www.laboratoryfocus.ca
Laboratory Focus June/July 2016
VISCOMETER RheoSense Inc. introduces the VROC® initium, an automatic viscometer for viscosity characterization. Equipped with automatic sample loading and sample cleaning, VROC® initium measures absolute viscosity as a function of shear rate across a wide temperature range. This allows unique viscosity fingerprinting of the samples. Samples in 96 well plates as well as 40 vial racks can be tested automatically with the intuitive software. It can measure viscosity for sample volumes as little as 10 microlitres, making it suitable for early stage development of protein therapeutics . Automatic intrinsic viscosity measurements provide size of molecules in various formulations and in various conditions which help shorten development time. With the extreme repeatability and small footprint, the VROC® initium is the workhorse for both research and routine viscosity measurements.
Web: www.rheosense.com
CAMERAS ZEISS has introduced two new digital microscope cameras, the ZEISS Axiocam 702 mono and ZEISS Axiocam 512 color, to its current portfolio. With ZEISS Axiocam 702 mono, ZEISS for the first time introduces a microscope camera with a scientific CMOS sensor. Users benefit from low read noise, excellent low light sensitivity and high speed for live cell imaging and acquisition of fast processes. ZEISS Axiocam 702 mono features a 1/1.2″ (13.3 mm diagonal) sensor with a resolution of 2.3 megapixels, making it an attractive entry into the world of scientific CMOS imaging. ZEISS Axiocam 512 color allows acquisition of large sample areas in one high resolution, true color image. The 12 megapixel CCD sensor with a size of 1″ (16 mm diagonal) delivers an excellent live image and high acquisition speed. ZEISS Axiocam 512 color in combination with low magnification and zoom objectives offers optimal resolution for imaging of large specimens without stitching. Both new camera models feature high-speed USB 3.0 connections and active thermoelectric cooling.
Web: www.zeiss.com
DNA EXTRACTION KIT The NextPrep-Mag™ Urine cfDNA Isolation Kit from Bioo Scientific is an automation-friendly kit designed to extract cell free DNA from urine, using a magnetic bead format. The rapid procedure can be completed in only 30 minutes and does not require a vacuum manifold. Using the kit, sufficient cfDNA is recovered from urine sample volume ranging from less than 1 mL to more than 20 mL, to allow robust construction of libraries for targeted or whole genome sequencing. The cfDNA isolated using this kit can be used for applications including studies of circulating fetal DNA and cancer diagnostic-related liquid biopsy studies.
Web: www.biooscientific.com
New Products PIPETTES Unlike traditional pipettes which utilize a single rotating plunger to set volumes, the EVOLVE manual pipette from INTEGRA features three adjustable dials for setting each individual volume digit. Simply depress and twist the plunger to unlock the volume dials. Once unlocked, freely adjust the three dials to rapidly set the desired volume. This new approach allows users to set volumes more than ten times faster. The pipettes come in single, eight and twelve channel formats, covering a volume range of 0.2 to 5,000 µl. They are optimized for use with INTEGRA’s wide range of GripTips pipette tips. The GripTips simply snap into place with minimal tip loading effort, providing a secure connection. Additionally, the new INTEGRA linear stand can accommodate up to thirteen EVOLVE pipettes. It can also be converted into a charging stand to charge any INTEGRA electronic pipettes.
Web: www.integra-biosciences.com
IMAGING SYSTEM Molecular Devices LLC announces the launch of its ImageXpress® Micro 4 HighContent Imaging System. Additionally, its latest version of MetaXpress® HighContent Image Acquisition and Analysis Software is now capable of 3D image analysis. For scientists conducting basic research or high-throughput screening, the ImageXpress System is an integrated and scalable toolset for optimal 3D image acquisition and analysis. With the new ImageXpress system and MetaXpress 3D software toolkit users can directly access a smooth and integrated workflow, eliminating the need for third-party tools and time-consuming bottlenecks for acquisition and analysis of complex 3D datasets. Its modular configuration allows researchers to customize the system to fit individual needs, now including the ability to add confocal capability with the AgileOptix™ spinning disc confocal module without disruption to existing workflows.
Web: http://go.moleculardevices.com/ixm-4
SAMPLE PREPARATION Seward Ltd. has introduced the all new Seward Stomacher® 400 EVO laboratory blender, together with Stomacher® 400 ECO sample preparation bags. The Stomacher 400 EVO has been engineered and designed for easy use and silent operation. Laboratories can also save on consumables by using the blender with the new Stomacher ECO bags. These use significantly less plastic, saving waste and making them both economical and eco-friendly. Its unique, one-touch bag loading system means operators just need to place the bag in the loading slot, and by pushing the start button, the bag is sealed and blending begins. Together with the ‘no-fuss’ programmable screen display, operators can process samples quickly and efficiently. The Seward Stomacher 400 EVO’s rubber base, combined with a host of design and engineering developments, also helps to eliminate bench movements. A removable drip tray means that any spillages during the day can be quickly cleaned, and for thorough cleaning, the paddle chamber can be easily opened and the paddles removed, making the complete chamber accessible.
Web: www.seward.co.uk.
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