Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 25th May 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 application notes by Agilent Technologies, Shimadzu &nbsp;and Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Analysis of Soil and Sediments by ICP-MS with Advanced Sample Introduction Tools</h3>Simplified sample preparation enabled by the Agilent Mira Mist Nebulizer and an In-Line Particle Filter<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_enviro_soil_sample_prep_9500_icp_qqq_5994_9126en_agilent_8299f007e9.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>ICP-MS is widely employed for monitoring inorganic elements in soil and sediments, with established methods such as US EPA 6020B providing a validated framework for the accurate, multi‑element analysis of environmental samples.1 In a separate study, we demonstrated the outstanding performance capabilities of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500">Agilent 9500 Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS</a> (ICP-QQQ) in compliance with EPA 6020B requirements.2 The instrument, which includes the Ultra High Matrix Introduction (UHMI) system for enhanced plasma stability and robustness, employed Advanced Helium Mode (AHM) and Air cell mode to achieve lower limits of detection (LODs) compared to conventional cell gas approaches.3,4The two collision/reaction cell (CRC) modes of operation were enabled by the Agilent Dual-Cell System (DCS) —a unique CRC that provides the following performance advantages when operated in AHM and Air cell mode: – AHM – This innovative He-based gas collision-cell mode significantly enhances sensitivity for low-mass analytes while providing robust interference removal across the entire mass range. – This single gas mode eliminates the need for multiple modes, replacing no gas, conventional He, and high energy (HE) He mode. – Air cell mode – Using oxygen (O2 ) from air and an integrated air filter for the 9500 ICP-QQQ, Air cell mode leverages reactions between O2 and analytes to improve detection limits (DLs) for oxygen-reactive species. – Air cell mode effectively eliminates interferences, including M++ that are challenging to resolve using He-based gas methods.5 – With an unlimited supply of O2 in air, Air cell mode eliminates the need for O2 gas cylinders, reducing operating costs and simplifying workflows.Of all the ICP-MS nebulizers, the Agilent Mira Mist nebulizer offers the best resistance to concentrated acids and organic solvents. Its parallel path design ensures good tolerance to high levels of particulates and total dissolved solids (TDS), providing excellent resistance to clogging. In this study, the 9500 ICP-QQQ equipped with an in-line particle filter and Mira Mist nebulizer was used to determine trace and major elements in five environmental certified reference materials (CRMs) and a real sediment sample. The performance of the method was evaluated according to criteria set out in EPA Method 6020B.<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4><h5>Instrumentation&nbsp;</h5>All measurements were performed using an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500">Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ</a> that includes the following standard components: nickel (Ni) interface cones and newly designed DCS cell. The design features and functionality of the 9500 and DCS are explained elsewhere.3,4 The 9500 was also equipped with the optional Agilent Advanced Valve System (AVS&nbsp;MS) discrete sampling system for improved productivity. The AVS&nbsp;MS system’s high-speed piston pump works seamlessly with the Agilent SPS 4 and SPS&nbsp;6 autosamplers for sample delivery, ensuring the high sample throughput necessary to meet the operational needs of most environmental testing laboratories.To optimize signal stability with the Mira Mist nebulizer, the nebulizer pump speed was adjusted and a makeup gas was introduced (Table 1). In the 9500 ICP-QQQ, both the makeup gas and dilution gas can be added, enabling finer control of the plasma gas flow rates to optimize signal %RSD within the target sensitivity zone. The lens parameters were set automatically using the Autotune function in the software. The in-line filter’s internal volume is sufficiently small that its presence does not influence AVS MS sample introduction timing or method parameters. As a result, the same settings were used with and without the filter installed (Table 2).<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>In this study, sediment samples were analyzed in accordance with EPA Method 6020B using the Agilent 9500 ICP‑QQQ with UHMI and the optional AVS MS. The system was equipped with advanced sample introduction components, including the Mira Mist nebulizer and an in‑line particle filter.&nbsp;The combination of the Mira Mist nebulizer and in-line filter enabled the analysis of sediment digests without a dedicated filtration step, reducing sample preparation time and consumable costs. At the same time, the configuration minimized the risk of sample introduction blockages, supporting robust and reliable long-term ICP-QQQ operation for complex environmental matrices.Overall, the 9500 ICP-QQQ with the Mira Mist nebulizer and the in-line particle filter achieved excellent analytical data:&nbsp;<ul><li>Low detection limits in the low ng/L (ppt) range for most analytes&nbsp;</li><li>The same or similar washout efficiency of sticky elements as a standard sample introduction configuration&nbsp;</li><li>The same sample introduction timing, regardless of whether the filter was installed or not&nbsp;</li><li>Method robustness and reproducibility over more than eight hours of continuous measurements, as demonstrated by the recoveries of ISTDs and CCVs within the limits specified in EPA Method 6020B&nbsp;</li><li>Recoveries of all certified elements in the five environmental CRMs, matrix spike sample, and spiked real sediment sample within ±10%, confirming the effective control of interferences using AHM and Air cell mode&nbsp;</li></ul>The study has highlighted how the 9500 ICP-QQQ with the Mira Mist nebulizer and in‑line particle filter enhances sample preparation efficiency and analytical performance for the analysis of complex sediment digests.<h3>2. Shimadzu: Analysis of Inorganic Elements in Urine Using EDXRF</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01007_en_c3bd71bbb3.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>Inorganic elements in urine can be quantified at the ppm level without any complicated sample pretreatment.</li><li>Qual-quantitative analysis is possible using the FP (Fundamental Parameter) method, which does not require standards.</li><li>Qual-quantitative results are obtained within 10 minutes per sample.