[AUTOMATION]
Automated Sample Processing System
Intelligent routing
FDA has granted premarket notification (510(k)) market clearance for the Power Express high-speed automated sample processing system by Beckman Coulter, Brea, Calif. Designed to meet the needs of the most demanding laboratories, the system processes samples for chemistry, immunoassay, hematology, and coagulation testing. The Dynamic Inlet serves as a single high-capacity point of entry for samples. Intelligent sample management routes samples among connected analyzers in the most efficient manner. The system’s radio-frequency identification tube routing allows for instrument connections on both sides of the track, optimizing specimen transport and leading to a smaller footprint without diminishing capacity. The system provides barcode sample reading at each sample aspiration while maintaining accuracy with positive patient identification. It also features refrigerated and ambient storage, and is finished with an automated specimen disposal unit.
Beckman Coulter
(800) 526-3821; www.beckmancoulter.com
[COMPUTERS/IT]
Telcor QML Solution
Validated for Windows 2012
The QML point-of-care solution and WebMRE add-on module from Telcor, Lincoln, Neb, have completed testing for compatibility with Microsoft Windows 2012. The QML middleware system electronically receives results from more than 90 medical devices outside the laboratory setting and transmits results to more than 40 laboratory or EMR systems. An open vendor system, QML enables pairing with devices from any manufacturer and features automated alerts, dashboards, management by exception, operator testing privileges, automated operator and patient lists to devices, and operator certification tracking and documentation. The system also provides data mining tools, patient and QC result management, comprehensive reporting for statistics and metrics, and numerous configuration options. The WebMRE web-based module integrates with QML to capture manual test results. It ensures all results are available from within QML and interfaced to the LIS/EMR for consistent point-of-care result reporting.
Telcor
(402) 489-1207; www.telcor.com
[EQUIPMENT]
Biomaterial Transporter
Freezes samples for up to 8 hours with lid off
The BioT ULT Transporter from BioCision, San Rafael, Calif, is an ultralow-temperature system designed for secure handling, freezing, and transporting of temperature-sensitive biomaterials. With the lid removed, the container maintains a stable temperature of -70°C to -50°C throughout its entire 8-inch working depth over an 8-hour period. With the lid in place, the transporter chamber remains at -70°C to -50°C for more than 24 hours, enabling longer sample transport with virtually no variation or elevation in temperature that could compromise samples. The system can accommodate up to eight standard 2-inch cryostorage boxes and is lightweight, with built-in finger grips for easy handling. Durable materials ensure the transporter’s longevity.
BioCision
(888) 478-2221; www.biocision.com
Ductless Fume Hood
Ensures operator safety
The Purair 5 ductless fume hood from Air Science, Fort Myers, Fla, features a high level of operator protection for environments where routine work is carried out. A face velocity of 100 fpm ensures containment of fumes and particulates for operator protection, while an alarm alerts the operator when airflow falls to an unacceptable level. All mechanisms in the head section are located on the clean side of the filter, with the switches and electrical components isolated from contamination. The ductless design eliminates installation costs and allows the unit to be positioned over a sink or benchtop apparatus. The unit operates at a low noise level and recirculates air, preventing expulsion of air-conditioned or heated air into the atmosphere. The hood is available in three models, with widths of 24, 36, and 48 inches.
Air Science
(800) 306-0656; www.airscience.com
Laboratory Air Quality Monitor
Measures up to 11 parameters
The AQ Expert indoor air quality (IAQ) monitor from E Instruments International, Langhorne, Pa, includes up to 11 customizable parameters and real-time data logging for IAQ testing in laboratories and hospitals. Options include barometric air pressure, CO, CO2, formaldehyde, H2S, NO2, O2, O3, relative humidity, SO2, temperature, and volatile organic compounds. The AQ Expert features PC software and USB, Bluetooth, and optional wireless printing, and includes a large internal memory, a Li-Ion rechargeable battery, and dual-temperature test clock inputs. Designed and produced in the United States, the device is available with an optional handheld probe and an active internal sampling pump.
