What’s New in Lab Technology Feb/Mar 2012 by Westwick-Farrow Media

www.LabOnline.com.au

February/March 2012

contents

People, News & Views

Analytical

Researchers discover particle which could ‘cool the planet’

Have your say and stop bomb precursors getting into the wrong hands

23 10

Improving catalytic sustainability

Life Sciences

Proteomics and the formation of long-term memories

Point-of-care blood poisoning testing

27 Clinical

Rapid identification of Golden Staph infections

Crossword

Feb/Mar 2012 - WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY

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Lab test technology ‘spot-on’ for originality

National research cloud heralds sunny days for Australian researchers

illiSpot, a porous polymer-based material for storing dry blood used in laboratory analyses, is a step closer to securing comprehensive patents, following the release of a Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) report indicating that all claims of the patent application appear to be novel and inventive. Developed at the University of Tasmania (UTAS) by Professor Emily Hilder and her research team at the Australian Centre for Research on Separation Science (ACROSS), the MilliSpot technology extends the use of traditional paper-based materials for storing small quantities of blood and other samples involved (primarily) in pharmaceutical drug development. Its materials provide a two to three times more sensitive response than can be achieved from paper.

The research team is working with UTAS commercialisation partner UniQuest to prepare the technology for a global market launch. An internationally-recognised patent application will boost the value of the technology for potential investors. The International Preliminary Report on Patentability (IPRP) follows another recent commercialisation milestone for the innovation: a $49,680 Skills and Knowledge grant from Commercialisation Australia to define the capital requirements for manufacturing scale-up versions of a product based on the technology. Dr Robin Fieldhouse, a UniQuest Manager of Innovation and Commercial Development based at UTAS, said the two achievements were positive, ‘de-risking’ markers that potential investors would recognise as enhancing the value this innovation could bring to global health care. “The IPRP report confirmed the originality of the polymer materials used to separate specified drugs from the blood within the storage medium, resulting in more precise analyses from simplified procedures, and the engineering consultancy funded by the grant revealed some very attractive methods of manufacture at meaningful scales,” Dr Fieldhouse explained.

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omputing and computer power has long been an important part of an Australian researcher’s way of working. But while there are many significant e-research infrastructure initiatives in place in Australia, cloud computing at a national scale, accessible to all researchers, has not been addressed - until now. The National eResearch Collaboration Tools and Resources (NeCTAR) project is partnering with Australian research institutions to create a national research cloud purpose-built for Australian researchers. The University of Melbourne commissioned the first node of the NeCTAR research cloud on 31 January 2012. Further nodes of the cloud will be commissioned by other research institutions throughout 2012. The cloud will empower researchers with self-service abilities to publish research data, share knowledge, and deploy and access software applications without the burden of operating their own computer servers. Researchers will be able to respond

rapidly to new developments through instant access to scalable computing resources and applications. Computational results will be easily shared with national and international collaboration partners. NeCTAR’s Director, Associate Professor Glenn Moloney, said it is an exciting and innovative time to be an Australian researcher. “The research cloud provides Austr alian researchers w ith many efficiencies and benefits, such as reducing barriers to the rapid sharing of innovative research applications and computer power from a single server to thousands of servers. Researchers can easily put their great ideas, tools, research applications and data online, instantly. “NeCTAR’s national research cloud is an Australian first; providing flexible and scalable computer power at any time, accessible to all Australian researchers. As an Australian secure platform to share access to research applications, the NeCTAR cloud supports the increasingly collaborative nature of Australian research.”

Certified analytical reference materials

estek’s reference standard manufacturing and QA testing laboratories have added ISO Guide 34 and 17025 accreditations to their credentials. Issued by the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA), these accreditations - as well as the company’s ISO 9001 registration, which has been maintained since 1994 - serve as recognition that Restek and its labs meet the world-class quality standards established by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO).

In addition to a full line of options that are in stock and ready to ship, Restek’s custom reference standards are also covered by its ISO Guide 34 and 17025 accreditations. Whether you need something right out of the catalogue or a custom-formulated solution, Restek can satisfy all of your primary- and secondary-source certified reference material needs - along with GC and LC columns, sample prep supplies and accessories.

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

PEOPLE NEWS VIEWS

PEOPLE NEWS VIEWS Vitamin D testing

t a time of increasing concern about low vitamin D levels in the world’s population and increased use of blood tests for the vitamin, scientists are reporting development of a muchneeded reference material to assure that measurements of vitamin D levels are accurate. The report appears in the American Chemical Society’s journal Analytical Chemistry. People can make their own vitamin D simply by rolling up their shirt sleeves and exposing their skin to sunlight. But for those cooped up in offices all day long, food and dietary supplements also can provide vitamin D. With this renewed interest in vitamin D, scientists need an accurate way to measure its levels in the blood. Measuring vitamin D itself doesn’t work because it is rapidly changed into another form in the liver. That’s why current methods detect levels of a vitamin D metabolite called 25(OH) D. However, the test methods don’t always agree and produce different results. To help laboratories come up

with consistent and accurate methods, the researchers developed a Standard Reference Material called SRM 972, the first certified reference material for the determination of the metabolite in human serum (a component of blood). The researchers developed four versions of the standard, with different levels of the vitamin D metabolites 25(OH)D2 and 25(OH)D3 in human serum. They also determined the levels of 3-epi-25(OH)D in the adult human serum samples. Surprisingly, they found that this metabolite - previously thought to only exist in the blood of infants - was present in adult serum. “This reference material provides a mechanism to ensure measurement accuracy and comparability and represents a first step toward standardisation of 25(OH)D measurements,” say the researchers. The authors acknowledge funding from the National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements.

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Sigma-Aldrich completes acquisition of BioReliance

igma-Aldrich has completed its acquisition of BioReliance Holdings from Avista Capital Partners for $350 million in cash, subject to normal postclosing adjustments. BioReliance is a prov ider of biopharmaceutical testing ser vices - including biologic, specialised toxicology and animal health testing to pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, diagnostics and other life science customers worldwide. The company employs over 650 people and is headquartered in Maryland, USA, with additional operations in Glasgow and Stirling, Scotland, and sales offices in Tokyo, Japan, and Bangalore, India. “BioReliance’s global biopharmaceutical testing services will enable Sigma-Aldrich to build a specialised services platform that complements our existing products and technology strengths. It will expand our participation in the fast-growing biological

drug market and will help forge deeper and stronger strategic ties with existing and new customers,” said Rakesh Sachdev, President and CEO of Sigma-Aldrich. BioReliance will become part of SAFC, the custom manufacturing and services business unit of Sigma-Aldrich. Gilles Cottier, SAFC President, commented, “The combination of BioReliance and SAFC provides a richer value proposition for the development and manufacture of biological drugs. By leveraging SAFC’s industrial media presence and BioReliance’s biological testing services, we can provide new and better end-to-end product solutions and services to our biopharmaceutical customers.” BioReliance generated revenues of about $110 million during 2010, with double-digit growth expected for 2011. The acquisition is expected to be modestly accretive to SigmaAldrich’s diluted earnings per share in 2012.

Cosmo Bio appoints Australian distributor

osmo Bio has appointed United Bioresearch Products as its Australian distributor. Cosmo Bio has been supporting the Japanese life science research community for over 25 years with products from hundreds of domestic and international manufacturers and the appointment will mean that many of these products will now be made available outside Japan for the first time. Cosmo Bio supplies an extensive range of products including: monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies - 1000s of unusual and unique antibodies; ELISA and EIA kits - including collagen, corticosterone, cortisol and estradiol; proteins and

peptides - unique collagen and atelocollagen products; cell/tissue culture - FERTIUP mouse sperm products; cell biology and electrophoresis instruments; molecular biology kits and reagents IMMUNO Shot and GenomONE kits.

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

PEOPLE NEWS VIEWS State-of-the-art DNA lab for WA museum

Biosceptre’s targeted antibodies Lauren Davis

ohn Day - Minister for Planning; Culture and the Arts; Science and Innovation - has officially opened a new science and research facility at the Western Australian Museum’s Collection and Research Centre. The opening was also attended by Sam Walsh, CEO of Rio Tinto Iron Ore. Day said the Molecular Systematics Unit was a new state-of-the art laboratory for the identification of Western Australian fauna using modern DNA technology. “Opening the facility is a significant milestone for the WA Museum, enabling the organisation to undertake cutting-edge molecular research on a variety of WA animals,” he said.

“The laboratory will allow for the accurate identification of new species using molecular tools and methods that will provide, among other things, better certainty for environmental impact assessments to government and industry. “This facility will become the hub of the museum’s research in understanding and identifying WA fauna which tell the extraordinary stories about our state. “This will ensure the museum can continue to work with and expand its partnerships with other government departments such as Environment and Conservation, Fisheries, and of course working with the museum’s industry partners such as Rio Tinto Iron Ore.” In November 2010, the WA Museum received Environmental Offset funding of $1.6 million from Rio Tinto Iron Ore for the construction and staffing of the Molecular Systematics Unit. “The WA Museum has long awaited the development of such a facility that will aid genetic analysis of the state’s fauna, a task that the museum has in the past outsourced to other organisations at considerable cost,” the Minister said.

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iosceptre has announced that it is about to clinically trial the use of targeted antibodies as a method to treat cancer. At a Sydney conference held on 24 January, it was revealed that the company has identified a receptor found only in cancer cells. Furthermore, this receptor is present across a range of cancers, meaning the same antibody could be used against all these types. Biosceptre has developed such an antibody, designed to find the target and kill the cancer cells. This was achieved with the help of world-renowned molecular biologist Sir Gregory Winter, who has been pivotal in creating the methods used to develop therapeutic antibodies. He is now the Chair of Biosceptre’s Scientific Advisory Board. Speaking at the conference, Sir Gregory said that while antibodies have been traditionally used against bacteria and viruses, the potential has now been realised for their use against human targets, such as cancers and immune disorders. Antibodies have several advantages over traditional small molecules - they escape filtration by the kidneys, bind tightly to the target, discriminate between it and similar cells, and can block the interaction of protein surfaces. Dr Cliff Holloway, CEO of Biosceptre, explained how the company identified

P2X7, a major cellular receptor responsible for normal programmed cell death. But subtle structure change renders P2X 7 non-functional (nf-P2X7). It is this form which is present in cancer cells and which Biosceptre’s antibodies will target. Biosceptre is currently working with colleagues at the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN). AIBN aims to make higher affinity antibodies, making them more humanlike. Sir Gregory has previously worked on humanising animal antibodies, transferring the tips of mouse antibodies onto those of humans. The antibody has already been made in sheep and tested on an ad hoc basis with patient consent. But Sir Gregory noted that despite promising results, large pharmaceutical companies expect proper preclinical trials as opposed to anecdotal evidence if the product is to develop further. Antibody development is complex and expensive, and a lack of funding has made this difficult for Biosceptre. The company recently secured $8 million to use in developing an ointment for the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancers. This year they hope to raise another $15 million. To find out more about Biosceptre and nf-P2X7, visit www.biosceptre.com.

