News Story #20757

UV Cryostat
With UVC disinfection
Leica Microsystems Inc has released the newest version of the Leica CM1850 UV Cryostat, designed with AgProtect™, Leica’s new, patented antimicrobial silver (Ag) ion coating. The Leica CM1850 UV with AgProtect™ provides outstanding protection to laboratory users by reducing exposure to airborne and surface pathogens while also providing the highest-quality sections. When sectioning fresh tissue specimens in a cryostat, operators can be exposed to highly infectious pathogens, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, HBV, HCV, and HIV. To provide additional protection in combination with the use of personal protective equipment (gloves, masks, and safety goggles), the Leica CM1850 UV features UVC disinfection. The UVC (ultraviolet) light effectively disinfects surfaces and the air within the chamber without generating condensation, toxic fumes, residues, or contaminated liquid waste. The cryochamber can be rapidly and effectively disinfected with UVC light at any time without warming or defrosting, which significantly reduces risks for laboratory personnel dealing with potentially infectious materials. Leica’s new AgProtect antimicrobial silver ion coating covers the Leica CM1850 UV’s outside surfaces and protects the operator and other individuals in the work area by penetrating the membranes of microbes and preventing replication. For an extra measure of safety, smooth surfaces inside the cryochamber allow easy, rapid, and safe chemical disinfection with commercially available antimicrobial agents. The microtome features a protective splash-proof slot cover to prevent infectious materials from entering the microtome housing. The new Leica CM1850 UV with AgProtect enhances laboratory safety.
Leica Microsystems Inc
(847) 405-0123; www.leica-microsystems.com

Flexible Dispense Tips
Allows access to hard-to-reach areas
EFD’s Ultra^® PP dispense tips with flexible polypropylene shafts are ideal for reaching into hard-to-access areas or working with scratch-prone substrates. Designed for use with air-powered benchtop dispensers or automated dispense valves, precision engineered PP tips will ensure accurate, trouble-free application of adhesives, lubricants, and many other assembly fluids. Flexible PP tips are available with internal diameters from .054-inch (15 gauge) to .010-inch (25 gauge). Color-coded tip hubs feature EFD’s SafetyLok™ threads for secure attachment to handheld syringe barrels or automated dispense valves. The tips are packaged in lint-free, lot-numbered transparent boxes that simplify inventory and process control.
EFD
(800) 556-3484; [removed]www.efd-inc.com/components.html[/removed]

High-Density Storage Systems
Available in a variety of sizes
Cargille sample storage sets are available in a variety of box sizes, containers, and closures to serve high-density storage applications that require cataloged storage in minimal space. Each complete set includes a partitioned box, vials, closures, dry gummed labels, a reference chart, and an exterior card holder and card. Empty Standard Set boxes and additional special models boxes are available. There are 18 different sets, and all boxes, vials, and closures are available separately. The boxes are versatile enough to store liquids, powders, small specimens, and parts in labeled vials or bottles. The compact sets include alpha-numerically indexed compartments for accurate and rapid retrieval of samples. The boxes are constructed with a moisture- and abrasive-resistant exterior covering that is suitable for incubator, refrigerator, deep-freeze, and controlled-atmosphere applications.
Cargille
(973) 239-6633; www.cargille.com

Staph Identification System
Identifies staphylococci in 4 hours
Reliable species identification of staphylococci is now available with the introduction of the Remel RapID™ STAPH PLUS system. The system identifies all clinically important staphylococci in 4 hours, providing isolate identification and better epidemiologic data. The RapID STAPH PLUS Panel is the newest member of the Remel RapID family of identification products employing the chromogenic enzyme technology clinical laboratories have relied upon for more than 2 decades. The RapID STAPH PLUS system features simple, one-step inoculation and convenient, 4-hour, 35C ambient incubation common to all RapID systems. Easy-to-read color reactions are scored and combined into a microcode. The microcode is referenced in the associated RapID STAPH PLUS Code Compendium (ERIC^® software) for species-level identification. The RapID STAPH PLUS system is available in a 20-test kit.
Remel
(800) 255-6730; www.remel.com

Phosphopeptide Enrichment Kit
Based on a Ga+3 chelate on silica
Sigma-Aldrich Research Biotech has launched the PhosphoProfile™ I Phosphopeptide Enrichment Kit, a new kit for the enrichment of phosphopeptides. The technology is based on a novel Ga+3 chelate on silica that provides a robust method for phosphoproteomics. This new approach offers several advantages to proteomics researchers, including very low nonspecific binding, no bias in selectivity of phosphorylation state, high sensitivity, and fast sample handling, especially for small precious samples. Phosphoproteins are digested with the included Proteomics Grade Trypsin, resulting in high-quality phosphopeptides that are captured in convenient spin-tubes. Recovered phosphopeptides are then ready for analysis by either MALDI-TOF or ESI mass spectrometry. Up to 25 nanomoles of phosphopeptide can be captured and recovered from complex samples. Also included are the necessary buffers and mono and tetra phosphopeptide controls commonly used to verify performance, eliminating the requirement of additional purchases and risk of data misinterpretation.
Sigma-Aldrich Research Biotech
(800) 325-3010; www.sigma-aldrich.com

