Abstract
FREE TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Agilent Automation Solutions
Technical Note: Flexible HTS System
A new technical note from Agilent Automation Solutions describes a BioCel System that offers the flexibility to accommodate different HTS assays as well as new protocols and hardware. The system includes a selection of liquid handlers and readers and an active environmental control for the entire system. A multimode reader, bulk reagent dispensers, plate washer, and the Agilent Vertical Pipetting Station allow assays to be run in 96-, 384-, or 1536-format. The active environmental control used by the Agilent BioCel System allows assays to be run at constant temperature (ambient up to 37 ° C), avoiding edge effects often caused by transport into and out of incubators. The high-precision, low-volume pipettor and the large plate storage capacity allow the compound plate bank to be run alongside the assay, adding the compounds on the fly. No prior assay plate generation is necessary, and due to the low-volume capacity of the Vertical Pipetting Station (200 nL), DMSO concentrations in the assay are kept low.
More: www.chem.agilent.com/Library/applications/5990–3619en_lo%20CMS.pdf
Online: Integrated Workstation for High-Throughput Target Enrichment
Integrating advanced automation and liquid handling with Agilent SureSelect XT workflow, Agilent Automation Solutions has created a fully optimized and validated high-throughput target enrichment solution. The solution, available in Agilent's online library, can result in throughput of up to 192 samples weekly per workstation.
Biotage
Application Note: Extraction of Ethyl Glucuronide from Urine by LC-MS
Ethyl glucuronide (EtG) can be detected at very low levels, and being a metabolite, it is useful in distinguishing between ingested ethanol and that which is absorbed through the skin from ethanol-containing products, such as alcohol-based hand washes. Rapid and reliable methods with robust extraction protocols are essential for analysis and quantitation of EtG from various matrices. According to Biotage, advances in the manufacture of polymeric stationary phases and the recent release of EVOLUTE AX, a mixed-mode ion exchange product, allow development of a more robust cost-effective procedure. The protocol is developed on 96-well plates for high throughput with volumes outlined for scale-up to cartridges in manual or automated systems.
More: www.biotage.com
Series of Application Notes for RapidTrace SPE Workstation
Seven new methods for the Biotage RapidTrace Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) Workstation are detailed in application notes, which Biotage users can receive preloaded with free software updates. Newly released methods include Extraction of Vitamin D from Plasma Using ISOLUTE; Extraction of the Cocaine Metabolite, Benzoylecgonine from Urine using ISOLUTE HCX; Extraction of Tricyclic Antidepressants from Whole Blood Using ISOLUTE HCX Columns; Extraction of Basic Drugs of Abuse from Biological Fluids using ISOLUTE HCX; Extraction of Cyclosporine from Whole Blood Using ISOLUTE Columns; Extraction of Environmental Contaminants Including Dioxins and Furans from Soil and Sediment Samples Using ISOLUTE NH2; and Extraction of the Opiates, Morphine and Codeine from urine using ISOLUTE HCX.
More: www.biotage.com
Fluidigm
Web Site
Fluidigm's new Web site offers information relating to the company's proprietary technologies, product video demonstrations, a large database of application notes, articles and posters, customer success stories, and a 2011 program of events.
More: www.fluidigm.com
Integrated DNA Technologies
qPCR User Guide
This quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) user guide provides guidance on the entire qPCR process—from RNA isolation to data analysis. The manual covers the basics of experimental setup, performance, and analysis. Specific information on 5' nuclease assays, including resuspensions and qPCR protocols also are supplied, as well as a troubleshooting section. The entire document is written in compliance with MIQE guidelines: minimum information for publication of quantitative real-time PCR.
More: www.idtdna.com
Porvair Filtration Group
Application: Novel Sintered Porous Plastic Encourages in Vitro Cell Culture Growth
A report by Porvair Filtration Group describes how the open pore structure of its BioVyon sintered porous plastic materials offers optimum conditions for encouraging in vitro cell culture and offers advantages over established Petri dish methods and the ceramic substrates (tricalcium phosphate) traditionally used. Results are presented for applications using BioVyon scaffolds to accelerate oesteoblast (bone cell) proliferation and provide efficient and accurate differentiation of adult and embryonic stem cells.
