Re: [Histonet] Cost per test averages

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

I’m a vendor that sells an H staining product, so I’m not going to
attempt to give you what the average cost per of a H stained slide.
What I will tell you is that when looking at cost per slide you need
to calculate more than your consumables. Those are going to be your
capital cost. You also need to calculate in your labor cost. Those are
gonna be your operational dollars.
The reason why I say that is that some strainers are more efficient
than other stainer. Not just in the staining process itself but in the
overall maintenance, reagent management and waste control cost.
Remember when using labor dollars you want to calculate that using
fully burdens dollars.
Be complete in the way that you calculate your overall cost per slide

John Frazier, MBA, MT(ASCP)
Strategic Workflow Consulting
Roche Diagnostics

> On Nov 9, 2018, at 14:54, Charles Riley  wrote:
>
> What is a good cost per test average for a standard H slide?
>
> I am trying to see if I should be fighting for better prices or if  my
> current costs are below the average and am getting a good deal already.
> (Obviously the lower i can go the better
>
> Also what is your average cost per test for IHC's ?
> --
>
> Charles Riley BS  HT, HTL(ASCP)CM
>
> Histopathology Coordinator/ Mohs
>

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Re: [Histonet] Unstained slides

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

Interesting that you stated that, I was at the university of Colorado
this past week and was speaking with the medical director of the
pathology department. We actually started talking about unstained
slides and their storage conditions. We actually spoke of the histonet
discussions around unstained slide storage.  He stated to me that due
to the elevation and lack of humidity in Denver that the antigenicity
of unstained slides has been up to multiple years. This is due to, as
you stated, water in the tissue.

Sent from my iPad

> On Sep 3, 2018, at 9:42 AM, Cartun, Richard  
> wrote:
>
> It appears that the presence of water, both endogenously and exogenously, 
> plays a central role in the loss of antigenicity in stored unstained slides 
> (see reference below).  Labs that are experiencing significant loss of 
> immunoreactivity in their unstained slides should check their tissue 
> processing.
>
> Xie R, Chung J-Y, Ylaya K, et al.:  Factors influencing the degradation of 
> archival formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections.  J of Histochem 
> Cytochem 2011; 59:356-365.
>
> Richard
>
> Richard W. Cartun, MS, PhD
> Director, Histology & The Martin M. Berman, MD Immunopathology & Morphologic 
> Proteomics Laboratory
> Director, Biospecimen Collection Programs
> Assistant Director, Anatomic Pathology
> Hartford Hospital
> 80 Seymour Street
> Hartford, CT  06102
> (860) 972-1596
> (860) 545-2204 Fax
>
> -Original Message-
> From: Rene J Buesa via Histonet [mailto:histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]
> Sent: Sunday, August 19, 2018 2:09 PM
> To: Frazier, John; Terri Braud
> Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu
> Subject: Re: [Histonet] Unstained slides
>
> This is an email from Outside HHC. USE CAUTION opening attachments or links 
> from unknown senders.
>
> Everything has been pointed out is correct BUT also pivot on "how the 
> unstained slides are kept".Kept in a box their "useful life" is quite short 
> (not beyond 1 week at the most).Kept at -80ºC I have used them after years of 
> being stored the principle being of deep-freezing and this is "standard 
> procedure" for IDF "+ controls".Kept in a Coplin jar filled with mineral oil 
> or paraffin covered I have used them after months of being stored the 
> principle being that, isolated from air oxygen, epitopes do not oxidize 
> ("weaken") of if they do, the rate is greatly slowed.On the other hand, 
> usually, unstained slides are kept for only few days in the event that, lets 
> say within a week, the PT decides to order some special procedure and 
> sometimes it is impossible "return" to the original block many times "almost 
> exhausted".Properly done storing unstained slides are extremely useful.René
>
>On Sunday, August 19, 2018 1:52 PM, "Frazier, John via Histonet" 
>  wrote:
>
>
> I agree with Tim as well. This is what we advise our clients to do. It takes 
> some coordination with the pathologist, but it is the best strategy for 
> reducing unnecessary unstained slides. In the studies that we have performed 
> only 10% of the unstained slides that are cut are you and the 90% are are it 
> takes some coordination with the pathologist, but it is the best strategy for 
> reducing unnecessary unstained slides. In the studies that we have performed 
> only 10% of the unstained slides that are cut are you and 90% are thrown away 
> thrown away.
> Several laboratories that I have visited in order to reduce the amount of 
> wasted tissue when refacing the blocks, is to reseal the blocks with liquid 
> paraffin, that have scant or small amounts of tissue in the block, such as 
> the needle core biopsy.
> Bottom line on this issue is to educate the pathologist, and not water and 
> stain slides except in rare occasions
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
>> On Aug 17, 2018, at 14:07, Terri Braud  wrote:
>>
>> I'm with Tim Morken on this one. The variability of antigenicity in storage 
>> is so wide open, and there really is no recent data, so we just make a point 
>> of educating our techs on not wasting tissue/levels during sectioning.  If 
>> the techs feel that the residual tissue in the block is in danger of being 
>> exhausted, we communicate with our pathologists on how best to handle any 
>> requests.  Unstained slides was time, money, and storage and we are better 
>> off without them.
>>
>> Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP)
>> Anatomic Pathology Supervisor
>> Laboratory
>> Holy Redeemer Hospital
>> 1648 Huntingdon Pike
>> Meadowbrook, PA 19046
>> ph: 215-938-3689
>> fax: 215-938-3874
>> Care, Comfort, and Heal
>>
>> Today'

