September 2016 Technology News
The latest equipment, instruments, and system introductions to the laboratory market.
Analytical
Triple Quadruple ICP-MS System
8900
The controlled-reaction chemistry of this inductively coupled plasma/mass spectrometry system delivers the lowest detection limits for previously difficult elements, such as sulfur, silicon, and phosphorus
- Includes a fast detector that sets a new benchmark for single nanoparticle applications
- Features ICP-MS MassHunter software
Agilent www.agilent.com
Self-Cleaning Ion Source
JetClean
- The first commercially available ion source that cleans itself
- Designed to keep Agilent quadrupole gas chromatography/mass spectrometry systems free of matrix deposits that would otherwise build up over time and degrade instrument performance
- Using a carefully controlled hydrogen flow, JetClean technology greatly reduces—or even eliminates—the need for source cleaning on Agilent single and triple quadrupole GC-MS systems
Agilent www.agilent.com
Spectrophotometers
Novaspec III+ and Novaspec Pro
Compact, lightweight, and ergonomically designed • Include a large display that is easy to read and a simple user interface for rapid set up and analysis
- Novaspec III+ is an entry level visible spectrophotometer for labs performing basic spectroscopy measurements
- Novaspec Pro includes the same abilities as the III+, but adds multi-wavelength measurements and life science methods
Biochrom www.biochromspectros.com
Ultra-High Throughput Mass Spectrometer
rapifleX™ MALDI PharmaPulse™
- Can dramatically lower the cost of ultra-high throughput screening (uHTS) with further improved results
- Offers the speed, specificity, and robustness of mass spectrometry for large primary screens
- Compared to existing LC/SPE-MS HTS solutions, the system is 100-1000x faster and uses about 100x less solvent, without the need for LC columns and other LC consumables
Bruker www.bruker.com
Mass Spectrometer
timsTOF™
Combines very high ion mobility resolution greater than 200, using Bruker’s proprietary Trapped Ion Mobility Spectrometry (TIMS), with Bruker’s ultra-high performance ESI-QTOF mass spectrometry
- A flexible, research-grade instrument for optimal separation and analysis of unresolved compounds and conformations
- Allows separation of isomeric compounds, accurate determination of collisional cross sections and gas-phase protein structure and aggregation studies
Bruker www.bruker.com
Sample Pretreatment Module for LC-MS
CLAM-2000
Automatically performs all of the processes necessary for analyzing blood and other biological samples, from scanning in information from the blood collection tubes to sample pretreatment and LC-MS analysis
- First truly integrated sample preparation system for LC-MS that allows users to process samples in an instrument that is directly attached to the LC-MS system
- Helps to facilitate a safe working environment
Shimadzu www.ssi.shimadzu.com
MS-MS Hybrid Quadropole- Orbitrap Mass Spectrometer
Q Exactive BioPharma
- Enables three powerful workflows (denatured and native MS intact analysis, subunit and top/ middle-down analysis, and peptide mapping) for the complete characterization of biotherapeutics
- Encompasses all of Thermo Scientific’s leading technologies into one system
- Features a new High Mass Range (HMR) mode
Thermo Fisher Scientific www.thermofisher.com
Basic Lab
Discrete Analyzer
Smartchem 600
- Can perform up to 600 tests/hour
- Utilizes washable cuvettes with an integrated wash and control station, which guarantee a lower running cost and reduced risk of contamination
- Offers automated system quality control in addition to automated analysis
- Provides reduced hazardous waste management cost, reduced volume of waste, and low energy and water consumption
AMS Alliance www.amsalliance.com
Vortex Mixer
Stuart SA6
- Robust, with die cast construction
- Features a sophisticated inbuilt counterbalance system as well as suction cup feet to prevent any walking issues, which are often associated with budget vortex mixers
- Mixing speed ranges from 2500 to 4500 rpm, making the mixer suitable for a range of applications
Bibby Scientific www.bibby-scientific.com
Canopy Hoods
Designed to collect and exhaust corrosive vapors, heat, steam, and odors
- Available in 36”, 48”, 72,” and 96” widths, in wall or island models
- Also available in either molded, chemical-resistant, flame retardant, one-piece composite resin, or fabricated of welded type 304 stainless steel
