OES Duo

The Thermo Scientific™ iCAP™ PRO ICP-OES delivers robust trace elemental analysis with easy-to-use software and pre-optimized methods, offering superior multi-element detection over single-element AAS.

Deliver robust, uncomplicated trace elemental analysis with the Thermo Scientific™ iCAP™ PRO ICP-OES system. This system offers easy-to-use software with pre-optimized method conditions, providing multi-element detection technology far superior to that of single-element AAS.This compact, benchtop ICP-OES provides simultaneous analysis of trace elements in a range of samples. The vertical torch orientation system delivers excellent robustness for both radial and dual view instruments with a corrosion-resistant inner torch box. The purged echelle polychromator and Charge Injection Device (CID) array detector provide high light throughput, resulting in excellent detection limits.<h3>The system includes</h3><ul><li>A 3-channel, peristaltic pump for easy addition of an online internal standard or use of a hydride generation accessory.</li><li>A quick-release semi-demountable torch for easy maintenance.</li><li>A solid-state, free-running 27.12 MHz RF generator to ensure robust plasma generation for any sample matrix.</li><li>Three independent mass flow controllers (MFC) for precision control of the nebulizer, plasma, and auxiliary gas and to ensure long-term stability.</li><li>An interlock drain sensor to shut down the system if a leak in the sample path is detected and to prevent samples being lost.</li><li>An echelle polychromator that is thermostatically controlled to ensure long-term stability and reduce the need for recalibration.</li><li>A cross-dispersing prism combined with an echelle to provide a resolution of 7 pm and minimize interferences.</li><li>A random-access CID imager provides full wavelength coverage from 167.021 to 852.145 nm.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1489">Thermo Scientific™ Qtegra™ Intelligent Scientific Data Solution™</a> (ISDS) Software, providing an easy-to-navigate platform that allows the analyst to add wavelengths, create methods, analyze samples and post-process the data while the spectrometer is acquiring data.</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Pragolab_Thermo_Scientific_Spektrometr_ICP_OES_i_CAP_PRO_Cover_5678c2a10f.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific iCAP™ PRO ICP-OES Duo" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Pragolab_Thermo_Scientific_Spektrometr_ICP_OES_i_CAP_PRO_Cover_5678c2a10f.jpg 197w," sizes="100vw" width="1000" height="792"><h3>Specifications</h3><ul><li data-start="25" data-end="50">Type: ICP-OES Duo</li><li data-start="51" data-end="99">Auxiliary Gas: MFC stabilized at 0.5 LPM</li><li data-start="100" data-end="158">Detector Type: High performance solid-state CID821</li><li data-start="159" data-end="209">Nebulizer Gas: MFC tunable, 0.3 to 0.8 LPM</li><li data-start="210" data-end="258">Peristaltic Pump: 3-channel, 0 or 45 rpm</li><li data-start="259" data-end="305">Plasma Gas: MFC stabilized at 12.5 LPM</li><li data-start="306" data-end="345">Plasma Viewing: Vertical Radial</li><li data-start="346" data-end="371">RF Source: 27 MHz</li><li data-start="372" data-end="413">Description: iCAP PRO ICP-OES Duo</li><li data-start="414" data-end="464">Dimensions (D x W x H): 690 x 615 x 933 mm</li><li data-start="465" data-end="487">Purge: 3.4 LPM</li><li data-start="488" data-end="529">Spectral Bandpass: 7 pm at 200 nm</li><li data-start="530" data-end="572">Spectrometer: Simultaneous echelle</li><li data-start="573" data-end="718">Standard Sampling Kit: Concentric glass nebulizer, Glass cyclonic spray chamber, Semi-demountable EMT torch, 2 mm bore quartz center tube</li><li data-start="719" data-end="755">Warm Up Time: 1 hr. from off</li><li data-start="756" data-end="795">Wavelength Range: 167 to 852 nm</li><li data-start="796" data-end="819" data-is-last-node="">Unit Size: Each</li></ul><h4>iCAP PRO Series ICP-OES has ACT label certification</h4>Reduce your lab's environmental impact with the iCAP PRO Series ICP-OES, recipient of the ACT label from My Green Lab. The ACT Environmental Impact Factor Label is the world's premier eco-label for laboratory products. The program ensures Accountability, Consistency, and Transparency in the reporting of environmental impact data to enable sustainable laboratory procurement. It was designed by both scientists and procurement specialists to provide clear, third-party verified information about the sustainability profile of laboratory products. By providing needed transparency around manufacturing, energy and water use, packaging, and end-of-life impacts, ACT makes it easy to choose environmentally preferable products and reduce the carbon impact of laboratory supply chains.