Re: [Histonet] Unstained slides

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

I agree with Tim as well. This is what we advise our clients to do. It
takes some coordination with the pathologist, but it is the best
strategy for reducing unnecessary unstained slides. In the studies
that we have performed only 10% of the unstained slides that are cut
are you and the 90% are are it takes some coordination with the
pathologist, but it is the best strategy for reducing unnecessary
unstained slides. In the studies that we have performed only 10% of
the unstained slides that are cut are you and 90% are thrown away
thrown away.
Several laboratories that I have visited in order to reduce the amount
of wasted tissue when refacing the blocks, is to reseal the blocks
with liquid paraffin, that have scant or small amounts of tissue in
the block, such as the needle core biopsy.
Bottom line on this issue is to educate the pathologist, and not water
and stain slides except in rare occasions

Sent from my iPhone

> On Aug 17, 2018, at 14:07, Terri Braud  wrote:
>
> I'm with Tim Morken on this one. The variability of antigenicity in storage 
> is so wide open, and there really is no recent data, so we just make a point 
> of educating our techs on not wasting tissue/levels during sectioning.  If 
> the techs feel that the residual tissue in the block is in danger of being 
> exhausted, we communicate with our pathologists on how best to handle any 
> requests.  Unstained slides was time, money, and storage and we are better 
> off without them.
>
> Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP)
> Anatomic Pathology Supervisor
> Laboratory
> Holy Redeemer Hospital
> 1648 Huntingdon Pike
> Meadowbrook, PA 19046
> ph: 215-938-3689
> fax: 215-938-3874
> Care, Comfort, and Heal
>
> Today's Topics:
>   7. Re: Unstained slides - how long are they good for?
>  (Morken, Timothy)
>
> Message: 7
> Date: Fri, 17 Aug 2018 15:16:00 +
> From: "Morken, Timothy" 
> To: P Sicurello 
> Subject: Re: [Histonet] Unstained slides - how long are they good for?
>
>
> Paula, since it is variable we strive to not have unstained slides. We had 
> kept them indefinitely, then when storage was overwhelming us we reduced it 
> to 2 months maximum. Now we require request for unstained to be ordered in 
> the system and delivered to the pathologist. We do not hold any in the lab. 
> We recut when new stains are ordered. In the past we had routinely cut extras 
> "just in case" but ended up with thousands of unstained slides that were 
> never used. Instead we trained everyone to reduce wastage and get good 
> sections from a cut block with minimal facing. We have not stored unstained 
> sections for many years and they do not seem to be missed.
>
> Tim Morken
> Pathology Site Manager, Parnassus
> Supervisor, Electron Microscopy/Neuromuscular Special Studies
> Department of Pathology
> UC San Francisco Medical Center
>
>
> -Original Message-
> From: P Sicurello via Histonet [mailto:histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]
> Sent: Thursday, August 16, 2018 4:49 PM
> To: HistoNet
> Subject: [Histonet] Unstained slides - how long are they good for?
>
> Hello My Fellow Histologists,
>
> Happy Friday Eve.
>
> The question has come up..  How long are *unstained* slides good for?
> Not for H but tests like IHC and molecular testing.  These slides have
> been cut, stored at room temperature, not sealed in anyway, and kept in a
> cardboard box.
>
> Please let me know what your opinions are and what your retention policy is
> concerning *unstained* slides.
>
> Thanks oodles.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Paula Sicurello, HTL (ASCP)CM
>
> Histotechnology Specialist
>
> UC San Diego Health
>
> 200 Arbor Drive
>
> San Diego, CA 92103
>
> (P): 619-543-2872
>
>
>
> *Confidentiality Notice*: The information transmitted in this e-mail is
> intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may
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> ___
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>
>
>
> --
>
> Subject: Digest Footer
>
> ___
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>
> --
>
> End of Histonet Digest, Vol 177, Issue 16
> *
>
>
>

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Re: [Histonet] Unstained slides - how long are they good for?

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

I’m a histology workflow consultant that visits many AP laboratories
each year. Almost every laboratory has a different retention policy.
The average of most laboratories is to hold onto unstained slides for
three weeks after final sign out. Typically the unstained slide can be
held for a long period of time if used just for morphological
staining. However if the unstained slides is going to be used for IHC
or molecular testing, the antigenicity of the slide begins degrading
at the point of cutting. Typically, however, for a high-quality IHC
staining, if stored at room temperature, the unstained slide should
not be held much longer than one month. And even at that time frame
you will begin to see the degrading of the stain quality. If the
slides are kept in a closed box, in refrigerator, they have longer
retention. Typically up to 2 to 3 months.
I hope this helps

