Sectra’s solution for storing, viewing and sharing digital pathology images has received the CE mark for primary diagnostic use. The system enables more efficient cancer care by enhancing collaboration and sharing of images between pathologists and radiologists. Pathologists will now be able to review cases digitally on a computer screen, enabling them to eliminate the microscope. The digital format brings new tools to the pathologists’ fingertips and also allows samples to be sent easily to other pathologists to share the workload or for specialist consultations, thereby facilitating quicker and more accurate diagnosis. Pathology and radiology are at the centre of cancer diagnosis and their collective findings are the basis for patient treatment and its outcome. Both disciplines are highly dependent on adequate clinical information in order to provide accurate and useful reports for the clinician, surgeon, oncologist or patient. Despite their joint responsibility for cancer diagnosis, the exchange of information between the two groups is often very limited as the radiology and pathology workflows are usually completely different. Sectra’s system for digital pathology is built on the same platform as its radiology PACS for managing radiology images. The common technical platform enables closer collaboration between the two specialties, sometimes referred to as integrated diagnostics, facilitating, for example, more efficient multi-disciplinary team meetings. Focusing on end-user experience and workflow efficiency, the system provides a platform where images from different hardware vendors can be viewed and archived, and where histology or cytology images can be shown together with macro images. Furthermore, it allows full case overview including integration with other image systems, enabling access to radiology or dermatology data and images in the same workstation. Sectra digital pathology workstation, IDS7/px, consists of a dedicated image window for pathology images and the regular IDS7 information window. The information window includes worklists, full patient information, with possibility to access images from other specialties such as mammography, radiology and dermatology and a reporting window with support for speech recognition. The possibility to reach different types of images, such as pathology and radiology from the same workstation is especially useful for multidisciplinary teams (MDT) meetings. The image window supports the pathologist during review, preparation of MDTs and education and it contains for example tools for text annotations, distance and area measurements. Images from the same block are registered as such and if similar enough are automatically synchronized by the software enabling efficient comparison of the same structure stained with different techniques.
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Patient home test kit for calprotectin
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaIBDoc is the first in-vitro diagnostic test to measure the fecal inflammation marker calprotectin at home. IBDoc just received a CE mark for patient self testing and is a revolutionary new test for gut inflammation aimed at people with inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. IBDoc eliminates the need for patients to bring stool samples to the clinic for analysis. Instead, its simple to use technology combining a stool extraction device CALEX, a calprotectin test strip and the IBDocsmart phone app to read the test result by state-of-the-art image processing, allows IBD patients to actively participate in their disease management and communicate with the healthcare providers via the internet as well. The backbone of this home test system is the IBDoc web portal for patient data management that keeps the IBD patient under constant vigilance of the healthcare professional for real time support. The IBDoc portal is designed with the highest security standards to keep confidential patient data safe. Calprotectin measured in stool is a non-invasive biomarker for gastrointestinal inflammation. It correlates well with lesions and with endoscopic scores of disease activity in both, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Fecal calprotectin is superior to classically used blood biomarkers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation and others.
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Handheld coagulation analyser
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaSiemens Healthcare Diagnostics is introducing a first-of-its-kind, handheld portable coagulation analyser. The Xprecia Stride coagulation analyser delivers fast, reliable Prothrombin time testing (PT/INR) for point-of-care monitoring and management of oral anticoagulation therapy (OAT) with warfarin, a vitamin K antagonist. The Xprecia Stride coagulation analyser was specifically designed to meet the growing demand for fast and reliable PT/INR results in physician offices and walk-in clinics to help healthcare professionals make informed decisions about patient care.
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Large round chamber autoclave
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaFor laboratories wishing to acquire a high capacity, front loading cylindrical chamber autoclave with an exceptional pack density at a more affordable price, the new 500-litre Q63 laboratory autoclave is now available from Priorclave with a chamber profile taller than that found in most ‘cylindrical’ machines thus making it ideal for larger items. Whilst offering better loading versatility with much easier and safer chamber access due to the lower loading height of just 725 mm, the combination of features such as forced air cooling to reduce cycle times and automatic timed free-steaming for improved air removal add to the overall sterilizing performance of the Q63 autoclave. All operating settings are programmed easily through the Tactrol2 microprocessor controller, which also enables sterilizing performance data to be archived and if necessary forwarded from anywhere in the world direct to Priorclave’s UK Service Centre for technical assistance in fine-tuning and clarification of autoclave performance. The robust build quality of the new autoclave features epoxy coated panels and frame members treated with an anti-bacterial agent which is highly effective against all bacteria and fungi including MRSA, key factors in preventing cross contamination within the laboratory.
