World Congress on Biosensors 2014

World Congress on Biosensors 2014
Biosensors 2014

Monday 31 January 2011

Just Published: Analytica Chimica Acta


A new issue of this journal has just been published. To see abstracts of the papers it contains (with links through to the full papers) click here:

Intrinsically Safe Flame Sterilization

Flame sterilization is a routine task carried out in many microbiological, clinical and life science laboratories.

A new white paper from INTEGRA describes the security features of modern safety Bunsen burners in relation to the inherent dangers of flame sterilization using alcohol burners, gas cookers or a traditional Bunsen burner connected to a gas distribution system.

Safety Bunsen Burners were developed to ensure high safety by eliminating the risk of gas leaking and explosion inherent in using alcohol burners, gas cookers and traditional Bunsen burners.  With this new generation of Safety Bunsen Burner the gas ignition is both immediate and safe as no lighter or matches are needed. Unlike traditional burners, the gas supply flows only if a gas flame is detected by the flame monitor. Advanced temperature protection, user-defined maximum burning time and alarm display features serve to protect both the operator and operating environment. 

Operating from a wide range of gas cartridges - the battery powered Safety Bunsen Burner was developed to be used where ever you wish, eliminating the need for connection to an installed gas distribution system.  With no interfering cables or tubes the 'hands-free' the DVGW certified FIREBOY Safety Bunsen Burner from INTEGRA has been proven in thousands of installations worldwide to be intrinsically safe and extremely easy-to-use.

A copy of this new white paper may be downloaded from http://www.integra-biosciences.com/pdf/sterilisation/Modern_Bunsen_burners.pdf.  

Friday 28 January 2011

Funny video - Chemical Reactions

I've just been sent a link to the following video and thought I'd share it with everyone ...

http://offthewallchemistry.blogspot.com/2011/01/party.html

New Lab Automation Tools Make Science Easy

Agilent Automation Solutions has selected Lab Automation 2011 to launch two new products and a suite of applications advances to help make science easy.

Visitors to Booth 329 will have the chance to see and discuss the new Bravo liquid handling platform for Protein Purification.  The Agilent Bravo for protein purification leverages proprietary AssayMAP microchromatography technology to enable highly parallel and precise antibody purification and titer operations.  Also on public display for the first time will be the new BenchBot Robot - a small footprint, highly flexible robot for benchtop assay automation.

As well as showcasing their new products and applications advances - Agilent Automation Solutions will also host two industry workshops during the conference (January 29th - February 2nd 2011).

The first workshop has been designed to allow attendees to learn about microchromatography and hear how the new Bravo platform is enabling high throughput bioprocess development. Attendees to this workshop will also be able to learn how the Agilent BenchBot robot is revolutionizing the set up and use of small to medium sized assay development workstations, offering unmatched flexibility, throughput, and ease of use.

At the second workshop - Agilent will present an automated solution for Next Generation sequencing library preparation and target enrichment that provides high quality and high throughput sample processing capability combined with maximum walk away time.

For further information or to register for the free industry workshops please visit http://www.chem.agilent.com/en-US/Products/Instruments/automation/Pages/ala.aspx?cid=3999 or contact your local Agilent Automation sales office.

Thursday 27 January 2011

Global Biosensors Market to Reach US$12 Billion by 2015

Medical applications continue to dominate the biosensors market worldwide. Biosensors are increasingly finding applications in blood glucose monitoring, drug discovery, drug analysis, and whole blood analyzers. In hospitals, there is perennial demand for medical biosensors for blood gases monitoring, and real-time Point-of-Care testing. With more number of individuals becoming health conscious, the use of biosensors for medical diagnosis is growing rapidly. Ongoing research is likely to improve existing models in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, reduced size, and increased portability. In view of increasing applications in medical field, biosensors market is witnessing a foray of companies, thus making the market much more competitive.

In addition, the biosensors market is being driven by increase in R&D activities for developing biosensors. Industrial and university researchers are conducting research to develop novel platforms for accurate, highly sensitive, and pain-free diagnostic biosensors. In addition, efforts are also directed towards developing biosensor instruments capable of testing multiple parameters for home diagnostic, and point-of-care markets. Nanotechnology is also spurring growth in biosensors field. Unabated investments in research and development in nano-biosensors is resulting in availability of affordable kits, and compact diabetic monitors. Besides, several companies are also focusing efforts to devise a single platform for a range of applications. Combination of cholesterol and diabetic tests is one such instance.

Glucose Biosensors represents the largest segment cornering a lion's share of the global biosensors market, as stated by the new market research report on Biosensors in Medical Diagnostics. Diabetes management has become an attractive industry by itself, presenting huge opportunities for growth of enhanced diabetes management products, glucose detection devices, and glucose biosensors. Key factors driving growth for glucose biosensors include user-friendly designs, growing diabetic population, and point-of-care applications. Biosensor technology is capable of increasing patient compliance by minimizing careless attitude towards regular monitoring of glucose levels, owing to ease of use and higher accuracy. Roche Diagnostics (Formerly Boehringer Mannheim), LifeScan (Johnson and Johnson), Abbott, Bayer, Medtronic, Becton Dickinson, Home Diagnostics, and Dexcom are few of the major players in the glucose biosensors market. Other biosensors (including biosensors used for testing cholesterol urea, blood gas, and other parameters) are also forecast to register fastest growth of more than 19% over the analysis period.

The United States represents the largest market for medical biosensors globally. Europe trails the US. However, Registering the fastest CAGR of more than 14% through 2015, Asia-Pacific holds the highest growth potential for biosensors. Growing health-related concerns, and an increase in affordability levels with regards to healthcare, are the major factors driving the market for biosensors in Asia-Pacific.

Major companies developing biosensor-based devices profiled in the report include Abbott Point Of Care Inc., Neosensors Limited, Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc., Animas Corp., LifeScan Inc., Medtronic Diabetes, Roche Diagnostics Ltd. Leading developers of biosensor technology analyzed include AgaMatrix Inc., Cranfield Health, LifeSensors Inc., M-Biotech, and Nova Biomedical Corp.

