AUTOMATION
PCR-Neutral Pipetting Workstation
Rapid assay setup
Suitable for applications such as gene expression, genotyping, sequencing, and pathogen detection, the Nimbus PCR pipetting workstation from Hamilton Robotics, Reno, Nev, enables rapid assay setup for qPCR and multiplex PCR. The PCR-neutral workstation can accommodate six master mixes and 192 PCRs, and may be used with restriction and ligation reaction setup. A variety of tip and labware types are also available. Instinct PCR graphical software walks users through processing gene and sample combinations, tracing input components, and capturing data for future use. The system can also store protocols and include validation steps to increase safety. An additional feature allows for sample normalization either upstream for PCR setup or as a stand-alone function, such as for sample dilution.
Hamilton Robotics
(800) 648-5950; www.hamiltonrobotics.com
COMPUTERS/IT
Electronic Reporting Module
Track cancer pathology findings
College of American Pathologists (CAP), Northfield, Ill, and mTuitive Inc, Centerville, Mass, have partnered to capture and report cancer pathology findings. The CAP electronic forms and reporting module (eFRM) will facilitate production and use of standardized, encoded, and interoperable data sets to be used in patient care, registries, research, and biorepositories. The eFRM produces cancer protocols as a resource for pathologists to aid in effectively reporting surgical pathology findings necessary to provide quality patient care. The eFRM application also incorporates the CAP electronic cancer checklists (eCC), which comprise 65 cancer protocols with 81 cancer case summaries and two new tumor biomarker reporting templates for colon and lung cancer. The eFRM will be available as a basic, stand-alone version and as a wide-functionality version that can be integrated within a laboratory information system.
College of American Pathologists
(800) 323-4040; www.cap.org
Scalable Laboratory Information System
Enables big data mining
The Sequoia laboratory information system (LIS) from Orchard Software, Carmel, Ind, offers maximum scalability to accommodate the needs of high-volume laboratories. The system’s three-tier architecture allows for independent updating of a segment of the application without affecting other segments or restarting the entire application. Users can extract and manipulate large quantities of unstructured data stored in the SQL database to generate statistics for analytics and ad-hoc reports. SQL Server AlwaysOn technology and Windows Failover Clustering also support read-only local replicas and remote-hosted disaster recovery sites in the event of an emergency.
Orchard Software
(800) 856-1948; www.orchardsoft.com
EQUIPMENT
Automated Sampler Changer
Increase throughput with minimal bench space
A new line of InMotion autosamplers for titrators, density meters, and refractometers from Mettler Toledo, Columbus, Ohio, has been designed to increase lab productivity while minimally impacting bench space. The Mettler Toledo Flex and Pro series offer professional automation with a 42-cm-wide rack, while the Max series can manage up to 300 samples in a 57-cm-wide rack. Modular boards slide into the base, and magnetic locking pumps stack adjacent to the towers to add peripherals and pumps without taking up extra space. Additional features provide maximum flexibility for customized workflows. A PowerShower rinse system and set of conditioning steps clean tubes to prevent sample carryover. The T90 Excellence Titrator allows for simultaneous titrations, while a CoverUp function protects operators from noxious solvents and shields volatile reagents from evaporation. LED status lights enable monitoring from across the lab.
Mettler Toledo
(800) 638-8537; www.us.mt.com
High-Density Power Supply
90-degree operating range
A new line of compact devices from SL Power Electronics, Ventura, Calif, can supply 60 watts of power across a wide temperature range and is certified for use in both patient-vicinity and patient-contact applications. The MB60S offers single-output, convection-cooled energy and has dimensions of 2 inches x 3 inches x 1 inch. The device offers -40°C start-up, an operating range from -10°C to 80°C, less than 0.5 watts of no-load power consumption, and universal input from 90 to 264 VAC. DC outputs range from 12V to 48V. The six models are designed to withstand short circuit, overload, and over-temperature conditions, and to avoid damaging the host product in the event of overvoltage.
SL Power Electronics
(800) 235-5929; www.slpower.com
Two-Channel Temperature and Humidity Monitor
Smartphone- and tablet-compatible
The TR-72wf-H Wi-Fi-based two-channel temperature/humidity data logger from T&D Corp, Santa Fe, NM, offers temperature and humidity monitoring on separate channels. Temperature measurement ranges from –30°C to +80°C with resolution of ±0.3°C (0°C to 50°C range) and ±0.5°C (all other temperatures). Measurements are available in Centigrade or Fahrenheit. The humidity range is 0% to 99% RH, with resolution from ±2.5% to ±4.0% RH, dependent on temperature and humidity. The device interfaces easily with a smartphone or tablet and can be configured and operated without a PC, uploading data to T&D’s cloud-based WebStorage service. A free ThermoWeb app is compatible with both IOS and Android systems. Users can also sign up for alert emails.
