An Adv User Guide en
An Adv User Guide en
2 Software
RUO-IDV-05-0271-A
Release Date: April 2013
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Contents
Foreword. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Access System Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Contact Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Chapter 1 General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Analyst Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
API Instrument Project Folders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Program Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Projects and Subprojects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Subprojects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Project Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Software Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Workspaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Chapter 2 Tune and Calibrate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Automatic Tuning and Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Back up Instrument Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Restore Instrument Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Compound Optimization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Flow Injection Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Infusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
T-Infusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Chapter 3 Batches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Batch Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Batch Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Build a Batch as a Text File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Import a Batch as a Text File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Set Quantitation Details in the Batch Editor (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Chapter 4 Device Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Devices in Acquisition Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Add or Remove an LC Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Set the LC Pump Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Set the Autosampler Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Set the Integrated Syringe Pump Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Set the Column Oven Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Set the Switching Valve Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Set the Diode Array Detector Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Set the Analog-to-Digital Converter Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Dynamic Fill Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Experiments and Periods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Experiments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Periods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Information Dependent Acquisition Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Solvent Compressibility Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
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Contents
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Contents
Regression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
Linear Regression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
Linear Through Zero Regression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
Mean Response Factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Quadratic Calibration Equation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Report Templates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79
Customize Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
Preview, Print, and Export Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
Results Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
Define the Layout of Results Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
Sort Data in Results Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Sort a Results Table and Save the Sort Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Save Default Sort Criteria for Future Results Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84
Sort a Results Table using Preset Sort Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
About using Queries with Results Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
Compare Results Between Batches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86
How Concentration Levels Affect Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86
Results Table Layouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86
Summary Layout View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
Analyte Layout View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
Analyte Group Layout View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
Results Table Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
Results Table Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94
Weighting Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94
Appendix A PPG Exact Mass Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
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Foreword
This Advanced User Guide provides information about the Analyst® software features.
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Foreword
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General Information
1
The software is divided into discrete functional areas called modes. Modes allow the user to
perform activities related to a main task. Modes are accessed through the Navigation bar or the
Mode list in the toolbar. Users can switch from one mode to another without any loss of work. For
more information, refer to the Analyst® software Show Me tutorial.
Figure 1-1 Analyst Software Window
Item Description
1 Mode list
2 Navigation bar
Analyst Service
The Analyst Service is the communication path between the mass spectrometer and attached
devices. The Analyst Service is started each time the Analyst software is started. In general the
Analyst Service starts automatically when the user logs on to Windows. If the service is not
running when the Analyst software is started, then the Analyst Service will start automatically.
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General Information
Program Files
The following folders are found within the Program Files\Analyst folder.
• bin: Contains the software program files. Contents of this folder should not be
changed as this will affect the software functionality.
• Firmware: Contains the instrument system controller software (scu21.exe) and the
instrument firmware files. Use these files to download new firmware to the
instrument when required. For more information, refer to the software installation
guide included with the software.
• Help: Contains the help files, guides, tutorials, release notes and software
installation guide.
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General Information
• Scripts: Contains all the scripts that can be installed. Research-grade scripts are
available to extend the functionality of the software. Some scripts are installed
automatically and some scripts can be installed individually. For more information,
refer to the Scripts User Guide.
• Simulation: Contains the instrument data files required to run the software in
simulation mode.
Subprojects
A subproject contains a subset of the folders in the project. All subprojects must contain the same
folders. Subprojects are useful for organizing data.
For example, if samples of various compounds from different laboratories are run using the same
acquisition method, then create subprojects to store the results for each laboratory, but leave the
acquisition method folder in the project. The acquisition method is then available for use in the
subproject or laboratory. Alternatively, if samples are being analyzed over a period of several
weeks, then the results from each day can be stored in a separate subproject. Refer to
Figure 1-2 on page 12.
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General Information
Project Organization
A project is a folder structure for organizing and storing sample information, data, quantitation
information, and so forth. Within each project there are folders that can contain different types of
files. For example, the Data folder contains acquisition data files. Table 1-1 on page 12 describes
the contents of the different folders.
The software can access a project only if it is stored in a root folder. Users cannot create projects
in a folder that has not been defined as a root folder.
The preset root folder is Analyst Data on the drive where the software is installed. To store
projects in other locations, create new root folders. For more information about root folders, refer
to the Help.
Table 1-1 Project Folders
Folder Contents
\Acquisition Methods Contains all acquisition methods used. Acquisition methods have the
.dam extension.
\Acquisition Scripts Contains all the acquisition batch scripts available.
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General Information
Software Security
The software has a number of functions for configuring and managing security. The Analyst®
software administrator can:
• Choose a security mode to best suit the needs of the operating environment.
• Add and delete users and roles.
• Set access rights to users and roles as required.
• Control access to remote instrument stations.
• Control access to project files.
For more information about Analyst software security, refer to the Laboratory Director’s Guide.
Workspaces
A workspace is a particular arrangement of windows and panes, including any associated file or
files. For example, while working on a particular data set, users can open and size various
windows to help with the analysis. This arrangement, or workspace, can be saved so that the
next time users look at the data, the window arrangement is identical.
In Quantitate and Explore modes, users can have multiple workspaces per session. This means
that different workspaces can be designed to suit different tasks within these modes, and then
save them for future use. When in one of these two modes, a particular workspace can be
opened without exiting that mode.
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General Information
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Tune and Calibrate
2
Tuning the instrument is the process of optimizing the resolution and instrument parameters to
attain the best sensitivity and performance of the mass spectrometer. Optimizing the resolution
means adjusting the peak width and peak shape. Users can tune and calibrate the instrument
either automatically or manually.
Caution: Potential Calibration Error. If the temperature changes by more than 2°C, then
the resolution and mass calibration might be affected.
Tip! Clean the Q0 region regularly to minimize the impact of charging (a significant
loss of sensitivity of the ions of interest over a short period of time) on the quadrupoles.
Refer to the Qualified Maintenance Person Guide.
Automatic tuning: The software performs resolution optimization and mass calibration, using
the Instrument Optimization wizard. For linear ion trap (LIT) instruments, MS3 optimizations are
also performed.
Manual tuning: Users can perform many of the instrument resolution optimizations and
calibrations manually.
Note: Old LIT methods must be updated with the new settings. Toggle the
LIT speed in the advanced MS tab and then save the method.
• Reset selected scan modes to default values and adjust instrument settings:
Resets the instrument values to the factory preset values. Select this option if a
major component of the instrument is replaced or after the first installation. Only
FSEs should use this feature.