More: www.porvairfiltration.com/view/BiosciencesAndScientific/CellCulture.aspx
Porvair Sciences
Technical Report: Streamlining Protein Precipitation Sample Preparation
The report details and illustrates the results from a series of comparative experiments carried out in an independent evaluation of a selection of protein precipitation microplates. The evaluation comments how the p3 microplate from Porvair Sciences eliminates wetting out and leaking of sample through the plate without resorting to complex valve systems. It also notes that the novel treated frit matrix used in the p3 maintains high flow rates enabling quick sample preparation times, and that the p3 plate did not have any major adverse nonspecific binding problems.
More: www.porvair-sciences.com/downloads.php/showFrom=6&;nR=18
Thermo Fisher Scientific
YouTube Chromatography Channel
The first two videos uploaded to a new YouTube Chromatography Channel are entitled as “How GC Columns Work” and “An Introduction to SPE” and offer training on how various aspects of chromatography work. The “How GC Columns Work” video tutorial uses an example application on the analysis of neutral and acidic drugs using Thermo Scientific TraceGOLD GC Columns to demonstrate how ultra-low bleed, high levels of reproducibility, and superior inertness are essential to ensure full confidence in analytical results. The Thermo Scientific Sample Preparation video demonstrates how, through the use of SPE, users can achieve a cleaner baseline and improve data.
TTP LabTech
Application Note: Mirrorball Benchmarking Study
A new comparative study demonstrates that the Mirroball antibody discovery system offers equivalent data to the discontinued ABI 8200 FMAT instrument, with minimal changes to assay protocols. The study uses the FMAT assay to look at bead-based quantitation of a soluble protein (rabbit IgG) and antibody binding to epidermal growth factor receptors expressed in A459 cells. The Mirrorball system scanned the entire well, and FMAT reported data from only a 1-mm2 area in each well. Beads were identified by laser scatter on Mirrorball and fluorescence on FMAT. The Mirrorball system could enumerate beads in all wells, in contrast to FMAT, which could not detect all beads below 1-ng/mL rabbit IgG.
More: www.ttplabtech.com/emailers/mirrorballbenchmarking-study.html
APPLICATION AREAS
AMS Biotechnology (AMSBIO)
Universal Reference Products
The AMSBIO range of Universal Reference Products (RNA, cDNA, and Protein Lysate) now includes standards for studies involving humans and animal species. These products are considered ideal controls for high-throughput PCR, RNA microarray, and antibody array studies. The products are derived from diverse tissue sets and manufactured to ensure broad coverage of genes and to minimize the lot-to-lot variation.
Universal RNA from AMSBIO is total RNA isolated from sources by modified guanidine thiocyanate techniques. It can be used as controls for optimizing and troubleshooting single- and two-color microarray studies. Universal cDNA is prepared by reverse transcribing AMSBIO's Universal RNA by random hexamer or oligo(dT) primer. Total RNA is isolated by modified guanidine thiocyanate techniques. Universal cDNA can be used as controls for real-time PCR and regular PCR, and also as gene pools for cloning genes. Universal Protein Lysate is total protein isolated from whole tissue sources, which can be used as controls for comparison of protein expression and antibody microarray studies.
More: www.amsbio.com/Ideal-controls-for-PCR-RNA-microarray-and-antibody-array-studies.aspx
Purified Full-Length Human Proteins
AMSBIO now offers a range of more than 4000 full-length affinity-purified human proteins expressed in HEK293 cells and derived using an extensive collection of human cDNA clones. The new range is prepared to ensure optimal preservation of protein structure as well as post-translational modifications and functions. All AMSBIO full-length proteins come affinity purified and are guaranteed to be greater than 80% pure. All the human proteins in the new range are available in small trial size quantities, and AMSBIO provides fast development of larger (milligram) quantities.
GenePORTER Gold
According to AMSBIO, its new GenePORTER Gold lipid-based reagent is for the effective transfection of cell lines. Based on generations of proven cationic lipid formulations with more than 850 citations to date, GenePORTER Gold combines consistent delivery and reliability with the lowest reported cytotoxicity of commercially available transfection reagents. The GenePORTER Gold protocol has been optimized to provide simple and same-day transfection, making it ideal for high-throughput or large-scale applications, where the need for consistent results is highly desirable.
