This new advanced microscopy system will be used by several working groups headed up by PD Dr. Marcel Müller, Dr. Daniela Niemeyer and Prof. Dr. Christine Goffinet. All three groups are working together to help develop clinical strategies to treat the disease, by investigating how the virus enters cells, what exactly happens when human respiratory cells are infected, and how antiviral drug candidates would work.
The donated THUNDER Imager brings two key benefits to the researchers; it will deliver faster results and make the analysis of images easier, uncovering more information about the structural detail of the studied cells. The Leica team will help the Institute of Virology to become proficient with the new system as quickly as possible and ensure optimal results. This marks the beginning of a longer-term relationship between the two parties for the benefit of viral research.

The head of the Institute of Virology, Prof. Dr. Christian Drosten, is an expert in the diagnosis of infections due to coronaviruses such as SARS and MERS. Prof. Dr. Drosten co-discovered the first SARS-CoV and developed the PCR-based test for SARS-CoV-2.

On the donation of the THUNDER Imager, Prof. Dr. Drosten stated, “We are pleased to be given the opportunity to work with the THUNDER Imager. Its capabilities give us the possibility to understand the development of virulence over the course of the epidemic and the potential to develop high-throughput and sensitive serological tests for SARS-CoV-2 immunity.  During this critical time, it is of paramount importance that we work together, both to combat this pandemic and to arm ourselves effectively for the future. It is great to partner with Leica Microsystems on this and we look forward to working with this new microscopy technology.”

Markus Lusser, President of Leica Microsystems, commented, “Leica Microsystems is proud to support the Charité‘s work in the fight against COVID 19. The THUNDER imager we have provided is particularly suited to imaging live cells in 3D disease models, helping to uncover their true physiology. Helping scientists learn more about Covid-19 will benefit the global community, helping us to stay healthy and fight this disease as we rebuild our economy after this pandemic.”

Due to its optimized imaging performance, the new confocal platform gives researchers the power to see more and, as a result, collect more accurate and reliable data to prove hypotheses with precision. The combination of the unique new Power HyD detectors, White Light Laser, and sophisticated software delivers brighter signals, resulting in images with more contrast and astounding detail. This data is helping researchers observe the inner workings of cellular processes – crucial for research in fields like cancer and neuroscience.

STELLARIS gives access to lifetime-based information in every experiment, in parallel with common intensity imaging approaches. Scientists will find that the unique TauSense lifetime-based imaging modes open up the potential to discover more. These modes complement a multitude of new ways to explore the function of molecules in their cellular context and help, for example, separate fluorophores even when their emissions fully overlap. Another benefit is that the number of simultaneous detection channels can be expanded by using lifetime-based information. Access to this advanced imaging information takes just one click. The new smart user interface, ImageCompass, ensures that scientists have the productivity to do more, as setting up even complex experiments is now much easier and more intuitive than ever before.

Christine Munz, Vice President Life Science of Leica Microsystems said: “STELLARIS increases the potential for new discoveries by providing users with a new breadth of scientific applications thanks to complete spectral freedom combined with lifetime-based modes. Scientists of all levels of experience will now be able to benefit from advanced imaging information obtained during their experiments – collecting more accurate and reliable data.”

Markus Lusser, president of Leica Microsystems, added: “In microscopy, our mission is to empower our customers to drive progress in science. To get them closer to the truth, we have re-imagined the confocal microscope. STELLARIS offers additional information that is simply not available in conventional confocal systems. You get immediate access to functional information without having to learn complex, advanced techniques. This development will open up confocal microscopy to a much wider group of scientists and researchers, drive up productivity and enable new breakthroughs to be achieved in laboratories around the world.”

STELLARIS offers significant enhancements compared to existing confocal systems on the market. The enhanced sensitivity in the blue-green range (PDE > 55%) improves the detection limits and dynamic range for the most commonly used fluorophores. The extension of the detection range to the Near Infrared (NIR) provides up to 67% more dynamic range compared to current state-of-the-art detectors. The NIR extension allows for additional freedom when selecting dyes and up to three additional colors. The new detector generation in combination with the renowned Leica spectral detection technology and a newly designed beam path to maximize transmission efficiency, enables efficient signal acquisition while valuable samples are afforded the lowest possible exposure to light. Ultimately, this facilitates ‘gentle’ live cell imaging, preserving sample integrity and improving reproducibility of results.

The integrated TauSense is an innovative set of imaging modes based on fluorescence lifetime without the need to add extra dedicated hardware. It enables scientists to differentiate between specific fluorescence signals and unwanted autofluorescence to improve the quality of the final image and separate fluorophores that could not be previously separated with spectral unmixing.

STELLARIS replaces Leica Microsystems’ SP8 platform with two main systems: the STELLARIS 5 and the advanced STELLARIS 8.

The interview includes interesting facts about the history of Leica Microsystems. It describes how the first surgical microscopes for ophthalmic procedures were introduced in the 1980s with ENT microsopes following in the 1990s. Continual innovation has lead to today’s sophisticated surgical microscopes with augmented reality.

During her visit to the Leica Microsystems site in Switzerland, Sonja Belli received a guided tour of the medical showroom. In the interview, she shares the knowledge and insights she learned during the demonstration of the Leica portfolio for otolaryngologists. 

The interview also gives an outlook from Leica Microsystems about future innovations  such as integrated digital technologies. It discusses the added value of these technologies for surgeons and, last but not least, for the hospitals that purchase them.

Click here to read the full interview in English.

This core value wouldn’t be anything if Danaher wouldn’t spread it across the operating companies and building DBS practitioners and ambassadors. Continuous improvement - as one of the DBS principles - includes continuous learning. To support this, Danaher has implemented four training centers called DBS University. Today, John Sekowski, VP DBS at Danaher, and Markus Lusser, President Leica Microsystems and Chairman of the Danaher Europe Board had the great pleasure to inaugurate the expanded DBS University at Leica Microsystems site in Wetzlar.

