[AUTOMATION]
Automated Sample Thawing System
Standardizes cryopreservation process
The ThawStar automated sample-thawing system from BioCision, San Rafael, Calif, is an intuitive, error-free method for achieving reproducible thawing and recovery results during the cryopreservation process. The system tailors the thaw cycle to the specific characteristics of each frozen sample, integrating multiple detection algorithms to ensure uniform thermal profiles and eliminating the subjectivity found in conventional thaw methods that rely on human interpretation. Users simply insert a frozen vial and retrieve it when the vial is raised at the end of the thaw cycle. The vial’s automatic release, coupled with built-in audio and visual alarms, allows users to quickly retrieve thawed vials for downstream processing to minimize risk of toxicity from cryopreservatives, such as DMSO. The ThawStar system delivers results similar to those achieved when thawing in a 37°C water bath. Its small footprint enables easy incorporation into a laboratory or clinical setting.
BioCision
(888) 478-2221; www.biocision.com
[COMPUTERS/IT]
Interactive Hemoglobins Atlas
Diagnostic support for lab screening
The Hemoglobins Atlas from Sebia Electrophoresis, Norcross, Ga, is designed to help the company’s capillary electrophoresis users orientate their diagnosis of hemoglobinopathies. Hemoglobin electrophoresis is an established technique regularly used as a first-line screening method in clinical laboratories to evaluate samples for hemoglobin variants and thalassemia. This interactive, educational CD-ROM is geared toward laboratories using Capillarys and Minicap instruments to increase their diagnostic knowledge of hemoglobinopathies. It includes both common and rare genotype combinations, as well as presumed risk information and confirmed or frequent patterns associated with severe diseases. The atlas will be regularly updated with new cases, and Sebia plans to provide extranet access for its customers. Users are invited to supplement the database with their own collection of capillary electrophoresis profiles displaying rare hemoglobin variants by contacting a Sebia representative. A second edition, currently in progress, will provide additional case studies and more user-friendly features.
Sebia Electrophoresis
(770) 446-3707; www.sebia-usa.com
Washer and Dispenser Integration Software
SiLA-compliant
Liquid Handling Control (LHC) software from BioTek, Winooski, Vt, provides a flexible interface and fast, cost-effective integration with automated systems. The driver conforms to the set of universal methods for microplate washers and dispensers published by the Consortium for Standardization in Lab Automation (SiLA). Designed for use with BioTek’s 405 touch washer, 405 LS washer, ELx405 Select deep well washer, EL406 washer dispenser, and MultiFlo FX dispenser, the software enables any LHC-enabled washer or dispenser to be integrated into a robotic system with SiLA compliance, equipping users with more flexibility in system configuration compared to conventional instrument drivers. Automatic protocol validation provides error-free assurance, while security-enabled protection is available for downloaded protocols.
BioTek
(888) 451-5171; www.biotek.com
Virtual Slide Database Management Software
Includes free iPad app
The Zen browser from Carl Zeiss Microscopy, Thornwood, NY, is server-based image databasing software that aids in storage, filing and organization, and backup of large digital data sets such as virtual slide databases. The password-protected software can be accessed via any web browser and includes a user-management function to customize access and control administrative privileges. Images are filed together with relevant metadata and customizable supporting documents. Designed to make data and virtual microscopy images accessible to a wider audience, the browser offers a project-based, web-centric database that allows integrated web viewing to enable easier online project publishing. In addition to the web interface, a free Zen browser app for the iPad lets users access their server software and build up a virtual slides database remotely.
Carl Zeiss Microscopy
(800) 233-2343; www.zeiss.com/micro
[EQUIPMENT]
Refrigerated Circulators and Chillers
Up to ±0.005°C stability
The selection of refrigerated circulating baths and chillers from PolyScience, Niles, Ill, is designed for maintaining atomic absorption furnaces, gas chromatographs, mass spectrometers, inductively coupled plasma, and other analytical equipment at optimal working temperatures. PolyScience refrigerated circulators maintain temperatures over ranges as wide as –40° to +200°C with up to ±0.005°C stability and deliver from 200 to 1,400 watts of cooling at 20°C. Available with reservoir sizes from 7 to 75 liters, the circulators are offered with a choice of six different temperature controllers, including two programmable models. For applications requiring higher cooling capacities, PolyScience chillers are available in both benchtop and portable models. These air-cooled units deliver between 460 and 5,200 watts of heat removal at 20°C. They provide working temperatures as low as –20°C and as high as +70°C, stabilities as precise as ±0.1°C, and are offered with a variety of pump options.