Thermo Scientific iCAP™ PRO X ICP-OES Duo

The Thermo Scientific™ iCAP™ PRO X ICP-OES delivers robust trace elemental analysis with easy-to-use software and pre-optimized methods, offering superior multi-element detection over single-element AAS.

Deliver robust, uncomplicated trace elemental analysis with the Thermo Scientific™ iCAP™ PRO X ICP-OES system. This system offers easy-to-use software with pre-optimized method conditions, providing multi-element detection technology far superior to that of single-element AAS.This compact, benchtop ICP-OES provides simultaneous analysis of trace elements in a range of samples. The vertical torch orientation system delivers excellent robustness for both radial and dual view instruments with a corrosion-resistant inner torch box. The purged echelle polychromator and Charge Injection Device (CID) array detector provide high light throughput, resulting in excellent detection limits.<h3>The system includes</h3><ul><li>A 3-channel, peristaltic pump for easy addition of an online internal standard or use of a hydride generation accessory.</li><li>A quick-release semi-demountable torch for easy maintenance.</li><li>A solid-state, free-running 27.12 MHz RF generator to ensure robust plasma generation for any sample matrix.</li><li>Three independent mass flow controllers (MFC) for precision control of the nebulizer, plasma, and auxiliary gas and to ensure long-term stability.</li><li>An interlock drain sensor to shut down the system if a leak in the sample path is detected and to prevent samples being lost.</li><li>An echelle polychromator that is thermostatically controlled to ensure long-term stability and reduce the need for recalibration.</li><li>A cross-dispersing prism combined with an echelle to provide a resolution of 7 pm and minimize interferences.</li><li>A random-access CID imager provides full wavelength coverage from 167.021 to 852.145 nm.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1489">Thermo Scientific™ Qtegra™ Intelligent Scientific Data Solution™</a> (ISDS) Software, providing an easy-to-navigate platform that allows the analyst to add wavelengths, create methods, analyze samples and post-process the data while the spectrometer is acquiring data.</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Pragolab_Thermo_Scientific_Spektrometr_ICP_OES_i_CAP_PRO_X_718dec6a47.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific iCAP™ PRO X ICP-OES Duo" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Pragolab_Thermo_Scientific_Spektrometr_ICP_OES_i_CAP_PRO_X_718dec6a47.jpg 197w," sizes="100vw" width="800" height="634"><h3>Specifications</h3><ul><li data-start="25" data-end="50">Type: ICP-OES Duo</li><li data-start="51" data-end="99">Auxiliary Gas: MFC stabilized at 0.5 LPM</li><li data-start="100" data-end="158">Detector Type: High performance solid-state CID821</li><li data-start="159" data-end="209">Nebulizer Gas: MFC tunable, 0.3 to 0.8 LPM</li><li data-start="210" data-end="258">Peristaltic Pump: 3-channel, 0 or 45 rpm</li><li data-start="259" data-end="305">Plasma Gas: MFC stabilized at 12.5 LPM</li><li data-start="306" data-end="345">Plasma Viewing: Vertical Radial</li><li data-start="346" data-end="371">RF Source: 27 MHz</li><li data-start="372" data-end="415">Description: iCAP PRO X ICP-OES Duo</li><li data-start="416" data-end="466">Dimensions (D x W x H): 690 x 615 x 933 mm</li><li data-start="467" data-end="489">Purge: 3.4 LPM</li><li data-start="490" data-end="531">Spectral Bandpass: 7 pm at 200 nm</li><li data-start="532" data-end="574">Spectrometer: Simultaneous echelle</li><li data-start="575" data-end="720">Standard Sampling Kit: Concentric glass nebulizer, Glass cyclonic spray chamber, Semi-demountable EMT torch, 2 mm bore quartz center tube</li><li data-start="721" data-end="781">Warm Up Time: 30 min. from off, 15 min. from standby</li><li data-start="782" data-end="821">Wavelength Range: 167 to 852 nm</li><li data-start="822" data-end="845" data-is-last-node="">Unit Size: Each</li></ul><h4>iCAP PRO Series ICP-OES has ACT label certification</h4>Reduce your lab's environmental impact with the iCAP PRO Series ICP-OES, recipient of the ACT label from My Green Lab. The ACT Environmental Impact Factor Label is the world's premier eco-label for laboratory products. The program ensures Accountability, Consistency, and Transparency in the reporting of environmental impact data to enable sustainable laboratory procurement. It was designed by both scientists and procurement specialists to provide clear, third-party verified information about the sustainability profile of laboratory products. By providing needed transparency around manufacturing, energy and water use, packaging, and end-of-life impacts, ACT makes it easy to choose environmentally preferable products and reduce the carbon impact of laboratory supply chains.

