Alpha-Tec Systems
AFB Processing Reagents
Nac-Pac EA3 from Alpha-Tec Systems, Vancouver, Wash, features a combination of specimen preparation reagents needed to process AFB specimens in one tray, for use in bio-safety cabinets. Each system contains six bench trays; each tray contains the digestion/decontamination reagents and individually packaged neutralization and resuspension buffers needed to prepare 10 AFB specimens for diagnostics. Each bench tray contains red TB decontamination solution, a TB-base digestant with an integrated pH indicator that visually signifies neutralization; one ampoule N-acetyl-L-cysteine, a liquification agent that frees mycobacteria from mucoid strands; 10 bottles of NPC-67 neutralization buffer, which halts AFB die-off caused by overexposure to a basic pH; and 10 bottles of pellet resuspension buffer, a final buffer that helps ensure the ideal sample characteristics for all diagnostics. The product provides pH control that minimizes false positives and helps ensure as many mycobacteria as possible are recovered from samples.
(360) 260-2779
www.AlphaTecSystems.com
Antek HealthWare
LIS
The LabDaq laboratory information system from Antek HealthWare, Reisterstown, Md, integrates with software systems such as hospital information systems, practice management systems, and electronic medical records (EMR), helping to boost the efficiency of the laboratory and the facility with the increased interoperability between software systems. More than 2,100 systems have been installed in physician office labs, clinics of all sizes, reference labs, and community hospitals. It continues to evolve with new features and options. The company’s dedicated HL7 department has worked with the EMR companies to help ensure lab orders are efficiently received from an EMR and results are quickly populated back into the EMR.
(800) 359-0911, ext 3
www.antekhealthware.com
Bio-Rad Laboratories
Tumor Marker Control
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Hercules, Calif, has introduced Liquichek tumor marker control, a liquid, human serum-based, third-party control for monitoring the precision of tumor marker testing procedures. The Unity Interlaboratory Program, with peer group comparison, is available for use with the product. The multi-analyte control has three levels and features 17 tumor markers: CA 15-3, CA 19-9, CA 27.29, CA 72-4, CA 125, AFP, -2-microglobulin, CEA, Cyfra 21-1*, ferritin, hCG/‚ -hCG, IGF-1, PAP, prolactin, total PSA, free PSA and thyroglobulin. The product has a 2-year shelf life when stored frozen (-20 to -70ºC), and provides 30-day open-vial stability at 2–8ºC for most analytes. It includes target levels of cancer antigens and ferritin, and a low level of PSA. Assayed values are provided for manual and automated test methods. The product is not available for diagnostic use in the United States. For international use only.
(800) 224-6723
www.bio-rad.com
Bio-Rad Laboratories
Textbook
The new textbook from Bio-Rad Laboratories, Hercules, Calif, Producing Reliable Test Results in the Medical Laboratory, interprets key requirements and provides QC guidance for labs seeking accreditation under ISO 15189, which ensures the quality of lab examination procedures. It features examples of policies and procedures, and summary checklists offering advice on meeting the basic needed requirements. Forewords are penned by James O. Westgard, PhD; Shri. Giridhar Gyani; Dr Ferruccio Ceriotti; and Dr Claude Giroud.
(800) 224-6723
www.bio-rad.com
Corgenix Inc
Urine Test
AspirinWorks, from Corgenix Inc, Westminster, Colo, is a urine test that measures 11 dehydro thromboxane B2 (11dhTxB2) levels to determine if an individual’s aspirin therapy is working for them and if aspirin is eliciting an effect by blocking or reducing thromboxane production. The test is for individuals on aspirin therapy and helps prevent cardiovascular disease and stroke.
(800) 729-5661
www.corgenixonline.com
Brother International Corp
Label Printer
The QL-650TD label printer from Brother International Corp, Bridgewater, NJ, operates as a stand-alone or PC-connected model. It contains a built-in time-and-date stamp that can operate in a stand-alone mode. The printer produces labels for time-sensitive materials, and features a print speed of up to 56 labels-per-minute, up to 300 dpi resolution, and a built-in automatic cutter. It accepts labels up to 2.4 inches wide.
