From pruegg <@t> ihctech.net Sun Feb 1 10:56:26 2009 From: pruegg <@t> ihctech.net (Patsy Ruegg) Date: Sun Feb 1 10:56:32 2009 Subject: [Histonet] JB4 users In-Reply-To: <003101c9830e$cd3b5bd0$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> References: <2BE65B19-4499-46E2-8158-D37EF85DE048@mit.edu><000e01c982fb$d374f730$7a5ee590$@callis@bresnan.net> <003101c9830e$cd3b5bd0$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: I have had success with cutting mouse femurs in GMA but it is not easy and probably not something I would recommend. I make my own GMA and control the plasticizers and benzol peroxidase in my mix. I have also managed to slow down polymerization by using less bpo and accelerator in the embedding mix, plus placing the blocks in a freezer to slow polymerization, but like I say, I have over 30 yrs of experience with this and this is not something a novice will be able to successfully do, so given the difficulty I guess I would agree with Gayle and Pam that if you can MMA would be the way to, it is also much better for IHC, GMA is not generally recommended for IHC because it can not be removed. Patsy -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Pamela Marcum Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 12:13 PM To: 'gayle callis'; 'Denise Crowley'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] JB4 users I agree with Gayle. GMA does not work well with mouse femurs. Not only are the issues with infiltration a problem, even when using mixtures of ethanol to pure GMA it still will not penetrate well and polymerizes for to quickly and too hot to make a good block. I personally find it too soft for the calcified femurs to hold in the block well. We don't use a kit and make our own MMA mixture so we can control the softeners better for sectioning and the temperature. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of gayle callis Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 11:57 AM To: 'Denise Crowley'; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] JB4 users GMA in general, does not infiltrate into calcified mouse femurs as well as methyl methacrylate, and controlling polymerization is not easy with calcified bone in GMA. You have already tried extended infiltrations, but didn't change the results. I suggest you change to a Technovits 9100 kit, and do methyl methacrylate instead. Be sure to allow more time for processing compared to paraffin or even GMA. Your microtome and tungsten carbide blade are not the problem, it is using calcified mouse femurs with GMA. You can remove methyl methacrylate from sections for immunostaining or other stains that will not penetrate this very hydrophobic plastic. Gayle M. Callis HTL(ASCP)HT,MT Bozeman MT 59175 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Denise Crowley Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 6:56 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] JB4 users We are a research core Histology facility accepting specimens from within the MIT community. One of our researchers is trying to embed mouse femurs in JB4 for us to section on our Thermo Finesse microtome utilizing a tungsten carbide blade. The tissue just crumbles out of the resin and we are not able to pick up any sections. We asked the researcher to infiltrate longer, which she did, but the results are the same. We have sectioned other tissues in JB4 with this instrument, so I do not believe the problem is us or the microtome. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Denise Crowley Facility Manager Histology David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research Massachusetts Institute of Technology 40 Ames St. E17-427 Cambridge MA 02139 617-258-8183 dencrowl@mit.edu _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Rcartun <@t> harthosp.org Sun Feb 1 10:36:11 2009 From: Rcartun <@t> harthosp.org (Richard Cartun) Date: Sun Feb 1 11:07:21 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: [IHCRG] consults with slide preparation In-Reply-To: <979FF5962E234F45B06CF0DB7C1AABB21B6453CF@chi2k3ms01.columbuschildrens.net> References: <979FF5962E234F45B06CF0DB7C1AABB21B6453CF@chi2k3ms01.columbuschildrens.net> Message-ID: <4985892B0200007700008D77@gwmail4.harthosp.org> We keep the slides when we provide the interpretation and diagnosis. Occasionally, they are returned at the request of the referring institution because the patient is being presented at a conference or is going else where for a second opinion or treatment. Richard Richard W. Cartun, Ph.D. Director, Histology & Immunopathology Director, Biospecimens Assistant Director, Anatomic Pathology Hartford Hospital 80 Seymour Street Hartford, CT 06102 (860) 545-1596 (860) 545-0174 Fax >>> "Houston, Ronald" 1/29/2009 4:37 PM >>> Curious to see how others are handling this........... We recently received a consult from another facility and ended up preparing a lot of IHC stains on the referred blocks. One of our pathologists believes the IHC slides should be returned to the original requesting lab. Another couple of pathologists and I feel that the slides should be kept here, as we have some sort of legal responsibility, as the facility that prepared the slides from which our consult report was generated. Thanks Ronnie Ronnie Houston, MS HT(ASCP)QIHC Anatomic Pathology Manager Nationwide Children's Hospital 700 Children's Drive Columbus, OH 43205 (614) 722 5450 ronald.houston@nationwidechildrens.org www.NationwideChildrens.org ----------------------------------------- Confidentiality Notice: The following mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. The recipient is responsible to maintain the confidentiality of this information and to use the information only for authorized purposes. If you are not the intended recipient (or authorized to receive information for the intended recipient), you are hereby notified that any review, use, disclosure, distribution, copying, printing, or action taken in reliance on the contents of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. Thank you. --~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~ You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "ihcrg" group. To post to this group, send email to ihcrg@googlegroups.com To unsubscribe from this group, send email to ihcrg+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/ihcrg?hl=en -~----------~----~----~----~------~----~------~--~--- From john <@t> imebinc.com Sun Feb 1 16:58:19 2009 From: john <@t> imebinc.com (John O'Brien) Date: Sun Feb 1 16:45:06 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histotech Sales Rep needed Message-ID: <000601c984c0$93f36940$4a01a8c0@EXECUTIVE01> Small southern California Pathology supply and equipment company looking for Histotech looking to get into the sales side of patholgoy -This position is based in southern california,sales experience a plus- send resume to info@imebinc.com From atunde90 <@t> yahoo.com Sun Feb 1 19:02:37 2009 From: atunde90 <@t> yahoo.com (Ade Tunde) Date: Sun Feb 1 19:03:54 2009 Subject: [Histonet] List of pathology laboratories in Maryland Message-ID: <915658.60923.qm@web46110.mail.sp1.yahoo.com> Does anybody have the list of pathology laboratories around boltimore in Maryland Tunde? Ajibade? BS HTL(ASCP) QIHC Histology lab NBI Medical center NJ From Sarah.Boyd <@t> tengion.com Mon Feb 2 08:25:08 2009 From: Sarah.Boyd <@t> tengion.com (Sarah Boyd) Date: Mon Feb 2 08:25:14 2009 Subject: [Histonet] decontaminating cryostat Message-ID: We are trying to process some samples making sure there is no cross-contamination of DNA; however, the standard DNA Away solution is freezing when used in the cryostat. Does anyone have any suggestions for this problem? Thanks! Sarah From Dorothy.L.Webb <@t> HealthPartners.Com Mon Feb 2 09:41:23 2009 From: Dorothy.L.Webb <@t> HealthPartners.Com (Webb, Dorothy L) Date: Mon Feb 2 09:41:29 2009 Subject: [Histonet] FW: Patient identifier Message-ID: <0E394B648E5284478A6CCB78E5AFDA2705635D22@hpes1.HealthPartners.int> I never saw the posting for this, so, am resending my response!! > ______________________________________________ > From: Webb, Dorothy L > Sent: Thursday, January 29, 2009 8:08 AM > To: 'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu' > Subject: Patient identifier > > According to the "rule" regarding 2 patient identifiers, it is our > understanding that the 2 identifiers must be on the container label > and in the computer system upon accessioning. When the computer > assigns the surgical case number, all info is linked to that listed > surgical accessioned number and your 2 or more identifiers are pulled > up with the case. That also keeps within "HIPPA" guidelines to have > patient information openly available when blocks or slides are sent > out or left out in view. Otherwise, barcoding is the ideal way to > place, view, and tie all information needed!! > > Dorothy Webb, HT > Regions Histology Technical Supervisor > 651-254-2962 > ________________________________________ This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or the individual responsible for delivering the e-mail to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this e-mail in error and that any use, dissemination, forwarding, printing, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the HealthPartners Support Center by telephone at (952) 967-6600. You will be reimbursed for reasonable costs incurred in notifying us. From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Mon Feb 2 11:43:06 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Mon Feb 2 11:43:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] List of pathology laboratories in Maryland In-Reply-To: <915658.60923.qm@web46110.mail.sp1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <980995.39803.qm@web65710.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Try the yellow pages. Ren? J. --- On Sun, 2/1/09, Ade Tunde wrote: From: Ade Tunde Subject: [Histonet] List of pathology laboratories in Maryland To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Sunday, February 1, 2009, 8:02 PM Does anybody have the list of pathology laboratories around boltimore in Maryland Tunde? Ajibade? BS HTL(ASCP) QIHC Histology lab NBI Medical center NJ _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From jtaylor <@t> meriter.com Mon Feb 2 11:50:41 2009 From: jtaylor <@t> meriter.com (Taylor, Jean) Date: Mon Feb 2 11:50:46 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH Message-ID: <328CBAE62F31C642B422970E879DFADC03A369D9@pcwex01> Hi everyone, I am currently in the process of evaluating IHC equipment to replace my old Dako Autostainers. The pathologists I work for are interested in bringing ISH into our lab. My questions are, what IHC instrument have you found works the best for IHC and ISH, and what kind of training did your personnel go through to become qualified to perform ISH? Thank you! Jean Taylor, HT(ASCP)QIHC ICH Tech Meriter Labs Madison, WI From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Mon Feb 2 12:05:57 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Mon Feb 2 12:06:01 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH In-Reply-To: <328CBAE62F31C642B422970E879DFADC03A369D9@pcwex01> Message-ID: <320540.47677.qm@web65701.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Get a BondMax from Leica as a demo. Ren? J. --- On Mon, 2/2/09, Taylor, Jean wrote: From: Taylor, Jean Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH To: ihcrg@googlegroups.com, IHCRG@yahoogroups.com, histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 2, 2009, 12:50 PM Hi everyone, I am currently in the process of evaluating IHC equipment to replace my old Dako Autostainers. The pathologists I work for are interested in bringing ISH into our lab. My questions are, what IHC instrument have you found works the best for IHC and ISH, and what kind of training did your personnel go through to become qualified to perform ISH? Thank you! Jean Taylor, HT(ASCP)QIHC ICH Tech Meriter Labs Madison, WI _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From lblazek <@t> digestivespecialists.com Mon Feb 2 12:16:33 2009 From: lblazek <@t> digestivespecialists.com (Blazek, Linda) Date: Mon Feb 2 12:13:48 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH In-Reply-To: <320540.47677.qm@web65701.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: <328CBAE62F31C642B422970E879DFADC03A369D9@pcwex01> <320540.47677.qm@web65701.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <5A2BD13465E061429D6455C8D6B40E39086A10F842@IBMB7Exchange.digestivespecialists.com> Better yet get a demo for the Intellipath from BioCare. http://www.biocare.net/ I love mine. It's an open system and has a continuous function and a stat function that is great. Linda Blazek HT (ASCP) Manager/Supervisor GI Pathology of Dayton 7415 Brandt Pike Huber Heights, OH 45424 Phone: (937) 293-4424 ext 7118 Email: lblazek@digestivespecialists.com -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 1:06 PM To: ihcrg@googlegroups.com; IHCRG@yahoogroups.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Taylor, Jean Subject: Re: [Histonet] IHC and ISH Get a BondMax from Leica as a demo. Ren? J. --- On Mon, 2/2/09, Taylor, Jean wrote: From: Taylor, Jean Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH To: ihcrg@googlegroups.com, IHCRG@yahoogroups.com, histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 2, 2009, 12:50 PM Hi everyone, I am currently in the process of evaluating IHC equipment to replace my old Dako Autostainers. The pathologists I work for are interested in bringing ISH into our lab. My questions are, what IHC instrument have you found works the best for IHC and ISH, and what kind of training did your personnel go through to become qualified to perform ISH? Thank you! Jean Taylor, HT(ASCP)QIHC ICH Tech Meriter Labs Madison, WI _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Ronald.Houston <@t> nationwidechildrens.org Mon Feb 2 12:15:19 2009 From: Ronald.Houston <@t> nationwidechildrens.org (Houston, Ronald) Date: Mon Feb 2 12:15:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: [IHCRG] IHC and ISH In-Reply-To: <328CBAE62F31C642B422970E879DFADC03A369D9@pcwex01> Message-ID: <979FF5962E234F45B06CF0DB7C1AABB21B6453E4@chi2k3ms01.columbuschildrens.net> BondMax from Leica Ronnie Houston Anatomic Pathology Manager Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus OH 43205 (614) 722 5450 -----Original Message----- From: ihcrg@googlegroups.com [mailto:ihcrg@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Taylor, Jean Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 12:51 PM To: ihcrg@googlegroups.com; IHCRG@yahoogroups.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [IHCRG] IHC and ISH Hi everyone, I am currently in the process of evaluating IHC equipment to replace my old Dako Autostainers. The pathologists I work for are interested in bringing ISH into our lab. My questions are, what IHC instrument have you found works the best for IHC and ISH, and what kind of training did your personnel go through to become qualified to perform ISH? Thank you! Jean Taylor, HT(ASCP)QIHC ICH Tech Meriter Labs Madison, WI --~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~ You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "ihcrg" group. To post to this group, send email to ihcrg@googlegroups.com To unsubscribe from this group, send email to ihcrg+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/ihcrg?hl=en -~----------~----~----~----~------~----~------~--~--- ----------------------------------------- Confidentiality Notice: The following mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. The recipient is responsible to maintain the confidentiality of this information and to use the information only for authorized purposes. If you are not the intended recipient (or authorized to receive information for the intended recipient), you are hereby notified that any review, use, disclosure, distribution, copying, printing, or action taken in reliance on the contents of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. Thank you. From michelle.steinkrauss <@t> novartis.com Mon Feb 2 12:43:09 2009 From: michelle.steinkrauss <@t> novartis.com (michelle.steinkrauss@novartis.com) Date: Mon Feb 2 12:43:18 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Michelle Steinkrauss is out of the office. Message-ID: I will be out of the office starting 02/02/2009 and will not return until 02/03/2009. If you need immediate assistance, please contact Michelle Broome at x 47477. Thank you! From MLashus <@t> pathgroup.com Mon Feb 2 12:43:26 2009 From: MLashus <@t> pathgroup.com (Mighnon Lashus) Date: Mon Feb 2 12:43:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH In-Reply-To: <5A2BD13465E061429D6455C8D6B40E39086A10F842@IBMB7Exchange.digestivespecialists.com> Message-ID: <197CD0B02A81F94994A285C59C8AE05C03CD399F80@pgnexchange.pathgroup.com> I love my Ventana Ultra. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Blazek, Linda Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 1:17 PM To: 'rjbuesa@yahoo.com'; ihcrg@googlegroups.com; IHCRG@yahoogroups.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Taylor, Jean Subject: RE: [Histonet] IHC and ISH Better yet get a demo for the Intellipath from BioCare. http://www.biocare.net/ I love mine. It's an open system and has a continuous function and a stat function that is great. Linda Blazek HT (ASCP) Manager/Supervisor GI Pathology of Dayton 7415 Brandt Pike Huber Heights, OH 45424 Phone: (937) 293-4424 ext 7118 Email: lblazek@digestivespecialists.com -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 1:06 PM To: ihcrg@googlegroups.com; IHCRG@yahoogroups.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Taylor, Jean Subject: Re: [Histonet] IHC and ISH Get a BondMax from Leica as a demo. Ren? J. --- On Mon, 2/2/09, Taylor, Jean wrote: From: Taylor, Jean Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH To: ihcrg@googlegroups.com, IHCRG@yahoogroups.com, histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 2, 2009, 12:50 PM Hi everyone, I am currently in the process of evaluating IHC equipment to replace my old Dako Autostainers. The pathologists I work for are interested in bringing ISH into our lab. My questions are, what IHC instrument have you found works the best for IHC and ISH, and what kind of training did your personnel go through to become qualified to perform ISH? Thank you! Jean Taylor, HT(ASCP)QIHC ICH Tech Meriter Labs Madison, WI _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Important Notice: This e-mail is intended for the use of the person to whom it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged and confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution, or use of the contents of this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please destroy this message and contact the Security Officer at PathGroup, Inc immediately at 615-562-9255. Thank you From LSebree <@t> uwhealth.org Mon Feb 2 12:47:37 2009 From: LSebree <@t> uwhealth.org (Sebree Linda A) Date: Mon Feb 2 12:52:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: [IHCRG] IHC and ISH References: <328CBAE62F31C642B422970E879DFADC03A369D9@pcwex01> Message-ID: <5998F3BDFF7AAC4091C7AE93A7A1A58931A99C@UWHC-MAIL01.uwhis.hosp.wisc.edu> Hi Jean, As you know we have Ventana instruments and love them. At the time of our first instrument purchase, training took place in Tucson at their facility at Ventana's expense. I'm not sure they do that anymore; they may send someone out to do training on site. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions, Linda ________________________________ From: ihcrg@googlegroups.com on behalf of Taylor, Jean Sent: Mon 2/2/2009 11:50 AM To: ihcrg@googlegroups.com; IHCRG@yahoogroups.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [IHCRG] IHC and ISH Hi everyone, I am currently in the process of evaluating IHC equipment to replace my old Dako Autostainers. The pathologists I work for are interested in bringing ISH into our lab. My questions are, what IHC instrument have you found works the best for IHC and ISH, and what kind of training did your personnel go through to become qualified to perform ISH? Thank you! Jean Taylor, HT(ASCP)QIHC ICH Tech Meriter Labs Madison, WI --~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~ You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "ihcrg" group. To post to this group, send email to ihcrg@googlegroups.com To unsubscribe from this group, send email to ihcrg+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/ihcrg?hl=en -~----------~----~----~----~------~----~------~--~--- From JWeems <@t> sjha.org Mon Feb 2 13:01:09 2009 From: JWeems <@t> sjha.org (Weems, Joyce) Date: Mon Feb 2 13:01:06 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH In-Reply-To: <328CBAE62F31C642B422970E879DFADC03A369D9@pcwex01> References: <328CBAE62F31C642B422970E879DFADC03A369D9@pcwex01> Message-ID: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA52E304E@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> We have just switched to the Leica Bond. We are very please and satisfied with the service and with the product. The stains are beautiful. Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Taylor, Jean Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 12:51 PM To: ihcrg@googlegroups.com; IHCRG@yahoogroups.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH Hi everyone, I am currently in the process of evaluating IHC equipment to replace my old Dako Autostainers. The pathologists I work for are interested in bringing ISH into our lab. My questions are, what IHC instrument have you found works the best for IHC and ISH, and what kind of training did your personnel go through to become qualified to perform ISH? Thank you! Jean Taylor, HT(ASCP)QIHC ICH Tech Meriter Labs Madison, WI _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. From gvdobbin <@t> ihis.org Mon Feb 2 13:28:28 2009 From: gvdobbin <@t> ihis.org (Greg Dobbin) Date: Mon Feb 2 13:28:58 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH Message-ID: Jean, The Bond Max is different than its main competitor in that the Bond uses the same detection kit for both IHC and ISH. One just has to buy the fluorocein reagent for the ISH method. So all you have is one reagent to worry about expiring rather than an entire detection system. Other instruments (they know who they are) require you to buy an entire separate detection system to do ISH and so if your volumes for ISH are low, you will waste a lot of money in expired kits. Cheers. Greg Greg Dobbin, R.T. Chief Technologist, Anatomic Pathology Dept. of Laboratory Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, P.O. Box 6600 Charlottetown, PE C1A 8T5 Phone: (902) 894-2337 Fax: (902) 894-2385 "I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have." - Thomas Jefferson >>> "Taylor, Jean" 2/2/2009 1:50:41 PM >>> Hi everyone, I am currently in the process of evaluating IHC equipment to replace my old Dako Autostainers. The pathologists I work for are interested in bringing ISH into our lab. My questions are, what IHC instrument have you found works the best for IHC and ISH, and what kind of training did your personnel go through to become qualified to perform ISH? Thank you! Jean Taylor, HT(ASCP)QIHC ICH Tech Meriter Labs Madison, WI _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------- Statement of Confidentiality This message (including attachments) may contain confidential or privileged information intended for a specific individual or organization. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately. If you are not the intended recipient, you are not authorized to use, disclose, distribute, copy, print or rely on this email, and should promptly delete this email from your entire computer system. D?claration de confidentialit? Le pr?sent message (y compris les annexes) peut contenir des renseignements confidentiels ? l'intention d'une personne ou d'un organisme particulier. Si vous avez re?u la pr?sente communication par erreur, veuillez en informer l'exp?diteur imm?diatement. Si vous n'?tes pas le destinataire pr?vu, vous n'avez pas le droit d'utiliser, divulguer, distribuer, copier ou imprimer ce courriel ou encore de vous en servir, et vous devriez l'effacer imm?diatement de votre syst?me informatique. ------------------------- From lchen <@t> mednet.ucla.edu Mon Feb 2 13:44:41 2009 From: lchen <@t> mednet.ucla.edu (Leslie Chen) Date: Mon Feb 2 13:44:47 2009 Subject: [Histonet] cryostat adapter Message-ID: <361429220902021144gdf5a015ned65b3fd51def672@mail.gmail.com> Hi everyone, I am reposting because it seems my photo of the embedding rings was throwing everyone off. I am looking for an adapter to fit in our Leica CM 1850. Not the rings themselves. The adapter would look like this, specifically made for the rings. http://www.myneurolab.com/myneurolab/mnl_products_detail.asp?idproduct=475240&catdesc=Histology+Products&CatThreeID=902&CatOneID=4&subcatdesc=Freezing+Devices&idsubcategory=187 This product does not have the dimensions so I cannot determine whether or not it would fit the plastic embedding rings. Thanks again! Cheers, Leslie From akbitting <@t> geisinger.edu Mon Feb 2 14:25:15 2009 From: akbitting <@t> geisinger.edu (Angela Bitting) Date: Mon Feb 2 14:37:31 2009 Subject: [Histonet] perplexed Message-ID: <4987105B.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> Here's one for the Ventana BenchmarkXT users out there: We mount the patient tissue on the same slide with our control tissue. The control stains beautifully, but there is absolutely no staining in the patient tissue. This will happen to one or two out of 30 slides on a run. It also happened on two different instruments. Over the last week this has occurred 6 times. Different protocols, different machines. I tend to think its a deparaffinization issue. Can one side of a pad heat and the other end not reach temp? We haven't noticed that the slides moved during staining or were not seated properly on the pad. Help me figure this one out folks!! Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. -------------- next part -------------- BEGIN:VCARD VERSION:2.1 X-GWTYPE:USER FN:Bitting, Angela TEL;WORK:570-271-6844 ORG:;Histology EMAIL;WORK;PREF;NGW:AKBITTING@geisinger.edu N:Bitting;Angela END:VCARD From jrobertson <@t> pathologysciences.com Mon Feb 2 14:40:14 2009 From: jrobertson <@t> pathologysciences.com (Jodie Robertson) Date: Mon Feb 2 14:40:17 2009 Subject: [Histonet] perplexed In-Reply-To: <4987105B.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> References: <4987105B.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> Message-ID: <518CD6920AA7154193CBE5977CD88073177E77@psmgsrv2.PSMG.local> This is extremely familiar and we experienced a very similar situation in our lab. What type of slides are you currently using? Please e-mail me direct at jrobertson@pathologysciences.com so I can be of further assistance to you. Thank you. Jodie Robertson, HT(ASCP) QIHC Pathology Sciences Medical Group Chico, CA 95926 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Angela Bitting Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 12:25 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] perplexed Here's one for the Ventana BenchmarkXT users out there: We mount the patient tissue on the same slide with our control tissue. The control stains beautifully, but there is absolutely no staining in the patient tissue. This will happen to one or two out of 30 slides on a run. It also happened on two different instruments. Over the last week this has occurred 6 times. Different protocols, different machines. I tend to think its a deparaffinization issue. Can one side of a pad heat and the other end not reach temp? We haven't noticed that the slides moved during staining or were not seated properly on the pad. Help me figure this one out folks!! Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. From renafail <@t> bellsouth.net Mon Feb 2 14:48:31 2009 From: renafail <@t> bellsouth.net (renafail@bellsouth.net) Date: Mon Feb 2 14:48:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] perplexed In-Reply-To: <4987105B.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> Message-ID: <020220092048.8118.49875C1F0005C43300001FB622230706129B0A02D2089B9A019C04040A0DBF04070E000E020A9D@att.net> What kind of control slides are you using? If the marking is on the same side as the tissue , it could prevent your solution from getting to all your tissue. Rena Fail -------------- Original message from "Angela Bitting" : -------------- > Here's one for the Ventana BenchmarkXT users out there: > > We mount the patient tissue on the same slide with our control tissue. The > control stains beautifully, but there is absolutely no staining in the patient > tissue. This will happen to one or two out of 30 slides on a run. It also > happened on two different instruments. Over the last week this has occurred 6 > times. Different protocols, different machines. > I tend to think its a deparaffinization issue. Can one side of a pad heat and > the other end not reach temp? We haven't noticed that the slides moved during > staining or were not seated properly on the pad. > Help me figure this one out folks!! > > Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) > Technical Specialist, Histology > Geisinger Medical Center > 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 > Danville, PA 17822 > phone 570-214-9634 > fax 570-271-5916 > > No trees were hurt in the sending of this email > However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! > > > > > IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached > to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended > solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. > If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or > any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and > may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all > electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), > destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by > replying to this email. Thank you. From laurie.colbert <@t> huntingtonhospital.com Mon Feb 2 15:00:42 2009 From: laurie.colbert <@t> huntingtonhospital.com (Laurie Colbert) Date: Mon Feb 2 15:00:46 2009 Subject: [Histonet] perplexed Message-ID: <57BE698966D5C54EAE8612E8941D768304CEDC31@EXCHANGE3.huntingtonhospital.com> Angela, I've had similar issues with the Ventana Nexus special stainer - specifically on the retic and trichrome. We have always mounted the patient tissue on the same slide as the control tissue. About 6 months ago, we started have inconsistent staining. Ventana investigated thoroughly, but we didn't come up with any answers. So now, we have to stain the patient tissue separately from the control tissue - which doubles our cost since we have two slides instead of one. Please let me know if you figure anything out. Laurie Colbert -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Angela Bitting Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 12:25 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] perplexed Here's one for the Ventana BenchmarkXT users out there: We mount the patient tissue on the same slide with our control tissue. The control stains beautifully, but there is absolutely no staining in the patient tissue. This will happen to one or two out of 30 slides on a run. It also happened on two different instruments. Over the last week this has occurred 6 times. Different protocols, different machines. I tend to think its a deparaffinization issue. Can one side of a pad heat and the other end not reach temp? We haven't noticed that the slides moved during staining or were not seated properly on the pad. Help me figure this one out folks!! Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. From Bauer.Karen <@t> mayo.edu Mon Feb 2 15:02:24 2009 From: Bauer.Karen <@t> mayo.edu (Bauer, Karen L.) Date: Mon Feb 2 15:02:29 2009 Subject: [Histonet] perplexed In-Reply-To: <020220092048.8118.49875C1F0005C43300001FB622230706129B0A02D2089B9A019C04040A0DBF04070E000E020A9D@att.net> Message-ID: <3EEADAB0392281448505732B7323D9A40475A8@MSGEBE37.mfad.mfroot.org> We also had this happen, and the red control box marking was on the underside of the slide. Seems that when the slides are packaged in the box, the front part of the slide is pressed with the red markings on the back of the slide in front of it. This creates an invisible barrier on the non-marked side and can trap the solution from spreading to the whole slide, which prevents the patient tissue from being stained. We got rid of our red control box slides and are just using plain charged slides. That problem has NEVER happened again. There are slides with an etched box for the control tissue (etching is on the back I believe) if you want to try those, but we decided to just stick with what works the best. Good Luck, Karen Karen L. Bauer HT(ASCP) Histology Section Chief Department of Pathology - Luther Hospital Luther Midelfort - Mayo Health System 715-838-3205 bauer.karen@mayo.edu -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of renafail@bellsouth.net Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 2:49 PM To: Angela Bitting; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] perplexed What kind of control slides are you using? If the marking is on the same side as the tissue , it could prevent your solution from getting to all your tissue. Rena Fail -------------- Original message from "Angela Bitting" : -------------- > Here's one for the Ventana BenchmarkXT users out there: > > We mount the patient tissue on the same slide with our control tissue. > The control stains beautifully, but there is absolutely no staining in > the patient tissue. This will happen to one or two out of 30 slides on > a run. It also happened on two different instruments. Over the last > week this has occurred 6 times. Different protocols, different machines. > I tend to think its a deparaffinization issue. Can one side of a pad > heat and the other end not reach temp? We haven't noticed that the > slides moved during staining or were not seated properly on the pad. > Help me figure this one out folks!! > > Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) > Technical Specialist, Histology > Geisinger Medical Center > 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 > Danville, PA 17822 > phone 570-214-9634 > fax 570-271-5916 > > No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons > were severly inconvienienced! > > > > > IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents > attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. > It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. > If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, > distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance > on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this > message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message > (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies > you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From paw555 <@t> yahoo.com Mon Feb 2 15:06:04 2009 From: paw555 <@t> yahoo.com (pam plumlee) Date: Mon Feb 2 15:06:07 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues Message-ID: <619324.77670.qm@web31901.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Group: I'm having problems with the processing of small tissues in histogel. I follow the suggested embedding directions on the package and then process the gel blocks. The results are very inconsistent-ideally, I'll get nice soft gel blocks-but, usually in a batch of 10 I get 2 good blocks and 8 dried up, flat hard squares. They are all handled and processed the same. Anyone experience this before? Thanks for any input. Pam Plumlee H.T. Pfizer La Jolla pam.plumlee@pfizer.com From janderson <@t> halozyme.com Mon Feb 2 15:09:46 2009 From: janderson <@t> halozyme.com (Jennifer Anderson) Date: Mon Feb 2 15:09:51 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Bouin's rinsing protocol Message-ID: Hello. I am looking for information regarding procedures for tissue handling after Bouin's fixation, prior to processing in a standard automated tissue processor (VIP). We are handling pig, mouse, rat, and human samples, and will fix in Bouin's for 48-72 hrs. I've been told to rinse until all yellow is washed out, and people generally rinse in 70% alcohol or water. Sometimes it take days to wash all of the picric acid out. Thank you so much for your wealth of information! Jennifer M. Anderson, Scientist Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. 11404 Sorrento Valley Road San Diego, CA 92121 858-704-8333 janderson@halozyme.com From mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu Mon Feb 2 15:27:25 2009 From: mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu (Geoff McAuliffe) Date: Mon Feb 2 15:32:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Bouin's rinsing protocol In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <4987653D.2050901@umdnj.edu> I was taught 4 changes of 50% EtOH, 1-1.5 hours each. The goal is to get most of the picrates out of the tissue for long-term storage (of blocks) I don't know if one can ever get all of the yellow color out. Geoff Jennifer Anderson wrote: > Hello. > > I am looking for information regarding procedures for tissue handling > after Bouin's fixation, prior to processing in a standard automated > tissue processor (VIP). We are handling pig, mouse, rat, and human > samples, and will fix in Bouin's for 48-72 hrs. I've been told to rinse > until all yellow is washed out, and people generally rinse in 70% > alcohol or water. Sometimes it take days to wash all of the picric acid > out. > > Thank you so much for your wealth of information! > > > > Jennifer M. Anderson, Scientist > > Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. > > 11404 Sorrento Valley Road > > San Diego, CA 92121 > > 858-704-8333 > > janderson@halozyme.com > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** From LSebree <@t> uwhealth.org Mon Feb 2 15:39:59 2009 From: LSebree <@t> uwhealth.org (Sebree Linda A) Date: Mon Feb 2 15:44:46 2009 Subject: [Histonet] perplexed References: <3EEADAB0392281448505732B7323D9A40475A8@MSGEBE37.mfad.mfroot.org> Message-ID: <5998F3BDFF7AAC4091C7AE93A7A1A58931A9A2@UWHC-MAIL01.uwhis.hosp.wisc.edu> I think your explanation of the problem is probably the most likely Karen. ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Bauer, Karen L. Sent: Mon 2/2/2009 3:02 PM To: renafail@bellsouth.net; Angela Bitting; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] perplexed We also had this happen, and the red control box marking was on the underside of the slide. Seems that when the slides are packaged in the box, the front part of the slide is pressed with the red markings on the back of the slide in front of it. This creates an invisible barrier on the non-marked side and can trap the solution from spreading to the whole slide, which prevents the patient tissue from being stained. We got rid of our red control box slides and are just using plain charged slides. That problem has NEVER happened again. There are slides with an etched box for the control tissue (etching is on the back I believe) if you want to try those, but we decided to just stick with what works the best. Good Luck, Karen Karen L. Bauer HT(ASCP) Histology Section Chief Department of Pathology - Luther Hospital Luther Midelfort - Mayo Health System 715-838-3205 bauer.karen@mayo.edu -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of renafail@bellsouth.net Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 2:49 PM To: Angela Bitting; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] perplexed What kind of control slides are you using? If the marking is on the same side as the tissue , it could prevent your solution from getting to all your tissue. Rena Fail -------------- Original message from "Angela Bitting" : -------------- > Here's one for the Ventana BenchmarkXT users out there: > > We mount the patient tissue on the same slide with our control tissue. > The control stains beautifully, but there is absolutely no staining in > the patient tissue. This will happen to one or two out of 30 slides on > a run. It also happened on two different instruments. Over the last > week this has occurred 6 times. Different protocols, different machines. > I tend to think its a deparaffinization issue. Can one side of a pad > heat and the other end not reach temp? We haven't noticed that the > slides moved during staining or were not seated properly on the pad. > Help me figure this one out folks!! > > Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) > Technical Specialist, Histology > Geisinger Medical Center > 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 > Danville, PA 17822 > phone 570-214-9634 > fax 570-271-5916 > > No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons > were severly inconvienienced! > > > > > IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents > attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. > It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. > If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, > distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance > on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this > message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message > (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies > you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From gayle.callis <@t> bresnan.net Mon Feb 2 15:54:15 2009 From: gayle.callis <@t> bresnan.net (gayle callis) Date: Mon Feb 2 15:54:36 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: cryostat block clamp Message-ID: <000101c98580$ca83e780$5f8bb680$@callis@bresnan.net> Leslie, I believe the clamp you are looking for is called the Hopkins clamp. Don Birgerson, Leica Microsystems Technical Assistance Center, Don.Birgerson <@t> Leica-Microsystems.Com 1-800-248-0123 ext 5918 to see if he knows of any floating around to fit a Leica 1850. Mari Ann Mailhoit should be able to help also, and will be looking in. I saw these called C clamps in Histonet archives OR one could try and rig an old AO 820 block holder to fit into the cryostat, and that is where the problem may occur, your cryostat may balk at the idea. However, I am not sure the Hopkins clamp I saw on Rankin Biomedical website will fit into the Leica 1850 unless you can remove the whole block holder in some way. At least look at the picture of the clamp on this website. Can't you contact the people where you worked previously and ask them where they accessed their clamp. Were the cryostats you used in the other labs the same brand/model you are using now? If not, then this type of clamp may not fit in the 1850. I did a Histonet Archives search, keyword, C clamp, and did an any for match, long format. You may find what you need in your search of Archives. Also try: Ford M. Royer, MT(ASCP) Histology Product Manager Minnesota Medical, Inc. 7177 Madison Ave. W. Golden Valley, MN 55427-3601 CELL: 612-839-1046 Phone: 763-542-8725 Good luck , and hope you find what you are looking for. Gayle M. Callis HTL(ASCP)HT,MT Bozeman MT 59715 From gayle.callis <@t> bresnan.net Mon Feb 2 16:22:45 2009 From: gayle.callis <@t> bresnan.net (gayle callis) Date: Mon Feb 2 16:22:52 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Bouin's rinsing protocol In-Reply-To: <4987653D.2050901@umdnj.edu> References: <4987653D.2050901@umdnj.edu> Message-ID: <000c01c98584$c5cea000$516be000$@callis@bresnan.net> Geoff is correct on this, and even after rinsing, whether with 50% or 70% alcohol for a long time, we were never able to totally remove the picric acid prior to processing. The only way we successfully removed the picric acid was after sections were deparaffinized and rehydrated. At that point we rinsed sections with running tap water until the picric acid e.g. yellow color was totally removed. The old way learned years ago, was to rinse for 10 minutes before proceeding to staining, however we found the picric acid rinsed away in less time, and did this by examining sections with naked eye. This has been posted on Histonet many times over the years, so be sure and do a search in Archives. Some people use saturated lithium carbonate in 70% alcohol for picric acid removal. Just curious, are all your tissues fixed in Bouins, or just some special tissue samples? The only time we use Bouins anymore is to fix the occasional testis or eye. However, Davidson's has replaced Bouins for eyes to avoid having to deal with picric acid which seems to eventually turn everything it touches yellow. We were very careful with big studies and large volumes of tissues fixed in Bouins to change the first alcohols (70%, 80%, and 95%) daily after Bouins fixed tissue was processed in our VIP. Gayle M. Callis HTL(ASCP)HT,MT Bozeman MT -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Geoff McAuliffe Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 2:27 PM To: Jennifer Anderson Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Bouin's rinsing protocol I was taught 4 changes of 50% EtOH, 1-1.5 hours each. The goal is to get most of the picrates out of the tissue for long-term storage (of blocks) I don't know if one can ever get all of the yellow color out. Geoff Jennifer Anderson wrote: > Hello. > > I am looking for information regarding procedures for tissue handling > after Bouin's fixation, prior to processing in a standard automated > tissue processor (VIP). We are handling pig, mouse, rat, and human > samples, and will fix in Bouin's for 48-72 hrs. I've been told to rinse > until all yellow is washed out, and people generally rinse in 70% > alcohol or water. Sometimes it take days to wash all of the picric acid > out. > > Thank you so much for your wealth of information! > > > > Jennifer M. Anderson, Scientist > > Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. > > 11404 Sorrento Valley Road > > San Diego, CA 92121 > > 858-704-8333 > > janderson@halozyme.com > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Allison_Scott <@t> hchd.tmc.edu Mon Feb 2 16:44:21 2009 From: Allison_Scott <@t> hchd.tmc.edu (Scott, Allison D) Date: Mon Feb 2 16:44:26 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Cap checklist question Message-ID: <1872B4A455B7974391609AD8034C79FC8BD4E8@LBEXCH01.hchd.local> I have a question concerning CAP checklist question ANP.11665. Are . there written procedures for processing specimens. Is this referring to tech's or to residents that are grossing. We only have pathology residents grossing and taking care of specimens. What are predictive markers, this refers to ANP.22990. This is a new checklist question. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Allison Scott HT(ASCP) Histology Supervisor LBJ Hospital Houston, Texas 77026 CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this e-mail and any attachments from your computer system. To the extent the information in this e-mail and any attachments contain protected health information as defined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 ("HIPAA"), PL 104-191; 45 CFR Parts 160 and 164; or Chapter 181, Texas Health and Safety Code, it is confidential and/or privileged. This e-mail may also be confidential and/or privileged under Texas law. The e-mail is for the use of only the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, or any authorized representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, dissemination or copying of this e-mail and its attachments is strictly prohibited. From esther.peters <@t> verizon.net Mon Feb 2 16:58:47 2009 From: esther.peters <@t> verizon.net (Esther Peters) Date: Mon Feb 2 16:58:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues In-Reply-To: <619324.77670.qm@web31901.mail.mud.yahoo.com> References: <619324.77670.qm@web31901.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <49877AA7.9000707@verizon.net> We've had this happen with agarose, too, quite inconsistent results. Two pieces in same cassette, one fine, other shrunken. Would love to know how to avoid the drying and hardening! Esther Peters, Ph.D. George Mason University pam plumlee wrote: > Dear Group: I'm having problems with the processing of > small tissues in histogel. I follow the suggested > embedding directions on the package and then process > the gel blocks. The results are very > inconsistent-ideally, I'll get nice soft gel > blocks-but, usually in a batch of 10 I get 2 good > blocks and 8 dried up, flat hard squares. They are > all handled and processed the same. Anyone experience > this before? Thanks for any input. > > Pam Plumlee H.T. > Pfizer La Jolla > pam.plumlee@pfizer.com > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > From thisisann <@t> aol.com Mon Feb 2 17:11:51 2009 From: thisisann <@t> aol.com (thisisann@aol.com) Date: Mon Feb 2 17:12:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] NY State Inspection Checklist Message-ID: <8CB53A2C43FA998-CB4-17F@WEBMAIL-DY16.sysops.aol.com> I was just informed that NY now has an inspection checklist.? Can someone let me know where I can find it. Thanks, Ann From awatanabe <@t> tgen.org Mon Feb 2 17:19:23 2009 From: awatanabe <@t> tgen.org (Aprill Watanabe) Date: Mon Feb 2 17:19:29 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: IHC and ISH In-Reply-To: <20090202231606.0C3ED4235C@mr2.tgen.org> Message-ID: Bond from Leica. It's a great machine and very user friendly. The training was great and effective. The technical staff helps in so many ways. I've had my machine for 3 years and would get another one if we increased our volume. On 2/2/09 4:16 PM, "histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" wrote: Aprill Watanabe, B.S. Research Associate Integrated Cancer Genomics Division Tissue Microarray Center (TMA) Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) main: 602-343-8822 Fax: 602-343-8840 awatanabe@tgen.org www.tgen.org From Norm.Burnham <@t> propath.com Mon Feb 2 17:21:50 2009 From: Norm.Burnham <@t> propath.com (Norm Burnham) Date: Mon Feb 2 17:22:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] NY State Inspection Checklist In-Reply-To: <8CB53A2C43FA998-CB4-17F@WEBMAIL-DY16.sysops.aol.com> References: <8CB53A2C43FA998-CB4-17F@WEBMAIL-DY16.sysops.aol.com> Message-ID: <82C7248978CB50469FD6BA68EBBEFE67F4C8AD@exchange.propathlab.com> http://www.wadsworth.org/labcert/clep/standards.htm Norm Burnham ProPath www.ProPath.com -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of thisisann@aol.com Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 5:12 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] NY State Inspection Checklist I was just informed that NY now has an inspection checklist.? Can someone let me know where I can find it. Thanks, Ann _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From hilda_1075 <@t> yahoo.com Mon Feb 2 20:10:33 2009 From: hilda_1075 <@t> yahoo.com (shazana hilda) Date: Mon Feb 2 20:10:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Message-ID: <653484.44401.qm@web38805.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear All, Is anyone has experience with faded IHC-slide stained? I've done my IHC stained on few markers and after 3-4 months I viewed the slide and it seems that the stain became faded.Does anyone has opinion regarding this matter and how to troubleshoot it? Any response are greatly appreciated. Regards. Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia, Off. no: +609- 766 4440 Fax no: +609- 765 3370 Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com From pieronelva01 <@t> bigpond.com Tue Feb 3 02:35:20 2009 From: pieronelva01 <@t> bigpond.com (Piero Nelva) Date: Tue Feb 3 02:35:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] perplexed References: <4987105B.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> Message-ID: Hi Angela There was a problem with the heating pads for a certain batch of Ventana XT's. We had uneven heating for a week or so until the rep replaced the entire pad. You can check if your machine is one that was made in the offending batch. No problems since. Regards Piero Nelva Anatomical Pathology Monash Medical Centre Victoria Australia ----- Original Message ----- From: "Angela Bitting" To: Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2009 7:25 AM Subject: [Histonet] perplexed Here's one for the Ventana BenchmarkXT users out there: We mount the patient tissue on the same slide with our control tissue. The control stains beautifully, but there is absolutely no staining in the patient tissue. This will happen to one or two out of 30 slides on a run. It also happened on two different instruments. Over the last week this has occurred 6 times. Different protocols, different machines. I tend to think its a deparaffinization issue. Can one side of a pad heat and the other end not reach temp? We haven't noticed that the slides moved during staining or were not seated properly on the pad. Help me figure this one out folks!! Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.0.233 / Virus Database: 270.10.16/1930 - Release Date: 01/31/09 20:03:00 From SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu Tue Feb 3 06:39:03 2009 From: SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu (Swain, Frances L) Date: Tue Feb 3 06:39:48 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Bouin's rinsing protocol In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E38017397395C@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> I have been handling Bouin fixed animal tissue for years. We removed the Bouins picric acid yellow by submerging our specimens in 70% Alcohol saturated with Lithium Carbonate. It usually takes overnight. I have had PI's bring me the samples after rinsing their samples in Lithium Carbonate solution overnight, this even worked better, after rinsing with the Lithium Carbonate saturated Aqueous Solution they placed them in 70% and brought them to me for processing. Gail 's processing is right on. Have you seen the Animal Tissue Book that Gail and Diane Sterchi published? It is very helpful. I believe you can obtain it through NSH Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Jennifer Anderson Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 3:10 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Bouin's rinsing protocol Hello. I am looking for information regarding procedures for tissue handling after Bouin's fixation, prior to processing in a standard automated tissue processor (VIP). We are handling pig, mouse, rat, and human samples, and will fix in Bouin's for 48-72 hrs. I've been told to rinse until all yellow is washed out, and people generally rinse in 70% alcohol or water. Sometimes it take days to wash all of the picric acid out. Thank you so much for your wealth of information! Jennifer M. Anderson, Scientist Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. 11404 Sorrento Valley Road San Diego, CA 92121 858-704-8333 janderson@halozyme.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. From asmith <@t> mail.barry.edu Tue Feb 3 07:51:26 2009 From: asmith <@t> mail.barry.edu (Smith, Allen) Date: Tue Feb 3 07:52:19 2009 Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide In-Reply-To: <653484.44401.qm@web38805.mail.mud.yahoo.com> References: <653484.44401.qm@web38805.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: A lot depends on the stain chosen. I have used Vector's Nova Red for the last 3 years. I have seen no fading of my older Nova Red slides. Prof. Allen A. Smith Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine Miami Shores, Florida -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of shazana hilda Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 9:11 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Dear All, Is anyone has experience with faded IHC-slide stained? I've done my IHC stained on few markers and after 3-4 months I viewed the slide and it seems that the stain became faded.Does anyone has opinion regarding this matter and how to troubleshoot it? Any response are greatly appreciated. Regards. Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia, Off. no: +609- 766 4440 Fax no: +609- 765 3370 Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From tbraud <@t> holyredeemer.com Tue Feb 3 08:58:19 2009 From: tbraud <@t> holyredeemer.com (Terri Braud) Date: Tue Feb 3 08:58:28 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: perplexed In-Reply-To: <5fbe9a7a0006db0f@HolyRedeemer.com> Message-ID: 10. perplexed (Angela Bitting) histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH Hi everyone, I am currently in the process of evaluating IHC equipment to replace my old Dako Autostainers. The pathologists I work for are interested in bringing ISH into our lab. My questions are, what IHC instrument have you found works the best for IHC and ISH, and what kind of training did your personnel go through to become qualified to perform ISH? Thank you! Jean Taylor, HT(ASCP)QIHC ICH Tech Meriter Labs Madison, WI We had the same issue here with our slides, even though the control tissue was mounted on the same slide, we would get decent control staining but no patient, or vice versa. I spoke with several Ventana tech folk, and the one thing that they insisted on, was the brand of slide I was using. We never used the "control" slides with the little red box, just charged slides from another company than what Ventana was recommending. As a tech with over 30 years of experience, I couldn't imagine that one plus charged slide could be so different from the other and that it would contribute that much difference to how tissue would stain. After all, the tissue was still stuck fast, and no one could explain the principle behind what they were saying. But hey - I was wrong, wrong, wrong. Once we switched to Cardinal's Superfrost Plus slides instead of another company's "charged" slides, we never had the problem again. It still doesn't make sense, and no one can explain why, but it did seem to make a difference. I hope this helps you. Terri Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) Anatomic Pathology Supervisor Laboratory Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center 1648 Huntingdon Pike Meadowbrook, PA 19046 (215) 938-3676 phone (215) 938-3689 fax --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under applicable federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do not distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. Thank you for your cooperation. From shive003 <@t> umn.edu Tue Feb 3 09:12:09 2009 From: shive003 <@t> umn.edu (Jan Shivers) Date: Tue Feb 3 09:12:17 2009 Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide References: <653484.44401.qm@web38805.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <69FA5AAD53D2495CAD2FF3010A6CEACA@auxs.umn.edu> Please tell us what chromogen stains and counterstains you are using, and the type of mounting medium for the coverslip. This will help us try to answer your question. Jan Shivers UMN VDL ----- Original Message ----- From: "shazana hilda" To: Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 8:10 PM Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide > Dear All, > Is anyone has experience with faded IHC-slide stained? I've done my IHC > stained on few markers and after 3-4 months I viewed the slide and it > seems that the stain became faded.Does anyone has opinion regarding this > matter and how to troubleshoot it? > > Any response are greatly appreciated. > > > Regards. > > Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia, > Off. no: +609- 766 4440 > Fax no: +609- 765 3370 > Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > From CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org Tue Feb 3 09:39:29 2009 From: CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org (Ingles Claire ) Date: Tue Feb 3 09:40:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Who can gross?? References: Message-ID: That's why we always keep at least one tall person on staff to reach the top shelves, etc. :) Claire ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Judith L. Williams Sent: Fri 1/30/2009 11:59 AM To: Charles.Embrey Cc: histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Who can gross?? Now that folks is a beautiful Friday statement and comeback - those darn short techs really cause problems don't they :/ hehehehe Judy On Fri, 30 Jan 2009, Charles.Embrey wrote: > As short histo techs what kind of aids are you using, stepladders or > stools? Sorry, I couldn't resist. There is a ton of information on the > histonet archive about this. A search should yield all the info you > seek and more. > > From yourbiomed <@t> cox.net Tue Feb 3 09:51:30 2009 From: yourbiomed <@t> cox.net (YourBiomed.Com ) Date: Tue Feb 3 09:51:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] cryostat adapter Message-ID: <20090203105130.EH2TU.1015850.imail@fed1rmwml37> We have the adapter here at IMEB, Inc. Please go to www.imebinc.com for our contact info and ask for Brad. Thank you From yourbiomed <@t> cox.net Tue Feb 3 09:52:59 2009 From: yourbiomed <@t> cox.net (YourBiomed.Com ) Date: Tue Feb 3 09:53:16 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH Message-ID: <20090203105259.J7M4V.1015899.imail@fed1rmwml37> Jean, I work at IMEB, Inc in San Marcos, CA. I'm very familiar with the instruments listed in the responses to your question. What it comes down to is cost, closed system or open system (use your reagents or theirs (Vendors). The Leica BondMax has it strengths and weaknesses as does the Ventana and Intellipath from BioCare. They all offer great training and I'm sure you'll get the end result (staining) to meet your needs. But do you want to buy the majority of your reagents from the vendor selling the instrument; which can be costly...depending on your quantity of slides your lab processes or open source in which you can mix and match the reagents that you prefer. This can or in some cases may not be a cost saver. Any questions, please contact me. Brad IMEB, Inc www.imebinc.com -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Taylor, Jean Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 9:51 AM To: ihcrg@googlegroups.com; IHCRG@yahoogroups.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH Hi everyone, I am currently in the process of evaluating IHC equipment to replace my old Dako Autostainers. The pathologists I work for are interested in bringing ISH into our lab. My questions are, what IHC instrument have you found works the best for IHC and ISH, and what kind of training did your personnel go through to become qualified to perform ISH? Thank you! Jean Taylor, HT(ASCP)QIHC ICH Tech Meriter Labs Madison, WI _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From mari.ann.mailhiot <@t> leica-microsystems.com Tue Feb 3 10:06:45 2009 From: mari.ann.mailhiot <@t> leica-microsystems.com (mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com) Date: Tue Feb 3 10:12:35 2009 Subject: [Histonet] cryostat adapter. Message-ID: Leslie I contacted our collegues in Germany and was given the below nformation on the inner demensions of the Miles adapter for the CM1850 cryostat by Leica for use with embedding rings. The inner dimensions of the adapter are 2,3 cm x 2,3 cm. If you have other questions please feel free contact. Kind Regards Mari Ann Mailhiot BA HT ASCP Application Specialist/Trainer Leica Microsystems Biosystems Division Technical Assistance Center 800 248 0123 x7267 847 236 3063 fax mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com www.leica-microsystems.com ______________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email ______________________________________________________________________ From tora.bardal <@t> bio.ntnu.no Tue Feb 3 10:40:46 2009 From: tora.bardal <@t> bio.ntnu.no (Tora Bardal) Date: Tue Feb 3 10:40:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH In-Reply-To: <20090203105259.J7M4V.1015899.imail@fed1rmwml37> References: <20090203105259.J7M4V.1015899.imail@fed1rmwml37> Message-ID: <4988738E.5030303@bio.ntnu.no> Does anyone have experience with InsituPro? http://www.intavis.com/en/In_Situ_Detection/index.php Tora YourBiomed.Com wrote: > Jean, > > I work at IMEB, Inc in San Marcos, CA. > I'm very familiar with the instruments listed in the responses to your question. > What it comes down to is cost, closed system or open system (use your reagents or theirs (Vendors). > The Leica BondMax has it strengths and weaknesses as does the Ventana and Intellipath from BioCare. > They all offer great training and I'm sure you'll get the end result (staining) to meet your needs. > But do you want to buy the majority of your reagents from the vendor selling the instrument; which can be costly...depending on your quantity of slides your lab processes or open source in which you can mix and match the reagents that you prefer. This can or in some cases may not be a cost saver. > > Any questions, please contact me. > > Brad > IMEB, Inc > www.imebinc.com > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Taylor, Jean > Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 9:51 AM > To: ihcrg@googlegroups.com; IHCRG@yahoogroups.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH > > Hi everyone, > > I am currently in the process of evaluating IHC equipment to replace my old Dako Autostainers. The pathologists I work for are interested in bringing ISH into our lab. My questions are, what IHC instrument have you found works the best for IHC and ISH, and what kind of training did your personnel go through to become qualified to perform ISH? > > Thank you! > > Jean Taylor, HT(ASCP)QIHC > ICH Tech > Meriter Labs > Madison, WI > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > From jfish <@t> gladstone.ucsf.edu Tue Feb 3 10:49:41 2009 From: jfish <@t> gladstone.ucsf.edu (Jo Dee Fish) Date: Tue Feb 3 10:49:47 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues In-Reply-To: <619324.77670.qm@web31901.mail.mud.yahoo.com> References: <619324.77670.qm@web31901.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <1DF34928912D42A39B266EEB5A28C32F@JFISH> Dear Pam, I've had the same problem. I called Richard-Allen just after they were "absorbed" by Thermo Fisher and got no answers. They had never heard of such a problem and didn't know how to solve it. I have heard from another user that had the same exact problem. I lost precious samples, E6.5 mouse embryos, because of this "drying out and hardening" of the histogel. I had to stop using it all together. If anyone has any suggestions, please let us know! Take care Pam and all histonetters, Jo Dee ~~Jo Dee Fish~~ Senior Research Technologist The J. David Gladstone Institutes Co-manager Histology and Microscopy Core Telephone: (415) 734-2567 Fax: (415) 355-0824 E-mail: jfish@gladstone.ucsf.edu Mailing address: The J. David Gladstone Institutes 1650 Owens Street San Francisco, CA 94158 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of pam plumlee Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 1:06 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues Dear Group: I'm having problems with the processing of small tissues in histogel. I follow the suggested embedding directions on the package and then process the gel blocks. The results are very inconsistent-ideally, I'll get nice soft gel blocks-but, usually in a batch of 10 I get 2 good blocks and 8 dried up, flat hard squares. They are all handled and processed the same. Anyone experience this before? Thanks for any input. Pam Plumlee H.T. Pfizer La Jolla pam.plumlee@pfizer.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From xenophanes__ <@t> hotmail.com Tue Feb 3 10:52:23 2009 From: xenophanes__ <@t> hotmail.com (Xenophanes _) Date: Tue Feb 3 10:52:28 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Hoescht and Giemsa Message-ID: Hello all. I am excited to be a new participant of the Histonet list serve. I hope that you can provide some assistance in a little problem I am having.Simply, I wish to photograph blood smear slides (methanol fixed) with both Hoescht and Giemsa. I want to find items via normal light microscopy from the Giemsa stain and visualize the Hoescht via our UV imager on the same scope. The problem I am having is that performing the Giemsa stain first doesn't work out well because the Hoescht staining solution leeches out the Giemsa and produces washed out samples with little purple staining. I am trying to do the Hoescht stain first, but I am afraid that the Giemsa staining conditions might reduce the ability to resolve the fluorescent signal from the Hoescht dye.Furthermore, Hoescht binds DNA in the minor groove, while the Giemsa binds DNA on the phosphate groups. Does any one know about possible inhibition of binding between these two compounds since they are physically close on the DNA strand itself?Thank you again for your time and assistance!-Blood Smear-O-Rama _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: E-mail. Chat. Share. Get more ways to connect. http://windowslive.com/explore?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_allup_explore_012009 From reza.farivar <@t> mail.mcgill.ca Tue Feb 3 11:06:10 2009 From: reza.farivar <@t> mail.mcgill.ca (Reza Farivar-Mohseni, Dr) Date: Tue Feb 3 11:06:29 2009 Subject: [Histonet] DAPI with DAB Message-ID: <8EA9E02DB46B6E498A9D47891BA9E98D102CB6@EXMBXVS4B.campus.mcgill.ca> Hello, I'm thinking of counterstaining some DAB-stained sections with DAPI. Does anyone know if DAPI will still bind with DAB stained cells and fluoresce with permount? Thanks, Reza From kelvin.poon <@t> dit.ie Tue Feb 3 11:42:00 2009 From: kelvin.poon <@t> dit.ie (Kelvin Poon) Date: Tue Feb 3 11:42:07 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Self-Charging Microscope Slides Message-ID: <498881E8.1080301@dit.ie> Hi all, I was wondering if anyone was familiar with the protocol used by manufacturers such as Menzel-Glaser regarding placing a permanent positive charge on their glass slides. In the case of M-G they are called Superfrost PLUS or ULTRA PLUS slides. The reason I am asking is because I wish to positively charge /quartz/ slides, rather than glass ones. Quartz is needed for my spectroscopy experiments. I am aware that it is relatively easy to self-coat slides if you wish to use poly-l-lysine or silane but both will show up as background interference in my case. I am actually unaware if and how well quartz can actually hold a charge. Any help appreciated! Thanks, Kelvin -- _______________________________________________* *Dr. Kelvin W. C. Poon Postdoctoral Research Fellow *Radiation and Environmental Science Centre* *focas** institute*** dublin institute of technology camden row, dublin 8 Ireland This message has been scanned for content and viruses by the DIT Information Services E-Mail Scanning Service, and is believed to be clean. http://www.dit.ie From arvidsonkristen <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 3 12:13:09 2009 From: arvidsonkristen <@t> yahoo.com (kristen arvidson) Date: Tue Feb 3 12:13:12 2009 Subject: [Histonet] reprocessing Message-ID: <173777.90563.qm@web65706.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Hello, What are people doing these days when they have to reprocess fatty tissue? From jcline <@t> wchsys.org Tue Feb 3 12:20:37 2009 From: jcline <@t> wchsys.org (Joyce Cline) Date: Tue Feb 3 12:20:51 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Cap checklist question In-Reply-To: <1872B4A455B7974391609AD8034C79FC8BD4E8@LBEXCH01.hchd.local> Message-ID: <3788C648BFE94E2A933EAC4B71EF0014@wchsys.org> ANP.11665 refers to a non PA or non pathologist grossing tissue. CAP calls grossing tissue "processing specimens". There has to be a manual with all grossing techniques such as "Ackermans' Pathology" or a manual made at the site. ANP.22990 deals with performing FISH & ISH, there should be tech samples that can be ordered from CAP, I would check the web site. But if you do not perform FISH or ISH, the question is N/A. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Scott, Allison D Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 5:44 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Cap checklist question I have a question concerning CAP checklist question ANP.11665. Are . there written procedures for processing specimens. Is this referring to tech's or to residents that are grossing. We only have pathology residents grossing and taking care of specimens. What are predictive markers, this refers to ANP.22990. This is a new checklist question. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Allison Scott HT(ASCP) Histology Supervisor LBJ Hospital Houston, Texas 77026 CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this e-mail and any attachments from your computer system. To the extent the information in this e-mail and any attachments contain protected health information as defined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 ("HIPAA"), PL 104-191; 45 CFR Parts 160 and 164; or Chapter 181, Texas Health and Safety Code, it is confidential and/or privileged. This e-mail may also be confidential and/or privileged under Texas law. The e-mail is for the use of only the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, or any authorized representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, dissemination or copying of this e-mail and its attachments is strictly prohibited. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ***** CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE ***** 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. From wlecorch <@t> rwjuhh.edu Tue Feb 3 12:29:55 2009 From: wlecorch <@t> rwjuhh.edu (Lecorchick, William) Date: Tue Feb 3 12:30:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: query regarding IHC slide (shazana hilda) In-Reply-To: <1233683517.491009@messagescreen.rwjham.net> Message-ID: <09411E0112A96A459D8D5FBDAB9C15C71A4AB78814@HAMEXMBA.rwjham.local> What mounting media are you using? Are the slides left to dry near a UV light from a hood or cryostat? -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2009 12:52 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 4 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 histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu You can reach the person managing the list at histonet-owner@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: IHC and ISH (Aprill Watanabe) 2. RE: NY State Inspection Checklist (Norm Burnham) 3. query regarding IHC slide (shazana hilda) 4. Re: perplexed (Piero Nelva) 5. RE: Bouin's rinsing protocol (Swain, Frances L) 6. RE: query regarding IHC slide (Smith, Allen) 7. RE: perplexed (Terri Braud) 8. Re: query regarding IHC slide (Jan Shivers) 9. RE: Who can gross?? (Ingles Claire ) 10. RE: cryostat adapter (YourBiomed.Com ) 11. RE: IHC and ISH (YourBiomed.Com ) 12. cryostat adapter. (mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com) 13. Re: IHC and ISH (Tora Bardal) 14. RE: Histo gel Issues (Jo Dee Fish) 15. Hoescht and Giemsa (Xenophanes _) 16. DAPI with DAB (Reza Farivar-Mohseni, Dr) 17. Self-Charging Microscope Slides (Kelvin Poon) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Mon, 02 Feb 2009 16:19:23 -0700 From: Aprill Watanabe Subject: [Histonet] Re: IHC and ISH To: Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII" Bond from Leica. It's a great machine and very user friendly. The training was great and effective. The technical staff helps in so many ways. I've had my machine for 3 years and would get another one if we increased our volume. On 2/2/09 4:16 PM, "histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" wrote: Aprill Watanabe, B.S. Research Associate Integrated Cancer Genomics Division Tissue Microarray Center (TMA) Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) main: 602-343-8822 Fax: 602-343-8840 awatanabe@tgen.org www.tgen.org ------------------------------ Message: 2 Date: Mon, 2 Feb 2009 17:21:50 -0600 From: "Norm Burnham" Subject: RE: [Histonet] NY State Inspection Checklist To: , Message-ID: <82C7248978CB50469FD6BA68EBBEFE67F4C8AD@exchange.propathlab.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" http://www.wadsworth.org/labcert/clep/standards.htm Norm Burnham ProPath www.ProPath.com -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of thisisann@aol.com Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 5:12 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] NY State Inspection Checklist I was just informed that NY now has an inspection checklist.? Can someone let me know where I can find it. Thanks, Ann _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 3 Date: Mon, 2 Feb 2009 18:10:33 -0800 (PST) From: shazana hilda Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <653484.44401.qm@web38805.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Dear All, Is anyone has experience with faded IHC-slide stained? I've done my IHC stained on few markers and after 3-4 months I viewed the slide and it seems that the stain became faded.Does anyone has opinion regarding this matter and how to troubleshoot it? Any response are greatly appreciated. Regards. Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia, Off. no: +609- 766 4440 Fax no: +609- 765 3370 Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com ------------------------------ Message: 4 Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2009 19:35:20 +1100 From: "Piero Nelva" Subject: Re: [Histonet] perplexed To: Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1"; reply-type=original Hi Angela There was a problem with the heating pads for a certain batch of Ventana XT's. We had uneven heating for a week or so until the rep replaced the entire pad. You can check if your machine is one that was made in the offending batch. No problems since. Regards Piero Nelva Anatomical Pathology Monash Medical Centre Victoria Australia ----- Original Message ----- From: "Angela Bitting" To: Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2009 7:25 AM Subject: [Histonet] perplexed Here's one for the Ventana BenchmarkXT users out there: We mount the patient tissue on the same slide with our control tissue. The control stains beautifully, but there is absolutely no staining in the patient tissue. This will happen to one or two out of 30 slides on a run. It also happened on two different instruments. Over the last week this has occurred 6 times. Different protocols, different machines. I tend to think its a deparaffinization issue. Can one side of a pad heat and the other end not reach temp? We haven't noticed that the slides moved during staining or were not seated properly on the pad. Help me figure this one out folks!! Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.0.233 / Virus Database: 270.10.16/1930 - Release Date: 01/31/09 20:03:00 ------------------------------ Message: 5 Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2009 06:39:03 -0600 From: "Swain, Frances L" Subject: [Histonet] RE: Bouin's rinsing protocol To: "Jennifer Anderson" , "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Message-ID: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E38017397395C@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii I have been handling Bouin fixed animal tissue for years. We removed the Bouins picric acid yellow by submerging our specimens in 70% Alcohol saturated with Lithium Carbonate. It usually takes overnight. I have had PI's bring me the samples after rinsing their samples in Lithium Carbonate solution overnight, this even worked better, after rinsing with the Lithium Carbonate saturated Aqueous Solution they placed them in 70% and brought them to me for processing. Gail 's processing is right on. Have you seen the Animal Tissue Book that Gail and Diane Sterchi published? It is very helpful. I believe you can obtain it through NSH Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Jennifer Anderson Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 3:10 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Bouin's rinsing protocol Hello. I am looking for information regarding procedures for tissue handling after Bouin's fixation, prior to processing in a standard automated tissue processor (VIP). We are handling pig, mouse, rat, and human samples, and will fix in Bouin's for 48-72 hrs. I've been told to rinse until all yellow is washed out, and people generally rinse in 70% alcohol or water. Sometimes it take days to wash all of the picric acid out. Thank you so much for your wealth of information! Jennifer M. Anderson, Scientist Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. 11404 Sorrento Valley Road San Diego, CA 92121 858-704-8333 janderson@halozyme.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. ------------------------------ Message: 6 Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2009 08:51:26 -0500 From: "Smith, Allen" Subject: RE: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide To: 'shazana hilda' Cc: "'Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu'" Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" A lot depends on the stain chosen. I have used Vector's Nova Red for the last 3 years. I have seen no fading of my older Nova Red slides. Prof. Allen A. Smith Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine Miami Shores, Florida -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of shazana hilda Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 9:11 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Dear All, Is anyone has experience with faded IHC-slide stained? I've done my IHC stained on few markers and after 3-4 months I viewed the slide and it seems that the stain became faded.Does anyone has opinion regarding this matter and how to troubleshoot it? Any response are greatly appreciated. Regards. Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia, Off. no: +609- 766 4440 Fax no: +609- 765 3370 Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 7 Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2009 09:58:19 -0500 From: "Terri Braud" Subject: [Histonet] RE: perplexed To: Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" 10. perplexed (Angela Bitting) histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH Hi everyone, I am currently in the process of evaluating IHC equipment to replace my old Dako Autostainers. The pathologists I work for are interested in bringing ISH into our lab. My questions are, what IHC instrument have you found works the best for IHC and ISH, and what kind of training did your personnel go through to become qualified to perform ISH? Thank you! Jean Taylor, HT(ASCP)QIHC ICH Tech Meriter Labs Madison, WI We had the same issue here with our slides, even though the control tissue was mounted on the same slide, we would get decent control staining but no patient, or vice versa. I spoke with several Ventana tech folk, and the one thing that they insisted on, was the brand of slide I was using. We never used the "control" slides with the little red box, just charged slides from another company than what Ventana was recommending. As a tech with over 30 years of experience, I couldn't imagine that one plus charged slide could be so different from the other and that it would contribute that much difference to how tissue would stain. After all, the tissue was still stuck fast, and no one could explain the principle behind what they were saying. But hey - I was wrong, wrong, wrong. Once we switched to Cardinal's Superfrost Plus slides instead of another company's "charged" slides, we never had the problem again. It still doesn't make sense, and no one can explain why, but it did seem to make a difference. I hope this helps you. Terri Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) Anatomic Pathology Supervisor Laboratory Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center 1648 Huntingdon Pike Meadowbrook, PA 19046 (215) 938-3676 phone (215) 938-3689 fax --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under applicable federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do not distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. Thank you for your cooperation. ------------------------------ Message: 8 Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2009 09:12:09 -0600 From: "Jan Shivers" Subject: Re: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide To: "shazana hilda" , Message-ID: <69FA5AAD53D2495CAD2FF3010A6CEACA@auxs.umn.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1"; reply-type=original Please tell us what chromogen stains and counterstains you are using, and the type of mounting medium for the coverslip. This will help us try to answer your question. Jan Shivers UMN VDL ----- Original Message ----- From: "shazana hilda" To: Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 8:10 PM Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide > Dear All, > Is anyone has experience with faded IHC-slide stained? I've done my IHC > stained on few markers and after 3-4 months I viewed the slide and it > seems that the stain became faded.Does anyone has opinion regarding this > matter and how to troubleshoot it? > > Any response are greatly appreciated. > > > Regards. > > Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia, > Off. no: +609- 766 4440 > Fax no: +609- 765 3370 > Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > ------------------------------ Message: 9 Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2009 09:39:29 -0600 From: "Ingles Claire " Subject: RE: [Histonet] Who can gross?? To: "Judith L. Williams" , "Charles.Embrey" Cc: histonet Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" That's why we always keep at least one tall person on staff to reach the top shelves, etc. :) Claire ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Judith L. Williams Sent: Fri 1/30/2009 11:59 AM To: Charles.Embrey Cc: histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Who can gross?? Now that folks is a beautiful Friday statement and comeback - those darn short techs really cause problems don't they :/ hehehehe Judy On Fri, 30 Jan 2009, Charles.Embrey wrote: > As short histo techs what kind of aids are you using, stepladders or > stools? Sorry, I couldn't resist. There is a ton of information on the > histonet archive about this. A search should yield all the info you > seek and more. > > ------------------------------ Message: 10 Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2009 7:51:30 -0800 From: "YourBiomed.Com " Subject: RE: [Histonet] cryostat adapter To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <20090203105130.EH2TU.1015850.imail@fed1rmwml37> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8 We have the adapter here at IMEB, Inc. Please go to www.imebinc.com for our contact info and ask for Brad. Thank you ------------------------------ Message: 11 Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2009 7:52:59 -0800 From: "YourBiomed.Com " Subject: RE: [Histonet] IHC and ISH To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <20090203105259.J7M4V.1015899.imail@fed1rmwml37> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8 Jean, I work at IMEB, Inc in San Marcos, CA. I'm very familiar with the instruments listed in the responses to your question. What it comes down to is cost, closed system or open system (use your reagents or theirs (Vendors). The Leica BondMax has it strengths and weaknesses as does the Ventana and Intellipath from BioCare. They all offer great training and I'm sure you'll get the end result (staining) to meet your needs. But do you want to buy the majority of your reagents from the vendor selling the instrument; which can be costly...depending on your quantity of slides your lab processes or open source in which you can mix and match the reagents that you prefer. This can or in some cases may not be a cost saver. Any questions, please contact me. Brad IMEB, Inc www.imebinc.com -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Taylor, Jean Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 9:51 AM To: ihcrg@googlegroups.com; IHCRG@yahoogroups.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH Hi everyone, I am currently in the process of evaluating IHC equipment to replace my old Dako Autostainers. The pathologists I work for are interested in bringing ISH into our lab. My questions are, what IHC instrument have you found works the best for IHC and ISH, and what kind of training did your personnel go through to become qualified to perform ISH? Thank you! Jean Taylor, HT(ASCP)QIHC ICH Tech Meriter Labs Madison, WI _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 12 Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2009 10:06:45 -0600 From: mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com Subject: [Histonet] cryostat adapter. To: lchen@mednet.ucla.edu Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII Leslie I contacted our collegues in Germany and was given the below nformation on the inner demensions of the Miles adapter for the CM1850 cryostat by Leica for use with embedding rings. The inner dimensions of the adapter are 2,3 cm x 2,3 cm. If you have other questions please feel free contact. Kind Regards Mari Ann Mailhiot BA HT ASCP Application Specialist/Trainer Leica Microsystems Biosystems Division Technical Assistance Center 800 248 0123 x7267 847 236 3063 fax mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com www.leica-microsystems.com ______________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email ______________________________________________________________________ ------------------------------ Message: 13 Date: Tue, 03 Feb 2009 17:40:46 +0100 From: Tora Bardal Subject: Re: [Histonet] IHC and ISH To: "YourBiomed.Com" Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <4988738E.5030303@bio.ntnu.no> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed Does anyone have experience with InsituPro? http://www.intavis.com/en/In_Situ_Detection/index.php Tora YourBiomed.Com wrote: > Jean, > > I work at IMEB, Inc in San Marcos, CA. > I'm very familiar with the instruments listed in the responses to your question. > What it comes down to is cost, closed system or open system (use your reagents or theirs (Vendors). > The Leica BondMax has it strengths and weaknesses as does the Ventana and Intellipath from BioCare. > They all offer great training and I'm sure you'll get the end result (staining) to meet your needs. > But do you want to buy the majority of your reagents from the vendor selling the instrument; which can be costly...depending on your quantity of slides your lab processes or open source in which you can mix and match the reagents that you prefer. This can or in some cases may not be a cost saver. > > Any questions, please contact me. > > Brad > IMEB, Inc > www.imebinc.com > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Taylor, Jean > Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 9:51 AM > To: ihcrg@googlegroups.com; IHCRG@yahoogroups.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] IHC and ISH > > Hi everyone, > > I am currently in the process of evaluating IHC equipment to replace my old Dako Autostainers. The pathologists I work for are interested in bringing ISH into our lab. My questions are, what IHC instrument have you found works the best for IHC and ISH, and what kind of training did your personnel go through to become qualified to perform ISH? > > Thank you! > > Jean Taylor, HT(ASCP)QIHC > ICH Tech > Meriter Labs > Madison, WI > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > ------------------------------ Message: 14 Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2009 08:49:41 -0800 From: "Jo Dee Fish" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues To: "'pam plumlee'" , Message-ID: <1DF34928912D42A39B266EEB5A28C32F@JFISH> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Dear Pam, I've had the same problem. I called Richard-Allen just after they were "absorbed" by Thermo Fisher and got no answers. They had never heard of such a problem and didn't know how to solve it. I have heard from another user that had the same exact problem. I lost precious samples, E6.5 mouse embryos, because of this "drying out and hardening" of the histogel. I had to stop using it all together. If anyone has any suggestions, please let us know! Take care Pam and all histonetters, Jo Dee ~~Jo Dee Fish~~ Senior Research Technologist The J. David Gladstone Institutes Co-manager Histology and Microscopy Core Telephone: (415) 734-2567 Fax: (415) 355-0824 E-mail: jfish@gladstone.ucsf.edu Mailing address: The J. David Gladstone Institutes 1650 Owens Street San Francisco, CA 94158 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of pam plumlee Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 1:06 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues Dear Group: I'm having problems with the processing of small tissues in histogel. I follow the suggested embedding directions on the package and then process the gel blocks. The results are very inconsistent-ideally, I'll get nice soft gel blocks-but, usually in a batch of 10 I get 2 good blocks and 8 dried up, flat hard squares. They are all handled and processed the same. Anyone experience this before? Thanks for any input. Pam Plumlee H.T. Pfizer La Jolla pam.plumlee@pfizer.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 15 Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2009 16:52:23 +0000 From: Xenophanes _ Subject: [Histonet] Hoescht and Giemsa To: Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="Windows-1252" Hello all. I am excited to be a new participant of the Histonet list serve. I hope that you can provide some assistance in a little problem I am having.Simply, I wish to photograph blood smear slides (methanol fixed) with both Hoescht and Giemsa. I want to find items via normal light microscopy from the Giemsa stain and visualize the Hoescht via our UV imager on the same scope. The problem I am having is that performing the Giemsa stain first doesn't work out well because the Hoescht staining solution leeches out the Giemsa and produces washed out samples with little purple staining. I am trying to do the Hoescht stain first, but I am afraid that the Giemsa staining conditions might reduce the ability to resolve the fluorescent signal from the Hoescht dye.Furthermore, Hoescht binds DNA in the minor groove, while the Giemsa binds DNA on the phosphate groups. Does any one know about possible inhibition of binding between these two compounds since they are physically clos! e on the DNA strand itself?Thank you again for your time and assistance!-Blood Smear-O-Rama _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: E-mail. Chat. Share. Get more ways to connect. http://windowslive.com/explore?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_allup_explore_012009 ------------------------------ Message: 16 Date: Tue, 3 Feb 2009 12:06:10 -0500 From: "Reza Farivar-Mohseni, Dr" Subject: [Histonet] DAPI with DAB To: "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Message-ID: <8EA9E02DB46B6E498A9D47891BA9E98D102CB6@EXMBXVS4B.campus.mcgill.ca> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Hello, I'm thinking of counterstaining some DAB-stained sections with DAPI. Does anyone know if DAPI will still bind with DAB stained cells and fluoresce with permount? Thanks, Reza ------------------------------ Message: 17 Date: Tue, 03 Feb 2009 17:42:00 +0000 From: Kelvin Poon Subject: [Histonet] Self-Charging Microscope Slides To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <498881E8.1080301@dit.ie> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Hi all, I was wondering if anyone was familiar with the protocol used by manufacturers such as Menzel-Glaser regarding placing a permanent positive charge on their glass slides. In the case of M-G they are called Superfrost PLUS or ULTRA PLUS slides. The reason I am asking is because I wish to positively charge /quartz/ slides, rather than glass ones. Quartz is needed for my spectroscopy experiments. I am aware that it is relatively easy to self-coat slides if you wish to use poly-l-lysine or silane but both will show up as background interference in my case. I am actually unaware if and how well quartz can actually hold a charge. Any help appreciated! Thanks, Kelvin -- _______________________________________________* *Dr. Kelvin W. C. Poon Postdoctoral Research Fellow *Radiation and Environmental Science Centre* *focas** institute*** dublin institute of technology camden row, dublin 8 Ireland This message has been scanned for content and viruses by the DIT Information Services E-Mail Scanning Service, and is believed to be clean. http://www.dit.ie ------------------------------ _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet End of Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 4 *************************************** From jennifer.l.hofecker <@t> Vanderbilt.Edu Tue Feb 3 12:37:28 2009 From: jennifer.l.hofecker <@t> Vanderbilt.Edu (Hofecker, Jennifer L) Date: Tue Feb 3 12:37:36 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues In-Reply-To: <1DF34928912D42A39B266EEB5A28C32F@JFISH> References: <619324.77670.qm@web31901.mail.mud.yahoo.com> <1DF34928912D42A39B266EEB5A28C32F@JFISH> Message-ID: <5F3F860CFE0F4741B1D87A88A58FAE9A0B5580@mailbe01.mc.vanderbilt.edu> Hi, Do either of you "dry embed" your Histogel blocks? By this I mean: Are you submerging the blocks in molten paraffin prior to embedding? Are they coming off the processor looking different, or are you finding it after you embed the gel blocks? Does it seem that the gel square is hard and never becomes "one with the paraffin"? If it's after embedding, it may be dry embedding related. I use Histogel on a daily basis for clinical neurosurgery specimens and have had no trouble. I do submerge my blocks in molten paraffin after processing (holding tank of embedding center). I know several people who do not submerge and they had issues with the gel seeming hard and brittle. If you dry embed, you can get some good ones, but the likelihood of dried out "squares" is tremendous. Another suggestion may be the temperature of your Histogel. We once had an overzealous person heat the Histogel so hot that it was smoking (not the nice happy 50?C that we're used to). The block he made before I 'caught' him was hard and brittle the next day while the others were not. I could notice this difference immediately upon taking them off the processor. I must also say that I have not purchased Histogel lately since I buy in large batches. If there's been a formula change or a lot related problem, it would not be affecting me yet. Good Luck and please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Have a great week! Jennifer Jennifer L. Hofecker HT(ASCP) Vanderbilt University Medical Center Division of Neuropathology Nashville, TN ph 615.343.0083 fax 615.343.7089 -----Original Message----- From: Jo Dee Fish [mailto:jfish@gladstone.ucsf.edu] Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2009 10:50 AM To: 'pam plumlee'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues Dear Pam, I've had the same problem. I called Richard-Allen just after they were "absorbed" by Thermo Fisher and got no answers. They had never heard of such a problem and didn't know how to solve it. I have heard from another user that had the same exact problem. I lost precious samples, E6.5 mouse embryos, because of this "drying out and hardening" of the histogel. I had to stop using it all together. If anyone has any suggestions, please let us know! Take care Pam and all histonetters, Jo Dee ~~Jo Dee Fish~~ Senior Research Technologist The J. David Gladstone Institutes Co-manager Histology and Microscopy Core Telephone: (415) 734-2567 Fax: (415) 355-0824 E-mail: jfish@gladstone.ucsf.edu Mailing address: The J. David Gladstone Institutes 1650 Owens Street San Francisco, CA 94158 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of pam plumlee Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 1:06 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues Dear Group: I'm having problems with the processing of small tissues in histogel. I follow the suggested embedding directions on the package and then process the gel blocks. The results are very inconsistent-ideally, I'll get nice soft gel blocks-but, usually in a batch of 10 I get 2 good blocks and 8 dried up, flat hard squares. They are all handled and processed the same. Anyone experience this before? Thanks for any input. Pam Plumlee H.T. Pfizer La Jolla pam.plumlee@pfizer.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From JMcCormick <@t> schosp.org Tue Feb 3 12:48:33 2009 From: JMcCormick <@t> schosp.org (McCormick, James) Date: Tue Feb 3 12:48:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues In-Reply-To: <1DF34928912D42A39B266EEB5A28C32F@JFISH> References: <619324.77670.qm@web31901.mail.mud.yahoo.com> <1DF34928912D42A39B266EEB5A28C32F@JFISH> Message-ID: <0672286797B07E40AA3414F534B7CB80040162F3F8@EXCHCCRMB.schosp.org> All, with Histogel "drying","hardening", and the loss of specimens. I am particularly interested in artifacts of processing with algenates, among which is Histogel. As I am analyizing the problem for our own use I have determined that there are variables introduced with the following: 1. Age of the product. Has it been opened and lost moisture thru evaporation. 2. Type of solutions in the beginning of processing. Particularly a rapid ascent into higher alcohols, (they cause the gel to shrink and harden). 3. Heat exposure time in melting...was the heat controlled? Time? I would be pleased to make specific comments if you will email the time and solutions in the dehydration steps,clearing solution and paraffin exposure times. Interested, J.B.McCormick, M.D. CSO Leica-Biosystems, St. Louis, Mo -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Jo Dee Fish Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2009 10:50 AM To: 'pam plumlee'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues Dear Pam, I've had the same problem. I called Richard-Allen just after they were "absorbed" by Thermo Fisher and got no answers. They had never heard of such a problem and didn't know how to solve it. I have heard from another user that had the same exact problem. I lost precious samples, E6.5 mouse embryos, because of this "drying out and hardening" of the histogel. I had to stop using it all together. If anyone has any suggestions, please let us know! Take care Pam and all histonetters, Jo Dee ~~Jo Dee Fish~~ Senior Research Technologist The J. David Gladstone Institutes Co-manager Histology and Microscopy Core Telephone: (415) 734-2567 Fax: (415) 355-0824 E-mail: jfish@gladstone.ucsf.edu Mailing address: The J. David Gladstone Institutes 1650 Owens Street San Francisco, CA 94158 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of pam plumlee Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 1:06 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues Dear Group: I'm having problems with the processing of small tissues in histogel. I follow the suggested embedding directions on the package and then process the gel blocks. The results are very inconsistent-ideally, I'll get nice soft gel blocks-but, usually in a batch of 10 I get 2 good blocks and 8 dried up, flat hard squares. They are all handled and processed the same. Anyone experience this before? Thanks for any input. Pam Plumlee H.T. Pfizer La Jolla pam.plumlee@pfizer.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet *** Confidentiality Statement *** This e-mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged and confidential. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and then delete it from your system. Any review, dissemination, distribution, or reproduction of this message by unintended recipients is strictly prohibited and may be subject to legal restriction. Thank you for your cooperation. From jfish <@t> gladstone.ucsf.edu Tue Feb 3 12:52:05 2009 From: jfish <@t> gladstone.ucsf.edu (Jo Dee Fish) Date: Tue Feb 3 12:52:12 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues In-Reply-To: <5F3F860CFE0F4741B1D87A88A58FAE9A0B5580@mailbe01.mc.vanderbilt.edu> References: <619324.77670.qm@web31901.mail.mud.yahoo.com> <1DF34928912D42A39B266EEB5A28C32F@JFISH> <5F3F860CFE0F4741B1D87A88A58FAE9A0B5580@mailbe01.mc.vanderbilt.edu> Message-ID: Hi Jennifer, I always submerge my cassettes in molten paraffin until I embed them, so that isn't the problem. The histogel comes out of the processor hardened and whitish in appearance. I also melted the histogel tubes in hot water while preembedding the embryos, so that probably isn't the problem, either. Jo Dee ~~Jo Dee Fish~~ Senior Research Technologist The J. David Gladstone Institutes Co-manager Histology and Microscopy Core Telephone: (415) 734-2567 Fax: (415) 355-0824 E-mail: jfish@gladstone.ucsf.edu Mailing address: The J. David Gladstone Institutes 1650 Owens Street San Francisco, CA 94158 _____ From: Hofecker, Jennifer L [mailto:jennifer.l.hofecker@Vanderbilt.Edu] Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2009 10:37 AM To: jfish@gladstone.ucsf.edu; pam plumlee; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues Hi, Do either of you "dry embed" your Histogel blocks? By this I mean: Are you submerging the blocks in molten paraffin prior to embedding? Are they coming off the processor looking different, or are you finding it after you embed the gel blocks? Does it seem that the gel square is hard and never becomes ?one with the paraffin?? If it?s after embedding, it may be dry embedding related. I use Histogel on a daily basis for clinical neurosurgery specimens and have had no trouble. I do submerge my blocks in molten paraffin after processing (holding tank of embedding center). I know several people who do not submerge and they had issues with the gel seeming hard and brittle. If you dry embed, you can get some good ones, but the likelihood of dried out "squares" is tremendous. Another suggestion may be the temperature of your Histogel. We once had an overzealous person heat the Histogel so hot that it was smoking (not the nice happy 50?C that we?re used to). The block he made before I ?caught? him was hard and brittle the next day while the others were not. I could notice this difference immediately upon taking them off the processor. I must also say that I have not purchased Histogel lately since I buy in large batches. If there?s been a formula change or a lot related problem, it would not be affecting me yet. Good Luck and please let me know if I can be of any further assistance. Have a great week! Jennifer Jennifer L. Hofecker HT(ASCP) Vanderbilt University Medical Center Division of Neuropathology Nashville, TN ph 615.343.0083 fax 615.343.7089 -----Original Message----- From: Jo Dee Fish [mailto:jfish@gladstone.ucsf.edu] Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2009 10:50 AM To: 'pam plumlee'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues Dear Pam, I've had the same problem. I called Richard-Allen just after they were "absorbed" by Thermo Fisher and got no answers. They had never heard of such a problem and didn't know how to solve it. I have heard from another user that had the same exact problem. I lost precious samples, E6.5 mouse embryos, because of this "drying out and hardening" of the histogel. I had to stop using it all together. If anyone has any suggestions, please let us know! Take care Pam and all histonetters, Jo Dee ~~Jo Dee Fish~~ Senior Research Technologist The J. David Gladstone Institutes Co-manager Histology and Microscopy Core Telephone: (415) 734-2567 Fax: (415) 355-0824 E-mail: jfish@gladstone.ucsf.edu Mailing address: The J. David Gladstone Institutes 1650 Owens Street San Francisco, CA 94158 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of pam plumlee Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 1:06 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Histo gel Issues Dear Group: I'm having problems with the processing of small tissues in histogel. I follow the suggested embedding directions on the package and then process the gel blocks. The results are very inconsistent-ideally, I'll get nice soft gel blocks-but, usually in a batch of 10 I get 2 good blocks and 8 dried up, flat hard squares. They are all handled and processed the same. Anyone experience this before? Thanks for any input. Pam Plumlee H.T. Pfizer La Jolla pam.plumlee@pfizer.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Charles.Embrey <@t> carle.com Tue Feb 3 12:57:51 2009 From: Charles.Embrey <@t> carle.com (Charles.Embrey) Date: Tue Feb 3 12:58:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Cap checklist question In-Reply-To: <3788C648BFE94E2A933EAC4B71EF0014@wchsys.org> References: <1872B4A455B7974391609AD8034C79FC8BD4E8@LBEXCH01.hchd.local> <3788C648BFE94E2A933EAC4B71EF0014@wchsys.org> Message-ID: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A1FE642@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> NO,NO,NO, CAP does not call "grossing tissue", "processing tissue". CAP has made two categories or specimens- Processing and grossing. ANP.11600 1. Processing is defined as a tissue examination limited to description, inking and cutting of the specimen (if applicable), and submission of the entire specimen to histology. Tissue processing can be performed according to standardized protocols. Processing is generally limited to small specimens (skin, small biopsies, curettings, etc.) and does not require knowledge of anatomy. 2. Grossing (or gross examination) is defined as a tissue examination requiring a greater exercise of judgment and a knowledge of anatomy. Dissection of the specimen and selection of tissue samples for submission to histology are generally required. The specimen description is not necessarily standardized. CAP goes on to require "grossing" be done by a pathologist or pathologist resident or other individuals qualifying as high complexity testing personnel under CLIA 88 regulations. The written procedures asked about in ANP.11665 apply only to "processing" as defined by CAP when being done by "non-pathologist individuals who are not qualified as high complexity testing personnel under CLIA 88". Charles Embrey, PA(ASCP) -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joyce Cline Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2009 12:21 PM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Cap checklist question ANP.11665 refers to a non PA or non pathologist grossing tissue. CAP calls grossing tissue "processing specimens". There has to be a manual with all grossing techniques such as "Ackermans' Pathology" or a manual made at the site. ANP.22990 deals with performing FISH & ISH, there should be tech samples that can be ordered from CAP, I would check the web site. But if you do not perform FISH or ISH, the question is N/A. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++ -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Scott, Allison D Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 5:44 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Cap checklist question I have a question concerning CAP checklist question ANP.11665. Are . there written procedures for processing specimens. Is this referring to tech's or to residents that are grossing. We only have pathology residents grossing and taking care of specimens. What are predictive markers, this refers to ANP.22990. This is a new checklist question. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Allison Scott HT(ASCP) Histology Supervisor LBJ Hospital Houston, Texas 77026 CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this e-mail and any attachments from your computer system. To the extent the information in this e-mail and any attachments contain protected health information as defined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 ("HIPAA"), PL 104-191; 45 CFR Parts 160 and 164; or Chapter 181, Texas Health and Safety Code, it is confidential and/or privileged. This e-mail may also be confidential and/or privileged under Texas law. The e-mail is for the use of only the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, or any authorized representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, dissemination or copying of this e-mail and its attachments is strictly prohibited. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ***** CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE ***** 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. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From jshelley <@t> burnham.org Tue Feb 3 13:26:36 2009 From: jshelley <@t> burnham.org (John Shelley) Date: Tue Feb 3 13:26:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Muscle Gomori Trichrome Message-ID: Hi Histonians, I have experienced some difficulties in doing snapped freeze muscle biopsies that need to be stained with the Modified Gomori's Trichrome by Engel, W.K., and Cunningham 1963. When I stained the frozen tissue that has not been post or pre fixed, I am getting red areas within this bundles that also have green in it. I know it should be solid green with reddish nuclei and red intermyofibrillar muscle. I truly believe this is an artifact. I checked the histonet archives and there has been much talk about the stain but not how to correct this artifact Any help will be appreciated. John From mari.ann.mailhiot <@t> leica-microsystems.com Tue Feb 3 13:32:15 2009 From: mari.ann.mailhiot <@t> leica-microsystems.com (mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com) Date: Tue Feb 3 13:32:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] reprocessing In-Reply-To: <173777.90563.qm@web65706.