What’s New in LAB & Life Sciences Apr/May 2014

Monitoring critical applications

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Data visualisation software rises from the ranks Lauren Davis

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Researchers from Harvard University have created a piece of open-source software which enables users to analyse and rearrange ranking systems based on the attributes they find the most important. Their paper on the software, published in IEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics, won the best paper award at the InfoVis conference in October 2013.

“R

ankings are a popular and universal approach to structuring otherwise unorganised collections of items by computing a rank for each item based on the value of one or more of its attributes,” the researchers said in the paper.

“While the visualisation of a ranking itself is straightforward, its interpretation is not, because the rank of an item represents only a summary of a potentially complicated relationship between its attributes and those of the other items,” they continued. And this does not even take personal bias and subjectivity into consideration.

The researchers thus proposed LineUp - “an interactive technique to create, visualise and explore multi-attribute rankings”, according to Alexander Lex, a postdoctoral researcher at the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS). Lex created the software along with his adviser Hanspeter Pfister; An Wang, Professor of Computer Science at SEAS; Nils Gehlenborg, a research associate at Harvard Medical School; and Marc Streit and Samuel Gratzl at Johannes Kepler University.

“This interactive technique supports the ranking of items based on multiple heterogeneous attributes with different scales and semantics,” the researchers said. Configured as a table-based bar chart, with columns for each attribute, “it enables users to interactively combine attributes and flexibly refine parameters to explore the effect of changes in the attribute combination”.

Lex described how prospective students might use the system to analyse the rankings

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

of universities. They may filter rankings to their own country and then put more weight on the strength of the subjects they are interested in studying, as well as the facultystudent ratio. They can even invert items with lower rankings - eg, if they aren’t interested in studying arts, they can give higher rankings for universities with lower values for arts subjects.

“Columns can be moved, resized, removed and restored,” Lex said. When ranks change, animations and colour indicate those changes.

To better keep track of big changes and alternative weighting systems, the table can be split in two, allowing for side-by-side comparisons.

LineUp was actually created as part of a larger software package called Caleydo, a framework which visualises genetic data and biological pathways, eg, to analyse and characterise cancer subtypes.

“LineUp really was developed to address our need to understand the ranking of genes by mutation frequency and other clinical parameters in a group of patients,” said Pfister. “It is an ideal tool to create and visualise complex combined scores of bioinformatics algorithms.”

But the software can be used for all sorts of rankings - even predictive ones, by applying ‘what if?’ scenarios. It thus equips people without deep statistical or technical knowledge with a data analysis tool for everyday life.

LineUp is available as open-source software at http://lineup.caleydo.org. The team is currently working on a web-based version.

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Wireless monitoring systems for critical applications in life science facilities

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

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Users need to be aware that not all monitoring systems are equal.

Choosing the right system is paramount to product protection and adding value to your process.

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allowing preventive actions. These and other benefits will improve your quality system and save money in the future: fewer products to be thrown away and medicines, blood and cultures maintained under optimum conditions.

A good monitoring system watches over the lab and notifies those responsible when something is wrong, even when no one is around. It should also provide the audit trails, historical data and graphical information needed to provide quality assurance to your suppliers, customers and auditors.

Every customer has different needs and wishes, ranging from small systems to the monitoring of entire buildings and facilities.

Be aware when choosing a monitoring system as it may be constrained by the physical structure of the laboratory. A monitoring system that is flexible is the best way to go, as data transmission can be hard-wired, wireless or a combination.

Furthermore, a monitoring system may require validation services so it will comply with all the appropriate quality standards like GMP, GLP, ISO and FDA 21 CFR part 11, so local support with experienced consultants is also vital.

Here are 10 more factors to consider if looking at a wireless monitoring solution.

1. Wireless frequency and transmission power. These are usually overlooked, yet 434 MHz has better range than 868 MHz inside buildings. Transmitters in the 434 MHz range run at a lower power and give off less radiation. Higher powered transmitters have a limit for how long they can transmit and this can slow down the system in terms of sending data. Lower powered transmitters in the 10 mW range also have less chance of interfering with other equipment on-site.

2. RSSI (wireless signal strength).

Some systems do not automatically log or alarm on signal dropout, which is part

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

Š iStockphoto.com/Neustockimages/vkovalcik

Q

uality standards in hospitals, blood banks, bio banks, the pharmaceutical industry etc are becoming more and more stringent. In any professionally run laboratories, product storage, microbiological processes and all environmental conditions must all be critically controlled, including product storage inside equipment.

It is impossible for a user to watch equipment all the time, and many monitoring systems have been developed to do it for you 24 hours a day, seven days a week; watching vital parameters like temperature, humidity CO2 and pressure, and warning users if any controlled parameter moves outside set limits or if there are equipment or facility failures. But how do you choose the best system for your application with so many options out there? How do you know which system is best for your process?

You need to carefully look around at what is available. Local support is vital and any monitoring system provider understands that after-sales support is a major seller.

So what should a monitoring system do? Here are the top 10 most important aspects of a wireless monitoring system: 1. Secure recording of system data 2. Easy access onto the system 3. Easy-to-use software 4. Simplified system report generation 5. Reliable transmission of sensor data to the server 6. Accuracy and reliability of sensors 7. Local service and calibration of sensors 8. Alarm notification on parameter limits exceeded 9. Equipment failure notification 10. System redundancy Choose your monitoring system carefully. By closely monitoring all the vital control parameters, quality loss in your product or experiment will be prevented.

Furthermore, any equipment problems will usually be detected before total failure,

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A GOOD MONITORING SYSTEM WATCHES OVER THE LAB AND NOTIFIES THOSE RESPONSIBLE WHEN SOMETHING IS

© iStockphoto.com/Neustockimages/vkovalcik

WRONG, EVEN WHEN NO ONE IS AROUND.

of the territory with wireless technology.

Wireless monitoring systems are not foolproof, but by intuitive design and additional compensation, signal dropout can be managed efficiently.

3. System redundancy. This comes in handy if signal dropout is an issue. A good robust wireless system should have sufficient redundancy to back up the PC/ server and also allow sensors to keep on running in the event of a power failure on a battery backup system. Some systems have power failure watchdogs built into them and monitor the site for power outage issues, sending alarms if necessary.

4. Alarm notification system. One of the most important parts of the system is its ability to notify users of an event that may be detrimental to the facility or product. Ideally, SMS alarming should offer very detailed alarm messages to multiple people on standby. But is not enough these days - messages can get lost or users might not respond properly. You need a system that monitors the user’s response, offering automatic escalation to other people if necessary. In the worst-case scenario, the system should detect that no SMS messages can be sent, automatically switching to another form of alarming like BMS or a telephone dialler. This ensures that alarms will always reach the user, preventing product loss.

5. System back-up. As per requirement of the 21 CFR part 11, electronic dataacquisition systems need to have a back-up and recovery option. Most systems will only offer manual back-up, often leading to data loss. A good robust system should offer a fully automatic, built-in back-up that makes back-ups of all data and which can be user-programmable. This is done to not one but multiple storage locations, offering good data security. For example,

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back-ups of one day will not exceed 500 KB, keeping annual database growth very low. This way, a system can store data for >30 years easily. The system should also provide alarms in case of back-up failure.

6. System watchdog. Many monitoring systems have no solution to monitor if the software is still running. In case of problems, users are mostly too late to react. Some good systems have built-in watchdogs able to autonomously react in case of server or software failure. These modems have a built-in back-up battery which also ensures proper alarming during complete blackouts.

Signals can be sent to telephone diallers or BMS systems to alarm users so software failure issues can be immediately notified.