Web resource for biobanking

ryoFeed is a web-based information re s o u rce f or re s e a rch e r s w h o cryopreserve biological specimens. The microsite, developed by Wheaton, is a place where scientists can find the latest biobank related news and technical tips for topics like sample containment, management (tracking, batching and storing) and processing. Visitors can sign up for free updates, post comments and suggest topics for articles. CryoFeed was developed to provide answers to questions about sample containment-related issues. This reflects the need in the biomedical and life sciences research communities to secure knowledge

concerning the biological, physiological and genetic characteristics of individual biological specimens. For more information, visit http:// www.cryofeed.com.

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

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©2011 Life Technologies Corporation. All rights reserved. The trademarks mentioned herein are the property of Life Technologies Corporation or their respective owners. For research use only. Not intended for any animal or human therapeutic or diagnostic use. CO18747

analytical

Researchers discover particle which could ‘cool the planet’

n a breakthrough paper published in Science, researchers from The University of Manchester, The University of Bristol and Sandia National Laboratories report the potentially revolutionary effects of Criegee biradicals. These invisible chemical intermediates are powerful oxidisers of pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide, produced by combustion, and can naturally clean up the atmosphere. Although these chemical intermediates were hypothesised in the 1950s, it is only now that they have been detected. Scientists now believe that, with further research, these species could play a major role in offsetting climate change. The detection of the Criegee biradical and measurement of how fast it reacts was made possible by a unique apparatus, designed by Sandia researchers, that uses light from a third-generation synchrotron facility, at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory’s Advanced Light Source. The intense, tunable light from the synchrotron allowed researchers to discern the formation and removal of different isomeric species - molecules that contain the same atoms but arranged in different combinations. The researchers found that the Criegee biradicals react more rapidly than first thought and will accelerate the formation of sulfate and nitrate in the atmosphere. These compounds will lead to aerosol formation and ultimately to cloud formation with the potential to cool the planet. The formation of Criegee biradicals was first postulated by Rudolf Criegee in the 1950s. However, despite their importance, it has not been possible to directly study these important species in the laboratory. In the last 100 years, Earth’s average surface temperature increased by about 0.8°C with about two thirds of the increase occurring over just the last three decades. 10

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Most countries have agreed that drastic cuts in greenhouse gas emissions are required, and that future global warming should be limited to below 2.0°C. Dr Carl Percival, Reader in Atmospheric Chemistry at The University of Manchester and one of the authors of the paper, believes there could be significant research possibilities arising from the discovery of the Criegee biradicals. He said: “Criegee radicals have been impossible to measure until this work carried out at the Advanced Light Source. We have been able to quantify how fast Criegee radicals react for the first time. “Our results will have a significant impact on our understanding of the oxidising capacity of the atmosphere and have wide-ranging implications for pollution and climate change. “The main source of these Criegee biradicals does not depend on sunlight and so these processes take place throughout the day and night.” Professor Dudley Shallcross, Professor in Atmospheric Chemistry at The University of Bristol, added: “A significant ingredient required for the production of these Criegee biradicals comes from chemicals released quite naturally by plants, so natural ecosystems could be playing a significant role in offsetting warming.”

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

Criegee biradicals may have the potential to play a significant role in offsetting global warming by cooling the planet.

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Have your say and stop bomb precursors getting into the wrong hands 12

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

analytical

12:02 The Attorney-General’s Department’s Chemical Security program requires chemical manufacturers’ and users’ input to develop systems to prevent common chemicals being misappropriated and used in illegal bomb manufacture.

ndustry and members of the community have until 30 March 2012 to comment on measures designed to reduce the risks of common chemicals getting into the wrong hands and being used to make homemade bombs. There are literally tens of thousands of chemicals used daily in Australia for commercial and household purposes. There are over 400,000 chemical-based products on the market, which are used by some 570,000 workplaces and millions of Australian consumers. The vast majority of these chemical products have important and legitimate uses. However, in the wrong hands, some chemicals can be used to make lethal weapons. Terrorism remains a significant threat to western societies, including Australia. While terrorists use a wide range of weapons to pursue their objectives, the ease of availability of chemicals in Australia makes homemade explosives an ideal weapon. In 2011, we saw the devastating effects of precursor chemicals when a homemade explosive device was detonated in Oslo, Norway, killing eight people and injuring 90. That bomb was created using chemical materials that are readily available in Australia, including fertiliser, nitromethane and aluminium. So far, Australia has been fortunate in not having experienced a direct terrorist attack on its own soil. However, it has still been impacted significantly through terrorism incidents worldwide, many of which involved chemical explosives. Australia’s National Terrorism public alert remains at ‘medium’, which means authorities believe a terrorist attack could occur. This ongoing concern has driven

governments and industry to work together to determine practical ways of minimising the risk of chemicals being misused by terrorists to make homemade explosives. Part of this work is a Regulation Impact Statement (RIS) that weighs up the costs and benefits of a number of different policy options, including a targeted awareness campaign, codes of practice and supply-chain regulation. Stakeholders have an important opportunity to help shape government policy on this issue by commenting on the RIS. In particular, this is your chance to put forward your views and comment on issues, such as cost, effectiveness and likely uptake of a range of measures. These include: employee and contractor checking, inventory and consignment control, security during transport and storage, and point-of-sale procedures. The Attorney-General’s Department (AGD) is particularly interested in receiving input from businesses that manufacture, handle or use any products that contain the following chemicals: • Ammonium perchlorate (NH 4ClO 4) • Hydrogen peroxide (H 2O 2) • Nitric acid (HNO 3) • Nitromethane (CH 3NO 2) • Potassium chlorate (KClO 3) • Potassium nitrate (KNO 3) • Potassium perchlorate (KClO 4) • Sodium azide (NaN 3) • Sodium chlorate (NaClO 3) • Sodium nitrate (NaNO 3) • Sodium perchlorate (NaClO 4) Comments and input received during the consultation process will inform the final Decision RIS, including the recommended course of action. The public consultation period is scheduled to commence on 3 February and end on 30 March 2012. To obtain a copy of the Consultation RIS and to find out how to make a submission, please refer to the AGD Chemical Security program website at www.chemicalsecurity.gov.au/RIS. For further information, you can also contact AGD on (02) 6141 2925 or (02) 6141 3012.

12: 02

2 12:0

Attorney General's Office Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M734

Feb/Mar 2012 - WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY

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analytical Carboys VWR Carboys are a fluid handling system with an ergonomic design and versatile cap technology, which are claimed to make the product easy to use and to clean. The carboys include design features that allow the user to easily hold and manipulate them during lifting, filling and pouring. They have a sturdy shape to maximise footprint and volume capacity, and top and bottom handles for secure grip. Leakproof even when placed on the side, the carboys are suitable for field work, allowing for sterile sample collection and transport of sterile solutions to any location. Sanitary spout options are available for use with standard seals and clasps. With in-connection flexibility, the leakproof cap adaptors enable users to quickly change the top connectors of each carboy. The product is available in BPA-free co-polyester, HDPE or polypropylene; all of which are FDA and USP Class VI materials. Tints include clear, opaque or amber. Capacity ranges from 2 to 40 L, with the 20 and 40 L carboys available in a wide-mouth version for easier filling and cleaning. VWR International Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M655

Laser distance sensor The Dimetix FLS-C distance measuring device measures absolute distances up to 500 m without contact. Due to laser technology, the FLS-C has an absolute accuracy of 1 mm. Even a colour change of the target object does not affect the accuracy. The repeatability of the FLS-C measuring device is typically 0.3 mm. The FLS-C is an optical distance measuring device. It measures, maintenance free, distances on natural and reflecting surfaces. It determines positions of objects that are difficult to access or may have very high surface temperatures. Just as easily, it accurately measures distances in hostile environments. The FLS-C is designed to be suitable for both heavy industrial and outdoor applications. It is constructed of a solid metal case and provides class IP65 environmental protection. It represents a cost-efficient solution even at extreme environment temperatures as low as -40Â°C. Birrer Industries Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M083

Automated digestion The Thomas Cain range of automated sampling handling systems fully automates the sample preparation for EPA and other laboratory methods that use hot water baths or heated blocks. The DEENA system removes the need for most of the manual sample preparation reduces the errors associated with sample handling and has the necessary functionality to automate the sample digestion process without modifying it. In addition to dispensing reagents and heating the samples, DEENA prepares calibration and spike standards, shakes the samples, inspects their colour, adjusts the sample volumes after the digestion process and records every step taken in the process for audit purposes. Scientifix-Techcomp Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/L746

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pH/ISE and EC/TDS/ resistivity/salinity meter The Hanna Instruments HI 4522 researchgrade, benchtop instrument features eight measurement modes: pH, ORP (oxidation reduction potential), ISE, conductivity, resistivity, TDS, salinity and temperature. The meter has dual channels and separate temperature input, and supports the external reference electrodes required by half-cell pH and ISE sensors. The user interface is customisable and capable of displaying two channels at the same time, showing the measurements in various modes: basic measurement with or without GLP information, graph or logging data. Clear tutorial messages and directions are available on-screen to quickly and easily guide users through all measurement and calibration procedures to ensure measurements and calibrations are performed properly. Automatic, semiautomatic and manual pH calibration is available in up to five points, with eight standard and up to five custom buffers. The meter has Out of Calibration Range and Cal Due warnings. ISE calibration is performed with up to five standard solutions or up to five custom solutions with or without temperature compensation. From the on-screen list, users can select their ISE electrode parameter along with its standard configuration profile or create their own. Up to a four point automatic or custom standard conductivity calibration can be performed in up to four points as well as probe cell constant. One fixed point salinity calibration can be performed on the Percent Scale only. Three salinity ranges are available: practical scale, natural seawater scale and percentage scale. Up to 10 profiles can be saved and recalled, eliminating the need to reconfigure each time a different probe is used. Three selectable logging modes are available: automatic, manual and auto hold logging. Up to 100 logging lots with up to 10,000 records each can be stored for automatic or manual modes along with up to 200 USP reports and up to 100 ISE methods reports. Data can be transferred to a PC via the optoisolated RS232 or USB ports and HI 92000 software (optional). HI 4522 is supplied with HI 76312 conductivity/TDS probe, HI 1131B pH electrode, HI 7662-T temperature probe, HI 70004 pH 4.01 buffer solution sachet, HI 70007 pH 7.01 buffer solution sachet, HI 700661 electrode cleaning solution sachet (2), HI 7071S electrolyte solution (30 mL), HI 76404N electrode holder, 12 VDC adapter and instructions. Hanna Instruments Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M090