(908) 704-1700
www.brother-usa.com
David G. Rhoads Associates Inc
EP Evaluator
The EP Evaluator, Release 8, from David G. Rhoads Associates Inc, Kennett Square, Pa, offers up to 27 statistical modules; 24 are statistical, and three are for lab management. The statistical modules are grouped for linearity (1 module), precision (2 modules), method comparison (7 modules), reference intervals (3 modules), sensitivity (2 modules), INR (3 modules), and other (6 modules). The statistical modules deal with the initial validation or evaluation of instrument methods and with the semi-annual CLIA ’88 requirements of calibration verification and demonstration of instrument harmonization. Many statistical modules provide pass/fail answers based on performance standards established specifically for the instrument and method involved, which helps users decide if a particular method is operating correctly. The lab management modules deal with costs, patient safety, and material management. Users can capture data from spreadsheets, directly from instruments, and via manual data entry, and the data can be exported to spreadsheets. Policies such as test names, units, and reportable ranges can be defined and used throughout the lab.
(800) 786-2622
www.dgrhoads.com
Focus Diagnostics
Multiplex Immunoassay
Plexus multi-analyte diagnostic kits from Focus Diagnostics, Cypress, Calif, are multiplex infectious disease immunoassay tests designed as panels to match typical physician-ordering patterns for diagnosing specific infections. Plexus tests are based on Luminex xMAP technology and run on Luminex-based instrumentation. The Luminex xMAP technology uses laser optics similar to flow cytometry and an array of fluorescent dye-labeled beads to simultaneously detect multiple targets in the same specimen. The Plexus HerpeSelect 1 and 2 IgG panel is the first panel to receive FDA clearance and is also the first Luminex-based type-specific HSV serology for detecting both type-1 and type-2 antibodies. The company’s HerpeSelect, available since 2000 in ELISA and Immunoblot formats, distinguishes HSV type-1 and type-2 antibodies. HerpeSelect is also now available in a rapid HSV-2 serology format for point-of-care testing.
(800) 445-0185
www.focusdx.com
Inverness Medical
Rapid Flu Test
BinaxNow Influenza A & B from Inverness Medical, Louisville, Colo, is the most widely used rapid flu test in the hospital market.1 Moderately complex and CLIA waived kits are available. CLIA waived kits are an asset in the physician’s office laboratory. Results are obtained in 15 minutes with an easy one-step procedure, and no additional reagents are needed. The following sample types are available for both the moderately complex and CLIA waived kits: nasopharyngeal swab, nasal swab, and nasal wash/aspirate. QC requirements for the waived and non-waived kits are recommended once per shipment, a significant cost savings for high-volume labs. Shelf life is 21 months from date of manufacture. Great benefits to rapid testing include decreased patient wait time, guiding appropriate therapy by avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use and obtaining dual reimbursement (actual reimbursement may vary by state). The BinaxNow flu tests allow physicians to effectively manage patients with influenza-like symptoms. 1. As indicated by 2007 CAP surveys.
(800) 637-3717
www.invernessmedicalpd.com
Inverness Medical
Rapid Strep Tests
Inverness Medical, Louisville, Colo, provides multiple brands and formats of rapid tests for the diagnosis of Group A streptococcus. The BioStar Acceava Strep A and Clearview Strep A Exact II tests are available in dipstick and cassette formats. The company’s BinaxNow Strep A test is available in a card format that features onboard extraction. With no extraction tubes necessary and fewer steps involved, there is less chance of operator error when using the BinaxNow Strep A. All Inverness medical brands and formats of Strep A tests in the portfolio produce positive results in as little as one minute, making the tests an attractive choice for the busy physician’s office and those concerned about unnecessary prescriptions of antibiotics. With limited hands-on time, room temperature storage, and a long shelf life, these CLIA-waived kits are the right choice for laboratories of all sizes. All tests have excellent performance specifications with the Acceava Strep A dipstick test having sensitivity of 97% and specificity of 95%. With this many brands and formats, you are sure to find a test that fits your individual needs.
(800) 637-3717
www.invernessmedicalpd.com
Iris Sample Processing
High-Speed Centrifuge
The new StatSpin Express 4 high-speed horizontal centrifuge from Iris Sample Processing, Westwood, Mass, spins up to eight samples in 3 minutes and provides clean separation with a flat gel barrier so samples can be placed directly on the analyzer. The unit features a modern bench top design and can be positioned beside analyzers to eliminate unnecessary steps and improve workflow. It features a maintenance-free brushless motor and is backed by a 2-year warranty. Tube inserts are available to accommodate a wide range of tube sizes.