7. Sensor accuracy. There are many wireless monitoring systems on the market that have sensors with low accuracy. If one needs to monitor a specific temperature, one needs an accurate sensor that can be locally calibrated by a NATA-accredited facility. If we look at temperature, the more expensive sensors typically have better accuracy. For a temperature sensor to monitor critical laboratory equipment, a 4-wire (class A 1/10 DIN) pt100 sensor is appropriate. Many monitoring systems offer less accurate 3-wire sensors to cut costs, so be aware when looking at systems. It is often forgotten that bending a 3-wire cable will change the resistance value of the pt100, effectively changing the accuracy of the measurement. 4-wire pt100 sensors have a built-in cable compensation which protects against such changes.

8. Wireless substations. Look for wireless system substations that use a 16-bit analog to digital converter, which provides accuracy and stability not only at the day of purchase but for years and years. Some substations are supplied with a 7-point calibration and QC certificate for all chan-

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

nels, covering the whole measuring range.

9. Software. Choose a multiuser, webbased system. This means that every user can use every computer in the network (or from home) to log on to the monitoring system webserver. If software uses a client-software based solution, it is not possible to log on from every computer.

Tedious installations need to be done and users normally do not have authorisation.

Also, client licences are mostly paid. Furthermore, using a multiuser, web-based system allows the software to filter both alarms and information on each department level, so that people will only see the information that they want and need to see.

10. Compliance. Make sure the system you choose has hardware and software designed to comply with all necessary accreditations, like 21 CFR part 11, GMP, GAMP 5 and EN 300-220-V2. Since the FDA is not a certifying body, no company can claim to have been certified. In order to remove doubt, make sure the system provider has provided a 21 CFR part 11 compliancy statement in which all points of compliancy are worked out and documented.

In summary, if you want to safeguard your facility and valuable product, you need to be aware of the different types of systems on the market. Make sure you do your homework. There are some fairly basic systems and there are some really good wireless monitoring systems that will add value and confidence and, more importantly, protect the one thing that is the most important part of the whole facility: the product. If a cryo-freezer goes down and your monitoring system is inadequate, then that embryo is lost forever.

LAF Technologies Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W524

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Smooth Operator New Eppendorf micromanipulators TransferMan® 4r and InjectMan® 4 The new Eppendorf micromanipulators are developed to simplify your work and increase your micromanipulation results.

The robust and reliable devices are ergonomically correct and function with maximum stability, providing the best performance for the easiest operation.

> Unprecedented movement control > Pre-defined functions for various applications optimize your workflow > Connection with Eppendorf electronic microinjectors and Eppendorf PiezoXpert®

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All rights reserved, including graphics and images. Copyright© 2013 by Eppendorf AG.

‘Microbial Pompeii’ found on 1000-year-old teeth Fossilised dental plaque (calculus) on the teeth of a middle-aged man from the mediaeval site of Dalheim, Germany, ca. AD 1100.

Photo credit: Christina Warinner.

D

ental calculus (plaque) on the teeth of 1000-year-old skeletons has preserved bacteria and microscopic particles of food, effectively creating a mineral tomb for microbiomes that has been unearthed by an international team of researchers.

Unlike bone, which rapidly loses much of its molecular information when buried, dental calculus grows slowly in the mouth and enters the soil in a much more stable state, helping it to preserve biomolecules. This enabled the researchers, led by Dr Christina Warinner of the University of Zürich and the University of Oklahoma, to analyse ancient DNA that was not compromised by the burial environment.

“Dental calculus acts both as a long-term reservoir of the oral microbiome and as a trap for dietary and environmental debris,” Dr Warinner explained. “This allows us to investigate health and disease, as well as reconstruct aspects of an individual’s life history and activities.”

The study into ancient oral microbiome ecology and function, led by the University of Zürich, the University of Copenhagen and the University of York, involved the contributions of 32 scientists at 12 institutions in seven countries. The researchers applied shotgun DNA sequencing to dental calculus, reconstructed the genome of a major periodontal pathogen and produced possibly the first genetic evidence of dietary biomolecules to be recovered from ancient dental calculus.

“We report the first, to our knowledge, high-resolution taxonomic and protein functional characterisation of the ancient oral microbiome and demonstrate that the oral cavity has long served

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as a reservoir for bacteria implicated in both local and systemic disease,” the researchers wrote in the journal Nature Genetics.

The study will help in understanding the origins of periodontal disease, which causes distinctive proteomic changes in the dentition and is characterised by chronic inflammation resulting in tooth and bone loss. Today, moderate to severe periodontal disease affects more than 10% of the world’s population and is linked to diverse systemic diseases. It had been speculated that the disease results from modern human lifestyles, yet the researchers found that it is caused by the same bacteria today as in the past, despite major changes in human diet and hygiene.

The researchers also discovered that the ancient human oral microbiome already contained the basic genetic machinery for antibiotic resistance more than 800 years before the invention of the first therapeutic antibiotics in the 1940s. As well as health information, the scientists recovered dietary DNA, allowing the identification of dietary components, such as vegetables, that leave few traces in the archaeological record.

“Dental calculus is a window into the past and may well turn out to be one of the best-preserved records of humanassociated microbes,” said Professor Christian von Mering, an author of the study and group director at the SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics.

Professor Matthew Collins of the University of York added: “We knew that calculus preserved microscopic particles of food and other debris, but the level of preservation of biomolecules is remarkable. A microbiome entombed and preserved in a mineral matrix; a microbial Pompeii.”

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

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Electronic nose The OdourScan Model 2000 Electronic Nose has been developed to provide the food industry with a rapid means of detecting and quantifying odours and smells. The instrument uses a set of six tin oxide detectors that have different sensitivities to detect different odourants and gases. The response from one or multiple detectors can be used to detect and measure the odourants.

The product has a head space sampling system designed to collect a gas sample from the head space of a sealed jar or container. The container needs to have a rubber septum that can be pierced by the sample probe. A syringe then

Metallic particle sensor The MetallicContamination Sensor MCS 1000 is used for recording metallic solid particle contamination in lubrication fluids. The particles are determined in accordance with the inductive measurement procedure, whereby a coil system forms the core of the sensor.

Metallic particles (ferromagnetic Fe and non-ferromagnetic nFe) in the >70 Âľm size range are detected.

The product is used for the continuous status monitoring of the system and sheds light on imminent damage. Applications include gear units in wind power plants, monitoring of large-size gearboxes (marine gearboxes; gearboxes of stationary and mobile hydraulics) and test rigs. It is thus suitable for status-oriented maintenance.

The product complements optical sensors, providing early detection of impending damage to gears and avoidance of system breakdowns. The measurement result is not affected by air bubbles or liquid contamination in the liquid. Condition monitoring systems in wind power plants which have already been certified do not lose their certification if the product is built into the system.

withdraws a fixed volume of gas through a series of isolation valves and injects the gas into the OdourScan sensor module. The outputs from the detectors are plotted on a time graph that shows the peak response from each detector as the gases pass over the detector block. The peak heights are then used to determine the identity of the gases and their concentrations.

The device is PC controlled so that the data can be stored and used to develop calibrations for different products. Linear regression modelling can be used to develop calibrations for multiple gases or odourants analyses.

The analyser replaces the subjective testing that is undertaken in food manufacturing. The product provides a digital result which can be stored and then compared to other data, unlike human sensory testing which can be subjective and affected by health, age and what foods people have recently eaten. The analyser provides an objective measurement that is independent of the operator and can be used to

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differentiate good and bad smelling products all year round.

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DMSO-free cryopreservation media FREEZEstem is a robust, ready-to-use cryopreservation media developed for slow freeze of cells at ultralow temperatures (-80 to -196°C). The user-friendly media utilises a simple slow-freeze protocol which does not require expensive freezing equipment.

Unlike most cryopreservation media on the market, the product is DMSO-, serum- and XENO-free, providing low-toxicity cryopreservation with improved post-thaw cell viability and function. The media has been specifically designed to provide toxic-free cryopreservation of mammalian cells, including human pluripotent stem cells. It is produced in FDA-inspected cGMP facilities according to cGMP and ISO 13485:2003.