More: www.amsbio.com/GenePORTER-GoldTransfection-Reagent.aspx
ecoHSA
According to AMSBIO, this new animal-free preparation of the human albumin gene produced in the seeds of Asian rice (Oryza sativa) builds on recent advances in seed protein production technologies to turn the rice endosperm into an optimal system for expressing recombinant proteins. ecoHSA eliminates risk of animal or viral infectious agents in cell cultures and helps to comply with FDA recommendations for animal-free components. Tested in multiple functional studies, ecoHSA has been proven to be similar in structure and biochemical function to native HSA. ecoHSA offers minimal batch-to-batch variability. In tests, ecoHSA has been shown to improve the health of cells by acting as a fatty acid carrier and hydrophobic moiety scavenger. In addition, ecoHSA can extend the life of cell cultures by scavenging toxins as well as stabilizing membrane proteins and maintaining oncotic pressure, thereby providing better cultures and results.
More: www.amsbio.com/Animal-free-Human-Serum-Albumin-HSA-ecoHSA.aspx
American Type Culture Collection
Normal Human Primary Corneal Epithelial Cells
Primary corneal epithelial cells from American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) have undergone sterility testing for bacteria, yeast, fungi, and mycoplasma, as well as viral testing for HIV and HCV. A certificate of analysis is available for each lot of cells on request. The cells are cryopreserved in the second passage for purity coupled with high viability and plating efficiency.
As part of ATCC Primary Cell Solutions, each lot of ATCC normal human primary corneal epithelial cells is performance tested with a matched set of components, including media, growth factors, and reagents. Corneal epithelial cell basal media contain essential and nonessential amino acids, vitamins, other organic compounds, trace minerals, and inorganic salts in a formula designed to support proliferation of cells originating from a human cornea. When grown in corneal epithelial cell basal medium supplemented with corneal epithelial cell growth kit components, ATCC warrants the viability and growth performance of human primary corneal epithelial cells. Each lot is tested to ensure that the cells will grow for three passages and maintain normal morphology. Use of the complete Primary Cell Solutions system removes the need for additional components, such as feeder layers, extracellular matrix proteins, or other substrates.
More: www.atcc.org/PCS3
Cell Signaling Technology
BrdU Cell Proliferation Assay Kit #6813
This new assay kit measures cell proliferation in a quantitative plate-based format without radioactive reagents or imaging equipment. The kit detects 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporated into cellular DNA using an anti-BrdU antibody. Antimouse IgG, HRP-linked antibody is used to recognize the bound detection antibody, and HRP substrate is added to develop color. The absorbance for the developed color is proportional to the quantity of BrdU incorporated into cells—a direct indication of cell proliferation. A 96-well format allows for higher throughput.
More: www.cellsignal.com
Nanog (D73G4) XP Rabbit mAb (Alexa Fluor 647 Conjugate) #5448
Nanog (D73G4) XP Rabbit mAb (Alexa Fluor 647 Conjugate) detects endogenous levels of total nanog protein. Monoclonal antibody (mAb) is produced by immunizing animals with a synthetic peptide corresponding to residues near the amino terminus of human nanog protein. This Cell Signaling Technology antibody is conjugated to Alexa Fluor 647 fluorescent dye and tested in house for immunofluorescence and direct flow cytometry analysis in human cells. The antibody is expected to exhibit the same species cross-reactivity as the unconjugated Nanog (D73G4) XP Rabbit mAb #4903. Nanog is a homeodomain-containing transcription factor that is essential for the maintenance of pluripotency and self-renewal in embryonic stem cells. Nanog expression is controlled by a network of factors, including Sox2 and the key pluripotency regulator Oct. Recent advances in somatic cell reprogramming have used viral expression of combinations of transcription factors, including nanog, Oct-4, Sox2, KLF4, c-Myc, and Lin28.
Notch2 (D76A6) XP Rabbit mAb #5732
Notch2 (D76A6) XP Rabbit mAb recognizes endogenous levels of total Notch2 protein. mAb is produced by immunizing animals with a synthetic peptide corresponding to residues surrounding Ala2378 of human Notch2 protein. Notch1 is a transmembrane protein functioning in the development and determination of cell fate. During maturation, the notch molecule is cleaved by a furin-like convertase at its extracellular domain. On binding to a ligand, such as Delta1, or on extracellular calcium depletion, the carboxy-terminal notch1 fragment is released and further cleaved between Gly1743 and Val1744. The resulting activated cytosolic fragment translocates to the nucleus, where it activates transcription. Notch2 is a member of the Notch family and mutation in Notch2 is associated with Alagille syndrome.
RagC (D31G9) XP Rabbit mAb #5466
RagC (D31G9) XP Rabbit mAb detects endogenous levels of total RagC protein. mAb is produced by immunizing animals with a synthetic peptide corresponding to residues near the amino terminus of human RagC protein. mTORC1 kinase complex is a critical component in regulating cell growth. Its activity is modulated by energy levels, growth factors, and amino acids. Recent studies found that RagA, RagB, RagC, and RagD, the four related GTPases, interact with raptor in mTORC1. These interactions are both necessary and sufficient for mTORC1 activation in response to amino acid signals.
