Automated Systems.

Abstract

BiotageRapidTrace + SPE WorkstationBased on the RapidTrace platform, the RapidTrace+ is an automated system for developing rugged, reliable solid-phase extraction (SPE) methods in regulated pharmaceutical, clinical, and forensic laboratories. The high-throughput system is dedicated specifically for SPE and can eliminate bottlenecks.RapidTrace+ is fully compatible with 1, 3, and 6 mL SPE columns, offering flexibility for SPE formats, including all Biotage ISOLUTE and EVOLUTE products. Productivity is increased with a new five-position rack for 40 mL scintillation vials, allowing for larger sample volumes to be processed. With the Delay Start feature, an operator can schedule specific start and completion times. The modular design of the RapidTrace+ allows for up to 10 workstations to be linked and controlled by one computer. In its full modular configuration, these units can process up to 100 samples per hour. Customers have reported a 92% reduction in analyst time and a 72% reduction in extraction time for a 75-sample extraction, compared with a manual vacuum manifold. Modules within a group can process different methods independently, allowing a user to interrupt operation of one module while the remaining units continue to process.More: www.biotage.com/sampleprepIsolera Prime Flash Purification SystemAccording to Biotage, this new system is compatible with flash cartridges from all manufacturers including Biotage SNAP and ZIP cartridges. It is designed for users needing an automated purification platform to increase productivity. Included are a patented TLC-to-gradient feature that eliminates method development guesswork and a solvent-saving gradient optimization function that reduces solvent use by up to 60%.Isolera Prime performs at flow rates up to 100 mL/min with a pressure range up to 145 psi (10 bars). The built-in detector (fixed 254 nm or variable wavelengths of 200–400 nm) provides excellent detection for aromatic and conjugated organic compounds and can trigger fractionation using threshold, slope, or volume parameters. For ultraviolet (UV)–transparent compounds, an ELSD is available and easily integrated.The Isolera Prime can be upgraded and customized with the addition of accessories, including external dry-loading vessels, leak detector, fraction racks, and cartridge holders. In addition to Biotage SNAP and ZIP cartridges, FLASH+ and ISOLUTE products also are available in sizes from 5 to 750 g.More: www.biotage.comCaliper Life SciencesVectra 2 with AQUA TechnologyThis new immunofluorescent imaging and analysis solution for quantification of protein biomarkers in tissue is the result of collaboration between Caliper and HistoRx. It enables users to leverage the combined imaging and analysis power of Caliper’s Vectra 2, an automated multiplexed and multispectral tissue-imaging platform, and AQUA technology, HistoRx’s image analysis system, to provide an integrated solution to advance the identification and validation of new drug targets and improve assessment of drug response. According to HistoRx, it represents a move forward for digital pathology with both brightfield and fluorescent capabilities. For high-volume digital fluorescence analysis, the new AQUAServe server-based queuing software enables walk-away operation for multiple specimens while retaining the full functionality of the AQUAnalysis software. AQUAServe also enables high-volume customers to take advantage of Vectra’s 200-slide loader. Caliper will distribute the integrated product.More: www.historx.comFEI CompanyMAPS (Modular Automated Processing System)FEI’s MAPS (Modular Automated Processing System) provides a correlative workflow that enables users to see both large-scale context and small-scale detail in one overview. The first application of the MAPS software is for cell biologists. MAPS provides an easy-to-use workflow to import and correlate an image from any type or brand light microscope with the ultrastructure obtained from an FEI scanning electron microscope (SEM) or DualBeam (focused ion beam/SEM) system. Users can then quickly navigate to a region of interest identified in the light image, bringing to bear the full resolving power of the electron microscope to reveal ultrastructural detail. MAPS also enables the assembly of high-resolution, large-field images by automatically acquiring a grid of smaller electron microscope image tiles and stitching them together in a composite image that can reveal large-scale relationships and organization while still preserving full-resolution detail throughout.More: www.fei.com/maps or www.fei.com/mapsmovieHighRes BiosolutionsItalian Chemical Collection and Screening Initiative at IRBM Science ParkHighRes Biosolutions was selected by IRBM Science Park in Pomezia, Italy, to supply a NancoCell laboratory automation system. The NanoCell was installed as IRBM updates its high-throughput screening infrastructure to support the Italian Chemical Collection and Screening