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

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CASE STUDY

Diagnostic device meets malaria field evaluation objective Fio Corporation’s Deki Reader - a mobile in vitro diagnostic device - has demonstrated consistent interpretation of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for multiple malaria strains in a field evaluation. The results of the trial were published in Malaria Journal.

Rapid diagnostic testing has become a pivotal strategy in malaria control since the World Health Organization called for parasitological confirmation of all cases to reduce inappropriate use of antimalarial drugs. But as noted in the journal, “there are still obstacles to the widespread implementation of this strategy, such as reporting constraints and lack of proper quality assurance of RDT-based programs at point-of-care (POC)”.

“Large-scale implementation of rapid diagnostic testing in malaria programs frequently results in poor diagnosis because operators often have limited expertise,” explained Dr Sócrates Herrera, director of the Caucaseco Scientific Research Center in Colombia. The centre is the lead institution behind the Centro Latino Americano de Investigación en Malaria (CLAIM), one of 10 International Centers of Excellence for Malaria Research funded by the US National Institutes of Health.

Fio conducted the field evaluation in collaboration with the Caucaseco Scientific Research Center. A cohort of 1807 patients, at seven health centres in malaria-endemic areas of Colombia, was used to assess the diagnostic performance of the Deki Reader device. The field evaluation analysed results from cases tested with an RDT capable of detecting the Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax species of malaria.

Seven study technicians, all trained laboratory microbiologists with rapid diagnostic testing experience, used Deki Readers to process the RDTs according to manufacturer recommendations. The devices provided job aids and helped the study technicians keep track of the incubation time for each RDT processed. Once the incubation period was completed, the study technicians interpreted the RDTs by visual inspection and entered results using the Deki Reader’s touch screen. They then inserted the RDTs into the Deki Reader to obtain an objective interpretation of the test.

“The diagnostic performance of the Deki Reader was comparable to visual interpretation of RDTs (without significant differences) for both malaria species,” the researchers concluded. Dr Herrera added that “even when using RDTs with multiple antigens, the Deki Reader’s automated interpretation can be trusted to deliver high-level accuracy”.

The researchers suggested that large-scale implementation of rapid diagnostic testing in malaria programs would greatly benefit from the standardised, automated interpretation and near-real-time reporting of test results provided by the Deki Reader.

Fio Corporation http://www.fio.com/index.html

X-ray microscope The nano3DX, from Rigaku, is a true X-ray microscope (XRM) with the ability to measure relatively large samples at high resolution. The product images the entire sample from multiple angles and can thus reconstruct a 3D image at 0.27 µm resolution. The computer model allows the user to view sections at any point on any plane, providing insights into the structure of the sample.

The product features a high-power rotating anode and high-resolution optics coupled with sub-micron CCD technology. This combination is capable of fast data collection and has the ability to switch anode materials rapidly to optimise data acquisition. Furthermore, the magnification occurs in the detector using true microscope elements.

The geometry of the system allows the sample to be located very close to the high-resolution detector, which provides near-parallel beam optics. This is said to result in improved instrument stability, which prevents smearing, allows for faster data collection times and ultimately yields high resolution.

The primary anode materials used are copper, chromium and molybdenum.

The choice of these materials gives the system the flexibility to optimise the X-rays for penetration and contrast based on the atomic weights of materials present in the sample. The product features an ultrawide field of view and is said to measure volumes up to 25 times larger in a single scan compared to other systems at similar resolutions in comparable time frames.

X-ray microscopy is suited to all kinds of materials, from low-density materials such as biological samples to high-density materials such as ceramics and steels, and even materials with low absorption contrast, like CFRPs and pharmaceuticals. The product is suitable for many applications, from materials science to electronics and semiconductors to mining and minerals exploration to life sciences and pharmaceuticals.

Australian X-Ray Tubes Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W343

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Viscometers and rheometers Brookfield has improved viscosity measurement by combining the ease of touch-screen technol-

Chemicals

ogy with the features of its DV-II viscometers and

The Msynth plus line, from Merck Millipore,

DV-III rheometers. The result is the Brookfield

makes qualification of starting materials simple.

DV2T viscometers and DV3T rheometers.

A 5″ colour touch screen guides DV2T us-

Developed for organic synthesis in qualityconscious or regulated environments, such as

ers through test creation and data gathering

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analysis for fast and easy viscosity measurements.

tries, Msynth plus products are accompanied

The product offers programming capabilities and results

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analysis, including data averaging and QC limits with

help users easily fulfil regulatory requirements.

alarms. The interface also provides customisable user

The product range is qualified for use in

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both GMP and non-GMP synthesis and is

with regulatory requirements such as

optimised for research, process development

21 CFR Part 11.

and production. The portfolio comprises both

The DV3T rheometer, with a 7″

organic and inorganic chemicals, including

touch screen, conveniently displays

building blocks, reagents, solvents, process

viscosity measurement with temperature control, yield stress

chemicals and additives.

determination and on-screen data graphing and analysis. The fully automated instrument also allows for quick and easy single-

The products are manufactured in compliance with ISO 9001 guidelines, but not

point test capability.

according to GMP requirements. Each batch

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is subjected to extensive in-house testing,

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which is described in the qualification dossier included with every product. Each qualification dossier contains specification, safety data sheet, testing procedure, continent of origin, principle of synthesis, BSE/TSE certificate, RoHS certificate, information regarding residual

Fluorescence live cell movie analyser

solvents and information regarding residues of metal catalysts/metal reagents.

Traceability is secured through change

The JuLI FL is a smart fluorescence live

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cell movie analyser and counter. The

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live cell images from various cell culture

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says, including cell counting, cell viability

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and GFP/RFP expression level checking.

This enables the user to support the

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quantified cell confluence results with low variation and the growth curve using image-based analysis for bright field.

The unit has an intuitive and userfriendly interface with an LCD touch screen and simple steps for the system set-up and operation. Its compact size is optimised for a cell culture incubator. To ensure high accuracy, it has an automated confluence detection and growth curve, plus semi-auto focusing with low variation. A dual system for comparative data is optional.

Potential applications include: live cell imaging (time lapse); cell growth monitoring; cell migration assay; cell confluence detection; cell culture quality control; proliferation assay; stem cell development; cell-based assay optimisation; cell counting and viability; transfection efficiency level check (GFP or RFP expression).

BioTools Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W453

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An interactive map of human genetic history Researchers have produced a global map detailing the genetic histories of 95 different populations across the world, spanning the last 4000 years. The map demonstrates how when individuals from different groups interbreed, their offspring’s DNA becomes a mixture of the DNA from each group, with pieces of this DNA carrying on all the way to the present day.

T

he researchers, from the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Oxford University and University College London (UCL), developed a technique named ‘Globetrotter’ to follow the genetic traces of admixture back to the nearest extant population. Their results, which follow the genetic impacts of over 100 historical events, have been published in the journal Science.

“We have developed an approach that exploits the genomic structure of admixed populations to date and characterise historical mixture events at fine scales,” the researchers said. They used genome data from 1490 individuals in 95 populations to identify pieces of DNA that were shared between individuals from different populations. Populations sharing more ancestry share more pieces, and individual pieces give clues about the underlying ancestry along chromosomes.

“Each population has a particular genetic ‘palette’,” said Daniel Falush, co-senior author from the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology. “If you were to paint the genomes of people in modern-day Maya, for example, you would use a mixed palette with colours from Spanish-like, West African and Native American DNA. This mix dates back to around 1670 AD, consistent with historical accounts describing Spanish and West African people entering the Americas around that time. Though we can’t directly sample DNA from the groups that mixed in the past, we can capture much of the DNA of these original groups as persisting, within a mixed palette of modern-day groups.”