The first Danaher DBS University based in Europe was opened in Wetzlar in 2014. The success story is impressive: more than 10.000 students from around 45 nations have successfully completed a variety of training classes and action learning events. These include trainings such as PSP, VSM, Daily Management, Leadership Essentials, and many more. More potential new leaders for all Danaher operating companies have been trained in this DBS Center of Excellence than anywhere else! The new rooms combine breathing the air of “DBS in action” with GEMBA - where it all comes together, e.g. in the various manufacturing departments of LMS, in the innovation Obeya rooms or multiple growth rooms.

Markus Lusser stated at the opening ceremony: “One of the priorities of the New European Board for 2020 is to improve DBS Leadership across Europe. The DBS University is an excellent venue to facilitate the improvement of DBS maturity using the 70/20/10 principle (70% of on the job experience, 20% comes coaching, and 10% is the result of formal training and course work). Leica Microsystems is extremely proud to be the multiplier enhancing Danaher and its associates to help them to cope with the raising demands and, as such, contribute to the Danaher shared value: Helping realize Life’s potential.”

Steven Lavender, DBS Office Director: “Leica has a long history with Danaher and has been very successful in the implementation of DBS. When participants come to Wetzlar, they experience not only the subject of their training but also can see at Gemba how DBS works and how the DBS culture helps Leica to develop their teams and deliver great results.”

Johannes Allermann, Corporate Director Talent Management for Danaher in Europe: “We continuously invest in our associates and leaders to help them cope with rising demands. We thus stepped up our offer of associate and leadership training. Having started with three training courses, DBSU now offers ten associate and leadership training courses across Danaher. We are planning to deliver even more leadership training in DBSU in the future.”

As a part of the Danaher Corporation, Leica Microsystems can offer all the career options of a global corporation. Danaher is a Fortune 200, NYSE-listed, science and technology leader that designs, manufactures, and markets innovative products and services to professional, medical, industrial, and commercial customers.
Learn more about current career opportunities here.

About Leica Microsystems

Leica Microsystems develops and manufactures microscopes and scientific instruments for the analysis of microstructures and nanostructures. Ever since the company started as a family business in the nineteenth century, its instruments have been widely recognized for their optical precision and innovative technology. It is one of the market leaders in compound and stereo microscopy, digital microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy with related imaging systems, electron microscopy sample preparation, and surgical microscopes.

Overlooking conductive and abrasive particles can be an expensive mistake.

The quick and reliable analysis of product cleanliness in the automotive, oil and lubricant industry, as well as in the aerospace sector, has always been a critical factor for product quality. However, for some years now, product cleanliness has been gaining in importance, as components and assemblies are getting ever smaller and the power densities larger. Conductive and abrasive particles have a high potential to cause damage and, in extreme cases, can result in product failures and complaints, which can mean significant costs for the company. To avoid these cost factors and to meet growing external and regulative requirements, many companies are facing the challenge of integrating an efficient cleanliness process in their established routine.

Clean, extract and analyze in a workflow. 

Pall and Leica Microsystems offer an interlinked cleanliness process, which can be integrated seamlessly in the daily work process. The product parts are cleaned in Pall Cleanliness Cabinets in order to extract particles and are then analyzed using Leica Microsystems Solutions. The result provides a quick and precise estimate of the damage potential, enabling appropriate actions to be taken before it is too late.

Do not underestimate the damage potential of metal particles.

The damage potential of metal and abrasive particles is much higher than with non-metal or soft particles. Metal and abrasive particles are hard and damage mechanical systems. Metals also have different levels of conductivity and overlooking them can lead to severe product defects, such as a short circuit in the electronics. An initial option for finding out whether we are dealing with a metal is the gloss method. However, this method does not guarantee that all metal particles have been identified and provides no information about the conductivity of the metal. To shed light on the matter, Leica Microsystems uses a combination of optical and chemical analysis, which can be applied quickly and easily and delivers reliable results.

Limit the damage potential with optical analysis.

One of the most common methods for checking the product cleanliness is optical analysis. It delivers a wide range of results, is quick and easy to use and is used in many standards - meaning it is something of a gold standard. But optical analysis is often not sufficient for keeping up with the changes, as it does not provide reliable results regarding conductive and/or abrasive properties. These can only be determined through further analyses, such as chemical analysis methods.

Get quick and accurate results with the LIBS system.

Leica Microsystems offers an additional function to optical analysis: the so-called LIBS system (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy). A chemical analysis tool based on laser technology, which delivers reliable results in a matter of seconds. It uses the established standard process of optical analysis - filters are scanned automatically and particle sizes, quantities and geometries determined. Then, for example, different particle classes can be analyzed automatically with LIBS, or, if required, particles can be relocalized individually and analyzed. It is possible to switch between optical and chemical mode at any time. This means that LIBS can be easily integrated into the cleanliness process. While REM/EDX systems often place higher demands on the environment, samples or the user, such as radiation protection, planar samples or expert knowledge, the LIBS system can be integrated easily in the laboratory.  Thanks to its intuitive user interface and its high degree of automation, users are able to carry out analyses quickly and reliably.

Integrate the LIBS system in your daily workflow and be prepared for the future with product reliability.

Up until now, the customer had to assemble their system from numerous different individual components. The Analyzer Workflow solutions now provide a complete system that exactly meets the customer's requirements and offer optimum overall performance. The user can start analysis immediately, generating fast and reliable analysis results to control the quality of their products and optimize processes.

What was the driving force behind the creation of the Analyzer Workflow solutions? 

The driving force at Leica Microsystems is always our customers. We identified recurring problems facing our customers, and on this basis we first created eight different Analyzer Workflow solutions. It was important to us for the components to be ideally matched to one other and immediately ready for use. Depending on the application and workflow, the field of application can be very narrow, for example in the case of analyzers for technical cleanliness, or else somewhat broader, e.g. in the case of analyzers for metallography.

What features can the customer expect to find in the Analyzer Workflow solutions?