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

analytical Wireless voltage logger

Vacuum and process technology

TandD has introduced its RTR-505V Wireless Logger. The logger can measure DC voltages from 0 to 22 VDC with accuracy of ±0.5 mV. It can be used to measure voltage directly or from the output of a variety of sensors and instruments. The device features a large LCD, capacity for 16,000 readings, IP64 water resistance and up to four years of battery life with the ‘L’ version. Compatible with all TandD RTR-500 Series Wireless Data Collectors, the RTR-505V can be integrated into a wireless network with other logger types. They can be monitored locally, through a cellular phone system, or anywhere in the world over the internet. Other features include real-time monitoring and warning notifications. The communication range is up to 150 m, which can be extended with the use of a repeater. CMC Technologies Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M343

Portable particle counter The Lighthouse Worldwide Solutions Solair 1100LD (laser diode) portable particle counter has 0.10 µm sensitivity and 28.3 L/min flow rate using long-life laser diode technology. Conventional HeNe particle counters require frequent cleaning, periodic laser tube replacement and suffer low concentration limits. This product is designed to operate in ISO Class 1 to Class 7 clean rooms without concerns of it degrading its environment or exceeding concentration limits. It uses an optics and photodiode system designed to reduce or eliminate the temperature issues associated with high-power laser diode sensors and the thermally controlled exhaust system and HEPA filter option prevent any external contamination. The icon-driven interface with multiple languages simplifies training and SOP writing. Its Cleanroom Standard report wizards make this device suitable as a clean room certification tool and eliminate the need for complex UCL calculations. Its flexible communication and data logging capabilities enable the product to connect to ethernet or RS485 networks, connect point-to-point to a PC using USB or securely export its data to a USB flash drive. The device can be used as a portable instrument or integrated into a facility monitoring system. Weighing 11.8 kg with the Li-Ion battery option, it is claimed to be the smallest, lightest and coolest running 0.10 µm, 28.3 L/min portable particle counter available. Particle & Surface Sciences Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M253

GC connector The SilTite µ-union from SGE Analytical Science simplifies connecting GC guard columns or columns for twodimensional GC. The device offers these advantages over other connectors and press-fits: it is chemically inert; has good operational stability and low dead volume; is easy to install; provides a leak-free connection. The connector’s stainless steel surfaces are treated to ensure inertness and optimal chromatography. The device has low thermal mass and tracks the GC oven temperature during temperature programming so that chromatography is unaffected. The low dead volume of the GC connector ensures optimal peak shapes. Installation is easy with FingerTite fittings that can be tightened with finger force, avoiding the need for tools or wrenches. The connector is claimed to achieve a perfect, reliable seal even for the most sensitive GCMS systems. SGE Analytical Science Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M446

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John Morris Scientific has been appointed as the distributor for EVAC AG within Australia, New Zealand and the islands of the South West Pacific. EVAC AG is a provider of quick-release connections for high-demand vacuum and process technology applications including ultrahigh-vacuum and high-pressure hydraulics. They offer a wide range of standard and custom-made chain clamps, flanges, fittings, seals and bellows: KF Systems are frequently used for rough to high vacuum, up to 10E-9 mbar (100 nPa), or peak pressure up to 20 bar (2 MPa), depending on the flange diameter, seal material and geometry of the centre ring. While inner centre rings are used for vacuum applications, outer centre rings are used for overpressure. Combinations of both are available, where both conditions are likely to occur. KF connections are available in sizes NW10/16 up to NW50 according to ISO. An additional size, KF NW63, is also available with appropriate seals (elastomer, aluminium) and chain clamps. CeFiX Systems are the next generation of the Conflat (CF) system. They allow customers to create a EUHV leakproof connection within seconds. This connection (<10E-11 mbar, <1 nPa) can carry an overpressure of up to 300 bar (using especially certified chain clamps with TÜV approval). This is achieved by using hard nickel seals, impossible to penetrate even by a CF knife edge but easily compressed using the geartype force-multiplying mechanism of CeFiX chain clamps. This technology requires only 50% of the CF compression force at seal surface in order to achieve gas-tight intermetallic diffusion bonds. With a particle-free area-pressing mechanism, seals can be re-used up to 10 times due to the fact that smooth overlapping areas do not exhibit the leaking deficiencies of the deep CF groove imprints. Another advantage of the wide overlapping area and 200 to 400 µm cross-section is its extensive thermocycling capability with a sheer range of -271 to +450°C, usually breaking the fragile CF knife edge just after one cycle. Tapered Systems allows customers to quickly create a leakproof connection by tightening 1-2 screws (elastomer seals = 1 screw and aluminium edge seals = 2 screws in order to get a better force distribution). They are available in standard sizes from NW80 up to NW250, with larger sizes up to NW700 available on request. Flanges are available in stainless steel as well as in glass (Duran, quartz). John Morris Scientific Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M707

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

ÂŽ

Cubis

1st Lab Balance with Automatic Q-leveling Now, for the first time, there is a laboratory balance that features self-actuated leveling. That means less effort for operators, more time to devote to their real work and greater safety all around. Q-Level permits automatic, motorized leveling at the touch of a button. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never been an easier way to ensure that a laboratory balance is set up properly.

Australia Phone: 1 800 645 076 03 8762 1800 e-mail: info.australia@ sartorius-stedim.com

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analytical Ultralow-temperature freezers Thermo Fisher Scientific has introduced the Revco UxF Series ultralow-temperature (ULT) freezers. Available in five sizes, with capacities from 421 to 949 L, internal space is maximised within a small laboratory footprint. The design of the cabinet and its vacuum panel insulation allow up to 70,000 2 mL tubes or 118,300 1 mL Thermo Scientific Cryobank tubes to be stored at any one time. Providing temperature uniformity throughout the internal chamber, usable space is maximised, making this product suitable for any space-restricted laboratories. Providing good sample protection during long- and shortterm cold storage, this product is available in a number of different size and capacity formats, to suit any storage and space requirements. As a result, users can store large sample numbers, saving valuable time in making stock solutions for subsequent use.

Online tool for selecting column protection products

Phenomenex has introduced Guard Finder, an interactive online tool that helps users quickly select column protection products for over 41,000 HPLC, UHPLC and preparative HPLC columns. The simple and flexible interface allows the user to search by brand, part number, technique or column phase. In seconds, the tool matches input with the recommended Phenomenex column protection. It can be accessed at http://www.phenomenex.com/GuardIt. The tool recommends column filters and SecurityGuard cartridges that protect against the damaging effects of chemical contaminants and microparticulates introduced by the sample, mobile phase or system, which can negatively impact column lifetime, method sensitivity, quantitation and peak identification. Column protection also reduces troubleshooting and downtime.

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Phenomenex Australia

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M353

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M548

Mercury analysers

Now with digital shaking and temperature control

The Teledyne Leeman Labs mercury analysers automate the determination of mercury, freeing time for other laboratory tasks. With capabilities to analyse mercury at levels of 1 ppt and less, analysis times of one minute per sample and a specially designed early warning system to protect against contamination by samples with high mercury levels, the analysers are suitable for any lab wanting accuracy, speed and reliability in mercury analysis. The preparation system provides unattended sample preparation of up to 88 samples, six calibration standards and seven QC check standards and/or spiked samples in one batch. The digestion procedures are based on EPA approved methodologies. The models available include: the Hydra II AA, which is a fully automated analyser based on the traditional cold vapour AA technique; the Hydra AF, which is a fully automated cold vapour atomic fluorescence analyser that can detect limits of <1 ppt and a dynamic range in excess of four orders of magnitude. It is suitable for satisfying the requirements of methods such as EPA 245.7. The Hydra AF Gold is a fully automated atomic fluorescence analyser equipped with gold amalgamation capability for preconcentration of Hg from ultralow-level samples. This yields limits of detection well below 1 ppt (typically <0.05 ppt) and is intended to address the needs of the analyst who routinely works in the sub ppt range. The Hydra C is suitable for determining mercury in a variety of matrices including solids without the need for acid digestion, chemical oxidation or reduction, with DL <0.01 ng. The analyser uses thermal decomposition to release bound mercury from the sample matrix and is designed to meet all the analytical requirements of USEPA Method 7473. Scientifix-Techcomp Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/L748

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

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Orbital shaker Lab processes involving mixing and shaking are many and varied, and so are the sizes and types of containers used in such processes; so lab users are continually searching for models which cater to the largest range of containers possible. The Sea Star shaker by Aktivlab caters to flasks and beakers ranging from 250 mL to 1 L, offering a speed range of 20-300 rpm. This unit comes with a rubber mat on the platform plus eight rubber straps which can be fastened in a variety of ways to restrain various containers and combinations of containers during the shaking process, thus avoiding breakage. Other features include electronic speed control with soft start, 1 min to 49 h timer and a digital display of speed and running time.

Setting up a New Optics or Physics Lab?

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Analytical balance PW analytical balances from Adam Equipment can be used to quickly and accurately measure to 0.1 mg. Models range from 120 to 250 g, making them suitable for most medical and laboratory applications. The balance features durable metal construction, internal motorised calibration and a large backlit dual display that shows text prompts to help the user set it up quickly. Highlighted tare keys stand out for accessibility, while other buttons operate setup functions, turn the balance on or off, send data to a printer, calibrate, and change modes and weighing units. The bidirectional RS232 interface enables data transfer from the balance to printers or computers. This allows foolproof data recording and traceability, letting the operator focus on data analysis. Other features include built-in applications for density, percentage, comparison and check weighing, plus counting and dynamic or animal weighing. The balance offers 16 weighing units, including a custom unit. Adam Equipment (SE ASIA) Pty Ltd

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Analytical technique to detect carbendazim in orange juice Waters Corporation has confirmed an analytical technique to rapidly determine residue levels of the fungicide carbendazim in orange juice, with no sample preparation, at regulated levels, by using the ultra-high sensitivity of its Xevo TQ-S mass spectrometer and Acquity UPLC I-Class system. Recent news about the presence of carbendazim in orange juice products has drawn widespread public attention on the safety of the fruit juice. Carbendazim is used legally in Brazil and other countries for plant disease control, post-harvest food storage or transportation and seed pre-plant treatment. It is not approved for use on citrus fruit in Australia and orange juice products in Australia will not be permitted to contain any carbendazim after the first quarter of 2012. The use of the instruments allows scientists to employ a ‘dilute-and-shoot’ approach to orange juice analysis, detecting carbendazim residue at concentrations below 10 ppb. The method is said to allow for increases in analysis throughput and reduction in method development time. Many published methods are capable of analysing fungicides, including carbendazim, in fruit juices in the low ppb range. However, intensive sample preparation is normally required in order to remove possible interferences and to enrich the analytes. Waters claims that its method requires no sample preparation due to the sensitivity and specificity of its instruments.

