Abstract
A2 Technologies
Exoscan FTIR System
The Exoscan portable FTIR spectrometer system now offers increased sampling and usability capabilities that extend its capability to an array of applications for lab and/or field use. New sampling interfaces for the Exoscan system include internal reflectance, grazing angle reflectance, diffuse reflectance, and specular reflectance. With these enhancements, Exoscan can accommodate liquids, powders, pastes, and reflective and nonreflective solids.
More: www.a2technologies.net
iPAL FTIR Analyzer
The iPAL FTIR analyzer is now available with sampling technology and preloaded methods specifically designed for measurement of chemical species of significant importance to the nuclear power industry.
More: www.a2technologies.net
Advanced Instruments
Online: AI University Osmolality Knowledge Base Now featured on Advanced Instruments' Web site is AI University, which informs visitors about the theory and benefits of freezing point depression (FPD) osmometry in clinical, dairy, and pharmaceutical laboratories. This educational resource for laboratory professionals and students is designed to host a deep knowledge base of scientific materials that explain FPD principles and applications.
Other site features include an enhanced database that allows visitors to view or print a Certificate of Analysis for Advanced Instruments standards, controls, or reagents; and an easy-to-use, up-to-date interface to all Material Safety Data Sheets. An expanded technical support section covers instrument calibration, acceptable range of results, safety tips, and the use of specifications to verify CLIA compliance.
More: www.aircompanies.com
Agilent Automation Solutions
Technical Poster: Novel Automated Stem-Cell High-Content Screening Platform
This new poster describes how researchers at I-STEM (Evry, France) use a BioCel 1800 platform to automate high-content screening of small molecules for muscular dystrophy therapeutic research. The described research shows the utility of the BioCel platform in performing automated screens on cell lines derived from human embryonic stem cells.
More: www.chem.agilent.com/Library/posters/Public/Istemposter2009_final.pdf
Applications Bulletin: Automated System for Compound Plate Storage and Replication
According to Agilent, in compound plate storage and replication, sample integrity and inventory management are the keys to success. Agilent Automation Solutions designed a BioCel System to link directly into Laboratory Information Management Systems for receiving and delivering inventory information as well as keeping the BioCel database and sample inventory synchronized and up to date. Flexibility in plate format and liquid-handling options allow the simultaneous use of 384- and 1536-well plates, as the source or destination, accommodating volume transfers from 2.5 nL to 50 μL. The BioCel ensures source and destination plate sample integrity with appropriate storage in one or more integrated environments that control temperature, CO2, and humidity levels.
In the described application, source plates typically contain compounds and destination plates typically contain cell suspensions, buffers, or protein solutions. Agilent VWorks, the dynamic scheduling software, allows for throughput of more than a million compounds a day, producing compound bank copies for several users and different applications in parallel.
The BioCel System used in this application was a dual robot system, with a variety of liquid-handling options (Agilent Vertical Pipetting Station, Genetix aliQuot, Innovadyne Nanodrop and Labcyte Echo 550).
More: www.chem.agilent.com/Library/applications/5990-3621en_lo20cms.pdf
Agilent Microplate Labeler
According to Agilent, its new microplate labeling system for automated on-demand, barcode print-and-apply applications in life-science laboratories combines the easy-to-integrate form factor, speed, and proven label applicator of its predecessor with a thermal label printer that provides 600 dpi high-resolution images and an expansive array of 1D and 2D coding symbologies.
Air Science USA
PURAIR 5 Ductless Fume Hood
According to Air Science, its new PURAIR 5 Ductless Fume Hood features a high level of operator protection where routine work is being carried out. The units exceed OSHA, ANSI, and all relevant international standards. The ductless design eliminates installation costs and allows the unit to be positioned over a sink or benchtop apparatus. There are three models available with a choice of 24-, 36-, or 48-in. widths. The units operate at low noise levels and because they recirculate, they do not exhaust expensive conditioned and/or heated air into the atmosphere.
More: www.air-science.com
AMS Biotechnology (amsbio)
Oris Cell Migration Assay
A new generation of novel two-dimensional cell-based assay kits developed for reproducibly screening test compounds that may stimulate or inhibit adherent cell migration is now available from amsbio. According to the company, its Oris Cell Migration Assay provides life scientists with a method that is more reliable, less labor intensive, allows for real-time imaging, and is amenable to high-throughput and high-content imaging instruments. Unlike traditional cell migration assays using a Boyden chamber device, there is no transmembrane or cell-culture insert obstructing live images of the cells as they migrate.
Described in a new video, the assay uses a multistep process that starts with the attachment (optional) of a detection mask to the bottom of the wells of the Oris 96-well assay microplate. A specially designed, cell-seeding stopper fitted inside of each microplate well restricts cells from seeding into a central detection zone as cells are being dispensed. After cell attachment has occurred (4–28 h), the stoppers are removed, allowing cells to freely migrate into the detection zone of the wells. Cells can be labeled pre- or postmigration. Cells that have not migrated into the detection zone are blocked from view by the mask initially applied to the plate bottom. Migrated cells may then be analyzed using a fluorescence plate reader. If analyzing the migrated cells using a microscope or high-content imaging system, the detection mask need not be attached. Oris Cell Migration assays are available with tissue-culture-treated plates, Collagen I-coated plates, Fibronectin-coated plates, or a TriCoated version that contains all three surfaces.
More: www.amsbio.com/videos-Oris-Cell-Migration-Assay-Video.aspx
ExpressArt FFPE RNA-Ready Kit
This new kit for PCR and microarray applications is optimized for isolation of total RNA from archival, formaldehyde, or formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues, and results in a concentrated RNA product that is ready to use. Using special lysis and incubation conditions, ExpressArt FFPE RNA-ready isolation and mRNA amplification technology are able to extract high-quality RNA and amplify very small amounts and degraded RNA. The consistency of high-quality RNA produced by the kit, as determined by RNA yields, bioanalyzer RNA profiles, and real-time qPCR data is considered outstanding.
The kit requires no overnight lysis step. With the ability to work with up to five sections (10- to 20-μm thick) or up to 30 mg of unsectioned core samples per reaction, the ExpressArt FFPE RNA-ready kit results in typical yields of ∼2 μg RNA per slide.
Direct Activity Assay Kits for Methyltransferases
New Direct Activity Assay kits for methyltransferases—PRMT1, 3, 5, and Set 7/9 enable the measurement of enzyme activity using purified enzymes or enzyme containing extracts. Each kit is supplied in a 96-well plate precoated with peptide substrates, an antibody against the specific methylated target, a secondary Europium-labeled antibody, S-adenosylmethionine, methyltransferase assay buffer, and purified enzyme for 100 enzyme reactions.
ARTEL
Online Training Videos
A new series of ten 2-min pipetting technique training videos have been added to Artel's online suite of training tools, and are designed to enable increased quality and efficiency of liquid-handling operations through enhanced pipette operator competence.
Each episode in the series covers one fundamental of pipetting technique, such as plunger pressure and speed, selection of proper pipetting mode and pipette tips, and the need to work at temperature equilibrium. The videos address 10 important issues that should be taken into consideration to ensure accurate and precise liquid delivery.
More: www.artel-usa.com
Pipette Tracker Software
According to ARTEL, its Pipette Tracker software now can be used in combination with the ARTEL PCS Pipette Calibration System to help lab managers monitor operator pipetting performance patterns over time by generating trend analysis reports that track the performance of individual operators. The software also can be programmed to facilitate scheduling of corrective technique training to address problem areas located by the tracking software. The immediacy of feedback also allows operators to perform quick check-ups on their techniques before a critical test or assay.
More: www.artel-usa.com
Aura Industries
EPOCOD
According to Aura, its new EPOCOD is a compact and economical unit placed between an HPLC Column and Detector to facilitate postcolumn chemical derivatization. The kit includes a PTFE knitted reactor coil, a column jacket for temperature control, and a T connector for convenient mixing of the analyte with postcolumn chemical derivatization agents. The Standard EPOCOD comes with a knitted reactor coil 5 m long × 0.5 mm ID in a 4 in. long column jacket (EP B–4–5–50). Other combinations of knitted reactor coils and column jackets can be provided. Lengths are available from 5 to 25 m, ID's of 0.25 and 0.5 mm, and column jackets of 4 and 10 in. An optional Water Circulator also is available for use in conjunction with the column jacket to control the temperature of the postcolumn chemical derivatization reaction and a compact peristaltic pump as an economical solution to providing the necessary second pump. An extensive Bibliography with hundreds of applications for the use of postcolumn chemical derivatization, including the sensitive determination of free formaldehyde in cosmetic preservatives is available.
More: www.aura-inc.com
Beckman Coulter and IntelliCyt
CyAn and HyperCyt
Beckman Coulter is interfacing its CyAn flow cytometer with IntelliCyt's HyperCyt system, a configuration that Beckman says offers the fastest flow cytometric cell analysis available. The CyAn provides acquisition rates of up to 70,000 events per second, which, combined with the continuous, rapid sampling capabilities offered by the HyperCyt Autosampler and HyperView Data Analysis Software, enables 384-well plates to be processed in as little as 10 min. The instrument package allows high-speed processing to be used in many cell surface and intracellular flow cytometry applications.