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Kristen I remember reading an article maybe in the Histology Journal awhile ago. In there it recommended rolling and blotting the tissue with a paper towel to remove excess paraffin and then placing the specimen in a cassette and putting that cassette directly into formalin. I never had an issues with this process. Sometimes I checked the block to see if I smell xylene. If I do smell xylene that usually means the block needs more time in paraffin. We then usually dropped the blocks in the paraffin tank on the embedding center. They usually stayed there a few hours. Never was any of the fatty tissue compromised from the extended time in paraffin. All of this being said I worked at a very busy placed and we replaced paraffin in our tanks everyday. So paraffin was always clean and never affected by a few blacks place in the embedding tank. Just some thoughts. Best Regards Mari Ann Mailhiot BA HT ASCP Application Specialist/Trainer Leica Microsystems Biosystems Division Technical Assistance Center 800 248 0123 x7267 847 236 3063 fax mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com www.leica-microsystems.com kristen arvidson To Sent by: histonet histonet-bounces@ lists.utsouthwest cc ern.edu Subject [Histonet] reprocessing 02/03/2009 12:13 PM Please respond to arvidsonkristen@y ahoo.com Hello, What are people doing these days when they have to reprocess fatty tissue? _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ______________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email ______________________________________________________________________ From anne.lewin <@t> bms.com Tue Feb 3 13:35:57 2009 From: anne.lewin <@t> bms.com (Lewin, Anne) Date: Tue Feb 3 13:36:06 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Hoescht and Giemsa In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <4895A1696F956D4CB56011A8C61312821386A0A4@ushpwbmsmmp008.one.ads.bms.com> I have never tried that type of double staining, but DAPI also stains DNA in the minor groove and may not interfere with your Giemsa stain. You can get DAPI already diluted in mounting media - Vector Labs makes a nice aqueous mount one that hardens so you don't have to use fingernail polish to seal the edges. >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Xenophanes _ >Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2009 11:52 AM >To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] Hoescht and Giemsa > > >Hello all. I am excited to be a new participant of the Histonet list >serve. I hope that you can provide some assistance in a little problem >I am having.Simply, I wish to photograph blood smear slides (methanol >fixed) with both Hoescht and Giemsa. I want to find items via normal >light microscopy from the Giemsa stain and visualize the Hoescht via our >UV imager on the same scope. The problem I am having is that performing >the Giemsa stain first doesn't work out well because the Hoescht >staining solution leeches out the Giemsa and produces washed out samples >with little purple staining. I am trying to do the Hoescht stain first, >but I am afraid that the Giemsa staining conditions might reduce the >ability to resolve the fluorescent signal from the Hoescht >dye.Furthermore, Hoescht binds DNA in the minor groove, while the Giemsa >binds DNA on the phosphate groups. Does any one know about possible >inhibition of binding between these two compounds since they are >physically close on the DNA strand itself?Thank you again for your time >and assistance!-Blood Smear-O-Rama >_________________________________________________________________ >Windows Live(tm): E-mail. Chat. Share. Get more ways to connect. >http://windowslive.com/explore?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_allup_explore_012009 >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From scott807 <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 3 13:40:43 2009 From: scott807 <@t> yahoo.com (Scott S) Date: Tue Feb 3 13:40:48 2009 Subject: [Histonet] PFA/sucrose cryopreservation of endogenous YFP signal Message-ID: <116632.24776.qm@web110701.mail.gq1.yahoo.com> Hi everyone... been having some trouble lately with my cryopreservation. Tissue looks grossly fine before embedding in OCT but then when I cut sections on the crystat the architecture is totally disrupted with a lot of space in between cells. It almost looks like the cells have become so shrunken and dehydrated that they actually pull apart the interstitium. Has anyone ever had this problem? Can I skip the sucrose and embed after PFA (paraformaldehyde) fixation...will that still preserve my signal? Here are some additional details about my protocol, which has always worked in the past so I'm not sure why its a problem now: -this is adult tissue (kidney, liver, tumor, etc) containing an endogenous YFP reporter that needs to be preserved -tissue is fixed in 4% PFA overnight at 4C, then in 30% sucrose/PBS overnight at 4C -once tissue has sunk in sucrose soln (typically next day), I let tissue sit on paper towel for a few sec to dry up sucrose soln then let sit in OCT for a few min before placing into OCT boat and slowly freezing on dry ice. Any suggestions would be very much appreciated...thanks so much for your time! From jfish <@t> gladstone.ucsf.edu Tue Feb 3 13:47:30 2009 From: jfish <@t> gladstone.ucsf.edu (Jo Dee Fish) Date: Tue Feb 3 13:47:35 2009 Subject: [Histonet] PFA/sucrose cryopreservation of endogenous YFP signal In-Reply-To: <116632.24776.qm@web110701.mail.gq1.yahoo.com> References: <116632.24776.qm@web110701.mail.gq1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <00DE28F06A8146B8A689178318ECE1BB@JFISH> Hi Scott, "slowly freezing on dry ice" may be your problem. In my honest opinion, you need to freeze faster. Try a different method, such as cooled isopentane, either with LN2 (coolest method) or dry ice. You should get better results when you freeze them faster or colder. Good luck, Jo Dee ~~Jo Dee Fish~~ Senior Research Technologist The J. David Gladstone Institutes Co-manager Histology and Microscopy Core Telephone: (415) 734-2567 Fax: (415) 355-0824 E-mail: jfish@gladstone.ucsf.edu Mailing address: The J. David Gladstone Institutes 1650 Owens Street San Francisco, CA 94158 From AnthonyH <@t> chw.edu.au Tue Feb 3 15:04:16 2009 From: AnthonyH <@t> chw.edu.au (Tony Henwood) Date: Tue Feb 3 15:04:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Muscle Gomori Trichrome In-Reply-To: Message-ID: Possibly you have allowed the slides to air dry too long before staining. After cutting and allowing to dry for 10 minutes, store them at -70oC prior to staining might solve the problem Regards Tony Henwood JP, MSc, BAppSc, GradDipSysAnalys, CT(ASC) Laboratory Manager & Senior Scientist Tel: 612 9845 3306 Fax: 612 9845 3318 the children's hospital at westmead Cnr Hawkesbury Road and Hainsworth Street, Westmead Locked Bag 4001, Westmead NSW 2145, AUSTRALIA -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of John Shelley Sent: Wednesday, 4 February 2009 6:27 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Muscle Gomori Trichrome Hi Histonians, I have experienced some difficulties in doing snapped freeze muscle biopsies that need to be stained with the Modified Gomori's Trichrome by Engel, W.K., and Cunningham 1963. When I stained the frozen tissue that has not been post or pre fixed, I am getting red areas within this bundles that also have green in it. I know it should be solid green with reddish nuclei and red intermyofibrillar muscle. I truly believe this is an artifact. I checked the histonet archives and there has been much talk about the stain but not how to correct this artifact Any help will be appreciated. John _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ********************************************************************* This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete it and notify the sender. Views expressed in this message and any attachments are those of the individual sender, and are not necessarily the views of The Children's Hospital at Westmead This note also confirms that this email message has been virus scanned and although no computer viruses were detected, The Childrens Hospital at Westmead accepts no liability for any consequential damage resulting from email containing computer viruses. ********************************************************************** From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 3 15:19:14 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Tue Feb 3 15:19:17 2009 Subject: [Histonet] reprocessing In-Reply-To: <173777.90563.qm@web65706.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <968900.23491.qm@web65709.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> You have 2 options: 1-put it in the tissue processor, in the cleaning cycle, and again process it, or 2-melt the paraffin away?and press?the tissue?between 2 pieces of absorbent paper,?reembed it and cut it again. Ren? J.? --- On Tue, 2/3/09, kristen arvidson wrote: From: kristen arvidson Subject: [Histonet] reprocessing To: "histonet" Date: Tuesday, February 3, 2009, 1:13 PM Hello, What are people doing these days when they have to reprocess fatty tissue? _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 3 15:19:46 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Tue Feb 3 15:19:50 2009 Subject: [Histonet] reprocessing Message-ID: <965522.13072.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> You have 2 options: 1-put it in the tissue processor, in the cleaning cycle, and again process it, or 2-melt the paraffin away?and press?the tissue?between 2 pieces of absorbent paper,?reembed it and cut it again. Ren? J.? --- On Tue, 2/3/09, kristen arvidson wrote: From: kristen arvidson Subject: [Histonet] reprocessing To: "histonet" Date: Tuesday, February 3, 2009, 1:13 PM Hello, What are people doing these days when they have to reprocess fatty tissue? _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From anh2006 <@t> med.cornell.edu Tue Feb 3 18:59:28 2009 From: anh2006 <@t> med.cornell.edu (Andrea Hooper) Date: Tue Feb 3 18:59:35 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Leica Thermal Block Message-ID: Does anyone use the Leica Thermal Block? How does it work? Do you need to prewarm it? I was told to leave it in the cryostat but that doesn't work as it gets as cold as the chucks ... ? Thanks, Andrea -- From hilda_1075 <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 3 21:20:30 2009 From: hilda_1075 <@t> yahoo.com (shazana hilda) Date: Tue Feb 3 21:20:33 2009 Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide References: <653484.44401.qm@web38805.mail.mud.yahoo.com> <69FA5AAD53D2495CAD2FF3010A6CEACA@auxs.umn.edu> Message-ID: <701681.31791.qm@web38803.mail.mud.yahoo.com> I'm using DAB chromogen from LabVision and counterstained with Harris Hematoxylin from Sigma .Then mounted using Cytoseal XYL from Richard-Allan Scientific. Thank You. Shazana Hilda Shamsuddin MSc.of Molecular Pathology, Dept. of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia. Phone no: +6013-921 2002 Off. no: +609- 766 4440 Fax no: +609- 765 3370 Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com ________________________________ From: Jan Shivers To: shazana hilda ; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Tuesday, February 3, 2009 11:12:09 PM Subject: Re: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Please tell us what chromogen stains and counterstains you are using, and the type of mounting medium for the coverslip. This will help us try to answer your question. Jan Shivers UMN VDL ----- Original Message ----- From: "shazana hilda" To: Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 8:10 PM Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide > Dear All, > Is anyone has experience with faded IHC-slide stained? I've done my IHC stained on few markers and after 3-4 months I viewed the slide and it seems that the stain became faded.Does anyone has opinion regarding this matter and how to troubleshoot it? > > Any response are greatly appreciated. > > > Regards. > > Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia, > Off. no: +609- 766 4440 > Fax no: +609- 765 3370 > Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > From hilda_1075 <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 3 21:23:16 2009 From: hilda_1075 <@t> yahoo.com (shazana hilda) Date: Tue Feb 3 21:23:19 2009 Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide References: <653484.44401.qm@web38805.mail.mud.yahoo.com> <2CF6F6B05263EA4EBAB07781B51E5DB002C945AC@e2k3ms1.urmc-sh.rochester.edu> Message-ID: <126454.33340.qm@web38803.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Dear Loralee, Unfortunately I'm using DAB and yet still faded. This is the first time I'm facing this problem. Thank You. Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia Off. no: +609- 766 4440 Fax no: +609- 765 3370 Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com ________________________________ From: "McMahon, Loralee A" To: shazana hilda Sent: Tuesday, February 3, 2009 11:47:06 PM Subject: RE: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Are you using DAB or AEC. AEC fades and DAB does not. Loralee McMahon, HTL (ASCP) ICC Supervisor University of Rochester Department of Pathology (585) 275-7210 ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of shazana hilda Sent: Mon 2/2/2009 9:10 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Dear All, Is anyone has experience with faded IHC-slide stained? I've done my IHC stained on few markers and after 3-4 months I viewed the slide and it seems that the stain became faded.Does anyone has opinion regarding this matter and how to troubleshoot it? Any response are greatly appreciated. Regards. Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia, Off. no: +609- 766 4440 Fax no: +609- 765 3370 Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From anh2006 <@t> med.cornell.edu Tue Feb 3 21:37:17 2009 From: anh2006 <@t> med.cornell.edu (anh2006@med.cornell.edu) Date: Tue Feb 3 21:39:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide In-Reply-To: <126454.33340.qm@web38803.mail.mud.yahoo.com> References: <653484.44401.qm@web38805.mail.mud.yahoo.com><2CF6F6B05263EA4EBAB07781B51E5DB002C945AC@e2k3ms1.urmc-sh.rochester.edu><126454.33340.qm@web38803.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <1590975795-1233718788-cardhu_decombobulator_blackberry.rim.net-852916670-@bxe277.bisx.prod.on.blackberry> What mounting media are you using? Are you dehydrating? How are you storing the slides? What DAB are you using (ie: source)? -----Original Message----- From: shazana hilda Date: Tue, 03 Feb 2009 19:23:16 To: McMahon, Loralee A; histonet forum Subject: Re: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Dear Loralee, Unfortunately I'm using DAB and yet still faded. This is the first time I'm facing this problem. Thank You. Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia Off. no: +609- 766 4440 Fax no: +609- 765 3370 Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com ________________________________ From: "McMahon, Loralee A" To: shazana hilda Sent: Tuesday, February 3, 2009 11:47:06 PM Subject: RE: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Are you using DAB or AEC. AEC fades and DAB does not. Loralee McMahon, HTL (ASCP) ICC Supervisor University of Rochester Department of Pathology (585) 275-7210 ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of shazana hilda Sent: Mon 2/2/2009 9:10 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Dear All, Is anyone has experience with faded IHC-slide stained? I've done my IHC stained on few markers and after 3-4 months I viewed the slide and it seems that the stain became faded.Does anyone has opinion regarding this matter and how to troubleshoot it? Any response are greatly appreciated. Regards. Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia, Off. no: +609- 766 4440 Fax no: +609- 765 3370 Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From hilda_1075 <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 3 23:56:38 2009 From: hilda_1075 <@t> yahoo.com (shazana hilda) Date: Tue Feb 3 23:56:42 2009 Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide References: <653484.44401.qm@web38805.mail.mud.yahoo.com><2CF6F6B05263EA4EBAB07781B51E5DB002C945AC@e2k3ms1.urmc-sh.rochester.edu><126454.33340.qm@web38803.mail.mud.yahoo.com> <1590975795-1233718788-cardhu_decombobulator_blackberry.rim.net-852916670-@bxe277.bisx.prod.on.blackberry> Message-ID: <484060.31990.qm@web38803.mail.mud.yahoo.com> I'm using DAB Plus chromogen from LabVision and counterstained with Harris Hematoxylin from Sigma .Then mounted using Cytoseal XYL from Richard-Allan Scientific.I'm dehydrated the slide through graded of alcohol then cleared in xylene prior to mounting. After done the IHC I've stored the slide in slide box at RT (about 27degrees). Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia, Off. no: +609- 766 4440 Fax no: +609- 765 3370 Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com ________________________________ From: "anh2006@med.cornell.edu" To: shazana hilda ; histonet forum Sent: Wednesday, February 4, 2009 11:37:17 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide What mounting media are you using? Are you dehydrating? How are you storing the slides? What DAB are you using (ie: source)? -----Original Message----- From: shazana hilda Date: Tue, 03 Feb 2009 19:23:16 To: McMahon, Loralee A; histonet forum Subject: Re: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Dear Loralee, Unfortunately I'm using DAB and yet still faded. This is the first time I'm facing this problem. Thank You. Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia Off. no: +609- 766 4440 Fax no: +609- 765 3370 Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com ________________________________ From: "McMahon, Loralee A" To: shazana hilda Sent: Tuesday, February 3, 2009 11:47:06 PM Subject: RE: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Are you using DAB or AEC. AEC fades and DAB does not. Loralee McMahon, HTL (ASCP) ICC Supervisor University of Rochester Department of Pathology (585) 275-7210 ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of shazana hilda Sent: Mon 2/2/2009 9:10 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Dear All, Is anyone has experience with faded IHC-slide stained? I've done my IHC stained on few markers and after 3-4 months I viewed the slide and it seems that the stain became faded.Does anyone has opinion regarding this matter and how to troubleshoot it? Any response are greatly appreciated. Regards. Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia, Off. no: +609- 766 4440 Fax no: +609- 765 3370 Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From alexandra.meinl <@t> gmail.com Wed Feb 4 05:21:44 2009 From: alexandra.meinl <@t> gmail.com (Alexandra Meinl) Date: Wed Feb 4 05:21:51 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Does anybody use PARP? Message-ID: Hello, Does anybody use Promega's Anti-PARP p85 Fragment on rat FFPE tissue sucessfully? Do you have good results or would you recommend another antibody? Alexandra From srishan <@t> mail.holyname.org Wed Feb 4 08:25:30 2009 From: srishan <@t> mail.holyname.org (srishan@mail.holyname.org) Date: Wed Feb 4 08:25:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] regarding h.pylori billing Message-ID: __________________ Hi all, If anyone out there is doing h.pylori by immunohistochemistry, how are you billing this test ?. Are you getting reimbursed as 88342. Thank you in advance Nirmala Srishan Histology Supervisor Holy Name Hospital Teaneck NJ 07666 201 541 6328 Holy Name Hospital is the recipient of: 2005, 2006, 2007 & 2008 Distinguished Hospital Awards for Clinical Excellence, HealthGrades 2008 Excellence Awards for Stroke, Gastrointestinal and Pulmonary Care, HealthGrades 2006 & 2007 Awards for Emergency, Outpatient and Inpatient Service Excellence, J.D. Power Primary Stroke Center Designation, The Joint Commission Chest Pain Center Accreditation , Society of Chest Pain Centers 2006, 2007 & 2008 Best Places to Work in New Jersey, NJBIZ The information contained in this message is privileged and CONFIDENTIAL and is intended only for the use of the addressee above. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or taking of any action in reliance on the content of this message is strictly prohibited. From dwitt <@t> sebh.org Wed Feb 4 08:40:50 2009 From: dwitt <@t> sebh.org (Witt, Dan) Date: Wed Feb 4 08:40:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tissue processor issues Message-ID: Hello, this is my use of Histonet. I have a Leica ASP 300 tissue processor that is constantly malfunctioning. The last 5 weks it has had a pressurise issue between stations 2 & 3. The service guy has installed multiple new parts with little success. Has anyone else had this issue or any other problems with this instrument? Dan Witt From Mary.Cheles <@t> leica-microsystems.com Wed Feb 4 09:06:57 2009 From: Mary.Cheles <@t> leica-microsystems.com (Mary.Cheles@leica-microsystems.com) Date: Wed Feb 4 09:07:06 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tissue processor issues In-Reply-To: Message-ID: Hi Dan, I would be delighted to investigate and resolve this issue to your satisfaction. Could you contact me directly and provide your institution name and instrument serial number. Kind regards, Mary Cheles Director, Technical Services 2345 Waukegan Road Bannockburn, IL 60015 Phone: (847) 317-5916 Fax: (847) 236-3058 mary.cheles@leica-microsystems.com www.leica-microsystems.com "Witt, Dan" Sent by: To histonet-bounces@ "'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu lists.utsouthwest '" ern.edu cc 02/04/2009 08:40 Subject AM [Histonet] Tissue processor issues Hello, this is my use of Histonet. I have a Leica ASP 300 tissue processor that is constantly malfunctioning. The last 5 weks it has had a pressurise issue between stations 2 & 3. The service guy has installed multiple new parts with little success. Has anyone else had this issue or any other problems with this instrument? Dan Witt _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ______________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email ______________________________________________________________________ From mari.ann.mailhiot <@t> leica-microsystems.com Wed Feb 4 10:09:55 2009 From: mari.ann.mailhiot <@t> leica-microsystems.com (mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com) Date: Wed Feb 4 10:10:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Leica Thermal Block In-Reply-To: Message-ID: Andrea I have your information on the thermal block below. The thermal block facilitates the removal of the frozen specimen from the specimen disc. The thermal block is kept outside the cryostat at room temperature and is placed in the cryochamber only for specimen removal. Place the cap on the required side so that the appropriate location hole for the specimen disc is available. Insert the shaft of the disc in the location hole. After about 20 secs the frozen specimen can be removed from the disc with forceps. After removing the specimen, take the thermal block out of the cryochamber. If you have questions just give me a call. Best Regards Mari Ann Mailhiot BA HT ASCP Application Specialist/Trainer Leica Microsystems Biosystems Division Technical Assistance Center 800 248 0123 x7267 847 236 3063 fax mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com www.leica-microsystems.com "Andrea Hooper" To Sent by: Histonet histonet-bounces@ lists.utsouthwest cc ern.edu Subject [Histonet] Leica Thermal Block 02/03/2009 06:59 PM Does anyone use the Leica Thermal Block? How does it work? Do you need to prewarm it? I was told to leave it in the cryostat but that doesn't work as it gets as cold as the chucks ... ? Thanks, Andrea -- _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ______________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email ______________________________________________________________________ From LINDA.MARGRAF <@t> childrens.com Wed Feb 4 10:56:17 2009 From: LINDA.MARGRAF <@t> childrens.com (LINDA MARGRAF) Date: Wed Feb 4 10:56:29 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Mounting media question Message-ID: <49897450.F783.00DA.0@childrens.com> We will soon be receiving our new Sakura Glas Coverslipper. Can anyone who is also using this instrument please tell me what type of mounting media is being used. We are looking for a fast-drying media that can be used for tissue slides, non-gyne and gyne slides. We are also looking at long term storage without fading capability. Our current mounting media - Surgipath's Micromount used on the older model Sakura -Glas coverslipper does not dry quickly. Storage and slide handling issues around this problem. Thank you, Karen J Kay, MLT Pathology Supervisor Chinook Health Laboratory Chinook Regional Hospital Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail

This e-mail, facsimile, or letter and any files or attachments transmitted with it contains
information that is confidential and privileged. This information is intended only for the use of the
individual(s) and entity(ies) to whom it is addressed. If you are the intended recipient, further
disclosures are prohibited without proper authorization. If you are not the intended recipient, any
disclosure, copying, printing, or use of this information is strictly prohibited and possibly a
violation of federal or state law and regulations. If you have received this information in error,
please notify Children's Medical Center Dallas immediately at 214-456-4444 or via e-mail at
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From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 4 11:09:01 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Wed Feb 4 11:09:09 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Mounting media question In-Reply-To: <49897450.F783.00DA.0@childrens.com> Message-ID: <549235.49508.qm@web65707.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> The? Fisher Permount (SP15) is ideal for what you describe. The main advantage is that you can dilute it to your needs without losing any of its properties. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/4/09, LINDA MARGRAF wrote: From: LINDA MARGRAF Subject: [Histonet] Mounting media question To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 4, 2009, 11:56 AM We will soon be receiving our new Sakura Glas Coverslipper. Can anyone who is also using this instrument please tell me what type of mounting media is being used. We are looking for a fast-drying media that can be used for tissue slides, non-gyne and gyne slides. We are also looking at long term storage without fading capability. Our current mounting media - Surgipath's Micromount used on the older model Sakura -Glas coverslipper does not dry quickly. Storage and slide handling issues around this problem. Thank you, Karen J Kay, MLT Pathology Supervisor Chinook Health Laboratory Chinook Regional Hospital Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail

This e-mail, facsimile, or letter and any files or attachments transmitted with it contains
information that is confidential and privileged. This information is intended only for the use of the
individual(s) and entity(ies) to whom it is addressed. If you are the intended recipient, further
disclosures are prohibited without proper authorization. If you are not the intended recipient, any
disclosure, copying, printing, or use of this information is strictly prohibited and possibly a
violation of federal or state law and regulations. If you have received this information in error,
please notify Children's Medical Center Dallas immediately at 214-456-4444 or via e-mail at
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_______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Beth.Fye <@t> HCAhealthcare.com Wed Feb 4 13:15:52 2009 From: Beth.Fye <@t> HCAhealthcare.com (Fye Beth) Date: Wed Feb 4 13:15:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] (Re)Tissue processor issues Message-ID: <938F8EC5A524D34EB5796E23E52781D3039F736E6E@NADCWPMSGCMS05.hca.corpad.net> We have an ASP 300 and have had it for 3 years. Initially we had a lot of trouble, and it was always breaking the O-rings on the reagent bottles. We can't remember the exact problem, but think it had something to do with a torque that was to high. Recently we had problems with pressure intermittently and they replaced valves inside. Other than that it has been a very reliable processor, and actually processes our tissue the best of all our processors, including a VIP5. Beth A. Fye, CT (ASCP) Pathology Technical Manager HCA Richmond Hospital Laboratories office: (804)228-6564 pager: (804)759-6929 From BMolinari <@t> heart.thi.tmc.edu Wed Feb 4 13:37:13 2009 From: BMolinari <@t> heart.thi.tmc.edu (Molinari, Betsy) Date: Wed Feb 4 13:37:17 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Mounting media question In-Reply-To: <49897450.F783.00DA.0@childrens.com> Message-ID: I use Sakura Tissue Tek Glas mounting media. I can file the next day. Betsy Molinari HT(ASCP) -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of LINDA MARGRAF Sent: Wednesday, February 04, 2009 10:56 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Mounting media question We will soon be receiving our new Sakura Glas Coverslipper. Can anyone who is also using this instrument please tell me what type of mounting media is being used. We are looking for a fast-drying media that can be used for tissue slides, non-gyne and gyne slides. We are also looking at long term storage without fading capability. Our current mounting media - Surgipath's Micromount used on the older model Sakura -Glas coverslipper does not dry quickly. Storage and slide handling issues around this problem. Thank you, Karen J Kay, MLT Pathology Supervisor Chinook Health Laboratory Chinook Regional Hospital Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail

This e-mail, facsimile, or letter and any files or attachments transmitted with it contains
information that is confidential and privileged. This information is intended only for the use of the
individual(s) and entity(ies) to whom it is addressed. If you are the intended recipient, further
disclosures are prohibited without proper authorization. If you are not the intended recipient, any
disclosure, copying, printing, or use of this information is strictly prohibited and possibly a
violation of federal or state law and regulations. If you have received this information in error,
please notify Children's Medical Center Dallas immediately at 214-456-4444 or via e-mail at
privacy@childrens.com. Children's Medical Center Dallas and its affiliates hereby claim all
applicable privileges related to this information.

_______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From MSHERWOOD <@t> PARTNERS.ORG Wed Feb 4 13:39:05 2009 From: MSHERWOOD <@t> PARTNERS.ORG (Sherwood, Margaret ) Date: Wed Feb 4 13:39:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks Message-ID: <073AE2BEA1C2BA4A8837AB6C4B943D9703E237BE@PHSXMB30.partners.org> I know this subject has probably been addressed before, but I need to poll the net. We are a Pathology Core in a research center. We have paraffin blocks (mostly non-human) collected since we were established in 1986. Our core will soon be undergoing renovation and we need to either store or dispose of a good many of these blocks. It will be expensive to store all these blocks and, since most of them have never been accessed again, we would like to destroy them. I would like to hear back from other people as to what their policy is, especially in a clinical setting. Thank you. Peggy Peggy Sherwood Lab Associate, Photopathology Wellman Center for Photomedicine (W224) Massachusetts General Hospital 55 Fruit Street Boston, MA 02114-2696 617-724-4839 (voice mail) 617-726-6983 (lab) 617-726-1206 (fax) msherwood@partners.org The information in this e-mail is intended only for the person to whom it is addressed. If you believe this e-mail was sent to you in error and the e-mail contains patient information, please contact the Partners Compliance HelpLine at http://www.partners.org/complianceline . If the e-mail was sent to you in error but does not contain patient information, please contact the sender and properly dispose of the e-mail. From nrutledge <@t> CapeCodHealth.org Wed Feb 4 13:47:07 2009 From: nrutledge <@t> CapeCodHealth.org (Rutledge, Nancy) Date: Wed Feb 4 13:49:09 2009 Subject: [Histonet] H pylori immuno kit Message-ID: <47AD3B259E920D449F580E6AE82C2B8F21027A@FHEXSVR2.FHDOMAIN1.capecodhealth.org> Looking for a company that sells simple, all inclusive H pylori immunoperoxidase kit to be done manually. Please reply directly to pmearle@capecodhealth.org Vendors welcome. Thank you. Nanacy Rutledge Falmouth Hospital Falmouth, MA 02540 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential, and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error contact the Help Desk for Cape Cod Healthcare. Helpdesk@CapeCodHealth.org From pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu Wed Feb 4 14:08:31 2009 From: pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu (Pamela Marcum) Date: Wed Feb 4 14:08:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks In-Reply-To: <073AE2BEA1C2BA4A8837AB6C4B943D9703E237BE@PHSXMB30.partners.org> References: <073AE2BEA1C2BA4A8837AB6C4B943D9703E237BE@PHSXMB30.partners.org> Message-ID: <002001c98704$5a1e8ba0$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> We contact the person who requested and submitted the specimens to find out if they want the blocks or tissue in some cases. If they no longer want them, have moved on to another facility or graduated and gone so are the blocks. The only other person we ask is the overall PI of the laboratory and then he will decide in some rare cases what stays. We need space and sometimes it just comes down to out of sight and gone so are the specimens. Sorry we had to get tough at one point. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Sherwood, Margaret Sent: Wednesday, February 04, 2009 2:39 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks I know this subject has probably been addressed before, but I need to poll the net. We are a Pathology Core in a research center. We have paraffin blocks (mostly non-human) collected since we were established in 1986. Our core will soon be undergoing renovation and we need to either store or dispose of a good many of these blocks. It will be expensive to store all these blocks and, since most of them have never been accessed again, we would like to destroy them. I would like to hear back from other people as to what their policy is, especially in a clinical setting. Thank you. Peggy Peggy Sherwood Lab Associate, Photopathology Wellman Center for Photomedicine (W224) Massachusetts General Hospital 55 Fruit Street Boston, MA 02114-2696 617-724-4839 (voice mail) 617-726-6983 (lab) 617-726-1206 (fax) msherwood@partners.org The information in this e-mail is intended only for the person to whom it is addressed. If you believe this e-mail was sent to you in error and the e-mail contains patient information, please contact the Partners Compliance HelpLine at http://www.partners.org/complianceline . If the e-mail was sent to you in error but does not contain patient information, please contact the sender and properly dispose of the e-mail. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From alyssa <@t> alliedsearchpartners.com Wed Feb 4 14:16:33 2009 From: alyssa <@t> alliedsearchpartners.com (Alyssa Peterson) Date: Wed Feb 4 14:16:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Let Me Help You Make $1000 By Referring a Cytotech for NJ and NY laboratories Message-ID: I wanted to drop in because I am recruiting for a Cytotechnologist in (1) New Jersey and (2) New York laboratories, and if you should know a certified Cytotechnologist, *we pay $1000 if the laboratories hire your referral.* Make sure to forward this message to whomever you feel fit. ASCP required, reference lab setting in the (1) South Hackensack, NJ area & in the (2) Brentwood (long island), NY area. Immediate need, Monday-Friday from about 8am-5pm, with full benefits, 401K, PTO, ect... and competitive pay. -- Alyssa Peterson Allied Search Partners O: 770.621.2639 ext. 4 F: 770.621.2640 Alyssa@alliedsearchpartners.com From shive003 <@t> umn.edu Wed Feb 4 14:30:29 2009 From: shive003 <@t> umn.edu (Jan Shivers) Date: Wed Feb 4 14:30:34 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Borrelia photo Message-ID: Can anyone direct me to a good photo of an IHC-stained Borrelia burgdorferi (+) tissue? Thanks in advance, Jan Shivers UMN VDL From LBlack <@t> carilion.com Wed Feb 4 14:39:46 2009 From: LBlack <@t> carilion.com (Lisa S. Black) Date: Wed Feb 4 14:36:45 2009 Subject: [Histonet] AFB Control Message-ID: <4989B6C2020000E80001EE50@chs-gw-gwia2.carilion.com> We are in need of a good AFB control. Is there anyone willing to share or barter. Thanks in advance. Lisa Black, BS, HT(ASCP) Histology Manager Carilion Consolidated Lab 933 S Jefferson Street Roanoke, VA 24016 LBLACK@CARILION.COM 540-985-4082 From AnthonyH <@t> chw.edu.au Wed Feb 4 15:30:02 2009 From: AnthonyH <@t> chw.edu.au (Tony Henwood) Date: Wed Feb 4 15:30:14 2009 Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide In-Reply-To: <126454.33340.qm@web38803.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Look at the mountant you are using. Some are not as colour-fast as one would expect. Regards Tony Henwood JP, MSc, BAppSc, GradDipSysAnalys, CT(ASC) Laboratory Manager & Senior Scientist Tel: 612 9845 3306 Fax: 612 9845 3318 the children's hospital at westmead Cnr Hawkesbury Road and Hainsworth Street, Westmead Locked Bag 4001, Westmead NSW 2145, AUSTRALIA -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of shazana hilda Sent: Wednesday, 4 February 2009 2:23 PM To: McMahon, Loralee A; histonet forum Subject: Re: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Dear Loralee, Unfortunately I'm using DAB and yet still faded. This is the first time I'm facing this problem. Thank You. Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia Off. no: +609- 766 4440 Fax no: +609- 765 3370 Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com ________________________________ From: "McMahon, Loralee A" To: shazana hilda Sent: Tuesday, February 3, 2009 11:47:06 PM Subject: RE: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Are you using DAB or AEC. AEC fades and DAB does not. Loralee McMahon, HTL (ASCP) ICC Supervisor University of Rochester Department of Pathology (585) 275-7210 ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of shazana hilda Sent: Mon 2/2/2009 9:10 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] query regarding IHC slide Dear All, Is anyone has experience with faded IHC-slide stained? I've done my IHC stained on few markers and after 3-4 months I viewed the slide and it seems that the stain became faded.Does anyone has opinion regarding this matter and how to troubleshoot it? Any response are greatly appreciated. Regards. Shazana Hilda ShamsuddinUniversiti Sains Malaysia, Off. no: +609- 766 4440 Fax no: +609- 765 3370 Email: hilda_1075@yahoo.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ********************************************************************* This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete it and notify the sender. Views expressed in this message and any attachments are those of the individual sender, and are not necessarily the views of The Children's Hospital at Westmead This note also confirms that this email message has been virus scanned and although no computer viruses were detected, The Childrens Hospital at Westmead accepts no liability for any consequential damage resulting from email containing computer viruses. ********************************************************************** From jim.manavis <@t> imvs.sa.gov.au Wed Feb 4 15:51:49 2009 From: jim.manavis <@t> imvs.sa.gov.au (Jim Manavis) Date: Wed Feb 4 15:51:55 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Does anybody use PARP? In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <000c01c98712$c848dff0$2c6c140a@41984n> Alexandra I have used it and it's a very good antibody. It works extremely well in both Human and rat tissue. We use at a dilution of 1/2000 (overnight incubation) with EDTA antigen retrieval using a streptavidin detection system. Cheers Jim Jim Manavis Laboratory Manager Hanson Institute Centre for Neurological Diseases IMVS, Adelaide, SA, 5000 Australia Phone: 61-08-8222-3668 / 0401120697 FAX: 61-08-8222 3392 email: jim.manavis@imvs.sa.gov.au Disclaimer: Not this little black duck! -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Alexandra Meinl Sent: Wednesday, 4 February 2009 9:52 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Does anybody use PARP? Hello, Does anybody use Promega's Anti-PARP p85 Fragment on rat FFPE tissue sucessfully? Do you have good results or would you recommend another antibody? Alexandra _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 4 15:52:31 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Wed Feb 4 15:52:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks In-Reply-To: <073AE2BEA1C2BA4A8837AB6C4B943D9703E237BE@PHSXMB30.partners.org> Message-ID: <581079.64794.qm@web65704.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> In Florida we need to keep blocks only during 9 years. Every year we disposed those kept for 9 years and started a new series (using the same cabinets). Other states may have different regulations. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/4/09, Sherwood, Margaret wrote: From: Sherwood, Margaret Subject: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 4, 2009, 2:39 PM I know this subject has probably been addressed before, but I need to poll the net. We are a Pathology Core in a research center. We have paraffin blocks (mostly non-human) collected since we were established in 1986. Our core will soon be undergoing renovation and we need to either store or dispose of a good many of these blocks. It will be expensive to store all these blocks and, since most of them have never been accessed again, we would like to destroy them. I would like to hear back from other people as to what their policy is, especially in a clinical setting. Thank you. Peggy Peggy Sherwood Lab Associate, Photopathology Wellman Center for Photomedicine (W224) Massachusetts General Hospital 55 Fruit Street Boston, MA 02114-2696 617-724-4839 (voice mail) 617-726-6983 (lab) 617-726-1206 (fax) msherwood@partners.org The information in this e-mail is intended only for the person to whom it is addressed. If you believe this e-mail was sent to you in error and the e-mail contains patient information, please contact the Partners Compliance HelpLine at http://www.partners.org/complianceline . If the e-mail was sent to you in error but does not contain patient information, please contact the sender and properly dispose of the e-mail. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From POWELL_SA <@t> Mercer.edu Wed Feb 4 16:38:40 2009 From: POWELL_SA <@t> Mercer.edu (Shirley Powell) Date: Wed Feb 4 16:46:35 2009 Subject: [Histonet] GSH meeting reminder Message-ID: <2B4B843299B34280A6E968F9E67810E1@powellsa1> The Georgia Society for Histotechnology invites you to the 2009 meeting to be held at Sea Palms Resort at St. Simons Island, Georgia, March 20-22, 2009. The program is outlined below but both the separate registration form and the program can be downloaded from www.histosearch.com/gsh. Complete hotel information can be found by clicking on the announcement link. Please make your reservations now by calling the Sea Palms Resort at 1-800-841-6268. Be sure to tell them you are attending the GSH meeting and visit their web site at www.seapalms.com. Special GSH Room Rates are $99 for two double beds and $109 for two double beds or a King bed Suites are available as well as Villas. March 20, 2009 - Friday 1 to 5 p.m.: HT/HTL Review Session for Students: Carl Sagasser, BS, HT(ASCP), Educational Coordinator and Taiquanda Winbush, AS, HT(ASCP) Clinical Laboratory Coordinator, Darton College Histology Program 5 to 7 p.m.: Meeting Registration 7 to 9 p.m.: Vendor Reception in Vendor Area March 21, 2009 - Saturday 7:00-8:00 a.m.: Meeting Registration 8:30 a.m. to 12: Workshop #1 - Today's Artifacts - Tomorrow's Facts 8:30 a.m. to 12: Workshop #2 - Expense Analysis and Reduction in the IHC Lab (10:00 - 10:30 a.m.: Break in Vendor Area) 12:00 - 1:00-GSH AWARDS LUNCHEON 1:00 to 4:30 p.m.: Workshop #3 - Decalcified and Undecalcified Bone: Histology Techniques 1:00 to 4:30 p.m.: Workshop #4 - Basic Troubleshooting for Histology Laboratory Equipment (2:30 - 3:00 p.m.: Break in Vendor area) 4:30 p.m.: GSH General Membership Meeting (GSH Board Meeting to Follow) March 22, 2009 - Sunday 7:00-8:00 a.m.: Meeting Registration 8:30 to 12 a.m.: Workshop #5 - Commitment in the Workplace - What Does it Mean to the Employee and the Employer 8:30 to 12 a.m.: Workshop #6 - Contemporary Trends in Immunohistochemistry (10:00 - 10:30 a.m.: Break in Vendor Area) WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS: #1: Today's Artifacts - Tomorrow's Facts? Lamar Jones, BS, HT(ASCP) - This workshop will teach the participant to recognize and identify artifacts from the gross board, fixation, processing, embedding, microtomy, staining, coverslipping and other areas of histotechnology. #2: Expense Analysis and Reduction in the IHC Lab Joe Myers, -This presentation is intended to review the financial aspects of performing immunohistochemistry (and related heat-retrieval) procedures, with an emphasis on using cost analysis and comparison tools, to assist a laboratory in calculating its existing reagent costs and determine where expense-reduction opportunities exist. Participants will be shown how to gather essential data and enter it into simple spreadsheets that ensure "apples to apples" comparisons. Through this process, participants will also gain an appreciation of how the mechanisms by which various heat-retrieval and automated slide-staining instruments 'work' affect the cost of the resulting slides. Handout material, including comparison tables, spreadsheets, and published papers will also be provided. #3: Decalcified and Undecalcified Bone: Histology Techniques Vicki Kalscheur - Decalcified and undecalcified bone samples are a constant challenge for research histology laboratories. This workshop will start with an introduction on research protocol and collaborative methodologies. Next, it will cover decalcified specimen collection, fixation, processing, sectioning, routine, and special staining of bone samples that are received in the research histology laboratory. The second half of this lecture will discuss the proper handling, preparation, and staining of undecalcified plastic embedded bone samples. Handouts include PowerPoint slides and additional information based on presenter's research protocols and methodology. The presenter understands many of the attendees may not work in research settings: however, the technical information may be helpful in diagnostic laboratory settings. Time is allowed at the end to look at embedded blocks and histological microscopic slides. #4: Basic Troubleshooting for Histology Laboratory Equipment Jason Velasquez, Technical Engineer -This course will provide a basic preventive maintenance guide that will assist users of histology equipment in the upkeep and troubleshooting of their instruments. The type of cleaning solvents that can and cannot be used will be discussed (along with some pictures that show what happens when the wrong cleaning supplies are used) and how and where to clean for best results. The types of tools that should be kept in the laboratory's tool chest and how and when to use them will be demonstrated. Common types of faults that can be reasonably repaired by the average Histotech will be discussed and the ways, tools and thoughts behind the troubleshooting process will be investigated. Some symptoms that precede failures will be made known so that the users can notify their bio-medical technicians or repair group of a pending failure, before the instrument breaks completely. #5: Commitment in the Workplace - What Does it Mean to the Employee and Employer - Wanda Grace Jones, - Hospitals, Research Labs, and Private Laboratories still struggle with continuous loss of employees and finding new employees to fill these positions. Past research has isolated two variables that impact employee turnover. 1st variable is employee's identification with and involvement in an organization (how involved are you). 2nd variable is the employee's perception of level of commitment an organization has to the employee. We will discuss the attitude toward an organization which attaches the person to an organization, the process by which the goals of the organization and employee become integrated, building better communication between employee and employer and cost associated when an employee decides to leave. #6: Contemporary Trends in Immunohistochemistry Mary Cheles, MPH, HTL, DLM(ASCP) - The analysis of a patient has historically relied on morphology and the evaluation of individual antibodies on pathological tissue. Immunohistochemistry has been in practice for the past 40 years. During that time, we have seen an evolution from individual reagents to optimized systems and from manual staining practices to fully automated options. Pathology and laboratory medicine is changing faster than ever. In the future, personalized medicine will define the effect of a therapy based on an individual's gene and protein profile. What does this mean and where does the histology community fit in? This workshop will briefly review immunohistochemistry basics, opportunities for automation, process standardization, antibody validation, regulatory product labeling and current proficiency testing. Shirley A. Powell, HT(ASCP)HTL, QIHC Technical Director Histology Curricular Support Laboratory Mercer University School of Medicine 1550 College Street Macon, GA 31207 Ph: 478-301-2374 Fx: 478-301-5489 From dbpiontek <@t> hotmail.com Wed Feb 4 22:26:58 2009 From: dbpiontek <@t> hotmail.com (Denise Piontek) Date: Wed Feb 4 22:27:03 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Massachusetts General Hospital Message-ID: MGH is looking for a certified Histology Technician. Join an exciting atmosphere at one of the premiere hospitals in the country. Please see our website at www.massgeneral.org and click on careers. The third oldest general hospital in the United States and the oldest and largest hospital in New England, Mass General continues its tradition of excellence today. The hospital is consistently ranked among the top five hospitals in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Mass General is the original and largest teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School, where nearly all of our staff physicians serve on the faculty. Competitive salary, excellent benefits and an opportunity to be in a unique atmosphere. We look forward to hearing from you:). Denise Bland-Piontek, CTBS(AATB)HTL(ASCP)QIHC Technical Director, Histopathology MGH Pathology Service _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: E-mail. Chat. Share. Get more ways to connect. http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_allup_howitworks_022009 From gu.lang <@t> gmx.at Thu Feb 5 10:30:54 2009 From: gu.lang <@t> gmx.at (Gudrun Lang) Date: Thu Feb 5 10:31:03 2009 Subject: AW: [Histonet] Borrelia photo In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <4C851FCA7C6C4E91AAD8E06A25EA690D@dielangs.at> I found this picture on immunoportal.com. But I was told, that Borrelia never sit in the epidermis. Can anyone confirm this? http://www.immunoportal.com/modules.php?set_albumName=album01&id=borreliab&o p=modload&name=Gallery&file=index&include=view_photo.php bye Gudrun Lang -----Urspr?ngliche Nachricht----- Von: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] Im Auftrag von Jan Shivers Gesendet: Mittwoch, 04. Februar 2009 21:30 An: histonet Betreff: [Histonet] Borrelia photo Can anyone direct me to a good photo of an IHC-stained Borrelia burgdorferi (+) tissue? Thanks in advance, Jan Shivers UMN VDL _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From gu.lang <@t> gmx.at Thu Feb 5 10:37:48 2009 From: gu.lang <@t> gmx.at (Gudrun Lang) Date: Thu Feb 5 10:37:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] prediluted Fitc labelled antibodies? Message-ID: <44B80C5CF0DD4D00A6AF8A72AFF54522@dielangs.at> Hi all, Has anyone experience with the shelflife of prediluted FITC-labelled antibodies? We use them for direct Immunofluorescence and dilute usually with PBS on the same day of use. With the increasing amount of IF-tests we consider prediluting the antibodies. But I don't know, if there is any negative influence. Thanks in advance Gudrun Lang From Barbara.Stancel <@t> fsis.usda.gov Thu Feb 5 10:49:13 2009 From: Barbara.Stancel <@t> fsis.usda.gov (Stancel, Barbara) Date: Thu Feb 5 10:49:18 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Mounting Media Question In-Reply-To: <6597057A4PW49743-01@tweed3east> References: <6597057A4PW49743-01@tweed3east> Message-ID: We have been using the Sakura Glas Coverslipper for about 4 years. We love it. It's our 5th tech. We use the Tissue-Tek Glas #6419 (Sakura) mounting media. It is the right consistency (no dilution needed), non yellowing, open the top and stick on the machine. We usually don't file our slides for several days so I cannot attest to its drying speed. We use ONLY Richard Allan Scientific "Slip-Rite" coverglasses, 24 x 50. Volume setting 4 and speed setting 5. Be sure the xylene in the tray does not get too high, never up to the frost of the slide. The vacuum cup will get damp which will affect the vacuum holding the slide....not good! Always, Always keep the lubrication bottle and nozzle reservoir full of xylene. We have PM done yearly. The last 4 sentences are the voice-of-experience!!! If a "technical error" is possible, we've done it!! Enjoy your new coverslipper!! Barbara Barbara Stancel, HTL(ASCP) USDA, FSIS, EL, Pathology Athens, Georgia 30605 706-546-3698 or 706-546-3556 barbara.stancel@fsis.usda.gov Message: 11 Date: Wed, 04 Feb 2009 10:56:17 -0600 From: "LINDA MARGRAF" Subject: [Histonet] Mounting media question To: Message-ID: <49897450.F783.00DA.0@childrens.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" We will soon be receiving our new Sakura Glas Coverslipper. Can anyone who is also using this instrument please tell me what type of mounting media is being used. We are looking for a fast-drying media that can be used for tissue slides, non-gyne and gyne slides. We are also looking at long term storage without fading capability. Our current mounting media - Surgipath's Micromount used on the older model Sakura -Glas coverslipper does not dry quickly. Storage and slide handling issues around this problem. Thank you, Karen J Kay, MLT Pathology Supervisor Chinook Health Laboratory Chinook Regional Hospital Message: 12 Date: Wed, 4 Feb 2009 09:09:01 -0800 (PST) From: Rene J Buesa Subject: [Histonet] Mounting media question To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, LINDA MARGRAF Message-ID: <549235.49508.qm@web65707.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 The? Fisher Permount (SP15) is ideal for what you describe. The main advantage is that you can dilute it to your needs without losing any of its properties. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/4/09, LINDA MARGRAF wrote: From: LINDA MARGRAF Subject: [Histonet] Mounting media question To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 4, 2009, 11:56 AM We will soon be receiving our new Sakura Glas Coverslipper. Can anyone who is also using this instrument please tell me what type of mounting media is being used. We are looking for a fast-drying media that can be used for tissue slides, non-gyne and gyne slides. We are also looking at long term storage without fading capability. Our current mounting media - Surgipath's Micromount used on the older model Sakura -Glas coverslipper does not dry quickly. Storage and slide handling issues around this problem. Thank you, Karen J Kay, MLT Pathology Supervisor Chinook Health Laboratory Chinook Regional Hospital From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 5 10:58:49 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Thu Feb 5 10:58:54 2009 Subject: [Histonet] prediluted Fitc labelled antibodies? In-Reply-To: <44B80C5CF0DD4D00A6AF8A72AFF54522@dielangs.at> Message-ID: <981775.12992.qm@web65715.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Gudrun: I used to predilute the FITC conjugated antibodies and placed the aliquots in a -80?C freezer until they were going to be used. In that way I could use them until the manufacturer's expiration date. Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/5/09, Gudrun Lang wrote: From: Gudrun Lang Subject: [Histonet] prediluted Fitc labelled antibodies? To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Thursday, February 5, 2009, 11:37 AM Hi all, Has anyone experience with the shelflife of prediluted FITC-labelled antibodies? We use them for direct Immunofluorescence and dilute usually with PBS on the same day of use. With the increasing amount of IF-tests we consider prediluting the antibodies. But I don't know, if there is any negative influence. Thanks in advance Gudrun Lang _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From akbitting <@t> geisinger.edu Thu Feb 5 11:06:25 2009 From: akbitting <@t> geisinger.edu (Angela Bitting) Date: Thu Feb 5 11:28:01 2009 Subject: [Histonet] BioCare rep In-Reply-To: <44B80C5CF0DD4D00A6AF8A72AFF54522@dielangs.at> References: <44B80C5CF0DD4D00A6AF8A72AFF54522@dielangs.at> Message-ID: <498AD641.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> Can anyone tell me how to get in contact with Kathy Bowden from Biocare? I left a message at Biocare but she didn't call me back. Maybe one of you has her email or phone number. Thanks, Angie Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. -------------- next part -------------- BEGIN:VCARD VERSION:2.1 X-GWTYPE:USER FN:Bitting, Angela TEL;WORK:570-271-6844 ORG:;Histology EMAIL;WORK;PREF;NGW:AKBITTING@geisinger.edu N:Bitting;Angela END:VCARD From godsgalnow <@t> aol.com Thu Feb 5 11:58:31 2009 From: godsgalnow <@t> aol.com (godsgalnow@aol.com) Date: Thu Feb 5 11:59:05 2009 Subject: [Histonet] BioCare rep In-Reply-To: <498AD641.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> References: <44B80C5CF0DD4D00A6AF8A72AFF54522@dielangs.at> <498AD641.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> Message-ID: <8CB55D27D71CB3A-14B8-D0C@WEBMAIL-DY40.sysops.aol.com> You can call Joe Meyer...he works there and he is extremely helpful, or you can call my rep --Mark Castagnini...he is always helpful or ask for Chris....she will be glad to assist, If you need any of these numbers let mek now I will be glad to give them to you offline. -----Original Message----- From: Angela Bitting To: gu.lang@gmx.at; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Thu, 5 Feb 2009 12:06 pm Subject: [Histonet] BioCare rep Can anyone tell me how to get in contact with Kathy Bowden from Biocare? I left a message at Biocare but she didn't call me back. Maybe one of you has her email or phone number. Thanks, Angie Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From nestor.barrezueta <@t> bms.com Thu Feb 5 12:00:05 2009 From: nestor.barrezueta <@t> bms.com (Nestor Barrezueta) Date: Thu Feb 5 12:00:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Laser microdissection of flourescently labelled cells Message-ID: <498B2925.4020909@bms.com> Does anyone have experience in laser microdissecting fluorescently immuno-labeled cells and then extracting quality RNA? Nestor Barrezueta From Rcartun <@t> harthosp.org Thu Feb 5 12:00:32 2009 From: Rcartun <@t> harthosp.org (Richard Cartun) Date: Thu Feb 5 12:00:41 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Pathology Recruiters Message-ID: <498AE2F00200007700008FEC@gwmail4.harthosp.org> I need the names and contact information of recruiters for Anatomic Pathology positions (specifically Manager and Histology Supervisor positions). Please contact me directly. RWC Richard W. Cartun, Ph.D. Director, Histology & Immunopathology Director, Biospecimens Assistant Director, Anatomic Pathology Hartford Hospital 80 Seymour Street Hartford, CT 06102 (860) 545-1596 (860) 545-0174 Fax From sbreeden <@t> nmda.nmsu.edu Thu Feb 5 13:40:17 2009 From: sbreeden <@t> nmda.nmsu.edu (Breeden, Sara) Date: Thu Feb 5 13:40:25 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Paraffin Block Keepin' Message-ID: <4D14F0FC9316DD41972D5F03C070908B017E6693@nmdamailsvr.nmda.ad.nmsu.edu> I'm (obviously) in a vet diagnostic lab. We had historically kept blocks 10 years; space was tight; the boss sent me on a Research Mission to Find Out How Long Other Vet Labs Kept Their Blocks. I did and made the Executive Decision (well, it was Friday and I figured I could at least live through the weekend), to keep blocks for seven (7) years; boss agreed. And I'm still here. Time seemed to be appropriate to the veterinary world. Slides? - that's chiseled in stone: TEN years. Hope this helps. Sally Breeden, HT(ASCP) NM Dept. of Agriculture Veterinary Diagnostic Services PO Box 4700 Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-841-2576 From bconnolly <@t> labforceservices.com Thu Feb 5 14:18:52 2009 From: bconnolly <@t> labforceservices.com (William Connolly) Date: Thu Feb 5 14:18:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Career Opportunity for Histotechnology Manager Message-ID: HI All, Labforce Services is currently conducting a national search for an HT manager for an internationally renowned NYC (Manhattan) Hospital. The successful candidate will manage a very busy HT Lab staffed by a well compensated and seasoned staff of professionals. Working in the Manhattan the person selected "main lab" the person selected will also be responsible for a number of smaller satellite labs. The institution is extremely well funded (no recession here) and the lab budget for both personnel and equipment is extraordinary. This position offers a geneous sign on bonus in lieu of relocation reimbursement. For the right person there is the possibility in helping with finding appropriate housing. The salary starts around 105k but the institution will pay what is necessary within reason for this spot. Requirements: HT ASCP NYS license (or willing to get one) and previous HT management experience in a large tertiary care hospital or Cancer Center. Please call me toll free at 800-221-0081. If you are not interested personally please feel free to forward this email to a colleague that might be. Regards, Bill Connolly LABFORCE SERVICES bconnolly@labforceservices.com WORK: 516-625-8200 TOLL FREE: 800-221-0081 FAX: 516-625-0629 ?Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle.? - Plato From Barbara.Stancel <@t> fsis.usda.gov Thu Feb 5 14:51:32 2009 From: Barbara.Stancel <@t> fsis.usda.gov (Stancel, Barbara) Date: Thu Feb 5 14:51:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Journal achieves Message-ID: I had no idea there was anyone out there who really wanted them!!! 29 people have responded the first 3 hours!!!!. Last count was 48. I will be making arrangements with Marla Thomas for the JOH. But the books will have to wait for awhile. And for all of you who wanted books----I kept your names and address. Thank you for all the responses and "Best Wishes" Barbara Barbara Stancel, HTL(ASCP)HT USDA, FSIS, EL, Pathology Athens, Georgia 30605 706-546-3698 or 706-546-3556 barbara.stancel@fsis.usda.gov From RSRICHMOND <@t> aol.com Thu Feb 5 16:27:31 2009 From: RSRICHMOND <@t> aol.com (Robert Richmond) Date: Thu Feb 5 16:27:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks Message-ID: How long to retain paraffin blocks (human tissue) is an issue that's going to need re-thinking. Presently most pathology services in the USA retain them for no more than ten years. If the laboratory closes, slides and blocks are disposed of immediately. It seems to me that in the coming age of molecular pathology, there will be a lot more interest in recovering paraffin blocks after longer periods of time. I think that the regulatory agencies will soon need to address this problem. Storing present-day paraffin blocks, with their bulky plastic mounts and low-melting waxes, is going to become even more difficult than it is now, as hospitals and other facilities consider the cost of maintaining and cooling storage space. I don't think it's possible to triage blocks and slides for disposal at the time the case is signed out. It sounds like a good idea, but the few times I've seen it tried it didn't work. Also, we really don't know what we're going to need to recover in the future. Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist (nearly 70, isn't going to have to worry about this problem) Knoxville TN From JWeems <@t> sjha.org Thu Feb 5 17:12:45 2009 From: JWeems <@t> sjha.org (Weems, Joyce) Date: Thu Feb 5 17:12:58 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA52E3751@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> I've been preaching this sermon for several years!!! We must do something!!! j -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Robert Richmond Sent: Thursday, February 05, 2009 5:28 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks How long to retain paraffin blocks (human tissue) is an issue that's going to need re-thinking. Presently most pathology services in the USA retain them for no more than ten years. If the laboratory closes, slides and blocks are disposed of immediately. It seems to me that in the coming age of molecular pathology, there will be a lot more interest in recovering paraffin blocks after longer periods of time. I think that the regulatory agencies will soon need to address this problem. Storing present-day paraffin blocks, with their bulky plastic mounts and low-melting waxes, is going to become even more difficult than it is now, as hospitals and other facilities consider the cost of maintaining and cooling storage space. I don't think it's possible to triage blocks and slides for disposal at the time the case is signed out. It sounds like a good idea, but the few times I've seen it tried it didn't work. Also, we really don't know what we're going to need to recover in the future. Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist (nearly 70, isn't going to have to worry about this problem) Knoxville TN _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. From Janet.Bonner <@t> FLHOSP.ORG Fri Feb 6 07:50:23 2009 From: Janet.Bonner <@t> FLHOSP.ORG (Bonner, Janet) Date: Fri Feb 6 07:55:09 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks References: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA52E3751@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> Message-ID: <5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F28CC@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET> We are a very large facility and kept the majority of our blocks and slides in a minimally air-conditioned hospital supplies warehouse. I used to pull blocks and slides for legal cases, and it was rare-rare-rare that anyone did anything with the blocks after five years. Ten years for the slides was appropriate. Janet Janet L. Bonner, HTL (ASCP) Pathology Laboratory ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Weems, Joyce Sent: Thu 2/5/2009 6:12 PM To: Robert Richmond; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks I've been preaching this sermon for several years!!! We must do something!!! j -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Robert Richmond Sent: Thursday, February 05, 2009 5:28 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks How long to retain paraffin blocks (human tissue) is an issue that's going to need re-thinking. Presently most pathology services in the USA retain them for no more than ten years. If the laboratory closes, slides and blocks are disposed of immediately. It seems to me that in the coming age of molecular pathology, there will be a lot more interest in recovering paraffin blocks after longer periods of time. I think that the regulatory agencies will soon need to address this problem. Storing present-day paraffin blocks, with their bulky plastic mounts and low-melting waxes, is going to become even more difficult than it is now, as hospitals and other facilities consider the cost of maintaining and cooling storage space. I don't think it's possible to triage blocks and slides for disposal at the time the case is signed out. It sounds like a good idea, but the few times I've seen it tried it didn't work. Also, we really don't know what we're going to need to recover in the future. Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist (nearly 70, isn't going to have to worry about this problem) Knoxville TN _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ======================================================= The information contained in this message may be privileged and/or confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and deleting the material from any computer. ======================================================= From ree3 <@t> leicester.ac.uk Fri Feb 6 08:30:01 2009 From: ree3 <@t> leicester.ac.uk (Edwards, R.E.) Date: Fri Feb 6 08:30:12 2009 Subject: [Histonet] gma/h@E Message-ID: <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A1745423DC3E@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> What is the preferred mountant for GMA processed tissues that are stained by H@E?? Many thanks Richard Edwards Leicester University U.K. From tbraud <@t> holyredeemer.com Fri Feb 6 08:45:26 2009 From: tbraud <@t> holyredeemer.com (Terri Braud) Date: Fri Feb 6 08:45:31 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 7 In-Reply-To: <6e1c077f0007ed95@HolyRedeemer.com> Message-ID: Ditto - We really like our Glas coverslipper and LOVE their coverslipping media. Its perfect for their machine, and dries very quickly. We usually file in 2 days time, air dried only. Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) Anatomic Pathology Supervisor 2. RE: Mounting media question (Molinari, Betsy) I use Sakura Tissue Tek Glas mounting media. I can file the next day. Betsy Molinari HT(ASCP) -----Original Message----- Subject: [Histonet] Mounting media question We will soon be receiving our new Sakura Glas Coverslipper. Can anyone who is also using this instrument please tell me what type of mounting media is being used. We are looking for a fast-drying media that can be used for tissue slides, non-gyne and gyne slides. We are also looking at long term storage without fading capability. Our current mounting media - Surgipath's Micromount used on the older model Sakura -Glas coverslipper does not dry quickly. Storage and slide handling issues around this problem. Thank you, Karen J Kay, MLT Pathology Supervisor Chinook Health Laboratory Chinook Regional Hospital --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under applicable federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do not distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. Thank you for your cooperation. From gayle.callis <@t> bresnan.net Fri Feb 6 08:46:28 2009 From: gayle.callis <@t> bresnan.net (gayle callis) Date: Fri Feb 6 08:46:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Mountant for GMA stained sections Message-ID: <000101c98869$b13872a0$13a957e0$@callis@bresnan.net> Let stained GMA sections air dry and mount with a permanent mounting media. Dipping in xylene tends to crack or cause the GMA to wrinkle since the plastic can't be removed. Gayle M. Callis HTL(ASCP)HT,MT Bozeman MT From BMolinari <@t> heart.thi.tmc.edu Fri Feb 6 08:52:55 2009 From: BMolinari <@t> heart.thi.tmc.edu (Molinari, Betsy) Date: Fri Feb 6 08:52:58 2009 Subject: [Histonet] gma/h@E In-Reply-To: <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A1745423DC3E@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> Message-ID: Richard, I use the same mountant that I use for my paraffin slides, Sakura Tissue Tek Glas. Betsy Molinari HT(ASCP) Texas Heart Institute Cardiovascular Pathology 6770 Bertner Ave MC 1-283 Houston, Texas 77030 832-355-6524 832-355-6812 (fax) -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Edwards, R.E. Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 8:30 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] gma/h@E What is the preferred mountant for GMA processed tissues that are stained by H@E?? Many thanks Richard Edwards Leicester University U.K. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From brod <@t> hsrl.org Fri Feb 6 09:04:26 2009 From: brod <@t> hsrl.org (Bradley Rodriguez) Date: Fri Feb 6 09:04:31 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Equipment Maintenance Message-ID: Can anyone recommend a good East Coast histo equipment maintenance company? Regards, Brad Bradley Rodriguez Histology Coordinator HSRL (Histo-Scientific Research Laboratories) 5930 Main Street Mount Jackson, VA 22842 540.477.4440 Fax: 540.477.4448 brod@hsrl.org www.hsrl.org ***Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail is strictly confidential and intended solely for the addressee. If you are not the intended recipient you must not use, disclose, or copy this transmission. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender and delete the material from any computer, disc drive, diskette, or other storage device or media. From pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu Fri Feb 6 09:08:48 2009 From: pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu (Pamela Marcum) Date: Fri Feb 6 09:08:54 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Mountant for GMA stained sections In-Reply-To: <000101c98869$b13872a0$13a957e0$@callis@bresnan.net> References: <000101c98869$b13872a0$13a957e0$@callis@bresnan.net> Message-ID: <001001c9886c$d050ede0$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> I agree with Gayle. We put a weight on the coverslip until it dries to help keep it flat. Since all mounting media has some organic solvent like xylene or toluene it is hard to avoid them completely. We use DPX for everything here. Best Regards, Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of gayle callis Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 9:46 AM To: 'Histonet'; ' Histonet messages replies' Subject: [Histonet] Mountant for GMA stained sections Let stained GMA sections air dry and mount with a permanent mounting media. Dipping in xylene tends to crack or cause the GMA to wrinkle since the plastic can't be removed. Gayle M. Callis HTL(ASCP)HT,MT Bozeman MT _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Stephen.Eyres <@t> sanofi-aventis.com Fri Feb 6 09:10:25 2009 From: Stephen.Eyres <@t> sanofi-aventis.com (Stephen.Eyres@sanofi-aventis.com) Date: Fri Feb 6 09:10:34 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Opinions and any problems with Leica IPC Message-ID: <90B6684A9D6DAF468F7A5DC148754E1D01857C2D@ALPW31.f2.enterprise> Hi, I'd be really grateful for feedback from small labs using a Leica IPC on consistency, and in problems. Thanks Steve From JWeems <@t> sjha.org Fri Feb 6 09:13:51 2009 From: JWeems <@t> sjha.org (Weems, Joyce) Date: Fri Feb 6 09:14:21 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks In-Reply-To: <5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F28CC@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET> References: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA52E3751@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> <5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F28CC@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET> Message-ID: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA53216B7@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> We have so many malignant patients here that a week after I discarded blocks through 1984 (this was several years ago), I had a patient call for a block. When she said, "Well, I just wasn't supposed to live this long" I just cried. All I could do was apologize but I don't want to have to tell patients that any more! We have been sending out KRAS, BRAF and EGFR mutations on cases from the 90s just this past week - we can hardly keep up there are so many requests for these new tests. And I expect it will only increase just like Bob said.. more of my 2 cents!!! j ________________________________ From: Bonner, Janet [mailto:Janet.Bonner@FLHOSP.ORG] Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 8:50 AM To: Weems, Joyce; Robert Richmond; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks We are a very large facility and kept the majority of our blocks and slides in a minimally air-conditioned hospital supplies warehouse. I used to pull blocks and slides for legal cases, and it was rare-rare-rare that anyone did anything with the blocks after five years. Ten years for the slides was appropriate. Janet Janet L. Bonner, HTL (ASCP) Pathology Laboratory ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Weems, Joyce Sent: Thu 2/5/2009 6:12 PM To: Robert Richmond; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks I've been preaching this sermon for several years!!! We must do something!!! j -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Robert Richmond Sent: Thursday, February 05, 2009 5:28 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks How long to retain paraffin blocks (human tissue) is an issue that's going to need re-thinking. Presently most pathology services in the USA retain them for no more than ten years. If the laboratory closes, slides and blocks are disposed of immediately. It seems to me that in the coming age of molecular pathology, there will be a lot more interest in recovering paraffin blocks after longer periods of time. I think that the regulatory agencies will soon need to address this problem. Storing present-day paraffin blocks, with their bulky plastic mounts and low-melting waxes, is going to become even more difficult than it is now, as hospitals and other facilities consider the cost of maintaining and cooling storage space. I don't think it's possible to triage blocks and slides for disposal at the time the case is signed out. It sounds like a good idea, but the few times I've seen it tried it didn't work. Also, we really don't know what we're going to need to recover in the future. Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist (nearly 70, isn't going to have to worry about this problem) Knoxville TN _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ======================================================= The information contained in this message may be privileged and/or confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and deleting the material from any computer. ======================================================= Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. From Wanda.Smith <@t> HCAhealthcare.com Fri Feb 6 09:41:48 2009 From: Wanda.Smith <@t> HCAhealthcare.com (Smith Wanda) Date: Fri Feb 6 09:41:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Equipment Maintenance In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <9E2D36CE2D7CBA4A94D9B22E8328A3BAA2EEF7D5@NADCWPMSGCMS03.hca.corpad.net> Southeast Pathology Instrument Services, Inc based out of Folly Beach, SC. Michael Dietrich is the BEST!!!!! And so are the guys that work for him!!! 843-588-2559 843-708-7090 Michael's cell # Wanda WANDA G. SMITH, HTL(ASCP)HT Pathology Supervisor TRIDENT MEDICAL CENTER 9330 Medical Plaza Drive Charleston, SC 29406 843-847-4586 843-847-4296 fax -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Bradley Rodriguez Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 10:04 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Equipment Maintenance Can anyone recommend a good East Coast histo equipment maintenance company? Regards, Brad Bradley Rodriguez Histology Coordinator HSRL (Histo-Scientific Research Laboratories) 5930 Main Street Mount Jackson, VA 22842 540.477.4440 Fax: 540.477.4448 brod@hsrl.org www.hsrl.org ***Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail is strictly confidential and intended solely for the addressee. If you are not the intended recipient you must not use, disclose, or copy this transmission. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender and delete the material from any computer, disc drive, diskette, or other storage device or media. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From louise_hartson <@t> urmc.rochester.edu Fri Feb 6 09:42:42 2009 From: louise_hartson <@t> urmc.rochester.edu (Louise Hartson) Date: Fri Feb 6 09:42:48 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat Message-ID: Can someone suggest a good universal method for disinfecting the Cryostat after each use? From tpodawiltz <@t> lrgh.org Fri Feb 6 10:36:19 2009 From: tpodawiltz <@t> lrgh.org (Podawiltz, Thomas) Date: Fri Feb 6 10:36:53 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Disinfecting Cryostat In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D32F1FC7F@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> I believe CAP recommends 70% etoh. Tom Podawiltz, HT (ASCP) Histology Section Head/Laboratory Safety Officer LRGHealthcare 603-524-3211 ext: 3220 ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Louise Hartson [louise_hartson@urmc.rochester.edu] Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 10:42 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat Can someone suggest a good universal method for disinfecting the Cryostat after each use? _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet THIS MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL. This e-mail message and any attachments are proprietary and confidential information intended only for the use of the recipient(s) named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you may not print,distribute, or copy this message or any attachments. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this message and any attachments from your computer. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of LRGHealthcare. From integrated.histo <@t> gmail.com Fri Feb 6 10:55:58 2009 From: integrated.histo <@t> gmail.com (Cindy DuBois) Date: Fri Feb 6 10:56:03 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Best Decal? Message-ID: <5d9104a30902060855j40adaafq9b4daa423173490d@mail.gmail.com> What is the best decal to use for bone such as knee & femur? We are currently using Decalcifying H from Ever Scientific at the grossing area for 4 - 8 hours and Decal stat at the microtome for another 2 hours. It seems like there must be a better way? Both the Decal H and the Decal Stat are hydrochloric acid based. Cindy Dubois Integrated Pathology From b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu Fri Feb 6 11:01:58 2009 From: b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu (Bernice Frederick) Date: Fri Feb 6 11:02:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks In-Reply-To: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA52E3751@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> Message-ID: <2E35D133478B4B89B0559133BAB7A6D1@lurie.northwestern.edu> All We are a tissue bank and heavily involved with clinical trials. We are trying to find a way for people to flag cases on these trials that have consented to future use so that when it comes time for block disposal,those blocks are kept or sent to the appropriate group that ran and or banks the tissue for that trial. We have translational studies as far back as 1990 that I ma afraid the rest of the case is gone. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Weems, Joyce Sent: Thursday, February 05, 2009 5:13 PM To: Robert Richmond; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks I've been preaching this sermon for several years!!! We must do something!!! j -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Robert Richmond Sent: Thursday, February 05, 2009 5:28 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Re: Paraffin Blocks How long to retain paraffin blocks (human tissue) is an issue that's going to need re-thinking. Presently most pathology services in the USA retain them for no more than ten years. If the laboratory closes, slides and blocks are disposed of immediately. It seems to me that in the coming age of molecular pathology, there will be a lot more interest in recovering paraffin blocks after longer periods of time. I think that the regulatory agencies will soon need to address this problem. Storing present-day paraffin blocks, with their bulky plastic mounts and low-melting waxes, is going to become even more difficult than it is now, as hospitals and other facilities consider the cost of maintaining and cooling storage space. I don't think it's possible to triage blocks and slides for disposal at the time the case is signed out. It sounds like a good idea, but the few times I've seen it tried it didn't work. Also, we really don't know what we're going to need to recover in the future. Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist (nearly 70, isn't going to have to worry about this problem) Knoxville TN _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From gayle.callis <@t> bresnan.net Fri Feb 6 11:11:45 2009 From: gayle.callis <@t> bresnan.net (gayle callis) Date: Fri Feb 6 11:12:01 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <000801c9887d$fd614670$f823d350$@callis@bresnan.net> We use 70% ethanol on gauze (just damp) to wipe down inside of cryostat. Do not use 95% or 100% alcohol, as 70% is the most effective for disinfection, commonly used in biohoods. We pick up little trimmings with first dampened gauze (or kim wipe) then re-wipe with a second gauze. We prefer gauze for its flexibility. Also, if you put a kimwipe or gauze behind knife holder to l catch trimmings then you can fold up kimwipe, and lift "garbage" out, intact, and go to biohazard container before wipe down. We try to avoid too much alcohol on knife holder parts since alcohol ruins lubricants needed for good operation. Check with your cryostat manufacturer to see what they recommend. It pays to wipe down under and over sliding glass door to counterattack biohazardous "cling-ons" found on your gloves, and where people have touched the instrument. 70% alcohol will not kill prions. Water based disinfectants freeze in cryostat. Eventually you need scheduled disinfection with cryostat in defrosted mode with approved disinfecting agent. Gayle M. Callis HTL(ASCP)HT,MT Bozeman MT -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Louise Hartson Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 8:43 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat Can someone suggest a good universal method for disinfecting the Cryostat after each use? _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Dorothy.L.Webb <@t> HealthPartners.Com Fri Feb 6 13:36:23 2009 From: Dorothy.L.Webb <@t> HealthPartners.Com (Webb, Dorothy L) Date: Fri Feb 6 13:36:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Flammable storage Message-ID: <0E394B648E5284478A6CCB78E5AFDA2705635D46@hpes1.HealthPartners.int> How does everyone store any reagents that need refrigeration that are also flammable? We have always just stored them in the routine histology refrigerator. I have never had this concern come up before and the charge tech of toxicology is now questioning this type of storage. Any guidance on this would be greatly appreciated!! Thanks, as always fellow histonetters, the best group in the world!! Dorothy Webb, HT Regions Histology Technical Supervisor 651-254-2962 ________________________________________ This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or the individual responsible for delivering the e-mail to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this e-mail in error and that any use, dissemination, forwarding, printing, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the HealthPartners Support Center by telephone at (952) 967-6600. You will be reimbursed for reasonable costs incurred in notifying us. From SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu Fri Feb 6 13:45:15 2009 From: SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu (Swain, Frances L) Date: Fri Feb 6 13:45:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Flammable storage In-Reply-To: <0E394B648E5284478A6CCB78E5AFDA2705635D46@hpes1.HealthPartners.int> References: <0E394B648E5284478A6CCB78E5AFDA2705635D46@hpes1.HealthPartners.int> Message-ID: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E38028C148B70@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> We have purchased a flammable or explosion proof refrigerator from Fisher Scientific. The thermostat is on the outside of the cabinent not inside the cabinet. This is very important for two reasons: 1) if you have flammable or ignitable reagents and you store then in a frost free refrigerator (regular Sears , etc refrigerator) you will run the risk of an explosion or fire. We had this happen here at UAMS several years ago when some put a flammable reagent in a regular freezer. When the compressor came on it blue the door off of the refrigerator and set the whole lab on fire. You do not want to deal with this. 2) If you store your antibodies, kits, etc in a frost free or regular refrigerator it will destroy the antibody because a frost free refrigerator cycles and in cycling will heat up and make your antibody expire quicker. I know that these special refrigerators are very expensive but if you have a lot of antibodies and kits, or if you have a lot of flammables that must be kept cold it is worth it. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Webb, Dorothy L Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 1:36 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Flammable storage How does everyone store any reagents that need refrigeration that are also flammable? We have always just stored them in the routine histology refrigerator. I have never had this concern come up before and the charge tech of toxicology is now questioning this type of storage. Any guidance on this would be greatly appreciated!! Thanks, as always fellow histonetters, the best group in the world!! Dorothy Webb, HT Regions Histology Technical Supervisor 651-254-2962 ________________________________________ This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or the individual responsible for delivering the e-mail to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this e-mail in error and that any use, dissemination, forwarding, printing, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the HealthPartners Support Center by telephone at (952) 967-6600. You will be reimbursed for reasonable costs incurred in notifying us. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. From pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu Fri Feb 6 13:47:40 2009 From: pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu (Pamela Marcum) Date: Fri Feb 6 13:47:44 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Flammable storage In-Reply-To: <0E394B648E5284478A6CCB78E5AFDA2705635D46@hpes1.HealthPartners.int> References: <0E394B648E5284478A6CCB78E5AFDA2705635D46@hpes1.HealthPartners.int> Message-ID: <001501c98893$c5238820$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> You can purchase explosion proof refrigerators and freezers for these items. They are expensive but worth it if you have a lot to store or if it is isopentane or other highly explosive solutions. Any supplier with laboratory refrigeration should be able to help you. It is a requirement for safety in all laboratories according to OSHA if I am not mistaken. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Webb, Dorothy L Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 2:36 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Flammable storage How does everyone store any reagents that need refrigeration that are also flammable? We have always just stored them in the routine histology refrigerator. I have never had this concern come up before and the charge tech of toxicology is now questioning this type of storage. Any guidance on this would be greatly appreciated!! Thanks, as always fellow histonetters, the best group in the world!! Dorothy Webb, HT Regions Histology Technical Supervisor 651-254-2962 ________________________________________ This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or the individual responsible for delivering the e-mail to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this e-mail in error and that any use, dissemination, forwarding, printing, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the HealthPartners Support Center by telephone at (952) 967-6600. You will be reimbursed for reasonable costs incurred in notifying us. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu Fri Feb 6 14:11:12 2009 From: SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu (Swain, Frances L) Date: Fri Feb 6 14:11:46 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Best Decal? In-Reply-To: <5d9104a30902060855j40adaafq9b4daa423173490d@mail.gmail.com> References: <5d9104a30902060855j40adaafq9b4daa423173490d@mail.gmail.com> Message-ID: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E38028C148BB0@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Hi Cindy: We use 5% Formic Acid with a chemical end point test to determine when decalcification has been completed. We make our own 5% Formic Acid but Newcomer's Supply has some that I have used which worked really well. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Cindy DuBois Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 10:56 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Best Decal? What is the best decal to use for bone such as knee & femur? We are currently using Decalcifying H from Ever Scientific at the grossing area for 4 - 8 hours and Decal stat at the microtome for another 2 hours. It seems like there must be a better way? Both the Decal H and the Decal Stat are hydrochloric acid based. Cindy Dubois Integrated Pathology _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. From thisisann <@t> aol.com Fri Feb 6 15:09:26 2009 From: thisisann <@t> aol.com (thisisann@aol.com) Date: Fri Feb 6 15:09:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] PIN4 Message-ID: <8CB56B653CC16B8-F98-99B@WEBMAIL-DF16.sysops.aol.com> We just moved a Ventana Benchmark XT to a new location.? It appears to be working exactly the same as it was at the old location...no issues.? We used the same IView DAB detection kit? (same? protocol as well), same control tissue and same Vulcan Fast Red reagents.? All procedures are followed exactly at both locations. Can someone tell me why the Vulcan Fast REd is staining with a "brown" color to it instead of red at the new location.? We even used distilled water for rinsing and decontaminated the XT.? I don't know what else to do.... Any ideas? Thanks, Ann From cathy <@t> wasatchhisto.com Fri Feb 6 15:54:11 2009 From: cathy <@t> wasatchhisto.com (Cathy Mayton) Date: Fri Feb 6 15:54:28 2009 Subject: [Histonet] mounting GMA stained sections Message-ID: We air dry our stained GMA sections. We then clear the sections placing them in xylene for a minimum of 5 minutes, then transfer into a 2nd xylene and coverslip using Eukitt. Cathy A. Mayton Wasatch Histo Consultants, Inc. . From CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org Fri Feb 6 17:38:24 2009 From: CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org (Ingles Claire ) Date: Fri Feb 6 17:40:15 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat References: <000801c9887d$fd614670$f823d350$@callis@bresnan.net> Message-ID: Why no 95%? We have been using it in perpituity with no bad effects. The alcohol has evaporated from the inside surfaces by morning. Claire ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of gayle callis Sent: Fri 2/6/2009 11:11 AM To: 'Louise Hartson'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat We use 70% ethanol on gauze (just damp) to wipe down inside of cryostat. Do not use 95% or 100% alcohol, as 70% is the most effective for disinfection, commonly used in biohoods. We pick up little trimmings with first dampened gauze (or kim wipe) then re-wipe with a second gauze. We prefer gauze for its flexibility. Also, if you put a kimwipe or gauze behind knife holder to l catch trimmings then you can fold up kimwipe, and lift "garbage" out, intact, and go to biohazard container before wipe down. We try to avoid too much alcohol on knife holder parts since alcohol ruins lubricants needed for good operation. Check with your cryostat manufacturer to see what they recommend. It pays to wipe down under and over sliding glass door to counterattack biohazardous "cling-ons" found on your gloves, and where people have touched the instrument. 70% alcohol will not kill prions. Water based disinfectants freeze in cryostat. Eventually you need scheduled disinfection with cryostat in defrosted mode with approved disinfecting agent. From tifei <@t> foxmail.com Fri Feb 6 21:51:06 2009 From: tifei <@t> foxmail.com (TF) Date: Fri Feb 6 21:51:31 2009 Subject: [Histonet] feulgen stain on brain sections References: <6597057A4PW49743-01@tweed3east>, Message-ID: <200902071151008226024@foxmail.com> Hi all, i amusing Feulgen staining to visualize the apoptotic cells on 20 um brain frozen sections. The procedure is 5N HCl room temperature for 1.5 hour, wash in cool 1N HCl, wash in water, Schiff staining room temperature 1 h, wash throughly in distilled water, counterstain with 1% light green. I have two questions here: (1) after schiff staining, i can not visualize individual nucleui clearly, but all the section seems to be stained red. (2) I use distilled water to prepare 1% light green, am I right? I can not counterstain the section well - or, possibly because the sections are still in red color. 2009-02-07 TF From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Sat Feb 7 09:28:48 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Sat Feb 7 09:28:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Flammable storage In-Reply-To: <0E394B648E5284478A6CCB78E5AFDA2705635D46@hpes1.HealthPartners.int> Message-ID: <745257.48063.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> If you refrigerate any flammables?the?refrigerator has to be explosion proof, meaning that inside the refrigerator there cannot be any regulating mechanisms able to produce a spark that could trigger an explosion. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/6/09, Webb, Dorothy L wrote: From: Webb, Dorothy L Subject: [Histonet] Flammable storage To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Friday, February 6, 2009, 2:36 PM How does everyone store any reagents that need refrigeration that are also flammable? We have always just stored them in the routine histology refrigerator. I have never had this concern come up before and the charge tech of toxicology is now questioning this type of storage. Any guidance on this would be greatly appreciated!! Thanks, as always fellow histonetters, the best group in the world!! Dorothy Webb, HT Regions Histology Technical Supervisor 651-254-2962 ________________________________________ This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or the individual responsible for delivering the e-mail to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this e-mail in error and that any use, dissemination, forwarding, printing, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the HealthPartners Support Center by telephone at (952) 967-6600. You will be reimbursed for reasonable costs incurred in notifying us. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From CareerStudio <@t> aol.com Sat Feb 7 11:35:06 2009 From: CareerStudio <@t> aol.com (CareerStudio@aol.com) Date: Sat Feb 7 11:35:15 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histology Manager & Histotechnologist positions with Clinical Reference Labl Message-ID: Talented immunohistochemistry (IHC) individuals - from Histotechnologists through Histology Manager are needed for a premier, established yet growing clinical reference lab in the Atlanta area. Manager should have experience with large libraries of antibodies (200+/-), antibody validations, QC'ing and troubleshooting stains, high volumes, sample variation and multiple staining platforms (Dako, Leica) My client is offering competitive compensation package and relocation assistance. Career Studio is part of a leading search firm focused on the biotechnology and laboratory sectors. Visit my linkedin profile at http://www.linkedin.com/in/careerstudio Barbara Siegel Career Studio national search Palm Beach, FL careerstudio@aol.com 561-738-6363 ************** Who's never won? Biggest Grammy Award surprises of all time on AOL Music. (http://music.aol.com/grammys/pictures/never-won-a-grammy?ncid=emlcntusmusi00000003) From lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net Sat Feb 7 15:09:06 2009 From: lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net (Lee & Peggy Wenk) Date: Sat Feb 7 15:09:19 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Flammable storage In-Reply-To: <0E394B648E5284478A6CCB78E5AFDA2705635D46@hpes1.HealthPartners.int> Message-ID: Robert Skinner wrote a great article for Histo-Logic May 2003, about a flammable (100 mL of isopentane ($2)) that exploded in a freezer, causing hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of damage. Incredible photos of the damage. I hope this link works. http://www.sakura-americas.com/histologic/pdf/03_may.pdf Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Webb, Dorothy L Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 2:36 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Flammable storage How does everyone store any reagents that need refrigeration that are also flammable? We have always just stored them in the routine histology refrigerator. I have never had this concern come up before and the charge tech of toxicology is now questioning this type of storage. Any guidance on this would be greatly appreciated!! Thanks, as always fellow histonetters, the best group in the world!! Dorothy Webb, HT Regions Histology Technical Supervisor 651-254-2962 ________________________________________ This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or the individual responsible for delivering the e-mail to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this e-mail in error and that any use, dissemination, forwarding, printing, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the HealthPartners Support Center by telephone at (952) 967-6600. You will be reimbursed for reasonable costs incurred in notifying us. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net Sat Feb 7 15:11:50 2009 From: lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net (Lee & Peggy Wenk) Date: Sat Feb 7 15:12:01 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <532EC8479BA34DB9A25969260565B292@HPPav2> 95-100% also work, for bacteria, fungus, viruses. They will not work on killing spores. That's where the 70% is to be used, as the water (30% part) is needed to soften the spore wall, so that the alcohol (70% part) can get inside. Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Ingles Claire Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 6:38 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat Why no 95%? We have been using it in perpituity with no bad effects. The alcohol has evaporated from the inside surfaces by morning. Claire ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of gayle callis Sent: Fri 2/6/2009 11:11 AM To: 'Louise Hartson'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat We use 70% ethanol on gauze (just damp) to wipe down inside of cryostat. Do not use 95% or 100% alcohol, as 70% is the most effective for disinfection, commonly used in biohoods. We pick up little trimmings with first dampened gauze (or kim wipe) then re-wipe with a second gauze. We prefer gauze for its flexibility. Also, if you put a kimwipe or gauze behind knife holder to l catch trimmings then you can fold up kimwipe, and lift "garbage" out, intact, and go to biohazard container before wipe down. We try to avoid too much alcohol on knife holder parts since alcohol ruins lubricants needed for good operation. Check with your cryostat manufacturer to see what they recommend. It pays to wipe down under and over sliding glass door to counterattack biohazardous "cling-ons" found on your gloves, and where people have touched the instrument. 70% alcohol will not kill prions. Water based disinfectants freeze in cryostat. Eventually you need scheduled disinfection with cryostat in defrosted mode with approved disinfecting agent. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From histolog <@t> fcv.unl.edu.ar Sat Feb 7 15:42:34 2009 From: histolog <@t> fcv.unl.edu.ar (Lab. Invest. Histol.) Date: Sat Feb 7 15:42:45 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Freezing antibodies In-Reply-To: <532EC8479BA34DB9A25969260565B292@HPPav2> References: <532EC8479BA34DB9A25969260565B292@HPPav2> Message-ID: Somebody has experience in storing alicuots of concentrated antibodies at -80?C. It's better that -20?C? Thanks Hugo ------------------------------------------------------------------- Dr. Hugo H. Ortega (DMV, PhD) Departament of Cellular Biology Faculty of Veterinary Sciences Universidad Nacional del Litoral R.P. Kreder 2805 - Esperanza (3080) Santa Fe - ARGENTINA Tel. (54)3496-420639 Fax. (54)3496-426304 http://fcv.unl.edu.ar/histolog/ http://fcv.unl.edu.ar/bioterio/ From gu.lang <@t> gmx.at Sun Feb 8 12:29:25 2009 From: gu.lang <@t> gmx.at (Gudrun Lang) Date: Sun Feb 8 12:29:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IF-protocol on skin Message-ID: Hi all, I?d like to compare my immunofluorescence protocol with other experienced histotechs. Here is my protocol. Please give me your comments, if there?s a hidden mistake. Are the antibody-titers ok? 1. freeze the nativ skin-specimen in the cryostat with OCT 2. let wait in a -20?C freezer until beginning (1-3 days), wrapped in 3. cut at 6-8 microns, airdry for 30-60 min 4. 30 min fitc-labelled anti-IgG (Zymed, 1:20 and 1:40), IgM (Dako,1:10 and 1:20) , IgA (Dako, 1:10 and 1:20), Complement3c (Dako 1:10 and 1:20), Fibrinogen (Dako 1:10 and 1:20) all diluted in PBS 5. rinse in PBS 2x 5 min 6. coverslip with antifading medium Last week we had a positiv skin with an IgG-line on basement membran. Ok, that?s fine. Then we tried an IHC with our usual protocol for IgG, IgM and IgA on the Benchmark XT. We expected to see a beautiful red band of IgG in the FFPE-skin. But - The result was a very intense staining with all Immunoglobulins in the skinblister, but also in the dermis, very intense at the basmentmembran. What?s that? Has anyone tried IHC instead of IF? Curious Gudrun From gayle.callis <@t> bresnan.net Sun Feb 8 14:36:46 2009 From: gayle.callis <@t> bresnan.net (gayle callis) Date: Sun Feb 8 14:37:06 2009 Subject: [Histonet] More on Re: cleaning cryostat with 70% alcohol Message-ID: <000101c98a2c$f61d76d0$e2586470$@callis@bresnan.net> There always seems to be confusion about how 70% alcohol works effectively as a disinfecting agent for cryostats and other items. I found an explanation on the web, in italics below, and hopefully this will help those for making a choice for using 70% or a higher concentration of alcohol. You will not have bad effects from using 95% or 100% alcohol, but as far as disinfection effects, the 70% may be better for actual killing organisms. There is no doubt 95% or 100% is going help CLEAN the inside, but probably not disinfect as well as the 70%. As an aside, we have a Biosafety Level 3 laboratory where they work with Coxiella sp. It is NOT totally killed by NBF fixation, so after immersing tissues in NBF for fixation, they then go into 70% alcohol which to kill the bacteria completely. They were required to do a viability study in order to know all this, and now have to wash the exterior of all tissues in cassettes with 70% for a specified time before removal from the BSL3 facility. The point is they use 70% alcohol not some higher concentration. It has to do with permeabilizing the cell wall and coagulating the proteins. Here is the detailed explanation of for use of 70% alcohol. "As an antiseptic, 70 percent of alcohol is preferred to a stonger solution. Pure alcohol coagulates protein on contact. Suppose the pure alcohol is poured over a single celled organism. The alcohol penetrates the cell wall of the organism in all direction, coagulating the protein just inside the cell wall. This ring of the coagulated protein would then prevent the alcohol from penetrating farther from the cell, and no more coagulation would take place. At this time the cell would become dormant but not dead. under the proper condition the cell would then begin to function. If 70 percent of alcohol is poured to a single celled organism, the diluted alcohol also coagulates the protein, but at a slower rate, so that it penetrates all the way through the cell before coagulation can block it. Then all the cell is coagulated and the organism "dies. I have NEVER seen anyone in our research labs decontaminate the numerous (at least a dozen or more) biohoods with 100% or 95% - they use 70% on their gloved hands, all surfaces inside and outside of the hood. They also use approved disinfecting agents for specific needs e.g. antiviral agents when needed. One big complaint about using 70% inside a cryostat is the water content, that when left on cryostat surfaces, creates an ice problem in the chamber. We found if we dampen the gauze with 70% so it isn't dripping alcohol, we do not get ice problems. If we find a bit of excess 70% on surfaces, we then wipe down with 100% to help dry the surfaces. One can still leave the glass door open to evaporate alcohol fumes. Personally, I have never thought nor trusted the wiping out or a cryostat chamber was totally effective in the first place even with 70%, but merely a daily cleaning protocol for minimizing the creepie crawlies (exception being prions). This is why a scheduled (weekly or otherwise) decontamination of a defrosted cryostat is important unless your cryostat has a special decontamination mode or procedure provided by the manufacturer. At any rate, stay safe and healthy. If someone has a better scientific explanation for why 70% alcohol is a better antiseptic, I would like to see it. Gayle Callis From histo20 <@t> hotmail.com Sun Feb 8 16:24:00 2009 From: histo20 <@t> hotmail.com (Paula Wilder) Date: Sun Feb 8 16:24:06 2009 Subject: [Histonet] (no subject) Message-ID: Hello everyone, Does anyone know of a vendor who carries "sterile" biopsy pads? Any help will be greatly appreciated. Paula Wilder St. Joseph Medical Center Towson, MD 21204 _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: E-mail. Chat. Share. Get more ways to connect. http://windowslive.com/explore?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_allup_explore_022009 From histo20 <@t> hotmail.com Sun Feb 8 16:26:25 2009 From: histo20 <@t> hotmail.com (Paula Wilder) Date: Sun Feb 8 16:26:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC Performance Improvement Message-ID: Hi Everyone! We are looking for new performance improvement parameters. We are currently monitoring IHC repeats. Does anyone have any other suggestions? Any help will be greatly appreciated! Paula Wilder St. Joseph Medical Center Towson, MD 21204 _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: Keep your life in sync. http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t1_allup_howitworks_022009 From alyssa <@t> alliedsearchpartners.com Sun Feb 8 21:49:16 2009 From: alyssa <@t> alliedsearchpartners.com (Alyssa Peterson) Date: Sun Feb 8 21:49:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histology Position in Evansville, IN Message-ID: Good Morning, My name is Alyssa Peterson, and I am reaching out to you all about a permanent, full time, Monday-Friday Staff Histotechnologist/Histotechnician position located in Evansville, IN. If you are interested please respond with a current copy of your resume attached as a Microsoft word document, and a contact number with the best time to reach you. You can call me anytime, at 770.621.2639 ext. 4 or send me an email at alyssa@alliedsearchpartners.com for further information. If you are not interested we offer a $1000 referral bonus so feel free to forward this email to whomever you feel fit. ** *Please review the job description:* HT ASCP certification required, Mon-Friday, Full Time permanent position with full benefits. *Benefits: * They offer an attractive benefits package for full time employment, including medical/dental insurance, PTO, 401K, and much more!!!!!! Salary is highly competitive!!! -- Alyssa Peterson Allied Search Partners O: 770.621.2639 ext. 4 F: 770.621.2640 From HistoNews <@t> sourcemp.com Thu Feb 5 13:11:06 2009 From: HistoNews <@t> sourcemp.com (HistoNews) Date: Mon Feb 9 08:36:20 2009 Subject: [Histonet] New York State Histotechnological Society 2009 Annual Symposium Announcement Message-ID: Dear Subscribe, The New York State Histotechnological Society is pleased to announce its 2009 annual symposium to be held at the Holiday Inn in Fishkill, New York on April 24th and 25th, 2009. Our academic program offers over 25 contact hours of CEU's on a wide range of topics. For a copy of the program, registration forms or additional information, please visit the New York State Histotechnological Society website at: http://www.nyhisto.org/ Attached to this email you will find the 2009 Program. Please share this with your laboratory staff. If you have further questions about the meeting please contact: Luis Chiriboga email: litepath2000@yahoo.com We hope to see you there, New York State Histotechnological Society To Opt-Out of any further emails please simply reply to this email by clicking on the link below: Please remove me from this email list: mailto:histonews@sourcemp.com?subject=%20Unsubscribe%20Me From HistoNews <@t> sourcemp.com Thu Feb 5 13:35:41 2009 From: HistoNews <@t> sourcemp.com (HistoNews) Date: Mon Feb 9 08:36:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] New York State Histotechnological Society 2009 Annual Symposium Announcement Message-ID: <42294638DD024D6DB25836B723256F7C@HistoNews> Dear Histonet, The New York State Histotechnological Society is pleased to announce its 2009 annual symposium to be held at the Holiday Inn in Fishkill, New York on April 24th and 25th, 2009. Our academic program offers over 25 contact hours of CEU's on a wide range of topics. For a copy of the program, registration forms or additional information, please visit the New York State Histotechnological Society website at: http://www.nyhisto.org/ Attached to this email you will find the 2009 Program. Please share this with your laboratory staff. If you have further questions about the meeting please contact: Luis Chiriboga email: litepath2000@yahoo.com We hope to see you there, New York State Histotechnological Society To Opt-Out of any further emails please simply reply to this email by clicking on the link below: Please remove me from this email list: mailto:histonews@sourcemp.com?subject=%20Unsubscribe%20Me From SAllen <@t> exchange.hsc.mb.ca Mon Feb 9 08:55:35 2009 From: SAllen <@t> exchange.hsc.mb.ca (Sharon Allen) Date: Mon Feb 9 08:55:42 2009 Subject: [Histonet] HPS stain Message-ID: Hi, I would like to know if there are many labs out there doing the "Haematoxylin, Phloxine, Saffron stain, routinely & how they like it. We have been doing it & it is lovely when it works but can be very unpredictable. I am aware of its hydrophobic properties & do what I can to accommodate this trait. It is mainly the saffron part that is temperamental. Thanks Sharon Allen sallen@hsc.mb.ca -------------- next part -------------- This email and/or any documents in this transmission is intended for the addressee(s) only and may contain legally privileged or confidential information. Any unauthorized use, disclosure, distribution, copying or dissemination is strictly prohibited. If you receive this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately and return the original. Ce courriel et tout document dans cette transmission est destin? ? la personne ou aux personnes ? qui il est adress?. Il peut contenir des informations privil?gi?es ou confidentielles. Toute utilisation, divulgation, distribution, copie, ou diffusion non autoris?e est strictement d?fendue. Si vous n'?tes pas le destinataire de ce message, veuillez en informer l'exp?diteur imm?diatement et lui remettre l'original. From hborgeri <@t> wfubmc.edu Mon Feb 9 09:09:47 2009 From: hborgeri <@t> wfubmc.edu (Hermina Borgerink) Date: Mon Feb 9 09:16:49 2009 Subject: [Histonet] HPS stain In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <9AEEF1FB6254224AA355ED285F84916534064C7C@EXCHVS2.medctr.ad.wfubmc.edu> Hi Sharon, During the sixties and seventies the HPS stain was our routine diagnostic stain. We never had problems with the saffron, but we did take care keeping it free from all moisture, including the alcohols prior to and right after the staining with saffron. Method below. HPS ? hematoxylin, phloxine, saffron Any fixative. Paraffin. 