“Although individual mutations carry only weak signals about where a person is from, by adding information across the whole genome we can reconstruct these mixing events,” added lead author

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Garrett Hellenthal, from the UCL Genetics Institute. “Sometimes individuals sampled from nearby regions can have surprisingly different sources of mixing. For example, we identify distinct events happening at different times among groups other than the Hazara sampled within Pakistan, with some inheriting DNA from subSaharan Africa, perhaps related to the Arab Slave Trade, another from East Asia and yet another from ancient Europe.”

Schematic of the admixture process. © The chromosome painting collective (www.paintmychromosomes.com) These events are showcased in the researchers’ interactive map, which details the histories of genetic mixing between populations across Europe, Africa, Asia and South America. Not only is it said to be the first map to simultaneously identify, date and characterise genetic mixing between populations, it also provides insight into the events that caused them.

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

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THE RESEARCH MIGHT HAVE IMPLICATIONS FOR HOW DNA IMPACTS HEALTH AND DISEASE IN DIFFERENT POPULATIONS.

Historical records suggest that the Hazara people of Pakistan are partially descended from Mongol warriors, and the study found clear evidence of Mongol DNA entering the population during the period of the Mongol empire. Six other populations, from as far west as Turkey, showed similar evidence of genetic mixing with Mongols around the same time.

“We identified events whose dates and participants suggest they describe genetic impacts of the Mongol empire, Arab slave trade, Bantu expansion, first millennium CE migrations in Eastern Europe, and European colonialism, as well as unrecorded events, revealing admixture to be an almost universal force shaping human populations,” the researchers said.

Dr Simon Myers, co-senior author of the study from Oxford University’s Department of Statistics and Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, speculated on one such unrecorded event. “The DNA of the Tu people in modern China suggests that in around 1200 CE, Europeans similar to modern Greeks mixed with an otherwise Chinese-like population. Plausibly, the source of this European-like DNA might be merchants travelling the nearby Silk Road.”

As well as providing fresh insights into historical events, the research might have implications for how DNA impacts health and disease in different populations.

“Some populations are more at risk of certain diseases than others, and drug efficacy is also known to vary significantly,” said Dr Myers. “Rare genetic mutations are particularly likely to show strong differences between populations, and understanding their role in our health is an area of intense current research efforts. We hope in future to include even more detailed sequencing, to spot these rare mutations and better understand their global spread.”

The research was funded by the Oxford University John Fell Fund, the National Institutes of Health (USA), the Wellcome Trust, the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and the joint Royal Society/Wellcome Trust Sir Henry Dale Fellowship. The map is available at http://admixturemap.paintmychromosomes.com.

Remote airborne particle counter The ApexR5 Remote Airborne Particle Counter delivers a range of specifications, ensuring the critical data logged is of high accuracy. With its sloped front face and sealed connections, the product is compatible with all decontamination processes, meeting the requirements of technology-driven industries.

Providing real-time continuous data collection, the device offers good performance, accuracy and reliability with its long-life laser diode sensor and a sensitivity of 0.5 µm. The product’s self-diagnostics for laser, flow and detector ensures data is accurate, repeatable and verifiable. Real-time data can be viewed with server view on a PC, tablet or smartphone.

The product is H2O2 vapour decontamination-compatible, with sealed inlets, outlets and FDA-approved plastics. It is also NIST-traceable, meeting ISO 21510-4 and JJF 1190. Users can hot swap any ApexR5 with the smart bracket option.

Other features include: flow rate of 28.3 L/min; data storage of 3000 records; validation mode; communication modes RS485, ethernet, POE, Modbus TCP, ASCII and RTU; smart port for configuration, remote display and environmental sensors.

LAF Technologies Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W551

Application software for weighing terminal Formulation variations can cause inconsistent product quality that can lead to bad batches and wasted materials. When manufacturers have greater control over their formulation processes, it saves money and enhances quality.

The latest software application for the IND890 weighing terminal, from Mettler Toledo, offers formulation control for flexible use in industrial applications. The terminal offers ergonomic weighing with increased efficiency and flexibility, as well as features for easy operation. IND890form software for the terminal allows users to easily monitor and control vertical and horizontal batch campaigns.

Flexibility is important when it comes to batching systems. For some formulations, it makes sense to add each ingredient in one mixing vessel (a vertical campaign), while for others (a horizontal campaign), it is best for each component to be added to multiple vessels before moving to the next component. The product switches over from one type to the other with no room for user error.

Mettler Toledo Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W275

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

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Balances Weighing is an integral step in many analytical procedures such as standard preparation, sample preparation, loss on drying

Programmable digital timer

and sieve analysis.

The Novus NT240 programmable digital timer can easily

The accuracy of

be configured to switch at programmed time intervals,

the weight usually

activating an output according to a predefined mode of

has a significant

operation and user-chosen time interval. The output is both

influence on the

in relay (SPST) as well as pulsed voltage (5 V/25 mA) and

quality of the final

is switched at programmed intervals according to 11 dif-

result.

ferent timing functions.

Mettler Toledo’s

Input types include NPN/PNP as well as digital NO/NC,

MS Precision Bal-

allowing the product to perform specific desired control

ances are said to

timed functions. The front dual 4-digit LED display shows

maintain the com-

the running time, elapsed time or time remaining, in resolu-

pany’s reputation

tions from 0.01 s to 99 h.

for innovation, per-

The product has dimensions of 48 x 48 x 110 mm. Its

formance, reliability

IP65-rated front panel is composed of polycarbonate UL94

and robust design.

V-2. The timer includes a silicone rubber keypad and is

The balances incorporate a number of features to ensure many years of precise and reliable weighing.

rated CE and UL. Other features include: accuracy to 0.05% of displayed

The balances feature a die-cast metal case to provide good

time; time base in seven scales from 99.99 s to 9999 h;

protection to the measuring cell. The case not only minimises po-

up or down time counting (decimal or h:min:s); power of

tential for damage to the cell but also provides a very solid base

100 to 240 V AC or DC

to ensure consistent weighing performance.

as well as 24 V; operating

The balances incorporate fully automatic calibration technology

environment of 5 to 50°C

(FACT) to automatically adjust the sensitivity of the balance. This

and 30 to 80% humidity.

adjustment occurs once per day or whenever there are changes

Heastern Industries

to ambient temperature, ensuring accurate results at all times.

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To help make cleaning easy, the balances’ draftshields are simple to remove and dismantle allowing each component to be cleaned by hand or in a dishwasher. A clean balance helps to ensure long service life and also provides more consistent performance.

Mettler Toledo Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W638

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Device for removing dying and dead cells

B-700 Series

ClioCell is an ex-vivo device for removal of dying and dead cells, improving viability and quality of cell populations and their subsequent productivity. The system has a simple 45 min protocol,

NEW

does not require specialised equipment and can be used in a range of temperatures and different cell culture media.

The system uses proprietary elements that selectively bind to the surface of non-viable cells and cell debris. The elements are coupled to paramagnetic nanoparticles and separated from the viable cell population with the use of a microtube magnet. The procedure is a simple and rapid method for optimising cell growth, culture and storage by removal of inhibitory or toxic dead cells.

Sapphire Bioscience Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W636

Waterproof pocket-size meter

Tubes CryoFreeze tubes safely secure samples to ensure accurate, reproducible results. Internal thread caps have a sili-

pH, conductivity, ions and salt Simple accurate and reliable

con O ring and external

Small samples typically one drop

threaded tubes have a

Uses innovative flat sensor technology

secure lip seal, both to prevent sample damage or loss.

The tubes range from

Calibrate and measure at the touch of a button Light, easy to clean and waterproof

1 to 4.5 mL with highcontrast graduations for easy-to-view volumes, a large writing area and colour-coded cap inserts. They are sterile and packed in convenient stand-up, tamper-evident pouches.

Compatible storage racks for vapour-phase liquid nitrogen freezing are also available.