Screening for Protein-Protein Interactions
Customized yeast two-hybrid screening
Users can identify novel binding partners of membranes or soluble protein with the customized yeast two-hybrid screening by DualSystems Inc. Laboratory experts perform the entire yeast two-hybrid screen from start to finish using cDNA of the protein of interest (bait) supplied by the requestor. The client can select a cDNA library from the collection of Sunrise Science Products, or the company can make one. The client receives complete bait plasmid preparation and testing, high-efficiency library transformation and screening, and an in-depth analysis of positive clones. A flexible service structure is adaptable to specific needs, and milestone reports ensure complete control over the screening process. Once the project is complete, plasmid DNA of the bait construct and all positive prey clones, a detailed report containing explanations and data for every screening step, and a complete analysis of all sequences, are provided.
Sunrise Science Products
(760) 889-0982; www.sunrisescience.com

CRP Ultra WR Wide Range Ultra-Sensitive Assay
Measures CRP 0.05—160mg/L
Equal Diagnostics Inc has released a new, wide-range CRP assay, allowing laboratories to consolidate two clinically useful assays into one. The new ultrasensitive, wide-range immunoassay test measures C-Reactive Protein (CRP) in serum. C-Reactive protein is present in the serum of normal individuals at levels between 0-5mg/L. Elevated levels outside the normal range are associated with acute phase response and measurements may be useful for the detection of infection, tissue injury, inflammatory disorders, and associated diseases. Measurement of CRP aids in evaluation of injury to body tissues; additionally, CRP is one of the most sensitive indicators of inflammation, and recent literature suggests that measuring CRP levels may assist in screening for cardiovascular events. The CRP Ultra Wide Range kit contains liquid-stable reagents and needs no preparation, mixing, or dilutions. No predilution of samples is required. This assay can be easily applied to most automated chemistry analyzers.
Equal Diagnostics Inc
(800) 999-6578; www.equaldiagnostics.com

Automated LDL Reagent
Direct measurement of LDL cholesterol
Equal Diagnostics Inc has introduced Liquid Select LDL, a homogeneous, completely automated direct LDL test for use on clinical chemistry analyzers. The Liquid Select LDL Direct Assay measures LDL cholesterol levels in serum or plasma directly, without the need for any offline pretreatment or centrifugation steps. Direct measurement of LDL cholesterol obviates the limitations of the Friedewald formula, including the intrinsic variability in its multiple components, the potential source of error related to patient noncompliance with 12-hour fasting, and the potential interference from elevated triglyceride levels. This direct measurement has proved superior to the Friedewald formula in assessing LDL cholesterol values in diabetic patients. Because direct measurement of LDL cholesterol is still a recent concept for clinical laboratories, clinicians must regularly specify this test when sending patient samples out for processing. The Liquid Select LDL is available in two convenient test sizes: 100 tests and 800 tests. (Tests per kit are approximate.) Easy-to-set-up applications are available for most automated chemistry systems. For high-volume analyzers that require priming of the reagent lines, the R1 and R2 components can be purchased separately. Equal Diagnostics provides data sheets and step-by-step instructions for setting up the Liquid Select LDL.
Equal Diagnostics
(800) 999-6578; www.equaldiagnostics.com

Hybridization Buffer
Formamide-free
Hyb-LINK™ is a high-performance formamide-free hybridization solution for Northern, Southern, and Dot Blots, which increases the sensitivity of random-primed DNA probes. Hyb-LINK capitalizes on increased sensitivity of blot hybridizations without increasing background. The buffer provides reliable and accurate hybridization and is compatible with either RNA or DNA probes (radiolabeled or nonisotopic).
G-Biosciences/Genotech
(800) 628-7730; www.GBiosciences.com

Bleach Wipes
Solution equivalent to a 1:10 dilution
PDI^® has released the Sani-Cloth^® bleach wipe, the newest member of the Sani-Surface™ family of products. The Sani-Cloth bleach wipe is a stabilized bleach solution in a ready-to-use durable, low-lint wipe. Equivalent to a 1:10 dilution, the Sani-Cloth Bleach Wipe cleans and deodorizes nonporous surfaces such as countertops, tables, carts, and equipment that require the use of bleach for the cleaning and maintenance of equipment surfaces. The durable low-lint cloth is designed for sensitive equipment surfaces.
The wipes are available in two sizes: a large 5 x 7-inch cloth and an extra-large 11.5 x 11.75-inch cloth. Both sizes come in a self-dispensing box for quick access with 50 easy, tear-open packets. For enhanced convenience, an optional Sani-Bracket^® is available for wall or equipment placement for the extra-large box size.
PDI
(845) 365-1700; www.pdipdi.com