Thermo Scientific iSC-65 Autosampler for ICP-OES & ICP-MS

Achieve robust, worry-free automation of your high-throughput trace elemental analysis workflow with the Thermo Scientific™ iSC-65 Autosampler.

Achieve robust, worry-free automation of your high-throughput trace elemental analysis workflow with the Thermo Scientific™ iSC-65 Autosampler.The iSC-65 Autosampler is built to thrive in high-throughput laboratories and difficult environments without downtime or contributing contamination to your time-critical trace elemental samples. The quiet, smooth operation will blend into the background of your working environment. Acid and solvent-resistant construction materials assure robust, reliable, precise operation.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:650/433;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_i_SC_65_Autosampler_aa73f61273.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific iSC-65 Autosampler." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_i_SC_65_Autosampler_aa73f61273.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="650" height="433"></figure><h3>Overview</h3><ul><li>Compatible with Thermo Scientific trace elemental analysis instruments: Thermo Scientific™ iCAP™ MX and iCAP™ Qnova Series ICP-MS (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1487">iCAP MSX</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1488">MTX</a>, Q, RQ, RQplus, TQ, TQe, and TQs) and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products?instrumentationItems=84&amp;manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=+iCAP%E2%84%A2+">Thermo Scientific™ iCAP™ PRO Series ICP-OES</a> (iCAP PRO X, PRO XP, and PRO XPS)</li><li>Four rack capacity, each supporting 21, 24, 40, 60, or 90 vial positions</li><li>Ten-position 50 mL round bottom or flat bottom standard rack</li><li>Variable speed two-channel rinse pump; luer lock rinse station fittings</li><li>X, Y, and Z drive obstruction detection</li><li>Step Ahead – programmable rinse sequence begins during sample analysis, saving time</li><li>Multi-color LED display</li><li>Complete integration with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products?category=8&amp;manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=iCAP%E2%84%A2+MSX">Thermo Scientific™ Qtegra™ ISDS Software</a>, including alignment and all analysis parameters</li><li>Ability to set depth individually for each vial location</li><li>Ethernet communications</li><li>Two auxiliary ports</li></ul><h3>iSC-65 Autosampler attained an ACT label</h3>Know your lab's environmental impact with the iSC-65 Autosampler, recipient of the ACT label from My Green Lab. The ACT Environmental Impact Factor Label is the world's premier eco-label for laboratory products. The program ensures Accountability, Consistency, and Transparency in the reporting of environmental impact data to enable sustainable laboratory procurement. It was designed by both scientists and procurement specialists to provide clear, third-party verified information about the sustainability profile of laboratory products. By providing needed transparency around manufacturing, energy and water use, packaging, and end-of-life impacts, ACT makes it easy to choose environmentally preferable products and reduce the carbon impact of laboratory supply chains.

 Thermo Scientific™ ARL iSpark™ Plus Series OES Metal Analyzer

Thermo Scientific™ ARL iSpark™ Plus Series OES is a versatile metals analyzer for everything from routine analysis to R&D, built to perform reliably even in the harshest environments.

