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While most of the pertussis cases are caused by B. pertussis, some milder cases have been linked to B. parapertussis.

Biocare Medical unveils IVD staining platform

Biocare Medical released its Valent IVD open and fully automated staining platform.

“Valent breaks the 30-slide barrier,” the company said in a statement, “processing 48 slides simultaneously and supporting unparalleled throughput with minimal hands-on time.” It employs a high-capacity lithium battery to boost the antigen retrieval process and safeguard staining runs in the event of power loss.

Valent has automatic sensors that minimize errors before and during runs. The software’s intuitive user interface places frequently used functions in a color-coded block on the main screen. The onboard mixing capability allows for walkaway operation, and with a 50-μL reagent vial dead volume, reagent loss is minimized. A dual-axis inclinometer and motorized legs make it possible for the platform to self-level.

Qiagen reports plans for next-gen digital PCR

Qiagen announced in January the development of a range of next-generation systems for digital PCR and said it expects to launch a fully integrated solution in 2020.

The new systems, which the company said are in advanced stages of development, have been created through the combination of Qiagen technologies and automation with digital PCR assets that are being acquired from Formulatrix, a developer of laboratory automation solutions. Qiagen has reached an agreement to acquire the assets from Formulatrix, and the transaction is expected to be completed this year.

Qiagen said the systems are fully integrated and rapid. Partitioning, thermal cycling, imaging, and analysis are integrated in one instrument. The digital PCR plates deliver a streamlined workflow, Qiagen said, with rapid imaging capabilities that enable results in about 90 minutes. Standard plate formats allow front-end automation of sample preparation.

Health Network Labs acquires Connective Tissue Gene Tests

Health Network Laboratories has acquired Connective Tissue Gene Tests, a provider of molecular diagnostic testing services for inherited genetic disorders.

“The acquisition of CTGT will complement HNL’s comprehensive clinical genetic laboratory service programs in cancer, infectious disease, perinatal disease, and pharmacogenomics by providing intellectual, bioinformatics, and technical synergies amongst all the molecular genetic testing laboratories of HNL, and significantly enhance our capabilities in inherited disease diagnostic services,” Jeff Wisotzkey, PhD, HNL’s clinical lab director and scientific officer, said in a statement. Both companies have their headquarters in Allentown, Pa.