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To redeem simply call us on +65 6273 6644 or email sgsales@edmundoptics.com.sg quoting “NEWLAB” fax: (65) 6272 1763 website: www.edmundoptics.com.sg

Waters Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M717

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analytical Research-grade EC/resistivity/TDS/salinity benchtop meter HI 4321 is a research-grade EC/resistivity/TDS/salinity benchtop meter with a large, colour, graphic LCD with backlight that is capable of millesimal measuring resolution of conductivity with an extended range from 0.001 µS/cm to 1 S/cm. Conductivity measurement is fully customisable including: temperature compensation coefficient, temperature reference, selectable compensation method, linear, natural water and no compensation, adjustable cell constant and TDS factor. All ranges of conductivity, resistivity and TDS feature auto range or users can select the unit to measure manually. Three salinity scales are available: natural seawater, practical salinity and %. HI 4321 can be used to perform all three stages of USP <645> method required for conductivity measurement of pure and ultrapure water. The instrument provides clear directions on how to perform each testing stage and automatically monitors the temperature, conductivity and stability during testing and determines whether a sample is within USP limits. This instrument is equipped with auto buffer standard recognition and can support custom calibration solutions, with up to four point calibration. A warning alerts users when measuring outside the calibration range. This system will also remind the user when a new calibration is due. Features also include real-time graphic displays and on-screen GLP data. Onboard contextual help can be accessed from any mode simply by pressing the HELP button. Up to 10 profiles can be saved and recalled, eliminating the need to reconfigure each time when a different electrode is used. Three selectable logging modes are available: automatic, manual and auto hold logging. Up to 100 logging lots with 10,000 records per lot can be stored for automatic or manual modes along with up to 200 USP reports. Connect to a PC via the USB or RS232 ports with the use of HI 92000 Windows-compatible software. HI 4321 is supplied with the HI 76312 conductivity probe, HI 76404N electrode holder, 12 VDC power adapter and instructions. Hanna Instruments Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M089

Test tube multirack Available from Interpath Services, the S600 MultiRack preassembled autoclavable rack can be used for a wide range of applications in any laboratory. Made from acetal polymer, the rack will not shatter, rust, stain or peel. It has a broad chemical resistance and is suitable for use in water baths. The rack is compact, lightweight and stackable in order to save as much space as possible. Not only is it submersible but it will also sink and maintain stability without tipping over. The rack is made of three tiers to facilitate the insertion and stability of tubes. It will accommodate tubes with a diameter of 13, 16 and 25-30 mm. Interpath Services Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M519

Handheld thermometer Available to rent, the Hart 1523 NATA precision handheld thermometer accurately measures, graphs and records PRTs, thermocouples and thermistors, using a wide measurement range. It performs laboratory measurements, field applications and data logging, documenting up to 25 readings, ready for easy retrieval. It is claimed to be virtually insensitive to environmental temperature, measures PRTs up to ±0.011°C and has multiple probes to suit various tasks. TechRentals Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M366

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

analytical Wide neck bottle in 250 and 3500 mL The Duran GLS 80 wide neck bottle has an 80 mm opening. This wide neck, along with a blue screw cap and pouring ring, allows for optimum filling, pouring and cleaning, while the quick release closure allows the bottle to be opened and closed in less than one turn. The bottle is available in sizes from 250 to 20,000 mL, with the latest sizes being the intermediate 250 and 3500 mL. The 250 mL bottle allows for sampling and storage of viscous liquids, pastes, powders and granules. The 3500 mL enables a much wider range of usage: from long-term storage and transport through to demanding applications in the pharmaceutical industry. These autoclavable bottles come in Glass type 1, neutral glass conforming to USP(1) / EP(2) and JP(3), with uniform wall thickness and a retrace code (batch certificate via Internet). They are also available in amber or with plastic coating and quality. Duran laboratory glass bottles are suitable for many applications in the laboratory due to properties such as good chemical resistance, nearly inert behaviour and high usage temperature. For further information contact SCHOTT Australia for your nearest distributor.

Desk-mounted eyewash units

Aktivlab now offers a range of desk-mounted eyewash units which can be mounted almost anywhere in the laboratory. Each unit comes with a 1.5 m flexible hose and can be plumbed into the nearest mains water supply. These units are made from rubber, ABS and chrome-plated brass, with an ergonomic and aesthetic design to fit the most modern lab decor. Choose from single and double eyewash units, eyewash unit and tap combination, or upgrade to an eyewash unit complete with PP or stainless bowl (these need to be wall mounted). All units feature an integrated regulator which diffuses the stream of water evenly at the correct pressure to cleanse the eye.

Schott Australia Pty Ltd

Aktivlab

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analytical Lab balance

Ultra selective liquid chromatography columns

The Sartorius Cubis balance features a modular design that can be custom-configured for different applications. From simple weighing to management of complex sequences using the user/ password feature, Cubis meets advanced weighing requirements at a sophisticated level. Innovative compensation software is a highlight of this product range. When the balance is tilted, it shows an alert message on its display. Interactive prompts displayed greatly simplify levelling - without the user having to constantly keep an eye on the level indicator. When the user selects the motorised Q-Level function, optionally available in some MSA, MSU and MSE models, the balance levels itself fully automatically at the touch of a key. The motorised Q-Level is usually available as a Cubis option however. until June 2012, Q-level will be included free of charge with every Cubis purchased.

Restek ultra selective liquid chromatography (USLC) columns offer a wide range of selectivity using just four stationary phases, providing the practising chromatographer with tools for choosing columns fast and developing methods faster. One of the most significant, yet least understood, steps of method development is finding the proper stationary phase for a particular separation. As sample complexity increases, achieving adequate resolution between matrix components and target analytes becomes more difficult. Despite recent advancements in column format, such as sub-2 micron packings and pellicular particles, resolution can still be difficult to obtain because, while these formats can increase chromatographic efficiency and analysis speed, they do not significantly influence resolution. Selectivity is the single most powerful factor affecting resolution, and it is largely dependent on stationary phase composition. While numerous bonded phases are available for reversed phase chromatography, many (eg, C8 and C18) are similar and offer only moderate changes in retention, rather than significant differences in selectivity. Method development is less laborious and time-consuming when using a full range of column selectivities, including orthogonal phase chemistries like polar embedded, phenyl and fluorophenyl columns. The USLC column set has been developed across these phase classes to provide analysts with a more effective range of column selectivities and innovative column chemistries for method development. The column set provides what is claimed to be the widest range of reversed phase selectivity available with just four columns - the Aqueous C18, Biphenyl, Polar embedded IBD and Pentafluorophenyl Propyl - and can be used to guide proper stationary phase selection; the least understood yet most significant part of method development.

Sartorius Stedim Australia Pty Ltd

Leco Australia Pty Ltd

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

Improving catalytic sustainability Industrial chemistry is set to improve from novel rare-earth metal catalysts that reduce waste and improve aromatic bond-forming reactions.

n chemistry, downsizing can have positive attributes. Reducing the number of steps and reagents in synthetic reactions, for example, enables chemists to boost their productivity while reducing their environmental footprint. This type of ‘atom economy’ could soon improve, thanks to a new rare-earth metal catalyst developed by Zhaomin Hou and colleagues at the RIKEN Advanced Science Institute, Wako, Japan. Their catalyst makes it simpler to modify aromatic carbon-hydrogen (CH) bonds with silicon-bearing silyl ligands - a reaction step critical to pharmaceutical and materials science manufacturers alike. Silicon, which is less electronegative than carbon or hydrogen atoms, can significantly alter the electronic characteristics of an organic molecule. Replacing the hydrogen atoms of an aromatic C-H

group with silyl groups has emerged as an important strategy in industrial-scale chemical synthesis because these substituents can tune molecular reactivity, enabling construction of elaborate chemical frameworks. Chemists normally use transition metals such as platinum or rhodium to catalyse aromatic silylation reactions. But to achieve high conversions, these catalysts need to be mixed with additional hydrogen acceptor reagents, which can generate unwanted waste products, including alkanes. Hou and colleagues have pioneered studies into rare-earth metals, such as scandium, which have different catalytic properties to transition metals. Recently, they found that ‘half-sandwich’ scandium complexes, bonded on one side by a flat organic ring, showed unique activity and selectivity in the presence of carbon double bonds. This made investigations of unsaturated aromatic molecules a natural next step. When the researchers mixed a methoxy–benzene compound called anisole with the half-sandwich scandium catalyst and a phenylsilane, they found that the silyl group substituted onto the aromatic ring with excellent selectivity and yields.

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analytical

Some examples of recent new findings

Furthermore, the catalyst did not require hydrogen acceptor reagents and generated only H 2 gas as a by-product. Hou notes that this reaction is highly advantageous in terms of atom economy. X-ray and spectroscopic measurements revealed that the working form of the catalyst, which contained a pair of ‘bridging’ hydrogen atoms, activated the reaction by coordinating the anisole’s methoxy group to the rare-earth metal. According to Hou, this relatively strong interaction directs silylation to occur almost exclusively at the position adjacent to the methoxy unit on the aromatic ring - a ‘regioselectivity’ that outshines that of transition

metal catalysts, whose weak oxygen-metal interactions often produce an undesirable mix of silylation isomers. The team will continue to explore new approaches to improving catalytic sustainability and selectivity by tapping into the extraordinary properties of rareearth metals. RIKEN Advanced Science Institute http://www.riken.jp

Industrial tablet PCs

Digital timestamping

Modern industrial networks increasingly support mobile workflow and processes. Industrial tablet PCs from Phoenix Contact can be used to implement mobile applications professionally. The tablets have a 33.8 cm touch screen. They can be integrated into an existing network via the WLAN according to IEEE 802.11 a/b/g or via Bluetooth Class 1 and Class 2. With an optional expansion, they can also connect to a UMTS network or receive GPRS signals. The tablet PC is equipped with a 1.6 GHz Z530 Intel Atom processor or, optionally, with a dual-core processor clocked at 1.2 GHz for applications demanding high computing power. The rugged casing, conforming with protection class IP65, allows the PC to be used both indoors and outdoors. The device has watertight USB, audio and RJ45 interfaces. It can be retrofitted with a barcode scanner or RFID wireless identification system for managing inventories. The tablet PC is light, fits in the hand and can be carried using hand straps or a shoulder harness. Two lithium-ion smart rechargeable batteries ensure flexible operation, independent of a power supply. The zero power management, which minimises battery discharge while in idle state, ensures that the device always has sufficient energy.

