What’s New in LAB & Life Sciences Jun/Jul 2014

Cleanrooms, pipettes and baking lenses JUNE/JULY 2014 VOL.25 NO.2 PP100008671

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Cover Image: Š pengyou92/Dollar Photo Club

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Bake your own microscope lens

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Australian scientists have invented a simple way of making a high-powered lens that costs less than a cent and can transform a smartphone into a high-resolution microscope. The transformation is made by attaching the tiny polymer lens onto the camera lens of a phone.

T

he lens fabrication technique was invented by Dr Steve Lee from the Australian National University (ANU) Research School of Engineering, who collaborated with Dr Tri Phan from the Garvan Institute of Medical Research to find ways to transform the lens into a medical imaging tool.

Their work has been published in the Optical Society journal Biomedical Optics Express.

Many conventional lenses are made by grinding and polishing a flat disk of glass into a particular curved shape. Others are made by pouring gel-like materials moulds. With the new method, all that’s needed is an oven, a microscope glass slide and a common, gel-like silicone polymer called polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), which is used for contact lenses.

First, drop a small amount of PDMS onto the slide. Then bake it at 70°C to harden it, creating a base. Then, drop another dollop of PDMS onto the base and flip the slide over. Gravity pulls the new droplet down into a parabolic shape. Bake the droplet again to solidify the lens.

“It’s very easy to do - in fact, I think that anyone at home could do it,” said Dr Lee. “It costs around less than a cent to make a single lens.”

Dr Lee admitted that the first droplet lenses were made by accident and he nearly threw them away.

“I happened to mention them to my colleague Tri Phan, and he got very excited,” Dr Lee said.

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

“So then I decided to try to find the optimum shape, to see how far I could go. When I saw the first images of yeast cells I was like, ‘Wow!’” Dr Lee found that by successively adding small amounts of fluid, creating a lens just a few millimetres thick, they could reach a magnifying power of up to 160 times with an imaging resolution of four micrometres - two times lower in optical resolution than many commercial microscopes, but more than three orders of magnitude lower in cost.

Dr Lee and his team worked with Dr Phan to design a lightweight 3D-printable frame to hold the lens, along with a couple of miniature LED lights for illumination and a coin battery. The attachment turns a smartphone camera into a dermascope - a tool to diagnose skin diseases like melanoma - which can cost $500 or more.

The phone version costs just $2.

The tiny microscope has a wide range of potential uses. Dr Lee envisions that the lenses could be used by biologists to study cells in vivo; by farmers to identify pests out in their fields; or in classrooms for educational purposes. Their simplicity and low cost make them especially suitable for the third world, he added.

So far, the researchers can’t make lenses much bigger than half an inch in diameter.

The team is now refining the process to make lenses as large as two inches and increasing the lens’s optical performance.

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Controlling controlled and sterile environments All licensed drug manufacturers must comply with current Good Manufacturing Practice regulation.

Cell and tissue, radiopharmacy and cytotoxic manufacturers also fall under the same scrutiny as do some research facilities. Compliance must be demonstrated at every stage before a drug or human medicinal product can be released to market. Automated environmental monitoring and biological monitoring systems provide effective and reliable methods for monitoring of viable and non-viable particles in Grade A/B cleanrooms along with other critical environmental conditions such as pressure, relative humidity and temperature.

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

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H

owever, keeping a cleanroom clean is not easy. It will be at its zenith of ‘cleanliness’ before any equipment or operators are introduced into it - but let’s face it, even though the environment may be sterile, without equipment and workers it will be useless.

As people and equipment enter the cleanroom they bring particulate matter with them. Gowning up and the use of smooth surfaces on process equipment will help reduce the build-up of particles but equipment with moving parts and the operators still generate considerable quantities of particles.

Sources of contamination may include dead skin and hair, cosmetics and clothing, and bacteria. Independent tests have shown that the average human generates around 500,000 particles/minute.

That figure reduces by use of suitable attire, gowns, masks, gloves, and hair and beard coverings, but particles are still generated and an addition of a new contaminated product or ingression from an operating environment can further increase the particulate contamination.

There are two types of particle representations present in our environment - viable and non-viable particles. Viable particles are the ones that are feared most in pharmaceutical, medical device and biotech cleanrooms as they contain living organisms.

Along with other critical environmental conditions such as pressure, relative humidity and temperature control, automated environmental monitoring (EMS) and biological monitoring systems (BMS) can provide an effective and reliable method for the monitoring of viable and non-viable particles in Grade A/B cleanrooms.

An environmental monitoring system (EMS) contains particle sensors mounted in critical areas such as along a filling machine or inside a biological safety cabinet that detect non-viable particles. Other environmental sensors can be included in the EMS monitoring such as room pressure, humidity and

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temperature. The data is sent back to a software system that is controlled and monitored by the operator. Any out-of-specification alarms will trigger an email/SMS notification or activate local alarms and flashing indicators within the cleanrooms.

Inside a cleanroom, the particulate contamination in the environment can be controlled using HEPA filters - highefficiency particle air filters. Depending on the classification of the cleanroom, the number of air changes per hour can be configured. That environment is tested and classified based on the validation work carried out.

Particle counters and air samplers are used to monitor cleanrooms and sterile controlled environments. Particle counters detect the size and concentration of particles present. Air samplers detect what types of particles are present by capturing them on a media plate.

Grade A sterile environments monitor continuously during production using environmental monitoring systems combined with automated or real-time biological monitoring systems.

The control room can be located off the cleanroom, which keeps the monitoring operator out of the sterile area. The BMS also has sampling heads located along the filling machine or inside LAF or biological safety cabinets. Before the process begins, the sampling heads are loaded with 90 mm Petri dishes containing a media - the most common media being TSA. One system on the market cleverly uses barcoding so the BMS software knows the 4 Ws - Who, What, When and Where. The 4 Ws ask: WHO loads the Petri dish; WHAT dish is loaded; WHEN is the dish loaded; and WHERE is the dish loaded. After processing, the 4 Ws are stored in the software: WHO unloads the sample; WHAT sample is unloaded; WHEN was the sample unloaded; and WHERE is the sample unloaded. The sample is then incubated and the colony forming units (CFUs) counted, and the data is downloaded into the software so a complete

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

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THERE ARE SOME SOFTWARE PACKAGES ON THE MARKET THAT COMBINE THE EMS AND THE BIOLOGICAL MONITORING ONTO ONE COMPLETE PACKAGE ALLOWING FOR REAL-TIME MONITORING OF VIABLE AND NON-VIABLE PARTICLES.

history of the sample is available. All the data can be stored securely. Note that the BMS and EMS software must be 21CFR11 compliant after validation.

There are some software packages on the market that combine the EMS and the biological monitoring onto one complete package allowing for real-time monitoring of viable and non-viable particles.

The advantages of using an automated system for particle monitoring outweighs any manual labour systems, which are prone to error and slower. This type of system keeps monitoring operators outside Grade A/B environments and, as previously mentioned, is located off the main cleanroom, thus reducing particle contamination levels and significantly reducing labour costs. Process data can be easily retrieved and reviewed by the quality manager. These systems have become cost effective compared to purchasing portable units.

The portable particle counter is usually used for spot checks or monitoring background counts in lower-grade cleanrooms.

Portable air samplers can be used in the same manner.

The following are some of the advantages when monitoring with EMS and biological monitoring systems.

• Collection of data: The amount of data collected by FMS and BMS is vast compared to portable units. Trending of this data is achieved easily using the software applications. Events can be seen in advance, allowing for corrective action before they effect production.

• Storage of data: The FMS/BMS store all sample data on a dedicated secure server. The software can be validated to comply to Code of Federal Regulations section 21 part 11 (21CFR11).

Data is easily and securely reviewed.

• Labour: Using a FMS/BMS saves labour costs as the systems are automated and can generally be run and supervised by one operator, significantly reducing labour costs.

• Reliability: EMS/BMS by nature of

their design are more reliable and, in the case of breakdown, plug-and-play can be utilised with spare calibrated units available allowing production to continue as scheduled.

• Alertness: Alarm limits can be programmed into the software. This gives the operator time to react and, with the right action, can prevent contamination before it has an impact on production.

• Cost: FMS/BMS has become a more cost-effective and efficient way to continuously monitor. Labour costs are also significantly reduced.

All licensed drug manufacturers must comply with current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMPS) regulation. Cell and tissue, radio-pharmacy and cytotoxic manufacturers also fall under the same scrutiny, even some research facilities.

Compliance must be demonstrated at every stage before a drug or human medicinal product can be released to market.

LAF Technologies Pty Ltd www.biocabinets.com.au

Polymer pressure regulator Rotork Fairchild has introduced a polymer pressure regulator with features for high-precision pressure control duties. The Model 55 pressure regulator features a non-rising stem within a small footprint design, delivering high-precision control in a lightweight and compact package.

Manufactured entirely from polymer and stainless steel, the product offers compatibility with medical and scientific gases such as nitrogen, helium and oxygen. Applications include precision pressure decay and leak testing, medical ventilators, respiratory diagnostic systems, balloon pumps and sterilisation equipment.

The venturi design compensates for downstream pressure droop under flow and provides highly accurate pressure output control under all conditions. The separate control chamber isolates the control diaphragm from the main flow to eliminate hunting and buzzing.

With a supply capacity up to 150 psi (10 Bar) and flow capacity up to 10 SCFM (283 L/min), the device controls output pressures up to 100 psi (0.7 Bar) to within ±0.2 psi (14 mBar) or better, even with fluctuating or rapidly decreasing supply pressure. This high pressure capability, combined with pinpoint accuracy at low control pressures of 7.5 psi (0.5 Bar) or less, sets the product apart from conventional regulators for demanding applications.

Rotork Australia www.rotork.com

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

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Impress Yourself The new Eppendorf Cell Culture Consumables The all new product line of Eppendorf Cell Culture Consumables will truly delight your cells. Its outstanding design, reliability and purity is based on more than 50 years of experience.

Products created by experts, developed for perfectionists. Impress yourself!

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www.eppendorf.com/ccc EppendorfÂŽ and the Eppendorf logo are registered trademarks of Eppendorf AG, Hamburg, Germany.

All rights reserved, including graphics and images. Copyright Š 2014 by Eppendorf AG.

CASE STUDY

NHS Wales rolls out national LIMS program NHS Wales has completed the first phase of the national rollout of InterSystems TrakCare Lab, a comprehensive, multidisciplinary laboratory information management system (LIMS). The product is designed to support modern laboratories that provide consolidated, comprehensive pathology services.

NHS Wales chose TrakCare Lab, part of the TrakCare unified healthcare information system from InterSystems, as the foundation for its national pathology program to connect 18 laboratories in six health boards across Wales. The program will replace eight different laboratory systems with one TrakCare Lab system, enabling more than 21 million tests per year to be managed by one system. It is an integral part of the One Wales initiative to provide a fully integrated healthcare record across the whole of Wales.

