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August/September 2014 Laboratory Focus www.laboratoryfocus.ca
neW Products Automated Sample Storage Systems Compact, high-density automated systems designed to fit into existing laboratories that require ultra-low-temperature storage of sensitive biological samples. These systems ensure the viability of 100,000 to over one million long-term samples. The BiOS M and L are ideal for forensic applications, and mediumsized research and clinical repositories. Samples are held in labware that is both tracked and picked automatically without human intervention, thus avoiding the risk of inadvertent warming and degraded sample integrity. The original BiOS and largest system, BiOS XL, is designed for very large biological sample collections, such as large clinical biorepositories and population-based biobanks, and holds 250,000 to more than 10 million samples. All samples within BiOS systems are stored in -80° C chest freezer compartments to maintain temperature stability. All internal workflows, including sample picking, are optimized to keep samples at ultra-low temperatures at all times. System parts are easily accessible for service and maintenance, while 1-D and 2-D barcode reading and sample tracking provide complete chain-of-custody documentation, with software tools to support 21 CFR Part 11 compliance. Multiple backup systems ensure that samples stay at -80° C even in emergencies. BiOS systems can store and process multiple labware types, and they integrate with Hamilton liquid handling robotics for additional tracking and hands-free, high-throughput sample preparation.
System for Advanced Protein Structure Analysis Malvern Instruments Zetasizer Helix combines dynamic light scattering and Raman spectroscopy for advanced protein structure analysis. It is a tool for early stage biopharmaceutical development that enables the detailed study of mechanisms of protein aggregation. This system combines Zetasizer dynamic light scattering (DLS) technology, for sizing of proteins and other biomolecules, with Raman spectroscopy. The combination of DLS and Raman spectroscopy allows measurement of protein size and structure from a single small volume sample, providing unique insight into protein folding, unfolding, aggregation, agglomeration and oligomerization. Raman spectroscopy delivers information on protein unfolding by monitoring the variations in molecular vibrations that result from changes in secondary and tertiary protein structure. The combination of dynamic light scattering with Raman spectroscopy characterizes a wealth of chemical, structural, and physical parameters of biotherapeutic proteins under formulation conditions - at high concentrations up to 100 mg/ml and using a wide range of buffers and excipients.
web: www.malvern.com
Sample Handling Seward Ltd has expanded its range of Simplette(r) pipetting straws to fit a variety of variable-volume pipette handsets. Disposable Simplettes are designed specifically to transfer prepared samples from the bottom of a Stomacher(r) bag without risk of cross contamination. Available with an internal diameter of 3.6-3.7mm, as well as 4.1-4.2mm, Simplette straws will fit pipette handsets from a number of companies, including Barky and Socorex. Pipetting volumes of between 0.1 to 2 mL, Simplettes are also available in both 170 and 250mm lengths. Irradiated sterile, Simplettes are available in quantities, either in bulk boxes of 1000 and 2000, or in sachets of 25 or 50. The narrower gauge Simplettes are available as well.
www.seward.co.uk
Plate Reader The DynaPro Plate Reader II is capable of running high-throughput, automated HTS-DLS analyses to characterize PPI in standard microwell plates, under multiple conditions in reduced time frame. The onset points of aggregation or melting may be obtained in the DynaPro via temperature ramps or chemical denaturing, to assess additional SIPs for conformational stability, making the DynaPro DLS plate reader the tool for developability and formulation screening. Techniques for determining protein stability are debated amongst researchers, and a combination of stability-indicating parameters must be weighed to get a complete picture, explains Dr. Daniel Some, Director of Marketing and Principal Scientist at Wyatt Technology, Optimization of screening processes to reduce time and resources spent on ensuring long-term viability is a key consideration in the drug development process. The DynaPro Plate Reader II ensures comprehensive testing, over a range of conditions in minimal time, and eliminates the need for additional laboratory apparatus when screening the stability-indicating parameters of high concentration protein formulations.
web: www.wyatt.com
HPLC Columns Waters Corporation has expanded its family of CORTECS Columns with the 2.7 micron silica-based, solid-core particle columns. The new set of columns is an addition to the Waters CORTECS family of columns. Designed for analytical scientists who need to maximize performance on their existing LC systems, CORTECS 2.7 micron Columns run at lower pressures while delivering high efficiencies. This gives the scientist the flexibility to use longer column lengths to improve resolution or higher flow rates to speed instrument analysis times and increase throughput. CORTECS 2.7 micron Columns are scalable to CORTECS 1.6 micron Columns. CORTECS C18+ columns deliver peak shapes for basic compounds and impart selectivity while being a formic acid-friendly option for LC/MS applications. CORTECS C18 Columns are RP columns offering balanced retention of acids, bases, and neutrals at low and mid-range pH. CORTECS HILIC Columns are designed for the retention of extremely polar analytes utilizing hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC).
web: www.waters.com
RTD Sensor Omega introduces its new PR-21 series of RTD sensors with M12 connector which features an all welded 316L stainless steel housing, an integral 4-pin M12 connector for easy connection, a fast response time and a temperature range of -50 to 250 degrees Celsius. The PR-21 series is ideal for process control and test and measurement applications. These sensors can be used in any 2, 3 or 4-wire application by selecting one of the two available wiring arrangements and using only those wires needed for your connection. This allows for simplified, trouble free installation with any existing application. This also allows the PR-21 series sensor to be used for a wide variety of replacement applications since it can be connected as-is with just about any measurement or control equipment available when combined with a 4-pin female M12 connector extension or patch cable.
web: www.omega.com