More: www.beckmancoulter.com
BioTek Instruments
Blog: Scientifically Speaking
To help microplate instrumentation users, a new blog managed by BioTek scientists offers general expertise, tips and tricks, application information, demonstrative videos, relevant articles, and question and answer forums.
More: http://blog.biotek.com
Epoch Multivolume Spectrophotometer System
For monochromator-based absorbance measurements in volumes as low as 2 μL, the Epoch Multivolume Spectrophotometer System includes the Epoch Microplate Spectrophotometer and the Take3 Multivolume Plate controlled via Gen5 software. According to BioTek, these two new products combine to provide a solution for life-science laboratories that have multiple users, multiple assays, and need to preserve precious nucleic acid and protein samples by using very small volumes for quantification. With its wavelength range of 200–999 nm, the Epoch Microplate Spectrophotometer provides outstanding performance in nucleic acid and protein quantification, wavelength scanning, end point, and kinetic and well area scanning in 6- to 384-well microplates. The Take3 plate allows users to measure up to sixteen 2-μL samples, two BioCells or a standard cuvette. The Take3 interface in Gen5 software makes low-volume nucleic acid quantification fast and easy with its preprogrammed protocols and data output.
More: www.biotek.com
Biotool Swiss
FlexiFuge
According to Biotool, its new FlexiFuge mini benchtop centrifuge (240 × 187 × 139 mm with closed lid) is considered ideal for quick spin downs from the walls of tubes, microfiltration of HPLC samples, and cell separations. It can be operated in continuous mode, pulsed for a short burst of rapid centrifugation, or timed to spin from 1 to 15 min. Regardless of settings, the rotor stops once the lid release button is pushed. The quiet motor offers two speeds (2′000 or 5′000 g/6000 or 9200 rpm). A ring of LED lights illuminate when the unit is active and is viewed through the transparent lid.
More: www.biotoolswiss.com
BMG LabTech
FLUOstar Omega
According to BMG LabTech, its FLUOstar Omega is proven to be an important tool in the screening of PARP inhibitors. This multidetection microplate reader can perform the complex assays needed for the evaluation of PARP inhibitors. The capability of the FLUOstar Omega to read numerous detection modes, including fluorescence, luminescence, and absorbance, facilitates simple and rapid measurement of all the aspects of PARP inhibitor evaluation using a single machine.
More: www.bmglabtech.com
CellASIC
ONIX Microfluidic Perfusion System
According to CellASIC, its new easy-to-use ONIX Microfluidic Perfusion System is an add-on to existing microscopes that enables environment control during live cell microscopy. The ONIX allows users to culture cells on the microscope stage and control real-time media perfusion during live cell timelapse experiments. Microfluidics enable precise changeover between media solutions, parallel experiments for cost-efficient data collection, and high-quality CO2/temperature control. Cell migration and chemotaxis studies also are made possible by a proprietary chemogradient.
More: www.cellasic.com
ChemSW
Best Practices White Paper: How to Ensure Accurate Fire Code Reporting of Your Chemical Inventory
This new white paper from ChemSW examines the role of fire code reporting in laboratory safety regulations, understanding and identifying inventory affected by fire codes, and leveraging industry best practices for fire code reporting integrity. Why fire code safety and reporting deficiencies occur are explored, and well as how to gain control of fire code reporting, from identifying gaps in lab fire code safety and reporting processes to passing fire code safety and reporting audits. The Best Practice components of an end-to-end Chemical Inventory System (CIS) for establishing and maintaining information about the chemical safety and reporting chemical inventory are also explored.
CISPro Global and CISPro Live
Enhanced Tier II reporting capabilities are now available for ChemSW's CISPro Global and CISPro Live CISs, enabling users to accurately and automatically track, calculate, and report hazardous chemicals on site to address government reporting requirements. CISPro Global and CISPro Live contain user-customizable Tier II reporting templates with fields for average daily amount, maximum amount, hazard categories, number of days on site, storage location, type of storage, and pressure and temperature conditions. Alternatively, ChemSW can create report templates specific to user requirements.
More: www.chemsw.com/tier2.htm
CyBio
CyBio Scheduler Software
According to CyBio, with this latest version of scheduling software, the company has launched an essentially revised control of its automation platform, thus enabling a wide range of different automation tasks from single application flows and laboratory instruments up to independent and fully automated supervisions of complex laboratory systems.
New features include an easy to handle operation editor with drag-and-drop support, microplate-orientated display of the workflow, and an optimization procedure to provide highest efficiency during implementation and guarantee excellent time stability. Particular time optimization procedures reduce the impact of temperature variations, crystallization, and precipitation effects while the assays are executed.
The Plate Tracking module includes effective data management, comprising the administration of the performed task list and the preparation of every microplate-specific information, such as barcodes, volume, and storage locations.
More: www.cybio-ag.com
FEI Company
Falcon Direct Electron Detector
For Titan and Tecnai transmission electron microscopes (TEMs), the new Falcon is based on direct electron detection that enables the acquisition of low noise images of delicate biological samples and other beam-sensitive materials that require low electron dose interactions to prevent radiation damage of the material. According to FEI, the Falcon detector achieves signal-to-noise ratios equivalent to CCD cameras at a fraction of the electron dose. Conversely, at the maximum tolerable dose for a given sample, the Falcon detector delivers significant improvements in noise, contrast, and resolution.
More: www.fei.com
Tecnai Osiris S/TEM
The Tecnai Osiris scanning/transmission electron microscope (S/TEM) includes FEI's new ChemiSTEM technology, which reduces the time for large field-of-view elemental mapping from hours to minutes, and is designed to combine this breakthrough analytical throughput with exceptional ease of use for both high-volume industrial and multiuser research laboratories.
More: www.fei.com
GSR S50 and GSR F50 Scanning Electron Microscopes
FEI now offers two dedicated scanning electron microscopes (SEMs) and a new software package for automated analysis of gunshot residues (GSRs). The new GSR S50 and GSR F50 SEMs include the newly released Magnum GSR software and specially modified hardware to provide fully automated analysis with dramatic improvements in speed, accuracy, and affordability.
GSR analysis uses high-resolution SEM imaging to locate residue particles, and X-ray spectrometry to determine elemental composition. The GSR S50s ability to image uncoated samples in low vacuum mode helps preserve sample integrity. The GSR F50s field emission source delivers higher spatial resolution and puts more beam current into a smaller spot for faster, more precise X-ray analysis.
The new Magnum GSR software, included in both systems, uses the SEM's native imaging capabilities to locate particles, which is a much faster method than the conventional approach that uses the X-ray system to control the particle imaging and detection process. A specially designed beam current booster increases beam current during X-ray data acquisition to improve the speed and precision of the analysis. Both systems are fully compatible with the latest high-count rate silicon drift X-ray detectors from Bruker Corporation and EDAX. They also include built-in validation procedures that use the latest standard layouts of the ENFSI proficiency tests.
More: www.fei.com
Fluidigm Europe
Technical Poster: Single Cell Gene Expression Analysis Using a Nanofluidic Platform
A technical poster demonstrates a new approach, which when used in combination with Fluidigm's BioMark realtime PCR system, provides a simple, inexpensive, and reproducible solution to single cell gene expression. The authors demonstrate the use of the Fluidigm 48.48 Dynamic Array integrated fluidic circuit (IFC) and a technique known as specific target amplification. Each 48.48 Dynamic Array is shown to systematically combine samples and assays into 2304 real-time qPCR reactions, of final reaction volumes of 6.75 nL. Experimental results are shown using FACS-sorted single cells from a human colorectal carcinoma cell line (HCT 116).
Using the Fluidigm 48.48 Dynamic Array IFC, the researchers are able to conduct gene expression studies from single cells with excellent sensitivity. Although significant differences in expression levels of the same genes across multiple (supposedly identical) single cells are observed, the BioMark/48.48 Dynamic Array platform is shown to produce extremely consistent results when identical amounts of actual transcript were tested.
Research Spotlight Paper: Single-Embryo Gene Expression for Early Embryo Development
The work of Dr. Mylene Yao and her fellow researchers at Stanford University is reported in a new paper available from Fluidigm Europe. According to Fluidigm, scientists around the world are looking at how to reprogram a highly differentiated somatic cell into a pluripotent embryonic stem cell-like cell. This paper describes how the Stanford scientists focused on investigating the role of Oct4, a pluripotency regulator in embryonic stem cells. To find out what the Oct4 pluripotency regulator does at the one- to two-cell stage, the researchers undertook Gene Expression Analysis on 42 different genes using Fluidigm's BioMark System for Genetic Analysis and then used Fluidigm's 48.48 dynamic array integrated fluidic circuit to validate differential gene expression between knockdown and control samples.
The researchers found that Oct4, the master regulator of embryonic stem cell pluripotency, also has critical functions during reprogramming of the early mammalian embryo. The researchers acknowledge how the consistent, high-quality single-embryo data has allowed them to identify genes that are consistently differentially regulated and to find rare outlier embryos expressing unique transcriptomes.
Access Array
According to Fluidigm, its Access Array is a new integrated fluidic circuit (IFC) designed to support high-throughput resequencing, targeted enrichment, sample barcoding, and library preparation for sequencing using amplicon tagging. The Access Array IFC complements Fluidigm's SlingShot Sample Quantitation Kit that together provide researchers with a complete front-end Next-Gen Library preparation solution. Access Array is the first IFC that features the ability to harvest the sample out of the chip. Once the sample processing is complete in the chip it automatically returns the sample to the inlets where they can be easily extracted and placed into a quantitation step and readied for sequencing.