SMC3 (D47B5) Rabbit mAb #5696
SMC3 (D47B5) Rabbit mAb recognizes endogenous levels of total SMC protein. In immunofluorescent analysis, this antibody shows nuclear staining as expected; however, it also shows weak cytoplasmic staining that is presumed to be background. mAb is produced by immunizing animals with a synthetic peptide corresponding to residues surrounding Arg132 of human SMC3 protein.
The cohesin complex consists of a heterodimer between SMC1 (SMC1A or B) and SMC3, bound by additional RAD21 and STAG proteins (STAG1, 2, or 3). These proteins form a ring-like structure that mediates the cohesion of two sister chromatids after DNA replication in S phase. RAD21 and STAG2 are phosphorylated by Polo-like kinase during prophase, which leads to the dissociation of cohesin complexes from the chromosome arms; however, cohesin remains bound to centromeres until anaphase. RAD21 is cleaved by separin/ESPL1 in anaphase, which leads to dissociation of the remaining cohesin from centromeres, enabling sister chromatids to segregate during mitosis. RAD21 is also cleaved by caspase-3 and caspase-7 during apoptosis, resulting in a 64-kDa carboxy-terminal cleavage product that translocates to the cytoplasm and may help to trigger apoptosis. In addition to mediating cohesion of sister chromatids, the cohesin complex plays important roles in gene regulation and DNA repair, as SMC1 and SMC3 are both phosphorylated by ATM and ATR kinases on DNA damage.
Phospho-Histone H3 (Ser10) (D2C8) XP Rabbit mAb (Phycoerythrin Conjugate) #5764
Phospho-Histone H3 (Ser10) (D2C8) XP Rabbit mAb (Phycoerythrin [PE] Conjugate) detects endogenous levels of histone H3 protein only when phosphorylated at Ser10. The antibody does not cross-react with other phosphorylated histones or with acetylated histones. mAb is produced by immunizing animals with a synthetic phosphopeptide corresponding to residues surrounding Ser10 of human histone H3 protein. This Cell Signaling Technology antibody is conjugated to PE and tested in house for direct flow cytometry analysis in human cells. The antibody is expected to exhibit the same species cross-reactivity as the unconjugated Phospho-Histone H3 (Ser10) (D2C8) XP Rabbit mAb #3377.
Modulation of chromatin structure plays an important role in the regulation of transcription in eukaryotes. The nucleosome, made up of DNA wound around eight core histone proteins (two each of H2A, H2B, H3, and H4), is the primary building block of chromatin. The amino-terminal tails of core histones undergo various post-translational modifications, including acetylation, phosphorylation, methylation, and ubiquitination. These modifications occur in response to various stimuli and have a direct effect on the accessibility of chromatin to transcription factors and, therefore, on gene expression. In most species, histone H2B is primarily acetylated at Lys5, 12, 15, and 20. Histone H3 is primarily acetylated at Lys9, 14, 18, 23, 27, and 56. Acetylation of H3 at Lys9 appears to have a dominant role in histone deposition and chromatin assembly in some organisms. Phosphorylation at Ser10, Ser28, and Thr11 of histone H3 is tightly correlated with chromosome condensation during both mitosis and meiosis. Phosphorylation of Thr3 of histone H3 is highly conserved among many species and is catalyzed by the kinase haspin. Immunostaining with phospho-specific antibodies in mammalian cells reveals mitotic phosphorylation of H3 Thr3 in prophase and its dephosphorylation during anaphase.
RING1B (D22F2) XP Rabbit mAb #5694
RING1B (D22F2) XP Rabbit mAb recognizes endogenous levels of total RING1B protein. mAb is produced by immunizing animals with recombinant protein specific to the full-length human RING1B protein. The polycomb group (PcG) proteins contribute to the maintenance of cell identity, stem cell self-renewal, cell cycle regulation, and oncogenesis by maintaining the silenced state of genes that promote cell lineage specification, cell death, and cell-cycle arrest. PcG proteins exist in two complexes that cooperate to maintain long-term gene silencing through epigenetic chromatin modifications. The first complex, EED-EZH2, is recruited to genes by DNA-binding transcription factors and methylates histone H3 on Lys27. This histone methyl-transferase activity requires the Ezh2, Eed, and Suz12 subunits of the complex. Methylation of Lys27 facilitates the recruitment of the second complex, PRC1, which ubiquitinylates histone H2A on Lys119. PRC1 is composed of BMI1 and RING1A (also RING1 or RNF1), both of which act to enhance the E3 ubiquitin ligase activity of an additional catalytic subunit RING1B (also RING2 or RNF2). PcG proteins play an important role in the regulation of cell proliferation and senescence through repression of the p16 INK4A and p19 ARF genes and are required for maintenance of adult hematopoietic and neural stem cells, as well as embryonic stem cells.