AbsoluteProof is an independent digital timestamping solution that, when integrated into an ELN or other lab informatics systems, or directly at the desktop, can enable users to ‘seal’ and protect the ownership of their IP. Because of its independence, AbsoluteProof can easily and affordably protect the integrity and provide good legal defence of users' research data's authenticity for the life of the records. Built on the ISO/IEC 18014-3 and ANSI X9.95 Trusted Time Stamp standards, AbsoluteProof ensures the integrity of electronic records, files or any digital content by establishing that they were created on a specific date and time, and that they have not been tampered with or modified since. Furthermore, it enables those organisations to defend the integrity of their records if ever challenged by a third party in a regulatory or legal context. It is claimed to be the only long-lived, cryptographically verifiable data integrity service available.

Phoenix Contact Pty Ltd

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OnQ Software Pty Ltd

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

analytical HPV bio-decontamination system Targeted at the pharmaceutical, biotech and healthcare industries, the Bioquell Z-2 hydrogen peroxide vapour (HPV) generator is a complete solution for room/zone bio-decontamination offering user-friendly operation with parametric cycle control, eliminating the necessity for gas cycle development studies (non-GMP facilities). With Australian C-Tick approval, the product incorporates a HPV generator, gas distribution and catalytic aeration in a single mobile system. The system is operated with user-friendly touch-screen controls and can biodecontaminate areas up to 250 m 3 using parametric control. Larger volumes can be validated using timed cycles. A menu-driven interface makes it easy to set cycle parameters. A graphical display shows the biodecontamination cycle progress in real time and a communication port allows remote control via a building management system (BMS). Dual-circuit technology enables fast, efficient bio-decontamination cycles without the need for room preconditioning or dehumidification. The system also includes a room-measuring device and handheld hydrogen peroxide vapour monitor. HPV biological decontamination is replacing traditional formaldehyde techniques which are known to be hazardous to health, difficult to control and validate. The product uses 30-35% w/w hydrogen peroxide which has been approved by the regulatory bodies Biocidal Products Directive (BPD) and the US EPA. Bio-decontamination cycles with the product have been verified by inactivation of 6-log Geobacillus stearothermophilus, the industry-standard biological indicator (BI) used to validate steam sterilisers/autoclaves.

New Look for 2012

HI2211 bench pH meter

$658

plus gst

â&#x2013; N ew General Catalogue available now

Capella Science Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M686

Condition monitoring unit The CMU 1000, an electronic evaluation unit, can be used for permanent online condition monitoring of machines and systems. Monitoring is achieved by supplying relevant data to the device, which is recorded by the sensors connected to it. This recorded data (processed or unprocessed) can be transferred by the device via various ports or as an analog value to other instruments and/ or monitoring levels. It is possible to connect easily to higher level control systems, monitoring systems and bus systems using the built-in interfaces or in combination with an additional coupling module. Benefits of the device are reduced operating costs and increased machine availability. Features include: controller for data evaluation with real-time capability; eight input channels for HSI or SMART sensors; eight input channels for analog sensors; four input channels for digital signals; two output channels for analog signals; four relay switching outputs with changeover contacts; interfaces - RS232, ethernet; parameterisation via PC USB port; simple operation using navigation pad; creation of customised application program using supplied CMWIN PC software. Hydac Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M209

Feb/Mar 2012 - WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY

HI190M-0 Magnetic Mini Stirrer

$151

plus gst

Great range of pH electrodes with BNC connection

RESELLER ENQUIRES WELCOME

Tel: + 61 3 9769 0666 Fax: + 61 3 9769 0699 Email: hannains@hannainst.com.au www.hannainst.com.au www.hannachecker.com.au www.LabOnline.com.au

analytical Vacuum drying oven SalvisLab Vacucenter is a range of vacuum drying ovens for gentle, yet fast drying of oxidation-sensitive or thermally instable products. Applications include drying of biological samples, soil samples, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food samples; even technical products such as electronic or vacuum technology components. Temperature control is possible from ambient to 200°C with 0.2°C accuracy. Vacuum levels down to 1 mbar are easily achievable. The ovens have a range of safety features. They include a pressure safety system with door safety catch and double-glazed safety glass in the door. Heating without vacuum can be deactivated for further sample and user protection. All heaters are automatically switched off when the oven door is opened. All internal oven surfaces are made out of high-grade stainless steel, which is highly corrosion resistant and easy to clean. The shelves are anodised aluminium for best possible heat transfer. The integrated process controller leads even inexperienced users through the simple steps of setting the required process parameters. Programming of complex ramps is also possible. The ovens use PID and fuzzy logic to control temperature, time and optional vacuum levels. 50 programs with up to 15 steps and 999 minutes process time can be stored. A bidirectional RS232C interface allows data logging. The optional STS software is CRF 22 Part 11 compliant to ensure GLP, GMP and FDA/TGA conformity. Two models are available, with square box chambers of 20 and 50 L volume. Scitek Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M649

Heating and chilling lab equipment Torrey Pines Scientific has announced its catalogue for 2012/2013. The catalogue includes: programmable multi- and single-position digital stirring hot plates; fully programmable chilling/heating HPLC column oven; digital hot plates and stirring hot plates; large surface analog multi- and single-position stirring hot plates. Also included are: digital, programmable, remote and orbital mixing chilling/heating dry baths for the bench or robotic use; digital and programmable chilling/heating benchtop incubators; digital chilling/ heating HPLC column ovens; digital chilling/heating mini-circulators; and variable speed rotating mixers. All Torrey Pines Scientific products are made in the US. They are all UL, CSA and CE or equivalent agency certified and available in voltages for use around the world. Edwards Group Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M337

Bio-decontamination service LAF Technologies has introduced Six Log iHP Bio-decontamination into its range of contamination control equipment and services. SixLog iHP provides rapid and effective on-site biological decontamination and sterilisation services, using proprietary iHP (ionised Hydrogen Peroxide) technology, to a variety of industries including life sciences, pharmaceutical, healthcare, first responders, transportation and public facilities. It is an environmentally friendly way to eliminate pathogens such as bacteria, viruses and mould on surfaces and in the air. The process is safe, leaving behind no residue or noxious fumes. It has no negative effects on sensitive electronics and therefore has excellent materials compatibility. The technology was developed and perfected for military application (biological weapons) prior to commercial application. LAF Technologies Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M562

Laboratory balances Cheetah Scientific has released a low-cost, high-quality range of balances designed for QC labs, teaching and research. The range includes the YP-N simple, low-cost, top-loading systems with a capacity up to 6000 g with readability to 100 mg, or 400 g capacity and 10 mg readability. The JA and FA Research series has enhanced sensitivity. The FA can handle masses up to 220 g with 0.1 mg sensitivity. Large digital displays and operator-friendly functions such as automatic calibration, one-touch operation and balance overload signals are featured. RS232 communication allows interfacing to LIMS or other PC operations. Scientifix-Techcomp Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/L745

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

Proteomics

Proteomics and the formation of long-term memories

Memories are maintained by synapses, the connections between neurons, but how do these synapses stay strong and keep memories alive for decades? Neuroscientists at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research have discovered a major clue from a study in fruit flies: hardy, self-copying clusters or oligomers of a synapse protein are an essential ingredient for the formation of long-term memory.

he finding supports a surprising new theory about memory and may have a profound impact on explaining other oligomer-linked functions and diseases in the brain, including Alzheimer’s disease and prion diseases. “Self-sustaining populations of oligomers located at synapses may be the key to the long-term synaptic changes that underlie memory; in fact, our finding hints that oligomers play a wider role in the brain than has been thought,” says Kausik Si, PhD, an associate investigator at the Stowers Institute, and senior author of the new study, which was published in the 27 January 2012 online issue of the journal Cell. Si’s investigations in this area began nearly a decade ago during his doctoral research in the Columbia University laboratory of Nobel-winning neuroscientist Eric Kandel. He found that in the sea slug Aplysia californica, which has long been favoured by neuroscientists for memory experiments because of its large, easily-studied neurons, a synapse-maintenance protein known as

CPEB (cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding protein) has an unexpected property. A portion of the structure is self-complementary and - much like empty egg cartons - can easily stack up with other copies of itself. CPEB thus exists in neurons partly in the form of oligomers, which increase in number when neuronal synapses strengthen. These oligomers have a hardy resistance to ordinary solvents, and within neurons may be much more stable than single-copy monomers of CPEB. They also seem to actively sustain their population by serving as templates for the formation of new oligomers from free monomers in the vicinity. CPEB-like proteins exist in all animals, and in brain cells they play a key role in maintaining the production of other synapsestrengthening proteins. Studies by Si and others in the past few years have hinted that CPEB’s tendency to oligomerise is not merely incidental, but is indeed essential to its ability to stabilise longerterm memory. “What we’ve lacked till now are experiments showing this conclusively,” Si says. In the new study, Si and his colleagues examined a Drosophila fruit fly CPEB protein known as Orb2. Like its counterpart in Aplysia, it forms oligomers within neurons. “We found that these Orb2 oligomers become more numerous in neurons whose synapses are stimulated, and that this increase in oligomers happens near synapses,” says lead author Amitabha Majumdar, PhD, a postdoctoral researcher in Si’s lab.

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Drosophila Orb2 plays an important role in the persistence of memory. Upon stimulation, Orb2 (shown in yellow) forms amyloidlike oligomers (shown in red), which are an essential ingredient for the formation of longterm memory. [Illustration: Nicolle Rager Fuller, Sayo-Art]

Proteomics

The key was to show that the disruption of Orb2 oligomerisation on its own impairs Orb2’s function in stabilising memory. Majumdar was able to do this by generating an Orb2 mutant that lacks the normal ability to oligomerise yet maintains a near-normal concentration in neurons. Fruit flies carrying this mutant form of Orb2 lost their ability to form long-term memories. “For the first 24 hours after a memory-forming stimulus, the memory was there, but by 48 hours it was gone, whereas in flies with normal Orb2 the memory persisted,” Majumdar says. Si and his team are now following up with experiments to determine for how long Orb2 oligomers are needed to keep a memory alive. “We suspect that they need to be continuously present, because they are selfsustaining in a way that Orb2 monomers are not,” says Si. The team’s research also suggests some intriguing possibilities for other areas of neuroscience. This study revealed that Orb2 proteins in the Drosophila nervous system come in a rare, highly oligomerisation-prone form (Orb2A) and a much more common, much less oligomerisation-prone form (Orb2B). “The rare form seems to be the one that is regulated, and it seems to act like a seed for the initial oligomerisation, which pulls in copies of the more abundant form,” Si says. “This may turn out to be a basic pattern for functional oligomers.” The findings may help scientists understand disease-causing oligomers too. Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease, as well as prion diseases such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, all involve the spread in the brain of apparently toxic oligomers of various proteins. One such protein, strongly implicated in Alzheimer’s disease, is amyloid beta; like Orb2 it comes in two forms, the highly oligomerising amyloid-beta-42 and the relatively inert amyloid-beta-40. Si’s work hints at the possibility that oligomer-linked diseases are relatively common in the brain because the brain evolved to be relatively hospitable to CPEB proteins and other functional oligomers, and thus has fewer mechanisms for keeping rogue oligomers under control.