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Tune and Calibrate
Compound Optimization
The Compound Optimization software wizard automatically optimizes an analyte. Samples can
be introduced using infusion or FIA (flow injection analysis.) When the SelexION™ device is
installed on the mass spectrometer, samples can also be introduced using the T-infusion
option.The software first checks for the presence of the compounds. The voltages of the various
ion path parameters are gradually increased or decreased to determine the maximum signal
intensity (Q1 scan) for each ion. A text file is generated and then displayed during the
optimization process. This file records the various experiments performed and the optimal values
for each ion optic parameter. A file folder containing all the experiments performed is also
generated and can be found by opening the data file folder in Explore mode. For each
experiment performed, an acquisition method is also generated and saved in the acquisition
method folder.
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Tune and Calibrate
Infusion
Infusion is the continuous flow of the sample at low flow rates into the ion source using a syringe
pump. During the infusion optimization process, the software can select precursor and product
ions and optimize for declustering potential, collision energy, and collision cell exit potential for
both. The voltages of these ion path parameters are gradually increased or decreased to
determine the maximum signal intensity for the precursor and product ions.
Use infusion optimization to optimize compound-dependent parameters only at much lower flow
rates than those used during LC/MS analysis.
T-Infusion
T-infusion (or split infusion) is the continuous flow of the sample at low rates into the ion source
through a three-way grounding union on the ion source. The three-way grounding union is
connected to a syringe pump with a red PEEK tubing and an LC pump.
Use T-infusion to automatically optimize DMS parameters (SV, COV, and DMO) and compound
parameters.
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Tune and Calibrate
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Batches
3
A batch is a collection of information about the samples to be analyzed. Samples are usually
grouped into sets to make it easier to submit them. Grouping the samples into a set also reduces
the amount of data that must be typed manually. A set can consist of a single sample or multiple
samples. All of the sets in a batch use the same hardware profile, however, samples in a set can
have different acquisition methods. A batch can be submitted only from an acquisition station.
Batches link together:
• Sample information, such as name, ID, and comment.
• Autosampler location (rack information).
• Acquisition methods.
• Processing method or script (optional).
• Quantitation information (optional).
• Custom sample data (optional).
• Set information.
Batch Editor
Use the Batch Editor to create or modify batches and to create batch templates. To run samples,
each using different acquisition methods, select multiple acquisition methods in the same set.
An acquisition method can also be used as a template. In this case, the same method is used for
each sample, but the user can select different masses or mass ranges for each sample. The
Batch Editor can also be used to import sample lists created in external programs, such as
Microsoft Excel.
The user can modify every detail of the batch before submitting it for processing. When a batch is
submitted for analysis, the user can submit the entire batch, specific sets within the batch, or
specific samples within a set.
For example, to analyze ten samples, five using one acquisition method and five using a different
acquisition method, create a batch of two sets, one for each method used.
Table 3-1 Batch Editor Tabs
Tab Description
Sample Used to create the sample list and to select sample details such as the sample
name and the acquisition method to be used to acquire the sample.
Locations Used to select the positions of samples in the autosampler. Sample locations can
be specified numerically in the Sample tab, however, the Locations tab provides
a graphical interface for selecting sample locations.
Quantitation Used to select the sample types and concentrations for quantitation batches.
Because quantitation information can be specified post-acquisition in the
quantitation Results Table, users do not have to use the Quantitation tab in the
Batch Editor. Instead, the Quantitation Wizard can be used.
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Batches
Batch Files
To make data entry easier, batch file information from other applications can be imported. The
Batch Editor can import text and other files that are formatted correctly. For examples of correctly
formatted files, refer to the Batch folder in the Example project.
The information in a batch file can also be exported for use with other applications, such as
Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access, and certain LIMS (Laboratory Information Management
System) software.
Note: Do not delete any of the columns. The columns in the spreadsheet
must match the columns in the Batch Editor.
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Batches
2. In the Sample tab, right-click and then click Import From > File.
3. Click the text file containing the batch information.
Note: If the saved text file is not visible, then in the Files of type list, select
Microsoft Text Driver (*.txt; *.csv). Files with the extension .txt appear in the
field.
4. Click Open.
If an autosampler is being used, then the Select Autosampler dialog opens.
5. In the autosampler list, select the autosampler.
6. Click OK.
The sample table fills with the details from the text file.
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Batches
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Device Methods
4
If creating an acquisition method file from an existing file, the user can use some or all of the
device methods in the acquisition method. Use the Acquisition Method Editor to customize the
acquisition method by adding or removing device methods. If the required device icon is not in
the Acquisition Method Browser pane, then users can add the device only if it is included in the
active hardware profile.
It is recommended that only users who are proficient in method development create or modify
acquisition and quantitation methods. Refer to the About People and Roles section in the
Laboratory Director’s Guide for more information about roles and security.
Note: The available parameters for the LC devices vary depending on the
manufacturer.
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Device Methods
2. Select or clear the check boxes beside the device method to add or remove the
device method.
3. Click OK.
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Device Methods
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Device Methods
Note: The interval and rate are proportional to each other. When the rate
is changed, the software automatically calculates the interval again.
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Device Methods
Experiments
An experiment includes the instrument settings and the scan type during an MS scan. A set of
MS scans performed for a specific amount of time is called a period. An acquisition method in
which the MS parameters and actions are the same through the entire duration is called a single-
period, single-experiment method.
In looped experiments, MS settings are changed on a scan-by-scan basis. For example, if the
sample contains two compounds, A and B, users may want to loop an MS/MS experiment of
compound A with an MS/MS experiment of compound B to obtain information about both
compounds in the same run. The mass spectrometer method will alternate between the two scan
types. Other examples of looped experiments include alternating between positive and negative
modes in a run and Information Dependent Acquisition (IDA) methods.
Periods
A period can contain one or more looped experiments. In a multi-period acquisition method,
experiments are performed for a specified amount of time and then switch to another set of
experiments. Periods are useful when the elution time of the compounds in an LC run is known.
The instrument can perform different experiments according to when the compounds elute to
obtain as much information as possible in the same run.
Figure 4-2 shows a three-period method. The first period has a duration of 3.015 minutes; the
second period is 4.986 minutes; and the third period is 7.000 minutes.
Figure 4-2 Example of a Multi-Period Experiment
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Device Methods
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Device Methods
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Device Methods
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Qualitative Data Analysis
5
Users can view the information contained in a data file in table or graph form. Graphical data is
presented either as a chromatogram or as a spectrum. Data from either of these displays can be
viewed as a table of data points and various sorting operations can be performed on the data.