</li></ul>Inorganic element poisoning, including heavy metals, is caused by accidents or criminal incidents, and the causative elements are diverse. Although some of these elements are highly toxic, there are cases in which it is difficult to distinguish them at an early stage because they lack specific symptoms of poisoning. Therefore, analytical methods for rapid screening of these elements are required in forensic research.&nbsp;Inorganic elements are generally analyzed by ICP-AES or ICP-MS. Although these techniques allow trace-level quantitation, they require chemical pretreatment such as dilution and deproteinization, and the samples are limited to liquid specimens. In contrast, energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (EDXRF - <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=EDX-7200">EDX-7200</a>) offers sufficient sensitivity in the concentration range associated with poisoning and enables simple, non-destructive analysis in a short time.&nbsp;This application describesthe results of quantitative analysis of 15 elements in urine by the calibration curve method, and qualquantitative analysis by the FP (Fundamental Parameter) method based on sensitivity coefficients installed in the instrument. The errors in the quantitative values obtained by the FP-based qualquantitative analysis method were approximately ±20 %, indicating that sufficient quantitative accuracy was achieved. Screening can be performed within 10 minutes persample.<h4>Conclusion</h4>The FP method demonstrated high accuracy for quantitation without calibration curves. Furthermore, urine samples do not require complicated pretreatment such as protein removal, and the analysis time is as short as approximately 10 minutes per sample. This method is well suited for poisoning screening in forensic research.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Analysis of copper alloys with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1978">ARL X900 XRF Spectrometer</a></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/analysis_of_copper_alloys_arl_9900_an41427_203b52e126.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>Copper alloys&nbsp;</h4>are very important products because they are used for many applications and many manufacturing processes as described in the next few paragraphs. It is important to accurately analyze these materials to confirm compliance of their chemical specifications that imply physical properties, like conductivity, compressive strength, hardness, resistance to traction and to abrasion. High product quality and efficient production can be ensured with accurate analysis results. Copper alloys Pure copper is mixed with other elements to produce a wide range of alloys: Brasses (Cu-Zn), bronzes (Cu-Sn), gun metal (Cu-Sn-Zn) used for casting due to its excellent fluidity, for valves, taps and water fittings. Manganese bronzes (Cu-Zn-Mn) are not true bronzes as Sn is not the essential constituent. Used for rudders, propellers, and ship fittings. Cupro-nickel (Cu-Ni) used for coins, tubes, wires, electrical resistances, and thermocouples. Nickel silver (Cu-Ni-Zn) used for marine applications, car radiators and fittings.&nbsp;<h4>Brass&nbsp;</h4>One of the most important non-ferrous engineering alloys. It covers a large range of physical properties with multiple applications. Copper can hold about 39% of zinc in solid solution. Alloys containing less than 39% Zn are known as α-brasses. This brass (70/30) is very widely employed for cartridge, cases, condenser tubes, etc. From 39% to 46% of Zn, a β-solid solution gives αβ-brass. This alloy (60/40) is found in extensive engineering applications with enhanced corrosion resistance used in marine applications. Alloys containing more than 49% Zn are very hard and only used for brazing brasses.<h4>Instrument parameters and conditions&nbsp;</h4>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1978">ARL X900 XRF Spectrometer</a> can accommodate up to 24 fixed monochromator channels alongside the goniometer or up to 32 fixed monochromator channels when no goniometer is fitted. New high counting fixed channel monochromators using an SCX detector are available to further improve the precision of analysis, especially for elements like Cu, Zn and Ni.Our unique proprietary Moiré fringe goniometer ensures speed, flexibility and reliability of analysis thanks to the clever frictionfree positioning system. Up to nine crystals and four collimators can be fitted. With the two detectors (flow proportional and scintillation counters), precise elemental analysis from Boron to Californium is possible.&nbsp;The ARL X900 XRF spectrometer can be calibrated using commercially available certified reference materials (CRM) or well analyzed samples from the user. Calibrations can be delivered from the factory, hence reducing the commissioning time at the customer’s site.&nbsp;It should be stressed that an XRF spectrometer is a very accurate comparator, but the accuracy of the final analysis is entirely dependent on the quality of the standards used for calibration and on the care and reproducibility of sample preparation which must be identical for CRMs and for routine samples as well.This application note only includes data obtained mostly on fixed channels and on some goniometer channels. For more results using goniometer channels please refer to AN41426.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Analysis of all sorts of copper alloys can be performed with ease using the ARL X900 Simultaneous-Sequential XRF Spectrometer. The performance of the Moiré fringe goniometer is such that it can be used for analysis of any elements that are not fitted as fixed channels. The analysis on the goniometer is done while the fixed channels are measuring. In addition, it can be used as a backup in case of failure of any of the fixed channels.&nbsp;Appropriate calibrations for copper alloys can be delivered turnkey from the Thermo Fisher Scientific factory. In this case the commissioning time of the spectrometer is reduced to a minimum.&nbsp;The precision is excellent in these matrix types for routine or R&amp;D analysis, especially when the new high counting fixed channel monochromator is used for elements like Cu, Zn, and Ni.&nbsp;Furthermore, operation is made easy through the innovative <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2029">Thermo Scientific™ OXSAS™ Software</a> that operates with the latest Microsoft Windows® package.&nbsp;Thermo Fisher Scientific’s long experience in metals analysis comes from an installed base of over 2,000 XRF spectrometers worldwide. The ARL X900 spectrometer is the answer to your metallurgical analysis needs, whether they involve incoming material control, metal QC, or production analysis. Working 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, the ARL X900 spectrometer delivers dependable performance year after year. The high performance of the ARL X900 XRF Spectrometer will meet your analytical needs today and in the future