Gram Stain Kit
Improved staining quality
The gram reaction is essential for accurate bacterial identification. Hardy Diagnostics’ new Gram Stain Kit—Advanced features improved reagents for better staining quality. Our kit includes Advanced™ Crystal Violet, which is shown to consistently provide a superior, brighter staining of Gram-positive organisms, especially those that decolorize easily. The advanced system helps to guard against overdecolorization and mistaking an organism for Gram-negative. It is especially useful when examining anaerobic bacteria, which have traditionally been difficult to stain. Additionally, the company’s Advanced™ Safranin counterspin produces a deep red color and provides enhanced contrast between Gram-positive organisms in a mixed field, and the outer edges of Gram-negative bacteria appear more crisp and clearly defined. The Gram Stain Kit—Advanced also comes with premixed and ready-to-use stabilized iodine, which is less sensitive to light and has a longer shelf life than nonstabilized iodine. The kit also comes with the recommended fast decolorizer.
Hardy Diagnostics
(800) 266-2222; www.hardydiagnostics.com

Rolls For Benchliner Materials
Impermeable to strong solvents
Laboratorians can cut benchliners of any size from 100-foot rolls of biohazard-absorbent material from these materials from Current Technologies. Bright orange protective polyethylene backing on the rolls prevents leak-through of fluids and pathogens to surfaces and gloves when handling specimens, blood tubes, and pipettes. The benchliners also inhibit the subsequent transmission of microbes to phones, pens, and keyboards. The orange barrier side is impermeable to strong solvents including xylene, xylene substitutes, acetone, ketones, alcohols, and formalin. Rolls are available in three low-linting absorbencies—standard, extra-heavy, and super absorbent, and measure 100 feet long and 16 inches wide.
Current Technologies
(800) 456-4022

New Web Site
For Biohit products in North American markets
Biohit Inc has launched its new Micro Web site tailored for North American markets. Included in this Web site are technical service, promotions, contact information for repair and calibration services, and a full product listing of Biohit’s liquid-handling products and monoclonal antibodies. This new site gives the user immediate access to the Biohit field sales force with an interactive e-mail map and up-to-the-minute introductions to products, promotions, and aftercare support for which Biohit is known. A technical guide to all functions of Biohit’s electronic pipettors and a cross-reference guide to selecting pipettors and disposable pipette tips can also be found on the site. In addition, the corporate information, standards and accreditations, and OEM partnerships can be immediately accessed.
Biohit Inc
(800) 922-0784; www.biohit.com

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate Rack
Provides results in 30 minutes
Streck has added a manual rack for the measurement of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). The ESR-10 Manual Rack uses ESR-Vacuum Tubes™, a direct-draw blood-collection tube that does not require an additional transfer step prior to analysis. ESR results are available in 30 minutes, versus the standard 60-minute Modified Westergren method. The manual rack completes Streck’s line of ESR products, which includes the ESR-Auto Plus™ and ESR-100™ analyzers, blood-collection tubes, and ESR-Chex controls. The ESR-10 provides customers with an additional option for sed-rate testing. An ESR-10 starter kit includes the ESR-10 Manual Rack, a 30-minute measuring scale, package insert, and three boxes of 1.2-mL ESR-Vacuum Tubes. Streck ESR-Vacuum Tubes offer a stability feature, which allows technologists to collect patient specimens and store them for up to 72 hours at refrigerated temperatures without compromising the integrity of the sample. This extended stability is especially useful for facilities transporting patient samples to a centralized location for analysis.
Streck
(800) 843-0912; www.streck.com

Sample Tracker
For small- to medium-sized laboratories
Labtronics has released the newest version of NEXXIS Sample Tracker (ST) version 3.0. NEXXIS ST provides small- to medium-sized laboratories with an affordable system for storing and tracking their laboratory test results. With the latest release, authorized users can now use the NEXXIS Web client, thus eliminating the installation of any client software. As a result, the system can now be accessed via any PC with Internet Explorer within an organization. NEXXIS ST is built on the NEXXIS Application Development Platform, which uniquely combines a powerful Application Development Tool for developing laboratory solutions with a scalable Laboratory Platform to deploy, manage, and execute the applications.
Labtronics Inc
(519) 767-1061; www.labtronics.com/nexxisst.htm

Functionalized Silica Microspheres
Containing carboxylic acid, amine, or streptavidin groups
Polysciences Inc has released new functionalized silica microspheres containing carboxylic acid, amine, or streptavidin groups. Functionalized silica microspheres are available with nominal diameters of 0.5 µm, 1 µm, and 5 µm to allow the researcher to tailor his/her product design for specific assays. The carboxyl functional and amine functional materials are supplied as 100% solids, while the streptavidin modified microspheres are offered as a 1% dispersion in water.
Polysciences Inc
(800) 523-2575; www.polysciences.com