First of all, users can look forward to a very high level of performance that provides accurate, reliable and fast results. With the Analyzer Workflow solutions, everything is digitalized and the high degree of automation guarantees an efficient and fast operation. All analyzers are tailored to a special workflow so they focus on specific tasks. The analyzers all come with a microscope, a digital camera, a PC and training and they’re ready to use right away.

Dr. Ecke, as an expert in the field of technical cleanliness, can you explain to us the challenges currently facing quality control and how Leica Microsystems is responding to them?

Above all, constant miniaturization, higher power densities and safety-related electronic components and systems pose new challenges for quality control, especially when it comes to cleanliness analysis. It is no longer sufficient simply to determine the size of a particle: it is now becoming increasingly important to be able to analyse the type of material the particles are made of, as this has a decisive influence on the damage potential. In addition, quality control is becoming more and more time-critical, and cleanliness analysis should preferably be integrated into daily routine. Our tailor-made technical cleanliness analyzers address these challenges by allowing the user to select measurement rules and then quickly and accurately analyze them. In addition to optical analysis, the customer often needs a chemical analysis: this is usually very complex and can often only be carried out by experts.  The LIBS system (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) provides the customer with the right technology to be able to carry out a quick, reliable analysis of metallic alloys and inorganic compounds so as to be able to respond appropriately.

What is the LIBS system and how does it differ from other analytical methods?

LIBS stands for Laser Introduced Breakdown Spectroscopy and is a relatively new technology. The LIBS module contains a laser and a spectrometer unit and can be integrated as an extension into a DM6 microscope. It gives the customer the flexibility to switch between optical and chemical analysis. In contrast to the element analysis, for example the REM EDX, only one system is needed for the optical and chemical analysis. The system solution is therefore very space-saving; it doesn’t have to be accommodated in a clean room and it doesn’t require sample transfer, which is costly and can result in uncertainties in terms of the results. In addition, analysis with LIBS is location-independent and offers verification of the results at any time. The optical mode is just a mouse click away. No special training is required to operate LIBS, so it can be carried out by semi-skilled employees.

What are the differences between the various Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness: Micro Analyzer for technical cleanliness, Macro Analyzer for technical cleanliness and Chemical Micro Analyzer for technical cleanliness?

The Analyzer Workflow solutions are tailored entirely to the needs of our customers. This means that the customer gets what they really need. If a customer only needs to detect larger particles and does not require chemical analysis, the Macro Analyzer for Technical Cleanliness is just the thing for them. However, if it is necessary to detect smaller particles according to standards, we recommend the Micro Analyzer for technical cleanliness. If this is not sufficient and a combination of optical and chemical analysis functions is required, the Chemical Micro Analyzer for technical cleanliness is the right choice.

Leica Microsystems prepares the customer for the future – how do the Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness prepare customers for the future?

We prepare our customers for the future in many ways, for example because LIBS has retrofit capability: with this extension, the Micro Analyzer can easily be retrofitted on site to create an optical-chemical analysis system. In addition to the outstanding appearance, the software is an important accessory and a key future in terms of future viability. We constantly update it and offer our customers individual customization options. In addition, customers save a lot of time and money due to the high degree of automation of our products – only a short training course is required before the analysis is ready to start.

Why is automation becoming increasingly crucial in microscopy? What level of automation is available in the Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness?

Here I like to cite the example of the window lift in a car. In the past, you had to crank up a car window by hand. An electric window lift was an optional extra back then, but now it’s part of the standard trim in every car. Automation is a given. In microscopy, things are developing in the same direction: automation is becoming more and more state of the art. This reduces user influence and limits the error rate, which in turn means secure results. The analysis becomes more efficient and reliable.

Why should Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness be included in the training of engineers?

Product cleanliness has only been part of engineering studies for a few years. Due to the complexity and miniaturization of products and product parts, product cleanliness has now also made it into the engineering science curriculum. This is something I very much welcome, because engineers have to be prepared to plan products that can be produced – and product cleanliness is crucial here. The Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness are ideally suited to show budding engineers what cleanliness means in terms of product safety and the effort that goes into ensuring product cleanliness.

To what extent does quality control in the automotive industry benefit from the use of Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness?

The great advantage of the Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness is that they can easily be embedded in the day-to-day production process. With the Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness, automotive manufacturers are excellently equipped to analyze product cleanliness in development as well as in day-to-day operations and to intervene immediately on site. People often fail to take account of the fact that a clean product is a quality characteristic – cleanliness reflects good quality.

Technical cleanliness in electronics is becoming more and more demanding. How do the Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness meet customer needs here?

Electronic components are increasingly being installed in safety-related systems where the very highest standards apply in terms of cleanliness. In addition, many of the materials used are conductive and produce metallic particles, for example. Aluminium has a different conductivity from that of copper: this affects damage potential and can lead to short circuits, for example. The manufacturer must be able to identify not only particle size but also the material of the particle without wasting a lot of time in the production process. Our LIBS system offers exactly this: a fast and easy switch between optical and chemical analysis, embedded in the routine. In addition, there is a high degree of automation, minimizing user influence and greatly limiting the error rate.

Isn't it difficult to create an Analyzer Workflow solution to meet the varying needs of different industries? How did Leica manage to find a common denominator?

First of all, it was important to us to create simple and secure systems that offered customers what they really need. The common denominator in compiling the Analyzer Packages was the customer's method of application and the software. Which optical system is then used depends on the product cleanliness requirements. The software and the specific settings provide the basis, the optical instrument then depends on the size of the particles to be analyzed and whether a chemical analysis is required. This means we’re always able to offer the customer the optimum solution.

What can the customer expect from the Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness in terms of software?

We offer a modern software platform that is compatible with Windows 10 and is constantly updated by us. The pre-configured software for technical cleanliness in the various Analyzer Workflow solutions ensures a fast start to the analysis, compliant with all the current standards. The supervisor has the flexibility to adjust and proactively change parameters. Additional modules can be purchased at any time if external and internal requirements change and the analysis needs to be adapted.

Training users to operate a new device is usually very time consuming. How long does it take to train a user to operate an Analyzer Workflow solution?

