The Randox Acusera Immunology control is both flexible and comprehensive covering a total of 27 serum proteins including AFP, RF, Total & Free Kappa and Lambda light chains.  The liquid ready-to-use format of the control makes it not only easy and convenient to handle but eliminates the need to thaw before use.  As an assayed protein control method specific target values are provided for both immunoturbidimetric and nephelometric methods. 

• Liquid ready-to-use
• 100% human serum providing a matrix similar to patient samples
• Three levels available spanning the clinical range
• Third party control for an independent, unbiased assessment of performance
• Open vial stability of 30 days at +2-8^oC keeps waste to a minimum

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Urinalysis plays a key role in the central lab setting as a non-invasive and cost effective way to detect early kidney disease, urinary tract infections, diabetes and liver dysfunction. Since urinalysis samples come from a variety of collection sites (nursing homes, out-patient clinics, emergency departments), at all times of the day and night, laboratorians need a simple solution to manage high volumes while delivering consistent, reliable results. The CLINITEK Novus automated urine chemistry analyser is now available in Europe. The instrument combines proven dry-pad urine chemistry technology with an easy-to-use cassette test format, helping laboratories deliver reliable, trusted test results while maximising productivity. Offering a full spectrum of tests and a throughput of up to 240 samples per hour, the analyser streamlines workflow, simplifies routine analysis and STAT testing and delivers consistent, high-quality results, even during peak periods. A digital imaging measurement system is utilised to improve accuracy of results, and new ergonomic features such as the tiltable, colour-touch screen and intuitive user interface, customised menu options, simplified, cassette-based test handling and automatic entry of cassette lot number and expiration date enhance ease-of-use. All CLINITEK analysers use the same proven testing technology, regardless of test format. This helps ensure confidence in test results in every setting, from point-of-care locations to highvolume automated laboratories.
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The new biomarker ProADM significantly improves risk assessment of patients suffering from lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI)

An early risk assessment of LRTI patients is essential for optimizing treatment and rational resource allocation. Adrenomedullin (ADM) has a significant presence in the course of LRTI and is strongly associated with a patient’s risk of mortality and severe complications. ADM reflects a patient’s risk profile while its elevation is independent of the LRTI etiology.
A robust method to assess ADM levels is the measurement of a stable surrogate marker, the mid-regional fragment of ProAdrenomedullin (MR-proADM). The only available automated immunoassay is from Thermo Fisher Scientific.

Features of ProADM (MR-proADM) measurement
• Directly reflective of ADM production in a 1:1 ratio
• Increased stability relative to ADM
• Reliably measurable with the automated Thermo Scientific B·R·A·H·M·S MR-proADM KRYPTOR immunoassay
• Well documented for clinical use
• Rapidly available to aid timely clinical decision-making (assay incubation time 29 minutes)
• Small sample volume (26µL)
• Measurement in EDTA plasma 

>> read more on www.thermoscientific.com/ProAdrenomedullin
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Uromodulin (Tamm-Horsfall protein) is the most abundant protein excreted in urine under physiological conditions. It is exclusively produced in the kidney and secreted into the urine via proteolytic cleavage. It has a protective role against urinary tract infections and renal stone formation. Mutations in the gene encoding uromodulin lead to rare autosomal dominant diseases, collectively referred to as uromodulin-associated kidney diseases. Genome-wide association studies identified uromodulin as a risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and hypertension, and suggested that urine uromodulin could represent a useful biomarker for the development of CKD. Recently, serum uromodulin determination exhibited characteristics superior to its measurement in the urine. Low serum uromodulin concentrations were associated with ANCA vasculitis, SLE, polycystic kidney disease, IgA nephropathy and preeclampsia. Using the cut-off 125.4 ng/mL uromodulin had a unique clinical sensitivity of 92.1% and specificity of 100.0% showing that it might be used as a screening nephropathy marker. BioVendor’s patent for the use of the serum uromodulin determination for the diagnosis of nephropathy is pending.
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A new middleware for clinical chemistry, microbiology and molecular biology labs is available. Utilising a rule-based engine to deliver all-round control over laboratory workflow and sample processing, HALIA’s powerful functionality significantly improves laboratory efficiency, compliance and quality control. The middleware interface provides a complete web-based lab computerisation system, allowing central management and connection of all analysers through a single interface on any workstation. The user-configurable rule-based engine enables autoverification, sample routing and real-time clinical data capture and management for greater quality control. By supporting open automation systems and addressing issues such as regulatory compliance, workforce reductions and enhanced quality control, this middleware effectively meets the challenges facing lab managers. Responding to the increase in Point of Care Testing, a POCT Data Manager function is offered. This gives lab managers a real-time overview of all the data relating to multiple blood gas analysers or other devices, including instrument maintenance schedules and QC alerts. Detailed real-time data on total turnaround time (TAT) – a key performance indicator in large laboratories striving to increase throughput – is also provided. If a LIS/LIMS system goes down, the backup module allows manual input of sample information. Manual samples are then matched to LIS/LIMS data once the connection is restored.
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