More: www.fluidigm.com
Fluxion Biosciences
BioFlux 1000 Workstation
This new cell analysis system integrates Fluxion's Well Plate Microfluidic technology with automated microscopy for high-throughput shear flow assays. BioFlux 1000 extends Fluxion's line of systems for plate-based, live cell imaging that includes the BioFlux 200. The 1000 workstation delivers higher throughput and unattended operation with integrated microscopy and an automated stage that enables fast scanning of the BioFlux plates.
According to Fluxion, its BioFlux systems bridge the gap between in vitro and in vivo experiments by enabling physiologically relevant shear flow assays in a standard well-plate format. Assays are performed on the BioFlux platform under conditions that mimic those in the human body. This delivers a higher content data set to help ensure that only the most promising compounds move forward into animal and clinical trials. The BioFlux Controller delivers programmable shear flow to the plates while the Fluxion Montage software provides analysis and single-point control of all system components.
More: www.fluxionbio.com
G.E. Healthcare
Mag Sepharose Beads
According to G.E., its new Mag Sepharose magnetic beads for the efficient capture and selective enrichment of proteins and peptides are easy to use with flexible protocols and elution conditions optimized for both electrophoresis and MS analysis.
The Mag Sepharose beads are available as TiO2 Mag Sepharose for the enrichment of phosphopeptides from complex samples; Protein A and Protein G Mag Sepharose affinity chromatography media for the capture of target proteins by immunoprecipitation; and NHS Mag Sepharose for covalent coupling of any protein containing free amine groups.
The new Mag Sepharose beads are available in two pack sizes: 1 × 500 μL, which is sufficient for 10 samples; and 4 × 500 μL, which is sufficient for 40 samples. When used in conjunction with MagRack 6, a separation tool for handling the beads in microcentrifuge tubes, up to six samples can be processed in parallel. The rack consists of an anodized aluminum housing with a detachable plastic bar containing six neodymium magnets. When the tubes are placed in the rack, the beads are attracted to the magnet facilitating easy removal of the supernatant, while the beads remain in the tube.
More: www1.gelifesciences.com
HiTrap Con A 4B Prepacked Columns
These ready-to-use columns are prepacked with concanavalin A (Con A) Sepharose 4B, a chromatography medium for separation and purification of glycoproteins, polysaccharides, and glycolipids. The HiTrap columns are made of biocompatible polypropylene and are available in 1-and 5-mL formats, providing a convenient and reproducible solution for separations. These columns can be operated with a syringe, a peristaltic pump, or a liquid chromatography system, such as ÄKTAdesign.
Con A Sepharose 4B is an affinity chromatography medium with a lectin, Con A, coupled to Sepharose 4B. According to G.E., immobilized lectins are invaluable tools for isolating and separating glycoproteins, polysaccharides and glycolipids, subcellular particles and cells, and for purifying detergent-solubilized cell-membrane components. They are also useful for assessing changes in levels or composition of surface glycoproteins during cell development and in malignant or virally transformed variants.
More: www1.gelifesciences.com
Biotin CAPture Kit
According to G.E., its new Biotin CAPture Kit is for fast, cost-effective, and convenient capture of a biomolecule to a sensor chip surface and subsequent analysis in Biacore systems, including unstable molecules or molecules for which no regeneration protocol can be established. An alternative to direct immobilization or biotin-streptavidin immobilization, Biotin CAPture Kit has the advantage of a standardized protocol for regeneration and the ability to change ligands between experiments without changing the sensor chip.
The kit is based on a novel capture concept that allows for the reversible capture of biotinylated molecules and generic regeneration. The sensor chip, Sensor Chip CAP, is built on a carboxymethylated dextran matrix to which a ss-DNA molecule is preimmobilized. Biotin CAPture Reagent consists of streptavidin conjugated with the complementary ss-DNA molecule.
The kit is available in two versions, Biotin CAPture Kit and Biotin CAPture Kit Series S, one for each sensor chip format used in Biacore systems. The kit is compatible with most samples and analytes, and most applications and analyses, performed using Biacore systems. The Biacore X100 2.0 includes a built-in preprogrammed workflow to support the kit.
More: www1.gelifesciences.com
Genevac
Application Note: Library Maintenance for the Smaller Pharma
This new note details a high-throughput process to produce compound libraries as dry films that have been validated for long-term storage. The authors describe how compounds were solubilized, reformatted from 96- to 384-well plates and then dried down using a Genevac DD-4X centrifugal evaporator for storage at room temperature. The high capacity of the Model DD-4X is shown to facilitate sample-safe evaporation of sixteen 384-well plates to dryness in only 25 min at 40 °C. The described dry film methodology reduces the time for compound preparation and produces enough assay ready sets of dry film plates for at least 10 screens.
More: www.genevac.co.uk
Greiner Bio-One
CrystalSlide
A new platform for counter diffusion applications is now available from Greiner Bio-One in a handy slide format for the production of protein crystals in a concentration gradient. CrystalSlide has 12 microstructured channels. The design is optimized to ensure that the inlets are suitable for manual filling using a pipette, and the slides can be used in automated systems in conjunction with a frame in standard microplate format.
CrystalSlide also enables contents to be analyzed under any conventional microscope, and is suitable for all commonly used automated imaging systems. At just 0.6-mm thickness, the polyolefin slides combine excellent optical characteristics with low birefringence and are permeable to UV light and X-rays for in situ analysis of protein crystals. The low sample volume required (600 nL) helps reduce the cost of protein crystallization.
Hamilton Company
Web-Based Syringe Selection Tool
This new Web-based Syringe Selection Tool offers a unique filtering function to help users quickly identify the exact syringe, with part number, to fit their application. The new tool filters decision characteristics and narrows searches from among Hamilton's 794 different syringes. Seven pull-down menus enable users to choose where to start their search from a choice of values—syringe type, volume, series number, termination, gauge, length, or point style.
Hamilton Robotics
MicroIab NIMBUS NVS
The new NIMBUS Vacuum System (NVS) is an integrated platform for automated vacuum-based separations. The NIMBUS NVS integrates liquid-handling workstation capabilities with a vacuum manifold, pump, and collection device for solid-phase extraction of analytes from complex biological mixtures in 96-well plate format. The NIMBUS NVS is considered ideal for drug discovery applications, such as compound isolation and metabolite testing, and in forensic toxicology and clinical research.
More: www.hamiltonrobotics.com
Pipetting Head for MICROLAB STAR and NIMBUS
According to Hamilton, its new 1-mL 96-channel pipetting head for its MICROLAB STAR and NIMBUS liquid-handling workstations incorporates Hamilton's Compressed O-Ring Expansion technology for robust tip handling and superior positional precision, and offers a higher dynamic pipetting range (1–1000 μL) without sacrificing accuracy or precision. The uninterrupted time for aliquoting runs can be increased with this new head, allowing higher consistency in time-sensitive assays and increased throughput. The 1-mL 96-channel MPH is considered ideal for a range of applications that use higher volumes, such as solid-phase extraction, cell-culture maintenance, pooling routines, and ELISA processing.
More: www.hamiltonrobotics.com
Hamilton Robotics and Promega
Automated Plasmid DNA Purification
A tested and verified protocol for automation of the Promega Wizard SV 96 Plasmid DNA Purification System has been developed by Hamilton Robotics and Promega. According to the companies, this high-throughput method purifies DNA from pelleted bacterial culture samples using Hamilton's MICROLAB STAR liquid-handling workstation, and processes up to 96 plasmid samples in 30 min or less with consistent results and no detectable cross-contamination. The purified plasmid can be used directly for automated fluorescent DNA sequencing, restriction enzyme digestion, and other downstream molecular biology processes.
More: www.hamiltonrobotics.com
Hamilton Storage Technologies
−80 °C SAM Software
According to Hamilton, the new sample management and tracking software for its automated −80 °C Sample Access Manager (SAM) provides functionality and documentation to support chain of custody and 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. The new program offers a wide range of reports and access control functions, from high-level administrative creation of user groups and rights to detailed audit trails of individual samples; and enables customers to safely store compounds and biological samples with back-up reports to document administrator-determined levels of information detail. Password login ensures that users can access only samples for which they are authorized, and the system includes electronic signature capability for 21 CFR Part 11 applications. In cherry-picking applications, each time a sample is removed from storage a complete log is updated as to who took it out, who returned it, and how long it was out of the −80 °C environment. SAM can also create a log of the temperatures the sample was exposed to while in storage.
More: www.hamilton-storage.com
Harvard Apparatus
OEM Syringe Pump Modules
OEM Syringe Pump Modules include Microliter, Milliliter, Programmable, and High Pressure Models. Alternatively, Harvard Apparatus can build a pump especially suited to user research and design needs.
Customization of flow rate range, construction material, force, syringe size, control mechanism, and much more are available.
More: www.harvardapparatus.com
HighRes Biosolutions
NanoCell
NanoCell is HighRes Biosolutions' newest entry into the world of modular robotic equipment used in drug discovery. According to the company, NanoCell is the smallest modular work cell available, and offers the same capabilities of HighRes's larger MicroStar, but over a smaller footprint and for a much smaller budget.