Interpath Services Pty Ltd

Australian Scientific Pty Ltd Tel: 1800 021 083 PO Box 335 Fax: 02 4956 2525 Kotara, NSW 2289 Email: horiba@austscientific.com.au www.austscientific.com.au

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W337

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© stock.xchng/profile/aurelio

A complex biochemical system in a droplet In an effort to investigate the almost infinite number of complex and interlinked reactions taking place in a biological cell, scientists tried to replicate them in an artificial cell. Such experiments have so far worked with very simple reactions, but the team managed to establish a complex biochemical reaction in tiny droplets only a few micrometres in size.

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he group was led by Professor Friedrich Simmel, chair of Systems Biophysics and Nano Biophysics at the Technische Universität München (TUM). He and his colleagues from the University of California Riverside and the California Institute of Technology have published their findings in the journal Nature Chemistry.

The experiment was conducted using a biochemical oscillator made with a mixture of DNA, RNA and proteins. After an aqueous reaction solution and oil mixture was added, the liquid was vigorously shaken to create an emulsion consisting of thousands of droplets. Each droplet contained a copy of the oscillator mixture, enabling the scientists to quickly and cheaply set up a large number of experiments simultaneously.

The oscillator involves several reactions with DNA and RNA, which take place repetitively one after the other. Their rhythm becomes visible because two DNA strands bind to each other in such a way that a fluorescent dye shines. This ‘blinking’ was recorded and studied under a microscope.

Professor Simmel and his colleagues intended to investigate the behaviour of a complex reaction system if scaled down to the size of a cell. In addition, they wondered if all droplet systems displayed identical behaviour and what factors would cause possible differences.

Their experiments showed that the oscillations in the individual droplets differed strongly - more strongly than might have been expected from a simple statistical model, with small drops displaying stronger variations than large ones. According to Professor Simmel, it is “surprising that we could witness a similar variability and individuality in a comparatively simple chemical system as is known from biological cells”.

“Simultaneous measurement of large populations of droplets reveals major variations in the amplitude, frequency and damping of the oscillations,” the researchers said. “Variability increases for smaller droplets and depends on the operating point of the oscillator

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… [This] can be attributed to the statistical variation of reactant concentrations created during their partitioning into droplets.”

It is thus not currently possible to realise systems which are absolutely identical, which means researchers have to either search for ways to correct these variations or factor them in from the start. On the other hand, the numerous slightly differing systems could also be used specifically to pick out the one desired, optimally running set-up from thousands of systems.

Droplets with a diameter of only a few micrometres act as the reaction vessels for a complex oscillating reaction. Photo: Maximilian Weitz/TUM. “The highly parallel recording of the emulsion droplets enabled us to acquire plenty of interesting data,” said Professor Simmel.

“Our goal is to use these data to review and improve the theoretical models of biochemical reaction networks at small molecule numbers.”

It is hoped that one day, single-cell systems could be used as ‘nanofactories’ for the production of complex organic substances or biomaterials.

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CASE STUDY

Life Technologies forensic kit approved by FBI Life Technologies Corporation, a global biotechnology company, has announced that its GlobalFiler Express Kit has been approved by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation for use by laboratories generating DNA profiles for inclusion in the National DNA Index System (NDIS) CODIS Database. NDIS manages the federal CODIS forensic DNA database, which facilitates the electronic comparison and exchange of DNA profiles between participating local, county, state and federal law enforcement agencies and forensic laboratories.

The kit is the first NDIS-approved, fully validated six-dye system. It can be used for the rapid analysis of forensic DNA samples, delivering sample-to-answer in 2 h. The product provides the ability to increase the number of genetic markers obtained from forensic samples by more than 30% to 24, with a processing time said to be five times faster than other solutions currently available.

“Obtaining NDIS approval is an important part of Life Technologies’ commitment to provide superior, rapid DNA technologies to the law enforcement community worldwide,” said Nadia Altomare, Vice President and General Manager for Life Technologies Human Identification Business. “The GlobalFiler Express Kit has proven to be a transformative solution for forensic labs because of its speed and power in comparing DNA data, which ultimately leads to solving and preventing more crimes.”

“DNA examiners were able to use the GlobalFiler Express Kit to process a known reference sample from the suspect in a fraction of the time. This allowed the laboratory to connect a suspect to forensic evidence of an unknown sexual assault case,” said Kris Cano, Forensic Laboratory Manager, Scottsdale Police Department Crime Laboratory. “The GlobalFiler Express Kit is going to be an important tool for law enforcement to ensuring public safety.”

To date, 44 countries have now implemented criminal offender DNA database programs. The GlobalFiler Express Kit is said to be the only commercially available forensic genotyping kit that contains all markers recommended for inclusion by the CODIS Core Loci Working Group, including all markers commonly used in most international databases.

Source Life Technologies Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V381

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Gel and blot imaging software GeneSys imaging software version 1.4.0.0 is now available from Syngene. The product contains extra features and a redesigned interface to make the capturing of images both easier and quicker.

The application-driven software can be used in a fully automated mode, which means the user needs no experience in image capture; or in manual mode for those who wish to use their own settings. To automate the system further, capture protocols for typical gel or blot applications are included on the home page, with no limit to the number of capture protocols that can be added.

Having preset protocols enables the user to go from sample positioning to image capture with only a single

Liquid particle size analyser and counter

click. This is useful when running a number of similar ap-

Particle & Surface Sciences has launched the POLA 2000, a

plications. When it comes to multiplexing, the company’s

particle size analyser and counter for liquids.

protocol takes care of all lighting, filter and exposure settings

The product is a robust, high-resolution particle counter de-

for each fluorophore. Up to five different fluorophores can

signed for counting particles in liquids. It is simple to use and fully

be imaged at a time, which can then be displayed as a

portable, in an IP54 case with built-in carry handle. The system

multichannel image, as a colour overlay or as single images.

is controlled via a Windows analysis program that provides the

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operator with a high-resolution distribution of the particles over the selected size range, which is typically 1 to 350 µ.

When the system is being used in its particle size analysis mode, the unit is calibrated using NIST certified latex particles.

Data can be presented in both tabular and graphical formats for both population and volume. It can analyse and provide volume distributions.

When the system is being used for oil analysis, the product is calibrated to ISO11171 and the results are presented as ISO4406 or the relevant NAS Code for oils, hydraulic fluids or any other standard required.

Particle & Surface Sciences Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W238

Handheld Raman spectrometer B&WTek’s NanoRam is a compact, lightweight, handheld Raman spectrometer and integrated computing system designed for rapid raw material identification and verification. The spectrometer enables the development of standardised and validated methods for purity and quality control applications. It is used for non-destructive identification and verification of materials such as APIs, excipients, intermediates and finished products.

Weighing less than 1 kg, the product can be used by non-technical users to rapidly identify samples in the lab, warehouse, loading dock or field, helping to eliminate quarantine areas and expedite materials through the manufacturing life cycle. Using Raman technology, non-contact analysis can be performed through transparent containers, all while maintaining the volume and integrity of the sample.

At the heart of the unit is a 785 nm wavelength laser excitation source coupled with a thermoelectrically (TE)-cooled CCD detector and a crossed Czerny-Turner spectrograph, delivering a very stable signal with low background noise. The device comes with point-and-shoot, vial holder and bottle adapter accessories.

SciTech Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W451

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

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CRISPR-Cas9 products and services Clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)associated protein (Cas) systems are adaptive mechanisms evolved by bacteria and archaea to repel invading viruses and plasmids. Efficient genome editing by the system has been shown in multiple organisms, including zebrafish, mice, rats, C. elegans, plants and bacteria.

In the type II CRISPR systems, the complex of a CRISPR RNA (crRNA) annealed to a trans-activating crRNA (tracrRNA) is sufficient to guide the Cas9 endonuclease to a specific genomic sequence to generate doublestrand breaks (DSBs) in target DNA. This system can be simplified by fusing crRNA and tracrRNA sequences to produce a synthetic chimeric single-guided RNA (sgRNA). The selected target sequence consists of a 20-bp DNA sequence complementary to the crRNA or the chimeric sgRNA, followed by the trinucleotide (5’-NGG-3’) protospacer adjacent motif (PAM), which is recognised by Cas9 itself and essential for cleavage.

