Abstract: A mass spectrometry method for analysing the presence or absence of at least one target analyte in a complex sample is provided. The method uses a sample carrier suitable for mass spectrometry with a pre-applied microcrystalline MALDI matrix spot which is at least partially encompassed by a hydrophobic region. A complex sample is applied such that it becomes located on the microcrystalline MALDI matrix spot. The sample is washed on the microcrystalline MALDI matrix spot and then analyzed for the presence or absence of at least one target analyte via mass spectrometry. The method is in particular suitable for quantitatively analysing target analytes such as hepcidin and other peptides, drug compounds and metabolites in body fluids.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a mass spectrometry method for analysing the presence or absence of at least one target analyte in a complex sample, comprising at least the following steps: a) Using a sample carrier suitable for mass spectrometry comprising a pre-applied microcrystalline MALDI matrix spot which is at least partially encompassed by a hydrophobic region; b) Applying a complex sample such that it becomes located on said microcrystalline MALDI matrix spot; c) washing said sample on said microcrystalline MALDI matrix spot; d) analysing said sample for the presence or absence of at least one target analyte via mass spectrometry. The method is in particular suitable for quantitatively analysing target analytes such as hepcidin and other peptides, drug compounds and metabolites in body fluids.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for enriching phosphopeptides. Said method is characterized in that a carrier is used which carries phosphate groups and/or phosphonate groups on the surface thereof. The phosphate groups and/or phosphonate groups are functionalized with zirconium ions and are bonded to the carrier by means of linker structures which have at least one alkyl chain containing at least 5 C atoms. Also disclosed are corresponding carriers and suitable kits for enriching phosphopeptides.

Abstract: A process for accurately determining the consumption of a raw material in a processing machine or machines, especially plastic processing machines, in which the raw material is stored in a central storage container, comprises weighing or gravimetrically determining only a portion of the raw material stored in the storage container and feeding it to an intermediate storage vessel, from which it is delivered to the processing machine. The apparatus for performing this process comprises a storage container, means for gravimetric determination of a portion of the raw material which comprise a weighing housing which is supported on weighing sensors and an intermediate storage vessel, and supply means for feeding the raw material from the intermediate storage vessel to the processing machine. The weight determination means and the intermediate storage vessel can be suitably disposed in the vicinity of the central raw material storage container.