The software stores data in files with a .wiff extension. Wiff files can contain data for more than
one sample. In addition to .wiff files, the software can open .txt files; .txt files contain data for only
one sample. When a data file is opened in the software, different panes appear depending on the
type of experiment that was performed.
If the MCA check box is selected in the Tune Method Editor, the data file will open to the MS
(mass spectrum). If the MCA check box is not selected, then the data file opens with the Total Ion
Chromatogram (TIC). Users can select a range and then double-click in the TIC pane at a
particular time to show the MS for this range.
Chromatograms
A chromatogram displays the variation of some quantity with respect to time in a repetitive
experiment; for example, when the instrument is programmed to repeat a given set of mass
spectral scans several times. Chromatographic data is contiguous, even if the intensity of the
data is zero. Chromatograms are not generated directly by the instrument, but are generated
from mass spectra.
In the chromatogram display, the intensity, in counts per second (cps), is shown on the y-axis
versus time on the x-axis. Peaks are automatically labeled.
In the case of LC/MS, the chromatogram is often displayed as a function of time, the time at
which a particular scan was obtained, which can be derived from the scan number.
When data is viewed as a spectrum, mass-specific information about a compound is obtained. A
chromatogram provides a general view of the data, usually time dependent when using an LC
column, but it does provide information about the components of a peak. A spectrum, however,
looks at a particular peak and provides the molecular weight of the corresponding compound,
which can be used to find more specific information. For example, while a chromatogram may
show only one peak, that peak can represent more than one compound; that is, different masses.
A spectrum shows all of the masses that make up a peak, including the intensity of each mass.
Chromatographic data can change in both time and intensity if there is a change in the
chromatographic conditions in a given sample. Spectral intensities may change, but the masses
are fixed because the mass of a compound does not change.
There are two ways to generate spectral data:
• If only one scan is acquired, then the data is shown as a spectrum.
• From a chromatogram.
A typical spectrum is shown with the molecular weight, labeled with the m/z (mass-to-charge
ratio), on the x-axis. The intensity is shown on the y-axis.
A chromatogram is a graphical display of the data obtained from the analysis of a sample. It plots
the signal intensity along an axis that shows either time or scan number.
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The software plots intensity, in counts per second (cps), on the y-axis against time on the x-axis.
Peaks above a set threshold are labeled automatically. In the case of LC/MS, the chromatogram
often is shown as a function of time.
Spectra
A spectrum is the data that is obtained directly from the instrument and normally represents the
number of ions detected with particular mass-to-charge (m/z) values. It is displayed as a graph
with the m/z values on the x-axis and intensity (cps) represented on the y-axis.
In the case of MS/MS data, the intensity is associated with two masses, the precursor ion mass
(Q1) and the product ion mass or masses (Q3).
Background Subtraction
Background subtraction reduces the amount of noise in a spectrum by subtracting either one or
two ranges that contain noise from a range that contains a peak. Users can move the ranges
independently or lock them and move them as a single entity within the graph to optimize peak
isolation, or to isolate another peak. Locked Background Subtract is the preset setting.
3. Hold down the Shift key and then select another background range.
4. To set the subtract range, click Explore > Background Subtract > Set Subtract
Range.
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8. To save the background subtracted spectrum as a processed data file, click File >
Save.
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4. In the Output Project and Filename section, type the project and file names for the
resulting file.
5. Click Start Processing.
The progress bar displays the progress of the subtraction process. If the Open the
new file immediately in Analyst check box is selected, then when the subtraction
is complete, the file opens.
6. If the check box is cleared, when the subtraction is complete, click Finish.
Baseline Subtract
Baseline subtract removes a constant or slowly varying offset from a set of data. This is useful in
locating small peaks that are obscured by noise. The software uses the following algorithm in
performing a baseline subtraction.
• Every data point in the data set is considered as the center of a window (in mass or
time) with a user-definable width measured in amu or minutes.
• The minimum values on either side of the current data point (minima) within the
window are located.
• A straight line is fitted between the two minima and the height (intensity) of the
current data point above the line is calculated. The end points of the data are
regarded as minima.
• The data point is replaced with the new calculated value.
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Calculators
Users can perform calculations on the basis of collected data. Although the calculator is a
separate window, it is connected to the active graph within the software.
The following calculators are available.
• Elemental Composition Calculator
• Hypermass Calculator
• Elemental Targeting Calculator
• Mass Property Calculator
• Isotopic Distribution Calculator
Users can cut and paste from one text box to another between the different windows in the
calculators. Data from any of the calculators can be printed by clicking the Print icon in the top left
corner of the window. For more information about using calculators, refer to the Help.
Data from the Elemental Composition, Mass Property, and Isotopic Distribution calculators can
be exported to a separate file. Use the Elemental Targeting calculator to modify the data within
the active graph. Data from the HyperMass and Isotopic Distribution calculators can be overlaid
on the active spectrum.
Tip! Set the precision of calculator data in the Calculators tab of the Appearance
Options dialog. To open the dialog, click Tools > Settings > Appearance Options.
Hypermass Calculator
The Hypermass calculator determines the distribution of a multiply charged envelope based on
an uncharged mass. Users can select the uncharged mass, including the adduct and its polarity.
The calculator displays a graphical representation of the Hypermass series, which can be
overlaid onto the active spectrum. A list of the Hypermass data is also available.
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chromatogram, the calculator calculates the elemental target for each of the underlying spectra
and regenerates each point in the chromatogram on the basis of these new spectra.
Centroided Peaks
Calculating the centroid of a peak converts peak distribution values into a single value of m/z and
intensity that represents the peak. Centroided data collected in profile mode simplifies the data
and reduces the file size. Centroided data provides more accurate peak assignment and reduces
the amount of data, but it also removes the information about the peak shape.
The centroid algorithm converts peaks to single values by using an intensity weighted average to
calculate the center of gravity of the peak. The output of the algorithm is a list of peaks with
parameters, as shown in Table 5-1 on page 36.
Table 5-1 Peak Parameters
Parameter Definition
Centroid Value The value of the centroided data in units of mass or time.
Intensity The intensity of each peak in cps.
Width The width of the centroided peak in amu.
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Centroid Location
A1=A2
A1 A2
Time
Data Analysis
Users can open files containing existing data or data that is currently being acquired. All
experiment-related data can also be viewed in tabular form. The table pane consists of two tabs,
the Data List tab and the Peak List tab.The Data List tab contains experiment-related information,
such as acquisition time and scan intensity. The Peak List tab displays peak-related information
such as peak height, peak area, and baseline type.