Anti-Osteoclast-Associated Receptor (OSCAR)-PE RUO Monoclonal Antibody
Expands study of dendritic cell functions
Beckman Coulter Inc has introduced the IOTest^® Anti-OSCAR-PE conjugated monoclonal antibody. In humans, the OSCAR antigen is expressed on osteoclasts, which are involved in bone development and remodeling, and on myeloid dendritic cells, among others. OSCAR is the first FcR-associated molecule described on human myeloid dendritic cells. It is an activating molecule involved in antigen capture and presentation that may modulate the response of both innate and adaptive immunity. With the new Anti-OSCAR-PE Monoclonal Antibody, researchers can tag a new antigen that is thought to be implicated in the tolerogenic function of dendritic cells. Beckman Coulter is a leader in dendritic cell (DC) reagents, and the new anti-OSCAR-PE antibody completes the company’s extensive line of DC markers. This directly conjugated monoclonal antibody, coupled with other markers, is useful in identifying the expression/regulation of new antigens on dendritic cells by flow cytometry. The preformulated, standardized IOTest Anti-OSCAR-PE monoclonal antibody is provided in 100-test vials. Beckman Coulter offers a number of reagents, controls, and markers that can be used with this new antibody. Anti-OSCAR-PE is approved for research use only.
Beckman Coulter Inc
(800) 526-3821; www.beckmancoulter.com

Instrument Manager
Includes new and redesigned features
Data Innovations has released Instrument Manager™ (IM) version 8.05, which includes several new and redesigned features to help laboratories work with greater efficiency. With this release, Instrument Manager has been submitted to the FDA for 510(k) clearance. Version 8.05 includes a redesigned specimen management user interface—now called Specimen Management Workspace. In addition, the all-new Maintenance Manager feature has been added to the set of available IM options. Version 8.05 adds support for data mining through ODBC connectivity. This feature allows users to query the database from third-party software applications like Crystal Reports^®. Maintenance Manager allows users to create tasks to schedule, track, and document maintenance activities, such as equipment calibration, loading reagents, scheduled and unscheduled field service, or any other user-defined task. Notification options alert users when tasks are due or overdue. Laboratory-procedure documents can be linked as attachments providing instruction and guidance while performing tasks. Troubleshooting tasks may be automatically triggered upon data entry. Supervisor sign-off on tasks and archiving of maintenance logs eliminates the need for written logs while maintaining full traceability. Specimen Management Workspace is a redesigned user interface to display specimen-management data. Workspaces are highly configurable, allowing users to customize the display of menus, toolbars, and panes, as well as the display of data. Predefined workspaces include Results Review/Edit/Release (R/E/R), Instrument Worklist, spreadsheet views of both R/E/R and Instrument Worklist, Manual Download Pending Tests, and R/E/R with images displayed. The Notifier has been enhanced to allow users to add custom notification events to the standard list of events. These user-defined events can be triggered through the rules engine, allowing for construction of the notification text from dynamic data elements available at that time. E-mail, PC pop-up messages, pages, and support for new audiovisual light poles provide flexibility in notification methods.
Data Innovations Inc
(802) 264-3470; www.datainnovations.com

Point-of-Care D-Dimer Testing
Uses finger-prick sampling
Inverness Medical has improved Clearview Simplify D-dimer so it can now be used with capillary blood from a finger-prick sample, in addition to whole blood or plasma. The simple, two-step, 10-minute test includes a built-in procedural control and is ideal for use in the emergency department or physician’s office. Diagnostic imaging procedures required to give definitive diagnosis of DVT or PE take significant time and resources. Clearview Simplify D-dimer, in conjunction with a validated pretest probability (PTP) score, such as the Wells Algorithm, can be used to safely rule out DVT or PE in low-risk patients. Only 20% to 30% of symptomatic patients have DVT; therefore 70% of procedures are an unnecessary use of valuable clinical time and resources. Using Clearview Simplify D-dimer, together with a PTP score, to safely rule out low-risk patients has obvious cost benefits and is now even easier at the point of care.
Inverness Medical
(609) 627-8000; www.clearview.com

Albumin Analyzer
For use at the point of care
HemoCue^® Albumin 201 is the fast, simple, and accurate way to screen for microalbuminuria at the point of care. Using a drop of urine from a single-spot sample, the system provides quantitative urine albumin results within seconds. Built with HemoCue’s proven 201 platform, HemoCue Albumin 201 offers lab-quality measurements and user-friendly features that add flexibility for family physicians, general practitioners, and other health care providers. The results can be printed on an external printer. Features include quantitative results suitable for screening, diagnosing, and monitoring; an attractive, compact design; a measuring range of 5 to 150 mg/L; results within 90 seconds; ease of use with no lab training required; direct printout of results and QC; and serial port for one-way data communication.
HemoCue Inc
(800) 881-1611; www.hemocue.com