PolyScience
(800) 229-7569; www.polyscience.com
Ultracentrifuge
Up to 100,000 RPM
The Sorvall WX+ ultracentrifuge from Thermo Fisher Scientific, Waltham, Mass, is designed to maximize performance and versatility for processing applications in a compact design. The ultracentrifuge features a color LCD touch screen to simplify programming, while monitors run data with optional Log Manager software that recalls past operating parameters with up to 5,120 cases of recorded histories to assist with GMP/GLP compliance. Designed to accommodate a multiple-user environment, the Sorvall WX+ offers up to 100,000 rpm performance, lightweight carbon fiber rotors, and automatic tube balancing compensation that accelerates sample preparation by allowing visual sample balancing up to 5 millimeters. Additional features include a self-locking rotor system; a status light bar that allows users to monitor instrument status from across the lab; and a reduction in power usage of up to 50% when in idle mode, compared to the previous model.
Thermo Fisher Scientific
(866) 984-3766; www.thermofisher.com
Handheld Digital Thermometer
Suitable for harsh environments
A new range of handheld digital thermometers from Digitron, Cypress, Calif, is designed to be rugged and water-resistant. The 1000 series thermometers offer simple, fast, and reliable operation, and provide precise, stable readings in even the harshest environments, with a choice of K, T, and thermistor thermocouples that enable measurement of an extensive range of temperatures. The cost-effective, water-resistant FM38 and FM45 thermometers are suitable for use in any environment. General purpose and air probes connected via a two-pin plug allow temperatures to be measured quickly and accurately (FM45 only), while a protective rubber boot helps to prevent accidental damage. The FM45 also offers push-button selection of various display options, including centigrade or Fahrenheit, minimum and maximum temperature readings, and probe selection.
Digitron
(760) 343-3650; www.digitron.com
Chemical Fume Hood
Reduce energy costs by 60%
The Saf T Flow chemical fume hood series from Flow Sciences, Leland, NC, is designed to reduce energy costs by as much as 60%. Unlike typical fume hoods, which run with a face velocity of 100 fpm, the Saf T Flow models remove fumes and protect personnel while operating at a face velocity of 60 fpm. The resulting savings in heating and air conditioning costs can approach 60%. The fume hoods are available from 3 feet to 8 feet wide in 1-foot increments. A complete line of plumbing and electrical fixtures is also available for specific lab requirements.
Flow Sciences
(800) 849-3429; www.flowsciences.com
[INSTRUMENTATION]
Medium-Throughput Clinical Chemistry Analyzer
Runs 215 tests per hour
The P500 walk-away clinical chemistry analyzer from the Diatron Group, Sunrise, Fla, is designed to be ergonomic and user-friendly, with a high level of automation. The system offers medium throughput of 215 tests per hour on a typical sample mix, while an optional ion-selective electrode module can increase throughput to over 450 tests per hour. Windows-based software and smart architecture mean the P500 can offer many features on an accessible platform, including uninterrupted workflow, enhanced walk-away operation, and remote-access diagnostics. “One-window” software features an intuitive icon interface menu and inventory management, and the minimal usage of consumables and low water consumption enable cost-effective performance.
Diatron
(877) 684-1139; www.diatron.com
[MISCELLANEOUS]
Hand-Sanitizing Wipes
Kill 99.9% of germs
Sani-Hands instant hand-sanitizing wipes from PDI, Orangeburg, NY, is the only FDA-approved, 70% alcohol-based hand-sanitizing wipe available in the United States market. Clinically proven to kill 99.99% of germs and bacteria, Sani-Hands wipes are designed to address hand hygiene needs throughout a facility and help reduce healthcare-associated infections, as well as associated costs. The Sani-Hands bedside pack specifically addresses the needs of bed-bound patients by providing 20 wipes in a resealable pack format that features educational, intuitive when-to-use icons. The formulation also contains moisturizing aloe to help prevent drying of the skin, while the wiping action helps remove soil from the hands.
