Powerful High Throughput Evaporation System...

The Genevac HT-4X centrifugal evaporation system provides the ideal solution for overcoming evaporation bottlenecks in high throughput and production laboratories.

Built to the highest specifications - the HT-4X makes demanding applications routine.  Corrosive vapours such as trifluoroacetic acid may be removed by the standard system, an inert purge option allows high safety evaporation of flammable solvents and optional facility is provided for fast sample lyophilisation.

An innovative built-in dual chamber refrigerated condenser, that combines a powerful cryopump and solvent recovery system, together with extra powerful IR lamps, accelerates the speed of evaporation, even for high boiling point solvents such as DMSO.  In addition, efficient chamber cooling between runs is particularly useful to protect thermally sensitive samples when run immediately after higher boiling point solvents. The system additionally offers an auto-defrosting condenser option and novel functions such as auto shut down and auto-solvent selection, making it easy to use by a wide range of staff.  Genevac's innovative SampleGuard and Dri-Pure technology is included to protect samples from overheating and bumping.

The HT-4X comes with built-in full colour screen with remote control and data logging.  Comprehensive display of real-time data allows easy methods development for a wide range of applications.  The easy-to-use system provides for up to 99 stored methods, each with a name of up to 20 characters, making it ideal for multi-user environments.

Genevac, part of the SP Scientific group, was founded in 1990.  Today the company employs around 85 people, with manufacturing, R&D and marketing headquartered in Ipswich, UK. Genevac today offers a comprehensive portfolio of evaporators to suit almost any solvent removal application, purchasing budget or productivity requirement. SP Scientific is a leading manufacturer of laboratory to production scale freeze dryers / lyophilizers, centrifugal evaporators and concentrators, thermal control system and glassware washers.

Elsevier book series concerning laboratory protocols

Elsevier's book group is currently conducting research prior to development of an on-line service and/or a book series comprising laboratory protocols used by chemists. We are hoping to establish both the essential requirements and desirable features that chemists would value in an on-line product based on methods and ...protocols widely used. We are looking for active bench chemists, based in either Cambridge or London, who wouldn't mind sparing 1 hour to participate in a face-to-face interview, conducted at your convenience, we would be very appreciative. Kindly leave us a note as a response here (or on our Facebbok page - link below), and we’ll send you a private message to arrange.
Johannes Menzel, Publishing Director, and Abbie Waye, Publishing Intern, Elsevier S&T Books.

Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Analytical-Chemistry-Journals-From-Elsevier/256448407037?ref=ts

NEW Mini Centrifuge Ideal for Micro Samples!

The Scie-Plas Ltd has introduced their NEW Mini Centrifuge, a compact, easy to use unit designed to meet the wide range of applications found in research. 

The Scie-Plas Mini Centrifuge includes three rotors, a 6 place x 1.5ml rotor, a PCR Strip rotor and a 1” x 3” slide rotor. In addition, 2 adapters are included for 0.5 to 0.65ml and 0.4 ml.

At 6000 rpm /2000g it is perfect for quickly spinning down samples, micro gel filtration applications and micro-volume centrifugation. For samples requiring low temperatures, the unit is cold room compatible. Fast acceleration and braking make it perfect for quick spins.

The Scie-Plas Mini Centrifuge has a very small footprint of 6" x 6" (153mm) and has a safety interlock which automatically shuts off the unit when the lid is opened. In addition, the unit is CE marked.

Scie -Plas is constantly investigating new ways to improve its products as well as looking for new areas of research where our products will be of relevance and significant benefit.

Scie-Plas has a network of experienced dealers in over 80 countries around the globe. Their products can be found in most leading universities, hospitals and research facilities.

In the United States & Canada

84 October Hill Road

Holliston , MA 01746

United States

Tel: +1 800-227-4750

Fax: +1 508-893-0176

email: Support@scie-plas.com

In Europe

Scie-Plas Ltd.

22 Cambridge Science Park

Milton Road

Cambridge CB4 0FJ

UK

Tel: +44 (0) 1223 427888

Fax: +44 (0) 1223 420164

E-mail: Sales@scie-plas.co.uk

Research Newsletter for Biochip User Community...

Fluidigm Corporation has announced that the Fall 2010 edition of its community newsletter is now available free to download from www.fluidigm.com/newsletters/Q3%20newsletter-rev2-FINAL.html.

The Fluidigm Community Newsletter is a quarterly publication dedicated to providing you with the most recent research, product updates, and news featuring Fluidigm Integrated Fluidic Circuit (IFC) technology. Each issue is dedicated to providing new information of interest including new products, applications and customer advances to researchers involved with gene expression, SNP genotyping and sample preparation for next generation sequencing.

In the Fall 2010 issue researchers from the Molecular & Cell Biology Group at LGC (Teddington, UK) describe their investigation into the applicability of using digital PCR to estimate absolute limits of detection and quantitation associated with the validation of traditional real-time PCR methods for analysis of genetically modified (GM) ingredients.

A paper from the Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University describes how the Fluidigm BioMark™ system was used to conduct single-cell gene expression analysis identifying factors important to oocyte maturation and using these findings to develop an improved culture system for the in-vitro maturation of cumulus-free oocytes.

A poster from the National Cancer Institute (Frederick, MD, USA) describes how they have accelerated their sample preparation to take full advantage of the high-throughput sequencing capacity from their next-generation sequencers. NCI researchers used the Fluidigm Access Array™ system to amplify and tag, in parallel, 48 unique exons from two cancer-related genes in 60 cancer cell lines. The amplicons were pooled and sequenced, identifying 6 mutations and a SNP from this high-throughput screen.  This research raises the potential for large-scale screens to identify mutations associated with cancer.