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The graph uses two colors, alternating each time the mass of the base peak changes. The color
changes are maintained when the data is manipulated by scrolling or zooming. For information
about selecting the colors used in the graph, refer to the Help.
Overlay Graphs
Two or more sets of data can be visually compared by overlaying graphs created by similar
methods. Each individual spectrum is distinguished by the color of its trace. For full scan data,
this allows users to visualize the differences between several sample spectra.
If one or more panes are chosen, then each XIC will open in a separate pane.
Tip! To overlay fewer than four graphs in the same pane, press Ctrl + right-click in
a pane and then click Appearance Options. In the Appearance Options dialog,
Multiple Graph Options tab, select Yes for the Overlay Multiple Panes fields for
Spectrum and Chromatogram.
Tip! To view a color-coded list of the overlaid graphs, right-click the title
bar of the pane.
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Sum Overlays
If two or more graphs are overlaid, users can sum the graphs to get a new trace. Each point on
the new trace is the sum of the points from the graphs. Summing several overlays of similar data
type can make subsequent processing operations easier and faster. For example, users can
overlay several XICs, sum them, and then smooth the summed overlay to remove noise.
Summing overlays is similar to generating a TIC with the benefit of being able to choose which
graphs to overlay. For example, if ten experiments are being viewed, the TIC will add all ten
experiments together. If overlays are summed, then users have the option of adding only nine of
the ten overlaid graphs. This procedure can be used if the data collected in the one experiment is
just noise.
1. Overlay the graphs that are to be summed.
2. Click Explore > Sum Overlays.
The overlaid graphs are added together.
Graphs Labels
Graphs can be customized using the preset style for labels on graphs and chromatograms.
Users can select the fonts to use for peak and axis labels, and the colors to use for the traces.
Users can also add axis labels and the type of label and precision for the peaks.
Tip! If the position of the caption is not satisfactory, then drag the caption
to a different position. The caption stays in the same place relative to the x-
and y-axes when the graph is zoomed in or out. To edit or delete the
caption, right-click the caption and then click the appropriate command.
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Tip! If the position of the text is not satisfactory, then drag the text to a
different position. To edit or delete the text, right-click the text and then
choose the appropriate command.
Compound Database
The compound database stores information about compounds, including optimization
specifications. Use the compound database when there is a large numbers of samples and a
large number of compounds need to be optimized quickly. The Compound Database window
stores optimized conditions for compounds that can be retrieved to run samples.
Contour Plots
A Contour Plot is a color-coded plot of a complete data set that uses color to represent a third
dimension in the plot. In a Contour Plot of a TIC, the x-axis represents retention time or scan
number, the y-axis represents mass, and the color represents the intensity of the data at that
point. In a Contour Plot of a TWC for DAD data, the x-axis represents retention time or scan
number, the y-axis represents wavelength, and the color represents absorbance. The Contour
Plot is a post-acquisition tool that does not function in a real-time scan acquisition.
Note: The Contour Plot does not support MI or MRM scans, but it does support DAD
scans.
Color is the third axis in Contour Plot, and it represents either intensity or absorbance. Users can
change the high and low intensity or absorbance values in Contour Plot using the control
triangles on the color bar above the Contour Plot. The percentage parameters at the top of the
Contour Plot pane indicate the values held by the low and high sliders. The actual values are
based on a percentage of the maximum intensity or absorbance within the selected area. The
value is shown in the top right corner of the Contour Plot pane.
The controls shown in Figure 5-4 on page 41 change the colors in a Contour Plot.
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Users can define the colors on a Contour Plot graph to provide better contrast and display data
specifications according to their needs. For example, setting the intensity/wavelength and
changing the color of the values for Below Low Data and Above High Data can eliminate
background noise in a Contour Plot.
The Below Low Data and Above High Data buttons shrink and expand on the color bar if the
slider controls are moved. When the contour plot colors are changed, the new colors become the
preset colors for all subsequent graphs.
Table 5-2 Right-Click Menu for Contour Plot Panes
Menu Function
Show DAD Spectrum Opens a new pane with the DAD spectrum.
Extract Wavelengths Extracts up to three wavelength ranges from a DAD spectrum to
(Use Range) display the XWC.
Extract Wavelengths Extracts wavelength ranges using the maximum wavelengths.
(Use Maximum)
Zoom to selection Zooms in on the selected area.
Add User Text Adds a text box at the position of the cursor.
Undo Zoom Returns the graph to the original scale
Delete Pane Deletes the selected pane
Show Cross-Hair Shows the Cross-Hair (nm/min)
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• To select a standard area within a box, drag the pointer to create a box around
an area in the Contour Plot.
• To make a vertical selection, press Ctrl and drag the pointer vertically.
• To make a horizontal selection, press the space bar and drag the pointer
horizontally.
Fragment Interpretation
The Fragment Interpretation tool helps the user interpret MS/MS data. Given the chemical
structure of a molecule, this tool can generate a list of theoretical fragment masses from single
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non-cyclic bond cleavage of that molecular structure. The tool can then match the theoretical list
with peaks in the current mass spectrum.
The Fragment Interpretation Tool generates a list of theoretical fragment masses from single,
non-cyclic bond cleavage of a molecular structure. The molecular structure can be created in a
third-party drawing program and then saved as a .mol file. Fragment Interpretation displays the
theoretical fragments in the fragment list and compares the fragment masses to peaks in the
mass spectrum. Peaks above the threshold intensity and within the user-defined mass tolerance
(maximum 2 amu) of fragment masses are considered matched and are shown in bold text in the
fragment list.
Note: The Fragment Interpretation tool cannot be used with the following scan types:
• Precursor Ion
• Neutral Loss
• Q1 Multiple Ion
• Q3 Multiple Ion
• Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM)
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View Isotopes
The Fragment Interpretation tool can display the theoretical isotopic distribution for a peak
matching a fragment in the fragment list.
1. Click Explore > Show > Show Fragment Interpretation Tool.
2. In the Fragment Interpretation pane, click the Options tab.
3. Select the Show Isotopes check box.
4. Click Apply.
5. In the fragment list, select a fragment that matches a peak.
The isotopic distribution for matched peaks is shown in the spectrum.
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IDA Explorer
The Information Dependent Acquisition (IDA) Explorer is used to display data acquired through
an IDA method.
The IDA Explorer can be turned off and on in the IDA Explorer tab in the Appearance Options
dialog. Columns present in the List View can be defined in this tab as well.