Sent from my iPhone

> On Aug 16, 2018, at 19:48, P Sicurello  wrote:
>
> Hello My Fellow Histologists,
>
> Happy Friday Eve.
>
> The question has come up..  How long are *unstained* slides good for?
> Not for H but tests like IHC and molecular testing.  These slides have
> been cut, stored at room temperature, not sealed in anyway, and kept in a
> cardboard box.
>
> Please let me know what your opinions are and what your retention policy is
> concerning *unstained* slides.
>
> Thanks oodles.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Paula Sicurello, HTL (ASCP)CM
>
> Histotechnology Specialist
>
> UC San Diego Health
>
> 200 Arbor Drive
>
> San Diego, CA 92103
>
> (P): 619-543-2872
>
>
>
> *Confidentiality Notice*: The information transmitted in this e-mail is
> intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may
> contain confidential and/or privileged material.  Any review,
> retransmission, dissemination or other use of or taking of any action in
> reliance upon this information by persons or entities other than the
> intended recipient is prohibited.  If you received this e-mail in error,
> please contact the sender and delete the material from any computer.
>

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Re: [Histonet] Automated Embedder

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

Good afternoon Chris,
I am a 6 Sigma Black Belt histology consultant with Ventana/Roche. I have
visited many hospital, reference and research histology based labs over my
15 years of lab consulting and 20 years in the lab. In all those years, I
have only seen 3 labs with the auto-embedders. 2 of the 3 are back to
traditional embedding due to quality, additional time spent at grossing
(that is where the tissue is oriented in the cassette) and you are forced
to purchase Sakura cassettes. The embedding staff at all 3 sites said that
they can embed as fast with better quality. Additionally, the block cuts
differently due to the thinness of the cassette. The one remaining lab that
I know still has one is Covenant in Kentucky and Mountain View, Calf. I am
sure there are others auto-embedders out there but I see about 6 labs/month
and the auto-embedded have been out there for at least 8-9 years. The
concept sounds very Lean and is probably in the 4 sigma range for embedding
errors. Lastly, the certified PA’s in most labs are the hire paid between a
histologist and a PA. Where do you want to spend your operational dollars?
I am not for or against the product. I am just telling you what I have
seen.

John Frazier, MT(ASCP), MBA, LSSBB
Sent from my iPad

On Jul 16, 2018, at 1:45 PM, Cristi Rigazio  wrote:

Good morning fellow histo peeps!

We have been looking into the automated embedding system. The cutting room
is excited about this opportunity, but the grossing personnel have some
concerns. Is  anyone out there currently using this?  Can anyone provide
some input on tissue types, implementation, time differences in the use of
the cassette inserts, etc.,?

thanks,
Cristi
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Re: [Histonet] Histopathology text recommendations

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

Histotechnology: A Self-Instructional Text
Sent from my iPhone

On May 19, 2018, at 5:17 PM, Saundra Ellis <
saundra.el...@floridawomancare.com> wrote:

Anything written by Freida Carson.

Saundra Ellis
Histology Supervisor
Florida Woman Care Laboratory
Cell (360) 513-9665 (best contact)
FAX (813) 433-5542

saundra.el...@floridawomancare.com



From: Gordon Brown via Histonet 
Sent: Saturday, May 19, 2018 2:49:45 PM
To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu
Cc: Gordon Brown
Subject: [Histonet] Histopathology text recommendations

Can anyone give me recommendations for a good histopathology text and
atlas? I'm not a professional or even a formal student, I'm an amateur
microscopist with a keen interest in histology, although I did attend a UK
medical school many years ago only to decide that medicine was not for me.
I'm now retired and expanding my interest in microscopy, which has
fascinated me since the age of 8, I now have a collection of decent
microscopes and microtomes and I'm setting up my study as a home microscopy
and slide making facility. I have a growing collection of old histology
slides including a number of pathology examples and I'm keen to be able to
identify the histological changes that take place due to disease. In
particular I am looking to be able to identify and photograph carcinomas as
I recently acquired a photomicrography bench used by the Imperial Cancer
Research Campaign in London during the 1950s and 1960s, and it would be
appropriate to use it for the purpose it was designed for.

Hope someone can help, I've subscribed to this list for many years but only
rarely posted anything, the last time was when I enquired about replaceable
blade holders for the original Cambridge rocking microtome and a very kind
histologist in the USA sent me a slightly damaged holder and some blades.
Fortunately I never managed to adapt it for the Cambridge as it is a
perfect fit for the Reichert and Leitz rotary microtomes I now own!
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Re: [Histonet] Slide labels falling off- Slidemate AS

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

Stephanie I am a histology workflow consultant. I have seen this issue
at several sites that use the Thermo PrintMate. It uses a thermal
print head along with the print tape to put printed data onto the
frosted edge of a slide. Xylene being strong solvent and can easily
damaged this printing during the H staining process. First of all I
want to applaud anybody that is labeling their slides at the point of
cutting. Anytime that you label the slides after staining, that forces
you to handle label a slide then relabel the slide with the paper
label. This is were 67% of all miss labeling errors occur.
If this issue continues without resolution, I would look at moving to
a xylene resistant label and printer.  Continuing to applied the label
at the point of cutting (microtomy). These labels are known to stick
rather well and are not damaged by xylene. The label printers are not
expensive, About $750 for each label printer vs. $10,000+ each for the
Thermo PrintMate.
Please let me know if there's anything else I can do to help you