<h4>Versatile, high-performance spark OES spectrometer for all metal analysis needs</h4>Metal processors need a versatile elemental analysis solution for the wide range of metallurgical samples they deal with. From routine elemental analysis to metals R&amp;D, the Thermo Scientific™ ARL iSpark™ Plus Series OES Metal Analyzer provides the solution sought by primary metals producers, foundries, fabricators in the automotive, aviation and appliance industries, contract laboratories, and recyclers.Adapted to the harshest environments, ARL iSpark Plus offers high functionality, superior analytical performance and robustness to achieve your productivity and quality objectives. Its fast and stable analysis enables production of more heats and a faster return on investment.<h3>Key Features and Benefits</h3><ul><li>High-speed performance: 15% faster analysis time than previous models</li><li>Low maintenance: 30% longer maintenance intervals, tool-free spark stand design</li><li>Minimal memory effects: Virtually no carry-over across major matrices</li><li>High stability and uptime: Improved hardware and software components ensure long-term accuracy</li></ul><h3>Analytical Excellence</h3><ul><li>Unique PMT optics based on the legendary ARL 3460/4460 platform</li><li>Revolutionary digital spark generator with IntelliSource double CCS for precise discharge tailoring</li><li>Advanced spark stand for efficient ablation, low argon consumption, and rapid maintenance</li><li>Outstanding analytical precision across trace, minor and major elements</li><li>Ultra-fast analysis of non-metallic micro-inclusions with Spark-DAT technology</li><li>Quantitative inclusion size determination and total oxygen content in killed steels</li><li>True factory calibrations using certified reference materials (CRMs) and CARL MVR software</li><li>Optional fire assay configuration for direct analysis of lead buttons with detection limits suitable for Au, Ag, PGMs — replacing complex cupellation steps</li></ul><h3>Smart Design and Usability</h3><ul><li>Smart Argon Management (SAM) with user-programmable ECO modes</li><li>Compact footprint with full front access and wall-installation compatibility</li><li>Hydraulic sample cover for safe and easy operation</li><li>Quick-change sample tables for increased throughput</li></ul><h3>Innovative Signal Processing</h3><ul><li>Single Spark Acquisition (SSA) and DISIRE algorithm for enhanced accuracy</li><li>FAST algorithm for optimal spark selection</li><li>TGA (Time Gated Acquisition) for low background and noise suppression</li><li>OXSAS software for full system control, data management, traceability, and maintenance planning</li></ul><h3>Application Flexibility</h3><ul><li>Ready-to-use, factory-calibrated packages for:<ul><li>Iron and steel</li><li>Non-ferrous metals and alloys</li><li>Precious metals</li><li>Fire assay (lead buttons)</li></ul></li><li>Calibration extensions available for specific needs</li><li>Optional Spark-DAT tools for inclusion analysis and soluble/insoluble elemental speciation</li></ul><h3>Automation and Support</h3><ul><li>Full compatibility with ARL SMS automation systems for sample preparation and handling</li><li>Worldwide technical support, IQ/OQ qualification, and remote diagnostics</li><li>Continuous software updates and training resources to ensure long-term success</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_ARL_i_Spark_Plus_Series_OES_Metal_Analyzer_4_3ef7d1dac8.jpg" alt=" Thermo Scientific™ ARL iSpark™ Plus Series OES Metal Analyzer" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_ARL_i_Spark_Plus_Series_OES_Metal_Analyzer_4_3ef7d1dac8.jpg 200w," sizes="100vw" width="650" height="506">

Thermo Scientific ARL SMS-2300 Robotics-Based Automation for OES or XRF

Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ SMS-2300 enables fast, reproducible, and unattended OES/XRF analysis to optimize steel production and meet the strictest quality standards.

