Olympus  silicon immersion
objectives for life science imaging

Olympus' two new silicon oil-immersion objectives, the UPLSAPO30xS and UPLSAPO60xS are ideal for live cell experiments, particularly those investigating thick samples or requiring long-term imaging. Users can generate bright images at higher resolution, as silicon oil significantly improves optical performance in comparison to conventional oil- or water-based approaches. This maximises the effectiveness of brightfield, differential interference contrast (DIC), fluorescence, confocal laser scanning and multiphoton studies. In addition, long-term time-lapse experiments can now be more reliably carried out without fear of evaporation or changes in refractive index, as silicon oil has high stability and low volatility. With increased brightness, resolution and reproducibility, the new unique Olympus silicon oil-immersion objectives are ideal for long-term or deep-penetration imaging.

Silicon oil allows users to capture bright, high resolution images of living samples, even deep into cells and tissues. This can be achieved because the refractive index of silicon oil (n = 1.40) is almost identical to that of living biological samples, at n =1.38, so silicon oil-immersion objectives minimise refractive index mismatch and spherical aberration. The properties of silicon oil also make it ideal for long-term, stable time-lapse studies. Unlike water, silicon oil is stable, viscous and of low volatility, meaning it does not dry out over time as water can. While glycerol has traditionally been used to circumvent some of the problems associated with water-immersion lenses, the properties of glycerol oil can change during the cause of an experiment as it tends to absorb moisture from the surrounding air. Silicon oil does not suffer from this issue, making it the medium of choice for performing reliable, reproducible long-term imaging.

With its 30x magnification and high NA of 1.05 the UPLSAPO30xS delivers highly resolved images of an extensive sample area. The Olympus UPSLAPO60xS provides increased magnification (60x) and NA (1.30), allowing researchers to produce highly detailed live sample images using fluorescence, confocal laser scanning and multiphoton excitation techniques. This objective is also ideal for high resolution 3D imaging applications by offering improved spherical aberration correction and a shorter working distance of 0.3 mm.

Each of the new objectives features a correction collar, making it easy to reduce spherical aberration even further via simple collar adjustments, optimising resolution, contrast and fluorescence performance. By integrating the new UPLSAPO30xS and UPLSAPO60xS lenses into their microscopes, researchers can build a complete system, optimised for clarity, resolution and reproducibility when performing deep-tissue and long-term imaging.

For further information, e-mail: microscopy@olympus-europa.com or view website: www.microscopy.olympus.eu  Refer to page 248   

Thermo Fisher Scientific's comprehensive Sample Preparation
Reference Guide highlights the importance of sample preparation

The Thermo Scientific HyperSep SPE column Applications Notebook highlights the vital importance of sample preparation within the analytical laboratory, the HyperSep™ SPE column range provides a resource for the purification of a wide range of analytes. Containing information on the full list of HyperSep columns available, this bench-top resource provides technical specifications and method information to assist separations scientists in selecting the appropriate phase for their needs. Conveniently divided into pharmaceutical, environmental, forensic and food safety applications, this resource also outlines workflow and selection processes to increase efficiency and assist with decision making. This 144-page reference also contains information on how to order the HyperSep SPE products needed for the ideal method.

For further information on the HyperSep SPE column Applications Notebook, view website: www.thermoscientific.com/SPE  Refer to page 245 

Sherwood makes the best chloride analyser even better

Sherwood Scientific announces a significant update of the much admired Model 926 Chloride Analyser. Featuring a redesigned PCB, sealed face-plate and a new backlit LCD display, this latest version retains the excellent accuracy and reliability which have made Sherwood's Model 926 the instrument of choice in manufacturing, food analysis, and clinical applications (Model 926S).

For 30 years the Model 926 Chloride Analyser has been recognised by the food industry, independent studies and APHA Standard Methods as an accurate and precise instrument for measuring salt in food products. The latest version of the instrument offers the familiar mode of operation and results format, as well as the same usability and high performance specification, but with the addition of features which will be welcomed by users.
Changes to the PCB have facilitated incorporation of surface mount switches protected by a leak-proof membrane, making for a more rugged instrument and easier cleaning. The new 2.75 inch 60 dpi LCD display has space to give additional on-screen status information, units of measurement and operator prompts, for even simpler operation by new or occasional users.

