• bioMérieux (Paris), reported the launch of VIDAS C. difficile Toxin A&B, a test for the detection of a bacterium responsible for fatal nosocomial epidemics in Canada, the U.S. and Europe. Results are available in 75 minutes (as opposed to 24 to 48 hours using the reference method), and the test enables faster therapeutic decision-making and patient isolation measures in order to prevent all types of transmission. VIDAS and the more compact miniVIDAS are multi-parameter instruments using ELFA (enzyme linked fluorescent assay) technology, and based on a ready-to-use single-sample test concept. Part of the VIDAS menu covers emergency diagnostics, including the VIDAS D-Dimer Exclusion test. BioMérieux specializes in in vitro diagnostics.

• Illumina (San Diego) reported the release of two digital gene expression (DGE) applications that use Illumina’s genome analyzer to generate genome-wide sequencing-based expression profiles of messenger and small RNA. These DGE applications offer researchers a robust platform for novel RNA discovery, accurate quantification of low-abundance messenger RNA, and measurement of gene expression in any species without the need for prior sequence knowledge. DGE for Tag Profiling is a whole-genome expression application that can generate profiles for any transcript from any gene in any organism. This approach produces high-quality quantitative data empowering whole-genome profiling of any polyadenylated messenger RNA. It also offers increased sensitivity as compared to traditional SAGE applications and provides unlimited dynamic range for rare transcript discovery. DGE for small RNA analysis is a universal application that supports researchers interested in the discovery of all forms of small non-coding RNA from any organism. Illumina makes life-science tools and integrated systems for the large-scale analysis of genetic variation and biological function.

• Merge Healthcare, (Milwaukee) a medical imaging software and services provider, reported the introduction of Merge Ortho, a digital workstation solution that is designed to help orthopedic specialists save time and improve clinical effectiveness in orthopedic planning and diagnosis. Designed to replace the cost and complexities of using film, this solution’s digital tools streamline workflow with image acquisition and manipulation, advanced measurement options, implant selection, automated template placement and manipulation, surgical planning tools, image archiving, and web distribution. In addition Merge Ortho includes several data mining tools, including those for tracking and analyzing implant usage, pain thresholds, recovery rates, and outcome statistics. Merge Ortho delivers advanced diagnostic and planning functionality for joint arthroplasty, trauma, and deformity corrections.

• Oncology Metrics (Dallas) reported the launch of the Oncology Metrics National Indices (OMNIs) a series of data driven national indices that measure the diagnosis, treatment and management of cancer. In recent years treatment options in oncology have expanded as has the use of electronic medical records (EMRs). EMRs have led to the availability of a significant repository of accessible clinical information. For the first time in history, data is available that makes it possible to develop analytic tools to add objective data to the discourse on practice patterns and to track the changes that occur in the patterns of care. The first OMNI to launch describes patterns of use of erythropoietic stimulating agents (ESA) and is called the OMNI ESA. OMNI ESA is based on a retrospective analysis of more than 200,000 ESA administrations recorded in the target database between January 1, 2004 and April 30, 2007. All ESA administrations recorded were analyzed with respect to the associated hemoglobin values at the time of the ESA administration. Oncology Metrics accelerates advancements in the treatment of cancer.

• Quest Diagnostics (Lyndhurst, New Jersey) reported a new diagnostic testing technique to help physicians diagnose genetic metabolic disorders, such as phenylketonuria and homocystinuria. The new technique measures amino acids in blood plasma, urine or cerebral spinal fluid by employing a combination of liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Physicians may also use amino acid quantitation tests on individuals whose ability to process nutrients may be impaired, such as those undergoing chemotherapy treatments for cancer, the elderly, and individuals with gastrointestinal illnesses. The new testing method also overcomes the problem of interference from medications and diet, which, when using conventional testing methods, often hinders accurate analysis. In addition, the new methodology can detect amino acid levels as low as one micromole per liter, which enhances its usefulness for detecting nutritional deficiencies compared to conventional methods, the company said. Quest provides diagnostic testing, information and services.