Complimenting the independent customer research publications the Fall 2010 newsletter also provides abstracts describing, and providing links to, the latest application notes, new product introductions, company news, events program and educational webinars from Fluidigm.

Fluidigm develops, manufactures and markets proprietary Integrated Fluidic Circuit (IFC) systems that significantly improve productivity in life science research. Fluidigm's IFCs enable the simultaneous performance of thousands of sophisticated biochemical measurements in extremely minute volumes. These "integrated circuits for biology" are made possible by miniaturising and integrating liquid handling components on a single microfluidic device. Fluidigm's systems, consisting of instrumentation, software and single-use chips, increase throughput, decrease costs and enhance sensitivity compared to conventional laboratory systems.

Faster, Less Damaging Cell Imaging

Recently published research performed at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) may breathe new life into the use of a powerful, if tricky, diagnostic technique for cell biology. The paper, which is to be presented in the Biophysical Journal, demonstrates that with improved hardware and better signal processing, a powerful form of molecular vibration spectroscopy can quickly deliver detailed molecular maps of the contents of cells without damaging them. Earlier studies have suggested that, to be useful, the technique would need power levels too high to maintain cell integrity.

 

See more at: http://www.photonics.com/Article.aspx?AID=44749

Laboratory for quantity analysis of soya content in Stara Planina meat products to be opened in Bulgaria

The Association of Bulgarian Meat Producers will equip a laboratory, which to make quantity analysis on soya content in meat products offered under the Stara Planina food products quality standard, Bulgarian Minister of Agriculture and Food Miroslav Naydenov announced at an extraordinary press conference, "The future laboratory will get accreditation form the state. At the moment Bulgaria lacks a methodology for ascertaining the amount of soya in meat products. There is only a quality analysis and thus the four samples of Stara Planina meat products tested positive for soya. For that reason the samples of the four meat products were sent for analysis abroad."
Teams of experts with the State Veterinary and Sanitary Control Service are checking the factories of the four companies and on Monday they will present reports on the inspections, the minister added.

JUST PUBLISHED: The lastest issue of Journal of Chromatography A

NEW ISSUE! Click on the link below for papers published in the latest issue of Journal of Chromatography A http://rss.sciencedirect.com/publication/science/5248

Myron’s Athena goes hi-tech with help from Somos(R) NanoTool(tm)

The production of a miniature chocolate model of Myron’s Athena demonstrates how advanced scanning and additive layer manufacturing technologies are being used to provide innovative, customer-tailored solutions for the food industry.

In 2009, the Liebieghaus Antique Sculpture Collection in Frankfurt, Germany celebrated its centennial anniversary. On this occasion, the prestigious museum and art gallery housing many classical works of art has offered its visitors the opportunity to purchase chocolate miniatures of Myron’s Athena, one of the most recognizable statues of the museum’s collection. The sweet, high-end replica has been realized thanks to advanced scanning and additive layer manufacturing technologies applying NanoTool(tm) ProtoComposite(tm) resins by DSM Somos.

The challenging project of transforming the 1.73 meter life-sized Athena statue into a minute 7 cm, 3-dimensional data set and subsequent production of a chocolate miniature has required the know-how pooling of a variety of industry experts. The end result, an imaginative and tasteful souvenir, demonstrates the significant potential with these high-tech manufacturing techniques for new product development and for the food industry in general.

The realization of a pattern that can in turn be used to create an equally highly complex mould is a project that triggers interest across many industries.  Prof. Dr. Vinzenz Brinkmann, Head of the Collection of Antiques of the Liebieghaus and a world-renowned authority in the reproduction of ancient works of art, commissioned Munich-based Alphaform Group with the production of the highly detailed miniature master pattern of Myron’s Athena. 

The master pattern was based on high definition scans and consequently realized with Somos(R) NanoTool(tm).  This unique stereolithography resin is a third-generation ProtoComposite(tm) material from DSM Somos that offers strong, stiff, temperature-resistant characteristics.  Moreover, it produces parts demonstrating superior sidewall quality and unprecedented surface smoothness - critical elements in producing such high definition detail in the small pattern. Heavily filled with non-crystalline nanoparticles, NanoTool(tm) allows for fast processing and reduced finishing requirements that also speed part production.

Alphaform’s Production Director, Ralf Deuke confirms: “For this project, we recommended stereolithography (SL) additive technologies using Somos(R) NanoTool(tm) for the production of the master pattern. NanoTool(tm) has generally become known as ‘the’ prototype material for high-temperature and wind-tunnel applications, but one of the material's fastest growing application areas is high-end, precision design.  Even taking into account all of the latest developments in 3D manufacturing technologies and materials, NanoTool(tm) is really the only material option for capturing — and maintaining — fine details.”

The high definition master pattern made with Somos(R) NanoTool(tm) has subsequently been translated by Clement Chococult into a mould made from FDA approved silicone, enabling the Bitter & Zart Chocolaterie of Frankfurt to produce the chocolate miniatures.

The making of Athena’s chocolate statues has evidenced the full potential of additive layer manufacturing and the superior quality of Somos(R) NanoTool(tm) to create unprecedented results in new industry fields.