Other researchers who contributed to the work include Wanda Colón Cesario, Erica White-Grindely, Huoqin Jian, Fangzhen Ren, Mohammed ‘Repon’ Khan, Liying Li, Edward Man-Lik Choi, Kasthuri Kannan, Feng Li, Jay Unruh and Brian Slaughter at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research in Kansas City, Missouri. The research was supported by the Searle Foundation, the March of Dimes Basil O’Connor Starter Award, the Klingenstein Foundation and the McKnight Foundation. Stowers Institute for Medical Research www.stowers.org

The Stowers Institute for Medical Research is a non-profit, basic biomedical research organisation dedicated to improving human health by studying the fundamental processes of life. Jim Stowers, founder of American Century Investments, and his wife Virginia opened the institute in 2000. Since then, the institute has spent over $800 million in pursuit of its mission. Currently the institute is home to over 500 researchers and support personnel, over 20 independent research programs and more than a dozen technology development and core facilities.

Pipette tips The Whitley Petrifoto petri dish imaging system fits inside a workstation so that plates can be photographed during incubation without having to remove them from the workstation environment. The system features a Canon compact digital camera with auto focus, a wide-angle zoom lens and a 12.1 MP high resolution sensor, all designed to elicit good quality images from even the most amateur of photographers. The robust unit is small enough to pass through a workstation airlock so it can be moved in and out of a workstation when required. The lighting system - a 3D light box fitted with multiple daylight colour temperature LEDs for realistic colour rendition - has underside and side lighting, which can be controlled independently. This means it is suitable for all agar and colony types. The system comes with an SD memory card and is compatible with Eye-Fi wireless memory cards to allow automatic image transmission to an external PC or Mac.

Biotix premium pipette tips come with a range of patented features. To increase dispense precision, the minimisation of the surface area at the end of each tip has been tapered, eliminating the need for tip touch off. The tip design ensures lower tip ejection and insertion forces combined with universal fit and a secure seal. The product’s filter provides a visual indicator of contamination, changing colour upon contact with liquids or aerosols. The product also contains a contaminant-free, clear and low-retention resin which is claimed to have the lowest CV values of any pipette tip available. The product comes with complete traceability, with individually barcoded tip racks and lot-specific certification for each tip batch.

Don Whitley Scientific Pty Limited

Interpath Services Pty Ltd

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Petri dish imaging system

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

life sciences ULT cryogenic freezer

Serological pipettes

Kaltis has released their -150°C cryogenic freezer for long term storage. Compared to liquid nitrogen storage systems, the AH013P cryogenic freezer is claimed to be safer, cheaper to run and to offer more convenient sample retrieval. With a capacity of 130 L, the freezer can accommodate up to 9000 samples. The stainless steel interior chamber ensures longevity. At the heart of the freezer is the company’s cascade refrigeration system that is monitored and controlled by the Prime Minerva microprocessor controller. The bright backlit LCD informs users of set and actual parameters and the freezers are fully alarmed both visually and audibly to keep users appraised of the freezer status. Security is provided by control system password protection as well as an integrated key lock. Dry remote alarm contacts allow connection to central monitoring systems and the RS485 data port allows the freezer to be monitored (with optional DAQ gateway software). Kaltis has achieved system certification to ISO-9001-2000 as well as UKAS 005 and compliance with CE and UL safety and performance standards.

Kartell’s range of Serological Pipettes is suitable for use in laboratory situations where accuracy and ease of use are important. Made from crystal-clear polystyrene for ease of visual reading, these pipettes are created as a single piece up to 25 mL size in order to avoid leakage during aspiration and to ensure maximum accuracy and durability. With sizes ranging from 5 to 50 mL capacity, each pipette is permanently marked in black with both ascending and descending graduations for ease of use and to assure the accuracy of any substance being measured or transferred. Each size range of pipettes is also marked with different colours for ease of identification. The pipettes are available are non-sterile and sterile versions for increased applications. Non-sterile pipettes are supplied as bulk packs in zip-close plastic envelopes. Sterile pipettes are individually packaged in paper/plastic pouches, which are useful for placing pipettes in prior to disposal. This packaging is especially useful for applications requiring the use of latex gloves, as it reduces the effects of static charges. The sterile versions are gamma irradiated, and are CE marked as certified non-pyrogenic, non-heamolytic and noncytotoxic. This renders them suitable for tissue culture applications. Each sterile pipette is fitted with a safety insert, made from cotton and firmly fixed at the upper rim of the pipette. The company’s Serological Pipette Holder is made of clear polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), finished to a high level which allows the contents to be seen from any angle. Fitted with angled shelves for safe storage, each of the four compartments is suitable for housing serological pipettes of various capacities, from 1 to 50 mL. The first shelf is removable, improving the flexibility of the unit’s storage space.

Bio-Strategy Limited Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M644

Continuous monitoring system for controlled environments The Vaisala Veriteq monitoring system is able to maintain constant environmental conditions and to ensure safety of vulnerable processes and products, where reliable measurement and monitoring is fundamental. The system delivers continuous and gap-free measurement data for temperature, humidity, differential pressure and other critical parameters, and ensures full regulatory compliance like GxP and FDA. The system collects data remotely from a network of measurement instruments, stores it in a secure location and gives automated, customer-specified alarms and reports. Other benefits that the system features are: scalability from 1 to 1000 and monitoring points at different locations; minimum installation and validation; easy usage and logging into the network with browser-based interface; calibration service. Vaisala Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M425

Sieper & Co Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M672

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

Measure MoniTor and ValidaTe in ConTrolled enVironMenTs Humidity - temperature - CO2 - dp aNd mOre.. Watch a brief online video about Vaisala Veriteq Continuous Monitoring System. www.vaisala.com/cms

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www.vaisala.com/lifescience Tel. 03 9815 6700 sales.melbourne@vaisala.com

NEW White Papers

now available online!

Machine vision inspection: benefits, applications and vendor selection tips In recent times, the technology options for machine vision inspection systems have increased, the cost of these solutions has reduced and hence the adoption has dramatically increased. These solutions, if implemented wisely, can provide a competitive advantage for manufacturers as well as provide cost savings.

Oxygen measurement on air separation plants Industry consumes vast quantities of oxygen and nitrogen annually, all of which is obtained from the air around us. There are two main techniques used to separate these two primary gases from air. These processes are cryogenic separation and pressure swing adsorption (PSA).

Lowering costs and improving safety at sewage pumping stations Pumping raw sewage or any kind of wastewater can be expensive, with many hidden costs and safety issues. Download this white paper to find out how you can lower costs and improve safety at sewage pumping stations.

How to minimise losses in converter-fed induction motors This study presents a technique developed to minimise losses in totally enclosed fan-cooled (TEFC) induction motors fed by frequency converters in applications with constant torque loads, especially at low speeds, in which the ventilation system is inefficient.

For these and more White Paper downloads, visit www.labonline.com.au/white_papers

life sciences Tunable wavelength detection cartidge Molecular Devices has released the SpectraMax Paradigm TUNE detection cartridge for use with the SpectraMax Paradigm Multi-Mode Microplate Detection Platform. The cartridge uses high-powered LEDs and TUNE technology to provide the wavelength flexibility of a monochromator system (1 nm increments) with the sensitivity of a filter-based system. TUNE technology enables the user to select the excitation and emission wavelengths that best fit their assay with up to 10x higher fluorescence sensitivity compared to traditional monochromator technologies. By combining Paradigm and TUNE with SoftMax Pro software’s Spectral Optimisation Wizard, users can simultaneously scan excitation and emission spectrums, which is claimed will reduce assay optimisation time by up to 50%. The detection cartridge offers high sensitivity in wavelength tuneable detection. It has been designed to work with top or bottom read and supports detection in fluorescence intensity (FI), time-resolved fluorescence (TRF) and luminescence (LUM). Bio-Strategy Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M278

Mechanical pipette Gilson’s mechanical, air-displacement pipette, the Pipetman G, has been specifically designed to reduce the risk of repetitive strain injury (RSI). With a piston assembly, low-force springs and high-quality grease, the product decreases pipetting force in both micro and macro volumes by up to 50% (when compared with the Pipetman Neo), which is claimed to make it the lightest pipette on the market in regards to pipetting force. With two tip ejector styles, plastic and metal, the pipette is suitable for both corrosive and non-corrosive samples. Both tip ejector styles are equipped with a clip ejector for convenient access to serviceable parts. The pipette is available in eight different models with volumes ranging from 0.2 µL to 10 mL. Features include a colour-coded push-button that corresponds to matching tip packaging and a universal tip holder that allows for a secure fit of most brands of tips. John Morris Scientific Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M695

Cylindrospermopsin ELISA kit The drinking water industry is constantly challenged with surface water contaminants that must be removed to protect human health. Toxic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) blooms are an emerging issue because of increased source water nutrient pollution caused by eutrophication. The Abraxis cylindrospermopsin ELISA kit detects cylindrospermopsin in environmental samples at sub-ppb levels. Cylindrospermopsin is a naturally produced toxin of several cyanobacterial strains and has been found in fresh water throughout the world. Certain strains of Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Australia, Hungary, United States), Umezakia natans (Japan), Aphanizomenon ovalisporum (Australia, Israel) have been found to produce cylindrospermopsin. The production of cylindrospermopsin appears to be strain specific and not species specific. United Bioresearch Products Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M185

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life sciences Dip pen nanolithography

NanoInk’s Dip Pen Nanolithography system is a full-featured, dedicated instrument for versatile nanopatterning of a variety of materials with nanoscale accuracy and precision for desktop nanofabrication. Recent advances in dip pen nanolithography technology make possible the direct deposition of biologically relevant molecules onto a variety of surfaces. This system can reliably print features ranging in size from tens of nanometres to 10 µm with nanoscale registry, all under ambient conditions. These capabilities make this platform a suitable tool for biomaterials research in the life sciences area. Printing of biomaterials at sub-cellular scales holds immense promise for studies in life sciences.

