Within the template module there are a few options you may not be aware of:
- First, once the template is setup you can print the plate layout to the actual size of the 96-well plate. This allows the analyst to place the printout under the plate to be used as a guide when adding samples.
- Second, the analyst can manage the final endotoxin result label by selecting the “ET per” dropdown. From there, different endotoxin labels can be selected based on your sample type: EU/ml, EU/μg, EU/mg, EU/unit, EU/mEq and EU/device. Depending on the label selected additional text boxes open for values necessary for that label. For example, when calculating “EU/device” the analyst will also need to enter the number of devices and total volume in which the devices are submerged.
- Lastly, templates can be configured to the exact analyst specifications using the Custom Layout option. When clicking on this option, samples, standards and blanks can be placed into any open well on the template. This is an important option if the analyst would like to move the blank to a different location on the plate, for instance.
Many customers are aware that the assay will end once the lowest standard wells have reacted, however, are you aware that you can change the setting to permit the assay to continue reading until all of the blank wells have reacted? In the Template Defaults window there are options to select when the assay will stop reading the plate. Also, the Kinetic SmartStop™ feature, when selected, will permit the software to continue reading the plate until all replicates of a sample react – thus eliminating split-well issues and forcing a %CV to be calculated for every sample.
Once the assay has completed, the Assay Zoom functionality allows for analysis of sample curves. Open the assay report and select “Analyze”. When wells are selected you will see the thickness of the curve increase and when “Zoom” is chosen a new window opens that will draw those curves into a clear well-to-well analysis view.
If there ever is a need to quickly run reports for endotoxin tests performed in a certain lab or on a certain computer, this can be done easily in the Record Audit Log window. Simply select the date range, workgroup and even the User ID and/or computer for those tests and a report will be generated with those specific details.
The assay report can also be tailored to suit your lab’s needs. You can select only the samples that you want included in the report, mask information if the same report is going to different customers and show only the information that is desired.
I hope you will find these tips and tricks valuable. Please be on the lookout for new and exciting tips and tricks with new releases of the WinKQCL® Software.
Written by
Travis
Scientific Support Specialist