More: www.highresbio.com
HMS Industrial Networks
Anybus Communicator
According to HMS, its new Anybus Communicator is an intelligent protocol converter that provides instant Profibus connectivity. As the automation device remains unchanged, there is no need for hardware-, software modifications, or extensive engineering work. By using the Anybus Communicator, devices such as temperature sensors, barcode readers, motor controllers, and measuring instruments can be integrated into automation systems based on Profibus and PLCs, that is, from Siemens, Schneider, and ABB.
More: www.anybus.com
Integrated DNA Technologies
PrimeTime qPCR Assays
Integrated DNA Technologies' (IDTs) PrimeTime qPCR portfolio has been expanded to include new assay scales that enable more affordable gene expression studies. The PrimeTime Mini (100 reactions), Standard (500 reactions), and XL (2500 reactions) Assay scales better reflect user needs for validation and screening studies.
More: www.idtdna.com/primetime
Transductin
Licensed from Traversa Therapeutics for research applications, IDT's novel new peptide-based double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) transduction delivery system is intended for in vitro testing and high-throughput screening projects. Transductin complexes with dsRNAs, such as IDT's Dicer-substrate siRNAs, and delivers them across cell membranes via macropinocytosis. This mechanism minimizes the risk of having the dsRNA trigger an innate immune response and has virtually no toxicity.
Transductin is a small fusion protein comprising of multiple Peptide Transduction Domains connected to a Double-Stranded RNA Binding Domain (PTD-DRBD). The DRBD domain binds the RNA duplex and serves to keep the positively charged PTD away from the negatively charged RNA.
More: www.idtdna.com
Jeio Tech
Digital Magnetic Stirrers
Jeio Tech's new line of digital magnetic stirrers are available in two sizes, a 6.25-in. (170 mm) plate with a 4-L load capacity and a 8.25-in. (220 mm) plate with a 5-L load capacity. Both sizes are supplied with two nonslip silicon plate pads, have a wide speed range of 30–2000 rpm, and the BLDC motors are controlled with an easy-to-use key pad.
More: www.jeiotech.com/eng
Malvern Instruments
Technical Note: An Introduction to Proteins in 30 Min
Covering protein composition and structure, this new article introduces the basics of protein chemistry and includes measurement and characterization techniques.
More: www.malvern.com/malvern/kbase.nsf/allbyno/KB001928/$file/MRK1198-02.pdf
Micronic Europe
Product Leaflet Library
For laboratories tasked with secure and traceable storage of samples, Micronic designed its new Product Leaflet Library as an easily updated source of reference information. The new library contains technical and applications leaflets covering the complete Micronic product portfolio. In addition, application leaflets provide useful hints and tips on sample storage issues, including topics such as: Why 2D coding?, How to save valuable freezer storage space, High integrity sample storage solutions for biobanking, and How to improve your automated sample logistics?
Microscan
Online Resources
Microscan's new Web site includes product demonstration and training videos, white papers, and other technical information.
More: www.microscan.com
Navitar
Raptar Large Format Machine Vision Lens
According to Navitar, its new 50-mm-large format machine vision lens is considered ideal for use with full frame 11 and 16 mega pixel sensors. The 50-mm Raptar lens has a robust mechanical design that exceeds industry requirements for MTF, relative illumination, and low distortion that is required of systems with high-cost, large-format cameras. The Raptar large format lens covers a 43-mm diagonal sensor with a field of view of 50 mm and focusing range of 0.5 m to infinity. It features a manual iris and focus control with positive, single-point focus and iris locks. Lens aperture range is f/2.0–f/22.0, and its angular field is 46.0° diagonal and 37.0° horizontal.
More: www.navitar.com
Paraytec
Expanded Online Resources
Paraytec's online applications bibliography and technical downloads section have been significantly expanded, offering a greater selection of application notes, technical articles, posters, and presentations that demonstrate the growing array of applications that benefit from the company's ActiPix quantitative UV area imaging technology.
Applications are broadly classified into two types, area imaging or capillary based. Area imaging applications include real-time study of diffusion processes, in-line quantification and sizing of biopharmaceuticals, dissolution/solubility testing, and membrane transport studies. Capillary-based applications include the use of the ActiPix D100 as a sensitive and selective detector for multiplexed capillary electrophoresis, nano-liquid chromatography (nano-LC), and capillary LC experiments.
Application Note: Hydrodynamic Radius of Quantum Dots and Nanoparticles
Paraytec demonstrates how its ActiPix HT Nano-Sizing System can rapidly determine the hydrodynamic radius of a series of quantum dot and nanoparticle samples. According to Paraytec, quantum dots are a new form of semiconductors that model atoms. Being only nanometers in size and offering high quantum efficiency, quantum dots are opening up exciting new applications in medical imaging, electronics, and optical technologies. Determining the hydrodynamic radius of synthesized samples is of considerable importance as size has a significant effect on the more subtle effects offered by quantum dots.
Applications data presented on the Paraytec Web site show how researchers achieve excellent correlation between experimental and expected values of quantum dot hydrodynamic radii with typical analysis times of less than 10 min. The study is performed on the ActiPix HT Nano-Sizing System, which Paraytec describes as a high precision nano-sizing system consisting of a precision nano-injector, autosampler, and detector. Samples are typically stored in the autosampler before injection of a few nanolitres of each sample into a fused capillary. A plug of the sample, typically 20–100 nL, is injected at the capillary inlet of a specially designed sizing cartridge and driven by application of external pressure along the capillary. UV absorption of the sample is recorded in the first and the second detection window using the ActiPix D100 detector. Although the area of each peak is the same, the widths of the peaks are different: the signal from the second window has a greater width and lower amplitude because of Taylor dispersion. The peaks are analyzed with an appropriate peak fitting function using software supplied with the system. The area under the peak corresponds to the amount of the quantum dot injected. The standard deviations are used to calculate the hydrodynamic radius of the sample.
Porvair Sciences
Web Site
For microplate or microplate technology users, this new Web site provides breaking news, product video demonstrations, a growing database of applications notes, a series of helpful microplate related guides, Porvair's online catalog of microplates and microplate equipment, and access to Porvair's technical support group.
More: www.microplates.com
Application Note: Determination of a Novel Drug Entity in Human Plasma
A new application note from Porvair describes a method for the rapid and sensitive determination of a novel drug entity in human plasma. Key to the high-throughput of this method is the Microlute 96-well SPE system, which allows a batch of samples to be prepared for injection in less than half the time that is actually required to analyze them. The method meets all regulatory requirements for clinical studies, and is suitable for the analysis of large numbers of samples. The method was validated over a concentration range of 100–10,000 pg/mL. Recovery using the SPE method was approximately 60% and consistent across the calibration range. The authors describe how the method, unlike protein precipitation sample preparation, is free from LC/MS matrix effects that may influence the ionization of the compound(s) of interest.
Online Video: BioVyon Technology
A new online video shows and describes the benefits of Porvair's new range of BioVyon C8 and C18 silica columns and microplates for use in solid-phase extraction (SPE) assays, provides a useful introduction to the BioVyon technology, and describes what Porvair believes to be its advantages versus traditional SPE materials.
MiniSeal Plus
According to Porvair, its MiniSeal Plus is a compact, budget-priced fully electronically controlled thermal sealer for laboratories sealing small-to-medium batches of microplates, and is capable of producing an accurate and tight seal on any SBS proposed standard, deep well or PCR microplate from 3 to 62 mm in height.
More: www.microplates.com
Mini and Micro BioVyon Protein A Columns
Designed to handle small numbers of discrete samples, the new mini and micro BioVyon Protein A columns offer a simple and rapid method for antibody purification. According to Porvairs, BioVyon Protein A columns are proven to give consistent recoveries of purified IgG. The high purity and recoveries are consistent in multiple extractions using the same column or from column to column. Each mini column has a capacity of approximately 2.5-mg IgG (micro–200-μg IgG) and can be reused several times with appropriate washing steps before the performance degrades. The unique BioVyon solid state media means that performance is not diminished at flow rates as high as 3 mL/min, resulting in faster purifications.
More: www.porvair-sciences.com
Universal Block Manifold
Enhancements to Porvair's new Universal Robotic Manifold enable productive automation of SPE and DNA clean-up procedures. A new online video shows how it can operate with all brands of filter plates and waste collection reservoir trays. Supplied with an integral vacuum gauge, the Universal Robotic Manifold provides precise and complete control of vacuum pressure ensuring plates are processed with high reproducibility.
QIAGEN
Type-it HRM PCR Kit and Rotor-Gene ScreenClust HRM Software
According to QIAGEN, its new Type-it High-Resolution Melting (HRM) PCR kit enables fast, accurate detection of gene mutations and SNPs. The Type-it HRM PCR kit is well suited for all genotyping research applications, including typing of disease or cancer loci, biomarker discovery, and pathogen detection. Unlike other currently available kits, the Type-it HRM PCR Kit does not require optimization in the development of new HRM assays, thus delivering consistent performance the first time. Unique master mix chemistry and optimized HRM buffer and specific amplification products ensure reliable results, even when analyzing challenging mutations or genomic loci.