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 22, 2026

In various debates,&nbsp;Aristotle, Leonardo da Vinci, and Leibniz are often described as the last men who mastered all the knowledge of their time. Today, however, we are confronted with such an overwhelming amount of information that it is no longer within the power of a single person to&nbsp;comprehend&nbsp;it all. As society develops, we naturally lose comprehensive&nbsp;expertise&nbsp;within individual disciplines.There is simply too much information for everyone to know everything. Likewise, we have inevitably reached a point where it is impossible for every scientist to&nbsp;fully&nbsp;understand and master all scientific approaches and methods used&nbsp;in a given&nbsp;field. And this is precisely where some of the errors in scientific literature originate.<h4>X-ray&nbsp;Photoelectron&nbsp;Spectroscopy (XPS) as a Case Study</h4>To illustrate this phenomenon, let us focus on a method commonly used in materials science: X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). XPS is a technique that provides information about the chemical composition of samples, including the chemical states in which individual atoms are found. Simply put, it tells us which elements are present in a sample and how they are chemically bonded to one another.The method is based on the internal photoelectric effect, in which electrons are emitted from atoms&nbsp;as a result of&nbsp;absorbing X-ray photons. From the measured kinetic energy of the emitted electrons and the known energy of the photons, we can&nbsp;determine&nbsp;the binding energy of the electrons in the atoms. This binding energy is characteristic of each element and shifts slightly depending on how the atom is bonded to its surroundings. In the measured spectrum, each chemical state corresponds to a peak at a specific energy. For example, if we analyse PET polymer chains using XPS, we discover not only that carbon and oxygen are present in the sample, but also that there are two types of oxygen atoms in a 1:1 ratio and three types of carbon atoms in a 1:1:3 ratio. Based on known information about the energies of individual bonds, we then assign the observed peaks to the bonds present in PET.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Jakub_Rozboud_Vice_dat_mene_pochopeni_pripadova_studie_XPS_2_37d42e7fa2.jpeg" alt="CEITEC/Jan Čechal: More Data, Less Understanding: An XPS Case Study: X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) at CEITEC BUT." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Jakub_Rozboud_Vice_dat_mene_pochopeni_pripadova_studie_XPS_2_37d42e7fa2.jpeg 208w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1200"><h4>The Majority of Spectra Is Misinterpreted</h4>XPS is a widely used method that, especially when combined with other surface analysis techniques, provides highly valuable data about sample composition. Today, XPS spectrometers are standard equipment wherever materials research is conducted. After brief training, most users&nbsp;can&nbsp;operate&nbsp;the spectrometers and&nbsp;measure&nbsp;their own spectra. So,&nbsp;where is the problem?In 2020, a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.aip.org/avs/jva/article/38/6/061204/1023649/Assessment-of-the-frequency-and-nature-of">study</a>&nbsp;was published showing that approximately 60% of XPS spectra in scientific journals were interpreted incorrectly, or at least, questionably. The conclusions were based on the examination and evaluation of XPS analyses published over a six-month period in 2019 across three different journals. The first had a narrow disciplinary focus (IF 25), the second focused on&nbsp;materials&nbsp;surface analysis, and the third was a general scientific journal&nbsp;containing&nbsp;a large number of&nbsp;publications in materials science. The results were alarming: on average, 60% of the spectra had been interpreted incorrectly.<h4>Modeling the Spectra, i.e. Fitting, Increased the Error Rate</h4>When only the measured spectra were published and conclusions were drawn directly from them, the situation was&nbsp;not quite so&nbsp;severe. However, this changed dramatically once spectral&nbsp;modelling&nbsp;(so-called fitting) was used. Through fitting, we&nbsp;attempt&nbsp;to obtain more detailed information when spectral peaks have complex shapes caused by the presence of multiple chemical states for each element. Here, the error rate reached 80%.&nbsp;Roughly 40%&nbsp;of these were&nbsp;very serious&nbsp;errors that&nbsp;essentially invalidated&nbsp;the conclusions of the published XPS analyses. And we are talking about respectable scientific journals. Sixty percent incorrectly interpreted XPS measurements is not a negligible problem.In response to this study, my colleagues and I prepared&nbsp;a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.aip.org/avs/jva/article/41/3/038501/2888098/Perspective-on-improving-the-quality-of-surface">publication</a>&nbsp;examining the future of science&nbsp;in light of&nbsp;these findings, the causes of the current situation, and&nbsp;possible ways&nbsp;to remedy it.&nbsp;A deeper examination of incorrectly interpreted spectra quite clearly shows that most of the mistakes could have been easily avoided.&nbsp;In essence, only&nbsp;a basic understanding of&nbsp;XPS’s fundamental principles&nbsp;was missing. Spectral modelling reflects the process of photoemission&nbsp;and thus&nbsp;must follow its physical principles. Many spectral interpretations contradict quantum mechanics (and some authors even acknowledge this themselves in their papers), while others are simply inconsistent. In many cases, the process resembles drawing curves&nbsp;like&nbsp;those seen in the literature,&nbsp;rather than a well-founded interpretation of measured data.&nbsp;<h4>The Invention of New Errors</h4>So&nbsp;is the problem simply that mistakes spread from one publication to another? Initially, we thought so. However, a&nbsp;subsequent&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.aip.org/avs/jva/article/42/6/063213/3322271/Following-the-propagation-of-erroneous-x-ray?guestAccessKey=">study</a>&nbsp;showed otherwise. In incorrectly interpreted analyses that cited&nbsp;a single&nbsp;prominent example, the&nbsp;problem&nbsp;was usually not the&nbsp;reproduction&nbsp;of specific mistakes, but the invention of entirely new ones.&nbsp;Essentially, the&nbsp;goal was merely to include a citation from a high-impact&nbsp;journal that appeared to support the claims made in the article. Authors were therefore not copying&nbsp;particular errors, but citing superficially similar work,&nbsp;without understanding the context.Is this a manifestation of the often-discussed crisis of science? Not yet. We are still in a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.aip.org/avs/jva/article/41/3/038501/2888098/Perspective-on-improving-the-quality-of-surface">pre-crisis stage</a>. We could speak of a true crisis, were&nbsp;the entire body of scientific literature&nbsp;to&nbsp;become worthless because we were&nbsp;no longer able to&nbsp;determine&nbsp;what is true and what is not. We are not there yet. However, the results of the&nbsp;above-mentioned&nbsp;studies&nbsp;1suggest that we are heading in that direction.Everything begins with scientists themselves. To avoid such a crisis, efforts must be made on many fronts. In the past, XPS analysis was the domain of specialists. Today, however, it is used by scientists and students from many&nbsp;different backgrounds, who are often trained only to&nbsp;operate&nbsp;the spectrometer, not to interpret the measured data. For them, it is just one of many methods used to assemble the mosaic of a new publication. But do they have enough time to deeply understand every method they use, when they are expected to publish,&nbsp;and&nbsp;above all, to&nbsp;publish quickly?<h4>Am I Sure that what I write Is True?</h4>We must pay close attention to education: scientists need to be taught how to&nbsp;properly work with XPS data. To this end, we have written a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S266652392300168X?via%3Dihub">summary</a>&nbsp;of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them. But papers alone are not enough. Last year,&nbsp;therefore,&nbsp;I began offering a two-day course at CEITEC BUT, in which I primarily teach the physics and chemistry underlying the method, followed only afterward by mathematical&nbsp;modelling, while also highlighting the most common sources of error. Since we live in a fast-paced world, I also prepared a short&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.24756">text</a>&nbsp;summarizing the basics of XPS in 20 minutes. Because even 20 minutes can prevent most of the fundamental mistakes in spectral interpretation.Unfortunately, this is not just an XPS story. Similar situations may exist in other analytical methods and in other scientific disciplines as well.&nbsp;So&nbsp;what can we do about it? I believe the most&nbsp;important step&nbsp;is a change in mindset. Every (co-)author should honestly ask themselves before&nbsp;submitting&nbsp;a publication&nbsp;–&nbsp;and answer honestly: “Am I sure that what we are writing is true?”<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Jakub_Rozboud_Vice_dat_mene_pochopeni_pripadova_studie_XPS_ecd45c1452.jpg" alt="CEITEC/Jakub Rozboud: More Data, Less Understanding: An XPS Case Study: Jan Čechal, CEITEC Brno University of Technology. " srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Jakub_Rozboud_Vice_dat_mene_pochopeni_pripadova_studie_XPS_ecd45c1452.jpg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1067">