Electronic Pipette
With back-lit display
Thermo Electron Corp has announced an enhancement to the Finnpipette^® Novus range with the introduction of a back-lit display. The Finnpipette Novus uses similar backlight technology to that of mobile phones. By eliminating surrounding light reflections and improving contrast in low-light conditions, such as safety cabinets and fume hoods, the integral back-lit display ensures that the high-resolution menu characters are shown with more clarity. The addition of the backlight feature means that the Finnpipette Novus range is now even more user-friendly, improving productivity, precision, and ergonomic operation. The Finnpipette Novus range consists of flexible and powerful electronic pipettes that combine simplicity, comfort, and functionality in intuitive, ergonomic, and lightweight designs. Built on the results of recent independent ergonomics studies and customer feedback, each pipette has been designed to fit comfortably and securely to keep muscle strain and exertion to a minimum. Its advanced lightweight construction also helps prevent upper-body stress and strain, allowing the user to work longer without fatigue, and reducing the risk of repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) that are frequent with manual pipetting. The Finnpipette Novus has 10 different pipetting functions and nine pipetting speeds from which to choose. The instantly familiar text-guided graphical display and simple button layout allows users to choose any of these pipetting functions quickly and easily. With the backlight feature, the Finnpipette Novus range offers outstanding performance, making it suitable for routine use as well as for quality-conscious laboratories demanding the highest level of pipetting performance.
Thermo Electron Corp
(508) 482-7000; www.thermo.com/finnpipette

Conductivity Calibration Standards
With traceability information
Control Company’s Traceable^® A2LA conductivity calibration standards offer accuracy at 25°C is ±0.25 for other solutions or the uncertainty shown on the certificate, whichever is greater. Standards are 100% compatible with all makes of equipment. Each bottle is labeled for calibrating conductivity (micromhos), resistivity (megohms), and dissolved solids (ppm). Supplied complete, each 16-ounce bottle comes with step-by-step calibration instructions, traceability information, individual temperature compensation chart, and Traceable certificate.
The individually serial-numbered Traceable certificate is provided from the company’s ISO 9001 and ISO 17025 calibration laboratory accredited by A2LA. It indicates traceability to standards provided by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
Control Company
(281) 482-9448; www.control3.com

Centrifuge Packages
Developed for urinalysis applications
The U-Spin 1 and U-Spin 2 centrifuge packages are now available from HELMER Inc. Both packages were developed for urinalysis applications and can spin 15 mL conical and Kova^® tubes. The U-Spin 1 package features the Hettich Rotofix 32A centrifuge, which offers simple programming and a brushless drive. The U-Spin 2 package features the Universal 320 centrifuge, which provides additional programming and automatic lid opening and closing by pressing a button. Both centrifuge packages include a four-place swing-out rotor, buckets, and inserts. Additional inserts are available for spinning 13- x 65-mm Kova tubes. The Universal 320 and Rotofix 32A centrifuges feature automatic rotor identification to ensure proper rotor usage. Additional features include lid-lock and hold, programmable run times, programmable RPM, and digitally precise speed and timer with touch-pad control panel.
HELMER Inc
(800) 743-5637; www.helmerinc.com

Water-Validation and Quality Services
For the Elix clinical water-purification systems
Millipore Corp is now providing validation and qualification services for the Elix^® clinical water-purification systems. Recently, the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute issued a new guideline for “Preparation and Testing of Reagent Water in the Clinical Laboratory” that addressed the merits and importance of validation for water-purification systems. Specifically designed to meet this need, Millipore’s validation service monitors the purification system, ensuring that it has been installed and that it is operating according to predetermined specifications. Validation and qualification services for Millipore’s Analyzer Feed Systems for clinical labs will also be available in the near future. In addition to developing qualification protocols to address the specific requirements of the validation process, Millipore has designed specialized tools that facilitate the process.
Millipore Corp
(800) MILLIPORE; www.millipore.com/bioscience

Homocysteine Reagent Kit
Automated reagent for clinical chemistry analyzers
Equal Diagnostics Inc has introduced a new automated homocysteine reagent kit for use on most clinical chemistry analyzers. The kit requires no reagent or sample pretreatment, and offers two-point calibration and a low per-test cost. It can also be run with other lipid tests and provides 30-day onboard stability.
Equal Diagnostics Inc
(800) 999-6578; www.equaldiagnostics.com

Coagulation Analyzer
Designed for high-volume laboratories
Dade Behring Inc is now manufacturing the BCS^® XP System coagulation analyzer, designed for high-volume coagulation laboratories. The BCS XP System provides current technology in clotting, chromogenic, and immunologic methodologies. Its new features include customizable software, based on customer protocols, and the automated Endogenous Thrombin Potential test, currently for research use only. The new model also features an automated ristocetin cofactor activity test that detects Von Willebrand disease, the most common inherited bleeding disorder.
Dade Behring Inc
(800) 242-3233; www.dadebehring.com

Biohazard Bag
Designed for a workbench
The Terminal^® Brand Safe-Keeper™ is a biohazard bag designed to hang on a lab bench wall. Made from sturdy plastic-lined paperboard, the bag is designed with a solid bottom to keep contents from leaking and may be used for capillary tubes, pipette tips, swabs, and other biohazardous waste. The Safe-Keeper can also be autoclaved or incinerated when filled.
Whitney Products Inc
(800) 338-4237; www.whitneyproducts.com