(800) 782-8774
www.proiris.com
Nanogen Inc
Congestive Heart Failure Test
Nanogen Inc, San Diego, developer of advanced diagnostic products, has begun shipment of its congestive heart failure (CHF) product, the StatusFirst CHF NT-proBNP rapid test. The product is CE-marked and has been cleared by the FDA for diagnostic use with EDTA plasma samples. The StatusFirst CHF test measures circulating levels of NT-proBNP, a biomarker for heart disease, and provides a quantitative assessment of the biomarker’s concentration in as little as 15 minutes via a small, low-cost reader. The test and reader are designed for use in emergency rooms and hospital laboratories. NT-proBNP is a derivative of the hormone brain natriuretic peptide that is released in response to cardiac stress, and has been demonstrated in numerous clinical studies to be an accurate and reliable indicator of cardiac disease risk. Product results correlate with central lab methods that use NT-proBNP immunodiagnostic methods.
(877) 626-6436
www.nanogen.com
Nova Biomedical
Blood Glucose Monitoring System
The Nova StatStrip point-of-care glucose monitor from Nova Biomedical, Waltham, Mass, incorporates a patented new strip technology that uses four measuring wells. The Multi-Well system measures and corrects hematocrit interference and interferences from acetaminophen, uric acid, ascorbic acid, maltose, galactose, xylose, and lactose. It eliminates oxygen interference to provide accurate glucose results regardless of the sample’s oxygen status. The 6-second analysis time and color touch-screen operation help facilitate bedside glucose testing for point-of-care staff. The 1.2-microliter sample size simplifies sample acquisition and minimizes pain for the patient. The unit requires no calibration codes, which eliminates an operator step and helps prevent potential input errors. Instrument manager software provides management, control, and regulatory compliance, and allows the system to be customized to the needs of each department within a hospital.
(800) 458-5813
www.novabiomedical.com
Quantimetrix Corp
Cardiac Markers Control
Cardiasure cardiac markers controls from Quantimetrix Corp, Redondo Beach, Calif, are a means of monitoring serum cardiac analyte testing methods. A new feature is the addition of NT proBNP. It is compatible with most major chemistry analyzers including AIA, AxSYM, ACS:180, Access, Dimension, Elecsys, Stratus, Synchron, and Tosoh A/A. The product has a liquid, human-serum matrix; comes with a full 3-year frozen stability (from date of manufacture); and can be refrozen two times. It is available at three levels, with 90-day unopened and 60-day open-vial stability when stored at 2-8 C. It is packaged in a dropper-tip plastic bottle for ease of use. A comparative quality control program, Quantrol, available for Quantimetrix products, provides labs with free monthly reports to monitor test performance and trend analysis.
(800) 624-8380
www.4qc.com
Remel Inc
Rapid Flu Tests
Xpect Flu A&B and Xpect RSV diagnostic tests from Remel Inc, Lenexa, Kan, offer superior performance and rapid results in a simple, walk-away procedure that can be performed on all shifts. Both tests can be used with a variety of specimen types and are compatible with commonly used specimen transports.
(800) 255-6730
www.remelinc.com
Tosoh Bioscience Inc
Analyzer
The footprint of the AIA-360 analyzer from Tosoh Bioscience Inc, South San Francisco, Calif, measures 16 inches, by 16 inches, by 21 inches—and the unit weighs 61 pounds. Its compact design is suited for physician office laboratories, workstations for small hospitals, STAT testing, and as a dedicated system for specialty testing. Its features include random access, bar-coded testing, and user-friendly operation. With a throughput of 36 tests per hour, the equipment generates all results in about 18 minutes. The system uses the same 10-minute incubation and unit-dose test cup reagents as the company’s AIA-600 II and AIA-1800, allowing it to serve as a back-up to Tosoh’s larger analyzers.
(800) 248-6764
www.tosohbioscience.us
Whitney Products Inc
Disposable Biohazard Waste Container
The Terminal brand Biohazard Bench-top Keeper offered by Whitney Products Inc, Niles, Ill, is a disposable biohazard waste container that can be used at workstations. It is suitable for disposing of contaminated items such as petri dishes, pipets, test tubes, applicator sticks, swabs, and other non-sharp objects. The containers are shipped flat for convenient storage and fold into shape for use. Once filled, the self-locking top encloses the contents. The entire container can be autoclaved and/or disposed of according to local, state or federal regulations. It is available in two sizes.
(800) 338-4237
www.whitneyproducts.com