Sent from my iPhone

> On Mar 28, 2018, at 10:36 AM, Harris, Stefanie  
> wrote:
>
> Hello all,
>
>   I am hoping someone out there can help. We have been having issues with 
> some of the labels coming off during staining and after. It seems to be 
> random so I can't tell if there is a problem with the slides or the Slidemate 
> AS. There are days that it will be half the slides but other days where it 
> will be none.  Sometimes the labels peel off and float away during staining 
> and other times labels rub off when handling but only after staining.
>
>
> We are using Globe Scientific Slides, and have been for over 2 years with no 
> issues until December.
>
> I have changed out the ribbon on the slidemate and the problem is still 
> sporadic.
>
> Oven time drying time does not seem to be a factor.
>
> We have not made any reagent changes for the staining process to explain the 
> issue either.
>
>
> Has anyone else seen anything like this? Any slide suggestions to try out?
>
> Stefanie Harris
> Research Assistant, Histology
> Research Animal Diagnostic Services | Charles River
> 261 Ballardvale St., Wilmington, MA 01887
> P: 781.222.6592 | F: 978.658.7698
> stefanie.har...@crl.com | www.criver.com
> LinkedIn | 
> Twitter | 
> Facebook | 
> Eureka
>
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Re: [Histonet] Slide labels or slide labeler

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

As a AP workflow consultant, I look at the pro’s and con’s of each system
and come up with a plan or product that best meets the needs of the
individual lab. With that being said here are the variable I consider:

1. Size or foot print vs. work space
2. Cost per unit (also keep in mind additional units for growth and
replacement units due to catastrophic failure)
3. Cost of consumables. Tape, labels
4. Do I have to buy the printer company’s slides
5. You should have one printer per microtomy work station to ensure single
piece flow. Do not buy one printer from all slide printing which ensures
batch slide printing.
6. Maintenance requirements, (Daily, weekly, etc.) Time to perform the
maintenance.
7. Reliability, dependability, reputation and speed of the printer company
or seller for maintenance and, solution resolutions
8. The print on the slide or label must be highly xylene  and heat
resistant for slide data integrity. If you cure your slides prior to
storage, the label sometimes can turn black from the heat.
9. Is the printer going to be connected to a system that reads the Bar Code
from the LIS in order to create the label or the individual labeled slide
one at a time.
10. Speed of slide or label printing.
11. Frequency of loading the slides vs. labels
11. Will the label interfere with coverslipping

And that’s all I got to say about that.

Sent from my iPad

On Mar 8, 2018, at 3:32 PM, Blazek, Linda 
wrote:

I've used the Primera slide printer since it came out.  I like it a lot.
It needs it's maintenance kept up like anything else but other than
cleaning the rollers there is very little else that needs cleaning.

Linda Blazek HT (ASCP)
Pathology Lab Manager
GI Pathology of Dayton
Digestive Specialists, Inc
Phone: (937) 396-2623
Email: lbla...@digestivespecialists.com


-Original Message-
From: Victor via Histonet [mailto:histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu
]
Sent: Wednesday, March 07, 2018 5:59 PM
To: Vickroy, James; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu
Subject: Re: [Histonet] Slide labels or slide labeler

James,

I totally agree with your assessment of the Slidemate printers. Have not
had any experience with the newer model.
Applying slide labels shouldn’t be an issue when dealing with one block and
slide(s) at a time.  Some of this could depend upon your software available
to you. Our system generated just the labels needed for the block you were
cutting, on demand. You should be able to get a nice Zebra printer for
under $700.

Another of our labs used the new Sakura/Premera printer and really like it.

Victor

Sent from Mail for Windows 10

From: Vickroy, James via Histonet
Sent: Wednesday, March 7, 2018 2:12 PM
To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu
Subject: [Histonet] Slide labels or slide labeler

We have used the older version Slidemate slide labelers from Thermofisher
for the last three years.   I think putting the patient information
directly on the slide is preferred however the wear and tear on slide
printers means higher maintenance costs and more down time.  Thermofisher
has a newer version of the Slidemate now that has been designed so that
there is less wear and tear on the machines.   Currently when one of the
old labelers breaks down we have to send the instrument out and the cost is
generally 1000 - 1500 for repair each time.It also seems that the older
machines have to be sent in at least every other year.  Our older machines
have been sent in almost yearly.

We are considering switching to a slide label making system by General
Data.   One of the downsides is that we have to apply the label to each
slide so therefore we introduce another step where the slides could be
mislabeled.   The upside is that equipment costs are much less.   A new
thermal label printer runs around 700.00 where as the instrument that
imprints the slide label on the slide runs between 12000 - 15000 per unit.
We need three units.
Thermo also offers a lease system.What I need to know is what has been
the experience with the new Slidemate AS printers?   What kind of
maintenance issues have you encountered? Finally please let me know your
latest experiences with both slide label printers versus slide labeling
printers?

Thanks for your input.