Microscope Objectives
Provide automatic light balancing for clinical applications
Olympus America Inc has released the CY series of UIS2 plan achromat microscope objectives designed for clinical laboratory and examination work. The CY objectives have built-in neutral-density filters for light balancing, so the user can switch from high to low magnification without adjusting the light source. This feature provides automatic homogeneous brightness and constant color temperature during the changing of the objectives. Users can set the correct microscope-illumination intensity for the 40x magnification level. Each of the CY objectives, available for 20x, 10x, 4x, and 2x magnifications, is then automatically balanced for the correct light intensity without further adjustment. The light source can be kept at a standard intensity while switching from 40x all the way down to the 2x objective. The CY objectives ensure field flatness up to field number (FN) 22 with brightfield observation in transmitted light. In addition, the new objectives are suited for digital imaging in the pathology suite and for others doing routine documentation. With the light balanced among the various intensities, the camera can properly expose images more quickly when switching magnifications for photography.
Olympus America Inc
(800) 455-8236; www.olympusamerica.com/microscopes

Protein Assay
For rapid estimation of protein
The 1µL dotMETRIC™ protein assay by Genotech requires no expensive equipment. Instead, the method involves mixing 1 µL of the solution to the test strip and letting it develop for 8 minutes. A circular spot is then produced, the diameter of which is proportional to the concentration. By measuring the diameter of the spots with the dotMETRIC scale supplied with each kit, users can easily determine concentration of protein. The kits have a shelf life of 1 year at room temperature.
For increased reproducibility and test reliability, the new dotMETRIC kits are supplied with an optional spot application device. The spot application device allows application of samples using fixed-volume capillary tips, which simplifies the application of one or more samples and improves the reliability of results.
Genotech
(314) 991-6034; www.genotech.com

Nucleated Red Blood Cell Control
For the Beckman Coulter LH 750/LH 755
Streck has introduced nRBC-Chex for LH, the only nucleated red blood cell control designed specifically for the Beckman Coulter LH 750/LH 755. nRBC-Chex for LH evaluates the accuracy and precision of the Coulter LH 750/LH 755 hematology analyzer in its enumeration of the nRBC parameter. The assay provides nRBC percent values as well as total WBC and RBC values. nRBC-Chex for LH will allow the clinician to control instrument-reported nRBC values without manual verification of a stained patient smear. Packaged in plastic, cap-pierceable vials for use with open- or closed-mode systems, nRBC-Chex for LH offers a closed-vial stability of 75 days and an open-vial stability of 14 days. STATS^®, a free interlaboratory quality-control program, is offered to qualifying nRBC-Chex for LH customers. STATS produces relevant peer-group comparison reports and graphs with a quick turnaround time. Data can be submitted by mail, fax, or e-mail. The reports include customer data, peer group averages, and computer-generated Levey-Jennings graphs.
Streck
(800) 843-0912; www.streck.com

Flow Cytometry System
For in vitro diagnostics use
BD Biosciences has released the BD FACSCanto™ II flow cytometry system for in vitro diagnostic (IVD) use. The new benchtop analyzer supports the first six-color flow cytometry IVD application for routine HIV/AIDS monitoring using a highly efficient one-tube test. Health professionals regularly use flow cytometry to obtain CD4 test results to make important treatment decisions in HIV-infected patients, most notably when the disease has progressed to the point where initiation of antiretroviral treatment (ARV) would be beneficial. The BD FACSCanto II system offers a range of turnkey IVD applications, as well as the flexibility and cutting-edge performance required for complex life-science and clinical research applications, offering an optional eight-color configuration. The BD FACSCanto II system demonstrates BD Biosciences’ continued commitment to the growing need for IVD products. The system is also CE-IVD marked and was released in Europe earlier this year. The BD FACSCanto II system assists laboratories in achieving quality data quickly and efficiently, offering users high-fluorescence sensitivity, industry-leading low sample contamination of less than 0.1% between tests, and processing speeds of up to 10,000 events per second. Due to its unique performance characteristics, the BD FACSCanto II system greatly facilitates rare event analysis, an important feature for laboratories of all types. Whether used for clinical research or IVD testing, the BD FACSCanto II system is designed with many automation features that increase laboratory efficiency and productivity. For example, the system provides automated sample loading with the BD FACS™ loader or the BD™ High Throughput Sampler option, enabling walk-away sample acquisition and freeing valuable time for laboratory personnel to focus on other tasks.
BD Diagnostics
(877) 232-8995; www.bdbiosciences.com

Probe Colorimeter
For measuring transmittance, absorbancy, or concentration
Brinkmann now offers the probe colorimeter Model PC950, which provides one of the easiest ways to measure transmittance, absorbancy, or concentration. The PC950 can be used manually or with any automation package; users can customize it for applications by selecting a fiber-optic length and drop-in filter from 420 nm to 950 nm.
The colorimeter features: interchangeable probe tips for various path lengths, immersions depths, and materials; analog output for use with titrators or recorders; serial computer interface for data collection; and a small footprint.
Brinkmann Instruments Inc
(800) 645-3050; www.brinkmann.com