Initiative, a collaboration with Italian state research institutions. The NanoCell system automates biochemical and cell-based high-throughput screening assays to support small-molecule drug discovery. In IRBM’s NanoCell system, three MicroDocks, HighRes’ patented docking stations, surround the central robotic arm. IRBM’s existing lab instruments (eg, plate readers, dispensers, incubators) are mounted on mobile carts that dock and undock from the robotic work cell via any of the MicroDocks, which precisely align the instrument carts for robotic access and automatically supply power, data, and gases.More: www.highresbio.comMicronic EuropeTraceable Sample Storage Management SystemFor donor organizations and tissue banks looking to streamline the storage of blood, bone, allograft, and tissue bank materials, this new traceable sample storage management system comprises storage tubes, tube screw caps, racks, tube readers, and sample management software. With a 2-dimensional code laser encrypted on the tube bottom, the new Micronic 6 mL storage tubes enable easy and unambiguous identification and storage of donor and transplant samples. The 2D code identifies the sample and coordinates within a storage rack the particular rack and the location of the rack in a freezer. Produced in a modern class 7 clean room production facility from ultrapure polypropylene, Micronic 6 mL tubes are certified RNase/DNase free and nontoxic, according to the USP class VI test. They are considered an ideal secure medium for storage of liquid or solid biological samples. Micronic 6 mL tubes are designed and shaped for gripping with a robotic arm for integration into a high-throughput environment. To ensure high sample integrity, even down to –196 °C, Micronic offers a single-turn tube screw cap that stays securely in place even during repeated freeze/thaw cycles. To complete this system, an automation-friendly 24-tube storage rack, code tube reader, and Track-IT sample storage and management software are available.More: www.micronic.comQIAGEN and Eli Lilly and CompanyMolecular Companion Diagnostic for an Early-Stage Investigational CompoundQIAGEN entered into a partnership with Eli Lilly and Company for the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of a molecular companion diagnostic for an early-stage investigational compound currently being developed by Lilly. Lilly’s proprietary compound, called a JAK2 inhibitor, targets the Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) gene, which has been shown to play a role in myeloproliferative neoplasms, a variety of blood cancers that cause blood cells to grow abnormally. Under the terms of the agreement, QIAGEN will develop a new companion diagnostic test that will provide both qualitative and quantitative results for JAK2 V617F. The assay is intended to identify patients most likely to benefit from treatment with inhibitors of the pathway. The scope of the partnership includes development and use of the QIAGEN JAK2 assay during clinical trials and also covers manufacturing and joint commercialization of the diagnostic product in parallel with the Lilly compound.More: www.qiagen.comRocheCoagulation Testing Total Vitamin D AssayRoche filed a 510(k) submission to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for a fully automated, total vitamin D assay (25-hydroxyvitamin D) for use on Roche’s full portfolio of laboratory analyzers. The Elecsys vitamin D test can be combined with routine testing on existing Roche immunoassay analyzers and integrated chemistry/immunoassay systems, enabling labs to address the growing demand for vitamin D testing while maximizing their productivity.More: www.roche.comRoche and Caliper Life SciencesCombined Automated Target Enrichment SolutionThe combined automated target enrichment solution from Roche and Caliper Life Sciences was adopted by the Genetic Laboratory of the Department of Internal Medicine at Erasmus University Medical Centre in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. This optimized solution is being used in a new phase of a large human epidemiological cohort, the Rotterdam Study, for automating the capture of >3000 samples for next-generation sequencing. The Rotterdam Study includes 15,000 participants of 45 years of age or older who have been followed since 1990. To accommodate the vast amounts of data, a Genome Wide Association Study database was established in 2007 by the Genetic Laboratory at the Department of Internal Medicine. By using Roche’s exome capture product, NimbleGen SeqCap EZ Exome Library, combined with the Caliper Life Sciences Sciclone NGS Workstation, the Erasmus MC team now expects to discover more data with an automated exome sequencing sample preparation solution.More: www.roche.com or www.caliperls.comRoche and LabcyteHigh-Speed Miniaturized Quantitative PCRAccording to Roche, it is cooperating with Labcyte around high-speed, miniaturized quantitative PCR (qPCR) to monitor the expression of tens to thousands of