The research report titled "Biosensors in Medical Diagnostics: A Global Strategic Business Report" announced by Global Industry Analysts Inc., provides a comprehensive review of the Biosensors market in Medical Diagnostics, current market trends, key growth drivers, new product innovations/launches, recent industry activity, and profiles of major/niche global market participants. The report provides annual sales estimates and projections for the global biosensors market for the years 2007 through 2015 for the regions, including US, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World. Key product segments analyzed include Medical Biosensors (Glucose Biosensors and Other Medical Biosensors), Environmental Biosensors, and Other Biosensors.

For more details about this comprehensive market research report, please visit - www.strategyr.com/Biosensors_in_Medical_Diagnostics_Market_Report.asp

Just Published: Journal of Chromatography A


A new issue of this journal has just been published. To see abstracts of the papers it contains (with links through to the full papers) click here:

1000 Facebook friends and rising

Thanks for your support/interest in both this blog and our Facebook and Twitter pages (see post below).

I need a friend!

Readers may not be aware, but as part of my attempt to embrace the social networking revolution I have also set up Twitter and Facebook pages. As of this morning we now have 999 Facebook 'friends' and so if you would like to join this happy crew, please click on the link below.

http://www.facebook.com/index.php?lh=8c8328e2931b99f7115468325c7c4eb4&eu=OlV_e1L-ozhigYQhiVnLeg#!/pages/Analytical-Chemistry-Journals-From-Elsevier/256448407037

Streamlining the Protein Precipitation Sample Preparation Technique

The p3 microplate from Porvair Sciences Ltd. eliminates the mess and complex sample preparation (no centrifuging, no vortexing) traditionally associated with protein precipitation techniques.

The use of protein precipitation as a method for sample preparation is widely used within the pharmaceutical industry.  Consequently the need to streamline the technique, to save technician time, has spurned a growing number of commercial multi-well filtration microplates optimised for protein precipitation sample preparation.

A technical report based upon an independent in-depth evaluation of a selection of commercially available protein precipitation microplates is free to download from the Porvair Sciences website*.

The report details and illustrates the results from the series of comparative experiments carried out in the independent evaluation.  The evaluation comments how advantageously the p3 eliminated "wetting out" and leaking of sample through the plate without resorting to complex valve systems.  Further it comments that the novel treated frit matrix used in the p3 maintains high flow rates enabling quick sample preparation times.  The report also notes that the p3 plate did not have any major adverse non-specific binding problems.  These benefits plus the added advantage of cost effectiveness has meant that the pharmaceutical company that undertook the evaluation is now using the p3 plates on a daily basis. 

Porvair Sciences Ltd has specialised in the manufacture of microplates and microplate equipment 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 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/downloads.php?showFrom=6&nR=18

Wednesday 26 January 2011

Biosensors & Bioelectronics Centre - Job Vacancies

Linköping University
Sweden
Assistant Professor
(Forskarassistent) - Electrochemical Biosensors

A unique opportunity for an exceptional individual to join a world-leading group of biosensor scientists. The successful applicant will establish an independent career in the thriving Swedish research environment and help build a new Biosensors & Bioelectronics Centre, led by

You will have a PhD, postdoctoral experience, excellent publication record and be skilled in a full range of electrochemical biosensor techniques. Salary approx. 43,200 – 49,500 Euros/year.

Full details can be found at: www.liu.se/en/job/

Closing date: 4 March 2011


Postdoc – Microelectrode Arrays

The successful applicant will join an ongoing project on microelectrode arrays for drinking water monitoring and help to build new research activities in the area of sensors for security applications within the recently initiated strategic research effort Security Link, www.securitylink.liu.se  

You will have a recent PhD and be skilled in electrochemical  techniques. Salary approx. 37,000 Euros/year.

Full details can be found at: www.liu.se/en/job/

Closing date: 4 March 2011

FOSS releases new features for Vision

FOSS NIRSystems, Inc. has introduced Service Pack 6 for Vision 3.50.

Vision is a software package specifically designed for use with the FOSS NIRSystems Near-Infrared (NIR) laboratory and process analyzers. Vision 3.50 Service Pack 6 is a cumulative service pack and offers support for the latest NIR laboratory and process hardware.

The main new feature added in Service Pack 6:
  • The ProFoss instrument has been added to Vision, which includes support for Self-Test, Diagnostics, Data Acquisition, and Routine Analysis. ProFoss is a diode-array instrument and the latest addition to the product line of FOSS NIRSystems.

If you are a current user of the FOSS Vision software, please contact us for more information and/or a complete list of new features appearing in version 3.50, Service Pack 6.

The FOSS Vision software is 21 CFR Part 11 compliant and supports PAT through numerous process analysis options and process communication capabilities. The software has an extensive security system with multiple access levels, secure data archiving and report generation as well as database and spreadsheet compatibility. Vision comes with a user-friendly electronic manual with tutorials and data for self taught hands-on method development and software operation.

FOSS NIRSystems, Inc., a unit of FOSS A/S of Denmark, is the world’s leading manufacturers of near infrared analytical instruments. Headquartered in Laurel, MD, FOSS NIRSystems provides a complete range of rapid scanning, near-infrared spectrophotometers for laboratory and process applications.  Sales, service, and support offices are located on nearly every continent to assist local personnel in 65 industrial centers worldwide.

For more information on FOSS NIRSystems and its complete product line, please contact:
FOSS NIRSystems, Inc.;
7703 Montpelier Road
; Laurel, MD 20723; USA. Phone: +1-301-680-9600; Fax: +1-301-236-0134;
email: info@foss-nirsystems.com or visit our website at: www.foss-nirsystems.com

Tuesday 25 January 2011

CHN/O/S Analyzer for Wide Ranging Sample Types

The Model 440 Elemental Analyzer from Exeter Analytical Inc. is capable of precisely analyzing the widest range of sample types - quickly, easily and reliably.