<h4>Meet stringent steel specifications while increasing efficiency and lowering production costs.</h4>The Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ SMS-2300 Robotics-Based Automation for OES or XRF is an automated quality control solution to optimize your steel production operation. With the high-performance ARL SMS-2300 system, even complex samples are prepared and analyzed under reproducible conditions without operator intervention, eliminating human variables and subjective factors. 👉 Result: Increased output, reliable results, and reduced costs.<h3>🔧 ARL SMS-2300 Automation for OES or XRF</h3>Provides ultimate power and flexibility for automatic, unattended 24/7 operation of:<ul><li>ARL™ 4460</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1213">ARL™ iSpark</a> / <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1977">iSpark Plus OES</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products?instrumentationItems=100&amp;manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=9900">ARL™ 9900 XRF</a></li></ul><h3>✅ Main Features</h3><ul><li>Easy integration into fully automatic laboratories</li><li>Installed in ARL QuantoShelter, close to production process</li><li>Parallel tasking:<ul><li>Sample preparation</li><li>Sample introduction</li><li>Analysis</li><li>Instrument stand cleaning performed in hidden time</li></ul></li><li>High throughput with:<ul><li>Automatic sample preparation</li><li>Haas Mini Mill + ARL™ PrepControl™ + EasyPrep™ software</li></ul></li><li>Direct access to Haas Mini Mill for faster ferrous sample processing</li><li>Factory-configured and customized</li><li>Compact chassis, simple installation, and integrated electronics</li><li>High reliability, rapid ROI, and fast result availability</li><li>Frees lab personnel from routine tasks</li><li>ISO 9001 compliant manufacturing and maintenance</li></ul><h3>🚀 Advanced Technology</h3><ul><li>Fanuc industrial robot</li><li>OXSAS analytical software</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific ARL SMS-3300 Automation for Single or Twin OES or XRF

Thermo Scientific™ ARL SMS-3300 enables fully automated operation of one or two OES or XRF spectrometers, enhancing lab efficiency in industrial environments.

Drive process control laboratory efficiencies in the metals, mining and cement industries with the Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ SMS-3300 Automation for Single or Twin OES or XRF, a complete laboratory workflow automation solution. The automation of single or multiple spectrometers and preparation machines with the ARL SMS-3300 system offers:👉 Reduced sample analysis cost, 👉 Increased sample throughput, 👉 Better reproducibility, and 👉 Higher quality resultsfor users requiring more comprehensive and integrated automation solutions in the metals, mining and cement industries.<h3>🔧 ARL SMS-3300 – Automation for Single or Twin OES or XRF</h3>Provides ultimate power and flexibility for automatic, unattended, 24/7 operation of:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1213">Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ iSpark </a>/<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1977"> iSpark Plus </a>(Optical Emission Spectrometers)</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products?instrumentationItems=100&amp;manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=9900">Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ 9900</a> (X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer)</li></ul><h3>✅ Main Features</h3><ul><li>Designed for easy integration into fully automatic laboratories</li><li>Can be mounted in Thermo Scientific ARL QuantoShelter, close to the production process</li><li>Parallel task execution:<ul><li>Sample preparation</li><li>Sample introduction</li><li>Analysis</li><li>Instrument stand cleaning performed in hidden time by the spectrometer, independently of the robot</li></ul></li><li>Direct access to milling machine for reduced processing times of ferrous samples</li><li>Higher throughput with:<ul><li>Automatic sample preparation</li><li>ARL™ PrepControl™ system + ARL™ EasyPrep™ software</li></ul></li><li>Factory configured and customized</li><li>Compact chassis and simple installation</li><li>Integrated electronics</li><li>Improved analysis reliability and quality</li><li>Very rapid payback</li><li>Faster result availability</li><li>Qualified lab personnel freed from routine tasks</li><li>Manufactured and maintained according to ISO 9001-2000 procedures</li></ul><h3>🚀 Advanced Technology</h3><ul><li>State-of-the-art Fanuc industrial robot</li><li>OXSAS analytical software</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_ARL_SMS_3300_Automation_for_Single_or_Twin_OES_or_XRF_fadcbb621a.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ ARL SMS-3300 Automation for Single or Twin OES or XRF" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_ARL_SMS_3300_Automation_for_Single_or_Twin_OES_or_XRF_fadcbb621a.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="650" height="366">

Thermo Scientific ARL SMS-3500 Automation for Twin OES or XRF

The ARL SMS-3500 automates two OES or XRF spectrometers with smart sample flow management for fast, efficient, and continuous production control.