Jim


Jim Vickroy
Histology Manager
Springfield Clinic, Main Campus, East Building
1025 South 6th Street
Springfield, Illinois  62703
Office:  217-528-7541, Ext. 15121
Email:  jvick...@springfieldclinic.com>



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Re: [Histonet] Blood donations for money

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

Here is a link to the Center for blood products evaluation and research
(CBER) and the FDA that regulate this industry.
I have consulted for this industry as a 6 sigma black belt and MT(ASCP).
The level of compliance and regulatory standards that the plasma industry
has to abide by puts most clinical laboratories and anatomical pathology
laboratories inspections to shame (Joint Commission, ASCP)

https://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/CentersOffices/OfficeofMedicalProductsandTobacco/CBER/default.htm

Sent from my iPhone

On Jul 23, 2017, at 12:51 PM, Bob Richmond  wrote:

Jorge A. Santiago-Blay, PhD asks about blood donation for money. I suppose
he's in the US. I don't think there's any paid donation of whole blood in
the US any more. This is probably a plasmapheresis center, where people
donate twice a week. The red blood cells are returned to the donor. Two
cycles of this are usually done at a session.

Many, though not all, plasma donors are pretty sleazy people. I'd ask the
plasma center first, then complain to local authorities about it. Most of
these plasma centers are franchise operations, and you could complain to
their managers also.

Most plasma products (derivatives) can be sterilized so they don't transmit
viruses. Or so we hope.

Bob Richmond
Samurai Pathologist
Maryville TN
**

Close to where I leave, there is an establishment for blood "donations".

Apparently, the establishment pays per donation. I hypothesize that the

money explains why the place is generally "hopping" (today, ca. 8:30AM,

there were ca, 25-30 cars parked in front of the establishment; Sunday

mornings, same story). Regularly, I see trash out of the store (incl. blood

splatter marks on the sidewalk, gauze, etc.).


Can someone tell me:

1. Where can one find information of the internal operations of

establishments like this?


2. Where can one report concerns about establishments like this?


3. More broadly, how can anyone *scientifically* tell whether the blood

"donated" at those (or any other) establishments is "safe" for use by other

humans?


Jorge A. Santiago-Blay, PhD

blaypublishers.com
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Re: [Histonet] Blood donations for money

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

Under FDA guidelines plasmapheresis donor are held to a higher standard
than red cell downers when it comes to qualifications.
Plasmapheresis donors are required take a physical once a year by a
registered nurse.
Each plasma donor center must a medical director that can only be filled by
a licensed physician. They are required to be on site minimum 20 hours a
month to review laboratory results donor records, physical reviews, and
consult any donors that were rejected due to positive lab test results.
There are many more FDA, foreign government German Health Ministry, and
internal company standards that each donor center must abide by. If not
they can receive 483's which is a citation, warning letters or consent
decree.
Each donor is required to donate a minimum of two times with negative test
results before the units can be put into production. I'll plasma is tested
for viral markers, total protein, AST(liver test), West Nile, parvovirus,
sexually transmitted diseases and many other lab test. This lab tests are
designed to not only monitor the integrity of the plasma pool but also the
donor's health.
Prior to the plasma being put into production it goes through a series of
detergents, cooling and heating, Ultraviolet light that will kill any
viral, bacterial and or fungal material.
To my knowledge there has not been any diseases acquired by recipients of
the pharmaceutical derivatives from plasma donors since the 1990's.

These donors may be paid but that is the only way to meet the huge supply
of plasma needed to make all the different plasma based products. IVIG,
RhoGam, CVM immunoglobulin, Albumin, *Alpha-1 Antitrypsin*

*Here is a link to the insight of plasma donations and the governing bodies*

http://www.donatingplasma.org/


from my iPhone



Sent from my iPhone
On Jul 23, 2017, at 12:51 PM, Bob Richmond  wrote:

Jorge A. Santiago-Blay, PhD asks about blood donation for money. I suppose
he's in the US. I don't think there's any paid donation of whole blood in
the US any more. This is probably a plasmapheresis center, where people
donate twice a week. The red blood cells are returned to the donor. Two
cycles of this are usually done at a session.

Many, though not all, plasma donors are pretty sleazy people. I'd ask the
plasma center first, then complain to local authorities about it. Most of
these plasma centers are franchise operations, and you could complain to
their managers also.

Most plasma products (derivatives) can be sterilized so they don't transmit
viruses. Or so we hope.

Bob Richmond
Samurai Pathologist
Maryville TN
**

Close to where I leave, there is an establishment for blood "donations".

Apparently, the establishment pays per donation. I hypothesize that the

money explains why the place is generally "hopping" (today, ca. 8:30AM,

there were ca, 25-30 cars parked in front of the establishment; Sunday

mornings, same story). Regularly, I see trash out of the store (incl. blood

splatter marks on the sidewalk, gauze, etc.).


Can someone tell me:

1. Where can one find information of the internal operations of

establishments like this?


2. Where can one report concerns about establishments like this?


3. More broadly, how can anyone *scientifically* tell whether the blood

"donated" at those (or any other) establishments is "safe" for use by other

humans?


Jorge A. Santiago-Blay, PhD

blaypublishers.com
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Re: [Histonet] Histonet Digest, Vol 164, Issue 10 mycoplasma on agar

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

I would have the ordering physician to order a cold agglutinin on the
patient. This is a a good indicator if Mycoplasma is present.