More Data, Less Understanding: An XPS Case Study 

<div><div>Dr. Tomáš Cihlář, Senior Vice President of Research, Virology at Gilead Sciences, and Dr. Jeffrey Birnbaum, an American pediatrician who has long worked with young Americans at risk of HIV infection or living with the virus, visited IOCB Prague for a joint lecture. The event focused on the future of long-acting HIV prevention and treatment.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Tomas_Bellon_Od_kazdodennich_pilulek_k_jedne_injekci_rocne_UOCHB_navstivili_prukopnici_prevence_HIV_f5ca13985a.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague/Tomáš Belloň: From daily pills to one injection a year. HIV prevention pioneers visit IOCB Prague: Dr. Tomáš Cihlář, Gilead Sciences" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Tomas_Bellon_Od_kazdodennich_pilulek_k_jedne_injekci_rocne_UOCHB_navstivili_prukopnici_prevence_HIV_f5ca13985a.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1333"></div></div><div>Modern HIV treatment is shifting from daily medication to long-acting prevention. This was the central theme of the joint lecture titled <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.uochb.cz/en/event-calendar/372/joint-lecture-tomas-cihlar-jeffrey-birnbaum">HIV Treatment – From Bench to Clinical Practice</a>. “HIV is by no means just a medical problem, but also a social, economic, psychological, and legal one,” said Institute Director Prof. Jan Konvalinka in his opening remarks.In 2022, Gilead Sciences’ drug lenacapavir was launched on the U.S. market. The company has a long-standing collaboration with OICB Prague, for example on tenofovir – a substance that became the basis for modern HIV drugs.“During the development of lenacapavir, we broke all the rules we’re supposed to follow when searching for new drugs,” said Dr. Tomáš Cihlář in his lecture, describing the creation of the drug that targets the virus’s protein envelope. Today, it is used not only for treatment but also for preventing infection. Its development took several decades. “Around 2010, we even wanted to give up, but then a new candidate molecule emerged,” concluded Tomáš Cihlář, recounting the story of the drug’s development.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Tomas_Bellon_Od_kazdodennich_pilulek_k_jedne_injekci_rocne_UOCHB_navstivili_prukopnici_prevence_HIV_2_4e1804920e.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague/Tomáš Belloň: From daily pills to one injection a year. HIV prevention pioneers visit IOCB Prague: Jeffrey Birnbaum, M.D., MPH, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, NY, USA" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Tomas_Bellon_Od_kazdodennich_pilulek_k_jedne_injekci_rocne_UOCHB_navstivili_prukopnici_prevence_HIV_2_4e1804920e.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1333">The FDA and the European Commission approved the preventive use of lenacapavir in 2025, but research continues. The ongoing international clinical trial PURPOSE 365 is investigating whether the drug can be administered just once a year instead of the currently approved two injections.Dr. Jeffrey Birnbaum shared his experiences from daily hospital practice at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University in Brooklyn. In his practice, he primarily sees young people from the transgender community, for whom a long-acting preventive injection is a particularly attractive option. “Patients don’t have to worry that someone will discover their medication. There’s also no risk of forgetting to take it, and they avoid pill fatigue, the long-term psychological exhaustion associated with the need to take medication regularly.”Although lenacapavir represents a significant medical advance, the way the drug reaches people is also crucial. Approximately 400 million people are currently at risk of HIV infection, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Although Gilead Sciences has six manufacturing partners on the African continent, current U.S. government cuts to HIV prevention funding are dramatically affecting the availability of HIV prevention programs.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Tomas_Bellon_Od_kazdodennich_pilulek_k_jedne_injekci_rocne_UOCHB_navstivili_prukopnici_prevence_HIV_3_e7f4f6a043.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague/Tomáš Belloň: From daily pills to one injection a year. HIV prevention pioneers visit IOCB Prague" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Tomas_Bellon_Od_kazdodennich_pilulek_k_jedne_injekci_rocne_UOCHB_navstivili_prukopnici_prevence_HIV_3_e7f4f6a043.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1335"></div>

From daily pills to one injection a year. HIV prevention pioneers visit IOCB Prague

Article

Application

Health

Science and research

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 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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Agilent Technologies

AZoM

Bruker

Spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS), provides a powerful and non-destructive approach for identifying materials without opening packages or containers. However, measurement success depends strongly on sample characteristics, container materials, and testing conditions. This webinar presents an experience-based overview of what SORS-enabled Raman spectroscopy can and cannot reliably measure using the Agilent Vaya Raman spectrometer as a representative platform. We will discuss classes of materials that are Raman-inactive or weak, samples prone to fluorescence or low signal, and common container materials that interfere with or block Raman measurements. Practical guidance will be provided on container thickness, color, and composition, as well as when black shielding or ambient light control is required. The session will help users quickly assess feasibility, set realistic expectations, and determine when Raman—or an alternative technique such as FTIR—is the appropriate analytical choice.<blockquote>Presenter: Yanqia Wang, PhD (Application Engineer, Molecular Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)Dr. Yanqia Wang started working for Agilent Technologies Inc. as a FTIR application Engineer in 2013, providing pre-&amp;post-sale application support. The products he covers from Bench-top FTIR microscopes to various Mobile FTIR spectrometers. Dr. Wang received his PhD of analytical chemistry from Duke University in 2004, doing dynamic IR spectroscopy research. Then he joined Fitzpatrick Center for Photonics at Duke University, doing Tissue Raman spectrometer instrumentation. Since 2007, Dr. Wang worked for Avery Dennison Corp. as a spectroscopist, providing molecular analytical support to the research &amp; development.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Molecular spectroscopy webinars