Training on the Analyzer Workflow solutions takes a maximum of 1 to 2 days. The customer receives a short introduction during installation and an additional application day for a detailed induction at a later date. During installation, the product is calibrated and the system is explained. On the following application day, any questions that arise are discussed and training is provided for standards application. The customer is then ready to get started. Of course we’re always available to answer any questions you may have by telephone, but online support is also a good way to resolve issues quickly and simply, enabling the customer to carry out their cleanliness analysis efficiently and accurately.

Up until now, the customer had to assemble their system from numerous different individual components. The Analyzer Workflow solutions now provide a complete system that exactly meets the customer's requirements and offer optimum overall performance. The user can start analysis immediately, generating fast and reliable analysis results to control the quality of their products and optimize processes.

What was the driving force behind the creation of the Analyzer Workflow solutions? 

The driving force at Leica Microsystems is always our customers. We identified recurring problems facing our customers, and on this basis we first created eight different Analyzer Workflow solutions. It was important to us for the components to be ideally matched to one other and immediately ready for use. Depending on the application and workflow, the field of application can be very narrow, for example in the case of analyzers for technical cleanliness, or else somewhat broader, e.g. in the case of analyzers for metallography.

What features can the customer expect to find in the Analyzer Workflow solutions?

First of all, users can look forward to a very high level of performance that provides accurate, reliable and fast results. With the Analyzer Workflow solutions, everything is digitalized and the high degree of automation guarantees an efficient and fast operation. All analyzers are tailored to a special workflow so they focus on specific tasks. The analyzers all come with a microscope, a digital camera, a PC and training and they’re ready to use right away.

Dr. Ecke, as an expert in the field of technical cleanliness, can you explain to us the challenges currently facing quality control and how Leica Microsystems is responding to them?

Above all, constant miniaturization, higher power densities and safety-related electronic components and systems pose new challenges for quality control, especially when it comes to cleanliness analysis. It is no longer sufficient simply to determine the size of a particle: it is now becoming increasingly important to be able to analyse the type of material the particles are made of, as this has a decisive influence on the damage potential. In addition, quality control is becoming more and more time-critical, and cleanliness analysis should preferably be integrated into daily routine. Our tailor-made technical cleanliness analyzers address these challenges by allowing the user to select measurement rules and then quickly and accurately analyze them. In addition to optical analysis, the customer often needs a chemical analysis: this is usually very complex and can often only be carried out by experts.  The LIBS system (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) provides the customer with the right technology to be able to carry out a quick, reliable analysis of metallic alloys and inorganic compounds so as to be able to respond appropriately.

What is the LIBS system and how does it differ from other analytical methods?

LIBS stands for Laser Introduced Breakdown Spectroscopy and is a relatively new technology. The LIBS module contains a laser and a spectrometer unit and can be integrated as an extension into a DM6 microscope. It gives the customer the flexibility to switch between optical and chemical analysis. In contrast to the element analysis, for example the REM EDX, only one system is needed for the optical and chemical analysis. The system solution is therefore very space-saving; it doesn’t have to be accommodated in a clean room and it doesn’t require sample transfer, which is costly and can result in uncertainties in terms of the results. In addition, analysis with LIBS is location-independent and offers verification of the results at any time. The optical mode is just a mouse click away. No special training is required to operate LIBS, so it can be carried out by semi-skilled employees.

What are the differences between the various Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness: Micro Analyzer for technical cleanliness, Macro Analyzer for technical cleanliness and Chemical Micro Analyzer for technical cleanliness?

The Analyzer Workflow solutions are tailored entirely to the needs of our customers. This means that the customer gets what they really need. If a customer only needs to detect larger particles and does not require chemical analysis, the Macro Analyzer for Technical Cleanliness is just the thing for them. However, if it is necessary to detect smaller particles according to standards, we recommend the Micro Analyzer for technical cleanliness. If this is not sufficient and a combination of optical and chemical analysis functions is required, the Chemical Micro Analyzer for technical cleanliness is the right choice.

Leica Microsystems prepares the customer for the future – how do the Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness prepare customers for the future?

We prepare our customers for the future in many ways, for example because LIBS has retrofit capability: with this extension, the Micro Analyzer can easily be retrofitted on site to create an optical-chemical analysis system. In addition to the outstanding appearance, the software is an important accessory and a key future in terms of future viability. We constantly update it and offer our customers individual customization options. In addition, customers save a lot of time and money due to the high degree of automation of our products – only a short training course is required before the analysis is ready to start.

Why is automation becoming increasingly crucial in microscopy? What level of automation is available in the Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness?

Here I like to cite the example of the window lift in a car. In the past, you had to crank up a car window by hand. An electric window lift was an optional extra back then, but now it’s part of the standard trim in every car. Automation is a given. In microscopy, things are developing in the same direction: automation is becoming more and more state of the art. This reduces user influence and limits the error rate, which in turn means secure results. The analysis becomes more efficient and reliable.

Why should Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness be included in the training of engineers?

Product cleanliness has only been part of engineering studies for a few years. Due to the complexity and miniaturization of products and product parts, product cleanliness has now also made it into the engineering science curriculum. This is something I very much welcome, because engineers have to be prepared to plan products that can be produced – and product cleanliness is crucial here. The Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness are ideally suited to show budding engineers what cleanliness means in terms of product safety and the effort that goes into ensuring product cleanliness.

To what extent does quality control in the automotive industry benefit from the use of Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness?

The great advantage of the Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness is that they can easily be embedded in the day-to-day production process. With the Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness, automotive manufacturers are excellently equipped to analyze product cleanliness in development as well as in day-to-day operations and to intervene immediately on site. People often fail to take account of the fact that a clean product is a quality characteristic – cleanliness reflects good quality.

Technical cleanliness in electronics is becoming more and more demanding. How do the Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness meet customer needs here?

