RECENT PRODUCT NEWS

Samples collected for CD4 analyses begin to lose their integrity in just a few hours when collected in conventional tubes. Available from Alpha Laboratories, Cyto-Chex BCT is a direct- draw vacuum blood collection tube containing a patented preservative that has been developed to address such a problem.

Using patented, innovative technologies, Clearview from Inverness Medical offers a wide range of point-of-care diagnostic tests. These simple one-step tests have demonstrated proven efficiency in clinics, hospitals and laboratories.

The new XP26PC liquidhandling calibration device from Mettler Toledo is a fast, user-friendly system for calibrating singlechannel micropipettes. In just a few seconds, it can calibrate dispensed volumes as low as 1 ∞L, which complies with the ISO 8655 standard.

Image analysis is one of the fastest growing methods for particle characterisation, offering the measurement of particle shape in addition to size. In support of this increasing trend, Whitehouse Scientific has developed a new range of glass calibration microspheres.

The comprehensive test menu on SebiaÆs Capillarys system now extends to the identification and quantification of haemoglobinopathies, including Γ-thalassaemia and sickle cell anaemia.

Versatile and user-friendly, the RX Imola clinical chemistry analyser from Randox offers a host of features to save time and reduce costs. The RX Imola takes automation a step further with features such as automatic switch-on, inventory management, calibrator dilution, sample dilution and automatic re-assay for high- and low-level samples. Onboard cuvette wash system, low water consumption, long-life reagents and low reagent volume requirements all contribute to a reduction in costs.

Many applications require the manipulation of samples between different formats of tubes and plates. These operations can now be simplified by use of the new Rainin EDP3 Adjustable Spacer multichannel pipettes from Anachem.

Computer Imprintable Label Systems (CILS) has launched its CIL 8000 series durable coloured label sets. The colour-coded label sets are available in an unlimited range of colours and formats to suit all laboratory requirements, and are able to withstand temperatures of -80░C to 155░C, moisture, handling, chemicals and solvents.

Beckman Coulter has introduced the Microfuge 16, the latest advance in the companyÆs generalpurpose bench-top centrifuge line. With a more compact design than previous models, the Microfuge 16 has a smaller footprint, weighs just 14 pounds and is less than seven inches tall.

Complete with comprehensive on-board software for qualitative, quantitative and kinetic applications, integral shaking and extensive memory for both results and methods storage, the Anthos MultiRead 400 standalone reader offers versatility, reliability and fast reading times.

Thermo Fisher Scientific has launched a new range of single-shot moulded ultrarigid polypropylene 96-well polymerase chain reaction (PCR) plates, which means that scientists can eliminate the problem of disruption to workflow caused typically by plate warping. The Thermo Scientific ABgene SuperPlate range comprises skirted and semiskirted plates manufactured from a single material in a single process.

Computer Imprintable Label Systems (CILS) has launched its new CIL 9100R range of durable yet removable labels that are ideal for labelling glassware that needs to be re-used. This saves time and inconvenience when trying to remove conventional labels.

In a study by the Carolinas Medical Centre, North Carolina, USA, Inverness MedicalÆs Clearview Simplify D-dimer rapid test has been shown to be as effective in diagnosing pulmonary embolism as is quantitative laboratory testing. The research, presented at the European Emergency Medicine Congress in Sorrento, Italy, details how the qualitative Simplify test not only ôdemonstrated similar diagnostic accuracyö, but is more versatile for rapid point-of-care use in emergency departments.

Don Whitley Scientific has announced a new addition to its comprehensive microbiology product range. Biomic V3, manufactured by US company Giles Scientific, automates the reading and interpretation of British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (BSAC) antibiotic susceptibility test plates and commercial identification test panels for bacteria and yeast.

Millipore has unveiled its new state-ofthe- art website. Powered by a fast, robust search engine, the new website integrates scientific taxonomy and content, allowing customers to find what they need by application, product type, pathway diagrams or research topic.

Nikon has expanded its Eclipse series with the new LV-Universal Design Microscope (UDM). Bringing together NikonÆs renowned CFI 60 and CFI LU60 infinity optics, the LV-UDM has a truly modular design, and allows seven different contrast techniques to be selected.

A revolutionary test for the detection of mutations associated with colorectal cancer has been launched by Randox. This early, patient-friendly test allows the analysis of DNA in stool samples without the need for dietary or medication changes.

Applied Biosystems has announced the worldwide commercial availability of the SOLiD system, the companyÆs nextgeneration DNA sequencing platform.

Carl Zeiss has added a flagship stereomicroscope to its range with the launch of the SteREO Discovery V20.

Oxoid has launched a new direct immunofluorescence test for the rapid detection and identification of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) in human clinical specimens. With results in less than 30 minutes, and requiring only standard microbiological equipment, IMAGEN hMPV enables clinical laboratories of any size to screen for this important cause of acute respiratory tract illness.