The left side of the viewer shown in Figure 5-5 on page 46 displays the masses on which a
product ion scan was performed. In this area, users can examine the mass, intensity, time, and
collision energy of ions on which product ion scans were performed in either a list view or a tree
view. In list view, the list can be sorted by double-clicking on any column header. Use the
Appearance Options dialog to customize the columns in the list view.
On the right side, the viewer is split into four panes. The top left pane displays the survey TIC
data. The bottom left pane shows the XIC of the mass. The top and bottom right panes show the
survey and product scans, respectively.
The IDA viewer lists all the masses on which Enhanced Product Ion scans or Enhanced
Resolution scan types were performed. In the IDA viewer, users can do the following:
• Click a mass in the list or tree view to display plots relevant to that mass.
• View the survey spectrum from which the mass was identified and the product
spectrum of that mass.
• Display the TIC of the survey scan and the XIC for each mass.
Note: Brackets around a mass indicate that the mass is merged. A merged mass is
contiguous across a number of cycles. When a merged mass is displayed, it indicates
an averaged spectrum, containing the average of all contiguous spectra.
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Library Databases
The Library Search feature compares unknown spectra to known MS spectra contained in a
library database and generates a list of possible matches. Use Library Search to create and
manage a mass spectra database that can be used to search for and match unknown spectra
against the mass spectra stored in the database.
With Library Search users can:
• Compare library contents against an unknown spectrum.
• Add records to the library.
• Edit existing records.
Library data can be stored in the following locations:
• MS Access on a local database.
• MS SQL Server.
Before using the Library Search feature, determine where the library database is stored and
connect the computer to that location. Library databases can be stored locally and over a
network.
Use an alias to connect to a database. In this case, the alias specifies a connection to a specific
database and may include the user name and password required to access the database. For
example, a user may have a small library database of identified compounds on a computer and
the company may have a central database that is used occasionally by the users. Creating
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aliases for each database allows the user to switch between them quickly. For information about
creating aliases and connecting to databases, refer to the Help.
3. In the Available Libraries section, click the alias of the database to connect to and
then click Connect.
4. To allow other users to access the database, select the Available to all users of
this machine check box.
5. Click OK.
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8. To change the relationship between constraints, click the relationship, and then click
And or Or.
9. To exclude compounds containing a certain number of atoms of specific elements,
select or type the elements in the Elements Included table, and then type a
minimum and maximum number of atoms of the element.
10. To exclude compounds containing certain elements, select or type the elements in
the Excluded table.
11. To search for compounds fitting the criteria, click List.
Records that match all the constraints are shown in the Records table. Listing
constraints are saved.
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2. In the Maximum Number of Match field, type the maximum number of compounds
to be returned by the search.
3. In the Preselect Constraints section, select the check boxes for the constraints to
apply.
4. For each constraint selected, in the Preset Tolerance section, type the tolerance.
5. If required, select a method of sorting records from the Result Sorted by list.
6. If required, type text in the Comment Contains field.
7. If required, type text in the Keyword Contains field.
8. To apply peak constraints by adding and removing peaks, click Peak Constraints.
The Peaks Included table opens.
9. To add peaks to the list to search against, click Add and then type the m/z and the
corresponding intensity in the empty cell.
10. To remove peaks so that they will not be included in the search, select the peaks and
then click Remove.
11. Click Search to save the constraints and begin the search.
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Qualitative Data
The user can view the information contained in a data file in table or graph form. Graphical data is
shown as a chromatogram or as a spectrum. Data in a table is shown as data points. The user
can perform various sorting operations on the data.
When the user opens a data file, different panes appear depending on the type of experiment
performed.
If the MCA check box is selected in the Tune Method Editor, the data file opens with the mass
spectrum. If the MCA check box is not selected, the data file opens the TIC.
A wiff file can contain data for more than one sample. In addition to .wiff files, the software can
open .txt files. A .txt file contains data for only one sample.
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Signal-to-Noise Ratio
The signal-to-noise ratio is the peak height divided by the noise.
To calculate the noise, the software uses the standard deviation (using a mean of zero) of all data
points in the chromatogram from the Background Start to Background End time (both shown in
the advanced parameters for the Quantitation Method Editor and Peak Review window.) These
times are set when a new background range is defined.
If the user builds a method without defining a new background range, which is possible if the
preset integration is accepted with no changes, then the value for both the Background Start and
the Background End is shown as N/A. As a result, the signal-to-noise ratio is not calculated and
the corresponding field in the Results Table is shown as N/A.
Smoothing Algorithms
The user can select either the smoothing algorithm or the Gaussian smoothing algorithm as the
smoothing method. The smoothing operation involves replacing each data point with the average
of the data point before and after it. The smoothed data set replaces the old set.
Data can be smoothed more than once, but the software can undo only the last smooth.
Smoothing is not available for multiple ion or MRM spectra.
Smooth Algorithm
When smoothing data, the user sets the point weighting values for three data points: the current
point, the preceding point, and the following data point. The smooth algorithm multiplies the data
points by the assigned weighting values, sums these values, and then divides the total by the
sum of the point weight values. It is a gentler smooth than the Gaussian algorithm and it takes a
long time to smooth very noisy data.
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3. In the Gaussian filter width field, type the width used to find the weighting of
neighboring points as a percentage of the distance between the two points.
4. In the Limit of gaussian filter field, type the limit of the Gaussian curve, given in
multiples of the distance between points.
5. Click OK.
The data set is smoothed, replacing the current data set in the pane.
Toolbar Icons
Table 5-4 Toolbar Icons
Icon Name Function
Perform Background Performs a background subtract after the
Subtract background ranges have been selected.
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6
Calibration Options
The calibration options define the parameters for a calibration curve, which are used to
determine the calculated concentration of the samples. The curve is a plot of the concentration of
the standard against the area or height of the standard if no internal standard is used. If an
internal standard is used, the curve is a plot of the concentration ratio against the area or height
ratio. This curve is used, along with the area (or height) for the unknowns, to interpolate the
calculated concentration.
Choose the best regression type or fit to fit the curve to the points and the best weighting factor
for the project.
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Integration Algorithms
The Analyst® software has two integration algorithms: the original Analyst Classic integration
algorithm and the IntelliQuan integration algorithms. The IntelliQuan algorithm provides more
consistent peak-finding and integrated functionality, with fewer parameters that require
adjustment.
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Table 6-4 on page 61 shows the parameters available with the MQ III algorithm, but not the IQA II
algorithm.