The RNA-guided DNA recognition mechanism of CRISPR-Cas9 provides a simple but powerful tool for selected genome engineering.

One advantage of CRISPR-Cas systems is that the Cas9 protein can be guided by individual gRNAs to modify multiple genomic target loci simultaneously.

Advantages of GeneCopoeia’s Genome-CRISP range include: RNA-guided genomic DNA recognition regardless of the methylation status; similar or greater gene-editing efficiency compared to zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs) and transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs); capable of editing multiple genes simultaneously (multiplexing); simple and fast design process, so no need to re-engineer the nuclease for each new target.

United Bioresearch Products Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V630

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Solving the puzzles of microbiology The Australian Society for Microbiology Annual Scientific Meeting & Trade Exhibition returns to Melbourne in 2014. This is the largest and most prestigious microbiology conference held in Australia and attracts approximately 600 microbiologists, allied professionals, researchers and academics from across the country and around the world. This year’s venue is the Pullman Melbourne in Albert Park, which promises a great environment for scientific and social interactions for all delegates.

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he scientific program includes prestigious invited speakers including overseas scientists who are among the most highly renowned and respected microbiologists. The overseas speakers will present at plenary and symposium sessions and there will be ample opportunities to engage with the speakers in workshops and social events. A highlight of the conference will be a special ‘This Week in Microbiology (TWiM) Downunder’ podcast hosted by Vincent Racaniello.

Educators’ Conference Prior to the conference, the ASM will host the inaugural ASM EduCon, the ASM Educators’ Conference. This will begin on Saturday 5 July with an interactive workshop on Enquiry-Oriented Learning. Two non-concurrent sessions after lunch will discuss Graduate Employability and Active Learning in the Practical Lab

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and attendees will have the opportunity to inspect the practical laboratories at RMIT University. On Sunday 6 July, a session on Massive Open Online Courses will follow a tour of the new Doherty Institute. The conference will conclude with a working lunch during which the different ways of teaching microbiology on Australian campuses will be explored.

All EduCon attendees will be given the opportunity to attend the opening session of the ASM annual scientific meeting conference at the Pullman hotel in Albert Park, including the Public Lecture, the Bazeley Oration, the Fenner Lecture and the Welcome Reception.

Workshop program The workshop program begins on Saturday 5 July with a ‘Molecular Diagnostic Workshop’. The workshop will cover basic concepts of

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Infection Control Day The symposium program offers all delegates an exciting array of topics presented by experts in their fields which encourage cross-disciplinary interactions across all areas of microbiology. A highlight of the program is the ‘Infection Control Day’ on Monday 7 July, which will include sessions on: • Multiple drug resistance in Gram negative rods; • New technologies; complemented by an • Infection Control Discussion Panel; and • News from the Hospitals - an evening event hosted by the Victorian ASM Branch where case studies will be presented.

Student members are invited to participate in the Nancy Millis Mentorship program, which will be launched at ASM 2014.

The Monday program includes a student breakfast, a mentoring workshop and an evening social event.

ASM invited speakers

molecular diagnosis, assay design, validation, standards and QC, update on various platforms and equipment (and how to choose the right one for your lab), the future (next-gen sequencing, microarrays) and a panel discussion with experts.

Other workshops on Sunday 6 July include: • Tools for Bioinformatics - a guide to using ‘free’ software/ web-based tools relevant to bacterial genomics and an introduction to bacterial genome sequencing); • MALDI-TOF User Group - a practical workshop discussing how MALDI-TOF has affected the workflow in labs, difficult-to-ID organisms, ‘new’ organisms revealed by MALDI, validation and QC, calibration, NATA requirements, troubleshooting and a panel discussion with selected speakers and reps from manufacturers); • Antimicrobials - topics covered will be clues in resistance in the lab, AST reporting guidelines - what’s clinically relevant, validation of changing methods (CLSI to EUCAST, CDS to CLSI), NATA requirements and finishing with future of antimicrobial testing (MALDI and molecular methods); and • Mycology - topics covered will be changing nomenclature, a dry workshop (microscopy and culture) of some common and uncommon fungi, antifungal susceptibility testing and new methods of diagnosis (MALDI and molecular diagnosis).

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Gustav Nossal

Public Lecture

Anne Dell

Imperial College London

Brett Finlay

University of British Columbia

Sheila Lukehart

University of British Columbia

Patrick McGovern

University of Philadelphia Museum

Vincent Racaniello

Columbia University

Rino Rappuoli

Novartis

Roy Robins-Browne

University of Melbourne Rubbo Oration

Ben Howden

University of Melbourne Fenner Lecture

Exhibition A range of equipment and consumable suppliers, including Thermo Fisher Scientific, will have their wares on display in the exhibition area. Visiting these booths and chatting with the experts will get you up to date with the latest equipment and services available.

T h e L o c a l O r g a n i s i n g C o mm i tt e e w a r m l y we l co m e s you to Melbourne to share in all things microbiological at ASM 2104. Find out more and register to attend by visiting http://asmmeeting.theasm.org.au Australian Society for Microbiology www.theasm.org.au

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

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Light-scattering GPC/SEC detectors Light-scattering GPC/SEC detectors are powerful tools for protein, polymer and macromolecular research commonly used to determine absolute molecular weight and protein aggregation. While most SEC systems use a single concentration detector, the addition of various light-scattering detectors enables the measurement of molecular weight independent of retention volume.

Right-angle light scattering (RALS) detectors enable molecular size to be measured for small isotropic scattering molecules (below ~15 nm) while low-angle light scattering (LALS) detectors allow larger molecules to be measured. Multi-angle light scattering (MALS) can be used to measure the radius of gyration (Rg).

The most appropriate technology to use can depend on application as well as preference. The addition of the Viscotek SEC-MALS 20 to Malvern’s range of detectors is said to make the company the sole provider of every commercially available light-scattering technology for GPC/SEC. The Viscotek SEC MALS 20 delivers good performance which can be added to any existing GPC/SEC set-up. Claimed to have the greatest number of high-quality detectors (particularly at low angles) of any commercially available MALS detector, the product offers an innovative optical cell design and delivers high sensitivity for all molecule types.

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DNA sample concentrator The miVac DNA is a compact concentrator from Genevac. It is capable of safely and efficiently removing water and organic solvents from biological samples in a variety of formats, including tubes, microplates and vials.

The system is simple to use. The ‘select and set’ single control knob control enables even new users to obtain good results first time and every time. To improve performance there are built-in stored methods for concentration of water and water/alcohol-based samples, which optimise concentration time.

The product offers digital control of concentrator temperature and short concentration times, minimising the risk of heat damage to the samples. Unlike centrifugal filters, the device concentrates effortlessly and returns 100% of the samples every time, with no consumable costs.

Delivering high performance in all aspects, the product provides scientists with everything they need to safely and swiftly concentrate or dry their samples in a compact, easy-to-use package. The design has no motor and is therefore quiet running.

The system is suitable for use in molecular biology, biotechnology, academic research and forensic laboratories.

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

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2014-2015 labware catalogue Kartell has published its 2014-2015 Labware catalogue for the Australian market.

The catalogue features the Technical Manual, detailing technical data related to plastic labware including: commonly used abbreviations for labware plastics; standard temperature ranges for laboratory plastic use; lists of plastics and their chemical resistances to substance groups, including alcohols, alkalis, hydrocarbons and acids; alphabetical list of chemical resistances for all commonly used laboratory plastics; information on sterilising plastic labware; technical suggestions for cleaning plastic labware.