Sent from my iPad

> On Jul 14, 2017, at 4:23 PM, Steve McClain  wrote:
>
> Too bad, Hoescht stain is rapid and sensitive (UV) for mycoplasma.
>
> They can try staining direct smears w difquik giemsa.
>
> Or fix agar plate in Carnoy's and slice out and process to paraffin for 
> microtomy and staining.  IHC  can be done from sections if needed.
> These 1 micron bacteria are at the practical limits of visibility.
>
> Steve A. McClain, MD
>
>
>

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Re: [Histonet] specimen log in sheets

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

That's one of the most important aspects of the identity of the
specimen. I would never consider dropping that. If anything I would
consider dropping the patients name if the sign in sheet is in a
public area due to HIPPA compliance

Sent from my iPhone

> On Jun 6, 2017, at 6:26 PM, Howery, Jeff L  wrote:
>
> We have had some controversy regarding the use of specimen log sheets. Does 
> your Institution require,  to have the specimens logged in along with the 
> Patients name? Ours, currently require the Patient Information Sticker, 
> Department #of containers, Time, Routine Fresh Frozen, Staff Initials, and 
> Specimen Description. The Specimen Description is what this person wants to 
> get rid of. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Also, if you can give me 
> the size of your Institution Please.
>
> Regards,
> Jeff
>

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Re: [Histonet] heated block trimmers

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

The heated block trimmers are great for labs with a Bar Code tracking
system. The heater will not impede the integrity of the Bar Code on
the block in the process of removing paraffin, like scraping the block
can do. Additionally, most people can de-wax multiple blocks at one
time. The Shandon  block heater is the one I have seen in many labs.
You may want to check out EBay and or a company that sales used
medical equipment.

Sent from my iPad



Sent from my iPad
> On May 24, 2017, at 9:02 AM, Underwood, Fred  wrote:
>
> Hi All,
>
> Anyone have any experience with the heated block trimmers?  Specifically,  I 
> was looking at the one from Newcomer.
>
> Thanks,
> Fred
>

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Re: [Histonet] Survey!!!!!!

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

The one thing I would do is to make sure you choose a glass coverslip.
Plastic is not good over time and varying temperatures.

Sent from my iPad

> On Apr 1, 2017, at 7:18 PM, Patsy Ruegg  wrote:
>
> I have seen so many more problems with auto coverslippers, they break down, 
> the cover does not hold up over time for archiving, etc., that I would would 
> probably chose an autostainer.
>
>
>
> Patsy Ruegg, HT(ASCP)QIHC
> Ruegg IHC Consulting
> 40864 E Arkansas Ave
> Bennett, CO 80102
> H 303-644-4538
> C 720-281-5406
> prueg...@hotmail.com
>
>
>
> 
> From: Ifeoluwa Ajayi 
> Sent: Saturday, April 1, 2017 6:11 AM
> To: Patti Nelson - PNP Lab Consultant
> Cc: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu
> Subject: Re: [Histonet] Survey!!
>
> Personally I will prefer auto coverslipper, because cover slipping is
> cumbersome and takes time.
>
> Ajayi Ifeoluwa, BMLS, AMLSCN, MSc,
> UCH Ibadan, Nigeria.
>
> On Mar 31, 2017 8:00 PM, "Patti Nelson - PNP Lab Consultant via Histonet" <
> histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu> wrote:
>
>>
>> Hi Everyone,
>>
>> I just wanted to get everyone's opinion. If you had to chose between
>> buying a Auto Side Stainer or Auto Slide Cover Slipper, which one would you
>> chose? Lets say your volume was around 60 to 80 blocks a day and you worked
>> for a GI Lab. Everyone's input would be greatly appreciated.
>>
>>
>>
>> Sincerely,
>>
>> PATTI NELSON  H.T.(ASCP)
>> PNP LABORATORY CONSULTANTS
>> SUPERVISOR DGC/ZADEH LABS
>> PO BOX 412
>> CABAZON, CA. 92230
>> 909-841-9761
>> nelsonr...@verizon.net
>> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE:This message and any included attachments are from
>> Patti Nelson, PNP Laboratory Consultants and are intended only for the
>> addressee. The information contained in this message is confidential and
>> may contain privileged, confidential, proprietary and/or exemption from
>> disclosure under applicable law.  Unauthorized forwarding, printing,
>> copying, distribution, or use of such information is strictly prohibited
>> and may be unlawful.  If you are not the addressee, please promptly delete
>> this message and notify the sender ofthe delivery error by e-mail or you
>> may call  909-841-9761.
>>
>> ___
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>> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
> Histonet Info Page - lists.utsouthwestern.edu Mailing 
> Lists
> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
> Histonet -- For the exchange of information pertaining to histotechnology and 
> related fields About Histonet
>
>
>>
>
>

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Re: [Histonet] Histonet Digest, Vol 160, Issue 1

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

One last statement about recycling Xylene and Alcohol and I do not have a
dog in the fight. *Many labs I visit have recyclers and many of those do
not use them any more due to poor or inconsistent quality of the end
product and overall disillusionment of the money or time they thought they
would save.*

I am not telling labs not to recycle but if they ask me, I tell them what I
have seen and give them some of the data around the process measurements we
have collected.