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Triple quadrupole mass spectrometer
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaThe LCMS-8060 triple quadrupole mass spectrometer is designed to push the limits of LC/MS/MS quantitation for applications requiring the highest sensitivity and robustness while delivering a meaningful solution for routine LC/MS/MS analyses. It detects substances at ultra-trace level as they occur in complex matrices for example, or in smallest sample concentrations which have to be diluted in order to avoid matrix effects. The LCMS-8060 is the newest member of Shimadzu’s UFMS (Ultra-Fast Mass Spectrometry) family and part of the Shimadzu mass spectrometry platform of MS/MS systems with ultra-fast technologies. The system combines a heated ESI source with all UF technologies including UFsweeper III, a collision cell filled with argon gas. Through its high speed technology, UFsweeper III achieves dwell times of 0.8 ms per MRM. With new UF Qarray ion guide technology increasing ion production and signal intensity, the LCMS-8060 introduces a new level of sensitivity and makes a real difference to working better and faster. The system features a data acquisition scan speed of 30,000 u/sec and a polarity switching time of 5 msec. The newly developed UF Qarray boosts ion sensitivity while suppressing noise. By improving the ion sampling device, ion guide and vacuum efficiency, the instrument achieves unprecedented sensitivity in LCMS. Shimadzu’s proprietary technologies allow acquisition of up to 555 MRM channels per second, ultra-fast polarity switching and ultra-fast scanning, all with highest data quality. Robustness of the LCMS-8060 and modified ion optics was assessed by injecting 2,400 samples of femtogram levels of alprazolam spiked into protein-precipitated human plasma extracts over a six day period (over 400 samples were injected each day). RSD of peak area response was 5 % over this test period, and use of a deuterated internal standard (alprazolam-d5) led to RSD of 3.5 %. As part of the robustness test the vacuum system was vented to model a transient power failure, with however no effect on signal response or baseline noise level.
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Have you achieved ISO 15189 accreditation?
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaRandox is one of the largest manufacturers of complete QC solutions designed to suit the needs of even the most demanding laboratories. Comprising true third party controls, interlaboratory data management and the world’s largest global EQA scheme we can help you achieve ISO 15189 accreditation.
Our multi-analyte controls deliver consolidation and cost savings without compromising on quality. Covering clinical decision levels and providing a matrix similar to patient samples you can be sure ISO 15189 requirements are met.
With Acusera 24.7 Live Online you can now effectively monitor and interpret your daily QC data, compare to worldwide peer group statistics and generate charts for enhanced bench review.
Covering almost 360 parameters in 24 comprehensive and flexible EQA programmes, RIQAS is designed to cover all areas of clinical testing. Each programme benefits from a wide range of concentrations, frequent reporting and comprehensive yet user-friendly reports.
For more info click here
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The next generation portable diagnostic (immunofluorescence assay) system
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaThe i-chromaTM Reader is a portable scanning instrument for measuring the concentration of target analytes in human blood; urine and other specimens.
The system consists of fluorescence readers and test cartridges and can be used to screen cardiac diseases; cancers; diabetes; infectious diseases and hormonal disorders.
All products are CE marked
Specifications
Dimensions: 250x185x80 mm
Weight: 1.2 kgs
Interface: RS232 (serial port)
Key pads: 5 function keys
LIS/HIS connection via PC
Thermal printer (optional)
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Randox automated small-dense LDL assay
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaRandox Laboratories are at the forefront of pioneering diagnostics, and as such have produced an assay for the automated detection of small-dense LDL (sLDL), the first of its kind on the market. Traditionally, ultracentrifugation and electrophoresis-based methods have been used for the measurement of sLDL but these methods are both laborious and time-consuming. Randox offers a superior “Denka Seiken” method for sLDL testing – a direct method that produces results in ten minutes, and designed for use on automated chemistry analysers.
Research has shown individuals with a predominance of sLDL have a 3-fold increased risk of myocardial infarction (MI). Elevated levels of sLDL are associated with a sedentary lifestyle, a diet high in saturated fat, insulin resistance, pre-diabetes and genetic disposition.
May not be available for diagnostic use in every country. Please check with your local representative.