T&D Corp
(518) 669-9227; www.tandd.com
Pure Water for Laboratory Applications
Customizable quality and dispensing solutions
The Purelab Chorus range of customizable water purification systems from Elga Labwater, Woodridge, Ill, provides laboratories with flexible solutions to control quality, dispensing methods, and flow-through. Chorus 1 delivers ultrapure Type I+/I water, using PureSure deionization to remove trace amounts of ions that could otherwise interfere with ultrasensitive analysis methods. Chorus 2 is suitable for applications such as electrophysiology, histology, and general chemistry requiring inorganic and microbial control where ultrapure water is not essential. Chorus 3 offers high flow rates of general pure-grade Type III water at up to 120 liters per hour for daily laboratory applications. The Chorus systems integrate with Elga’s Halo dispensing solutions, which can be positioned independently to ensure that laboratory space is used effectively.
Elga Labwater
(877) 315-3542; www.elgalabwater.com
Next-Generation MicroPlate Stacker
Increases throughput
The latest version of the BioStack MicroPlate Stacker from BioTek, Winooski, Vt, offers efficient de-lidding and re-lidding of microplates for sensitive cell-based assays. Compatible with BioTek’s washers, dispensers, detectors, and imaging systems, the BioStack 4 facilitates rapid plate exchange for assay workflows with and without plate lids to increase throughput and productivity. A rotational gripper allows ergonomically friendly instrument panel access and compact integration positioning. The device helps automate washing, detection, and liquid-handling processes with 96- and 384-well microplates. Stackers are available with 10, 30, or 50 removable and interchangeable microplate storage stacks.
BioTek
(888) 451-5171; www.biotek.com
INSTRUMENTATION
Wireless Equipment Sensors
Mobile iOS application for remote monitoring
Compact and easily installed, the SensoNODE low-energy wireless monitoring sensors and corresponding mobile iOS application from Parker Hannifin Corp, Cleveland, offer a comprehensive platform for monitoring pressure, temperature, and humidity in liquid and gas applications. The sealed housing unit facilitates data collection from devices and equipment in environments where a wired sensor platform would be impractical, enabling users to predict potential problems and prevent downtime. Compatible with iOS devices, the free mobile app has a range of up to 150 feet and can simultaneously display live data from five separate devices. The sensors operate on a common coin cell battery and can be attached to monitored equipment via standard pipe thread (NPT) ports or a quick-connect coupling.
Parker Hannifin Corp
(800) 272-7537; www.parker.com
DNA Stool Sample Kit
Identify gastrointestinal diseases
Using biomarkers in cells shed from the lining of the colon, DNA analysis of stool samples can detect colon cancer. The Liaison Ixt/Arrow stool DNA extraction kit from DiaSorin, Stillwater, Minn, uses magnetic bead technology to extract highly purified DNA from fecal samples to identify gastrointestinal diseases such as C. difficile, Helicobacter pylori, rotavirus, and enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC). Designed for use with the automated DiaSorin Liaison Ixt/Arrow instruments, the kit yields genomic, bacterial, and viral DNA to be used in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and other downstream applications. The kit increases throughput by processing up to 12 fecal samples at once in less than 50 minutes with low occurrence of PCR-inhibitory substances. Necessary reagents are available in prefilled cartridges.
DiaSorin
(800) 328-1482; www.diasorin.com/en
HPLC for Diabetes Diagnosis
Visually identify hemoglobinopathies
The Tosoh Automated Glycohemoglobin Analyzer HLC-723G8 from Tosoh Bioscience Inc, San Francisco, has received FDA clearance to be used as the first high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) instrument to measure HbA1c levels for the diagnosis of diabetes. In proficiency tests, the Tosoh G8 has demonstrated high pass rates and CVs of less than 2%. The system offers HbA1c analysis time of 1.6 minutes, touch-screen navigation and automatic start-up, and a footprint of 21 inches x 19 inches x 20 inches. Flag level capabilities guarantee high-quality reporting, and the G8 eliminates sample pretreatment with direct primary tube sampling and cap piercing. Available in both 90- and 290-sample loader models, the device runs primary and secondary tubes in the same rack, allowing continuous loading of different-sized tubes.
Tosoh Bioscience Inc
(800) 248-6764; www.diagnostics.us.tosohbioscience.com
MISCELLANEOUS
Louvered Floor Rack
Supports up to 500 pounds
The Double-Sided Louvered Floor Rack (18 inches wide x 66.37 inches high x 25 inches deep) from Akro-Mils, Akron, Ohio, has a weight capacity of 500 pounds and can accommodate multiple sizes of Akro-Mils’ AkroBins and InSight crystal clear bins. Built from 16-gauge, cold-rolled steel for strength and durability, the rack also has a powder-coated finish to endure heavy-duty daily use. Available in gray.
