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New Study Demonstrates Effectiveness of ParaLens versus Standard Fluorescence Microscopy

Port Matilda, Pennsylvania, July 9, 2010 -  The ParaLens Microscope Attachment from QBC Diagnostics produces results comparable to standard fluorescence microscopes in the detection of TB bacilli, with improvements in portability, durability, and ease of use, according to the authors of a recently published study in the Open Microbiology Journal.

The study, "The Usefulness of the ParaLens Fluorescent Microscope Adaptor for the Identification of Mycobacteria in Both Field and Laboratory Settings", was conducted by researchers from the Medical College of Georgia, the MTW/SIM HIV/AIDS Care and Treatment Project in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and the Maryland State Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

The researchers compared the ParaLens to a Nikon fluorescence microscope in a controlled lab setting.  In a comparison of 25 samples with varying degrees of positivity for TB, the microscopist found 100% agreement between samples on both instruments, including determinations of positivity/negativity and smear grading.

The researchers also tested the ParaLens in low resource settings in countries such as Bangladesh, Trinidad, and Ethiopia.  They found that the ParaLens was lightweight, easily portable, and could detect positive samples even in full sunlight.  The researchers used the ParaLens with a variety of power sources, including 110/220 Volt outlets and 12 Volt batteries without issue.

A copy of this study is publically available on the QBC Diagnostics website by clicking here.  For more information about the study or about the ParaLens, please call 814-692-7661 or e-mail sales@qbcdiag.com.

Next: QBC Diagnostics Exhibiting at AACC/ASCLS Clinical Lab Expo 2010

About QBC Diagnostics
QBC Diagnostics is a privately held company headquartered in Port Matilda, Pennsylvania.  The company manufactures a line of complete blood count analyzers and fluorescence microscopy products.  Additional information can be found by visiting the company website (www.qbcdiagnostics.com) or by calling 877-231-3115.  Follow QBC on Twitter or Facebook for further updates.