Laboratory Equipment and Usage Protocols
Doping Fluorometric Assay Method
This method is used for detecting peptide hormones. Fluorescence spectroscopy is a type of electromagnetic spectroscopy that analyzes the fluorescence of a sample. The electrons of a molecule are excited by a beam of light of lower energy, which is detected by a fluorometer.
Hematological Analyzer and Cytometer
This equipment is used for hematological parameters and for detecting blood transfusion. Flow cytometry is a technique for counting, examining, and sorting microscopic particles suspended in a fluid stream. It allows simultaneous multiparametric analysis of the physical and chemical characteristics of single cells flowing through an optical and electronic detection device. A flow cytometer is similar to a microscope, except that instead of producing an image of the cells, it offers high quantification to a set of parameters.
Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometry
This technique is used for detecting stimulants, narcotics, diuretics, and more. A chromatograph separates volatile compounds. The separated compounds are guided into the ion source of the mass spectrometer. The compounds are ionized, and their mass-to-charge ratio of intact ions is detected. Using a tandem mass spectrometer, compounds can be fragmented, which allows for the detection of several compounds.
Liquid Chromatography with UV/VIS Detection
This method is used for detecting glucocorticosteroids, stimulants, narcotics, and other substances. Liquid chromatography separates soluble compounds chromatographically before they are analyzed in the detector. This is done either by a UV/VIS detector or by a mass spectrometer.
Microscope Parts and Terminology
- BODY TUBE: tubo/cuerpo
- STAGE CLIPS: pinzas
- STAGE: placa
- BIN: contenedor
- CLOTH: trapo
- NOSEPIECE: revólver
- DIAPHRAGM: diafragma
- COARSE ADJUSTMENT: ajuste grande
- BUCKET: cubo
- LOW POWER: objetivo pequeño
- LIGHT SOURCE: fuente de luz
- FINE ADJUSTMENT: ajuste pequeño
- MEDIUM POWER: ” mediano
- EYE PIECE: lente
- BASE: base
- MOP: fregona
- PAPER TOWELS: toallas de papel
- HIGH POWER: ” grande
- ARM: brazo
- SINK: lavabo
- SOAP DISPENSER: dispensador de jabón
- DISPOSABLE GLOVES: guantes desechables
- CLINICAL WASTE DISPOSAL BAG: bolsa de eliminación de residuos clínicos
Microscope Handling and Care
Handle with Care
If the microscope must be moved, carry it by the base and support arm. If picked up by the stage or eyepiece holder, it can become misaligned.
Keep Covered
Every time you use or clean the microscope, be sure to cover it to prevent dust and other contaminants from reaching the apparatus. If you cannot find your cover, order a new one from the manufacturer or find a suitable substitute, such as a large plastic bag.
Store Safely
Keep the microscope in a draft-free, dry place where it won’t get bumped, pushed, or wet, and where things will not fall on it. Make sure the microscope is level on the table/bench.
Keep Area Clean
Keep the area clean, organized, and ready for the next person, even if that’s you. Throw away used lens paper/wipes, cover any bottles, wipe the counter clean, and place essential items within easy reach for the user.
Keep Lenses Clean
Only use lens wipes/lens paper. Do not use a tissue, paper towel, or any other type of wipe, as they will scratch the lens.
Take Care of Bulbs
Turn the microscope off after use. Do not keep the light on all day, as this will shorten the bulb’s life.
Refer to the User Manual
Keep the manual right next to the microscope. Hang it on the wall, place it in a drawer, just have it readily available. Important numbers to have handy in this manual are the lightbulb reorder number and the microscope technician’s phone number.
Maintain Your Microscope
It is a good idea to have the microscope checked once a year. If your institution does not have an in-house microscope technician, consider investing in a professional service contract to maintain your microscopes. They will check all lenses, moving parts, plugs, and lights.