E Instruments International
(215) 750-1212; www.e-inst.com
Laboratory Fume Hood
Dual-wall construction
The UniFlow LE laboratory fume hood from Hemco Corp, Independence, Mo, is available in widths of 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8 feet. The hood incorporates a unitized superstructure with nonmetallic, dual-wall construction to achieve chemical resistance, strength, and durability. The integral one-piece fume chamber has coved corners to ensure smoothness, while the VaraFlow baffle system directs air through the fume chamber and exhaust outlet with minimum turbulence and maximum airflow efficiency. The UniFlow meets standards for ASHRAE-110, NFPA-45, UL 1805, and SEFA recommended practices.
Hemco Corp
(800) 779-4362; www.hemcocorp.com
Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope
Achieves 1.7x higher resolution
The LSM 880 with Airyscan confocal laser scanning microscope from Zeiss, Thornwood, NY, offers high sensitivity; enhanced resolution in x, y, and z; and high image-acquisition speed in a single system. A traditional confocal microscope detects signals with a single point detector. With Airyscan, by contrast, a multichannel area detector with 32 elements collects all the light from an Airy disk simultaneously. Each detector element functions as a single, very small pinhole, enabling light-efficient imaging. Knowing the beam path and the spatial distribution of each Airy disk enables researchers to use all the photos the objective has collected. Users achieve improved sensitivity and a 1.7x higher resolution in all spatial dimensions (140 nm laterally and 400 nm axially), which leads to better image quality and increased speed. The whole imaging process is possible with standard sample-preparation and labeling protocols.
Zeiss
(800) 233-2343; www.zeiss.com
[INSTRUMENTATION]
Sed-Rate Analyzer
Improves laboratory efficiency
The ESR-Auto Plus automated sed-rate analyzer from Streck, Omaha, Neb, measures the sedimentation rate of erythrocytes with a greater than 98% correlation to the Modified Westergren method. Designed to help technologists improve laboratory efficiency, the instrument automatically prints and transmits test results while the barcode scanner provides positive patient identification. The quality control log eliminates the need to manually record daily QC runs, and full random access eliminates the need to batch patient samples. The closed blood-collection system reduces the technologist’s exposure to potentially hazardous materials, while also preserving the integrity and stability of patient samples. Streck provides a complimentary in-lab demo for any US laboratory.
Streck
(800) 228-6090; www.streck.com
Microscope Imaging System
Speeds routine slide examination
The PathScope 2 microscope imaging system from Spot Imaging Solutions, Sterling Heights, Mich, advances the pathologist’s workflow with a cost-effective, practical solution. The system streamlines routine slide examination, saving up to 2 minutes per slide, and eliminates typing and computer management. A single click automatically imprints images with the case number and reference mark, and then archives the diagnostic field of view to a laboratory information system, file server, or cloud storage. Interactive telepathology consults are a standard part of each system, providing a single-click connection with fully interactive image, voice, cursor, and annotation for both the host and attendees. Interactive meetings ensure that discussions are clear and concise as well as easily documented to the case file with a click of a button.
Spot Imaging
(586) 731-6000; www.spotimaging.com
[MISCELLANEOUS SUPPLIES]
Hepatitis C Panel
Naturally occurring plasma samples
The HCV Worldwide AccuSet Performance Panel from SeraCare Life Sciences, Millford, Mass, is a 20-member panel of undiluted, naturally occurring plasma samples. Panel members represent bleeds from multiple individuals positive for HCV from varying countries of origin. Each sample represents a single collection event. This panel of human plasma samples demonstrates a diverse collection of HCV genotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 with varying subtypes. Test results from commercially available HCV genotype, RNA, and antibody assays are included for characterization of the panel members. No preservatives were added. For research use only.