eNOS (6H2) Mouse mAb #5880
Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) (6H2) Mouse mAb recognizes endogenous levels of total eNos protein. mAb is produced by immunizing animals with recombinant protein specific to human eNOS protein. eNOS is an important enzyme in the cardiovascular system. It catalyzes the production of nitric oxide, a key regulator of blood pressure, vascular remodeling, and angiogenesis. The activity of eNOS is regulated by phosphorylation at multiple sites. The two most thoroughly studied sites are the activation site Ser1177 and the inhibitory site Thr495. Several protein kinases, including Akt/PKB, PKA, and AMPK, activate eNOS by phosphorylating Ser1177 in response to various stimuli. In contrast, bradykinin and H2O2 activate eNOS activity by promoting both Ser1177 phosphorylation and Thr495 dephosphorylation.
SDHA Antibody #5839
Succinate dehydrogenase A (SDHA) Antibody recognizes endogenous levels of total SDHA protein. Polyclonal antibodies are produced by immunizing animals with a synthetic peptide corresponding to residues near the carboxy terminus of human SDHA protein. Antibodies are purified by protein A and peptide affinity chromatography.
SDH, also known as Complex II or succinate:quinone oxidoreductase, is a key component of the citric acid cycle and the electron transport chain. Specifically, it is involved in the oxidation of succinate. SDH consists of four subunits: SDHA, SDHB, SDHC, and SDHD. Defects in SDHA cause complex II deficiency. In addition, reduction of SDHA has been observed in the striatum of patients with Huntington's disease. Reduction of SDHB, SDHC, and SDHD is often observed in paragangliomas and phenochromocytomas.
SeraCare
HCV Seroconversion Panels
Two new and highly characterized HCV seroconversion panels from SeraCare are designed to help diagnostic manufacturers and clinical laboratories effectively evaluate their HCV test systems. Seroconversion panels PHV922 and PHV923 each consist of a set of undiluted plasma samples collected from a single individual during seroconversion, the period of time during development of infection and early immune response. PHV922 and PHV923 were collected from deferred plasma donors in different regions of the United States over 17 and 23 days, respectively in 2008. PHV922 is HCV genotype 3a and PHV923 is HCV genotype 1a. Both series demonstrate the early evolution of the human immune response to HCV and contain naturally occurring samples to challenge the sensitivity of tests for HCV antibody.
More: www.seracarepanels.com
Thermo Fisher Scientific
KingFisher Nucleic Acid Purification Kits
These new kits contain all relevant buffers and reagents and are designed and optimized for use with Thermo Scientific KingFisher magnetic particle processors. According to Thermo, in this configuration, the entire process can be automated with walk-away capabilities that ensure higher sample purity and yields. A range of sample types, from blood to plant material, can be used.
AUTOMATED SYSTEMS
Beckman Coulter Genomics
SPRIworks Fragment Library System III
Combining Solid Phase Reversible Immobilization (SPRI) chemistry and Beckman Coulter automation, SPRIworks System III automates library preparation for its three next-generation sequencing platforms. One to 10 samples can be completed within 3.5 hours, and the process provides several size-selection and nick translation options. The system uses a dedicated, color-coded method card and cartridges. Thus, library construction for all three sequencing platforms can be conducted using one instrument and the appropriate method card and cartridges.
More: www.beckmangenomics.com
Hamilton Robotics and Peak Robotics
Integration of KiNEDx Robots with MICROLAB STAR
The KiNEDx 4- and 5-axis robots are now integrated into Hamilton Robotics' MICROLAB STAR automated liquid-handling workstation to increase the STAR's access to microplate samples and third-party devices. The dexterity of the robot enables access to deck positions and devices that cannot be reached with traditional labware grippers and even allows the plates to be tilted and flipped, for resuspension or shaking. Ideal applications include sample preparation, protein crystallization, and ELISAs. New software drivers allow the Hamilton MICROLAB VENUS software to control the KiNEDx arm by calling functions or through preprogrammed moves.