More: www.qiagen.com
QIAsafe DNA Blood Kit
According to QIAGEN, its QIAsafe DNA Blood Kits are the first dry blood storage available on a matrix.
The QIAsafe matrix is a mixture of dissolvable compounds that stabilizes DNA at room temperature. The technology is based on anhydrobiosis, a biological mechanism used by some multicelluar organisms to enable their survival in a dry state for periods over 100 years. The QIAsafe matrix is optimally formulated for ambient temperature shipping and long-term storage of DNA. In QIAsafe DNA Blood products, this technology is used to preserve DNA for future extractions from blood. The QIAsafe matrix forms a protective seal around the DNA as it dries, in essence shrink-wrapping the sample in a protective coating. Drying occurs at room temperature without requiring any special equipment.
More: www.qiagen.com.
RheoSense
m-VROC Viscometer
Features of the new m-VROC viscometer include an enclosed system complete with all the required hardware providing a high degree of accuracy and reproducibility. According to RheoSense, its m-VROC requires the smallest sample volume of 50 μL that is the target for protein and other biological formulations, is very user friendly and easy to set up, offers a portable design, wide measurement range (0.1–100 k cP viscosity), and high shear rates. Also available is an improved, optional temperature control (via an external circulating water bath), and optional purge air supply (connected through an external source) that prevents condensation inside the chamber when operating at low temperatures.
More: www.rheosense.com
Sixnet
Ethernet Switches
Sixnet's SL and SLX series of DIN-rail industrial Ethernet switches now includes the new 10-, 16-, and 18-port managed switches; 6-port Real-Time-Ring switch; and 6-port unmanaged switch with 2 noise-immune fiber optic ports.
More: www.sixnet.com
SP Industries
Sample Thief Sample Extractor
According to SP Industries, its new generation Sample Thief sample extractor accessory for its Virtis Genesis range of freeze dryers removes samples from the freeze dryer without disturbing the process facilitates. Constructed from clear acrylic, the new Sample Thief provides improved visibility throughout the product chamber, and stable fine control of the claw removal device facilitates extraction of even small size vials. With Sample Thief, several samples can be removed and stoppered (under an inert Nitrogen blanket if desired) at once. In addition, the sealing has been improved so that there is virtually no pressure excursion in the product chamber on opening the inner antechamber door. Vial removal has been improved, so the operator simply breaks vacuum on the outer antechamber, lowers the outer door, and reaches in to remove the sample. The new sample extractor is available for retrofit installation on existing Virtis Genesis freeze dryer systems.
More: www.spindustries.com
Starna
Quinine Sulfate Dihydrate Fluorescence Reference
According to Starna, its new Quinine Sulfate Dihydrate fluorescence reference is for spectrofluorometer qualification as part of pharmaceutical quality assurance procedures. It does not require solution preparation, and it offers certified values produced by an ISO/IEC 17025 and ISO Guide 34 accredited Reference Material producer. Full documentation on measurement, handling, and storage is provided with each set of certified reference materials (CRMs). Reference is truly traceable to NIST primary SRM 936a because the solutions are prepared from the SRM and prepared in accordance with NIST certification for this material.
More: www.starna.com
Toluene/Methanol CRM
A safe-to-handle toluene/methanol CRM for validating instrument resolution with derivative spectrophotometry analysis methods is now available from Starna Scientific for pharmaceutical quality assurance laboratories. According to Starna, the easy-to-use CRM offers safety benefits for users because Starna is the only CRM supplier that is permanently heat-fuse sealing methanol, thereby ensuring that laboratory users no longer need to handle methanol.
More: www.starna.com
Symyx Technologies
ChemMobi App iPhone and iPod Touch
Symyx Technologies' ChemMobi App is now available for free on the iTunes App Store, providing access to over 30 million chemical structures, calculated properties, other information in Symyx Databases, commercial availability from over 860 suppliers, synonyms, and material safety data sheet summaries from ChemADVISOR directly on an iPhone or iPod Touch.
More: www.itunes.com/appstore
Isentris 3.2
This new release of the Symyx Isentris decision support system enables scientists to explore, compare, and report on information spanning multiple experiments captured in electronic lab notebooks, the Symyx Lab Execution and Analysis software suite, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and other information management systems.
According to Symyx, Isentris is the cross-experimental data access, analysis, and reporting tool for any LIMS system today, and supports the ongoing collaboration between Symyx and Thermo Fisher Scientific aimed at integrating Symyx Notebook and Symyx Isentris software with Thermo Scientific's LIMS, including Watson LIMS used in DMPK/bioanalytical research.
More: www.symyx.com/isentris
Thermo Fisher Scientific
Webinar: Getting Great Results from Tough Samples
The 1-h webinar demonstrates how reliable analysis of trace elements in high matrix and spectrally rich samples, such as brines and organics, can be easily achieved using the extended features of the Thermo Scientific iCAP 6000 Series. Specific examples are used to describe the process of method creation and resolving inferences—both spectral and physical. Other considerations needed to produce precise and accurate results while achieving optimum productivity are also discussed.
The webinar focuses on two applications of the instrument—brine analysis with duo view plasma and biodiesel analysis with a radial view plasma. A step-by-step guide to method development for each application, together with supporting data is provided.
Application Note: Multiresidue Pesticide Analysis in Green Tea by a Modified QuEChERS Extraction and Ion Trap GC/MSn Analysis
A new application note from Thermo explains how combining the low detection levels achievable with the Thermo Scientific ITQ 700 GC-ion trap mass spectrometer with a QuEChERS sample preparation method allows greatly enhanced sample throughput without sacrificing levels of detection.
The study is performed by coupling the ITQ 700 with the Thermo Scientific FOCUS GC gas chromatograph to determine the linear ranges, quantitation limits, and detection limits for a partial list of pesticides that are commonly used on green tea crops. Samples are prepared in matrix using the QuEChERS sample preparation guidelines for analysis by gas chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (GC/MSn) on the ITQ 700. Caffeine and polyphenols are removed from the samples before injection. A Thermo Scientific TRACE TR-Pesticide III 35% diphenyl/65% dimethyl polysiloxane column is chosen to improve the resolution of the more polar compounds.
A single splitless injection of 22 pesticides is performed with detection in electron ionization MS/MS. Multiple matrix spikes are analyzed at both high and low levels to verify the precision of the analytical method. The MS/MS scan mode offers significantly enhanced selectivity over scanning modes, such as full scan and selected ion monitoring. The ITQ 700, operates in the MS/MS mode, generated unique product ion spectra by collision-induced fragmentation of each of the detected pesticides. Because of the highly effective elimination of matrix interfering ions, more accurate results are produced at the lower levels.
Application Note: Determination of UV Absorbers from Sunscreens by UHPLC with Photodiode Array Detection
According to Thermo, this new application note illustrates the superior ability of ultra high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) with photodiode array detection (PDA) for precise measurements of UV-absorbing compounds in sunscreen lotions. The note demonstrates how fast HPLC separation performed on the Thermo Scientific Accela high-speed chromatography system equipped with a PDA detector can resolve six UV-absorbing components of sunscreens in as few as 7 min.
More: www.thermo.com/accela
Application Note: A Comparison of Binary and Ternary Gradients Using Stage 1 Illicit Drugs
According to Thermo, this new note describes an effective method for the separation of drugs using the Accela UHPLC in conjunction with the Thermo Scientific MSQ Plus Mass Detector, a fast-scanning single quadrupole mass spectrometer (MS). A mixture of 14 drugs is separated and baseline resolved by UHPLC/MS within 8 min on a Thermo Scientific Hypersil GOLD PFP column using a ternary solvent gradient, which is not possible using a conventional binary solvent gradient. Methanol was found to provide improved resolution for most of the drug compounds compared with other eluents.
More: www.thermo.com/accela
Forensic Toxicology Drug Screening and Confirmation Solution
A new drug screening and confirmation solution for forensic toxicology based on Thermo's Exactive benchtop LC/MS (liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry) platform incorporates the ultrahigh resolution LC/MS capabilities of Orbitrap technology. The new system expands the current clinical research portfolio of Thermo's triple-stage quadrupole and ion trap LC/MS solutions, which includes quantitative methodologies for analyzing vitamin D, immunosuppressants, testosterone, opiates, benzodiazepines, THC, peptides, and other endogenous compounds. This new solution improves ease of use, increases sample throughput, and provides high-confidence results. It includes the Thermo Scientific Transcend TLX UHPLC-based multiplexing system with TurboFlow technology for online sample extraction, and integrates Thermo Scientific ToxID software and reagents.
Pesticide Analyzer Reference Package
Pesticide Analyzer Reference package designed to change the way pesticide analyses are set up and performed using the Thermo Scientific TSQ Quantum GC triple quadrupole GC-MS/MS, which can enable interference-free, high-throughput, multiresidue screening of a large number of pesticides in a single analytical run, achieving excellent sensitivity, reproducibility, and linearity.
The package incorporates method information, consumables, and procedures to facilitate and accelerate analytical method development for challenging pesticide compounds. This combination of materials and instrumentation has been specifically developed to allow environmental and food safety testing laboratories become productive with new methods within days of installation.
iCAP 6200 ICP Spectrometer
According to Thermo, this new addition to its iCAP 6000 Series of high-performance ICP emission spectrometers is an affordable simultaneous, dual view ICP instrument specifically designed for routine analytical laboratories. The iCAP 6200 enables powerful analyses using a range of preoptimized sample introduction settings and provides the capability to handle low-to-moderate sample numbers in a wide variety of application areas.