The Model 440 offers a wide linear range and is capable of routinely analyzing almost any sample type including organic compounds, pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, polymers, refractory, environmental or natural materials (soil, plants or insects). Its unique horizontal furnace design, allowing for removal of residues between runs, prevents cross contamination and allows for a greater number of samples between combustion column changes. Employing a unique combined static / dynamic combustion technology enables the Model 440 to precisely analyze the widest range of sample types from volatile to difficult to combust materials including nitrides, graphite fibres, ceramics and even carbides with melting points of over 2000°C.

Offering unmatched operating accuracy and precision, the fully automated Model 440 delivers simultaneous CHN analysis in less than 5 minutes and Oxygen and Sulphur in only 6 minutes - increasing the productivity of your laboratory.
 
Low gas and reagent consumption combined with high reduction tube life allows the Model 440 to deliver some of the lowest operating costs of any CHN/O/S elemental analyzer available. Intuitive Windows based operating software reduces human errors through incorporation of extensive automation, comprehensive customer help and diagnostic facilities.  Most parts on the Model 440 are user replaceable further reducing operating costs and downtime.

As a company dedicated to elemental microanalysis, Exeter Analytical's nearly 30 years of involvement with instruments, consumables and supplies has allowed them to better understand the whole problem facing microanalysts.  As a consequence whether you are a regular or an occasional purchaser - experienced and knowledgeable staff are always available to provide free informed advice.

For further information on the Model 440 CHN/OS Elemental Analyser please contact Exeter Analytical Inc. at +1-800-440-7875 (or alternatively +1-978-251-1411) or email sales@eai1.com.

Monday 24 January 2011

Agilent Technologies Inc plans to buy A2

Test and measurement giant Agilent Technologies Inc has announced plans to acquire specific assets of privately held A2 Technologies, including substantially all of the Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) company's intellectual property, technology, employees, and its spectroscopy product portfolio.

Fourier transform spectroscopy -- a measurement technique where spectra are collected based on measurements of the coherence of a radiative source, using time-domain or space-domain measurements of radiation -- can be applied to a variety of spectroscopy types. In its case, Danbury, Conn-based A2 designs, develops, and manufactures FT-IR spectrometers for routine analysis and out-of-lab applications in the petrochemical, environmental, aerospace, art conservation, academia, and geosciences markets.

Found at: http://www.edn.com/article/512311-Agilent_expands_spectroscopy_portfolio_with_A2_Technologies_buy.php

Just Published: Journal of Chromatography B


A new issue of this journal has just been published. To see abstracts of the papers it contains (with links through to the full papers) click here:

Coulometric KF Titrator for Gas, Liquids and Solids

JM Science’s AQUACOUNTER® Coulometric Karl Fischer Titrator (AQ-300) is a reliable, easy-to-use coulometric titrator that has six built-in calculation modes to accommodate solid, liquid and gas samples. Laboratories with limited budgets will benefit from this low-cost, highly productive unit. The state-of-the-art performance features include a fritless cell option and it offers fast and accurate results. It has one-touch calculations – including a statistics package! Four files with preset conditions can be stored in memory and allows instant recall of data for up to 20 samples. A built-in detector monitors titration status.
This unit has balance and computer interfaces for GLP and ISOdocumentation. Choice of ion exchange or fritless cell system and thermal printer or impact printer are available. Printout contents include date, sample number, measurement value (µgH20), sample quantity, moisture content, mean value, standard deviation, CV, moisture quantity-time curve, and other preset titration parameters. The unit is CE approved, has an international voltage input (100-240V) and results may be printed on an optional printer or downloaded to a PC.
The AQ-300 comes with DVD training movie, plasticized Quick-Start guide for use in the lab, paper and pdf manual. Also included, complete accessories, download software for transferring results to a laptop or PC, RS-232 cable, and AQUACOUNTER® KF Reagent starter kit.
For more information contact us at 1-800-495-1678 or visit us at www.jmscience.com

Friday 21 January 2011

Just Published: Journal of Chromatography A


A new issue of this journal has just been published. To see abstracts of the papers it contains (with links through to the full papers) click here:

Laser Etched Sample Tube Storage Rack

Micronic has introduced a next generation version of its popular Roborack 96-position sample tube storage rack. Traditionally users have used adhesive paper labels on their storage racks to provide sample traceability.  However over a period of time, subject to repeated freeze thaw cycles and organic solvents which samples are often dissolved in, paper labels commonly degrade or fall off.

The new white Roborack-96 is laser etched to produce a label that can never wear or fall off.  Each white Roborack-96 is laser etched with a guaranteed unique 1D barcode ensuring absolute sample traceability. The white rack and laser etched bar code provide a stark contrast thereby providing excellent bar coding readability and minimising the risk of incorrect sample identification.
 
The Roborack-96 incorporates a wealth of novel features enabling turn-key integration into almost any laboratory automation systems. Manufactured from hi-grade solvent resistant polypropylene, the Roborack-96 meets the globally recognized Society of Biomolecular Screening (SBS) standard footprint ensuring compatibility with most automated sample handling systems. An enclosed wall design allows robotic grippers to access the rack from any height allowing easy rack manipulation and movement.

Contoured Sure-Shot™ well tops on the Roborack-96 help guide tubes that are incorrectly delivered by automated equipment. The design allows robotic grippers to access the rack from any height for easy rack manipulation. The wells have an open airflow design for faster freezing and thawing.

To ensure sample integrity during transport or storage each Roborack-96 is supplied with an easy-to-operate lockable lid.  All Micronic racks are manufactured under US Federal Standard 209E Class 10,000 clean room conditions.

Dedicated to the design and production of innovative sample storage tubes, accessories and instruments over the last 25 years, Micronic is uniquely able to offer laboratories the expert advice to help them safeguard one of its most valuable assets - its samples. 