For commercial information on DSM Somos: Anna Hoiss, Manager Business Development - Europe, DSM Somos. Email: anna.hoiss@dsm.com

Phase Monitor II for Compounds in Subcritical and Supercritical Fluids

The SFT Phase Monitor II is a powerful analytical tool for determining the solubility of various compounds and mixtures of compounds in subcritical and supercritical fluids. It provides direct, visual observation of materials under conditions which may be controlled precisely by the researcher. Experiments may be performed in liquid or supercritical carbon dioxide or in other compressed gases.  Additionally, the effect of co-solvents on the solubility of compounds of interest in supercritical carbon dioxide can be investigated with this instrument.  It allows the end user to view the dissolution, precipitation and crystallization of compounds over a wide range of pressures and temperatures.  Experiments can be done from a few hundred psi to 10,000 psi and from ambient temperature to 150º centigrade.

For more information, please call us at 302-738-3420 or visit us on-line at www.supercriticalfluids.com.

New Mobile Ductless Fume Hoods

Air Science USA has introduced its NEW Mobile Ductless Fume Hood.

The Mobile EDU is excellent for Classroom Demonstrations and Industrial Training. It is totally self-contained and provides all around visibility.

The EDU is easily moved from laboratory to laboratory. The Ductless Design allows easy installation and the base is mounted on large heavy duty wheels for ease of transport. The height is 77.5" which allows it to easily pass through a standard door.

The Multi-Layered EDU Filter has been independently tested to have 99.9% filtration efficiency for chemicals normally found in a typical chemistry curriculum.

These units exceed OSHA, ANSI, BSI and AFNOR Safety Standards.

For additional information on the NEW EDU Mobile Fume Hood, call, visit the website, or email Air Science.

Air Science USAPO Box 62296
Fort Myers, Florida 33906 USA

Toll Free: 800-306-0656
Phone: 239-489-0024
Fax: 800-306-0677

E-mail: info@airscience.comWeb: www.airscience.com

Client Contact:Paul Chambre - Paul@airscience.

JUST PUBLISHED: The lastest issue of Analytica Chimica Acta

NEW ISSUE! Click on the link below for papers published in the latest issue of Analytica Chimica Acta
http://rss.sciencedirect.com/publication/science/5216

No Posts on Friday 22nd October

I will be away from the office tomorrow meeting with one of my editors in London and so apologise in advance if I cannot get back in time to post any news.

JUST PUBLISHED: The latest issue of Sensors & Actuators B: Chemical

NEW ISSUE! Click on the link below for papers published in the latest issue of Sensors & Actuators B: Chemical
http://rss.sciencedirect.com/publication/science/5283

JUST PUBLISHED: The latest issue of Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis

NEW ISSUE! Click on the link below for papers published in the latest issue of the Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis
http://rss.sciencedirect.com/publication/science/5266

High Volume Plate Optimised for High Yield Yeast Production...

A 24-well microplate, with a working volume of 10ml / well, has been developed by Porvair Sciences Ltd. for large scale, high yield growth of yeast.

Produced under class 10,000 clean room conditions from virgin polypropylene, the new 24-well plate contains no contaminants that may leach out and affect yeast growth.  The wells of the high volume plate are rectangular in shape with a 'v' bottom to facilitate easy yeast concentration and recovery.

Each pack consists of Porvair Sciences high volume, 24-well plates is secured within a virgin polymer bag.  The pack is then passed through an irradiation procedure to sterilise the plates. Every batch of Porvair Sciences' sterile high volume plates is rigorously tested to validate their contamination-free status ensuring reproducibility and maintaining customer confidence in the yeast, bacteria or cells you grow.

Porvair high volume microplates are precisely manufactured to ANSI/SBS-1 (2004) Footprint Dimensions* making them fully compatible with automated liquid handling systems and other robotic sample processing equipment.

Porvair Sciences Ltd has specialised in the manufacture of microplates since its formation in 1992. Via its global distributor network, Porvair Sciences serves Life Sciences, Biotechnology, R&D and Molecular Biology with microplate solutions for all applications, from sample preparation to high throughput screening.  Porvair Sciences is a subsidiary of Porvair plc, a world leader in microporous materials.

For further information on high volume microplates optimised for Yeast growth please contact Porvair Sciences on telephone +44-1372-824290, email int.sales@porvair-sciences.com or visit the website at http://www.blogger.com/www.porvair-sciences.com.

JUST PUBLISHED: The latest issue of Chemometrics and Intelligent Laboratory Systems

NEW ISSUE! Click on the link below for papers published in the latest issue of Chemometrics and Intelligent Laboratory Systems
http://rss.sciencedirect.com/publication/science/5232

New Salmonella AOAC Approvals

Bio-Rad Laboratories iQ-Check™ Salmonella II kit has received AOAC approval for real-time PCR detection of Salmonella from wet cat food, dry dog food, stainless steel, plastic, ceramic and concrete. This represents a Performance Tested Method℠ matrix extension for the iQ-Check Salmonella II kit, which is currently approved for raw chicken, raw beef, eggs, cantaloupe and peanut butter.
Over 23,000 tons of pet food was recalled between 2006 and 2008, according to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Of the 79 human patients infected with Salmonella as a result of contaminated pet food, 48% of them were children under the age of 2.
The performance of the iQ-Check kit was compared to the FDA Bacteriological Analytical Manual (BAM) reference method for detection of Salmonella from the pet food and environmental surfaces. There was no significant difference between the performance of two methods. All samples that were detected as positive by iQ-Check were confirmed by the reference method.
The method involves a single primary 20hr enrichment in buffered peptone water followed by a one step high throughput DNA extraction in 96-well plate format. With a PCR run time of about 2hr, complete results are available in less than 24hr. Highly sensitive and specific DNA probes developed by scientists at Bio-Rad allow for accurate and rapid real-time PCR detection of Salmonella with no interference from common cross reacting organisms.
Deborah McKenzie, Senior Director of the AOAC Research Institute commented that “AOAC method validation brings the value of an independent third party to the evaluation process. The AOAC Research Institute, a subsidiary of AOAC INTERNATIONAL, administers the Performance Tested Methods program. Method developers like Bio-Rad, who submit methods in the AOAC Performance Tested Methods program, recognize the added value to their products that an independent third party evaluation and the certification mark provide.”
“Our extensive experience with quantitative PCR technology coupled with a deep appreciation of the challenges facing food pathogen detection come together in our iQ Check product line,” says Brad Crutchfield, Bio-Rad Group Vice President. He went on to say, “The result is a fast and reliable tool that allows our customers to make better decisions. It doesn’t get any simpler than that.”
For more information, on Bio-Rad Food Science products and services, please visit http://www.foodscience.bio-rad.com/or email Bio-Rad at mailto:FoodScience@bio-rad.com