Some variables that are critical in gauging the value-add or non value-add
are:

   - Cost of Waste disposal per gallon
   - Fully Burdened Salary of the lab individual/s that currently handle
   reagent changes (H stainer, Tissue Processor) vs. that of lab
   individual/s that will be or are handling the the recyclable reagents
   - Time to retrieve fresh reagents vs. time to move the recyclable
   reagent to and from the recycler.
   - Cost of PPE, i.e. respirator mask, gloves
   - Cost per square foot of Storage space for Hazardous waste vs. recycler
   foot print. This is an opportunity cost that recycling may provide for
   other types of storage.
   - Time to make dilutions of alcohol (100% to 95%, 85%,etc.)
   - Time to measure the concentrations of the recycled alcohol
   - Time for corrections if the concentrations is too low or too high
   - Is there a xylene substitute or instrument that does not require
   xylene and or alcohol
   - Others

Your have to be objective about the process measurements of making the
decision. What am I gaining vs. what am getting vs. what am I giving up.

On Wed, Mar 1, 2017 at 1:00 PM, 
wrote:

> Send Histonet mailing list submissions to
> histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu
>
> To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit
> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
> or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to
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>
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> histonet-ow...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu
>
> When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific
> than "Re: Contents of Histonet digest..."
>
> Today's Topics:
>
>1. Re: Recycled reagents in VIP processor (Frazier, John)
>2. Leica CM1950 (Clements, Mary Ann)
>3. Re: Recycled reagents in VIP processor (Margaryan, Naira)
>4. Re: Recycled reagents in VIP processor (Gareth Davis)
>5. Re: Histonet Digest, Vol 159, Issue 24 (Joanne Clark)
>6. Cassette Printers (Eileen Akemi Allison)
>7. cassette printer additional request (Eileen Akemi Allison)
>8. Re: cassette printer additional request (Blazek, Linda)
>
>
> -- Forwarded message --
> From: "Frazier, John" 
> To: Jay Lundgren 
> Cc: "Margaryan, Naira" , Gareth Davis <
> garethdavisy...@gmail.com>, "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" <
> histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu>, "naira.margar...@hsc.wvu.edu" <
> naira.margar...@hsc.wvu.edu>
> Bcc:
> Date: Tue, 28 Feb 2017 14:30:46 -0500
> Subject: Re: [Histonet] Recycled reagents in VIP processor
> As a six sigma consultant to histology laboratories, it has been my
> experience that recycling xylene and alcohol overall is not a cost
> saver. When you factor in both capital dollars and operational
> dollars, the savings is neutral. In addition to the neutral cost in
> recycling, you have to concern yourself with the quality of your in
> product on a daily basis. The last piece in the equation is the
> handling of Xylene with multiple touch points in between.  A movement
> within the histology world has begun with handling xylene (hazard
> waste) as little as possible and/or reducing or eliminating its use
> where possible.
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> > On Feb 27, 2017, at 6:25 PM, Jay Lundgren  wrote:
> >
> > When people say they are saving money by recycling reagents I always
> wonder
> > if they are including tech time (to run the still) in their calculations.
> >
> > Sincerely,
> >
> > Jay A. Lundgren, M.S., HTL (ASCP)
> >
> > On Wed, Feb 22, 2017 at 2:32 PM, Margaryan, Naira via Histonet <
> > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu> wrote:
> >
> >> WOULD LIKE TO KNOW AS WELL - IT IS WASTE OF MONEY
> >>
> >> Thanks,
> >> Naira
> >>
> >>
> >> Ranked nationally in all 10 pediatric specialties by U.S. News & World
> >> Report  (LCHOC Ver 1.0)
> >>
> >>
> >> This message contains confidential information and is intended only for
> >> the individual named. If you are not the named addressee you should not
> >> disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail. Please notify the sender
> >> immediately by e-mail if you have received this e-mail by mistake and
> >> delete this e-mail from your system. E-mail transmission cannot be
> >> guaranteed to be secure or error-free as 

Re: [Histonet] Recycled reagents in VIP processor

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

As a six sigma consultant to histology laboratories, it has been my
experience that recycling xylene and alcohol overall is not a cost
saver. When you factor in both capital dollars and operational
dollars, the savings is neutral. In addition to the neutral cost in
recycling, you have to concern yourself with the quality of your in
product on a daily basis. The last piece in the equation is the
handling of Xylene with multiple touch points in between.  A movement
within the histology world has begun with handling xylene (hazard
waste) as little as possible and/or reducing or eliminating its use
where possible.