genes for therapeutic research. The RealTime–ready Cell Lysis kit from Roche enables gene expression directly from cell lysates. Coupled with Echo liquid handlers and newly released tissue culture microplates from Labcyte, users can simplify high-throughput qPCR analyses. This process can be fully automated using the Access Workstation from Labcyte, which integrates the Echo liquid handler with either the LightCycler 480 or LightCycler 1536 Instrument. Gene expression profiles derived in a one-step process directly from cells can now be streamlined into a simple automated workflow.More: www.roche.com or www.labcyte.comStäubli RoboticsTP80 Fast PickerAccording to Stäubli, this new series of high-speed pickers delivers up to 200 picks per minute. The TP80 robot is available in a four-axis version. Standard features include a maximum payload of 1 kg, 200 picks per minute (sustained), 800 mm reach, and a Z-axis stroke of 100 mm. Additional features include very high rigidity, repeatability of ±0.05 mm, and IP65 Protection Class when equipped with bellows. User lines such as pneumatic (4 and 6 mm) and electrical lines (four twisted shielded pairs) are protected inside the arm and are available at the tool flange. Optional features include two solenoid valves, user installation, and bellows. The TP80 is controlled by the CS8 controller series, a single-control platform able to pilot all Stäubli robots. Various VAL software packages are available for end users, integrators, OEMs, and machine builders.More: www.staubli.comThermo Fisher ScientificCV2000 Automated Aliquoting Liquid HandlerThis second-generation platform enhances laboratory efficiency through workflow automation. The CV2000 can accurately dispense liquid volumes from 100 to 875 µL and process up to 1000 samples per hour. With its robotic arm and rotary height sensors, it fits easily into automated workflows. The system is compatible with a wide variety of sample management software but can also be used as a stand-alone instrument. The system effectively manages samples to boost efficiency and productivity with zero cross-contamination.Fully compatible with multiple-rack formats, the CV2000 system allows users to change the loading and dispensing routine to suit specific needs. A unique tip preservation system allows the instrument to discharge only used tips, reducing waste while eliminating contamination. Capable of holding up to 300 samples and accommodating both 45 and 90 mL urine containers, the system can automate the process of aliquoting urine from primary samples to analyzer racks. Furthermore, the CV2000 system creates a batch report that is compatible with downstream analysis instrumentation, which is used to process the urine samples.More: www.thermoscientific.com/CV2000Ventana Medical Systems and Advanced Cell DiagnosticsFully Automated RNA In Situ Hybridization Assay SystemVentana Medical Systems and Advanced Cell Diagnostics entered a worldwide co-promotion agreement for the first commercially available, fully automated RNA in situ hybridization assay system capable of robust detection and visualization of virtually any expressed gene in routine clinical specimens at single-molecule sensitivity. The two companies have partnered to automate this assay system on the VENTANA DISCOVERY series slide staining platforms.More: www.ventana.com or www.acdbio.comAbout JALA World News: E-mail new product announcements for consideration to nhallock@slas.org. MS Word documents and 300+ dpi image files are preferred. Deadlines are at least 2 months prior to publication. JALA editors reserve the right to select the products they deem most appropriate for the section and may revise copy as necessary. Product descriptions are based on information provided by the manufacturer. Inclusion in this section in no way implies endorsement by the Journal of Laboratory Automation or the Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening. BiotageRapidTrace + SPE WorkstationBased on the RapidTrace platform, the RapidTrace+ is an automated system for developing rugged, reliable solid-phase extraction (SPE) methods in regulated pharmaceutical, clinical, and forensic laboratories. The high-throughput system is dedicated specifically for SPE and can eliminate bottlenecks.RapidTrace+ is fully compatible with 1, 3, and 6 mL SPE columns, offering flexibility for SPE formats, including all Biotage ISOLUTE and EVOLUTE products. Productivity is increased with a new five-position rack for 40 mL scintillation vials, allowing for larger sample volumes to be processed. With the Delay Start feature, an operator can schedule specific start and completion times. The modular design of the RapidTrace+ allows for up to 10 workstations to be linked and controlled by one computer. In its full modular configuration, these units can process up to 100 samples per hour. Customers have reported a 92% reduction in analyst time and a 72% reduction in extraction time for a 75-sample extraction, compared with