For further information on the new white Roborack-96 please visit http://www.micronic.com/ or contact Micronic now on telephone +31-320-277070 or email sales@micronic.com.

Thursday 20 January 2011

Just Published: Sensors & Actuators B: Chemical


A new issue of this journal has just been published. To see abstracts of the papers it contains (with links through to the full papers) click here:

SPE Methods Development Made Easy

Porvair Sciences has introduced a version of its popular Microlute™ Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) microplate which provides a wide assortment of phase chemistries and sorbent loadings in a single plate making it ideally suited for method development. The mix of phase chemistries and sorbent loadings available in the Development Microlute™ allows you to simply and rapidly screen for the optimal retention and selectivity required to achieve your sample preparation objectives.

The Development Microlute™ uniquely offers the user a choice of up to 12 different phases and sorbent loadings (10 -100mg) in a standard format 96-well plate. By providing a complete SPE methods development solution that does not need to be constructed by the user, the Development Microlute™ delivers considerable savings in valuable laboratory time.

The novel design of the Development Microlute™ offers all the advantages of automated and high throughput SPE sample preparation in a convenient microplate format capable of rapidly processing 96 samples in one go repeatedly and precisely.  Constructed from a single piece of moulded high quality polypropylene, a Development Microlute™ plate will not bend or distort because individual SPE cartridges do not have to be repeatedly plugged in and out.  Using a proprietary sorbent slurry loading technique, Porvair has eliminated the channeling effects often limiting the performance of dry powder loaded SPE columns.  Each well on a Development Microlute™ plate has an individual drain spout ensuring 100% sample transfer and zero crossover contamination.
Working closely with the leading automated liquid handling companies has ensured that Porvair Development Microlute™ plates deliver high productivity, trouble-free operation with all robotic sample handling and preparation systems.

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 laboratories 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 the Development Microlute™ please contact Porvair Sciences on on telephone +44-1372-824290, email int.sales@porvair-sciences.com or visit the website at http://www.porvair-sciences.com/.

Wednesday 19 January 2011

Highly Efficient, Reproducible Non-Cytotoxic Transfection Reagent

GenePORTER® Gold from AMSBIO is a new highly efficient and reproducible lipid-based reagent for effective transfection of a wide variety of cell lines.
  
Molecular target delivery faces many barriers, from crossing the cell type-specific extracellular membrane, to cytoplasmic degradation and translocation across the nuclear membrane. To be effective, the transfection reagent/DNA complexes must overcome all of these challenges whilst minimizing cytotoxicity.

Traditionally the most efficient delivery methods have also been the most cytotoxic. Using Advanced Carrier Enhancement technology, a nuclear targeting mechanism that maximizes transfection and transgene expression levels while still maintaining high cell viability, GenePORTER® Gold has been able to address this limitation.

Based on generations of proven cationic lipid formulations with more than 850 citations to date, GenePORTER® Gold uniquely combines consistent delivery and reliability with the lowest reported cytotoxicity of commercially available transfection reagents. The GenePORTER® Gold protocol has been optimized to provide simple, same-day transfection making it ideal for high throughput or large scale applications where the need for consistent results is highly desirable.

For further information on GenePORTER® Gold Transfection Reagent please visit http://www.amsbio.com/GenePORTER-Gold-Transfection-Reagent.aspx or contact AMSBIO on +44-1235-828200 / email info@amsbio.com.

Founded in 1987, AMS Biotechnology (AMSBIO) is recognized as a leading international provider of unique & innovative products & custom services for life sciences research. The amsbio range includes over 23,000 polyclonal & monoclonal antibodies, peptides, recombinant proteins, extracellular matrix, molecular detection reagents, & tissue DNA, RNA, protein & microarray products. Key research areas include: apoptosis, cell invasion & migration, cell signaling, DNA damage, electrophoresis, glycobiology, posttranslational modification & stem cell biology.

Tuesday 18 January 2011

Just Published: Talanta


A new issue of this journal has just been published. To see abstracts of the papers it contains (with links through to the full papers) click here:

New Benchtop Evaporator Removes Even Highest Boiling Point Solvents

Genevac has launched the EZ-2 Elite - a new addition to its popular EZ-2 evaporator range.  The EZ-2 Elite is designed to remove high boiling point solvents and deliver enhanced solvent recovery thereby improving final drying of stubborn samples and enabling fast lyophilisation of HPLC fractions.

The high performance scroll pump used with the EZ-2 Elite delivers deeper vacuum than the diaphragm pumps used on other EZ-2 systems.  This advance plus internal enhancements to heat vapour duct and system components enable the EZ-2 Elite to routinely evaporate challenging high boiling solvents including DMSO and NMP.  In addition these enhancements ensure that such challenging solvents only condense in the SpeedTrap, and not anywhere else.

The SpeedTrap™ on the EZ-2 Elite works just like the other EZ-2 models but with the added benefit of automatic defrost and drain technology.  The EZ-2 controls the SpeedTrap and the new Elite solvent collection vessel to allow mid-method defrosting and draining.  This controlled draining facility enables very high levels of solvent recovery to be achieved.  For example, when working with HPLC fractions, higher levels of dryness can be achieved by first draining the volatile organic solvent before tackling the water, allowing full vacuum to be used during final drying.  Using the EZ-2 Elite SpeedTrap - the Genevac LyoSpeed™ method of fast lyophilisation of HPLC fractions is possible for the first time on an EZ-2 Evaporator.

Running the EZ-2 Elite is as simple as 1, 2, 3.  Just load your samples, select maximum safe temperature for samples, select solvent type and hit start.  Offering true unattended operation capability the EZ-2 Elite requires no user training, even a beginner can competently use the system within 5 minutes.