JUST PUBLISHED: The lastest issue of Analytica Chimica Acta

NEW ISSUE! Click on the link below for papers published in the latest issue of Analytica Chimica Acta
http://rss.sciencedirect.com/publication/science/5216

2011 Bunsen-Kirchhoff Award for Analytical Spectroscopy

The DASp – German Working group for Applied Spectroscopy - regularly awards the "Bunsen-Kirchhoff-Preis für analytische Spektroskopie" to honour preferably the work of young scientists from universities, research institutes or industry who made excellent contributions to analytical spectroscopy. Especially preferred is an oeuvre in new areas like spectroscopy in nano compartments, spectroscopy of biomolecules a.s.o. The Award consists of an award-document and an amount of € 2.500,00 sponsored by Perkin Elmer GmbH and the DASp seeks nominations for the 2011 Bunsen-Kirchhoff Award for Analytical Spectroscopy. The Award will be presented at the Anakon in March 2011 in Zürich (Switzerland).

A nomination should include:

  1. letter with the candidate´s accomplishments

  2. list of publications or recent work,

  3. scientific curriculum vitae stating the age of the candidate; the candidate´s

      address, phone fax and e-mail.

Nominations can be made by members of DASp but eligibility is open for any scientist meeting the requirements. Self-nomination is excluded. The decision as to whom the prize is to be awarded shall be made by a jury consisting of the current members of the board of DASp.

Further information is available at: http://www.gdch.de/strukturen/fg/ach/aks/dasp.htm

All documents should be sent not later than 31 December 2010 to: Prof. Dr. Detlef Günther, President of the Jury for the Bunsen-Kirchhoff Award 2011, Laboratorium für Anorganische Chemie, ETH Hönggerberg, HCI, CH-8093 Zürich (Schweiz) (detlef.guenther@inorg.chem.ethz.ch)

Job Vacancy

Signal processing and control algorithm engineer

Imego's business is to maximize a system’s potential performance by equipping it with sensors. This set harsh requirements on the sensor element design, the necessary surrounding electronics and packaging, but also the analysis and control of the sensor signals plays a central role in the system design. Most systems have to give reliable output in a real-time environment and in some cases these systems have to be self-calibrating.
The many different types of sensors in micro-format used by Imego pose a great variety of new challenges to a signal processing and control algorithm engineer. The methods to be considered ranges from black box system identification to Kalman filtering techniques and feed-back control loop systems. We are presently developing Inertial Navigation Systems and identification of gases and fluids. Hence we have to measure accelerations, rotation rates, concentration, flow, viscosity etc.

Your qualifications

You have proven mathematical skills in numerical methods. You have a master degree or higher, and some years of work experience with real-time signal processing or control algorithms and adaptation into firmware or equivalent. Experience with inertial navigation systems is an advantage as well as experience with measurements. You are not afraid to take initiatives and appreciate personal responsibilities. You like to work in small teams, where the members are multidisciplinary, and can divide your time between short-term and long-term projects. You are not surprised if your work render into a paper or patent applications.

Your tasks

You will design methods, techniques and algorithms to track, control, determine and combine physical quantities from sensor outputs, while keeping track of temperature dependent biases and offsets. Applications where inertial navigation is essential will be at the centre of your work, which will include calibration measurements. Typically you will work closely with the sensor designer to determine relevant model equations, which describes the sensor element characteristics. Together with the electronic engineer, you will decide the suitable complexity of the algorithm and subsequently implement it into a suitable platform HW.

The tools

Imego has a portfolio of different tools that can aid your development of effective algorithms. Mathematica, Matlab, Simulink are some examples of software and hardware tools that we presently use.
Please apply by e-mail to:
Jan Wipenmyr
+46-31-750 18 07
+46-709-15 18 07
jan.wipenmyr@imego.com
Website: www.imego.com

New Cell Migration Assay Dramatically Reduces Cost Of High Content Screening…

AMSBIO has announced the launch of the first of a new generation of cell migration assays designed specifically for fully automated high throughput screening (HTS) utilizing high content screening (HCS) and high content imaging (HCI) systems.

The new Oris™ Pro 384 Cell Migration Assay uses a non-toxic biocompatible gel (BCG) to form a centrally located and temporary cell-free zone on cell culture surfaces in a 384-well format. After cell seeding the BCG dissolves to reveal a detection zone into which the migration of cells can be observed either in real time or after further experimental processing. This breakthrough product enables researchers to capture and quantify cell migration data while substantially improving assay efficiency and dramatically reducing assay costs.