Seeing Through the Barrier: Practical Limits and Best Practices for Raman Sample, Container, and Test Conditions

Webinar on SORS Raman feasibility with Agilent Vaya. Learn limits, container effects, fluorescence challenges, and when FTIR is the better alternative.

Practical Limits and Best Practices for Raman

The precise and accurate measurement of 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios by quadrupole based ICP-MS presents unique analytical challenges, driven by isobaric interferences, matrix effects, and the need for stable and reproducible operating conditions. &nbsp;Tiple quadrupole ICP-MS (ICP-QQQ) offers effective strategies for addressing these challenges, however method performance is highly dependent on the appropriate selection and optimization of instrumental parameters. &nbsp;In this webinar, we will discuss the practical approaches for simplifying 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratio analysis using the Agilent 8900. &nbsp;The presentation will focus on key method considerations, including reaction cell gas selection, mass‑shift strategies, tuning approaches, and control of instrumental and environmental variables that influence isotopic precision and accuracy. &nbsp;This webinar is intended for users seeking a straightforward, reliable path to high‑quality strontium isotope ratio measurements using Agilent’s 8900 and ICP-QQQ technology.<blockquote>Presenter: Jeff Sayen (ICP-MS Application Scientist)Jeffrey Sayen s an ICP-MS Application Scientist at Agilent Technologies with over 15 years of experience in analytical chemistry. He specializes in atomic spectroscopy techniques, including ICP-MS, ICP-OES, and Flame AA. Jeffrey is passionate about ICP-MS and enjoys delivering product and application overviews at customer sites, seminars, and industry events. Prior to joining Agilent, he held the position of Senior Field Application Scientist at another major instrument manufacturer, where he focused on analytical methodologies across a range of regulated industries. He holds both undergraduate and graduate degrees in Inorganic Chemistry from Michigan State University.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Atomic Spectroscopic webinars

Isotope Ratio made easy: Optimizing Method Conditions in 87Sr/86Sr Ratios with ICP-QQQ

Discover practical ICP-QQQ strategies for accurate 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratio analysis, including reaction gas selection, tuning, and interference control.

Method Conditions in 87Sr/86Sr Ratios with ICP-QQQ

Reliable analytical results depend on robust data validation and quality control practices. This session explores essential QC tools and techniques, including spike recoveries, duplicate analysis, and establishing limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ). We will discuss practical approaches for troubleshooting and improving confidence in your data. Whether you are new to QC or looking to refine your approach, this webinar offers actionable guidance for ensuring data integrity.<blockquote>Presenter: Kristen Pisanko</blockquote>

Data Confidence: QC Strategies for Analytical Success

This session explores essential QC tools and techniques, including spike recoveries, duplicate analysis, and establishing limits of detection and quantification

Advanced methodology for enhancing sample throughput through recent advances in Helium KED mode and complementary interference removal techniques.<blockquote>Presenter: Bert Woods (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)Joined the Agilent ICP-MS team in 2004, with previous employment in the semiconductor industry with Dominion Semiconductor (IBM/Toshiba) and Micron. Bert is a 1997 Chemistry graduate of Radford University in Virginia and an avid Washington DC Sports fan.</blockquote>

Driving higher throughput through innovative QQQ ICP‑MS techniques

Advanced methodology for enhancing sample throughput through recent advances in Helium KED mode and complementary interference removal techniques.

Innovative QQQ ICP‑MS techniques

<h3>Real-Time Process Insights for Oil, Gas, &amp; Future Fuels with Raman Spectroscopy</h3><h4>A 5-Part Webinar Series</h4>As the energy sector shifts toward more complex and dynamic processes, real-time analytics are essential for maintaining control, efficiency, and product quality. This 5-part webinar series explores how process Raman spectroscopy and integrated measurement solutions enable fast, in-line analysis across oil &amp; gas, power generation, and emerging energy applications.<h5>What we'll cover:</h5>Each session highlights practical approaches to improving process visibility, reducing analytical delays, and supporting faster decision-making for:<ul><li>Natural gas</li><li>Refined fuels</li><li>Hydrogen</li><li>Sustainable aviation fuels</li><li>Carbon capture</li><li>Power generation</li><li>Emerging energy applications</li></ul><h5>This Series is Ideal For:</h5>Process, operations, and instrumentation professionals across oil &amp; gas, power generation, and emerging energy sectors, including engineers, plant and refinery managers, and technical specialists involved in process optimization and analytical measurement.<h5>Join the Webinars To:</h5><ul><li>Understand how real-time, in-line analytics improve process control and efficiency</li><li>Learn how process Raman simplifies and accelerates gas and liquid analysis</li><li>Explore alternatives to traditional methods such as gas chromatography</li><li>See how integrated measurement solutions enhance operational visibility</li><li>Gain insight into applications across conventional and next-generation energy systems</li></ul><h4>Webinar 3: Simplifying Real-Time Natural Gas Monitoring with Integrated Process Raman and Flow Measurement</h4>This webinar highlights an integrated solution for natural gas applications combining real-time and in-line process Raman-based compositional analysis with advanced flow measurement and control. The Raman technology delivers precise hydrocarbon and heating value (BTU) measurement, while the flow computer platform enables reliable measurement, monitoring, and remote operational visibility from wellhead to pipeline.With seamless integration, these solutions connect high-quality compositional data with standardized flow measurement to optimize production and support more efficient natural gas operations. As standards continue to mature, this approach also serves as a compelling forward-looking alternative to traditional gas chromatography (GC) for custody transfer, offering reduced operational complexity.<blockquote>Speaker: Ethan Borchelt (Product Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Speaker: Kathy Rosalina (Field Applications Scientist, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</blockquote>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Real-Time Process Insights for Oil, Gas, & Future Fuels with Raman Spectroscopy

Simplifying Real-Time Natural Gas Monitoring with Integrated Process Raman and Flow Measurement

how integrated Raman gas analysis and flow measurement simplify natural gas monitoring and support efficient pipeline operations.