Sent from my iPhone

> On Feb 27, 2017, at 6:25 PM, Jay Lundgren  wrote:
>
> When people say they are saving money by recycling reagents I always wonder
> if they are including tech time (to run the still) in their calculations.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Jay A. Lundgren, M.S., HTL (ASCP)
>
> On Wed, Feb 22, 2017 at 2:32 PM, Margaryan, Naira via Histonet <
> histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu> wrote:
>
>> WOULD LIKE TO KNOW AS WELL - IT IS WASTE OF MONEY
>>
>> Thanks,
>> Naira
>>
>>
>> Ranked nationally in all 10 pediatric specialties by U.S. News & World
>> Report  (LCHOC Ver 1.0)
>>
>>
>> This message contains confidential information and is intended only for
>> the individual named. If you are not the named addressee you should not
>> disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail. Please notify the sender
>> immediately by e-mail if you have received this e-mail by mistake and
>> delete this e-mail from your system. E-mail transmission cannot be
>> guaranteed to be secure or error-free as information could be intercepted,
>> corrupted, lost, destroyed, arrive late or incomplete, or contain viruses.
>> The sender therefore does not accept liability for any errors or omissions
>> in the contents of this message, which arise as a result of e-mail
>> transmission. If verification is required please request a hard-copy
>> version.  (LCHOC VER 1.0)
>>
>> 
>> From: Gareth Davis via Histonet [histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]
>> Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2017 2:23 PM
>> To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu
>> Subject: [Histonet] Recycled reagents in VIP processor
>>
>> Hi,
>> I was always told not to use recycled reagents, i.e. Alcohol and Xylene, in
>> processors.  I am using a VIP 300, refurbished, and I would rather not use
>> recycled reagents in it.  But, during the last CAP inspection they
>> suggested I use the recycled to save money.  And now my administration
>> wants to cut cost.  Just wanted to know what labs were doing.
>> Thanks,
>>
>>
>> --
>> Ms. Gareth B. Davis, B.S., HT, QIHC (ASCP)cm
>> Yuma Gastroenterology
>> Yuma, AZ 85364
>> 928-248-5259
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>>
>

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Re: [Histonet] Slide printers

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

The Thermo Slidemate  and Prima are both good.   The Thermo is small.
It is designed for a microtome work station. If you find another
company, I would be careful to ensure they can interface with your LIS
and or cassette marker. You want continuity between the two makers and
the LIS

Sent from my iPad

> On May 5, 2016, at 6:45 PM, Ginny Achstetter  wrote:
>
>
> I need a recommendation on a slide printer. Tried the Leica and liked it but 
> it only works well with their round edged slides and they aren't charged.
> Sent from my iPhone
>
>

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Re: [Histonet] Does anyone read the list on weekends?

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

Yes

Sent from my iPhone

> On Dec 19, 2015, at 1:24 PM, Lester Raff MD  wrote:
>
> Color me Happy!
>
>
>
> http://www.chicagonow.com/downsize-maybe/2015/12/color-choice-made-easy-its-all-black-or-white/
>
>
>
> Les Raff
>

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Re: [Histonet] Labeling formats

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

Additionally, we are all moving to a digital world of accessioning and
labeling. The days of leaving out the "A" or "1" to indicate that
there is only one part or one cassette need to become a process of the
past. LIS as sighed labeling can not accommodate this format.

Sent from my iPhone

> On Oct 2, 2015, at 10:09 AM, Stephen G. Ruby  wrote:
>
> I am curious on what formats that labs use for labeling.
> We use prefix-year-accession number-part(alpha)-block number(numeric)
> Example.  S15-12345-A1
>
> If you use a different format can you share it here?
> Thanks.
> Dr Ruby
>
> Sent from my mobile device
>
>

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Re: [Histonet] Missing specimen

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

You can not speculate. You have no chose but to wait on the DNA
results. This could become a legal case at some point so there is good
reason to not speculate but have indisputable proof

Sent from my iPhone

> On Oct 2, 2015, at 10:47 AM, Jennifer Clark  wrote:
>
>
> I have a situation that has occurred and am unsure how to proceed.  One MA 
> called to get results for a young patient.  We had no record of a specimen 
> for this patient at all.  The doctor was sure it was performed.  With some 
> research, we discovered that another patient, middle aged,(who was in the 
> same room with the same MA after the young patient) had two tissue pieces in 
> his specimen bottle. This was not mentioned in the original path report, and 
> the tissue was sent for a second opinion to confirm a malignancy.  Upon 
> re-reviewing the slide, the two specimens in the middle aged patient's block 
> look different, one malignant, one benign.  Also one showed "young skin" and 
> the other sun damaged, more mature skin, according to the dermatologist.
> They are now wanting these tissues split up and a path report issued on the 
> young patient who's specimen is missing based on these findings, with his 
> being the benign tissue. I feel, while suspicious, I should not do this with 
> out DNA testing to confirm.  That being said, to my knowledge no other 
> specimens are missing from that day.   Please Help!
>
> Thanks!
> Jennifer Clark, HT
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>

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Re: [Histonet] Labeling formats

[Frazier, John via Histonet]

This is a format that I would recommend. To expand on that, using an
"alpha" character for the part  and " numeric for the cassettes makes
better sense because there are few cases that have more than 26 parts
(causing AA, AB, AC labeling rare), but there are many parts that have more
than 26 cassettes, common. With the cassettes you can number the cassettes
S15-1234-Z54 part Z(26) and the 54th cassette in the Z part. This format
avoids double alpha characters up to the 27th part in the case.
[image: The Hoops News] 

Sent from my iPhone

On Oct 2, 2015, at 10:09 AM, Stephen G. Ruby  wrote:

I am curious on what formats that labs use for labeling.
We use prefix-year-accession number-part(alpha)-block number(numeric)
Example.  S15-12345-A1

If you use a different format can you share it here?
Thanks.
Dr Ruby

Sent from my mobile device
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