Measurement of cell migration enables researchers to better understand the impact of candidate therapeutic compounds on biological pathways and cellular behavior. This new 384-well format assay adds to the 96-well range of Oris™ Pro assays available from AMSBIO and will play an important role in accelerating the development of new therapeutics for wound healing, cancer treatment and other diseases impacted by the movement of cells.

Further information on the Oris™ Pro Assay Kits is available at http://www.amsbio.com/Oris-Pro-Cell-Migration-Assays.aspx or by contacting AMSBIO on tel. +44-1235-828200 or email info@amsbio.com.  

"Smart Textiles - New Tools for Health", Nov 24, 2010

The next LIST workshop is entitled Smart Textiles - New Tools for Health and will take place Wednesday, November 24 in lecture hall Planck (Physics Building) at LiU. As speakers, we are excited to welcome Professor Anthony Turner (LiU), Dr Christopher Klatt (Freudenberg Forschungsdienste, Weinheim), Dr Rita Paradiso (Smartex Laboratories, Pisa), Dr Nils-Christer Persson och Dr Leif Sandsjö (Smart Textile, Borås) and Professor Corrado Di Natale (Università degli Studi di Roma 'Tor Vergata', Rom).
Program 2010
Map Campus Valla
Map Physics Building - Lecure Hall Planck
Are you interested in participating in this workshop? Sign up by November 19 at the latest by sending an e-mail to Karin Enander, karen@ifm.liu.se, who is also available to answer any questions. Participation is free of charge and delegates are invited to lunch and coffee.

Programs from eariler workshops

2009: Distributed health care and biosensors

Linköping Center for Life Science Technologies (LIST) was established in 2009 and is focused on the development of future health care solutions. The mission of LIST is to build up an attractive and productive research environment at LiU within technologies for distributed (primarily home-based) health care. An important part of our work is to grant money to LiU research projects within this area. Further, LIST arranges workshops and follows national and international research by e. g. participating in conferences.
The interests of LIST are closely related to acitivities within the VINNVÄXT program New Tools for Health (HNV), which is centered in Östergötland and promotes development and commercialization of products and services for home-based nursing and care. Another important initiative with connections to LIST is NovaMedTech, which supports activities in the counties of Södermanland, Västmanland, Östergötland and Örebro for the development and commercialization of medical technologies for distributed care and personal health. In contrast to HNV and NovaMedTech, LIST is entirely affiliated with LiU and mainly supports (fundamental) research where the application can be envisioned but does not have to be the main focus.
LIST is headed by a steering group with representatives from the University, the County Council in Östergötland and HNV. The Center is administratively affiliated with IFM and director is Karin Enander (karen@ifm.liu.se).

JUST PUBLISHED: The lastest issue of Journal of Chromatography A

NEW ISSUE! Click on the link below for papers published in the latest issue of Journal of Chromatography A http://rss.sciencedirect.com/publication/science/5248

Researchers discover highly electronegative chemical species

An international team of researchers has discovered a new class of highly electronegative chemical species called hyperhalogens, which use superhalogens as building blocks around a metal atom. The new chemical species may have application in many industries.

Researchers from Virginia Commonwealth University, McNeese State University in Lake Charles, La., and the University of Konstanz in Germany report their discovery in the Oct. 6 international chemistry journal Angewandte Chemie International Edition. The journal designated the paper as “very important,” recognition granted to only 5 percent of papers it receives.

Chlorine is one of the elements called halogens, a group that includes fluorine, bromine, and iodine. These chemicals are known for their disinfecting and deodorizing power and are also used in some medications and industrial processes. Researchers say that hyperhalogens could be useful in industries where large amounts of halogens are now needed to make cleaning or decontamination products.

Chemists and physicists like Puru Jena, Ph.D., distinguished professor of physics at VCU, know halogens for their reactivity, a characteristic that makes the halogen elements want to bond with another element or a compound by taking one electron. Chlorine, for example, likes being paired with sodium to make table salt. Sodium wants to give away an electron and chlorine wants to take that electron in what Jena calls “a perfect marriage.”

“Halogens only need one electron to reach their happy state,” said Jena. “They’re much more stable as a negative ion than as a neutral atom.”

Spotted on the ASM International website. Read more at: http://www.asminternational.org/portal/site/www/NewsItem/?vgnextoid=c9d1ac2ddab9b210VgnVCM100000621e010aRCRD

Klaus Unger to Receive CASSS 2010 Scientific Achievement Award

Each year CASSS bestows its Annual Scientific Achievement Award on a notable scientist in recognition of his or her outstanding contributions to the advancement of separation science and related fields.  The award selection committee is composed of CASSS Board Members and Associate Directors.
Professor Klaus K. Unger, head of the Institute for Inorganic Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry at the Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany will receive the 2010 award at the CASSS Annual Award Dinner on Thursday, November 4, 2010 in Oakland, California.
Professor Unger is best known for his work - and the influence he has had - in the separation of biomolecules. He has published over 400 papers in peer-reviewed journals and has received over 55 patents.  He is most proud, however, of his legacy as a teacher – having mentored over 125 Ph.D. students in his distinguished career.
Professor Unger joins an esteemed list of past CASSS Award winners, including:
2009 - Jack Kirkland
2008 - Pat J. Sandra
2007 - Shigeru Terabe
2006 - Pier Giorgio Righetti and Walter Jennings
2005 - Milton L. Lee
2004 - Milos V. Novotny
2003 - Barry Karger
2002 - Georges Guichon
2001 - Fred Regnier
2000 - Dick Zare
1999 - Jim Jorgenson
1998 - Csaba Horvath
1997 - Ray Dandeneau
1996 - Ron Majors
1995 - Lloyd Snyder
For information on the November 4th Award Dinner, please visit http://www.casss.org/.

