Unambiguous Characterization of Analytical Markers in Complex, Seized Opiate Samples Using an Enhanced Ion Mobility Trace Detector-Mass Spectrometer

Ion mobility spectroscopy (IMS)-based trace-compound detectors (TCDs) are powerful and widely implemented tools for the detection of illicit substances. They combine high sensitivity, reproducibility, rapid analysis time, and resistance to dirt with an acceptable false alarm rate. The analytical specificity of TCD-IMS instruments for a given analyte depends strongly on a detailed knowledge of the ion chemistry involved, as well as the ability to translate this knowledge into field-robust analytical methods. In this work, we introduce an enhanced hybrid TCD-IMS/mass spectrometer (TCD-IMS/MS) that combines the strengths of ion-mobility-based target compound detection with unambiguous identification by tandem MS. Building on earlier efforts along these lines (Kozole et al., <i>Anal. Chem</i>. <b>2011</b>, <i>83</i>, 8596–8603), the current instrument is capable of positive and negative-mode analyses with tightly controlled gating between the IMS and MS modules and direct measurement of ion mobility profiles. We demonstrate the unique capabilities of this instrument using four samples of opium seized by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), consisting of a mixture of opioid alkaloids and other naturally occurring compounds typically found in these samples. Although many analytical methods have been developed for analyzing naturally occurring opiates, this is the first detailed ion mobility study on seized opium samples. This work demonstrates all available analytical modes for the new IMS-MS system including “single-gate”, “dual-gate”, MS/MS, and precursor ion scan methods. Using a combination of these modes, we unambiguously identify all signals in the IMS spectra, including previously uncharacterized minor peaks arising from compounds that are common in raw opium

Factors and Regional Differences Associated with Endometriosis: A Multi-Country, Case–Control Study

<p></p><p><strong>Article full text</strong></p> <p><br><br> The full text of this article can be found here. <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12325-016-0366-x">https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12325-016-0366-x</a></p><p></p><p></p><p> <br><br> <strong>Provide enhanced digital features for this article</strong><br> There are currently no enhanced digital features for this article. If you are an author of this publication and would like to provide additional enhanced digital features for your article then please contact [email protected].<br> <br><br> The journal offers a range of additional enhanced digital features designed to increase visibility and readership. All features will be thoroughly peer reviewed to ensure the content is of the highest scientific standard and all features are marked as ‘peer reviewed’ to ensure readers are aware that the content has been reviewed to the same level as the articles they are being presented alongside. Moreover, all sponsorship and disclosure information is included to provide complete transparency and adherence to good publication practices. This ensures that however the content is reached the reader has a full understanding of its origin. No fees are charged for hosting additional open access content.<br> <br><br> Other enhanced features include, but are not limited to:</p><p> </p><p>• Summary Slides</p> <p>• Slide decks</p> <p>• Videos and animations</p> <p>• Audio abstracts</p> <p>• Audio slides</p><br><p></p