a manual vacuum manifold. Modules within a group can process different methods independently, allowing a user to interrupt operation of one module while the remaining units continue to process.More: www.biotage.com/sampleprepIsolera Prime Flash Purification SystemAccording to Biotage, this new system is compatible with flash cartridges from all manufacturers including Biotage SNAP and ZIP cartridges. It is designed for users needing an automated purification platform to increase productivity. Included are a patented TLC-to-gradient feature that eliminates method development guesswork and a solvent-saving gradient optimization function that reduces solvent use by up to 60%.Isolera Prime performs at flow rates up to 100 mL/min with a pressure range up to 145 psi (10 bars). The built-in detector (fixed 254 nm or variable wavelengths of 200–400 nm) provides excellent detection for aromatic and conjugated organic compounds and can trigger fractionation using threshold, slope, or volume parameters. For ultraviolet (UV)–transparent compounds, an ELSD is available and easily integrated.The Isolera Prime can be upgraded and customized with the addition of accessories, including external dry-loading vessels, leak detector, fraction racks, and cartridge holders. In addition to Biotage SNAP and ZIP cartridges, FLASH+ and ISOLUTE products also are available in sizes from 5 to 750 g.More: www.biotage.com RapidTrace + SPE WorkstationBased on the RapidTrace platform, the RapidTrace+ is an automated system for developing rugged, reliable solid-phase extraction (SPE) methods in regulated pharmaceutical, clinical, and forensic laboratories. The high-throughput system is dedicated specifically for SPE and can eliminate bottlenecks.RapidTrace+ is fully compatible with 1, 3, and 6 mL SPE columns, offering flexibility for SPE formats, including all Biotage ISOLUTE and EVOLUTE products. Productivity is increased with a new five-position rack for 40 mL scintillation vials, allowing for larger sample volumes to be processed. With the Delay Start feature, an operator can schedule specific start and completion times. The modular design of the RapidTrace+ allows for up to 10 workstations to be linked and controlled by one computer. In its full modular configuration, these units can process up to 100 samples per hour. Customers have reported a 92% reduction in analyst time and a 72% reduction in extraction time for a 75-sample extraction, compared with a manual vacuum manifold. Modules within a group can process different methods independently, allowing a user to interrupt operation of one module while the remaining units continue to process.More: www.biotage.com/sampleprep Based on the RapidTrace platform, the RapidTrace+ is an automated system for developing rugged, reliable solid-phase extraction (SPE) methods in regulated pharmaceutical, clinical, and forensic laboratories. The high-throughput system is dedicated specifically for SPE and can eliminate bottlenecks. RapidTrace+ is fully compatible with 1, 3, and 6 mL SPE columns, offering flexibility for SPE formats, including all Biotage ISOLUTE and EVOLUTE products. Productivity is increased with a new five-position rack for 40 mL scintillation vials, allowing for larger sample volumes to be processed. With the Delay Start feature, an operator can schedule specific start and completion times. The modular design of the RapidTrace+ allows for up to 10 workstations to be linked and controlled by one computer. In its full modular configuration, these units can process up to 100 samples per hour. Customers have reported a 92% reduction in analyst time and a 72% reduction in extraction time for a 75-sample extraction, compared with a manual vacuum manifold. Modules within a group can process different methods independently, allowing a user to interrupt operation of one module while the remaining units continue to process. More: www.biotage.com/sampleprep Isolera Prime Flash Purification SystemAccording to Biotage, this new system is compatible with flash cartridges from all manufacturers including Biotage SNAP and ZIP cartridges. It is designed for users needing an automated purification platform to increase productivity. Included are a patented TLC-to-gradient feature that eliminates method development guesswork and a solvent-saving gradient optimization function that reduces solvent use by up to 60%.Isolera Prime performs at flow rates up to 100 mL/min with a pressure range up to 145 psi (10 bars). The built-in detector (fixed 254 nm or variable wavelengths of 200–400 nm) provides excellent detection for aromatic and conjugated organic compounds and can trigger fractionation using threshold, slope, or volume parameters. For ultraviolet (UV)–transparent compounds, an ELSD is available and easily integrated.The Isolera Prime can be upgraded and customized with the addition of accessories, including external dry-loading vessels, leak detector, fraction racks, and cartridge holders. In addition to Biotage