The first phase of the implementation covered all four labs in the Hywel Dda Health Board, each of which ran smoothly with no downtime. Withybush General Hospital was the first to go live on 9 September 2013, followed by Glangwili General Hospital and Prince Philip Hospital on 14 October 2013. The Bronglais General Hospital laboratory, which went live on 3 December 2013, completed the blood sciences and microbiology rollouts.

The LIMS deployment is a collaboration among the Pathology Service, the Pathology Modernisation Agenda for Wales and the NHS Wales Informatics Service (NWIS). The standardisation of pathology test sets will enable consistent diagnostic services across Wales and will reduce the number of unnecessary duplicate or repeat tests, saving time and money. When fully implemented and combined with other national developments in Wales, the LIMS will support key government initiatives to deliver high-quality services to patients within the principality.

The implementation of TrakCare Lab provides a number of benefits: • Better services for patients by providing a single pathology record accessible anywhere the information is needed, reducing the number of diagnostic tests required and improving safety.

• Increased efficiency and effectiveness of care for healthcare professionals by enabling access to a common, up-to-date diagnostic record for more effective treatment decisions.

• Improved pathology services through a reduction in duplicate and repeat testing, as well as the increased ability to share workload across the service.

• Ease of user adoption as a result of an implementation methodology that ensured the more robust system could be deployed with minimal impact on normal laboratory activities.

Dr Mike Simmons, Public Health Wales microbiology consultant for Hywel Dda and one of the first to use the new system, commented, “We are already seeing many benefits in Hywel Dda, including improved clinical outputs from the microbiology labs, which are having a very positive benefit in respect to patient care.”

Paul Grabscheid, vice president of strategic planning at InterSystems, said the company is “very familiar with the requirements and intricacies of a national laboratory program of this kind”.

“In South Africa, for example, TrakCare Lab underpins the national laboratory service for the management of pandemics and chronic illnesses. This supports approximately 38 million uninsured people through more than 250 laboratories nationwide - an experience we can draw upon for Wales. With the successful Hywel Dda deployment, our focus is to ensure that the remaining health boards go live with equal success.”

The Welsh LIMS national laboratory pathology modernisation program is planned for completion during 2014. The LIMS will also service national specialist services including Cervical Cytology, Welsh Blood Service, Public Health Wales for Microbiology and Infection Control Services.

Intersystems Corporation (Australia) www.intersystems.com.au

Total milk detection kit The Romer AgraStrip for Total Milk is now available. Previously, to test for the presence of milk allergens, one had to decide whether to look for casein or Beta-lactoglobulin as an indicator for allergenic residues. With the AgraStrip Total Milk, the user can test for both at the same time.

The product is based on lateral flow technology, which means that results are available in around 11 min without the need for any special equipment, and does not require a laboratory. Results are read visually, and the limit of detection is 1 ppm of milk protein.

The test is suitable for testing food contact surfaces, raw materials and finished products.

Australasian Medical & Scientific Ltd www.amsl.com.au

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

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Make the unpredictable totally predictable.

© 2012 Swagelok Company

Swagelok® Pressure Regulators are now an even better choice for all your pressure regulator needs. Why? Well, alongside our proven experience and expertise, our range now covers sizes from 1/8 to 4 in. and all your regulator needs – high-flow capability, two-stage, back-pressure and vaporizing models. With our regulators you get accuracy, sensitivity and pressure stability. In short– total predictability. Exactly what you would expect.

Visit swagelok.com/pressure.

Ultralow-temperature freezers LabGear Australia has released the Snijder Labs range of ultralow-temperature freezers. The EvoSafe series freezers ensure high protection for both the samples and the environment.

The freezers are fitted with PU insulation between the interior and exterior panels. The system ensures all the cooling is transferred to the interior of the freezer and is said to provide higher insulation values than traditional foamed in place insulation and vacuum insulation panel technologies. The freezer loses less temperature and it takes 12 h to reach -10 from -86°C, compared to 9 h for traditional brands.

The product is said to use 30% less power than traditional freezers, resulting in less greenhouse gas

Microplate washer

emissions. A water-cooled condenser option is also

MultiWash+ is an automated microplate washer that provides maximum

available, providing even lower power consumption

flexibility with a minimal footprint. The MultiWash+ Microplate Washer

and lower air-conditioning costs for the laboratory.

can be configured for both 96- and 384-well plates and comes with four

The range is available in both upright and chest

wash/rinse bottles and one waste bottle for out-of-the-box use.

versions, with sizes from 120 to 720 L and comes

The onboard touch panel comes with the option of 20 different wash

with data logging, alarm functionality and internet

protocols, including up to eight cycles within each protocol for walk-up

connectivity.

usability and flexibility. Washing variations include adjustable speed and

LabGear Australia

volume; adjustable aspiration speed and time; and adjustable soak times.

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Three modes of shaking are available to mix solutions.

Efficient washing is achieved with cross-wise aspiration-reducing residual volume within each well. The washer has a small footprint and is vacuum- and pressure-free, with onboard pumps that provide a quiet wash experience.

Bio-Strategy Pty Ltd www.bio-strategy.com

Digital microscope for quality control Smartzoom 5 is a digital microscope from Zeiss, suitable for quality control and quality assurance applications in virtually every field of industry. The integrated complete system comprises an optical engine (which consists of a zoom, camera and illumination), a stand with sample stage, objective lenses, the operating unit and software.

Quick and easy to set up, fully automated, and equipped with dedicated quality assurance and quality control components, the product is simple to operate, even for the untrained user. It features a macro recording mode to enhance the workflow for repeat sample analyses of the same type in a step-by-step manner.

The device is suitable for conducting failure analysis and routine inspections. Once the quality inspector has placed the sample under the microscope, they no longer have to switch back and forth between the device and the software; instead, they can carry out all the necessary steps right on the screen. They can also save this workflow so it is available for use at a later time, making analysis reproducible and independent of the user.

The Best Image feature allows users without any prior knowledge to achieve optimal results; the system shows a preview of different illumination options, and the user only needs to select the best one. The device is calibrated at the factory and can be used immediately without requiring any further adjustment.

Carl Zeiss Pty Ltd www.zeiss.com.au

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

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YOUTILITY – TOUCH THE FUTURE THE DURAN LABORATORY BOTTLE SYSTEM ®

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How application and workflow affect pipette selection Noah Saederup, PhD, Product Manager

By choosing the right pipetting system and eliminating risk and variability from pipetting procedures, users can achieve enhanced accuracy, reduced costs and better overall productivity.

E

valuating application workflow is critical to selecting a pipette that will achieve accuracy. This paper explores helpful pipetting recommendations that can help users make educated choices in liquid handling instruments for greater ease of use, accuracy and instrument life, while reducing error risk and costs associated with failed experiments, rework and even repetitive stress injuries (RSIs).

Correctly assessing and reducing risks throughout a liquid handling workflow is critical to pipette selection and ongoing pipetting accuracy. Pipette selection can benefit from a full planning process which analyses all workflow aspects to determine liquid handling requirements for maximum efficiency and accurate data generation. These workflow aspects determine the pipette type required to achieve accurate results and enhance productivity.

Perhaps the most critical aspect to consider for any pipetting system is maximum tolerated data variability. This ensures a chosen apparatus can deliver required accuracy. Knowledge of sample type, liquid-handling volume/throughput and sample/assay specificity is also required to select handling formats that will provide the greatest accuracy and productivity for the process.

Nature of the sample Most pipetting is straightforward. Aqueous samples at standard lab temperature and pressure can be pipetted accurately using simple air displacement. However, difficult samples such as viscous, dense, volatile, hot or cold liquids may be pipetted more accurately using

14

positive displacement, which uses a piston and seal instead of an elastic air cushion to move liquid.

Helpful positive-displacement pipette attributes include less user training required for accuracy. Disadvantages include higher costs for disposable capillaries and pistons, and greater ergonomic forces required to plunge when pipetting manually. Fewer multichannel options are available as well, which can slow processes at higher throughput volumes.

Variability Because some processes are more sensitive than others and some variability is expected, users must identify how much variability is tolerable to still produce solid data based on an individual process.

Experiments dependent on a standard curve or generated through serial standards dilution can be severely affected by any amount of sub-optimal pipetting no matter how small, making features and expected accuracy of pipettes under consideration particularly critical to these efforts.

Pipetting volume Workflows that require a large amount of liquid handling early, such as preparing buffers or plating cells, must often be balanced against smaller volume handling requirements later in the process. Needs for speed and precision must be carefully considered to manage both ends of this processing spectrum. Consistently working at the outer limits on either the high or low end of a pipette’s volume-

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

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© iStockphoto.com/luchshen

to plunge. It also reduces repetitive motion through the operator’s ability to program activities such as multidispensing, automatic mixing and serial dilution.

Cost may be a concern with electronic pipettes, however. Manual pipettes tend to be more economical, though they produce greater variability. However, particularly for highly sensitive or expensive pipetting applications, the cost of investing in an electronic pipette may be offset by a reduction in error and rework in a short span of time.

Choosing the right tip

handling capability can compromise accuracy. If the number of samples being processed is high enough, significant efficiencies and even cost savings over time may be gained by moving assays to a plate format and shifting to multichannel pipettes.

Multichannel pipettes are an important option for fast, highthroughput applications such as 96-well plate ELISA work, or PCR and qPCR. Good multichannels such as 8- and 12-channel models should provide fast, secure, simultaneous tip-loading. They should not require excessive force to mount tips evenly, and tips should eject easily. A full pipetting platform, such as a manual 96-well pipettor, may also be helpful.

Adjustable spacer multichannel pipettes can also be useful for transferring multiple samples between different-sized tubes and plates with ease. This can cut format change time by up to 85% because as many as eight samples can be moved at the same time.

Manual or electronic?

Complex or repeated pipetting may benefit from electronic pipettes, since electronic pipettes can be programmed for specific protocols.

They have also been shown to produce more consistent data than manual pipettes because microprocessors eliminate human error and variability - particularly noticeable in applications where pipetting errors can be compounded such as serial dilution.

Furthermore, electronic pipettes tend to be more ergonomic than manual pipettes. Ergonomic enhancement is usually achieved because the electronic mechanism reduces operator force required

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The design, quality and fit of the pipette should be considered when choosing the right tip.

Design refers to properties that affect performance in different applications. For example, a wide orifice tip will behave differently from a low retention one. Standard tip design for regular, allpurpose pipetting includes thin clear walls to see the liquid being dispensed, a fine point for accurate dispensing and a good seal.

Many specialty application tips also exist.

Quality refers to how a tip is manufactured, including whether it is free of defects that can cause costly sample loss and contaminants that disrupt experiments. This is a critical concern because some polypropylene labware consumables have been found to leach plasticisers which interfere with certain enzymatic reactions or cause false 260/280 nm spectrometer readings.