- Wall canopy hoods include a wall mounting kit
HEMCO www.HEMCOcorp.com/canopy.html
8- and 12-Channel Manual Pipettes
EVOLVE
- Pipette range now includes 8- and 12-channel versions
- Unlike traditional pipettes which utilize a single rotating plunger to set volumes, the EVOLVE features three adjustable dials for setting each individual volume digit
- Cover a volume range of 1 – 200 μl
- Able to enhance productivity and comfort even during prolonged pipetting sessions
INTEGRA www.integra-biosciences.com
Heating Stage
HS1500
Can control sample temperatures up to 1500°C whilst maintaining a clear optical path for observing any changes in its characteristics
- Incorporates a large window that can be rotated to move a clear area into the optical path
- Features a ceramic heating cup which when used in conjunction with the ceramic cover creates a micro oven around the sample and heats at a rate of up to 200°C/min
Linkam www.linkam.co.uk
Tube Selector
Offers the convenience of single-handed operation and the possibility to manually pick individual tubes from any tube storage rack without the necessity of lifting them
- Enables 'hands-free' manual picking and placing for labs looking to reduce contamination
- Easy-wipe-clean surface further reduces the chances of sample contamination
- Available as a low cost stand-alone product or as part of a starter pack
Micronic www.micronic.com/product/tube-selector
Peristaltic Pumps
Perimax 12 and Perimax 16
Differ only in the number of rollers (12/16) in the pump head and the continuously adjustable flow rates they can achieve (0.0017 mL/min to 20 mL/min against 0.0034 mL/min to 40 mL/min)
- 16-roller pump produces no measurable pulsation
- Easy to use—the tube is guided around the pump head and its two ends are fixed to a special mechanism
Spetec www.spetec.de
Tempered Glass Modular Cleanroom
BioSafe®
This free-standing, hardwall room is made of transparent glass panels attached to a stainless steel frame • Meets cleanliness ratings down to ISO 5
- Is non-sloughing, non-outgassing, and chemical-resistant, making it ideal for aseptic processes and frequent decontamination
- Ceiling grid supports electrical modules including LED or fluorescent lights, and HEPA or ULPA fan/filter units
Terra Universal www.TerraUniversal.com
Cell Culture
Research Tools for PD-1 Checkpoint Inhibitors
New cell lines and controls for programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) research, and to test inhibitors of the PD-1 / PD-L1 pathway, are now available
- A PD-1 / NFAT Reporter - Jurkat cell line is for applications including screening for activators or inhibitors of PD-1 signaling in a cellular context
- The TCR activator / PD-L1 - CHO recombinant cell line is purpose-designed for screening for activators or inhibitors of PD-1 signaling, and more
AMSBIO www.amsbio.com/immunotherapy.aspx
Benchtop Scale Fermentation Systems
proSET
Designed to provide an optimized cell cultivation solution for applications including growth of sensitive and fragile mammalian and insect cells
- Incorporate a large, color touchscreen panel with an intuitive software interface for ease of use
- Heating system allows operators to use any fermentation vessel type up to 20 liters, enabling a wide range of applications to be undertaken
Cleaver Scientific www.cleaverscientific.com
Cell Culture Vessel
CELLdisc
- Offers large growth surfaces on a small footprint and facilitates the scale-up of mass cell cultures
- Compact, robust, and cylindrical design means CELLdisc is just as suited to smaller test series as it is for automation and the quantifiable scale-up of mass cell cultures in sizes of between 1,000 and 10,000 square centimetres
- Ergonomic design simplifies the cultivation of mammalian cells
Greiner Bio-One www.greinerbioone.com
Cell Culture Media Filter
Virosart® Media
- Offers a fast and cost-effective solution for manufacturers to reduce the risk of virus contamination resulting from raw materials, such as chemically defined media, during fermentation
- This single-use filter provides a high level of safety for customers’ upstream processes as it is qualified for > 4 log10 reduction of small, non-enveloped viruses (e.g., MVM) and as a mycoplasma and leptospira retentive filter
Sartorius Stedim Biotech www.sartorius.com/virosart-media
96-Well Cell Culture Plate
Nunc Edge