PDI
www.pdihc.com
6-40 Threaded Port Fittings
Ensure leak-free connections
The 6-40 Click-N-Seal Micro fittings from Diba Industries, Danbury, Conn, connect 1/16-inch tubing to 6-40 threaded ports, making them suitable for systems that require smaller, precision fluid connections. Utilizing Diba’s patented Click-N-Seal technology, the fitting is hand-tightened until it reaches the correct torque, at which point the cap clicks. This approach ensures leak-free connections while minimizing the risk of overtightening. When paired with Diba flared tubes, the 6-40 Click-N-Seal fitting is appropriate for low-pressure diagnostic equipment under 50 psi. For applications requiring pressure ratings of up to 500 psi, the 6-40 Click-N-Seal fittings can be combined with PEEK ferrules with either flat or tapered bottoms. For space-constrained applications, an alternative compact head design is also available for the 6-40 without the Click-N-Seal feature.
Diba Industries
(203) 297-0773; www.dibaind.com
HbA1c Linearity Material
Intact red blood cells
A1c-Cellular Linearity from Streck, Omaha, Neb, is now assayed for the Trinity Biotech Premier Hb9210 and Ultra2 instruments. The only commercially available hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) linearity/calibration verification material with intact red blood cells, A1c-Cellular Linearity is a five-level assayed linearity material used to assess instrument accuracy and verify the patient-reportable range of the HbA1c parameter. The formulation does not require reconstitution, and the material tests the entire reportable range of the instrument system, including the lysing step. Instrument-specific target values and expected ranges are provided for immediate verification of instrument accuracy. A1c-Cellular Linearity is also assayed for Abbott Architect c systems; Beckman Coulter UniCel DxC 600/800; Bio-Rad D-10/Variant II and Variant II Turbo; Vitros 5,1 FS/5600; Cobas Integra/6000/c311; Siemens Dimension series; and Tosoh G7/G8.
Streck
(800) 843?0912; www.streck.com
[TESTING/DIAGNOSTICS]
Influenza PCR Test
FDA-cleared for eight additional strains
The Simplexa Flu A/B & RSV Direct kit from Focus Diagnostics, Cypress, Calif, has received FDA clearance for eight additional influenza strains. Performed on the 3M Integrated Cycler, the Simplexa Flu A/B & RSV Direct kit is a real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction molecular test that was cleared by FDA in July 2012 for the qualitative detection and differentiation of influenza A virus, influenza B virus, and respiratory syncytial virus RNA. The additional eight strains for which FDA cleared analytical reactivity are H7N9, H3N2 (Minnesota and Indiana strains), H1N1 (2011), H3N2 (Ohio and Texas strains), and influenza B (Brisbane and Wisconsin strains). The novel avian influenza A strain H7N9 can cause death in as many as one third of infected patients, and the H3N2v infects humans more easily than other swine influenza viruses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Classified as CLIA moderate complexity, the test can report results in about an hour through a proprietary process that eliminates the time-consuming technique of nucleic acid extraction.
Focus Diagnostics
(800) 838-4548; www.focusdx.com
Vitamin D Assay
Packaging prevents light-induced degradation
FDA has cleared the Access 25(OH) Vitamin D Total assay from Beckman Coulter Diagnostics, Brea, Calif, now available for use on the company’s Access 2 and UniCel DxI series of immunoassay systems. Designed to assess patients for vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency, the assay delivers increased accuracy in patient results through traceability to the gold standard 25(OH) vitamin D reference measurement procedure (RMP) from Ghent University, and equimolar detection of 25(OH) vitamin D2 and 25(OH) vitamin D3. The Ghent RMP is the reference procedure used by the Vitamin D Standardization Program, an international collaboration established by the Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health. The test comes with innovative packaging designed to prevent light-induced reagent degradation, while offering high stability, greater ease of use, and convenient storage.
Beckman Coulter Diagnostics
(800) 526-3821; www.beckmancoulter.com
Drugs-of-Abuse Testing Platform
Compact footprint for mid-volume labs
Featuring enzyme-multiplied immunoassay technique (EMIT) technology, the Viva-ProE system, a new drug-testing platform from Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics, Tarrytown, NY, is designed specifically to meet the productivity, workflow, and workspace needs of mid-volume laboratories. The system features a benchtop design with a compact footprint suitable for smaller workspaces and has a capacity for 50 sample positions, 12 auxiliary positions, and can run up to 133 EMIT tests per hour. The touch screen monitor includes intuitive, integrated software to enable ease of use for greater laboratory efficiency. There is a consolidated drug-testing menu for drugs-of-abuse and validity testing, serum toxicology, and therapeutic and immunosuppressant drug monitoring. In addition, the system includes onboard positive sample ID, sample and reagent probe crash protection, and precision monitoring to enhance walkaway time and reduce errors, as well as convenient onboard waste and water storage to improve workflow.
Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics
(914) 631-8000; www.siemens.com/healthcare