SeraCare Life Sciences
(508) 244-6400; www.seracare.com
TPE Container Seals
Silicone alternative
BioClosure container closures from AdvantaPure, Southampton, Pa, are manufactured from biopharmaceutical-grade thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) for use in laboratory applications. An alternative to silicone, the AdvantaFlex TPE material offers lower absorption and adsorption characteristics, providing weldability and helping eliminate the need for aseptic connectors. The closures are heat sealable and work with flexible container systems, laboratory bottles, and sampling and storage receptacles made of glass, plastic, or metal. With a temperature range of -73°C to 204°C, depending on the material, BioClosures are lot traceable and available with validation and extractable test portfolios. Certain TPE and silicone styles may be molded with tubing of the same material, creating a leakproof assembly with one validated material contact surface.
AdvantaPure
(888) 755-4370; www.advantapure.com
[TESTING/DIAGNOSTICS]
Pre-LASIK Safety Test
Identifies genetic mutations leading to blindness
Avellino Lab USA, Menlo Park, Calif, has introduced the Avellino DNA Dual Test for LASIK Safety, a genetic test that detects Avellino Corneal Dystrophy (ACD) and Granular Corneal Dystrophy type I (GCD1). Caused by a genetic mutation, GCD1 is a slow-developing condition characterized by small translucent dots that form in the layers of the cornea. Many patients display no physical symptoms until later in life, but GCD1 can lead to blindness if patients with the condition undergo vision-correction surgery. The Avellino DNA Dual test allows patients to determine if they have GCD1 or ACD (also known as GCD2) prior to undergoing LASIK, avoiding the risk of postsurgery vision complications. The test is conducted via a mouth swab, with the sample sent to Avellino’s CLIA-certified facility for analysis. Results are typically provided in 24 to 48 hours.
Avellino Lab USA
(650) 396-3741; www.avellinolab.com/us
Blood Glucose Monitoring System
FDA-approved for all hospital settings
The StatStrip Glucose hospital meter system from Nova Biomedical, Waltham, Mass, is the first blood glucose monitoring system to receive FDA clearance for use throughout all hospital and professional healthcare settings, including intensive care settings, and the only FDA-cleared system for the detection and management of dysglycemia throughout all professional healthcare settings, including critical care. It is also CLIA-waived in all settings. Use of glucose meters in hospitals has been linked to a high rate of patient adverse events, including death. All performance-assessment tools have demonstrated that StatStrip Glucose has acceptable clinical performance within intensive care settings when testing is performed by healthcare professionals or point-of-care waived operators. In addition, 136 independent studies found no clinical interference for the monitoring system.
Nova Biomedical
(800) 458-5813; www.novabiomedical.com
Hematology Slide Stainer
Processes up to 60 slides per hour
The Hematek 3000 system from Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics, Tarrytown, NY, provides semiautomated slide staining of up to 60 slides per hour. Specifically designed for hematology, the solution can be used as a primary slide staining solution in low-volume labs, or as a backup to fully automated slide-preparation protocols in larger laboratories. The continuous-feed loading platform eliminates wasted time associated with batch staining methods, while individual, consistent slide staining ensures accurate identification of white blood cells, red blood cell morphology, and platelet assessment. The Hematek rinse reagent contains the optimal alcohol concentration for proper slide drying, so that slides are immediately available for viewing upon completion of staining. The system’s “all-in-one” stain pack includes enough stain for up to 900 slides and offers easy load-and-go operation for optimized daily workflow and minimal hands-on time.
Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics
(914) 631-8000; www.siemens.com/healthcare
TB Test Kit
Simultaneously detects antibiotic resistance
A microscopic observation of drug susceptibility test kit from Hardy Diagnostics, Santa Maria, Calif, detects Mycobacterium tuberculosis while simultaneously detecting the strain’s resistance to isoniazid and rifampicin, the two most common tuberculosis antibiotics. The kit uses a liquid culture medium to accelerate growth, averaging 5 to 10 days, and has color-coded vials and reagents to simplify the procedure and drastically reduce the possibility of errors. The antibiotics’ tablet form is easy to dissolve and requires no measuring, weighing, or mixing. The kit requires only an inverted microscope for full utilization; no other costly capital equipment is needed. For research use only.
Hardy Diagnostics
(805) 346-2766; www.hardydiagnostics.com