Drive process control laboratory efficiencies in the metals and mining industries with the Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ SMS-3500 Automation for Twin OES or XRF, a complete laboratory workflow automation solution. Primary metals producers' laboratories typically run two fully duplicate and separate spectrometry lines to assure fast response times when several urgent samples must be processed simultaneously. 👉 The ARL SMS-3500 system is an affordable alternative.The automation of multiple spectrometers and preparation machines with the ARL SMS-3500 system offers:<ul><li>Reduced sample analysis cost</li><li>Increased sample throughput</li><li>Better reproducibility</li><li>Higher quality results</li></ul>for users requiring more comprehensive and integrated automation solutions in the metals and mining industries.The ARL SMS-3500 Automation for Twin OES or XRF simplifies sample handling by providing:<ul><li>a single introduction location for all samples</li><li>a magazine storage function to free the introduction 👉 This reduces response times, increases sample processing cadence, and improves the availability of automatic sample preparation in highly critical production control environments.</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_ARL_SMS_3500_Automation_for_Twin_OES_or_XRF_2_0553f2880b.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ SMS-3500 Automation for Twin OES or XRF - 2.jpg" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_ARL_SMS_3500_Automation_for_Twin_OES_or_XRF_2_0553f2880b.jpg 217w," sizes="100vw" width="650" height="469"><h3>✅ Main Features</h3><ul><li>No need for time-consuming electro-mechanical transfer systems – the SMS-3500 robot moves samples between components within seconds</li><li>Simplified operation and reduced system complexity for easier maintenance and servicing</li><li>Single interface screen for all sample tracking and automation functions</li><li>Unified registration and introduction point for all production samples, with automated routing to the appropriate system components</li><li>Support for two sample preparation machines:<ul><li>Reduces response times</li><li>Increases processing cadence</li><li>Improves automatic sample preparation availability</li></ul></li><li>Operator workload is reduced – the system manages samples by priority and availability of resources<ul><li>Includes internal sample storage to free the introduction point immediately</li></ul></li><li>Each instrument can be used offline for manual tasks without interrupting automated operation</li><li>Uses the same analytical software for XRF and OES</li><li>Automation is based on proven ARL SMS software</li></ul><h3>🔧 Recommended for:</h3><ul><li>Iron and steel applications</li><li>High alloy, stainless steel, copper, brass, and bronze applications</li><li>Aluminum or fire assay applications</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific™ OXSAS™ Optical Emission Analytical Software

Thermo Scientific™ OXSAS™ software for OES enables fast, accurate metals analysis, method and calibration development, automation, and easy batch processing.