More: www.hamiltonrobotics.com
RheoSense
m-VROC 2.5 Viscometer
This newly enhanced analytical system for viscosity measurements is compact, portable, and equipped with automatic chip recognition and closed-loop temperature control. For more control of the test environment, an optional air purge unit and a Peltier chiller can be added. The mechanical and electronic interfaces have been enhanced, making it even easier to capture, view, and record viscosity measurements. The m-VROC provides accuracy with small sample volumes (50 μL). Its measurement range (0.1–100 k cP viscosity) and high shear rates enable it to analyze virtually any liquid viscosity value, Newtonian and non-Newtonian. With the Peltier chiller option, the closed-loop temperature control system can operate at a range of 4–69 °C with the accuracy of ±0.05 °C. The core of the system is VROC MEMS chip developed by RheoSense.
More: www.rheosense.com
The Automation Partnership
CellBase CT System
The new CellBase CT system was developed to automate the ex vivo expansion of autologous cell therapies and can be used in a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facility for rapid scale up of existing manual cell culture processes in T-flasks. CellBase CT provides a fully contained and aseptic cell expansion area that eliminates risk of external contamination or internal cross-contamination, enabling the manufacture of multiple autologous cell therapies from many individual patients in parallel.
CellBase CT comes with a range of tools to support validation in a GMP regulated environment and has been developed and extensively tested to enable clean and reproducible expansion of clinically applicable stem cells and other cell types.
Thermo Fisher Scientific
Sorvall RC BIOS Centrifuge System
According to Thermo, its new Sorvall system integrates a 6-L Fiberlite carbon fiber rotor and true fit 1-L Nalgene bottles to achieve superior yields with faster processing time for bacterial and mammalian cell pelleting, large microbial cultures, and harvesting cell and tissue cultures. The Sorvall RC BIOS centrifuge system is designed for high-speed and high-volume batch bioprocessing applications. It can spin up to 15,860 xg, has a power-saving design, robust refrigeration system, and automated lid lock control. A new optional Centri-Log data collection software increases quality control, process traceability, and component tracking for continued GMP compliance.
INSTRUMENTATION AND HARDWARE
BioTek
EL406 Vacuum Filtration Module
BioTek's EL406 Microplate Washer Dispenser may now be used for automated vacuum filtration processes with the new EL406 vacuum filtration module, and BioTek's complete line of microplate washers can now be used for automated washing of polystyrene- and magnetic bead-based assays, such as the Luminex xMAP assay platforms.
More: www.biotek.com
Dunkermotoren
EtherCAT Field Bus System
New to Dunkermotoren's range of integrated communication interfaces, the EtherCAT is an Ethernet-based field bus system. According to Dunkermotoren, the CANopen over EtherCAT (CoE) function allows servo motors to act as slaves in an EtherCAT network. CoE uses the same objects as the CANopen field bus interface. Dunkermotoren uses standardized DSP402 objects for positioning, monitoring, and configuring servo drives. Users can choose from a range of modular drive components. Dunkermotoren offers a broad spectrum of planetary and worm gearboxes, brakes, and encoders in a modular system.
More: www.dunkermotoren.com
Genevac
EZ-2 Elite Evaporator
This addition to the EZ-2 evaporator range is designed to remove high boiling point solvents and deliver enhanced solvent recovery to improve final drying of stubborn samples and enabling fast lyophilization of HPLC fractions. The high-performance scroll pump used with the EZ-2 Elite delivers deeper vacuum than the diaphragm pumps used on other EZ-2 systems. This advance plus internal enhancements to heat vapor duct and system components enable the EZ-2 Elite to routinely evaporate challenging high boiling solvents, including DMSO and NMP. In addition, these enhancements ensure that such challenging solvents only condense in the SpeedTrap. The SpeedTrap on the EZ-2 Elite works just like the other EZ-2 models but with automatic defrost and drain technology. The EZ-2 controls the SpeedTrap and the new Elite solvent collection vessel to allow midmethod defrosting and draining. This controlled draining facility enables very high levels of solvent recovery to be achieved.
The EZ-2 Elite requires no user training and is designed to concentrate or completely dry samples. The system will accommodate a wide selection of sample holders enabling evaporation from most common sample container formats, including round-bottom flasks up to 500 mL, tubes up to 160-mm long, custom reaction blocks, and shallow or deep-well microplates. The EZ-2 Elite is also able to take tubes, flasks, and vials directly from the synthesis process.