Table 6-4 MQ III Algorithm
Parameter Definition
Default Noise Percentage The threshold used in peak-finding. Only peaks higher than
this specified percentage will be detected.
Default Baseline Subtraction A time window around each data point that is used to
Window determine the height of the baseline correction to be applied
to that point. This time window helps remove excessive
noise from the chromatogram. The baseline is defined as
the line connecting the point of minimum intensity on the left
side of a given data point to the point of minimum intensity
on the right side, within the specified window.
Default Peak-Splitting Factor Controls whether a given peak cluster consists of multiple
adjacent peaks or one (possibly noisy) peak. If the intensity
dip is less than the value specified, then a single peak is
reported; otherwise the point with minimum intensity in the
dip splits the cluster into two separate peaks. Setting a large
factor will prevent clusters from being split into more than
one peak.
Default Void Volume Retention Any peaks that appear before this time are ignored.
Time
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Table 6-5 on page 62 shows the parameters available for use with both IntelliQuan algorithms.
Table 6-5 IntelliQuan Algorithm
Parameter Definition
Default Minimum Peak Height The minimum height of a peak required for peak integration.
Default Minimum Peak Width The minimum width of a peak required for peak integration.
Default RT Window Specifies the time window centered at the expected
retention time for peak-finding. For example, a 30 second
retention time window gives an additional 15 seconds before
and after the expected retention time.
Default Smoothing Width The number of points used in data smoothing.
Default Concentration Units The concentration units used to describe the sample
concentration, for example, pg/µL.
Default Calculated Concentration The concentration units used to describe the calculated
Units sample concentration, for example, pg/µL.
Wizards
There are two available method-creation wizards: the Standard Quantitation wizard and the
Automatic Quantitation wizard. Both allow the user to select the batch or batches to be
quantified, create or select a quantitation method, and then integrate the sample data.
The difference between the two is the type of method created. The standard wizard creates a
standard method, while the automatic wizard creates an automatic method. Peaks are not
verified as part of the method creation (the peaks can still be reviewed after integration has taken
place).
There is only one common occasion for which peaks do not need to be verified: when
quantitation is done simply to integrate, and not to find concentrations. This may need to be
done, for example, for a batch that contains different compounds in every sample, or when the
mass is not the same from sample to sample. If this is the case, use the automatic wizard.
Otherwise, to perform quantitation, use the standard wizard.
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Use the Standard Quantitation wizard after acquiring the sample to do the following:
• Choose a representative sample.
• Select analyte and internal standard peaks.
• Adjust peak-finding and integration parameters.
• Review peaks during method creation.
• Select calibration.
Use the Automatic Quantitation wizard to select a batch, create a method (without peak
confirmation), and then integrate the sample data. This wizard is quicker than the Standard
wizard and does not require that the masses scanned be the same for all samples. It does not,
however, allow selecting an internal standard—all ions are treated as analytes.
Use the Automatic Quantitation wizard after acquiring the sample in the following scenarios:
• Want to select calibration.
• Do not want to adjust peak-finding and integration parameters.
• Do not want to select analyte peak names.
• Do not want any internal standards.
• Do not want to review peaks during method creation, or have different compounds in
every sample.
When peaks are only being integrated, they do not need to be verified as no concentration
calculation is required. In this case, use the Automatic quantitation method creation, which allows
reviewing the peaks after integration has taken place.
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Metric Plots
A metric plot graphically shows the data in a Results Table column plotted against the x-axis or
the y-axis, or the data in two columns plotted against each other. This section describes how to
generate and work with metric plots.
A few predefined metric plots are also included:
• Int_Std_Response (to locate problem sample)
• Analyte_Area versus Height (to verify chromatography behavior)
• PK profile (conc. versus time point, to run after Sample query)
Use metric plots to plot a given column, such as Analyte Peak Area, Accuracy, or Calculated
Concentration, from the Results Table. Two Results Table fields can also be plotted against each
other. Then points that are shown outside the normal range can be investigated. Metric plots are
often used with queries. For more information about queries, refer to the Help.
Generate metric plots in the following ways:
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• Use the Plot button to plot a column or columns of the current Results Table, but not
save the plotting criteria.
• Create a table-specific plot to save the plot criteria with the current table.
• Create a global plot to save the plotting criteria for use with future Results Tables.
QC, unknown, blanks, double blanks, or solvents cannot be seen on the calibration curve, but
metric plots can be generated of them.
Figure 6-1 Example of a Metric Plot
Item Description
1 Double blanks
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2. Right-click in the Results Table and then click Metric Plot > New.
Figure 6-2 Metric Plot Dialog
3. In the Name field, type the name for the new plot criteria.
4. In the X-Axis section, in the Group list, to plot a field in the y-axis using the x-axis as
an index, select Index and leave the Column list blank.
5. If required, to plot two columns against each other, in the Y-axis section, in the
Group list, select Internal Standard, and then, in the Column list, select IS Peak
Area.
6. If required, in the Regression list, select the type of regression to be used, and then
select the appropriate regression settings.
7. To generate the plot and save the plot criteria, click Save/Execute.
The metric plot opens. For more information, refer to Figure 6-1 on page 65.
8. Right-click in the plot pane and then click Data Legend to view an explanation of the
colors used by the plot.
9. Right-click in the plot pane and then click Point Legend to view an explanation of
the symbols used by the plot.
This set of criteria is now available for future plots of this Results Table. Right-click in
the Results Table to access the criteria. The plotting criteria can also be edited.
10. To view the problem sample, try plotting the concentration of the unknown against
time or plotting the area of the internal standard against the index.
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Note: The minimum value for both the noise and area thresholds is 0.000001. If the
calculations produce a value that is lower than this minimum, then the software resets
the value of that threshold at 0.000001.
Note: The minimum value for both the noise and area thresholds is 0.000001. If the
calculations produce a value that is lower than this minimum, then the software resets
the value of that threshold at 0.000001.
Peak Integration
The following are integration types by which the baseline was found and integrated when the
peak was found.
• Manual: The peak was manually integrated by the user.
• Automatic: The peak was automatically integrated as follows:
• Baseline-to-baseline: The peak area is defined by vertical droplines at the
beginning and end of the peak which extend to the baseline. This integration
type is possible only for peaks that do not have another peak immediately
preceding or following.
• Valley: Same as baseline-to-baseline, except that it applies only to peaks that
do have another peak immediately preceding or following.
• Exponential Skim: The peak area is the main or parent peak in an
exponential skim.