Electronic components are increasingly being installed in safety-related systems where the very highest standards apply in terms of cleanliness. In addition, many of the materials used are conductive and produce metallic particles, for example. Aluminium has a different conductivity from that of copper: this affects damage potential and can lead to short circuits, for example. The manufacturer must be able to identify not only particle size but also the material of the particle without wasting a lot of time in the production process. Our LIBS system offers exactly this: a fast and easy switch between optical and chemical analysis, embedded in the routine. In addition, there is a high degree of automation, minimizing user influence and greatly limiting the error rate.

Isn't it difficult to create an Analyzer Workflow solution to meet the varying needs of different industries? How did Leica manage to find a common denominator?

First of all, it was important to us to create simple and secure systems that offered customers what they really need. The common denominator in compiling the Analyzer Packages was the customer's method of application and the software. Which optical system is then used depends on the product cleanliness requirements. The software and the specific settings provide the basis, the optical instrument then depends on the size of the particles to be analyzed and whether a chemical analysis is required. This means we’re always able to offer the customer the optimum solution.

What can the customer expect from the Analyzer Workflow solutions for technical cleanliness in terms of software?

We offer a modern software platform that is compatible with Windows 10 and is constantly updated by us. The pre-configured software for technical cleanliness in the various Analyzer Workflow solutions ensures a fast start to the analysis, compliant with all the current standards. The supervisor has the flexibility to adjust and proactively change parameters. Additional modules can be purchased at any time if external and internal requirements change and the analysis needs to be adapted.

Training users to operate a new device is usually very time consuming. How long does it take to train a user to operate an Analyzer Workflow solution?

Training on the Analyzer Workflow solutions takes a maximum of 1 to 2 days. The customer receives a short introduction during installation and an additional application day for a detailed induction at a later date. During installation, the product is calibrated and the system is explained. On the following application day, any questions that arise are discussed and training is provided for standards application. The customer is then ready to get started. Of course we’re always available to answer any questions you may have by telephone, but online support is also a good way to resolve issues quickly and simply, enabling the customer to carry out their cleanliness analysis efficiently and accurately.

 “We are very happy that Leica Microsystems is our first partner for this new cooperation concept,” says Jan Ellenberg, Unit Head and Coordinator of the new Imaging Centre at EMBL. “We are looking forward to bringing exciting new imaging technologies to researchers quickly, and to improving them further by exposing them early to cutting edge research questions. I hope that such an open innovation model will also be used by our other industrial partners in the EMBL Imaging Centre in the future.“

“The new collaboration will create a win-win situation and intensify our proven cooperation with EMBL. The motto of our founder Ernst Leitz – with the user for the user – now is interpreted from a modern perspective, namely Open Innovation,” says Markus Lusser, president of Leica Microsystems. “The direct exchange of developers and researchers will pave the way for break-through applications. Ones that confirm their relevance for state-of-the-art scientific research right from the start. We look forward to seeing how the fruits of this collaboration can benefit scientific progress in the near future.”

The framework agreement is designed to further strengthen the link between state-of-the-art microscopy technologies and the forefront of scientific research. The cooperation will give scientists the opportunity to: learn how to use the most modern facilities; help develop new instruments and methods; and actively engage in technology transfer. Up to 300 visiting scientists per year will collaborate at the new imaging center, giving them access to the very latest imaging technologies.

___________________________________________

About Leica Microsystems
Leica Microsystems develops and manufactures microscopes and scientific instruments for the analysis of microstructures and nanostructures. Ever since the company started as a family business in the nineteenth century, its instruments have been widely recognized for their optical precision and innovative technology. It is one of the market leaders in compound and stereo microscopy, digital microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy with related imaging systems, electron microscopy sample preparation, and surgical microscopes. 

The quality of steel is essential for industries like automotive, transportation, metalworking, electric power, and construction. Therefore, determination of steel quality with reliable inclusion analysis and compliance with various standards is crucial.

Advantages of the new LAS X Steel Expert 
•    Optimized workflow with a smart, intuitive user interface
•    Inclusion analysis in less time: Simultaneous detailed view and overview of the sample area and inclusions with the Dual Viewer 
•    Fast implementation of changes in international and regional standards
•    Creation of user-defined standards and analysis conforming to organizational norms and processes

Learn more about LAS X Steel Expert

Application examples are given for the biosensors: Flipper-TR that senses membrane tension; EPAC FLIM-FRET that detects cAMP; and ERK FRET FLIM that monitors signal transduction activities in cells.
 
The SP8 FALCON platform is a highly sensitive confocal and FLIM system which features hybrid detectors, full spectral tunability via SP detectors, white light laser (WLL) sources, and an acousto-optical beam splitter (AOBS). More information about the SP8 FALCON is available here.

“Leica Microsystems is excited to have a partnership with Struers as this alliance reinforces our commitment to providing the highest quality solutions and support for both new and existing customers in the UK,” said Alain Stewart, Business Development Manager at Leica Microsystems in the UK.

Leica Microsystems and Struers understand the importance of providing to customers both value and cutting-edge solutions which lead to excellent results for routine and research applications.

Lee Cobb, Managing Director at Struers Ltd. in the UK, said, “I’m proud to be partnering with Leica Microsystems to help develop new knowledge and solutions in metallography and material analysis. This new partnership will assist Struers to ensure excellent results for its valued customers. I look forward to providing our customers with bespoke processes using quality Leica microscopes alongside Struers equipment.”

Current users of Leica products for industrial and material applications in the UK can look forward to a continuation of support with this new partnership.

For more information, please contact uksales@leica-microsystems.com.

EnFocus OCT enhances the ophthalmic surgeon’s view, providing cross-sectional images of subsurface ocular tissue details in real-time with ultra-HD resolution. It can help surgeons to overcome uncertainties in moments where they might ask themselves questions such as: Is there residual sub-retinal fluid? Is the glaucoma drainage device in the correct position? Does the corneal graft have the correct orientation? Dr. Barbara Parolini, Eyecare Clinic, Brescia, Italy, was one of the first to try this integrated solution in the OR and believes it provides her with a major advantage, “It makes the difference between compromise and perfection,” says Dr. Parolini. “You might think you are finished with the procedure, but only with OCT do you know for sure. Having this reassurance during each surgical step helps me to improve quality and empowers me to strive for perfection.”