Fit refers to how well the tip matches the pipette. In almost every case, it is best to use a manufacturer’s recommended tip to gain the best fit, considering the tip-pipette a ‘comprehensive system’ rather than trying to use another brand of standard or universal tips.

Application-specific requirements should also be considered.

For example, genomics application best practices include use of filter tips to minimise the effect of human or microbial DNA, RNase, DNase, Pyrogen or ATP on the sample or pipette. Filters can also block aerosols from the shaft, reducing contamination of later samples as well. They help protect the piston from microbial contamination, corrosives and salt deposits as well.

Conclusion Pipetting is a critical action in many labs, and data accuracy/ reproducibility generated by a liquid-handling workflow can be significantly improved by understanding application aspects such as the nature of the sample, volume, throughput and workflowrelated risks. Tolerated variability is also a critical consideration.

Selection of the right liquid handling instruments and options flows naturally from this analysis.

Taking time to analyse pipetting workflows can benefit users by providing greater processing ease and enhancing productivity.

Mettler Toledo www.mt.com/rainin

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

15

Centrifuges The Avanti JXN-26 centrifuges from Beckman Coulter

Stable cell line development services

Life Sciences offer laboratories a large intuitive touch-

GeneCopoeia offers services for establishing

screen user interface and data management features to

stable cell lines for protein overexpression,

free user time in research and bioproduction. Scientists

gene knockdown or genome editing which

can track and manage centrifuge runs remotely by

meet the user’s specific research needs.

logging in to the MobileFuge app from an Apple iOS

Stable cell lines produced by the company

or Android device. Researchers and facility managers

can overexpress virtually any protein of inter-

can leverage data management, user tracking, net-

est in the user’s cell line of choice. Users

working and remote capabilities for ease of use and

can choose to have their own expression

efficiency in multiuser biological sample preparation

cassette integrated into the genome or from

environments, and to meet quality control standards.

among more than 53,000 human and 32,000

The product provides high performance and application

mouse ORFs from the ORF clone collection.

versatility with wide rotor compatibility and capacity up to 6 L,

Applications include monoclonal antibody

speeds to 26,000 rpm and relative centrifugal forces up to 81,700 x g. The

production; protein production for biochemical

rotor library comprises 26 options including fixed-angle and swinging-bucket models

assays; protein production for crystal or NMR

with lightweight designs that accommodate a variety of tubes, microplates and bottles.

structural determination; fusion tagging for

BioCertified rotors, in conjunction with appropriate centrifuges and labware, are available for

live cell imaging; fusion tagging for pulldown/

biosafety options. The centrifuges also provide energy savings and environmental advantages.

immunoprecipitation; drug target analysis.

A friction reduction system (FRS) lets the device run more efficiently and quietly by lowering the heat present in the chamber, reducing refrigeration system usage and running costs. A low work surface makes rotor handling easier and a foot pedal on the centrifuge is used for hands-free lid opening. An automatic detection system prevents the centrifuge from being run at higher than rated speeds for the installed rotor type.

Beckman Coulter Australia www.beckmancoulter.com GeneCopoeia will design shRNAs and integrate them into virtually any cell line.

Sample preparation kits

Applications include determination of gene function in cells; expression profiling to identify

Precellys Lysing Kits are robust tubes prefilled with high-quality beads, suitable

candidate downstream genes in a network or

for processing biological samples prior to extraction of DNA, RNA, protein,

pathway; drug target validation.

drug or live cells. By choosing the right Lysing kit for each sample, based

The company also offers stable cell lines

on scientific publications and protocols, it is claimed that users will save time

carrying specific, targeted modifications cre-

and improve on current lab practices.

ated with either TALEN or CRISPR-Cas9. They

Whatever the sample, be it animal tissue, human

will design the genome editing tool target

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site, donor constructs used for homologous

find a suitable Precellys Lysing kit from the 15+

recombination-mediated applications, transfect

available kits. Combined with the powerful bead-

the cell line of choice with the genome edit-

beating technology offered by the Precellys range of

ing tools and isolate single or double allele-

homogenisers, the user can dry grind, homogenise

modified clones. The service can also be

or lyse tissue as hard as bone or as soft as liver.

used with the human and mouse safe-harbour

Choosing the right Lysing kit and protocol

integration system or human safe-harbour

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knock-in ORF clones.

easy with 70+ application notes, 1000+ pro-

Applications include gene knockout; intro-

tocols and 2000+ publications available. It is

duction of point mutations or defined insertions/

said that by choosing the right tube size (0.5,

deletions; correction of disease mutations

2 or 7 mL), bead type/diameter (ceramic, glass or stainless steel, from 0.1 to

back to wild type; transgene knock-in at a

6.8 mm), users will improve on their current sample preparation method.

customer-specified locus or at human and

Users will obtain good DNA, RNA, protein, drug or live cells recovery, save

mouse safe-harbour sites; gene tagging;

time and get consistent cross contamination-free preps. The kits are certified

promoter or gene replacement.

DNase/RNase-free.

United Bioresearch Products

Sapphire Bioscience

www.unitedbioresearch.com.au

www.sapphirebioscience.com

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

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CASE STUDY

Heating block systems support synthesis research Monash University’s School of Chemistry has invested in a range of Asynt DrySyn Multi heating block systems to support its groundbreaking research in photovoltaics, water splitting and nanoimaging.

Photovoltaic research being undertaken by Professor Leone Spiccia and his group is mainly focused on finding new electrolytes and redox couples for dye-sensitised solar cells and optimising other parameters for the cell assembly. The water-splitting team is working on artificial photosynthesis, a concept to convert solar energy into a storable form of energy by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen. The nanoimaging team is pursuing multidisciplinary projects to design, prepare and characterise functionalised nanomaterials intended for application including multimodal imaging, as well as therapeutic and diagnostic agents for early detection and treatment of cancer.

Professor Spiccia explained, “As part of this research we synthesise nanoparticles based on lanthanides, for which we must reach high temperatures (>300°C). “For this work, we need to have precise fine control of both the final temperature and the heating speed together with a good heat transfer to obtain good-quality particles with a narrow size distribution,” Professor Spiccia continued.

Professor Leone Spiccia.

Oil bath systems are traditionally used for all general syntheses, but according to Professor Spiccia, “We could not use an oil bath because of the high temperatures and heating mantles cannot provide the control we needed for the synthesis.

“After a lengthy evaluation process, we decided to switch to DrySyn heating block systems as they are inherently safer to use than heated oil baths, avoiding the risk of oil spillage that can lead to burns when hot or may cause someone to slip over.” The Asynt DrySyn Multi provides a safe and convenient way to perform precisely controlled heated reactions in parallel. It converts any standard hotplate stirrer into a reaction block accommodating three flasks or up to 12 reactions in tubes or vials. Made of chemically resistant, anodised aluminium, the heating blocks offer good heating DrySyn Multi on a stirring performance to over 300°C and can heat a reaction flask 25% faster than an oil bath. “DrySyn hotplate. has been really important to us to achieve good research results,” Professor Spiccia concluded.

Asynt http://www.asynt.com/

MALS detector and RI detector Wyatt Technology has announced an application note which outlines the combined use of the Wyatt µDAWN multiangle light scattering (MALS) detector and the Optilab UT-rEX refractive index (RI) detector to measure the absolute molecular weight (or molar mass) and size of eluting species in ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC). The instruments, engineered for use with ultrahigh-performance

LIMS

size exclusion chromatography (UHP-SEC), are said to

To enable laboratories to be more flex-

overcome the limitations associated with conventional UHP-SEC

ible, efficient and compliant, software

for the characterisation of size and composition of aggregates or fragments in a biomolecular sample.

should empower users and improve

Conventional SEC relies on reference standards to calibrate column elution time as a function of

productivity across a connected

molar mass. However, these standards often do not accurately represent the conformation of the

enterprise. SampleManager 11 puts

sample, or the sample may exhibit column interactions that change its elution properties relative to the

decision-making power in the hands of

standard. The application note discusses how UHP-SEC-MALS provides improved resolution, higher

users who can make logical choices

throughput, less solvent and smaller sample consumption for analysis of precious biological samples

about workflow, instrument integration

in comparison to standard SEC-MALS. Light scattering detectors designed for standard HPLC have

and data reporting for management

generally been incompatible with UHPLC, but the combination of the µDAWN and UT-rEX results in fast

metrics or regulatory requirements.

and efficient characterisation of biomolecular samples. The detectors are said to maintain the narrow

Today’s labs have the potential

peak widths typical of UHPLC while providing even more information than standard SEC-MALS due

to be paperless, powerful enterprise

to the upstream resolution obtained with 300 mm UHPLC columns. The time difference between the

drivers for business transformation.

two techniques demonstrates how UHP-SEC-MALS results in faster analyses.

A workflow-driven LIMS delivers the

With the introduction of the µDAWN, users have access to all the in-depth analyses available with the

agility necessary for businesses to

miniDAWN TREOS for UHPLC. The range of instrumentation, providing triple detection with UV, MALS and

transform as the regulatory or eco-

RI, also enables the application of protein conjugate analysis to identify the amount of post-translational

nomic environment requires.

modification, associated detergent, drug-conjugate or other additions to a polypeptide background.

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Shimadzu Scientific Instruments (Oceania) Pty Ltd

www.thermofisher.com.au

www.shimadzu.com.au

18

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

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Crowning achievement System solutions for analytical grade laboratory glassware reprocessing

Benefit from the largest range of baskets and inserts!

Washers and disinfectors by Miele Professional for machine-based reprocessing: • analytical grade • gentle on materials • ecologically sound Because high quality laboratory equipment deserves a professional clean.

Call: 1300 464 353 www.miele-professional.com.au

Water testers The Pocket Pro and Pocket Pro+ testers measure electrochemical parameters in a broad range of water applications. The family of 12 testers offers convenient portable solutions for pH, ORP, conductivity, TDS, salinity and temperature, delivering accurate results.

The product runs on AAA batteries and includes a convenient sample cup to ensure maintenance and measurements are simple. It also features a large LCD screen, easy calibration steps and built-in diagnostics for pH testers.

The Pocket Pro+ testers include replaceable sensors, a powerful backlight and multiparameter tester options.

Automated cell separation kit

Hach Company

DiaSorin has launched Liaison Ixt/Arrow CellSep Ad-

www.hachpacific.com.au

vanced for the automated isolation of cells directly from whole blood or buffy coat. Based on magnetic bead technology, the product can isolate up to three cell types per sample in just 32 min per cell type, offering time

Transcriptomic analysis kits The REPLI-g WTA Single Cell Kit and REPLI-g Cell WGA & WTA Kit enable transcriptomic NGS analysis from single cells and comparative genomic and transcriptomic analysis from the same small sample.

Both kits expand the REPLI-g single cell kit portfolio, which can make single cells accessible to NGS analysis by amplifying either DNA or RNA from individual cells.