1. Deparaffinize and bring to running water. Wash for 5 minutes. 2. Stain in Harris Hematoxylin for 5 minutes - stains nuclei 3. Wash in running water for 5 minutes. 4. Differentiate in 1% acid alcohol ? removes excess hematoxylin 5. Wash in running water for 5 minutes. 6. Blue in ammonia water ? blues nuclei 7. Wash in running water for 5 minutes. 8. Stain in 2% Phloxine B for 5 minutes ? stains cytoplasm and connective tissue 9. Wash in running water for 5 minutes ? removes excess phloxine from connective tissue 10. Differentiate through 1 change of 95% alcohol ? finishes removal of phloxine from connective tissue 11. Continue dehydration through 4 changes of 100% alcohol ? saffron is hydrophobic so all water must be removed from the section 12. Stain in Saffron for 5 ? 10 minutes ? stains collagen and connective tissue 13. Remove excess saffron through 4 changes of 100% alcohol. 14. Clear through 4 changes of xylene. 15. Mount sections with permount. RESULTS: Nuclei ? dark blue Cytoplasm ? shades of red Connective tissue ? yellow Hematoxylin Distilled water - 500ml Potassium aluminum sulphate - 60gm Hematein - 1.25gm Glacial acetic acid - 5ml Make up potassium alum by adding 60gm to 500ml of distilled water. Heat and let come to a boil. Add 1.25gm of hematein (remove from flame when adding) and continue boiling gently for 10 minutes. Cool, while shaking occasionally. Add 5 ml acetic acid when cool. Filter and add 1 crystal of thymol to prevent bacteria. Store in a dark bottle. 2% Phloxine B Distilled water ? 500ml Phloxine B - 10gm Add Phloxine to water and dissolve. Add 1 crystal of thymol to prevent bacteria. Store in a dark bottle. Saffran du Gatinais Absolute alcohol - 1000ml Saffron du Gatinais ? 30gm (or dried Spanish saffron in small amounts) Add 30gm of saffron to 500ml of absolute alcohol and let ripen in a 60?C oven for 48 hours. Pour off the alcohol and store in a dark bottle. Add another 500ml of absolute alcohol to the saffron and again let ripen for 48 hours in a 60?C oven. Add to the first batch obtained. Keep away from all moisture. Hermina -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Sharon Allen Sent: Monday, February 09, 2009 9:56 AM To: histonet@pathology.swmed.edu Subject: [Histonet] HPS stain Hi, I would like to know if there are many labs out there doing the "Haematoxylin, Phloxine, Saffron stain, routinely & how they like it. We have been doing it & it is lovely when it works but can be very unpredictable. I am aware of its hydrophobic properties & do what I can to accommodate this trait. It is mainly the saffron part that is temperamental. Thanks Sharon Allen sallen@hsc.mb.ca From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Mon Feb 9 10:03:55 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Mon Feb 9 10:03:58 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC Performance Improvement In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <847908.75341.qm@web65707.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Paula: Any and every step in the histology workflow?can and should have a performance improvement parameter. You refer to IHC repeats as a parameter and in this case, as in any other, the fact of repeating an IHC by itself is not a good parameter unless it is associated with the event that determined the request or need to?repeat. It could be that the pathologists (PT)?wanted to look at a deeper section, or that the PT expected a reaction of different intensity (either stronger or weaker)?than the one seen and wanted to be sure, or even perhaps that the reaction was so outstanding that the PT wanted to have a section for his/her collection, or some other reason. What I am trying to convey is the idea that a "repeat" by itself, without recording the cause of the "repeat" does not constitute a good PI parameter. The cause of the repeat is the one that will?determine the follow up?steps derived from the PI. Ren? J. --- On Sun, 2/8/09, Paula Wilder wrote: From: Paula Wilder Subject: [Histonet] IHC Performance Improvement To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Sunday, February 8, 2009, 5:26 PM Hi Everyone! We are looking for new performance improvement parameters. We are currently monitoring IHC repeats. Does anyone have any other suggestions? Any help will be greatly appreciated! Paula Wilder St. Joseph Medical Center Towson, MD 21204 _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: Keep your life in sync. http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t1_allup_howitworks_022009_______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu Mon Feb 9 10:07:05 2009 From: mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu (Geoff McAuliffe) Date: Mon Feb 9 10:12:20 2009 Subject: [Histonet] feulgen stain on brain sections In-Reply-To: <200902071151008226024@foxmail.com> References: <6597057A4PW49743-01@tweed3east> <200902071151008226024@foxmail.com> Message-ID: <499054A9.2000003@umdnj.edu> Dear TF: Schiff reagent reacts with the lipids (the aldehydes in the lipids) in the frozen sections so the whole section is pink. You could try extracting the "offending" lipids with alcohols and xylene, then rehydrate to water and run the reaction again. A better plan is to search the literature first, the old literature in books in the library. Look for Histochemistry by A.G.E. Pearse. Also 1.5 hours in %N HCl seems excessive, again check the literature for the correct time on unfixed frozen sections. After you solve the Schiff problem the light green in distilled water should work fine. Geoff TF wrote: > Hi all, i amusing Feulgen staining to visualize the apoptotic cells on 20 um brain frozen sections. > The procedure is 5N HCl room temperature for 1.5 hour, wash in cool 1N HCl, wash in water, Schiff staining room temperature 1 h, wash throughly in distilled water, counterstain with 1% light green. > > I have two questions here: > (1) after schiff staining, i can not visualize individual nucleui clearly, but all the section seems to be stained red. > (2) I use distilled water to prepare 1% light green, am I right? I can not counterstain the section well - or, possibly because the sections are still in red color. > > > 2009-02-07 > > > > TF > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** From ttruscot <@t> vetmed.wsu.edu Mon Feb 9 10:17:22 2009 From: ttruscot <@t> vetmed.wsu.edu (Truscott, Tom) Date: Mon Feb 9 10:17:32 2009 Subject: [Histonet] PIN4 In-Reply-To: <8CB56B653CC16B8-F98-99B@WEBMAIL-DF16.sysops.aol.com> References: <8CB56B653CC16B8-F98-99B@WEBMAIL-DF16.sysops.aol.com> Message-ID: <44F1D6D7EB8CC84F92859EE5C4E6ECB427F1423EA3@CVMMBX.vetmed.wsu.edu> Hi Ann, Are you using the same microscope in the new location? Tom Truscott USDA-ARS -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of thisisann@aol.com Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 1:09 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Cc: atiakhan@qdxpath.com; aketat@qdxpath.com Subject: [Histonet] PIN4 We just moved a Ventana Benchmark XT to a new location.? It appears to be working exactly the same as it was at the old location...no issues.? We used the same IView DAB detection kit? (same? protocol as well), same control tissue and same Vulcan Fast Red reagents.? All procedures are followed exactly at both locations. Can someone tell me why the Vulcan Fast REd is staining with a "brown" color to it instead of red at the new location.? We even used distilled water for rinsing and decontaminated the XT.? I don't know what else to do.... Any ideas? Thanks, Ann _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From tifei <@t> foxmail.com Mon Feb 9 11:58:17 2009 From: tifei <@t> foxmail.com (=?utf-8?B?VEY=?=) Date: Mon Feb 9 11:58:40 2009 Subject: =?utf-8?B?UmU6IFJlOiBbSGlzdG9uZXRdIGZldWxnZW4gc3RhaW4gb24gYnJhaW4gc2VjdGlvbnM=?= References: <6597057A4PW49743-01@tweed3east>, , <200902071151008226024@foxmail.com>, <499054A9.2000003@umdnj.edu> Message-ID: <200902100158121703249@foxmail.com> Thanks very much. I will extract the lipids first. 2009-02-10 TF ???? Geoff McAuliffe ????? 2009-02-10 00:17:29 ???? tifei ??? histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu ??? Re: [Histonet] feulgen stain on brain sections Dear TF: Schiff reagent reacts with the lipids (the aldehydes in the lipids) in the frozen sections so the whole section is pink. You could try extracting the "offending" lipids with alcohols and xylene, then rehydrate to water and run the reaction again. A better plan is to search the literature first, the old literature in books in the library. Look for Histochemistry by A.G.E. Pearse. Also 1.5 hours in %N HCl seems excessive, again check the literature for the correct time on unfixed frozen sections. After you solve the Schiff problem the light green in distilled water should work fine. Geoff TF wrote: > Hi all, i amusing Feulgen staining to visualize the apoptotic cells on 20 um brain frozen sections. > The procedure is 5N HCl room temperature for 1.5 hour, wash in cool 1N HCl, wash in water, Schiff staining room temperature 1 h, wash throughly in distilled water, counterstain with 1% light green. > > I have two questions here: > (1) after schiff staining, i can not visualize individual nucleui clearly, but all the section seems to be stained red. > (2) I use distilled water to prepare 1% light green, am I right? I can not counterstain the section well - or, possibly because the sections are still in red color. > > > 2009-02-07 > > > > TF > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** From plott <@t> uab.edu Mon Feb 9 12:09:55 2009 From: plott <@t> uab.edu (Patricia F Lott) Date: Mon Feb 9 12:10:02 2009 Subject: [Histonet] need help with Elastase staining Message-ID: Does anyone have any experience with staining for Elastase in Neutrophils in tissue sections? Any help would be appreciated! From gagnone <@t> KGH.KARI.NET Mon Feb 9 12:11:50 2009 From: gagnone <@t> KGH.KARI.NET (Gagnon, Eric) Date: Mon Feb 9 12:11:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] HPS stain Message-ID: Hi Sharon, HPS is our routine stain (instead of H&E, which 98% of labs use). Not sure what part of the stain you are having trouble with, but most unpredictability usually comes in the phloxine/saffron balance. Some things to watch for are: -keeping your saffron covered, and I would suggest parafilm-ing it when not in use -keep the alcohols before the saffron rigorously free of phloxine-contaminated alcohol, thus not allowing tainted alcohol to contaminate/dilute the saffron during staining -getting all the background hematoxylin and phloxine out, which can be checked as you go along when you validate your method -be diligent about the preparation of the saffron. In addition to Hermina's suggested method, we microwave the dry saffron, grind it, then boil the alcoholic mixture to remove as much moisture as possible What do you use the stain for, i.e. differentiating muscle and collagen? As a routine stain, I understand its use in Canada is limited to a few laboratories in the east such as the Ottawa, Kingston, Sudbury areas. This is often because pathologists who trained here at Queen's Pathology like to take the stain with them. Having said that, many of our residents request slides stained with H&E, to familiarize themselves with that stain before exams. Good luck, hope this helps... Eric Gagnon MLT Histology Laboratory, Kingston General Hospital Kingston, Ontario, Canada From cmiller <@t> gladstone.ucsf.edu Mon Feb 9 12:17:19 2009 From: cmiller <@t> gladstone.ucsf.edu (Caroline Miller) Date: Mon Feb 9 12:17:26 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat In-Reply-To: <532EC8479BA34DB9A25969260565B292@HPPav2> References: <532EC8479BA34DB9A25969260565B292@HPPav2> Message-ID: <407E13F3-8499-4B03-BB56-E7DC95A9448D@gladstone.ucsf.edu> In the UK (where I used to run a clinical lab) we also would turn off the cryostat in the morning, wait for it to defrost then just before going home for the evening heat up some formalin in the microwave and place that in the chamber and leave overnight. It certainly kills everything, but it is also kinda toxic to your lungs! I wouldn't suggest it but it is a 'severe cleaning' option, especially if you have had something nasty in there. This was about 5 years ago, the rules may have changed, and Yes, I do realise just how bad that is for you and everyone around! Caroline Caroline Miller Co-Manager J David Gladstone Institutes Histology and Microscopy Core 1650 Owens St San Francisco CA 94158 http://www.gladstone.ucsf.edu/gladstone/site/histology/ cmiller@gladstone.ucsf.edu On Feb 7, 2009, at 1:11 PM, Lee & Peggy Wenk wrote: > 95-100% also work, for bacteria, fungus, viruses. They will not work > on > killing spores. That's where the 70% is to be used, as the water > (30% part) > is needed to soften the spore wall, so that the alcohol (70% part) > can get > inside. > > Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS > Beaumont Hospital > Royal Oak, MI 48073 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Ingles > Claire > Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 6:38 PM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat > > Why no 95%? We have been using it in perpituity with no bad effects. > The > alcohol has evaporated from the inside surfaces by morning. > > Claire > > ________________________________ > > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of gayle > callis > Sent: Fri 2/6/2009 11:11 AM > To: 'Louise Hartson'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat > > > > We use 70% ethanol on gauze (just damp) to wipe down inside of > cryostat. Do > not use 95% or 100% alcohol, as 70% is the most effective for > disinfection, > commonly used in biohoods. We pick up little trimmings with first > dampened > gauze (or kim wipe) then re-wipe with a second gauze. We prefer > gauze for > its flexibility. Also, if you put a kimwipe or gauze behind knife > holder to > l catch trimmings then you can fold up kimwipe, and lift "garbage" > out, > intact, and go to biohazard container before wipe down. We try to > avoid too > much alcohol on knife holder parts since alcohol ruins lubricants > needed for > good operation. Check with your cryostat manufacturer to see what > they > recommend. It pays to wipe down under and over sliding glass door to > counterattack biohazardous "cling-ons" found on your gloves, and where > people have touched the instrument. 70% alcohol will not kill prions. > > Water based disinfectants freeze in cryostat. Eventually you need > scheduled > disinfection with cryostat in defrosted mode with approved > disinfecting > agent. > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From cbass <@t> wfubmc.edu Mon Feb 9 12:47:31 2009 From: cbass <@t> wfubmc.edu (Caroline Bass) Date: Mon Feb 9 13:03:52 2009 Subject: [Histonet] AO 860 repairman in NC? Message-ID: Hello Everyone, I have refurbished an old AO 860 sliding microtome. I?m pretty proud of myself, I?ve unlocked the totally gummed mechanism and have put it together myself. It seems to work very well. The only problem I have is tuning the sliding block. I have no idea how to approach it, and after several failed attempts (I can get it to slide down the length, but can?t achieve a smooth movement), I?m wondering if it?s better to find a repairman in the area that can spend an hour showing me how to do this. Does anyone have suggestions? Do you know of any repairmen in the area? Thanks, Caroline Bass From RSRICHMOND <@t> aol.com Mon Feb 9 13:24:01 2009 From: RSRICHMOND <@t> aol.com (Robert Richmond) Date: Mon Feb 9 13:24:06 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: HPS stain Message-ID: The hematoxylin-phloxin- saffron stain, which supposedly originated at the Montreal Neurological Institute, migrated from there to Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital in New York City, where it was used as the general oversight stain in surgical pathology at least into the 1960's. When I saw it in use there in 1966 they didn't seem to be having trouble with it. On the other side of Central Park, New York Hospital (Cornell Medical Center) had used a Light Green trichrome stain as a general oversight stain. I think they abandoned it in favor of H & E after Chandler Foot's retirement in 1948. Saffron is a natural dye derived from the stigmas of the saffron crocus, Crocus sativus. Although it was (and is) extremely expensive, it was used both as a textile dye and as a spice (in paella, for example). It's sometimes seen (and smelled) as a component of expensive curry powders - my wife and I have been experimenting with Penzey's Maharajah curry powder, which is 2% saffron. The immense hand labor of extracting all those stigmas from the flowers makes saffron "the most expensive spice in the world". Saffron as a histologic dye has traditionally been specified as "safran du G?tinais" - from a particular region of France - though I am not certain that such a product still actually exists. I would think that any good quality saffron would suffice (don't substitute safflower, 'dyer's saffron'). You'll pay at least ten dollars a gram for saffron, at Penzeys anyway. Some recipes specified as many as seven changes of hot alcohol to extract the dye, and some people used a reflux condenser for the extraction. The alcohol extract has a strong medicinal smell which some people find quite unpleasant. (I have no connection with Penzeys.com, except that my wife and I have gotten addicted to their shipments of very high quality spices.) Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist Knoxville TN From Albert.Santiago <@t> uphs.upenn.edu Mon Feb 9 13:57:24 2009 From: Albert.Santiago <@t> uphs.upenn.edu (Santiago, Albert) Date: Mon Feb 9 13:57:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] special stain instrument Message-ID: Hello again fellow histonetters, I have an old artisan special stain/ihc stain stainer that I'm looking to replace with a newer model, but before I commit to it I was wondering if anyone else uses any other special stain instrument that I can look into and compare.... Thanks for your help.... Albert Santiago, HT (ASCP) Laboratory Supervisor Dermatopathology Phone 215-662-6539 Fax 215-662-6150 The information contained in this e-mail message is intended only for the personal and confidential use of the recipient(s) named above. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an agent responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you have received this document in error and that any review, dissemination, distribution, or copying of this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by e-mail, and delete the original message. From godsgalnow <@t> aol.com Mon Feb 9 14:03:47 2009 From: godsgalnow <@t> aol.com (godsgalnow@aol.com) Date: Mon Feb 9 14:04:06 2009 Subject: [Histonet] thermowave users Message-ID: <8CB5908A749D8F9-F58-E84@webmail-da13.sysops.aol.com> Can any ThermoWave users that microwave prostates please email me offline, if you are willing to share SOPs.... Thanks, Roxanne From sjchtascp <@t> yahoo.com Mon Feb 9 14:04:49 2009 From: sjchtascp <@t> yahoo.com (Steven Coakley) Date: Mon Feb 9 14:04:53 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Techs from Rockford Health System Message-ID: <219757.8126.qm@web38205.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Wondering if there are any tech here from Rockford Health System, Rockford, Ill. From jclark <@t> pcnm.com Mon Feb 9 14:39:11 2009 From: jclark <@t> pcnm.com (Joanne Clark) Date: Mon Feb 9 14:39:14 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens Message-ID: <0CDA5E1E01301F4880A8A7A8BCBDA39CF66519@mail.pcnm.com> Hi, How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP specimens and if so, how many do you cut? Thanks Joanne Clark, HT, MLT Pathology Consultants of New Mexico Roswell, NM From mpence <@t> grhs.net Mon Feb 9 14:59:33 2009 From: mpence <@t> grhs.net (Mike Pence) Date: Mon Feb 9 14:59:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens In-Reply-To: <0CDA5E1E01301F4880A8A7A8BCBDA39CF66519@mail.pcnm.com> Message-ID: <661949901A768E4F9CC16D8AF8F2838C017A3A83@IS-E2K3.grhs.net> We cut 3 levels on each block. Mike -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joanne Clark Sent: Monday, February 09, 2009 2:39 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens Hi, How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP specimens and if so, how many do you cut? Thanks Joanne Clark, HT, MLT Pathology Consultants of New Mexico Roswell, NM _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From victor <@t> pathology.washington.edu Mon Feb 9 16:08:14 2009 From: victor <@t> pathology.washington.edu (Victor Tobias) Date: Mon Feb 9 16:08:20 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens In-Reply-To: <0CDA5E1E01301F4880A8A7A8BCBDA39CF66519@mail.pcnm.com> References: <0CDA5E1E01301F4880A8A7A8BCBDA39CF66519@mail.pcnm.com> Message-ID: <4990A94E.9030001@pathology.washington.edu> 3 levels. Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. Joanne Clark wrote: > Hi, > > > > How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP > specimens and if so, how many do you cut? > > > > Thanks > > Joanne Clark, HT, MLT > > Pathology Consultants of New Mexico > > Roswell, NM > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > From laurie.colbert <@t> huntingtonhospital.com Mon Feb 9 16:10:46 2009 From: laurie.colbert <@t> huntingtonhospital.com (Laurie Colbert) Date: Mon Feb 9 16:10:51 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens Message-ID: <57BE698966D5C54EAE8612E8941D768304E9D603@EXCHANGE3.huntingtonhospital.com> Three levels on all blocks Laurie Colbert -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joanne Clark Sent: Monday, February 09, 2009 12:39 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens Hi, How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP specimens and if so, how many do you cut? Thanks Joanne Clark, HT, MLT Pathology Consultants of New Mexico Roswell, NM _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From ree3 <@t> leicester.ac.uk Tue Feb 10 05:45:11 2009 From: ree3 <@t> leicester.ac.uk (Edwards, R.E.) Date: Tue Feb 10 05:45:54 2009 Subject: [Histonet] cotton blue=acid blue=methyl blue Message-ID: <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A1745423DC64@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> Looking for a supplier please, I am aware that Sigma/Fluka supply a ready made solution, which apparently does not work. Many thanks Richard Edwards Leicester University U.K. From rmweber113 <@t> comcast.net Tue Feb 10 07:49:58 2009 From: rmweber113 <@t> comcast.net (rmweber113@comcast.net) Date: Tue Feb 10 07:50:03 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Breast tissue Message-ID: <1347926049.554711234273798846.JavaMail.root@sz0046a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> Hello,??? Do anyone have a better remedy to process fatty breast tissue other than after processing pressing it in paper towels and then putting it back in paraffin for a couple of hours.?? The pathologist are saying this is taking to long. Thanks, From Bonnie.Whitaker <@t> osumc.edu Tue Feb 10 08:26:02 2009 From: Bonnie.Whitaker <@t> osumc.edu (Whitaker, Bonnie) Date: Tue Feb 10 08:26:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] NY DOH inspection question Message-ID: <3CE20ED86C4A114EBDF3BCE8DEFD8F60801E52@msxc06.OSUMC.EDU> Hi All, Will some of you that are inspected by the NYDOH please email me with how you meet the requirement (below) for performance verification for alcohol, xylene and formalin? Clinical Laboratory Standards of Practice, Part 1- General Systems; Reagents Sustaining Standard of Practice 4 (REAG S4): Inventory Control. The standard states that the inventory log should include the following information: lot numbers, expiration dates, the date of receipt in the laboratory, date of performance verification and the date the material is placed in service, it is a requirement. Thanks!! Bonnie Whitaker Clinical Histology Manager Ohio State University Medical Center 614.293.5048 From mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu Tue Feb 10 08:55:10 2009 From: mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu (Geoff McAuliffe) Date: Tue Feb 10 08:56:41 2009 Subject: [Histonet] cotton blue=acid blue=methyl blue In-Reply-To: <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A1745423DC64@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> References: <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A1745423DC64@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> Message-ID: <4991954E.7020401@umdnj.edu> Sounds like you want Aniline Blue, CI 42780. Much easier to find by that name. Geoff Edwards, R.E. wrote: > Looking for a supplier please, I am aware that Sigma/Fluka supply a ready made solution, which apparently does not work. > > Many thanks > > Richard Edwards > Leicester University > > U.K. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** From Loralee_Mcmahon <@t> URMC.Rochester.edu Tue Feb 10 08:58:43 2009 From: Loralee_Mcmahon <@t> URMC.Rochester.edu (McMahon, Loralee A) Date: Tue Feb 10 08:59:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] NY DOH inspection question References: <3CE20ED86C4A114EBDF3BCE8DEFD8F60801E52@msxc06.OSUMC.EDU> Message-ID: <2CF6F6B05263EA4EBAB07781B51E5DB002C945D8@e2k3ms1.urmc-sh.rochester.edu> I would be interested in how you verify the performance of the xylenes and alcohols as well. Thank you in advance. Loralee McMahon, HTL (ASCP) ICC Supervisor University of Rochester Department of Pathology (585) 275-7210 ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Whitaker, Bonnie Sent: Tue 2/10/2009 9:26 AM To: HistoNet@pathology.swmed.edu Subject: [Histonet] NY DOH inspection question Hi All, Will some of you that are inspected by the NYDOH please email me with how you meet the requirement (below) for performance verification for alcohol, xylene and formalin? Clinical Laboratory Standards of Practice, Part 1- General Systems; Reagents Sustaining Standard of Practice 4 (REAG S4): Inventory Control. The standard states that the inventory log should include the following information: lot numbers, expiration dates, the date of receipt in the laboratory, date of performance verification and the date the material is placed in service, it is a requirement. Thanks!! Bonnie Whitaker Clinical Histology Manager Ohio State University Medical Center 614.293.5048 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Wanda.Smith <@t> HCAhealthcare.com Tue Feb 10 09:06:02 2009 From: Wanda.Smith <@t> HCAhealthcare.com (Smith Wanda) Date: Tue Feb 10 09:06:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens In-Reply-To: <0CDA5E1E01301F4880A8A7A8BCBDA39CF66519@mail.pcnm.com> References: <0CDA5E1E01301F4880A8A7A8BCBDA39CF66519@mail.pcnm.com> Message-ID: <9E2D36CE2D7CBA4A94D9B22E8328A3BACBE95606@NADCWPMSGCMS03.hca.corpad.net> We routinely cut 3 levels on 3 slides for each block. WANDA G. SMITH, HTL(ASCP)HT Pathology Supervisor TRIDENT MEDICAL CENTER 9330 Medical Plaza Drive Charleston, SC 29406 843-847-4586 843-847-4296 fax -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joanne Clark Sent: Monday, February 09, 2009 3:39 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens Hi, How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP specimens and if so, how many do you cut? Thanks Joanne Clark, HT, MLT Pathology Consultants of New Mexico Roswell, NM _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 10 09:21:09 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Tue Feb 10 09:21:13 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Breast tissue In-Reply-To: <1347926049.554711234273798846.JavaMail.root@sz0046a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> Message-ID: <636989.62353.qm@web65701.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> The "better remedy" is to cut the slices thin and fix/process correctly, specially using mineral oil. Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/10/09, rmweber113@comcast.net wrote: From: rmweber113@comcast.net Subject: [Histonet] Breast tissue To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2009, 8:49 AM Hello,??? Do anyone have a better remedy to process fatty breast tissue other than after processing pressing it in paper towels and then putting it back in paraffin for a couple of hours.?? The pathologist are saying this is taking to long. Thanks, _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From thisisann <@t> aol.com Tue Feb 10 09:34:13 2009 From: thisisann <@t> aol.com (thisisann@aol.com) Date: Tue Feb 10 09:34:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Ventana Ultra Message-ID: <8CB59AC28EAADEE-708-DC@mblk-d24.sysops.aol.com> I am considering purchasing a Ventana Benchmark Ultra IHC.? Does anyone have any feedback concerning this piece of equipment.? Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks, Ann From talulahgosh <@t> gmail.com Tue Feb 10 09:36:56 2009 From: talulahgosh <@t> gmail.com (Emily Sours) Date: Tue Feb 10 09:37:00 2009 Subject: [Histonet] spin columns Message-ID: Hello Anyone know where to purchase QIAquick spin columns? If you get them from Qiagen, they aren't sold separately, you have to buy them in a complete kit. I have a feeling I'm stuck doing so. Emily -- It's like hearing Billy Joel play "Piano Man"-- joyless for all involved, but demanded by a higher power. --Kevin Murphy, Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull rifftrax From pjfnefro <@t> duke.edu Tue Feb 10 09:58:22 2009 From: pjfnefro <@t> duke.edu (Pat Flannery) Date: Tue Feb 10 09:58:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] spin columns Message-ID: <64D46715-499C-48B9-8CFA-EDBEBF95B810@duke.edu> Emily- I just got a mailing from Genesee Scientific (800-789-5550, Ext. 2) for their UniPrep columns. They're selling them specially for those people who always run out of columns before they run out of reagents. I think there are a couple of types, so you might want to contact them to see which one you'd need. Hope this helps. -Pat Flannery Duke Med Center > Hello > > Anyone know where to purchase QIAquick spin columns? If you get them > from > Qiagen, they aren't sold separately, you have to buy them in a > complete > kit. I have a feeling I'm stuck doing so. > > Emily > -- > It's like hearing Billy Joel play "Piano Man"-- joyless for all > involved, > but demanded by a higher power. > --Kevin Murphy, Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull rifftrax > _______________________________________________ From mari.ann.mailhiot <@t> leica-microsystems.com Tue Feb 10 10:10:53 2009 From: mari.ann.mailhiot <@t> leica-microsystems.com (mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com) Date: Tue Feb 10 10:17:50 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Breast tissue In-Reply-To: <1347926049.554711234273798846.JavaMail.root@sz0046a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> Message-ID: As long as you smell the clearant in the block then putting the blocks in paraffin longer works. I never found it necessary to roll the fat in paper towel and place the specimen back in paraffin. If the block is not fixed ore dehydrated properly and cleared properly putting them in paraffin doesn't work. It all starts at the gross station. Cutting nice thin sections that are fixed for at least 24 hrs. Even before that breast should be bread loafed and placed in formalin and fixed for 24 hrs. Then a section is cut and placed in a cassette and that sits in formalin until it gets placed on the processor. The process of rolling fatty tissue in paper towel and gently pressed allows the fatty specimen to go back in formalin and be reprocessed without taking the specimen back through the xylenes and alcohols to reprocess. Hope this helps. Best regards Mari Ann Mailhiot BA HT ASCP Application Specialist/Trainer Leica Microsystems Biosystems Division Technical Assistance Center 800 248 0123 x7267 847 236 3063 fax mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com www.leica-microsystems.com rmweber113@comcas t.net Sent by: To histonet-bounces@ histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu lists.utsouthwest cc ern.edu Subject [Histonet] Breast tissue 02/10/2009 07:49 AM Hello,??? Do anyone have a better remedy to process fatty breast tissue other than after processing pressing it in paper towels and then putting it back in paraffin for a couple of hours.?? The pathologist are saying this is taking to long. Thanks, _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ______________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email ______________________________________________________________________ From TMcNemar <@t> lmhealth.org Tue Feb 10 10:36:31 2009 From: TMcNemar <@t> lmhealth.org (Tom McNemar) Date: Tue Feb 10 10:36:41 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens In-Reply-To: <9E2D36CE2D7CBA4A94D9B22E8328A3BACBE95606@NADCWPMSGCMS03.hca.corpad.net> Message-ID: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0A2@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> Same here. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Smith Wanda Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 10:06 AM To: Joanne Clark; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens We routinely cut 3 levels on 3 slides for each block. WANDA G. SMITH, HTL(ASCP)HT Pathology Supervisor TRIDENT MEDICAL CENTER 9330 Medical Plaza Drive Charleston, SC 29406 843-847-4586 843-847-4296 fax -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joanne Clark Sent: Monday, February 09, 2009 3:39 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens Hi, How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP specimens and if so, how many do you cut? Thanks Joanne Clark, HT, MLT Pathology Consultants of New Mexico Roswell, NM _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From akbitting <@t> geisinger.edu Tue Feb 10 11:09:45 2009 From: akbitting <@t> geisinger.edu (Angela Bitting) Date: Tue Feb 10 11:35:46 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Breast tissue In-Reply-To: References: <1347926049.554711234273798846.JavaMail.root@sz0046a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> Message-ID: <49916E89.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> We extended our paraffin infiltration times and that worked out well for us too. >>> 2/10/2009 11:10 AM >>> As long as you smell the clearant in the block then putting the blocks in paraffin longer works. I never found it necessary to roll the fat in paper towel and place the specimen back in paraffin. If the block is not fixed ore dehydrated properly and cleared properly putting them in paraffin doesn't work. It all starts at the gross station. Cutting nice thin sections that are fixed for at least 24 hrs. Even before that breast should be bread loafed and placed in formalin and fixed for 24 hrs. Then a section is cut and placed in a cassette and that sits in formalin until it gets placed on the processor. The process of rolling fatty tissue in paper towel and gently pressed allows the fatty specimen to go back in formalin and be reprocessed without taking the specimen back through the xylenes and alcohols to reprocess. Hope this helps. Best regards Mari Ann Mailhiot BA HT ASCP Application Specialist/Trainer Leica Microsystems Biosystems Division Technical Assistance Center 800 248 0123 x7267 847 236 3063 fax mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com www.leica-microsystems.com rmweber113@comcas t.net Sent by: To histonet-bounces@ histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu lists.utsouthwest cc ern.edu Subject [Histonet] Breast tissue 02/10/2009 07:49 AM Hello, Do anyone have a better remedy to process fatty breast tissue other than after processing pressing it in paper towels and then putting it back in paraffin for a couple of hours. The pathologist are saying this is taking to long. Thanks, _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ______________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email ______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. From wlecorch <@t> rwjuhh.edu Tue Feb 10 12:08:58 2009 From: wlecorch <@t> rwjuhh.edu (Lecorchick, William) Date: Tue Feb 10 12:09:05 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Billing question Message-ID: <09411E0112A96A459D8D5FBDAB9C15C71A4AB78827@HAMEXMBA.rwjham.local> Is anyone aware of a CPT code for a Tech assisted bone marrow aspiration and biopsy? From time to time we have been helping the Oncologist and Radiologist on these procedures. It is becoming more of a common practice and we spend anywhere from a ? hour to 1 ? hours and not billing for our services. Is there anyone else in a similar situation? From Margaret.Perry <@t> sdstate.edu Tue Feb 10 12:23:14 2009 From: Margaret.Perry <@t> sdstate.edu (Perry, Margaret) Date: Tue Feb 10 12:23:19 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Coxiella Message-ID: Gayle, I was very interested in the comment you made about Coxiella not being killed with formalin fixation. I have found references for 5% formalin and formaldehyde gas but did not find references addressing 10% formalin. Will you provide more references that I can show my pathologist? Thanks Margaret Perry HT (ASCP) IHC Lab Manager Veterinary Science Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Lab South Dakota State University Box 2175 North Campus Drive Brookings SD 57007 From plucas <@t> biopath.org Tue Feb 10 12:40:50 2009 From: plucas <@t> biopath.org (Paula Lucas) Date: Tue Feb 10 12:40:55 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub Message-ID: <20090210184051.0D05E2622@courageux.cnchost.com> Hello, We use Xylene in the Sakura Glas auto-coverslipper and I would like to know if anyone uses a xylene sub in this piece of equipment. I'm looking for one that is okay to use in the equipment and one with less odor than Xylene. Thanks in advance, Paula Lucas Lab Manager BioPath MG From jqb7 <@t> cdc.gov Tue Feb 10 12:57:25 2009 From: jqb7 <@t> cdc.gov (Bartlett, Jeanine (CDC/CCID/NCZVED)) Date: Tue Feb 10 12:57:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub In-Reply-To: <20090210184051.0D05E2622@courageux.cnchost.com> References: <20090210184051.0D05E2622@courageux.cnchost.com> Message-ID: <9A16CB5D55FC1648ADF11B63E72A1BE13334DF@LTA3VS011.ees.hhs.gov> I found this in the Operating Manual............ Compatible Solvent Xylene D-Limonene-based substitutes Aliphatic-Hydrocarbon-based substitutes Compatible Mounting Medium Xylene-based mounting medium D-Limonene-based mounting medium Aliphatic-Hydrocarbon-based mounting medium Jeanine Bartlett Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch (404) 639-3590 jeanine.bartlett@cdc.hhs.gov -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Paula Lucas Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 1:41 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub Hello, We use Xylene in the Sakura Glas auto-coverslipper and I would like to know if anyone uses a xylene sub in this piece of equipment. I'm looking for one that is okay to use in the equipment and one with less odor than Xylene. Thanks in advance, Paula Lucas Lab Manager BioPath MG _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From MadaryJ <@t> MedImmune.com Tue Feb 10 14:19:07 2009 From: MadaryJ <@t> MedImmune.com (Madary, Joseph) Date: Tue Feb 10 14:19:25 2009 Subject: [Histonet] HPS stain from the AFIP manual In-Reply-To: Message-ID: We use the HPS routinely here as well. It is in the AFIP manual, the old green one and it did use itself as a reference, so I am glad to know how it originated. You know I have done that procedure for nearly three decades and I have noticed in past years the quality of Saffron(crocus)from any place but ROBOZ chroma from years back is not as good. I would love to hear of a place that sells it now that is good off the shelf. I agree with all of the boiling, parafilm and we also place it in the oven the night before we use it. I run the HPS every other day. I did notice minimal difference using sat pic acid or bouins. Nick Madary, HT/HTL(ASCP)QIHC Medimmune Histology Laboratory Mgr One Medimmune Way, Lab 2438-Area 4 Gaithersburg, MD 20878 ph 301.398.4745/6360 fx 301.398.9745 To the extent this electronic communication or any of its attachments contain information that is not in the public domain, such information is considered by MedImmune to be confidential and proprietary, and expected to be used only by the individual(s) for whom it is intended. If you have received this electronic communication in error, please reply to the sender advising of the error in transmission and delete the original message and any accompanying documents from your system immediately, without copying, reviewing or otherwise using them for any purpose. Thank you for your cooperation. >P Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 1:07 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 12 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 histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu You can reach the person managing the list at histonet-owner@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. need help with Elastase staining (Patricia F Lott) 2. HPS stain (Gagnon, Eric) 3. Re: Disinfecting Cryostat (Caroline Miller) 4. AO 860 repairman in NC? (Caroline Bass) 5. Re: HPS stain (Robert Richmond) 6. special stain instrument (Santiago, Albert) 7. thermowave users (godsgalnow@aol.com) 8. Techs from Rockford Health System (Steven Coakley) 9. Microtomy of LEEP specimens (Joanne Clark) 10. RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens (Mike Pence) 11. Re: Microtomy of LEEP specimens (Victor Tobias) 12. RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens (Laurie Colbert) 13. cotton blue=acid blue=methyl blue (Edwards, R.E.) 14. Breast tissue (rmweber113@comcast.net) 15. NY DOH inspection question (Whitaker, Bonnie) 16. Re: cotton blue=acid blue=methyl blue (Geoff McAuliffe) 17. RE: NY DOH inspection question (McMahon, Loralee A) 18. RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens (Smith Wanda) 19. Re: Breast tissue (Rene J Buesa) 20. Ventana Ultra (thisisann@aol.com) 21. spin columns (Emily Sours) 22. spin columns (Pat Flannery) 23. Re: Breast tissue (mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com) 24. RE: RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens (Tom McNemar) 25. Re: Breast tissue (Angela Bitting) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 12:09:55 -0600 From: "Patricia F Lott" Subject: [Histonet] need help with Elastase staining To: Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII" Does anyone have any experience with staining for Elastase in Neutrophils in tissue sections? Any help would be appreciated! ------------------------------ Message: 2 Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 13:11:50 -0500 From: "Gagnon, Eric" Subject: [Histonet] HPS stain To: Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Hi Sharon, HPS is our routine stain (instead of H&E, which 98% of labs use). Not sure what part of the stain you are having trouble with, but most unpredictability usually comes in the phloxine/saffron balance. Some things to watch for are: -keeping your saffron covered, and I would suggest parafilm-ing it when not in use -keep the alcohols before the saffron rigorously free of phloxine-contaminated alcohol, thus not allowing tainted alcohol to contaminate/dilute the saffron during staining -getting all the background hematoxylin and phloxine out, which can be checked as you go along when you validate your method -be diligent about the preparation of the saffron. In addition to Hermina's suggested method, we microwave the dry saffron, grind it, then boil the alcoholic mixture to remove as much moisture as possible What do you use the stain for, i.e. differentiating muscle and collagen? As a routine stain, I understand its use in Canada is limited to a few laboratories in the east such as the Ottawa, Kingston, Sudbury areas. This is often because pathologists who trained here at Queen's Pathology like to take the stain with them. Having said that, many of our residents request slides stained with H&E, to familiarize themselves with that stain before exams. Good luck, hope this helps... Eric Gagnon MLT Histology Laboratory, Kingston General Hospital Kingston, Ontario, Canada ------------------------------ Message: 3 Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 10:17:19 -0800 From: Caroline Miller Subject: Re: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat To: lpwenk@sbcglobal.net Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, 'Ingles Claire ' Message-ID: <407E13F3-8499-4B03-BB56-E7DC95A9448D@gladstone.ucsf.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes In the UK (where I used to run a clinical lab) we also would turn off the cryostat in the morning, wait for it to defrost then just before going home for the evening heat up some formalin in the microwave and place that in the chamber and leave overnight. It certainly kills everything, but it is also kinda toxic to your lungs! I wouldn't suggest it but it is a 'severe cleaning' option, especially if you have had something nasty in there. This was about 5 years ago, the rules may have changed, and Yes, I do realise just how bad that is for you and everyone around! Caroline Caroline Miller Co-Manager J David Gladstone Institutes Histology and Microscopy Core 1650 Owens St San Francisco CA 94158 http://www.gladstone.ucsf.edu/gladstone/site/histology/ cmiller@gladstone.ucsf.edu On Feb 7, 2009, at 1:11 PM, Lee & Peggy Wenk wrote: > 95-100% also work, for bacteria, fungus, viruses. They will not work > on > killing spores. That's where the 70% is to be used, as the water > (30% part) > is needed to soften the spore wall, so that the alcohol (70% part) > can get > inside. > > Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS > Beaumont Hospital > Royal Oak, MI 48073 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Ingles > Claire > Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 6:38 PM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat > > Why no 95%? We have been using it in perpituity with no bad effects. > The > alcohol has evaporated from the inside surfaces by morning. > > Claire > > ________________________________ > > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of gayle > callis > Sent: Fri 2/6/2009 11:11 AM > To: 'Louise Hartson'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat > > > > We use 70% ethanol on gauze (just damp) to wipe down inside of > cryostat. Do > not use 95% or 100% alcohol, as 70% is the most effective for > disinfection, > commonly used in biohoods. We pick up little trimmings with first > dampened > gauze (or kim wipe) then re-wipe with a second gauze. We prefer > gauze for > its flexibility. Also, if you put a kimwipe or gauze behind knife > holder to > l catch trimmings then you can fold up kimwipe, and lift "garbage" > out, > intact, and go to biohazard container before wipe down. We try to > avoid too > much alcohol on knife holder parts since alcohol ruins lubricants > needed for > good operation. Check with your cryostat manufacturer to see what > they > recommend. It pays to wipe down under and over sliding glass door to > counterattack biohazardous "cling-ons" found on your gloves, and where > people have touched the instrument. 70% alcohol will not kill prions. > > Water based disinfectants freeze in cryostat. Eventually you need > scheduled > disinfection with cryostat in defrosted mode with approved > disinfecting > agent. > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 4 Date: Mon, 09 Feb 2009 13:47:31 -0500 From: Caroline Bass Subject: [Histonet] AO 860 repairman in NC? To: Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="ISO-8859-1" Hello Everyone, I have refurbished an old AO 860 sliding microtome. I?m pretty proud of myself, I?ve unlocked the totally gummed mechanism and have put it together myself. It seems to work very well. The only problem I have is tuning the sliding block. I have no idea how to approach it, and after several failed attempts (I can get it to slide down the length, but can?t achieve a smooth movement), I?m wondering if it?s better to find a repairman in the area that can spend an hour showing me how to do this. Does anyone have suggestions? Do you know of any repairmen in the area? Thanks, Caroline Bass ------------------------------ Message: 5 Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 14:24:01 -0500 From: Robert Richmond Subject: [Histonet] Re: HPS stain To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 The hematoxylin-phloxin- saffron stain, which supposedly originated at the Montreal Neurological Institute, migrated from there to Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital in New York City, where it was used as the general oversight stain in surgical pathology at least into the 1960's. When I saw it in use there in 1966 they didn't seem to be having trouble with it. On the other side of Central Park, New York Hospital (Cornell Medical Center) had used a Light Green trichrome stain as a general oversight stain. I think they abandoned it in favor of H & E after Chandler Foot's retirement in 1948. Saffron is a natural dye derived from the stigmas of the saffron crocus, Crocus sativus. Although it was (and is) extremely expensive, it was used both as a textile dye and as a spice (in paella, for example). It's sometimes seen (and smelled) as a component of expensive curry powders - my wife and I have been experimenting with Penzey's Maharajah curry powder, which is 2% saffron. The immense hand labor of extracting all those stigmas from the flowers makes saffron "the most expensive spice in the world". Saffron as a histologic dye has traditionally been specified as "safran du G?tinais" - from a particular region of France - though I am not certain that such a product still actually exists. I would think that any good quality saffron would suffice (don't substitute safflower, 'dyer's saffron'). You'll pay at least ten dollars a gram for saffron, at Penzeys anyway. Some recipes specified as many as seven changes of hot alcohol to extract the dye, and some people used a reflux condenser for the extraction. The alcohol extract has a strong medicinal smell which some people find quite unpleasant. (I have no connection with Penzeys.com, except that my wife and I have gotten addicted to their shipments of very high quality spices.) Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist Knoxville TN ------------------------------ Message: 6 Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 14:57:24 -0500 From: "Santiago, Albert" Subject: [Histonet] special stain instrument To: Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Hello again fellow histonetters, I have an old artisan special stain/ihc stain stainer that I'm looking to replace with a newer model, but before I commit to it I was wondering if anyone else uses any other special stain instrument that I can look into and compare.... Thanks for your help.... Albert Santiago, HT (ASCP) Laboratory Supervisor Dermatopathology Phone 215-662-6539 Fax 215-662-6150 The information contained in this e-mail message is intended only for the personal and confidential use of the recipient(s) named above. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an agent responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you have received this document in error and that any review, dissemination, distribution, or copying of this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by e-mail, and delete the original message. ------------------------------ Message: 7 Date: Mon, 09 Feb 2009 15:03:47 -0500 From: godsgalnow@aol.com Subject: [Histonet] thermowave users To: histonet@pathology.swmed.edu Message-ID: <8CB5908A749D8F9-F58-E84@webmail-da13.sysops.aol.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Can any ThermoWave users that microwave prostates please email me offline, if you are willing to share SOPs.... Thanks, Roxanne ------------------------------ Message: 8 Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 12:04:49 -0800 (PST) From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] Techs from Rockford Health System To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <219757.8126.qm@web38205.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Wondering if there are any tech here from Rockford Health System, Rockford, Ill. ------------------------------ Message: 9 Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 13:39:11 -0700 From: "Joanne Clark" Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens To: Message-ID: <0CDA5E1E01301F4880A8A7A8BCBDA39CF66519@mail.pcnm.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Hi, How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP specimens and if so, how many do you cut? Thanks Joanne Clark, HT, MLT Pathology Consultants of New Mexico Roswell, NM ------------------------------ Message: 10 Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 14:59:33 -0600 From: "Mike Pence" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens To: "Joanne Clark" , Message-ID: <661949901A768E4F9CC16D8AF8F2838C017A3A83@IS-E2K3.grhs.net> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" We cut 3 levels on each block. Mike -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joanne Clark Sent: Monday, February 09, 2009 2:39 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens Hi, How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP specimens and if so, how many do you cut? Thanks Joanne Clark, HT, MLT Pathology Consultants of New Mexico Roswell, NM _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 11 Date: Mon, 09 Feb 2009 14:08:14 -0800 From: Victor Tobias Subject: Re: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens To: Joanne Clark Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <4990A94E.9030001@pathology.washington.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed 3 levels. Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. Joanne Clark wrote: > Hi, > > > > How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP > specimens and if so, how many do you cut? > > > > Thanks > > Joanne Clark, HT, MLT > > Pathology Consultants of New Mexico > > Roswell, NM > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > ------------------------------ Message: 12 Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 14:10:46 -0800 From: "Laurie Colbert" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens To: "Joanne Clark" , Message-ID: <57BE698966D5C54EAE8612E8941D768304E9D603@EXCHANGE3.huntingtonhospital.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Three levels on all blocks Laurie Colbert -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joanne Clark Sent: Monday, February 09, 2009 12:39 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens Hi, How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP specimens and if so, how many do you cut? Thanks Joanne Clark, HT, MLT Pathology Consultants of New Mexico Roswell, NM _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 13 Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 11:45:11 +0000 From: "Edwards, R.E." Subject: [Histonet] cotton blue=acid blue=methyl blue To: "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Message-ID: <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A1745423DC64@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Looking for a supplier please, I am aware that Sigma/Fluka supply a ready made solution, which apparently does not work. Many thanks Richard Edwards Leicester University U.K. ------------------------------ Message: 14 Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:49:58 +0000 (UTC) From: rmweber113@comcast.net Subject: [Histonet] Breast tissue To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <1347926049.554711234273798846.JavaMail.root@sz0046a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8 Hello,?????? Do anyone have a better remedy to process fatty breast tissue other than after processing pressing it in paper towels and then putting it back in paraffin for a couple of hours.???? The pathologist are saying this is taking to long. Thanks, ------------------------------ Message: 15 Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 09:26:02 -0500 From: "Whitaker, Bonnie" Subject: [Histonet] NY DOH inspection question To: HistoNet@pathology.swmed.edu Message-ID: <3CE20ED86C4A114EBDF3BCE8DEFD8F60801E52@msxc06.OSUMC.EDU> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Hi All, Will some of you that are inspected by the NYDOH please email me with how you meet the requirement (below) for performance verification for alcohol, xylene and formalin? Clinical Laboratory Standards of Practice, Part 1- General Systems; Reagents Sustaining Standard of Practice 4 (REAG S4): Inventory Control. The standard states that the inventory log should include the following information: lot numbers, expiration dates, the date of receipt in the laboratory, date of performance verification and the date the material is placed in service, it is a requirement. Thanks!! Bonnie Whitaker Clinical Histology Manager Ohio State University Medical Center 614.293.5048 ------------------------------ Message: 16 Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 09:55:10 -0500 From: Geoff McAuliffe Subject: Re: [Histonet] cotton blue=acid blue=methyl blue To: "Edwards, R.E." Cc: "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Message-ID: <4991954E.7020401@umdnj.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Sounds like you want Aniline Blue, CI 42780. Much easier to find by that name. Geoff Edwards, R.E. wrote: > Looking for a supplier please, I am aware that Sigma/Fluka supply a ready made solution, which apparently does not work. > > Many thanks > > Richard Edwards > Leicester University > > U.K. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** ------------------------------ Message: 17 Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 09:58:43 -0500 From: "McMahon, Loralee A" Subject: RE: [Histonet] NY DOH inspection question To: "Whitaker, Bonnie" , Message-ID: <2CF6F6B05263EA4EBAB07781B51E5DB002C945D8@e2k3ms1.urmc-sh.rochester.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" I would be interested in how you verify the performance of the xylenes and alcohols as well. Thank you in advance. Loralee McMahon, HTL (ASCP) ICC Supervisor University of Rochester Department of Pathology (585) 275-7210 ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Whitaker, Bonnie Sent: Tue 2/10/2009 9:26 AM To: HistoNet@pathology.swmed.edu Subject: [Histonet] NY DOH inspection question Hi All, Will some of you that are inspected by the NYDOH please email me with how you meet the requirement (below) for performance verification for alcohol, xylene and formalin? Clinical Laboratory Standards of Practice, Part 1- General Systems; Reagents Sustaining Standard of Practice 4 (REAG S4): Inventory Control. The standard states that the inventory log should include the following information: lot numbers, expiration dates, the date of receipt in the laboratory, date of performance verification and the date the material is placed in service, it is a requirement. Thanks!! Bonnie Whitaker Clinical Histology Manager Ohio State University Medical Center 614.293.5048 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 18 Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 09:06:02 -0600 From: Smith Wanda Subject: [Histonet] RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens To: Joanne Clark , "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Message-ID: <9E2D36CE2D7CBA4A94D9B22E8328A3BACBE95606@NADCWPMSGCMS03.hca.corpad.net> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" We routinely cut 3 levels on 3 slides for each block. WANDA G. SMITH, HTL(ASCP)HT Pathology Supervisor TRIDENT MEDICAL CENTER 9330 Medical Plaza Drive Charleston, SC 29406 843-847-4586 843-847-4296 fax -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joanne Clark Sent: Monday, February 09, 2009 3:39 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens Hi, How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP specimens and if so, how many do you cut? Thanks Joanne Clark, HT, MLT Pathology Consultants of New Mexico Roswell, NM _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 19 Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 07:21:09 -0800 (PST) From: Rene J Buesa Subject: Re: [Histonet] Breast tissue To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, rmweber113@comcast.net Message-ID: <636989.62353.qm@web65701.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 The "better remedy" is to cut the slices thin and fix/process correctly, specially using mineral oil. Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/10/09, rmweber113@comcast.net wrote: From: rmweber113@comcast.net Subject: [Histonet] Breast tissue To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2009, 8:49 AM Hello,??? Do anyone have a better remedy to process fatty breast tissue other than after processing pressing it in paper towels and then putting it back in paraffin for a couple of hours.?? The pathologist are saying this is taking to long. Thanks, _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 20 Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 10:34:13 -0500 From: thisisann@aol.com Subject: [Histonet] Ventana Ultra To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Cc: ali.malik@ventana.roche.com Message-ID: <8CB59AC28EAADEE-708-DC@mblk-d24.sysops.aol.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" I am considering purchasing a Ventana Benchmark Ultra IHC.? Does anyone have any feedback concerning this piece of equipment.? Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks, Ann ------------------------------ Message: 21 Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 10:36:56 -0500 From: Emily Sours Subject: [Histonet] spin columns To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8 Hello Anyone know where to purchase QIAquick spin columns? If you get them from Qiagen, they aren't sold separately, you have to buy them in a complete kit. I have a feeling I'm stuck doing so. Emily -- It's like hearing Billy Joel play "Piano Man"-- joyless for all involved, but demanded by a higher power. --Kevin Murphy, Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull rifftrax ------------------------------ Message: 22 Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 10:58:22 -0500 From: Pat Flannery Subject: [Histonet] spin columns To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <64D46715-499C-48B9-8CFA-EDBEBF95B810@duke.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes Emily- I just got a mailing from Genesee Scientific (800-789-5550, Ext. 2) for their UniPrep columns. They're selling them specially for those people who always run out of columns before they run out of reagents. I think there are a couple of types, so you might want to contact them to see which one you'd need. Hope this helps. -Pat Flannery Duke Med Center > Hello > > Anyone know where to purchase QIAquick spin columns? If you get them > from > Qiagen, they aren't sold separately, you have to buy them in a > complete > kit. I have a feeling I'm stuck doing so. > > Emily > -- > It's like hearing Billy Joel play "Piano Man"-- joyless for all > involved, > but demanded by a higher power. > --Kevin Murphy, Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull rifftrax > _______________________________________________ ------------------------------ Message: 23 Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 10:10:53 -0600 From: mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com Subject: Re: [Histonet] Breast tissue To: rmweber113@comcast.net Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 As long as you smell the clearant in the block then putting the blocks in paraffin longer works. I never found it necessary to roll the fat in paper towel and place the specimen back in paraffin. If the block is not fixed ore dehydrated properly and cleared properly putting them in paraffin doesn't work. It all starts at the gross station. Cutting nice thin sections that are fixed for at least 24 hrs. Even before that breast should be bread loafed and placed in formalin and fixed for 24 hrs. Then a section is cut and placed in a cassette and that sits in formalin until it gets placed on the processor. The process of rolling fatty tissue in paper towel and gently pressed allows the fatty specimen to go back in formalin and be reprocessed without taking the specimen back through the xylenes and alcohols to reprocess. Hope this helps. Best regards Mari Ann Mailhiot BA HT ASCP Application Specialist/Trainer Leica Microsystems Biosystems Division Technical Assistance Center 800 248 0123 x7267 847 236 3063 fax mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com www.leica-microsystems.com rmweber113@comcas t.net Sent by: To histonet-bounces@ histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu lists.utsouthwest cc ern.edu Subject [Histonet] Breast tissue 02/10/2009 07:49 AM Hello,??? Do anyone have a better remedy to process fatty breast tissue other than after processing pressing it in paper towels and then putting it back in paraffin for a couple of hours.?? The pathologist are saying this is taking to long. Thanks, _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ______________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email ______________________________________________________________________ ------------------------------ Message: 24 Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 11:36:31 -0500 From: "Tom McNemar" Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens To: "Smith Wanda" , "Joanne Clark" , Message-ID: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0A2@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Same here. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Smith Wanda Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 10:06 AM To: Joanne Clark; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens We routinely cut 3 levels on 3 slides for each block. WANDA G. SMITH, HTL(ASCP)HT Pathology Supervisor TRIDENT MEDICAL CENTER 9330 Medical Plaza Drive Charleston, SC 29406 843-847-4586 843-847-4296 fax -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joanne Clark Sent: Monday, February 09, 2009 3:39 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens Hi, How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP specimens and if so, how many do you cut? Thanks Joanne Clark, HT, MLT Pathology Consultants of New Mexico Roswell, NM _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 25 Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 12:09:45 -0500 From: "Angela Bitting" Subject: Re: [Histonet] Breast tissue To: , Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <49916E89.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII We extended our paraffin infiltration times and that worked out well for us too. >>> 2/10/2009 11:10 AM >>> As long as you smell the clearant in the block then putting the blocks in paraffin longer works. I never found it necessary to roll the fat in paper towel and place the specimen back in paraffin. If the block is not fixed ore dehydrated properly and cleared properly putting them in paraffin doesn't work. It all starts at the gross station. Cutting nice thin sections that are fixed for at least 24 hrs. Even before that breast should be bread loafed and placed in formalin and fixed for 24 hrs. Then a section is cut and placed in a cassette and that sits in formalin until it gets placed on the processor. The process of rolling fatty tissue in paper towel and gently pressed allows the fatty specimen to go back in formalin and be reprocessed without taking the specimen back through the xylenes and alcohols to reprocess. Hope this helps. Best regards Mari Ann Mailhiot BA HT ASCP Application Specialist/Trainer Leica Microsystems Biosystems Division Technical Assistance Center 800 248 0123 x7267 847 236 3063 fax mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com www.leica-microsystems.com rmweber113@comcas t.net Sent by: To histonet-bounces@ histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu lists.utsouthwest cc ern.edu Subject [Histonet] Breast tissue 02/10/2009 07:49 AM Hello, Do anyone have a better remedy to process fatty breast tissue other than after processing pressing it in paper towels and then putting it back in paraffin for a couple of hours. The pathologist are saying this is taking to long. Thanks, _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ______________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email ______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. ------------------------------ _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet End of Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 12 **************************************** To the extent this electronic communication or any of its attachments contain information that is not in the public domain, such information is considered by MedImmune to be confidential and proprietary. This communication is expected to be read and/or used only by the individual(s) for whom it is intended. If you have received this electronic communication in error, please reply to the sender advising of the error in transmission and delete the original message and any accompanying documents from your system immediately, without copying, reviewing or otherwise using them for any purpose. Thank you for your cooperation. From lori.garcia <@t> medtronic.com Tue Feb 10 14:35:07 2009 From: lori.garcia <@t> medtronic.com (Garcia, Lori, Sr. Scientist) Date: Tue Feb 10 14:35:26 2009 Subject: [Histonet] HPS stain from the AFIP manual In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <0F844FC5FD7212428416B8565B47FA0202831BD1@STSM1BMSGM03.ent.core.medtronic.com> I have no personal experience with the HPS stain, but have been using alcoholic saffron from EMS, catalog # 100504-624 for the Movat stain. It seems to work very well, and we can just put it back in the bottle and re-use it multiple times. Lori -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Madary, Joseph Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 12:19 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] HPS stain from the AFIP manual We use the HPS routinely here as well. It is in the AFIP manual, the old green one and it did use itself as a reference, so I am glad to know how it originated. You know I have done that procedure for nearly three decades and I have noticed in past years the quality of Saffron(crocus)from any place but ROBOZ chroma from years back is not as good. I would love to hear of a place that sells it now that is good off the shelf. I agree with all of the boiling, parafilm and we also place it in the oven the night before we use it. I run the HPS every other day. I did notice minimal difference using sat pic acid or bouins. Nick Madary, HT/HTL(ASCP)QIHC Medimmune Histology Laboratory Mgr One Medimmune Way, Lab 2438-Area 4 Gaithersburg, MD 20878 ph 301.398.4745/6360 fx 301.398.9745 [CONFIDENTIALITY AND PRIVACY NOTICE] Information transmitted by this email is proprietary to Medtronic and is intended for use only by the individual or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is private, privileged, confidential or exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If you are not the intended recipient or it appears that this mail has been forwarded to you without proper authority, you are notified that any use or dissemination of this information in any manner is strictly prohibited. In such cases, please delete this mail from your records. To view this notice in other languages you can either select the following link or manually copy and paste the link into the address bar of a web browser: http://emaildisclaimer.medtronic.com From sweaver <@t> tvmdl.tamu.edu Tue Feb 10 14:46:14 2009 From: sweaver <@t> tvmdl.tamu.edu (Stephanie Weaver) Date: Tue Feb 10 14:46:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] mast cell staining in H&E Message-ID: <49919335.A3DC.00A0.0@tvmdl.tamu.edu> Dear Histoland, I have a dilemma that I was hoping you could help me puzzle out. I am in a veterinary diagnostic lab. I have been asked to improve our H&E stain to produce "more contrast between the blues and reds". They would especially like for mast cell granules to "pop out" in an H&E stain so that we have fewer requests for special stains. Here is our current protocol, using a linear stainer with each station set at 1 minute so that 4 stations equals 4 minutes: 1. Dry slides in forced air slide dryer at 70 C, 20 minutes 2. Xylene, 5 minutes 3. Absolute alcohol, 2 minutes 4. 95% alcohol, 1 minute 5. distilled water, 1 minute 6. Gill 3 hematoxylin from Anapath, 3 minutes 7. Running tap water, 1 minute 8. 20% glacial acetic acid in 80% reagent alcohol, 1 minute 9. Running tap water, 2 minutes 10. 80% reagent alcohol, 1 minute 11. Alcoholic Eosin Y from Anapath, 2 minutes 12. 95% reagent alcohol, 1 minute 13. Absolute alcohol, 2 minutes 14. Xylene, 3 minutes Our tap water is alkaline enough to blue the slides adequately, but I do intend to insert a Scott's tap water as a bluing reagent to improve day-to-day consistency. I have tried several changes already, including: -increase the time in hematoxylin -increase the time in eosin -variations of acid-alcohol (10% acetic acid in 80% alcohol, 10% acetic acid in 95% alcohol, and 20% acetic acid in 95% alcohol) -add Scott's tap water substitute for bluing -mix and match all of the above So far the favorite is our current protocol but replacing the acid alcohol with the 20% acetic acid in 95% alcohol, but some pathologists find this "too blue" and others are still not seeing mast cells distinctly enough. Please send any and all suggestions for I have just about run out. Thank you for your help and expertise! Stephanie Weaver Diagnostic Lab Supervisor--Histopathology 979-845-3414 sweaver@tvmdl.tamu.edu From arsenn <@t> hsh.org Tue Feb 10 14:55:03 2009 From: arsenn <@t> hsh.org (Senn, Amy R) Date: Tue Feb 10 14:57:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] LEEP procedure Message-ID: Hello, We (and the last hospital I worked at) cut 2 levels on each block. Amy Amy Senn, HT Holy Spirit Hospital Camp Hill, PA 17011 Confidentiality Disclaimer: The information contained in this communication may be confidential, is intended for the use of the recipient named above, and may be legally privileged.If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication, or any of its contents, is strictly prohibited. If you received this communication in error, please resend this communication to the sender and delete the original message and any copy of it from your computer system. Thank You From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 10 15:05:52 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Tue Feb 10 15:05:55 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub In-Reply-To: <20090210184051.0D05E2622@courageux.cnchost.com> Message-ID: <242137.17258.qm@web65711.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Xylene substitutes of terpene (d-Limonene) origin?cannot substitute xylene for a cover slipper and those of alkane (35 different brand names) origin do not work very well either. I thing we are stuck with xylene for this task. Ren? J.? --- On Tue, 2/10/09, Paula Lucas wrote: From: Paula Lucas Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub To: "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2009, 1:40 PM Hello, We use Xylene in the Sakura Glas auto-coverslipper and I would like to know if anyone uses a xylene sub in this piece of equipment. I'm looking for one that is okay to use in the equipment and one with less odor than Xylene. Thanks in advance, Paula Lucas Lab Manager BioPath MG _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Rene.Meisner <@t> stemcellsinc.com Tue Feb 10 17:13:28 2009 From: Rene.Meisner <@t> stemcellsinc.com (Rene Meisner) Date: Tue Feb 10 17:13:33 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Na v 1.6 (Sodium Channel) Antibody Message-ID: Does anyone have experience with this antibody. We have trying to stain rat and mouse optic nerves on submersion and perfusion fixed tissue, without success. Any suggestions? From laurie.reilly <@t> jcu.edu.au Tue Feb 10 17:21:43 2009 From: laurie.reilly <@t> jcu.edu.au (Laurie Reilly) Date: Tue Feb 10 17:23:17 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Breast tissue In-Reply-To: <1347926049.554711234273798846.JavaMail.root@sz0046a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> References: <1347926049.554711234273798846.JavaMail.root@sz0046a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> Message-ID: The major problem with processing fatty tissues, assuming that they are fixed properly, is that Ethanol is not a good solvent for fat and therefore connot penetrate the tissues completely, so the tissues are inadequately dehydrated. We have had some success with lipomas by adding a "degreasing" step of xylene into the processing schedule. 70% ethanol 80% ethanol 90% ethanol 95% ethanol Absolute ethanol Xylene Absolute ethanol Xylene Xylene Paraffin Paraffin Paraffin The first Absolute ethanol will dehydrate the tissue to some extent. The next Xylene step will remove most of the fat and then the second Absolute ethanol can complete the dehydration. A compromise situation that we use routinely is to have Absolute ethanol, 50:50 Absolute ethanol:Xylene, Xylene This is not quite as effective but it is less disruptive to the normal schedule and handles moderately fatty tissues. Regards from Townsville, Australia. Laurie. Mr. Laurie REILLY Histopathology School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences James Cook University Townsville Qld. 4811 Australia. Phone 07 4781 4468 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of rmweber113@comcast.net Sent: Tuesday, 10 February 2009 11:50 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Breast tissue Hello,??? Do anyone have a better remedy to process fatty breast tissue other than after processing pressing it in paper towels and then putting it back in paraffin for a couple of hours.?? The pathologist are saying this is taking to long. Thanks, _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From laurie.reilly <@t> jcu.edu.au Tue Feb 10 17:43:27 2009 From: laurie.reilly <@t> jcu.edu.au (Laurie Reilly) Date: Tue Feb 10 17:44:55 2009 Subject: [Histonet] mast cell staining in H&E In-Reply-To: <49919335.A3DC.00A0.0@tvmdl.tamu.edu> References: <49919335.A3DC.00A0.0@tvmdl.tamu.edu> Message-ID: <08BD634CD4A649928B2F3465929ACF45@health.ad.jcu.edu.au> Dear Stephanie and colleagues, We section lots of dog skin lesions and because mast cell tumours are quite common in dogs, we routinely do a Toluidine Blue stain on all canine skin lesions. The method is from Humason "Animal Tissue Techniques" and uses 0.2% Toluidine Blue in 60% Ethanol for 2 minutes. This stains canine mast cells very well but there are species differences. Our H&E uses Mayer's Haematoxylin and an Eosin/Erythrosin B mixture, but it does not stain the granules of mast cells. Our pathologists rely on cell morphology if they are trying to identify mast cells in a H&E stained section. Regards, Laurie. Mr. Laurie REILLY Histopathology School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences James Cook University Townsville Qld. 4811 Australia. Phone 07 4781 4468 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Stephanie Weaver Sent: Wednesday, 11 February 2009 6:46 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] mast cell staining in H&E Dear Histoland, I have a dilemma that I was hoping you could help me puzzle out. I am in a veterinary diagnostic lab. I have been asked to improve our H&E stain to produce "more contrast between the blues and reds". They would especially like for mast cell granules to "pop out" in an H&E stain so that we have fewer requests for special stains. Here is our current protocol, using a linear stainer with each station set at 1 minute so that 4 stations equals 4 minutes: 1. Dry slides in forced air slide dryer at 70 C, 20 minutes 2. Xylene, 5 minutes 3. Absolute alcohol, 2 minutes 4. 95% alcohol, 1 minute 5. distilled water, 1 minute 6. Gill 3 hematoxylin from Anapath, 3 minutes 7. Running tap water, 1 minute 8. 20% glacial acetic acid in 80% reagent alcohol, 1 minute 9. Running tap water, 2 minutes 10. 80% reagent alcohol, 1 minute 11. Alcoholic Eosin Y from Anapath, 2 minutes 12. 95% reagent alcohol, 1 minute 13. Absolute alcohol, 2 minutes 14. Xylene, 3 minutes Our tap water is alkaline enough to blue the slides adequately, but I do intend to insert a Scott's tap water as a bluing reagent to improve day-to-day consistency. I have tried several changes already, including: -increase the time in hematoxylin -increase the time in eosin -variations of acid-alcohol (10% acetic acid in 80% alcohol, 10% acetic acid in 95% alcohol, and 20% acetic acid in 95% alcohol) -add Scott's tap water substitute for bluing -mix and match all of the above So far the favorite is our current protocol but replacing the acid alcohol with the 20% acetic acid in 95% alcohol, but some pathologists find this "too blue" and others are still not seeing mast cells distinctly enough. Please send any and all suggestions for I have just about run out. Thank you for your help and expertise! Stephanie Weaver Diagnostic Lab Supervisor--Histopathology 979-845-3414 sweaver@tvmdl.tamu.edu _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From RSRICHMOND <@t> aol.com Tue Feb 10 22:02:02 2009 From: RSRICHMOND <@t> aol.com (Robert Richmond) Date: Tue Feb 10 22:02:05 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Microtomy of LEEP specimens Message-ID: Joanne Clark, HT, MLT, at Pathology Consultants of New Mexico, Roswell NM asks: >>How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP specimens and if so, how many do you cut?<< LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) excises the transformation zone of the cervix (the level where the columnar epithelium of the endocervix suddenly becomes the squamous epithelium of the exocervix), excising dysplastic epithelium that can turn into invasive cervical cancer. The pathologist needs to answer two questions: is dysplastic epithelium present, and does it extend to the margins of the specimen? LEEP specimens are often inked when they're grossed, but inking isn't worth doing - the cautery artifact defines the margins. They've lowered the cautery (the hot wire) voltage since the procedure was introduced around 20 years ago, but the specimens are still often Post Toasties. The stakes aren't very high on these specimens. Dysplasias recur at about the same rate whether the margins are positive or negative. Two or three slides per block is adequate, with some trimming between the sections. I rarely order further deeper cuts. Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist Knoxville TN From sarah_tarran <@t> wmi.usyd.edu.au Tue Feb 10 20:55:23 2009 From: sarah_tarran <@t> wmi.usyd.edu.au (Sarah Tarran) Date: Tue Feb 10 22:04:32 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: need help with Elastase staining In-Reply-To: <20090210181519.B041FD07871C@smtp.med.usyd.edu.au> References: <20090210181519.B041FD07871C@smtp.med.usyd.edu.au> Message-ID: <25819.192.195.170.5.1234320923.squirrel@www.wmi.usyd.edu.au> Hi Patricia, I use Dako's neutrophil elastase clone NP57 (code MO752) on FFPE tissue sections. I couldn't get it to work until I did the peroxidase block after the application of the primary antibody - I stain with the neutrophil elastase for 1 hour, then apply H2O2 for 5 minutes (I use the ready to use one from Dako), then I use Dako's EnVision as my detection system for 30 minutes. I hope this helps! > 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 > histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > You can reach the person managing the list at > histonet-owner@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. need help with Elastase staining (Patricia F Lott) > 2. HPS stain (Gagnon, Eric) > 3. Re: Disinfecting Cryostat (Caroline Miller) > 4. AO 860 repairman in NC? (Caroline Bass) > 5. Re: HPS stain (Robert Richmond) > 6. special stain instrument (Santiago, Albert) > 7. thermowave users (godsgalnow@aol.com) > 8. Techs from Rockford Health System (Steven Coakley) > 9. Microtomy of LEEP specimens (Joanne Clark) > 10. RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens (Mike Pence) > 11. Re: Microtomy of LEEP specimens (Victor Tobias) > 12. RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens (Laurie Colbert) > 13. cotton blue=acid blue=methyl blue (Edwards, R.E.) > 14. Breast tissue (rmweber113@comcast.net) > 15. NY DOH inspection question (Whitaker, Bonnie) > 16. Re: cotton blue=acid blue=methyl blue (Geoff McAuliffe) > 17. RE: NY DOH inspection question (McMahon, Loralee A) > 18. RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens (Smith Wanda) > 19. Re: Breast tissue (Rene J Buesa) > 20. Ventana Ultra (thisisann@aol.com) > 21. spin columns (Emily Sours) > 22. spin columns (Pat Flannery) > 23. Re: Breast tissue (mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com) > 24. RE: RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens (Tom McNemar) > 25. Re: Breast tissue (Angela Bitting) > > > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > > Message: 1 > Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 12:09:55 -0600 > From: "Patricia F Lott" > Subject: [Histonet] need help with Elastase staining > To: > Message-ID: > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII" > > Does anyone have any experience with staining for Elastase in > Neutrophils in tissue sections? Any help would be appreciated! > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 2 > Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 13:11:50 -0500 > From: "Gagnon, Eric" > Subject: [Histonet] HPS stain > To: > Message-ID: > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > > Hi Sharon, > > HPS is our routine stain (instead of H&E, which 98% of labs use). Not > sure what part of the stain you are having trouble with, but most > unpredictability usually comes in the phloxine/saffron balance. > > Some things to watch for are: > -keeping your saffron covered, and I would suggest parafilm-ing it when > not in use > -keep the alcohols before the saffron rigorously free of > phloxine-contaminated alcohol, thus not allowing tainted alcohol to > contaminate/dilute the saffron during staining > -getting all the background hematoxylin and phloxine out, which can be > checked as you go along when you validate your method > -be diligent about the preparation of the saffron. In addition to > Hermina's suggested method, we microwave the dry saffron, grind it, then > boil the alcoholic mixture to remove as much moisture as possible > > What do you use the stain for, i.e. differentiating muscle and collagen? > As a routine stain, I understand its use in Canada is limited to a few > laboratories in the east such as the Ottawa, Kingston, Sudbury areas. > This is often because pathologists who trained here at Queen's Pathology > like to take the stain with them. Having said that, many of our residents > request slides stained with H&E, to familiarize themselves with that stain > before exams. > > Good luck, hope this helps... > > Eric Gagnon MLT > Histology Laboratory, > Kingston General Hospital > Kingston, Ontario, Canada > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 3 > Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 10:17:19 -0800 > From: Caroline Miller > Subject: Re: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat > To: lpwenk@sbcglobal.net > Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, 'Ingles Claire ' > > Message-ID: <407E13F3-8499-4B03-BB56-E7DC95A9448D@gladstone.ucsf.edu> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes > > In the UK (where I used to run a clinical lab) we also would turn off > the cryostat in the morning, wait for it to defrost then just before > going home for the evening heat up some formalin in the microwave and > place that in the chamber and leave overnight. > > It certainly kills everything, but it is also kinda toxic to your > lungs! I wouldn't suggest it but it is a 'severe cleaning' option, > especially if you have had something nasty in there. > > This was about 5 years ago, the rules may have changed, and Yes, I do > realise just how bad that is for you and everyone around! > > Caroline > > > Caroline Miller > Co-Manager > J David Gladstone Institutes Histology and Microscopy Core > 1650 Owens St > San Francisco > CA 94158 > > http://www.gladstone.ucsf.edu/gladstone/site/histology/ > cmiller@gladstone.ucsf.edu > > > > > On Feb 7, 2009, at 1:11 PM, Lee & Peggy Wenk wrote: > >> 95-100% also work, for bacteria, fungus, viruses. They will not work >> on >> killing spores. That's where the 70% is to be used, as the water >> (30% part) >> is needed to soften the spore wall, so that the alcohol (70% part) >> can get >> inside. >> >> Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS >> Beaumont Hospital >> Royal Oak, MI 48073 >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Ingles >> Claire >> Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 6:38 PM >> To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> Subject: RE: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat >> >> Why no 95%? We have been using it in perpituity with no bad effects. >> The >> alcohol has evaporated from the inside surfaces by morning. >> >> Claire >> >> ________________________________ >> >> From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of gayle >> callis >> Sent: Fri 2/6/2009 11:11 AM >> To: 'Louise Hartson'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> Subject: RE: [Histonet] Disinfecting Cryostat >> >> >> >> We use 70% ethanol on gauze (just damp) to wipe down inside of >> cryostat. Do >> not use 95% or 100% alcohol, as 70% is the most effective for >> disinfection, >> commonly used in biohoods. We pick up little trimmings with first >> dampened >> gauze (or kim wipe) then re-wipe with a second gauze. We prefer >> gauze for >> its flexibility. Also, if you put a kimwipe or gauze behind knife >> holder to >> l catch trimmings then you can fold up kimwipe, and lift "garbage" >> out, >> intact, and go to biohazard container before wipe down. We try to >> avoid too >> much alcohol on knife holder parts since alcohol ruins lubricants >> needed for >> good operation. Check with your cryostat manufacturer to see what >> they >> recommend. It pays to wipe down under and over sliding glass door to >> counterattack biohazardous "cling-ons" found on your gloves, and where >> people have touched the instrument. 70% alcohol will not kill prions. >> >> Water based disinfectants freeze in cryostat. Eventually you need >> scheduled >> disinfection with cryostat in defrosted mode with approved >> disinfecting >> agent. >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 4 > Date: Mon, 09 Feb 2009 13:47:31 -0500 > From: Caroline Bass > Subject: [Histonet] AO 860 repairman in NC? > To: > Message-ID: > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="ISO-8859-1" > > Hello Everyone, > > I have refurbished an old AO 860 sliding microtome. I?m pretty proud of > myself, I?ve unlocked the totally gummed mechanism and have put it > together > myself. It seems to work very well. The only problem I have is tuning the > sliding block. I have no idea how to approach it, and after several failed > attempts (I can get it to slide down the length, but can?t achieve a > smooth > movement), I?m wondering if it?s better to find a repairman in the area > that > can spend an hour showing me how to do this. > > Does anyone have suggestions? Do you know of any repairmen in the area? > > Thanks, > > Caroline Bass > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 5 > Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 14:24:01 -0500 > From: Robert Richmond > Subject: [Histonet] Re: HPS stain > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Message-ID: > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 > > The hematoxylin-phloxin- saffron stain, which supposedly originated at > the Montreal Neurological Institute, migrated from there to > Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital in New York City, where it was used as > the general oversight stain in surgical pathology at least into the > 1960's. When I saw it in use there in 1966 they didn't seem to be > having trouble with it. > > On the other side of Central Park, New York Hospital (Cornell Medical > Center) had used a Light Green trichrome stain as a general oversight > stain. I think they abandoned it in favor of H & E after Chandler > Foot's retirement in 1948. > > Saffron is a natural dye derived from the stigmas of the saffron > crocus, Crocus sativus. Although it was (and is) extremely expensive, > it was used both as a textile dye and as a spice (in paella, for > example). It's sometimes seen (and smelled) as a component of > expensive curry powders - my wife and I have been experimenting with > Penzey's Maharajah curry powder, which is 2% saffron. The immense hand > labor of extracting all those stigmas from the flowers makes saffron > "the most expensive spice in the world". > > Saffron as a histologic dye has traditionally been specified as > "safran du G?tinais" - from a particular region of France - though I > am not certain that such a product still actually exists. I would > think that any good quality saffron would suffice (don't substitute > safflower, 'dyer's saffron'). You'll pay at least ten dollars a gram > for saffron, at Penzeys anyway. > > Some recipes specified as many as seven changes of hot alcohol to > extract the dye, and some people used a reflux condenser for the > extraction. The alcohol extract has a strong medicinal smell which > some people find quite unpleasant. > > (I have no connection with Penzeys.com, except that my wife and I have > gotten addicted to their shipments of very high quality spices.) > > Bob Richmond > Samurai Pathologist > Knoxville TN > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 6 > Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 14:57:24 -0500 > From: "Santiago, Albert" > Subject: [Histonet] special stain instrument > To: > Message-ID: > > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > Hello again fellow histonetters, I have an old artisan special stain/ihc > stain stainer that I'm looking to replace with a newer model, but before > I commit to it I was wondering if anyone else uses any other special > stain instrument that I can look into and compare.... Thanks for your > help.... > > > > Albert Santiago, HT (ASCP) > > Laboratory Supervisor > > Dermatopathology > > Phone 215-662-6539 > > Fax 215-662-6150 > > > > > > > > > > The information contained in this e-mail message is intended only for the > personal and confidential use of the recipient(s) named above. If the > reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an agent > responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby > notified that you have received this document in error and that any > review, dissemination, distribution, or copying of this message is > strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, > please notify us immediately by e-mail, and delete the original message. > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 7 > Date: Mon, 09 Feb 2009 15:03:47 -0500 > From: godsgalnow@aol.com > Subject: [Histonet] thermowave users > To: histonet@pathology.swmed.edu > Message-ID: <8CB5908A749D8F9-F58-E84@webmail-da13.sysops.aol.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > Can any ThermoWave users that microwave prostates please email me offline, > if you are willing to share SOPs.... > > > Thanks, > > Roxanne > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 8 > Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 12:04:49 -0800 (PST) > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] Techs from Rockford Health System > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Message-ID: <219757.8126.qm@web38205.mail.mud.yahoo.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii > > Wondering if there are any tech here from Rockford Health System, > Rockford, Ill. > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 9 > Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 13:39:11 -0700 > From: "Joanne Clark" > Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens > To: > Message-ID: <0CDA5E1E01301F4880A8A7A8BCBDA39CF66519@mail.pcnm.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > Hi, > > > > How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP > specimens and if so, how many do you cut? > > > > Thanks > > Joanne Clark, HT, MLT > > Pathology Consultants of New Mexico > > Roswell, NM > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 10 > Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 14:59:33 -0600 > From: "Mike Pence" > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens > To: "Joanne Clark" , > > Message-ID: > <661949901A768E4F9CC16D8AF8F2838C017A3A83@IS-E2K3.grhs.net> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > We cut 3 levels on each block. > Mike > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joanne > Clark > Sent: Monday, February 09, 2009 2:39 PM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens > > > Hi, > > > > How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP > specimens and if so, how many do you cut? > > > > Thanks > > Joanne Clark, HT, MLT > > Pathology Consultants of New Mexico > > Roswell, NM > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 11 > Date: Mon, 09 Feb 2009 14:08:14 -0800 > From: Victor Tobias > Subject: Re: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens > To: Joanne Clark > Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Message-ID: <4990A94E.9030001@pathology.washington.edu> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed > > 3 levels. > > Victor Tobias > Clinical Applications Analyst > University of Washington Medical Center > Dept of Pathology Room BB220 > 1959 NE Pacific > Seattle, WA 98195 > victor@pathology.washington.edu > 206-598-2792 > 206-598-7659 Fax > ================================================= > Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be > contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use > of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or > if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, > disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this > transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and > then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. > > > > Joanne Clark wrote: >> Hi, >> >> >> >> How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP >> specimens and if so, how many do you cut? >> >> >> >> Thanks >> >> Joanne Clark, HT, MLT >> >> Pathology Consultants of New Mexico >> >> Roswell, NM >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 12 > Date: Mon, 9 Feb 2009 14:10:46 -0800 > From: "Laurie Colbert" > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens > To: "Joanne Clark" , > > Message-ID: > <57BE698966D5C54EAE8612E8941D768304E9D603@EXCHANGE3.huntingtonhospital.com> > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > Three levels on all blocks > > Laurie Colbert > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joanne > Clark > Sent: Monday, February 09, 2009 12:39 PM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens > > Hi, > > > > How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP > specimens and if so, how many do you cut? > > > > Thanks > > Joanne Clark, HT, MLT > > Pathology Consultants of New Mexico > > Roswell, NM > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 13 > Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 11:45:11 +0000 > From: "Edwards, R.E." > Subject: [Histonet] cotton blue=acid blue=methyl blue > To: "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" > > Message-ID: > <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A1745423DC64@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > > Looking for a supplier please, I am aware that Sigma/Fluka supply a > ready made solution, which apparently does not work. > > Many thanks > > Richard Edwards > Leicester University > > U.K. > > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 14 > Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:49:58 +0000 (UTC) > From: rmweber113@comcast.net > Subject: [Histonet] Breast tissue > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Message-ID: > <1347926049.554711234273798846.JavaMail.root@sz0046a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8 > > > > > Hello,?????? Do anyone have a better remedy to process fatty breast tissue > other than after processing pressing it in paper towels and then putting > it back in paraffin for a couple of hours.???? The pathologist are saying > this is taking to long. > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 15 > Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 09:26:02 -0500 > From: "Whitaker, Bonnie" > Subject: [Histonet] NY DOH inspection question > To: HistoNet@pathology.swmed.edu > Message-ID: <3CE20ED86C4A114EBDF3BCE8DEFD8F60801E52@msxc06.OSUMC.EDU> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii > > Hi All, > > Will some of you that are inspected by the NYDOH please email me with how > you > meet the requirement (below) for performance verification for alcohol, > xylene > and formalin? > Clinical Laboratory Standards of Practice, Part 1- General Systems; > Reagents > Sustaining Standard of Practice 4 (REAG S4): Inventory Control. > The standard states that the inventory log should include the following > information: lot numbers, expiration dates, the date of receipt in the > laboratory, date of performance verification and the date the material is > placed in service, it is a requirement. > > > Thanks!! > > Bonnie Whitaker > Clinical Histology Manager > Ohio State University Medical Center > 614.293.5048 > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 16 > Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 09:55:10 -0500 > From: Geoff McAuliffe > Subject: Re: [Histonet] cotton blue=acid blue=methyl blue > To: "Edwards, R.E." > Cc: "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" > > Message-ID: <4991954E.7020401@umdnj.edu> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed > > Sounds like you want Aniline Blue, CI 42780. Much easier to find by that > name. > > Geoff > > Edwards, R.E. wrote: >> Looking for a supplier please, I am aware that Sigma/Fluka supply >> a ready made solution, which apparently does not work. >> >> Many thanks >> >> Richard Edwards >> Leicester University >> >> U.K. >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> > > > -- > -- > ********************************************** > Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. > Neuroscience and Cell Biology > Robert Wood Johnson Medical School > 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 > voice: (732)-235-4583 > mcauliff@umdnj.edu > ********************************************** > > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 17 > Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 09:58:43 -0500 > From: "McMahon, Loralee A" > Subject: RE: [Histonet] NY DOH inspection question > To: "Whitaker, Bonnie" , > > Message-ID: > <2CF6F6B05263EA4EBAB07781B51E5DB002C945D8@e2k3ms1.urmc-sh.rochester.edu> > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > > I would be interested in how you verify the performance of the xylenes and > alcohols as well. Thank you in advance. > > Loralee McMahon, HTL (ASCP) > ICC Supervisor > University of Rochester > Department of Pathology > > (585) 275-7210 > > > ________________________________ > > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Whitaker, > Bonnie > Sent: Tue 2/10/2009 9:26 AM > To: HistoNet@pathology.swmed.edu > Subject: [Histonet] NY DOH inspection question > > > > Hi All, > > Will some of you that are inspected by the NYDOH please email me with how > you > meet the requirement (below) for performance verification for alcohol, > xylene > and formalin? > Clinical Laboratory Standards of Practice, Part 1- General Systems; > Reagents > Sustaining Standard of Practice 4 (REAG S4): Inventory Control. > The standard states that the inventory log should include the following > information: lot numbers, expiration dates, the date of receipt in the > laboratory, date of performance verification and the date the material is > placed in service, it is a requirement. > > > Thanks!! > > Bonnie Whitaker > Clinical Histology Manager > Ohio State University Medical Center > 614.293.5048 > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 18 > Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 09:06:02 -0600 > From: Smith Wanda > Subject: [Histonet] RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens > To: Joanne Clark , > "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" > > Message-ID: > <9E2D36CE2D7CBA4A94D9B22E8328A3BACBE95606@NADCWPMSGCMS03.hca.corpad.net> > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > We routinely cut 3 levels on 3 slides for each block. > > > WANDA G. SMITH, HTL(ASCP)HT > Pathology Supervisor > TRIDENT MEDICAL CENTER > 9330 Medical Plaza Drive > Charleston, SC 29406 > 843-847-4586 > 843-847-4296 fax > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joanne > Clark > Sent: Monday, February 09, 2009 3:39 PM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens > > Hi, > > > > How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP > specimens and if so, how many do you cut? > > > > Thanks > > Joanne Clark, HT, MLT > > Pathology Consultants of New Mexico > > Roswell, NM > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 19 > Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 07:21:09 -0800 (PST) > From: Rene J Buesa > Subject: Re: [Histonet] Breast tissue > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, rmweber113@comcast.net > Message-ID: <636989.62353.qm@web65701.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 > > The "better remedy" is to cut the slices thin and fix/process correctly, > specially using mineral oil. > Ren? J. > > --- On Tue, 2/10/09, rmweber113@comcast.net > wrote: > > From: rmweber113@comcast.net > Subject: [Histonet] Breast tissue > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2009, 8:49 AM > > > Hello,??? Do anyone have a better remedy to process fatty breast tissue > other than after processing pressing it in paper towels and then putting > it back > in paraffin for a couple of hours.?? The pathologist are saying this is > taking > to long. > > > > Thanks, > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 20 > Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 10:34:13 -0500 > From: thisisann@aol.com > Subject: [Histonet] Ventana Ultra > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Cc: ali.malik@ventana.roche.com > Message-ID: <8CB59AC28EAADEE-708-DC@mblk-d24.sysops.aol.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > I am considering purchasing a Ventana Benchmark Ultra IHC.? Does anyone > have any feedback concerning this piece of equipment.? Any feedback would > be appreciated. > Thanks, > Ann > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 21 > Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 10:36:56 -0500 > From: Emily Sours > Subject: [Histonet] spin columns > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Message-ID: > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8 > > Hello > > Anyone know where to purchase QIAquick spin columns? If you get them from > Qiagen, they aren't sold separately, you have to buy them in a complete > kit. I have a feeling I'm stuck doing so. > > Emily > -- > It's like hearing Billy Joel play "Piano Man"-- joyless for all involved, > but demanded by a higher power. > --Kevin Murphy, Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull rifftrax > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 22 > Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 10:58:22 -0500 > From: Pat Flannery > Subject: [Histonet] spin columns > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Message-ID: <64D46715-499C-48B9-8CFA-EDBEBF95B810@duke.edu> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes > > Emily- > > I just got a mailing from Genesee Scientific (800-789-5550, Ext. 2) > for their UniPrep columns. They're selling them specially for those > people who always run out of columns before they run out of reagents. > I think there are a couple of types, so you might want to contact them > to see which one you'd need. > > Hope this helps. > > -Pat Flannery > Duke Med Center > > >> Hello >> >> Anyone know where to purchase QIAquick spin columns? If you get them >> from >> Qiagen, they aren't sold separately, you have to buy them in a >> complete >> kit. I have a feeling I'm stuck doing so. >> >> Emily >> -- >> It's like hearing Billy Joel play "Piano Man"-- joyless for all >> involved, >> but demanded by a higher power. >> --Kevin Murphy, Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull rifftrax >> _______________________________________________ > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 23 > Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 10:10:53 -0600 > From: mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com > Subject: Re: [Histonet] Breast tissue > To: rmweber113@comcast.net > Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Message-ID: > > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 > > As long as you smell the clearant in the block then putting the blocks in > paraffin longer works. I never found it necessary to roll the fat in paper > towel and place the specimen back in paraffin. If the block is not fixed > ore dehydrated properly and cleared properly putting them in paraffin > doesn't work. > > It all starts at the gross station. Cutting nice thin sections that are > fixed for at least 24 hrs. Even before that breast should be bread loafed > and placed in formalin and fixed for 24 hrs. Then a section is cut and > placed in a cassette and that sits in formalin until it gets placed on the > processor. > > The process of rolling fatty tissue in paper towel and gently pressed > allows the fatty specimen to go back in formalin and be reprocessed > without > taking the specimen back through the xylenes and alcohols to reprocess. > > Hope this helps. > > Best regards > > Mari Ann Mailhiot BA HT ASCP > Application Specialist/Trainer > Leica Microsystems > Biosystems Division > Technical Assistance Center > 800 248 0123 x7267 > 847 236 3063 fax > mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com > www.leica-microsystems.com > > > > rmweber113@comcas > t.net > Sent by: To > histonet-bounces@ histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > lists.utsouthwest cc > ern.edu > Subject > [Histonet] Breast tissue > 02/10/2009 07:49 > AM > > > > > > > > > > > Hello,??? Do anyone have a better remedy to process fatty breast tissue > other than after processing pressing it in paper towels and then putting > it > back in paraffin for a couple of hours.?? The pathologist are saying this > is taking to long. > > > > Thanks, > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > ______________________________________________________________________ > This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. > For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email > ______________________________________________________________________ > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 24 > Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 11:36:31 -0500 > From: "Tom McNemar" > Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens > To: "Smith Wanda" , "Joanne Clark" > , > Message-ID: > <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0A2@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > > Same here. > > Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) > Histology Co-ordinator > Licking Memorial Health Systems > (740) 348-4163 > (740) 348-4166 > tmcnemar@lmhealth.org > www.LMHealth.org > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Smith > Wanda > Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 10:06 AM > To: Joanne Clark; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] RE: Microtomy of LEEP specimens > > > We routinely cut 3 levels on 3 slides for each block. > > > WANDA G. SMITH, HTL(ASCP)HT > Pathology Supervisor > TRIDENT MEDICAL CENTER > 9330 Medical Plaza Drive > Charleston, SC 29406 > 843-847-4586 > 843-847-4296 fax > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joanne > Clark > Sent: Monday, February 09, 2009 3:39 PM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] Microtomy of LEEP specimens > > Hi, > > > > How many of you have a protocol to cut multiple deepers/levels on LEEP > specimens and if so, how many do you cut? > > > > Thanks > > Joanne Clark, HT, MLT > > Pathology Consultants of New Mexico > > Roswell, NM > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 25 > Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 12:09:45 -0500 > From: "Angela Bitting" > Subject: Re: [Histonet] Breast tissue > To: , > > Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Message-ID: <49916E89.