Laboratory Interface System
Addresses connectivity problems between LIS and instruments
bioMérieux Inc has released ENQ^®, an advanced multi-protocol laboratory interface management system to easily resolve compatibility problems between bioMérieux diagnostic instruments and hospital laboratory information systems (LIS). ENQ’s state-of-the-art programming design makes multiple interfaces simple to integrate and messaging formats easy to translate. ENQ features smart auto-protocol generation, an exclusive benefit that simplifies the process of adding new instruments to the lab. The system quickly translates various protocols to resolve communication problems between HL7, ASTM, CDF, BIF, and other formats. Increasing connectivity also improves efficiency within the lab by reducing downtime-to-live for new connections by 60%. The ENQ interfacing system offers “Smart Features” that process data and provide intelligent feedback to assist the laboratorian. These features include: data collection/processing, reporting to support hospital compliance, and analysis; traceability of data and snapshot views of transmissions; and wireless capabilities. ENQ is currently installed in labs for medical and industry customers. A hospital in Long Island, NY implemented the technology in November 2004 to address bulk-mode messaging problems between its BacT/ALERT^® 3D system and the laboratory’s LIS. ENQ is delivered to the institution preconfigured to the lab’s requirements for rapid and easy deployment. A new diagnostic system can be up and running quickly, enabling the lab to offer the highest level of patient care. Additionally, the ENQ box features a very small footprint to save space in already crowded labs. ENQ is powered by HealthBlocks Inc, a health care IT specialist. ENQ is a registered trademark of HealthBlocks Inc and is exclusively used by bioMérieux.
bioMérieux
(800) 682-2666; www.biomerieux-usa.com

NH Card
New addition to the VITEK 2 test card portfolio
bioMérieux Inc has developed an Advanced Colorimetry™ NH card for the VITEK^® 2, which will provide an accurate, rapid, and automated method for the identification of Neisseria species, Haemophilus species, and other fastidious species. The 64-well card contains 30 biochemical tests and features a database comprised of 28 taxa of clinical and industrial significance. The VITEK 2 is an automated system designed to provide rapid and accurate identification and susceptibility results for most clinically encountered strains. Fastidious bacteria represent a significant organism group for both the medical and industrial lab and are often difficult to cultivate and identify. In addition to Neisseria sp and Haemophilus sp, the NH ID Card will identify Campylobacter (fetus and jejuni), Capnocytophaga sp, Cardiobacterium hominis, Eikenella corrodens, Gardnerella vaginalis, Kingella sp, Moraxella (Branhamella) catarrhalis, Oligella urethralis, and Suttonella indologenes. The NH identification card is available now for VITEK 2 users and will be available for use with the VITEK 2 Compact in January 2007.
bioMérieux
(800) 682-2666; www.biomerieux-usa.com

Chemical Inventory Manager
Includes integration methods for interaction with customer-specific applications
Labtronics has released the NEXXIS Chemical Inventory Manager (CIM) version 2.1. With the latest version, NEXXIS CIM sees improved system performance and enhanced scalability for the enterprise environment. Additionally, CIM now includes integration methods allowing it to seamlessly interact with customer-specific applications in addition to standard NEXXIS application modules like qELN, the balance data system, sample tracker, and the calibration manager. NEXXIS CIM is built on the NEXXIS application-development platform, which combines a powerful application-development tool for developing laboratory solutions with a scalable laboratory platform to deploy, manage, and execute the applications.
Labtronics Inc
(519) 767-1061; www.labtronics.com/nexxiscim.htm

Coved-Corner Sinks
For sanitation and efficiency
A comprehensive line of deep-drawn coved-corner sinks from Eagle MHC combines a highly functional design with corrosion-free construction to optimize sanitation and efficiency in industrial workplace or lab settings. Offered with a choice of one, two, three, or four bowl compartments, these sinks feature heavy-gauge stainless steel construction—including the bowls, drainboards, and backsplash components. All models are National Sanitation Foundation-approved. The sink bowls for Eagle’s coved-corner sinks feature deep-drawn, one-piece seamless construction, along with a swirl-away drainage design for complete evacuation of water. The standard bowl size (14-inch water level) and shape are ideal for accommodating a wide range of equipment sizes—even those of extremely large diameters and depths. Coved corners prevent spillage and promote cleanliness of the floor area around the sink, while the drainboard’s die-stamped “crease” design enables faster and more complete water drainage. The design of Eagle’s deep-drawn coved corner sinks is geared for rugged durability. It includes front-to-back leg braces for added rigidity and elimination of “wobble.” The leg gussets are welded to a die-cut heavy-gauge reinforcing plate to optimize sturdiness. Moreover, worker safety is enhanced with all outside corners of the sink bull-nosed to eliminate sharp edges. All Eagle coved-corner sink models come with a standard 10-inch backsplash element featuring a 1-inch upturn and tile edge for easy installation and “feathering” to any wall-splash surfaces. In addition to standard product offerings, custom sink configurations are available from Eagle to meet special layout requirements. Sound deadening is also available.
Eagle MHC
(800) 637-5100; www.eaglegrp.com