Listeria detection method CHROMagar has developed a rapid method for the detection of Listeria monocytogenes in food stuff. L. monocytogenes is a widespread bacteria present in soil, sewage and faecal matter. Its ability to form listerial biofilms on contact surfaces makes it difficult to eliminate. This pathogen can cause serious food poisoning and is therefore frequently a microbial QC target in food processing facilities to avoid food contamination. The method comprises the following steps: (1) enrichment in Half Fraser Broth for 24 h; (2) isolation in CHROMagar Listeria; (3) confirmation of L. monocytogenes species in CHROMagar Identification Listeria. This method was validated by the AFNOR, in comparison to the method described in the ISO-11290. This validation showed that the CHROMagar method had the same rate of detection, while dramatically reducing both the time to result and the workload. Classical confirmatory tests for the L. monocytogenes species include many tedious and time-consuming steps (purification + catalase + haemolysis + dextrose + rhamnose + xylose ...). This method is far simpler - a single spot of a suspect colony out of CHROMagar Listeria directly put onto CHROMagar Identification Listeria will provide confirmation of L. monocytogenes species within 24 hours. Furthermore, the species will be easily differentiated from other Listeria directly at the isolation step: the colonies are blue and surrounded by a white halo due to a specific phospholipase activity.

SciTech Pty Ltd

Dutec Diagnostics Pty Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M442

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life sciences

Point-of-care blood poisoning testing

s the patient suffering from blood poisoning? To answer this question, the doctor draws a blood sample and sends it to a central laboratory for testing. This takes up valuable time, which could cost the patient his life. In future, physicians will be able to analyse blood there and then and have the results within 20 minutes. This is made possible by a biochip, developed by scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute for Physical Measurement Techniques IPM in Freiburg. “To analyse the biochip we have also designed a fully automatic device to carry out all the examination steps,” explains Dr Albrecht Brandenburg, Group Manager at the IPM. “All the doctor has to do is place the sample in the apparatus and wait for the results.”

What the biochip is up to Meanwhile, within the device there’s plenty going on: it starts by preparing the blood sample. Red blood cells are separated from the blood and the plasma that remains is guided onto the biochip. When patients are suffering from sepsis, their immune system reacts by producing certain proteins. The biochip uses these in its diagnosis: there are antibodies positioned on the chip which fit these proteins like a key fits a lock. If the proteins are present in the blood, the antibodies fish them out of the fluid and bind them to the chip. But how does the apparatus know if proteins have been caught? “The chip is rinsed with a solution containing the Blood is analysed automatically by the biochip in the in the portable device. Physicians find out right away if the patient appropriate antibodies, which suffers from blood poisoning. © Fraunhofer IPM have in turn been marked 36

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with a fluorescent dye,” explains IPM scientist Dr Manuel Kemmler. “These bind to the proteins - meaning antibodies, protein and marked antibodies are all firmly linked to each other and to the chip’s surface. When the chip is illuminated, the dye lights up.” The apparatus sees lots of little illuminated dots that show the protein was in the blood. If the patient is healthy, however, the chip remains dark. The researchers can even test for different proteins at the same time in one cycle. This is done by placing various different catcher molecules on the chip, to which specific molecules in the blood attach themselves. A cunning selection of proven protein markers allows the scientists to obtain additional important information about the severity and cause of the illness. Together with colleagues from a university hospital, the researchers have already successfully tested prototypes of the device and biochip. Each biochip can only be used once - so they have to be affordable. “We predict that in the long run, with production on a large enough scale, each chip will cost no more than one euro,” says Brandenburg. There are various possible applications: other conditions such as heart attacks or cancers can also be investigated this way. What’s more, the chip facilitates doping and urine testing as well as the quality assessment of foodstuffs. Fraunhofer IPM http://www.fraunhofer.de

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

Speed can save lives - especially in the case of blood poisoning. The more quickly and directly doctors recognise and treat sepsis, the greater the patient’s chances of survival. With the help of a new biochip, physicians will now be able to analyse blood within their own practice.

life sciences Sequencing platform The Pacific Biosciences third-generation PacBioRS DNA sequencing system incorporates novel, single-molecule sequencing techniques and advanced analytics to reveal biology in real time using its SMRT technology. The system delivers good sequence read lengths - over a thousand DNA bases on average and allows users to obtain results in less than a day. With SMRT technology, the system supports the following applications including targeted resequencing: analyse either a few or hundreds of genes (such as oncogenes) in hours rather than days; De Novo assembly either hybrid or solo assembly - the PacBio long read data allows for lower cost and higher quality when combined with second-generation short read data; identify and characterise pathogens with strain-level resolution for infectious outbreaks, biodefence, food safety and metagenomics; long reads can span an entire RNA molecule and uniquely characterise transcript structure, including splice isoforms and fusion proteins. Pacific Biosciences is currently developing new applications in areas of kinetics, protein- ligand binding, RNA sequencing and more. Millennium Science Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/P202

Vacuum concentrators Vacuum concentrators from Labogene are available in either component form (for connection to existing vacuum sources, cold traps etc) or as complete instrument packages. The Labogene Scanspeed MiniVac and MaxiVac systems are suitable for drying small amounts of DNA/RNA or large amounts of biological and non-biological samples in a range of organic solvents and H2O. Drying can be done in a wide range of tube/plate formats, with rotors accommodating microcentrifuge tubes/conical tubes/ microplates etc, with capacities from 48 x 0.5 mL to 4 x 250 mL. Custom tubes can also be accommodated. The concentrators are fully programmable, with automatic functionality. The -110°C Cold Trap supplied with the MaxiVac systems (or separately) has a seamless stainless steel condenser resilient to chemical attack, ensuring faster and reproducible drying while protecting both the vacuum pump and the laboratory environment. Options include freeze-drying manifolds, cold traps from -55 to -110°C, pressure regulation and teflon coating (in concentrator and cold trap) if working with aggressive acids and solvents. Bio-Strategy Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M638

Feb/Mar 2012 - WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY

pH mV(ORP) ION Conductivity Resistivity Salinity TDS

F-70 series Benchtop Meters Intuitive and easy to use Touch screens on colour models USB connectivity ► F-71BW pH ORP with BLACK AND WHITE SCREEN ► F-72 pH ORP ION with COLOUR TOUCH SCREEN ► F-73 pH ORP ION TWIN CHANNELS with COLOUR TOUCH SCREEN ► F-74 pH ORP ION CONDUCTIVITY RESISTIVITY SALINITY TWIN CHANNELS with COLOUR TOUCH SCREEN ► F-74 BW pH ORP ION CONDUCTIVITY RESISTIVITY SALINITY TDS TWIN CHANNEL with BLACK AND WHITE SCREEN

AUSTRALIAN SCIENTIFIC Pty Ltd PO Box 335 Kotara NSW 2289 Ph 1800 021 083 - Fax 02 4956 2525 sales@austscientific.com.au www.austscientific.com.au www.LabOnline.com.au

life sciences DNA, RNA and protein isolation kit The GE illustra TriplePrep Kit is designed for the rapid isolation and purification of high-yield genomic DNA (gDNA), total RNA and total denatured proteins from undivided animal tissues and mammalian cells. The streamlined workflow reduces the overall number of steps, enabling the preparation of all three analytes in less than one hour. Isolated gDNA, total RNA and total denatured proteins are suitable for genomic and proteomic applications such as PCR, restriction enzyme digestion, sequencing, array CGH, RT-PCR, gene expression microarray, SDS-PAGE, Western Blotting, 2-D DIGE and LCMS. VWR International Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M654

Cell analyser The Muse Cell Analyzer system provides a real-time quantitative assessment of cell concentration, health, apoptosis and cycle with greater accuracy and precision than manual hemocytometry or image-based automated analysis. By providing multidimensional information on cell populations, the analyser enables faster, more accurate decision making, more productive workflows and greater insight into cell health. The system delivers high-perfor m ance cell analysis using patent-pending, miniaturised, fluorescent detection and micro capillary technology which occupies one-tenth the space of a typical cytometer. Laser-based fluorescence detection of each cell event can evaluate up to three cellular parameters. As a result, the analyser provides accurate quantitative results compared to imaging-based systems, which only examine up to two parameters, are time-consuming and ultimately provide less quantitative data. The system is capable of analysing both suspension and adherent cells from two to 60 µm in diameter. Intuitive software and simple touchscreen interface enable rapid set-up and analysis. To further optimise workflows, the device is designed to work with all-in-one kits, specifically validated for robust performance on the system. Kits include cell count and viability, apoptosis and cell cycle and come with all the reagents necessary for proper sample preparation.

Portable photosynthesis system The LCpro-SD, from ADC BioScientific, is a portable photosynthesis system with full experimental programming and environmental control. The device provides full automatic and enhanced control of the environmental conditions within the plant leaf chamber. It is claimed to control CO 2, H 2O, temperature and PAR more accurately and easily than ever before. All the environmental control facilities are contained within the single and lightweight console. Featuring the latest in infrared gas analysis technology, the device features a number of enhancements to the field gas exchange performance including an extended measurement range, faster response times and less instability caused by ambient CO 2 fluctuations. Weighing only 5 kg, the console is less than half the size and weight of traditional systems. The battery operated system will function for up to 16 hours from a single charge. Sophisticated photosynthesis experiments, such as A/Ci curves and light response curves, can now be easily performed in previously impractical locations. Enhanced graphical display capabilities allow for real time experimental viewing. Data is stored on removable SD cards and can be reviewed on the graphic display and downloaded directly from the SD cards, via USB, or RS232. An expanded range of easily interchangeable leaf chamber heads means that the system can be used for a variety of field applications, including a range of plant leaves, whole plants and a soil chamber for field respiration experimentation. Anri Instruments & Controls Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M283

Merck Pty Limited Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M769

Testing system for measuring bacterial aerobic plate count Mocon has followed up its Greenlight 910 with the Greenlight 930, which is suitable for laboratories processing large numbers of samples for aerobic bacteria accounts. The product features advanced measurement technology with a high-throughput carousel which delivers results up to 10 times faster than agar plates and films - from 1-12 h including incubation time. This computer-driven system is suitable for companies screening meat, seafood, fresh produce, dairy, nuts, spices and other foods as well as beverages, sanitary sponges or swabs. The larger size of this model is suitable for companies looking for same-day results when processing large numbers of samples for aerobic bacteria accounts. Inspection Systems Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M389

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

life sciences Transfection devices The nanoTherics magnefect-nano II DUO and the magnefect-LT DUO transfection systems enable up to 192 transfection experiments to be performed in parallel. The compact devices offer gene transfection with improved efficiencies and cell viabilities, even with a range of difficult cell types including neuronal and primary cells. They use technology which applies oscillating magnet arrays to promote magnetic nanoparticle/DNA uptake into cells to improve non-viral gene transfection, while maintaining high cell viability. They are said to be simple to use, providing improved transfection efficiency and effectiveness over the best currently available cationic lipids at short transfection times (<30 min). They allow retransfection as well as adherent state transfection for user flexibility. The magnefect nano II DUO provides full flexibility with interchangeable 2 x 6-, 24- and 96-well magnet array formats and variable oscillating frequency capability to enable researchers to optimise protocols to maximise transfections specifically for the cell types they are using. The magnefect LT DUO is a lower-cost system with fixed oscillating frequency and fixed 2 x 6-well or 2 x 24-well or 2 x 96-well magnet array formats. The oscillating magnetic field technology from nanoTherics is said to improve delivery of important molecules, such as DNA, into living cells. The medium- to long-term opportunity for this approach relates to more effective non-viral gene therapy, an area demanding safer technology to treat genetic diseases and disorders including cancers, Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease, multiple sclerosis and cystic fibrosis.