More: www.genevac.co.uk
TandD US
TR-5i Compact Data Logging System
New for this series is the IrDA communications' capability with the expanded handheld data shuttle. The expanded handheld data shuttle, TR-57DCi, has been updated with IrDA capability and the compatibility to act as a graphing data shuttle with all TandD TR-7U data loggers. The Infrared Communications Function makes it possible to download recorded data from the loggers without ever having to physically gather them. This new series with its new features replicates the TandD TR-5S Series functions at the same selling price. The loggers in the series are capable of measuring a wide range of temperatures from −60 to + 155 °C. Additional features include Waterproof Data Loggers, Visible Alarm Indicator, one- or two-point adjustment functions, and a battery life of up to 4 years.
More: www.tandd.com/about_tandd/newsrelease/20101019002.html
Thermo Fisher Scientific
Heratherm Microbiological Incubators
Available in three different models: General Protocol, Advanced Protocol, and Advanced Protocol Security; each of these new incubators is available in 60-, 100-, and 180-L sizes and combines sample protection, ease of use, efficiency, and an inner glass door for temperature uniformity. The user-friendly units feature a small footprint, making them stackable without the use of tools, an easy-to-clean rounded interior, and an intuitive display. In addition, a compact 18-L model incorporates Peltier technology to provide temperature conditions around or below ambient for space-restricted laboratories.
With a stainless steel interior, the Heratherm General Protocol incubators use gravity convection to provide temperature uniformity, ranging from 5 °C above ambient to 75 °C. A unique airflow design, an advanced microprocessor control, and an automatic over temperature alarm ensure that an optimal temperature environment is maintained. Operating from 5 °C above ambient to 105 °C, the Heratherm Advanced Protocol incubators are equipped with dual convection that allows flexible fan speed setting from 0% to 100%. The digital timer provides weekly, hourly, or real-time on/off cycles. An internal socket allows the use of equipment, such as shakers and stirrers within the unit.
Heratherm Advanced Protocol Security incubators incorporate an over and under temperature alarm, a lockable and an alarmed door, and an independently certified 140-°C decontamination cycle.
Heratherm Ovens
Available in three different models: General Protocol, Advanced Protocol, and Advanced Protocol Security; each of these new benchtop heating and drying ovens is available in 60-, 100-, and 180-L sizes with a choice of gravity or mechanical convection. These ovens feature insulation and a heat-decoupled door to reduce energy consumption and minimize heat transfer to the environment. All models include an easy-to-use interface, automatic over temperature alarm, and data monitoring.
Heratherm General Protocol ovens are considered ideal for everyday heating and drying applications, operating up to 250 °C. A timer function enables unit operation at defined times to optimize workflow. Where greater flexibility or temperature accuracy is required, the Heratherm Advanced Protocol ovens operate as high as 330 °C. An extended timer function offers the choice of weekly, real-time, or hour-driven settings for advanced flexibility. The program function can store up to 10 predefined cycles. Fan speed and damper position can be controlled electronically to facilitate optimal heating, while the unique boost function allows rapid heating and reduces long-term energy consumption.
The Advanced Protocol Security ovens incorporate an additional under temperature alarm, as well as a lockable door with an alarm, and are considered ideal for working with precious samples and long-term processes. The auto-dry function shuts the oven down on completion to maximizing energy efficiency. An optional stainless steel exterior is available.
LABWARE AND LAB SUPPLIES
Micronic
Roborack 96-Position Sample Tube Storage Rack
The new white Roborack-96 is laser etched to produce a label that can never wear or falloff. Each white Roborack-96 is laser etched with a guaranteed unique 1D barcode ensuring absolute sample traceability. The white rack and laser-etched bar code provides a stark contrast, thereby providing excellent bar coding readability and minimizing the risk of incorrect sample identification.
More: www.micronic.com
Torrey Pines Scientific
EchoTherm HS65 Programmable Digital Stirring Hot Plate
According to Torrey Pines, this new unit is considered ideal for use in chemical, pharmaceutical, environmental, biochemical, and other laboratories, where reproducible, accurate, and hands-off sample preparation and experimentation are required. With the EchoTherm Model HS65, programming is done through the front panel membrane switch and full-functioned custom display. The unit electronically can store 10 programs of up to 10 steps each, where each step is a temperature, temperature ramp rate, stirring speed, and time. Each program can be made to repeat itself automatically from 1 to 98 times or infinitely. Each stirring position can be set to the same speed or to individual speeds.