Monoclonal Antibody to S 100
Stains paraffin tissue sections
BioGenex S-100 antibody (Clone: 15E2E2) is designed for the specific localization of S-100 in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections used in immunohistochemistry applications. S-100 protein is a low-molecular-weight soluble protein first isolated from the brain and initially believed to be exclusively a glial marker. S-100 is a fairly stable antigen that withstands formalin fixation and paraffin embedding. The presence of S-100 protein is readily demonstrated in routinely processed malignant melanomas. A large proportion of well-differentiated tumors of salivary gland, adipose, cartilaginous tissue, and Schwann cell-derived tumors express S-100 protein. Practically all malignant melanomas are positive for S-100 protein, and its demonstration is of great value in the identification of this tumor, particularly when used with a panel of other antibodies. This antibody stains positive in the cytoplasm and nucleus of positive cells. BioGenex offers Anti-S-100 in a concentrated form and as a ready-to-use reagent for manual use and for use on BioGenex automated staining systems. The antibody has been optimized for use with the BioGenex Super Sensitive™ Ready-to-Use Detection Systems.
BioGenex
(800) 421-4149; www.biogenex.com

Diba Fluoropolymer Lined Probes
Eliminates potential reactions
Analytical instruments rely on clean sample and reagent fluid paths to produce accurate results. Fluoropolymer lined probes from Diba Industries offer an inert, consistent fluid path for reaction-free processing. Diba provides a complete line of aspirate/dispense, piercing, level sensing, and vented fluoropolymer-lined reagent and sample-transfer probes. The inner diameter of the rigid stainless steel or plastic probe is lined with fluoropolymer tubing to create a single fluid path from the tip of the probe to the instrument’s pump connection. Samples and reagents come in contact only with the inert liner, eliminating the possibility of unwanted chemical interaction with potentially reactive materials. The design reduces carryover and improves wash capabilities, retaining the necessary flow characteristics for efficient system performance. Fluoropolymer-lined probes are available in a range of standard sizes, as well as custom configurations. Customers can specify probe material, inside diameter and outside diameter with flush, angle-cut, or protruded tip designs. Diba’s technical staff is available to assist in specifying configurations suited to any application.
Diba Industries
(203) 744-0773; www.dibaind.com

Test-Selection Information Tool
Available in Web and PDA platforms
ARUP Laboratories has enhanced its suite of integrated services. ARUP Consult™, Version 1.0, the Physician’s Guide to Laboratory Test Selection and Interpretation, will offer health care providers across the nation a dynamic tool to provide instant, electronic, point-of-care access to laboratory testing information; and help with test selection, decision-making, and test interpretation for more than 750 laboratory tests. This proprietary innovation, available in both Web and PDA platforms at no cost, will enable ARUP’s clients and their physicians/health care providers to more effectively serve their patients. ARUP Consult’s cutting-edge design provides clinicians with background information, test-ordering suggestions, and concise diagnostic advice in an easy-to-use format that allows the user to browse by disease specialty or topic name. In addition to receiving guidance in ordering lab tests, users may also access interpretations of those results, allowing patient care to begin as soon as possible. This pioneering method will improve patient safety and quality of care through positively influencing physician-ordering behavior because it is meant to be used in a point-of-care setting. Additionally, ARUP Consult will reduce overall health care costs by helping physicians to order the most appropriate test the first time, eliminating unnecessary and costly testing. To develop Consult, ARUP drew from the knowledge of its nearly 70 medical faculty and consultants. These experts function as medical directors for ARUP Laboratories, professors at the University of Utah’s School of Medicine, consultants, and/or research and development authorities. ARUP employed external IT vendors in addition to internal specialists to create this proprietary software and to ensure that it interfaced successfully with the Web and PDA platforms through a central content management system. Content is derived from ARUP’s test menu, as well as the interpretive data and information previously included in ARUP’s Clinical Laboratory Testing Guide. This unique combination now provides clients a comprehensive database program that serves as an aid both proactively to help health care providers order the correct test for a certain disease, and reactively to help interpret the results of that test correctly. If a health care provider requires further consultation, he or she may call ARUP and consult with one of its many medical experts, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. ARUP will continuously update both versions of ARUP Consult to deliver the most accurate and up-to-date information available.
ARUP Labs
(800) 522-2787; www.arupconsult.com

IgG Hybridoma Antibody Screening Kits
Can be used on plate-based benchtop flow cytometer
Guava Technologies Inc has introduced the RapidQuant™ IgG kits, a new line of quantitative bead-based kits designed to quantify either mouse or human IgG antibody (Immunoglobulin G) during hybridoma screening. The RapidQuant IgG kits bring a different approach to antibody quantitation by allowing assessments to be performed on a plate-based benchtop flow cytometer instead of traditional plate readers. The kits are available for both human and mouse antibodies, with simplified protocols that require minor sample manipulation and less time than traditional ELISA protocols. Additionally, the kits are optimized for use on the Guava EasyCyte™ system.
Guava Technologies Inc
(866) 448-2827; www.guavatechnologies.com

Dry Blotting System
For downstream analysis
The iBlot dry blotting system by Invitrogen transfers proteins from polyacrylamide gels to nitrocellulose membranes in preparation for downst

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