Using Qiagen’s MDA with the SensiPhi polymerase (said to have 1000-fold higher accuracy than Taq polymerase), the amplified nucleic acids show comparable performance to the original molecules, which allows users to perform multiple experiments from a single cell reliably and reproducibly.

savings compared to manual cell separation methods.

The device is designed for use on the Liaison Ixt/Arrow instrument for the separation of one, two or three cell types in up to 12 samples at a time. Requiring minimal hands-on intervention, it produces good yields of purified cell preparations ready for use in a wide range of downstream applications, including lineage-specific chimerism analysis. The automated platform also minimises human error and ensures reproducibility between runs for consistent and reliable downstream analysis.

The instrument can also be used for DNA extraction using the Ixt/Arrow Blood DNA extraction kit, ensuring streamlined processing of samples and saving bench

Qiagen Pty Ltd

space in the laboratory.

www.qiagen.com

DiaSorin www.diasorin.com

Torque tester The Mecmesin Helixa Torque Tester is suitable for measuring low and medium torque variations with high accuracy and control on a variety of delicate or finely engineered products. Its sensitivity and precise alignment make it useful for testing high-quality assemblies such as those found in the cosmetics, medical, pharmaceutical and jewellery industries.

The product is designed for precision design applications where torque values may be very small and where accuracy is paramount. Its counterbalancing mechanism allows the removal of axial force while also enabling the application of precise top-load or tensile force when required. The drive spindle can be user aligned for precise concentricity with the intelligent torque cell.

The device accepts interchangeable intelligent torque cells for measurement from just a few Nmm up to 6 Nm, with a resolution of 1:6500 and an accuracy of ±0.5% of full scale. Controlled by the company’s Emperor software, the Helixa-i is connected to a PC or is also available as a touchscreen model, the Helixa-xt, with all the same features in the convenience of a self-contained unit.

SI Instruments www.si-instruments.com

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

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©freeimages.com/adamci

Building bone marrow-on-a-chip Researchers from Harvard University’s Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering have created a new organ-on-a-chip - a microfluidic device that mimics the physiology of a living organism. The device reproduces the structure, functions and cellular make-up of bone marrow.

“B

one marrow is an incredibly complex organ that is responsible for producing all of the blood cell types of our body, and our bone marrow chips are able to recapitulate this complexity in its entirety and maintain it in a functional form in vitro,” said Dr Don Ingber, founding director of the Wyss Institute and senior author of the study.

Writing in the journal Nature Methods, the researchers stated, “Current in vitro hematopoiesis models fail to demonstrate the cellular diversity and complex functions of living bone marrow; hence, most translational studies relevant to the hematologic system are conducted in live animals.” But as co-author Dr Yu-suke Torisawa noted, human and animal responses are totally different. The team thus set out to engineer artificial bone with living marrow.

The task would be a complex one, as bone marrow has an integral relationship with bone. Marrow sits inside trabecular bone - a solidlooking type of bone with a porous, honeycombed interior. Inside, conditions vary between areas, and the dozen or so cell types each have their own preferred spots. Furthermore, bone marrow cells communicate with each other by secreting and sensing a variety of biomolecules, which act locally to tell them whether to live, die, specialise or multiply.

“In order for bone marrow to produce all of its functions, all these little areas and niches serve a role,” said co-author Catherine S Spina. “Certain cells line certain parts of the bone marrow, so if you don’t have the proper bone architecture, you will not have the proper physiology.”

“Most organs on chips, we simplify down to the most basic elements and we build back,” explained Dr Ingber. “Here, we have an incredibly complex system and we maintain the complexity in vitro.”

Rather than trying to reproduce such a complex structure cell by cell, the researchers enlisted mice to do it. Spina and Dr Torisawa packed dried bone powder into an open, ring-shaped mould the size of a coin battery and implanted the mould under the skin on a mouse’s back. After eight weeks, they surgically removed the disc-shaped bone that had formed in the mould. It revealed a honeycomb-like structure that looked identical to natural trabecular bone. When the researchers stained the tissue and examined it under a microscope,

www.LabOnline.com.au

the marrow was packed with blood cells, just like marrow from a living mouse. And when they sorted the bone marrow cells by type and tallied their numbers, the mix of different types of blood and immune cells in the engineered bone marrow was identical to that in a mouse thighbone.

To sustain the engineered bone marrow outside of a living animal, the researchers placed the engineered bone in a microfluidic device that steadily supplied nutrients and removed waste to mimic the circulation the tissue would experience in the body. The finished product, bone marrow-on-a-chip, gives scientists a much-needed new tool to test the effects of new drugs and toxic agents on whole bone marrow, remaining healthy for up to one week.

The device could be used to develop safe and effective strategies to prevent or treat radiation’s lethal effects on bone marrow without resorting to animal testing. In an initial test, the engineered bone marrow, like human marrow, withered in response to radiation unless a drug known to prevent radiation poisoning was present.

Bone marrow-on-a-chip could also generate blood cells, which could circulate in an artificial circulatory system to supply a network of other organs-on-chips. The Defense Agency Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is currently providing funds for the Wyss Institute to develop such a system - an interconnected network of 10 organs on chips to study complex human physiology outside the body.

“You can imagine a system in which we connect individual organs, including the heart and the lungs, and we use the bone marrow-on-a-chip to produce the blood that circulates through all the organs, thus connecting the system and really recreating human physiology,” said Spina.

Other potential uses include maintaining a cancer patient’s own marrow temporarily while they undergo marrow-damaging treatments such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy; and growing human bone marrow in immune-deficient mice.

Image: Microscopic view of the engineered bone with an opening exposing the internal trabecular bony network, overlaid with coloured images of blood cells and a supportive vascular network that fill the open spaces in the bone marrow-on-a-chip. Credit: James Weaver, Harvard’s Wyss Institute.

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

21

Assayed controls The TGA has cleared two Randox liquid assayed chemistry controls for use in Australian medical laboratories. Randox believes the controls will revolutionise quality control in laboratories, saving time and money while ensuring accurate results and patient diagnosis.

The controls, Acusera Liquid Assayed Chemistry Premium and Premium Plus, are designed to cut the number of individual quality controls (QC) a laboratory needs to run in routine medical testing. Laboratories can run QC up to 100 analytes all within one control.

The assayed controls contain a combination of proteins, lipids, immunoassays, cardiac markers, blood markers, therapeutic drugs and routine chemistry analytes. The Acusera Chemistry Premium Plus control

Tissue sample marking software

contains 100 analytes, while the Acusera Chemistry Premium control offers 91. The

TissueMark software developed by PathXL

high levels of CRP and other key proteins

provides pathologists with the potential to

included eliminate the need for multiple controls, streamlining QC in laboratories. The

measure hundreds of cancer characteristics

assayed controls provide clinically significant values for a wide range of analysers at key

in tissue. The product is said to improve the

decision points. Both controls are liquid for ease of use, eliminating possible reconstitution

way laboratories approach the process of de-

errors and improving lab efficiency. They are highly stable when stored at -20 to -70°C

termining the percentage of tumour contained

with open vial stability of up to seven days at 2 to 8°C, reducing wastage in laboratories.

within any given sample.

The controls are manufactured using human-based serum, ensuring performance that

It is difficult, even to the highly skilled

closely mirrors patient samples and assuring laboratories of unbiased, independent as-

professional, to make precise estimations.

sessment of analytical performance. Available in three concentration levels (low, mid and

TissueMark analyses the detailed structural

high), Premium Plus covers the full clinical range, removing the need for laboratories to

patterns in tissue samples and marks the

purchase additional low- or high-level controls.

boundaries of potentially cancerous sections for more detailed analysis. As it combines the benefits of digital workflow management with

Randox (Australia) Pty Ltd www.randox.com

fast, accurate and consistent estimations, the

Nanoparticle tracking analysis and dynamic light scattering

company’s algorithms allow the software to analyse the same amount it would usually take an experienced pathologist one day to

Exosome research can be constrained by a

do - in only 10 min and with precision.

lack of suitable methods for characterisation

Pathologists can instantly look at the result

as they fall below the detection range of

of the automated analysis and make their own

many currently used techniques. Existing

evaluation of it, having the power to redraw

techniques such as electron microscopy

the tissue’s tumorous boundaries if they wish

offer high-resolution images; however, they

so, make annotations and digitally send results

usually require time-consuming preparation

to colleagues for immediate consultation. The

and analysis, which could potentially dam-

product thus empowers the experts to put

age the sample.

their efforts into their most important work,

Nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) coupled

such as the accurate and timely diagnosis

with dynamic light scattering (DLS) offers an approach

of tumours and other disorders.

that is fast, easy to use and accurate. The Malvern NanoSight with NTA allows specific

The software allows for increased quality

bionanoparticles in liquid suspension to be directly and individually visualised and

and standardisation of tumour cell measure-

counted in real time. Particle-size distribution profiles in the range of 10-2000 nm

ment and macrodissection. As the number of

(sample dependent) and concentration measurements are determined simultaneously.

inaccurate estimates decrease, this mitigates

Operation in fluorescence mode enables characterisation and differentiation of suitably

the risks for patients, who can benefit from an

labelled particles using a range of excitation wavelengths.

in-depth, detailed knowledge of their condi-

The Malvern Zetasizer series uses DLS to extend the measurement range to below

tion by their healthcare providers as well as

1 nm. The product also enables the measurement of zeta potential, a measure of

targeted therapy to combat it.

the magnitude of repulsion or attraction between particles which affects stability and

The product currently covers three of the

interactions. By combining size distribution, zeta potential DLS measurements and

most common forms of cancer - lung, colo-

the capabilities of NTA, scientists are able to get a more complete picture of nano

rectal and breast. Further modules will be

processes taking place, including aggregation.

released soon.

ATA Scientific Pty Ltd

OnQ Software Pty Ltd

www.atascientific.com.au

www.onqsoft.com.au

22

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

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270x88mm HACH PACIFIC_LabLife_DR 1900:layout

Automated liquidhandling platform The Gilson Pipetmax is said to reduce technical replicates and maximise reproducibility. Bringing a multitude of applications to the user’s disposal, such as qPCR,

5/16/14

CARRY MORE WATER METHODS WITH YOU WHEREVER YOU NEED THEM MOST.

NGS, cell-based assays and more, the product is claimed to increase the reproducibility and pace of experiments.

Manual sample preparation can often be inefficient, complex and time consuming, leading to preparation time, procedural errors and operational costs. Pipetmax is an easy-to-use, automated liquidhandling platform than can solve these problems with automated sample preparation solutions. The unit is accessible to any lab and has a pipetman inside.

The product provides high levels of precision and accuracy. Procedural errors become a thing of the past, increasing the lab’s pace.

The platform-independent solution works with a variety of different reagents and kits, and the unit fits on the user’s lab bench. Traceability is maximised with simple, automated run reports.

John Morris Scientific Pty Ltd www.johnmorris.com.au

QuEChERS kits Phenomenex has introduced roQ QuEChERS kits for the cleanup of multiple pesticide residues in food prior to HPLC or GC analysis.