Heater plates are 12″ (30.5 cm) × 12″ (30.5 cm) white solid ceramic glass. The plate surface can be heated from ambient to 400 °C. Plate surface temperature or solution temperature can be controlled directly using the appropriate proportional-integral-derivative control loop to 1 °C of the target. Accuracy is 1% of the reading using platinum resistance temperature detector circuitry.
MICROPLATES
Porvair Sciences
Development Microlute SPE Microplate
This new version of Porvair's Microlute SPE microplate is designed to provide a wide assortment of phase chemistries and sorbent loadings in a single plate. The mix of phase chemistries and sorbent loadings available in the Development Microlute allows simple and rapid screening for the optimal retention and selectivity required to achieve sample preparation objectives. The Development Microlute offers a choice of up to 12 different phases and sorbent loadings (10–100 mg) in a standard format 96-well plate.
More: www.porvair-sciences.com
INFORMATICS AND COMPUTING
Bartec
POLARIS Touch Panel PCs with LED Technology
POLARIS Touch Panel PCs with LED technology are available in the sizes 5.7″, 10.4″, and 12.1″, and they are designed for comfortable handling of simple machines, such as mixers, dryers, or filling stations and for the control and supervision of complex machines, such as reactors, centrifuges, or ball mills. All POLARIS devices can be used in zone 1 + 2 and zone 21 + 22.
New LED display technology guarantees optimal contrast, and the LX800 processor enables the display of HTML pages or serves as a remote client to allow high-performance visualization and handling of processes on site. For a higher processing power, a high-performance Intel Atom with 1.6 GHz together with Windows 7 Embedded is available as an option.
Visualization software for the POLARIS series BMS Graf pro Runtime 7 enables users to work under Windows XP Embedded to transmit projects via an Ethernet, use graphic lists, or handle integrated user management. An intrinsically safe USB interface for USB Ex i-memory sticks is also included, and an intrinsically safe mouse, trackball, and touchpad can be connected. POLARIS devices are available in standard versions or in customized versions. They can also be delivered in a stainless steel casing.
More: www.bartec.us
Two Fold Software
Qualoupe LIMS Web Reporting Module
A web reporting module that can be seamlessly integrated into the Qualoupe LIMS solution and run on a concurrent license basis is now available from Two Fold Software. The new secure web reporting module allows users to login and access their LIMS data reports, which are designed by using Crystal Reports.
More: www.twofold-software.com
Weiss North America
Weiss Application Software
Taking its cue from smartphones, Weiss now offers its own application software to provide a solution to the requirements for the human-machine interface—an intelligent and Windows-based user interface for generating and configuring motion control programs for all Weiss user-programmable products. According to Weiss, its user-programmable components reduce the engineering effort necessary for initial configuration or reconfiguration to only 1–2 days.
Weiss Application Software (WAS) is considered especially beneficial for users who previously outsourced the development of control programs. WAS makes it easy for users to set up Weiss' automation components themselves, either by entering paths, angles, and ramps directly or by using the teach-in mode.
More: www.weissna.com
SERVICES
Ambry Genetics
Illumina HiSeq 2000 Next Generation Sequencing Services
Ambry Genetics now offers Illumina HiSeq 2000 Next Generation Sequencing Services, expanding its whole genome and exome sequencing services.
More: www.ambrygen.com
Beckman Coulter Genomics and Vitrology
Biosafety Testing Services
A strategic partnership between Beckman Coulter Genomics and Vitrology provides with two inclusive sources for the full complement of molecular, in vitro, and in vivo genomic services necessary for the identification, stabilization, and purification of biological products. The alliance also provides access to next-generation sequencing technologies.
More: www.beckmangenomics.com
Hamilton Robotics
Field Verification II
This expanded service verifies the performance of MICROLAB STAR-automated pipetting workstations and peripherals in accordance with GLP/GMP standards. Performed at user sites by certified Hamilton technicians, it verifies pipetting accuracy and precision of Hamilton-independent pipetting channels and multiprobe heads as well as X-Y-Z axes positioning. A dual gravimetric and photometric measurement methodology is used to quantify pipetting performance and produce a verification report in just a few hours. The service also includes performance verification of integrated Hamilton and third-party devices, such as heater/shakers, coolers, and barcode scanners.
More: www.hamiltonrobotics.com
MORE NEWS
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