Designed to virtually eliminate the edge effect during lengthy incubation
- Even after long incubation periods of up to four days, the overall plate evaporation rate is reduced to less than 2 percent
- Allows all samples per plate to be analyzed, increasing assay performance with potentially less cost and related product waste
- Eliminates well-to-well variability
Thermo Fisher Scientific thermofisher.com/edgeplate
Chemicals, Kits, and Reagents
CRISPR gRNA Lentivector Cloning Kits
Provide scientists with a targeted and precise genomic gene editing methodology
- Include the standalone premade Cas9 expression lentivirus, and the gRNA lentivector cloning kits from which users can construct their desired target gRNA lentivectors
- Enable rapid, precisely directional cloning of user’s DNA duplex encoded gRNA structure at efficiencies of greater than 95%
AMSBIO www.amsbio.com/lentivirus.aspx
Residual DNA Quantification Kits
ddPCR™ CHO & ddPCR™ E. coli
Simplify the quantification of host-cell DNA (HCD) in process development, quality control, and biomanufacturing processes
- Allow for direct quantification of host-cell DNA impurities in biopharmaceuticals purified from bacteria (E. coli) or mammalian cells (Chinese hamster ovary) without the need for upfront nucleic acid purification steps
- Designed for use with Bio-Rad’s Droplet Digital™ PCR systems
Bio-Rad www.bio-rad.com/RDQKits
cDNA Synthesis Kit
RTScript™
Allows users to produce robust cDNA yields in as little as 30 minutes
- Is a modified version of M-MLV Reverse Transcriptase with RNase H activity deactivated and increased thermal stability
- Sensitive, specific, and capable of synthesizing highly structured and long cDNA fragments
- Optimized to offer high reproducibility and efficiency for a broad range of primers and templates
Empirical Bioscience empiricalbioscience.com
Tris SDS PAGE Running Buffer
Fisher BioReagents FastRun
Designed for use at higher voltages than traditional buffers, providing gradient-like electrophoretic separations of protein samples in nearly one-third less time
- Provides comparable or better resolution and an increased molecular weight separation range of proteins when compared to traditional Tris-Glycine-SDS buffer
- Reduces the number of Tris-Glycine polyacrylamide gel compositions required to resolve a protein, saving researchers time and money
Thermo Fisher Scientific www.fishersci.com/fastrunsdsbuffer
Informatics
Automated Metabolite Identification Platform
MetaSense
Combines comprehensive metabolic transformation prediction with efficient analysis of LC-MS analytical measurements to identify, visualize, and report chemical biotransformations
- Will yield faster, easier, and more accurate detection and identification of predicted and unexpected metabolites
- Built on the ACD/Spectrus platform and offers knowledge management capabilities that allow the information gained in metabolite studies to be applied in other areas of R&D
ACD/Labs www.acdlabs.com
Chromatography System Software
ChromLab™ Software Version 4.0
When used with Bio-Rad’s NGC chromatography system, the software version enables researchers to purify their proteins with ease
- Scouting wizard allows researchers to easily automate method optimization
- Enables control of multiple NGC systems from a single computer, further reducing the system’s footprint
- Allows simpler purification, quick onboarding of new users, and easier data analysis
Bio-Rad www.bio-rad.com/proteinpurificationsolutions
Web-Based Chemistry ELN
E-WorkBook for Chemistry Module
- Designed to support synthetic organic workflows in discovery chemistry
- Strengthens IDBS’ existing web capabilities, and follows on from a strategic technology partnership with ChemAxon announced in 2015
- Intuitive working environment covers all aspects of chemists’ workflow, including support for reaction planning, stoichiometry, molecule naming, semi-automated procedure write-ups, inventory lookup, and compound registration
IDBS www.idbs.com
LIS Solution
LimitLIS®
Includes secure, sharp, and easily understood client/patient portals to modernize the laboratory’s web presence
- Features paperless e-requisitions, allowing clients to submit test orders online directly to the user’s lab, complete with patient information, billing details, and point of care tests
- Offers bidirectional and unidirectional integration with analyzers and seamless integration with EHR and billing providers