The iCAP 6200 features an optimized purge gas distribution system, Enhanced Matrix Tolerance torch design, field-upgradeable hardware and software specifications, and a high-power solid-state RF generator.
More: www.thermo.com/icap
Heraeus BK 800 Refrigerated Incubator
For storage of valuable substances at, or below, ambient temperatures, the new Heraeus BK 800 Refrigerated Incubator offers a compact footprint of 0.3 m2 and a large capacity of 220 L. According to Thermo, it provides a homogenous, stable environment with superior temperature uniformity ranging from 3 to 40 °C, and is considered ideal for a wide range of applications, including sample and media storage, microbiological testing, and biochemical oxygen demand protocols.
With two internal electrical sockets, the Heraeus BK 800 refrigerated incubator can accommodate stirrers, shakers, and lights as well as other equipment that can be time controlled for defined cycles. An impact-proof interior with rounded edges makes the unit easy to clean, minimizing the risk of contamination from unwanted microorganisms. All internal shelves and supports are easily removable, and a reversible door enables left- or right-handed opening and makes gaskets simple to replace.
More: www.thermo.com/hot
FILLit Software
To maximize the flexibility of Thermo's Multidrop Combi and Multidrop Combi nL reagent dispensers, the easy-to-use FILLit Software provides data on run time, protocol parameters, and instrument settings, and increases user functionality along with the ability to develop, database and transfer dispensing protocols.
The FILLit software for the Multidrop Combi is highly flexible, with an extensive plate list sorted according to manufacturer. Plate layouts are easily transferred into the instrument memory for stand-alone use and are easily managed onscreen.
The Multidrop Combi nL version of the FILLit software increases experimental accuracy with the generation of five-point calibration curves and a more advanced calibration check option. As a result, possible differences in the dispensing volume of each valve can be adjusted, ensuring extreme precision. The software enables the discreet selection of wells, in addition to columns and rows. It also enables the definition of well volumes and enables protocols to be stored in the database where they can be transferred to the instrument.
More: www.thermo.com/multidrop
Integration Manager
According to Thermo, its new Integration Manager is a flexible, powerful data transformation tool for automated data acquisition and point-to-point data distribution across the enterprise. Integration Manager provides connectivity to all parts of the laboratory workflow and translates the data generated by any of the instruments, services, or third-party enterprise applications that may be used in an organization.
With Integration Manager, data are collected electronically and stored in a central database, regardless of the individual report formats required for each instrument. Integration Manager acts as a translator of all the individual languages of the various data sources, accepting and delivering data in the format appropriate to each intended recipient. Integration Manager is built on open standards architecture that is highly configurable for the specific needs of each enterprise.
Accela 600 HPLC and Accela 1000 U-HPLC
In an expansion of its quaternary solvent delivery systems, Thermo's new Accela 600 and Accela 1000 are designed to enable rapid method development while significantly reducing solvent consumption. Both systems are dedicated LC instruments that complement the full range of Thermo mass spectrometers. Both feature Force Feedback Control to enable delivery of accurate and precise gradients under all operating conditions, and provide flexibility of quaternary solvent delivery with unparalleled performance for HPLC and U-HPLC applications.
Developed specifically for use with Thermo Scientific Hypersil columns packed with 5, 3- and the new 2.4-μm particle diameter, the Accela 600 provides flow rates up to 5 mL/min and a maximum operating pressure of 600 bar with only 90 μL of delay volume. The Accela 1000 has a maximum operating pressure of 1000 bar with only 65 μL of delay volume, making it ideal for U-HPLC applications using columns packed with sub 2.0-μm particles, such as the Hypersil Gold. The Accela 1000 is the only U-HPLC instrument on the market with a quaternary solvent delivery system and optimized gradient accuracy. This combination of features gives the user the flexibility to use the Accela 1000 as a high-quality stand-alone LC or as a front-end system for applications that integrate mass spectrometry.
More: www.thermo.com/lc
New Chromatography Consumables
Thermo Scientific has increased its selection of consumables covering all stages of sample preparation and collection. According to the company, its HyperSep Retain Polar Enhanced Polymer column is composed of high-purity, porous polystyrene-divinylbenzene, modified with hydrophilic functional groups, to give retention of polar and nonpolar analytes. Its Gold Inlet base seals have been precision machined for excellent sealing properties on split and splitless injection ports. With an exceptionally smooth surface, the inert gold plating eliminates the production of any grooves that may cause minute leaks. Its HyperSep Dispersive SPE products contain sorbents for optimal extraction, clean-up, and separation of analytes from complex matrices using the QuEChERS method. Developed to overcome the issues associated with multiresidue methods, the QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, Safe) method minimizes reagent consumption and eliminates the requirement for any automation or laborintensive processes. The Thermo Scientific TR-Green Injection Port Septa are individually molded for an exact fit in the GC inlet. The materials and process parameters used ensure a true low-bleed green septum and an extended life-span.
The Thermo Scientific Reacti-Therm Heating and Stirring Modules are considered ideal for GC and HPLC derivitization, and other small-scale reactions. These dry block heaters provide uniform, stable heating with a temperature range of 10–200 °C.
More: www.thermo.com/columns
Sorvall 1-L General Purpose Centrifuge Series
Combining a maximum capacity of 4 × 400 mL with a compact design, these centrifuges feature multilingual user interfaces and control technology to maximize run performance and reproducibility. Both the Sorvall ST 16 centrifuges for routine sample preparation and the Sorvall Legend X1 centrifuge series for high-processing versatility incorporate a range of innovative technologies. The tool-free Auto-Lock III rotor system enables 3-s rotor installation and removal, for quick switch between applications and easy chamber access for cleaning convenience. The biocontainment-certified ClickSeal bucket sealing system uses glove friendly, one-handed snap-on covers. The advanced rotor management SMARTSpin system optimizes acceleration, braking, temperature control, and residual load imbalance to maximize safety and improve separation and pelleting efficiency.
Nautilus LIMS
According to Thermo, its Nautilus Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) now delivers purpose-built functionality to meet the specific and unique needs of the biobanking industry. It now can help manage biospecimen locations, online requests, chain of custody, and patient demographics.
Advanced Thermostats for Next-Gen Temperature Control Systems
According to Thermo, users can now match a Thermo Scientific Advanced or Standard series thermostat with the appropriate Thermo Scientific heated or refrigerated bath to meet specific application requirements. The Advanced series of thermostats provide all the features of the currently available Standard series of thermostats plus multilevel turbulence controls, programmable application temperature alarms, user-selected automatic shut-off protection, and additional capabilities. The added functionality is intended to make these advanced thermostats ideal for closed- and open-loop applications, chemical reaction management, rotary evaporators, and spectroscopy.
More: www.thermo.com/tc
NESLAB ThermoFlex Series of Recirculating Chillers
ThermoFlex Recirculating Chillers now can operate from 5 to 90 °C with new high-temperature range options for cooling capacities up to 10,000 W.
TTP LabTech
Acumen eX3 Fluorescence Microplate Cytometer
According to TTP LabTech, two collaborative studies using its Acumen eX3 fluorescence microplate cytometer demonstrate that the eX3 is an extremely flexible and robust screening instrument capable of supporting a large number of different assay formats that are key to current drug discovery and development.
The first collaboration involves the analysis of a hybridoma screen using both the FMAT 8100 HTS system (Applied Biosystems) and an Acumen eX3 laser scanning cytometer. Resultant trends for quantification of cell- and bead-based bound antibody are comparable between the two instruments. Data demonstrate that the Acumen is suitable for homogeneous binding assays and is a viable alternative to the discontinued FMAT assay detection instruments.
Another collaboration between TTP LabTech and Nerviano Medical Sciences aimed to increase throughput of a complex four-color multiplexed cell-cycle assay without a deleterious effect on data quality. The Acumen achieves a 4.5-fold increase in throughput and the results prove to be in good concordance with those of the Cellomics ArrayScan. Acumen is considered an ideal choice for primary screening, as it can rapidly identify hits that may be followed up in more detail using the complimentary ArrayScan technology.
More: www.ttplabtech.com
Uniqsis
Application Notes: Flow Chemistry Scale Up for Microwave Reactions
Three new application notes from Uniqsis describe how the FlowSyn Continuous Flow Reactor can reproduce and scale up reactions that have been developed using small-scale batch reactions in a microwave reactor.
According to Uniqsis, microwave reactors are frequently used for small-scale batch chemistry. However, because of the extremes of temperature and pressure reached in a microwave, it is often difficult to transfer these reactions to conventional nonmicrowave apparatus for subsequent development, leading to difficulties with scaling studies. The standard FlowSyn system can directly and accurately mimic the conditions created in a microwave reactor, and because in flow chemistry the quantity of material produced is limited only by the reaction time, scaling can be achieved with ease. FlowSyn can also perform a wider range of chemistries than a microwave reactor, including low temperature fast reactions. A wider range of solvents also can be used, allowing easier evaporation postsynthesis, better product isolation, and improved product purity. Reactions can be carried out with FlowSyn at up to 260 °C and pressures up to 1000 psi (∼70 Bar). High activation energy chemistries that might previously have required a catalyst or the use of a microwave reactor are now candidates for continuous flow synthesis.