“With full integration of EnFocus OCT into the Proveo 8 microscope, Leica Microsystems is further supporting surgeons in complex surgeries that aim to restore or improve vision for patients suffering chronic or severe visional diseases,” says Maxim Mamin, VP Medical Division at Leica Microsystems. “The additional information provided by OCT imaging can make a big difference in these cases as surgeons get an exact and immediate confirmation on how the fine ocular tissue reacts to their surgical maneuvers. With this information surgeons can adapt their surgical plan intraoperatively and apply their surgical skills with more certainty”.

The Proveo 8 microscope with EnFocus OCT built into the stand will provide surgeons with a comprehensive visualization system that is intuitive to use and supports an interruption-free workflow. The touch-screen interface of the Proveo 8 allows the surgeon to customize preferences quickly for fast pre-operative setup. The surgeon can easily activate the OCT image at any time via a footswitch and view either injected into the oculars or on a large HD monitor. No imaging technician is needed to support the OCT system. During procedures, surgeons can rely on focused live OCT visualization with stable image quality thanks to auto-image optimization, z-tracking, and contrast enhancement functions.

The adaptable Proveo 8 microscope platform also offers integrated HD 4K recording and documentation as well as IOLcompass Pro which provides precise, markerless intraoperative guidance templates for IOL placement. For wide-angle viewing of the fundus during vitreous surgery, ophthalmic surgeons have the choice of the RUV800 or the contact-free BIOM 5 from OCULUS with synchronized focus.

Following its preview at the ESCRS Congress in Paris, the Proveo 8 with integrated EnFocus OCT will be shown for the first time in the USA at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) Annual Meeting in San Francisco, from October 12^th-15^th 2019.

Register now to be kept up to date about the benefits of the new integrated solution and be among the first to know the availability date!

*The Proveo 8 ophthalmic microscope integrated with EnFocus OCT is currently under development and is not commercially available. Please contact your local Leica Microsystems representative for further information.

More and more users need to collect a large number of dissectates from multiple specimens. This capability is especially advantageous for researchers who work with biobanks and in the field of proteomics. Several new features in the software have been added to meet this growing demand.

Collect many specimens at one time

First, now researchers can collect 352 different specimens in one run. The new LMD software can accommodate 384-well plates*, rather than just 96-well plates which was the case before. To save users time when coping with the higher number of dissectates and specimens, several software features enable certain processes to be automated. One example is the “Inspect all collectors” function. With the press of a button, the LMD system will then automatically inspect and document all collector wells which were used.

Import ROIs at higher speed from external images

Second, users can now define ROIs for laser microdissection with an external imaging method and then import them more quickly in XML format into the new LMD software. For example, researchers working in biobanks often image and annotate hundreds or even thousands of specimens with a slide scanner. Now they can import at greater speed the ROIs from the slide-scanned images.

Select ROIs more rapidly

Third, users now can select more easily ROIs in the field of view (FOV) which should be modified. The new software allows the ROIs to be selected by simply drawing a box around them.

In addition, to improve the accuracy of the 3D position of imported ROIs, z-coordinates of the reference points on the LMD slide are now incorporated. To further improve cutting accuracy, an Active Focus Correction has been implemented. It automatically autofocuses before each cut to eliminate potential errors due to focus drift during a high-throughput experiment. Lastly, users can set a focus for each individual contrast method to compensate for possible focus variation.

*Only 352 wells reachable by the travel range of the stage. Due to the small well opening diameter, the collection rate might be diminished.

“170 years of Leica Microsystems stands for the special history of a company that was founded in the middle of the 19th century as a family business in Wetzlar. Today Leica Microsystems is part of a global success story and has a worldwide reputation. Your company is one of the most important employers in Central Hessen and contributes significantly to the attractiveness of the region as a technology and business location. We are proud of this global success story from Hessen! Therefore, I would like to extend the warmest congratulations of the Hessian state government to the employees and management on this anniversary. Through your innovations you have changed the view of the world and, thus, also the world itself to a certain extent. I wish you all for the future the same creativeness you have shown in the past", stated Finance Minister Dr. Schäfer.

 "We offer solutions to users all over the world, so they can make exciting discoveries," says Markus Lusser, President of Leica Microsystems. "Groundbreaking innovations mark the path from the Wetzlar start-up to today's Leica companies. Again and again, we have shifted the boundaries of what is visible. We are proud of our contributions to help users all over the world find answers to some of the most important questions of our time, as well as, improve and secure the quality of human life."

The company's history is closely linked to the name Leitz and the Leica brand. Leica is derived from Leitz camera. The legendary 35 mm camera was a milestone. In the field of microscopy, this would also certainly include the first series of microscopes manufactured with super-resolution STED technology. After 120 years, these microscopes overcame the seemingly immovable limits of optical resolution and enabled new access to the building blocks of life. The groundbreaking development of STED microscopy was awarded the Nobel Prize in 2014. The aspiration to make it possible for users to gain new insights is also reflected in the company motto "From Eye to Insight".

Current solutions from Leica Microsystems combine excellent optics with digital technology to provide further insights. Surgeons can use augmented reality during surgery to distinguish tumors from healthy tissue in real time and use this information to improve decision-making. Networked laboratory instruments perform routine tasks and Leica imaging technology reveals an unprecedented depth of information from precious biological samples. The leitmotif or slogan "With the user, for the user" of Ernst Leitz I sets the direction for all technological developments. Innovations primarily serve the user. This is the tradition at Leica Microsystems.

The Reference Center will allow scientists at the CBU to have access to the most modern light microscopy technologies, such as a SP8 multiphoton confocal system, so they can visualize cell structures at the sub-micrometer and nanoscale.

At the same time, Leica Microsystems can take advantage of the knowledge and experience of CBU scientists with the goal of developing higher performance microscopes to meet the future needs of its customers. The Reference Center will also serve as a Demo Center for Leica microscope technology.

