Ransomware Prevention and Protection on MES Systems
Background: Ransomware is a form of malware that prevents or limits the use of a computer system until a sum of money has been paid. Variants, namely “WannaCry” (or similar) were observed infecting computers belonging to individuals and businesses, which included healthcare facilities and hospitals worldwide. Recommendations: 1. All SQA-V and SQA-VISION systems are designed…
Chymotrypsin vs Hyaluronidase
Here is a question that has came up: What is the difference between Chymotrypsin and Hyaluronidase? Answer: In the article: Stefan Stephanus du Plessis, Sheila Gokul, Ashok Agarwal. Frontiers in Bioscience, Elite, 5, 224-231, January 1, 2013, the following information on semen hyperviscosity (SHV) treatment can be found:“Semen hyperviscosity can be treated successfully in vitro by…
Updated QwikCheck QC Beads Storage Recommendations
UPDATE: In order to ensure consistent product performance Medical Electronic Systems is now recommending that opened QwikCheck Bead QC Kits be stored @ 2-8°C (36-46°F). The expiration date assumes that QwikCheck beads are stored in their original containers and tightly capped to prevent evaporation. QwikCheck beads are stable and show no loss of expected performance…
Precision Vs Accuracy Example
It is important to understand the relationship and difference between Precision and Accuracy. Both are important, and both showcase different aspects of a Validation or Comparison study. The image below provides a very nice visual representation:
No Lubricants During Collection
It is highly recommended that no lubricants are used during sample collection if the sample is to be run on the SQA platform. As you can see in the image below, lubricants can leave an oil looking substance in the seminal plasma which may potentially interfere with the automated analysis performed by the SQA-V and…
The Importance of Semen Sample Liquefaction and Viscosity for Semen Analysis
Question: In addition to the obvious issues with sample loading in the SQA testing capillary, would concentration readings be higher or lower in a sample which has not fully liquefied? Answer: 1. Running a non-liquefied (or viscous) semen sample will most probably result in inaccurate results for the following reasons: 2. The sample is poorly…
Minimum Sample Volume Requirements for SQA Systems and Dilution Options
BACKGROUND Automated semen assessment using the SQA-V / Vision requires a pre-defined sample volume to be aspirated into the testing capillary in order to generate a full semen analysis report. The volume of the SQA testing capillary is 0.5 ml and this volume provides sufficient statistical representation of the entire ejaculate, resulting in a high level…
SQA-VISION Training Outline Now Available
Click the image below for a screen shot overview of the SQA-VISION instrument. The document may be used as a training reference tool for MES distributors and end users looking to train new staff members. Remember, it ALL Started with a Sperm!
What is the clinical relevance of distinguishing spermatids from WBCs during a semen analysis?
Answer: Leukocytes, predominantly polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN, neutrophils), are present in most human ejaculates (Tomlinson et al., 1993; Johanisson et al., 2000). They can sometimes be differentiated from spermatids and spermatocytes in a semen smear stained with the Papanicolaou procedure. Differentiation is based on differences in staining coloration, and on nuclear size and shape (Johanisson et al.,…
Temperature Controls for Storing QwikCheck Dilution Kits After Opening
BACKGROUND: QwikCheck™ Dilution media is currently labeled “Store at 4°C” after opening. This very specific instruction has been found to be too restrictive and not required. UPDATED INSTRUCTIONS: The QwikCheck™ Dilution kit instructions for storage have been updated to read “Refrigerate after opening 2-8°C” as this is found to be adequate for sustaining the integrity…