Superior Laboratory Instruments The Right Solution Crea Laboratory Technologies provide a range of laboratory testing instrumentation to meet your analytical requirements. Our products are backed by an experienced team, fast after sales support and the right advice to take your lab further.

nanoTherics www.nanotherics.com

Primary cell isolation and tissue dissociation guide Worthington Biochemical's updated 2012 Tissue Dissociation Guide is now available to assist researchers with selecting enzymes, developing and optimising protocols and better understanding the process of enzymatic primary cell isolation and tissue dissociation. The guide also discusses the enzymes most commonly used, their handling and specificity and includes hundreds of detailed cell and species-specific primary cell isolation references. Scimar Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M517

Antibody labelling kits The Lightning-Link rapid antibody labelling system from Innova Biosciences allows conjugations to be set up in seconds and the labelled antibody used within minutes. By circumventing the desalting or dialysis steps that commonly interrupt traditional protein labelling procedures, it can be used to label small quantities of antibody with 100% recovery of the labelled antibody. Labelled antibodies are suitable for Western blotting, ELISA, immunohistochemistry, immunofluoresence and FACS analysis. Preparing the labelled antibody is straightforward and is completed in 20 minutes by adding the antibody modifier to the purified antibody, before adding the modified antibody solution to the rapid reagent. This is then incubated at ambient temperature for 15 minutes. Finally, add the quencher; after another four minutes, the labelled antibody is ready to use. The kit is available with the following labels: Fluorescein, Cy3, Cy5, Atto488, Atto565, Atto594 and Atto633 with more labels being added. The original antibody labelling kits are available with a range of labels that includes enzymes, fluorescent proteins, biotin/streptavidin, tandem labels and over 30 fluorescent dyes.

PRO DUCT S SE RV ICE SUPPORT

p. +61 2 4320 6670 e. sales@crealt.com.au w. www.crealt.com.au

BioNovus Life Sciences Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/L751

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C L I N I C A L

Medical keyboards Medical environments offer challenges for keeping keyboards and other technology free from infectious viruses and bacteria. By preventing cross contamination, iKey medical grade input devices protect patients and caregivers from MRSA, HIV, Hepatitis, and other deadly diseases. Studies by the University of Arizona, Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, and others have shown that bacteria such as deadly MRSA and VRE can survive on computer keyboards and mice. Viruses like influenza can endure on such surfaces as long as 72 hours. Disinfecting equipment can be a vital step in preventing the spread of infection, and iKey’s sealed, easily-sterilised devices withstand bleach, hospital-grade disinfectants, and other harsh chemical agents. In October 2004, Ball State University conducted tests to determine whether the SlimKey-MD medical keyboard could be disinfected of MRSA, and how it withstands a hospital bleach solution. The final results showed zero growth of MRSA after cleaning, and the keyboard continued to function. The FL-Series represents a further improvement of the SlimKey-MD line. They are suitable for ORs, patient rooms, carts, ICUs and retractable workstations. For those working in low-light environments, the keyboards are even available with the convenience of backlit keys. Features include: low-profile keys for easy and effective cleaning; backlit keys for working in low-light environments; tough silicone rubber keys and ABS polycarbonate case for durability and ease of use; and wireless models for mobility throughout the treatment area. These devices are said to ensure all measures are met to protect your patients and your facility from the risk of hospital-acquired infections. Interworld Electronics & Computer Industries Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M351

CD4 test The World Health Organisation (WHO) has prequalified the Alere Pima CD4 Test as part of an effort to increase access to rapid and accurate HIV/AIDS monitoring tools. The product is said to be the first and only point-of-care diagnostic designed for the measurement of absolute CD4 counts to receive such recognition from the WHO. The WHO’s evaluation consists of an in-depth product assessment, an inspection of the manufacturing facility, and independent multisite performance studies to ensure the highest standards of quality and reliability are met. The test was accepted for the WHO’s list of prequalified diagnostics on the basis of this evaluation and in advance of multisite performance studies due to the significant public health impact this product could have. In addition to the independent performance data that is currently available, the product’s prequalification status provides further evidence that it meets the needs of those looking to deploy a point-of-care CD4 solution. Designed specifically to operate in the most challenging environments, this rapid point-of-care analyser gives healthcare providers the ability to obtain absolute CD4 counts in under 20 min, enables more patients to access a CD4 result and reduces both the number of patients lost to follow-up and the time to initiate antiretroviral therapy. As part of the company’s ongoing commitment to provide products that support the screening and monitoring of people living with HIV/AIDS, Alere manufactures the Alere Determine HIV 1/2 Test, which is designed for HIV screening at the point of care and also appears on the WHO’s list of qualified diagnostics. To date, 37 HIV rapid tests have been submitted to the WHO for prequalification, and the Determine Test is claimed to have been one of the first HIV rapid assays to complete the process. Alere Australia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M444

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clinical diagnostics

Rapid identification of Golden Staph infections

Researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have developed a laboratory test that can rapidly identify the bacterium responsible for staph infections. The test takes advantage of unique isotopic labelling combined with specific bacteriophage amplification to rapidly identify Staphylococcus aureus.

uickly and accurately detecting infections caused by S. aureus is critical because the pathogenic bacterium causes a broad spectrum of infections, ranging from acute to chronic disease, which need to be treated in a prompt manner with the correct antibiotic. The test uses mass spectrometry to quantify the number of S. aureus organisms in a large number of samples in just a few hours, compared with a day or two for culturing techniques typically used to detect this bacterium. “Our method for detecting staph infections using mass spectrometry will be valuable in a variety of situations, but will be crucial when a large number of people need to be tested very quickly, which will ultimately improve treatment,” said Facundo Fernández, an Associate Professor in the Georgia Tech School of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Details of the new staph infection detection method were published in the January issue of the journal Molecular and Cellular Proteomics. Partial funding for this research was provided by 3M and the CDC/Georgia Tech seed award program. Fernández together with Carrie Pierce, Jon Rees and John Barr from the CDC’s Division of Laboratory Sciences created this test. “The simplicity of sample preparation, the low cost of required reagents and the

increased availability of mass spectrometers in clinical laboratories make this new method a cost-effective way to rapidly and effectively detect staph infections, which must be treated quickly to prevent spread of the disease,” explained Pierce, a research chemist at the CDC who also worked on the project as a graduate student at Georgia Tech. To run their test, the researchers first inject a known amount of bacteriophage labelled with nitrogen-15 into a sample. The phages - which are viruses that infect bacteria - infect only live S. aureus cells, which then multiply and amplify the phage signal. Following a two-hour incubation, the researchers break up proteins from the phage shell into component peptides using a trypsin digest technique. Then they analyse the sample using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometric detection. By detecting peptides from the protein shell of the phage, the researchers can measure the concentration of S. aureus in the sample. “The strength of this technique is coupling a well-characterised method for identifying bacteria with a modern detection device, such as a mass spectrometer,” said Barr, biological mass spectrometry lead in the CDC’s Division of Laboratory Sciences. “By labelling input phage with heavy nitrogen isotopes, we were able to use mass spectrometry to effectively distinguish between the parent and progeny phage, thus enhancing the selectivity of the method.” This prototype mass spectrometry-based technique has been optimised to detect low concentrations of bacteria that should allow clinicians to diagnose staph infections without the need for a significant culture period. Coupled with standard laboratory robotics, the test will reduce manual labour and subjective interpretation of results inherent in traditional techniques. “An exciting aspect of this phage method is that with small modifications to the procedures, resistance and susceptibility to a number of different antibiotics can be determined in addition to bacterial identification,” said Rees. “This additional piece of information may be the key to wide acceptance of the method.”

Feb/Mar 2012 - WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY

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ACROSS 1 This silvery-white metallic element has given its name to an airtight metallic food container 2 Journalism 5 Not sweet 7 Which rare silvery-white metal of the lanthanide series has a name derived from an ancient name of Paris? 9 Which nonmetallic element with semiconducting properties has a name derived from the Greek word for moon? 12 This type of image appears to have light going to it 14 Rotational speed 16 Colour with the longest wavelength 18 Wreath of flowers 19 Fearless 22 Person who rows 23 Outer layer of the earth 25 Which heavy radioactive noble gas is generated by the radioactive decay of radium? 27 Furrow 28 Long-sleeved linen vestment 30 Excrete 31 Dropsy 32 Wired in series to a component 34 Inaccurate 38 Donkey 39 Period of history 40 Mother 42 Device for measuring electrical current 44 Cartographer 45 Can be absorbed by skin and felt as heat 48 For this gate both inputs have to be high 49 Mandate 50 Peer

DOWN 1 Old 5-volt digital logic system 2 This gate has only one input 3 Large island of Indonesia 4 Standard of perfection 5 Which hard silvery-white metal of the lanthanide series has the chemical symbol Sm? 6 Spanish hero 8 Which element derives its name from the Greek ‘green shoot’ due to the green line in its spectrum? 10 Pinch 11 The ratio of the charge on a conductor to its potential 12 By way of 13 Black bird 14 What occurs when the forcing frequency equals the natural frequency? 15 Microorganism 17 Dejected 20 Isotope of hydrogen 21 A unit used in the measurement of radioactivity 24 Isotope of hydrogen 26 Prevent 29 Electrical component having a particular value of resistance 33 Founder of Islam 35 Unit of resistance 36 Which of the chemical elements takes its name from the Latin name for the river Rhine? 37 Sailor 41 The unit of electrical resistance 42 Pack leader 43 Tibetan gazelle 46 Soak 47 Time taken for a planet to rotate once about its own axis

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB TECHNOLOGY - Feb/Mar 2012

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We need YOUR feedback to ensure we make Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New in LAB Technology and LabOnline even more useful and relevant for YOU. Your answers will help us tailor our content to meet the needs and interests of all laboratory professionals in Australia and New Zealand. The prize draw will be conducted on March 21st. Winners will be notified by email and the result published in the April/May issue of the magazine and the first fortnightly eNewsletter in March. Janette Woodhouse - Chief Editor

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