The kits offer a number of features specifically designed to facilitate and improve the largely manual QuEChERS technique. Rigorously tested tubes and tube caps ensure leak-free performance. The low-extractable tubes ensure clean extracts.

In addition, roQ flat-bottom centrifuge tubes are designed to stand upright so they can be easily placed on a scale for sample weighing. The roQ salt packets have an easy-pour design that minimises spills.

QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe) is a two-step sample preparation approach for the extraction

The DR 1900 Portable Spectrophotometer features over 220 of the most commonly tested water methods.

and analysis of multiple residues, which are difficult to target with selective techniques such as SPE. The technique extracts a wide range of compounds of various chemical structures and removes unwanted interferences in the sample. Phenomenex’s

1300 887 735 | hachpacific.com.au

roQ is compatible with official methods from AOAC International and the Committee of European Normalisation (CEN).

A wide range of roQ QuEChERS extraction and dispersive SPE (dSPE) kits is available to meet the needs of different food matrices. Phenomenex offers a range of solutions for subsequent high-resolution analysis of multiresidues by LC or GC. Phenomenex Australia www.phenomenex.com

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

23

8:35 A

Material ID handheld Raman analyser The Rigaku Progeny is a handheld analyser designed to deliver comprehensive and accurate materials identification. The analyser has been designed for pharmaceutical, chemical manufacturing and academia markets.

The product’s miniature VPG-based 1064 nm optical engine offers benchtop-quality analytical performance in a rugged, ergonomic and IP68 sealed enclosure. The fully customisable workflow software is 21 CFR Part 11 compliant and has a smartphone-inspired user interface, allowing rapid implementation of material ID methods.

The 1064 nm excitation laser optimises the speed and sensitivity of analysis, minimises fluorescence interferences and broadens the range of measurable materials.

The 512-pixel InGaAs detector delivers good resolution, analytics and signal to noise, handling challenging mixture analyses. The ultrafast quad-core processor manages demanding search and quantification algorithms, while the sampling accessories and adjustable focus optimises sensitivity.

The product’s sleek shape provides easy, single-hand entry into industrial barrels/drums, allowing users to view the screen while the instrument is in a downward orientation. The sealed system guards against moisture and dust, enabling rugged warehouse use and easy cleaning while minimising cross-contamination risk.

The multitouch, high-contrast screen and large-sized hard buttons make the device easy to use in labs, warehouses or in the field. Remote connectivity is enabled using both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The integrated digital camera for barcode entry and sample snapshots improves workflow efficiency and data tracking.

The intuitive user interface allows for simple development of new applications and adaptation of current workflows. The product runs simple or advanced chemometric applications directly on board the analyser for both qualitative and quantitative method development. The company says its wavelets-based spectral match algorithm ensures confidence in sample identification.

Australian X-Ray Tubes Pty Ltd www.axt.com.au

Workstation for bone decalcification The Milestone BoneSTATION is a workstation for fixation and decalcification of bone tissues, providing the user with complete control of pre-analytical steps. The system is said to improve turnaround times for bone decalcification and provide accurate diagnostic results for morphology and molecular studies.

The product consists of two work platforms complete with glass modules for fixation/decalcification. The front platform, for the decalcification step, features a heating plate with infrared sensors for automatic temperature control up to 50°C and magnetic stirring. The rear platform, for the fixation step, has built-in magnetic stirring.

The station can be used with any type of fixative/decalcifier, even with strong mineral acids (HClHNO3), as all contact surfaces are either glass or PTFE polymer. The magnetic stirrer assures homogeneity of temperature throughout the solution. The PTFE cover condenses vapours, generating a reflux of the reagent for consistent and safe protocols at constant pH. A touch-screen terminal allows the user to optimise, standardise and fully document all the processes. A transparent fume hood is available as an option for operation with strong acids.

Abacus ALS Australia www.abacus-als.com

24

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

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Microplate dispenser

NT-proBNP ELISA for determination of heart failure

BioTek’s MultiFlo FX microplate dispenser is now available with optional

NT-proBNP brain natriu-

RAD (random access dispense) technology to further extend its application

retic peptide, a member

range and flexibility. The technology offers single-channel dispensing to

of the cardiac natriuretic

random individual microplate wells, along with rapid reagent dispensing

hormones (CNHs) family,

into large-volume wells of 6- to 24-well microplates. The product can

is secreted by the hemodynamically stressed heart, mainly in response

also be separately configured with an optional wash module for 6- to

to myocardial stretch induced by volume overload. The NT-proBNP

384-well plates. When incorporating RAD technology or the washing

ELISA from Biomedica provides reproducible results with an easy-to-use,

module, the dispenser replaces up to five separate liquid handlers. The

convenient 96-well protocol (5 standards, 1 control). The kit has been

modular architecture allows users to purchase modules required now and

designed for manual use or can be adapted to open ELISA systems.

upgrade as their assay needs evolve, eliminating the need to purchase

BNP is synthesised as a 108 amino acid residue precursor and, upon release into circulation, is cleaved into an N-terminal fragment

multiple instruments.

The device features the company’s Parallel Dispense technology, which

(NT-proBNP) and the biologically active hormone (BNP-32). NT-proBNP

allows up to four independent reagents to be dispensed in parallel without

has a longer half-life in circulation (120 min) compared with the C-

risk of fluid carryover. A choice of peristaltic or syringe pump dispense

terminal BNP peptide (20 min). Therefore, the measurement of NT-

technologies provides reagent conservation and unattended operation

proBNP offers good stability in serum/plasma, giving reliable results.

NT-proBNP has clinical significance for: detection of left ventricular

down to 500 nL, with low maintenance and low consumable costs.

The product is especially suited for sensitive cell-based assays, ELISA

dysfunction (LVD); differentiation between chronic obstructive pulmo-

and bead-based assays, with angled dispense tips and flexible flow rates

nary disease (COPD) and chronic heart failure (CHF); risk stratification

to keep cells intact. When integrated with BioStack 4 Microplate Stacker,

after myocardial infarction (AMI); therapy monitoring of heart failure

the process can be automated using lidded or non-lidded plates. Fast

patients. The ELISA is CE marked, allowing for possible IVD use, and

programming via intuitive onboard software and a colour touch-screen

has a wide dynamic range which enables accurate detection of early

display provides total control of dispense patterns, and two integrated

stages of heart failure.

USB ports provide convenient file transfer and storage.

United Bioresearch Products

Millennium Science Pty Ltd

www.unitedbioresearch.com.au

www.mscience.com.au

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

25

©freeimages.com/lockstockb

Harvard scientists create the hemihelix Researchers from Harvard University have accidentally stumbled upon a shape called the hemihelix.

While a related shape, the helix, is one of the most common structures in nature, the hemihelix is more complex and rarely seen.

A

helix is a 3D spiral structure, much like a corkscrew or a slinky toy. Hemihelices form when the direction or handedness in which the spiral turns - known as the chirality - changes or reverses periodically along the helix’s length. This reversal in chirality is called a perversion.

The team discovered the shape when they set out to fabricate new springs by taking two strips of rubber material of different lengths and stretching the shorter one to reach the same length as the longer one and then sticking them together.

“We expected that these strips of material would just bend maybe into a scroll,” said David R Clarke, Extended Tarr Family Professor of Materials at the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. “But what we discovered is that when we did that experiment we got a hemihelix and that it has a chirality that changes, constantly alternating from one side to another.”

Writing in the journal PLOS ONE, the researchers said that in its simplest form, a helihelix “consists of two helices of opposite chirality joined by a perversion”, but that “a recent, simple experiment using elastomer strips reveals that hemihelices with multiple reversals of chirality can also occur, a richness not anticipated by existing analyses”. To better understand whether the observed 3D structures were randomly occurring or whether specific fac-

tors controlled their formation, the scientists stretched, joined and released rubber strips, then numerically simulated and analysed the shape-forming process. Their experiments can be viewed on YouTube.

By testing differences in the aspect ratio, or the width-to-height ratio of the rubber strips, the authors discovered that when a strip is wide relative to its height, it produces a helix. Further measurements revealed that there may be a critical value of the aspect ratio at which the shape transitions from a helix to a hemihelix, with periodic reversals of chirality.

The authors suggest that this phenomenon has not yet been observed because other classes of materials simply break when stretched to the mismatched strains used in these tests.

“Once you are able to fabricate these complex shapes and control them, the next step will be to see if they have unusual properties; for example, to look at their effect on the propagation of light,” said co-author Dr Katia Bertoldi, an associate professor at Harvard.

Knowing precisely how to make the structures predictably and consistently may enable scientists to mimic these geometrical features in new molecules that may eventually lead to advances in modern nanodevices, including sensors, resonators and electromagnetic wave absorbers.

Illustration of a helix (top), a hemihelix with one perversion marked by an arrow (middle) and a hemihelix with multiple perversions (bottom). The scale bar is 5 cm for each image. Image courtesy of Jiangshui Huang.

Starting with two long elastomer strips of different lengths, the shorter one is stretched to the same length as the other. While the stretching force, P, is maintained, the two strips are joined side by side. Then, as the force is slowly released, the bi-strip twists and bends to create either a helix or a hemihelix. Image courtesy of Jia Liu.

26

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

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Handheld airborne particle counter The Particles Plus 8206 Handheld

Magnetic stirrers

Particle Counter measures 0.2

Heidolph offers safe, convenient magnetic hot plate stirrers with a typical

to 10.0 µm with a flow rate of

operational life span in excess of 10 years. The stirrers are suitable for

2.83 L/min. Easy to configure,

smooth to intense mixing and heating of low-viscosity fluids or decom-

the instrument displays up to six

posing organic and inorganic substances.

user-selectable size channels as

The magnetic stirrers feature a KeraDisk hot plate, which allows for

well as temperature and relative

efficient heat transfer and fast heat-up times while being highly scratch

humidity.

and chemical resistant. Compared to lab mixers of 600 W, the MR

The user can view data and

Series of hot plates offer a heating capacity of 800 W, which

generate ISO 14644-1, EU GMP

reduces heat-up times by 35%.

Annex 1 or FS 209E reports on-

An important safety feature to avoid unintentional heat-up is

screen or via printer, USB key, real

the separate illuminated on/off button for heating. Furthermore,

time through its versatile output

an overheat sensor will switch off the hot plate if overheating

options or export to Particles Plus

occurs and the unit heater will automatically turn off in case of any

data-download software.

other unforeseen accidents, such as a short circuit or motor failure.

The counter can be controlled

The aluminium die-cast housing is said to make the hot plates virtually

and monitored remotely via web

indestructible to thermal damage and also offers high corrosion resistance. The hermetically

browser. It also has a mass con-

sealed housing will ensure that all electronic and mechanical components are protected from

centration mode that approximates

aggressive fumes typically present in fume hoods. Maintenance costs are therefore reduced,

density in µg/m 3. The product

which makes the hot plate mixers a suitable choice, especially for inexperienced users.

meets ISO 21501-4 and JIS B9921

The hot plate stirrers are compatible with Heidolph’s wide range of heat-on attachments,

and ensures compliance with an

thus increasing efficiency for reactions of up to 45 samples.

onboard pulse height analyser.