The EZ-2 Elite has been designed to concentrate or completely dry samples.   The system will accommodate a wide selection of sample holders enabling evaporation from most common sample container formats including round-bottom flasks up to 500ml, tubes up to 160mm long, custom reaction blocks and shallow or deep-well microplates.  To meet the need of the many life science companies switching their compound generation programmes from serial chemistry to parallel synthesis, the EZ-2 Elite is also able to take tubes, flasks and vials directly from the synthesis process, eliminating a manual handling step, increasing recoveries and removing the chance of cross contamination.
 
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.

For further information on the EZ-2 Elite please contact Genevac on +44-1473-240000 / +1-845-255-5000 or email salesinfo@genevac.co.uk.

Monday 17 January 2011

Fourth International Conference on Metrology

The goal of this international conference is to enable participants to share their experience and expertise in calibration, measurement and testing, develop fresh insights and meet colleagues from other countries. The conference is therefore being designed to facilitate fruitful interactions between laboratory managers, scientists who carry out calibrations and/or measurements, quality managers from industry including medical systems, policy makers and academicians. We are sure that such interaction will increase understanding between metrologists and their customers.

See more at: www.isas.co.il/metrology2011

1st International Conference on Algal Biomass, Biofuels and Bioproducts

The 1st International Conference on Algal Biomass, Biofuels and Bioproducts provides a new level of direct interaction between the leaders in the scientific field, the strategic partners and the attending delegates. Emphasis will be placed on latest unpublished technical and scientific results, discussion and direct interactions with strategic partners and leaders in the field. The conference is designed to facilitate extended discussion periods with dedicated networking sessions.

The conference will cover all areas of emerging technologies in algal biology, biomass production, cultivation, harvesting, extraction, bioproducts, and econometrics.

See more at: http://www.algalbbb.com/index.html

Just Published: Analytica Chimica Acta


A new issue of this journal has just been published. To see abstracts of the papers it contains (with links through to the full papers) click here:

LabAutomation2011

Labroots are inviting you to join your laboratory automation colleagues from around the world in just under two weeks when all the action begins at LabAutomation2011, January 29-February 2. Preview the scientific program and poster program. In addition, the LabAutomation2011 Final Program is now available online.

Friday 14 January 2011

Raytheon Launches Climate-Monitoring Sensor

A Raytheon Co. sensor could someday help scientists determine the impact that aerosols have on the earth's atmosphere. The company's Aerosol Polarimetry Sensor will fly aboard NASA's Glory spacecraft to measure the global distribution of aerosols in the earth's atmosphere, Raytheon said Jan. 11.

The El Segundo, Calif.-based aerospace and defense contractor produced the sensor specifically to meet the aerosol measurement objectives of NASA's Glory mission, said John Barksdale, Raytheon's manager of integrated communications.
Glory arrived at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., Jan. 11 in preparation for the launch scheduled for Feb. 23.
The sensor currently is not being used in other applications, but additional sensors based on the APS design can be easily manufactured to continue recording global aerosol data beyond the Glory mission life or meet other similar mission requirements, Barksdale said.
The sensor contains 161 optical elements that analyze light of varying wavelengths, including visible and shortwave. The sensor will make measurements from multiple viewing angles in multiple spectral bands while in orbit.
The aerosol measurement capabilities of APS coupled with a cloud-identification function performed by two on-board cloud cameras will allow scientists to determine the global distribution of aerosols and cloud properties, according to NASA.
Different types of aerosols can contribute to heating or cooling, so the concentrations of the aerosol types must be determined to ensure accurate climate modeling, said Bill Hart, Raytheon's vice president of Space Systems.
"Because these particles are transported over long distances by winds, their effects on climate are best studied through space-based observations," Hart said.
Glory will complete a series of 233 orbits of the Earth along differing ground tracks to create a net of observations. This pattern will be repeated every 16 days, according to NASA.

An Integrated Workstation for High-Throughput Target Enrichment

Integrating advanced automation, liquid handling with Agilent SureSelect XT workflow - Agilent Automation Solutions has created a fully optimized and validated high throughput target enrichment solution.

SureSelect XT combines next generation sequencing library preparation and gDNA preparative reagents with the proven SureSelect target enrichment system. This, together with Agilent's automation portfolio, adds an unprecedented level of convenience and productivity to high-performance target enrichment.

Target enrichment let researchers sequence just the genomic regions of interest rather than entire genomes. Combined with the increasing capacity of the leading next-generation sequencers, the multiplexing support capabilities of the SureSelect XT platform make it possible for geneticists to interrogate the genome of more samples per study than previously possible. One of the rate-limiting steps in such studies has been library preparation and target enrichment. To enable high-throughput sample processing efficiency, Agilent Automation Solutions has now released an integrated workstation that automates SureSelect XT library preparation and target enrichment workflows.

"We integrated Agilent's automation and liquid handling portfolio with the SureSelect XT workflow, creating a fully optimized and validated solution, so scientists now can parallel process multiple steps and maximize unattended operation," said Todd P. Christian, head of global marketing for Agilent's Automation Solutions Business. "This system results in greater throughput, up to 192 samples weekly per workstation, and enables greater lab productivity for fast and robust data generation."

Agilent's SureSelectXT Target Enrichment System offers the broadest range of complete target enrichment solutions and the most highly optimized protocols for a diverse set of sequencing methods and platforms. SureSelect XT products are available for enrichment of target sizes ranging from smaller than 200 Kb to more than 50 Mb in a single tube. Protocols now support Illumina end sequencing, paired-end sequencing and indexing protocols in addition to fragment library format, paired-end sequencing and barcoding on the SOLiD System.

