MALDI-TOF Detector Independent Shot Sampling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The MALDI-TOF MS system faces challenges in data reproducibility due to non-uniform sample concentration and structural variations across the sample plate, leading to high irreproducibility in disease diagnosis applications.
Innovation Solution
Independently measuring the time of flight and intensity of ionized particles for each laser pulse and locus of the sample, using a detector to output data that can be compared to a reference library, with potential manipulation and analysis via artificial intelligence and deep learning algorithms to optimize data reproducibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If summation or averaging process is used for intensities acquired by laser shots, then more laser shots can be accumulated to improve signal strength, but data reproducibility deteriorates due to non-uniform sample concentration and structural variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement process by independently measuring time of flight and intensity for each laser pulse and each locus separately, rather than summing or averaging them together. This segmentation allows identification and selection of high-quality measurements, improving reproducibility while maintaining measurement precision through selective data usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameters by independently varying and recording time of flight and intensity for each shot, then using statistical methods to identify optimal measurements. This parameter change approach allows selection of measurements within acceptable ranges, resolving the contradiction between accumulating shots for signal strength and maintaining precision.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple laser shots are summed or averaged, then signal strength increases, but irreproducibility increases due to sample variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using statistical analysis of time of flight and intensity measurements to identify and select shots that meet acceptable criteria. This feedback mechanism ensures that only reproducible measurements are used, maintaining reliability while accumulating sufficient signal through selective summation of qualified shots.
Solution Approach 2:
By independently measuring and recording parameters for each shot, the patent enables selective accumulation of only those measurements that meet quality criteria. This resolves the contradiction by allowing signal accumulation from multiple shots while filtering out irreproducible data through parameter-based selection.
3Device complexity
If conventional summation method is used, then measurement process is simple, but diagnostic accuracy is insufficient for disease diagnosis applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data processing into distinct steps: independent measurement of time of flight and intensity, statistical analysis to identify acceptable shots, and selective summation. This segmented approach maintains reasonable complexity while dramatically improving diagnostic accuracy through systematic quality control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the simple mechanical summation process with a systematic measurement and selection process that uses statistical analysis. This substitution increases complexity but provides the diagnostic accuracy required for disease diagnosis by ensuring only reproducible measurements are used.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach compensates for physical variations in the sample, minimizes data truncation, and enhances diagnostic accuracy by statistically calibrating and filtering data to reduce Relative Standard Deviation (RSD) of intensities, thereby improving the reproducibility and reliability of mass spectrometry data.
Implementation Method 1
a laser may be configured to irradiate a plurality of laser pulses on a target area to ionize a sample
Implementation Method 2
Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-Of-Flight Mass Spectrometer
Implementation Method 3
Electrodes at a first end of a flight tube may be configured to accelerate ionized particles into the flight tube
Implementation Method 4
A detector at a second opposite end of the flight tube may independently measure a time of flight of the ionized particles through the flight tube
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments relate to an apparatus, method, or computer program. A laser may be configured to irradiate a plurality of laser pulses on a target area to ionize a sample placed in the target area into at least one ionized particle. Electrodes at a first end of a flight tube may be configured to accelerate ionized particles into the flight tube. A detector at a second opposite end of the flight tube may independently measure a time of flight of the ionized particles through the flight tube and an intensity of the ionized particles.