Perform rapid high quality metals analyses with a customizable software solution for optical emission spectrometers. Flexible and powerful Thermo Scientific™ OXSAS™ Optical Emission Analytical Software runs a variety of analyses, including the development of new analytical methods and calibrations as well as rapid high-quality routine elemental analysis.&nbsp;From simple tasks to complex jobs, the OXSAS software platform can perform many operations in a single click and is designed to evolve to meet your needs throughout your instrument's lifetime.<h3>📋 Template-Driven Analysis</h3><ul><li>Simple, comprehensive analysis of unknown samples.</li><li>Required analytical parameters and results processing details pre-defined in the routine analysis shortcut.</li><li>One click creation of a batch with all samples requiring analysis.</li><li>Automatic Method Choice selects the best analytical parameters set without user intervention.</li></ul><h3>⚙️ Fast Calibration</h3><ul><li>Multiple analyte curve display, instant base curve calculation, templates for editing and measuring of calibration standards.</li><li>Calibration curve determination using multi-variable regression with additive and multiplicative correction models.</li></ul><h3>🖥️ Familiar User Interface</h3><ul><li>Comprehensive post-treatment of results, including export and Microsoft™ Excel support.</li><li>Integrated Microsoft SQL Server Express relational database stores setup and analyses data.</li><li>Export and import facilities allow calibration standards, methods or grades to be easily transferred between instruments.</li><li>Full network and serial transmission capabilities.</li><li>Common software platform with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=WDXRF">WDXRF Thermo Scientific series</a> instrument range.</li><li>Supports Thermo Scientific SMS system for full automation of sample analysis.</li><li>Monitoring and maintenance tools to maximize uptime.</li><li>Measurement Uncertainty and Conformance Probability on unknown samples analysis.</li><li>SCT Manager: status and history overview of instrument and method analytical capability.</li><li>Comprehensive, on-line contextual Help.</li><li>Real, on-line integrated SPC.</li><li>Key to Metals: comprehensive steel and nonferrous metals database with cross-reference.</li></ul><h3>🔌Instrument Compatibility</h3>Supports the Spark option of the:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1977">Thermo Scientific™ ARL iSpark™ Plus</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1213">ARL iSpark™</a></li><li>Thermo Scientific™ ARL 4460™ Optical Emission Spectrometer</li></ul>Allows complex calculations such as:<ul><li>element soluble/insoluble</li><li>element inclusions (number, size and chemical composition)</li><li>with no additional analysis time</li></ul><h3>🧩 Options for OXSAS Software</h3><ul><li>Charge correction: calculates material weights to correct out-of-spec charges.</li><li>SPC-Full: full graphical extension for on-line Statistical Process Control.</li><li>ARLcom: result transmission over network or serial via TCP/IP or to files/printers.</li><li>Remote Sample Definition: sample registration from external applications anywhere on the network.</li></ul><h3>✅ Compatible with:</h3><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1977">ARL iSpark Plus Optical Emission Spectrometer</a></li><li>ARL iSpark Plus Fire Assay Analyzer</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1213">ARL iSpark Optical Emission Spectrometer</a></li><li>ARL 4460 Optical Emission Spectrometer</li><li>Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ Fire Assay Analyzer</li></ul>

Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ iSpark Plus Fire Assay Analyzer

Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ iSpark Plus Fire Assay Analyzer – fast and accurate spark-OES system for direct precious metals analysis in lead buttons without cupellation.

<h4>Efficient and Clean Alternative to Traditional Fire Assay</h4>Traditional fire assay analysis is labor-intensive, expensive and environmentally harmful. The Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ iSpark Plus Fire Assay Analyzer provides a simple and clean alternative to traditional cupellation and analysis stages by using spark optical emission spectrometry (OES) to determine precious metal concentrations directly in lead buttons.With this system, you can achieve simultaneous quantitative determination of all precious metals in fire assay lead buttons in less than a minute. The ARL iSpark Plus is a high-end spark OES spectrometer specially optimized for lead button analysis.<h3>Applications and Detection Capabilities</h3>The analyzer is ideal for various types of samples in:<ul><li>Gold and platinum mining (plant control, exploration, metal accounting)</li><li>Precious metals refining and recycling</li><li>Contract laboratories</li></ul>Thanks to:<ul><li>1-meter focal length Paschen-Runge optics</li><li>High-performance photomultiplier tubes (PMTs)</li><li>Advanced signal processing technologies</li></ul>…it offers excellent detection limits for trace levels of gold, silver, and platinum group elements in lead buttons.<h4>Key Benefits and Technical Highlights</h4><ul><li>Unmatched hardware for long-term stability and reliability</li><li>Exceptional performance in detection limits, precision, accuracy and speed</li><li>Minimal training required for operators</li><li>Automation-ready: streamlined sample prep and high throughput</li><li>Factory-calibrated for fast commissioning</li><li>Compatible with automated fire assay labs</li></ul><h4>Advanced Technology Inside</h4><ul><li>Current Controlled Source (CCS): Flexible spark discharge control for high sensitivity, reproducibility and small sample geometry</li><li>Time Resolved Spectroscopy (TRS): Signal acquisition at optimal timing for improved sensitivity and precision</li><li>1-meter Paschen-Runge vacuum polychromator for excellent resolution</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2028">Thermo Scientific™ OXSAS™ software</a>: Powerful and intuitive interface</li><li>Temperature-controlled cast iron cabinet: ±0.1°C at 38 °C</li><li>Argon-flushed, water-cooled table with closed-loop coolant system</li></ul>

Products from category OES distributed by Thermo Fisher Scientific (EMEA) - page 1

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