Natural Gas Monitoring with Integrated Process Raman

<h3>Real-Time Process Insights for Oil, Gas, &amp; Future Fuels with Raman Spectroscopy</h3><h4>A 5-Part Webinar Series</h4>As the energy sector shifts toward more complex and dynamic processes, real-time analytics are essential for maintaining control, efficiency, and product quality. This 5-part webinar series explores how process Raman spectroscopy and integrated measurement solutions enable fast, in-line analysis across oil &amp; gas, power generation, and emerging energy applications.<h5>What we'll cover:</h5>Each session highlights practical approaches to improving process visibility, reducing analytical delays, and supporting faster decision-making for:<ul><li>Natural gas</li><li>Refined fuels</li><li>Hydrogen</li><li>Sustainable aviation fuels</li><li>Carbon capture</li><li>Power generation</li><li>Emerging energy applications</li></ul><h5>This Series is Ideal For:</h5>Process, operations, and instrumentation professionals across oil &amp; gas, power generation, and emerging energy sectors, including engineers, plant and refinery managers, and technical specialists involved in process optimization and analytical measurement.<h5>Join the Webinars To:</h5><ul><li>Understand how real-time, in-line analytics improve process control and efficiency</li><li>Learn how process Raman simplifies and accelerates gas and liquid analysis</li><li>Explore alternatives to traditional methods such as gas chromatography</li><li>See how integrated measurement solutions enhance operational visibility</li><li>Gain insight into applications across conventional and next-generation energy systems</li></ul><h4>Webinar 4: Direct In-Line Fuel &amp; Lubricant Quality Monitoring with Process Raman</h4>Ensuring refined fuels and lubricants stay on spec is critical - and direct in-line measurement provides the confidence needed to maintain control throughout production. This webinar explores how a Process Raman Analyzer enables true direct in-line measurement of refined fuels and related products, including diesel, gasoline, jet fuel, and lubricants.We’ll share real-world examples of monitoring essential properties such as API gravity, RON, RVP, cetane, and flash point - all aligned with ASTM methods. Unlike other technologies, Process Raman requires no sample conditioning system and eliminates consumables or carrier gases, reducing complexity and costs while delivering continuous, non-destructive analysis.With its small footprint and hazardous-location rating, Process Raman integrates seamlessly into production environments - providing operators with peace of mind through reliable, uninterrupted monitoring and immediate detection of deviations. The result: tighter process control, consistent product quality, and lower operating costs.<h5>Process Raman Enables:</h5><ul><li>Immediate detection of deviations for faster corrective action</li><li>Lower maintenance and operating costs</li><li>A streamlined path to compliance and consistent quality</li></ul><blockquote>Speaker: Janam Pandya (Product Manager - Measurement Control and Sample Identification, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Speaker: Tom Dearing (Product Manager for Chemometrics, NIR, and Gas Analysis, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</blockquote>

Direct In-Line Fuel & Lubricant Quality Monitoring with Process Raman

Discover how Process Raman analyzers support real-time fuel and lubricant quality monitoring with direct in-line analysis and reduced operational complexity.

Direct In-Line Fuel & Lubricant Process Raman Monitoring

<h3>Real-Time Process Insights for Oil, Gas, &amp; Future Fuels with Raman Spectroscopy</h3><h4>A 5-Part Webinar Series</h4>As the energy sector shifts toward more complex and dynamic processes, real-time analytics are essential for maintaining control, efficiency, and product quality. This 5-part webinar series explores how process Raman spectroscopy and integrated measurement solutions enable fast, in-line analysis across oil &amp; gas, power generation, and emerging energy applications.<h5>What we'll cover:</h5>Each session highlights practical approaches to improving process visibility, reducing analytical delays, and supporting faster decision-making for:<ul><li>Natural gas</li><li>Refined fuels</li><li>Hydrogen</li><li>Sustainable aviation fuels</li><li>Carbon capture</li><li>Power generation</li><li>Emerging energy applications</li></ul><h5>This Series is Ideal For:</h5>Process, operations, and instrumentation professionals across oil &amp; gas, power generation, and emerging energy sectors, including engineers, plant and refinery managers, and technical specialists involved in process optimization and analytical measurement.<h5>Join the Webinars To:</h5><ul><li>Understand how real-time, in-line analytics improve process control and efficiency</li><li>Learn how process Raman simplifies and accelerates gas and liquid analysis</li><li>Explore alternatives to traditional methods such as gas chromatography</li><li>See how integrated measurement solutions enhance operational visibility</li><li>Gain insight into applications across conventional and next-generation energy systems</li></ul><h4>Webinar 5: Optimizing Future Fuel Processes with Process Raman Spectroscopy: Applications in Hydrogen, Sustainable Aviation Fuels &amp; Carbon Capture</h4>The global transition to future fuels, such as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), hydrogen, and carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), is reshaping how energy and chemicals are produced, monitored, and controlled. Real-time analytical technologies are becoming critical to ensure process efficiency, product quality, and regulatory compliance across these emerging applications. Process Raman spectroscopy enables in-line, non-destructive measurement of complex chemical systems with minimal sample preparation.By delivering rapid, data-rich measurements from a single scan, process Raman allows simultaneous quantification of multiple components in gases, liquids, and heterogeneous systems. This reduces reliance on slow, offline techniques and enables tighter process control and faster decision-making. The technology combines robust probe design, flexible sampling configurations, and seamless integration into industrial control systems. Its compact, field-deployable design allows deployment at multiple points from pilot to full-scale production.This webinar will discuss the application of process Raman spectroscopy in real-time monitoring of SAF production, hydrogen isomer conversations and CCUS applications.<blockquote>Speaker: Linxi Chen (Field Application Scientist, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</blockquote>

Optimizing Future Fuel Processes with Process Raman Spectroscopy: Applications in Hydrogen, Sustainable Aviation Fuels & Carbon Capture

Join this webinar to discover how process Raman spectroscopy enables real-time analysis and process control for SAF, hydrogen, and CCUS applications.