New Marketing Communications Manager for Olympus Microscopy Products

Olympus is pleased to announce that Katja Ansmann has joined the company as Marketing Communications Manager for its microscopy products in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Taking on the role of media contact for Olympus Microscopy, she will be responsible for communications, campaigns and promotions, as well as public relations and advertising. Alto Marketing will continue to work closely with Katja.

Having previously worked in a similar role for Fresenius Medical Care, a provider in renal replacement therapy, Katja brings with her a host of knowledge and experience. In her former role, she was responsible for the development and implementation of international marketing communication campaigns and activities. In addition, she managed all branding issues, together with the selection and guidance of external providers, as well as the consultancy and support of affiliates.

DialPath Technology Enables Rapid Analysis of Liquids by FTIR Spectroscopy

A2 Technologies has announced its new integrated FTIR analyzer designed for the rapid analysis of liquids by FTIR spectroscopy. Based on A2's widely used ML analyzer, the high performing FTIR spectrometer that occupies just 8 square inches on a lab bench, the ML with DialPath Technology represents a completely new approach to the analysis of liquid samples.

The DialPath technology features a tumbler-like optical head that can be rotated into position to provide one of three, factory set, selectable sample pathlengths between 30 and 250 microns. To analyze a sample, a drop of the liquid is placed on a stationary infrared-transparent window mounted on the top surface of the analyzer, and then a second window is rotated into position, thus sandwiching the sample between the two windows. This creates highly reproducible, fixed sample pathlength between the two windows. The DialPath technology offers the user their choice of three different pathlengths, which are specified when the system is ordered, affording a FTIR liquids analyzer with exceptional versatility, ease of use and performance in multi-application environments. For lower concentration samples, simply dial in a longer pathlength window set; for samples that are more concentrated, use the shorter pathlength combination.

The DialPath Technology makes liquids analysis as easy to use as ATR. There is no reason to use traditional demountable liquid cells, which can leak, require spacers, may fringe, are difficult to fill and clean, and are particularly difficult to use with more viscous samples. The DialPath-equipped ML readily accommodates samples with a wide range of viscosities. Cleaning the DialPath analyzer is as simple as rotating the window away from the fixed window and wiping the liquid sample off both windows.

Mr. Graham Miller, President of A2 Technologies comments: "The ML with DialPath Technology represents the first breakthrough in liquids analysis by FTIR in a number of years. ATR has become a mainstay for FTIR analysis because of its ease of use and versatility and now this new technology makes longer pathlength liquids analysis just as easy. The ML with DialPath Technology will find great use among analysts who frequently measure liquid samples in industries as varied as petroleum, energy, chemical and food."

For more information on using the DialPath Technology, please visit our website http://www.a2technologies.com/ click on ML DialPath Technology or contact A2 Technologies on +1-203-312-1100 (Headquarters) / +44-7765-970-210 (Europe / Asia) or email info@a2technologies.net.

JUST PUBLISHED: The latest issue of Journal of Chromatography B

NEW ISSUE! Click on the link below for papers published in the latest issue of Journal of Chromatography B
http://rss.sciencedirect.com/publication/science/7220

Next Generation of Touch Screen Syringe Pumps

KD Scientific announces the New Legato 100 Syringe Pump

The world’s first single syringe infusion only pump with a touch screen interface. The Legato 100 has a wide flow rate range from 1.28 pl/min to 88.28 ml/min.

Any type of syringe can be used in the unit including stainless steel, plastic or glass.  The syringes are held in place by KD Scientific’s new clamping mechanism designed to hold the syringes securely in place.

Syringes from 0.5 ul to 60 ml can be used.   The Legato 100  has an accuracy of +/-0.5% and a reproducibility of +/- 0.05%.

The large color display allows the user to see all the  pumps operating parameters to ensure proper operation during the experiments..  Syringe size and flow rates are easily displayed as well as the volume delivered and the elapsed time.

The Legato 100 can be used in flow cytometry, electrospinning, mass spec calibrant delivery, microfluidics, neuroscience applications and more.

KD Scientific designs, manufactures and sells a range of quality fluidics equipment used by research laboratory markets worldwide.

KD Scientific syringe pumps are an economical solution to delivering precise and smooth flow in research, pilot plants and production applications.   They are recognized worldwide for quality, accuracy and reliability.   A broad line of syringe pumps are offered: from a simple one syringe infuse only, to a programmable multi-syringe infuse/withdrawal pump. KD Scientific operates as a separate business within Harvard Bioscience at their Holliston, Massachusetts facility.

For more information contact:

KD Scientific84 October Hill Road
Holliston, Massachusetts 01746

Phone: 508-429-6809
Fax: 508-893-0160
E-mail: info@kdscientific.comWeb: www.kdscientific.com

High Sensitivity GPC Triple Detector System for Polymer & Protein Characterisation…

The new SEC-3010 triple detector system from Dorton Analytical Ltd. sets a new standard for high performance characterisation of polymers and proteins using Gel Permeation Chromatography / Size Exclusion Chromatography (GPC/SEC).

The SEC-3010 triple detector system is a complete GPC system comprising pump, autosampler, viscosity/refractive index detector, multi-angle light scattering detector and ParSEC enhanced software.