As well as the Technical Manual, the 170-page catalogue includes over 350 colour photos and detailed descriptions of the Kartell range, including the latest innovations.

For easy reference, the catalogue has been organised into four main sections. plastilab is further broken down into general-purpose labware, bottles and accessories; graduated and volumetric plasticware, microscopy and microbiology; filtration and vacuum pumps, clamps and supports, pipettes and accessories; test tubes and accessories, hospital wares, fluoroware. Other sections include Dispolab (disposable items); Liquid Handling; and technoKartell (electronic stirring equipment).

Sieper & Co Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W670

Automation scheduling software The Thermo Scientific Momentum 3.3 automation scheduling software offers features to facilitate set-up and streamline workflows. Designed to save valuable time, the software incorporates graphical system layout and an instrument integration suite within the runtime environment.

By configuring their system directly in Momentum 3.3, users can accommodate quick system and instrument changes. Furthermore, the communication settings for all instruments on the system can be tested at the click of a button for rapid integration.

Other enhancements engineered to simplify automation include the integration of a container library, designed to provide users with a preconfigured database of commonly used container types. This can allow precise container handling without the need to populate complex parameters.

The intuitive software supports flexible workflow logic, allowing users to define a set of plates to process based on lists of barcodes. This feature was added to enable plate and consumable inventory use in multiple processes across batches. The set-up process has also been streamlined, with fewer steps than previous versions, in order to shorten sample submission times.

The product is designed to be useful for modelling complex scenarios on large automated systems. The system can control more than 30 robots in one system.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W097

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© iStockphoto.com/James Steidl

The top 10 chemically engineered inventions The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) has released the results of its survey on the most important chemically engineered inventions and solutions of the modern era.

T 10

he top 10 list, comprising the inventions considered to have made the biggest impact on society, was voted for by IChemE’s MediaEnvoys - volunteers who promote the awareness of chemical engineering worldwide. The results are:

osed medications D (such as tablets, pills and capsules)

Dosed medication in the form of pills first appeared before Roman times, but it was from the 20th century onwards that the mass production of tablets, pills and capsules transformed medication, providing an accurately measured dosage in a convenient portable package.

“However,” said process and equipment consultant Keith Plumb, “to ensure that this medication can be mass-produced in a manner that leads to the correct quality and purity in the quantities required, requires manufacturing on a large scale. This manufacturing has benefited significantly from the application of chemical engineering.

“Not only are the medicines themselves produced thanks to the help of chemical engineers, so are the materials used to package them - such as blister packs - along with the medical equipment required to provide the dosage such as syringes.”

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Electricity generation (from non-fossil fuels)

Electricity generation from nuclear, wind, solar, biomass, biofuels and hydropower are viewed by many as the solution to low-carbon energy production and as a replacement for fossil fuels. In 2014 the world’s largest gasification plant is scheduled to open in the UK, capable of powering 50,000 homes from 350,000 tonnes of biomass each year.

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“From the beginning of non-fossil fuel electricity generation, chemical engineers have been right at the centre of the revolution,” said graduate performance engineer Andrew Baines. “Designing the cooling systems for nuclear reactors, driving forward production methods for photovoltaic cells and analysing flow patterns around wind turbine blades are just three examples.

“Electricity generation from non-fossil fuels is absolutely the key to the future of life as we know it.”

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Sanitation

“Sanitation, or the disposal of sewage and supply of clean drinking water, has come a long way since the first use of activated sludge treatment in Manchester, England, in the late-19th century,” said IChemE Director of Policy and Communication Andy Furlong.

Poor sanitation has been responsible for millions of deaths throughout history, with preventable water diseases continuing to kill up to 5 million people each year (mostly in developing countries). Chemical engineers are now central to the treatment of waste.

“Chemical engineers are continuing to develop purification processes using techniques like adsorption, membrane separation and advanced oxidation with ultraviolet light. They are also working to reduce the environmental impact of sewage sludge disposal, including making good use of this unpleasant stuff as a raw material for biodiesel,” said Furlong.

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Fertiliser

At the beginning of the 20th century, Fritz Haber developed the first practical process to convert atmospheric nitrogen to ammonia

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- a form which can be used by plants. Fertiliser generated via this process is currently estimated to be responsible for sustaining one-third of the Earth’s population; half the protein within human beings is made of nitrogen that was originally produced by the process.

Hasan Baqar, an operations manager, said: “Human survival is dependent on the use of fertilisers - either organic or inorganic … Estimates report 30 to 50% of crop yields are attributed to natural or synthetic commercial fertiliser.

“Quite simply, current food demand and supply could not be met without the use of fertiliser and chemical engineers.”

6

Plastics

Most plastics are organic polymers with high molecular mass, made from organic raw materials such as cellulose, coal, natural gas and crude oil. Due to their relatively low cost, ease of manufacture, versatility and imperviousness to water, plastics are used in an expanding range of products and have already displaced many traditional materials.

Process engineer Thaddeus Anim-Somuah noted that plastics have supported improvements in several areas: the construction, automobile and textile industries have been able to develop new products; health has benefited from the storing of water in plastic bottles; and the food industry has extended shelf lives.

“Even the environment has benefited from plastics by helping to reduce the amount of materials needed for packaging and the energy required to transport goods,” said Anim-Somuah.

5

Vaccines

Vaccines are biological preparations that stimulate the body’s immune system to recognise and kill specific microorganisms which cause disease. Bioreactors are used to grow bacteria during vaccine production, and other chemically engineered processes can include ultrafiltration and column chromatography.

Vaccines have been used against major diseases including diphtheria, measles, mumps, rubella, polio vaccine and the eradication of smallpox during the 1960s and 1970s. Now new challenges face society, according to process engineer Adam Hawthorne, “including pandemics such as swine and bird flu, and cancers affecting both men and women caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV)”.

“The vital role of chemical engineering will be to turn solutions to those challenges into life-sustaining products,” he said.

4

Electricity generation (from fossil fuels)

Electricity generation from fossil fuels - such as coal, gas and oil - has emerged as the dominant source of global energy over the past century. Over 50,000 coal-fired power stations are in operation worldwide and growing economies like China and India are expected to build another 200 power stations over the next four years.

“The basic method of electricity generation developed by Michael Faraday in the early 19th century is still applied today,” said petroleum engineer Hani Baluch. “It’s amazing to consider how this elementary design has revolutionised the way we live.

“The pursuit of hydrocarbon resources dominates global politics and economic development, and electricity generation will continue to play a pivotal role in the climate change debate … and chemical engineers will continue to develop and improve these processes.”

3

Antibiotics

An antibiotic is an agent that kills or inhibits the growth of specific bacteria. Produced industrially via fermentation, antibiotics

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are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs and are used for illnesses such as ear infections, syphilis, tuberculosis, salmonellosis and some forms of meningitis.

“What today are regarded as routine infections were considered deadly diseases before the discovery and synthesis of penicillin

by Fleming, Florey and Chain,” said Alfredo Ramos Plasencia, a UK vice president working in the process industries.

“Transplant surgery, where the patient’s immune system has to be suppressed to avoid the rejection of the new organ, would not be feasible without antibiotics. The impact of antibiotics on humanity can be quantified in millions of lives saved since Fleming’s and Florey’s findings, and the work of chemical engineers.”

2

etrol or gasoline P (and other fuels including diesel)

Global consumption of petrol, heating oil and other petroleum products reached 88.9 million barrels a day in 2012. As noted by senior process engineer Azhar Ashfaq, “Petrol and other products derived from crude oil have a major impact on our lives every day … from water bottles and shopping bags to fertilisers, soap, water pipes, boats and perfumes.

“But it is the impact of petrol as a fuel in automobiles that has helped society to be more efficient, mobilised and more productive.”

Petrol is produced in oil refineries by distillation from crude oil, via a process which uses heat to separate out different products at different boiling points. Some of these products are ready for use as heating or transport fuels. Others pass through a distillation column where heat and pressure transform them into higher value products.