Process Raman in Hydrogen, Sustainable Aviation Fuels

With our eyes, we see the world in visible light. Although visible light makes up only a small part of the radiation spectrum, the invisible light covers most of the remaining spectral range. The radiation of invisible light carries much more additional information. Emissivity is a key factor for the accurate measurement of temperatures. It depends on various influences and must be adjusted according to the application.The webinar will provide you with insights into non-contact temperature measurement technology using infrared and its fields of application. Temperature is the key variable for determining process steps and ensuring quality characteristics. Non-contact temperature detection means very fast response times without interfering with the process itself.Join the free webinar with certification of attendance now. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h4>Attend the Webinar to Learn:</h4><ul><li>More about the physical laws and different infrared measuring systems</li><li>Why emissivity settings are a key factor for the accurate measurement of temperatures</li><li>How to reduce errors in the IR measurement process.</li></ul><blockquote>Speaker: Ingo Stahlkopf (Head of Sales, Optris GmbH &amp; Co. KG)Ingo Stahlkopf, Head of Sales, Optris GmbH Ingo dived into the world of non-contact temperature measurement in 2014. Before that he started his career in 2008 as product manager of a battery manufacturer straight after his studies in economics and engineering at the University of applied science in Berlin, Germany. The main topics in this position were technical part in for large scaled backup solutions in international projects, mainly in the energy sector. At Optris he was active for 4 years as regional sales manager before, in 2018, he became in charge of the sales team and its activities as the head of sales at Optris.Speaker: Torsten Czech (Head of Marketing, Optris GmbH &amp; Co. KG)Torsten Czech, Head of Marketing, Optris GmbH Torsten was studying electrical engineering in Berlin and is working since more than 28 years now in the infrared technology business. After some years in different sales positions he was active as Product manager for infrared thermometers and cameras before he became Head of Marketing at Optris in 2019.&nbsp;</blockquote>

AZOM: Infrared Measurement – Basic Principles

Infrared Measurement – Basic Principles

Join our free webinar on non-contact infrared temperature measurement. Learn about IR measuring systems, emissivity settings, and how to reduce process errors

<h4>Intro</h4>Regulatory guidance increasingly emphasizes analytical procedure understanding, performance‑based validation, and life‑cycle management. At the same time, growing drug‑modality complexity makes determining whether a method is truly fit‑for‑purpose more challenging. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy stands out as an analytical technology, providing direct, absolute structural and quantitative information grounded in well‑defined physical principles. This supports enhanced analytical procedure life‑cycle management while offering the flexibility and robustness required by modern quality control concepts. Applied across the pharmaceutical industry, NMR addresses diverse analytical objectives and is particularly effective for polysaccharide analysis, enabling identity testing, impurity profiling, and linkage‑specific quantification from a single experiment, without derivatization or separation.<h4>Webinar Overview</h4>In this webinar, we examine how Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy supports analytically sound, fit‑for‑purpose methods across the pharmaceutical product life cycle, in line with evolving regulatory expectations for analytical procedure understanding. We highlight representative NMR applications ranging from early candidate screening and structure-activity relationship studies to data‑driven process understanding, optimization, and routine use from R&amp;D through Quality Control.A focused case study addresses the analytically challenging quantification of the α‑1,6 branching ratio in maltodextrin. Using an 80 MHz benchtop ¹H NMR spectrometer and a disaccharide model system, we illustrate how acquisition strategy, solvent suppression, and analysis mode directly impact method performance. Multiple analytical procedure performance assessment frameworks are applied and compared, demonstrating how framework selection influences fitness‑for‑purpose conclusions and supports informed, risk‑based development decisions in this analytically challenging case.<h4>What to Expect</h4>Discover how NMR is applied across pharmaceutical development and quality control to address complex analytical questions. Understand when and how NMR methods can be considered fit‑for‑purpose in practice. Gain a practical understanding of how to evaluate analytical performance using different assessment frameworks, and see how benchtop NMR can be used to tackle challenging quantitative applications under realistic, application‑driven conditions.<h4>Key Learning Points</h4><ul><li>NMR support of analytically justified methods across pharmaceutical R&amp;D and Quality Control.</li><li>Practical evaluation of analytical procedure performance using complementary assessment frameworks.</li><li>Real‑world example of quantitative polysaccharide analytical procedure development and assessments using benchtop NMR.</li></ul><h4>Who Should Attend?</h4><ul><li>Innovation leaders, scientific directors, analytical science experts, and QC laboratory managers exploring robust analytical technologies to address complex analytical challenges and support evolving regulatory expectations.</li><li>Analytical scientists involved in CMC, R&amp;D, or QC procedure development and implementation who want to better understand how NMR can be applied and assessed to support fit‑for‑purpose methods across the product life cycle.</li><li>Regulatory and compliance professionals seeking practical insight into the application of modern analytical technologies, in the context of method performance evaluation and life‑cycle management.</li></ul><blockquote>Speaker: Christina Szabo, Ph.D. (Founder, Szabo Scientific Consulting LLC)Christina Szabo is a scientific and analytical leader with broad experience in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries and expertise in NMR applications. She most recently served as Associate Director of Analytical Chemistry and Stability in R&amp;D, where she led global teams supporting analytical chemistry, stability, mass spectrometry, extractables and leachables, elemental impurities, and related analytical strategies for healthcare products. Earlier in her career, she led advanced analytical capabilities in a centralized organization, with extensive application of NMR to complex analytical and investigational challenges. She earned her Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, following earlier research in marine natural products chemistry at the University of Hawaii. She is a long-standing expert volunteer with the United States Pharmacopeia and currently serves on the Non-Botanical Dietary Supplements Expert Committee and is Chair of the Modern Analytical Methods Joint Subcommittee.</blockquote>

Bruker: Fit-for-Purpose Analytical Method? - Insights from NMR Case Studies

How to Know When an Analytical Method is Fit-for-Purpose - Insights from NMR Case Studies