Scitek Australia Pty Ltd

Particle & Surface Sciences Pty Ltd

www.scitek.com.au

www.pss.aus.net

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

27

Rapid carbapenemase screening kit Rapid Carb Screen, from Rosco Diagnostics, can detect carbapenemase activity direct from fresh cultures (including blood culture) or urine in less than 2 h by detecting hydrolysis of the beta-lactam ring of a carbapenem in the presence of an indicator. The test requires metabolically active organisms to be lysed then reacted with a tablet containing imipenem and an indicator. The presence of a carbapenemase is indicated by a colour change from red to yellow. A negative control tablet is supplied to help interpret weak colour changes.

Dutec Diagnostics Pty Ltd www.dutecdiagnostics.net.au

Conical rotor Designed for applications that use common disposable conical tubes, the JA-14.50 rotor from Beckman Coulter Life Sciences extends

Columns

the applications and flexibility of the Avanti high-

Waters has expanded its family

performance centrifuge series.

of Cortecs columns with the 2.7 mi-

Delivering a top speed of 14,000 rpm and a

cron silica-based, solid-core particle columns. Designed for

G-force of 35,000 x g, the rotor holds up to 16 x

analytical scientists who need to maximise performance on their existing LC systems,

50 mL conical tubes, thus maximising the number

Cortecs 2.7 micron columns run at low pressures while delivering high efficiencies. This

of 50 mL conical tubes that can be processed in

gives the user the flexibility to use longer column lengths to improve resolution or higher

a single fixed-angle rotor centrifugation run. It is

flow rates to speed instrument analysis times and increase throughput.

said to be the only high-performance rotor capable

Available in C18+, C18 and HILIC chemistries, the company offers the columns in 48

of spinning 50, 15, 5 and 1.5 mL conical tubes,

column configurations. The columns are fully scalable to Cortecs 1.6 micron columns

and 50, 15 and 10 mL round bottom tubes and

for ultraperformance LC (UPLC), thus allowing separation scientists who currently run

bottles, at their maximum speeds.

HPLC separations the ability to futureproof their laboratories and transfer or migrate

The rotor is intended for general separa-

their separation to UPLC.

tion and pelleting of cells, bacteria and food

C18+ columns deliver good peak shapes for basic compounds and impart se-

products, proteins, viruses, subcellular frac-

lectivity while being a low-bleed, formic acid-friendly option for LC/MS applications.

tions, running concentrators and columns

C18 columns are general-purpose, high-efficiency RP columns offering balanced retention

and phase separation and binding studies.

of acids, bases, and neutrals at low and mid-range pH. They provide good resolution

A BioCertified dual-locking lid configuration, for

and retention for complex mixtures.

workflows that include biohazardous samples,

HILIC columns are designed for the retention of extremely polar analytes using

maintains biocontainment when removing the

hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC). Additional benefits include increased

rotor from the centrifuge and transporting it to a

mass spectrometry response and compatibility with direct injection of organic extracts

containment hood. Rotors are also available in a

from common sample preparation techniques, such as solid-phase extraction (SPE),

single-locking lid configuration.

liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) and protein precipitation (PPT).

Beckman Coulter Australia

Waters Australia Pty Ltd

www.beckmancoulter.com

www.waters.com

BIOLOGICAL AND CHEMICAL INDICATORS FOR STERILISATION MONITORING NAMSA Biological Indicators provide a convenient, easy-to-use system for the reliable validation and monitoring of your sterilisation processes including Steam, Ethylene Oxide, Radiation, Hydrogen Peroxide and Dry Heat. Available in: • S pore strips and discs (paper, glass • Spore Ampoules fibre, SS), SS wires, cotton threads • S elf-Contained Biological Indicators • Spore suspensions (SCBIs) NAMSA Chemical Process Indicators (CPI’s) are available for monitoring all common sterilisation process and are available in rolls of dots, rolls for labeling guns and in custom designs tailored your specific requirements.

www.bionovuslifesciences.com.au Ph: (02) 9484-0931 | Fax: (02) 9980-2162 | Email: info@bionovuslifesciences.com.au

28

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

www.LabOnline.com.au

© stock.xchange.com/egilshay © iStockphoto.com/AlexRaths

E-commerce in the lab

Karl Wyzenbeek, Managing Director, LabFriend

Consumers in Australia have adopted the web as the go-to resource to find the best price on products from around the world. Jump online, search for the product, read the reviews, watch the video, check the price and place your order - very quick and simple, plus you save money.

I

n 2013, Australians spent $37.1 billion online and 9% of these purchases were for medical equipment1. So while we shop online for ourselves looking for a bargain, are we doing this in the laboratory?

Why are some organisations not leveraging the power of the web? They could have saved thousands of dollars on equipment last year and stretched that research grant that extra bit further.

Let’s debunk some of reasons why organisations didn’t buy online and missed out on the savings.

Reason 1: When you buy online, you don’t get the same level of support.

This is a sales rep’s go-to line when trying to convince you to not buy an identical product online: “Yes it’s cheaper online, but what about support?” Let’s assess the actual reality of this throwaway line.

Scenario A: You paid more and bought the equipment from the sales rep. Your equipment goes down: • You contact the sales rep to let them know your problem.

• The sales rep is out on the road and promises to get back to you when they return to the office.

• Once back in the office (assuming they remember to call you back), the reps asks for copies of your order details, date you purchased, how much you paid, proof of purchase, copy of invoice etc.

• You spend a day trying to find this information.

• Once the rep receives the info they need from you, they forward the information to the manufacturer.

• The instrument is replaced or repaired under warranty, or a contractor is sent to your site for a chargeable service job.

You pay a premium for the repair, so that the original company who sold you the equipment covers the contractor’s cost and makes some money as well. http://www.e-commercefacts.com/background/2012/08/e-commerceaustralia/ 1

www.LabOnline.com.au

Scenario B: You paid a lot less and bought the equipment online. Your equipment goes down: • You go to the website where you purchased the product.

All of your order details are saved online against your profile.

The website has a live chat feature, so you talk to a customer service person straight away.

• They have records of your entire purchase, so this information is available immediately.

• The website offers to repair or replace equipment under warranty or, if outside of warranty, recommends you a service contractor. You pay the contractor directly, saving on service.

Reason 2: When you buy online, you might receive a fake product or inferior quality.

Being selective about which sites you source equipment from is important. Just like normal shopping, the internet is host to varying quality and dishonest practices. To ensure your purchases are secure, follow these steps: • Buy from an Australian-registered web domain. A website with ‘com.au’ in the address must have an ABN to register this web address. The laws and regulations that govern all Australian businesses, including fair trade, warranty obligations and restrictions against the supply of fake or inferior products, extend online as well.

• Shop on secured e-commerce sites. If a website is secured, the web address in the browser will begin with HTTPS:// instead of HTTP://. You should also see a small padlock icon on the top left or bottom right of the page depending on your browser.

• Ask the website to complete your organisation’s standard supplier form. Websites should be able to provide references for other Australian businesses they have worked with.

Next time your laboratory is looking to make a purchase, make sure you jump online and see how much you could be saving.

LabFriend www.labfriend.com.au

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

29

Compact mass spectrometer

Mass spectrometry sample preparation products

The Advion Expression L CMS

Tecan offers a range of laboratory automation

compact mass spectrometer of-

solutions for mass spectrometry (MS) sample preparation, ensuring there is a system to meet users’ workflow and throughput needs. From solid phase extraction and liquid-liquid extraction to protein precipitation and straightforward ‘dilute and shoot’ methods, Tecan provides automation of routine sample preparation applications, helping to alleviate bottlenecks for many laboratories.

Recent advances in MS instrumentation have led to an increasing number of laboratories choosing this technology for a wide range of applications. However, sample preparation techniques have not enjoyed the same rate of development, leading to processing bottlenecks and reducing overall productivity. Automation of routine sample preparation can alleviate these problems, reducing hands-on time and increasing throughput.

fers extended range analysis, covering a mass range from 1 to 2000 mass units with a resolution of better than 1 mass unit. While initially designed as a personal mass spectrometer for organic synthetic labs, the product has been expanded to handle analyses ranging from traditional synthesis to peptide analysis and a host of other small molecule applications.

Tecan delivers automated sample preparation solutions for virtually any application, including drug discovery, clinical, toxicological, food and environmental laboratories. The company offers an extensive range of systems and modules to match users’ laboratory workflow needs - from straightforward ‘pipette and shake’ sample extraction using the AC Extraction Plate to walkaway automation with a modular Freedom EVO workstation.

Tecan Australia www.tecan.com.au

Protocol for purification of recombinant proteins

instrument allows it to be used as

Merck Millipore has introduced a recombinant

a personal mass spectrometer in

protein purification protocol that combines lysis

the researcher’s own lab to allow

and purification into a single step. The condensed

instant analysis of reaction prod-

workflow can be completed in about 45 min,

ucts or separation components.

which is said to reduce processing time by 75%

This speeds up the research pro-

compared to traditional techniques while delivering

cess as it avoids delays inherent

high yield and purity.

in waiting for central mass spec

The protocol is claimed to require less hands-

30

The compact design of the

lab analysis.

on time than the conventional workflow, providing

The design of the product

greater consistency and results in more reproducible yields. The method uses a spe-

means it can be used in stand-

cialised lysis buffer in combination with magnetic affinity capture beads, which together

alone mode for single injection

eliminate the need to clarify lysates by centrifugation. As a result, the workflow can be

analysis, or coupled to HPLC

automated using a high-throughput particle processor, further reducing sample variability.

systems to act as an inline mass

The one-step lysis and purification protocol has been validated specifically for

spec detector. The system can

Merck Millipore’s PureProteome Nickel Magnetic Beads, optimised for the capture of

also be coupled to a host of

histidine-tagged proteins, and Merck Millipore’s BugBuster Master Mix, a lysis reagent

other flow systems or separation

that allows for non-mechanical extraction of soluble protein from bacterial cells. The

systems for inline analysis. It is

reagent combines detergent-based lysis with enzymatic agents, Benzonase nuclease

available with either ESI or APCI

and rLysozyme enzyme in a ready-to-use formulation.

inlet capabilities.

Merck Pty Limited

Scientifix-Techcomp Pty Ltd

www.merck.com.au

www.scientifix.com.au

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

www.LabOnline.com.au

Brushless DC flat motors with integrated encoder Brushless flat motors from maxon motor feature pancake form factor and torque ratings. The product’s integrated mile encoder maintains the motor’s low profile and includes high-resolution encoder feedback.

