• Amnis (Seattle) reported the release of two major upgrades to its ImageStream system including the commercial release of a multilaser capability and the beta release of a new technology for dramatically extending the depth of field beyond conventional optical limitations. The Multilaser upgrade provides the customer with the flexibility of adding two additional lasers including a 405nm (violet) laser and a 658nm (red) laser. These lasers provide for increased experimental flexibility and sophistication by greatly expanding the fluorescent dye selection available to the customer. The upgrade is accompanied by a novel enhancement to the optical system which provides precise chromatic correction for lower wavelength dyes excited by the 405nm laser. The enhancement enables high resolution imagery resulting from fluorescence excitation from all three lasers to be captured simultaneously across the entire visible spectrum. Amnis manufactures the ImageStream system for high speed imaging of cells in flow. The ImageStream system is designed to enable scientists to conduct research in hematology, immunology and oncology.

• Innovamed (Irvine, California) reported on the availability of the Laprostop, a new device that helps surgeons control trocar insertion. With the popularity of laparoscopic procedures, there have been an increasing number of injuries related to trocar insertion. The Laprostop is intended to help the surgeon control the trocar insertion depth by providing a way to stop the trocar at a depth pre-determined by the surgeon. It attaches to the outside of the trocar, and can be locked into place at any point along the cannula. If the surgeon chooses, the Laprostop can be sutured to the patient’s skin, helping to provide further stability. The Laprostop fits any style of trocar, and is available in 5mm and 10/11mm sizes. The Laprostop can be attached and sutured into place in seconds, the company said.

• Nextrials (San Ramon, California) reported that EKOS (Bothell, Washington) has selected its clinical trial data collection and management product, Prism, for use in an upcoming clinical trial. EKOS is a specialty medical device company known for its work in providing ultrasound-assisted, fluid infusion catheters for diagnosis and therapy. The company is deploying Prism in conjunction with the initiation of a large, multi-site registry study using the EKOS EndoWave ultrasound accelerated thrombolysis system in the treatment of peripheral arterial and deep vein thrombosis blood clots. Ekos makes clinical research software and services.