1

Drinking or potable water

Water is fundamental to life, yet access to a stable and safe supply of clean drinking water continues to be a major concern in many countries. The methods used to produce clean water vary across the world and are often dependent on climate and economics.

“The chemical engineering and scale of activity needed to achieve the provision of safe, clean water is huge and highlighted by the challenge faced by many developing countries that do not yet have the infrastructure or skills to provide reliable and safe drinking water to its population,” said chemical engineering student Deborah John.

Methods include physical processes such as filtration, sedimentation and distillation; biological processes such as slow sand filters or biologically active carbon; chemical processes such as flocculation and chlorination; and the use of electromagnetic radiation such as ultraviolet light.

Chemical, biochemical and process engineering is the application of science, maths and economics to the process of turning raw materials into everyday products. IChemE Chief Executive David Brown described it as “a remarkable profession … [which] can take the smallest of discoveries in laboratories - from all fields of science and technology - and replicate them on a mass scale, consistently and economically.

“The facilities and plants built to deliver products like petrol and clean water are equally impressive … Here, too, chemical engineers make a major contribution to the design and operation of industrial facilities, and their safe management,” he said.

“As the global population grows to an estimated nine billion by 2050, issues like energy generation, the management of health, water supply and food production will become more challenging.

They are issues that chemical engineers are already looking at to find the next generation of sustainable solutions.”

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

31

Digital multimeter-oscilloscope The DT 9989 digital multimeter-oscilloscope combo from Power Parameters is a suitable measurement instrument for the industrial electrician dealing with power electronics including variable speed drives, UPS systems, induction heaters, phase and burst-fired power controllers.

The product has a 10 MHz digital scope with 320 x 240 TFT colour display, 20 MHz bandwidth and 50 MS/s sampling speed. The multimeter function measures AC, AC plus DC True RMS (TRMS) measurement to 1000 V, DC and AC current to 10 A, frequency to 10 MHz as well as resistance, capacitance and temperature.

The IP67 housing makes the instrument suitable for the most stressful environments.

Furthermore, the Cat III 1000 V, Cat IV 600 V rating makes the device suitable for LV switchboard and motor control centre work.

The product is equipped with a Bluetooth PC interface for data transfer and calibration.

The Meterbox iMM smart mobile app, also available, provides real-time and historical voltage, current, resistance and capacitance electric parameters measurement logging, sharing and data management. The smart mobile software permits cloud computing. Using the software, the measured data can be transmitted to smart mobile via Bluetooth.

The unit is supplied with test leads, type K temperature probe, Bluetooth and software, as well as a carrying case.

Power Parameters Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W122

Touch-screen food texture analyser Food Technology Corporation’s TMS-Pilot texture analyser is a portable, mid-range system designed for quick and easy food texture testing. The product can perform basic texture testing of most food products, including baked goods, confectionery items, dairy products, fruits, meats, vegetables and snacks. Test methods such as breaking, snapping, tension, shearing, bulk analysis, compression, penetration and extrusion tests are all easily performed.

Controlled by an easy-to-use LCD touch-screen interface, the device requires minimal operator training. Tests are performed at the touch of an icon and regularly used tests can be saved as ‘Favourites’ for instant test recall and set-up. With a plug-and-play design, load cells can be interchanged in seconds. The majority of the company’s test probes and fixtures can be used with the product.

Next Instruments Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V812

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

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

32

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

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PCR strip tubes SSI Ultraflux i PCR strip tubes enable users to amplify their results. The tubes’ ultrathin walls ensure efficient thermal transfer for maximum yield and clear results.

The eight strip tubes have a flat, optically clear cap and so can be used for RT-PCR. The angular cap attachment avoids interference with surrounding tubes.

Free from DNase, RNase, DNA and endotoxins, Ultraflux is suitable for PCR consumables.

Interpath Services Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W336

Peristaltic pump Complementing its line of liquid handling products, Hirschmann’s product range now includes continuous dispensing pumps. The company’s Rotarus offers continuous delivery, precise dispensing, intelligent control, comfortable use and rapid handling.

The product features motors in 50 and 100 W class, ensuring precise delivery every time. Media with a high viscosity can be accurately dispensed as well. The device offers features such as RFID technology for rapid identification of the pump head, automatic leakage detection and tube rupture monitoring.

Schott Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W540

Card for plasma collection Shimadzu Scientific Instruments has partnered with Novilytic Labs to offer technology for the rapid generation of plasma from whole blood. Noviplex is a simple, powerful tool used to collect a volumetric sample of plasma (2.5 or 5 µL) from a non-volumetric application of whole blood in just minutes.

An unmeasured application of between 20 to 75 µL of whole blood from a finger-stick, mouse tail-bleed or other source is all that is required to collect a volumetric plasma sample. The product can be used as a single-step, solidphase method for sample preparation and analyte extraction, eliminating the need for time-consuming techniques such as solid phase extraction, centrifugation and evaporation.

The device offers 99% removal of red blood cells (based on Hb levels in plasma); inter-card CV of ~1% in plasma collection volume at constant hematocrit (HCT); and intercard CV of 2% collection volume variation with 20% to 71% HCT. Proteins are deposited as a monolayer upon drying and metabolites are present in the protein monolayer.

The tool provides rapid sample preparation for MS-based analysis while maintaining assay reproducibility and selectivity; and good reproducibility independent of hematocrit.

Shimadzu Scientific Instruments (Oceania) Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W420

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WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

33

my lab 34

Researchers on the storm Lauren Davis When it comes to studying thunderstorms, the best lab is the site of the storm itself. That’s where Joshua Soderholm, a PhD student at the University of Queensland, has been conducting his research project into the collisions between thunderstorms and sea breezes.

According to Soderholm, “History shows us that the most severe storms often develop after a sea-breeze interaction” (as a result of the extra moisture and winds), yet thunderstorms in coastal environments have received limited attention in comparison to storms in the central United States. There is a gap in our knowledge of the outcomes of these collisions, he said, with storms having been “observed to sometimes weaken; other times intensify; and even change direction after colliding with a sea breeze”.

This poses a significant problem for forecasters attempting to predict storm tracks over the short term, and for the public who reside in the surrounding area. So Soderholm set out to improve the accuracy of public storm warnings in coastal environments where a sea breeze is occurring. From November 2013 to January 2014, he and his team headed out to the coastal plains of south-east Queensland over 16 storm days.

“The best part of conducting field research is being able to see the concepts and theories come to life before your eyes,” said Soderholm. “It gives you an appreciation and understanding of the science which could never be gained in sitting in an office.”

Along with conventional measuring equipment such as meteorological balloons, weather stations and boundary layer profilers, the researchers deployed an instrument called a scanning Doppler lidar. Doppler lidars observe winds using “an infrared laser to detect the motion of suspended dust and aerosols in ‘clear air’”, said Soderholm, “… [which] is critical when looking at sea-breeze wind changes and gusts ahead of thunderstorms”.

The researchers observed “a broad spectrum of thunderstorm systems interacting with the sea breeze”, Soderholm said, with “rapid changes to storm intensity and track”. In fact, he added, “The diversity of interactions exceeded our expectations and provided useful information for refining our strategy and target storm types for when we go out again in the 2014-2015 storm season.”

When the next season hits, the researchers will be deploying the mobile Doppler weather radar and CP-2 radar, operated by the Centre for Australian Weather and Climate Research. These dual-polarmetric radars “collect additional information on the microphysical properties of precipitation and are less likely to suffer signal attenuation through heavy precipitation”, Soderholm said.

Until then, Soderholm and his team will have to settle for a more conventional lab, where they will “explore the mechanisms behind each interaction event and develop concepts which can be applied to all events”. It is with this data that they hope to enable earlier and more accurate storm warnings.

WHAT’S NEW IN LAB & LIFE SCIENCES - April/May 2014

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