• Exponential Child: The peak area is the child peak resulting in an
exponential skim.
Peak Review
During peak review users can survey the peaks that the software selected and then redefine the
peak or the start and end points where necessary.
In general, the software is adept at accurately identifying analyte and internal standard peaks.
For a variety of reasons, including sample acquisition and quantitation method definition,
sometimes the software misses the correct peak, chooses the wrong one, or is unable to locate a
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peak at all. Other times, although the software may correctly identify the peak, users may not
agree with the start or end points selected.
Detect Peaks
The software detects peaks in four stages.
1. First, it finds the potential peak start by examining the distance between each
bunched point and the preceding one. When the distance exceeds the current noise
threshold, a potential peak start has been found.
2. Then it confirms the peak start by making sure that enough points exist in a row to
exceed the area threshold.
3. Next, it finds the peak top by searching for a point that is lower than the previous
point.
4. Finally, it finds the end of the peak by identifying the place where the distance
between one bunched point and the next falls below the noise threshold. If
necessary, it then separates peaks.
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Item Description
1 Exceeds noise threshold
2 Potential peak start
3 Does not exceed noise threshold
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Item Description
1 Sum of area slices greater than threshold
Item Description
1 Look through data points in this region
2 Minimum data point
3 Potential peak start
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confirmed. That is, the software makes sure it has a peak first, and then works backward to find
the top of it.
If, however, the software finds a higher bunched point before the area test has been passed, then
it identifies a new top and restarts the area test.
Note: The actual retention time for a peak is not simply the point identified as
described previously. Instead, it is determined from a quadratic fit based on the three
highest data points.
Item Description
1 Sum of area slices is greater than two thirds of the area threshold
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Item Description
1 The shoulder has a maximum, but the cumulative crest area is not greater than two
thirds of the area threshold
Item Description
1 The shoulder has no separate maximum point
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2
3
Item Description
1 Exceeds noise threshold
2 Peak end
3 Does not exceed noise threshold
Item Description
1 Peak end
Separate Peaks
If a new peak begins before the current peak hits the baseline, the software decides, based on
the following criteria, whether to resolve the baseline by using exponential skims. The skim
passes under one or more peaks that follow the precursor. These peaks are called product
peaks.
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When the software performs an exponential skim, it subtracts the area below the skim from the
product peaks and gives it to the precursor peak. It then subtracts the small area above the skim
from the precursor peak and adds it to the first product peak.
The software uses the following criteria to determine whether it will use exponential skimming:
• Exponential Peak Ratio.
• Exponential Adjusted Ratio.
• Exponential Valley Ratio.
Figure 6-12 Separate Peaks: An Exponential Skim
4 4
Item Description
1 This area is subtracted from the precursor peak and added to the first product peak
2 Exponential skim
3 Cluster baseline
4 These areas are subtracted from the product peaks and added to the precursor peaks
Queries
A query is a method of selecting only those records that meet certain criteria. Users can use
queries to view particular parts of the data in the Results Table that interests them, based on
textual or mathematical selections.
When a query is used, the table displays only the rows of data that meet the selected criteria. All
columns are displayed. Selections can be further refined by running a second query on the rows
displayed by the first query.
Use pre-defined choices and typed entries to create a query that can be executed, saved, or
modified. Each line of the query works like a Boolean search that runs against Results Table
columns to determine which records to display. Each line of the query selects only the records for
display that meet its criteria. A preset or table-specific query can be defined.
It is recommended that the user validate any queries that are used to analyze data in a Results
Table.
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Regression
This section gives the equations for each of the regression types. In the following equations, x, y,
and w are as described in Weighting Factors on page 94.
In the following equations, x represents the analyte concentration for standard sample types, and
y represents the corresponding peak area or height. The exact variables used for the regression
depend on whether or not an internal standard is being used and whether the peak area or the
peak height is used as shown in the following table.
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Where:
• Ca = actual analyte concentration
• Cis = internal standard concentration
• DF = dilution factor
• Aa = analyte peak area
• Ais = internal standard peak area
• Ha = analyte peak height
• His = internal standard peak height
Linear Regression
Linear regression assumes that the points of the standard fall on a straight line.
The linear calibration equation is calculated as:
y=mx+b
The slope and intercept are calculated as:
m = wwxy – wxwy D x
b = wx 2 wy – wxwxy D x
The correlation co-efficient is calculated as:
r = wwxy – wxwy D x D y
where:
D x = wwx 2 – wx 2
D y = wwy 2 – wy 2
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m = wxy wx 2
The correlation co-efficient is calculated as:
r = wxy wx 2 wy 2
If the standard points fall on a straight line, then to average the points use mean response factor
regression to produce an average of the slope for every point on the curve.
Note: Points whose x value is zero are excluded from the sums.
If there is some linear and some curvature in the line of points, then use power regression
instead of linear or quadratic regression to produce a line somewhere between these fits.
Power
The power function calibration equation is calculated as follows:
y = ax n
The equations for the linear calibration are used as described previously to calculate the slope
(m) and intercept (b), except that x in those equations is replaced by ln x and y replaced by ln y.
When this is done a, p and the correlation co-efficient (r) are calculated as:
a = exp ( b )
p=m
r=r
If the points of the standard do not fall on a straight line, use quadratic regression to produce a
quadratic fit to the data points. This setting is frequently used.
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a2 = b 2 b 0 – b 5 b 3 b 1 b 0 – b 4 b 3
a1 = b5 b3 – a2b4 b3
a 0 = wy – a 1 wx – a 2 wx 2 w
The correlation co-efficient as:
r = 1 – w w y – a 2 x 2 – a 1 x – a 0 2 Dy
Where:
D y = wwy 2 – wy 2
b 0 = wx w – wx 2 wx
b 1 = wx 2 w – wx 3 wx
b 2 = wy w – wxy wx
b 3 = wx 2 wx – wx 3 wx 2
b 4 = wx 3 wx – wx 4 wx 2
b 5 = wxy wx – wx 2 y wx 2
Report Templates
Add the following information to report headers and footers.
Tip! Make a backup of the existing report templates before editing them.
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Customize Reports
The Report Template Editor provides a way to customize reports by setting up headers, footers,
and page layouts. Use report templates with both printed output and data exported to another
application.
Printed output includes several types of elements.
• Window: Windows in the Analyst software appear in the working area of the
software window, below the toolbar and to the right of the Navigation bar. Printing a
window will print everything that is shown in that space.