RURO limitlis.cloud
Dynamic Fielding Feature for Image Capture Software
Now included in GeneSys image capture software
- Autocorrects for edge effects caused by all lens and lighting in image analyzers, providing a consistent image for scientists to accurately quantify DNA and proteins on their gels
- Saves scientists the time and effort of re-running gels to check their protein and DNA quantification results
Syngene www.syngene.com
PCR Set-Up Software
Designed for Tecan’s D300e digital dispenser
- Offers new functionality and extends the D300e’s flexibility for genomics workflows
- Features a PCR Wizard that guides the user through qPCR set-up
- The D300e provides picoliter to microliter non-contact dispensing of liquids directly into assay plates and offers accurate and reproducible plate generation
Tecan www.tecan.com/d300e
LC-MS Data Analysis Software
Symphony Software
Allows users to easily link tasks into a sequence to build the data processing pipelines that they need for their laboratories
- Provides time savings in data processing and automated analysis for out-of-hours working
- Minimizes user errors in repetitive tasks and is future proof, allowing use of the latest algorithms
- Helps maximize the return from LC-MS instrumentation
Waters www.waters.com
Lab Automation
Cartridge Extractor
SmartPrep Cartridge Extractor II
- Designed for method development and automation of previously developed manual methods
- Positive pressure consistently delivers the sample and solvents, yielding reproducible unattended results
- Cartridges of 1, 3, and 6-mL size from most manufacturers can be used in the system, easing the transition to automation
- Designed for special environmental applications
Horizon Technology www.horizontechinc.com
Robotic Gripper
The Gripster
This patented electro servo gripper is used in a wide range of robotic systems
- Handles microwell plates without dropping, crushing, or otherwise mishandling them
- Detects the presence of an object, such as a microwell, based on force rather than a sensor; once force is detected, power is held constant, eliminating the risk of crushing
- Only a small amount of current is required
Let’s Go Robotics www.letsgorobotics.com
Nitrogen Blowdown Evaporator
Ultravap Levante
- Comes with an RS232 connection and a remote command set enabling it to connect to and be operated from most commercially available robotic liquid handling systems
- Features full-color touchscreen graphic displays, an integrated auto-ranging power supply, and built-in solvent fume venting
- Also offers multi-step ramped programming with full alphanumeric program naming
Porvair Sciences www.porvair-sciences.com
Automatic, High Throughput Viscometer
VROC® initium
Equipped with automatic sample loading and sample cleaning
- Measures absolute viscosity as a function of shear rate across a wide temperature range, allowing unique viscosity fingerprinting of the samples
- Enables samples in 96-well plates as well as 40-vial racks to be tested automatically with intuitive software
- Also measures viscosity for sample volumes as little as 10 microliters
RheoSense www.rheosense.com
Life Science
Slide Hybridizer
RapidFISH
Designed to simplify fluorescent in-situ hybridization (FISH) procedures for FFPE (formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue) samples, cell suspensions, and other tissue preparation procedures
- Features a self-clamping slide tray design that maintains the required humidity
- Microscope slides in the RapidFISH do not require coverslips to be glued because the removable tray of the slide incubator traps moisture in the system
Boekel Scientific www.boekelsci.com
Single-Use Vessels
BioBLU®3f
- Developed specifically for microbial bioprocessing in working volumes of 1.25 to 3.75 L, extending the full range of operation for single-use fermentation from 60 mL to 3.75 L
- Address the demands of high cell density fermentation of bacteria, yeasts, and fungi
- Robust magnetic overhead drives featuring Rushton-type impellers support agitation rates up to 1200 rpm and provide high-performance mass transfer
Eppendorf www.eppendorf.com/BioBLUf
Transfection Unit
4D-Nucleofector™ LV
Expands the proven 4D-Nucleofector™ system to closed, larger-scale transfection of up to 1x109 cells
- Transfection protocols can be established in smaller scale using the 4D-Nucleofector™ X unit and smoothly transferred to larger scale without the need for re-optimization