For more info please click here
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High-performance water purification
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaThe AFS 40E / 80E / 120E and 150E water purification systems have been developed to provide clinical laboratories with an economical and reliable water purification solution for daily water volumes of up to 3000 L. They rely on two powerful technologies to produce water quality meeting Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) clinical laboratory reagent water standards. State-of-the-art, proven Elix electrodeionization (EDI) technology ensures constant water quality with low and predictable running costs, while unique E.R.A. (Evolutive Reject Adjustment) technology takes feed water quality into account in order to automatically optimize water recovery – and reduce water usage costs. The AFS 40E / 80E / 120E and 150E systems also offer users powerful 24/7 real-time monitoring and remote control over their water purification systems, as well as a new generation of enhanced services. These advanced monitoring features, along with an unprecedented level of service, also help maximize water purification system and analyser uptime. The systems have been designed to provide quick and precise remote diagnostics and offer proactive service in order to avoid downtime. Service starts with feed water analysis by a certified Merck Millipore field service engineer prior to system installation. Then, over time, users can ensure the best upkeep of their AFS E water purification system with a customized Watercare Pact service plan. With its large new touch screen, the system is designed for intuitive operation and for supporting the user with easy step-by-step instructions during routine maintenance. For increased flexibility, the system interface can also be accessed from another location, using a PC, tablet, or smart phone through a web browser. Mobile and customizable, the new range of systems is designed to make the best use of lab space. The quiet, compact systems are mounted on wheels, and can be moved around the lab – or to another location – depending on current lab requirements. AFS E system users can choose from a number of options and accessories to match their specific requirements, including an online Total Organic Carbon (TOC) monitor, degassing option, and sanitary sampling valve, among others.
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Digital pathology system
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaSectra’s solution for storing, viewing and sharing digital pathology images has received the CE mark for primary diagnostic use. The system enables more efficient cancer care by enhancing collaboration and sharing of images between pathologists and radiologists. Pathologists will now be able to review cases digitally on a computer screen, enabling them to eliminate the microscope. The digital format brings new tools to the pathologists’ fingertips and also allows samples to be sent easily to other pathologists to share the workload or for specialist consultations, thereby facilitating quicker and more accurate diagnosis. Pathology and radiology are at the centre of cancer diagnosis and their collective findings are the basis for patient treatment and its outcome. Both disciplines are highly dependent on adequate clinical information in order to provide accurate and useful reports for the clinician, surgeon, oncologist or patient. Despite their joint responsibility for cancer diagnosis, the exchange of information between the two groups is often very limited as the radiology and pathology workflows are usually completely different. Sectra’s system for digital pathology is built on the same platform as its radiology PACS for managing radiology images. The common technical platform enables closer collaboration between the two specialties, sometimes referred to as integrated diagnostics, facilitating, for example, more efficient multi-disciplinary team meetings. Focusing on end-user experience and workflow efficiency, the system provides a platform where images from different hardware vendors can be viewed and archived, and where histology or cytology images can be shown together with macro images. Furthermore, it allows full case overview including integration with other image systems, enabling access to radiology or dermatology data and images in the same workstation. Sectra digital pathology workstation, IDS7/px, consists of a dedicated image window for pathology images and the regular IDS7 information window. The information window includes worklists, full patient information, with possibility to access images from other specialties such as mammography, radiology and dermatology and a reporting window with support for speech recognition. The possibility to reach different types of images, such as pathology and radiology from the same workstation is especially useful for multidisciplinary teams (MDT) meetings. The image window supports the pathologist during review, preparation of MDTs and education and it contains for example tools for text annotations, distance and area measurements. Images from the same block are registered as such and if similar enough are automatically synchronized by the software enabling efficient comparison of the same structure stained with different techniques.
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Serological diagnosis of Chikungunya virus infections
, /in Product News /by 3wmediaAntibodies against chikungunya virus (CHIKV) can be detected with high sensitivity and specificity using new ELISA and indirect immunofluorescence test (IIFT) systems from EUROIMMUN. Serological analysis is an important supplement to direct pathogen testing in the diagnosis of CHIKV infections, especially given the short viremic phase. Antibodies against CHIKV are detectable from 6 to 8 days after onset of clinical symptoms, when direct detection is generally no longer effective. The determination of CHIKV antigens or anti-CHIKV IgM antibodies is, moreover, of major importance in the screening of blood reserves. The Anti-Chikungunya Virus ELISA (IgM) is a fully automatable test for the detection of acute infections. The assay is based on recombinant structural proteins from CHIKV and shows 100% sensitivity, as demonstrated with clinically characterized samples. The Anti-Chikungunya Virus ELISA (IgG) is based on the same antigen and is used to demonstrate seroconversion following infection with the virus. A four-fold IgG titre increase between acute and convalescence samples taken at least 14 days apart indicates an acute infection. The Anti-Chikungunya Virus IIFT (IgM or IgG) utilizes virus-infected cells for detection of specific antibodies. In the Arboviral Fever Mosiac 1 IIFT, the CHIKV substrate is combined with other arbovirus substrates for the differential diagnosis of CHIKV infections from e.g. dengue virus or Japanese encephalitis virus infections, which often show similar clinical symptoms.
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