SNAP and ZIP cartridges, FLASH+ and ISOLUTE products also are available in sizes from 5 to 750 g.More: www.biotage.com According to Biotage, this new system is compatible with flash cartridges from all manufacturers including Biotage SNAP and ZIP cartridges. It is designed for users needing an automated purification platform to increase productivity. Included are a patented TLC-to-gradient feature that eliminates method development guesswork and a solvent-saving gradient optimization function that reduces solvent use by up to 60%. Isolera Prime performs at flow rates up to 100 mL/min with a pressure range up to 145 psi (10 bars). The built-in detector (fixed 254 nm or variable wavelengths of 200–400 nm) provides excellent detection for aromatic and conjugated organic compounds and can trigger fractionation using threshold, slope, or volume parameters. For ultraviolet (UV)–transparent compounds, an ELSD is available and easily integrated. The Isolera Prime can be upgraded and customized with the addition of accessories, including external dry-loading vessels, leak detector, fraction racks, and cartridge holders. In addition to Biotage SNAP and ZIP cartridges, FLASH+ and ISOLUTE products also are available in sizes from 5 to 750 g. More: www.biotage.com Caliper Life SciencesVectra 2 with AQUA TechnologyThis new immunofluorescent imaging and analysis solution for quantification of protein biomarkers in tissue is the result of collaboration between Caliper and HistoRx. It enables users to leverage the combined imaging and analysis power of Caliper’s Vectra 2, an automated multiplexed and multispectral tissue-imaging platform, and AQUA technology, HistoRx’s image analysis system, to provide an integrated solution to advance the identification and validation of new drug targets and improve assessment of drug response. According to HistoRx, it represents a move forward for digital pathology with both brightfield and fluorescent capabilities. For high-volume digital fluorescence analysis, the new AQUAServe server-based queuing software enables walk-away operation for multiple specimens while retaining the full functionality of the AQUAnalysis software. AQUAServe also enables high-volume customers to take advantage of Vectra’s 200-slide loader. Caliper will distribute the integrated product.More: www.historx.com Vectra 2 with AQUA TechnologyThis new immunofluorescent imaging and analysis solution for quantification of protein biomarkers in tissue is the result of collaboration between Caliper and HistoRx. It enables users to leverage the combined imaging and analysis power of Caliper’s Vectra 2, an automated multiplexed and multispectral tissue-imaging platform, and AQUA technology, HistoRx’s image analysis system, to provide an integrated solution to advance the identification and validation of new drug targets and improve assessment of drug response. According to HistoRx, it represents a move forward for digital pathology with both brightfield and fluorescent capabilities. For high-volume digital fluorescence analysis, the new AQUAServe server-based queuing software enables walk-away operation for multiple specimens while retaining the full functionality of the AQUAnalysis software. AQUAServe also enables high-volume customers to take advantage of Vectra’s 200-slide loader. Caliper will distribute the integrated product.More: www.historx.com This new immunofluorescent imaging and analysis solution for quantification of protein biomarkers in tissue is the result of collaboration between Caliper and HistoRx. It enables users to leverage the combined imaging and analysis power of Caliper’s Vectra 2, an automated multiplexed and multispectral tissue-imaging platform, and AQUA technology, HistoRx’s image analysis system, to provide an integrated solution to advance the identification and validation of new drug targets and improve assessment of drug response. According to HistoRx, it represents a move forward for digital pathology with both brightfield and fluorescent capabilities. For high-volume digital fluorescence analysis, the new AQUAServe server-based queuing software enables walk-away operation for multiple specimens while retaining the full functionality of the AQUAnalysis software. AQUAServe also enables high-volume customers to take advantage of Vectra’s 200-slide loader. Caliper will distribute the integrated product. More: www.historx.com FEI CompanyMAPS (Modular Automated Processing System)FEI’s MAPS (Modular Automated Processing System) provides a correlative workflow that enables users to see both large-scale context and small-scale detail in one overview. The first application of the MAPS software is for cell biologists. MAPS provides an easy-to-use workflow to import and correlate an image from any type or brand light microscope with the ultrastructure obtained from an FEI scanning electron microscope (SEM) or DualBeam (focused ion beam/SEM) system. Users can then quickly navigate to a region of interest identified in the