The patented design of the SEC-3010 Viscosity/Refractive Index Detector allows the simultaneous determination of the refractive index and the intrinsic viscosity of a polymer solution. With its sophisticated technology, it overcomes the disadvantages usually encountered when using coupled detectors. The asymmetrical bridge circuit allows 80 % of the sample to reach the measuring arm compared with 50 % in conventional instruments, thus increasing sensitivity by a factor of 2. The direct integration of the refractive index measuring cell in the analytical arm of the viscometer allows the determination of the intrinsic viscosity and the refractive index in exactly the same sample segment.

The Multi-Angle Light-Scattering Detector is a modern, intuitive, 7-angle detector for the comprehensive characterisation of macromolecular compounds. Its innovative technology offers the highest quality and precision in the absolute determination of molecular weight. The sample is illuminated by a very precise, temperature-controlled laser beam. The scattered light is collected by a highly-sensitive CCD detector which transmits the data to the ParSEC software.

ParSEC Enhanced provides the complete software solution for comprehensive polymer characterisation via multi-detector GPC. The software records and evaluates the data from various combinations of GPC detectors. It calculates the specific and intrinsic viscosity, the Mark-Houwink coefficients, the absolute molecular weights, Mn, Mw, Mz, Rg, the Mw/Mn structure coefficients and the branching parameters from the scattered light data. All analytical methods, raw data, calibrations, results and sample information are stored in a single database, allowing very easy archiving and retrieval of data.

The SEC-3010 system, developed by the renowned GPC company (WGE Dr Bures), offers a unique combination of comprehensive capabilities, simple, intuitive control and leading edge sensitivity all in a remarkably small laboratory footprint.

For further information please contact Dorton Analytical Ltd on +44-(0)7872-520670 or email: info@dortonanalytical.co.uk

Agilent Technologies and Strand Team Up to Advance Integrated Biology Software Systems

Agilent Technologies Inc. and Strand Scientific Intelligence Inc. have announced an agreement to expand the scope of the Agilent GeneSpring bioinformatics system across multiple life-science disciplines; drive future innovation; and deliver new channels for accessing the software and customer support.

Financial details were not disclosed for the multi-year agreement.

"We intend to lead the way in providing tools for integrated biology research, and partnering with Strand is an excellent way of addressing the all-important bioinformatics part of the equation," said Gustavo Salem, Agilent vice president and general manager, Biological Systems Division. "Studies combining multiple 'omics experiments are finally delivering the results that were hoped for years ago from systems biology and true translational research, and this is one example of what Agilent is doing to fuel future breakthroughs in biomedical research."

"We've enjoyed a close working relationship with Agilent over the past three years developing GeneSpring for gene expression and Mass Profiler Professional for metabolomics and proteomics," said Francois Mandeville, Strand executive vice president. "We're extremely pleased to take this partnership up to the next level. Developing new scientific intelligence solutions that enable scientists to integrate, model and visualize biological information is an important part of this new agreement, and we also look forward to going beyond this, developing new ways to deliver, customize and support these solutions."

The first tool scheduled to emerge from this partnership will be a version of GeneSpring designed to help users perform statistical analyses of and visualize data from genomics, metabolomics and proteomics together for the first time, using a familiar interface. The partnership also will leverage Strand's technology to enable integrated Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) analysis capabilities for GeneSpring users.

The agreement also includes development of a fully integrated portal for licensing, upgrading and supporting the GeneSpring family of bioinformatics systems.

"We're developing a new transactional model designed to deliver the precise solutions and personalized support that researchers want and need, quickly and easily," Mandeville added.

Agilent and Strand have been working together since August 2007. Strand was developing Stratagene's ArrayAssist software when Agilent acquired Strategene in 2007. After the acquisition, Agilent's GeneSpring GX for gene expression was migrated to Strand's Avadis platform, and all subsequent versions have been based on Avadis as well.