• Pane: Panes are parts of a window arranged in such a way that they do not overlap
and are always fully visible. For example, the Method Editor window contains two
panes: the Browser pane and the Method Editor pane. Information from each pane in
the window can be printed.
• Report: Reports are structured sets of information created in the software. Some
reports can be directly printed, such as calibration reports; other information must be
exported, such as batches and quantitation Results Tables.
• Workspace: A workspace is a particular arrangement of windows and panes along
with an associated file or files. Printing a workspace involves printing each open
window and pane in the current mode.
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Results Tables
Results Tables summarize the calculated concentration of analyte in each unknown sample
based on the calibration curve. They also include the calibration curves and statistics for the
results.
Export the data from a Results Table to a .txt file for use in other applications, such as Microsoft
Excel. All possible data in the table or just the data in the visible columns can be exported.
The data in a Results Table can be sorted in three different ways:
• Quickly sort the table on one to three columns, using one of the Sort buttons. This
sort criteria cannot be saved.
• Create a table-specific sort to save the sort criteria with the current table. Table-
specific sorts enable sorting the current table on one to three columns and saving
the criterion for use with that table.
• Use a previously created preset sort. Create and save a sort and later apply it to a
Results Table.
Tip! To save a sort or any other table setting, right-click in the table and
then click Table Settings > Export To New Table Settings. The sort and
other parameters can be used in the current project. To use the table
settings in a different project, copy it to another project. Click Tools >
Project > Copy Data. A new project must be created and selected to be
available for use.
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• To view the Analyte layout, click Analyte and then click a single analyte if
more than one analyte exists.
• To view the Analyte Group layout, click Analyte Group and then click an
analyte group.
2. In the Name field, type the name for the new sort.
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3. For each sorting rule to be set, in the Sort By section, do the following:
a. In the Group list, select the type of column.
b. In the Column list, select the column.
c. Select the direction of the sort: Ascending or Descending.
4. Do one of the following:
• To perform the sort, save the sort criteria, and close the Sort dialog, click
Save/Execute.
• To perform the sort and close the Sort dialog without saving the sort criteria,
click Execute.
2. Expand the Table Settings folder and then double-click the Default folder.
3. From the expanded Default folder, select the Sorts folder.
4. Click New.
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Note: The number of analytes and the number of analyte names must be the same for
the data to be combined in the Statistics window.
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Formula Fields
The Formula fields display the result of a spreadsheet-style formula defined by users. The
Formula field located at the top of the Results Table is shown only if at least one Formula column
is in the Results Table. The Formula field becomes active when Formula column cells are
selected. The Delete Formula Column button below the Formula field also becomes available
when the Formula column is selected.
It is recommended that the user validate the results if a formula column is used.
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Custom Fields
Custom fields contain information defined during the acquisition process. When acquiring
samples, users can create custom columns and define the type of data that goes in them. Once
the custom column is part of the Results Table, it can be treated like any other column (for
example, move it, hide it, base a formula on it).
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IS Baseline Slope (%/min.) A read-only column displaying the slope of the baseline.
IS Peak Asymmetry A read-only column displaying the peak asymmetry which
is calculated by the following formula:
[(Peak End Time) – (Retention Time)] / [(Retention Time) –
(Peak Start Time)]
Values near 1.0 indicate symmetric peaks, values greater
than 1.0 indicate tailing peaks, and values less than 1.0
indicate fronting peaks.
IS Processing Alg A read-only column displaying the processing algorithm
used.
IS Integration Quality The Integration Quality™ Index indicates how well the
peak is integrated. Values closer to 1 indicate well-
integrated peaks and values closer to 0 indicate poorly
integrated peaks.
Record Fields
The Record fields display additional information about each sample record (information that is
applicable only to the analyte, not the internal standard). Table 6-13 on page 90 shows the
available fields.
Table 6-13 Record Fields
Field Definition
Use Record Indicates whether this record should be included for calibration.
Applies to standards and QCs. If the check box is cleared, then the
unused standards and QCs are struck out in the Statistics Table.
Record Modified Indicates whether the quantitation method used for the record was
modified in any way from the original.
Calculated Concentration The calculated concentration of the analyte as calculated using the
calibration curve.
Relative Retention Time The ratio of the retention times of the internal standard and the
analyte.
Accuracy The calculated concentration divided by the known concentration
(as a percentage).
Response Factor The peak area or height (depending on the regression option)
divided by the analyte concentration.
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Table 6-17 on page 93 shows the fields that can be added to the Results Table for data acquired
by an ADC (analog-to-digital converter).
Table 6-17 ADC Fields
Field Definition
Analyte Channel The ADC channel from which the analyte was acquired.
Analyte Wavelength Ranges The range of wavelengths (nm).
IS Channel The ADC channel from which the internal standard was
acquired.
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Weighting Factors
The following table shows how the weighting factor (w in the equations below) is calculated for
each of the seven weighting types. Refer to Regression on page 76.
Table 6-19 Weighting Factors
Weighting Type Weight (w)
None Always 1.0
1/x If |x| < 10–5 then w = 105, otherwise w = 1 / |x|. To place some additional
emphasis on lower-value points, use a weighting factor of 1/x.
1 / x2 If |x| < 10–5 then w = 1010, otherwise w = 1 / x2. Use a weighting of 1/x
squared to provide a much higher emphasis on lower-value points.
1/y If |y| < 10–8 then w = 108, otherwise w = 1 / |y|. Use a weighting factor of
1/y when calibrating by the area (y-axis) rather than by the concentration
(x-axis), and some emphasis needs to be placed on lower-value points. A
weighting of 1/y is a variant of 1/x where y and x should be proportional to
each other.
1 / y2 If |y| < 10–8 then w = 1016, otherwise w = 1 / y2. Use a weighting factor of
1/y squared when calibrating by the area (y-axis) rather than by the
concentration (x-axis), and extra emphasis needs to be placed on lower-
value points. A weighting of 1/y2 is a variant of 1/x2 where y and x should
be proportional to each other.
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PPG Exact Mass Table
A
Table A-1 on page 97 lists the exact monoisotopic masses and charged species (positive and
negative) observed with the PPG (polypropylene glycol) calibration solutions. The masses and
ions were calculated using the formula M = H[OC3H6]nOH, while the positive ion MS/MS
fragments used the formula, [OC3H6]n(H+). In all calculations, H = 1.007825, O = 15.99491, C =
12.00000, and N = 14.00307.
Note: When performing calibration with the PPG solutions, make sure that the correct
isotope peak is used.
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