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII > > We extended our paraffin infiltration times and that worked out well for > us too. > >>>> 2/10/2009 11:10 AM >>> > As long as you smell the clearant in the block then putting the blocks in > paraffin longer works. I never found it necessary to roll the fat in paper > towel and place the specimen back in paraffin. If the block is not fixed > ore dehydrated properly and cleared properly putting them in paraffin > doesn't work. > > It all starts at the gross station. Cutting nice thin sections that are > fixed for at least 24 hrs. Even before that breast should be bread loafed > and placed in formalin and fixed for 24 hrs. Then a section is cut and > placed in a cassette and that sits in formalin until it gets placed on the > processor. > > The process of rolling fatty tissue in paper towel and gently pressed > allows the fatty specimen to go back in formalin and be reprocessed > without > taking the specimen back through the xylenes and alcohols to reprocess. > > Hope this helps. > > Best regards > > Mari Ann Mailhiot BA HT ASCP > Application Specialist/Trainer > Leica Microsystems > Biosystems Division > Technical Assistance Center > 800 248 0123 x7267 > 847 236 3063 fax > mari.ann.mailhiot@leica-microsystems.com > www.leica-microsystems.com > > > > rmweber113@comcas > t.net > Sent by: To > histonet-bounces@ histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > lists.utsouthwest cc > ern.edu > Subject > [Histonet] Breast tissue > 02/10/2009 07:49 > AM > > > > > > > > > > > Hello, Do anyone have a better remedy to process fatty breast tissue > other than after processing pressing it in paper towels and then putting > it > back in paraffin for a couple of hours. The pathologist are saying this > is taking to long. > > > > Thanks, > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > ______________________________________________________________________ > This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. > For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email > ______________________________________________________________________ > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents > attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It > is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone > else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any > disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be > taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have > received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of > this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard > copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this > email. Thank you. > > > > ------------------------------ > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > End of Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 12 > **************************************** > Sarah Tarran Postdoctoral Fellow Vascular Biology Research Centre, Department of Surgery Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145 02 98455775 or 0408119276 sarah_tarran@wmi.usyd.edu.au From sarah_tarran <@t> wmi.usyd.edu.au Tue Feb 10 21:08:35 2009 From: sarah_tarran <@t> wmi.usyd.edu.au (Sarah Tarran) Date: Tue Feb 10 22:17:36 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Help with antigen unmaksing on frozen sections Message-ID: <34319.192.195.170.5.1234321715.squirrel@www.wmi.usyd.edu.au> Hi everyone, I some help with antigen on frozen sections as I am having a lot of trouble getting antibodies to work. I am using a GFP mouse so can't formalin fix, parafin embed my samples. I tried frsh freezing but found that the GFP leaked so I couldn't use that either. So I currently fix my tissue in 4% paraformaldehyde for 2 hours, then cryopreserve in 18% sucrose overnight before embedding in OCT the following day. I have tried non-enzymatic heat retieval (boiling for 15 minutes in Dako's Target retrieval solution pH 9) but this destroys the GFP, if I use proteinase K it 'eats' away at the tissue. I have tried diluting it but that hasn't helped get the antibodies to work. I have also tried overnight at 4 degree incubations without any luck. Does anyone have any other ideas that I can try to get the antibodies to work? The antibodies that I am having problems with are: alpha smooth muscle actin, LSP-1, procollagen, serum amyloid p and TGF-beta. Thanks Sarah Tarran Postdoctoral Fellow Vascular Biology Research Centre, Department of Surgery Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145 From cooperms <@t> mail.nih.gov Tue Feb 10 23:14:53 2009 From: cooperms <@t> mail.nih.gov (Cooperman, Sharon (NIH/NICHD) [E]) Date: Tue Feb 10 23:15:02 2009 Subject: [Histonet] please unsubscribe Message-ID: <2B184EA4ADDB0D41845D8B3730B10F651DA995@NIHCESMLBX7.nih.gov> Thanks! From sbreckenridge <@t> caperegional.com Wed Feb 11 06:38:00 2009 From: sbreckenridge <@t> caperegional.com (Breckenridge, Sue) Date: Wed Feb 11 06:38:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub In-Reply-To: <20090210184051.0D05E2622@courageux.cnchost.com> Message-ID: <4D95C24EC0E4C84787A6919F1165B25E015B24D3@btmhems01.BTHOSP.INT> Paula, try Micro-Clear CS from Micron Environmental Industries (phone 703-458-2776, catalog number HC1250). I have been using it for almost 20 years now; since 9/97 on the Leica CV5000 coverslipper. It's comparable in drying time to other xylene substitutes; but with a much better safety aspect (and I don't notice any odor). Susan Breckenridge, Histology Supervisor, BS, HTL(ASCP) Cape Regional Medical Center Cape May Court House, NJ P.S. I am an end user of the product, not a sales rep. I do not get any compensation for my opinion. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Paula Lucas Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 1:41 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub Hello, We use Xylene in the Sakura Glas auto-coverslipper and I would like to know if anyone uses a xylene sub in this piece of equipment. I'm looking for one that is okay to use in the equipment and one with less odor than Xylene. Thanks in advance, Paula Lucas Lab Manager BioPath MG _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, from Cape Regional Health System contains information which is CONFIDENTIAL AND/OR LEGALLY PRIVILEGED. The information is intended only for the use of the individual named above and may not be disseminated to any other party without Cape Regional Health System's written permission. If you are not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, disclosure, distribution, copying or taking of any action in reliance on the contents of this e-mailed information is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify us immediately by telephone at 609-463-2163 to arrange for the return of these documents to us without cost to you. From annigyg <@t> gmail.com Wed Feb 11 06:45:48 2009 From: annigyg <@t> gmail.com (Anne van Binsbergen) Date: Wed Feb 11 06:45:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] semen analysis Message-ID: who out there is using automation for semen analysis and what equipment is recommended? i am considering the SQA-V from MES what say you? cheers -- Anne van Binsbergen (Hope) Abu Dhabi UAE From MAUGER <@t> email.chop.edu Wed Feb 11 07:17:24 2009 From: MAUGER <@t> email.chop.edu (Joanne Mauger) Date: Wed Feb 11 07:19:19 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Help with antigen unmaksing on frozen sections Message-ID: Sarah, Try fixing your cut sections in 10%NBF for 20-30 minutes after deparaffinizing, then do the retrievals. SMA doesn't usually require any retrieval. TCR beta works well with pepsin for 20 mins. - this is less harsh than proK. I'm not familiar with the other abs you mention. Jo Mauger >>> "Sarah Tarran" 02/10/09 10:08 PM >>> Hi everyone, I some help with antigen on frozen sections as I am having a lot of trouble getting antibodies to work. I am using a GFP mouse so can't formalin fix, parafin embed my samples. I tried frsh freezing but found that the GFP leaked so I couldn't use that either. So I currently fix my tissue in 4% paraformaldehyde for 2 hours, then cryopreserve in 18% sucrose overnight before embedding in OCT the following day. I have tried non-enzymatic heat retieval (boiling for 15 minutes in Dako's Target retrieval solution pH 9) but this destroys the GFP, if I use proteinase K it 'eats' away at the tissue. I have tried diluting it but that hasn't helped get the antibodies to work. I have also tried overnight at 4 degree incubations without any luck. Does anyone have any other ideas that I can try to get the antibodies to work? The antibodies that I am having problems with are: alpha smooth muscle actin, LSP-1, procollagen, serum amyloid p and TGF-beta. Thanks Sarah Tarran Postdoctoral Fellow Vascular Biology Research Centre, Department of Surgery Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Allison_Scott <@t> hchd.tmc.edu Wed Feb 11 07:24:39 2009 From: Allison_Scott <@t> hchd.tmc.edu (Scott, Allison D) Date: Wed Feb 11 07:24:49 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Reagent Labeling Policy Message-ID: <1872B4A455B7974391609AD8034C79FC8BD503@LBEXCH01.hchd.local> Does anyone have a reagent labeling policy that they would be willing to share. Thanks in advance Allison Scott HT(ASCP) Histology Supervisor LBJ Hospital Houston, Texas 77026 CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this e-mail and any attachments from your computer system. To the extent the information in this e-mail and any attachments contain protected health information as defined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 ("HIPAA"), PL 104-191; 45 CFR Parts 160 and 164; or Chapter 181, Texas Health and Safety Code, it is confidential and/or privileged. This e-mail may also be confidential and/or privileged under Texas law. The e-mail is for the use of only the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, or any authorized representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, dissemination or copying of this e-mail and its attachments is strictly prohibited. From AWeiss <@t> shorememorial.org Wed Feb 11 07:34:06 2009 From: AWeiss <@t> shorememorial.org (AWeiss@shorememorial.org) Date: Wed Feb 11 07:35:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 13 In-Reply-To: <20090211040549.19E2E92FEE4@smhex1.shorememorial.org> Message-ID: I do FNA biospy and adequacy at bedside with radiologists and pulmonary docs I use 88173 this includes tech component. Is anyone aware of a CPT code for a Tech assisted bone marrow aspiration and biopsy? From time to time we have been helping the Oncologist and Radiologist on these procedures. It is becoming more of a common practice and we spend anywhere from a ? hour to 1 ? hours and not billing for our services. Is there anyone else in a similar situation? Andrea J Weiss BST CT (ASCP) Cytotechnologist 609 653 3577 Ext 4907 aweiss@shorememorial.org From sjchtascp <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 11 08:55:56 2009 From: sjchtascp <@t> yahoo.com (Steven Coakley) Date: Wed Feb 11 08:55:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Message-ID: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. From pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu Wed Feb 11 09:21:52 2009 From: pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu (Pamela Marcum) Date: Wed Feb 11 09:21:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <001501c98c5c$77d92850$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> It is called be cheap and don't pay for training!! Sorry that is how I see and ASCP does not seem to care or force the issue for training in histology. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 9:56 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From christina.thurby <@t> bms.com Wed Feb 11 09:37:55 2009 From: christina.thurby <@t> bms.com (Thurby, Christina) Date: Wed Feb 11 09:38:03 2009 Subject: [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC Message-ID: Hello all, Can any of you all with experience immunostaining brain sections please help. My sections are almost completely washing off the slides. I am using 10% NBF fixed canine brain sections. Embedded in paraffin and sectioned at 4 microns on plus slides with distilled water in the water bath. The slides are dried at 65 C for 15 minutes and allowed to stand overnight. I am using a Dako Autostainer for staining. There is no antigen retrieval step. My staining procedure is approximately 3.5 hours long. At the completion of the procedure, the tissue on my slides is 50-80% washed off. Any thoughts?? Christina Thurby From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 11 09:58:26 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Wed Feb 11 09:58:34 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <283333.28525.qm@web65715.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From slappycraw <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 11 10:09:39 2009 From: slappycraw <@t> yahoo.com (Larry Woody) Date: Wed Feb 11 10:09:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology References: <283333.28525.qm@web65715.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <948599.42650.qm@web53610.mail.re2.yahoo.com> This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From NLinke <@t> mednet.ucla.edu Wed Feb 11 10:11:43 2009 From: NLinke <@t> mednet.ucla.edu (Linke, Noelle) Date: Wed Feb 11 10:11:44 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: brain sections falling off slides during IHC In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <0C96F0BFE078D74C91A1C541D24A6AE43D28AEE6@EMGMB1.ad.medctr.ucla.edu> Hi Christina, In my experience, there are a few things to try. First, don't soak your blocks too long before cutting, and try not to let too much water get underneath the sections as you pick them up from the waterbath. I wouldn't put them in an oven at all, just let them air dry as long as you can (overnight, a day if you can spare the time) before staining. If you're having troubles, I wouldn't use the autostainer at all (it rinses too aggressively for some tissues), I would do them manually and never let the stream from your wash bottle touch the tissue, gently rinse after each step. I hope this helps. Noelle No?lle Linke M.S., HTL(ASCP)QIHC Manager, Histology Services Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Phone: 310-825-7397 Pager: 97471 nlinke@mednet.ucla.edu -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Thurby, Christina Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:38 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC Hello all, Can any of you all with experience immunostaining brain sections please help. My sections are almost completely washing off the slides. I am using 10% NBF fixed canine brain sections. Embedded in paraffin and sectioned at 4 microns on plus slides with distilled water in the water bath. The slides are dried at 65 C for 15 minutes and allowed to stand overnight. I am using a Dako Autostainer for staining. There is no antigen retrieval step. My staining procedure is approximately 3.5 hours long. At the completion of the procedure, the tissue on my slides is 50-80% washed off. Any thoughts?? Christina Thurby _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet IMPORTANT WARNING: This email (and any attachments) is only intended for the use of the person or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged and confidential. You, the recipient, are obligated to maintain it in a safe, secure and confidential manner. Unauthorized redisclosure or failure to maintain confidentiality may subject you to federal and state penalties. If you are not the intended recipient, please immediately notify us by return email, and delete this message from your computer. From mabosso <@t> unipathllc.com Wed Feb 11 10:18:39 2009 From: mabosso <@t> unipathllc.com (Mary Abosso) Date: Wed Feb 11 10:18:44 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <43A451981FF6634795BE83B1B5494D631BDF25@exchange.unipathllc.corp> Many areas have to go to unregistered techs out of necessity due to the high vacancy rate in our field since the ASCP made changes to the career path for the HT board requirements. Many of these facilities have either formal or informal training and have turned out many very good, high quality techs. Yes, some may be skilled at the "art" of histology, but lack the understanding that is behind the science. These often can embed, cut and do special stains with superior quality and happy pathologists. I have seen registered techs that have all the intelligence that their sheepskins say, but totally lack the hands on skills needed to produce superior quality material for patient diagnosis. While this is only my opinion, I wish that there was still the route for OJT as long as there is a certified tech in place for training. My two cents worth, Mary Abosso ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Steven Coakley Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 7:55 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From dez <@t> u.washington.edu Wed Feb 11 10:20:49 2009 From: dez <@t> u.washington.edu (J. Fernandez) Date: Wed Feb 11 10:20:53 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: What does quality issues have to do with anything ,Many certifieds have quality issues as well,It's knowledge and skill that matters.You can go on all day with this ,but in the end it's can you get it done,available techs etc.....I think it's important to have the best of both worlds. On Wed, 11 Feb 2009, Steven Coakley wrote: > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > From Linda.Watson <@t> bms.com Wed Feb 11 10:24:48 2009 From: Linda.Watson <@t> bms.com (Watson, Linda) Date: Wed Feb 11 10:24:53 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: brain sections falling off slides during IHC In-Reply-To: <0C96F0BFE078D74C91A1C541D24A6AE43D28AEE6@EMGMB1.ad.medctr.ucla.edu> References: <0C96F0BFE078D74C91A1C541D24A6AE43D28AEE6@EMGMB1.ad.medctr.ucla.edu> Message-ID: <351A66CE7FB11D40AB8AC8FE5559EC7E01A0DBB9DD@ushpwbmsmmp008.one.ads.bms.com> Just to add to Christina, Try Gold Plus Slides-Thermo Shandon (previously Erie Scientific). Linda >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Linke, Noelle >Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:12 AM >To: Thurby, Christina; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] RE: brain sections falling off slides during IHC > >Hi Christina, > >In my experience, there are a few things to try. First, don't soak your >blocks too long before cutting, and try not to let too much water get >underneath the sections as you pick them up from the waterbath. I >wouldn't put them in an oven at all, just let them air dry as long as >you can (overnight, a day if you can spare the time) before staining. > >If you're having troubles, I wouldn't use the autostainer at all (it >rinses too aggressively for some tissues), I would do them manually and >never let the stream from your wash bottle touch the tissue, gently >rinse after each step. > >I hope this helps. > >Noelle > >No?lle Linke M.S., HTL(ASCP)QIHC >Manager, Histology Services >Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine >David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA >Phone: 310-825-7397 >Pager: 97471 >nlinke@mednet.ucla.edu > >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Thurby, Christina >Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:38 AM >To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC > >Hello all, >Can any of you all with experience immunostaining brain sections please >help. My sections are almost completely washing off the slides. I am >using 10% NBF fixed canine brain sections. Embedded in paraffin and >sectioned at 4 microns on plus slides with distilled water in the water >bath. The slides are dried at 65 C for 15 minutes and allowed to stand >overnight. I am using a Dako Autostainer for staining. There is no >antigen retrieval step. My staining procedure is approximately 3.5 >hours long. At the completion of the procedure, the tissue on my slides >is 50-80% washed off. > >Any thoughts?? >Christina Thurby >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > >IMPORTANT WARNING: This email (and any attachments) is only intended >for the use of the person or entity to which it is addressed, and may >contain information that is privileged and confidential. You, the >recipient, are obligated to maintain it in a safe, secure and >confidential manner. Unauthorized redisclosure or failure to maintain >confidentiality may subject you to federal and state penalties. If you >are not the intended recipient, please immediately notify us by return >email, and delete this message from your computer. > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From sbreckenridge <@t> caperegional.com Wed Feb 11 10:26:49 2009 From: sbreckenridge <@t> caperegional.com (Breckenridge, Sue) Date: Wed Feb 11 10:26:50 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub In-Reply-To: <4D95C24EC0E4C84787A6919F1165B25E015B24D3@btmhems01.BTHOSP.INT> Message-ID: <4D95C24EC0E4C84787A6919F1165B25E015B24D8@btmhems01.BTHOSP.INT> Opps, sorry folks, had a dyslectic moment. The phone number is: 703-548-2776. My apologies for any confusion, Sue -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Breckenridge, Sue Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:38 AM To: Paula Lucas; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub Paula, try Micro-Clear CS from Micron Environmental Industries (phone 703-458-2776, catalog number HC1250). I have been using it for almost 20 years now; since 9/97 on the Leica CV5000 coverslipper. It's comparable in drying time to other xylene substitutes; but with a much better safety aspect (and I don't notice any odor). Susan Breckenridge, Histology Supervisor, BS, HTL(ASCP) Cape Regional Medical Center Cape May Court House, NJ P.S. I am an end user of the product, not a sales rep. I do not get any compensation for my opinion. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Paula Lucas Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 1:41 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub Hello, We use Xylene in the Sakura Glas auto-coverslipper and I would like to know if anyone uses a xylene sub in this piece of equipment. I'm looking for one that is okay to use in the equipment and one with less odor than Xylene. Thanks in advance, Paula Lucas Lab Manager BioPath MG _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, from Cape Regional Health System contains information which is CONFIDENTIAL AND/OR LEGALLY PRIVILEGED. The information is intended only for the use of the individual named above and may not be disseminated to any other party without Cape Regional Health System's written permission. If you are not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, disclosure, distribution, copying or taking of any action in reliance on the contents of this e-mailed information is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify us immediately by telephone at 609-463-2163 to arrange for the return of these documents to us without cost to you. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, from Cape Regional Health System contains information which is CONFIDENTIAL AND/OR LEGALLY PRIVILEGED. The information is intended only for the use of the individual named above and may not be disseminated to any other party without Cape Regional Health System's written permission. If you are not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, disclosure, distribution, copying or taking of any action in reliance on the contents of this e-mailed information is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify us immediately by telephone at 609-463-2163 to arrange for the return of these documents to us without cost to you. From Linda.Watson <@t> bms.com Wed Feb 11 10:33:40 2009 From: Linda.Watson <@t> bms.com (Watson, Linda) Date: Wed Feb 11 10:33:48 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <43A451981FF6634795BE83B1B5494D631BDF25@exchange.unipathllc.corp> References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> <43A451981FF6634795BE83B1B5494D631BDF25@exchange.unipathllc.corp> Message-ID: <351A66CE7FB11D40AB8AC8FE5559EC7E01A0DBB9EC@ushpwbmsmmp008.one.ads.bms.com> I totally agree with Mary. I have often heard that histotechs are a dying breed. That us "old timers" are not being replaced by the younger generation. If we want to have less uncertified histotechs then lets not make it so difficult for individuals to pursue this wonderful career. I still think it is very important for the exam to remain in place but those individuals out of high school that are maybe not thinking of attending college to obtain a bachelors degree should have the opportunity to become a certified histologist. I know that you can still obtain the HT but not the HTL. Correct me if I am wrong. Linda >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mary Abosso >Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:19 AM >To: Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > >Many areas have to go to unregistered techs out of necessity due to the >high vacancy rate in our field since the ASCP made changes to the career >path for the HT board requirements. Many of these facilities have >either formal or informal training and have turned out many very good, >high quality techs. Yes, some may be skilled at the "art" of histology, >but lack the understanding that is behind the science. These often can >embed, cut and do special stains with superior quality and happy >pathologists. I have seen registered techs that have all the >intelligence that their sheepskins say, but totally lack the hands on >skills needed to produce superior quality material for patient >diagnosis. While this is only my opinion, I wish that there was still >the route for OJT as long as there is a certified tech in place for >training. > >My two cents worth, >Mary Abosso > >________________________________ > >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Steven >Coakley >Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 7:55 AM >To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > >Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big >advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with >unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues >when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area >of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From tifei <@t> foxmail.com Wed Feb 11 10:34:38 2009 From: tifei <@t> foxmail.com (TF) Date: Wed Feb 11 10:34:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC References: Message-ID: <200902120034336211998@foxmail.com> SGksIA0KbXkgZXhwZXJpZW5jZSBpcyB0byB1c2UgbG93ZXIgY29uY2VudHJhdGlvbiBnZWwtY29h dGVkIHNsaWRlcyBvciBwcmUtY29hdGVkIHNsaWRlIHB1cmNoYXNlZCBmcm9tIGNvbXBhbnkuLi5k b250IHVzZSBob21lIG1hZGUgb25lIGlmIHlvdSB3YW50IHRvIGltcHJvdmUuDQoNCnNlY29uZCwg dGhlIGhlYXRpbmcgcHJvY2VkdXJlIHNob3J0bHkgYWZ0ZXIgbW91bnRpbmcgdGhlIGZyb3plbiBz ZWN0aW9ucyBvbnRvIHNsaWRlcyBkb2VzIG5vdCBoZWxwIGEgbG90LiANCk15IHdheTogbW91bnRp bmcgc2VjdGlvbnMgZnJvbSBjcnlvc3RhdCBvbnRvIHNsaWRlIC0+IGFpciBkcnkgLT4gaGVhdCBw bGF0ZSA0MC01MCBDIG9yIG5vdCBmb3IgMTAgbWluIHVudGlsIHRoZSBzbGlkZXMgYXJlIGEgYml0 IGhvdCAtPiBhaXIgZHJ5IGluIGZ1bWUgaG9vZCBvdmVybmlnaHQgKGZvciBzbWFsbCBzZWN0aW9u IHN1Y2ggYXMgT2xmYWN0b3J5IGJ1bGIsIGNvcm9uYWwgYnJhaW4gc2VjdGlvbiBvZiByYXQgdGFr ZXMgMS0yIGRheXMgLSBtdWNoIGJldHRlcikgLT55b3UgY2FuIHN0b2NrIGFsbCBzZWN0aW9ucyBp biAtMjAgQyBmcmVlemVyIC0+ZWFjaCB0aW1lIGJlZm9yZSBJSEMsIGhlYXQgdGhlIHNlY3Rpb24g YXQgNjAgQyBmb3IgMTAgbWluIChkcnkgdXAgYWZ0ZXIgdGFraW5nIG91dCBmcm9tIGZyZWV6ZXIp Lg0KDQpJIGJvaWwgdGhlIHNsaWRlIGluIDk1IEMgY2l0cmF0ZSBidWZmZXIgZm9yIDMwIG1pbiwg PDEgc2VjdGlvbnMgZnJvbSAxMDAgZmFsbHMgb2ZmLg0KDQoNCjIwMDktMDItMTIgDQoNCg0KDQpU RiANCg0KDQoNCreivP7Iy6O6IFRodXJieSwgQ2hyaXN0aW5hIA0Kt6LLzcqxvOSjuiAyMDA5LTAy LTExICAyMzo0MzoxNiANCsrVvP7Iy6O6IGhpc3RvbmV0QGxpc3RzLnV0c291dGh3ZXN0ZXJuLmVk dSANCrOty82juiANCtb3zOKjuiBbSGlzdG9uZXRdIGJyYWluIHNlY3Rpb25zIGZhbGxpbmcgb2Zm IHNsaWRlcyBkdXJpbmcgSUhDIA0KIA0KSGVsbG8gYWxsLA0KQ2FuIGFueSBvZiB5b3UgYWxsIHdp dGggZXhwZXJpZW5jZSBpbW11bm9zdGFpbmluZyBicmFpbiBzZWN0aW9ucyBwbGVhc2UgaGVscC4g IE15IHNlY3Rpb25zIGFyZSBhbG1vc3QgY29tcGxldGVseSB3YXNoaW5nIG9mZiB0aGUgc2xpZGVz LiAgSSBhbSB1c2luZyAxMCUgTkJGIGZpeGVkIGNhbmluZSBicmFpbiBzZWN0aW9ucy4gIEVtYmVk ZGVkIGluIHBhcmFmZmluIGFuZCBzZWN0aW9uZWQgYXQgNCBtaWNyb25zIG9uIHBsdXMgc2xpZGVz IHdpdGggZGlzdGlsbGVkIHdhdGVyIGluIHRoZSB3YXRlciBiYXRoLiAgVGhlIHNsaWRlcyBhcmUg ZHJpZWQgYXQgNjUgQyBmb3IgMTUgbWludXRlcyBhbmQgYWxsb3dlZCB0byBzdGFuZCBvdmVybmln aHQuICBJIGFtIHVzaW5nIGEgRGFrbyBBdXRvc3RhaW5lciBmb3Igc3RhaW5pbmcuICBUaGVyZSBp cyBubyBhbnRpZ2VuIHJldHJpZXZhbCBzdGVwLiAgTXkgc3RhaW5pbmcgcHJvY2VkdXJlIGlzIGFw cHJveGltYXRlbHkgMy41IGhvdXJzIGxvbmcuICBBdCB0aGUgY29tcGxldGlvbiBvZiB0aGUgcHJv Y2VkdXJlLCB0aGUgdGlzc3VlIG9uIG15IHNsaWRlcyBpcyA1MC04MCUgd2FzaGVkIG9mZi4NCkFu eSB0aG91Z2h0cz8/DQpDaHJpc3RpbmEgVGh1cmJ5DQpfX19fX19fX19fX19fX19fX19fX19fX19f X19fX19fX19fX19fX19fX19fX19fXw0KSGlzdG9uZXQgbWFpbGluZyBsaXN0DQpIaXN0b25ldEBs aXN0cy51dHNvdXRod2VzdGVybi5lZHUNCmh0dHA6Ly9saXN0cy51dHNvdXRod2VzdGVybi5lZHUv bWFpbG1hbi9saXN0aW5mby9oaXN0b25ldA0K From TMcNemar <@t> lmhealth.org Wed Feb 11 10:36:02 2009 From: TMcNemar <@t> lmhealth.org (Tom McNemar) Date: Wed Feb 11 10:36:08 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <948599.42650.qm@web53610.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0A7@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For our last opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech to our facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and two of us are certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and trained them to be a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She files slides, covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what you gotta do to get the work out. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From tifei <@t> foxmail.com Wed Feb 11 10:36:16 2009 From: tifei <@t> foxmail.com (=?utf-8?B?VEY=?=) Date: Wed Feb 11 10:36:38 2009 Subject: =?utf-8?B?UmU6IFtIaXN0b25ldF0gSGVscCB3aXRoIGFudGlnZW4gdW5tYWtzaW5nIG9uIGZyb3plbiBzZWN0aW9ucw==?= References: <34319.192.195.170.5.1234321715.squirrel@www.wmi.usyd.edu.au> Message-ID: <200902120036112922997@foxmail.com> hi, for alpha -SMA I just put the slide with section into a plastic jar with citrate buffer put the jar into microwave, "HIGH" for 1 min and quickly cool down by adding cool distilled water then use 0.3% trition-PBS solution to soak the section for 10 min. works very well. i can show u pictures if u want,. 2009-02-12 TF ???? Sarah Tarran ????? 2009-02-11 12:19:58 ???? histonet ??? ??? [Histonet] Help with antigen unmaksing on frozen sections Hi everyone, I some help with antigen on frozen sections as I am having a lot of trouble getting antibodies to work. I am using a GFP mouse so can't formalin fix, parafin embed my samples. I tried frsh freezing but found that the GFP leaked so I couldn't use that either. So I currently fix my tissue in 4% paraformaldehyde for 2 hours, then cryopreserve in 18% sucrose overnight before embedding in OCT the following day. I have tried non-enzymatic heat retieval (boiling for 15 minutes in Dako's Target retrieval solution pH 9) but this destroys the GFP, if I use proteinase K it 'eats' away at the tissue. I have tried diluting it but that hasn't helped get the antibodies to work. I have also tried overnight at 4 degree incubations without any luck. Does anyone have any other ideas that I can try to get the antibodies to work? The antibodies that I am having problems with are: alpha smooth muscle actin, LSP-1, procollagen, serum amyloid p and TGF-beta. Thanks Sarah Tarran Postdoctoral Fellow Vascular Biology Research Centre, Department of Surgery Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Jennifer.Bull <@t> northwestpathology.com Wed Feb 11 10:38:49 2009 From: Jennifer.Bull <@t> northwestpathology.com (Bull, Jennifer L.) Date: Wed Feb 11 10:39:01 2009 Subject: Subject: [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC Message-ID: <85760CECEC18444BB95F26D5E88DAEAA21FF216F6F@hinet2.hinet.org> What type of plus slides are you using? There are a few companies out there selling a "super" adhesive slide for just such applications. We use the Bond380 slide from TruScientific for all of our brain, autopsy and fatty tissue when performing IHC. We rarely have any compromised tissue and that is using the Dako platform and the PT Module for retrieval. I know there are other companies that carry similar slides, but we found the best pricing on these. You can reach them at 877-677-7523. You might also try skipping the oven and air drying your sections overnight follwed by a run over the heat plate before starting the staining process. Jennifer Bull jennifer.bull@nwpathology.com -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Thurby, Christina Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:38 AM To: histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC Hello all, Can any of you all with experience immunostaining brain sections please help. My sections are almost completely washing off the slides. I am using 10% NBF fixed canine brain sections. Embedded in paraffin and sectioned at 4 microns on plus slides with distilled water in the water bath. The slides are dried at 65 C for 15 minutes and allowed to stand overnight. I am using a Dako Autostainer for staining. There is no antigen retrieval step. My staining procedure is approximately 3.5 hours long. At the completion of the procedure, the tissue on my slides is 50-80% washed off. Any thoughts?? Christina Thurby From JMacDonald <@t> mtsac.edu Wed Feb 11 10:51:47 2009 From: JMacDonald <@t> mtsac.edu (Jennifer MacDonald) Date: Wed Feb 11 10:51:53 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <351A66CE7FB11D40AB8AC8FE5559EC7E01A0DBB9EC@ushpwbmsmmp008.one.ads.bms.com> Message-ID: Both the HT and the HTL are available to qualified individuals. The only thing that was discontinued was the High School or equivalent and 2 years of experience (route 3). All other options (routes) remain the same. Jennifer MacDonald Mt. San Antonio College "Watson, Linda" Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu 02/11/2009 08:36 AM To Mary Abosso , Steven Coakley , "Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" cc Subject RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I totally agree with Mary. I have often heard that histotechs are a dying breed. That us "old timers" are not being replaced by the younger generation. If we want to have less uncertified histotechs then lets not make it so difficult for individuals to pursue this wonderful career. I still think it is very important for the exam to remain in place but those individuals out of high school that are maybe not thinking of attending college to obtain a bachelors degree should have the opportunity to become a certified histologist. I know that you can still obtain the HT but not the HTL. Correct me if I am wrong. Linda >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mary Abosso >Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:19 AM >To: Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > >Many areas have to go to unregistered techs out of necessity due to the >high vacancy rate in our field since the ASCP made changes to the career >path for the HT board requirements. Many of these facilities have >either formal or informal training and have turned out many very good, >high quality techs. Yes, some may be skilled at the "art" of histology, >but lack the understanding that is behind the science. These often can >embed, cut and do special stains with superior quality and happy >pathologists. I have seen registered techs that have all the >intelligence that their sheepskins say, but totally lack the hands on >skills needed to produce superior quality material for patient >diagnosis. While this is only my opinion, I wish that there was still >the route for OJT as long as there is a certified tech in place for >training. > >My two cents worth, >Mary Abosso > >________________________________ > >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Steven >Coakley >Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 7:55 AM >To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > >Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big >advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with >unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues >when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area >of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From tim.morken <@t> thermofisher.com Wed Feb 11 10:57:18 2009 From: tim.morken <@t> thermofisher.com (Morken, Tim) Date: Wed Feb 11 10:58:24 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Uh oh, here we go....again! It's just demand and economics in most areas. In the San Francisco area good luck finding a certified tech. They can command 70K with minimal experience, which is what Kaiser and the UC medical center are paying. I know one woman who was working for a service lab in the area who wanted to work on her certification but her pathologist refused to sponsor her because he figured if she got it she would leave for a place that would pay her higher salary (seems like that ought to cause to lose a medical license!). Bad move: he lost her anyway. We have found that recent college grads are fully capable of the work (at least in our area, which demands a lot of indepent work and thinking). What is missing with most OJT is the breadth of education you get when you study for the certification. I know plenty of people who cut well, do stains well etc, but are lost outside the specialties of their particular laboratory, and even outside their own little area of their own lab! But, we could also discuss the breadth of knowledge of those lucky enough to be educated in a formal school setting vs OJT and then certified. It goes on and on.... Tim Morken -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 6:56 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From sbreeden <@t> nmda.nmsu.edu Wed Feb 11 11:11:28 2009 From: sbreeden <@t> nmda.nmsu.edu (Breeden, Sara) Date: Wed Feb 11 11:11:33 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Uncertified Techs In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <4D14F0FC9316DD41972D5F03C070908B017E66AC@nmdamailsvr.nmda.ad.nmsu.edu> Strangely enough (but not entirely unexpectedly), beauticians and barbers in this State must be licensed. Histotechs? Nope. Sally Breeden, HT(ASCP) NM Dept. of Agriculture Veterinary Diagnostic Services PO Box 4700 Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-841-2576 From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 11 11:12:23 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Wed Feb 11 11:12:27 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0A7@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> Message-ID: <194169.40676.qm@web65710.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Tom: All you have written is understandable EXCEPT that "it doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the old assumption that "if you know how to cook or to knit you can do histology". That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a major concern. I agree that a lab assistant? does not need to be certified as long as the work is limited to "assist" or do things other than working with patient samples. Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not enough money or benefits). HTs?occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical lab and will never get of that stratum unless all are certified and those who hire them show the proper respect for their work. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar wrote: From: Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Larry Woody" , rjbuesa@yahoo.com, Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley" Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For our last opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech to our facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and two of us are certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and trained them to be a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She files slides, covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what you gotta do to get the work out. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From HornHV <@t> archildrens.org Wed Feb 11 11:13:48 2009 From: HornHV <@t> archildrens.org (Horn, Hazel V) Date: Wed Feb 11 11:13:54 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Uncertified Techs In-Reply-To: <4D14F0FC9316DD41972D5F03C070908B017E66AC@nmdamailsvr.nmda.ad.nmsu.edu> References: <4D14F0FC9316DD41972D5F03C070908B017E66AC@nmdamailsvr.nmda.ad.nmsu.edu> Message-ID: <9AE8AA9E1F644B4AA6C155FB6FD51C6317D83049@EMAIL.archildrens.org> I'm fairly certain all hair dressers are licensed. Hazel Horn Hazel Horn, HT/HTL (ASCP) Supervisor of Histology Arkansas Children's Hospital 1 Children's Way Slot 820 Little Rock, AR 72202 phone 501.364.4240 fax 501.364.3155 visit us on the web at: www.archildrens.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Breeden, Sara Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:11 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Uncertified Techs Strangely enough (but not entirely unexpectedly), beauticians and barbers in this State must be licensed. Histotechs? Nope. Sally Breeden, HT(ASCP) NM Dept. of Agriculture Veterinary Diagnostic Services PO Box 4700 Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-841-2576 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************** The information contained in this message may be privileged and confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by replying to the message and deleting it from your computer. Thank you. From Christopher.Conlisk <@t> kp.org Wed Feb 11 11:13:43 2009 From: Christopher.Conlisk <@t> kp.org (Christopher.Conlisk@kp.org) Date: Wed Feb 11 11:13:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE:(Histotechs working in labs uncertified) Message-ID: This irregular phenomenon doesn't exist all over the country. Fortunately there are still many states that have strict guidelines and high quality. Unfortunately California is not one of them. It does effect patient care dramaticly. Tissue is cut away, people get injured, and its one of the few careers that is still being unethically demoralized by facilities allowing people who haven't a clue in regards to technical skill, practical application, and basic knowledge to perform a highly technical job. We have "histotechs", that don't understand what fixation is, can not identify tissue, can not cut, and generally make my profession look bad. I strongly feel you should be nothing less than an intern until you pass the "ASCP" test for HT, or HTL, period. No Exceptions. Christopher S Conlisk HT(ASCP), PBT(ASCP) NOTICE TO RECIPIENT: If you are not the intended recipient of this e-mail, you are prohibited from sharing, copying, or otherwise using or disclosing its contents. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify the sender immediately by reply e-mail and permanently delete this e-mail and any attachments without reading, forwarding or saving them. Thank you. From gmartin <@t> marshallmedical.org Wed Feb 11 11:27:27 2009 From: gmartin <@t> marshallmedical.org (Martin, Gary) Date: Wed Feb 11 11:27:32 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <351A66CE7FB11D40AB8AC8FE5559EC7E01A0DBB9EC@ushpwbmsmmp008.one.ads.bms.com> References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com><43A451981FF6634795BE83B1B5494D631BDF25@exchange.unipathllc.corp> <351A66CE7FB11D40AB8AC8FE5559EC7E01A0DBB9EC@ushpwbmsmmp008.one.ads.bms.com> Message-ID: <6ED9D4252F278841A0593D3D788AF24C0481D416@mailsvr.MARSHMED.local> I am one of those "unregistered" techs. I would respectfully hope that we are not considered the villains here. My situation is; we are a small lab in a rural area that has the need for 1 1/2 Histo Techs. We were having a very difficult time attracting a 1/2 time "qualified tech.", and had zero backup for our one and only full time "qualified tech." I have a good back ground in detail work in the art world and a good amount of experience as a pathology lab assistant. So it was easy for me to transition into the role of "unregistered tech", thereby providing back for our over work Histo tech. I have been trained by my Histo tech and have completed the Freida L. Carson self instruction course under her supervision. We are happy with the results and our Pathologist are pleased. At this point (7 years into teching) there are some things that I have been innovative on some things, and our tech prefers me to do other things. I would love to get certified but the changes in OTJ have made that more of a mountain than I can climb at this time. I would like to lend voice to us who are in this situation and say the we take our duties very serious and I really don't look at my job as getting over on rules or quality or providing cheap labor. In our case it has been necessity. Thank you Gary -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Watson, Linda Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 8:34 AM To: Mary Abosso; Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I totally agree with Mary. I have often heard that histotechs are a dying breed. That us "old timers" are not being replaced by the younger generation. If we want to have less uncertified histotechs then lets not make it so difficult for individuals to pursue this wonderful career. I still think it is very important for the exam to remain in place but those individuals out of high school that are maybe not thinking of attending college to obtain a bachelors degree should have the opportunity to become a certified histologist. I know that you can still obtain the HT but not the HTL. Correct me if I am wrong. Linda >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mary Abosso >Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:19 AM >To: Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > >Many areas have to go to unregistered techs out of necessity due to the >high vacancy rate in our field since the ASCP made changes to the career >path for the HT board requirements. Many of these facilities have >either formal or informal training and have turned out many very good, >high quality techs. Yes, some may be skilled at the "art" of histology, >but lack the understanding that is behind the science. These often can >embed, cut and do special stains with superior quality and happy >pathologists. I have seen registered techs that have all the >intelligence that their sheepskins say, but totally lack the hands on >skills needed to produce superior quality material for patient >diagnosis. While this is only my opinion, I wish that there was still >the route for OJT as long as there is a certified tech in place for >training. > >My two cents worth, >Mary Abosso > >________________________________ > >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Steven >Coakley >Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 7:55 AM >To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > >Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big >advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with >unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues >when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area >of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu Wed Feb 11 11:29:42 2009 From: SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu (Swain, Frances L) Date: Wed Feb 11 11:30:34 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Reagent Labeling Policy In-Reply-To: <1872B4A455B7974391609AD8034C79FC8BD503@LBEXCH01.hchd.local> References: <1872B4A455B7974391609AD8034C79FC8BD503@LBEXCH01.hchd.local> Message-ID: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E38028D34BA09@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Our reagent labeling policy is this. When you prepare a reagent for use such as a buffer. The type of buffer is the first line, with the pH. The second line tells what date it was prepared, if there was an expiration date and the third line is the person who prepared it. When we receive new chemicals, dyes etc we label them with the date that they were received and the initals of the person who received the order. I hope that is what you are wanting to know. We also designate on the first line whether it is an aqueous solution or an alcoholic solution. If we purchase the solution ready made we have what we call a working solution bottle of those reagents that can be reused which are labeled with the solution, where it was purchased, when it was received, when it was opened. When to discard it, if known. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Scott, Allison D Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:25 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Reagent Labeling Policy Does anyone have a reagent labeling policy that they would be willing to share. Thanks in advance Allison Scott HT(ASCP) Histology Supervisor LBJ Hospital Houston, Texas 77026 CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this e-mail and any attachments from your computer system. To the extent the information in this e-mail and any attachments contain protected health information as defined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 ("HIPAA"), PL 104-191; 45 CFR Parts 160 and 164; or Chapter 181, Texas Health and Safety Code, it is confidential and/or privileged. This e-mail may also be confidential and/or privileged under Texas law. The e-mail is for the use of only the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, or any authorized representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, dissemination or copying of this e-mail and its attachments is strictly prohibited. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. From sjchtascp <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 11 11:46:49 2009 From: sjchtascp <@t> yahoo.com (Steven Coakley) Date: Wed Feb 11 11:46:52 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs Message-ID: <549288.2771.qm@web38203.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Thanks for all the input.? So why am I wasting my cash paying the $45 for an ascp sticker? 15 years ago I suppose I should have taken the extra time to become at least an MLT. Oh well. ? Thanks again ya all.? :) ? Steve From Margaret.Perry <@t> sdstate.edu Wed Feb 11 12:04:56 2009 From: Margaret.Perry <@t> sdstate.edu (Perry, Margaret) Date: Wed Feb 11 12:05:03 2009 Subject: [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC Message-ID: A few years ago we also had this problem. The brains were terrible. We found that changing our processing chemicals, especially the wax, more frequently got rid of most of our problems. We use Fisher plus slides. There is a difference in plus slides. I recommend you contact several distributors and get samples and pick the one that works best for you. After cutting we have a fan that air dries the slides until the sections look dry about 10- 15 min. The slides are dried overnight on top of our embedder so that they are heated slightly. The next day they are dried for 1 hour at 60? C. We developed this method for cattle ear notches and about the only reason tissue comes off the slide now is because the tissue is necrotic or not fixed properly. Margaret Perry HT (ASCP) IHC Lab Manager Veterinary Science Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Lab South Dakota State University Box 2175 North Campus Drive Brookings SD 57007 From Jackie.O'Connor <@t> abbott.com Wed Feb 11 12:09:03 2009 From: Jackie.O'Connor <@t> abbott.com (Jackie M O'Connor) Date: Wed Feb 11 12:09:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Off topic - professional licenses. In-Reply-To: <9AE8AA9E1F644B4AA6C155FB6FD51C6317D83049@EMAIL.archildrens.org> Message-ID: Wow. My last hair stylist/colorist and I obviously did not share the same vision of what my hair should look like. I wonder what governing body licenses hairdressers, and what is the criteria? How many of them have college? Soon in Illinois you will have to have a license to breed dogs, but you can still be a histotech without one. People should have licenses before they have a child - or 14. Flaming and it's only Wednesday. Jackie O' "Horn, Hazel V" Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu 02/11/2009 11:13 AM To "Breeden, Sara" , cc Subject RE: [Histonet] Uncertified Techs I'm fairly certain all hair dressers are licensed. Hazel Horn Hazel Horn, HT/HTL (ASCP) Supervisor of Histology Arkansas Children's Hospital 1 Children's Way Slot 820 Little Rock, AR 72202 phone 501.364.4240 fax 501.364.3155 visit us on the web at: www.archildrens.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Breeden, Sara Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:11 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Uncertified Techs Strangely enough (but not entirely unexpectedly), beauticians and barbers in this State must be licensed. Histotechs? Nope. Sally Breeden, HT(ASCP) NM Dept. of Agriculture Veterinary Diagnostic Services PO Box 4700 Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-841-2576 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************** The information contained in this message may be privileged and confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by replying to the message and deleting it from your computer. Thank you. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu Wed Feb 11 12:15:54 2009 From: pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu (Pamela Marcum) Date: Wed Feb 11 12:15:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <6ED9D4252F278841A0593D3D788AF24C0481D416@mailsvr.MARSHMED.local> References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com><43A451981FF6634795BE83B1B5494D631BDF25@exchange.unipathllc.corp><351A66CE7FB11D40AB8AC8FE5559EC7E01A0DBB9EC@ushpwbmsmmp008.one.ads.bms.com> <6ED9D4252F278841A0593D3D788AF24C0481D416@mailsvr.MARSHMED.local> Message-ID: <002c01c98c74$c79670b0$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> I am sorry I seemed to have expanded this discussion. I want to be clear on part of the record. I was OJT trained in the 60's. We had even fewer schools and options then. The person who trained me had been trained by the pathologist and the Ann Preece book in histology. She knew what the pathologists we worked with wanted and saw to it that was what they got everyday. When I worked in other places later and continued my education I did learn more about the chemistry and why it worked or failed. I was in research when I took my HT and was told if I used animal tissue I would fail as no one on the board back then was experienced with it. I did not know if it was true so I quickly found a hospital where I could complete everything on human tissue I processed and stained. The person running that lab required me (thank goodness) to process every piece of tissue and do every stain manually. We did not have automated stainers back then so I learned every step. So for those who think I am picking on them for OJT training it is not that I disapprove. I believe histology is too important not to be considered professional field that requires consistent training and education. Many of us old timers have fought hard for the education clause so we would have people who were licensed and fully trained. I did get my BS and more education so I did get more on my own. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Martin, Gary Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:27 PM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I am one of those "unregistered" techs. I would respectfully hope that we are not considered the villains here. My situation is; we are a small lab in a rural area that has the need for 1 1/2 Histo Techs. We were having a very difficult time attracting a 1/2 time "qualified tech.", and had zero backup for our one and only full time "qualified tech." I have a good back ground in detail work in the art world and a good amount of experience as a pathology lab assistant. So it was easy for me to transition into the role of "unregistered tech", thereby providing back for our over work Histo tech. I have been trained by my Histo tech and have completed the Freida L. Carson self instruction course under her supervision. We are happy with the results and our Pathologist are pleased. At this point (7 years into teching) there are some things that I have been innovative on some things, and our tech prefers me to do other things. I would love to get certified but the changes in OTJ have made that more of a mountain than I can climb at this time. I would like to lend voice to us who are in this situation and say the we take our duties very serious and I really don't look at my job as getting over on rules or quality or providing cheap labor. In our case it has been necessity. Thank you Gary -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Watson, Linda Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 8:34 AM To: Mary Abosso; Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I totally agree with Mary. I have often heard that histotechs are a dying breed. That us "old timers" are not being replaced by the younger generation. If we want to have less uncertified histotechs then lets not make it so difficult for individuals to pursue this wonderful career. I still think it is very important for the exam to remain in place but those individuals out of high school that are maybe not thinking of attending college to obtain a bachelors degree should have the opportunity to become a certified histologist. I know that you can still obtain the HT but not the HTL. Correct me if I am wrong. Linda >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mary Abosso >Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:19 AM >To: Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > >Many areas have to go to unregistered techs out of necessity due to the >high vacancy rate in our field since the ASCP made changes to the career >path for the HT board requirements. Many of these facilities have >either formal or informal training and have turned out many very good, >high quality techs. Yes, some may be skilled at the "art" of histology, >but lack the understanding that is behind the science. These often can >embed, cut and do special stains with superior quality and happy >pathologists. I have seen registered techs that have all the >intelligence that their sheepskins say, but totally lack the hands on >skills needed to produce superior quality material for patient >diagnosis. While this is only my opinion, I wish that there was still >the route for OJT as long as there is a certified tech in place for >training. > >My two cents worth, >Mary Abosso > >________________________________ > >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Steven >Coakley >Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 7:55 AM >To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > >Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big >advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with >unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues >when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area >of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From CEvanish <@t> mont-hosp.com Wed Feb 11 12:21:36 2009 From: CEvanish <@t> mont-hosp.com (Chris Evanish) Date: Wed Feb 11 12:22:24 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: uncertified techs in Histology (Chris Evanish) In-Reply-To: <20090211165711223@smtp642.redcondor.net> References: <20090211165711223@smtp642.redcondor.net> Message-ID: <4992CF4B.6020.00E2.0@mont-hosp.com> I have been in the Histology field for 20 years and I have seen registered and nonresgistered techs and believe me some unregistered tech did a better job then the registered. Passing a test and getting a piece of paper does not mean that the tech was properly trained and has experience and knowledge in the field. Plus now you have to go to college to be eligible to take the test. >>> 2/11/2009 11:57 am >>> 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 histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu You can reach the person managing the list at histonet-owner@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. Help with antigen unmaksing on frozen sections (Sarah Tarran) 2. please unsubscribe (Cooperman, Sharon (NIH/NICHD) [E]) 3. RE: Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub (Breckenridge, Sue) 4. semen analysis (Anne van Binsbergen) 5. Re: Help with antigen unmaksing on frozen sections (Joanne Mauger) 6. Reagent Labeling Policy (Scott, Allison D) 7. Re: Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 13 (AWeiss@shorememorial.org) 8. uncertified techs in Histology (Steven Coakley) 9. RE: uncertified techs in Histology (Pamela Marcum) 10. brain sections falling off slides during IHC (Thurby, Christina) 11. Re: uncertified techs in Histology (Rene J Buesa) 12. Re: uncertified techs in Histology (Larry Woody) 13. RE: brain sections falling off slides during IHC (Linke, Noelle) 14. RE: uncertified techs in Histology (Mary Abosso) 15. Re: uncertified techs in Histology (J. Fernandez) 16. RE: brain sections falling off slides during IHC (Watson, Linda) 17. RE: Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub (Breckenridge, Sue) 18. RE: uncertified techs in Histology (Watson, Linda) 19. Re: brain sections falling off slides during IHC (TF) 20. RE: uncertified techs in Histology (Tom McNemar) 21. Re: Help with antigen unmaksing on frozen sections ( TF ) 22. Subject: [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC (Bull, Jennifer L.) 23. RE: uncertified techs in Histology (Jennifer MacDonald) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 14:08:35 +1100 (EST) From: "Sarah Tarran" Subject: [Histonet] Help with antigen unmaksing on frozen sections To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <34319.192.195.170.5.1234321715.squirrel@www.wmi.usyd.edu.au> Content-Type: text/plain;charset=iso-8859-1 Hi everyone, I some help with antigen on frozen sections as I am having a lot of trouble getting antibodies to work. I am using a GFP mouse so can't formalin fix, parafin embed my samples. I tried frsh freezing but found that the GFP leaked so I couldn't use that either. So I currently fix my tissue in 4% paraformaldehyde for 2 hours, then cryopreserve in 18% sucrose overnight before embedding in OCT the following day. I have tried non-enzymatic heat retieval (boiling for 15 minutes in Dako's Target retrieval solution pH 9) but this destroys the GFP, if I use proteinase K it 'eats' away at the tissue. I have tried diluting it but that hasn't helped get the antibodies to work. I have also tried overnight at 4 degree incubations without any luck. Does anyone have any other ideas that I can try to get the antibodies to work? The antibodies that I am having problems with are: alpha smooth muscle actin, LSP-1, procollagen, serum amyloid p and TGF-beta. Thanks Sarah Tarran Postdoctoral Fellow Vascular Biology Research Centre, Department of Surgery Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145 ------------------------------ Message: 2 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:14:53 -0500 From: "Cooperman, Sharon (NIH/NICHD) [E]" Subject: [Histonet] please unsubscribe To: Message-ID: <2B184EA4ADDB0D41845D8B3730B10F651DA995@NIHCESMLBX7.nih.gov> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Thanks! ------------------------------ Message: 3 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 07:38:00 -0500 From: "Breckenridge, Sue" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub To: "Paula Lucas" , Message-ID: <4D95C24EC0E4C84787A6919F1165B25E015B24D3@btmhems01.BTHOSP.INT> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Paula, try Micro-Clear CS from Micron Environmental Industries (phone 703-458-2776, catalog number HC1250). I have been using it for almost 20 years now; since 9/97 on the Leica CV5000 coverslipper. It's comparable in drying time to other xylene substitutes; but with a much better safety aspect (and I don't notice any odor). Susan Breckenridge, Histology Supervisor, BS, HTL(ASCP) Cape Regional Medical Center Cape May Court House, NJ P.S. I am an end user of the product, not a sales rep. I do not get any compensation for my opinion. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Paula Lucas Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 1:41 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub Hello, We use Xylene in the Sakura Glas auto-coverslipper and I would like to know if anyone uses a xylene sub in this piece of equipment. I'm looking for one that is okay to use in the equipment and one with less odor than Xylene. Thanks in advance, Paula Lucas Lab Manager BioPath MG _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, from Cape Regional Health System contains information which is CONFIDENTIAL AND/OR LEGALLY PRIVILEGED. The information is intended only for the use of the individual named above and may not be disseminated to any other party without Cape Regional Health System's written permission. If you are not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, disclosure, distribution, copying or taking of any action in reliance on the contents of this e-mailed information is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify us immediately by telephone at 609-463-2163 to arrange for the return of these documents to us without cost to you. ------------------------------ Message: 4 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 16:45:48 +0400 From: Anne van Binsbergen Subject: [Histonet] semen analysis To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 who out there is using automation for semen analysis and what equipment is recommended? i am considering the SQA-V from MES what say you? cheers -- Anne van Binsbergen (Hope) Abu Dhabi UAE ------------------------------ Message: 5 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 08:17:24 -0500 From: "Joanne Mauger" Subject: Re: [Histonet] Help with antigen unmaksing on frozen sections To: , Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII Sarah, Try fixing your cut sections in 10%NBF for 20-30 minutes after deparaffinizing, then do the retrievals. SMA doesn't usually require any retrieval. TCR beta works well with pepsin for 20 mins. - this is less harsh than proK. I'm not familiar with the other abs you mention. Jo Mauger >>> "Sarah Tarran" 02/10/09 10:08 PM >>> Hi everyone, I some help with antigen on frozen sections as I am having a lot of trouble getting antibodies to work. I am using a GFP mouse so can't formalin fix, parafin embed my samples. I tried frsh freezing but found that the GFP leaked so I couldn't use that either. So I currently fix my tissue in 4% paraformaldehyde for 2 hours, then cryopreserve in 18% sucrose overnight before embedding in OCT the following day. I have tried non-enzymatic heat retieval (boiling for 15 minutes in Dako's Target retrieval solution pH 9) but this destroys the GFP, if I use proteinase K it 'eats' away at the tissue. I have tried diluting it but that hasn't helped get the antibodies to work. I have also tried overnight at 4 degree incubations without any luck. Does anyone have any other ideas that I can try to get the antibodies to work? The antibodies that I am having problems with are: alpha smooth muscle actin, LSP-1, procollagen, serum amyloid p and TGF-beta. Thanks Sarah Tarran Postdoctoral Fellow Vascular Biology Research Centre, Department of Surgery Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 6 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 07:24:39 -0600 From: "Scott, Allison D" Subject: [Histonet] Reagent Labeling Policy To: Message-ID: <1872B4A455B7974391609AD8034C79FC8BD503@LBEXCH01.hchd.local> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Does anyone have a reagent labeling policy that they would be willing to share. Thanks in advance Allison Scott HT(ASCP) Histology Supervisor LBJ Hospital Houston, Texas 77026 CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this e-mail and any attachments from your computer system. To the extent the information in this e-mail and any attachments contain protected health information as defined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 ("HIPAA"), PL 104-191; 45 CFR Parts 160 and 164; or Chapter 181, Texas Health and Safety Code, it is confidential and/or privileged. This e-mail may also be confidential and/or privileged under Texas law. The e-mail is for the use of only the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, or any authorized representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, dissemination or copying of this e-mail and its attachments is strictly prohibited. ------------------------------ Message: 7 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 08:34:06 -0500 From: AWeiss@shorememorial.org Subject: [Histonet] Re: Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 13 To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 I do FNA biospy and adequacy at bedside with radiologists and pulmonary docs I use 88173 this includes tech component. Is anyone aware of a CPT code for a Tech assisted bone marrow aspiration and biopsy? From time to time we have been helping the Oncologist and Radiologist on these procedures. It is becoming more of a common practice and we spend anywhere from a ? hour to 1 ? hours and not billing for our services. Is there anyone else in a similar situation? Andrea J Weiss BST CT (ASCP) Cytotechnologist 609 653 3577 Ext 4907 aweiss@shorememorial.org ------------------------------ Message: 8 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 06:55:56 -0800 (PST) From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. ------------------------------ Message: 9 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:21:52 -0500 From: "Pamela Marcum" Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "'Steven Coakley'" , Message-ID: <001501c98c5c$77d92850$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" It is called be cheap and don't pay for training!! Sorry that is how I see and ASCP does not seem to care or force the issue for training in histology. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 9:56 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 10 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:37:55 -0500 From: "Thurby, Christina" Subject: [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC To: "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Hello all, Can any of you all with experience immunostaining brain sections please help. My sections are almost completely washing off the slides. I am using 10% NBF fixed canine brain sections. Embedded in paraffin and sectioned at 4 microns on plus slides with distilled water in the water bath. The slides are dried at 65 C for 15 minutes and allowed to stand overnight. I am using a Dako Autostainer for staining. There is no antigen retrieval step. My staining procedure is approximately 3.5 hours long. At the completion of the procedure, the tissue on my slides is 50-80% washed off. Any thoughts?? Christina Thurby ------------------------------ Message: 11 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 07:58:26 -0800 (PST) From: Rene J Buesa Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, Steven Coakley Message-ID: <283333.28525.qm@web65715.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 12 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 08:09:39 -0800 (PST) From: Larry Woody Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com, Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, Steven Coakley Message-ID: <948599.42650.qm@web53610.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 13 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 08:11:43 -0800 From: "Linke, Noelle" Subject: [Histonet] RE: brain sections falling off slides during IHC To: "Thurby, Christina" , "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Message-ID: <0C96F0BFE078D74C91A1C541D24A6AE43D28AEE6@EMGMB1.ad.medctr.ucla.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="koi8-r" Hi Christina, In my experience, there are a few things to try. First, don't soak your blocks too long before cutting, and try not to let too much water get underneath the sections as you pick them up from the waterbath. I wouldn't put them in an oven at all, just let them air dry as long as you can (overnight, a day if you can spare the time) before staining. If you're having troubles, I wouldn't use the autostainer at all (it rinses too aggressively for some tissues), I would do them manually and never let the stream from your wash bottle touch the tissue, gently rinse after each step. I hope this helps. Noelle No?lle Linke M.S., HTL(ASCP)QIHC Manager, Histology Services Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Phone: 310-825-7397 Pager: 97471 nlinke@mednet.ucla.edu -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Thurby, Christina Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:38 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC Hello all, Can any of you all with experience immunostaining brain sections please help. My sections are almost completely washing off the slides. I am using 10% NBF fixed canine brain sections. Embedded in paraffin and sectioned at 4 microns on plus slides with distilled water in the water bath. The slides are dried at 65 C for 15 minutes and allowed to stand overnight. I am using a Dako Autostainer for staining. There is no antigen retrieval step. My staining procedure is approximately 3.5 hours long. At the completion of the procedure, the tissue on my slides is 50-80% washed off. Any thoughts?? Christina Thurby _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet IMPORTANT WARNING: This email (and any attachments) is only intended for the use of the person or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged and confidential. You, the recipient, are obligated to maintain it in a safe, secure and confidential manner. Unauthorized redisclosure or failure to maintain confidentiality may subject you to federal and state penalties. If you are not the intended recipient, please immediately notify us by return email, and delete this message from your computer. ------------------------------ Message: 14 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 09:18:39 -0700 From: "Mary Abosso" Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Steven Coakley" , Message-ID: <43A451981FF6634795BE83B1B5494D631BDF25@exchange.unipathllc.corp> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Many areas have to go to unregistered techs out of necessity due to the high vacancy rate in our field since the ASCP made changes to the career path for the HT board requirements. Many of these facilities have either formal or informal training and have turned out many very good, high quality techs. Yes, some may be skilled at the "art" of histology, but lack the understanding that is behind the science. These often can embed, cut and do special stains with superior quality and happy pathologists. I have seen registered techs that have all the intelligence that their sheepskins say, but totally lack the hands on skills needed to produce superior quality material for patient diagnosis. While this is only my opinion, I wish that there was still the route for OJT as long as there is a certified tech in place for training. My two cents worth, Mary Abosso ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Steven Coakley Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 7:55 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 15 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 08:20:49 -0800 (PST) From: "J. Fernandez" Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Steven Coakley Cc: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" What does quality issues have to do with anything ,Many certifieds have quality issues as well,It's knowledge and skill that matters.You can go on all day with this ,but in the end it's can you get it done,available techs etc.....I think it's important to have the best of both worlds. On Wed, 11 Feb 2009, Steven Coakley wrote: > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > ------------------------------ Message: 16 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 11:24:48 -0500 From: "Watson, Linda" Subject: [Histonet] RE: brain sections falling off slides during IHC To: "Linke, Noelle" , "Thurby, Christina" , "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Message-ID: <351A66CE7FB11D40AB8AC8FE5559EC7E01A0DBB9DD@ushpwbmsmmp008.one.ads.bms.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="koi8-r" Just to add to Christina, Try Gold Plus Slides-Thermo Shandon (previously Erie Scientific). Linda >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Linke, Noelle >Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:12 AM >To: Thurby, Christina; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] RE: brain sections falling off slides during IHC > >Hi Christina, > >In my experience, there are a few things to try. First, don't soak your >blocks too long before cutting, and try not to let too much water get >underneath the sections as you pick them up from the waterbath. I >wouldn't put them in an oven at all, just let them air dry as long as >you can (overnight, a day if you can spare the time) before staining. > >If you're having troubles, I wouldn't use the autostainer at all (it >rinses too aggressively for some tissues), I would do them manually and >never let the stream from your wash bottle touch the tissue, gently >rinse after each step. > >I hope this helps. > >Noelle > >No?lle Linke M.S., HTL(ASCP)QIHC >Manager, Histology Services >Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine >David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA >Phone: 310-825-7397 >Pager: 97471 >nlinke@mednet.ucla.edu > >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Thurby, Christina >Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:38 AM >To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC > >Hello all, >Can any of you all with experience immunostaining brain sections please >help. My sections are almost completely washing off the slides. I am >using 10% NBF fixed canine brain sections. Embedded in paraffin and >sectioned at 4 microns on plus slides with distilled water in the water >bath. The slides are dried at 65 C for 15 minutes and allowed to stand >overnight. I am using a Dako Autostainer for staining. There is no >antigen retrieval step. My staining procedure is approximately 3.5 >hours long. At the completion of the procedure, the tissue on my slides >is 50-80% washed off. > >Any thoughts?? >Christina Thurby >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > >IMPORTANT WARNING: This email (and any attachments) is only intended >for the use of the person or entity to which it is addressed, and may >contain information that is privileged and confidential. You, the >recipient, are obligated to maintain it in a safe, secure and >confidential manner. Unauthorized redisclosure or failure to maintain >confidentiality may subject you to federal and state penalties. If you >are not the intended recipient, please immediately notify us by return >email, and delete this message from your computer. > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 17 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 11:26:49 -0500 From: "Breckenridge, Sue" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub To: Message-ID: <4D95C24EC0E4C84787A6919F1165B25E015B24D8@btmhems01.BTHOSP.INT> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Opps, sorry folks, had a dyslectic moment. The phone number is: 703-548-2776. My apologies for any confusion, Sue -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Breckenridge, Sue Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:38 AM To: Paula Lucas; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub Paula, try Micro-Clear CS from Micron Environmental Industries (phone 703-458-2776, catalog number HC1250). I have been using it for almost 20 years now; since 9/97 on the Leica CV5000 coverslipper. It's comparable in drying time to other xylene substitutes; but with a much better safety aspect (and I don't notice any odor). Susan Breckenridge, Histology Supervisor, BS, HTL(ASCP) Cape Regional Medical Center Cape May Court House, NJ P.S. I am an end user of the product, not a sales rep. I do not get any compensation for my opinion. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Paula Lucas Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 1:41 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub Hello, We use Xylene in the Sakura Glas auto-coverslipper and I would like to know if anyone uses a xylene sub in this piece of equipment. I'm looking for one that is okay to use in the equipment and one with less odor than Xylene. Thanks in advance, Paula Lucas Lab Manager BioPath MG _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, from Cape Regional Health System contains information which is CONFIDENTIAL AND/OR LEGALLY PRIVILEGED. The information is intended only for the use of the individual named above and may not be disseminated to any other party without Cape Regional Health System's written permission. If you are not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, disclosure, distribution, copying or taking of any action in reliance on the contents of this e-mailed information is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify us immediately by telephone at 609-463-2163 to arrange for the return of these documents to us without cost to you. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, from Cape Regional Health System contains information which is CONFIDENTIAL AND/OR LEGALLY PRIVILEGED. The information is intended only for the use of the individual named above and may not be disseminated to any other party without Cape Regional Health System's written permission. If you are not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, disclosure, distribution, copying or taking of any action in reliance on the contents of this e-mailed information is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify us immediately by telephone at 609-463-2163 to arrange for the return of these documents to us without cost to you. ------------------------------ Message: 18 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 11:33:40 -0500 From: "Watson, Linda" Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Mary Abosso , Steven Coakley , "Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Message-ID: <351A66CE7FB11D40AB8AC8FE5559EC7E01A0DBB9EC@ushpwbmsmmp008.one.ads.bms.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" I totally agree with Mary. I have often heard that histotechs are a dying breed. That us "old timers" are not being replaced by the younger generation. If we want to have less uncertified histotechs then lets not make it so difficult for individuals to pursue this wonderful career. I still think it is very important for the exam to remain in place but those individuals out of high school that are maybe not thinking of attending college to obtain a bachelors degree should have the opportunity to become a certified histologist. I know that you can still obtain the HT but not the HTL. Correct me if I am wrong. Linda >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mary Abosso >Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:19 AM >To: Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > >Many areas have to go to unregistered techs out of necessity due to the >high vacancy rate in our field since the ASCP made changes to the career >path for the HT board requirements. Many of these facilities have >either formal or informal training and have turned out many very good, >high quality techs. Yes, some may be skilled at the "art" of histology, >but lack the understanding that is behind the science. These often can >embed, cut and do special stains with superior quality and happy >pathologists. I have seen registered techs that have all the >intelligence that their sheepskins say, but totally lack the hands on >skills needed to produce superior quality material for patient >diagnosis. While this is only my opinion, I wish that there was still >the route for OJT as long as there is a certified tech in place for >training. > >My two cents worth, >Mary Abosso > >________________________________ > >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Steven >Coakley >Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 7:55 AM >To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > >Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big >advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with >unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues >when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area >of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 19 Date: Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:34:38 +0800 From: "TF" Subject: Re: [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC To: "Thurby, Christina" , "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Message-ID: <200902120034336211998@foxmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="gb2312" Hi, my experience is to use lower concentration gel-coated slides or pre-coated slide purchased from company...dont use home made one if you want to improve. second, the heating procedure shortly after mounting the frozen sections onto slides does not help a lot. My way: mounting sections from cryostat onto slide -> air dry -> heat plate 40-50 C or not for 10 min until the slides are a bit hot -> air dry in fume hood overnight (for small section such as Olfactory bulb, coronal brain section of rat takes 1-2 days - much better) ->you can stock all sections in -20 C freezer ->each time before IHC, heat the section at 60 C for 10 min (dry up after taking out from freezer). I boil the slide in 95 C citrate buffer for 30 min, <1 sections from 100 falls off. 2009-02-12 TF ???????? Thurby, Christina ?????????? 2009-02-11 23:43:16 ???????? histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu ?-???? ?????? [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC Hello all, Can any of you all with experience immunostaining brain sections please help. My sections are almost completely washing off the slides. I am using 10% NBF fixed canine brain sections. Embedded in paraffin and sectioned at 4 microns on plus slides with distilled water in the water bath. The slides are dried at 65 C for 15 minutes and allowed to stand overnight. I am using a Dako Autostainer for staining. There is no antigen retrieval step. My staining procedure is approximately 3.5 hours long. At the completion of the procedure, the tissue on my slides is 50-80% washed off. Any thoughts?? Christina Thurby _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 20 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 11:36:02 -0500 From: "Tom McNemar" Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Larry Woody" , , , "Steven Coakley" Message-ID: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0A7@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For our last opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech to our facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and two of us are certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and trained them to be a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She files slides, covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what you gotta do to get the work out. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 21 Date: Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:36:16 +0800 From: " TF " Subject: Re: [Histonet] Help with antigen unmaksing on frozen sections To: " Sarah Tarran " , " histonet " Message-ID: <200902120036112922997@foxmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" hi, for alpha -SMA I just put the slide with section into a plastic jar with citrate buffer put the jar into microwave, "HIGH" for 1 min and quickly cool down by adding cool distilled water then use 0.3% trition-PBS solution to soak the section for 10 min. works very well. i can show u pictures if u want,. 2009-02-12 TF ? ?????????? Sarah Tarran ? ??? ????????? 2009-02-11 12:19:58 ???????????? histonet ????? ??? ????????? [Histonet] Help with antigen unmaksing on frozen sections Hi everyone, I some help with antigen on frozen sections as I am having a lot of trouble getting antibodies to work. I am using a GFP mouse so can't formalin fix, parafin embed my samples. I tried frsh freezing but found that the GFP leaked so I couldn't use that either. So I currently fix my tissue in 4% paraformaldehyde for 2 hours, then cryopreserve in 18% sucrose overnight before embedding in OCT the following day. I have tried non-enzymatic heat retieval (boiling for 15 minutes in Dako's Target retrieval solution pH 9) but this destroys the GFP, if I use proteinase K it 'eats' away at the tissue. I have tried diluting it but that hasn't helped get the antibodies to work. I have also tried overnight at 4 degree incubations without any luck. Does anyone have any other ideas that I can try to get the antibodies to work? The antibodies that I am having problems with are: alpha smooth muscle actin, LSP-1, procollagen, serum amyloid p and TGF-beta. Thanks Sarah Tarran Postdoctoral Fellow Vascular Biology Research Centre, Department of Surgery Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 22 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 08:38:49 -0800 From: "Bull, Jennifer L." Subject: Subject: [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC To: "'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu'" Message-ID: <85760CECEC18444BB95F26D5E88DAEAA21FF216F6F@hinet2.hinet.org> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" What type of plus slides are you using? There are a few companies out there selling a "super" adhesive slide for just such applications. We use the Bond380 slide from TruScientific for all of our brain, autopsy and fatty tissue when performing IHC. We rarely have any compromised tissue and that is using the Dako platform and the PT Module for retrieval. I know there are other companies that carry similar slides, but we found the best pricing on these. You can reach them at 877-677-7523. You might also try skipping the oven and air drying your sections overnight follwed by a run over the heat plate before starting the staining process. Jennifer Bull jennifer.bull@nwpathology.com -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Thurby, Christina Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:38 AM To: histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] brain sections falling off slides during IHC Hello all, Can any of you all with experience immunostaining brain sections please help. My sections are almost completely washing off the slides. I am using 10% NBF fixed canine brain sections. Embedded in paraffin and sectioned at 4 microns on plus slides with distilled water in the water bath. The slides are dried at 65 C for 15 minutes and allowed to stand overnight. I am using a Dako Autostainer for staining. There is no antigen retrieval step. My staining procedure is approximately 3.5 hours long. At the completion of the procedure, the tissue on my slides is 50-80% washed off. Any thoughts?? Christina Thurby ------------------------------ Message: 23 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 08:51:47 -0800 From: Jennifer MacDonald Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Watson, Linda" Cc: "Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" , histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII" Both the HT and the HTL are available to qualified individuals. The only thing that was discontinued was the High School or equivalent and 2 years of experience (route 3). All other options (routes) remain the same. Jennifer MacDonald Mt. San Antonio College "Watson, Linda" Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu 02/11/2009 08:36 AM To Mary Abosso , Steven Coakley , "Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" cc Subject RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I totally agree with Mary. I have often heard that histotechs are a dying breed. That us "old timers" are not being replaced by the younger generation. If we want to have less uncertified histotechs then lets not make it so difficult for individuals to pursue this wonderful career. I still think it is very important for the exam to remain in place but those individuals out of high school that are maybe not thinking of attending college to obtain a bachelors degree should have the opportunity to become a certified histologist. I know that you can still obtain the HT but not the HTL. Correct me if I am wrong. Linda >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mary Abosso >Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:19 AM >To: Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > >Many areas have to go to unregistered techs out of necessity due to the >high vacancy rate in our field since the ASCP made changes to the career >path for the HT board requirements. Many of these facilities have >either formal or informal training and have turned out many very good, >high quality techs. Yes, some may be skilled at the "art" of histology, >but lack the understanding that is behind the science. These often can >embed, cut and do special stains with superior quality and happy >pathologists. I have seen registered techs that have all the >intelligence that their sheepskins say, but totally lack the hands on >skills needed to produce superior quality material for patient >diagnosis. While this is only my opinion, I wish that there was still >the route for OJT as long as there is a certified tech in place for >training. > >My two cents worth, >Mary Abosso > >________________________________ > >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Steven >Coakley >Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 7:55 AM >To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > >Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big >advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with >unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues >when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area >of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet End of Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 14 **************************************** From godsgalnow <@t> aol.com Wed Feb 11 11:49:55 2009 From: godsgalnow <@t> aol.com (godsgalnow@aol.com) Date: Wed Feb 11 12:31:34 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <948599.42650.qm@web53610.mail.re2.yahoo.com> References: <283333.28525.qm@web65715.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <948599.42650.qm@web53610.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <8CB5A884889E720-1118-C16@webmail-dd04.sysops.aol.com> Florida requires all histotechs to be certified....... Roxanne -----Original Message----- From: Larry Woody To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 11:09 am Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always anted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a irestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board ertified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the lides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? arry A. Woody eattle, Wa. ________________________________ rom: Rene J Buesa o: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley ent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM ubject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by he pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for uality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when ettling a legal case. en? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley ubject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology o: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu ate: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big=0 Ddvantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered echs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many rained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't elieve how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ istonet mailing list istonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu ttp://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ______________________________________________ istonet mailing list istonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu ttp://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ istonet mailing list istonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu ttp://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From TMcNemar <@t> lmhealth.org Wed Feb 11 12:56:10 2009 From: TMcNemar <@t> lmhealth.org (Tom McNemar) Date: Wed Feb 11 12:56:16 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <194169.40676.qm@web65710.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0A9@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> I'm sure that I'm gonna get blasted but...... I'm sorry but I stand by the statement. I have been a certified HT for 30 years now. I will take an uncertified tech who can get a quality slide to the pathologist in a timely fashion over one who can tell me about it but can't do it. We all know that they are out there. Yes, perhaps the "lure" was insufficient but that is out of my control and irrelevant. The bottom line is that none were willing to accept what I had to offer. Certification does not make a good histo tech. Certification is a stamp of validation. It says that someone passed a test so they must be good. There are many very good uncertified people in histology. Certification lost some of its validity when they did away with the practical part. I would prefer to have someone who can actually do the work and not just talk about it. Given my choice, I would love to have all certified techs but I live in the real world and it's not likely to happen in my remaining time. Everyone talks of quality like it comes magically from having a piece of paper. It don't. Quality comes from experience and practical training. And in the long run, that paper has very little to do with it. Let the flamming begin! Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:12 PM To: Larry Woody; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley; Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Tom: All you have written is understandable EXCEPT that "it doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the old assumption that "if you know how to cook or to knit you can do histology". That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a major concern. I agree that a lab assistant does not need to be certified as long as the work is limited to "assist" or do things other than working with patient samples. Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not enough money or benefits). HTs occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical lab and will never get of that stratum unless all are certified and those who hire them show the proper respect for their work. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar wrote: From: Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Larry Woody" , rjbuesa@yahoo.com, Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley" Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For our last opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech to our facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and two of us are certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and trained them to be a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She files slides, covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what you gotta do to get the work out. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From HornHV <@t> archildrens.org Wed Feb 11 12:58:53 2009 From: HornHV <@t> archildrens.org (Horn, Hazel V) Date: Wed Feb 11 12:58:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0A9@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> References: <194169.40676.qm@web65710.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0A9@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> Message-ID: <9AE8AA9E1F644B4AA6C155FB6FD51C6317D83050@EMAIL.archildrens.org> I agree with you 100% Tom. No flames here. Hazel Horn Hazel Horn, HT/HTL (ASCP) Supervisor of Histology Arkansas Children's Hospital 1 Children's Way Slot 820 Little Rock, AR 72202 phone 501.364.4240 fax 501.364.3155 visit us on the web at: www.archildrens.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Tom McNemar Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:56 PM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Larry Woody; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I'm sure that I'm gonna get blasted but...... I'm sorry but I stand by the statement. I have been a certified HT for 30 years now. I will take an uncertified tech who can get a quality slide to the pathologist in a timely fashion over one who can tell me about it but can't do it. We all know that they are out there. Yes, perhaps the "lure" was insufficient but that is out of my control and irrelevant. The bottom line is that none were willing to accept what I had to offer. Certification does not make a good histo tech. Certification is a stamp of validation. It says that someone passed a test so they must be good. There are many very good uncertified people in histology. Certification lost some of its validity when they did away with the practical part. I would prefer to have someone who can actually do the work and not just talk about it. Given my choice, I would love to have all certified techs but I live in the real world and it's not likely to happen in my remaining time. Everyone talks of quality like it comes magically from having a piece of paper. It don't. Quality comes from experience and practical training. And in the long run, that paper has very little to do with it. Let the flamming begin! Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:12 PM To: Larry Woody; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley; Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Tom: All you have written is understandable EXCEPT that "it doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the old assumption that "if you know how to cook or to knit you can do histology". That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a major concern. I agree that a lab assistant does not need to be certified as long as the work is limited to "assist" or do things other than working with patient samples. Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not enough money or benefits). HTs occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical lab and will never get of that stratum unless all are certified and those who hire them show the proper respect for their work. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar wrote: From: Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Larry Woody" , rjbuesa@yahoo.com, Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley" Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For our last opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech to our facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and two of us are certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and trained them to be a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She files slides, covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what you gotta do to get the work out. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************** The information contained in this message may be privileged and confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by replying to the message and deleting it from your computer. Thank you. From DDittus787 <@t> aol.com Wed Feb 11 13:03:07 2009 From: DDittus787 <@t> aol.com (DDittus787@aol.com) Date: Wed Feb 11 13:03:31 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Message-ID: Well Tom they can throw me on the fire with you!!! I agree I came thru an MT program ,OJT for Histology (some MT stuff helped) got my Bachelors later and finally got my MBA- but I have been working a great deal with the "new grads" from colleges and while they are very nice, I have to say some OJT would have been a great deal more helpful, than being able to get an A on a test! I know generations are different but what are they being told in these colleges??? Where is work ethic, realistic work expectations? We are in healthcare not banking thank goodness! Take me back to the good old days when we were by the docs side and learned everyday. Just my 2 cents. Thanks for listening. Dana Dittus MT/HT MBA Core Lab Administrator UHS LLC In a message dated 2/11/2009 1:56:37 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, TMcNemar@lmhealth.org writes: I'm sure that I'm gonna get blasted but...... I'm sorry but I stand by the statement. I have been a certified HT for 30 years now. I will take an uncertified tech who can get a quality slide to the pathologist in a timely fashion over one who can tell me about it but can't do it. We all know that they are out there. Yes, perhaps the "lure" was insufficient but that is out of my control and irrelevant. The bottom line is that none were willing to accept what I had to offer. Certification does not make a good histo tech. Certification is a stamp of validation. It says that someone passed a test so they must be good. There are many very good uncertified people in histology. Certification lost some of its validity when they did away with the practical part. I would prefer to have someone who can actually do the work and not just talk about it. Given my choice, I would love to have all certified techs but I live in the real world and it's not likely to happen in my remaining time. Everyone talks of quality like it comes magically from having a piece of paper. It don't. Quality comes from experience and practical training. And in the long run, that paper has very little to do with it. Let the flamming begin! Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:12 PM To: Larry Woody; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley; Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Tom: All you have written is understandable EXCEPT that "it doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the old assumption that "if you know how to cook or to knit you can do histology". That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a major concern. I agree that a lab assistant does not need to be certified as long as the work is limited to "assist" or do things other than working with patient samples. Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not enough money or benefits). HTs occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical lab and will never get of that stratum unless all are certified and those who hire them show the proper respect for their work. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar wrote: From: Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Larry Woody" , rjbuesa@yahoo.com, Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley" Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For our last opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech to our facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and two of us are certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and trained them to be a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She files slides, covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what you gotta do to get the work out. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet **************The year's hottest artists on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards. AOL Music takes you there. (http://music.aol.com/grammys?ncid=emlcntusmusi00000002) From slappycraw <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 11 13:11:41 2009 From: slappycraw <@t> yahoo.com (Larry Woody) Date: Wed Feb 11 13:11:45 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology References: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0A9@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> Message-ID: <205161.96863.qm@web53601.mail.re2.yahoo.com> It's not about if OTJ techs are better or worse than certified techs, it's about unifying the field and certification is one way to do that. As it stands now we are in a divided field of expertise where some places have a total lack of respect for anyone working in histology and other places go for the lowest price.?Once you are in histology it's?up to you how talented you are going to be but IMO this field needs to be unified for higher wages and more education about the field itself so more people get interested in?it. ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Tom McNemar To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Larry Woody ; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:56:10 AM Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I'm sure that I'm gonna get blasted but...... ? I'm sorry but I stand by the statement.? I have been a certified HT for 30 years now.? I will take an uncertified tech who can get a quality slide to the pathologist in a timely fashion over one who can?tell me about it but can't do it.? We all know that they are out there. ? Yes, perhaps the "lure" was insufficient but that is out of my control and irrelevant.? The bottom line is that?none were willing to accept what I had to offer. ? Certification does not make a good histo tech.? Certification is a?stamp of validation.? It says that someone passed a test so they must be good.? There are many very good uncertified people in histology.? ? Certification lost some of its validity when they did away with the practical part.? I would prefer to have someone who can actually do the work and not just talk about it. ? Given my choice, I would love to have all certified techs but I live in the real world and it's not?likely to happen in my remaining time.? Everyone talks of quality like it comes magically from having a piece of paper.? It don't.? Quality comes from experience and practical training.? And in the long run, that paper has very little to do with it. ? Let the flamming begin! ? Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org ? ? -----Original Message----- From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:12 PM To: Larry Woody; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley; Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Tom: All you have written is understandable EXCEPT that "it doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the old assumption that "if you know how to cook or to knit you can do histology". That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a major concern. I agree that a lab assistant? does not need to be certified as long as the work is limited to "assist" or do things other than working with patient samples. Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not enough money or benefits). HTs?occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical lab and will never get of that stratum unless all are certified and those who hire them show the proper respect for their work. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar wrote: From: Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Larry Woody" , rjbuesa@yahoo.com, Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley" Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For our last opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech to our facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and two of us are certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and trained them to be a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She files slides, covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what you gotta do to get the work out. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From lblazek <@t> digestivespecialists.com Wed Feb 11 13:16:21 2009 From: lblazek <@t> digestivespecialists.com (Blazek, Linda) Date: Wed Feb 11 13:13:19 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <5A2BD13465E061429D6455C8D6B40E39086EAD719B@IBMB7Exchange.digestivespecialists.com> If a histo tech knows how to do most everything in the clinical lab but is not an MT, should they be allowed to work there? -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of DDittus787@aol.com Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 2:03 PM To: TMcNemar@lmhealth.org; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; slappycraw@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; sjchtascp@yahoo.com Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Well Tom they can throw me on the fire with you!!! I agree I came thru an MT program ,OJT for Histology (some MT stuff helped) got my Bachelors later and finally got my MBA- but I have been working a great deal with the "new grads" from colleges and while they are very nice, I have to say some OJT would have been a great deal more helpful, than being able to get an A on a test! I know generations are different but what are they being told in these colleges??? Where is work ethic, realistic work expectations? We are in healthcare not banking thank goodness! Take me back to the good old days when we were by the docs side and learned everyday. Just my 2 cents. Thanks for listening. Dana Dittus MT/HT MBA Core Lab Administrator UHS LLC In a message dated 2/11/2009 1:56:37 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, TMcNemar@lmhealth.org writes: I'm sure that I'm gonna get blasted but...... I'm sorry but I stand by the statement. I have been a certified HT for 30 years now. I will take an uncertified tech who can get a quality slide to the pathologist in a timely fashion over one who can tell me about it but can't do it. We all know that they are out there. Yes, perhaps the "lure" was insufficient but that is out of my control and irrelevant. The bottom line is that none were willing to accept what I had to offer. Certification does not make a good histo tech. Certification is a stamp of validation. It says that someone passed a test so they must be good. There are many very good uncertified people in histology. Certification lost some of its validity when they did away with the practical part. I would prefer to have someone who can actually do the work and not just talk about it. Given my choice, I would love to have all certified techs but I live in the real world and it's not likely to happen in my remaining time. Everyone talks of quality like it comes magically from having a piece of paper. It don't. Quality comes from experience and practical training. And in the long run, that paper has very little to do with it. Let the flamming begin! Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:12 PM To: Larry Woody; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley; Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Tom: All you have written is understandable EXCEPT that "it doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the old assumption that "if you know how to cook or to knit you can do histology". That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a major concern. I agree that a lab assistant does not need to be certified as long as the work is limited to "assist" or do things other than working with patient samples. Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not enough money or benefits). HTs occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical lab and will never get of that stratum unless all are certified and those who hire them show the proper respect for their work. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar wrote: From: Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Larry Woody" , rjbuesa@yahoo.com, Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley" Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For our last opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech to our facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and two of us are certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and trained them to be a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She files slides, covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what you gotta do to get the work out. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet **************The year's hottest artists on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards. AOL Music takes you there. (http://music.aol.com/grammys?ncid=emlcntusmusi00000002) _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From slappycraw <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 11 13:14:45 2009 From: slappycraw <@t> yahoo.com (Larry Woody) Date: Wed Feb 11 13:14:51 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology References: <5A2BD13465E061429D6455C8D6B40E39086EAD719B@IBMB7Exchange.digestivespecialists.com> Message-ID: <851617.95653.qm@web53601.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Good one Linda! You won't get many MTs to agree with that. ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: "Blazek, Linda" To: "DDittus787@aol.com" ; "TMcNemar@lmhealth.org" ; "rjbuesa@yahoo.com" ; "slappycraw@yahoo.com" ; "Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" ; "sjchtascp@yahoo.com" Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:16:21 AM Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology If a histo tech knows how to do most everything in the clinical lab but is not an MT, should they be allowed to work there? -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of DDittus787@aol.com Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 2:03 PM To: TMcNemar@lmhealth.org; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; slappycraw@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; sjchtascp@yahoo.com Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Well Tom they can throw me on the fire with you!!! I agree? I came? thru an MT program ,OJT for Histology (some MT stuff helped) got my Bachelors? later and finally got my MBA- but I have been working a great deal with the "new? grads" from colleges and while they are very nice, I have to say some OJT would? have been a great deal more helpful, than being able to get an A on a test! I? know generations are different but what are they being told in these colleges???? Where is work ethic, realistic work expectations? We are in healthcare not banking thank goodness! Take me back to the good old days when we were by the? docs side and learned everyday. Just my 2 cents. Thanks for listening. Dana Dittus MT/HT MBA Core Lab Administrator UHS LLC In a message dated 2/11/2009 1:56:37 P.M. Eastern Standard Time,? TMcNemar@lmhealth.org writes: I'm sure? that I'm gonna get blasted but...... I'm sorry but I stand by the? statement.? I have been a certified HT for 30 years now.? I will? take an uncertified tech who can get a quality slide to the pathologist in a? timely fashion over one who can tell me about it but can't do it.? We all? know that they are out there. Yes, perhaps the "lure" was insufficient? but that is out of my control and irrelevant.? The bottom line is that? none were willing to accept what I had to offer. Certification does not? make a good histo tech.? Certification is a stamp of validation.? It? says that someone passed a test so they must be good.? There are many? very good uncertified people in histology.? Certification lost? some of its validity when they did away with the practical part.? I would? prefer to have someone who can actually do the work and not just talk about? it. Given my choice, I would love to have all certified techs but I? live in the real world and it's not likely to happen in my remaining? time.? Everyone talks of quality like it comes magically from having a? piece of paper.? It don't. Quality comes from experience and? practical training.? And in the long run, that paper has very little to? do with it. Let the flamming begin! Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP)? Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740)? 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org? -----Original Message----- From: Rene J Buesa? [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:12? PM To: Larry Woody; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley; Tom? McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in? Histology Tom: All you have written is understandable EXCEPT? that "it doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the? old assumption that "if you know how to cook or to knit you can do histology".? That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a major? concern. I agree that a lab assistant? does not need to be certified as? long as the work is limited to "assist" or do things other than working with? patient samples. Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not? enough money or benefits). HTs occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical? lab and will never get of that stratum unless all are certified and those who? hire them show the proper respect for their work. Ren? J. --- On? Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar ? wrote: From: Tom McNemar Subject:? RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Larry Woody"? , rjbuesa@yahoo.com,? Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley"? Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36? AM Perhaps in a perfect world....? My world is less than? perfect.? For our last opening, we spent 10 months trying to find? and lure a certified tech to our facility and then gave up and took an? MLT.? We have four techs and two of us are certified HTs.? We? recently hired a person off the street and trained them to be a? histology assistant.? It has been very beneficial for us.? She files? slides, covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips,? etc. It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology.? You gotta do what you gotta do to get the work out. Tom? McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health? Systems (740) 348-4163 (740)? 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original? Message----- From:? histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On? Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10? AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven? Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in? Histology This has been an ongoing issue for so many? years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license in? the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you? have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and? same with the Pathologist that looks at the slides so wouldn't you want? a certified tech doing the lab work as well? Larry A.? Woody Seattle,? Wa. ________________________________ From:? Rene J Buesa To:? Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven? Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February? 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in? Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do? histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call? it greed!) and shows total disregard for quality of work and patient? care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal? case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley? wrote: From: Steven Coakley? Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in? Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday,? February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my? fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these? facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs,? especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so? many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the? country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this? way. _______________________________________________ Histonet? mailing? list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet? mailing? list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet? mailing? list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet? mailing? list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet **************The year's hottest artists on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards.? AOL Music takes you there. (http://music.aol.com/grammys?ncid=emlcntusmusi00000002) _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu Wed Feb 11 13:29:16 2009 From: pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu (Pamela Marcum) Date: Wed Feb 11 13:29:28 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Reagent Labeling Policy In-Reply-To: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E38028D34BA09@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> References: <1872B4A455B7974391609AD8034C79FC8BD503@LBEXCH01.hchd.local> <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E38028D34BA09@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Message-ID: <000001c98c7f$077149d0$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> We go one step further. If you don't label and initial a container of solution you made in our lab it gets thrown out. Not always a popular move with students and fellows however, we don't have unknown bottles in the area anymore. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Swain, Frances L Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:30 PM To: Scott, Allison D; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] RE: Reagent Labeling Policy Our reagent labeling policy is this. When you prepare a reagent for use such as a buffer. The type of buffer is the first line, with the pH. The second line tells what date it was prepared, if there was an expiration date and the third line is the person who prepared it. When we receive new chemicals, dyes etc we label them with the date that they were received and the initals of the person who received the order. I hope that is what you are wanting to know. We also designate on the first line whether it is an aqueous solution or an alcoholic solution. If we purchase the solution ready made we have what we call a working solution bottle of those reagents that can be reused which are labeled with the solution, where it was purchased, when it was received, when it was opened. When to discard it, if known. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Scott, Allison D Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:25 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Reagent Labeling Policy Does anyone have a reagent labeling policy that they would be willing to share. Thanks in advance Allison Scott HT(ASCP) Histology Supervisor LBJ Hospital Houston, Texas 77026 CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this e-mail and any attachments from your computer system. To the extent the information in this e-mail and any attachments contain protected health information as defined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 ("HIPAA"), PL 104-191; 45 CFR Parts 160 and 164; or Chapter 181, Texas Health and Safety Code, it is confidential and/or privileged. This e-mail may also be confidential and/or privileged under Texas law. The e-mail is for the use of only the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, or any authorized representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, dissemination or copying of this e-mail and its attachments is strictly prohibited. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From TMcNemar <@t> lmhealth.org Wed Feb 11 13:33:18 2009 From: TMcNemar <@t> lmhealth.org (Tom McNemar) Date: Wed Feb 11 13:33:24 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <5A2BD13465E061429D6455C8D6B40E39086EAD719B@IBMB7Exchange.digestivespecialists.com> Message-ID: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0AA@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> Linda, I don't think its the same thing. Lab is so automated these days. I worked in a lab back when we did counts by hand and chemistries by actual chemistry. Today it's all instrumentation. In histology, although automation is coming slowly, the work (at least in the smaller histo labs) is mostly done by hand. The actual funtion of producing a slide is a primarily a talent. A talent born of experience. The vast majority of people with sufficient experience can produce a slide of diagnostic quality. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: Blazek, Linda [mailto:lblazek@digestivespecialists.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 2:16 PM To: 'DDittus787@aol.com'; Tom McNemar; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; slappycraw@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; sjchtascp@yahoo.com Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology If a histo tech knows how to do most everything in the clinical lab but is not an MT, should they be allowed to work there? -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of DDittus787@aol.com Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 2:03 PM To: TMcNemar@lmhealth.org; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; slappycraw@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; sjchtascp@yahoo.com Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Well Tom they can throw me on the fire with you!!! I agree I came thru an MT program ,OJT for Histology (some MT stuff helped) got my Bachelors later and finally got my MBA- but I have been working a great deal with the "new grads" from colleges and while they are very nice, I have to say some OJT would have been a great deal more helpful, than being able to get an A on a test! I know generations are different but what are they being told in these colleges??? Where is work ethic, realistic work expectations? We are in healthcare not banking thank goodness! Take me back to the good old days when we were by the docs side and learned everyday. Just my 2 cents. Thanks for listening. Dana Dittus MT/HT MBA Core Lab Administrator UHS LLC In a message dated 2/11/2009 1:56:37 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, TMcNemar@lmhealth.org writes: I'm sure that I'm gonna get blasted but...... I'm sorry but I stand by the statement. I have been a certified HT for 30 years now. I will take an uncertified tech who can get a quality slide to the pathologist in a timely fashion over one who can tell me about it but can't do it. We all know that they are out there. Yes, perhaps the "lure" was insufficient but that is out of my control and irrelevant. The bottom line is that none were willing to accept what I had to offer. Certification does not make a good histo tech. Certification is a stamp of validation. It says that someone passed a test so they must be good. There are many very good uncertified people in histology. Certification lost some of its validity when they did away with the practical part. I would prefer to have someone who can actually do the work and not just talk about it. Given my choice, I would love to have all certified techs but I live in the real world and it's not likely to happen in my remaining time. Everyone talks of quality like it comes magically from having a piece of paper. It don't. Quality comes from experience and practical training. And in the long run, that paper has very little to do with it. Let the flamming begin! Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:12 PM To: Larry Woody; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley; Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Tom: All you have written is understandable EXCEPT that "it doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the old assumption that "if you know how to cook or to knit you can do histology". That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a major concern. I agree that a lab assistant does not need to be certified as long as the work is limited to "assist" or do things other than working with patient samples. Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not enough money or benefits). HTs occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical lab and will never get of that stratum unless all are certified and those who hire them show the proper respect for their work. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar wrote: From: Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Larry Woody" , rjbuesa@yahoo.com, Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley" Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For our last opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech to our facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and two of us are certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and trained them to be a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She files slides, covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what you gotta do to get the work out. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet **************The year's hottest artists on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards. AOL Music takes you there. (http://music.aol.com/grammys?ncid=emlcntusmusi00000002) _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From kgrobert <@t> rci.rutgers.edu Wed Feb 11 14:00:47 2009 From: kgrobert <@t> rci.rutgers.edu (Kathleen Roberts) Date: Wed Feb 11 13:48:19 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sections coming off of slides Message-ID: <49932E6F.3020004@rci.rutgers.edu> Hi all, I just had a professor come to me asking if I had any tricks to rescue a section that is partially off its slide. This is formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded mouse brain, and one section on one slide is half attached and half floating after antigen retrieval for IHC (no, I don't know which retrieval method he used, but I can find out if you need it). I've never tried to do this, and a search of the archives turned up nothing, but my keywords may be off. Has anybody managed to save a section that was coming off the slide? Thanks, Kathleen Roberts Principal Lab Technician Neurotoxicology Labs Dept of Pharmacology & Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy Rutgers University 41 B Gordon Road Piscataway, NJ 08854 From sbreeden <@t> nmda.nmsu.edu Wed Feb 11 13:49:17 2009 From: sbreeden <@t> nmda.nmsu.edu (Breeden, Sara) Date: Wed Feb 11 13:49:24 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Licensure/Certification Message-ID: <4D14F0FC9316DD41972D5F03C070908B017E66B2@nmdamailsvr.nmda.ad.nmsu.edu> Don't get me wrong... I'm OJT-trained. I just think that we, as histotechs doing a very critical and important job, need to be interested enough in our career/profession that licensure/certification is the goal of our training. I just can't figure out why someone that cuts my hair has to be licensed and histotechs don't! I was never more proud than the day I received that letter from ASCP telling me I was qualified to use the initials HT(ASCP) behind my name! I worked very hard for that, even though I had no college degree. Which prompts me to say that on March 7th, I will have been certified for FORTY years! Send cupcakes to me at the address below and I'll add the candles (which will cause security to come a'runnin' to put out an illegal fire caused by 40 candles on a cupcake...but that's another issue). Sally Breeden, HT(ASCP) NM Dept. of Agriculture Veterinary Diagnostic Services PO Box 4700 Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-841-2576 From dez <@t> u.washington.edu Wed Feb 11 13:49:26 2009 From: dez <@t> u.washington.edu (J. Fernandez) Date: Wed Feb 11 13:49:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Uncertified Techs In-Reply-To: <9AE8AA9E1F644B4AA6C155FB6FD51C6317D83049@EMAIL.archildrens.org> References: <4D14F0FC9316DD41972D5F03C070908B017E66AC@nmdamailsvr.nmda.ad.nmsu.edu> <9AE8AA9E1F644B4AA6C155FB6FD51C6317D83049@EMAIL.archildrens.org> Message-ID: Then go be a hair dresser,comparing one career to another is not the same balance. On Wed, 11 Feb 2009, Horn, Hazel V wrote: > I'm fairly certain all hair dressers are licensed. > > Hazel Horn > Hazel Horn, HT/HTL (ASCP) > Supervisor of Histology > Arkansas Children's Hospital > 1 Children's Way Slot 820 > Little Rock, AR 72202 > > phone 501.364.4240 > fax 501.364.3155 > > visit us on the web at: www.archildrens.org > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Breeden, > Sara > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:11 AM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] Uncertified Techs > > Strangely enough (but not entirely unexpectedly), beauticians and > barbers in this State must be licensed. Histotechs? Nope. > > Sally Breeden, HT(ASCP) > NM Dept. of Agriculture > Veterinary Diagnostic Services > PO Box 4700 > Albuquerque, NM 87106 > 505-841-2576 > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > ****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************** > The information contained in this message may be privileged and confidential > and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the > intended recipient, or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this > message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any > dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly > prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify > us immediately by replying to the message and deleting it from your computer. > Thank you. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > From dez <@t> u.washington.edu Wed Feb 11 13:57:34 2009 From: dez <@t> u.washington.edu (J. Fernandez) Date: Wed Feb 11 13:57:40 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Ditto On Wed, 11 Feb 2009, DDittus787@aol.com wrote: > Well Tom they can throw me on the fire with you!!! I agree I came thru an > MT program ,OJT for Histology (some MT stuff helped) got my Bachelors later > and finally got my MBA- but I have been working a great deal with the "new > grads" from colleges and while they are very nice, I have to say some OJT would > have been a great deal more helpful, than being able to get an A on a test! I > know generations are different but what are they being told in these > colleges??? Where is work ethic, realistic work expectations? We are in healthcare not > banking thank goodness! Take me back to the good old days when we were by > the docs side and learned everyday. Just my 2 cents. Thanks for listening. > > Dana Dittus MT/HT MBA > Core Lab Administrator > UHS LLC > > > In a message dated 2/11/2009 1:56:37 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, > TMcNemar@lmhealth.org writes: > > I'm sure that I'm gonna get blasted but...... > > I'm sorry but I stand by the statement. I have been a certified HT for 30 > years now. I will take an uncertified tech who can get a quality slide to the > pathologist in a timely fashion over one who can tell me about it but can't > do it. We all know that they are out there. > > Yes, perhaps the "lure" was insufficient but that is out of my control and > irrelevant. The bottom line is that none were willing to accept what I had to > offer. > > Certification does not make a good histo tech. Certification is a stamp of > validation. It says that someone passed a test so they must be good. There > are many very good uncertified people in histology. > > Certification lost some of its validity when they did away with the > practical part. I would prefer to have someone who can actually do the work and not > just talk about it. > > Given my choice, I would love to have all certified techs but I live in the > real world and it's not likely to happen in my remaining time. Everyone > talks of quality like it comes magically from having a piece of paper. It don't. > Quality comes from experience and practical training. And in the long run, > that paper has very little to do with it. > > Let the flamming begin! > > Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) > Histology Co-ordinator > Licking Memorial Health Systems > (740) 348-4163 > (740) 348-4166 > tmcnemar@lmhealth.org > www.LMHealth.org > > > > > -----Original Message----- > From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:12 PM > To: Larry Woody; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley; Tom > McNemar > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > > Tom: > All you have written is understandable EXCEPT that "it doesn't take an > advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the old assumption that "if you > know how to cook or to knit you can do histology". > That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a major > concern. I agree that a lab assistant does not need to be certified as long as > the work is limited to "assist" or do things other than working with patient > samples. > Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not enough money or > benefits). > HTs occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical lab and will never get of > that stratum unless all are certified and those who hire them show the proper > respect for their work. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar wrote: > > > From: Tom McNemar > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "Larry Woody" , rjbuesa@yahoo.com, > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley" > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM > > > Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For our last > > opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech to our > > facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and two of us > are > > certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and trained them > to be > > a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She files > slides, > > covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. > > > > It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what you > > gotta do to get the work out. > > > > Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) > > Histology Co-ordinator > > Licking Memorial Health Systems > > (740) 348-4163 > > (740) 348-4166 > > tmcnemar@lmhealth.org > > www.LMHealth.org > > > > > > -----Original Message----- > > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry > > Woody > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM > > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > > > > This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always > > wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a > > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the > > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > > > > Larry A. Woody > > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > > From: Rene J Buesa > > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated > > by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows > > total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all > > those savings when settling a legal case. > > Ren? J. > > > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > > > From: Steven Coakley > > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big > > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > > unregistered > > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > > trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't > > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > Histonet mailing list > > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > Histonet mailing list > > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > > Histonet mailing list > > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > **************The year's hottest artists on the red carpet at the Grammy > Awards. AOL Music takes you there. > (http://music.aol.com/grammys?ncid=emlcntusmusi00000002) > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > From DDittus787 <@t> aol.com Wed Feb 11 13:56:36 2009 From: DDittus787 <@t> aol.com (DDittus787@aol.com) Date: Wed Feb 11 13:58:27 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Licensure/Certification Message-ID: Sally: Congratulations at 40 years ! Wow. Your right Histotechs do an important job and most pathologists as well as clinicians would be lost without them. Since you got that HT ASCP behind your name would licensure make that big a difference? Because we are not visible most people (public) don't know what we do or our role . I have been going to colleges talking to students about how great this profession has been to me, and hoping to entice them into it. You deserve a whole lot more than just cupcakes- you deserve at least a Hawaiian vacation! Dana In a message dated 2/11/2009 2:49:55 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, sbreeden@nmda.nmsu.edu writes: Don't get me wrong... I'm OJT-trained. I just think that we, as histotechs doing a very critical and important job, need to be interested enough in our career/profession that licensure/certification is the goal of our training. I just can't figure out why someone that cuts my hair has to be licensed and histotechs don't! I was never more proud than the day I received that letter from ASCP telling me I was qualified to use the initials HT(ASCP) behind my name! I worked very hard for that, even though I had no college degree. Which prompts me to say that on March 7th, I will have been certified for FORTY years! Send cupcakes to me at the address below and I'll add the candles (which will cause security to come a'runnin' to put out an illegal fire caused by 40 candles on a cupcake...but that's another issue). Sally Breeden, HT(ASCP) NM Dept. of Agriculture Veterinary Diagnostic Services PO Box 4700 Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-841-2576 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet **************The year's hottest artists on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards. AOL Music takes you there. (http://music.aol.com/grammys?ncid=emlcntusmusi00000002) From tjasper <@t> copc.net Wed Feb 11 14:17:47 2009 From: tjasper <@t> copc.net (Thomas Jasper) Date: Wed Feb 11 14:17:53 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs References: <549288.2771.qm@web38203.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <90354A475B420441B2A0396E5008D4965E300E@copc-sbs.COPC.local> Steve, You never needed to pay the $45 a year to the ASCP. Once you were certified, you were certified. No one can take that away from you. And $45 for a sticker wasn't insurance of anything. That money went to supporting the ASCP and getting you a copy of their magazine. I realize it's different today for new certificants with the CE requirement, which is actually not a bad idea. To everyone else interested in this discussion, I fall on the side of ASCP certification being the unifying factor. And I've still not been convinced that state licensure (or whatever kind of licensure) is necessary. We have a national standard with the ASCP-BOR, I see no need to re-invent the wheel here. And I realize I'm probably treading ground somewhere here between the advocates for licensure and those who feel uncertified techs are good enough and if you have more training, education, etc., that's nice but not required. Seems to me that whatever the field of endeavor, you will always find people doing exceptional work and people without a clue. To paraphrase George Carlin, "Somewhere out there is the world's worst doctor, that's bad enough, but what's worse is that someone probably has an appointment to see him today!" So, this may or may not have anything to do with degrees, certifications, licenses or special training. I think the general public would like to believe it does, or why would people bother to frame all their diplomas, certificates etc., and put them on the walls of their offices? It does seem logical that someone with more training, education and all would be a better tech. The reality is sometimes that's true and sometimes it's not. I like the idea of a well educated and technically skill person working in my lab, but everyone brings something different to the table. Also, from what's been posted already it's obvious to me that life circumstances have dictated how things shook out for most people. Everyone wants respect no matter which path brought them to the lab. I think we can agree on 2 things here which are both less than optimal - 1)Having a technically skilled person that's good at embedding, cutting and staining, but doesn't have a clue about chemistry, biology or much in the way of science -that's a problem! 2)Having a certified, bona fide, glorified (and possibly funk-defied)degree holding, so called, well educated person that can't walk and chew gum, let alone get any lab work done -that's a problem! I don't have the answer, but I do know that having the state hit you up every year for $$??, just to keep a license seems wrong! In the last year, I've hired 3 well educated techs, that will eventually take their registry exam. I appreciate the education they've got. The level of technical expertise I get from them is good to very good as well. So, I'm lucky in that regard. I do believe it was a mistake to eliminate the practical portion of the exam. I can elaborate on that with anyone who disagrees if they wish, but this post is probably long enough for now. Also, I'm sure this discussion can seem confusing and odd to our UK, etc., colleagues, but their social medicine makes for a completely different beast. Thanks for allowing me to ramble. Tom Jasper Thomas Jasper HT (ASCP) BAS Histology Supervisor Central Oregon Regional Pathology Services Bend, OR 97701 541/617-2831 tjasper@copc.net -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 9:47 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs Thanks for all the input.? So why am I wasting my cash paying the $45 for an ascp sticker? 15 years ago I suppose I should have taken the extra time to become at least an MLT. Oh well. ? Thanks again ya all.? :) ? Steve _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From grudow1 <@t> jhmi.edu Wed Feb 11 14:19:09 2009 From: grudow1 <@t> jhmi.edu (Gay Rudow) Date: Wed Feb 11 14:18:55 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Antibody penetration problem Message-ID: <864A73846CE8F04D995603351682C29C86A851C6FE@JHEMTEXVS2.win.ad.jhu.edu> I hate to change the topic, but I have a problem with penetration of an antibody. I am using 50 ?M paraffin sections and doing an antigen retrieval step of microwaving the sections in water for 5 min. I am staining by hand using the Vector ABC Elite mouse kit. The antibody is SMI 311 which I am using as a neuronal marker. Right now, my antibody penetration is only 15 ?M. Does anyone have any suggestions to help me with this? Thanks! Gay Rudow From histotechkb <@t> gmail.com Wed Feb 11 14:43:28 2009 From: histotechkb <@t> gmail.com (Kristen Yaros) Date: Wed Feb 11 14:43:35 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Certified Techs Defense Message-ID: <667c97ab0902111243t9748b04n1ca6098fbfd82137@mail.gmail.com> Ok, I'll "get in" on this one too. And I'm sure I'll get blasted... but anyways (is it Friday yet?)... Why is everyone fussing SO MUCH about techs who went the school route? Why do people seem to portray the impression that "we" can't do the work? (and I quote "I would prefer to have someone who can actually do the work and not just talk about it.") I graduated & took my registry the last year the practical was required, so... that was 5 years ago & I still consider myself to be a newer tech compared to my mentors who have been in this field a long time. But anyways, as far as the school programs, there IS a clinical componant where we learn HANDS ON and are graded for it - it's not just all book work! And now that I'm stewing over this email a little, I'm starting to feel defensive for my instructors who work very hard to teach their histotech students. There are good and bad students everywhere, and the ones who aren't qualified to pass (in both practical and book training) shouldn't be graduating from their programs. Kristen Yaros, HT (ASCP)CM From carrolpb <@t> umdnj.edu Wed Feb 11 14:22:40 2009 From: carrolpb <@t> umdnj.edu (Peter Carroll) Date: Wed Feb 11 14:56:58 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Uncertified Techs In-Reply-To: References: <4D14F0FC9316DD41972D5F03C070908B017E66AC@nmdamailsvr.nmda.ad.nmsu.edu> <9AE8AA9E1F644B4AA6C155FB6FD51C6317D83049@EMAIL.archildrens.org> Message-ID: <49933390.7090408@umdnj.edu> > Then go be a hair dresser, comparing one career to another is not the same balance. We both cut and stain. What's the difference? ;) From gagnone <@t> KGH.KARI.NET Wed Feb 11 15:02:33 2009 From: gagnone <@t> KGH.KARI.NET (Gagnon, Eric) Date: Wed Feb 11 15:02:44 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IF Protocol on skin Message-ID: Hi Gudrun, Our IF protocol is very similar to yours...we use 1/30 dilutions as well, although we rinse before the FITC-antisera (Dako) are applied, with frozen sections cut at 5 microns. We did experiment with this procedure on our BenchMark XT's, with some success. The pathologist who reads most of renal biopsies IF's decided that our manual method was "robust" enough (i.e. foolproof enough) that we could continue using it. Manual staining saves us trying to fit in a new or current run when the XT is already running. Regarding our dilutions, we make 3 ml at a time, and have not had any problems with the staining diminishing before the antisera are used up. Eric Gagnon MLT Histology Laboratory Kingston General Hospital Kingston, Ontario, Canada From janderson <@t> halozyme.com Wed Feb 11 15:05:44 2009 From: janderson <@t> halozyme.com (Jennifer Anderson) Date: Wed Feb 11 15:05:58 2009 Subject: [Histonet] HT training In-Reply-To: <002c01c98c74$c79670b0$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: Hello. I am enjoying this discussion on the pro's and con's and plusses and minuses of certification. I did not know that clinical labs allowed uncertified techs to process human clinical samples - that seems like it would be a huge liability issue. It shouldn't be that way - isn't everyone else in a hospital setting certified somehow? (nurses, radiology...) I am not certified, and I am in a biotech setting (pre-clinical R&D). I've just started this position and I'm working with an HT certified person in the lab. We both can trim and gross and cut and process and stain, and troubleshoot. However, she's a professional HT and it shows. She has a lot of clinical background. She has an amazing wealth and breadth of knowledge and skill, and knows what to look for during quality control issues. She doesn't have to take time to peruse the internet or books to get an answer to a histology problem. However if you asked her to do an ELISA or a Western Blot she would probably need some help, unlike myself. I do hope to gain histology knowledge from her, although it's proving to be difficult. I am very interested in developing my skills and learning more about pathology and the science of staining. I would love to be HT certified, but the HT here said I would need to train in a clinical setting for a year, under an ASCP pathologist, which is not likely with the job that I have and being a mom of two. Would anyone know of a less rigorous training program? Something online? Thanks a lot. Jennifer Anderson The information transmitted in this email is confidential and is intended only for the person(s) or entity to which it is addressed. Delivery of this message to any person other than the intended recipient(s) is not intended in any way to waive confidentiality or any applicable privilege. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by individuals or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited by Halozyme and may be in violation of applicable laws. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and delete/destroy this email. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Pamela Marcum Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:16 AM To: 'Martin, Gary'; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I am sorry I seemed to have expanded this discussion. I want to be clear on part of the record. I was OJT trained in the 60's. We had even fewer schools and options then. The person who trained me had been trained by the pathologist and the Ann Preece book in histology. She knew what the pathologists we worked with wanted and saw to it that was what they got everyday. When I worked in other places later and continued my education I did learn more about the chemistry and why it worked or failed. I was in research when I took my HT and was told if I used animal tissue I would fail as no one on the board back then was experienced with it. I did not know if it was true so I quickly found a hospital where I could complete everything on human tissue I processed and stained. The person running that lab required me (thank goodness) to process every piece of tissue and do every stain manually. We did not have automated stainers back then so I learned every step. So for those who think I am picking on them for OJT training it is not that I disapprove. I believe histology is too important not to be considered professional field that requires consistent training and education. Many of us old timers have fought hard for the education clause so we would have people who were licensed and fully trained. I did get my BS and more education so I did get more on my own. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Martin, Gary Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:27 PM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I am one of those "unregistered" techs. I would respectfully hope that we are not considered the villains here. My situation is; we are a small lab in a rural area that has the need for 1 1/2 Histo Techs. We were having a very difficult time attracting a 1/2 time "qualified tech.", and had zero backup for our one and only full time "qualified tech." I have a good back ground in detail work in the art world and a good amount of experience as a pathology lab assistant. So it was easy for me to transition into the role of "unregistered tech", thereby providing back for our over work Histo tech. I have been trained by my Histo tech and have completed the Freida L. Carson self instruction course under her supervision. We are happy with the results and our Pathologist are pleased. At this point (7 years into teching) there are some things that I have been innovative on some things, and our tech prefers me to do other things. I would love to get certified but the changes in OTJ have made that more of a mountain than I can climb at this time. I would like to lend voice to us who are in this situation and say the we take our duties very serious and I really don't look at my job as getting over on rules or quality or providing cheap labor. In our case it has been necessity. Thank you Gary From rosenfeldtek <@t> hotmail.com Wed Feb 11 15:10:33 2009 From: rosenfeldtek <@t> hotmail.com (JR R) Date: Wed Feb 11 15:10:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <001501c98c5c$77d92850$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> <001501c98c5c$77d92850$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: I've been a research scientist and laboratory manager for over 20 years, and I learned histology by on-the-job training. Apparently I'm pretty good at it, and the people I've trained became good at it. I am slightly bothered by the fact that after all these years of experience, I'm still not considered a "real histologist." Mind you, I understand that histology for diagnosing human patients ought to be more rigorous than histology for pure research. I have actually hired on certified histotechnologist, and he was the best I ever had. I mean, he was even as good as me. Jerry Ricks Research Scientist University of Washington Department of Pathology > From: pmarcum@vet.upenn.edu > To: sjchtascp@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:21:52 -0500 > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > CC: > > It is called be cheap and don't pay for training!! Sorry that is how I see > and ASCP does not seem to care or force the issue for training in histology. > > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Steven > Coakley > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 9:56 AM > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues > when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of > the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: E-mail. Chat. Share. Get more ways to connect. http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_allup_howitworks_022009 From mlbukhar <@t> ucalgary.ca Wed Feb 11 15:13:04 2009 From: mlbukhar <@t> ucalgary.ca (maureen bukhari) Date: Wed Feb 11 15:13:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] fixation Message-ID: <001a01c98c8d$87958410$96c08c30$@ca> Does anyone know if it is possible to fix tissue for IPX in the unbuffered zinc formalin and then put it on a processor (after it is completely fixed) with 10% NBF. Will this undo exactly what you are trying to do? i.e. expose the antigenic sites Thanx Maureen From rich.strauss <@t> Esoterix.com Wed Feb 11 15:35:00 2009 From: rich.strauss <@t> Esoterix.com (Strauss, Rich) Date: Wed Feb 11 15:35:08 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Certified techs and so on... Message-ID: My 2 cents, I have both hired certified and OJT in house trained and else where trained; I personally appreciate the mix. The experience hands show the new educated minds the manual skills and to quote an old old mentor of mine" they either have skills or they don't" I can remember having certified techs that chomped through blocks and required re-training, above all the OJT should be encouraged to get certified, for many reasons and science courses do not hurt for those with ART degrees as I have found can make excellent histotechs. I find it rewarding to still help transform a person's career by having a field that has "opportunities to achieve from a variety of backgrounds" This will be gone soon enough and the uniqueness of our field will disappear too. Vive la Histotechs!!! Richard Strauss HT, QIHC IHC/Histology Supervisor USL-East 201 Summit View Dr Brentwood, TN 37027 phone: 615 377-7151 rich.strauss@esoterix.com ----------------------------------------- This e-mail and any attachments may contain CONFIDENTIAL information, including PROTECTED HEALTH INFORMATION. If you are not the intended recipient, any use or disclosure of this information is STRICTLY PROHIBITED; you are requested to delete this e-mail and any attachments, notify the sender immediately, and notify the LabCorp Privacy Officer at privacyofficer@labcorp.com or call (877) 23-HIPAA / (877) 234-4722. From kgrobert <@t> rci.rutgers.edu Wed Feb 11 15:52:12 2009 From: kgrobert <@t> rci.rutgers.edu (Kathleen Roberts) Date: Wed Feb 11 15:39:47 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sections coming off of slides In-Reply-To: <499331AE.4030404@umdnj.edu> References: <49932E6F.3020004@rci.rutgers.edu> <499331AE.4030404@umdnj.edu> Message-ID: <4993488C.1030507@rci.rutgers.edu> Oh, I do know that is the problem-the slides that were used in the first place. The other problem is, I wasn't the one who cut these; it was someone in a completely different lab, who uses slides from Mercedes Medical (bad batch, maybe?), who cut these sections for said professor. I keep telling him to either snitch a box of my slides to give to them, or let me cut for him-he himself has said that when I use my Gold Seal Ultrastick slides, those sections never fall off. :o) -Kathy Peter Carroll wrote: > next time, cut them onto plus slides ;) > > Kathleen Roberts wrote: > >> Hi all, >> >> I just had a professor come to me asking if I had any tricks to >> rescue a section that is partially off its slide. This is >> formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded mouse brain, and one section on one >> slide is half attached and half floating after antigen retrieval for >> IHC (no, I don't know which retrieval method he used, but I can find >> out if you need it). I've never tried to do this, and a search of >> the archives turned up nothing, but my keywords may be off. Has >> anybody managed to save a section that was coming off the slide? >> >> Thanks, >> Kathleen Roberts >> Principal Lab Technician >> Neurotoxicology Labs >> Dept of Pharmacology & Toxicology >> Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy >> Rutgers University >> 41 B Gordon Road >> Piscataway, NJ 08854 >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> > From billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net Wed Feb 11 15:53:16 2009 From: billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net (O'Donnell, Bill) Date: Wed Feb 11 15:53:31 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0A9@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> References: <194169.40676.qm@web65710.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0A9@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> Message-ID: Got your back on tis one, Tom. I came up through MT then OJT histo. Yes, the education helped. I have since trained a number of techs who have gone on to complete their registry. Most did well for themselves. Makes me proud. I admit it was always easier to train a person with an AS or BS. And admittedly, they were better techs for it. They also commanded better money. Respect comes from the performance, not the degree, registry or lack there-of. Yes, I would rather have registered techs, prefferably with degrees. I agree that the only way we will be better paid across the board is to have demands of registry and education. I'm in agreement with what the ASCP did in tightening up its requirements - but I was a slow convert. All that was said so that I might say this: I have worked with stellar OJTs that for one reason or another, never challenged the registry. Knowing where to find it in the book is most usually good enough. The reality is, however, that we are going to continue to have this debate for a loooong, looooooong time. Smile, take another sip of tea and.....darn there goes my timer! "Good techs not always a registry make" -Yoda (or some guy who looked like him)(well he was green-ish, anyway) William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Tom McNemar Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:56 PM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Larry Woody; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I'm sure that I'm gonna get blasted but...... I'm sorry but I stand by the statement. I have been a certified HT for 30 years now. I will take an uncertified tech who can get a quality slide to the pathologist in a timely fashion over one who can tell me about it but can't do it. We all know that they are out there. Yes, perhaps the "lure" was insufficient but that is out of my control and irrelevant. The bottom line is that none were willing to accept what I had to offer. Certification does not make a good histo tech. Certification is a stamp of validation. It says that someone passed a test so they must be good. There are many very good uncertified people in histology. Certification lost some of its validity when they did away with the practical part. I would prefer to have someone who can actually do the work and not just talk about it. Given my choice, I would love to have all certified techs but I live in the real world and it's not likely to happen in my remaining time. Everyone talks of quality like it comes magically from having a piece of paper. It don't. Quality comes from experience and practical training. And in the long run, that paper has very little to do with it. Let the flamming begin! Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:12 PM To: Larry Woody; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley; Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Tom: All you have written is understandable EXCEPT that "it doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the old assumption that "if you know how to cook or to knit you can do histology". That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a major concern. I agree that a lab assistant does not need to be certified as long as the work is limited to "assist" or do things other than working with patient samples. Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not enough money or benefits). HTs occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical lab and will never get of that stratum unless all are certified and those who hire them show the proper respect for their work. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar wrote: From: Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Larry Woody" , rjbuesa@yahoo.com, Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley" Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For our last opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech to our facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and two of us are certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and trained them to be a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She files slides, covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what you gotta do to get the work out. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From cmiller <@t> gladstone.ucsf.edu Wed Feb 11 16:04:03 2009 From: cmiller <@t> gladstone.ucsf.edu (Caroline Miller) Date: Wed Feb 11 16:04:08 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <194169.40676.qm@web65710.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: <194169.40676.qm@web65710.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <7617E2CC-29CC-4E90-8FBC-E7FEEAD4C735@gladstone.ucsf.edu> Thank you for an interesting conversation on this matter. I am sorry, I am sure this issue has come up before, but I am new to the list and therefore this is the first time I have seen it. I used to run a clinical lab in the UK 5 years ago (before moving to San Francisco for a research career) and the National Health service was going the way of unskilled workers too, although the qualified ones didn't get nearly as much as they do in the USA, so really, everyone looses! Question - as a histologist with over 10 years experience who still has her UK qualifications what do I have to do to be qualified in the USA?? Thanks Caroline Caroline Miller Co-Manager J David Gladstone Institutes Histology and Microscopy Core 1650 Owens St San Francisco CA 94158 Tel: 415 734 2566 Fax: 415 355 0824 http://www.gladstone.ucsf.edu/gladstone/site/histology/ cmiller@gladstone.ucsf.edu On Feb 11, 2009, at 9:12 AM, Rene J Buesa wrote: > Tom: > All you have written is understandable EXCEPT that "it doesn't take > an advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the old > assumption that "if you know how to cook or to knit you can do > histology". > That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a > major concern. I agree that a lab assistant does not need to be > certified as long as the work is limited to "assist" or do things > other than working with patient samples. > Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not enough > money or benefits). > HTs occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical lab and will never > get of that stratum unless all are certified and those who hire them > show the proper respect for their work. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar wrote: > > From: Tom McNemar > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "Larry Woody" , rjbuesa@yahoo.com, Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > , "Steven Coakley" > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM > > Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For > our last > opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech > to our > facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and > two of us are > certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and > trained them to be > a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She > files slides, > covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. > > It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do > what you > gotta do to get the work out. > > Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) > Histology Co-ordinator > Licking Memorial Health Systems > (740) 348-4163 > (740) 348-4166 > tmcnemar@lmhealth.org > www.LMHealth.org > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry > Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven > Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've > always > wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always > starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a > board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks > at the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as > well? > > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated > by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows > total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end > losing all > those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the > big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when > theres so many > trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I > can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From tpodawiltz <@t> lrgh.org Wed Feb 11 16:05:22 2009 From: tpodawiltz <@t> lrgh.org (Podawiltz, Thomas) Date: Wed Feb 11 16:05:31 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <851617.95653.qm@web53601.mail.re2.yahoo.com> References: <5A2BD13465E061429D6455C8D6B40E39086EAD719B@IBMB7Exchange.digestivespecialists.com>, <851617.95653.qm@web53601.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D32F1FC83@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> Question for everyone. When you were in High school, college or in the military had you ever heard of Histology? How did you find out? One of our problems is no press coverage. I am a Navy trained MLT, that 3 months after graduating gave up my position in Hematology to so my wife could have it and keep her out of blood bank. I met the Chief that ran Histology and thought I would give it a try. Everyone of us in that lab in Portsmouth, VA fell were MLT's that fell in love with Histology and all were OJTs, in fact the last year that I was the assistant leading Petty Officer it was may job to train new people. What I tried to teach was how to get your knowledge to come not from you mouth but your finger tips. I would rather have a tech that knows how to embed properly, cut a complete section without cutting through the block, what a good stain looks like and above all how to trouble shoot. I never needed or wanted the know-it-all that could tell me the molecular structure of xylene, but could not grasp the concept of setting up a gross run. My point? We as Supervisor's are the mentors, it is are job to teach our techs on how we need the work performed, to me working on your certification is showing that you are committed to your profession, not all people are good at taking a test and passing the test just meant you were really good that day. Would I take an un-certified tech over a certified tech? That would depend on their attitude and how well they perform on my tests. Linda: one day I started an argument in the clinical lab at when I said "Histology is an art, it is only as good as the person performing, anyone can ready a manual and run a chemistry analyzer." I'd like to say that it went over well, but I can't Tom Podawiltz, HT (ASCP) Histology Section Head/Laboratory Safety Officer LRGHealthcare 603-524-3211 ext: 3220 ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody [slappycraw@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 2:14 PM To: Blazek, Linda; DDittus787@aol.com; TMcNemar@lmhealth.org; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; sjchtascp@yahoo.com Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Good one Linda! You won't get many MTs to agree with that. Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: "Blazek, Linda" To: "DDittus787@aol.com" ; "TMcNemar@lmhealth.org" ; "rjbuesa@yahoo.com" ; "slappycraw@yahoo.com" ; "Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" ; "sjchtascp@yahoo.com" Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:16:21 AM Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology If a histo tech knows how to do most everything in the clinical lab but is not an MT, should they be allowed to work there? -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of DDittus787@aol.com Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 2:03 PM To: TMcNemar@lmhealth.org; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; slappycraw@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; sjchtascp@yahoo.com Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Well Tom they can throw me on the fire with you!!! I agree I came thru an MT program ,OJT for Histology (some MT stuff helped) got my Bachelors later and finally got my MBA- but I have been working a great deal with the "new grads" from colleges and while they are very nice, I have to say some OJT would have been a great deal more helpful, than being able to get an A on a test! I know generations are different but what are they being told in these colleges??? Where is work ethic, realistic work expectations? We are in healthcare not banking thank goodness! Take me back to the good old days when we were by the docs side and learned everyday. Just my 2 cents. Thanks for listening. Dana Dittus MT/HT MBA Core Lab Administrator UHS LLC In a message dated 2/11/2009 1:56:37 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, TMcNemar@lmhealth.org writes: I'm sure that I'm gonna get blasted but...... I'm sorry but I stand by the statement. I have been a certified HT for 30 years now. I will take an uncertified tech who can get a quality slide to the pathologist in a timely fashion over one who can tell me about it but can't do it. We all know that they are out there. Yes, perhaps the "lure" was insufficient but that is out of my control and irrelevant. The bottom line is that none were willing to accept what I had to offer. Certification does not make a good histo tech. Certification is a stamp of validation. It says that someone passed a test so they must be good. There are many very good uncertified people in histology. Certification lost some of its validity when they did away with the practical part. I would prefer to have someone who can actually do the work and not just talk about it. Given my choice, I would love to have all certified techs but I live in the real world and it's not likely to happen in my remaining time. Everyone talks of quality like it comes magically from having a piece of paper. It don't. Quality comes from experience and practical training. And in the long run, that paper has very little to do with it. Let the flamming begin! Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:12 PM To: Larry Woody; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley; Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Tom: All you have written is understandable EXCEPT that "it doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the old assumption that "if you know how to cook or to knit you can do histology". That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a major concern. I agree that a lab assistant does not need to be certified as long as the work is limited to "assist" or do things other than working with patient samples. Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not enough money or benefits). HTs occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical lab and will never get of that stratum unless all are certified and those who hire them show the proper respect for their work. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar ? wrote: From: Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Larry Woody"? , rjbuesa@yahoo.com, Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley"? Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For our last opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech to our facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and two of us are certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and trained them to be a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She files slides, covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what you gotta do to get the work out. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet **************The year's hottest artists on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards. AOL Music takes you there. (http://music.aol.com/grammys?ncid=emlcntusmusi00000002) _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet THIS MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL. This e-mail message and any attachments are proprietary and confidential information intended only for the use of the recipient(s) named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you may not print,distribute, or copy this message or any attachments. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this message and any attachments from your computer. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of LRGHealthcare. From jrobertson <@t> pathologysciences.com Wed Feb 11 16:26:52 2009 From: jrobertson <@t> pathologysciences.com (Jodie Robertson) Date: Wed Feb 11 16:26:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com><001501c98c5c$77d92850$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: <518CD6920AA7154193CBE5977CD88073177E92@psmgsrv2.PSMG.local> I've been listening to this and there's so much controversy. The real bottom line of this is work ethics. It really doesn't matter if you have a degree or not. You have to work, and work hard to prove yourself. I'm proud to be OJT. I worked hard for my certification. I didn't have the "theory" behind things initially but I learned them thru mentoring and reading and studying and such. Some people have good work ethics and are stellar performers and others don't and some of those that don't have a degree and some don't. I've been doing this for 15 years now and I've worked with both types. I've had wonderful opportunities and have taken advantage of each and every one to learn more. I learn every day. Histology is a wonderful constantly changing field in many ways. Instead of stating negatives so much, look how far we've come and how far we can go. Jodie Robertson, HT(ASCP) QIHC Pathology Sciences Medical Group Chico, CA 95926 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JR R Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 1:11 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] RE: uncertified techs in Histology I've been a research scientist and laboratory manager for over 20 years, and I learned histology by on-the-job training. Apparently I'm pretty good at it, and the people I've trained became good at it. I am slightly bothered by the fact that after all these years of experience, I'm still not considered a "real histologist." Mind you, I understand that histology for diagnosing human patients ought to be more rigorous than histology for pure research. I have actually hired on certified histotechnologist, and he was the best I ever had. I mean, he was even as good as me. Jerry Ricks Research Scientist University of Washington Department of Pathology > From: pmarcum@vet.upenn.edu > To: sjchtascp@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:21:52 -0500 > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > CC: > > It is called be cheap and don't pay for training!! Sorry that is how I see > and ASCP does not seem to care or force the issue for training in histology. > > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Steven > Coakley > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 9:56 AM > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues > when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of > the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live(tm): E-mail. Chat. Share. Get more ways to connect. http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_allup_howitworks_ 022009_______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From jqb7 <@t> cdc.gov Wed Feb 11 16:34:07 2009 From: jqb7 <@t> cdc.gov (Bartlett, Jeanine (CDC/CCID/NCZVED)) Date: Wed Feb 11 16:35:17 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: uncertified techs in Histology References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com><001501c98c5c$77d92850$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> <518CD6920AA7154193CBE5977CD88073177E92@psmgsrv2.PSMG.local> Message-ID: <9A16CB5D55FC1648ADF11B63E72A1BE111A755@LTA3VS011.ees.hhs.gov> Jodie, I agree, but a good program cannot be beat. I had 2 years of college back in the early 1970's and then attended a 12 month accredited histology program. I passed my registry and have been in this field ever since. However, it was not until I went back and complete my degree (just a few years ago) that I was eligible for the level of pay that my co-workers that had degrees were already earning. I can honestly say that those extra 2 years of college did not make me a better employee but it did bring a great since of accomplishment and pride. The 12 months of training in the accredited program I attended is what made be an accomplished histotech. Jeanine Bartlett ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Jodie Robertson Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 5:26 PM To: JR R; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: uncertified techs in Histology I've been listening to this and there's so much controversy. The real bottom line of this is work ethics. It really doesn't matter if you have a degree or not. You have to work, and work hard to prove yourself. I'm proud to be OJT. I worked hard for my certification. I didn't have the "theory" behind things initially but I learned them thru mentoring and reading and studying and such. Some people have good work ethics and are stellar performers and others don't and some of those that don't have a degree and some don't. I've been doing this for 15 years now and I've worked with both types. I've had wonderful opportunities and have taken advantage of each and every one to learn more. I learn every day. Histology is a wonderful constantly changing field in many ways. Instead of stating negatives so much, look how far we've come and how far we can go. Jodie Robertson, HT(ASCP) QIHC Pathology Sciences Medical Group Chico, CA 95926 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JR R Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 1:11 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] RE: uncertified techs in Histology I've been a research scientist and laboratory manager for over 20 years, and I learned histology by on-the-job training. Apparently I'm pretty good at it, and the people I've trained became good at it. I am slightly bothered by the fact that after all these years of experience, I'm still not considered a "real histologist." Mind you, I understand that histology for diagnosing human patients ought to be more rigorous than histology for pure research. I have actually hired on certified histotechnologist, and he was the best I ever had. I mean, he was even as good as me. Jerry Ricks Research Scientist University of Washington Department of Pathology > From: pmarcum@vet.upenn.edu > To: sjchtascp@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:21:52 -0500 > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > CC: > > It is called be cheap and don't pay for training!! Sorry that is how I see > and ASCP does not seem to care or force the issue for training in histology. > > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Steven > Coakley > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 9:56 AM > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues > when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of > the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live(tm): E-mail. Chat. Share. Get more ways to connect. http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_allup_howitworks_ 022009_______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org Wed Feb 11 16:33:57 2009 From: CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org (Ingles Claire ) Date: Wed Feb 11 16:36:34 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub References: <242137.17258.qm@web65711.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: We use propar for a xylene substitute and refrax as a mountant. These are sold by Anatech and are created to be more compatable than propar and permount. We have used permount in the past with the propar though. We don't have any problems on our coverslipper, and they seem to dry faster. Claire ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Rene J Buesa Sent: Tue 2/10/2009 3:05 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Paula Lucas Subject: Re: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub Xylene substitutes of terpene (d-Limonene) origin cannot substitute xylene for a cover slipper and those of alkane (35 different brand names) origin do not work very well either. I thing we are stuck with xylene for this task. Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/10/09, Paula Lucas wrote: From: Paula Lucas Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Glas Coverslipper and Xylene Sub To: "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2009, 1:40 PM Hello, We use Xylene in the Sakura Glas auto-coverslipper and I would like to know if anyone uses a xylene sub in this piece of equipment. I'm looking for one that is okay to use in the equipment and one with less odor than Xylene. Thanks in advance, Paula Lucas Lab Manager BioPath MG _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From jclark <@t> pcnm.com Wed Feb 11 16:40:15 2009 From: jclark <@t> pcnm.com (Joanne Clark) Date: Wed Feb 11 16:40:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: uncertified techs Message-ID: <0CDA5E1E01301F4880A8A7A8BCBDA39CF6665E@mail.pcnm.com> Hello all, I have a different perspective on this as I was trained in another country, one where histology is recognized as part of medical technology and every bit equal to those certified to practice hematology, chemistry, microbiology and blood bank. I do believe that certification is necessary in all states, but in saying that the training courses available would need to be not only increased, but improved as well to include not only didactic, but clinical training as well. Many uncertified techs take on-line programs to get the theory and can than practice it where they are working. And yes, just having a certification does make you good at your work, but that is true in every profession out there. With the training programs out there, the problem is not with the people so much but in my estimation with the training programs themselves. Theory is useless if you don't know how to apply it, and how can you if you have no practical experience. My frustrations with untrained, uncertified people since working in the US, is that it takes a huge amount of time and energy (that no one has time for anymore) and even after a few months training the new trainee may decide that this is not the career for them and move on. Sometimes, you discover that they just don't have what it takes and than you have to start all over again. It can take years before you have a really good uncertified HT that can work with minimal supervision. Not everyone is lucky enough to find someone with an appropriate background that makes them ideal for histology work. My dream is to have a training program that will include clinical site training, not just theory that is standardized so that the public can be certain that everyone practicing on their tissue has met the requirements necessary by the certifying board, in this case ASCP to be able to perform their job competently. With this type of program, a person will know before they ever get out in the workforce whether histology is for them or not and OJT will only need to be enough to familiarize them with your labs procedures and protocols. Multitasking, troubleshooting and critical thinking are skills that some are never able to master and take others years of work experience to master, but it can be done. In today's economy those of us who do have certification and skills are going to be overwhelmed with the aspect of training as our workforce in histology continues to retire with no trained HT's to replace them, and with labs and hospitals not wanting to or unable to spend the money on agency's to fill the positions. We will bear the brunt of responsibility for the work that they produce. Joanne Clark, HT(ASCP), MLT(CSMLS) Histology Supervisor Pathology Consultants of New Mexico Roswell, NM From dlschneider <@t> gmail.com Wed Feb 11 16:39:25 2009 From: dlschneider <@t> gmail.com (Daniel Schneider) Date: Wed Feb 11 16:41:18 2009 Subject: Begging for a skilled, certified HT (was Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Message-ID: <1085e7000902111439p7917ce43r65367be6b2794ad2@mail.gmail.com> Where I come from, trained certified histotechs are rare as hen's teeth, and the work is looking for them. We employ OJT's because we have no alternatives. I wish our lab was 100% ASCP certified, program trained HT's. In all seriousness, my group could use some trained certified histotechs. If there are any trained certified histotechs out there who would seriously entertain relocating to West Texas for long term employment, PLEASE email me your resume and salary requirements. If you have any questions before you send your resume, don't hesitate to email me. Daniel Schneider On Wed, Feb 11, 2009 at 8:55 AM, Steven Coakley wrote: > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues *when > theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?* In my area of the > country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > From CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org Wed Feb 11 16:45:14 2009 From: CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org (Ingles Claire ) Date: Wed Feb 11 16:45:18 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology References: <283333.28525.qm@web65715.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: No, it's called we have a NURSE as a histology lab manager (outpatient clinic). She doesn't know what should and should not be done. We are even grossing the dermatology specimens (without extra pay, mind you). Some of us know what the quality level should be and try to exceed that level on a daily basis. Claire ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Rene J Buesa Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 9:58 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From JWeems <@t> sjha.org Wed Feb 11 16:47:58 2009 From: JWeems <@t> sjha.org (Weems, Joyce) Date: Wed Feb 11 16:48:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <518CD6920AA7154193CBE5977CD88073177E92@psmgsrv2.PSMG.local> References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com><001501c98c5c$77d92850$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> <518CD6920AA7154193CBE5977CD88073177E92@psmgsrv2.PSMG.local> Message-ID: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA5321E6C@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> Ok... I have to put in my 2 cents.. Bottom line... The other laboratory disciplines must be schooled, trained, and certified. Histologists were not required in the beginning because we don't make diagnoses and pathologists could teach us and not have to pay us as much. That has caused a lack of respect to our artistic, scientific, very important careers - mostly because of a lack of understanding. No one needs to put anyone down for being OJTd..even after years of school you must have OJT! The degree and certification is not what makes the tech, it is what brings a level of professionalism to our discipline that we have never had. That was what this long ardous road was supposed to lead to - not something intended to make it hard on techs. There were years for the trained techs to do whatever ever it took to get registered before the deadline arrived. We must stop whining (anyone want cheese with their whine?) and remember that the pathologist is only as good as we are. Ok... I'll hush... Have a great evening! Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. From thisisann <@t> aol.com Wed Feb 11 17:07:17 2009 From: thisisann <@t> aol.com (thisisann@aol.com) Date: Wed Feb 11 17:07:34 2009 Subject: [Histonet] PAS/Alcian Blue Message-ID: <8CB5AB49E810DAE-A78-1597@WEBMAIL-DC20.sysops.aol.com> Can someone tell me what control tissue you use when you run a PAS/Alc. Blue (not separately, but together) Thanks, Ann From catbo50 <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 11 16:39:10 2009 From: catbo50 <@t> yahoo.com (Cathy Boyd) Date: Wed Feb 11 17:07:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified histotechs Message-ID: <572459.31731.qm@web112201.mail.gq1.yahoo.com> wow!? I've been sitting here reading these opinions and had to get my 35 years worth.? I was a histotech long before I was a certified histotech.? After 25 years of doing histology, I decided to get my certification for my own gratification, however in doing so it also made quit a difference in my pay scale but did not make me a better histotech as I feel my experience in the field was worth more than that piece of paper.? I will put my slides up against anyone else, the ones before my certification and after.? I have in the last 2 years had a cytotech who I have crosstrained in histology and she can put out a pretty good slide also.? I do not know if she will take the certification or not, but she can work in my lab anytime.? I have also in the last 2 years started doing IHC's.? I hope to take my certification in IHC sometime in the next 25 years, however, my pathologists are quite pleased ?with my work. ? Cathy Boyd HT(ASCP) Beaufort County Medical Center Washington, NC From victor <@t> pathology.washington.edu Wed Feb 11 17:18:41 2009 From: victor <@t> pathology.washington.edu (Victor Tobias) Date: Wed Feb 11 17:18:51 2009 Subject: [Fwd: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology] Message-ID: <49935CD1.1020500@pathology.washington.edu> I forgot to send this to the group. -------- Original Message -------- Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:07:41 -0800 From: Victor Tobias To: Podawiltz, Thomas References: <5A2BD13465E061429D6455C8D6B40E39086EAD719B@IBMB7Exchange.digestivespecialists.com>, <851617.95653.qm@web53601.mail.re2.yahoo.com> <38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D32F1FC83@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> Thomas, I first heard about Histology while going to school as a Nursing major. I worked at the county hospital and did Phlebotomy and covered morgue duties on the weekend. I would deliver stuff to Histology, but didn't know exactly what they did. One day the Supervisor(MT) over Histology asked me if I would be interested in learning to become a Tech. He explained about getting certified and where it could lead. I got my certification through OJT in 1979. While at the county hospital I learned plastics both GMA and Epon. I would assist the EM tech and process, embed and thick section in their absence. The opportunities were there for the taking. Some of the senior techs just wanted to put in their time and go home. I personally enjoyed the challenges. At the time I had no degree, but did get my AS in 1981. I have changed jobs over the years, but each one was a career move up. Without certification, I don't believe I could ever have gotten into management. Now I use my Histology background to help fine tune our LIS. It is a lot easier for me to communicate with the staff then a computer geek. I know the techs here got a big raise a couple of years ago after they joined the Union. Not everyone was for it, but you go with the majority. Victor Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. Podawiltz, Thomas wrote: > Question for everyone. When you were in High school, college or in the military had you ever heard of Histology? How did you find out? One of our problems is no press coverage. > I am a Navy trained MLT, that 3 months after graduating gave up my position in Hematology to so my wife could have it and keep her out of blood bank. I met the Chief that ran Histology and thought I would give it a try. Everyone of us in that lab in Portsmouth, VA fell were MLT's that fell in love with Histology and all were OJTs, in fact the last year that I was the assistant leading Petty Officer it was may job to train new people. What I tried to teach was how to get your knowledge to come not from you mouth but your finger tips. I would rather have a tech that knows how to embed properly, cut a complete section without cutting through the block, what a good stain looks like and above all how to trouble shoot. I never needed or wanted the know-it-all that could tell me the molecular structure of xylene, but could not grasp the concept of setting up a gross run. > > My point? We as Supervisor's are the mentors, it is are job to teach our techs on how we need the work performed, to me working on your certification is showing that you are committed to your profession, not all people are good at taking a test and passing the test just meant you were really good that day. Would I take an un-certified tech over a certified tech? That would depend on their attitude and how well they perform on my tests. > > Linda: one day I started an argument in the clinical lab at when I said "Histology is an art, it is only as good as the person performing, anyone can ready a manual and run a chemistry analyzer." I'd like to say that it went over well, but I can't > > > Tom Podawiltz, HT (ASCP) > Histology Section Head/Laboratory Safety Officer > LRGHealthcare > 603-524-3211 ext: 3220 > ________________________________________ > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody [slappycraw@yahoo.com] > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 2:14 PM > To: Blazek, Linda; DDittus787@aol.com; TMcNemar@lmhealth.org; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; sjchtascp@yahoo.com > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > Good one Linda! You won't get many MTs to agree with that. > > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: "Blazek, Linda" > To: "DDittus787@aol.com" ; "TMcNemar@lmhealth.org" ; "rjbuesa@yahoo.com" ; "slappycraw@yahoo.com" ; "Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" ; "sjchtascp@yahoo.com" > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:16:21 AM > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > If a histo tech knows how to do most everything in the clinical lab but is not an MT, should they be allowed to work there? > > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of DDittus787@aol.com > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 2:03 PM > To: TMcNemar@lmhealth.org; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; slappycraw@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; sjchtascp@yahoo.com > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > Well Tom they can throw me on the fire with you!!! I agree I came thru an > MT program ,OJT for Histology (some MT stuff helped) got my Bachelors later > and finally got my MBA- but I have been working a great deal with the "new > grads" from colleges and while they are very nice, I have to say some OJT would > have been a great deal more helpful, than being able to get an A on a test! I > know generations are different but what are they being told in these > colleges??? Where is work ethic, realistic work expectations? We are in healthcare not > banking thank goodness! Take me back to the good old days when we were by > the docs side and learned everyday. Just my 2 cents. Thanks for listening. > > Dana Dittus MT/HT MBA > Core Lab Administrator > UHS LLC > > > In a message dated 2/11/2009 1:56:37 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, > TMcNemar@lmhealth.org writes: > > I'm sure that I'm gonna get blasted but...... > > I'm sorry but I stand by the statement. I have been a certified HT for 30 > years now. I will take an uncertified tech who can get a quality slide to the > pathologist in a timely fashion over one who can tell me about it but can't > do it. We all know that they are out there. > > Yes, perhaps the "lure" was insufficient but that is out of my control and > irrelevant. The bottom line is that none were willing to accept what I had to > offer. > > Certification does not make a good histo tech. Certification is a stamp of > validation. It says that someone passed a test so they must be good. There > are many very good uncertified people in histology. > > Certification lost some of its validity when they did away with the > practical part. I would prefer to have someone who can actually do the work and not > just talk about it. > > Given my choice, I would love to have all certified techs but I live in the > real world and it's not likely to happen in my remaining time. Everyone > talks of quality like it comes magically from having a piece of paper. It don't. > Quality comes from experience and practical training. And in the long run, > that paper has very little to do with it. > > Let the flamming begin! > > Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) > Histology Co-ordinator > Licking Memorial Health Systems > (740) 348-4163 > (740) 348-4166 > tmcnemar@lmhealth.org > www.LMHealth.org > > > > > -----Original Message----- > From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:12 PM > To: Larry Woody; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley; Tom > McNemar > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > > Tom: > All you have written is understandable EXCEPT that "it doesn't take an > advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the old assumption that "if you > know how to cook or to knit you can do histology". > That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a major > concern. I agree that a lab assistant does not need to be certified as long as > the work is limited to "assist" or do things other than working with patient > samples. > Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not enough money or > benefits). > HTs occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical lab and will never get of > that stratum unless all are certified and those who hire them show the proper > respect for their work. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar wrote: > > > From: Tom McNemar > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "Larry Woody" , rjbuesa@yahoo.com, > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley" > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM > > > Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For our last > > opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech to our > > facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and two of us > are > > certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and trained them > to be > > a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She files > slides, > > covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. > > > > It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what you > > gotta do to get the work out. > > > > Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) > > Histology Co-ordinator > > Licking Memorial Health Systems > > (740) 348-4163 > > (740) 348-4166 > > tmcnemar@lmhealth.org > > www.LMHealth.org > > > > > > -----Original Message----- > > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry > > Woody > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM > > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > > > > This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always > > wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a > > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the > > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > > > > Larry A. Woody > > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > > From: Rene J Buesa > > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated > > by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows > > total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all > > those savings when settling a legal case. > > Ren? J. > > > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > > > From: Steven Coakley > > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big > > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > > unregistered > > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > > trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't > > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > Histonet mailing list > > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > Histonet mailing list > > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > > Histonet mailing list > > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > **************The year's hottest artists on the red carpet at the Grammy > Awards. AOL Music takes you there. > (http://music.aol.com/grammys?ncid=emlcntusmusi00000002) > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > THIS MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL. > This e-mail message and any attachments are proprietary and confidential information intended only for the use of the recipient(s) named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you may not print,distribute, or copy this message or any attachments. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this message and any attachments from your computer. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of LRGHealthcare. > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. From JMcCormick <@t> schosp.org Wed Feb 11 17:31:07 2009 From: JMcCormick <@t> schosp.org (McCormick, James) Date: Wed Feb 11 17:31:14 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <002c01c98c74$c79670b0$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com><43A451981FF6634795BE83B1B5494D631BDF25@exchange.unipathllc.corp><351A66CE7FB11D40AB8AC8FE5559EC7E01A0DBB9EC@ushpwbmsmmp008.one.ads.bms.com><6ED9D4252F278841A0593D3D788AF24C0481D416@mailsvr.MARSHMED.local> <002c01c98c74$c79670b0$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: <0672286797B07E40AA3414F534B7CB800401A9CB00@EXCHCCRMB.schosp.org> Dear Ms.Marcum, Congratulations to you for your accomplishments, and they are many. And, to everyone else in Histoland that has grown with OJT....after all it's experience on the job that provides the opportunity to learn. Certification is a method of finding the finish line of the path through any discipline. In fact it is not the end but rather the beginning ! My own experience with Histotechnology is OJT.....in the classroom, in the garage, in the basement shop....wherever I have been given the opportunity to make mistakes and benefit from someone who would show approval or nudge me in the right direction. Today, as we speak , I continue to try and find a better path, a better method, a better solution to one of the problems of histotechnology. The HistoNet is a wonderful forum of learning. This is our OJL blog and I appreciate the candor of all participants. We have a common goal....good work....for the profession, and each day another OJT opportunity. Regards, J.B.McCormick,M.D. CSO Leica-biosystems, St. Louis, Mo -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Pamela Marcum Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:16 PM To: 'Martin, Gary'; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I am sorry I seemed to have expanded this discussion. I want to be clear on part of the record. I was OJT trained in the 60's. We had even fewer schools and options then. The person who trained me had been trained by the pathologist and the Ann Preece book in histology. She knew what the pathologists we worked with wanted and saw to it that was what they got everyday. When I worked in other places later and continued my education I did learn more about the chemistry and why it worked or failed. I was in research when I took my HT and was told if I used animal tissue I would fail as no one on the board back then was experienced with it. I did not know if it was true so I quickly found a hospital where I could complete everything on human tissue I processed and stained. The person running that lab required me (thank goodness) to process every piece of tissue and do every stain manually. We did not have automated stainers back then so I learned every step. So for those who think I am picking on them for OJT training it is not that I disapprove. I believe histology is too important not to be considered professional field that requires consistent training and education. Many of us old timers have fought hard for the education clause so we would have people who were licensed and fully trained. I did get my BS and more education so I did get more on my own. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Martin, Gary Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:27 PM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I am one of those "unregistered" techs. I would respectfully hope that we are not considered the villains here. My situation is; we are a small lab in a rural area that has the need for 1 1/2 Histo Techs. We were having a very difficult time attracting a 1/2 time "qualified tech.", and had zero backup for our one and only full time "qualified tech." I have a good back ground in detail work in the art world and a good amount of experience as a pathology lab assistant. So it was easy for me to transition into the role of "unregistered tech", thereby providing back for our over work Histo tech. I have been trained by my Histo tech and have completed the Freida L. Carson self instruction course under her supervision. We are happy with the results and our Pathologist are pleased. At this point (7 years into teching) there are some things that I have been innovative on some things, and our tech prefers me to do other things. I would love to get certified but the changes in OTJ have made that more of a mountain than I can climb at this time. I would like to lend voice to us who are in this situation and say the we take our duties very serious and I really don't look at my job as getting over on rules or quality or providing cheap labor. In our case it has been necessity. Thank you Gary -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Watson, Linda Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 8:34 AM To: Mary Abosso; Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I totally agree with Mary. I have often heard that histotechs are a dying breed. That us "old timers" are not being replaced by the younger generation. If we want to have less uncertified histotechs then lets not make it so difficult for individuals to pursue this wonderful career. I still think it is very important for the exam to remain in place but those individuals out of high school that are maybe not thinking of attending college to obtain a bachelors degree should have the opportunity to become a certified histologist. I know that you can still obtain the HT but not the HTL. Correct me if I am wrong. Linda >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mary Abosso >Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:19 AM >To: Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > >Many areas have to go to unregistered techs out of necessity due to the >high vacancy rate in our field since the ASCP made changes to the career >path for the HT board requirements. Many of these facilities have >either formal or informal training and have turned out many very good, >high quality techs. Yes, some may be skilled at the "art" of histology, >but lack the understanding that is behind the science. These often can >embed, cut and do special stains with superior quality and happy >pathologists. I have seen registered techs that have all the >intelligence that their sheepskins say, but totally lack the hands on >skills needed to produce superior quality material for patient >diagnosis. While this is only my opinion, I wish that there was still >the route for OJT as long as there is a certified tech in place for >training. > >My two cents worth, >Mary Abosso > >________________________________ > >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Steven >Coakley >Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 7:55 AM >To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > >Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big >advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with >unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues >when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area >of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet *** Confidentiality Statement *** This e-mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged and confidential. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and then delete it from your system. Any review, dissemination, distribution, or reproduction of this message by unintended recipients is strictly prohibited and may be subject to legal restriction. Thank you for your cooperation. From amosbrooks <@t> gmail.com Wed Feb 11 17:44:03 2009 From: amosbrooks <@t> gmail.com (Amos Brooks) Date: Wed Feb 11 17:44:07 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sections coming off of slides Message-ID: <582736990902111544n3d9acf83qf1d64bfb2540aaf9@mail.gmail.com> Hi, There is a product that is carried by Newcomer Supply called Liquid Coverslip. You can use this to coverslip the slide, wait for it to cure, then soak it in warm water and float the coverslip with the attached coverslip off. Then pick the section/coverslip up on a slide that you have more confidence in. Then the coverslip can be disolved away in acetone if I recall correctly. Then start the process over and hopefully the results will be better. I'm not gonna swear to it ALL the time, but I have used this process to remove sections from slides and have stained them with IHC procedures. It would be unfortunate if after all that the section still fell off though, right? Perhaps following the other thread about brain sections falling off might help too. I can attest that hand staining is much more gentle. I'd try that too. Message: 6 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:00:47 -0500 From: Kathleen Roberts Subject: [Histonet] Sections coming off of slides To: "'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu'" Message-ID: <49932E6F.3020004@rci.rutgers.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Hi all, I just had a professor come to me asking if I had any tricks to rescue a section that is partially off its slide. This is formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded mouse brain, and one section on one slide is half attached and half floating after antigen retrieval for IHC (no, I don't know which retrieval method he used, but I can find out if you need it). I've never tried to do this, and a search of the archives turned up nothing, but my keywords may be off. Has anybody managed to save a section that was coming off the slide? Thanks, Kathleen Roberts Principal Lab Technician Neurotoxicology Labs Dept of Pharmacology & Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy Rutgers University 41 B Gordon Road Piscataway, NJ 08854 From sccrshlly <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 11 18:06:32 2009 From: sccrshlly <@t> yahoo.com (Shelly Coker) Date: Wed Feb 11 18:06:36 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: certified vs. uncertified techs Message-ID: <479391.21840.qm@web90306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> I am a supporter of certification as a goal.? I have no problem with anyone who is OJT and took their exam.? The goal of having everyone certified is to have a standardization so that we don't have such a disparity in pay.? I can tell you that I have worked at a hospital where the difference in pay between certified and uncertified was significant (several $ per hour differeence) even though these individuals were performing the same tasks.? Is that fair?? No, but if you have the education then you get the higher pay.? Now does it sound more fair?? I feel that anyone who is in the position to train at a hospital should be moving toward certification, even if that means one college course at at time.? Everyone should always be trying to increase their knowledge.? This is what make each of us marketable.? If you are not challenging yourself, how can you ever improve?? There are several online programs out there for those of you in rural hospitals, so there really isn't a viable reason for not persuing certification.? And just look at the end results: more pay and more respect. ? Just my 2 cents... From amosbrooks <@t> gmail.com Wed Feb 11 18:08:01 2009 From: amosbrooks <@t> gmail.com (Amos Brooks) Date: Wed Feb 11 18:08:05 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Antibody penetration problem Message-ID: <582736990902111608l658bc8d9pa0f9960d23728f72@mail.gmail.com> Hi Gary, I am certainly not an expert on doing this, but I have done it and it worked fairly well. Why not do this as a free floating section. Take the section and place it in a glass beaker to with xylene. Deparaffinize and rehydrate as you would a slide, but not on a slide ... in a beaker. Remember to agitate the section gently. Once you are out of xylene you might want to switch to a tissue culture flask (one of those flat rectangular ones with a cap). For antigen retrieval (always avoid the microwave) put the container in a 60 deg oven overnight (cap on of course). That should do the trick. You can always tweak the procedure later to improve results. Once you get to the antibody and detection you can use a capped tube on it's side if you keep it on a gentle shaker table. Once you have the tissue out of chromagen put it in a dish and float it onto a slide. Incidentally weather you do this all on a slide or in a jar to mount later you need to make sure there is sufficient surfactant in the buffer rinses. This really aids the penetration by removing the surface tension. Also make sure your pH is correct thru the whole procedure. Failing this will affect the antibody antigen affinity (or is it avidity ... I forget). Best of luck, (and let us know how it goes) Amos Brooks Message: 12 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:19:09 -0500 From: Gay Rudow Subject: [Histonet] Antibody penetration problem To: "'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu'" Message-ID: <864A73846CE8F04D995603351682C29C86A851C6FE@JHEMTEXVS2.win.ad.jhu.edu > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-7" I hate to change the topic, but I have a problem with penetration of an antibody. I am using 50 ?M paraffin sections and doing an antigen retrieval step of microwaving the sections in water for 5 min. I am staining by hand using the Vector ABC Elite mouse kit. The antibody is SMI 311 which I am using as a neuronal marker. Right now, my antibody penetration is only 15 ?M. Does anyone have any suggestions to help me with this? Thanks! Gay Rudow From john <@t> imebinc.com Wed Feb 11 20:14:48 2009 From: john <@t> imebinc.com (John O'Brien) Date: Wed Feb 11 20:01:03 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Old Ventana Tech Mate IHC stainer looking for parts unit Message-ID: <000601c98cb7$aeaf5600$4a01a8c0@EXECUTIVE01> Does anyone have or knows of a old Ventana Tech Mate 1000 IHC stainer that we can buy for the parts.Please let me know ,I can send pictures of what it looks like if need be. From slappycraw <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 11 20:23:54 2009 From: slappycraw <@t> yahoo.com (Larry Woody) Date: Wed Feb 11 20:23:58 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: certified vs. uncertified techs References: <479391.21840.qm@web90306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <402307.88432.qm@web53601.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Finally, someone else gets the point of unifying the field of histology. Thank you Shelly. It really isn't about where you were trained or went to school or not. Once we are standardized we are stronger in many ways that will help us all. Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Shelly Coker To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 4:06:32 PM Subject: [Histonet] Re: certified vs. uncertified techs I am a supporter of certification as a goal. I have no problem with anyone who is OJT and took their exam. The goal of having everyone certified is to have a standardization so that we don't have such a disparity in pay. I can tell you that I have worked at a hospital where the difference in pay between certified and uncertified was significant (several $ per hour differeence) even though these individuals were performing the same tasks. Is that fair? No, but if you have the education then you get the higher pay. Now does it sound more fair? I feel that anyone who is in the position to train at a hospital should be moving toward certification, even if that means one college course at at time. Everyone should always be trying to increase their knowledge. This is what make each of us marketable. If you are not challenging yourself, how can you ever improve? There are several online programs out there for those of you in rural hospitals, so there really isn't a viable reason for not persuing certification. And just look at the end results: more pay and more respect. Just my 2 cents... _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From tifei <@t> foxmail.com Wed Feb 11 20:45:25 2009 From: tifei <@t> foxmail.com (=?utf-8?B?VEY=?=) Date: Wed Feb 11 20:45:55 2009 Subject: =?utf-8?B?UmU6IFtIaXN0b25ldF0gQW50aWJvZHkgcGVuZXRyYXRpb24gcHJvYmxlbQ==?= References: <582736990902111608l658bc8d9pa0f9960d23728f72@mail.gmail.com> Message-ID: <200902121045203077431@foxmail.com> just add up to 2% triton in antibody dilution and increase the incubation time. another way is to use floating sections. 2009-02-12 TF ???? Amos Brooks ????? 2009-02-12 08:11:23 ???? grudow1; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu ??? ??? [Histonet] Antibody penetration problem Hi Gary, I am certainly not an expert on doing this, but I have done it and it worked fairly well. Why not do this as a free floating section. Take the section and place it in a glass beaker to with xylene. Deparaffinize and rehydrate as you would a slide, but not on a slide ... in a beaker. Remember to agitate the section gently. Once you are out of xylene you might want to switch to a tissue culture flask (one of those flat rectangular ones with a cap). For antigen retrieval (always avoid the microwave) put the container in a 60 deg oven overnight (cap on of course). That should do the trick. You can always tweak the procedure later to improve results. Once you get to the antibody and detection you can use a capped tube on it's side if you keep it on a gentle shaker table. Once you have the tissue out of chromagen put it in a dish and float it onto a slide. Incidentally weather you do this all on a slide or in a jar to mount later you need to make sure there is sufficient surfactant in the buffer rinses. This really aids the penetration by removing the surface tension. Also make sure your pH is correct thru the whole procedure. Failing this will affect the antibody antigen affinity (or is it avidity ... I forget). Best of luck, (and let us know how it goes) Amos Brooks Message: 12 Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:19:09 -0500 From: Gay Rudow Subject: [Histonet] Antibody penetration problem To: "'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu'" Message-ID: <864A73846CE8F04D995603351682C29C86A851C6FE@JHEMTEXVS2.win.ad.jhu.edu > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-7" I hate to change the topic, but I have a problem with penetration of an antibody. I am using 50 ?M paraffin sections and doing an antigen retrieval step of microwaving the sections in water for 5 min. I am staining by hand using the Vector ABC Elite mouse kit. The antibody is SMI 311 which I am using as a neuronal marker. Right now, my antibody penetration is only 15 ?M. Does anyone have any suggestions to help me with this? Thanks! Gay Rudow _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From tifei <@t> foxmail.com Wed Feb 11 20:46:29 2009 From: tifei <@t> foxmail.com (=?utf-8?B?VEY=?=) Date: Wed Feb 11 20:46:49 2009 Subject: =?utf-8?B?UmU6IFtIaXN0b25ldF0gU2VjdGlvbnMgY29taW5nIG9mZiBvZiBzbGlkZXM=?= References: <49932E6F.3020004@rci.rutgers.edu> Message-ID: <200902121046244233507@foxmail.com> dry it up again and heat a bit. 2009-02-12 TF ???? Kathleen Roberts ????? 