light image, bringing to bear the full resolving power of the electron microscope to reveal ultrastructural detail. MAPS also enables the assembly of high-resolution, large-field images by automatically acquiring a grid of smaller electron microscope image tiles and stitching them together in a composite image that can reveal large-scale relationships and organization while still preserving full-resolution detail throughout.More: www.fei.com/maps or www.fei.com/mapsmovie MAPS (Modular Automated Processing System)FEI’s MAPS (Modular Automated Processing System) provides a correlative workflow that enables users to see both large-scale context and small-scale detail in one overview. The first application of the MAPS software is for cell biologists. MAPS provides an easy-to-use workflow to import and correlate an image from any type or brand light microscope with the ultrastructure obtained from an FEI scanning electron microscope (SEM) or DualBeam (focused ion beam/SEM) system. Users can then quickly navigate to a region of interest identified in the light image, bringing to bear the full resolving power of the electron microscope to reveal ultrastructural detail. MAPS also enables the assembly of high-resolution, large-field images by automatically acquiring a grid of smaller electron microscope image tiles and stitching them together in a composite image that can reveal large-scale relationships and organization while still preserving full-resolution detail throughout.More: www.fei.com/maps or www.fei.com/mapsmovie FEI’s MAPS (Modular Automated Processing System) provides a correlative workflow that enables users to see both large-scale context and small-scale detail in one overview. The first application of the MAPS software is for cell biologists. MAPS provides an easy-to-use workflow to import and correlate an image from any type or brand light microscope with the ultrastructure obtained from an FEI scanning electron microscope (SEM) or DualBeam (focused ion beam/SEM) system. Users can then quickly navigate to a region of interest identified in the light image, bringing to bear the full resolving power of the electron microscope to reveal ultrastructural detail. MAPS also enables the assembly of high-resolution, large-field images by automatically acquiring a grid of smaller electron microscope image tiles and stitching them together in a composite image that can reveal large-scale relationships and organization while still preserving full-resolution detail throughout. More: www.fei.com/maps or www.fei.com/mapsmovie HighRes BiosolutionsItalian Chemical Collection and Screening Initiative at IRBM Science ParkHighRes Biosolutions was selected by IRBM Science Park in Pomezia, Italy, to supply a NancoCell laboratory automation system. The NanoCell was installed as IRBM updates its high-throughput screening infrastructure to support the Italian Chemical Collection and Screening Initiative, a collaboration with Italian state research institutions. The NanoCell system automates biochemical and cell-based high-throughput screening assays to support small-molecule drug discovery. In IRBM’s NanoCell system, three MicroDocks, HighRes’ patented docking stations, surround the central robotic arm. IRBM’s existing lab instruments (eg, plate readers, dispensers, incubators) are mounted on mobile carts that dock and undock from the robotic work cell via any of the MicroDocks, which precisely align the instrument carts for robotic access and automatically supply power, data, and gases.More: www.highresbio.com Italian Chemical Collection and Screening Initiative at IRBM Science ParkHighRes Biosolutions was selected by IRBM Science Park in Pomezia, Italy, to supply a NancoCell laboratory automation system. The NanoCell was installed as IRBM updates its high-throughput screening infrastructure to support the Italian Chemical Collection and Screening Initiative, a collaboration with Italian state research institutions. The NanoCell system automates biochemical and cell-based high-throughput screening assays to support small-molecule drug discovery. In IRBM’s NanoCell system, three MicroDocks, HighRes’ patented docking stations, surround the central robotic arm. IRBM’s existing lab instruments (eg, plate readers, dispensers, incubators) are mounted on mobile carts that dock and undock from the robotic work cell via any of the MicroDocks, which precisely align the instrument carts for robotic access and automatically supply power, data, and gases.More: www.highresbio.com HighRes Biosolutions was selected by IRBM Science Park in Pomezia, Italy, to supply a NancoCell laboratory automation system. The NanoCell was installed as IRBM updates its high-throughput screening infrastructure to support the Italian Chemical Collection and Screening Initiative, a collaboration with Italian state research institutions. The NanoCell system automates biochemical and cell-based high-throughput screening assays to support small-molecule drug discovery. In IRBM’s N