Leica Microsystems’ associates and scientists at the University Medical Center in Mainz can exchange ideas via close collaboration at the Reference Center. Such an interaction will likely lead to improvements and new developments in light microscopy concerning processes and methods used in cell biology research.

For more details, refer to the recent press release (in German) from the University Medical Center in Mainz.

Buffalo Grove, USA. Leica Microsystems has received DeNovo clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market its FL400 surgical microscope filter in the United States for characterization of tumor tissue in neurosurgery. In combination with the active substance 5 aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA), FL400 fluorescence allows surgeons to visually differentiate malignant glioma tissue from healthy brain tissue in real time. This aids precise tumor resection, which is vital in order to preserve brain function.

The SP8 platform was designed for high sensitivity allowing long recording times of your precious samples. With integration of the Leica-exclusive detection concept LIGHTNING, the detection limit achievable with the system has been further improved. This enables researchers to simultaneously trace fast dynamics of multiple molecules in living specimens, even those expressed at low levels. LIGHTNING marks a new level of image quality with super-resolution in all five channels, down to 120 nm, enabling researchers to resolve finest details in all color channels at once.

Markus Lusser, President of Leica Microsystems: “Our next-generation SP8 LIGHTNING confocal platform offers researchers new opportunities to decipher the role of molecules in their dynamic interaction in living organisms. A thorough understanding of the processes in living cells is the key to gaining greater insight into the mechanisms by which diseases develop, how they can be diagnosed at an early stage, and how they can be treated. We are delighted to help inspire research in this important field with our unique SP8 LIGHTNING solution.”

The SP8 LIGHTNING allows proper sampling over a specimen area that is at least six times larger than with any other confocal system, today. For easy navigation of complex samples, the LAS X Navigator software enables correlation of high resolution images with overview images. In addition scientists can combine and accommodate different research methods in the SP8 LIGHTNING ranging from confocal microscopy with super-resolution to STED nanoscopy. Methods such as multiphoton microscopy, lifetime imaging, light sheet imaging, or CARS can also be added, further expanding the research possibilities. 

Users are able to do detailed component analysis for R&D, QC, and failure analysis (FA) quickly using the DVM6 system and LAS X.next. It guides users through image acquisition, measurements, and report generation, providing an efficient workflow and reliable reproducibility of results. LAS X.next provides a straightforward operation for the DVM6 system for faster completion of work steps.

A quick look at the advantages users have when doing component analysis with the DVM6 microscope and LAS X.next:

• Fast and intuitive navigation with predefined tasks
• Attain reliable results rapidly thanks to integrated intelligent algorithms which accelerate the optimization of microscope parameters, e.g., the optics, illumination, and stage settings
• Easy acquisition of 2D and 3D images using interactive scan points to quickly define a scan area or volume

More information about the DVM6 and LAS X.next is available here.

Now you are able to combine visual & chemical inspection in a single work step. The exclusive LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) system for the DM6 M microscope and the Cleanliness Expert software from Leica Microsystems make it possible.

Of course you can do that; there are even product-specific adapters. This may be adequate for cases where image quality is not as crucial. But if you have already invested in an expensive microscope, you are doing yourself a disservice by using a normal digital camera.

Is it because the lenses on microscopes and cameras are considerably different?

Not only that. The digital cameras by Leica are specially developed for taking micro- and macroscopic images. These products are even developed with the main application in mind. We manufacture digital cameras that are optimised for use in quality control on printed circuit boards. For example, cameras from the relatively low-priced IC and MC series can be connected directly to a monitor or PC. Then there is the DMC series in the higher-performance segment. This series ranges from the DMC2900 to our flagship model DMC6200. The former is capable of not only black-and-white but also polarisation imaging. In addition, it is also very well suited for live imaging thanks to its USB 3.0 connection and ability to capture 30 frames per second.

On the subject of DMC6200: In terms of its technical specifications, this camera is even able to surpass some professional digital cameras for "normal" photos. What does this do for microscopy?

The DMC6200 uses pixel-shift processing and can therefore achieve an extremely accurate colour reproduction. Each of the three primary colours – red, green and blue – is broken up into 16 levels, giving a total of 65536 colours, of which only 256 are displayed on the screen in the end. This means the amount of information collected is massive. The camera also supports all kinds of contrasting methods, including fluorescence. The camera and its great versatility mean you can't really go wrong. Nevertheless, the key factor should always be the primary application.

What are we going to see in the coming months with regard to technical development in digital microscopy?

4K resolution will definitely catch on. And that is because compatible monitors are available at reasonable prices right now. We have already been putting 4K-capable CMOS chips in our products for a long time. We can also expect to see cameras that don't need to rely on external PC software – at least when it comes to basic image processing. Another upcoming technology is encrypted network connection, for example to a central image database.

The demand for digital cameras has been growing rapidly in the past years. Surely technical advancement alone cannot account for this rise.

One of the reasons for this rise in demand can be traced back to very pragmatic considerations: such cameras are made a necessity by law, standards and regulations. For example, photographic records, including microscopy data, are necessary in pharmaceutical research as well as in the development of components used in the aerospace or automotive industry. You can't perform documentation reliably without a digital camera installed on or built into a microscope.

Now on to you, Mr Smith. You are currently working on the next-gen LAS X software user interface for the DVM6 digital microscope. How much are you able to tell us about it?

Firstly, LAS X is the software platform for Leica microscopes that supports both our stereo and digital microscope systems for applications in both industry and life sciences. The core software provided with microscope systems that have automation, encoded zooms or digital cameras. For the DVM6 we are making an enhancement to LAS X to further optimize the user interface.

With what goal in mind?

Our goal is to make the software so easy to use that a child can do it. And we mean this literally. To make the software intuitive to use, we have integrated almost everything that you would normally need to learn from a handbook. By doing so, we are killing two birds with one stone: The user will make fewer mistakes and remain motivated, and employers can spend less time training their employees. This means employers will save time and achieve better results more quickly.

