Awareness of microplastics in the oceans is becoming well known. However, their impact on ocean life remains poorly understood. Studies have been conducted on the effects of microplastics on filter feeders such as the blue mussel, and now a Maine Sea Grant has just been awarded to Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Science to study the effects on the lobster, one of Maine's most economically and commercially important resources.

How do you analyze algae populations? Algae analysis is simplified using the FlowCam^®'s image analysis software VisualSpreadsheet^®. While manual identification may still be required for taxonomic purposes, algae identification and population analysis can be achieved with little effort using this system. 

Join us in welcoming Dominic Benfatta, newly hired Customer Care Associate, to the Fluid Imaging Technologies team. 

Dominic finished his degree in Portland at the University of Southern Maine where he was awarded a B.S. in Biology with a Concentration in Human Biology and a Minor in Biochemistry, graduating this past December. While in school Dominic worked as a lab technician and wellness specialist at a local compounding pharmacy, in an on-campus optogenetics lab, and as a fellow for an international non-profit geared towards spreading meditation and stress management skills to college students. He enjoys hiking, slacklining, drawing, reading, and cooking in his free time.

How do you perform Oil in Water analysis? Flow Imaging Microscopy provides more comprehensive data than laser diffraction, beyond just count and size data, using particle images and morphological analysis. The FlowCam's image analysis software VisualSpreadsheet is equipped with an algorithm specifically designed for the petroleum industry to quickly and easily analyze the Oil in Water content. 

What should my fluorescence settings be for phytoplankton analysis? What should my context settings be for protein analysis? How do I use file processing mode? 

We've compiled VisualSpreadsheet^® How-To Videos on our YouTube channel that serve as guides on suggested settings, and instructions on useful functions, including: 

• Quick Start Guide: Context Settings for Aquatic Samples and Proteinaceous Samples
• Quick Start Guide: Fluorescence Settings for Phytoplankton Analysis
• How to Use File Processing Mode for Phytoplankton and Proteinaceous Samples
  

Our flagship product released in 2002, the FlowCam VS imaging flow cytometer, could optionally be outfitted with a 2X objective which touted a maximum particle analysis size of 1 mm. When the FlowCam 8000 Series was released in 2016 and replaced the FlowCam VS, a 2X objective was not available and maximum particle analysis size was reduced down to 600 µm. 

How do you change an FOV flow cell? Clean an FOV flow cell? Change an objective on the FlowCam?

We've compiled FlowCam How To Videos on our YouTube channel that instruct you on basic FlowCam operations and maintenance, including:

• How to Install and Remove an FOV Flow Cell in FlowCam 8000
• How to Autofocus Your FlowCam 8000
• How to Change an Objective 
• How to Clean an FOV Flow Cell Using a Luer Lock Syringe

Every version of VisualSpreadsheet^® is equipped with File Processing Mode, a unique tool offered by the FlowCam^®. It offers an efficient and cost-effective way to optimize your particle analysis.  By using File Processing Mode, you can reduce your effort by ensuring your valuable sample is captured correctly the first time.

Fluid Imaging Technologies offers hands on training after the purchase of a FlowCam particle analyzer, or as refresher training for existing customers.  We partner with international distributors to assist in local language, shipping and training logistics, as well as to provide a local presence in the country and enhance the sales process.  Throughout January and March, Stephen Barton and Kay Johnson traveled extensively throughout Asia.

Plant sporoderm are among the most robust biomaterials in nature. The spore/pollen cell material can be easily extracted leaving an excellent natural microcapsule that can serve as a potential drug delivery mechanism for different biopharmaceutical applications.  See related post on dandelion pollen in a similar application.