Beckman Coulter’s new, automated AQUIOS CL Flow Cytometer has received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the clinical laboratory. The small footprint, high precision ‘LOAD & GO’ instrument has been designed specifically for the Lean laboratory, operating 24/7 and requiring automated systems which improve workflow, enhance quality and deliver a consistent turnaround time (TAT). Easy to operate with integrated automated sample preparation like a hematology analyser, Aquios CL Flow Cytometer delivers first results within 20 minutes for routine applications such as immunophenotyping. Subsequent results are available at a rate of 25 samples per hour for up to a full 96-well plate. The instrument transforms the way routine applications such as immunophenotyping are managed by the clinical lab. The precision of the AQUIOS CL Flow Cytometer in establishing the lymphocyte gate makes it possible to carry out high volume, T, B, and NK cell analysis within the hospital lab instead of an external lab. The high level of automation helps prevent sample processing errors and frees up experienced staff for more complex analysis, making better use of staff resources. In addition, by removing manual processes, the instrument delivers operational savings and increases overall workflow. Once samples are loaded, the instrument automatically carries out mixing, cap piercing, sample preparation, and analysis. Its automated cap-piercing technology helps reduce staff exposure to biohazardous samples. The fully integrated system includes a 40-tube capacity autoloader able to handle a variety of tube sizes, with continuous, random loading and unloading. There is a separate single-tube loader for STAT samples. Sample preparation, reagent monitoring, barcode scanning and LIS connectivity are all automated. Intuitive software also makes the system fast and easy to use. ‘SmartTrack reagent monitoring’ tracks reagent use and test progress, with barcode tracking eliminating manual quality control and reagent logs. If the QC fails, the system automatically alerts the operator by text message or email for intervention. The first tests available are Tetra-1 (CD45/4/8/3), Tetra-2+ (CD45/56+16/19/3), and Tetra Combo (both Tetra-1 and -2+) for immune status monitoring. For the Tetra application, the first result is available in approximately 20 minutes from loading (measured with Tetra-1 or Tetra- 2+), with subsequent results delivered at the rate of 25 samples per hour, for up to a full 96 well plate (measured with Tetra Combo).
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Fully automated 25-OH Vitamin D2/D3 LC-MS/MS analysis
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaAn innovative combination provides the NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) tested LC-MS/MS Vitamin D2/D3 analysis kit with an accuracy of 96%, together with the Zivak fully automated sample preparation and injection system. This innovation now enables laboratories to receive accurate and fast LC-MS/MS Vitamin D2/D3 results in 1.7 minute per test, including sample preparation, sample injection and analysis run time. While preparation is in process, the Zivak Multitasker injects at the same time the already prepared samples into the LC-MS/MS instrument. This efficient process combined with the Zivak 25-OH Vitamin D2/D3 analysis kit where the analysis run time is about 1.5 minute now makes it possible to place the samples into the sample preparation tray and receive results in a fully automated way. The Zivak-Multitasker can handle up to 220 samples in one run.
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Diagnostic antisera for bacterial identification
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaMAST ASSURE Bacterial Agglutinating Antisera products are a comprehensive range of polyvalent and monovalent diagnostic antisera for bacterial identification. Bacterial serotype is easily determined according to the expression of flagella (H) and somatic (O) antigens. Mast Antisera products are used globally for antigenic analysis of clinically significant bacteria, including MAST ASSURE Salmonella Antisera for identification of the species within the genus Salmonella using the Kauffmann-White Scheme for classification. The MAST ASSURE product range features simple slide and test tube agglutination methods and easy to read results. All antisera are derived from immunized rabbits, adsorbed to remove cross agglutinins and filter sterilized. Presented in 2ml dropper bottles, the reagents are user friendly and ensure minimal laboratory wastage. An extensive range of antisera is available from stock with a large range of sera manufactured to special order.
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POC immunoassay analyser
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaMultiple studies indicate a large number of diseases including cancer, infectious and cardiac diseases can be avoided, or even cured with early detection. The m16, a POCT magnetic immunoassay analyser with advanced magnetic bead-linked GMR (Giant Magneto Resistive) biosensor, can maximise and shorten the clinical laboratory’s turn around period, thereby providing faster, more accurate results and optimizing the clinical treatment’s efficiency.