Knome Awards Human Exome Sequencing and Analysis to Biomedical Researchers

Knome, Inc. Has announced the winners of its inaugural KnomeDISCOVERY Awards, a program designed to spur new genetic insights into health. Researchers Judith Conroy (University College Dublin, Ireland), Eitan Friedman (Sheba Medical Center, Israel), and Abhimanyu Garg (University of Texas-Southwestern Medical Center, USA) have been awarded KnomeDISCOVERY™ exome sequencing and comparative analysis packages.  Each winner will use Knome's integrated sequencing and analysis service to compare the protein-coding genes of two strategically chosen people in order to answer an important question about human health and physiology.
"We received entries from researchers all over the world, reflecting a global groundswell of interest in exome-based research," said George Church, co-founder of Knome and chair of the KnomeDISCOVERY Awards selection committee. "The proposals targeted a variety of creative and compelling research questions.  Our winners represent three outstanding applications of comparative exome analysis. Each will leverage Knome's research-supportive service to identify key similarities and differences between two people's complete sets of genes, spotlighting distinctive DNA spellings that help explain why some people develop a disease or other important phenotype."
Casting new light on aging and fat metabolism
Abhimanyu Garg, MD, is Chief of the Division of Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases at UT Southwestern Medical Center, and a leading expert on neonatal progeroid syndrome (NPS), a debilitating disease in which children appear to age quickly and cannot store enough fat to stay healthy.  In his research, Dr. Garg has documented several subtypes of NP, and hopes to trace their causes to specific genetic variants.
"Exome analysis is a boon to clinical researchers like me, letting us look at all protein-coding genes in one go so that we can better understand puzzling diseases like NPS," Dr. Garg noted, adding that, "Knome will help me quickly accomplish what before would have taken years of costly effort."
Using KnomeDISCOVERY™, Dr. Garg will thoroughly survey two patients' genes, in order to identify distinctive or shared DNA spellings that cause NP.  Ultimately, his findings may help physicians treat NP more effectively and may also cast new light on questions of broad public interest: how we age, and how our bodies process fat.
"Though rare, Progeria holds clues to health concerns that are important not just for people with the disease, but for many others as well – including people suffering from cardiovascular disease. Exome analysis can help find the genes that influence disease severity in Progeria," said Leslie Gordon, MD, PhD, medical director of The Progeria Research Foundation. "Such understanding may allow earlier disease detection, and help prevent or ease debilitating symptoms."
Breast cancer in families: beyond the usual suspects
Breast cancer kills more women than any cancer except lung cancer.  Public understanding of breast cancer risk has grown, thanks largely to discoveries that women who carry certain DNA spelling variants in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes tend to get the disease.  These genes, however, account for only a small percentage of all breast cancer cases – most cases remain unexplained.  
In his work at Sheba Medical Center, Eitan Friedman, MD, PhD studies families with heritable forms of breast cancer who carry 'normal' versions of BRCA1, BRCA2 and other well known culprit genes. Using Knome's exome sequencing and comparative analysis, Dr. Friedman aims to find the genetic basis of cancer susceptibility in two such families.  He will then be able to validate whether newly identified cancer-implicated variants turn up in other cancer-prone families too.  In doing so, he stands to refine our understanding of how breast tumors form and spread and to point the way toward better personalized treatment strategies.
"Genome sequencing and analysis are quickly becoming essential tools in efforts to understand, treat, and cure cancers," noted Dr. Friedman. "Well-integrated analysis services like Knome's can help researchers immensely by quickly drilling down to candidate variants that can catalyze vital insights."
Linking a rare disease to an enduringly familiar mystery
In the clinical genetics work at University College Dublin, post-doctoral fellow Judith Conroy, PhD, encountered two Irish families who share a remarkable circumstance. Each family has a set of triplets, in which only two children are 'identical' twins, and both have a rare developmental syndrome called Facio-audio-symphalangism (FAS).
Because none of the children carry a suspicious version of any gene implicated in FAS, Dr. Conroy reasoned that their cases might trace to a previously unsuspected part of the genome.  Moreover, she wondered whether the same part of the genome might also play a key role in the familiar, but biologically mysterious, process of twinning.  
Scientists have long noted that twinning runs in some families, suggesting that it may involve heritable genetic variation. Despite millennia of fascination, however, human twinning is still poorly understood.  To cast light on the two seemingly disparate phenomena of FAS and twinning, Dr. Conroy will use KnomeDISCOVERY™ to compare the genes of one twin from each of the two FAS families in order to identify distinctive spelling variants that could cause the disease. In the process, her research may also advance our understanding of the biology of twinning.
"The analysis of novel variants and their potential involvement in the development of FAS will be crucial," noted Conroy. "The interpretation application may prove to be a very useful tool. Also, the input and advice from individuals at Knome is always appreciated."

New mass spectrometer aids diabetes research

A $365,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health will fund a new mass spectrometer for the University of Texas Medical Branch’s Miriam and Emmett McCoy Stem Cells and Diabetes Mass Spectrometry Research Laboratory.

This state-of-the-art instrument will allow the measurement of biomarkers in the blood of patients with diabetes, traumatic brain injury, substance abuse and hepatocellular carcinoma.

These studies will advance the ability to assess predisposition to disease as well as contribute to diagnosis and management in the development of a personalized medicine approach to patient care.

Tissue-Engineered Stem Cell-Derived: Trachea, Esophagus, Blood Vessels with New Whole Organ Bioreactor

Harvard Apparatus is introducing the InBreath Whole Organ Bioreactor.  This 3D bioreactor is a rotating, 3D bioreactor designed for cell seeding and culturing on both surfaces of a tubular matrix.  The Harvard Apparatus hollow organ 3D reactor system is ideal for esophagus, trachea, intestines, blood vessels and virtually any hollow organ.

Harvard Apparatus in conjunction with Dr. Paolo Macchiarini, [Macciarini, P. et al. Clinical transplantation of a tissue-engineered airway, Lancet, 372, 2023-2030, (2008)] has developed the InBreath Whole Organ Bioreactor. 

The InBreath is world's first commercially available bioreactor for tubular organ regeneration.  The InBreath is precision engineered for cell seeding and culturing on both intraluminal and extraluminal surfaces of a tubular matrix. 

An autoclavable polymer-based culture chamber houses the scaffold and culture medium for the entire duration of the organ generation procedure.  An organ scaffold is mounted to the corresponding scaffold holder of appropriate diameter. 

Each holder features a reduced diameter central portion which functions to expose the luminal surface of the matrix for cell seeding and culturing.  Secondary elements or “paddles” moving with the scaffold holder produce continuous mixing of the culture medium to increase oxygenation and mass transport.

The cell/scaffold construct is rotated on the holder by a brushless DC motor (0-5 rpm adjustable) which is completely separated from the culture compartment.  A co-axial conduit links the inner chamber to the external environment through an interface at the chamber wall.  

The detachable connection between the motor unit and the culture chamber allows the latter to be removed for maintenance while the motor unit remains stationed in the incubator.  An external control unit regulates and monitors rotation. 

Autoclavability, ease of handling under sterile conditions, reliability and precision ensures full compatibility of the device with GLP rules.

Harvard Apparatus also has electrofusion, femtomole cell injectors and ventilation & anesthesia products to advance your cell and tissue engineering experimentation.

To receive a copy of the NEW Regenerative Medicine Catalog, go to http://www.harvardapparatus.com/