Discover NMR spectroscopy in pharma life-cycle management. Learn to evaluate method performance and fit-for-purpose frameworks using benchtop NMR case studies

When is an Analytical Method Fit-for-Purpose? NMR Insights

Explore Plant Cells and ProcessesDuring this webinar, Dr. Bovio, from the Plant Reproduction and Development Laboratory at ENS, will speak on using AFM to assess turgor pressure in plants at the single-cell level.Prof. Yakubov, from the School of Food Science and Nutrition, will discuss the BioFluidic Microscope (BFM), an integrated platform that combines confocal imaging with atomic force and nanofluidic functionality to explore biological and bioinspired systems in five dimensions. Join this webinar to hear more about:<ul><li>Advanced, innovative approaches for investigating plant biology</li><li>How BioAFM enables the non-destructive study of living plant cells under near-native conditions</li><li>Novel insights into plant physiology at the intersection of physics and biology</li></ul><h4>Webinar Summary</h4>Dr. Simoné Bovio, RDP laboratory and PLATIM-LyMIC imaging platform, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Lyon, France, will speak on the Measurement of Plant Cells Turgor Pressure by AFM Indentation:Plants cells can be imagined as balloons under pressure. Walled cells, as in plants, fungi or bacteria, can sustain a hydrostatic overpressure (turgor pressure) due to the osmotic pressure difference between the inside and outside of the cell. Turgor pressure (up to several MPa in plants) is the driving force of cell growth and participates in the overall mechanical stability of the plant. The interplay between turgor pressure and cell wall properties tailors cell growth (in rate and direction) and finally the overall morphogenesis (the generation of form) of a plant. Several approaches can be used to measure the turgor pressure (pressure chamber, psychrometry, pressure probe, etc.) that allow either an organ level or cell-level, but destructive, measurement. Furthermore, none of those techniques are adapted to small cells (below few tens of microns in radius). In this webinar, I will discuss the use of AFM indentation measurements to assess turgor pressure on a single cell level. I will present the different strategies developed in our lab and by other groups as well, highlighting their advantages and limitations. I will then show the results of an ongoing investigation on Physcomitrium patens phyllids. Prof. Gleb E. Yakubov, School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, United Kingdom, will present Biofluidic Microscope: An Integrated Atomic and Fluidic Force – High-Resolution Confocal Microscopy Imaging Platform:The BioFluidic Microscope (BFM) is a new, integrated imaging platform that combines ultra-fast confocal imaging with atomic force and nanofluidic functionality. The BFM enables the characterisation of localised biochemical and physiological processes across three dimensions of space, as well as time and force, thus offering a step-change capability for exploring biological and bioinspired systems in five dimensions: 3D space, time, and force (5D microscopy). The BFM unlocks new avenues for applications in soft matter, biomechanics, biomaterials, biofilm research, and the food and plant sciences. Its unique design allows it to accommodate a wide range of complex biological samples, enabling quantitative and predictive characterisation of single molecules, single cells, and tissues, as well as whole organisms or their larger fragments. The BFM’s applications span several domains, delivering benefits across a broad range of research areas, including biofilm dynamics, plant development, and cell physiology.This talk will discuss the implementation of the BFM and illustrate its capabilities using two case studies: (a) nanomechanical mapping of A. thaliana roots and (b) interfacial interactions in plant-derived food materials. This will be followed by a discussion of approaches for the analysis of nanomechanical data in complex systems.<blockquote>Speaker: Dr. Simoné Bovio (RDP laboratory and PLATIM-LyMIC imaging platform, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Lyon, France)Dr. Simoné Bovio works as a microscopy engineer in the RDP laboratory and at the PLATIM-LyMIC imaging platform at the Ecole Normale Supérieure in Lyon, France. He obtained his master’s degree in physics at the University of Milan where he also earned his PhD at the CIMaINa lab under the supervision of Dr. Alessandro Podestà in 2012. After spending the rest of 2012 in the Amazon rain forest in Ecuador with an Italian NGO, in 2013 he joined the team of Frank Lafont, the CMPI, in Lille, France, where he made his first steps in biology through the study of the mechanical behavior of animal and human cells using AFM nano-indentation. He has had a permanent position at the ENS in Lyon since 2017, where he started developing his expertise in indentation measurements on living plant samples and where his interest for the measurement of turgor pressure developed and grew. &nbsp;</blockquote><blockquote>Speaker: Prof. Gleb Yakubov (School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, United Kingdom) Professor Gleb Yakubov holds the Chair in Food Biopolymers at the University of Leeds. He completed his PhD in Physical Chemistry at the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, specialising in biopolymer systems and colloidal probe AFM force spectroscopy. Prior to joining Leeds, he held academic positions at the University of Nottingham and The University of Queensland, following nearly a decade in industrial R&amp;D within the global consumer goods sector.Professor Yakubov’s research sits at the interface of colloid science, soft matter physics, polymer science, and biophysics. His work focuses on understanding how biopolymer structure and interactions govern the functionality of biopolymer systems, such as foods, plant cell walls, biomaterials, and biopolymer gels. His expertise includes colloidal probe AFM force spectroscopy, rheology, and complex carbohydrate analysis. He leads the Food Biopolymer Research Laboratory, where interdisciplinary approaches are used to investigate the structuring and mechanics of complex biological and food materials. Among the laboratory’s recent innovations is the BioFluidic Microscope (BFM), an integrated platform combining ultra-fast confocal imaging with atomic force microscopy and nanofluidic functionality, enabling high-resolution exploration of localised biochemical and physiological processes in biological and bioinspired systems.Professor Yakubov has authored more than 150 peer-reviewed papers and book chapters, holds several patents, and has contributed widely to advances in food biophysics, biomaterials, and sustainable food technologies. His work has influenced contemporary understanding of polysaccharide functionality, lubrication phenomena, plant-based materials, and the development of healthier and more sustainable foods.&nbsp;</blockquote>

Bruker: Unlocking Plant Biology with Advanced AFM

Unlocking Plant Biology with Advanced AFM

Unlock plant cell mechanics with advanced Bruker AFM. Explore high-resolution, automated nanomechanical mapping of living cell walls and plant tissues

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