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Automated hemostasis analyser
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaDesigned for high volume laboratories, the STA R Max is an innovative and scalable analyser that can be adapted to any lab organization, whether or not it is connected to an automation track system. It brings productivity and reliability to laboratories for their routine and specialized hemostasis assays. The analyser offers the highest loading capacities to enhance walkaway capabilities: 215 samples, 70 reagent positions, 1000 cuvettes on board. True STAT management ensures fast turnaround time (TAT). Autoverification capabilities are built-in and a TAT report helps monitor performances. Ready to operate 24/7, the analyser does not require time to restart. A new hardware design enhances ergonomics while the intuitive user interface ensures seamless integration for laboratory staff . The extended traceability function meets quality requirements. Innovative services include accreditation support and remote diagnosis. The viscosity-based (mechanical) detection system enables immediate delivery of accurate and precise results. Advantages include insensitivity to any type of coloured plasma, maximum precision for weak clot detection and standardization between Stago systems. The environmentally friendly design provides savings because of the use of a limited and contained fluidic waste system and the reduction of disposable waste (1 cuvette = 1 test). All common tube sizes are accepted with automatic positioning of barcode. A wide range of dedicated reagents, quality controls and calibrators is available, offering maximum sensitivity and reproducibility for all tests.
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Sample storage freezer
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaPanasonic’s Classic Eco MDF-DU300H with hydrocarbon (HC) refrigerants minimizes energy consumption while reducing environmental impact. The introduction of natural HC refrigerants to the latest 333L ULT freezer results in more efficient cooling due to their high latent heat of evaporation. With a power consumption of just 5.9 kWh/day – a 45% reduction compared to equivalent non-HC models – this could lead to potential savings of over €3,000 in energy costs over 10 years. As well as reducing running costs, the use of more efficient refrigerants results in improved performance with reduced pull down times for even greater sample security. Because of their exceptionally low global warming effect, HC refrigerants are also much better for the environment.
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POC analyser management system
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaAddressing the challenges faced by point-of-care (POC) coordinators in the laboratory, the Ecosystem is an integrated component of the RAPIDComm Data Management System, an informatics solution which centrally manages Siemens in vitro diagnostic analysers and operators. The system encompasses eight core components including device management, operator management, quality control, compliance reporting, competency management, inventory management, remote monitoring and mobile access. POC testing continues to grow at a rapid pace and there is a strong need to provide fast and reliable results in order to improve patient outcomes and optimize clinical workflow. Although solutions for each of the eight core components do exist individually, efficiently managing all aspects of a POC testing programme requires close collaboration among hospitals, device manufacturers and IT vendors. The Siemens POC Ecosystem helps to address this challenge by implementing an integrated solution which improves the efficiency and effectiveness of POC programmes. The Ecosystem solution manages secure access to POC devices, oversees quality control, manages staff training plus identifies and resolves issues from any location via the remote access facility. This helps to ensure the manageability of instruments and consumables for potentially hundreds of testing devices throughout a Trust. External compliance requirements are also met while reducing costs and improving efficiencies. Ecosystem takes the core needs of a POC programme into consideration with a focus on helping POC coordinators improve control, effectiveness and transparency. The Ecosystem solution allows POC data management from anywhere within a hospital using tablets and smart phone, which improves the ability of POC coordinators to quickly and efficiently resolve issues.
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Portable POC hemoglobin analyser
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaThe Hemo Control point-of-care (POC) diagnostics analyser provides laboratory accurate hemoglobin and hematocrit results in one simple test. The new hemoglobin POC analyser enables full upgrade with data management functionality as required, giving the user complete flexibility over their future connectivity options via its bi-directional interface. Using the new LIS2-A2 communication standard, this bidirectional interface allows the analyser to connect directly to third party software and enable simple integration with LIS (Laboratory Information System) middleware. LIS2-A2 succeeds the ASTM communication standard commonly used for small to mid-size analysers and is easier to integrate than POCT-1A. Available as a cost effective basic device which stores up to 4000 patient results, the new Hemo Control offers enhanced on-board Data Management (DM) functions following upgrade with the DM ‘add pack’ if required at a later date. In addition to enabling lists to be sent directly from the LIS to Hemo Control, the DM upgrade also offers barcode identification of patients, operators, cuvette LOT and control materials, as well as quality control with lock-out functions and the ability to add comments to results. Hemo Control requires no docking station when handling on-board data management as it uses simple cable connections (e.g. RS-232 to USB or LAN), or integrated Bluetooth technology which is available with the Hemo Control Manager – the top of the range device available with preinstalled DM functions. As a highly robust, portable analyser, Hemo Control is designed to provide quantitative, lab quality results for both hemoglobin and hematocrit (imprecision of <2%) from 25 seconds for blood banks, hospitals and clinics. User friendly with step-by-step on-screen instructions and no calibration or maintenance needed, the device requires minimal training. Furthermore, this compact analyser uses NXT shape microcuvette technology, which enables improved finger stick sample collection by virtually eliminating appearance of air bubbles.