More: www.uniqsis.com
Warwick Analytical Service
Automated Microdetermination of Chlorine and Bromine
According to Warwick, the company has further refined its highly accurate and precise method for the automated microdetermination of chlorine and bromine. Offered as an analytical service, determination of individual or mixed halogens (chlorine and bromine) is carried out using a single automated titration analysis. Operating in an ISO 17025 and GMP accredited environment, Warwick Analytical Service's proprietary analytical procedures enable accurate and precise data to be produced for all the types of samples, including samples with trace levels of halogens. From extensive method, validation typical results are within the ±0.3% absolute limits considered acceptable for microchemical analysis.
More: www.warwickanalytical.co.uk
Zinsser Analytic
CombiDancer
According to Zinsser, evaporation of samples dissolved in water or in water/solvent mixtures is not easy, with very long evaporation times, sample bumping (retardation of boiling), and sample freezing being the most common complaints using currently available technology. The concept behind CombiDancer now permits this process to be handled with ease. With CombiDancer, the evaporation process is not based on centrifugation, but a combination of sample vortexing and heating under vacuum. For complex evaporations such as dealing with water or water/solvent mixtures, the CombiDancer can be programmed for multistepped evaporation processes, allowing the optimization of temperature, vacuum, and vortexing mode at each stage.
More: www.zinsser-analytic.com
More News
Accelerated Technology Laboratories and Hach Company announced a joint marketing and technology partnership to provide tighter integration of their respective products, including a technology-sharing agreement on specific development projects focusing on the integration of ATL Sample Master LIMS and the Hach Water Information Management Solution (Hach WIMS), and enhanced integration of Sample Master LIMS with Hach's laboratory instruments. The marketing agreement includes joint seminars and webinars.
Adept Technology accepted the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Faces of Trade Award in recognition of Adept's impact on the Pleasanton, CA community. The award honors Adept's efforts to increase jobs through trade.
Adept Technology signed Nihon Kizai as its newest distributor to cover the Japanese market.
Affymetrix and Beckman Coulter entered into an agreement to offer co-developed solutions for genomic research with an end-to-end support. The partnership will yield an expanding list of Affymetrix-validated automated target preparation methods developed on an Affymetrix-specific configuration of Beckman Coulter's Biomek FXp Dual Arm Multichannel-Span 8 Liquid Handler.
American Peptide Company appointed Firuz Shakoori as sales director to work closely with customers, as their drug products move from discovery to development and commercialization. Mr. Shakoori had been responsible for new business development since January 2009. Before joining American Peptide Company, Shakoori worked in Bachem and PolyPeptide Laboratories.
Asynt announced that since its introduction in 2004, more than 25,000 of its DrySyn laboratory heating and cooling blocks have now been supplied worldwide, and that one pharmaceutical company alone has 600 systems.
Beckman Coulter and IntelliCyt reached an agreement on distribution that allows Beckman Coulter exclusive distribution rights for IntelliCyt's HyperCyt System outside of North America and co-exclusive distribution rights for the HyperCyt system for use on Beckman's CyAn flow cytometer in North America. IntelliCyt will continue direct sales and support of the HyperCyt system in North America.
BioFocus DPI and Oncodesign joined forces to offer a comprehensive oncology drug discovery service. The alliance combined BioFocus DPI's target discovery and screening capabilities with Oncodesign's experimental pharmacological and biomarker expertise in oncology. In addition, the partners will contribute their complementary medicinal chemistry expertise to form a drug discovery service specialized in the rapid generation of promising anticancer drug candidates.
BioFocus DPI signed a 3-year compound management agreement with Procter & Gamble to manage its chemical library collection.
BioTek Instruments appointed Millennium Science as its official distributor in New Zealand. Millennium now retains responsibility for sales and support of the entire BioTek line of microplate-based instrumentation and software across the Tasman.
BioTek Instruments named Mr. Danny Luo as general manager of BioTek's China office. Mr. Luo joined BioTek in 2006 as the marketing manager for China and Hong Kong.
The Synergy Mx Monochromator-based Microplate Reader from BioTek Instruments was certified by Promega as DLReady for dual-luciferase assays.
BioTek Instruments and its Green Team were recognized by the Chittenden Solid Waste District as winners of the 2009 Waste Reduction Award for company-wide efforts to reduce, reuse, and recycle, including reuse of shipping materials when shipping parts to vendors and repaired units to customers; purchasing nearly 100% postconsumer recycled content paper for office paper supplies; and reducing waste through a composting program for paper goods and food scraps. BioTek's environmental programs resulted in a 40% reduction in nonrecycled waste and a 50% increase in recycled materials, based on weekly data.
ChemSW and 3E Company announced an integration and distribution agreement, under the terms of which ChemSW will integrate and distribute 3E Company's Ariel Global Chemical and Regulatory Content that contains nearly 800 regulatory lists covering thousands of data elements spanning more than 75 countries around the world. Ariel data will be fully integrated with the CISPro chemical inventory system.
Denator appointed David Zeeberg to head the company's product development and production efforts. David joins Denator from Semcon Caran where he worked for 13 years as development manager.
Denator announced that a new research consortium in which it is the lead partner was ranked 31st out of more than 300 European projects and received approximately 300,000 Euros in funding from the EU Eurostars Programme. The consortium focuses on development and verification of a prototype for rapid and reliable blood plasma handling. Other partners are Sigolis, Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry Unit at Leiden University Medical Center and the BioScope group at Universidade Nova de Lisboa. The consortium also includes the involvement of a large pharmaceutical company that will support the project with key customer understanding.
ERT appointed Ms. Miki Stevens as its new associate director of business development for Japan. In this new role, Ms. Stevens will work with ERT's Japanese partner, Site Support Institute to facilitate sales activities and enhanced in-country support of Japanese sponsors and clinical trial sites. Ms Stevens joins ERT from PAREXEL International.
ERT appointed Tammy Miller as its vice president of project management. Ms Miller joins ERT from Quintiles.
Evotec entered into a research agreement with Cubist Pharmaceuticals that allows Cubist to use Evotec's proprietary fragment screening technology, EVOlution, to complement discovery research efforts in two of its antibacterial programs. In combination with fragment screening technology, Evotec will use its expertise in structural biology and protein crystallography to determine the three-dimensional structure of the fragments bound to the targets of interest. To this end, Evotec will use its internal crystallography platform and will access the state-of-the-art synchrotron technology of the Diamond Light Source, its partner for protein crystallography. By providing this technology in combination with its fragment screening, Evotec will supply high-quality results to Cubist to enable the structure-driven identification of drug candidates for their priority antibacterial targets.
Evotec acquired a 70% controlling majority stake of Research Support International Private Limited from DIL Limited of India.
FEI Company acquired the Mineral Liberation Analysis business of JKTech, the technology transfer company for the Julius Kruttschnitt Mineral Research Center, and other Centers of the Sustainable Minerals Institute at The University of Queensland.
FEI Company joined SEMATECH's Advanced Metrology Development Program at the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering of the University at Albany. The collaboration expanded existing joint efforts for the development of novel technologies to enable improved process control and yield. As a member of this program, FEI collaborate with experts in SEMATECH's Metrology divisions to develop high-resolution capabilities of transmission electron microscopy analysis, with electron energy loss spectroscopy and focused ion beam technology to address critical needs in process development and defect analysis. These tools will provide the high-resolution imaging and compositional data on the scale of a few nanometers, which is considered invaluable for defect analysis.
FEI Company sold a Magellan extreme high-resolution scanning electron microscope (XHR SEM) to Wageningen University to serve as an essential imaging and analysis tool in its microscopy lab. It will enable Wageningen University to extend its SEM analysis to subnanometer, high-resolution SEM imaging at low voltages, and at ambient and low temperatures.
FEI Company announced that the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) installed a Titan Krios transmission electron microscope (TEM) from FEI. In an effort to understand the causes of disease, UCLA's Dr. Hong Zhou, director of the newly established Electron Imaging Center for NanoMachines, part of the California NanoSystems Institute, initiated high-resolution molecular imaging studies using the new Titan Krios TEM.
FEI Company successfully completed the installation of its Titan Krios cryo TEM at Tsinghua University in Beijing for advanced structural biological research. It was the first Titan Krios to be installed in Asia.
Fluidigm announced that the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA) of Kyoto University's Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences has introduced a BioMark System into its laboratories to undertake genetic analysis. CiRA is using the unique microfluidic properties of the system's integrated fluidic circuits to analyze selected genes in induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells and quantify copies of specific genes transferred into a cell to generate iPS cells.
IDBS concluded an unconditional agreement to acquire InforSense that will expand IDBS's large-scale data integration activities to support international data sharing and broaden its life sciences portfolio into the emerging growth area of biomarker development and personalized medicine. The InforSense brand, products, and partnerships will continue to be developed, marketed, and supported worldwide.
IDBS successfully deployed its E-WorkBook Suite within the R&D facilities at Wells' Dairy for more robust data capture than that offered by traditional paper recording, plus the ability to capture information at the point of invention for the establishment and defense of potential intellectual property. Furthermore, the digitization of information within the research and development functions at Wells' Dairy supports its quality assurance activities.