For further information on the Agilent SureSelectXT Target Enrichment System visit the Agilent website** or contact your local Agilent Automation sales office

Thursday 13 January 2011

Just Published: Journal of Chromatography B


A new issue of the above journal has just been published. To see abstracts of the papers it contains (with links through to the full papers) click here:

Spectrometer targets process analytical technology

Found at: http://www.laboratorytalk.com/news/sty/sty106.html

Stellarnet's Dwarf-Star NIR Red-Wave spectrometer is suitable for process analytical technology for industries such as food and drug, chemical, oil and gas, and plastics.
This small, robust instrument is equipped with a high-performance InGaAs detector array for the 900-1,700nm wavelength range and achievable resolutions to 1.5nm.
The ultra-portable Dwarf-Star features no moving parts.
Its 5 x 3 x 2in footprint allows for easy hardware integration; and it is marketed as both a field-portable instrument and an OEM product.
Each Dwarf-Star includes free Spectrawiz Software and a developer's toolbox of source codes, customisable demo programs and full spectroscopy applications in Labview, Visual Basic, Delphi Pascal and MS Visual C.
Additional driver interface documentation, development manuals and software support are provided.
High-speed spectral data acquisition with advanced features, such as time series analysis and episodic data capture with rapid sample logging, are standard features.
Post-processing techniques such as baseline correction, data smoothing and spectral derivatives are included.
Additionally, add-on chemometrics packages are available for complete multivariate calibration, analysis and run-time with the Dwarf-Star.
Stellarnet also offers light sources, dip probes, flow cells, cuvette holders and other sampling accessories to facilitate virtually any NIR application.
The Dwarf-Star's miniature size and rugged design also make it ideal for the field, enabling on-site product analysis and quality control.

Montgomery biotech breaks away from parent

An environmental testing biotech has broken away from its Rockville parent and is charting its own course at the University of Maryland BioPark in Baltimore.
Pathsensors, which manufactures pathogen identification systems and their study kits, split in November from Innovative Biosensors. Innovative, formed in 2004, uses technology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to detect pathogens in clinical applications.
"As the environmental testing for identifying pathogens in the air showed more promise, our division grew in terms of sales while the clinical and diagnostic division was still in the [research and development] stage," said Theodore Olsen, president and CEO of Pathsensors. "There was a competition of business objectives, so we decided it was best to split the two."
Pathsensors moved into the 800 W. Baltimore area of the BioPark last month. The BioPark offers early-stage to mature bioscience companies laboratory and office space in conjunction with access to the University of Maryland, Baltimore's medical faculty. Pathsensors is the 24th company to join the BioPark.
With Pathsensors' focus on homeland security and biodefense, the company is well positioned to maximize opportunities in the region and build its client base from the BioPark, said Jane Shaab, executive director of the BioPark.
The company already has secured a $5 million contract from the Department of Defense for monitoring the environment inside buildings so people inside can take corrective action if a problem occurs. Pathsensors also received a $1.6 million, 3.5-year contract with the Pentagon in 2007, when it still was the environmental division of Innovative Biosensors, Olsen said.
The company has four employees but expects to reach about 15 by the middle of 2012, Olsen said.
"They could be one of the huge success stories in the state," Shaab said, adding she has worked with Olsen for several years and considers him a "top-of-the-line" leader.
Olsen has 20 years of experience in manufacturing, process improvement and quality systems. He has held senior positions at M Cubed Technologies in Newark, Del., Corvis in Columbia and Carr Lowrey Glass in Baltimore.
Shaab also said Pathsensors' decision to locate in the BioPark demonstrates the complex's value as a place where businesses can accelerate their business model and look to the university for networking, collaboration and learning opportunities.
Olsen said the BioPark offers a large talent pool of life science professionals from the nearby universities, including John Hopkins University, as well as people from trade schools who can work in Pathsensors' manufacturing operations. This talent is not as likely to be poached by other local businesses as in Montgomery County's more developed bioscience corridor, he said.
"We want to hold onto them for a while," Olsen said.
Steven A. Silverman, director of the Montgomery County Department of Economic Development, said county officials were not approached as a potential location for Pathsensors.
"There was no competitive environment," he said.
Olsen said Pathsensors will work to build its customer base through first selling its identification systems and then selling refill testing components to those buyers in a model similar to how printer companies sell both printers and ink cartridges.
Evergreen Advisors of Columbia partnered with angel investor Chesapeake Emerging Opportunities Club, also of Columbia, in helping fund the company's startup.
"We expect that rapid detection systems will expand into high-visibility businesses that are vital to national security and food-testing processes," Olsen said. "This technology will allow food manufacturing companies to find and identify pathogens rapidly to help ensure that the food supply is safer and reduce the chance that contaminated products will need to be recalled."
Found at: http://www.gazette.net/stories/01072011/businew183711_32548.php

The Advantages Of Controlled Ice Nucleation for Freeze Drying Scale-Up

SP Scientific, a world leader in freeze drying technology, has announced a new LyoLearn webinar that will discuss the role of controlled ice nucleation in quality by design freeze drying scale-up procedures.
Chaired by Professor Michael J Pikal, Professor and Distinguished Chair, Pharmaceutical Technology at the University of Connecticut - the scope of the 27th January 2011 webinar will be to discuss controlled ice nucleation by both the ice-fog technique and the depressurization technique and to review the advantages of controlled ice nucleation.
To practice "Quality by Design", organizations must be able to scale up freeze drying results generated in the laboratory to full scale manufacturing. To do this a technique must address a number of heat and mass transfer scale up issues.  The 27th January webinar will suggest methodology for estimating the changes to a laboratory procedure that are required.

In addition the webinar will address the scale-up challenge presented by the difference in ice nucleation temperatures between the laboratory and the Class 100 environment found in manufacturing. Much greater degrees of super-cooling are typically found in manufacturing, meaning manufacturing processes run longer and run hotter than in the laboratory. Operators may minimize the freezing difference between laboratory and manufacturing by annealing in the frozen state, but perhaps the best strategy is to control the ice nucleation temperature. In this webinar the author discusses controlled ice nucleation by both the ice-fog technique and the depressurization technique and reviews the advantages of controlled ice nucleation.