The encoder operates by measuring the fields generated by eddy currents in a target disc. This is claimed to offer improvements over traditional encoder technology in the form of environmental robustness, improved speed capabilities and an increase tolerance against external interference. The integrated encoder, when used with a matching motor position control unit, will control the unit to resolutions of up to 25,600 qc/rev.

There are three power levels - 30, 50 and 70 W - in a 45 mm diameter, and also a high-torque 90 W version in a 90 mm diameter. The 45 mm version is available with both PCB-mounted connectors or a

Gas chromatograph

smaller footprint cable version. The product is suitable for driving loads

The Danalyzer 370XA gas chromatograph (GC) provides

directly with high degrees of speed and position control in robotics and

accurate measurement, minimal maintenance and

factory automation applications.

ease of use. The product is designed for continuous online analysis of natural gas for applications such as

maxon motor Australia Pty Ltd

custody transfer, power generation and burner fuel/air

www.maxonmotor.com.au

ratio control.

The unit provides a C6+ analysis similar to legacy Danalyzer GCs in a smaller and simpler form. New and experienced users are expected to appreciate

Rheometer The Thermo Scientific HAAKE Viscotester iQ Rheometer enables users to measure and analyse the rheological properties of a wide range of different samples, increasing efficiency and minimising the risk of operator error. Designed for intuitive operation, the rheometer adapts to individual measurement requirements in laboratories focused on quality control.

The instrument is suitable for simple viscosity determination as well as complex rheological investigations from low viscous liquids to stiff pastes and semisolids. Used as a standalone unit or fully software controlled, its compact size and small footprint makes the product a portable unit for mobile use or a major tool in quality control laboratories.

It is suitable for quality control in the food industry; mineral slurries; pharmaceutical and cosmetics; petrochemicals; polymers; and surface coatings.

Rheology Solutions Pty Ltd www.rheologysolutions.com

www.LabOnline.com.au

the advances in technology, improved diagnostics and intuitive local operator interface (LOI).

The product’s Maintainable Module incorporates the analytical components in an easily removable module. The module can be replaced in the field in approximately 2 h (including warm-up and purge) and can be maintained at the component level for repair.

Easy-to-use software assistants on the full-colour LCD local operator interface reduce the need for specialised training by providing a step-by-step walkthrough of common operational and maintenance functions such as changing calibration gas, auto-valve timing and module replacement.

The product can be pole, wall or floor mounted. No shelter is required for most environments.

Emerson Process Management www.ap.emersonprocess.com

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

31

© jules/Dollar Photo Club

Exotic particle confirmed

by CERN Scientists at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider (LHC) have confirmed the existence of a new class of subatomic particles called exotic hadrons. The LHCb collaboration, one of the four large experiments at the LHC, found that the exotic object does not fit into the pattern of particles observed up until now.

H

adrons are subatomic particles that can take part in the force that binds protons inside the nuclei of atoms. The protons and neutrons that form atomic nuclei consist of particles, called quarks, bound together. A subset of hadrons, called mesons, is formed from quark-antiquark pairs, while the rest - baryons - are made up of three quarks.

However, the underlying theory of quantum chromodynamics (QCD) that describes the behaviour of quarks allows for many different quark combinations, such as four quark states, to bind together into hadrons.

Many searches for such exotic states have been performed, with one of the most recent experiments conducted by the Belle Collaboration in 2008. At that time Belle reported evidence for an exotic structure, the Z(4430)-, that did not fit into the normal classification scheme, but the observation was questioned. The existence of the Z(4430)- particle has now been confirmed, with detailed studies showing that the LHCb data can only be explained by the inclusion of the Z(4430)-. This state shows behaviour that is characteristic of a resonance (‘phase motion across the peak’).

“We have now undisputable proof that nature is actually able to form more complex, more sophisticated objects of quarks than what was initially proposed by Gell-Man in 1964,” said LHCb physicist Richard Jacobsson.

A view of the LHCb experiment at underground Point 8 on the LHC. The prominent tube is the LHC beam pipe, in which protons circulate at close to the speed of light. Image: Anna Pantelia/CERN.

32

This image shows the so-called Argand diagram proving to the experts that the Z(4430)- structure seen in the data (black points) represents really the resonant particle production and decay, since it follows approximately a circular path (red circle).

The team analysed 25,000 interesting decays of neutral B mesons selected from data from 180 trillion proton-proton collisions in the LHC. Jacobsson explained that the B meson decayed the three particles, and they analysed the outcome to see if an object would be formed in the intermediate stage in the decay process.

“What we have seen is that nature is actually forming an object of four quarks,” he said.

The researchers’ next steps are to search for other signs of the particle in other decays of B hadrons so they can further study its properties. This may give signs of this same particle, allowing complementary ways to understand the nature of this state and what it really is.

“LHCb’s observation and measurement of the Z(4430)- is going to help us explore this feature of matter,” noted Professor Tara Shears, LHCb lead for the University of Liverpool. Jacobsson further noted that understanding the dynamics of the strong force could help in our comprehension of, for example, the compositeness of a neutron star.

“LHCb’s measurement also demonstrates the experiment’s versatility,” Professor Shears added. “Who would have thought that an experiment designed to investigate the strange features of antimatter could also help us understand QCD and matter better?”

The researchers’ results were presented on 8 April at the SM@LHC conference in Madrid, Spain. They can be viewed online at http://arxiv.org/abs/1404.1903.

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

www.LabOnline.com.au

Digital benchtop refractometer Haematology analyser

Rudolph Research Analytical has developed a refractometer with operational

The Diatron Group has launched an updated version

features that help users load and monitor sample quality. The J457 comes

of its Abacus 3CT haematology analyser. The product

equipped with Smart Measure technology that automatically detects when the

is a compact, benchtop, flexible, three-part differential

prism is improperly cleaned, insufficient sample is loaded or the instrument is

analyser which now offers 22 parameters to deliver even

improperly calibrated. If the prism surface does not produce the correct ‘Clean

more patient data. With its cap piercing capability, it can

Prism’ result, Smart Measure notifies the operator that further cleaning of the

be used with sample tubes that are open or closed for

prism is necessary. Only once the prism is properly cleaned will the operator

greater convenience.

be notified that the product is ready to measure. If the metrics indicate that

The most visually apparent change is the introduction

improper sample loading has occurred, Smart Measure will direct the operator

of the 8″ high-resolution, colour touch screen with an

to clean the prism and reload the sample. Operator judgement is not required

intuitive multilingual user interface, making it clear and

and eyeball alone assessments of sample load quality are eliminated.

simple to operate. The product also has an enhanced

Smart Measure is constantly scanning the prism surface and monitoring

package of onboard quality control (QC) features. The

the value measured against its stored database of results. If during a water

QC capacity has been greatly increased to 24 lots and

zero the instrument detects a value that is too different from the database or

QC values can be loaded via QR codes or USB to avoid

the Refractive Index value being input is far from the measured value, it will

any incorrect assignment of values.

alert the operator that the instrument needs further calibration or cleaning.

Operating rights can be assigned to selected operators to ensure only trained persons can use the system. In

Scientific Solutions Pty Ltd www.scisol.com.au

addition, an onboard log details when reagents were last changed, with a constant on-screen display of reagent expiry dates as well as remaining reagent volumes. Addi-

Assay for postnatal detection of DNA CNVs

tional QC features, such as aperture anticlog protection and

The Affymetrix CytoScan Dx Assay is intended for the postnatal detection of DNA

automatic cleaning after every 15 sample measurements,

copy number variants (CNV) in patients referred for chromosomal testing. It is

ensure the quality and reliability of diagnostic results.

designed to help physicians diagnose children’s developmental and intellectual

To accommodate the increased volume of data generated by the 22 parameter measurements, the onboard data

disabilities more comprehensively by enabling a high-resolution genome-wide analysis of genetic aberrations.

storage capacity has been doubled to 10,000 records,

The product analyses the whole genome in a single assay at very good

with improved LIS connectivity for results transfer. The

resolution, improving diagnostic capability. High-resolution analysis can reveal

latest features make the product easy to use and suit-

small aberrations not readily seen using traditional techniques. The company’s

able for small laboratories, satellite clinics and doctors’

For Research Use Only version of the assay is currently available in Australia

offices alike.

for both constitutional and cancer cytogenetics research applications.

Diatron Group

Millennium Science Pty Ltd

www.diatron.com

www.mscience.com.au

www.LabOnline.com.au

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

33

my lab

Hunting for breast cancer risk with next-gen sequencing Lauren Davis

The Hunter Medical Research Institute’s (HMRI) Pathology Service laboratory has developed DNA sequencing technology that is accelerating screening for the genetic risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

Professor Rodney Scott, the co-leader of HMRI’s Information Based Medicine research program, explained that the institute acquired funding to purchase a next-generation sequencing (NGS) system from genetics technology company Illumina. With the assistance of Dr Cliff Meldrum from The University of Melbourne, the NGS technology was married to microfluidics.

“The reason we had to do that is because for next-gen sequencing we need to amplify targeted regions that you want to interrogate, ’cos you can’t just take DNA from somebody and, without any sort of amplification, interrogate it,” Professor Scott stated.

This allowed the researchers to get a comprehensive amplification of two major genes associated with breast cancer risk - BRCA1 and BRCA2. From there, they could screen the fragments that had been amplified and look for genetic changes in them.

“The two genes, BRCA 1 or BRCA 2, are both large, so we break them into around 180 fragments and find the DNA sequence of each fragment,” Professor Scott said. “We then reassemble them to make the total sequence.”

The technique is much faster than the traditional ‘gold standard’ method of Sanger sequencing, which has been in use since 1975. From a single reaction, said Professor Scott, 42 samples can be screened for both genes within 24 hours - as opposed to taking 2-3 weeks previously.

“The additional advantage of next-gen sequencing technology is the speed at which you can analyse the data, which cuts it down dramatically from several days to within about 50 minutes, thereby increasing the number of samples that you could look at at any one time and report on in that time frame.”

The method received NATA (National Association of Testing Authorities) accreditation towards the end of 2013, when the lab tested its bank of around 500 samples and matched the results with its previous data. Six months later, it has been used to screen over 1000 more women for their genetic risk of breast cancer.

“We could in fact do more - the only thing that’s stopping us is actually the supply of samples,” Professor Scott said.

As the team continues to screen patients for ovarian and breast cancer risk - about 100 samples per month - they are also hoping to broaden the method for use in other diseases.

“It has the potential to alter the way we provide medical services, in terms of identifying people at risk as opposed to reacting to people who present with disease, so that you can begin to think about seriously offering preventative measures to people,” Professor Scott said.

34

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - June/July 2014

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What matters to you most in an analytical lab?

Delivering reliable results, following regulations whilst supporting a sustainable environment.

Our portfolio Analytical chemistry Instrumental chemistry Wet chemistry Clinical chemistry Organic and peptide synthesis Water – testing, monitoring and purification Environmental monitoring Microbiological testing Lab water

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SupraSolv® headspace solvents: especially designed for the sophisticated needs of residual solvents analysis by headspace gas chromatography

What makes us different?