Integrated DNA Technologies (IDT) was awarded $99,750 from the National Institutes of Health ARRA (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act) to continue work on its research project “Gene Silencing with U1 Adapter Oligonucleotides.” According to IDT, as a new class of synthetic nucleic acids, the U1 adapters are capable of downregulating the expression of genes of interest at the pre-mRNA stage, via a mechanism of action distinct from antisense or siRNA. This new technology is based on oligos annealing to a specific region within the 3′-terminal exon of a gene to inhibit pre-mRNA processing and subsequent gene expression and can successfully silence even RNAi refractory genes.
Innovation Matrix partnered with CASTEC and Adept Technology to develop and integrate a vision-guided solar wafer unloading process into the Asia region. Adept Quattro robot and Adept Sight vision system will be the building blocks for the wafer unloading automation cell.
INTEGRA Biosciences and Viaflo signed agreements to combine the two companies under the name of INTEGRA Viaflo Holding AG. The new group will be active across world markets under the brand INTEGRA.
Labcyte selected Bio Laboratories as its exclusive distributor in Singapore, Chayon Laboratories as its exclusive distributor in Korea; and Tekon Biotech as its exclusive distributor in China, including Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Labcyte announced that it was granted patent 4309131 by the Japanese Patent Office for Labcyte's design of an acoustic-based system that can sort cells based on acoustic or other properties and then eject them specifically from a mixed population.
LabVantage Solutions acquired the SQL*LIMS business from Applied Biosystems, a part of Life Technologies, and Pat Pijanowski, former General Manager of the SQL*LIMS business, joined LabVantage as its chief operating officer.
M.J. Reider selected LabCORE to automate business processes and the handling of data and documents at its Reading, PA location.
The Novelx mySEM with Novelx stacked silicon technology was honored by R&D Magazine with an R&D 100 Award for miniaturizing and driving the cost out of the core technology inside a SEM. The R&D 100 Awards recognized the 100 most technologically significant new products in 2009.
Oxford Gene Technology announced that the Center for Human Genetics at Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium, began assessment of its CytoSure arrays for use in prenatal diagnostic research. The Center was already using CytoSure arrays for postnatal research applications.
Oxford Gene Technology and SciGene announced an agreement for OGT to supply SciGene's lines of microarray sample processing equipment to cytogenetics and research laboratories throughout the European Union, excluding Germany.
Paraytec's ActiPix D-100 system was selected by Cambridge University to enable research into high-throughput microchannel separations of recombinant proteins within microcapillary films.
PerkinElmer announced the winners of two industry awards for exceptional achievements in capillary chromatography. The Marcel Golay Award was presented to Barry L. Karger, PhD, of Northeastern University for his work in narrow diameter liquid chromatography, and the Leslie Ettre Award was presented to W. Christopher Siegler of the University of Washington for his work in three-dimensional gas chromatography. PerkinElmer presented the awards at the 33rd International Symposium on Capillary Chromatography.
PerkinElmer was awarded Patent No. 7,422,625B2 from the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office for an advanced method in gas chromatography. The patent, titled “Methods and Systems for Characterizing a Sorbent Tube,” protects the company's proprietary methods that help gas chromatographers increase the accuracy of their results when using automated thermal desorption (ATD) gas chromatography. PerkinElmer's automatic verification method described in the patent is deployed in the company's TurboMatrix Thermal Desorber product line of GC systems to help users avoid manual errors in ATD measurement. The method was co-invented by Andrew Tipler, senior scientist, gas chromatography, PerkinElmer, and Neil Plant, senior scientist, Health and Safety Laboratory, Buxton, United Kingdom.
PerkinElmer and VWR International signed an expanded distribution agreement. Working with VWR through this new agreement provides broader and more streamlined ordering options for PerkinElmer's analytical consumables and minor accessories in North America.
Two Phenomenex gas chromatography products—the Zebron ZB-Bioethanol column for biofuel testing and the Zebron ZB-Drug-1 column for analysis of drugs of abuse were honored by R&D Magazine with R&D 100 Awards for being among the 100 most technologically significant new products in 2009.
Quotient Bioresearch acquired Amersham Radiolabelling Services, the radiochemical custom synthesis operations of G.E. Healthcare. This represents Quotient's seventh acquisition since its formation in early 2007. The operations and staff of Amersham Radiolabelling Services will combine with the radiochemistry and metabolism activities of Quotient Bioresearch to form a new strategic business unit, Quotient Chemistry & Metabolism, which will provide Quotient-Amersham Radiochemical branded products and services, serving over 250 clients worldwide.
One year after becoming operational, Queensland Compound Library installed a third comPOUND sample store from TTP LabTech to integrate with two existing comPOUND sample stores and a comPANION unit.
RTS Life Science partnered with Hall Analytical Laboratories to provide analytical services and consultancy in the area of automation and inhaler testing. Initially focused on inhaled drug delivery devices, the two companies will share facilities, technology, and resources to provide a range of services to help organizations improve efficiency in the development, adoption, and use of automation.
RTS Life Science successfully passed the National Quality Assurance Audit of its Quality Management System and is now certified to ISO 9001:2008 standard and TickIT software standard level 5.5.
Sixnet announced that its products and solutions have been made available through TESSCO Technologies' distribution channels.
Stäubli Robotics announced a new strategic partnership with Rixan Associates for cosales and marketing activities in the central states, providing turn-key robotic automation, engineering services, components, software, and training.
Symyx Technologies was named as one of the Top 10 Life Science Software Vendors in a report published by Health Industry Insights. In addition, the Symyx Screening Pressure Reactor was honored by R&D Magazine with an R&D 100 Award, which recognized the 100 most technologically significant new products in 2009.
Syrris signed an exclusive distribution agreement with Chemglass Life Sciences in the United States for all Syrris batch reactor products.
Syrris announced the incorporation of its Indian subsidiary, which includes a sales and support office in Mumbai and a sales office in Vadodara.
A novel automated cell-culturing solution developed in collaboration between Tecan and researchers at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences and at the University of Zurich was nominated for an award by Innovation Promotion Agency CTI of the Swiss Confederation.
The Automation Partnership (TAP) announced that the UK Biobank Coordinating Center in Cheadle, which contains TAP's Polar −80 °C automated sample management system for storage, retrieval, and full tracking of up to 10 million human samples was officially opened by HRH Princess Anne. During her hour-long visit, staff explained that a biobank can be used in prospective studies of the link between disease, environment, and genetic factors to reveal the underlying causes of a variety of life-threatening conditions. HRH Princess Anne also was shown TAP's Polar sample archive, which was filled to half its capacity with over 5 million human blood and urine samples provided by over 300,000 voluntary participants.
Thermo Fisher Scientific won the Microsoft 2009 Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences Innovation Award in the Discovery and Product Innovation category for the second consecutive year. The award honors companies for innovative use of Microsoft-based solutions. Microsoft selected Norway-based Hunt Research Center and Biobank in recognition of its use of Thermo Scientific Nautilus LIMS as a comprehensive biobanking solution to gather, store, manage, track, and retrieve large amounts of data securely, and yield real-time, dependable analysis and reports.
Thermo Fisher Scientific's LTQ Velos ion trap LC–MS system was selected by Instrument Business Outlook as the publication's Product of the Show from the American Society of Mass Spectrometry 2009 meeting. Thermo's SampleManager LIMS was selected by Analab Chile for use in its microbiological and chemical quality control and food safety testing laboratories in Chile.
Thermo Fisher Scientific announced a collaboration with the integrative network biology initiative at The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) in the UK. The ICR's new proteomics laboratory is equipped with a complete Thermo Scientific proteomics workflow, including the Kingfisher Flex automated sample preparation system, the TSQ Vantage triple quadrupole, and the UK's first two LTQ Orbitrap Velos mass spectrometers.
TriLink BioTechnologies signed a sales and license agreement with Glen Research to sell TriLink's CleanAmp Amidites to third parties for use in the production of CleanAmp Primers.
Call for Papers
LabAutomation2010
Proposed poster abstracts can still be submitted for LabAutomation2010 through
Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation
JALA is the only peer-reviewed, scientific journal devoted exclusively to the research, development, and application of technologies in scientific laboratories. Manuscripts are accepted on an ongoing basis from ALA members and nonmembers.
JALA manuscript abstracts are indexed by Analytical Abstracts, Chemical Abstracts CAS+, CINAHL, Compendex, EMBASE/Excerpta Medica, Google Scholar, Inspec, ProQuest CSA Tech Research Database, Scifinder, Scirus, and Scopus. Abstracts and full-text articles also are available at JALA Online and Elsevier ScienceDirect.
Lab automation professionals are invited to showcase their achievements by submitting method-focused scientific papers for publication consideration. Manuscript guidelines and submission information are available at www.labautomation.org/journal/submissions.cfm.
In Memory of ALA Co-founder Tony Beugelsdijk
The ALA family and the entire scientific community suffered a tremendous loss on August 23, 2009, when Tony J. Beugelsdijk, Ph.D., M.B.A., passed away from complications related to a stroke. Tony's tireless commitment to ALA and its members, and his life's work at Los Alamos National Laboratory will be remembered and honored at LabAutomation2010 and in the February 2010 issue of JALA. In the meantime, friends are invited to share their memories of Tony at http://tony-beugelsdijk.memory-of.com.