Akro-Mils
(800) 253-2467; www.akro-mils.com
Lentiviral Precipitation Solution
Increase titer up to 100 times
A mixture of polymers optimized for the precipitation of lentiviral particles, the Lentivirus Precipitation Solution from Alstem, Richmond, Calif, provides a rapid, efficient method for concentrating lentiviral particles. Laboratorians can mix a lentiviral supernatant with the Lentivirus Precipitation Solution, incubate for a short period, and spin the mixture in a standard centrifuge, increasing lentivirus titer by up to 100-fold in as little as 4 hours. No ultracentrifugation is required, and the solution is scalable for use with large volumes. The Lentivirus Precipitation Solution is a 5x solution and safe for all cell lines, including ES cells.
Alstem
(510) 708-0096; www.alstembio.com
Forklift-Compatible Trucks
Suitable for heavy loads
A new line of Akro-Tilt Trucks from Akro-Mils, Akron, Ohio, are compatible with standard forklift tines, allowing one individual to handle a load of up to 2,000 pounds. A wide mouth and low profile facilitate easy loading. Of the 14 available models, seven include forklift channels to permit smoother tipping, faster lifting, and improved maneuverability when managing heavy or bulky loads. A 13-gauge, powder-coated frame also facilitates automatic dumper applications. Optional lids may also be purchased.
Akro-Mils
(800) 253-2467; www.akro-mils.com
Acid Storage Cabinet
Safeguard corrosive chemicals
The acid storage cabinet from Hemco Corp, Independence, Mo, is specifically designed for the storage of corrosive chemicals. A molded one-piece fiberglass liner inserts directly into the cabinet and is sealed on all edges for ease of cleaning. The interior front bottom edge features a containment lip to hold spills, and the lined front access doors have sealed edges and air inlet vents. No metal is exposed to corrosive vapors. The shelf is removable to permit larger container storage. Standard size is 35 inches high and 22 inches deep, with widths available in 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42, and 48 inches.
Hemco Corp
(800) 779-4362; www.hemcocorp.com
Expanded Volume Glove Bag
Support rods for added stability
The curved design and angled zipper entry of the Purair Flex film isolator from Air Science USA, Fort Myers, Fla, offers a greater volume than comparable glove bags on the market. The double O-ring design on the standard polyurethane cuffs enables users to change gloves according to their dexterity needs. Semi-rigid support rods and suctioned feet along the base facilitate setup and offer stability even when the bag is not inflated to full pressure. A tag sleeve on the rear of the unit allows users to label sensitive materials. The Purair Flex is 23.6 inches wide x 23.6 inches high x 24.6 inches deep.
Air Science USA
(800) 306-0656; www.airscience.com
Intelligent Fluid Metering Pump
Internal programmable driver
The intelligent fluid metering pump from Fluid Metering Inc, Syosset, NY, combines the body of FMI’s STH stepper pump with an integral programmable driver. Designed for analytical and process instrumentation, the pump has a minimum flow rate of 25 uL/min (H00) and a maximum of 240 mL/min (H200). Speed ranges from 10 to 1,200 RPM at 40 PSI. Multiple programming platforms are supported, including Visual Basic, C/C++, Delphi, and Lab View. Users can mix and match the five programmable inputs and two programmable outputs according to the application. The pump also offers RS-232 serial communication; EtherCAT communication with an optional extension module; and resonance-free, quiet operation.
Fluid Metering Inc
(800) 223-3388; www.fluidmetering.com
TESTING/DIAGNOSTICS
Cardiac Biomarker Immunoassay
Distinguishes hypertension and heart failure
The Presage ST2 immunoassay from Critical Diagnostics, San Diego, can detect the cardiac biomarker ST2 and help differentiate hypertensive heart failure (HHF) patients from those with hypertension (HT) with or without left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). ST2 has also proved useful in distinguishing hypertensive LVH from hypertension without LVH. The results can help guide treatment decisions, since patients with hypertension are more likely to develop LVH and eventual heart disease. ST2 is a soluble protein expressed by the heart in response to disease or injury. Since it changes rapidly according to variations in a patient’s condition and is unaffected by factors such as age or body mass index, the biomarker is suitable for assessing heart failure patients.
Critical Diagnostics
(877) 700-1250; www.criticaldiagnostics.com
Clostridium Difficile Test Kit
Identify hospital-associated infection
The artus Clostridium difficile QS-RGQ kit from IMDx, Waltham, Mass, has received CE marking for use with QIAsymphony SP/AS and Rotor-Gene Q instruments. IMDx has also submitted a 510(k) premarket notification to the FDA for review. C. difficile is the most common cause of hospital-associated diarrhea and can lead to complications such as pseudomembranous colitis and toxic megacolon when not treated properly. The QS-RGQ kit detects the presence of toxigenic C. difficile in human liquid or soft stool from patients suspected of having C. difficile-associated disease. The test is intended for direct use on patient samples to assist in diagnosis of infection.