Merck Millipore is always up-to-date with regulations around the globe, we design intelligent products and services for all aspects that precisely meet analytical laboratories’ needs — now and in the future.

Chromolith® HPLC Columns: Speed and performance based on revolutionary monolithic silica technology

We maintain our own state-of the-art laboratories to test and certify every single product in-house. Highly qualified specialist staff is key to this procedure. In our tests we always integrate the latest developments in technology and methods.

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NEW ZEALAND: Ph: 0800 463 725 Fax: 06 356 7311 orders.nz@merckgroup.com www.merckmillipore.com Spectroquant® Test Kits: validated and Spectroquant® Pharo Spectrophotomstandard compliant analysis reagents eters: versatile spectrophotometers for all routine measurements

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Merck Millipore, and the M mark are trademarks of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. © 2012 Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. All rights reserved.

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Fixed, 20 rpm

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Weight

4.4 lb/2.0 kg

Part Number H5600-230V-UK

To receive discount please quote the following Promotion Code: LAB-0814-2 when Ordering.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Prism Mini Microcentrifuge

Special price

Indu IndustrialPharm & Food Food & Food PharmaPharma- Water Clinical Clinical Clinical Water Water Life Life & Life BeverageScience Beverage Beverage ceutical ceutical ceutic Science Science

$295 *

Compact and economical personal device ideal for molecular separation or just any quick spin.

Part Number C1801-230V-UK

Features: • Intuitive design • Self opening lid enables single-handed operation • Quick release rotor hub • Built in braking system for rapid sample processing • Easy to use • No tools required * Includes two quick release interchangeable rotors.

To receive discount please quote the following Promotion Code: LAB-0814-2 when Ordering.

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Life ience

Industrial Industrial IndustrialPharmaFood & Food & PharmaPharmaClinical Clinical Clinical Water Water Water Life & Food Life Beverage Science Beverage Beverage ceutical ceutical ceutical Science

Starter Pack

0 $Pip9ett5 es+stand *

4

Now

Single Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Just

Discovery Pro Pipettes

$ 2up2to5$7*ea2.ch

• Improved Ergonomics

00

Save

• Reliable Accuracy • High Precision • Fast volume setting • Volume locking system

for full Specs simply

• Easy maintenance

Click here

• 4-digit counter • Autoclavable

Product Information

Starter Pack Includes, Part No. 7903 Universal 4-position stand, Tips 10µl, 96 pcs, Tips 200µl, 96 pcs, Tips 1200µl, 96 pcs, Calibration tool x 3, Pipette hanger x 3, Instruction manuals.

To receive discount please quote the following Promotion Code: LAB-0814-2 when Ordering.

6001

0.2 - 2.0 µL Single Channel

6002

0.5 - 10 µL Single Channel

6003

2 - 20 µL Single Channel

6004

10 - 100 µL Single Channel

6005

20 - 200 µL Single Channel

6006

100 - 1000 µL Single Channel

* AUD$225* Offer applies to any of the Single Channel Pipettes listed on the table above.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Industrial Industrial IndustrialPharma& Food Food & Food PharmaPharma- Water Clinical Clinical Clinical Water Water Life Life & Life BeverageScience Beverage Beverage ceutical ceutical ceutical Science Science

PCR Tube Storage Rack 96-Well PCR Tube Rack with Lid Ideal for Storage and Freezing

Only

$17 .00

*

5 pack

The 96 well racks are also available in assorted colours.

Part Number R-96-PCR-FB To receive discount please quote the following Promotion Code: AXY-0814-1 when Ordering.

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Water Bath

Re duce d to

$ 949 *

Circulating

Labwit waterbaths deliver superior temperature control and uniformity, Ideal to be used in the Biology, Pharmacy and Chemical industry.

18

for full Specs simply

Click here

Months Warranty

Power Ready

Australian standards

High quality #304 stainless steel for excellent durability of interiors and its parts.

Contact us to arrange an

te Odemn-onsSi tration

In Stock!

Part Number ZSXH-618

30L and 50L capacity reciprocal shaking water baths are also available.

Ready to ship

• 18L tank volume with diffuser platform, temperature control from ambient-99.9°C • LCD digital controller provides a user-friendly interface • Circulating pumping system ensures highly uniformed temperature distribution • Stainless steel hinged gable lid prevents uncontrolled heat dissipation • Low water level alarm and non-volatile memory To receive discount please quote the following Promotion Code: LBW-0814-1 when Ordering.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Great deals on Labwit laboratory equipment

Ex-D is pl ay

C le a ra n ce

Buy Now and Save!

SALE

Benchtop Shaker - Rocker

Benchtop Shaker - Linear

Premium Horizontal Shaking Incubator

Premium Stackable Shaking Incubator

Part Number ZWQ-344

Part Number ZWF-334

Part Number ZWYR-211C

Part Number ZWYR-D2402

For detailed information regarding the Ex-Demo Clerance Sale, please contact one of our product specialists at: sales@pacificlab.com.au Page 4

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High Performance Centrifuges

IndustrialPharmaIndustrial Industrial & Food Food & Food PharmaPharma- Water Clinical Clinical Clinical Water Water Life Life & Life BeverageScience Beverage Beverage ceutical ceutical ceutical cience Science

alresa

Safe , Robust and Reliable

Special price

Consul 21R for full Specs simply

Click here

$6,999 *

Features: • High Speed, up to 20.804x g./14.300 RPM • Rotor list on memory • Up to 175 acceleration ramps and up to 175 braking ramps • Easy to read TFT touch screen Centrifuge Tubes • Automatic rotor recognition • Microprocessor controlled • Automatic open lid

also available

• Lid latch lock

• Adjustable acceleration and braking • 15 memories + pre-cooling program

2

OA GREEN TECHNOLOGY * 95% recyclable parts used in fabrication. * Incorporating HFC gases in refrigeration where used reducing impact on the earth’s ozone hole.

Years Warranty

Part Number CE114

Ready to ship

Digicen 21 Features: for full Specs simply

Click here

te Odemn-onsSi tration

In Stock!

Made in Europe

Contact us to arrange an

Special price

$2,999 *

• Speed, up to 24.959 x g/16.500 RPM • Quiet noise level < 60 dB • Capacity Max .4 x 100 ml • Swing out rotors for max 4 x 100ml for tubes, microplates and microtubes • Angle fixed low speed up to 24 tubes of 15ml • Angle fixed low speed for microtubes up to 50 ml conical • 16 memories • Automatic open lid Extensive range of rotors Part Number In Stock! and accesories CE110 Ready to ship for multiple combinations

To receive discount please quote the following Promotion Code: ORT-0814-1 when Ordering. Prices do not include rotors or buckets.

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Solaris Loop Sterilizer Special price

$1,499 * 12

Months Warranty

Made in Europe

for full Specs simply

Click here

Part Number 3399002

Sterilization of inoculating loops, tweezers and small instruments within seconds.

• Electrical, no gas needed, no open flame • Instant-ready-to-use, no warm-up time, no waiting • Sterilization temperature 900 – 1,300 °C, 1,650 – 2,370 °F • Touch-free START, with IR- sensor and integrated timer • Economical, low-cost operation Technical data

Temperature

900 °C . 1.300 °C

Dimensions (w x h x d)

152 x 210 x 195 mm

Safety class

IP 20

Weight

approx. 2.500 g

Connected voltage

100-120 VAC bzw. 200-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz, 500 W Short-time

To receive discount please quote the following Promotion Code: SCH-0814-1 when Ordering.

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Life Science

Food & Beverage

Clinical

Interchangeable / General Glassware

Pharma- Industrial ceutical

Water

Flat Bottom

Cylinders

Erlenmeyer

Product Information

Product Information - USP Standard 058.202.04

100ml 24/29 ISO 4797

071.202.09

50ml 19/26 ISO 4797 & USP

058.202.12

250ml 24/29 ISO 4797

139.202.01A

10ml x 0.2ml class A blue grad. DIN

071.202.10

50ml Conical 24/29

058.202.16

500ml 24/29 ISO 4797

139.202.03A

50ml x 1ml class A blue grad. DIN

071.202.12

100ml 19/26 ISO 4797 & USP

058.202.20

1000ml 29/32 ISO 4797

139.202.06A

500ml x 5ml class A blue grad. DIN

071.202.13

100ml 24/29 ISO 4797 & USP

139.202.07A

1000ml x 10ml class A blue grad. DIN

071.202.19

250ml 24/29 ISO 4797 & USP

071.202.22A

500ml 24/29 ISO 4797 & USP

Joints, stoppers, adapters and connectors also avalable

5 ml Measuring Cylinder Round Base

Product Information

139.202.01

Stunning performance at affordable prices

Request a complete Glassware catalogue simply contact:

sales@pacificlab.com.au

Great Value for Money!

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Spatulas

Made of heavy Stainless Steel grade 304/316 Part Number

Spatula Spoon SS 150mm Spatula Spoon SS 250mm

$8.50 each $9.50 each

374.303.02 374.303.04

Part Number 374.303.07

Spatula flat both ends SS 150mm

$8.50 each

Part Number

Spatula chattaway 155 x 8.5mm SS Spatula chattaway 210 x 8.5mm SS

$8.50 each $9.75 each

375.303.01 375.303.02

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Spreader Bars Polypropylene

Clear, Gamma Sterile Part Number P10805050

Inoculating Loops Polypropylene

Special Price

10 %

Off 1ul Loop Clear Part Number P10801050

10ul Loop Blue Part Number P10803050 To receive discount please quote the following Promotion Code: TCH-0814-1 when Ordering.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sterile Swabs

Ideal for microbiological sample collection

Only

$150 * per 500

Only

$85 * per 100

Part Number 300261

Part Number 300287

Swab plain PS and cotton tip with tube Sterilised by ethylene oxide

Swab aimies PS and cotton tip with tube Sterilised by radiation

To receive discount please quote the following Promotion Code: DEL-0814-1 when Ordering.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

FP-FL-060614AU

Terms and Conditions Australian Head Of f ice

* Prices quoted in AUD exclude GST and delivery charges

PO BOX 465 Blackburn, VIC 3130

* Featured Products promotions are valid until the 31st of August 2014 Only.

Promotions cannot be used in conjuction with any other offer.

Offers exclude spare parts, servicing, freight, handling and are available while stocks last only, no rain-checks. Offers are not available for resellers.

Prices apply to stock â&#x20AC;&#x153;On Handâ&#x20AC;? Only. Pacific Laboratory Products Pty Ltd reserves the right to modify or withdraw this offer at any time.

Connect with us:

Free Call: 1800 723 405 Ph: (03) 9845 0300 Fax: + 61 3 9845 0350 e-mail: sales@pacif iclab.com.au

/ Pacif icLab @ Pacif icLabP

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