- With this new addition, small- and large-scale transfection applications are now united in one system based on the Nucleofector™ technology
Lonza www.lonza.com
FISH Probes
Cytocell Aquarius®
Nine new probes now available: ETV6 Proximal Probe Green, ETV6 Distal Probe Red, MPO Probe Red, TP53 Probe Green, NUP214 Probe Red, DEK Probe Green, TAS2R1 (5p15.31) Probe Green, Chromosome 9 Satellite III Probe Aqua, and Chromosome 15 Alpha Satellite Probe Red
- Produce specific, high-intensity signals with excellent contrast and minimal background
- Optimized for use on common sample types
Oxford Gene Technology www.cytocell.com
Bioreactor System
ambr® 250 modular
This benchtop mini bioreactor system is designed for parallel fermentation or cell culture
- Combines a unique single-use bioreactor vessel and expandable system design to offer bioprocess scientists access to advanced benchtop bioreactor technology for process development
- Consists of a workstation with 2, 4, 6, or 8 single-use bioreactors, with a working volume range of 100 to 250 mL
Sartorius www.sartorius.com
Supplies and Consumables
On-Line SPE Cartridges
ISOLUTE® ENV+
Designed for use primarily in integrated SPE-HPLC-(MS-MS) systems
- Contain either EVOLUTE® EXPRESS ABN or ISOLUTE® ENV+ sorbents and consist of a stainless steel cartridge with standard HPLC compatible end fittings
- Allow sample preparation to be fully integrated into an automated analytical workflow
- Aimed primarily at the environmental market for extraction of trace organic analytes from water samples
Biotage www.biotage.com
Bottletop Dispensers
BRAND Dispensette® S
Feature improved safety valves, faster priming, easier volume selection, and even lower operation forces
- All seals have been eliminated to have even less wearing parts to replace over time
- A large variety of bottle adapters and accessories adapt the Dispensette® S to virtually any unpressurized application
- Models are available for general purpose dispensing, organics and concentrated acids, and trace analysis
BrandTech Scientific www.brandtech.com
Super Precision Vessels for Dissolution Testers
SPV™
Designed for Hanson’s Vision G2™ series of dissolution testers
- With its closer conformance to an ideal vessel shape, these vessels provide more consistent vessel-to-vessel dissolution test results in USP Apparatus 2
- Resolves issues relating to routine calibration of dissolution testing equipment
- Available in 1-liter vessel capacities, clear or amber, for the SR8-Plus, Vision G2 Classic 6, and Vision G2 Elite 8 dissolution testers
Hanson Research hansonresearch.com
Amber-Tinted Polypropylene Storage Tubes
Now available in 0.75ml and 1.40ml volumes
- When used in conjunction with a secure screw cap or push cap, these tubes ensure the integrity of light sensitive biological samples even over long-term storage periods
- Available in non-coded and laser encrypted 2D coded formats
- Supplied in a 96-position sample tube storage rack that meets the ANSI / SLAS standard footprint
Micronic www.micronic.com
β-Glucuronidase Removal Tubes & 96-Well Plates
β-Gone
Designed for the cleanup of hydrolyzed urine samples in less than one minute
- Offers a simple, rapid solution for β-glucuronidase removal that improves assay performance and column lifetime, and reduces mass spec maintenance
- Also offers a better alternative to the “dilute-and-shoot” method in which sensitivity and accuracy are compromised when the sample is diluted
Phenomenex www.phenomenex.com
Septa
Thermolite Plus
Ultra-low bleed characteristic of these new septa minimizes the background signal, and the plasma coating prevents the septa from sticking in the injection port
- Precision molding ensures a consistent, accurate fit
- Select septa feature a CenterGuide design to minimize coring
- Usable up to 350°C and come preconditioned and ready to use
Restek www.restek.com/ThermolitePlus
Black and White ELISA Plates
Provide medium binding surfaces for hydrophobic interactions and high binding surfaces for more hydrophilic interactions
- Inclusion of white and black ELISA plates in the Sarstedt product line provides greater flexibility for use with a variety of ELISA detection methods
- New white plates are especially recommended for performing luminescence measurements, and the black ELISA plates are recommended for performing fluorescence measurements
Sarstedt www.sarstedt.com