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Coagulation system
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaThe Sekisui CP3000 coagulation system offers a combination of highthroughput and a compact footprint with a broad menu of dedicated reagents, the majority in liquid format. The 400 PT per hour throughput and rapid result turnaround time enables the CP3000 to meet the workflow needs of laboratories of all sizes, while providing high quality and reliable results. Abbott will be the exclusive distributor of the CP3000 coagulation instrument in the United States, Europe and other regions that recognize CE Mark, with non-exclusive distribution in China, Hong Kong, Japan and Macau. The system is expected to seamlessly connect to Abbott’s ACCELERATOR a3600 lab automation platform and middleware solutions.
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Flow cytometer for routine applications in clinical labs
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaBeckman Coulter’s new, automated AQUIOS CL Flow Cytometer has received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the clinical laboratory. The small footprint, high precision ‘LOAD & GO’ instrument has been designed specifically for the Lean laboratory, operating 24/7 and requiring automated systems which improve workflow, enhance quality and deliver a consistent turnaround time (TAT). Easy to operate with integrated automated sample preparation like a hematology analyser, Aquios CL Flow Cytometer delivers first results within 20 minutes for routine applications such as immunophenotyping. Subsequent results are available at a rate of 25 samples per hour for up to a full 96-well plate. The instrument transforms the way routine applications such as immunophenotyping are managed by the clinical lab. The precision of the AQUIOS CL Flow Cytometer in establishing the lymphocyte gate makes it possible to carry out high volume, T, B, and NK cell analysis within the hospital lab instead of an external lab. The high level of automation helps prevent sample processing errors and frees up experienced staff for more complex analysis, making better use of staff resources. In addition, by removing manual processes, the instrument delivers operational savings and increases overall workflow. Once samples are loaded, the instrument automatically carries out mixing, cap piercing, sample preparation, and analysis. Its automated cap-piercing technology helps reduce staff exposure to biohazardous samples. The fully integrated system includes a 40-tube capacity autoloader able to handle a variety of tube sizes, with continuous, random loading and unloading. There is a separate single-tube loader for STAT samples. Sample preparation, reagent monitoring, barcode scanning and LIS connectivity are all automated. Intuitive software also makes the system fast and easy to use. ‘SmartTrack reagent monitoring’ tracks reagent use and test progress, with barcode tracking eliminating manual quality control and reagent logs. If the QC fails, the system automatically alerts the operator by text message or email for intervention. The first tests available are Tetra-1 (CD45/4/8/3), Tetra-2+ (CD45/56+16/19/3), and Tetra Combo (both Tetra-1 and -2+) for immune status monitoring. For the Tetra application, the first result is available in approximately 20 minutes from loading (measured with Tetra-1 or Tetra- 2+), with subsequent results delivered at the rate of 25 samples per hour, for up to a full 96 well plate (measured with Tetra Combo).
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Biochemistry urine control
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaUrine analysis is an integral part of laboratory routine and constitutes a first window to assess the individual physiological and metabolic state. All kinds of parameters have been progressively included in urine analysis, many of them present both in serum and in urine. Problems may arise when assessing the accuracy of results, because the user often only has serum matrix controls. So matrix commutability (analysis results independently from matrix type) is not guaranteed. Currently, general recommendations advocate the use of control material with identical (or similar) matrix to the one of the analysed sample whenever possible. Aware of this situation, Biosystems S.A. has developed a Multiparametric Urine Control specific for biochemistry tests (Albumin, alpha Amylase, alpha Amylase Pancreatic, Calcium, Chloride, Citrate, Creatinine, Glucose, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Protein Urine, Sodium, Urea and Uric Acid). Values have been assigned using the recommended International Reference standards. This ensures traceability of results and comparison between laboratories. The urine control is lyophilized to guarantee maximum stability (expiration date of 24 months, 1 month at -20ºC after reconstitution) without matrix interferents. Along with this Biochemistry Urine Control, BioSystems also offers a specific Urine Contol for the analysis of metabolites (5-ALA, 5-HIIA, 17-OH, 17-KETO, VMA, Metanephrines), which completes its range for routine urine analysis in all kind of laboratories.
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