AutoMate 800 Sample Processor
Automates sample handling processes
Beckman Coulter Inc, Brea, Calif, announced the release of the AutoMate 800 Sample Processor, a fully automated system designed to streamline preanalytical and postanalytical sample handling processes for mid- to high-volume laboratories. The system’s features include a single point of entry, to manage all tubes from sample receipt to disposal or storage; automated sample loading and sorting; fully integrated, programmable, on-demand centrifugation; through-the-label sample volume detection; a decapper module that removes caps as necessary for analysis; and aliquotting and tube labeling that eliminate manual sample preparation errors. The AutoMate 800 offers centrifuge throughput of up to 300 samples per hour, and can aliquot up to 420 total samples per hour, including 140 primary and 280 secondary tubes. Its tip volume capacity enables the system to draw enough samples to make multiple transfers to secondary aliquot tubes. The system can accommodate 800 sample tubes at a time, and its open system architecture sorts tubes to generic 50-tube racks or analyzer racks, speeding transfers to instruments, other lab sections, or send-out test requirements.
Beckman Coulter Inc
(800) 526-3821
www.beckmancoulter.com
Colibri
LED for fluorescence microscopy
Carl Zeiss MicroImaging, Thornwood, NY, introduces the Colibri, a patented high-performance, light emitting diode (LED) light source for fluorescence microscopy. The company holds the exclusive North American license to distribute this technology. The narrow band LEDs replace conventional white light sources to produce high-contrast images with a signal-to-noise ratio, enabling the detection of weak signals and fine details in applications ranging from routine biomedical research to complex live cell imaging. The intensity of the narrow-band LEDs can be set for any wavelength and adapted to the specimen. Because the switching procedure is optoelectronic, there is no motion or vibration that could impair image quality in high-speed time series experiments. With Colibri it is possible to switch excitation wavelengths in micro seconds. Minimized heat build-up results in stable conditions during experiments.
Carl Zeiss MicroImaging Inc
(914) 681-7627
www.zeiss.com/micro
StatusFirst CHF NT-proBNP Rapid Test
For use with EDTA plasma samples
Nanogen Inc , San Diego, 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 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, which 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. Results correlate with central lab methods that use NT-proBNP immunodiagnostic methods. The StatusFirst CHF product has been developed by Nanogen under license from Roche, and is being manufactured by Princeton BioMeditech Corp. Distribution in the United States will be handled by PBM’s affiliate, LifeSign.
Nanogen Inc
(877) 626-6436
www.nanogen.com
Leica DM1000 LED
Microscope for cytology, histopathology
Leica Microsystems, Bannockburn, Ill, introduces the Leica DM1000 LED, the latest addition to its series of microscopes for cytology, histopathology, and other clinical laboratory applications. The new version incorporates long-lasting, color-neutral illumination, and rarely needs lamp replacement. An optional, portable solar power supply is available for field-based applications. The new model can be used for field-based work when mains power cannot be accessed. The Leica DM Series microscopes feature a hard ceramic, rounded stage that can be equipped with specimen holders to enable one-handed changes. It can be equipped with a fluorescence axis and with an intuitive image-archiving software package, specifically designed for cytology and histopathology applications.
Leica Microsystems
(847) 405-0123
www.leica-microsystems.com
CardioChek PA
For medical testing of cardiac risk factors
CardioChek PA, by Polymer Technology Systems (PTS), Indianapolis, is a diagnostic analyzer for medical professional testing of cholesterol and other cardiac risk factors. It measures total cholesterol, direct LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, lipid panel, triglycerides, cholesterol + glucose, cholesterol + HDL, glucose, ketone, and creatinine levels. The handheld analyzer uses PTS Panels Test Strips to monitor these key indicators related to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other serious health problems. Its CLIA-waived, point-of-care test strips directly measure LDL cholesterol.
Polymer Technology Systems
(317) 870-5610
www.cardiocheck.com