Food manufacturers require a method of rapidly and accurately checking the chloride (NaCl) concentration in foodstuffs, such as snacks, cheese and seasonings, for QA/QC purposes. Chloride content is also a critical measurement in cement manufacture and, as in the food industry, Sherwood's Model 926 Chloride Analyser is widely chosen for its ability to deliver highly accurate results without the need to make up the fresh reagents required by traditional silver nitrate methods for chloride determination. For food industry applications a dedicated button on the 926 provides instant conversion of the measured mg/l chloride into a mg% salt content in the foodstuff under analysis.

Model 926S is designed specifically for clinical use, principally the determination of chloride in sweat samples, an elevated level being indicative of the condition cystic fibrosis. The option to handle volumes as small as 20µl without the need to recalibrate the unit is a particular advantage in this analysis, given that the test is usually applied to tiny samples from babies and infants.
cont/

Other features new to the Model 926 analysers include two USB sockets enabling firmware revision uploads and data download to a computer, complementing the original RS232 port which is retained. In recognition of the global importance of the instrument, the new Model 926 is supplied with a universal power supply and plug adaptor kit suitable for worldwide use, while an external transformer gives cooler operation and enhanced surge protection. Finally, factory-set calibrations ensure accuracy over a wide range of measurement.

Sherwood Scientific in profile
Sherwood Scientific Ltd develops and manufactures a range of scientific instruments and apparatus with applications in many industries, as well as in education and research.

Known for their high quality and reliability, Sherwood Scientific products are all manufactured at the company's base in Cambridge, UK and sold and supported through an extensive distributor network covering over 80 countries. Fully equipped training and laboratory facilities enable Sherwood Scientific to offer courses on all products and to undertake consultancy projects in analytical measurement and process control.

The history of Sherwood Scientific can be traced back more than 70 years to applications of the selenium photocell in early flame photometers - now the largest and most diverse of our product lines. The company's heritage also encompasses the Fluid Bed Dryer, Magnetic Susceptibility Balance and Microwelder developed under theauspices of Johnson Matthey, and the acquisition and further development of Corning and CIBA Corning colorimeters and chloride analysers.

For further information, e-mail: info@sherwood-scientific.com  Refer to page 251

Dolomite Launches New Multiflux™ Standard
changing the world of microfluidic connections

Dolomite's Multiflux™, is a unique and flexible range of microfluidic connectors and interfaces allowing users to integrate their microfluidic devices into new and existing systems by creating fast and reliable multi-way fluidic connections between pumps, valves and other microfluidic devices.

Fluidic systems for manipulation, analysis and control of small amounts of materials are becoming increasingly sophisticated. This trend is accelerating with every new microfluidic development. At present, most connectors allow the connection of only one fluid tube to a microfluidic system at a time. Furthermore, connecting microfluidic devices to macro-scale systems presents many challenges. If these are not addressed well, the benefits of working within the microfluidic regime may be compromised. Multiflux™ is Dolomite's solution to these problems. Quick and easy to use, Multiflux™  offers a flexible, cost-effective and time-efficient solution for anyone working in microfluidics.

The range includes a Linear and Circular Connector, which provide several fluid input and output ports, enabling reliable and leak-free connections to be made in seconds between microfluidic chips and tubing, as well as two bundles of tubing, without disruptions to the fluid flow. The Multiflux™ Connectors can be used together with Dolomite's microfluidic chips and Standard Multiflux™ Interfaces facilitating a connection to the edge of microfluidic chips, surface of microfluidic chips, or custom devices designed by the user.

All Multiflux™ components operate over a wide temperature range (-15°C to 150°C) and pressure range (up to 30bar) and offer excellent chemical resistance allowing a broad range of solvents and chemicals to be used.

For further information on Dolomite's range of Droplet Systems and the complete portfolio of microfluidic products, including connectors/interconnects, pumps, valves and pressure/flow rate sensors and custom devices, view website: www.dolomite-microfluidics.com  Refer to page 246