IMDx
(617) 871-6400; www.intelligentmdx.com
Certified Reference Materials
Track nicotine biomarkers
Two new Certified Spiking Solutions of nicotine metabolites anabasine-D4 HCl and trans-3’-Hydroxycotinine-D3 are now available from Cerilliant, Round Rock, Tex, at concentrations of 100 µg/mL in methanol. The solution standards can be used as internal standards spiked into patient samples or in isotope dilution methods for quantification of anabasine and 3-hydroxycotinine levels in nicotine screening and other clinical or diagnostic testing applications by GC/MS, LC/MS, or LC-MS/MS. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), tobacco use causes 443,000 adult deaths annually. The standards are appropriate for clinical toxicology, clinical and diagnostic testing, nicotine screening, and environmental monitoring applications.
Cerilliant
(800) 848-7837; www.cerilliant.com
RUO Chikungunya Test
Detects unfamiliar Caribbean virus
A new PCR-based test from Vela Diagnostics, Fairfield, NJ, is now available for research use only to identify the Chikungunya virus. The mosquito-borne illness has previously occurred in Africa, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region and was recently detected on several Caribbean islands. Though not usually fatal, the virus has no known cure or vaccine. Symptoms include fever, joint pain, headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, and rash. The Sentosa SA CHIKV RT-PCR test is validated as part of the automated Sentosa qPCR workflow. It can run in one panel from the same sample with the Sentosa SA Flu A/B and RSV RT-PCR test and the Sentosa SA Dengue RT-PCR test.
Vela Diagnostics
(973) 521-7012; www.veladx.com
Fetal Malformation Molecular Test
Europe’s first noninvasive diagnostic test
The PrenaTest from LifeCodexx, Germany, is Europe’s first noninvasive molecular diagnostic test to determine fetal chromosomal aneuploidies from maternal blood. It may be used without restriction following all methods of fertility treatment, including IVF and egg donation, after the ninth week of gestation. The test has been validated in several studies totaling 870 samples from singleton and multiple pregnancies, and provided a clear result in 99.8% of all performed analyses. With a false positive rate of 0.1%, the test further clarifies early diagnosis of fetal malformation, reducing the number of unnecessary and invasive examinations of non-affected pregnancies.
LifeCodexx
+49 (0) 7531 97 69 460; www.lifecodexx.com
Influenza Sample Collection Kit
Rapid collection and elution
Flu sample collection kits from Copan, Murrieta, Calif, include universal transport medium (UTM) and a flocked swab for improved collection of patient specimen. Designed for virology culture, rapid antigen testing, and direct fluorescence assay testing for influenza virus, the collection kits facilitate proper sample collection to ensure the patient is treated in a timely manner. Unlike traditional cotton swabs, the FLOQ swab’s perpendicular nylon fibers keep the sample close to the surface for rapid specimen collection and elution. Copan’s UTM also enables stable transport, maintenance, and long-term storage of viruses, allowing collection in outpatient departments and remote sites and later transport to laboratories for testing.
Copan
(800) 216-4016; www.copanusa.com
Certified Solutions of Phenethylamines
Reference materials for hallucinogenic drugs
A new line of 14 certified Snap-N-Spike solutions of phenethylamines from Cerilliant, Round Rock, Tex, are suitable for numerous applications in GC/MS or LC-MS/MS testing, including urine drug monitoring, forensic testing, and clinical toxicology analysis. Phenethylamines—including the major structural analogs ring-substituted D amphetamines, 2C amine analogs, and dibenzofurans—are a class of hallucinogenic and stimulant drugs that are frequently sold over the Internet as substitutes for LSD and ecstasy. The US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) recently expanded the list of Schedule I substances to include 12 additional 2C amines. Phenethylamines present significant analytic challenges for laboratories that conduct screening by means of immunoassays rather than GC/MS or LC-MS/MS techniques. These reference materials provide ultrapure, fully characterized materials certified to industry standards, including ISO Guide 34, ISO/IEC 17025, and ISO 13485.
Cerilliant
(800) 848-7837; www.cerilliant.com
Easy-Transfer Agar Media Dishes
Reduces secondary contamination
Microsart @media from Sartorius Stedim Biotech, Bohemia, NY, are sterile-packaged, prefilled agar media dishes for microbial limit testing according to the United States Pharmacopeial Convention (Chapter 61) and European Pharmacopoeia (Chapter 2.6.12). Designed for use with Microsart @filter units, Microsart @media dishes incorporate a patented, liftable lid. The active lid aligns with the @filter base for smooth, touch-free transfer of the membrane filter onto the agar, reducing the risk of secondary contamination, and providing access to the colonies after incubation.
Sartorius Corp
(631) 254-4249; www.sartorius.com