SP Scientific's program of free educational webinars delivered by industry experts are devoted to freeze-drying topics, and follow a 30-minute format for the presentations with a Q&A session immediately afterwards.  To register for the January 27, 2011 webinar please visit the SP Scientific website** or contact the company on +1-845-255-5000 (+44-1473-240000 in Europe).

Wednesday 12 January 2011

Just Published: Spectrochimica Acta Part B: Atomic Spectroscopy


A new issue of the above journal has just been published. To see abstracts of the papers it contains (with links through to the full papers) click here:

Strategy Analytics: Auto Gas Sensors to Hit 177 Million by 2017

The Strategy Analytics report “Emission Mandates Boost Automotive Gas Sensors,” forecasts that tightening emission and fuel economy mandates, including legislation in the emerging markets, could result in the annual deployment of 177 million gas sensors in the market by 2017.
The majority of these sensors will measure oxygen in the exhaust system, with sophisticated wideband planar sensors coming to the fore. In addition, there will be growing demand for nitrogen oxide (NOx) sensing in the exhaust emissions of diesel and lean burn engines, as well as greater opportunities for cabin air quality sensors (AQS). Other sensors in development focus on ammonia exhaust emissions and sensors to detect hydrogen leakage in fuel cell vehicles.
In the meanwhile, vendors are continuing to enhance the performance of their sensors and develop more cost effective, flexible and smaller sensing modules. MEMS technology, for example, has enabled size reduction in AQS sensors, while accurate wideband oxygen sensors meet the demand for new direct injected engines.
Kevin Mak, analyst in the Automotive Electronics Service at Strategy Analytics, said, “There is no doubt that there will be growth in automotive gas sensors, as emerging markets begin to adopt the emission standards of mature markets. But the emphasis is now on improving sensor design and making gas sensors more accessible to areas in the market that find them too costly at present, and have little perceived value.”
Chris Webber, VP Global Automotive Practice, added, “There are new growth opportunities emerging for gas sensor products beyond exhaust oxygen sensing. However, there are some very specific regional and application influences on the scale and timing of this new demand that technology vendors need to understand in order to be successful.”

ATL Webcast: Introducing ATL TITAN™

Accelerated Technology Laboratories, Inc. (ATL) will host a webcast on January 26, 2011 to introduce ATL TITAN™ - the next generation in Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and chemical inventory management. This event is ideal for laboratory or QA/QC managers in the environmental, water/wastewater, food & beverage, energy, manufacturing (product/material testing), agriculture, life science, pharmaceutical, biotechnology and public health sectors.
ATL TITAN™ builds upon sixteen years of laboratory informatics expertise to define a new standard in the LIMS world. In designing ATL TITAN™, ATL has focused on a number of areas that are very important when evaluating LIMS or chemical management solutions. This includes a refreshing new take on user interface design and also introduces an innovative tabbed document feature that makes it easy to work between multiple documents and projects. ATL raises the bar in areas that customers have long considered critical when choosing a LIMS. This includes a wealth of new functionality in the area of administration, offering security and reporting services with dozens of new features in each of these key areas. ATL has been a leader in LIMS innovation since 1994 and is proud and excited to set another standard in laboratory informatics - ATL TITAN™.
During this webcast we will cover the following topics: 
  • ATL TITAN™ - More Than A LIMS
  • Comprehensive tour of ATL TITAN™
  • New innovation in the areas of:
  • User interface design
  • Centralized inventory management
  • State management
  • Enterprise integration
  • Administration
  • Wizard technology
  • Security
DATE:      Wednesday, January 26, 2011
  
TIME:       1:00PM - 2:00PM US Eastern Time
12:00PM - 1:00PM US Central Time
11:00AM - 12:00PM US Mountain Time
10:00AM - 11:00AM US Pacific Time    
 
PLEASE CLICK ON THE LINK ABOVE TO REGISTER FOR THIS UPCOMING WEBCAST.  YOU WILL RECEIVE A FOLLOW-UP EMAIL WITH WEBCAST AND AUDIO DETAILS.                 
 

Tuesday 11 January 2011

Advanced Sintered Porous Plastic Materials

Porvair Filtration Group, a world leader in filtration and separation technology, has announced the publication of a new brochure that details the specialist capabilities of its growing family of BioVyon™ sintered porous plastics.

The new brochure (http://www.porvairfiltration.com/view/BiosciencesAndScientific.aspx) provides an introduction to the enhanced properties, technical specifications and applications of Porvair's proprietary hydrophilic, hydrophobic, functionalized, composite and laminated BioVyon™ materials.

The BioVyon™ range of sintered porous polypropylene and polyethylene materials has been developed to offer optimum product solutions.  Manufactured in ISO-accredited cleanrooms, BioVyon™ materials exhibit very low particle shedding, low extractables and low bio burden.

Porvair Filtration Group is at the forefront of new material development and products that meet and exceed the exacting requirements of the diagnostic, biopharmaceutical and healthcare markets. Porvair's range of BioVyonTM sintered porous plastic materials and products, have been developed using novel technologies, to move the technical boundaries in these markets that are forever demanding tomorrow's products today. Manufactured to current good manufacturing practices (cGMP), the BioVyonTM materials are made to demanding regulatory standards as required by the WRAS, FDA and USP.

For further information please contact Porvair Filtration Group on +44-1489-864330 / +1-804-550-1600 or email info@porvairfiltration.com.

Fluidigm Launches Informative New Website for Biological Researchers

Fluidigm has launched a new comprehensively featured website (http://www.fluidigm.com/) designed to offer a wide variety of useful information to life science organisations involved with gene expression, single cell research, SNP genotyping, target resequencing, NGS sample preparation and determination of copy number variation.

Intuitively designed the website provides ready access to detailed technical information relating to Fluidigm's state-of-the-art range of Integrated Fluidic Circuit (IFC) systems, chips, kits and assays.  The visitor experience is further enriched through access to detailed information relating to the company's proprietary technologies, product video demonstrations, a large database of informative application notes, articles and posters, customer success stories and a 2011 program of events.