And what has changed "under the bonnet"?

We have optimized quite a few parameters for example, stitching – which refers to the seamless merging of images in the X, Y and Z axes. While horizontal stitching make an image larger in a flat plane, adding Z-axis stitching allows us to literally increase or depth. Multiple images are combined, with different focus depths stacked on each other, allowing the user to, in a way, “dive” into the resulting image. The construction of these Z layers takes place almost automatically. One of the things the new version of LAS X does is to make it much easier and faster for the user (kids included) to generate 2D and 3D images.

Dr Bürgers and Mr Smith, thank you very much for the interview.

A signing ceremony will take place Thursday afternoon, February 7, 2019, at UC San  Diego’s Leichtag Building between Dean of UC San Diego School of Medicine Dr. Steven Garfin and Greg Eppink, General Manager Microscopy, Leica Microsystems Americas. The Center of Excellence features cutting-edge confocal microscopy technology from Leica, including FALCON fast lifetime contrast fluorescence imaging as well as STED, multiphoton and confocal super-resolution microscopy systems to capture dynamic processes at the molecular level. 

“Our core has been serving the microscopy imaging needs of researchers across the campus for more than 15 years,” said Binhai Zheng, PhD, professor in the Department of Neurosciences and faculty director of the microscopy core who will also oversee the new center. “With the support of our institutional leadership, the new partnership with Leica will boost our ability to provide advanced tools to our researchers for years to come, supporting cross-campus initiatives, such as the new Center for Network Medicine and its mission to enhance human life through innovative, disruptive research.” 

Garfin agreed: “The science and practice of medicine are relentlessly more complicated and nuanced, requiring physicians and scientists to understand the workings of the human body in ever-increasing detail. The new Leica center offers another, powerful tool, one that can be used by students and faculty alike.” 

“Collaborating with a world class organization like UC San Diego to enable them to push the limits of what is seen is truly exciting for Leica and we look forward to working with UC San Diego today and for many years into the future,” said Eppink. “Leica Microsystems’ mission is to provide unrivaled insight for our customers by pushing the limits of what was previously possible and visible. UC San Diego is a great ally which will truly allow Leica to live up to our mission.” 

One of the most exciting aspects of the agreement is the ongoing collaboration between scientists on the leading edge of research and Leica Microsystems’ product management. The Center of Excellence will provide valuable feedback necessary to drive innovation in software, systems and workflow solutions while informing the applications and advanced imaging and analysis techniques of tomorrow.

The opening ceremony for the Center of Excellence will begin at 3:30 PM in the lobby of the Leichtag Building, and will be followed by a brief reception featuring refreshments with the opportunity to discuss research opportunities at the Center. The Center of Excellence will be located in the UC San Diego School of Medicine Microscopy Core, Cellular and Molecular Medicine East.

First of all, Leica Microsystems would like to thank all 2,172 teams which participated for their hard work, creative ideas, and contributions. Leica Microsystems would also like to congratulate the winners of the prize money.

The top 4 prize-winning teams with the highest F1 scores are:

• 1st place → team “bestfitting” ($14,000 prize);
• 2nd place → team “WAIR” ($10,000 prize);
• 3rd place → team “pudae” ($8,000 prize);
• 4th place → team “Wienerschnitzelgemeinschaft” ($5,000 prize).

The objective of each team participating in the competition was to build a predictive model using artificial intelligence (AI) and data mining methods to classify 28 types of cell organelles for protein localization. More than 170,000 confocal microscope images of cultured cells were made available by the Human Protein Atlas (HPA). Many of these images were acquired with Leica confocal instruments. The image data were analyzed by the models developed during the competition and the results evaluated to determine the winners. The competition organizers were amazed by the overall participation and the achieved results.

Life scientists study the localization of proteins at cell organelles to better understand their role in health and disease. By automating this task via the exploitation of AI and data mining, scientists will be able to detect abnormalities in the cell more rapidly and accurately. Faster, more precise predictive models will allow scientists to put more focus on rare cell organelles and phenotypes which, at present, often go overlooked.

To learn more about the HPA and protein localization, you can read an interview with Emma Lundberg. She is the lead scientist behind the Cell Atlas, a part of the HPA, and the SciLifeLab at the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden.

Wetzlar. World-leading designer and manufacturer of innovative microscope solutions, Leica Microsystems, has announced the launch of a new class of instruments for high-speed, high-quality imaging of a large diversity of samples, including thick specimens. THUNDER Imagers allow to visualize clearly in real time details even deep inside thick samples of biologically relevant models like model organisms, tissue sections, and 3D cell cultures. This makes THUNDER Imager a cost-effective and speedy alternative to methods like structured illumination or spinning disc.

Wetzlar/Orlando. The SP8 FALCON Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging (FLIM) solution from Leica Microsystems, has been recognized with a prestigious R&D 100 Award. The annual award is presented to the 100 most exceptional innovations in science and technology introduced during the previous year.

The lifetime of a fluorescence signal carries information on cellular microenvironment and molecular interactions. The SP8 FALCON was selected as a leading innovation as it enables scientists to utilize the recognized power of FLIM for functional imaging without needing to add complex equipment to an existing confocal system. Visualization and tracking of dynamic sub-cellular processes like oxidative stress and changes in ion concentration using lifetime contrast imaging becomes fast and simple.

In addition, SP8 FALCON allows FLIM to be combined with other imaging techniques offered with the SP8 confocal platform such as multiphoton excitation or stimulated emission depletion (STED). This powerful combination enables scientists to further optimize their research work.

“The SP8 FALCON is a game-changing innovation and we are proud that this has been recognized with the prestigious R&D 100 Award”, says Markus Lusser, President of Leica Microsystems. ”With this major advancement in confocal imaging, complicated experimental setups and tedious data handling are a thing of the past. The acquisition speed and intuitive operation of the system enables researchers to benefit in an optimal way from the power of fluorescence lifetime contrast. This opens up new applications in the life science and biomedical fields, allowing new insights to be gained so that fundamental scientific questions can be answered.”