Easy access is provided on site to Fluidigm technical support group as well as listing contact details for local support outlets in North America, Asia and Europe.  The site also provides a company overview that details the series of technological innovations overthe last decade that have made Fluidigm a technological leader in life science research.

Monday 10 January 2011

NEW PROGRAMMABLE DIGITAL STIRRER/HOT PLATE

Torrey Pines Scientific, Inc. has announced its new EchoTherm™  Model HS65 Programmable Digital Stirring Hot Plate with 5-Stirring Positions.
This NEW unit is ideal for use in chemical, pharmaceutical, environmental, biochemical, and other laboratories where reproducible, accurate, hands-off sample preparation and experimentation are a must.
With the EchoTherm™ Model HS65, programming is done through the front panel membrane switch and full-functioned custom liquid crystal display.  The unit can store 10 programs in memory of as many as 10 steps each where each step is a temperature, temperature ramp rate, stirring speed and time.
Each program can be made to repeat itself automatically from 1 to 98 times or infinitely if preferred.  All programs are stored electronically.  In addition, each stirring position can be set to the same speed or to individual speeds.
Heater plates are 12" (30.5 cm) x 12" (30.5 cm) white, solid ceramic glass for excellent chemical resistance and quick heating.  The plate surface can be heated from ambient to 400°C.  Plate surface temperature or solution temperature can be controlled directly using the appropriate PID control loop to 1°C of the target.   Accuracy is 1% of the reading using platinum RTD circuitry.  The units are supplied with temperature calibration certificates traceable to NIST.  
Stirring speed is 100 to 1500 rpm and controlled by optical coupler to 10 rpm.  Count down timer with alarm and user settable Auto-Off and RS232 I/O port are standard with the unit.
The Model HS65 is available in 100, 115, and 230 VAC, 50/60 Hz models.  All units are UL, CSA, and CE certified.
To obtain additional information contact:
Torrey Pines Scientific, Inc., 2713 Loker Avenue West, Carlsbad, CA 92010 USA
.Phone: 760-930-9400
Toll Free: 866-573-9104
Fax: 760-930-9480

E-mail: info@torreypinesscientific.comor visit our Web site: http://app.bronto.com/public/?q=ulink&fn=Link&ssid=7172&id=haddg5kkhry5byzhljnluh3b4mzmm&id2=8yojdwv7rwxa964kvje3i3z1znrf2&subscriber_id=brsrcolypqyzpbvxiocbxgjlvgjhbop&delivery_id=arwdwbzjlloilxftqbbacljadeyfbbj&tid=3.HAQ.Be2_UA.CH77.KJgH..LLhh.b..l.BBOS.a.TQ-j-w.TQ-1jw.3_ibiA

SFT Introduces an Improved Supercritical Fluid Extractor

Supercritical Fluid Technologies (SFT) has introduced a new bench top supercritical fluid extractor (SFE), the model SFT-110. This latest addition to the SFE product line builds upon the strengths of its popular predecessor, the SFT-100.  The completely redesigned restrictor valve with integrated micrometer allows for very precise flow control, which is essential for demanding applications. A completely removable oven lid and large side panel allow the user easy access to the high pressure vessel. An indicator light on the SFT-10 pump module alerts the user to proper operation of the Peltier pre-cooler, ensuring CO2 is maintained in the liquid state. A robust outlet from the restrictor ensures that users will not accidently damage the outlet tube when inserting it into the collection container.
Supercritical fluid extraction has become a popular alternative to traditional extraction methods that use organic solvents. Fast, efficient extraction of a variety of materials may be achieved using supercritical carbon dioxide. The SFT-110 SFE is well suited for both research and process development applications. Precise control of temperature, pressure, and flow rate is essential for successful, reproducible extractions. The use of dual sapphire syringe pump technology, integrated pre-heaters, and precise flow control provides the precision required to achieve these goals. Process parameters developed in the laboratory are the key to the successful scale-up to pilot or production scale equipment.
For more information, visit www.supercriticalfluids.com.

Just Published: Chemometrics and Intelligent Laboratory Systems


A new issue of the above journal has just been published. To see abstracts of the papers it contains (with links through to the full papers) click here:

Friday 7 January 2011

Flexible High Throughput Screening System

A new technical note from Agilent Automation Solutions describes a BioCel System that offers the flexibility to be adaptable to accommodate today's High Throughput Screening (HTS) assays as well as new protocols and hardware.

The variety of different assay protocols for HTS is increasing constantly. Today's automated systems need to be flexible and cleverly designed to accommodate a large number of different protocols without major delays or costs involved.

To prevent obsolescence, an automated system should be flexible enough to accommodate today's assays as well as new protocols and hardware. The BioCel System described in the new technical note includes a selection of liquid handlers and readers, and an active environmental control for the entire system. A multimode reader, bulk reagent dispensers, plate washer and the Agilent Vertical Pipetting Station allow assays to be run in 96-, 384- or 1536-format.

The active environmental control used by the Agilent BioCel System allows assays to be run at constant temperature (ambient up to 37°C), avoiding edge effects often caused by transport into and out of incubators. The high precision, low volume pipettor and the large plate storage capacity allow the compound plate bank to be run alongside the assay, adding the compounds on-the-fly. No prior assay plate generation is necessary and due to the low volume capacity of the Vertical Pipetting Station (200 nL), DMSO concentrations in the assay are kept low.

For a copy of the new technical note please visit  www.chem.agilent.com/Library/applications/5990-3619en_lo%20CMS.pdf or contact or contact your local Agilent Automation sales office.

From stand-alone units to fully integrated systems, Agilent Automation Solutions teams key sample preparation and creative walk-away automation approaches with personalized customer service to provide complete solutions for your laboratory.  Combining innovative engineering with high standards of quality, Agilent designs and manufactures high-performance equipment for processes that are revolutionizing pharmaceutical, biotech, and genomic research.