2009-02-12 03:51:17 ???? 'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu' ??? ??? [Histonet] Sections coming off of slides Hi all, I just had a professor come to me asking if I had any tricks to rescue a section that is partially off its slide. This is formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded mouse brain, and one section on one slide is half attached and half floating after antigen retrieval for IHC (no, I don't know which retrieval method he used, but I can find out if you need it). I've never tried to do this, and a search of the archives turned up nothing, but my keywords may be off. Has anybody managed to save a section that was coming off the slide? Thanks, Kathleen Roberts Principal Lab Technician Neurotoxicology Labs Dept of Pharmacology & Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy Rutgers University 41 B Gordon Road Piscataway, NJ 08854 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From JWeems <@t> sjha.org Wed Feb 11 20:59:39 2009 From: JWeems <@t> sjha.org (Weems, Joyce) Date: Wed Feb 11 20:59:52 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <0672286797B07E40AA3414F534B7CB800401A9CB00@EXCHCCRMB.schosp.org> References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com><43A451981FF6634795BE83B1B5494D631BDF25@exchange.unipathllc.corp><351A66CE7FB11D40AB8AC8FE5559EC7E01A0DBB9EC@ushpwbmsmmp008.one.ads.bms.com><6ED9D4252F278841A0593D3D788AF24C0481D416@mailsvr.MARSHMED.local><002c01c98c74$c79670b0$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> <0672286797B07E40AA3414F534B7CB800401A9CB00@EXCHCCRMB.schosp.org> Message-ID: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA5321E96@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> Bravo!!! -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of McCormick, James Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 6:31 PM To: Pamela Marcum; 'Martin,Gary'; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Dear Ms.Marcum, Congratulations to you for your accomplishments, and they are many. And, to everyone else in Histoland that has grown with OJT....after all it's experience on the job that provides the opportunity to learn. Certification is a method of finding the finish line of the path through any discipline. In fact it is not the end but rather the beginning ! My own experience with Histotechnology is OJT.....in the classroom, in the garage, in the basement shop....wherever I have been given the opportunity to make mistakes and benefit from someone who would show approval or nudge me in the right direction. Today, as we speak , I continue to try and find a better path, a better method, a better solution to one of the problems of histotechnology. The HistoNet is a wonderful forum of learning. This is our OJL blog and I appreciate the candor of all participants. We have a common goal....good work....for the profession, and each day another OJT opportunity. Regards, J.B.McCormick,M.D. CSO Leica-biosystems, St. Louis, Mo -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Pamela Marcum Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:16 PM To: 'Martin, Gary'; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I am sorry I seemed to have expanded this discussion. I want to be clear on part of the record. I was OJT trained in the 60's. We had even fewer schools and options then. The person who trained me had been trained by the pathologist and the Ann Preece book in histology. She knew what the pathologists we worked with wanted and saw to it that was what they got everyday. When I worked in other places later and continued my education I did learn more about the chemistry and why it worked or failed. I was in research when I took my HT and was told if I used animal tissue I would fail as no one on the board back then was experienced with it. I did not know if it was true so I quickly found a hospital where I could complete everything on human tissue I processed and stained. The person running that lab required me (thank goodness) to process every piece of tissue and do every stain manually. We did not have automated stainers back then so I learned every step. So for those who think I am picking on them for OJT training it is not that I disapprove. I believe histology is too important not to be considered professional field that requires consistent training and education. Many of us old timers have fought hard for the education clause so we would have people who were licensed and fully trained. I did get my BS and more education so I did get more on my own. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Martin, Gary Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:27 PM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I am one of those "unregistered" techs. I would respectfully hope that we are not considered the villains here. My situation is; we are a small lab in a rural area that has the need for 1 1/2 Histo Techs. We were having a very difficult time attracting a 1/2 time "qualified tech.", and had zero backup for our one and only full time "qualified tech." I have a good back ground in detail work in the art world and a good amount of experience as a pathology lab assistant. So it was easy for me to transition into the role of "unregistered tech", thereby providing back for our over work Histo tech. I have been trained by my Histo tech and have completed the Freida L. Carson self instruction course under her supervision. We are happy with the results and our Pathologist are pleased. At this point (7 years into teching) there are some things that I have been innovative on some things, and our tech prefers me to do other things. I would love to get certified but the changes in OTJ have made that more of a mountain than I can climb at this time. I would like to lend voice to us who are in this situation and say the we take our duties very serious and I really don't look at my job as getting over on rules or quality or providing cheap labor. In our case it has been necessity. Thank you Gary -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Watson, Linda Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 8:34 AM To: Mary Abosso; Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I totally agree with Mary. I have often heard that histotechs are a dying breed. That us "old timers" are not being replaced by the younger generation. If we want to have less uncertified histotechs then lets not make it so difficult for individuals to pursue this wonderful career. I still think it is very important for the exam to remain in place but those individuals out of high school that are maybe not thinking of attending college to obtain a bachelors degree should have the opportunity to become a certified histologist. I know that you can still obtain the HT but not the HTL. Correct me if I am wrong. Linda >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mary Abosso >Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:19 AM >To: Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > >Many areas have to go to unregistered techs out of necessity due to the >high vacancy rate in our field since the ASCP made changes to the career >path for the HT board requirements. Many of these facilities have >either formal or informal training and have turned out many very good, >high quality techs. Yes, some may be skilled at the "art" of histology, >but lack the understanding that is behind the science. These often can >embed, cut and do special stains with superior quality and happy >pathologists. I have seen registered techs that have all the >intelligence that their sheepskins say, but totally lack the hands on >skills needed to produce superior quality material for patient >diagnosis. While this is only my opinion, I wish that there was still >the route for OJT as long as there is a certified tech in place for >training. > >My two cents worth, >Mary Abosso > >________________________________ > >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Steven >Coakley >Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 7:55 AM >To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > >Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big >advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with >unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues >when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area >of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet *** Confidentiality Statement *** This e-mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged and confidential. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and then delete it from your system. Any review, dissemination, distribution, or reproduction of this message by unintended recipients is strictly prohibited and may be subject to legal restriction. Thank you for your cooperation. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. From JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com Wed Feb 11 21:01:20 2009 From: JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com (JGREWE@OhioHealth.com) Date: Wed Feb 11 21:01:22 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Jacquelyn Grewe/Staff/OhioHealth is out of the office . Message-ID: I will be out of the office starting 02/11/2009 and will not return until 02/16/2009. I will respond to your message when I return. From lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net Wed Feb 11 21:42:29 2009 From: lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net (Lee & Peggy Wenk) Date: Wed Feb 11 21:42:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <7617E2CC-29CC-4E90-8FBC-E7FEEAD4C735@gladstone.ucsf.edu> Message-ID: Go to www.ascp.org Click on Laboratory Professional across top Click on Certification on left Click on Get Certified on left Follow the steps for HT or HTL. Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48037 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Caroline Miller Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 5:04 PM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com Cc: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Tom McNemar Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Thank you for an interesting conversation on this matter. I am sorry, I am sure this issue has come up before, but I am new to the list and therefore this is the first time I have seen it. I used to run a clinical lab in the UK 5 years ago (before moving to San Francisco for a research career) and the National Health service was going the way of unskilled workers too, although the qualified ones didn't get nearly as much as they do in the USA, so really, everyone looses! Question - as a histologist with over 10 years experience who still has her UK qualifications what do I have to do to be qualified in the USA?? Thanks Caroline Caroline Miller Co-Manager J David Gladstone Institutes Histology and Microscopy Core 1650 Owens St San Francisco CA 94158 Tel: 415 734 2566 Fax: 415 355 0824 http://www.gladstone.ucsf.edu/gladstone/site/histology/ cmiller@gladstone.ucsf.edu On Feb 11, 2009, at 9:12 AM, Rene J Buesa wrote: > Tom: > All you have written is understandable EXCEPT that "it doesn't take an > advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the old assumption > that "if you know how to cook or to knit you can do histology". > That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a > major concern. I agree that a lab assistant does not need to be > certified as long as the work is limited to "assist" or do things > other than working with patient samples. > Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not enough > money or benefits). > HTs occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical lab and will never > get of that stratum unless all are certified and those who hire them > show the proper respect for their work. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar wrote: > > From: Tom McNemar > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "Larry Woody" , rjbuesa@yahoo.com, > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu , "Steven Coakley" > > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM > > Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For > our last opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a > certified tech to our facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We > have four techs and two of us are certified HTs. We recently hired a > person off the street and trained them to be a histology assistant. > It has been very beneficial for us. She files slides, covers the late > grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. > > It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what > you gotta do to get the work out. > > Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) > Histology Co-ordinator > Licking Memorial Health Systems > (740) 348-4163 > (740) 348-4166 > tmcnemar@lmhealth.org > www.LMHealth.org > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry > Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven > Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've > always wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always > starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly > want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist > that looks at the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing > the lab work as well? > > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and > shows total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may > end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the > big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going > with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality > issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In > my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From flabotinum <@t> gmail.com Wed Feb 11 23:53:39 2009 From: flabotinum <@t> gmail.com (brian) Date: Wed Feb 11 23:53:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] HALT Message-ID: <6B7064F44F534F239766B594F70CB5E7@brianPC> I work for the company that produces HALT. If you want contact info let me know. From flabotinum <@t> gmail.com Thu Feb 12 00:03:59 2009 From: flabotinum <@t> gmail.com (brian) Date: Thu Feb 12 00:04:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] HALT Message-ID: <2DEDBE5811184B2390AB963A4D8DECCE@brianPC> . From annigyg <@t> gmail.com Thu Feb 12 00:20:24 2009 From: annigyg <@t> gmail.com (Anne van Binsbergen) Date: Thu Feb 12 00:20:31 2009 Subject: [Histonet] automated systems Message-ID: Dear Histonetters this is a plea for technical advice from end-users - who out there is using automation for semen analysis and what equipment do you recommend? i am considering the SQA-V from MES any comments -- Anne van Binsbergen (Hope) Abu Dhabi UAE From ree3 <@t> leicester.ac.uk Thu Feb 12 03:29:21 2009 From: ree3 <@t> leicester.ac.uk (Edwards, R.E.) Date: Thu Feb 12 03:29:52 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <43A451981FF6634795BE83B1B5494D631BDF25@exchange.unipathllc.corp> References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> <43A451981FF6634795BE83B1B5494D631BDF25@exchange.unipathllc.corp> Message-ID: <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A1745423DC7B@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> A "sheepskin" is what??? -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mary Abosso Sent: 11 February 2009 16:19 To: Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Many areas have to go to unregistered techs out of necessity due to the high vacancy rate in our field since the ASCP made changes to the career path for the HT board requirements. Many of these facilities have either formal or informal training and have turned out many very good, high quality techs. Yes, some may be skilled at the "art" of histology, but lack the understanding that is behind the science. These often can embed, cut and do special stains with superior quality and happy pathologists. I have seen registered techs that have all the intelligence that their sheepskins say, but totally lack the hands on skills needed to produce superior quality material for patient diagnosis. While this is only my opinion, I wish that there was still the route for OJT as long as there is a certified tech in place for training. My two cents worth, Mary Abosso ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Steven Coakley Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 7:55 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From timscase <@t> gmail.com Thu Feb 12 04:56:06 2009 From: timscase <@t> gmail.com (Tim Scase) Date: Thu Feb 12 04:56:15 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histology technician for veterinary diagnostic lab in Bristol, UK. Message-ID: <73515A50-2FC1-4A04-9FF6-9B26CD002D38@gmail.com> Dear Histonetters, we are currently in need of dynamic, cheerful, experienced and enthusiastic histology technicians to join our veterinary diagnostic histopathology and immunohistochemistry company, located in a beautiful part of Bristol, UK. Our company specialises in the processing of mail-in biopsy specimens submitted by primary care and referral veterinary surgeon in practice, and although we have only been operating for a few months, we are already in need of more technical staff in order for us to meet the demand for our high quality services. We also have a rapidly expanding immunohistochemistry service for tumour prognostication. In addition, as our caseload increases, we will be using the samples received through the laboratory for internally funded and collaborative clinical research studies to further our understanding of animal disease and to develop prognostic and diagnostic assays to benefit veterinary patients. Results from these research studies will be submitted for publication in the scientific literature and circulated to our clients to help them provide the most accurate and clinically- helpful information so that they can advise their clients and treat their patients accordingly. We expect to establish our company as the UK's premier diagnostic and research-focussed veterinary histopathological laboratory. You will help to develop the histopathology and immunohistochemistry services that we provide, and prepare routine histological and immunohistochemical-stained sections of submitted biopsy tissues for diagnostic and research purposes. In addition you will be expected to eat your share of Friday-morning-cakes. Please send any enquiries to: tim@bridgepathology.com Tim Scase BSc BVM&S PhD MRCVS Dip.ACVP Director Bridge Pathology Ltd. PO Box 2877 Bristol BS8 9FH Tel: 0117 9466560 Fax: 44117 981 1396 Web: www.bridgepathology.com tim@bridgepathology.com From TMcNemar <@t> lmhealth.org Thu Feb 12 05:36:15 2009 From: TMcNemar <@t> lmhealth.org (Tom McNemar) Date: Thu Feb 12 05:36:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: certified vs. uncertified techs In-Reply-To: <479391.21840.qm@web90306.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0AB@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> We have different job codes and pay scales for certified vs. noncertified and yes, they perform the same tasks. I think it is fair. It is incentive and I strongly encourage all noncertified to get their certification for their own benefit. When we got a new lab manager a few years ago (several), she decided that everyone had to be certified. People were hired with the stipulation that they would have to be certified after 2 years. I trained and then lost 3 people because they did not want to take the exam. I fought, begged, and pleaded but my manager would not bend. Finally, after working short staffed for a very long time and much overtime, she relented and we developed the second job code. I have an uncertified tech who is very good. She performs well and is always trying to improve. She has taken the registry exam twice. Passed the practical the first time but just can't seem to get through the written. I have held study sessions with her and helped in every way I can but I can't be with her when she tests. It is a shame and she feels very bad about it. The lower payscale and separate job code is what allows me to keep a good tech even though she is not certified. She has been with me for 7 or 8 years now and I would be sad to see her go. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Shelly Coker Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:07 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Re: certified vs. uncertified techs I am a supporter of certification as a goal.? I have no problem with anyone who is OJT and took their exam.? The goal of having everyone certified is to have a standardization so that we don't have such a disparity in pay.? I can tell you that I have worked at a hospital where the difference in pay between certified and uncertified was significant (several $ per hour differeence) even though these individuals were performing the same tasks.? Is that fair?? No, but if you have the education then you get the higher pay.? Now does it sound more fair?? I feel that anyone who is in the position to train at a hospital should be moving toward certification, even if that means one college course at at time.? Everyone should always be trying to increase their knowledge.? This is what make each of us marketable.? If you are not challenging yourself, how can you ever improve?? There are several online programs out there for those of you in rural hospitals, so there really isn't a viable reason for not persuing certification.? And just look at the end results: more pay and more respect. ? Just my 2 cents... _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Barbara.Stancel <@t> fsis.usda.gov Thu Feb 12 06:35:22 2009 From: Barbara.Stancel <@t> fsis.usda.gov (Stancel, Barbara) Date: Thu Feb 12 06:35:22 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: 820 microtome service Message-ID: Carolyn, Try Klaus Dern, MicroPrecision Co. 706-635-8840. He is located in North Georgia. He has been keeping our Leitz 1512s well tuned and working perfectly for nearly 30 years. I know he works on a lot of different microtomes and microscopes, and he is very good, on time, and reasonably priced. I am not positive he does 820s, but it wouldn't surprise me if he did. If he doesn't he will know someone who does. You may have to leave a message. He is his only employee. And tell him "Barbara from FSIS in Athens" says, "Hi, see you in May or June for our yearly checkup!" Barbara Barbara Stancel, HTL(ASCP)HT USDA, FSIS, EL, Pathology Athens, Georgia 30605 706-546-3698 or 706-546-3556 barbara.stancel@fsis.usda.gov message: 4 Date: Mon, 09 Feb 2009 13:47:31 -0500 From: Caroline Bass Subject: [Histonet] AO 860 repairman in NC? To: Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="ISO-8859-1" Hello Everyone, I have refurbished an old AO 860 sliding microtome. I?m pretty proud of myself, I?ve unlocked the totally gummed mechanism and have put it together myself. It seems to work very well. The only problem I have is tuning the sliding block. I have no idea how to approach it, and after several failed attempts (I can get it to slide down the length, but can?t achieve a smooth movement), I?m wondering if it?s better to find a repairman in the area that can spend an hour showing me how to do this. Does anyone have suggestions? Do you know of any repairmen in the area? Thanks, Caroline Bass From kmerriam2003 <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 12 07:20:31 2009 From: kmerriam2003 <@t> yahoo.com (Kim Merriam) Date: Thu Feb 12 07:20:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] HT training In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <292313.38113.qm@web50308.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Hi Jennifer, ? I am HT and QIHC certified and I received both certifications without working in a clinical lab (I did work in a hospital for about 3 months very early on in my career, but it was long before I took the HT exam).? I have been in the field for 22 years now, working in biotech, preclinical contract lab and big-pharma.? ? Anyway, you should be able to qualify to take the exam if you work with a boarded DVM pathologist (DACVP), that is how I qualified to take both of them. ? Good luck! Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC Cambridge, MA --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Jennifer Anderson wrote: From: Jennifer Anderson Subject: [Histonet] HT training To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 4:05 PM Hello. I am enjoying this discussion on the pro's and con's and plusses and minuses of certification. I did not know that clinical labs allowed uncertified techs to process human clinical samples - that seems like it would be a huge liability issue. It shouldn't be that way - isn't everyone else in a hospital setting certified somehow? (nurses, radiology...) I am not certified, and I am in a biotech setting (pre-clinical R&D). I've just started this position and I'm working with an HT certified person in the lab. We both can trim and gross and cut and process and stain, and troubleshoot. However, she's a professional HT and it shows. She has a lot of clinical background. She has an amazing wealth and breadth of knowledge and skill, and knows what to look for during quality control issues. She doesn't have to take time to peruse the internet or books to get an answer to a histology problem. However if you asked her to do an ELISA or a Western Blot she would probably need some help, unlike myself. I do hope to gain histology knowledge from her, although it's proving to be difficult. I am very interested in developing my skills and learning more about pathology and the science of staining. I would love to be HT certified, but the HT here said I would need to train in a clinical setting for a year, under an ASCP pathologist, which is not likely with the job that I have and being a mom of two. Would anyone know of a less rigorous training program? Something online? Thanks a lot. Jennifer Anderson The information transmitted in this email is confidential and is intended only for the person(s) or entity to which it is addressed. Delivery of this message to any person other than the intended recipient(s) is not intended in any way to waive confidentiality or any applicable privilege. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by individuals or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited by Halozyme and may be in violation of applicable laws. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and delete/destroy this email. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Pamela Marcum Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:16 AM To: 'Martin, Gary'; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I am sorry I seemed to have expanded this discussion. I want to be clear on part of the record. I was OJT trained in the 60's. We had even fewer schools and options then. The person who trained me had been trained by the pathologist and the Ann Preece book in histology. She knew what the pathologists we worked with wanted and saw to it that was what they got everyday. When I worked in other places later and continued my education I did learn more about the chemistry and why it worked or failed. I was in research when I took my HT and was told if I used animal tissue I would fail as no one on the board back then was experienced with it. I did not know if it was true so I quickly found a hospital where I could complete everything on human tissue I processed and stained. The person running that lab required me (thank goodness) to process every piece of tissue and do every stain manually. We did not have automated stainers back then so I learned every step. So for those who think I am picking on them for OJT training it is not that I disapprove. I believe histology is too important not to be considered professional field that requires consistent training and education. Many of us old timers have fought hard for the education clause so we would have people who were licensed and fully trained. I did get my BS and more education so I did get more on my own. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Martin, Gary Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:27 PM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I am one of those "unregistered" techs. I would respectfully hope that we are not considered the villains here. My situation is; we are a small lab in a rural area that has the need for 1 1/2 Histo Techs. We were having a very difficult time attracting a 1/2 time "qualified tech.", and had zero backup for our one and only full time "qualified tech." I have a good back ground in detail work in the art world and a good amount of experience as a pathology lab assistant. So it was easy for me to transition into the role of "unregistered tech", thereby providing back for our over work Histo tech. I have been trained by my Histo tech and have completed the Freida L. Carson self instruction course under her supervision. We are happy with the results and our Pathologist are pleased. At this point (7 years into teching) there are some things that I have been innovative on some things, and our tech prefers me to do other things. I would love to get certified but the changes in OTJ have made that more of a mountain than I can climb at this time. I would like to lend voice to us who are in this situation and say the we take our duties very serious and I really don't look at my job as getting over on rules or quality or providing cheap labor. In our case it has been necessity. Thank you Gary _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From jengirl1014 <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 12 07:46:40 2009 From: jengirl1014 <@t> yahoo.com (Jennifer Sipes) Date: Thu Feb 12 07:46:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Need some staining help Message-ID: <178858.33851.qm@web62303.mail.re1.yahoo.com> I have an investigator that is doing BRDu (?) staining and is having trouble with it.? Does anyone out there have a protocol that works well so we can compare it with ours? Thanks a bunch! Jennifer Sipes Sr. Laboratory Technician Johns Hopkins University Ross 929 and Ross 933 720 Rutland Avenue Baltimore, MD? 21205 phone:? 410-614-0131 ?????????????? 410-955-9688 fax:???????? 410-955-9677 cell:??????? 443-631-6361 e-mail:? jsipes1@jhmi.edu ? From tifei <@t> foxmail.com Thu Feb 12 07:50:49 2009 From: tifei <@t> foxmail.com (TF) Date: Thu Feb 12 07:51:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Antibody penetration problem References: <582736990902111608l658bc8d9pa0f9960d23728f72@mail.gmail.com>, <200902121045203077431@foxmail.com>, Message-ID: <200902122150443260800@foxmail.com> SGkgYXJ2aW5kLCB0aGlzIGlzIGZvciBnYXJ5Lg0KDQoNCjIwMDktMDItMTIgDQoNCg0KDQpURiAN Cg0KDQoNCreivP7Iy6O6IGFydmluZCANCreiy83Ksbzko7ogMjAwOS0wMi0xMiAgMTQ6Mjk6NTgg DQrK1bz+yMujuiB0aWZlaSANCrOty82juiANCtb3zOKjuiBSZTogW0hpc3RvbmV0XSBBbnRpYm9k eSBwZW5ldHJhdGlvbiBwcm9ibGVtIA0KIA0KdHJ5IGluY3JlYXNpbmcgdGhlIGluY3ViYXRpb24g dGltZSBhbnQgYWRkIDAuMiAlIHRyaVggdG8gdGhlIHByaW1hcnkgaSBoYWQgYWxzbyB1c2VkIHRo ZSBTTUkgMzExIGZvciBteSBodW1hbiBicmFpbiBzZWN0aW9ucyBpdCBoYWQgd29ya2VkIHdlbGwg bXkgc2VjdGlvbnMgd2VyZSA1MCBtaWNyb24gYW5kIGNyeW9zZWN0aW9ucyBvbiBzbGlkZQ0KDQoN Ck9uIFRodSwgRmViIDEyLCAyMDA5IGF0IDg6MTUgQU0sIFRGIDx0aWZlaUBmb3htYWlsLmNvbT4g 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References: <178858.33851.qm@web62303.mail.re1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <200902122154012758662@foxmail.com> hi, for normal brain sections at 40 um either floating or on slides 1. dry up 2. rehydration before IHC 3. citrate buffer 95 C 30 min (increase the signal) 4. wash with PBS 5. 2N HCl 30 min @ 37C (4N HCl 20 min RT does not need citrate buffer step) 6. wash with PBS or borate buffer 7. anti BrdU..... 2009-02-12 TF ???? Jennifer Sipes ????? 2009-02-12 21:50:19 ???? histonet ??? ??? [Histonet] Need some staining help I have an investigator that is doing BRDu (?) staining and is having trouble with it.?Does anyone out there have a protocol that works well so we can compare it with ours? Thanks a bunch! Jennifer Sipes Sr. Laboratory Technician Johns Hopkins University Ross 929 and Ross 933 720 Rutland Avenue Baltimore, MD?21205 phone:?410-614-0131 ??????? 410-955-9688 fax:???? 410-955-9677 cell:????443-631-6361 e-mail:?jsipes1@jhmi.edu ? _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Ronald.Houston <@t> nationwidechildrens.org Thu Feb 12 08:30:44 2009 From: Ronald.Houston <@t> nationwidechildrens.org (Houston, Ronald) Date: Thu Feb 12 08:31:14 2009 Subject: [Histonet] mantle cell lymphoma control block Message-ID: <979FF5962E234F45B06CF0DB7C1AABB21B645458@chi2k3ms01.columbuschildrens.net> Does anyone have an extra block of mantle cell lymphoma they could share? Thanks Ronnie Houston, MS HT(ASCP)QIHC Anatomic Pathology Manager Nationwide Children's Hospital 700 Children's Drive Columbus, OH 43205 (614) 722 5450 ronald.houston@nationwidechildrens.org www.NationwideChildrens.org ----------------------------------------- Confidentiality Notice: The following mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. The recipient is responsible to maintain the confidentiality of this information and to use the information only for authorized purposes. If you are not the intended recipient (or authorized to receive information for the intended recipient), you are hereby notified that any review, use, disclosure, distribution, copying, printing, or action taken in reliance on the contents of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. Thank you. From Christopher.Conlisk <@t> kp.org Thu Feb 12 08:43:07 2009 From: Christopher.Conlisk <@t> kp.org (Christopher.Conlisk@kp.org) Date: Thu Feb 12 08:43:18 2009 Subject: [Histonet] re: Certified Histotechs Message-ID: I find it smartly ironic that all these "Lab Managers", MBA's," Med Techs", are so offended and defensive in regards to BOR(ASCP), for histology? Why? There are journeymen electricians. Many technical fields have registration/certification. I worked for 10 years as a Phlebotomist, a Deiner, a lab assistant, and I didn't get paid squat until I went to I.U.P.U.I., graduated on the Deans list and then sat for the exam (clinical and practical), passed the exam etc. Part of the reason pathologists and clinical lab scientists and MBA managers are so condescending about histology, is because, they want it to always be an easy access career, and the medical field is like the animal kingdom or a caste system, it has its own little system of who is who and how dare you ask me that I am a (you fill in the blank). Also, they can pay less. There are great techs who had OJT, and went to school, as a matter of complete fact, all NAACLS approved schools are supposed to have a program in place for OJT as part of the Histotechs education. This argument is ridiculous. I have to go, I am going over to radiology to ask them if I can just be hired off the street to be an x-ray tech, I am an artist and I am great with wheelchairs, plus I have worked around x-ray for 22 years, and I have gotten so many x-rays playing sports, so I could do it!!! I will just get OJT!! Christopher S Conlisk HT(ASCP), PBT(ASCP) NOTICE TO RECIPIENT: If you are not the intended recipient of this e-mail, you are prohibited from sharing, copying, or otherwise using or disclosing its contents. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify the sender immediately by reply e-mail and permanently delete this e-mail and any attachments without reading, forwarding or saving them. Thank you. From micropathlabs <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 12 09:12:32 2009 From: micropathlabs <@t> yahoo.com (Sheila Haas) Date: Thu Feb 12 09:12:35 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Bone Marrow Smears Message-ID: <394298.33849.qm@web57801.mail.re3.yahoo.com> Hi all. I have a pathologist complaining about "naked" nuclei in his bone marrow smears. It's?fairly random, some are great and some are "naked". Anyone heard of this and have any idea what may be causing this nakedness? Any input would be helpful.Thank you. ? Sheila Haas Laboratory Supervisor Micro Path Laboratories From Kimberly.Marshall <@t> ahss.org Thu Feb 12 09:30:10 2009 From: Kimberly.Marshall <@t> ahss.org (Marshall, Kimberly) Date: Thu Feb 12 09:30:26 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Daily H&E Control Message-ID: Howdy fellow Histo Techs, I am hoping to get an answer from everyone regarding C.A.P. and the rules about a daily H&E control. This year will be the first one for our lab with CAP, I want to know if there is a regulation about having a daily H&E control to view and if so what tissue do they want used. Up till now each day I give my Pathologist a QC sheet to fill out and I make any changes the next day if there are any problems. My pathologist use the daily slides as a control. Is this enough or do I need to have record of a control separate from my daily workload? Thanks in advance for you help. Kimberly Marshall H.T. (ASCP) ============================================================================== The information contained in this message may be privileged and/or confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and deleting the material from any computer. ============================================================================== From dellav <@t> musc.edu Thu Feb 12 09:40:35 2009 From: dellav <@t> musc.edu (Della Speranza, Vinnie) Date: Thu Feb 12 09:40:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] HT training In-Reply-To: <292313.38113.qm@web50308.mail.re2.yahoo.com> References: <292313.38113.qm@web50308.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Thanks Kim for posting this information. There seem to be misconceptions about how to qualify for the certification exam. I recommend that individuals call the ASCP Board of Registry if the information posted on line isn't clear or doesn't quite match up with their circumstances. The only obstacles that keep individuals from getting certified are those they put in front of themselves. Sometimes achieving one's goals requires personal sacrifice. Vinnie Della Speranza Manager for Anatomic Pathology Services Medical University of South Carolina 165 Ashley Avenue Suite 309 Charleston, South Carolina 29425 Tel: (843) 792-6353 Fax: (843) 792-8974 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Merriam Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2009 8:21 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Jennifer Anderson Subject: Re: [Histonet] HT training Hi Jennifer, ? I am HT and QIHC certified and I received both certifications without working in a clinical lab (I did work in a hospital for about 3 months very early on in my career, but it was long before I took the HT exam).? I have been in the field for 22 years now, working in biotech, preclinical contract lab and big-pharma.? ? Anyway, you should be able to qualify to take the exam if you work with a boarded DVM pathologist (DACVP), that is how I qualified to take both of them. ? Good luck! Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC Cambridge, MA --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Jennifer Anderson wrote: From: Jennifer Anderson Subject: [Histonet] HT training To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 4:05 PM Hello. I am enjoying this discussion on the pro's and con's and plusses and minuses of certification. I did not know that clinical labs allowed uncertified techs to process human clinical samples - that seems like it would be a huge liability issue. It shouldn't be that way - isn't everyone else in a hospital setting certified somehow? (nurses, radiology...) I am not certified, and I am in a biotech setting (pre-clinical R&D). I've just started this position and I'm working with an HT certified person in the lab. We both can trim and gross and cut and process and stain, and troubleshoot. However, she's a professional HT and it shows. She has a lot of clinical background. She has an amazing wealth and breadth of knowledge and skill, and knows what to look for during quality control issues. She doesn't have to take time to peruse the internet or books to get an answer to a histology problem. However if you asked her to do an ELISA or a Western Blot she would probably need some help, unlike myself. I do hope to gain histology knowledge from her, although it's proving to be difficult. I am very interested in developing my skills and learning more about pathology and the science of staining. I would love to be HT certified, but the HT here said I would need to train in a clinical setting for a year, under an ASCP pathologist, which is not likely with the job that I have and being a mom of two. Would anyone know of a less rigorous training program? Something online? Thanks a lot. Jennifer Anderson The information transmitted in this email is confidential and is intended only for the person(s) or entity to which it is addressed. Delivery of this message to any person other than the intended recipient(s) is not intended in any way to waive confidentiality or any applicable privilege. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by individuals or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited by Halozyme and may be in violation of applicable laws. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and delete/destroy this email. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Pamela Marcum Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:16 AM To: 'Martin, Gary'; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I am sorry I seemed to have expanded this discussion. I want to be clear on part of the record. I was OJT trained in the 60's. We had even fewer schools and options then. The person who trained me had been trained by the pathologist and the Ann Preece book in histology. She knew what the pathologists we worked with wanted and saw to it that was what they got everyday. When I worked in other places later and continued my education I did learn more about the chemistry and why it worked or failed. I was in research when I took my HT and was told if I used animal tissue I would fail as no one on the board back then was experienced with it. I did not know if it was true so I quickly found a hospital where I could complete everything on human tissue I processed and stained. The person running that lab required me (thank goodness) to process every piece of tissue and do every stain manually. We did not have automated stainers back then so I learned every step. So for those who think I am picking on them for OJT training it is not that I disapprove. I believe histology is too important not to be considered professional field that requires consistent training and education. Many of us old timers have fought hard for the education clause so we would have people who were licensed and fully trained. I did get my BS and more education so I did get more on my own. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Martin, Gary Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:27 PM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I am one of those "unregistered" techs. I would respectfully hope that we are not considered the villains here. My situation is; we are a small lab in a rural area that has the need for 1 1/2 Histo Techs. We were having a very difficult time attracting a 1/2 time "qualified tech.", and had zero backup for our one and only full time "qualified tech." I have a good back ground in detail work in the art world and a good amount of experience as a pathology lab assistant. So it was easy for me to transition into the role of "unregistered tech", thereby providing back for our over work Histo tech. I have been trained by my Histo tech and have completed the Freida L. Carson self instruction course under her supervision. We are happy with the results and our Pathologist are pleased. At this point (7 years into teching) there are some things that I have been innovative on some things, and our tech prefers me to do other things. I would love to get certified but the changes in OTJ have made that more of a mountain than I can climb at this time. I would like to lend voice to us who are in this situation and say the we take our duties very serious and I really don't look at my job as getting over on rules or quality or providing cheap labor. In our case it has been necessity. Thank you Gary _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 12 09:46:24 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Thu Feb 12 09:46:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Daily H&E Control In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <557376.25816.qm@web65715.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Kimberly: The QC filled by the pathologists is a good step and can be considered enough. The thing is that from day-to-day or stain batch-to-batch you could have a difference and you should not add to that variability the intrinsic variability of all the cases reviewed by the pathologists (everyday different). This meaning that you should have a standard section type for the QC. Because of all its components, I always used appendix as my QC daily section. They will also be filed with the date it was stained and reviewed. Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/12/09, Marshall, Kimberly wrote: From: Marshall, Kimberly Subject: [Histonet] Daily H&E Control To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Thursday, February 12, 2009, 10:30 AM Howdy fellow Histo Techs, I am hoping to get an answer from everyone regarding C.A.P. and the rules about a daily H&E control. This year will be the first one for our lab with CAP, I want to know if there is a regulation about having a daily H&E control to view and if so what tissue do they want used. Up till now each day I give my Pathologist a QC sheet to fill out and I make any changes the next day if there are any problems. My pathologist use the daily slides as a control. Is this enough or do I need to have record of a control separate from my daily workload? Thanks in advance for you help. Kimberly Marshall H.T. (ASCP) ============================================================================== The information contained in this message may be privileged and/or confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and deleting the material from any computer. ============================================================================== _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 12 09:48:35 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Thu Feb 12 09:48:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Bone Marrow Smears In-Reply-To: <394298.33849.qm@web57801.mail.re3.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <50682.48082.qm@web65702.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> In bone marrow smears it is caused by improper fixation. In the same way that Cabot rings in red blood cells are caused?by improper fixation with methanol. Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/12/09, Sheila Haas wrote: From: Sheila Haas Subject: [Histonet] Bone Marrow Smears To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Thursday, February 12, 2009, 10:12 AM Hi all. I have a pathologist complaining about "naked" nuclei in his bone marrow smears. It's?fairly random, some are great and some are "naked". Anyone heard of this and have any idea what may be causing this nakedness? Any input would be helpful.Thank you. ? Sheila Haas Laboratory Supervisor Micro Path Laboratories _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From micropathlabs <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 12 09:48:54 2009 From: micropathlabs <@t> yahoo.com (Sheila Haas) Date: Thu Feb 12 09:48:58 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Bone Marrow Smears References: <394298.33849.qm@web57801.mail.re3.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <50843.21941.qm@web57805.mail.re3.yahoo.com> Our smears are handmade and "smushed" as directed by our pathologist. There are several techs?making smears and a number of cases a day. The nakedness varies from case to case. It?hasn't been tracked to a tech, to a technique (per our pathologist), etc... Any advice on avoiding this? ? Sheila Haas Laboratory Supervisor Micro Path Laboratories ? ________________________________ From: "Howery, Jeffrey" To: Sheila Haas Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2009 10:41:43 AM Subject: RE: [Histonet] Bone Marrow Smears How are you making your smears? If you smush your smears when making them That will cause the problem. ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Sheila Haas Sent: Thu 2/12/2009 8:12 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Bone Marrow Smears Hi all. I have a pathologist complaining about "naked" nuclei in his bone marrow smears. It's?fairly random, some are great and some are "naked". Anyone heard of this and have any idea what may be causing this nakedness? Any input would be helpful.Thank you. ? Sheila Haas Laboratory Supervisor Micro Path Laboratories ????? _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. From rfields <@t> gidocs.net Thu Feb 12 09:48:24 2009 From: rfields <@t> gidocs.net (Rosa Fields) Date: Thu Feb 12 09:50:45 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Manual IHC for H. pylori Message-ID: <07732CE52EC3174AB891DE1C62DB4D8F6F94F4@GIEXCHANGE.gidocs.net> Anyone have a manual IHC protocol for H. pylori they would be willing to share? Rosa Fields, HT (ASCP) Gastroenterology Specialties Histology Supervisor 4545 R Street Lincoln, NE 68503 402-465-4545 rfields@gidocs.net The information contained in the message and the documents accompanying this message contain information that is privileged and confidential and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above.? If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication, other than its return to the sender, is strictly prohibited.? From mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu Thu Feb 12 09:38:36 2009 From: mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu (Geoff McAuliffe) Date: Thu Feb 12 09:54:46 2009 Subject: [Histonet] PAS/Alcian Blue In-Reply-To: <8CB5AB49E810DAE-A78-1597@WEBMAIL-DC20.sysops.aol.com> References: <8CB5AB49E810DAE-A78-1597@WEBMAIL-DC20.sysops.aol.com> Message-ID: <4994427C.1050907@umdnj.edu> Mouse or rat small intestine, large intestine or kidney. These tissues might give the desired results for human but I have no experience with human material. Geoff thisisann@aol.com wrote: > Can someone tell me what control tissue you use when you run a PAS/Alc. Blue (not separately, but together) > Thanks, > Ann > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** From gu.lang <@t> gmx.at Thu Feb 12 09:55:57 2009 From: gu.lang <@t> gmx.at (Gudrun Lang) Date: Thu Feb 12 09:56:04 2009 Subject: AW: [Histonet] PAS/Alcian Blue In-Reply-To: <8CB5AB49E810DAE-A78-1597@WEBMAIL-DC20.sysops.aol.com> References: <8CB5AB49E810DAE-A78-1597@WEBMAIL-DC20.sysops.aol.com> Message-ID: Hi, you can use vessel (aorta) or skin (especially of Lupus eryth). Be aware that it makes a different, if you stain first PAS or first Alcian. The "better" way is, to make Alcian-PAS, because there's no alteration of the alcian-staining by oxidation with periodacid. 10 min AB, rinse, start of usual PAS. Bye Gudrun -----Urspr?ngliche Nachricht----- Von: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] Im Auftrag von thisisann@aol.com Gesendet: Donnerstag, 12. Februar 2009 00:07 An: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Betreff: [Histonet] PAS/Alcian Blue Can someone tell me what control tissue you use when you run a PAS/Alc. Blue (not separately, but together) Thanks, Ann _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From JonSorenson <@t> chiwest.com Thu Feb 12 09:55:57 2009 From: JonSorenson <@t> chiwest.com (Sorenson, Jon (Nampa)) Date: Thu Feb 12 09:56:09 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology References: <20090211211521.1D1D06BNXL@email7.catholichealth.net> Message-ID: In response to what Tom McNemar wrote: I too, am a certified HT,HTL for 25 plus years and strongly agree with Tom. I followed a B.S. in Biology/Chemistry with training in a 2 year A.S. program that included a 6 month stint as an unpaid intern at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. I guess I wish the practical test was still part of the certification process and that there were more schools available. I have to assume that economics dictated the demise of most, including the program I attended. I am proud to be certified, proud to have helped several very good OJT techs attain their certification, and very willing to admit paper does not a good tech make. We as Histotechs have benefited financially from our relative scarcity and suffered from lack of respect because of the loose standards. Having said all that, Histology has been a rewarding career and I hope we continue to produce high quality techs in the future. Jon Sorenson Histology Coordinator Mercy Medical Center JonSorenson@chiwest.com 208-463-5267 RE: Tom McNemar TMcNemar@lmhealth.org I'm sure that I'm gonna get blasted but...... I'm sorry but I stand by the statement. I have been a certified HT for 30 years now. I will take an uncertified tech who can get a quality slide to the pathologist in a timely fashion over one who can tell me about it but can't do it. We all know that they are out there. Yes, perhaps the "lure" was insufficient but that is out of my control and irrelevant. The bottom line is that none were willing to accept what I had to offer. Certification does not make a good histo tech. Certification is a stamp of validation. It says that someone passed a test so they must be good. There are many very good uncertified people in histology. Certification lost some of its validity when they did away with the practical part. I would prefer to have someone who can actually do the work and not just talk about it. Given my choice, I would love to have all certified techs but I live in the real world and it's not likely to happen in my remaining time. Everyone talks of quality like it comes magically from having a piece of paper. It don't. Quality comes from experience and practical training. And in the long run, that paper has very little to do with it. Let the flamming begin! ________________________________ From jrobertson <@t> pathologysciences.com Thu Feb 12 10:07:23 2009 From: jrobertson <@t> pathologysciences.com (Jodie Robertson) Date: Thu Feb 12 10:07:27 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Daily H&E Control In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <518CD6920AA7154193CBE5977CD88073177E98@psmgsrv2.PSMG.local> You should have a daily H&E control that is run BEFORE any patient slides are. There can always be a situation arise (i.e. baskets put in the wrong place) that can affect the staining outcome. It's much easier to correct on a control than have to either de-stain and re-stain or recut patient tissue. We used to use the patient's slides as controls until we got the system better. We use skin, placenta, tonsil, appendix and uterus as a control that we place in one block. This gives us a broad range of stain quality. We grade the slide for quality as HT's and record it for our paperwork. If it passes for us, we stain the patient slides. The pathologist gets the control slide as well and signs off on his paperwork before reading the slides received. Jodie Robertson, HT(ASCP) QIHC Pathology Sciences Medical Group Chico, CA 95926 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Marshall, Kimberly Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2009 7:30 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Daily H&E Control Howdy fellow Histo Techs, I am hoping to get an answer from everyone regarding C.A.P. and the rules about a daily H&E control. This year will be the first one for our lab with CAP, I want to know if there is a regulation about having a daily H&E control to view and if so what tissue do they want used. Up till now each day I give my Pathologist a QC sheet to fill out and I make any changes the next day if there are any problems. My pathologist use the daily slides as a control. Is this enough or do I need to have record of a control separate from my daily workload? Thanks in advance for you help. Kimberly Marshall H.T. (ASCP) ======================================================================== ====== The information contained in this message may be privileged and/or confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and deleting the material from any computer. ======================================================================== ====== _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From godsgalnow <@t> aol.com Thu Feb 12 10:10:50 2009 From: godsgalnow <@t> aol.com (godsgalnow@aol.com) Date: Thu Feb 12 10:11:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Manual IHC for H. pylori In-Reply-To: <07732CE52EC3174AB891DE1C62DB4D8F6F94F4@GIEXCHANGE.gidocs.net> References: <07732CE52EC3174AB891DE1C62DB4D8F6F94F4@GIEXCHANGE.gidocs.net> Message-ID: <8CB5B439B5DBA94-17DC-5DC@webmail-da13.sysops.aol.com> How manual?? DO you have a pressue cooker? Dewax Retrieve in Diva (available from Biocare) in pressure cooker Cool for 10 minutes Buffer for 5 minutes Rinse in DI water H202 for 5 minutes Buffer rinse Background Sniper for 10 Minutes (also from Bioacre) Buffer rinse Hpylori antibody (1:150 titer--purchased from Biocare) for 30 minutes Buffer rinse Mach2 Alk Phose detection (Biocare)?for 30 minutes Buffer Rinse VFR (Biocare) for 15 minutes Buffer rinse Di water rinse dry in oven dip in xylene one slide at a time as coverslipping Beautiful....if you have any questions, be glad to help Roxanne -----Original Message----- From: Rosa Fields To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Thu, 12 Feb 2009 10:48 am Subject: [Histonet] Manual IHC for H. pylori Anyone have a manual IHC protocol for H. pylori they would be willing to share? Rosa Fields, HT (ASCP) Gastroenterology Specialties Histology Supervisor 4545 R Street Lincoln, NE 68503 402-465-4545 rfields@gidocs.net The information contained in the message and the documents accompanying this message contain information that is privileged and confidential and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above.? If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication, other than its return to the sender, is strictly prohibited.? _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From godsgalnow <@t> aol.com Thu Feb 12 10:45:26 2009 From: godsgalnow <@t> aol.com (godsgalnow@aol.com) Date: Thu Feb 12 10:45:44 2009 Subject: [Histonet] bloody tissue Message-ID: <8CB5B4870BC1B94-17DC-879@webmail-da13.sysops.aol.com> Does anyone have a microwave protocol for bloody tissue, like currettings? Thanks Roxanne From SEsparza <@t> seton.org Thu Feb 12 10:58:07 2009 From: SEsparza <@t> seton.org (Esparza, Sandra) Date: Thu Feb 12 10:58:15 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <205161.96863.qm@web53601.mail.re2.yahoo.com> References: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0A9@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> <205161.96863.qm@web53601.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <3D79F47DC92B204F9E5D35C885DFC5CB01003C74@AUSEX2VS1.seton.org> I agree it's not about which tech is better. I agree there are great OTJ techs. The point of unifying the field is well taken. Let's face it we were never considered as professionals. We were never paid like other lab professionals. Histology is just now coming into its own. Our field is being recognized for the complexity of the procedures and the value of our work. We need people who understand the technical aspects of the job along with the ability to do the job. This to me means a professional. I think getting certification helps our credibility. Finally I think everyone who has been working in the field should have the opportunity to take their registry. Sandra HT (ASCP)QIHC -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 1:12 PM To: Tom McNemar; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology It's not about if OTJ techs are better or worse than certified techs, it's about unifying the field and certification is one way to do that. As it stands now we are in a divided field of expertise where some places have a total lack of respect for anyone working in histology and other places go for the lowest price.?Once you are in histology it's?up to you how talented you are going to be but IMO this field needs to be unified for higher wages and more education about the field itself so more people get interested in?it. ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Tom McNemar To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Larry Woody ; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:56:10 AM Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I'm sure that I'm gonna get blasted but...... ? I'm sorry but I stand by the statement.? I have been a certified HT for 30 years now.? I will take an uncertified tech who can get a quality slide to the pathologist in a timely fashion over one who can?tell me about it but can't do it.? We all know that they are out there. ? Yes, perhaps the "lure" was insufficient but that is out of my control and irrelevant.? The bottom line is that?none were willing to accept what I had to offer. ? Certification does not make a good histo tech.? Certification is a?stamp of validation.? It says that someone passed a test so they must be good.? There are many very good uncertified people in histology.? ? Certification lost some of its validity when they did away with the practical part.? I would prefer to have someone who can actually do the work and not just talk about it. ? Given my choice, I would love to have all certified techs but I live in the real world and it's not?likely to happen in my remaining time.? Everyone talks of quality like it comes magically from having a piece of paper.? It don't.? Quality comes from experience and practical training.? And in the long run, that paper has very little to do with it. ? Let the flamming begin! ? Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org ? ? -----Original Message----- From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 12:12 PM To: Larry Woody; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley; Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Tom: All you have written is understandable EXCEPT that "it doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology", that reflects the old assumption that "if you know how to cook or to knit you can do histology". That is an unacceptable position now when patient care should be a major concern. I agree that a lab assistant? does not need to be certified as long as the work is limited to "assist" or do things other than working with patient samples. Perhaps the "lure" you used was not "tasteful" enough (not enough money or benefits). HTs?occupy the worst paid echelon in the medical lab and will never get of that stratum unless all are certified and those who hire them show the proper respect for their work. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Tom McNemar wrote: From: Tom McNemar Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Larry Woody" , rjbuesa@yahoo.com, Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley" Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM Perhaps in a perfect world.... My world is less than perfect. For our last opening, we spent 10 months trying to find and lure a certified tech to our facility and then gave up and took an MLT. We have four techs and two of us are certified HTs. We recently hired a person off the street and trained them to be a histology assistant. It has been very beneficial for us. She files slides, covers the late grossing (assists the pathologist), coverslips, etc. It doesn't take an advanced degree to do histology. You gotta do what you gotta do to get the work out. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From JMacDonald <@t> mtsac.edu Thu Feb 12 11:16:28 2009 From: JMacDonald <@t> mtsac.edu (Jennifer MacDonald) Date: Thu Feb 12 11:16:33 2009 Subject: [Histonet] re: Certified Histotechs In-Reply-To: Message-ID: I would like too clarify the role of NAACLS in training histotechs for certification. There are a number of different NAACLS accredited programs in the US. All of these programs meet the standards set by NAACLS or they do not remain accredited. Providing on the job training (OJT) is NOT one of the requirements. All of the programs have a practical component to them. The hospital-based programs will provide the practical instruction as well as the didactic portion. College based programs will provide the didactic portion and some also provide some practical portions and the student will be placed in a clinical affiliate work site for further practical training. Other college based programs will place the students into internships for the practical training after they complete the didactic portion, or a variation of this. One of the challenges that NAACLS accredited programs have is to get clinical affiliate sites to place their students. There are affiliation agreements, forms, and certain standards that these sites must meet. Another challenge is to get comparable training between sites. Not everyone out there is willing to be a part of the training of these students. There are some employees that refuse to help train the students or even let them observe them working. The ASCP does not "frown" upon OJT people. Route 2 (AS or equivalent {with sciences} plus 1 year of histology work experience ) allows for the work experience component for certification eligibility. The ASCP, upon much research and feedback from the "professional world" has established a minimum education requirement., Applicants that applied for certification under the old route 3 (high school and 2 years of histology work experience) had an HTexam pass success rate around 30% on the computer portion. Many of those applicants did pass the practical portion. It was determined that in many cases a high school education does not provide the foundation for the theory portion of the exam. The quality of OJT techs is not being called into question. The histology community has for many years demanded respect and higher wages to rival nursing and medical technologists. We are the only clinical profession that does not require some form of certification or license. In order to command the respect that the profession deserves we have to set standards. Certification is a way to set the minimum standard. Is it perfect, no. There will always be people that can test well and perform badly, and visa versa. That folks is life. For those that are working in the lab now and are not certified there are a couple of NAACLS accredited on-line programs to qualify for route 1. You can take college credit courses to work toward your degree to qualify for route 2. Encouraging high school students into our profession is great, but encouraging them to forgo college to do it is a disservice. The world of histology has changed a great deal over the years. There is more of a demand for higher complexity testing that did not exist when I first trained. Someone mentioned that automation is taking over. You still need people to trouble shoot and QC. What happens when there are problems? Jennifer MacDonald Director, Histotechnician Training Program Mt. San Antonio College 1100 N. Grand Ave. Walnut, CA 91789 (909) 594-5611 ext. 4884 jmacdonald@mtsac.edu Christopher.Conlisk@kp.org Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu 02/12/2009 06:44 AM To histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu cc Subject [Histonet] re: Certified Histotechs I find it smartly ironic that all these "Lab Managers", MBA's," Med Techs", are so offended and defensive in regards to BOR(ASCP), for histology? Why? There are journeymen electricians. Many technical fields have registration/certification. I worked for 10 years as a Phlebotomist, a Deiner, a lab assistant, and I didn't get paid squat until I went to I.U.P.U.I., graduated on the Deans list and then sat for the exam (clinical and practical), passed the exam etc. Part of the reason pathologists and clinical lab scientists and MBA managers are so condescending about histology, is because, they want it to always be an easy access career, and the medical field is like the animal kingdom or a caste system, it has its own little system of who is who and how dare you ask me that I am a (you fill in the blank). Also, they can pay less. There are great techs who had OJT, and went to school, as a matter of complete fact, all NAACLS approved schools are supposed to have a program in place for OJT as part of the Histotechs education. This argument is ridiculous. I have to go, I am going over to radiology to ask them if I can just be hired off the street to be an x-ray tech, I am an artist and I am great with wheelchairs, plus I have worked around x-ray for 22 years, and I have gotten so many x-rays playing sports, so I could do it!!! I will just get OJT!! Christopher S Conlisk HT(ASCP), PBT(ASCP) NOTICE TO RECIPIENT: If you are not the intended recipient of this e-mail, you are prohibited from sharing, copying, or otherwise using or disclosing its contents. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify the sender immediately by reply e-mail and permanently delete this e-mail and any attachments without reading, forwarding or saving them. Thank you. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Vickroy.Jim <@t> mhsil.com Thu Feb 12 11:18:08 2009 From: Vickroy.Jim <@t> mhsil.com (Vickroy, Jim) Date: Thu Feb 12 11:18:50 2009 Subject: [Histonet] MAMMOGLOBIN Message-ID: <24A4826E8EF0964D86BC5317306F58A52BADE450A6@mmc-mail.ad.mhsil.com> We are testing the antibody - Mammoglobin. The two different products we are looking at are: Dako Monoclonal Clone 304-1A5 and Zeta Corp. Mouse and Rabbit Monoclonal Cocktail 304-1A5 and 31A5. I believe the Dako product is an IVD and the Zeta product is an ASR. We have a Ventana Benchmark XT and I wondered if anyone was using the Dako product on the Ventana. If you are could you please share the protocol that you are using? In addition I think our pathologists would prefer the cocktail however I know rather not use an ASR product? Any suggestions? Jim Vickroy BS, HT(ASCP) Technical Supervisor - Surgical and Autopsy Pathology Memorial Medical Center 217-788-4046 vickroy.jim@mhsil.com This message (including any attachments) contains confidential information intended for a specific individual and purpose, and is protected by law. If you are not the intended recipient, you should delete this message. Any disclosure, copying, or distribution of this message, or the taking of any action based on it, is strictly prohibited. From jrobertson <@t> pathologysciences.com Thu Feb 12 11:40:42 2009 From: jrobertson <@t> pathologysciences.com (Jodie Robertson) Date: Thu Feb 12 11:40:46 2009 Subject: [Histonet] MAMMOGLOBIN In-Reply-To: <24A4826E8EF0964D86BC5317306F58A52BADE450A6@mmc-mail.ad.mhsil.com> References: <24A4826E8EF0964D86BC5317306F58A52BADE450A6@mmc-mail.ad.mhsil.com> Message-ID: <518CD6920AA7154193CBE5977CD88073177E9B@psmgsrv2.PSMG.local> We use the Dako Mammaglobin pre-dilute clone 304-1A5. We do the following: Deparaffinization Cell Conditioning #1 - Mild Mammaglobin at 32 min. Ultra Wash. Hematoxylin - 4 min. Bluing 4 min. Hope this helps. Jodie Robertson, HT(ASCP) QIHC Pathology Sciences Medical Group Chico, CA 95926 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Vickroy, Jim Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2009 9:18 AM To: 'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu' Subject: [Histonet] MAMMOGLOBIN We are testing the antibody - Mammoglobin. The two different products we are looking at are: Dako Monoclonal Clone 304-1A5 and Zeta Corp. Mouse and Rabbit Monoclonal Cocktail 304-1A5 and 31A5. I believe the Dako product is an IVD and the Zeta product is an ASR. We have a Ventana Benchmark XT and I wondered if anyone was using the Dako product on the Ventana. If you are could you please share the protocol that you are using? In addition I think our pathologists would prefer the cocktail however I know rather not use an ASR product? Any suggestions? Jim Vickroy BS, HT(ASCP) Technical Supervisor - Surgical and Autopsy Pathology Memorial Medical Center 217-788-4046 vickroy.jim@mhsil.com This message (including any attachments) contains confidential information intended for a specific individual and purpose, and is protected by law. If you are not the intended recipient, you should delete this message. Any disclosure, copying, or distribution of this message, or the taking of any action based on it, is strictly prohibited. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Erin.Martin <@t> ucsf.edu Thu Feb 12 12:18:59 2009 From: Erin.Martin <@t> ucsf.edu (Martin, Erin) Date: Thu Feb 12 12:19:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Microwave processors Message-ID: Hi all, What experiences have you all had with microwave processors? Sakura? Milestone? We're trying to figure something our. I know there will be some passionate responses...And I look forward to them! Thanks so much, Erin Martin, HT From jqb7 <@t> cdc.gov Thu Feb 12 12:26:51 2009 From: jqb7 <@t> cdc.gov (Bartlett, Jeanine (CDC/CCID/NCZVED)) Date: Thu Feb 12 12:27:05 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Microwave processors In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <9A16CB5D55FC1648ADF11B63E72A1BE133351D@LTA3VS011.ees.hhs.gov> We have the Sakura Xpress and really like it. Jeanine Bartlett Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch (404) 639-3590 jeanine.bartlett@cdc.hhs.gov -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Martin, Erin Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2009 1:19 PM To: histonet Subject: [Histonet] Microwave processors Hi all, What experiences have you all had with microwave processors? Sakura? Milestone? We're trying to figure something our. I know there will be some passionate responses...And I look forward to them! Thanks so much, Erin Martin, HT _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From KKay <@t> chr.ab.ca Thu Feb 12 12:34:05 2009 From: KKay <@t> chr.ab.ca (Kay, Karen) Date: Thu Feb 12 12:34:17 2009 Subject: [Histonet] H&E CONTROL - RE: Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 20 In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <9C0BD812BAB0BA4DB7E7FD4F5FA3CAA80A494EA3@exbe.chr.ab.ca> Hi Kimberly, A H&E control slide should be run prior to any patient slides. Much easier to fix issues before staining hundreds of patient slides. We create H&E control blocks with small portions of appendix, skin, placenta, and liver embedded in one block. A technologist reads the slide daily and records quality of nuclear and cytoplasmic staining as well as the the lot number of both the hematoxylin and eosin. These results are recorded electronically in our QA LIS. Should we encounter any issues with the control slide, changes are made, and another control slide is run before any patient slides are stained. While multiple control slide runs do not happen very often, it is still much better to do that rather than correcting multiple sets of patient slides. The slides are dated and if more than one is required, numbered with the appropriate number. We keep our control slides each in a slide file card for the week to refer to if we want to check any changes that may be occuring. After that the control slides are moved to cardboard slide boxes to be retained under our Canadian retention guidelines. The slide boxes are dated with a date range of contents. Hope this is of help to you. Karen J Kay, MLT Pathology Supervisor Chinook Health Laboratory Chinook Regional Hospital Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada Message: 16 Date: Thu, 12 Feb 2009 08:07:23 -0800 From: "Jodie Robertson" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Daily H&E Control To: "Marshall, Kimberly" , Message-ID: <518CD6920AA7154193CBE5977CD88073177E98@psmgsrv2.PSMG.local> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" You should have a daily H&E control that is run BEFORE any patient slides are. There can always be a situation arise (i.e. baskets put in the wrong place) that can affect the staining outcome. It's much easier to correct on a control than have to either de-stain and re-stain or recut patient tissue. We used to use the patient's slides as controls until we got the system better. We use skin, placenta, tonsil, appendix and uterus as a control that we place in one block. This gives us a broad range of stain quality. We grade the slide for quality as HT's and record it for our paperwork. If it passes for us, we stain the patient slides. The pathologist gets the control slide as well and signs off on his paperwork before reading the slides received. Jodie Robertson, HT(ASCP) QIHC Pathology Sciences Medical Group Chico, CA 95926 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Marshall, Kimberly Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2009 7:30 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Daily H&E Control Howdy fellow Histo Techs, I am hoping to get an answer from everyone regarding C.A.P. and the rules about a daily H&E control. This year will be the first one for our lab with CAP, I want to know if there is a regulation about having a daily H&E control to view and if so what tissue do they want used. Up till now each day I give my Pathologist a QC sheet to fill out and I make any changes the next day if there are any problems. My pathologist use the daily slides as a control. Is this enough or do I need to have record of a control separate from my daily workload? Thanks in advance for you help. Kimberly Marshall H.T. (ASCP) This communication is intended for the use of the recipient to which it is addressed, and may contain confidential, personal and or privileged information. Please contact us immediately if you are not the intended recipient. Do not copy, distribute or take action relying on it. Any communication received in error, or subsequent reply, should be deleted or destroyed. From alyssa <@t> alliedsearchpartners.com Thu Feb 12 12:46:12 2009 From: alyssa <@t> alliedsearchpartners.com (Alyssa Peterson) Date: Thu Feb 12 12:46:20 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Supervisors, want a career advancement?-Histology Manager Position Open in MASS! Message-ID: Good Morning, My name is Alyssa Peterson, and I am the Director of Lab/Pathology recruitment, and I am contacting you about a permanent, full time, Monday-Friday Day Shift Histology Management position located in about 20 miles *North West of Boston (You would not have to travel into Boston)!* If you are interested please respond with a current copy of your resume attached as a Microsoft word document, and a contact number with the best time to reach you. You can call me anytime, at 770.621.2639 ext. 4 or send me an email at alyssa@alliedsearchpartners.com for further information. If you are not interested we offer a $1000 referral bonus so feel free to forward this email to whomever you feel fit. ** *Please review the job description:* Prior experience in histology laboratory with certification. BS Degree in Life science from accredited college classes with histology experience. Ability to run the histology operations, manage the staff and interact with upper management. Day Shift, Mon-Friday 8am-5pm. *Benefits: * They offer an attractive benefits package including medical/dental insurance, PTO, 401K, and much more!!!!!! Salary is highly competitive!!! -- Alyssa Peterson Allied Search Partners O: 770.621.2639 ext. 4 F: 770.621.2640 From bakevictoria <@t> gmail.com Thu Feb 12 13:06:29 2009 From: bakevictoria <@t> gmail.com (Victoria Baker) Date: Thu Feb 12 13:06:34 2009 Subject: [Histonet] "ehe" tissue processor Message-ID: <4f016b690902121106j6f5f6a3aqade96a793ae5a495@mail.gmail.com> Hi Does anyone have experience with this type of tissue processor? Any feedback or information would be very appreciated. Vikki Baker From tjasper <@t> copc.net Thu Feb 12 13:41:05 2009 From: tjasper <@t> copc.net (Thomas Jasper) Date: Thu Feb 12 13:41:11 2009 Subject: [Histonet] re: Certified Histotechs References: Message-ID: <90354A475B420441B2A0396E5008D49673183A@copc-sbs.COPC.local> Thank you Jennifer, well stated. Tom J. Thomas Jasper HT (ASCP) BAS Histology Supervisor Central Oregon Regional Pathology Services Bend, OR 97701 541/693-2677 tjasper@copc.net -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Jennifer MacDonald Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2009 9:16 AM To: Christopher.Conlisk@kp.org Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] re: Certified Histotechs I would like too clarify the role of NAACLS in training histotechs for certification. There are a number of different NAACLS accredited programs in the US. All of these programs meet the standards set by NAACLS or they do not remain accredited. Providing on the job training (OJT) is NOT one of the requirements. All of the programs have a practical component to them. The hospital-based programs will provide the practical instruction as well as the didactic portion. College based programs will provide the didactic portion and some also provide some practical portions and the student will be placed in a clinical affiliate work site for further practical training. Other college based programs will place the students into internships for the practical training after they complete the didactic portion, or a variation of this. One of the challenges that NAACLS accredited programs have is to get clinical affiliate sites to place their students. There are affiliation agreements, forms, and certain standards that these sites must meet. Another challenge is to get comparable training between sites. Not everyone out there is willing to be a part of the training of these students. There are some employees that refuse to help train the students or even let them observe them working. The ASCP does not "frown" upon OJT people. Route 2 (AS or equivalent {with sciences} plus 1 year of histology work experience ) allows for the work experience component for certification eligibility. The ASCP, upon much research and feedback from the "professional world" has established a minimum education requirement., Applicants that applied for certification under the old route 3 (high school and 2 years of histology work experience) had an HTexam pass success rate around 30% on the computer portion. Many of those applicants did pass the practical portion. It was determined that in many cases a high school education does not provide the foundation for the theory portion of the exam. The quality of OJT techs is not being called into question. The histology community has for many years demanded respect and higher wages to rival nursing and medical technologists. We are the only clinical profession that does not require some form of certification or license. In order to command the respect that the profession deserves we have to set standards. Certification is a way to set the minimum standard. Is it perfect, no. There will always be people that can test well and perform badly, and visa versa. That folks is life. For those that are working in the lab now and are not certified there are a couple of NAACLS accredited on-line programs to qualify for route 1. You can take college credit courses to work toward your degree to qualify for route 2. Encouraging high school students into our profession is great, but encouraging them to forgo college to do it is a disservice. The world of histology has changed a great deal over the years. There is more of a demand for higher complexity testing that did not exist when I first trained. Someone mentioned that automation is taking over. You still need people to trouble shoot and QC. What happens when there are problems? Jennifer MacDonald Director, Histotechnician Training Program Mt. San Antonio College 1100 N. Grand Ave. Walnut, CA 91789 (909) 594-5611 ext. 4884 jmacdonald@mtsac.edu Christopher.Conlisk@kp.org Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu 02/12/2009 06:44 AM To histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu cc Subject [Histonet] re: Certified Histotechs I find it smartly ironic that all these "Lab Managers", MBA's," Med Techs", are so offended and defensive in regards to BOR(ASCP), for histology? Why? There are journeymen electricians. Many technical fields have registration/certification. I worked for 10 years as a Phlebotomist, a Deiner, a lab assistant, and I didn't get paid squat until I went to I.U.P.U.I., graduated on the Deans list and then sat for the exam (clinical and practical), passed the exam etc. Part of the reason pathologists and clinical lab scientists and MBA managers are so condescending about histology, is because, they want it to always be an easy access career, and the medical field is like the animal kingdom or a caste system, it has its own little system of who is who and how dare you ask me that I am a (you fill in the blank). Also, they can pay less. There are great techs who had OJT, and went to school, as a matter of complete fact, all NAACLS approved schools are supposed to have a program in place for OJT as part of the Histotechs education. This argument is ridiculous. I have to go, I am going over to radiology to ask them if I can just be hired off the street to be an x-ray tech, I am an artist and I am great with wheelchairs, plus I have worked around x-ray for 22 years, and I have gotten so many x-rays playing sports, so I could do it!!! I will just get OJT!! Christopher S Conlisk HT(ASCP), PBT(ASCP) NOTICE TO RECIPIENT: If you are not the intended recipient of this e-mail, you are prohibited from sharing, copying, or otherwise using or disclosing its contents. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify the sender immediately by reply e-mail and permanently delete this e-mail and any attachments without reading, forwarding or saving them. Thank you. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Kris.Caldwell <@t> leica-microsystems.com Thu Feb 12 13:48:28 2009 From: Kris.Caldwell <@t> leica-microsystems.com (Kris.Caldwell@leica-microsystems.com) Date: Thu Feb 12 13:48:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Bond Marketing Manager opportunity Message-ID: This is a great opportunity at Leica North American Headquarters just outside of Chicago, IL (USA). Leica Microsystems is a leading global designer and producer of innovative high-tech precision optics systems for the analysis of microstructures. It is one of the market leaders in each of the fields of Microscopy, Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy, Imaging Systems, Specimen Preparation and Medical Equipment. Comprising nine manufacturing facilities in seven countries, sales and service companies in 20 countries and an international network of dealers, the company is represented in over 100 countries. Duties Integrate and coordinate all functional activities of the company that are necessary to achieve and maintain sales and profitability within the defined product area. - ?Responsible for the management of assigned products to targeted market segments and aggressive growth within the U.S. through the development and implementation of strategic and tactical marketing plans. -?Develop and implement strategic and tactical marketing plans for assigned product area in conjunction with Leica's strategic plan. -?Coordinate efforts of all functional areas of the organization to meet marketing objectives and drive product line initiatives. -?Initiate and complete marketing analysis including product sales and profitability, customer and industry surveys and industry trends. -?Monitor competition including SWOT analysis, companies, technologies, products, pricing, positioning and market share analysis. -?Assess market needs and opportunities for new products or product positioning through market research and feasibility analysis. Recommend ways to expand sales and profitability. -?Interface with Newcastle and Melbourne Business Units for feedback of local product specifications, efficient introduction of new products and development and implementation of strategic plans. -?Develop/recommend/implement advertising and promotional programs working with internal Marketing Communications Dept. and/or outside vendors as required. -?Monitor annual marketing OP/EX budget performance. -?Establish pricing of products within area of responsibility. -?Develop monthly, quarterly and annual sales/unit forecasts for all products within area of responsibility. -?Develop training and product support materials for implementation with sales, Customer Service and Dealers. -?Plan and implement tradeshows and technical educational seminars as required. -?Maintain close contact with Customer Service and Applications Support personnel to be aware of customer issues. Develop and implement process improvements to resolve these issues. -?Keep current with trends in technology and applications in responsible markets. -?Communicate with Dealers and internal organization in MIB (Marketing Information Bulletins) format on product issues -?Originate presentation materials and conducts presentations externally and internally. -?Perform administrative and committee involvement tasks normally delegated to product managers. -?Plan, organize and implement special projects through completion. Requirements - BA/BS in Life Sciences or equivalent - MBA desirable but not required - Understanding of Histology marketplace - 2 years product management experience in a related discipline - 1-3 years experience in Sales desirable but not required - 1-3 years Histology/Pathology laboratory experience in clinical, research or industrial setting desirable but not required Leica offers competitive salary, benefits including medical, dental, vision, prescription, long-term care, life insurance, STD, LTD, and 401 (k). Please forward your resume to: kris.caldwell@leica-microsystems.com Kris Caldwell Human Resources Recruiter Leica Microsystems, Inc. 2345 Waukegan Road Bannockburn, IL 60015 www.leica-microsystems.com Kris.Caldwell@Leica-Microsystems.com 847-405-5432 - phone 847-236-3035 - fax 847-323-6169- cellular ______________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email ______________________________________________________________________ From Vickroy.Jim <@t> mhsil.com Thu Feb 12 14:39:38 2009 From: Vickroy.Jim <@t> mhsil.com (Vickroy, Jim) Date: Thu Feb 12 14:39:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Xylene substitute for automated coverslipper Message-ID: <24A4826E8EF0964D86BC5317306F58A52BADE450AB@mmc-mail.ad.mhsil.com> Has anybody found a suitable substitute for xylene on an automated glass coverslipper? I am hesitant to try one of the D-limonenes since their health risk is somewhat questionable. Jim Vickroy BS, HT(ASCP) Technical Supervisor - Surgical and Autopsy Pathology Memorial Medical Center 217-788-4046 vickroy.jim@mhsil.com This message (including any attachments) contains confidential information intended for a specific individual and purpose, and is protected by law. If you are not the intended recipient, you should delete this message. Any disclosure, copying, or distribution of this message, or the taking of any action based on it, is strictly prohibited. From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 12 14:52:01 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Thu Feb 12 14:52:09 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Microwave processors In-Reply-To: <9A16CB5D55FC1648ADF11B63E72A1BE133351D@LTA3VS011.ees.hhs.gov> Message-ID: <261818.83993.qm@web65711.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> There is a misconception about the Sakura Xpress because it is NOT a "pure" microwaves tissue processor as others are. The first 2 retorts in the Xpress (it has 4) are heated by microwave energy because the reagents are polar or are a polar mixture, but retorts 3 and 4 are of conventional (or Ohmic) heating because? # 3 contains paraffin and mineral oil and #4 just paraffin and both are non polar and therefore not "microwavable". Otherwise, everybody agrees that it is "worth the price". Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/12/09, Bartlett, Jeanine (CDC/CCID/NCZVED) wrote: From: Bartlett, Jeanine (CDC/CCID/NCZVED) Subject: RE: [Histonet] Microwave processors To: "Martin, Erin" , "histonet" Date: Thursday, February 12, 2009, 1:26 PM We have the Sakura Xpress and really like it. Jeanine Bartlett Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch (404) 639-3590 jeanine.bartlett@cdc.hhs.gov -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Martin, Erin Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2009 1:19 PM To: histonet Subject: [Histonet] Microwave processors Hi all, What experiences have you all had with microwave processors? Sakura? Milestone? We're trying to figure something our. I know there will be some passionate responses...And I look forward to them! Thanks so much, Erin Martin, HT _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From lblazek <@t> digestivespecialists.com Thu Feb 12 14:58:01 2009 From: lblazek <@t> digestivespecialists.com (Blazek, Linda) Date: Thu Feb 12 14:55:02 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Xylene substitute for automated coverslipper In-Reply-To: <24A4826E8EF0964D86BC5317306F58A52BADE450AB@mmc-mail.ad.mhsil.com> References: <24A4826E8EF0964D86BC5317306F58A52BADE450AB@mmc-mail.ad.mhsil.com> Message-ID: <5A2BD13465E061429D6455C8D6B40E39086EAD71B5@IBMB7Exchange.digestivespecialists.com> Jim, I use Formula 83 from CBG on a Richard Allan CTM 6 glass coverslipper with no problems. Linda Linda Blazek HT (ASCP) Manager/Supervisor GI Pathology of Dayton Phone: (937) 293-4424 ext 7118 Email: lblazek@digestivespecialists.com -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Vickroy, Jim Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2009 3:40 PM To: 'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu' Subject: [Histonet] Xylene substitute for automated coverslipper Has anybody found a suitable substitute for xylene on an automated glass coverslipper? I am hesitant to try one of the D-limonenes since their health risk is somewhat questionable. Jim Vickroy BS, HT(ASCP) Technical Supervisor - Surgical and Autopsy Pathology Memorial Medical Center 217-788-4046 vickroy.jim@mhsil.com This message (including any attachments) contains confidential information intended for a specific individual and purpose, and is protected by law. If you are not the intended recipient, you should delete this message. Any disclosure, copying, or distribution of this message, or the taking of any action based on it, is strictly prohibited. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From tanisha.neely <@t> covance.com Thu Feb 12 15:32:21 2009 From: tanisha.neely <@t> covance.com (Neely, Tanisha) Date: Thu Feb 12 15:32:41 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Covance Central Lab Services in Indianapolis is in Need of Talent ed Histology Technicians for Clinical Research Work Message-ID: <816E3C72F855F14985FC31D7C963AE6F0DE8E8B1@indexch03.ent.covance.com> Apply today at http://www.covancecareers.com/ Business Title Histology Technician Requisition ID 15460BR Job Category Lab Services / technicians Locations USA - Indianapolis, IN Shift 1 Grade 108 Job Description The Histology Technician is accountable for the histology handling/storing of irreplaceable clinical trial specimens. The Histology Technician supports the various teams of the Specimen Management Center and is a liaison between Specimen Management and others departments. The Histology Technician will actively liaise with the CCLS project management team and client to resolve and clarify questions and or issues related to management and preparation of the histology samples. -Specific department duties as set forth in the task list and/or department training checklists including but not limited to: -Utilize knowledge and experience with histology samples to maintain proper storage conditions and facilitate accessioning of blocks and slides (stained and unstained). -Routine microtomy and re-embedding of human tissue specimens from patients enrolled in clinical trials. -Ensure that Special Handling specimens are picked up from the appropriate area, sorted, accessioned, pre-scanned and registered into the appropriate temperature bins in a timely fashion. -Generation and application of specialized labels to include aliquot and or mini labels with client specific elements. -Prepare workstation, instrumentation and maintenance on instruments and or equipment daily, weekly, monthly. Ability to adequately maintain accurate records and both adhere to Standard Operating Procedures: -Calibrate instruments, verification of temperature, logging of data as required. -Ensure that maintenance is performed and documented according to SOP. -Perform basic instrument and or equipment troubleshooting. -Notify management when an instrument and or equipment does not meet specifications. -Adheres to all company policies and procedures and performs all departmental and interdepartmental SOP's as written. -Adheres to safety and occupational health policies and standards. -Generates an appropriate audit trail of all activities and maintains own training file and required documentation. Education/Qualifications Bachelor's degree with strong biological science background. HT or HLT (ASCP) certification required. Experience A minimum of three years previous experience in histology laboratory setting required Able to work in a team as well as independently Dynamic attitude and ability to work under pressure Strong detail orientation Strong verbal and written communication and organizational skills Ability to use several software packages i.e., Word, Excel, Access Ability to adequately maintain accurate records and both adhere to and author Standard Operating Procedures. Able to troubleshoot problems with automated histological equipment. Requires theoretical and practical knowledge of histology and processing of human tissue specimens, including handling and storage of histology samples. Candidate must have the knowledge of molecular histology and techniques, including immunohistochemistry and FISH. Candidate must be familiar with labeling and accessioning procedures and tracking of paraffin tissue blocks and slides. Start time 8:00 am End time 5:00 pm Days per week 5 Tanisha Neely HT(ASCP) Histology/Specimen Management Covance CLS, Indianapolis (317) 271-1200 Ext. 7252 tanisha.neely@covance.com ----------------------------------------------------- Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail transmission may contain confidential or legally privileged information that is intended only for the individual or entity named in the e-mail address. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution, or reliance upon the contents of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail transmission in error, please reply to the sender, so that we can arrange for proper delivery, and then please delete the message from your inbox. Thank you. From imilos <@t> cellmarque.com Thu Feb 12 16:10:35 2009 From: imilos <@t> cellmarque.com (Isaac Milos) Date: Thu Feb 12 16:10:44 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE:CD4 on Ventana References: <07979E76B0869D4E8C9FE4AA9FC0657804669616@srvex03.phsabc.ehcnet.ca> Message-ID: <7F2A2AE306CE254DB7279E86A51A7406A5E1F3@CMROCEX01.cellmarque.local> Piero, Sorry for the delay on the response here. ;-) We actually now have an IVD rabbit monoclonal CD4 that performs exceptionally well on the Ventana platform (as well as every other platform that it has been tried on). In the past, we tried to develop the other mouse monoclonals (such as the 1F6) ourselves but they did not perform to our expectations. The sensitivity was far too low. These issues were remedied when we developed the rabbit monoclonal version. If you are interested, additional information can be found at: http://www.cellmarque.com/07/p_detail.php?id=2030 Best regards, Isaac Milos Technical Consultant CELL MARQUE CORPORATION 800.665.7284x8991(toll free) 360.981.6505 (mobile) 916.746.8989 (fax) Message: 19 Date: Fri, 7 Nov 2008 20:15:11 +1100 From: "Piero Nelva" Subject: [Histonet] CD4 on Ventana To: Message-ID: <2D0669F5E5EA4786A17AE07D652FFF51@pentium4> Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1"; reply-type=original Dear Histonetters I'm having a lot of trouble getting CD4 to stain FFPE tissue using the Ventana Benchmark XT. Any advice about which antibody and protocol suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Piero Nelva Anatomical Pathology Monash Medical Centre Australia _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com Thu Feb 12 17:26:30 2009 From: jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com (JoeNocito) Date: Thu Feb 12 17:26:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <00fd01c98d69$55fee360$01fcaa20$@rr.com> FUEL to the FIRE (come on, it's me. Did you expect anything less?) I was told today that the Histology program at the local CC is in jeopardy of closing because the director (who is a MT) isn't supporting the program. The program director has talked to the Dean and a meeting is to take place next month: hopefully with local employers attending to state the point that this program is needed.. San Antonio is in dire need of techs such that, some techs are jumping from job to job for the most money. In my last place of employment, I hired HTs at first, then ran out of techs. Then I hired recent grads with the understanding that they would take the HT. My last hire at the last place was a lab aide, who files slides, coverslipped, etc. Before I left, we had him running special stains, embedding and cutting. We sat with him at the microscope to go over the special stains reactions, the chemicals and dyes that made the "colors". He was surpassing some of the more experienced techs that have been working there for a longer period of time. My point is, registered or not, the fact is techs are in short supply, with good techs even fewer. I've seen some registered techs that I won't let touch a pimple on my left buttock, but this guy I was teaching could cut my prostate bxs, that's is how much faith I had in him. There is a wide rip in the PA world between "programmed trained" and "OJT trained" such that a member wrote a letter to the newsletter and said he was withdrawing his membership because he felt that since the ASCP took over the PA exam, there are less qualified PAs now because the ASCP made the exam too easy. This question has gone on for years. I went for my certifications because an old supervisor gave me the challenge that I wouldn't pass it, funny, that's what some people said about me when I took my PA exam too. The truth is, most of us are reaching the age where we need good histology. Although I would like it if everyone was certified, but the fact is as long as pathologists are willing to hire unregistered techs, this is a battle that goes on. Oh, by the way, I was discussing this same thing at a lecture one time. In the audience was a histology program director, who at break, went up to the other guy I was lecturing with, that she didn't agree with what I was saying. He told her that what I was saying was the truth( that there are many techs and PAs working who are not certified). She decided to pull herself and her students out of my class. Now, I was not advocating that people not get certified, I was saying that there are many out there who are not. She even went to complain the president, vice-president and the program coordinator about my lecture. My best buddy, Hector, was also there. After she left, the president told Hector to tell me to tone it down some. Hector said, "he won't listen to me". The president responded," why not? You're his best friend". Hector replied," because it's Joe". I'm going out for a run now. Joe Nocito, BS, PA, HT (ASCP) QIHC San Antonio, TX -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Morken, Tim Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:57 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Uh oh, here we go....again! It's just demand and economics in most areas. In the San Francisco area good luck finding a certified tech. They can command 70K with minimal experience, which is what Kaiser and the UC medical center are paying. I know one woman who was working for a service lab in the area who wanted to work on her certification but her pathologist refused to sponsor her because he figured if she got it she would leave for a place that would pay her higher salary (seems like that ought to cause to lose a medical license!). Bad move: he lost her anyway. We have found that recent college grads are fully capable of the work (at least in our area, which demands a lot of indepent work and thinking). What is missing with most OJT is the breadth of education you get when you study for the certification. I know plenty of people who cut well, do stains well etc, but are lost outside the specialties of their particular laboratory, and even outside their own little area of their own lab! But, we could also discuss the breadth of knowledge of those lucky enough to be educated in a formal school setting vs OJT and then certified. It goes on and on.... Tim Morken -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 6:56 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com Thu Feb 12 19:07:23 2009 From: JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com (JGREWE@OhioHealth.com) Date: Thu Feb 12 19:06:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] AUTO: Jacquelyn Grewe/Staff/OhioHealth is out of the office . Message-ID: I will be out of the office starting 02/11/2009 and will not return until 02/16/2009. I will respond to your message when I return. Note: This is an automated response to your message "Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 17" sent on 2/11/2009 4:08:03 PM. You will receive a notification for each message you send to this person while the person is away. From JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com Thu Feb 12 19:07:23 2009 From: JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com (JGREWE@OhioHealth.com) Date: Thu Feb 12 19:06:08 2009 Subject: [Histonet] AUTO: Jacquelyn Grewe/Staff/OhioHealth is out of the office . Message-ID: I will be out of the office starting 02/11/2009 and will not return until 02/16/2009. I will respond to your message when I return. Note: This is an automated response to your message "Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 20" sent on 2/12/2009 12:24:20 PM. You will receive a notification for each message you send to this person while the person is away. From JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com Thu Feb 12 19:07:23 2009 From: JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com (JGREWE@OhioHealth.com) Date: Thu Feb 12 19:06:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] AUTO: Jacquelyn Grewe/Staff/OhioHealth is out of the office . Message-ID: I will be out of the office starting 02/11/2009 and will not return until 02/16/2009. I will respond to your message when I return. Note: This is an automated response to your message "Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 18" sent on 2/11/2009 6:20:57 PM. You will receive a notification for each message you send to this person while the person is away. From JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com Thu Feb 12 19:07:23 2009 From: JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com (JGREWE@OhioHealth.com) Date: Thu Feb 12 19:06:12 2009 Subject: [Histonet] AUTO: Jacquelyn Grewe/Staff/OhioHealth is out of the office . Message-ID: I will be out of the office starting 02/11/2009 and will not return until 02/16/2009. I will respond to your message when I return. Note: This is an automated response to your message "Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 21" sent on 2/12/2009 1:01:37 PM. You will receive a notification for each message you send to this person while the person is away. From JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com Thu Feb 12 19:07:23 2009 From: JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com (JGREWE@OhioHealth.com) Date: Thu Feb 12 19:06:13 2009 Subject: [Histonet] AUTO: Jacquelyn Grewe/Staff/OhioHealth is out of the office . Message-ID: I will be out of the office starting 02/11/2009 and will not return until 02/16/2009. I will respond to your message when I return. Note: This is an automated response to your message "Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 19" sent on 2/12/2009 8:23:21 AM. You will receive a notification for each message you send to this person while the person is away. From godsgalnow <@t> aol.com Thu Feb 12 19:28:58 2009 From: godsgalnow <@t> aol.com (godsgalnow@aol.com) Date: Thu Feb 12 19:29:15 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Microwave processors In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <8CB5B9193DB3DF6-1750-17EB@WEBMAIL-DC20.sysops.aol.com> My favorite is the MARS from Hacker. Roxanne -----Original Message----- From: Martin, Erin To: histonet Sent: Thu, 12 Feb 2009 1:18 pm Subject: [Histonet] Microwave processors Hi all, What experiences have you all had with microwave processors? Sakura? Milestone? We're trying to figure something our. I know there will be some passionate responses...And I look forward to them! Thanks so much, Erin Martin, HT _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From stevenhacker <@t> verizon.net Thu Feb 12 20:45:36 2009 From: stevenhacker <@t> verizon.net (Steven Hacker) Date: Thu Feb 12 20:45:49 2009 Subject: [Histonet] MAMMOGLOBIN Message-ID: <6056970.378914.1234493136047.JavaMail.root@vms075.mailsrvcs.net> Hey, Jim... How well does the Dako RTU work on the Ventana XT? Feb 12, 2009 We are te products we are looking Dako Monoclonal Clone 304-1A5 and Zeta Corp. Mouse and Rabbit M onoclonal Cocktail 304-1A5 and 31A5. I believe the Dako product is an IVD a Benchmark XT and I wondere on the Ventana. If you are could you that you are using? In addition I think our path prefer the cocktail however I know rather not use an ASR pro Any suggestions? Jim Vickroy BS, HT(ASCP) T Memorial Medical Ce 217-788-4046 [2]vickroy.jim@mhsil.com This message (including any attachments) contains confidential informatio is protected by law. should delete this message. Any distribution of this message, or the taking of any on it, is strictly prohibited. ________________________ Histonet mailing list [3]Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [4]http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet References 1. 3D"mailto:Vickroy.Jim@mhsil.com" 2. file://localhost/tmp/3D"mailto 3. 3D"mailto:Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" 4. file://localhost/tmp/3D From parkeuni <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 12 21:21:36 2009 From: parkeuni <@t> yahoo.com (eunice park) Date: Thu Feb 12 21:21:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Salt-Split technique Message-ID: <491406.53498.qm@web42104.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Hello, I was wondering if anyone who has had success with the salt-split technique for IHC could send me a detailed protocol and any tips would be greatly appreciated.? Thank you!! From rhbrown1 <@t> histocs.com Fri Feb 13 00:22:21 2009 From: rhbrown1 <@t> histocs.com (Leroy Brown) Date: Fri Feb 13 00:22:26 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Microm HM330 Message-ID: I have put up a spare microtome on ebay if anyone is interested there are three days yet to bid on it. It is in perfect shape and includes the block holder and disposable knife holder. This microtome is well made. I have four of the that are in use everyday and we never have any problems with them. It would be a good buy for someone in need. Thanks LeRoy Brown HT(ASCP)HTL HCS Everson, WA 98247 360-966-7300 From Erin.Martin <@t> ucsf.edu Fri Feb 13 06:27:06 2009 From: Erin.Martin <@t> ucsf.edu (Martin, Erin) Date: Fri Feb 13 06:27:27 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Microwave processors, again Message-ID: Hi all, >From the responses I have received, almost everyone loves their microwave processors for soft tissue biospies. Is anyone using a microwave on derm? Erin From pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu Fri Feb 13 08:31:58 2009 From: pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu (Pamela Marcum) Date: Fri Feb 13 08:32:05 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <00fd01c98d69$55fee360$01fcaa20$@rr.com> References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> <00fd01c98d69$55fee360$01fcaa20$@rr.com> Message-ID: <000c01c98de7$d47b4520$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Joe is making good points here and I think it is something to think about for all of us. I know the Histology school at Pima Community College may be closing in Tucson AZ too. We keep trying for more schools and better book training as well as mixing in actual laboratory experience in histology in many areas of the country. It is not filling these positions and while I would like to see everyone certified and trained in a school it is not happening. I will be honest as some one trained as an OJT in the 60's I would not have gone on with this field had I not had great mentors. I could not thank Dr George Gantner enough for starting me off not Dorothy Nagy enough for my early training when we only had a few schools nationally and none close by. I got my HT later so I would always have it. My other education is really secondary to histology which I consider a great profession whether in clinical or research. It is also a point that very (and I mean very) few people even know what Histology is or how important it is to getting a correct surgical diagnosis. While we are talking about the shortage and where to get people we should be thinking of ways to market who we are and what we do so people want to become histologists. It is not happening and never will with ASCP nor is much going on with NSH as far as I can see. I attend and speak at state meetings and region meetings all over the country and we are all seeing the same thing and getting no help or feedback. AS a volunteer organization we can effect the areas we live in however, we need help to do it. We have a school here in my area at Delaware Technical Community College and it rotates people through various labs in the area. This is a bone lab and we show them plastics and other procedures we do that they may never see any place else. The University is nice enough to allow this so we have about two hours with them one on one for show and tell. I know for what we do it is a good chance to see a bone research lab for large animal study as opposed to rodent studies they will see in some areas. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JoeNocito Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2009 6:27 PM To: 'Morken, Tim'; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology FUEL to the FIRE (come on, it's me. Did you expect anything less?) I was told today that the Histology program at the local CC is in jeopardy of closing because the director (who is a MT) isn't supporting the program. The program director has talked to the Dean and a meeting is to take place next month: hopefully with local employers attending to state the point that this program is needed.. San Antonio is in dire need of techs such that, some techs are jumping from job to job for the most money. In my last place of employment, I hired HTs at first, then ran out of techs. Then I hired recent grads with the understanding that they would take the HT. My last hire at the last place was a lab aide, who files slides, coverslipped, etc. Before I left, we had him running special stains, embedding and cutting. We sat with him at the microscope to go over the special stains reactions, the chemicals and dyes that made the "colors". He was surpassing some of the more experienced techs that have been working there for a longer period of time. My point is, registered or not, the fact is techs are in short supply, with good techs even fewer. I've seen some registered techs that I won't let touch a pimple on my left buttock, but this guy I was teaching could cut my prostate bxs, that's is how much faith I had in him. There is a wide rip in the PA world between "programmed trained" and "OJT trained" such that a member wrote a letter to the newsletter and said he was withdrawing his membership because he felt that since the ASCP took over the PA exam, there are less qualified PAs now because the ASCP made the exam too easy. This question has gone on for years. I went for my certifications because an old supervisor gave me the challenge that I wouldn't pass it, funny, that's what some people said about me when I took my PA exam too. The truth is, most of us are reaching the age where we need good histology. Although I would like it if everyone was certified, but the fact is as long as pathologists are willing to hire unregistered techs, this is a battle that goes on. Oh, by the way, I was discussing this same thing at a lecture one time. In the audience was a histology program director, who at break, went up to the other guy I was lecturing with, that she didn't agree with what I was saying. He told her that what I was saying was the truth( that there are many techs and PAs working who are not certified). She decided to pull herself and her students out of my class. Now, I was not advocating that people not get certified, I was saying that there are many out there who are not. She even went to complain the president, vice-president and the program coordinator about my lecture. My best buddy, Hector, was also there. After she left, the president told Hector to tell me to tone it down some. Hector said, "he won't listen to me". The president responded," why not? You're his best friend". Hector replied," because it's Joe". I'm going out for a run now. Joe Nocito, BS, PA, HT (ASCP) QIHC San Antonio, TX -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Morken, Tim Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:57 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Uh oh, here we go....again! It's just demand and economics in most areas. In the San Francisco area good luck finding a certified tech. They can command 70K with minimal experience, which is what Kaiser and the UC medical center are paying. I know one woman who was working for a service lab in the area who wanted to work on her certification but her pathologist refused to sponsor her because he figured if she got it she would leave for a place that would pay her higher salary (seems like that ought to cause to lose a medical license!). Bad move: he lost her anyway. We have found that recent college grads are fully capable of the work (at least in our area, which demands a lot of indepent work and thinking). What is missing with most OJT is the breadth of education you get when you study for the certification. I know plenty of people who cut well, do stains well etc, but are lost outside the specialties of their particular laboratory, and even outside their own little area of their own lab! But, we could also discuss the breadth of knowledge of those lucky enough to be educated in a formal school setting vs OJT and then certified. It goes on and on.... Tim Morken -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 6:56 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu Fri Feb 13 08:49:24 2009 From: SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu (Swain, Frances L) Date: Fri Feb 13 08:50:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <000c01c98de7$d47b4520$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> References: <816453.11897.qm@web38208.mail.mud.yahoo.com> <00fd01c98d69$55fee360$01fcaa20$@rr.com> <000c01c98de7$d47b4520$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E38028D34C126@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Joe and Pam have excellent points. We all need to advertise what we do. Here in Arkansas when you tell the regular folks (non-medical) that you are a Histology Technician. They ask do you do History research? I know that sounds ignorant but the public is not very well informed as to the other medical professionals in this world. Yes this includes even the Medical Technologists. Even the Cytotechnologists are an unknown or rarely known Medical Professional. All of this is because, in most cases, we work behind the scenes as support personnel for doctors, nurses, lpns, cnas, etc that the patients and their families see. When their loved one goes into the operating room for a biopsy they have no idea as to what it takes to make a diagnosis or to see why their loved one is so sick. I am very proud to be a Histology Technician and I have talked, showed, and advertised my profession for 46 years. If we all did this maybe we would have more folks to take our places when we retire. Maybe!!!! Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Pamela Marcum Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 8:32 AM To: 'JoeNocito'; 'Morken, Tim'; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Joe is making good points here and I think it is something to think about for all of us. I know the Histology school at Pima Community College may be closing in Tucson AZ too. We keep trying for more schools and better book training as well as mixing in actual laboratory experience in histology in many areas of the country. It is not filling these positions and while I would like to see everyone certified and trained in a school it is not happening. I will be honest as some one trained as an OJT in the 60's I would not have gone on with this field had I not had great mentors. I could not thank Dr George Gantner enough for starting me off not Dorothy Nagy enough for my early training when we only had a few schools nationally and none close by. I got my HT later so I would always have it. My other education is really secondary to histology which I consider a great profession whether in clinical or research. It is also a point that very (and I mean very) few people even know what Histology is or how important it is to getting a correct surgical diagnosis. While we are talking about the shortage and where to get people we should be thinking of ways to market who we are and what we do so people want to become histologists. It is not happening and never will with ASCP nor is much going on with NSH as far as I can see. I attend and speak at state meetings and region meetings all over the country and we are all seeing the same thing and getting no help or feedback. AS a volunteer organization we can effect the areas we live in however, we need help to do it. We have a school here in my area at Delaware Technical Community College and it rotates people through various labs in the area. This is a bone lab and we show them plastics and other procedures we do that they may never see any place else. The University is nice enough to allow this so we have about two hours with them one on one for show and tell. I know for what we do it is a good chance to see a bone research lab for large animal study as opposed to rodent studies they will see in some areas. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JoeNocito Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2009 6:27 PM To: 'Morken, Tim'; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology FUEL to the FIRE (come on, it's me. Did you expect anything less?) I was told today that the Histology program at the local CC is in jeopardy of closing because the director (who is a MT) isn't supporting the program. The program director has talked to the Dean and a meeting is to take place next month: hopefully with local employers attending to state the point that this program is needed.. San Antonio is in dire need of techs such that, some techs are jumping from job to job for the most money. In my last place of employment, I hired HTs at first, then ran out of techs. Then I hired recent grads with the understanding that they would take the HT. My last hire at the last place was a lab aide, who files slides, coverslipped, etc. Before I left, we had him running special stains, embedding and cutting. We sat with him at the microscope to go over the special stains reactions, the chemicals and dyes that made the "colors". He was surpassing some of the more experienced techs that have been working there for a longer period of time. My point is, registered or not, the fact is techs are in short supply, with good techs even fewer. I've seen some registered techs that I won't let touch a pimple on my left buttock, but this guy I was teaching could cut my prostate bxs, that's is how much faith I had in him. There is a wide rip in the PA world between "programmed trained" and "OJT trained" such that a member wrote a letter to the newsletter and said he was withdrawing his membership because he felt that since the ASCP took over the PA exam, there are less qualified PAs now because the ASCP made the exam too easy. This question has gone on for years. I went for my certifications because an old supervisor gave me the challenge that I wouldn't pass it, funny, that's what some people said about me when I took my PA exam too. The truth is, most of us are reaching the age where we need good histology. Although I would like it if everyone was certified, but the fact is as long as pathologists are willing to hire unregistered techs, this is a battle that goes on. Oh, by the way, I was discussing this same thing at a lecture one time. In the audience was a histology program director, who at break, went up to the other guy I was lecturing with, that she didn't agree with what I was saying. He told her that what I was saying was the truth( that there are many techs and PAs working who are not certified). She decided to pull herself and her students out of my class. Now, I was not advocating that people not get certified, I was saying that there are many out there who are not. She even went to complain the president, vice-president and the program coordinator about my lecture. My best buddy, Hector, was also there. After she left, the president told Hector to tell me to tone it down some. Hector said, "he won't listen to me". The president responded," why not? You're his best friend". Hector replied," because it's Joe". I'm going out for a run now. Joe Nocito, BS, PA, HT (ASCP) QIHC San Antonio, TX -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Morken, Tim Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:57 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Uh oh, here we go....again! It's just demand and economics in most areas. In the San Francisco area good luck finding a certified tech. They can command 70K with minimal experience, which is what Kaiser and the UC medical center are paying. I know one woman who was working for a service lab in the area who wanted to work on her certification but her pathologist refused to sponsor her because he figured if she got it she would leave for a place that would pay her higher salary (seems like that ought to cause to lose a medical license!). Bad move: he lost her anyway. We have found that recent college grads are fully capable of the work (at least in our area, which demands a lot of indepent work and thinking). What is missing with most OJT is the breadth of education you get when you study for the certification. I know plenty of people who cut well, do stains well etc, but are lost outside the specialties of their particular laboratory, and even outside their own little area of their own lab! But, we could also discuss the breadth of knowledge of those lucky enough to be educated in a formal school setting vs OJT and then certified. It goes on and on.... Tim Morken -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 6:56 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. From michelle.steinkrauss <@t> novartis.com Fri Feb 13 08:52:03 2009 From: michelle.steinkrauss <@t> novartis.com (michelle.steinkrauss@novartis.com) Date: Fri Feb 13 08:52:25 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Michelle Steinkrauss is out of the office. Message-ID: I will be out of the office starting 02/13/2009 and will not return until 02/16/2009. If you need immediate assistance, please contact Michelle Broome at x 47477. Thank you! From JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com Fri Feb 13 09:00:22 2009 From: JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com (JGREWE@OhioHealth.com) Date: Fri Feb 13 08:59:08 2009 Subject: [Histonet] AUTO: Jacquelyn Grewe/Staff/OhioHealth is out of the office . Message-ID: I will be out of the office starting 02/11/2009 and will not return until 02/16/2009. I will respond to your message when I return. Note: This is an automated response to your message "Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 22" sent on 2/13/2009 9:35:28 AM. You will receive a notification for each message you send to this person while the person is away. From gagnone <@t> KGH.KARI.NET Fri Feb 13 09:34:47 2009 From: gagnone <@t> KGH.KARI.NET (Gagnon, Eric) Date: Fri Feb 13 09:37:45 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IF Protocol on skin References: <4993056D020000C900028CF7@GHSGWIANW5V.GEISINGER.EDU> Message-ID: Hi Angela, We used Ventana FITC Primary Antibodies. Thanks, Eric ________________________________ From: Angela Bitting [mailto:akbitting@geisinger.edu] Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 5:11 PM To: Gagnon, Eric Subject: Re: [Histonet] IF Protocol on skin Hi eric, You said you experimented with using the FITCs on your XT. Was that using Dako antibodies or Ventana's? Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 >>> "Gagnon, Eric" 02/11/09 4:02 PM >>> Hi Gudrun, Our IF protocol is very similar to yours...we use 1/30 dilutions as well, although we rinse before the FITC-antisera (Dako) are applied, with frozen sections cut at 5 microns. We did experiment with this procedure on our BenchMark XT's, with some success. The pathologist who reads most of renal biopsies IF's decided that our manual method was "robust" enough (i.e. foolproof enough) that we could continue using it. Manual staining saves us trying to fit in a new or current run when the XT is already running. Regarding our dilutions, we make 3 ml at a time, and have not had any problems with the staining diminishing before the antisera are used up. Eric Gagnon MLT Histology Laboratory Kingston General Hospital Kingston, Ontario, Canada _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. From gagnone <@t> KGH.KARI.NET Fri Feb 13 09:44:49 2009 From: gagnone <@t> KGH.KARI.NET (Gagnon, Eric) Date: Fri Feb 13 09:44:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IF Protocol on skin References: <4FA966C715AA4B8EB659237A63444C4D@dielangs.at> Message-ID: Hi Gudrun, We've rarely done Ig's on FFPE renal sections on the Ventana - our renal pathologist prefer these on IF frozen sections only. We do have the IgG, IgA, IgM, IgE antisera for lymphoma cases. We use Dako Antibody Diluting Buffer, Ref. S0809 to dilute our FITC antisera. As I said, we didn't persist with validating these antibodies for use with renal or skin IF's on the XT, mainly due to our pathologist's satisfaction with the manual IF staining method. This was back in January 2006, with the antibodies incubating for 4-8 minutes. Hope this helps, Eric ________________________________ From: Gudrun Lang [mailto:gu.lang@gmx.at] Sent: Thu 2/12/2009 10:41 AM To: Gagnon, Eric Subject: AW: [Histonet] IF Protocol on skin Hi Eric, thanks for your response. I have several further questions. Did you stain frozen renal sections in the benchmark? Or did you also try NBF-fixed tissue? What diluent do you use for the fitc-antisera? We have also the ventana-machine. And I consider to use their antibody-diluent for this. This week I have stained NBF-fixed skin (Pemphigoid) with IgG, IgM, IgA in the Benchmark XT. The IF of the frozen part showed IgG and C3C linear staining. The IHC of the FFPET showed very strong staining with all Immunoglobulins. Perhaps we can find a diagnostic value. Bye Gudrun -----Urspr?ngliche Nachricht----- Von: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] Im Auftrag von Gagnon, Eric Gesendet: Mittwoch, 11. Februar 2009 22:03 An: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Betreff: [Histonet] IF Protocol on skin Hi Gudrun, Our IF protocol is very similar to yours...we use 1/30 dilutions as well, although we rinse before the FITC-antisera (Dako) are applied, with frozen sections cut at 5 microns. We did experiment with this procedure on our BenchMark XT's, with some success. The pathologist who reads most of renal biopsies IF's decided that our manual method was "robust" enough (i.e. foolproof enough) that we could continue using it. Manual staining saves us trying to fit in a new or current run when the XT is already running. Regarding our dilutions, we make 3 ml at a time, and have not had any problems with the staining diminishing before the antisera are used up. Eric Gagnon MLT Histology Laboratory Kingston General Hospital Kingston, Ontario, Canada _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Fri Feb 13 09:52:29 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Fri Feb 13 09:52:33 2009 Subject: [Histonet] "The histotech's piece of paper" In-Reply-To: <4992CF4B.6020.00E2.0@mont-hosp.com> Message-ID: <418085.46431.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> True that a "piece of paper" does not make the histotech BUT if all those who work in histology had that "piece of paper", salaries would be better and more even, respect for the profession would increase, and these discussion would not take place. I have also had people working in my lab that were certified and lousy from the technical point of view and OJT histotechs that were better in everything they did but did not have a clue why things worked or not and at that point all their abilities were reduced to manual dexterity, and that is not the ideal situation. Histotechs are the tech worst paid in the medical laboratory and the least respected, and that should end, and the best way of doing that is to encourage all the OJT histotechs to get certified and try to prevent that the lab managers hire "anybody" to do histology, because "it is not that important or that difficult". It is "lab culture" thing that has to be overcome. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Chris Evanish wrote: From: Chris Evanish Subject: [Histonet] Re: uncertified techs in Histology (Chris Evanish) To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 1:21 PM I have been in the Histology field for 20 years and I have seen registered and nonresgistered techs and believe me some unregistered tech did a better job then the registered. Passing a test and getting a piece of paper does not mean that the tech was properly trained and has experience and knowledge in the field. Plus now you have to go to college to be eligible to take the test. From jeanie.meyers <@t> trumbulllabs.com Fri Feb 13 10:22:23 2009 From: jeanie.meyers <@t> trumbulllabs.com (Jeanie Meyers) Date: Fri Feb 13 10:20:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Storage of tissue Message-ID: <200902131620.n1DGK60J006028@mail43.atl.registeredsite.com> Is there a difference in storage requirements for veterinary histology specimens as opposed to human tissues? Specifically, storage of the tissue, block and slides? How many days/weeks would you need to store the tissue sample if it is not totally submitted? What would be the number of years required for storage of the blocks and slides? I would appreciate your responses. Jeanie Meyers, Laboratory Manager Trumbull Laboratory From JWeems <@t> sjha.org Fri Feb 13 10:21:27 2009 From: JWeems <@t> sjha.org (Weems, Joyce) Date: Fri Feb 13 10:21:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] The 2009 question for billing second opinions processing Message-ID: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA53220B5@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> I know we have discussed this before, but in this new year and new economic situation, I have been asked to check on this again. Regarding second opinions requested by patient or clinician, is anyone charging a processing fee for this service? This is for cutting the slides as well as the time it takes for prep. We do try to have the physician or patient pay the shipping, but sometimes that doesn't happen either. We do charge for cutting slides for legal cases, but that is all right now. Thanks in advance. Have a good weekend everyone! j Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. From TMcNemar <@t> lmhealth.org Fri Feb 13 10:33:29 2009 From: TMcNemar <@t> lmhealth.org (Tom McNemar) Date: Fri Feb 13 10:33:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E38028D34C126@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Message-ID: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0AE@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> We attend career days and always take a microscope and brochures. The NSH has some wonderful free brochures, you only pay for the shipping. The Histology table is always one of the most popular. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Swain, Frances L Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 9:49 AM To: Pamela Marcum; 'JoeNocito'; 'Morken, Tim'; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Joe and Pam have excellent points. We all need to advertise what we do. Here in Arkansas when you tell the regular folks (non-medical) that you are a Histology Technician. They ask do you do History research? I know that sounds ignorant but the public is not very well informed as to the other medical professionals in this world. Yes this includes even the Medical Technologists. Even the Cytotechnologists are an unknown or rarely known Medical Professional. All of this is because, in most cases, we work behind the scenes as support personnel for doctors, nurses, lpns, cnas, etc that the patients and their families see. When their loved one goes into the operating room for a biopsy they have no idea as to what it takes to make a diagnosis or to see why their loved one is so sick. I am very proud to be a Histology Technician and I have talked, showed, and advertised my profession for 46 years. If we all did this maybe we would have more folks to take our places when we retire. Maybe!!!! Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Pamela Marcum Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 8:32 AM To: 'JoeNocito'; 'Morken, Tim'; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Joe is making good points here and I think it is something to think about for all of us. I know the Histology school at Pima Community College may be closing in Tucson AZ too. We keep trying for more schools and better book training as well as mixing in actual laboratory experience in histology in many areas of the country. It is not filling these positions and while I would like to see everyone certified and trained in a school it is not happening. I will be honest as some one trained as an OJT in the 60's I would not have gone on with this field had I not had great mentors. I could not thank Dr George Gantner enough for starting me off not Dorothy Nagy enough for my early training when we only had a few schools nationally and none close by. I got my HT later so I would always have it. My other education is really secondary to histology which I consider a great profession whether in clinical or research. It is also a point that very (and I mean very) few people even know what Histology is or how important it is to getting a correct surgical diagnosis. While we are talking about the shortage and where to get people we should be thinking of ways to market who we are and what we do so people want to become histologists. It is not happening and never will with ASCP nor is much going on with NSH as far as I can see. I attend and speak at state meetings and region meetings all over the country and we are all seeing the same thing and getting no help or feedback. AS a volunteer organization we can effect the areas we live in however, we need help to do it. We have a school here in my area at Delaware Technical Community College and it rotates people through various labs in the area. This is a bone lab and we show them plastics and other procedures we do that they may never see any place else. The University is nice enough to allow this so we have about two hours with them one on one for show and tell. I know for what we do it is a good chance to see a bone research lab for large animal study as opposed to rodent studies they will see in some areas. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JoeNocito Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2009 6:27 PM To: 'Morken, Tim'; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology FUEL to the FIRE (come on, it's me. Did you expect anything less?) I was told today that the Histology program at the local CC is in jeopardy of closing because the director (who is a MT) isn't supporting the program. The program director has talked to the Dean and a meeting is to take place next month: hopefully with local employers attending to state the point that this program is needed.. San Antonio is in dire need of techs such that, some techs are jumping from job to job for the most money. In my last place of employment, I hired HTs at first, then ran out of techs. Then I hired recent grads with the understanding that they would take the HT. My last hire at the last place was a lab aide, who files slides, coverslipped, etc. Before I left, we had him running special stains, embedding and cutting. We sat with him at the microscope to go over the special stains reactions, the chemicals and dyes that made the "colors". He was surpassing some of the more experienced techs that have been working there for a longer period of time. My point is, registered or not, the fact is techs are in short supply, with good techs even fewer. I've seen some registered techs that I won't let touch a pimple on my left buttock, but this guy I was teaching could cut my prostate bxs, that's is how much faith I had in him. There is a wide rip in the PA world between "programmed trained" and "OJT trained" such that a member wrote a letter to the newsletter and said he was withdrawing his membership because he felt that since the ASCP took over the PA exam, there are less qualified PAs now because the ASCP made the exam too easy. This question has gone on for years. I went for my certifications because an old supervisor gave me the challenge that I wouldn't pass it, funny, that's what some people said about me when I took my PA exam too. The truth is, most of us are reaching the age where we need good histology. Although I would like it if everyone was certified, but the fact is as long as pathologists are willing to hire unregistered techs, this is a battle that goes on. Oh, by the way, I was discussing this same thing at a lecture one time. In the audience was a histology program director, who at break, went up to the other guy I was lecturing with, that she didn't agree with what I was saying. He told her that what I was saying was the truth( that there are many techs and PAs working who are not certified). She decided to pull herself and her students out of my class. Now, I was not advocating that people not get certified, I was saying that there are many out there who are not. She even went to complain the president, vice-president and the program coordinator about my lecture. My best buddy, Hector, was also there. After she left, the president told Hector to tell me to tone it down some. Hector said, "he won't listen to me". The president responded," why not? You're his best friend". Hector replied," because it's Joe". I'm going out for a run now. Joe Nocito, BS, PA, HT (ASCP) QIHC San Antonio, TX -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Morken, Tim Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:57 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Uh oh, here we go....again! It's just demand and economics in most areas. In the San Francisco area good luck finding a certified tech. They can command 70K with minimal experience, which is what Kaiser and the UC medical center are paying. I know one woman who was working for a service lab in the area who wanted to work on her certification but her pathologist refused to sponsor her because he figured if she got it she would leave for a place that would pay her higher salary (seems like that ought to cause to lose a medical license!). Bad move: he lost her anyway. We have found that recent college grads are fully capable of the work (at least in our area, which demands a lot of indepent work and thinking). What is missing with most OJT is the breadth of education you get when you study for the certification. I know plenty of people who cut well, do stains well etc, but are lost outside the specialties of their particular laboratory, and even outside their own little area of their own lab! But, we could also discuss the breadth of knowledge of those lucky enough to be educated in a formal school setting vs OJT and then certified. It goes on and on.... Tim Morken -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 6:56 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From dellav <@t> musc.edu Fri Feb 13 10:34:10 2009 From: dellav <@t> musc.edu (Della Speranza, Vinnie) Date: Fri Feb 13 10:34:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: The 2009 question for billing second opinions processing In-Reply-To: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA53220B5@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> References: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA53220B5@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> Message-ID: Joyce, we are doing what you described. Patient pays for shipping if they are not going to hand carry their slides. If we do recuts, we do so because we want a copy of the slides in our files (for our purposes and benefit) and the slides that are sent off sometimes do not return. In my view the patient is entitled to their slides (originals). My remarks are not intended to convince anyone to adopt my mindset, just sharing what we do and why. Vinnie Della Speranza Manager for Anatomic Pathology Services Medical University of South Carolina 165 Ashley Avenue Suite 309 Charleston, South Carolina 29425 Tel: (843) 792-6353 Fax: (843) 792-8974 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Weems, Joyce Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 11:21 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] The 2009 question for billing second opinions processing I know we have discussed this before, but in this new year and new economic situation, I have been asked to check on this again. Regarding second opinions requested by patient or clinician, is anyone charging a processing fee for this service? This is for cutting the slides as well as the time it takes for prep. We do try to have the physician or patient pay the shipping, but sometimes that doesn't happen either. We do charge for cutting slides for legal cases, but that is all right now. Thanks in advance. Have a good weekend everyone! j Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From JWeems <@t> sjha.org Fri Feb 13 10:40:43 2009 From: JWeems <@t> sjha.org (Weems, Joyce) Date: Fri Feb 13 10:43:11 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0AE@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> References: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E38028D34C126@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0AE@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> Message-ID: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA53220C3@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> We have a collection of specimens - heart, lungs, kidneys, brains, etc. that I have taken to schools for health fairs. We also loan them to other health care professionals to use for this purpose also. We talk about smoking, drinking, eating, bike and skate board safety, etc as we have normal, emphysema and malignant lungs, and normal and cirrhosis liver. It is always a great hit with the kids. I take along brochures and talk to the students about this profession. I hope they remember! J Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Tom McNemar Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 11:33 AM To: Swain, Frances L; Pamela Marcum; JoeNocito; Morken, Tim; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology We attend career days and always take a microscope and brochures. The NSH has some wonderful free brochures, you only pay for the shipping. The Histology table is always one of the most popular. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. From TMcNemar <@t> lmhealth.org Fri Feb 13 10:47:36 2009 From: TMcNemar <@t> lmhealth.org (Tom McNemar) Date: Fri Feb 13 10:47:45 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA53220C3@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> Message-ID: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0B0@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> We used to take parts but stopped due to safety concerns. Tried to encase them in acrylic but it turned yellow. Too bad, they were always a big hit. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: Weems, Joyce [mailto:JWeems@sjha.org] Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 11:41 AM To: Tom McNemar; Swain, Frances L; Pamela Marcum; JoeNocito; Morken, Tim; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology We have a collection of specimens - heart, lungs, kidneys, brains, etc. that I have taken to schools for health fairs. We also loan them to other health care professionals to use for this purpose also. We talk about smoking, drinking, eating, bike and skate board safety, etc as we have normal, emphysema and malignant lungs, and normal and cirrhosis liver. It is always a great hit with the kids. I take along brochures and talk to the students about this profession. I hope they remember! J Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Tom McNemar Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 11:33 AM To: Swain, Frances L; Pamela Marcum; JoeNocito; Morken, Tim; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology We attend career days and always take a microscope and brochures. The NSH has some wonderful free brochures, you only pay for the shipping. The Histology table is always one of the most popular. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. From shive003 <@t> umn.edu Fri Feb 13 10:48:17 2009 From: shive003 <@t> umn.edu (Jan Shivers) Date: Fri Feb 13 10:48:20 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Storage of tissue References: <200902131620.n1DGK60J006028@mail43.atl.registeredsite.com> Message-ID: Short answer to part of your question - (veterinary) paraffin blocks and stained slides stored for 7 years. I'll ask our necropsy personnel how long they store additional wet tissues. Jan Shivers UMN Vet Diag Lab ----- Original Message ----- From: "Jeanie Meyers" To: Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 10:22 AM Subject: [Histonet] Storage of tissue > Is there a difference in storage requirements for veterinary histology > specimens as opposed to human tissues? Specifically, storage of the > tissue, > block and slides? How many days/weeks would you need to store the tissue > sample if it is not totally submitted? What would be the number of years > required for storage of the blocks and slides? I would appreciate your > responses. > > > > > > Jeanie Meyers, Laboratory Manager > > Trumbull Laboratory > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > From Samuel_Perry <@t> DFCI.HARVARD.EDU Fri Feb 13 10:53:04 2009 From: Samuel_Perry <@t> DFCI.HARVARD.EDU (Perry, Samuel) Date: Fri Feb 13 10:53:11 2009 Subject: [Histonet] microwave for AR Message-ID: Hi All, I'm looking for a small commercially available cheap microwave to use for retrieval in FFPE tissue. I need to be able to control the temperature of the buffer ideally with a probe. I also need it to fit in a small area so the smaller the better. I'm wondering what others in the histonet community use? Have a great weekend! -Sam The information in this e-mail is intended only for the person to whom it is addressed. If you believe this e-mail was sent to you in error and the e-mail contains patient information, please contact the Partners Compliance HelpLine at http://www.partners.org/complianceline . If the e-mail was sent to you in error but does not contain patient information, please contact the sender and properly dispose of the e-mail. From JWeems <@t> sjha.org Fri Feb 13 10:52:43 2009 From: JWeems <@t> sjha.org (Weems, Joyce) Date: Fri Feb 13 10:56:22 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0B0@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> References: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA53220C3@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0B0@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> Message-ID: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA53220C5@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> We store in formalin substitute (Anatech) - rinse well, wrap in wet towels and carry in a cooler. They have held up pretty well. -----Original Message----- From: Tom McNemar [mailto:TMcNemar@lmhealth.org] Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 11:48 AM To: Weems, Joyce; Swain, Frances L; Pamela Marcum; JoeNocito; Morken, Tim; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology We used to take parts but stopped due to safety concerns. Tried to encase them in acrylic but it turned yellow. Too bad, they were always a big hit. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: Weems, Joyce [mailto:JWeems@sjha.org] Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 11:41 AM To: Tom McNemar; Swain, Frances L; Pamela Marcum; JoeNocito; Morken, Tim; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology We have a collection of specimens - heart, lungs, kidneys, brains, etc. that I have taken to schools for health fairs. We also loan them to other health care professionals to use for this purpose also. We talk about smoking, drinking, eating, bike and skate board safety, etc as we have normal, emphysema and malignant lungs, and normal and cirrhosis liver. It is always a great hit with the kids. I take along brochures and talk to the students about this profession. I hope they remember! J Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Tom McNemar Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 11:33 AM To: Swain, Frances L; Pamela Marcum; JoeNocito; Morken, Tim; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology We attend career days and always take a microscope and brochures. The NSH has some wonderful free brochures, you only pay for the shipping. The Histology table is always one of the most popular. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. From mike.collins <@t> imperial.ac.uk Fri Feb 13 11:11:04 2009 From: mike.collins <@t> imperial.ac.uk (Collins, Michael) Date: Fri Feb 13 11:12:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] histology research jobs in south east England Message-ID: Hi! I am a research histologist with 33 years experience. The last 5 years have been at Imperial College London but my contract ends in 1 month as there is no further funding. Any offers from south east England? Mike.mike.collins@imperial.ac.uk From ktuttle <@t> umm.edu Fri Feb 13 11:28:19 2009 From: ktuttle <@t> umm.edu (Kimberly Tuttle) Date: Fri Feb 13 11:28:42 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Pay and "The histotech's piece of paper" In-Reply-To: <418085.46431.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: <4992CF4B.6020.00E2.0@mont-hosp.com> <418085.46431.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <49956762.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> I have been in histology for 14 years, and I have always been pleased with the pay. I never fished my degree, but I have always made comparable to or more than friends with degrees. Do most of you feel underpaid? I dont know how much MT's make compared to HT's. Kimberly C. Tuttle HT (ASCP) Pathology Biorepository and Research Core University of Maryland Room NBW58, UMMC 22 S. Greene St Baltimore, MD 21201 (410) 328-5524 (410) 328-5508 fax >>> Rene J Buesa 2/13/2009 10:52 am >>> True that a "piece of paper" does not make the histotech BUT if all those who work in histology had that "piece of paper", salaries would be better and more even, respect for the profession would increase, and these discussion would not take place. I have also had people working in my lab that were certified and lousy from the technical point of view and OJT histotechs that were better in everything they did but did not have a clue why things worked or not and at that point all their abilities were reduced to manual dexterity, and that is not the ideal situation. Histotechs are the tech worst paid in the medical laboratory and the least respected, and that should end, and the best way of doing that is to encourage all the OJT histotechs to get certified and try to prevent that the lab managers hire "anybody" to do histology, because "it is not that important or that difficult". It is "lab culture" thing that has to be overcome. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Chris Evanish wrote: From: Chris Evanish Subject: [Histonet] Re: uncertified techs in Histology (Chris Evanish) To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 1:21 PM I have been in the Histology field for 20 years and I have seen registered and nonresgistered techs and believe me some unregistered tech did a better job then the registered. Passing a test and getting a piece of paper does not mean that the tech was properly trained and has experience and knowledge in the field. Plus now you have to go to college to be eligible to take the test. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet This e-mail and any accompanying attachments may be privileged, confidential, contain protected health information about an identified patient or be otherwise protected from disclosure. State and federal law protect the confidentiality of this information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient; you are prohibited from using, disclosing, reproducing or distributing this information; you should immediately notify the sender by telephone or e-mail and delete this e-mail. From HornHV <@t> archildrens.org Fri Feb 13 11:35:15 2009 From: HornHV <@t> archildrens.org (Horn, Hazel V) Date: Fri Feb 13 11:35:24 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0B0@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> References: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA53220C3@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> <51D5D78FBEDAEA4FBCCD9A9D44211DC505B8E0B0@lmhsmail.lmhealth.org> Message-ID: <9AE8AA9E1F644B4AA6C155FB6FD51C6317D83055@EMAIL.archildrens.org> We also take organs to our hospitals health fair they have every year at a local mall. The organs have been "plastinated" and are very safe for everyone to handle. They look like rubber but still are very real. Our section is always the biggest hit and the kids and parents love it. Hazel Horn Hazel Horn, HT/HTL (ASCP) Supervisor of Histology Arkansas Children's Hospital 1 Children's Way Slot 820 Little Rock, AR 72202 phone 501.364.4240 fax 501.364.3155 visit us on the web at: www.archildrens.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Tom McNemar Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 10:48 AM To: Weems, Joyce; Swain, Frances L; Pamela Marcum; JoeNocito; Morken, Tim; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology We used to take parts but stopped due to safety concerns. Tried to encase them in acrylic but it turned yellow. Too bad, they were always a big hit. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -----Original Message----- From: Weems, Joyce [mailto:JWeems@sjha.org] Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 11:41 AM To: Tom McNemar; Swain, Frances L; Pamela Marcum; JoeNocito; Morken, Tim; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology We have a collection of specimens - heart, lungs, kidneys, brains, etc. that I have taken to schools for health fairs. We also loan them to other health care professionals to use for this purpose also. We talk about smoking, drinking, eating, bike and skate board safety, etc as we have normal, emphysema and malignant lungs, and normal and cirrhosis liver. It is always a great hit with the kids. I take along brochures and talk to the students about this profession. I hope they remember! J Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Tom McNemar Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 11:33 AM To: Swain, Frances L; Pamela Marcum; JoeNocito; Morken, Tim; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology We attend career days and always take a microscope and brochures. The NSH has some wonderful free brochures, you only pay for the shipping. The Histology table is always one of the most popular. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcnemar@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************** The information contained in this message may be privileged and confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by replying to the message and deleting it from your computer. Thank you. From ktuttle <@t> umm.edu Fri Feb 13 11:42:07 2009 From: ktuttle <@t> umm.edu (Kimberly Tuttle) Date: Fri Feb 13 11:42:32 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Pay and "The histotech's piece of paper" In-Reply-To: <49956762.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> References: <4992CF4B.6020.00E2.0@mont-hosp.com> <418085.46431.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <49956762.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> Message-ID: <49956A9E.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> No wonder I never "FISHED" my degree, I cant spell! LOL! Kimberly C. Tuttle HT (ASCP) Pathology Biorepository and Research Core University of Maryland Room NBW58, UMMC 22 S. Greene St Baltimore, MD 21201 (410) 328-5524 (410) 328-5508 fax >>> "Kimberly Tuttle" 2/13/2009 12:28 pm >>> I have been in histology for 14 years, and I have always been pleased with the pay. I never fished my degree, but I have always made comparable to or more than friends with degrees. Do most of you feel underpaid? I dont know how much MT's make compared to HT's. Kimberly C. Tuttle HT (ASCP) Pathology Biorepository and Research Core University of Maryland Room NBW58, UMMC 22 S. Greene St Baltimore, MD 21201 (410) 328-5524 (410) 328-5508 fax >>> Rene J Buesa 2/13/2009 10:52 am >>> True that a "piece of paper" does not make the histotech BUT if all those who work in histology had that "piece of paper", salaries would be better and more even, respect for the profession would increase, and these discussion would not take place. I have also had people working in my lab that were certified and lousy from the technical point of view and OJT histotechs that were better in everything they did but did not have a clue why things worked or not and at that point all their abilities were reduced to manual dexterity, and that is not the ideal situation. Histotechs are the tech worst paid in the medical laboratory and the least respected, and that should end, and the best way of doing that is to encourage all the OJT histotechs to get certified and try to prevent that the lab managers hire "anybody" to do histology, because "it is not that important or that difficult". It is "lab culture" thing that has to be overcome. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Chris Evanish wrote: From: Chris Evanish Subject: [Histonet] Re: uncertified techs in Histology (Chris Evanish) To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 1:21 PM I have been in the Histology field for 20 years and I have seen registered and nonresgistered techs and believe me some unregistered tech did a better job then the registered. Passing a test and getting a piece of paper does not mean that the tech was properly trained and has experience and knowledge in the field. Plus now you have to go to college to be eligible to take the test. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet This e-mail and any accompanying attachments may be privileged, confidential, contain protected health information about an identified patient or be otherwise protected from disclosure. State and federal law protect the confidentiality of this information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient; you are prohibited from using, disclosing, reproducing or distributing this information; you should immediately notify the sender by telephone or e-mail and delete this e-mail. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet This e-mail and any accompanying attachments may be privileged, confidential, contain protected health information about an identified patient or be otherwise protected from disclosure. State and federal law protect the confidentiality of this information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient; you are prohibited from using, disclosing, reproducing or distributing this information; you should immediately notify the sender by telephone or e-mail and delete this e-mail. From collette2 <@t> mail.llnl.gov Fri Feb 13 12:25:47 2009 From: collette2 <@t> mail.llnl.gov (Nicole Collette) Date: Fri Feb 13 12:25:54 2009 Subject: [Histonet] hand processing schedule late mouse embryos Message-ID: HI, All, One project finished, another just beginning. I am about to embark on a journey into the land of immunohistochemistry, with late mouse embryos E14.5, E16.5, P0 to examine bone markers in conjunction with LacZ and/or GFP. We have sadly lost our cryostat (so IHC for the GFP on paraffin sections), and our tissue processor - both belonged to a friendly investigator down the hall who has moved on. So, I am processing by hand. For hand-processing, I have had to do some rigging, and I do the wax steps in a hyb oven to try to keep the wax (TissuePrep, Fisher) at around 63-65C, while trying my best to keep the molds, cassettes, and tools with as few giant globs of solidifying wax as possible. As a result of using the hyb oven, we are forced to use Clearene (D-limonene), --or some other xylene substitute that could be recommended--, instead of xylene for the processing. If anyone has a recommendation for a better alternative there (aside from a tissue processor which will have to wait at least until the next grant gets funded--oooh, unless someone has an old one they want to donate, preferably table-top), I'm all ears. My schedule was given to me by a friend who does cartilage, no older than E14.5, and are basically half hour steps for each ethanol, half hour steps for 3 wax steps at the end. Will this be enough time for infiltration of older samples without vacuum? Should I increase my steps to 1 hour for these older embryos? I am optimizing my fixation at 1hour/mm thickness, with the embryos skinned (4% paraformaldehyde in PBS, I decided to start here since I don't yet know much about the problems I might encounter with a particular antigen). I have tried the 30 minute schedule with adult decalcified bones and have not had fantastic sections. I suspect it could be incomplete washing of the EDTA before infiltration, but it's possible that the processing schedule is just not long enough. Any advice? Thanks in advance! Happy Friday! Sincerely, Nicole Collette Lawrence Livermore National Lab/ UC Berkeley From kmerriam2003 <@t> yahoo.com Fri Feb 13 12:27:16 2009 From: kmerriam2003 <@t> yahoo.com (Kim Merriam) Date: Fri Feb 13 12:27:20 2009 Subject: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue Message-ID: <799092.72818.qm@web50304.mail.re2.yahoo.com> What is everyone doing for CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue?? We are looking to do IF, but a DAB protocol would be just as good. ? Thanks, Kim Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC Cambridge, MA From Jackie.O'Connor <@t> abbott.com Fri Feb 13 12:33:15 2009 From: Jackie.O'Connor <@t> abbott.com (Jackie M O'Connor) Date: Fri Feb 13 12:33:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue In-Reply-To: <799092.72818.qm@web50304.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Biocare Medical is supposed to have a good CD31 for FFPE mouse. I don't have proof of this, but I would contact Biocare. Kim Merriam Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu 02/13/2009 12:27 PM Please respond to kmerriam2003@yahoo.com To Histonet cc Subject [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue What is everyone doing for CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue? We are looking to do IF, but a DAB protocol would be just as good. Thanks, Kim Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC Cambridge, MA _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From sjchtascp <@t> yahoo.com Fri Feb 13 12:51:01 2009 From: sjchtascp <@t> yahoo.com (Steven Coakley) Date: Fri Feb 13 12:51:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] need controls Message-ID: <795858.41301.qm@web38201.mail.mud.yahoo.com> I work in a DermPath lab.? Currently we purchase all our controls.? Some are ok but some, especially the grams are not.? We'd like to start sectioning our own but all the specimens we get are skins. From pruegg <@t> ihctech.net Fri Feb 13 12:54:05 2009 From: pruegg <@t> ihctech.net (Patsy Ruegg) Date: Fri Feb 13 12:54:48 2009 Subject: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue In-Reply-To: References: <799092.72818.qm@web50304.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Message-ID: I got a sample of the BC cd31 for mouse but have not had a chance to try it yet, I will let you know. I have heard from others on the IHC Resource Group list server that it is pretty good but does miss some of the very early vessels forming with implants. NSH members can join the IHCRG online at www.ihcrg.org Patsy Patsy Ruegg, HT(ASCP)QIHC IHCtech 12635 Montview Blvd. Ste.215 Aurora, CO 80045 720-859-4060 fax 720-859-4110 www.ihctech.net www.ihcrg.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Jackie M O'Connor Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 11:33 AM To: kmerriam2003@yahoo.com Cc: Histonet; histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue Biocare Medical is supposed to have a good CD31 for FFPE mouse. I don't have proof of this, but I would contact Biocare. Kim Merriam Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu 02/13/2009 12:27 PM Please respond to kmerriam2003@yahoo.com To Histonet cc Subject [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue What is everyone doing for CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue? We are looking to do IF, but a DAB protocol would be just as good. Thanks, Kim Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC Cambridge, MA _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net Fri Feb 13 12:56:20 2009 From: billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net (O'Donnell, Bill) Date: Fri Feb 13 12:56:31 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histology in tough economy In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Greetings fellow hsitology professionals. In today's economic climate, many of us are finding ourselves faced with changes in our policies, staffing, spending, etc. To that end I have started a histology blog. This is a place to see what is happening in other labs and to share your own comments. This blog is meant to be TEMPORARY in nature. IT IS NOT MEANT TO REPLACE THE HISTONET, as it is and remains a fine vehicle for communication and has a long history of serving our community world-wide. It is a place where threads can be long, unfettered and anonymous. Allowing anonimity will free us to feel comfortable in our expressions. People will need to register in order to comment. However, you choose your username and password. A real e-mail address is also needed, but if it is generic,, that is, does not contaiin your name or institution, that is fine. (example: tech@hotmail.com) The e-mail will only be used to contact you concerning this site and to send you data once it has been compiled. It will not be sold or used iin any other fashion. All registered users will be allowed contributer status. We hope to hear from clinical, research, and veterinary histologists, pathologists or administrators. Sales and staffing professionals are also most welcome. Every 30 days or so the accumulated data will be shared with each subscriber in the hopes that our profession might benefit from our collective wisdom and experiences. I am not collecting this info for any personal gain, nor is there any other motive than that of helping out our profession. The link is http://histoblog.deaconbill.com/ I will resend this message from time-to-time so that all might have a chance to participate. If you have any questions regarding the use of this blog, please e-mail me directly at bill@deaconbill.com From carrolpb <@t> umdnj.edu Fri Feb 13 13:05:48 2009 From: carrolpb <@t> umdnj.edu (Peter Carroll) Date: Fri Feb 13 13:09:19 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histology in tough economy In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <4995C48C.7070602@umdnj.edu> here's hoping you spell-check your blog, bill ;) O'Donnell, Bill wrote: > Greetings fellow hsitology professionals. > > In today's economic climate, many of us are finding ourselves faced with > changes in our policies, staffing, spending, etc. > > To that end I have started a histology blog. > > This is a place to see what is happening in other labs and to share your > own comments. > > This blog is meant to be TEMPORARY in nature. IT IS NOT MEANT TO REPLACE > THE HISTONET, as it is and remains a fine vehicle for communication and > has a long history of serving our community world-wide. > > It is a place where threads can be long, unfettered and anonymous. > > Allowing anonimity will free us to feel comfortable in our expressions. > > People will need to register in order to comment. However, you choose > your username and password. A real e-mail address is also needed, but if > it is generic,, that is, does not contaiin your name or institution, > that is fine. (example: tech@hotmail.com) > > The e-mail will only be used to contact you concerning this site and to > send you data once it has been compiled. It will not be sold or used iin > any other fashion. > > All registered users will be allowed contributer status. > > We hope to hear from clinical, research, and veterinary histologists, > pathologists or administrators. > > Sales and staffing professionals are also most welcome. > > Every 30 days or so the accumulated data will be shared with each > subscriber in the hopes that our profession might benefit from our > collective wisdom and experiences. > > I am not collecting this info for any personal gain, nor is there any > other motive than that of helping out our profession. > > The link is http://histoblog.deaconbill.com/ > > I will resend this message from time-to-time so that all might have a > chance to participate. > > If you have any questions regarding the use of this blog, please e-mail > me directly at bill@deaconbill.com > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > From Albert.Santiago <@t> uphs.upenn.edu Fri Feb 13 13:11:27 2009 From: Albert.Santiago <@t> uphs.upenn.edu (Santiago, Albert) Date: Fri Feb 13 13:11:32 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Elisa testing Message-ID: Hello all and Happy Valentine's Day, We're in the process of starting to do Elisa testing and I my question to anyone out there who is already doing it, did you go through anykind of proficiency testing and/or compliance preparedness for JCAHO or CAP before beginning to do Elisas? Thanks for your help.... Albert Santiago, HT (ASCP) Laboratory Supervisor Dermatopathology Phone 215-662-6539 Fax 215-662-6150 The information contained in this e-mail message is intended only for the personal and confidential use of the recipient(s) named above. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an agent responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you have received this document in error and that any review, dissemination, distribution, or copying of this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by e-mail, and delete the original message. From sbreeden <@t> nmda.nmsu.edu Fri Feb 13 13:18:15 2009 From: sbreeden <@t> nmda.nmsu.edu (Breeden, Sara) Date: Fri Feb 13 13:18:20 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Storage of Tissues In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <4D14F0FC9316DD41972D5F03C070908B017E66C5@nmdamailsvr.nmda.ad.nmsu.edu> We researched the subject and this is what we do: 10 years for slides, 7 years for blocks. Wet tissues ("surgicals", "biopsies") are kept for about six weeks after final report is issued. Specimens are boxed daily and marked with date; the lead tech in Receiving checks one or two specimens from each box after a couple weeks to make sure final report has been issued, then marks them with disposal date. Necropsy tissues are marked with a disposal date of six weeks from the date I get the slides back from the pathologist(s). Slides are sealed into cardboard boxes and marked "Glass Waste" and disposed of via the City's solid waste department; blocks are sealed into cardboard boxes, marked "Paraffin Waste" and also disposed of via the City's solid waste dept. Hope this helps. Sally Breeden, HT(ASCP) NM Dept. of Agriculture Veterinary Diagnostic Services PO Box 4700 Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-841-2576 From cforster <@t> umn.edu Fri Feb 13 13:49:34 2009 From: cforster <@t> umn.edu (Colleen Forster) Date: Fri Feb 13 13:49:36 2009 Subject: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <4995CECE.4020504@umn.edu> Biocare does have a very good antibody and kit for this and I can tell you it works very nicely if you use their kit and primary. Colleen Forster 612-626-1930 U of MN Jackie M O'Connor wrote: > Biocare Medical is supposed to have a good CD31 for FFPE mouse. I don't > have proof of this, but I would contact Biocare. > > > > > > Kim Merriam > Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > 02/13/2009 12:27 PM > Please respond to > kmerriam2003@yahoo.com > > > To > Histonet > cc > > Subject > [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue > > > > > > > What is everyone doing for CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue? We are looking to > do IF, but a DAB protocol would be just as good. > > Thanks, > Kim > > Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC > Cambridge, MA > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > From anh2006 <@t> med.cornell.edu Fri Feb 13 14:00:12 2009 From: anh2006 <@t> med.cornell.edu (Andrea Hooper) Date: Fri Feb 13 14:00:27 2009 Subject: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue In-Reply-To: <4995CECE.4020504@umn.edu> References: <4995CECE.4020504@umn.edu> Message-ID: Does it have to be CD31? I have a bunch of good protocols for mouse vessels but each tissue requires a different antibody. CD31 in FFPE is never reliable in my experience. Which tissue are you using? Andrea >> >> >>Kim Merriam Sent by: >>histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >>02/13/2009 12:27 PM >>Please respond to >>kmerriam2003@yahoo.com >> >> >> >>What is everyone doing for CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue? We are >>looking to do IF, but a DAB protocol would be just as good. >> Thanks, >>Kim >> >>Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC >>Cambridge, MA -- From mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu Fri Feb 13 14:25:15 2009 From: mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu (Geoff McAuliffe) Date: Fri Feb 13 14:47:11 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histology in tough economy In-Reply-To: <4995C48C.7070602@umdnj.edu> References: <4995C48C.7070602@umdnj.edu> Message-ID: <4995D72B.1020407@umdnj.edu> Here's hoping you don't have too many nit pickers criticizing your blog. "It's a mighty poor speller who can't think of more than one way to spell a word." Warren G. Harding, President of the US, 1920-1923. Peter Carroll wrote: > here's hoping you spell-check your blog, bill ;) > > O'Donnell, Bill wrote: >> Greetings fellow hsitology professionals. >> In today's economic climate, many of us are finding ourselves faced with >> changes in our policies, staffing, spending, etc. >> To that end I have started a histology blog. >> >> This is a place to see what is happening in other labs and to share your >> own comments. >> This blog is meant to be TEMPORARY in nature. IT IS NOT MEANT TO REPLACE >> THE HISTONET, as it is and remains a fine vehicle for communication and >> has a long history of serving our community world-wide. >> >> It is a place where threads can be long, unfettered and anonymous. >> >> Allowing anonimity will free us to feel comfortable in our expressions. >> >> People will need to register in order to comment. However, you choose >> your username and password. A real e-mail address is also needed, but if >> it is generic,, that is, does not contaiin your name or institution, >> that is fine. (example: tech@hotmail.com) >> The e-mail will only be used to contact you concerning this site and to >> send you data once it has been compiled. It will not be sold or used iin >> any other fashion. >> >> All registered users will be allowed contributer status. >> >> We hope to hear from clinical, research, and veterinary histologists, >> pathologists or administrators. >> >> Sales and staffing professionals are also most welcome. >> >> Every 30 days or so the accumulated data will be shared with each >> subscriber in the hopes that our profession might benefit from our >> collective wisdom and experiences. >> >> I am not collecting this info for any personal gain, nor is there any >> other motive than that of helping out our profession. >> >> The link is http://histoblog.deaconbill.com/ >> >> I will resend this message from time-to-time so that all might have a >> chance to participate. >> >> If you have any questions regarding the use of this blog, please e-mail >> me directly at bill@deaconbill.com >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** From JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com Fri Feb 13 15:00:23 2009 From: JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com (JGREWE@OhioHealth.com) Date: Fri Feb 13 14:59:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] AUTO: Jacquelyn Grewe/Staff/OhioHealth is out of the office . Message-ID: I will be out of the office starting 02/11/2009 and will not return until 02/16/2009. I will respond to your message when I return. Note: This is an automated response to your message "Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 23" sent on 2/13/2009 1:08:10 PM. You will receive a notification for each message you send to this person while the person is away. From billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net Fri Feb 13 15:27:33 2009 From: billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net (O'Donnell, Bill) Date: Fri Feb 13 15:27:53 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histology in tough economy In-Reply-To: <4995D72B.1020407@umdnj.edu> References: <4995C48C.7070602@umdnj.edu> <4995D72B.1020407@umdnj.edu> Message-ID: I need spelling nit-pickers, othewise I look really stoopid! Have a great weekend, and don't forget to sign up for the blog. Bill -----Original Message----- From: Geoff McAuliffe [mailto:mcauliff@umdnj.edu] Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 2:25 PM To: Peter Carroll Cc: O'Donnell, Bill; Histonet Subject: Re: [Histonet] Histology in tough economy Here's hoping you don't have too many nit pickers criticizing your blog. "It's a mighty poor speller who can't think of more than one way to spell a word." Warren G. Harding, President of the US, 1920-1923. Peter Carroll wrote: > here's hoping you spell-check your blog, bill ;) > > O'Donnell, Bill wrote: >> Greetings fellow hsitology professionals. >> In today's economic climate, many of us are finding ourselves faced >> with changes in our policies, staffing, spending, etc. >> To that end I have started a histology blog. >> >> This is a place to see what is happening in other labs and to share >> your own comments. >> This blog is meant to be TEMPORARY in nature. IT IS NOT MEANT TO >> REPLACE THE HISTONET, as it is and remains a fine vehicle for >> communication and has a long history of serving our community world-wide. >> >> It is a place where threads can be long, unfettered and anonymous. >> >> Allowing anonimity will free us to feel comfortable in our expressions. >> >> People will need to register in order to comment. However, you >> choose your username and password. A real e-mail address is also >> needed, but if it is generic,, that is, does not contaiin your name >> or institution, that is fine. (example: tech@hotmail.com) The e-mail >> will only be used to contact you concerning this site and to send you >> data once it has been compiled. It will not be sold or used iin any >> other fashion. >> >> All registered users will be allowed contributer status. >> >> We hope to hear from clinical, research, and veterinary histologists, >> pathologists or administrators. >> >> Sales and staffing professionals are also most welcome. >> >> Every 30 days or so the accumulated data will be shared with each >> subscriber in the hopes that our profession might benefit from our >> collective wisdom and experiences. >> >> I am not collecting this info for any personal gain, nor is there any >> other motive than that of helping out our profession. >> >> The link is http://histoblog.deaconbill.com/ >> >> I will resend this message from time-to-time so that all might have a >> chance to participate. >> >> If you have any questions regarding the use of this blog, please >> e-mail me directly at bill@deaconbill.com >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** From claycal44 <@t> yahoo.com Fri Feb 13 15:43:26 2009 From: claycal44 <@t> yahoo.com (nancy lowen) Date: Fri Feb 13 15:43:31 2009 Subject: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <571567.63945.qm@web65607.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> I have used the antibody and kit from Biocare for CD31 and got good results.? Simple to use. Nancy.lowen@med.va.gov --- On Fri, 2/13/09, Jackie M O'Connor wrote: From: Jackie M O'Connor Subject: Re: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue To: kmerriam2003@yahoo.com Cc: "Histonet" , histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Friday, February 13, 2009, 10:33 AM Biocare Medical is supposed to have a good CD31 for FFPE mouse. I don't have proof of this, but I would contact Biocare. Kim Merriam Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu 02/13/2009 12:27 PM Please respond to kmerriam2003@yahoo.com To Histonet cc Subject [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue What is everyone doing for CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue? We are looking to do IF, but a DAB protocol would be just as good. Thanks, Kim Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC Cambridge, MA _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From enrriq88 <@t> yahoo.com Fri Feb 13 16:26:03 2009 From: enrriq88 <@t> yahoo.com (Jaime Plata) Date: Fri Feb 13 16:26:06 2009 Subject: [Histonet] need controls In-Reply-To: <795858.41301.qm@web38201.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <69741.96460.qm@web50410.mail.re2.yahoo.com> GI (small intestine) biopsies are other possibilities associated to skin as control. When you mention Grams, are you referring to Bact's positive and negative.? If this is the case you can make them with blood Agar (microbiology) and contaminate the tissue with them. Or use Large intestine ther will be many you jus need to look for them. ? --- On Fri, 2/13/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] need controls To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Friday, February 13, 2009, 1:51 PM I work in a DermPath lab.? Currently we purchase all our controls.? Some are Ok but some, especially the grams are not.? We'd like to start sectioning. Our own but all the specimens we get are skins. ? _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From janderson <@t> halozyme.com Fri Feb 13 16:43:25 2009 From: janderson <@t> halozyme.com (Jennifer Anderson) Date: Fri Feb 13 16:43:34 2009 Subject: [Histonet] freezing paraffin blocks Message-ID: Hi All. I've just started sectioning Bouin's fixed paraffin embedded human/mouse/rat/pig skin again, tissues processed in a softer wax than I'm used to, so I've been putting the blocks in the freezer at -20 prior to sectioning. Will such cold deleteriously affect the blocks or tissue? Also, is there any harm in cleaning the water bath with a little xylene to remove any wax build-up? Thanks a lot. Jennifer M. Anderson, Scientist Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. 11404 Sorrento Valley Road San Diego, CA 92121 858-704-8333 janderson@halozyme.com The information transmitted in this email is confidential and is intended only for the person(s) or entity to which it is addressed. Delivery of this message to any person other than the intended recipient(s) is not intended in any way to waive confidentiality or any applicable privilege. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by individuals or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited by Halozyme and may be in violation of applicable laws. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and delete/destroy this email. From Jennifer.Bull <@t> northwestpathology.com Fri Feb 13 17:52:51 2009 From: Jennifer.Bull <@t> northwestpathology.com (Bull, Jennifer L.) Date: Fri Feb 13 17:53:02 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Is there anyone out there that is using the VIP6 from Sakura? Message-ID: <85760CECEC18444BB95F26D5E88DAEAA21FF216F8C@hinet2.hinet.org> Is there anyone out there that is currently using the VIP6 that could give me feedback on processing times for small biopsoes and surgicals? We are trying to get a realistic comparison of the Perloris to the tried and true from Sakura. Thanks in advance! Jennifer Bull jennifer.bull@nwpathology.com From LINDA.MARGRAF <@t> childrens.com Fri Feb 13 18:42:06 2009 From: LINDA.MARGRAF <@t> childrens.com (LINDA MARGRAF) Date: Fri Feb 13 18:42:19 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Fwd: Can you place on the histonet? References: <37E4BAC017F57141AF64FAA5AEB04CE801471AD6@wlmmsx01.nemours.org> Message-ID: <4995BF0D.F783.00DA.0@childrens.com> Here's a message Carol wanted posted to the list. Please respond to her and not me. Thanks Linda M Histonet administrator >>> "Barone, Carol " 2/13/2009 10:33 AM >>> Anyone using "bead" detection systems with readers for tissue histology. I have investigators interested in these for slides? Need infoFAST...for grant submission...Help!!!! Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail

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From zodiac29 <@t> comcast.net Sat Feb 14 05:46:16 2009 From: zodiac29 <@t> comcast.net (zodiac29@comcast.net) Date: Sat Feb 14 05:46:22 2009 Subject: [Histonet] fume exposure In-Reply-To: <1881585624.2114771234611496469.JavaMail.root@sz0062a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> Message-ID: <1317950559.2115121234611976799.JavaMail.root@sz0062a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> To All, I work in a lab where I stain and coverslip everything by hand. I coverslip under a fume hood so there isn't much of an issue there. The main issue is my exposue to fumes while staining. I do not stain under a fume hood. My exposure times to these c hemicals is increasing becuase our volume is steadly increasing as well. I can no longer tolerate these fumes and am expirenc ing difficulty breathing and frequent headaches.What are labs that stain there slides ?by hand doing (types of masks, hoods) to minimize their exposure. If you can recommed any specifics I would appreciate it. Thank you in advance Jenny From asmith <@t> mail.barry.edu Sat Feb 14 09:26:21 2009 From: asmith <@t> mail.barry.edu (Smith, Allen) Date: Sat Feb 14 09:27:19 2009 Subject: [Histonet] fume exposure In-Reply-To: <1317950559.2115121234611976799.JavaMail.root@sz0062a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> References: <1881585624.2114771234611496469.JavaMail.root@sz0062a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> <1317950559.2115121234611976799.JavaMail.root@sz0062a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> Message-ID: The only staining solutions whose fumes bother me are ammonium sulfide and sulfurous acid. I put the staining jars of these in the fume hood and carry the staining jar with the slides to the fume hood. I bring the water rinse jar to the fume hood to take the slides out. While sulfurous acid is merely irritating, ammonium sulfide is a mitochondrial poison (about 10% as poisonous as prussic acid). Allen A. Smith Professor of Anatomy Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of zodiac29@comcast.net Sent: Saturday, February 14, 2009 6:46 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] fume exposure To All, I work in a lab where I stain and coverslip everything by hand. I coverslip under a fume hood so there isn't much of an issue there. The main issue is my exposue to fumes while staining. I do not stain under a fume hood. My exposure times to these c hemicals is increasing becuase our volume is steadly increasing as well. I can no longer tolerate these fumes and am expirenc ing difficulty breathing and frequent headaches.What are labs that stain there slides by hand doing (types of masks, hoods) to minimize their exposure. If you can recommed any specifics I would appreciate it. Thank you in advance Jenny _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Sat Feb 14 10:21:39 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Sat Feb 14 10:21:42 2009 Subject: [Histonet] hand processing schedule late mouse embryos In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <683350.23959.qm@web65713.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Under separate cover I am sending a protocol that will work well with your subjects. Since you are doing manual processing you can easily use the reagents I recommend and eliminate xylene?and its terpene and alkane based substitutes. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/13/09, Nicole Collette wrote: From: Nicole Collette Subject: [Histonet] hand processing schedule late mouse embryos To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Friday, February 13, 2009, 1:25 PM HI, All, One project finished, another just beginning. I am about to embark on a journey into the land of immunohistochemistry, with late mouse embryos E14.5, E16.5, P0 to examine bone markers in conjunction with LacZ and/or GFP. We have sadly lost our cryostat (so IHC for the GFP on paraffin sections), and our tissue processor - both belonged to a friendly investigator down the hall who has moved on. So, I am processing by hand. For hand-processing, I have had to do some rigging, and I do the wax steps in a hyb oven to try to keep the wax (TissuePrep, Fisher) at around 63-65C, while trying my best to keep the molds, cassettes, and tools with as few giant globs of solidifying wax as possible. As a result of using the hyb oven, we are forced to use Clearene (D-limonene), --or some other xylene substitute that could be recommended--, instead of xylene for the processing. If anyone has a recommendation for a better alternative there (aside from a tissue processor which will have to wait at least until the next grant gets funded--oooh, unless someone has an old one they want to donate, preferably table-top), I'm all ears. My schedule was given to me by a friend who does cartilage, no older than E14.5, and are basically half hour steps for each ethanol, half hour steps for 3 wax steps at the end. Will this be enough time for infiltration of older samples without vacuum? Should I increase my steps to 1 hour for these older embryos? I am optimizing my fixation at 1hour/mm thickness, with the embryos skinned (4% paraformaldehyde in PBS, I decided to start here since I don't yet know much about the problems I might encounter with a particular antigen). I have tried the 30 minute schedule with adult decalcified bones and have not had fantastic sections. I suspect it could be incomplete washing of the EDTA before infiltration, but it's possible that the processing schedule is just not long enough. Any advice? Thanks in advance! Happy Friday! Sincerely, Nicole Collette Lawrence Livermore National Lab/ UC Berkeley _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Sat Feb 14 10:25:13 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Sat Feb 14 10:25:17 2009 Subject: [Histonet] need controls In-Reply-To: <69741.96460.qm@web50410.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <804168.42750.qm@web65705.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> The same appendix that you can use as an H&E+ control, usually contains Gram +and- bacteria. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/13/09, Jaime Plata wrote: From: Jaime Plata Subject: Re: [Histonet] need controls To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley" Date: Friday, February 13, 2009, 5:26 PM GI (small intestine) biopsies are other possibilities associated to skin as control. When you mention Grams, are you referring to Bact's positive and negative.? If this is the case you can make them with blood Agar (microbiology) and contaminate the tissue with them. Or use Large intestine ther will be many you jus need to look for them. ? --- On Fri, 2/13/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] need controls To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Friday, February 13, 2009, 1:51 PM I work in a DermPath lab.? Currently we purchase all our controls.? Some are Ok but some, especially the grams are not.? We'd like to start sectioning. Our own but all the specimens we get are skins. ? _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Sat Feb 14 10:26:01 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Sat Feb 14 10:26:05 2009 Subject: [Histonet] freezing paraffin blocks In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <358596.26376.qm@web65713.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Not at all! Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/13/09, Jennifer Anderson wrote: From: Jennifer Anderson Subject: [Histonet] freezing paraffin blocks To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Friday, February 13, 2009, 5:43 PM Hi All. I've just started sectioning Bouin's fixed paraffin embedded human/mouse/rat/pig skin again, tissues processed in a softer wax than I'm used to, so I've been putting the blocks in the freezer at -20 prior to sectioning. Will such cold deleteriously affect the blocks or tissue? Also, is there any harm in cleaning the water bath with a little xylene to remove any wax build-up? Thanks a lot. Jennifer M. Anderson, Scientist Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. 11404 Sorrento Valley Road San Diego, CA 92121 858-704-8333 janderson@halozyme.com The information transmitted in this email is confidential and is intended only for the person(s) or entity to which it is addressed. Delivery of this message to any person other than the intended recipient(s) is not intended in any way to waive confidentiality or any applicable privilege. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by individuals or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited by Halozyme and may be in violation of applicable laws. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and delete/destroy this email. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From pbrunko <@t> siue.edu Sat Feb 14 11:53:58 2009 From: pbrunko <@t> siue.edu (pbrunko@siue.edu) Date: Sat Feb 14 11:54:08 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent Message-ID: <1234634038.499705367a3f6@webmail.siue.edu> Good Morning! I'm a newcomer to the list, and I'll start by pointing out that I'm not a histologist by any means. I am a freshwater ecologist, and we're trying to study mucus secretion behavior in freshwater snails. Last Spring and last summer, we developed a process whereby we could visualize snail mucus trails on glass slides using a periodic acid-Schiff's reagent staining technique. But now, in following the same protocol as used last year for making our own Schiff's reagent, I cannot get the final solution to filter out clear. Recipe I'm using: 900 ml boiling water 10 grams basic fuchsin 25 ml concentrated HCl acid (12 M) 40 grams sodium metabisulfite (this is essentially Sigma Aldrich's ratios, I think) Let this sit for 24 to 72 hours, take 100 ml aliquot, add 0.75 - 1.0 gram ground activated charcoal, stir for 10 minutes, filter through filter paper then through GF/C glass fiber filter. Last summer I got nice, clear (slightly yellow) and very active Schiff's reagent. But now I cannot seem to get the filtrate to be clear. Even after 10 minutes exposure to ground activated charcoal and filtering, the filtrate remains bright orange to dark red and it does not seem to stain mucus trails very well. All the reagents are the same as those used last summer (i.e., less than 7 months old; although the HCl is a bottle several years old from a different lab). Anyone have any troubleshooting suggestions? I don't know the chemistry very well, but the sodium metabisulfite is used for "decoloring" the initial solution, right? So is the metabisulfite not working for some reason now?? Any help/suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Cheers - Paul Paul E. Brunkow, PhD Department of Biological Sciences Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Edwardsville, IL USA ------------------------------------------------- SIUE Web Mail From tjasper <@t> copc.net Sat Feb 14 12:06:51 2009 From: tjasper <@t> copc.net (Thomas Jasper) Date: Sat Feb 14 12:06:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent References: <1234634038.499705367a3f6@webmail.siue.edu> Message-ID: <90354A475B420441B2A0396E5008D49673183B@copc-sbs.COPC.local> Hi Paul, Some people may think this is taking the "easy" way out, but...you might consider purchasing some commercially prepared Schiff's. It will (should) be consistent product (consistently produced) and the manufacturer has the responsibility of QC'ing the product before it is shipped and sold. There are any number of reliable companies handling Schiff's (I would not favor one over another). You could type "Schiff's" into your search engine and I'm certain you'd be able to contact a supplier. This may be an answer for you. Good Luck, Tom Jasper Thomas Jasper HT (ASCP) BAS Histology Supervisor Central Oregon Regional Pathology Services Bend, OR 97701 541/693-2677 tjasper@copc.net -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of pbrunko@siue.edu Sent: Saturday, February 14, 2009 9:54 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent Good Morning! I'm a newcomer to the list, and I'll start by pointing out that I'm not a histologist by any means. I am a freshwater ecologist, and we're trying to study mucus secretion behavior in freshwater snails. Last Spring and last summer, we developed a process whereby we could visualize snail mucus trails on glass slides using a periodic acid-Schiff's reagent staining technique. But now, in following the same protocol as used last year for making our own Schiff's reagent, I cannot get the final solution to filter out clear. Recipe I'm using: 900 ml boiling water 10 grams basic fuchsin 25 ml concentrated HCl acid (12 M) 40 grams sodium metabisulfite (this is essentially Sigma Aldrich's ratios, I think) Let this sit for 24 to 72 hours, take 100 ml aliquot, add 0.75 - 1.0 gram ground activated charcoal, stir for 10 minutes, filter through filter paper then through GF/C glass fiber filter. Last summer I got nice, clear (slightly yellow) and very active Schiff's reagent. But now I cannot seem to get the filtrate to be clear. Even after 10 minutes exposure to ground activated charcoal and filtering, the filtrate remains bright orange to dark red and it does not seem to stain mucus trails very well. All the reagents are the same as those used last summer (i.e., less than 7 months old; although the HCl is a bottle several years old from a different lab). Anyone have any troubleshooting suggestions? I don't know the chemistry very well, but the sodium metabisulfite is used for "decoloring" the initial solution, right? So is the metabisulfite not working for some reason now?? Any help/suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Cheers - Paul Paul E. Brunkow, PhD Department of Biological Sciences Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Edwardsville, IL USA ------------------------------------------------- SIUE Web Mail _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com Sat Feb 14 15:02:22 2009 From: JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com (JGREWE@OhioHealth.com) Date: Sat Feb 14 15:01:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] AUTO: Jacquelyn Grewe/Staff/OhioHealth is out of the office . Message-ID: I will be out of the office starting 02/11/2009 and will not return until 02/16/2009. I will respond to your message when I return. Note: This is an automated response to your message "Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 24" sent on 2/14/2009 12:57:22 PM. You will receive a notification for each message you send to this person while the person is away. From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Sat Feb 14 15:52:35 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Sat Feb 14 15:52:40 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent In-Reply-To: <1234634038.499705367a3f6@webmail.siue.edu> Message-ID: <781629.47196.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Paul: If I remember correctly the last time I prepared my own Schiff reagent was in 1955 and it came beautifully BUT it is a real pain to prepare it, and not really worth the work. Since then I purchase my Schiff and avoided all the trouble. If you have the necessary budget I would advise you to buy it from a reputable manufacturer. Mine always came from Sigma. It will eliminate inconsistencies in your research. Ren? J. --- On Sat, 2/14/09, pbrunko@siue.edu wrote: From: pbrunko@siue.edu Subject: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Saturday, February 14, 2009, 12:53 PM Good Morning! I'm a newcomer to the list, and I'll start by pointing out that I'm not a histologist by any means. I am a freshwater ecologist, and we're trying to study mucus secretion behavior in freshwater snails. Last Spring and last summer, we developed a process whereby we could visualize snail mucus trails on glass slides using a periodic acid-Schiff's reagent staining technique. But now, in following the same protocol as used last year for making our own Schiff's reagent, I cannot get the final solution to filter out clear. Recipe I'm using: 900 ml boiling water 10 grams basic fuchsin 25 ml concentrated HCl acid (12 M) 40 grams sodium metabisulfite (this is essentially Sigma Aldrich's ratios, I think) Let this sit for 24 to 72 hours, take 100 ml aliquot, add 0.75 - 1.0 gram ground activated charcoal, stir for 10 minutes, filter through filter paper then through GF/C glass fiber filter. Last summer I got nice, clear (slightly yellow) and very active Schiff's reagent. But now I cannot seem to get the filtrate to be clear. Even after 10 minutes exposure to ground activated charcoal and filtering, the filtrate remains bright orange to dark red and it does not seem to stain mucus trails very well. All the reagents are the same as those used last summer (i.e., less than 7 months old; although the HCl is a bottle several years old from a different lab). Anyone have any troubleshooting suggestions? I don't know the chemistry very well, but the sodium metabisulfite is used for "decoloring" the initial solution, right? So is the metabisulfite not working for some reason now?? Any help/suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Cheers - Paul Paul E. Brunkow, PhD Department of Biological Sciences Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Edwardsville, IL USA ------------------------------------------------- SIUE Web Mail _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From talulahgosh <@t> gmail.com Sat Feb 14 18:48:18 2009 From: talulahgosh <@t> gmail.com (Emily Sours) Date: Sat Feb 14 18:48:26 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent In-Reply-To: <1234634038.499705367a3f6@webmail.siue.edu> References: <1234634038.499705367a3f6@webmail.siue.edu> Message-ID: First, I would try someone else's HCl, especially if it's from a different lab. You never know what happens in other people's labs. Second, this is going to sound really dumb, but you should just remake it. I had the color stay in after charcoal and I finally got sick of filtering it, so I remade it. It worked fine, so who knows what went wrong. Lastly, when I used to make it, we'd cool it down before adding the acid (about 50C) and then let it cool to room temp to add the sodium metabisulfate. No need to buy commercial Schiff''s, the old fashioned way saves money....but if you're desperate, I'd buy some and figure out what went wrong later. Emily -- It's like hearing Billy Joel play "Piano Man"-- joyless for all involved, but demanded by a higher power. --Kevin Murphy, Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull rifftrax From talulahgosh <@t> gmail.com Sat Feb 14 19:06:21 2009 From: talulahgosh <@t> gmail.com (Emily Sours) Date: Sat Feb 14 19:06:25 2009 Subject: [Histonet] fume exposure In-Reply-To: <1317950559.2115121234611976799.JavaMail.root@sz0062a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> References: <1881585624.2114771234611496469.JavaMail.root@sz0062a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> <1317950559.2115121234611976799.JavaMail.root@sz0062a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> Message-ID: Is it so old-fashioned to use xylene in a fume hood? We can't even use paraformaldhyde outside of the hood--Environmental Health and Safety makes sure of that. But we do research, maybe it's different in other types of labs. Emily -- It's like hearing Billy Joel play "Piano Man"-- joyless for all involved, but demanded by a higher power. --Kevin Murphy, Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull rifftrax From annigyg <@t> gmail.com Sat Feb 14 22:20:29 2009 From: annigyg <@t> gmail.com (Anne van Binsbergen) Date: Sat Feb 14 22:20:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] semen analysis In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: thanks for the email we are a hospital based diagnostic lab and currently do all the testing manually i am actually asking what EQUIPMENT is being used for AUTOMATED analysis (count, conc, motility etc) regards Anne 2009/2/15 Malcolm McCallum > semen analysis can be done using various methods depending on what you > are analyzing. > I am not certain if you are asking for techniques, or specific procedures. > However, fluorescence microscopy can be used to assess simple morphology > using mitotracker blue. > Fluorescence can also be used with a fast green (I think this is the other > dye) and propidium iodide to assess viability. > alternatively, you can assess viability using flow cytometry with the same > dyes. > Also, morphology is typically done using SEM and TEM. > there are several techiques for assessing motility. > > Jill Jenkins at the USGS National Wetlands Laboratory in Lafayette, LA does > the flow cytometry. > Anne Grippo at Arkansas State University uses the propidium iodide > technique, > Stan Trauth does the sperm morphology with EM and FM. > > Also, the Dallas Zoo has specialized instrumentation specifically for sperm > work, but the name of the instrument > has slipped my mind! > > They are doing this on non-human animals, so I'm not sure how applicable > this is to your question! > > Malcolm L. McCallum > Associate Professor > Department of Biological Sciences > Texas A&M University Texarkana > 2600 Robison Rd. > Texarkana, TX 75501 > O: 1-903-334-6670 > H: 1-903-791-3843 > Homepage: https://www.eagle.tamut.edu/faculty/mmccallum/index.html > VISIT HERPETOLOGICAL CONSERVATION AND BIOLOGY www.herpconbio.org > A New Journal Published in Partnership with Partners in Amphibian and > Reptile Conservation > and the World Congress of Herpetology. > > Fall Teaching Schedule & Office Hours: > Ecology: M,W 1-2:40 pm > Cell Biology: M 6-9:40 pm (don't ask!) > Forensic Science: T,R 10-11:40am > Office Hours: MW 12-1, 5-6, TR 11:40-12:30, > > "We live in a time when lemonade is made with artificial flavoring, and > furnisher polish is made with fresh lemons." > -Alfred E. Neuman > > > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Anne van > Binsbergen > Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 6:45 AM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] semen analysis > > who out there is using automation for semen analysis and what equipment is > recommended? > i am considering the SQA-V from MES > what say you? > > cheers > > -- > Anne van Binsbergen (Hope) > Abu Dhabi > UAE > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > -- Anne van Binsbergen (Hope) Abu Dhabi UAE From JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com Sun Feb 15 15:01:23 2009 From: JGREWE <@t> OhioHealth.com (JGREWE@OhioHealth.com) Date: Sun Feb 15 15:00:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] AUTO: Jacquelyn Grewe/Staff/OhioHealth is out of the office . Message-ID: I will be out of the office starting 02/11/2009 and will not return until 02/16/2009. I will respond to your message when I return. Note: This is an automated response to your message "Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 25" sent on 2/15/2009 1:02:05 PM. You will receive a notification for each message you send to this person while the person is away. From Maria.Benlloch <@t> uv.es Mon Feb 16 06:51:27 2009 From: Maria.Benlloch <@t> uv.es (Maria.Benlloch@uv.es) Date: Mon Feb 16 06:51:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] manual of a Nikon Diaphot 300 Message-ID: <3955672888bengarma@uv.es> Hello All, I want to know if any of you could provide an instruction manual of a Nikon Diaphot 300 inverted fluorescence microscope preferably as a pdf file. I would be very thankful for it. Yours sincerely, Mar?a Benlloch From barrickstacey <@t> yahoo.com Mon Feb 16 07:05:12 2009 From: barrickstacey <@t> yahoo.com (Stacey Barrick) Date: Mon Feb 16 07:05:17 2009 Subject: [Histonet] manual of a Nikon Diaphot 300 In-Reply-To: <3955672888bengarma@uv.es> Message-ID: <744239.83586.qm@web54301.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Hi Maria I will?send the manual to you in a few mins as a pdf. ? Stacey ? --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Maria.Benlloch@uv.es wrote: From: Maria.Benlloch@uv.es Subject: [Histonet] manual of a Nikon Diaphot 300 To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:51 AM Hello All, I want to know if any of you could provide an instruction manual of a Nikon Diaphot 300 inverted fluorescence microscope preferably as a pdf file. I would be very thankful for it. Yours sincerely, Mar?a Benlloch _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From awatanabe <@t> tgen.org Mon Feb 16 07:13:34 2009 From: awatanabe <@t> tgen.org (Aprill Watanabe) Date: Mon Feb 16 07:13:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IF on cell lines Message-ID: I have a colleague who is trying to do IF on cell culture cell lines. She is growing them on cell culture treated chamber slides and fixing with 4% formaldehyde. Her problem is that after fixation and a few washes all the cells are detaching. Any suggestions? I think she is going to try 4% paraformaldehyde first as someone has already switching to that. Aprill Watanabe, B.S. Research Associate Integrated Cancer Genomics Division Tissue Microarray Center (TMA) Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) main: 602-343-8822 Fax: 602-343-8840 awatanabe@tgen.org www.tgen.org From cmiller <@t> physlab.com Mon Feb 16 08:17:36 2009 From: cmiller <@t> physlab.com (Cheri Miller) Date: Mon Feb 16 08:17:42 2009 Subject: [Histonet] OJT Uncertified techs Message-ID: <002201c99041$5180a870$4402a8c0@plab.local> I can't find Certified techs to work in my lab. I have 1 registered tech close to retirement, 1 non-certified tech with 30+ years in histology and she is limited to microtomy only, and me. I have 2 OJT techs that are really quite good. I am teaching them everything I know, making them look at their specials under the scope before they call me over to verify the stain for them. They have met the educational requirements and I am trying with what I have to give them the knowledge and the ability to troubleshoot. I hired them with the understanding that I expect them to sit for their registry within a reasonable amount of time otherwise they are gone. Until we are seen by our peers the MT's, CT's and the Pathologist's I will just continue to grow my own techs. Cheryl Miller HT (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Physicians Laboratory,P.C. Omaha, Ne. 402 738 5052 PRIVILEGED / CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION may be contained in this message. If you are not the addressee intended / indicated or agent responsible for delivering it to the addressee, you are hereby notified that you are in possession of confidential and privileged information. Any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately and delete this email from your system. From gvdobbin <@t> ihis.org Mon Feb 16 08:22:10 2009 From: gvdobbin <@t> ihis.org (Greg Dobbin) Date: Mon Feb 16 08:22:40 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IF on cell lines Message-ID: Hi April, This may not be useful to your colleague at all, but here goes: I used to place a round glass sterile coverslip in the bottom of each well of a 24-well culture plate before seeding and then grew the cells on the coverslip. When ready the coverslip was removed (using a hyperdermic needle with the bevelled tip bent backwards to catch the edge of the cs). The coverslips were then picked up with "eyelash" forceps and placed in a little porcelain coverslip rack and placed in cold acetone (-20 C) to fix for 10 mins. Following IF staining the round coverslip was mounted on a regular coverslip which was in turn mounted on a glass slide for viewing. In case you haven't already figured this out, acetone melts the plastic chamber slides. My coverslip method, while effective, is obviously much more laborious (which I suppose is why the chamber slide was developed in the first place! LOL). Hopefully the 4% paraform. works. Is methanol fixation an option?? Greg Greg Dobbin, R.T. Chief Technologist, Anatomic Pathology Dept. of Laboratory Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, P.O. Box 6600 Charlottetown, PE C1A 8T5 Phone: (902) 894-2337 Fax: (902) 894-2385 "I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have." - Thomas Jefferson >>> Aprill Watanabe 2/16/2009 9:13 AM >>> I have a colleague who is trying to do IF on cell culture cell lines. She is growing them on cell culture treated chamber slides and fixing with 4% formaldehyde. Her problem is that after fixation and a few washes all the cells are detaching. Any suggestions? I think she is going to try 4% paraformaldehyde first as someone has already switching to that. Aprill Watanabe, B.S. Research Associate Integrated Cancer Genomics Division Tissue Microarray Center (TMA) Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) main: 602-343-8822 Fax: 602-343-8840 awatanabe@tgen.org www.tgen.org _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------- Statement of Confidentiality This message (including attachments) may contain confidential or privileged information intended for a specific individual or organization. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately. If you are not the intended recipient, you are not authorized to use, disclose, distribute, copy, print or rely on this email, and should promptly delete this email from your entire computer system. D?claration de confidentialit? Le pr?sent message (y compris les annexes) peut contenir des renseignements confidentiels ? l'intention d'une personne ou d'un organisme particulier. Si vous avez re?u la pr?sente communication par erreur, veuillez en informer l'exp?diteur imm?diatement. Si vous n'?tes pas le destinataire pr?vu, vous n'avez pas le droit d'utiliser, divulguer, distribuer, copier ou imprimer ce courriel ou encore de vous en servir, et vous devriez l'effacer imm?diatement de votre syst?me informatique. ------------------------- From b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu Mon Feb 16 08:28:15 2009 From: b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu (Bernice Frederick) Date: Mon Feb 16 08:28:29 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <948599.42650.qm@web53610.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs doing it for years. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu Mon Feb 16 08:30:22 2009 From: b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu (Bernice Frederick) Date: Mon Feb 16 08:30:33 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <6ED9D4252F278841A0593D3D788AF24C0481D416@mailsvr.MARSHMED.local> Message-ID: So take the registry exam!!!! Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Martin, Gary Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:27 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I am one of those "unregistered" techs. I would respectfully hope that we are not considered the villains here. My situation is; we are a small lab in a rural area that has the need for 1 1/2 Histo Techs. We were having a very difficult time attracting a 1/2 time "qualified tech.", and had zero backup for our one and only full time "qualified tech." I have a good back ground in detail work in the art world and a good amount of experience as a pathology lab assistant. So it was easy for me to transition into the role of "unregistered tech", thereby providing back for our over work Histo tech. I have been trained by my Histo tech and have completed the Freida L. Carson self instruction course under her supervision. We are happy with the results and our Pathologist are pleased. At this point (7 years into teching) there are some things that I have been innovative on some things, and our tech prefers me to do other things. I would love to get certified but the changes in OTJ have made that more of a mountain than I can climb at this time. I would like to lend voice to us who are in this situation and say the we take our duties very serious and I really don't look at my job as getting over on rules or quality or providing cheap labor. In our case it has been necessity. Thank you Gary -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Watson, Linda Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 8:34 AM To: Mary Abosso; Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I totally agree with Mary. I have often heard that histotechs are a dying breed. That us "old timers" are not being replaced by the younger generation. If we want to have less uncertified histotechs then lets not make it so difficult for individuals to pursue this wonderful career. I still think it is very important for the exam to remain in place but those individuals out of high school that are maybe not thinking of attending college to obtain a bachelors degree should have the opportunity to become a certified histologist. I know that you can still obtain the HT but not the HTL. Correct me if I am wrong. Linda >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mary Abosso >Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:19 AM >To: Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > >Many areas have to go to unregistered techs out of necessity due to the >high vacancy rate in our field since the ASCP made changes to the career >path for the HT board requirements. Many of these facilities have >either formal or informal training and have turned out many very good, >high quality techs. Yes, some may be skilled at the "art" of histology, >but lack the understanding that is behind the science. These often can >embed, cut and do special stains with superior quality and happy >pathologists. I have seen registered techs that have all the >intelligence that their sheepskins say, but totally lack the hands on >skills needed to produce superior quality material for patient >diagnosis. While this is only my opinion, I wish that there was still >the route for OJT as long as there is a certified tech in place for >training. > >My two cents worth, >Mary Abosso > >________________________________ > >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Steven >Coakley >Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 7:55 AM >To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > >Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big >advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with >unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues >when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area >of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From jeff.oliver <@t> asterand.com Mon Feb 16 09:12:35 2009 From: jeff.oliver <@t> asterand.com (Jeff Oliver) Date: Mon Feb 16 09:12:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IF on cell lines In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Do you know if the slides are charged? The adherent cells lines I've worked with prefer a charged surface to stick to. This was a problem a few years back when I ordered the wrong petri dishes! Like Greg, I grew cells on the coverslips rather than the slides themselves. 3% paraformaldehyde or cold methanol were my standard fixations. Hope this helps! -Jeff -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Greg Dobbin Sent: Monday, February 16, 2009 9:22 AM To: awatanabe@tgen.org Cc: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] IF on cell lines Hi April, This may not be useful to your colleague at all, but here goes: I used to place a round glass sterile coverslip in the bottom of each well of a 24-well culture plate before seeding and then grew the cells on the coverslip. When ready the coverslip was removed (using a hyperdermic needle with the bevelled tip bent backwards to catch the edge of the cs). The coverslips were then picked up with "eyelash" forceps and placed in a little porcelain coverslip rack and placed in cold acetone (-20 C) to fix for 10 mins. Following IF staining the round coverslip was mounted on a regular coverslip which was in turn mounted on a glass slide for viewing. In case you haven't already figured this out, acetone melts the plastic chamber slides. My coverslip method, while effective, is obviously much more laborious (which I suppose is why the chamber slide was developed in the first place! LOL). Hopefully the 4% paraform. works. Is methanol fixation an option?? Greg Greg Dobbin, R.T. Chief Technologist, Anatomic Pathology Dept. of Laboratory Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, P.O. Box 6600 Charlottetown, PE C1A 8T5 Phone: (902) 894-2337 Fax: (902) 894-2385 "I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have." - Thomas Jefferson >>> Aprill Watanabe 2/16/2009 9:13 AM >>> I have a colleague who is trying to do IF on cell culture cell lines. She is growing them on cell culture treated chamber slides and fixing with 4% formaldehyde. Her problem is that after fixation and a few washes all the cells are detaching. Any suggestions? I think she is going to try 4% paraformaldehyde first as someone has already switching to that. Aprill Watanabe, B.S. Research Associate Integrated Cancer Genomics Division Tissue Microarray Center (TMA) Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) main: 602-343-8822 Fax: 602-343-8840 awatanabe@tgen.org www.tgen.org _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------- Statement of Confidentiality This message (including attachments) may contain confidential or privileged information intended for a specific individual or organization. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately. If you are not the intended recipient, you are not authorized to use, disclose, distribute, copy, print or rely on this email, and should promptly delete this email from your entire computer system. D?claration de confidentialit? Le pr?sent message (y compris les annexes) peut contenir des renseignements confidentiels ? l'intention d'une personne ou d'un organisme particulier. Si vous avez re?u la pr?sente communication par erreur, veuillez en informer l'exp?diteur imm?diatement. Si vous n'?tes pas le destinataire pr?vu, vous n'avez pas le droit d'utiliser, divulguer, distribuer, copier ou imprimer ce courriel ou encore de vous en servir, et vous devriez l'effacer imm?diatement de votre syst?me informatique. ------------------------- _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From mike.collins <@t> imperial.ac.uk Mon Feb 16 10:11:42 2009 From: mike.collins <@t> imperial.ac.uk (Collins, Michael) Date: Mon Feb 16 10:12:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] manual processing Message-ID: Hi Nicole! In the 60s and 70s and 80sI used cedar wood oil as the clearing agent for manual processing and got superb results. It's wise to blot xs absolute alcohol before transferring to cedarwood oil because sometimes the cedarwood oil becomes thick like some honeys. For the same reason, use several pots rather than one. I used a peristaltic pump to infiltrate the wax. Mike Collins. From mike.collins <@t> imperial.ac.uk Mon Feb 16 10:18:58 2009 From: mike.collins <@t> imperial.ac.uk (Collins, Michael) Date: Mon Feb 16 10:20:07 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 24 In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hi Paul! In the 60s I used to make the Barger and de Lameter Schiffs using thionyl chloride to produce sulphurous acid. I used activated charcoal and filtered with a Buchner funnel connected to a fast flowing cold tap. Vivid staining! Mike CollinS. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: 14 February 2009 17:55 To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 24 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 histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu You can reach the person managing the list at histonet-owner@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. hand processing schedule late mouse embryos (Nicole Collette) 2. CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue (Kim Merriam) 3. Re: CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue (Jackie M O'Connor) 4. need controls (Steven Coakley) 5. RE: CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue (Patsy Ruegg) 6. Histology in tough economy (O'Donnell, Bill) 7. Re: Histology in tough economy (Peter Carroll) 8. Elisa testing (Santiago, Albert) 9. Storage of Tissues (Breeden, Sara) 10. Re: CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue (Colleen Forster) 11. Re: CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue (Andrea Hooper) 12. Re: Histology in tough economy (Geoff McAuliffe) 13. AUTO: Jacquelyn Grewe/Staff/OhioHealth is out of the office . (JGREWE@OhioHealth.com) 14. RE: Histology in tough economy (O'Donnell, Bill) 15. Re: CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue (nancy lowen) 16. Re: need controls (Jaime Plata) 17. freezing paraffin blocks (Jennifer Anderson) 18. Is there anyone out there that is using the VIP6 from Sakura? (Bull, Jennifer L.) 19. Fwd: Can you place on the histonet? (LINDA MARGRAF) 20. fume exposure (zodiac29@comcast.net) 21. RE: fume exposure (Smith, Allen) 22. Re: hand processing schedule late mouse embryos (Rene J Buesa) 23. Re: need controls (Rene J Buesa) 24. Re: freezing paraffin blocks (Rene J Buesa) 25. Problem with Schiff's reagent (pbrunko@siue.edu) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 10:25:47 -0800 From: Nicole Collette Subject: [Histonet] hand processing schedule late mouse embryos To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" ; format="flowed" HI, All, One project finished, another just beginning. I am about to embark on a journey into the land of immunohistochemistry, with late mouse embryos E14.5, E16.5, P0 to examine bone markers in conjunction with LacZ and/or GFP. We have sadly lost our cryostat (so IHC for the GFP on paraffin sections), and our tissue processor - both belonged to a friendly investigator down the hall who has moved on. So, I am processing by hand. For hand-processing, I have had to do some rigging, and I do the wax steps in a hyb oven to try to keep the wax (TissuePrep, Fisher) at around 63-65C, while trying my best to keep the molds, cassettes, and tools with as few giant globs of solidifying wax as possible. As a result of using the hyb oven, we are forced to use Clearene (D-limonene), --or some other xylene substitute that could be recommended--, instead of xylene for the processing. If anyone has a recommendation for a better alternative there (aside from a tissue processor which will have to wait at least until the next grant gets funded--oooh, unless someone has an old one they want to donate, preferably table-top), I'm all ears. My schedule was given to me by a friend who does cartilage, no older than E14.5, and are basically half hour steps for each ethanol, half hour steps for 3 wax steps at the end. Will this be enough time for infiltration of older samples without vacuum? Should I increase my steps to 1 hour for these older embryos? I am optimizing my fixation at 1hour/mm thickness, with the embryos skinned (4% paraformaldehyde in PBS, I decided to start here since I don't yet know much about the problems I might encounter with a particular antigen). I have tried the 30 minute schedule with adult decalcified bones and have not had fantastic sections. I suspect it could be incomplete washing of the EDTA before infiltration, but it's possible that the processing schedule is just not long enough. Any advice? Thanks in advance! Happy Friday! Sincerely, Nicole Collette Lawrence Livermore National Lab/ UC Berkeley ------------------------------ Message: 2 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 10:27:16 -0800 (PST) From: Kim Merriam Subject: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue To: Histonet Message-ID: <799092.72818.qm@web50304.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 What is everyone doing for CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue?? We are looking to do IF, but a DAB protocol would be just as good. ? Thanks, Kim Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC Cambridge, MA ------------------------------ Message: 3 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 12:33:15 -0600 From: Jackie M O'Connor Subject: Re: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue To: kmerriam2003@yahoo.com Cc: Histonet , histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII" Biocare Medical is supposed to have a good CD31 for FFPE mouse. I don't have proof of this, but I would contact Biocare. Kim Merriam Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu 02/13/2009 12:27 PM Please respond to kmerriam2003@yahoo.com To Histonet cc Subject [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue What is everyone doing for CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue? We are looking to do IF, but a DAB protocol would be just as good. Thanks, Kim Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC Cambridge, MA _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 4 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 10:51:01 -0800 (PST) From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] need controls To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <795858.41301.qm@web38201.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 I work in a DermPath lab.? Currently we purchase all our controls.? Some are ok but some, especially the grams are not.? We'd like to start sectioning our own but all the specimens we get are skins. ------------------------------ Message: 5 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 11:54:05 -0700 From: "Patsy Ruegg" Subject: RE: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue To: "'Jackie M O'Connor'" , Cc: 'Histonet' , histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" I got a sample of the BC cd31 for mouse but have not had a chance to try it yet, I will let you know. I have heard from others on the IHC Resource Group list server that it is pretty good but does miss some of the very early vessels forming with implants. NSH members can join the IHCRG online at www.ihcrg.org Patsy Patsy Ruegg, HT(ASCP)QIHC IHCtech 12635 Montview Blvd. Ste.215 Aurora, CO 80045 720-859-4060 fax 720-859-4110 www.ihctech.net www.ihcrg.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Jackie M O'Connor Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 11:33 AM To: kmerriam2003@yahoo.com Cc: Histonet; histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue Biocare Medical is supposed to have a good CD31 for FFPE mouse. I don't have proof of this, but I would contact Biocare. Kim Merriam Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu 02/13/2009 12:27 PM Please respond to kmerriam2003@yahoo.com To Histonet cc Subject [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue What is everyone doing for CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue? We are looking to do IF, but a DAB protocol would be just as good. Thanks, Kim Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC Cambridge, MA _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 6 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 11:56:20 -0700 From: "O'Donnell, Bill" Subject: [Histonet] Histology in tough economy To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Greetings fellow hsitology professionals. In today's economic climate, many of us are finding ourselves faced with changes in our policies, staffing, spending, etc. To that end I have started a histology blog. This is a place to see what is happening in other labs and to share your own comments. This blog is meant to be TEMPORARY in nature. IT IS NOT MEANT TO REPLACE THE HISTONET, as it is and remains a fine vehicle for communication and has a long history of serving our community world-wide. It is a place where threads can be long, unfettered and anonymous. Allowing anonimity will free us to feel comfortable in our expressions. People will need to register in order to comment. However, you choose your username and password. A real e-mail address is also needed, but if it is generic,, that is, does not contaiin your name or institution, that is fine. (example: tech@hotmail.com) The e-mail will only be used to contact you concerning this site and to send you data once it has been compiled. It will not be sold or used iin any other fashion. All registered users will be allowed contributer status. We hope to hear from clinical, research, and veterinary histologists, pathologists or administrators. Sales and staffing professionals are also most welcome. Every 30 days or so the accumulated data will be shared with each subscriber in the hopes that our profession might benefit from our collective wisdom and experiences. I am not collecting this info for any personal gain, nor is there any other motive than that of helping out our profession. The link is http://histoblog.deaconbill.com/ I will resend this message from time-to-time so that all might have a chance to participate. If you have any questions regarding the use of this blog, please e-mail me directly at bill@deaconbill.com ------------------------------ Message: 7 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 14:05:48 -0500 From: Peter Carroll Subject: Re: [Histonet] Histology in tough economy To: "O'Donnell, Bill" , Histonet Message-ID: <4995C48C.7070602@umdnj.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed here's hoping you spell-check your blog, bill ;) O'Donnell, Bill wrote: > Greetings fellow hsitology professionals. > > In today's economic climate, many of us are finding ourselves faced with > changes in our policies, staffing, spending, etc. > > To that end I have started a histology blog. > > This is a place to see what is happening in other labs and to share your > own comments. > > This blog is meant to be TEMPORARY in nature. IT IS NOT MEANT TO REPLACE > THE HISTONET, as it is and remains a fine vehicle for communication and > has a long history of serving our community world-wide. > > It is a place where threads can be long, unfettered and anonymous. > > Allowing anonimity will free us to feel comfortable in our expressions. > > People will need to register in order to comment. However, you choose > your username and password. A real e-mail address is also needed, but if > it is generic,, that is, does not contaiin your name or institution, > that is fine. (example: tech@hotmail.com) > > The e-mail will only be used to contact you concerning this site and to > send you data once it has been compiled. It will not be sold or used iin > any other fashion. > > All registered users will be allowed contributer status. > > We hope to hear from clinical, research, and veterinary histologists, > pathologists or administrators. > > Sales and staffing professionals are also most welcome. > > Every 30 days or so the accumulated data will be shared with each > subscriber in the hopes that our profession might benefit from our > collective wisdom and experiences. > > I am not collecting this info for any personal gain, nor is there any > other motive than that of helping out our profession. > > The link is http://histoblog.deaconbill.com/ > > I will resend this message from time-to-time so that all might have a > chance to participate. > > If you have any questions regarding the use of this blog, please e-mail > me directly at bill@deaconbill.com > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > ------------------------------ Message: 8 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 14:11:27 -0500 From: "Santiago, Albert" Subject: [Histonet] Elisa testing To: Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Hello all and Happy Valentine's Day, We're in the process of starting to do Elisa testing and I my question to anyone out there who is already doing it, did you go through anykind of proficiency testing and/or compliance preparedness for JCAHO or CAP before beginning to do Elisas? Thanks for your help.... Albert Santiago, HT (ASCP) Laboratory Supervisor Dermatopathology Phone 215-662-6539 Fax 215-662-6150 The information contained in this e-mail message is intended only for the personal and confidential use of the recipient(s) named above. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an agent responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you have received this document in error and that any review, dissemination, distribution, or copying of this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by e-mail, and delete the original message. ------------------------------ Message: 9 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 12:18:15 -0700 From: "Breeden, Sara" Subject: [Histonet] Storage of Tissues To: Message-ID: <4D14F0FC9316DD41972D5F03C070908B017E66C5@nmdamailsvr.nmda.ad.nmsu.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII" We researched the subject and this is what we do: 10 years for slides, 7 years for blocks. Wet tissues ("surgicals", "biopsies") are kept for about six weeks after final report is issued. Specimens are boxed daily and marked with date; the lead tech in Receiving checks one or two specimens from each box after a couple weeks to make sure final report has been issued, then marks them with disposal date. Necropsy tissues are marked with a disposal date of six weeks from the date I get the slides back from the pathologist(s). Slides are sealed into cardboard boxes and marked "Glass Waste" and disposed of via the City's solid waste department; blocks are sealed into cardboard boxes, marked "Paraffin Waste" and also disposed of via the City's solid waste dept. Hope this helps. Sally Breeden, HT(ASCP) NM Dept. of Agriculture Veterinary Diagnostic Services PO Box 4700 Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-841-2576 ------------------------------ Message: 10 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 13:49:34 -0600 From: Colleen Forster Subject: Re: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue To: Jackie M O'Connor Cc: Histonet , histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <4995CECE.4020504@umn.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Biocare does have a very good antibody and kit for this and I can tell you it works very nicely if you use their kit and primary. Colleen Forster 612-626-1930 U of MN Jackie M O'Connor wrote: > Biocare Medical is supposed to have a good CD31 for FFPE mouse. I don't > have proof of this, but I would contact Biocare. > > > > > > Kim Merriam > Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > 02/13/2009 12:27 PM > Please respond to > kmerriam2003@yahoo.com > > > To > Histonet > cc > > Subject > [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue > > > > > > > What is everyone doing for CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue? We are looking to > do IF, but a DAB protocol would be just as good. > > Thanks, > Kim > > Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC > Cambridge, MA > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > ------------------------------ Message: 11 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 15:00:12 -0500 From: "Andrea Hooper" Subject: Re: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue To: Histonet , Kim Merriam Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii; format=flowed Does it have to be CD31? I have a bunch of good protocols for mouse vessels but each tissue requires a different antibody. CD31 in FFPE is never reliable in my experience. Which tissue are you using? Andrea >> >> >>Kim Merriam Sent by: >>histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >>02/13/2009 12:27 PM >>Please respond to >>kmerriam2003@yahoo.com >> >> >> >>What is everyone doing for CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue? We are >>looking to do IF, but a DAB protocol would be just as good. >> Thanks, >>Kim >> >>Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC >>Cambridge, MA -- ------------------------------ Message: 12 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 15:25:15 -0500 From: Geoff McAuliffe Subject: Re: [Histonet] Histology in tough economy To: Peter Carroll Cc: Histonet Message-ID: <4995D72B.1020407@umdnj.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Here's hoping you don't have too many nit pickers criticizing your blog. "It's a mighty poor speller who can't think of more than one way to spell a word." Warren G. Harding, President of the US, 1920-1923. Peter Carroll wrote: > here's hoping you spell-check your blog, bill ;) > > O'Donnell, Bill wrote: >> Greetings fellow hsitology professionals. >> In today's economic climate, many of us are finding ourselves faced with >> changes in our policies, staffing, spending, etc. >> To that end I have started a histology blog. >> >> This is a place to see what is happening in other labs and to share your >> own comments. >> This blog is meant to be TEMPORARY in nature. IT IS NOT MEANT TO REPLACE >> THE HISTONET, as it is and remains a fine vehicle for communication and >> has a long history of serving our community world-wide. >> >> It is a place where threads can be long, unfettered and anonymous. >> >> Allowing anonimity will free us to feel comfortable in our expressions. >> >> People will need to register in order to comment. However, you choose >> your username and password. A real e-mail address is also needed, but if >> it is generic,, that is, does not contaiin your name or institution, >> that is fine. (example: tech@hotmail.com) >> The e-mail will only be used to contact you concerning this site and to >> send you data once it has been compiled. It will not be sold or used iin >> any other fashion. >> >> All registered users will be allowed contributer status. >> >> We hope to hear from clinical, research, and veterinary histologists, >> pathologists or administrators. >> >> Sales and staffing professionals are also most welcome. >> >> Every 30 days or so the accumulated data will be shared with each >> subscriber in the hopes that our profession might benefit from our >> collective wisdom and experiences. >> >> I am not collecting this info for any personal gain, nor is there any >> other motive than that of helping out our profession. >> >> The link is http://histoblog.deaconbill.com/ >> >> I will resend this message from time-to-time so that all might have a >> chance to participate. >> >> If you have any questions regarding the use of this blog, please e-mail >> me directly at bill@deaconbill.com >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** ------------------------------ Message: 13 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 16:00:23 -0500 From: JGREWE@OhioHealth.com Subject: [Histonet] AUTO: Jacquelyn Grewe/Staff/OhioHealth is out of the office . To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII I will be out of the office starting 02/11/2009 and will not return until 02/16/2009. I will respond to your message when I return. Note: This is an automated response to your message "Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 23" sent on 2/13/2009 1:08:10 PM. You will receive a notification for each message you send to this person while the person is away. ------------------------------ Message: 14 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 14:27:33 -0700 From: "O'Donnell, Bill" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Histology in tough economy To: "Geoff McAuliffe" , "Peter Carroll" Cc: Histonet Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii I need spelling nit-pickers, othewise I look really stoopid! Have a great weekend, and don't forget to sign up for the blog. Bill -----Original Message----- From: Geoff McAuliffe [mailto:mcauliff@umdnj.edu] Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 2:25 PM To: Peter Carroll Cc: O'Donnell, Bill; Histonet Subject: Re: [Histonet] Histology in tough economy Here's hoping you don't have too many nit pickers criticizing your blog. "It's a mighty poor speller who can't think of more than one way to spell a word." Warren G. Harding, President of the US, 1920-1923. Peter Carroll wrote: > here's hoping you spell-check your blog, bill ;) > > O'Donnell, Bill wrote: >> Greetings fellow hsitology professionals. >> In today's economic climate, many of us are finding ourselves faced >> with changes in our policies, staffing, spending, etc. >> To that end I have started a histology blog. >> >> This is a place to see what is happening in other labs and to share >> your own comments. >> This blog is meant to be TEMPORARY in nature. IT IS NOT MEANT TO >> REPLACE THE HISTONET, as it is and remains a fine vehicle for >> communication and has a long history of serving our community world-wide. >> >> It is a place where threads can be long, unfettered and anonymous. >> >> Allowing anonimity will free us to feel comfortable in our expressions. >> >> People will need to register in order to comment. However, you >> choose your username and password. A real e-mail address is also >> needed, but if it is generic,, that is, does not contaiin your name >> or institution, that is fine. (example: tech@hotmail.com) The e-mail >> will only be used to contact you concerning this site and to send you >> data once it has been compiled. It will not be sold or used iin any >> other fashion. >> >> All registered users will be allowed contributer status. >> >> We hope to hear from clinical, research, and veterinary histologists, >> pathologists or administrators. >> >> Sales and staffing professionals are also most welcome. >> >> Every 30 days or so the accumulated data will be shared with each >> subscriber in the hopes that our profession might benefit from our >> collective wisdom and experiences. >> >> I am not collecting this info for any personal gain, nor is there any >> other motive than that of helping out our profession. >> >> The link is http://histoblog.deaconbill.com/ >> >> I will resend this message from time-to-time so that all might have a >> chance to participate. >> >> If you have any questions regarding the use of this blog, please >> e-mail me directly at bill@deaconbill.com >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** ------------------------------ Message: 15 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 13:43:26 -0800 (PST) From: nancy lowen Subject: Re: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue To: kmerriam2003@yahoo.com, Jackie M O'Connor Cc: Histonet , histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <571567.63945.qm@web65607.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 I have used the antibody and kit from Biocare for CD31 and got good results.? Simple to use. Nancy.lowen@med.va.gov --- On Fri, 2/13/09, Jackie M O'Connor wrote: From: Jackie M O'Connor Subject: Re: [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue To: kmerriam2003@yahoo.com Cc: "Histonet" , histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Friday, February 13, 2009, 10:33 AM Biocare Medical is supposed to have a good CD31 for FFPE mouse. I don't have proof of this, but I would contact Biocare. Kim Merriam Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu 02/13/2009 12:27 PM Please respond to kmerriam2003@yahoo.com To Histonet cc Subject [Histonet] CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue What is everyone doing for CD31 on FFPE mouse tissue? We are looking to do IF, but a DAB protocol would be just as good. Thanks, Kim Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC Cambridge, MA _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 16 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 14:26:03 -0800 (PST) From: Jaime Plata Subject: Re: [Histonet] need controls To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, Steven Coakley Message-ID: <69741.96460.qm@web50410.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 GI (small intestine) biopsies are other possibilities associated to skin as control. When you mention Grams, are you referring to Bact's positive and negative.? If this is the case you can make them with blood Agar (microbiology) and contaminate the tissue with them. Or use Large intestine ther will be many you jus need to look for them. ? --- On Fri, 2/13/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] need controls To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Friday, February 13, 2009, 1:51 PM I work in a DermPath lab.? Currently we purchase all our controls.? Some are Ok but some, especially the grams are not.? We'd like to start sectioning. Our own but all the specimens we get are skins. ? _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 17 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 14:43:25 -0800 From: "Jennifer Anderson" Subject: [Histonet] freezing paraffin blocks To: Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Hi All. I've just started sectioning Bouin's fixed paraffin embedded human/mouse/rat/pig skin again, tissues processed in a softer wax than I'm used to, so I've been putting the blocks in the freezer at -20 prior to sectioning. Will such cold deleteriously affect the blocks or tissue? Also, is there any harm in cleaning the water bath with a little xylene to remove any wax build-up? Thanks a lot. Jennifer M. Anderson, Scientist Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. 11404 Sorrento Valley Road San Diego, CA 92121 858-704-8333 janderson@halozyme.com The information transmitted in this email is confidential and is intended only for the person(s) or entity to which it is addressed. Delivery of this message to any person other than the intended recipient(s) is not intended in any way to waive confidentiality or any applicable privilege. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by individuals or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited by Halozyme and may be in violation of applicable laws. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and delete/destroy this email. ------------------------------ Message: 18 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 15:52:51 -0800 From: "Bull, Jennifer L." Subject: [Histonet] Is there anyone out there that is using the VIP6 from Sakura? To: "'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu'" Message-ID: <85760CECEC18444BB95F26D5E88DAEAA21FF216F8C@hinet2.hinet.org> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Is there anyone out there that is currently using the VIP6 that could give me feedback on processing times for small biopsoes and surgicals? We are trying to get a realistic comparison of the Perloris to the tried and true from Sakura. Thanks in advance! Jennifer Bull jennifer.bull@nwpathology.com ------------------------------ Message: 19 Date: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 18:42:06 -0600 From: "LINDA MARGRAF" Subject: [Histonet] Fwd: Can you place on the histonet? To: Cc: cbarone@NEMOURS.ORG Message-ID: <4995BF0D.F783.00DA.0@childrens.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Here's a message Carol wanted posted to the list. Please respond to her and not me. Thanks Linda M Histonet administrator >>> "Barone, Carol " 2/13/2009 10:33 AM >>> Anyone using "bead" detection systems with readers for tissue histology. I have investigators interested in these for slides? Need infoFAST...for grant submission...Help!!!! Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail

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------------------------------ Message: 20 Date: Sat, 14 Feb 2009 11:46:16 +0000 (UTC) From: zodiac29@comcast.net Subject: [Histonet] fume exposure To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <1317950559.2115121234611976799.JavaMail.root@sz0062a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8 To All, I work in a lab where I stain and coverslip everything by hand. I coverslip under a fume hood so there isn't much of an issue there. The main issue is my exposue to fumes while staining. I do not stain under a fume hood. My exposure times to these c hemicals is increasing becuase our volume is steadly increasing as well. I can no longer tolerate these fumes and am expirenc ing difficulty breathing and frequent headaches.What are labs that stain there slides ??by hand doing (types of masks, hoods) to minimize their exposure. If you can recommed any specifics I would appreciate it. Thank you in advance Jenny ------------------------------ Message: 21 Date: Sat, 14 Feb 2009 10:26:21 -0500 From: "Smith, Allen" Subject: RE: [Histonet] fume exposure To: "'zodiac29@comcast.net'" Cc: "'Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu'" Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" The only staining solutions whose fumes bother me are ammonium sulfide and sulfurous acid. I put the staining jars of these in the fume hood and carry the staining jar with the slides to the fume hood. I bring the water rinse jar to the fume hood to take the slides out. While sulfurous acid is merely irritating, ammonium sulfide is a mitochondrial poison (about 10% as poisonous as prussic acid). Allen A. Smith Professor of Anatomy Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of zodiac29@comcast.net Sent: Saturday, February 14, 2009 6:46 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] fume exposure To All, I work in a lab where I stain and coverslip everything by hand. I coverslip under a fume hood so there isn't much of an issue there. The main issue is my exposue to fumes while staining. I do not stain under a fume hood. My exposure times to these c hemicals is increasing becuase our volume is steadly increasing as well. I can no longer tolerate these fumes and am expirenc ing difficulty breathing and frequent headaches.What are labs that stain there slides by hand doing (types of masks, hoods) to minimize their exposure. If you can recommed any specifics I would appreciate it. Thank you in advance Jenny _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 22 Date: Sat, 14 Feb 2009 08:21:39 -0800 (PST) From: Rene J Buesa Subject: Re: [Histonet] hand processing schedule late mouse embryos To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, Nicole Collette Message-ID: <683350.23959.qm@web65713.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 Under separate cover I am sending a protocol that will work well with your subjects. Since you are doing manual processing you can easily use the reagents I recommend and eliminate xylene?and its terpene and alkane based substitutes. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/13/09, Nicole Collette wrote: From: Nicole Collette Subject: [Histonet] hand processing schedule late mouse embryos To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Friday, February 13, 2009, 1:25 PM HI, All, One project finished, another just beginning. I am about to embark on a journey into the land of immunohistochemistry, with late mouse embryos E14.5, E16.5, P0 to examine bone markers in conjunction with LacZ and/or GFP. We have sadly lost our cryostat (so IHC for the GFP on paraffin sections), and our tissue processor - both belonged to a friendly investigator down the hall who has moved on. So, I am processing by hand. For hand-processing, I have had to do some rigging, and I do the wax steps in a hyb oven to try to keep the wax (TissuePrep, Fisher) at around 63-65C, while trying my best to keep the molds, cassettes, and tools with as few giant globs of solidifying wax as possible. As a result of using the hyb oven, we are forced to use Clearene (D-limonene), --or some other xylene substitute that could be recommended--, instead of xylene for the processing. If anyone has a recommendation for a better alternative there (aside from a tissue processor which will have to wait at least until the next grant gets funded--oooh, unless someone has an old one they want to donate, preferably table-top), I'm all ears. My schedule was given to me by a friend who does cartilage, no older than E14.5, and are basically half hour steps for each ethanol, half hour steps for 3 wax steps at the end. Will this be enough time for infiltration of older samples without vacuum? Should I increase my steps to 1 hour for these older embryos? I am optimizing my fixation at 1hour/mm thickness, with the embryos skinned (4% paraformaldehyde in PBS, I decided to start here since I don't yet know much about the problems I might encounter with a particular antigen). I have tried the 30 minute schedule with adult decalcified bones and have not had fantastic sections. I suspect it could be incomplete washing of the EDTA before infiltration, but it's possible that the processing schedule is just not long enough. Any advice? Thanks in advance! Happy Friday! Sincerely, Nicole Collette Lawrence Livermore National Lab/ UC Berkeley _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 23 Date: Sat, 14 Feb 2009 08:25:13 -0800 (PST) From: Rene J Buesa Subject: Re: [Histonet] need controls To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, Steven Coakley , enrriq88@yahoo.com Message-ID: <804168.42750.qm@web65705.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 The same appendix that you can use as an H&E+ control, usually contains Gram +and- bacteria. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/13/09, Jaime Plata wrote: From: Jaime Plata Subject: Re: [Histonet] need controls To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Steven Coakley" Date: Friday, February 13, 2009, 5:26 PM GI (small intestine) biopsies are other possibilities associated to skin as control. When you mention Grams, are you referring to Bact's positive and negative.? If this is the case you can make them with blood Agar (microbiology) and contaminate the tissue with them. Or use Large intestine ther will be many you jus need to look for them. ? --- On Fri, 2/13/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] need controls To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Friday, February 13, 2009, 1:51 PM I work in a DermPath lab.? Currently we purchase all our controls.? Some are Ok but some, especially the grams are not.? We'd like to start sectioning. Our own but all the specimens we get are skins. ? _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 24 Date: Sat, 14 Feb 2009 08:26:01 -0800 (PST) From: Rene J Buesa Subject: Re: [Histonet] freezing paraffin blocks To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, Jennifer Anderson Message-ID: <358596.26376.qm@web65713.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 Not at all! Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/13/09, Jennifer Anderson wrote: From: Jennifer Anderson Subject: [Histonet] freezing paraffin blocks To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Friday, February 13, 2009, 5:43 PM Hi All. I've just started sectioning Bouin's fixed paraffin embedded human/mouse/rat/pig skin again, tissues processed in a softer wax than I'm used to, so I've been putting the blocks in the freezer at -20 prior to sectioning. Will such cold deleteriously affect the blocks or tissue? Also, is there any harm in cleaning the water bath with a little xylene to remove any wax build-up? Thanks a lot. Jennifer M. Anderson, Scientist Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. 11404 Sorrento Valley Road San Diego, CA 92121 858-704-8333 janderson@halozyme.com The information transmitted in this email is confidential and is intended only for the person(s) or entity to which it is addressed. Delivery of this message to any person other than the intended recipient(s) is not intended in any way to waive confidentiality or any applicable privilege. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by individuals or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited by Halozyme and may be in violation of applicable laws. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and delete/destroy this email. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 25 Date: Sat, 14 Feb 2009 11:53:58 -0600 From: pbrunko@siue.edu Subject: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <1234634038.499705367a3f6@webmail.siue.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 Good Morning! I'm a newcomer to the list, and I'll start by pointing out that I'm not a histologist by any means. I am a freshwater ecologist, and we're trying to study mucus secretion behavior in freshwater snails. Last Spring and last summer, we developed a process whereby we could visualize snail mucus trails on glass slides using a periodic acid-Schiff's reagent staining technique. But now, in following the same protocol as used last year for making our own Schiff's reagent, I cannot get the final solution to filter out clear. Recipe I'm using: 900 ml boiling water 10 grams basic fuchsin 25 ml concentrated HCl acid (12 M) 40 grams sodium metabisulfite (this is essentially Sigma Aldrich's ratios, I think) Let this sit for 24 to 72 hours, take 100 ml aliquot, add 0.75 - 1.0 gram ground activated charcoal, stir for 10 minutes, filter through filter paper then through GF/C glass fiber filter. Last summer I got nice, clear (slightly yellow) and very active Schiff's reagent. But now I cannot seem to get the filtrate to be clear. Even after 10 minutes exposure to ground activated charcoal and filtering, the filtrate remains bright orange to dark red and it does not seem to stain mucus trails very well. All the reagents are the same as those used last summer (i.e., less than 7 months old; although the HCl is a bottle several years old from a different lab). Anyone have any troubleshooting suggestions? I don't know the chemistry very well, but the sodium metabisulfite is used for "decoloring" the initial solution, right? So is the metabisulfite not working for some reason now?? Any help/suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Cheers - Paul Paul E. Brunkow, PhD Department of Biological Sciences Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Edwardsville, IL USA ------------------------------------------------- SIUE Web Mail ------------------------------ _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet End of Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 24 **************************************** From ngkw2 <@t> Cardiff.ac.uk Mon Feb 16 10:26:22 2009 From: ngkw2 <@t> Cardiff.ac.uk (Keng Ng) Date: Mon Feb 16 10:26:36 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Drying of fixed cryosections (need to preserve tissue morphology) Message-ID: <499993AE02000027000192C5@zgrw02.cf.ac.uk> Hi, I have a question regarding transport and storage of glutaraldehyde-fixed cryosections. I make cryosections of human skin tissue where good morphology is important for the intended application. My samples are fixed in 2% glutaraldehyde and embedded in OCT medium. However, I've realised that drying cryosections on coated slides (Superfrost plus) at room temperature makes tissue in the dermis (but not in the epidermis) separate into layers, with a lot of gaps in between. Whereas fresh out of the cryostat, the tissue looks fine, solid and tightly packed. I presume this is to do with formation of ice crystals as the tissue thaws? If I keep the tissue wet when it's out of the cryostat, that holds off the damage for a while, but as soon as I let the cryosections dry at room temperature after that, the same damage happens. So it would seem that perhaps I need to dry the cryosections differently. I would be grateful if anyone could point me in the right direction. Many thanks in advance. Keng Wooi Ng Welsh School of Pharmacy Cardiff University From LRaff <@t> uropartners.com Mon Feb 16 12:21:04 2009 From: LRaff <@t> uropartners.com (Lester Raff MD) Date: Mon Feb 16 12:21:18 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Part-time Second Shift in Chicago western suburbs Message-ID: Hi. Our private outpatient specialty lab has recently shifted to a microwave processor, which has changed our processing routine. As a result of this and increasing volume we have an opening for a part-time second shift histologist. We are located in the western suburbs, about a mile east of Oakbrook Shopping Center. If interested, please contact Andrea O'Brien at 708-486-0076. Thanks, Lester J. Raff, MD Medical Director UroPartners Laboratory 2225 Enterprise Dr. Suite 2511 Westchester, Il 60154 Tel 708.486.0076 Fax 708.486.0080 From CrochiereSteve <@t> aol.com Mon Feb 16 12:37:48 2009 From: CrochiereSteve <@t> aol.com (CrochiereSteve@aol.com) Date: Mon Feb 16 12:38:14 2009 Subject: [Histonet] any openings Message-ID: Are there any job openings out there for a HT with 30 yrs experience who just wants to be a bench tech? I am burned out in management and just want to cut pretty slides. I also do not want to move from western Mass. and do not want to commute more than 1 hour each way. I know it's picky, but that's what I want. SC From sraibley <@t> yahoo.com Mon Feb 16 13:23:48 2009 From: sraibley <@t> yahoo.com (Susan Raibley) Date: Mon Feb 16 13:23:51 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Leica RM 2155 vs RM 2135 Message-ID: <682995.24704.qm@web56003.mail.re3.yahoo.com> I am trying to decide on a new microtome for our lab and would like to hear from anyone that has used a Leica RM 2155.? I have a RM?2135, but have carpal tunnel, so I am thinking of going with the automatic.? I am just concerned I might not like it since I am so used to the manual and like to be able to adjust my block position quickly with the coarse feed wheel.? Is it easy to quickly adjust with the 2155?? Thanks! ? Susan Bincsik, Histology Technician BASi 812-985-5900 ext.148 From gliuygao <@t> hotmail.com Mon Feb 16 13:25:13 2009 From: gliuygao <@t> hotmail.com (yan gao) Date: Mon Feb 16 13:25:17 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Corious to know In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hi, Histonet. I have a curious question for histonet. If my IHC biomarkers not work. However, the project need a read out, What other alternative strategies can I have? Thanks. Yan Gao _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: Keep your life in sync. http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t1_allup_howitworks_022009 From rashmil_histotechnology <@t> yahoo.com Mon Feb 16 13:21:40 2009 From: rashmil_histotechnology <@t> yahoo.com (R S) Date: Mon Feb 16 13:28:24 2009 Subject: [Histonet] May Grunwald Giemsa Message-ID: <107631.9067.qm@web59314.mail.re1.yahoo.com> Hi, I am looking for guidance on doing a May Grunwald Giemsa (or other hematologic stain) on formalin fixed paraffin embedded?liver to look for platelets.?The researcher I work for is looking for platelets in liver tissue. I stained some livers with a method used for mast cells in the skin, but it appears very faint. Also, I think that platelets are very tricky. Does anyone have experience with this or a similar problem. Thanks, Rashmil ? From gliuygao <@t> hotmail.com Mon Feb 16 14:11:36 2009 From: gliuygao <@t> hotmail.com (yan gao) Date: Mon Feb 16 14:11:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Curious to know In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: > From: gliuygao@hotmail.com > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; histonet@list.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Mon, 16 Feb 2009 14:25:13 -0500 > CC: > Subject: [Histonet] Corious to know > > > Hi, Histonet. > I have a curious question for histonet. > If my IHC biomarkers not work. However, the project need a read out, What other alternative strategies can I have? Thanks. > > Yan Gao > _________________________________________________________________ > Windows Live?: Keep your life in sync. > http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t1_allup_howitworks_022009_______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _________________________________________________________________ Want to do more with Windows Live? Learn ?10 hidden secrets? from Jamie. http://windowslive.com/connect/post/jamiethomson.spaces.live.com-Blog-cns!550F681DAD532637!5295.entry?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_domore_092008 From POWELL_SA <@t> Mercer.edu Mon Feb 16 14:12:25 2009 From: POWELL_SA <@t> Mercer.edu (Shirley Powell) Date: Mon Feb 16 14:20:22 2009 Subject: [Histonet] GSH meeting reminder Message-ID: The Georgia Society for Histotechnology invites you to the 2009 meeting to be held at Sea Palms Resort at St. Simons Island, Georgia, March 20-22, 2009. The program is outlined below. The separate registration form and the program can be downloaded from www.histosearch.com/gsh. Complete hotel information can be found by clicking on the announcement link on the symposium page as well. Please make your reservations now by calling the Sea Palms Resort at 1-800-841-6268. Be sure to tell them you are attending the GSH meeting and visit their web site at www.seapalms.com. Special GSH Room Rates are $99 for two double beds and $109 for two double beds or a King bed Suites are available as well as Villas. March 20, 2009 - Friday 1 to 5 p.m.: HT/HTL Review Session for Students: Carl Sagasser, BS, HT(ASCP), Educational Coordinator and Taiquanda Winbush, AS, HT(ASCP) Clinical Laboratory Coordinator, Darton College Histology Program - This is a review class for students preparing to take the HT/HTL examination. The class will consist of 3-4 hours of Q&A along with presented slides. A workbook will be included as part of the program. Topics included in this workshop will include discussion on fixation, microtomy, staining, laboratory operations, safety and processing/embedding. Also included will be general discussion of histology at the microscopic level including images of representative tissues. Students taking this course should have a general knowledge of histological technique and will be taking the National Registry exam in the next few months. 5 to 7 p.m.: Meeting Registration 7 to 9 p.m.: Vendor Reception in Vendor Area March 21, 2009 - Saturday 7:00-8:00 a.m.: Meeting Registration 8:30 a.m. to 12: Workshop #1 - Today's Artifacts - Tomorrow's Facts 8:30 a.m. to 12: Workshop #2 - Expense Analysis and Reduction in the IHC Lab (10:00 - 10:30 a.m.: Break in Vendor Area) 12:00 - 1:00-GSH AWARDS LUNCHEON 1:00 to 4:30 p.m.: Workshop #3 - Decalcified and Undecalcified Bone: Histology Techniques 1:00 to 4:30 p.m.: Workshop #4 - Basic Troubleshooting for Histology Laboratory Equipment (2:30 - 3:00 p.m.: Break in Vendor area) 4:30 p.m.: GSH General Membership Meeting (GSH Board Meeting to Follow) March 22, 2009 - Sunday 7:00-8:00 a.m.: Meeting Registration 8:30 to 12 a.m.: Workshop #5 - Commitment in the Workplace - What Does it Mean to the Employee and the Employer 8:30 to 12 a.m.: Workshop #6 - Contemporary Trends in Immunohistochemistry (10:00 - 10:30 a.m.: Break in Vendor Area) WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS: #1: Today's Artifacts - Tomorrow's Facts? Lamar Jones BS, HT(ASCP) - This workshop will teach the participant to recognize and identify artifacts from the gross board, fixation, processing, embedding, microtomy, staining, coverslipping and other areas of histotechnology. #2: Expense Analysis and Reduction in the IHC Lab Joe Myers MS, CT(ASCP) - This presentation is intended to review the financial aspects of performing immunohistochemistry (and related heat-retrieval) procedures, with an emphasis on using cost analysis and comparison tools, to assist a laboratory in calculating its existing reagent costs and determine where expense-reduction opportunities exist. Participants will be shown how to gather essential data and enter it into simple spreadsheets that ensure "apples to apples" comparisons. Through this process, participants will also gain an appreciation of how the mechanisms by which various heat-retrieval and automated slide-staining instruments 'work' affect the cost of the resulting slides. Handout material, including comparison tables, spreadsheets, and published papers will also be provided. #3: Decalcified and Undecalcified Bone: Histology Techniques Vicki Kalscheur HT(ASCP) - Decalcified and undecalcified bone samples are a constant challenge for research histology laboratories. This workshop will start with an introduction on research protocol and collaborative methodologies. Next, it will cover decalcified specimen collection, fixation, processing, sectioning, routine, and special staining of bone samples that are received in the research histology laboratory. The second half of this lecture will discuss the proper handling, preparation, and staining of undecalcified plastic embedded bone samples. Handouts include PowerPoint slides and additional information based on presenter's research protocols and methodology. The presenter understands many of the attendees may not work in research settings: however, the technical information may be helpful in diagnostic laboratory settings. Time is allowed at the end to look at embedded blocks and histological microscopic slides. #4: Basic Troubleshooting for Histology Laboratory Equipment Jason Velasquez, Technical Engineer -This course will provide a basic preventive maintenance guide that will assist users of histology equipment in the upkeep and troubleshooting of their instruments. The type of cleaning solvents that can and cannot be used will be discussed (along with some pictures that show what happens when the wrong cleaning supplies are used) and how and where to clean for best results. The types of tools that should be kept in the laboratory's tool chest and how and when to use them will be demonstrated. Common types of faults that can be reasonably repaired by the average Histotech will be discussed and the ways, tools and thoughts behind the troubleshooting process will be investigated. Some symptoms that precede failures will be made known so that the users can notify their bio-medical technicians or repair group of a pending failure, before the instrument breaks completely. #5: Commitment in the Workplace - What Does it Mean to the Employee and Employer - Wanda Grace Jones HT(ASCP) Hospitals, research labs and private laboratories still struggle with the continuous loss of employees and finding new employees to fill positions. Past research has isolated two variables that impact employee turnover. The first variable is the employee's identification with and involvement in an organization. The second variable is the employee's perception of level of commitment an organization has to the employee. We will discuss the attitude toward an organization which attaches the person to an organization, the process by which the goals of the organization and the employee become integrated, building better communication between employee and employer and cost associated when an employee leaves an employer/ #6: Contemporary Trends in Immunohistochemistry Mary Cheles MPH, HTL, DLM(ASCP) - The analysis of a patient has historically relied on morphology and the evaluation of individual antibodies on pathological tissue. Immunohistochemistry has been in practice for the past 40 years. During that time, we have seen an evolution from individual reagents to optimized systems and from manual staining practices to fully automated options. Pathology and laboratory medicine is changing faster than ever. In the future, personalized medicine will define the effect of a therapy based on an individual's gene and protein profile. What does this mean and where does the histology community fit in? This workshop will briefly review immunohistochemistry basics, opportunities for automation, process standardization, antibody validation, regulatory product labeling and current proficiency testing. Shirley A. Powell, HT(ASCP)HTL, QIHC Technical Director Histology Curricular Support Laboratory Mercer University School of Medicine 1550 College Street Macon, GA 31207 Ph: 478-301-2374 Fx: 478-301-5489 From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Mon Feb 16 14:40:42 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Mon Feb 16 14:40:47 2009 Subject: [Histonet] May Grunwald Giemsa In-Reply-To: <107631.9067.qm@web59314.mail.re1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <520117.6809.qm@web65710.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Rashmil: Under separate cover I am sending you an original?procedure I published. Ren? J. --- On Mon, 2/16/09, R S wrote: From: R S Subject: [Histonet] May Grunwald Giemsa To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 2:21 PM Hi, I am looking for guidance on doing a May Grunwald Giemsa (or other hematologic stain) on formalin fixed paraffin embedded?liver to look for platelets.?The researcher I work for is looking for platelets in liver tissue. I stained some livers with a method used for mast cells in the skin, but it appears very faint. Also, I think that platelets are very tricky. Does anyone have experience with this or a similar problem. Thanks, Rashmil ? _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From pruegg <@t> ihctech.net Mon Feb 16 14:57:28 2009 From: pruegg <@t> ihctech.net (Patsy Ruegg) Date: Mon Feb 16 14:57:40 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Drying of fixed cryosections (need to preserve tissuemorphology) In-Reply-To: <499993AE02000027000192C5@zgrw02.cf.ac.uk> References: <499993AE02000027000192C5@zgrw02.cf.ac.uk> Message-ID: <816FF9CBB9F14C02817ED9AD796D322D@prueggihctechlt> U could put a jar of acetone/ethanol mix in the cryostat and go directly into the fix (75ml of acetone and 25mls of 100% ethyl alcohol), u can go directly to buffer and never airdry your sections, see how that works for you. Patsy Patsy Ruegg, HT(ASCP)QIHC IHCtech 12635 Montview Blvd. Ste.215 Aurora, CO 80045 720-859-4060 fax 720-859-4110 www.ihctech.net www.ihcrg.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Keng Ng Sent: Monday, February 16, 2009 9:26 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Drying of fixed cryosections (need to preserve tissuemorphology) Hi, I have a question regarding transport and storage of glutaraldehyde-fixed cryosections. I make cryosections of human skin tissue where good morphology is important for the intended application. My samples are fixed in 2% glutaraldehyde and embedded in OCT medium. However, I've realised that drying cryosections on coated slides (Superfrost plus) at room temperature makes tissue in the dermis (but not in the epidermis) separate into layers, with a lot of gaps in between. Whereas fresh out of the cryostat, the tissue looks fine, solid and tightly packed. I presume this is to do with formation of ice crystals as the tissue thaws? If I keep the tissue wet when it's out of the cryostat, that holds off the damage for a while, but as soon as I let the cryosections dry at room temperature after that, the same damage happens. So it would seem that perhaps I need to dry the cryosections differently. I would be grateful if anyone could point me in the right direction. Many thanks in advance. Keng Wooi Ng Welsh School of Pharmacy Cardiff University _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Teri.Hallada <@t> midmichigan.org Mon Feb 16 15:01:40 2009 From: Teri.Hallada <@t> midmichigan.org (Teri.Hallada@midmichigan.org) Date: Mon Feb 16 15:01:41 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Core Biopsy Her2 Message-ID: <8839B08E3ED7364E8CBBD53882C984D50E989473@MAILSRV01.midmichigan.net> I'm interested in how many institutions are performing Her2 on core needle biopsies. What protocols are you following as far as formalin fixation? The published protocol gives a minimum, but not a maximum. Teresa Hallada BS, MT/CT (ASCP) Lead Cytotechnologist MidMichigan Health - Gratiot teri.hallada@midmichigan.org 989.463.1101 ext 3423 Please note that this email message and any attachments may contain privileged and confidential information that is protected against use or disclosure under federal and state law. The information is intended only for the personal and confidential use of the intended recipient. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you have received this information in error and that any review, dissemination, distribution, copying or action taken in reliance on the contents of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this email in error, please advise by immediate reply. From pruegg <@t> ihctech.net Mon Feb 16 15:04:31 2009 From: pruegg <@t> ihctech.net (Patsy Ruegg) Date: Mon Feb 16 15:04:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IF on cell lines In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: I have done a lot of ihc on chamber slides and cells do not come off the slide, I am not sure if it is the brand of chamber slide used, I do not pick them the investigator brings them to me, but as I recall they are usually airdryed, try acetone/ethanol fixation instead of paraformaldehyde they might stay on better. Patsy Patsy Ruegg, HT(ASCP)QIHC IHCtech 12635 Montview Blvd. Ste.215 Aurora, CO 80045 720-859-4060 fax 720-859-4110 www.ihctech.net www.ihcrg.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Aprill Watanabe Sent: Monday, February 16, 2009 6:14 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] IF on cell lines I have a colleague who is trying to do IF on cell culture cell lines. She is growing them on cell culture treated chamber slides and fixing with 4% formaldehyde. Her problem is that after fixation and a few washes all the cells are detaching. Any suggestions? I think she is going to try 4% paraformaldehyde first as someone has already switching to that. Aprill Watanabe, B.S. Research Associate Integrated Cancer Genomics Division Tissue Microarray Center (TMA) Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) main: 602-343-8822 Fax: 602-343-8840 awatanabe@tgen.org www.tgen.org _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From gliuygao <@t> hotmail.com Mon Feb 16 15:15:59 2009 From: gliuygao <@t> hotmail.com (yan gao) Date: Mon Feb 16 15:16:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Curious to know In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hi, Histonet. I have a curious question for histonet.If my IHC biomarkers not work. However, the project need a read out, What other alternative strategies can I have? Thanks.Yan Gao _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: E-mail. Chat. Share. Get more ways to connect. http://windowslive.com/online/hotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_AE_Faster_022009 From kynemitz <@t> travmax.com Mon Feb 16 15:24:50 2009 From: kynemitz <@t> travmax.com (Kyla Nemitz) Date: Mon Feb 16 15:25:33 2009 Subject: [Histonet] San Antonio open Histo tech jobs! Message-ID: <9416D9FA37C1C04FA83D69684E95D2E71F457FD9@exbk2.maxhealth.com> Happy Monday HistoNet - A client of mine has asked for additional help in the hiring of a permanent Histo Tech in San Antonio, TX. If you or anyone you know is interested in working in San Antonio, please contact me. *Sign on bonus available *Competitive hourly wage *ASCP preferred I also have MT and MLT openings as well. Thank you, hope to hear from you soon! Kyla Nemitz TravelMax Medical Professionals - Maxim Healthcare * 888.800.1855 or 813.371.5175 7 800.294.1248 Search our jobs or apply online at: www.TravelMaxAllied.com , www.tmaxnursing.com From Jackie.O'Connor <@t> abbott.com Mon Feb 16 15:49:24 2009 From: Jackie.O'Connor <@t> abbott.com (Jackie M O'Connor) Date: Mon Feb 16 15:49:45 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Lipofucsin question In-Reply-To: <9416D9FA37C1C04FA83D69684E95D2E71F457FD9@exbk2.maxhealth.com> Message-ID: Is there a specific histochemical or immunohistochemical stain that will specifically identify lipofucsin? Jackie O' From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Mon Feb 16 16:05:53 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Mon Feb 16 16:05:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Curious to know In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <609933.53771.qm@web65711.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> I think that your question is somewhat confusing. Could you please write in some other way? Ren? J. --- On Mon, 2/16/09, yan gao wrote: From: yan gao Subject: [Histonet] Curious to know To: "histonet3 histonet3" Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 4:15 PM Hi, Histonet. I have a curious question for histonet.If my IHC biomarkers not work. However, the project need a read out, What other alternative strategies can I have? Thanks.Yan Gao _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: E-mail. Chat. Share. Get more ways to connect. http://windowslive.com/online/hotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_AE_Faster_022009_______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Mon Feb 16 16:11:03 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Mon Feb 16 16:11:06 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Lipofucsin question In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <385851.23843.qm@web65702.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Jackie: Lipofucsin granules are PAS+ and can also stain with Ziehl-Nielsesn. Ren? J. --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Jackie M O'Connor wrote: From: Jackie M O'Connor Subject: [Histonet] Lipofucsin question To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 4:49 PM Is there a specific histochemical or immunohistochemical stain that will specifically identify lipofucsin? Jackie O' _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From tifei <@t> foxmail.com Mon Feb 16 20:33:39 2009 From: tifei <@t> foxmail.com (=?utf-8?B?VEY=?=) Date: Mon Feb 16 20:34:10 2009 Subject: =?utf-8?B?UmU6IFJlOiBbSGlzdG9uZXRdIEN1cmlvdXMgdG8ga25vdw==?= References: <609933.53771.qm@web65711.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <200902171033342004717@foxmail.com> he might consider sth like western blot or any other signals that can be wrote in a paper 2009-02-17 TF ???? Rene J Buesa ????? 2009-02-17 06:09:50 ???? histonet3 histonet3; yan gao ??? ??? Re: [Histonet] Curious to know I think that your question is somewhat confusing. Could you please write in some other way? Ren? J. --- On Mon, 2/16/09, yan gao wrote: From: yan gao Subject: [Histonet] Curious to know To: "histonet3 histonet3" Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 4:15 PM Hi, Histonet. I have a curious question for histonet.If my IHC biomarkers not work. However, the project need a read out, What other alternative strategies can I have? Thanks.Yan Gao _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: E-mail. Chat. Share. Get more ways to connect. http://windowslive.com/online/hotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_AE_Faster_022009_______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From kimtournear <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 17 08:53:16 2009 From: kimtournear <@t> yahoo.com (Kim Tournear) Date: Tue Feb 17 08:53:21 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <76609.28266.qm@web54201.mail.re2.yahoo.com> I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the candidate is qualified to do the job? ? I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having to go back for a degree they already have. ? We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any kind). ? Just my 2 cents worth.... ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Tucson Medical Center Tucson, AZ ? ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ ? OU Rocks!!!! --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: From: Bernice Frederick Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "'Larry Woody'" , histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs doing it for years. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From kimtournear <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 17 09:07:59 2009 From: kimtournear <@t> yahoo.com (Kim Tournear) Date: Tue Feb 17 09:08:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <371896.40598.qm@web54204.mail.re2.yahoo.com> I forgot something.... ? The lack of programs has hurt the histology world over the years...I don't see anything wrong with OJT (after all, that's how I learned) as long as the histotechs doing the training are well qualified and can teach it properly...I think OJT should be brought back as a ROI for the exam... ? However: ? There is the issue with "the direction" histology has been moving in over the past 10+ years: ?i.e. ISH, FISH, SISH, etc, etc, etc.... This is where the degree would be a benefit?to a?person due to the theory side of it, but at the same time it still can be taught OJT?just like me? (at Ventana). ? Honestly, a degree doesn't always mean that?a person will make a good tech. After all, it's only a piece of paper...it's whether or not a tech can take that degree?and apply it... Again, my 2 cents worth ? ~Kim Tournear~ HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Tucson Medical Center Tucson, AZ ? ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ ? OU Rocks!!!! --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: From: Bernice Frederick Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "'Martin, Gary'" , histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:30 AM So take the registry exam!!!! Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Martin, Gary Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:27 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I am one of those "unregistered" techs. I would respectfully hope that we are not considered the villains here. My situation is; we are a small lab in a rural area that has the need for 1 1/2 Histo Techs. We were having a very difficult time attracting a 1/2 time "qualified tech.", and had zero backup for our one and only full time "qualified tech." I have a good back ground in detail work in the art world and a good amount of experience as a pathology lab assistant. So it was easy for me to transition into the role of "unregistered tech", thereby providing back for our over work Histo tech. I have been trained by my Histo tech and have completed the Freida L. Carson self instruction course under her supervision. We are happy with the results and our Pathologist are pleased. At this point (7 years into teching) there are some things that I have been innovative on some things, and our tech prefers me to do other things. I would love to get certified but the changes in OTJ have made that more of a mountain than I can climb at this time. I would like to lend voice to us who are in this situation and say the we take our duties very serious and I really don't look at my job as getting over on rules or quality or providing cheap labor. In our case it has been necessity. Thank you Gary -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Watson, Linda Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 8:34 AM To: Mary Abosso; Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I totally agree with Mary. I have often heard that histotechs are a dying breed. That us "old timers" are not being replaced by the younger generation. If we want to have less uncertified histotechs then lets not make it so difficult for individuals to pursue this wonderful career. I still think it is very important for the exam to remain in place but those individuals out of high school that are maybe not thinking of attending college to obtain a bachelors degree should have the opportunity to become a certified histologist. I know that you can still obtain the HT but not the HTL. Correct me if I am wrong. Linda >-----Original Message----- >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet- >bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mary Abosso >Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 11:19 AM >To: Steven Coakley; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > >Many areas have to go to unregistered techs out of necessity due to the >high vacancy rate in our field since the ASCP made changes to the career >path for the HT board requirements. Many of these facilities have >either formal or informal training and have turned out many very good, >high quality techs. Yes, some may be skilled at the "art" of histology, >but lack the understanding that is behind the science. These often can >embed, cut and do special stains with superior quality and happy >pathologists. I have seen registered techs that have all the >intelligence that their sheepskins say, but totally lack the hands on >skills needed to produce superior quality material for patient >diagnosis. While this is only my opinion, I wish that there was still >the route for OJT as long as there is a certified tech in place for >training. > >My two cents worth, >Mary Abosso > >________________________________ > >From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Steven >Coakley >Sent: Wed 2/11/2009 7:55 AM >To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > > >Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big >advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with >unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues >when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work? In my area >of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > >_______________________________________________ >Histonet mailing list >Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu Tue Feb 17 09:22:03 2009 From: SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu (Swain, Frances L) Date: Tue Feb 17 09:22:49 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent In-Reply-To: <781629.47196.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: <1234634038.499705367a3f6@webmail.siue.edu> <781629.47196.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E3802AD1F3E3A@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Hi Paul: If you will add charcoal to access to your Schiff's Solution swirl it around and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. Then filter it through a funnel to which you have filterpaper with charcoal placed in the bottom it should come out pretty clear. When we made our own we then placed it in the refrigerator, as Schiff's should be stored in the refrigerator, and that usually cleared it up. I since buy my Schiff's from Polyscientific R and D and have not had any problems. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Saturday, February 14, 2009 3:53 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; pbrunko@siue.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent Paul: If I remember correctly the last time I prepared my own Schiff reagent was in 1955 and it came beautifully BUT it is a real pain to prepare it, and not really worth the work. Since then I purchase my Schiff and avoided all the trouble. If you have the necessary budget I would advise you to buy it from a reputable manufacturer. Mine always came from Sigma. It will eliminate inconsistencies in your research. Ren? J. --- On Sat, 2/14/09, pbrunko@siue.edu wrote: From: pbrunko@siue.edu Subject: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Saturday, February 14, 2009, 12:53 PM Good Morning! I'm a newcomer to the list, and I'll start by pointing out that I'm not a histologist by any means. I am a freshwater ecologist, and we're trying to study mucus secretion behavior in freshwater snails. Last Spring and last summer, we developed a process whereby we could visualize snail mucus trails on glass slides using a periodic acid-Schiff's reagent staining technique. But now, in following the same protocol as used last year for making our own Schiff's reagent, I cannot get the final solution to filter out clear. Recipe I'm using: 900 ml boiling water 10 grams basic fuchsin 25 ml concentrated HCl acid (12 M) 40 grams sodium metabisulfite (this is essentially Sigma Aldrich's ratios, I think) Let this sit for 24 to 72 hours, take 100 ml aliquot, add 0.75 - 1.0 gram ground activated charcoal, stir for 10 minutes, filter through filter paper then through GF/C glass fiber filter. Last summer I got nice, clear (slightly yellow) and very active Schiff's reagent. But now I cannot seem to get the filtrate to be clear. Even after 10 minutes exposure to ground activated charcoal and filtering, the filtrate remains bright orange to dark red and it does not seem to stain mucus trails very well. All the reagents are the same as those used last summer (i.e., less than 7 months old; although the HCl is a bottle several years old from a different lab). Anyone have any troubleshooting suggestions? I don't know the chemistry very well, but the sodium metabisulfite is used for "decoloring" the initial solution, right? So is the metabisulfite not working for some reason now?? Any help/suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Cheers - Paul Paul E. Brunkow, PhD Department of Biological Sciences Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Edwardsville, IL USA ------------------------------------------------- SIUE Web Mail _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. From SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu Tue Feb 17 09:32:11 2009 From: SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu (Swain, Frances L) Date: Tue Feb 17 09:32:50 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent In-Reply-To: <1234634038.499705367a3f6@webmail.siue.edu> References: <1234634038.499705367a3f6@webmail.siue.edu> Message-ID: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E3802AD1F3E53@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Sorry Paul I replied to Renee in stead of you. I purchase my Schiff's from PolyScientific R & D. When I made my Schiff's Used essentially the same recipe that you do. I made mine in a flask stored it in the dark for 24 hours. I then added activated charcoal to excess and let it sit in the dark for at least 2-3 hours. I then filtered it through filter paper that to which charcoal was added to the filter paper before I pour the Schiff's in it to clear. It will usually clear up if it has a slightly yellow tinge you can put it in the refrigerator in a tightly capped bottle overnight and it should become clear. It is important to store your Schiff's in the refrigerator when you are not usuing it and use a brown bottle. You can test your Schiff's to see if it is viable by dropping a drop of your Schiff's in 50 ml of 37-40% Formaldehyde. If it turns purplish pink it is still good if it turns any other color. Do not use it. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of pbrunko@siue.edu Sent: Saturday, February 14, 2009 11:54 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent Good Morning! I'm a newcomer to the list, and I'll start by pointing out that I'm not a histologist by any means. I am a freshwater ecologist, and we're trying to study mucus secretion behavior in freshwater snails. Last Spring and last summer, we developed a process whereby we could visualize snail mucus trails on glass slides using a periodic acid-Schiff's reagent staining technique. But now, in following the same protocol as used last year for making our own Schiff's reagent, I cannot get the final solution to filter out clear. Recipe I'm using: 900 ml boiling water 10 grams basic fuchsin 25 ml concentrated HCl acid (12 M) 40 grams sodium metabisulfite (this is essentially Sigma Aldrich's ratios, I think) Let this sit for 24 to 72 hours, take 100 ml aliquot, add 0.75 - 1.0 gram ground activated charcoal, stir for 10 minutes, filter through filter paper then through GF/C glass fiber filter. Last summer I got nice, clear (slightly yellow) and very active Schiff's reagent. But now I cannot seem to get the filtrate to be clear. Even after 10 minutes exposure to ground activated charcoal and filtering, the filtrate remains bright orange to dark red and it does not seem to stain mucus trails very well. All the reagents are the same as those used last summer (i.e., less than 7 months old; although the HCl is a bottle several years old from a different lab). Anyone have any troubleshooting suggestions? I don't know the chemistry very well, but the sodium metabisulfite is used for "decoloring" the initial solution, right? So is the metabisulfite not working for some reason now?? Any help/suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Cheers - Paul Paul E. Brunkow, PhD Department of Biological Sciences Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Edwardsville, IL USA ------------------------------------------------- SIUE Web Mail _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. From jclark <@t> pcnm.com Tue Feb 17 10:08:06 2009 From: jclark <@t> pcnm.com (Joanne Clark) Date: Tue Feb 17 10:08:13 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Glass coverslippers Message-ID: <0CDA5E1E01301F4880A8A7A8BCBDA39CF66842@mail.pcnm.com> Good Morning All, Can anyone recommend a good glass coverslipper? I have quotes on Leica CV5030, Surgipath and the older Tissue Tek G1. What has everyone's experienced been? Joanne Clark, HT Histology Supervisor Pathology Consultants of New Mexico Roswell, NM From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 17 10:08:34 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Tue Feb 17 10:08:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Overseas graduates In-Reply-To: <76609.28266.qm@web54201.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <930885.30859.qm@web65711.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> This problem of overseas certified histotechs is simple to solve. The foreign graduate has to send his/her credentials and transcripts?to one of several certifying agencies in the US that will analyze the curriculum, the competencies and will issue an "equivalence certificate" indicating what those foreign studies correspond to any from any?US high studies institution. Any foreign graduate with a bachelor, master or PhD in a foreign university will be issued an equivalence as if the studies would have been completed here and that will qualify the foreign graduate to take his/her ASCP certification examination. It is absolutely unnecessary to study the same thing again here! Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/17/09, Kim Tournear wrote: From: Kim Tournear Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Histonet" Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2009, 9:53 AM I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the candidate is qualified to do the job? ? I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having to go back for a degree they already have. ? We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any kind). ? Just my 2 cents worth.... ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Tucson Medical Center Tucson, AZ ? ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ ? OU Rocks!!!! --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: From: Bernice Frederick Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "'Larry Woody'" , histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs doing it for years. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Beatrice.Debrosse-Serra <@t> pfizer.com Tue Feb 17 10:18:26 2009 From: Beatrice.Debrosse-Serra <@t> pfizer.com (Debrosse-Serra, Beatrice) Date: Tue Feb 17 10:18:32 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Overseas graduates In-Reply-To: <930885.30859.qm@web65711.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <7B41B921086ADE4186377B8C33F702DE07E3B743@lajamrexm01.amer.pfizer.com> Ren?, I hate to tell you, but it isn't as simple as you make it sound. The school I went to was a technical school, which was very specific. But since it wasn't a University, they didn't recognize my schooling and certificate and I would have to get my bachelors all over again. However, I did get certified here and at least have an HT and QIHC from the ASCP. So what you are saying is not totally correct. Beatrice DeBrosse-Serra Pathology Scientist Pfizer Global Research & Development CB4, 2150 10646 Science Center Drive San Diego, CA 92121 Phone# 858-622-5986 Fax# 858-678-8290 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 8:09 AM To: Histonet; kimtournear@yahoo.com Subject: [Histonet] Overseas graduates This problem of overseas certified histotechs is simple to solve. The foreign graduate has to send his/her credentials and transcripts?to one of several certifying agencies in the US that will analyze the curriculum, the competencies and will issue an "equivalence certificate" indicating what those foreign studies correspond to any from any?US high studies institution. Any foreign graduate with a bachelor, master or PhD in a foreign university will be issued an equivalence as if the studies would have been completed here and that will qualify the foreign graduate to take his/her ASCP certification examination. It is absolutely unnecessary to study the same thing again here! Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/17/09, Kim Tournear wrote: From: Kim Tournear Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Histonet" Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2009, 9:53 AM I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the candidate is qualified to do the job? ? I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having to go back for a degree they already have. ? We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any kind). ? Just my 2 cents worth.... ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Tucson Medical Center Tucson, AZ ? ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ ? OU Rocks!!!! --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: From: Bernice Frederick Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "'Larry Woody'" , histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs doing it for years. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu Tue Feb 17 10:22:08 2009 From: pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu (Pamela Marcum) Date: Tue Feb 17 10:22:18 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent In-Reply-To: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E3802AD1F3E53@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> References: <1234634038.499705367a3f6@webmail.siue.edu> <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E3802AD1F3E53@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Message-ID: <000f01c9911b$e3802360$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Frances is using the classic formula for Schiff's Reagent. I have done the activated charcoal step for a few hours and overnight if we started too late in the day. Both times should work very well. Thank goodness we can now buy from good vendors that ship good Schiff's. I have been bright pink more than once, and it is not my favorite colour. We use the same vendor she uses by the way. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Swain, Frances L Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 10:32 AM To: pbrunko@siue.edu; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent Sorry Paul I replied to Renee in stead of you. I purchase my Schiff's from PolyScientific R & D. When I made my Schiff's Used essentially the same recipe that you do. I made mine in a flask stored it in the dark for 24 hours. I then added activated charcoal to excess and let it sit in the dark for at least 2-3 hours. I then filtered it through filter paper that to which charcoal was added to the filter paper before I pour the Schiff's in it to clear. It will usually clear up if it has a slightly yellow tinge you can put it in the refrigerator in a tightly capped bottle overnight and it should become clear. It is important to store your Schiff's in the refrigerator when you are not usuing it and use a brown bottle. You can test your Schiff's to see if it is viable by dropping a drop of your Schiff's in 50 ml of 37-40% Formaldehyde. If it turns purplish pink it is still good if it turns any other color. Do not use it. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of pbrunko@siue.edu Sent: Saturday, February 14, 2009 11:54 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Problem with Schiff's reagent Good Morning! I'm a newcomer to the list, and I'll start by pointing out that I'm not a histologist by any means. I am a freshwater ecologist, and we're trying to study mucus secretion behavior in freshwater snails. Last Spring and last summer, we developed a process whereby we could visualize snail mucus trails on glass slides using a periodic acid-Schiff's reagent staining technique. But now, in following the same protocol as used last year for making our own Schiff's reagent, I cannot get the final solution to filter out clear. Recipe I'm using: 900 ml boiling water 10 grams basic fuchsin 25 ml concentrated HCl acid (12 M) 40 grams sodium metabisulfite (this is essentially Sigma Aldrich's ratios, I think) Let this sit for 24 to 72 hours, take 100 ml aliquot, add 0.75 - 1.0 gram ground activated charcoal, stir for 10 minutes, filter through filter paper then through GF/C glass fiber filter. Last summer I got nice, clear (slightly yellow) and very active Schiff's reagent. But now I cannot seem to get the filtrate to be clear. Even after 10 minutes exposure to ground activated charcoal and filtering, the filtrate remains bright orange to dark red and it does not seem to stain mucus trails very well. All the reagents are the same as those used last summer (i.e., less than 7 months old; although the HCl is a bottle several years old from a different lab). Anyone have any troubleshooting suggestions? I don't know the chemistry very well, but the sodium metabisulfite is used for "decoloring" the initial solution, right? So is the metabisulfite not working for some reason now?? Any help/suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Cheers - Paul Paul E. Brunkow, PhD Department of Biological Sciences Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Edwardsville, IL USA ------------------------------------------------- SIUE Web Mail _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 17 10:31:40 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Tue Feb 17 10:31:47 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Overseas graduates In-Reply-To: <7B41B921086ADE4186377B8C33F702DE07E3B743@lajamrexm01.amer.pfizer.com> Message-ID: <701678.71212.qm@web65704.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> In this case Beatrice, the problem was not with the mechanism but with the fact that the accrediting agency did not recognize the technical school you went to because they do not recognize technical schools as sources of higher education (as they are not) nor they recognize a foreign technical degree as equivalent to a national technical degree. It?seems that you were able to get your bachelor equivalence and using it you got your ASCP certification. What I wrote referred to higher education equivalencies used as a certification route in this country and, as such, what I wrote is correct.? Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/17/09, Debrosse-Serra, Beatrice wrote: From: Debrosse-Serra, Beatrice Subject: RE: [Histonet] Overseas graduates To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com, "Histonet" , kimtournear@yahoo.com Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2009, 11:18 AM Ren?, I hate to tell you, but it isn't as simple as you make it sound. The school I went to was a technical school, which was very specific. But since it wasn't a University, they didn't recognize my schooling and certificate and I would have to get my bachelors all over again. However, I did get certified here and at least have an HT and QIHC from the ASCP. So what you are saying is not totally correct. Beatrice DeBrosse-Serra Pathology Scientist Pfizer Global Research & Development CB4, 2150 10646 Science Center Drive San Diego, CA 92121 Phone# 858-622-5986 Fax# 858-678-8290 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 8:09 AM To: Histonet; kimtournear@yahoo.com Subject: [Histonet] Overseas graduates This problem of overseas certified histotechs is simple to solve. The foreign graduate has to send his/her credentials and transcripts?to one of several certifying agencies in the US that will analyze the curriculum, the competencies and will issue an "equivalence certificate" indicating what those foreign studies correspond to any from any?US high studies institution. Any foreign graduate with a bachelor, master or PhD in a foreign university will be issued an equivalence as if the studies would have been completed here and that will qualify the foreign graduate to take his/her ASCP certification examination. It is absolutely unnecessary to study the same thing again here! Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/17/09, Kim Tournear wrote: From: Kim Tournear Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "Histonet" Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2009, 9:53 AM I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the candidate is qualified to do the job? ? I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having to go back for a degree they already have. ? We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any kind). ? Just my 2 cents worth.... ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Tucson Medical Center Tucson, AZ ? ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ ? OU Rocks!!!! --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: From: Bernice Frederick Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "'Larry Woody'" , histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs doing it for years. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From hborgeri <@t> wfubmc.edu Tue Feb 17 10:28:49 2009 From: hborgeri <@t> wfubmc.edu (Hermina Borgerink) Date: Tue Feb 17 10:32:03 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <76609.28266.qm@web54201.mail.re2.yahoo.com> References: <76609.28266.qm@web54201.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <9AEEF1FB6254224AA355ED285F849165344FFB9A@EXCHVS2.medctr.ad.wfubmc.edu> It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand and achieve the expected results. So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our profession be any different? With an increased level of education and training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so frequently lacking now. Hermina Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. Winston-Salem, NC 27157 Tel. (336) 716-1538 Fax. (336) 716-1515 e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the candidate is qualified to do the job? ? I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having to go back for a degree they already have. ? We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any kind). ? Just my 2 cents worth.... ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Tucson Medical Center Tucson, AZ ? ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ ? OU Rocks!!!! --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: From: Bernice Frederick Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "'Larry Woody'" , histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs doing it for years. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From maxim_71 <@t> mail.ru Tue Feb 17 10:28:49 2009 From: maxim_71 <@t> mail.ru (Maxim Peshkov) Date: Tue Feb 17 10:33:17 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Lipofucsin question In-Reply-To: <1234887155.1014012607@mx60.mail.ru> References: <1234887155.1014012607@mx60.mail.ru> Message-ID: <29733565.20090217192849@mail.ru> Jackie, Lipofuscin in FFPE sections is good stain with Oil red O or similar fatty dye (Sudan III, IV) with following mounting in glycerol-gelatine. Maxim Peshkov, Russia, Taganrog. From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 17 10:39:36 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Tue Feb 17 10:39:42 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Glass coverslippers In-Reply-To: <0CDA5E1E01301F4880A8A7A8BCBDA39CF66842@mail.pcnm.com> Message-ID: <774987.2571.qm@web65701.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Try to get a quote and a demo from Sakura Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/17/09, Joanne Clark wrote: From: Joanne Clark Subject: [Histonet] Glass coverslippers To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2009, 11:08 AM Good Morning All, Can anyone recommend a good glass coverslipper? I have quotes on Leica CV5030, Surgipath and the older Tissue Tek G1. What has everyone's experienced been? Joanne Clark, HT Histology Supervisor Pathology Consultants of New Mexico Roswell, NM _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From gvdobbin <@t> ihis.org Tue Feb 17 10:41:04 2009 From: gvdobbin <@t> ihis.org (Greg Dobbin) Date: Tue Feb 17 10:41:26 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Glass coverslippers Message-ID: The CV5030 works very well for us-as long as we spend a little more buying the higher grade coverslips that don't tend to be affected by humidity as much. Greg Greg Dobbin, R.T. Chief Technologist, Anatomic Pathology Dept. of Laboratory Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, P.O. Box 6600 Charlottetown, PE C1A 8T5 Phone: (902) 894-2337 Fax: (902) 894-2385 "I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have." - Thomas Jefferson ------------------------- Statement of Confidentiality This message (including attachments) may contain confidential or privileged information intended for a specific individual or organization. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately. If you are not the intended recipient, you are not authorized to use, disclose, distribute, copy, print or rely on this email, and should promptly delete this email from your entire computer system. D?claration de confidentialit? Le pr?sent message (y compris les annexes) peut contenir des renseignements confidentiels ? l'intention d'une personne ou d'un organisme particulier. Si vous avez re?u la pr?sente communication par erreur, veuillez en informer l'exp?diteur imm?diatement. Si vous n'?tes pas le destinataire pr?vu, vous n'avez pas le droit d'utiliser, divulguer, distribuer, copier ou imprimer ce courriel ou encore de vous en servir, et vous devriez l'effacer imm?diatement de votre syst?me informatique. ------------------------- From JWilkinson <@t> adclinic.com Tue Feb 17 10:53:00 2009 From: JWilkinson <@t> adclinic.com (Wilkinson, Joyce E) Date: Tue Feb 17 10:53:07 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tissue-Tek Prisma Automated slide stainer Message-ID: Is anybody using the Tissue Tek Prisma automated slide stainer and film coverslipper? If so, how do you like it. Thanks, Joyce From Donna.Hunter <@t> Northside.com Tue Feb 17 10:53:25 2009 From: Donna.Hunter <@t> Northside.com (Donna Hunter) Date: Tue Feb 17 10:53:53 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <9AEEF1FB6254224AA355ED285F849165344FFB9A@EXCHVS2.medctr.ad.wfubmc.edu> References: <76609.28266.qm@web54201.mail.re2.yahoo.com> <9AEEF1FB6254224AA355ED285F849165344FFB9A@EXCHVS2.medctr.ad.wfubmc.edu> Message-ID: <96019CB7DF80DB479F9E744ADD867805081449E9@NSMXMS04.northside.local> I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this computer enhancement. Donna -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina Borgerink Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand and achieve the expected results. So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our profession be any different? With an increased level of education and training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so frequently lacking now. Hermina Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. Winston-Salem, NC 27157 Tel. (336) 716-1538 Fax. (336) 716-1515 e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the candidate is qualified to do the job? ? I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having to go back for a degree they already have. ? We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any kind). ? Just my 2 cents worth.... ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Tucson Medical Center Tucson, AZ ? ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ ? OU Rocks!!!! --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: From: Bernice Frederick Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "'Larry Woody'" , histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs doing it for years. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, please delete this message and any attachments from your system without reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any privilege. From Brenda <@t> nsh.org Tue Feb 17 10:59:00 2009 From: Brenda <@t> nsh.org (Brenda Royce) Date: Tue Feb 17 10:59:07 2009 Subject: [Histonet] NSH Event Invitation Message-ID: We hope that you can take advantage of this opportunity and attend the NSH Winter Lunch and Learn. It's a great inexpensive way to expand your knowledge & earn those needed contact hours. Please read below for details on the event. Registration is now open for the first NSH Winter Lunch & Learn, presented in partnership with Leica Microsystems, taking place February 28, 2009 at Jacksonville Community College in Jacksonville, FL. Attendees have an opportunity to attend 3 sessions and earn 4.5 contact hours in this half day program. Schedule: 8:00am - 9:00am: Registration 9:00am - 10:30am: Small Specimen Management - In a Large Volume World 10:30am - 12:00am: The Development of Antibodies - Concept to Cancer 12:00pm - 12:30pm: Lunch Provided by NSH 12:30pm - 2:00pm: The Paradox of Change in Histotechnology All sessions are presented by top rated NSH presenters Skip Brown, Leica BioSystems L.L.C.-St. Louis and Dr. Mark Rees, Leica Microsystems. Visit our website to: Register Online or Download a PDF of the Registration Form Visit our website: www.nsh.org Please spread the word throughout your lab or hospital, as non-members are always welcome as well. If you have any questions, give us a call at 443-535-4060. We look forward to seeing your there. From LINDA.MARGRAF <@t> childrens.com Tue Feb 17 11:03:11 2009 From: LINDA.MARGRAF <@t> childrens.com (LINDA MARGRAF) Date: Tue Feb 17 11:03:54 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histology positions Message-ID: <499A996E.F783.00DA.0@childrens.com> Here's a message Carolyn asked me to post. Please respond to her (not me) if interested. Thanks, Linda M (Histonet administrator) HISTOLOGY MANAGER Avery prestigious, financially sound and growing teaching hospital located in NYCisseekinga Histology Manager. The hospital has literally doubled in size in the past 10 years and it is still growing. The lab handles 300,000 blocks, 6,000 special stains, and 87,000 immuno histochemistries. The manager will be responsible for approximately 45 FTEs. The manager will also oversee daily operations, create long and short range departmental plans, maintain the budget, insure regulatory compliance and be involved in performance improvement initiatives. The hospital offers incredible benefits and a highly competitive salary. HISTOLOGY SUPERVISOR A very successful, growing and financially strong teaching hospital located in Northern, NY is seeking a Histology Manager. The hospital is building a brand newfacilityon 41 acresthatwill open in 2 year*s time. The ideal candidate will have at least 3 year*s managerial experience and at least 3 years experience on the bench. Interested candidates should contact: Carolyn Egan Senior Partner, Executive Recruitment The Health Search Group (212)601-9037 e-mail: cegan@healthsearchgroup.com Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail

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From MLunetta <@t> luhcares.org Tue Feb 17 12:29:55 2009 From: MLunetta <@t> luhcares.org (Matthew Lunetta) Date: Tue Feb 17 12:30:20 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Tissue-Tek Prisma Automated slide stainer Message-ID: <499A9FB3020000A80002BE0C@mail.luhcares.org> Hello, we have been using the Tissue Tek Prisma automated slide stainer and film coverslipper for a few years now and find them to be fantastic. The stainer is very flexable. If you do use the coverslipper make sure you stick with thier film and do not use another brand of film. Matt L Longmont United Hospital ------------------------------ Message: 8 Date: Tue, 17 Feb 2009 10:53:00 -0600 From: "Wilkinson, Joyce E" Subject: [Histonet] Tissue-Tek Prisma Automated slide stainer To: Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Is anybody using the Tissue Tek Prisma automated slide stainer and film coverslipper? If so, how do you like it. Thanks, Joyce From alyssa <@t> alliedsearchpartners.com Tue Feb 17 12:39:56 2009 From: alyssa <@t> alliedsearchpartners.com (Alyssa Peterson) Date: Tue Feb 17 12:40:01 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Full Time/Direct Placement for histotech in Phoenix, AZ Message-ID: Good Morning, My name is Alyssa Peterson, and I am the Director of Lab/Pathology recruitment, and I am reaching out to the histonet world about a permanent, full time, Monday-Friday Histotechnologist/Histotechnician position located in the *Phoenix, AZ area.* If you are interested please respond with a current copy of your resume attached as a Microsoft word document, and a contact number with the best time to reach you. You can call me anytime, at 770.621.2639 ext. 4 or send me an email at alyssa@alliedsearchpartners.comfor further information. If you are not interested we offer a $1000 referral bonus so feel free to forward this email to whomever you feel fit. ** *Please review the job description:* Prefer experience with the microwave processor and small biopsies. HT ASCP required. Mon-Friday 8am-5pm full time position. *Benefits: * They offer an attractive benefits package for full time employment, including medical/dental insurance, PTO, and much more!!!!!! Salary is highly competitive!!! -- Alyssa Peterson Allied Search Partners O: 770.621.2639 ext. 4 F: 770.621.2640 From hana444 <@t> gmail.com Tue Feb 17 12:41:32 2009 From: hana444 <@t> gmail.com (Hana Peter) Date: Tue Feb 17 12:41:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] hematoxylin Message-ID: <68f635b90902171041n3a44550dn588db993d09e1f83@mail.gmail.com> Hello! I have two liters of hematoxylin Lillie Mayer modification, "home made" a month ago. One bottle (1L) seems perfectly OK, but the other have some precipitate (actually two or three very large crystals). They were stored in the same cupboard at room temperature. Two weeks ago we were a few days without the heating. Does anyone have an idea what might have happened to my hematoxylin? Can I do something to save this liter or should I discard it? What can I do to prevent it from forming crystals in the future? Thank you very much in advance! Hana Peter From pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu Tue Feb 17 12:46:50 2009 From: pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu (Pamela Marcum) Date: Tue Feb 17 12:46:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <96019CB7DF80DB479F9E744ADD867805081449E9@NSMXMS04.northside.local> References: <76609.28266.qm@web54201.mail.re2.yahoo.com><9AEEF1FB6254224AA355ED285F849165344FFB9A@EXCHVS2.medctr.ad.wfubmc.edu> <96019CB7DF80DB479F9E744ADD867805081449E9@NSMXMS04.northside.local> Message-ID: <000601c99130$185aa060$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could by hand. I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I know she understands why and how to make them. I won?t even start on IHC as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had helped me over the years. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this computer enhancement. Donna -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina Borgerink Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand and achieve the expected results. So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our profession be any different? With an increased level of education and training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so frequently lacking now. Hermina Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. Winston-Salem, NC 27157 Tel. (336) 716-1538 Fax. (336) 716-1515 e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the candidate is qualified to do the job? ? I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having to go back for a degree they already have. ? We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any kind). ? Just my 2 cents worth.... ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Tucson Medical Center Tucson, AZ ? ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ ? OU Rocks!!!! --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: From: Bernice Frederick Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "'Larry Woody'" , histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs doing it for years. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, please delete this message and any attachments from your system without reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any privilege. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu Tue Feb 17 13:01:49 2009 From: SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu (Swain, Frances L) Date: Tue Feb 17 13:02:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <000601c99130$185aa060$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> References: <76609.28266.qm@web54201.mail.re2.yahoo.com><9AEEF1FB6254224AA355ED285F849165344FFB9A@EXCHVS2.medctr.ad.wfubmc.edu> <96019CB7DF80DB479F9E744ADD867805081449E9@NSMXMS04.northside.local> <000601c99130$185aa060$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E3802AD1F406B@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Those were the days Pamela. The first IF I did we had to make the antibody and everything. I learned a lot back then. I was surprise to find out that the practical part of the registry was no longer done. That to me was one of the most important parts of the registry. You can always look up information in a book but you cannot look up tissue sections to present to the pathologist or research in a book. Knowledge is as important as the actual doing but if you cannot do the work you shouldn't be there. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Pamela Marcum Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 12:47 PM To: 'Donna Hunter'; 'Hermina Borgerink'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could by hand. I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had helped me over the years. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this computer enhancement. Donna -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina Borgerink Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand and achieve the expected results. So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our profession be any different? With an increased level of education and training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so frequently lacking now. Hermina Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. Winston-Salem, NC 27157 Tel. (336) 716-1538 Fax. (336) 716-1515 e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the candidate is qualified to do the job? ? I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having to go back for a degree they already have. ? We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any kind). ? Just my 2 cents worth.... ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Tucson Medical Center Tucson, AZ ? ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ ? OU Rocks!!!! --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: From: Bernice Frederick Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "'Larry Woody'" , histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs doing it for years. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, please delete this message and any attachments from your system without reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any privilege. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. From b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu Tue Feb 17 13:29:15 2009 From: b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu (Bernice Frederick) Date: Tue Feb 17 13:29:36 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <96019CB7DF80DB479F9E744ADD867805081449E9@NSMXMS04.northside.local> Message-ID: <1A88E51CB7C94608B21C0889706CFD3D@lurie.northwestern.edu> That would be fun!!!!! I know how you feel. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 10:53 AM To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this computer enhancement. Donna -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina Borgerink Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand and achieve the expected results. So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our profession be any different? With an increased level of education and training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so frequently lacking now. Hermina Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. Winston-Salem, NC 27157 Tel. (336) 716-1538 Fax. (336) 716-1515 e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the candidate is qualified to do the job? ? I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having to go back for a degree they already have. ? We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any kind). ? Just my 2 cents worth.... ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Tucson Medical Center Tucson, AZ ? ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ ? OU Rocks!!!! --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: From: Bernice Frederick Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "'Larry Woody'" , histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs doing it for years. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? ? Larry A. Woody Seattle, Wa. ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing all those savings when settling a legal case. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: From: Steven Coakley Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with unregistered techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so many trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't believe how many Hospitals go this way. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, please delete this message and any attachments from your system without reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any privilege. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From juditw <@t> u.washington.edu Tue Feb 17 13:36:25 2009 From: juditw <@t> u.washington.edu (Judith L. Williams) Date: Tue Feb 17 13:36:36 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <000601c99130$185aa060$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won?t even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > ? > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to > use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > ? > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > ? > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > ? > ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ > ? > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > ? > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows > total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 From leiker <@t> buffalo.edu Tue Feb 17 14:17:33 2009 From: leiker <@t> buffalo.edu (Merced Leiker) Date: Tue Feb 17 14:17:40 2009 Subject: [Histonet] looking for CD45 antibody Message-ID: Hello Histonetters, I am looking for a good CD45 (CLA) antibody for use in paraffin immunofluorescence that meets the following criteria: 1. unconjugated 2. non-mouse isotype 3. reacts with hamster OR greatest likelihood of reacting with hamster (e.g., reacts with many other rodent species...) Can anyone refer one? Thank you! Merced M Leiker Research Technician II 354 BRB (pkgs) / 140 Farber Hall (letters) School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences State University of New York at Buffalo 3435 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14214 Ph: (716) 829-6033 Fx: (716) 829-2725 "Without my flaws I'm really very boring." - random internet blog commentator From tracy.bergeron <@t> biogenidec.com Tue Feb 17 15:14:46 2009 From: tracy.bergeron <@t> biogenidec.com (Tracy Bergeron) Date: Tue Feb 17 15:14:46 2009 Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding In-Reply-To: Message-ID: Hi all question/dilemma of the day. I have been of the view that the longer tissue sat in melted paraffin the harder it got, especially animal tissue. So with that said, for the past nearly 10 years I have not used melted paraffin in the holding chamber of the embedding center. I just keep the chamber warm, and work that way. Thus keeping the tissue from continuing to cook and harden in the wax. Everyone else I am currently working with has never seen the method I use, and firmly believe that this causes harm to the tissues if they are not in paraffin. Thoughts ideas etc. I am dying to know if I am the only one that worries about length of time that animal tissue sits in paraffin. Thanks. Sincerely, Tracy E. Bergeron, B.S., HT, HTL (ASCP) Associate Scientist III, Pathology Comparative Pathology Laboratory Biogen Idec 14 Cambridge Center Cambridge, MA 02142 Direct: 617-914-1115 Fax: 617-679-3208 From Barry.R.Rittman <@t> uth.tmc.edu Tue Feb 17 16:16:28 2009 From: Barry.R.Rittman <@t> uth.tmc.edu (Rittman, Barry R) Date: Tue Feb 17 16:16:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: References: <000601c99130$185aa060$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC000138465B80@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> I think that the entire system needs a good enema. Ever since I started work in a lab in 1957, salaries have been poor and not kept up with cost of living or reflected the skill of many of the histotechs. I feel that one of the major problems is that we have several categories of histotechs. Certified (I mean that in the nicest sense of the word!). Certified and also highly skilled. Skilled via on the job training. Robotic technicians. Until a system is put into place that requires all histotechs to be certified, or in training along a specific career pathway then things will never change. Along with this must be a system that requires employers to have well defined career paths for all their histotechs. This must include training outside of the routine work that they need to do in their specific laboratory. I must agree that getting rid of the practical part of the examination was how can I put this delicately ... imbecilic. The workplace needs to get back to being less of a bottom line factory in which careers of the employees is often not a consideration to a place where career paths are an integral part of the employment. The optimal environment is one where there is a two way street where both employer and employee benefit. While money is a consideration, it is not the only reason that individuals continue to work in a specific lab. Barry -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > ? > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to > use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > ? > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > ? > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > ? > ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ > ? > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > ? > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows > total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From anitathorn <@t> comcast.net Tue Feb 17 16:27:32 2009 From: anitathorn <@t> comcast.net (anitathorn@comcast.net) Date: Tue Feb 17 16:27:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: any openings (CrochiereSteve@aol.com) Message-ID: <472362031.428131234909652043.JavaMail.root@sz0007a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> Message: 2 Date: Mon, 16 Feb 2009 13:37:48 EST From: CrochiereSteve@aol.com Subject: [Histonet] any openings To: histonet@pathology.swmed.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII" Are there any job openings out there for a HT with 30 yrs experience who just wants to be a bench tech? I am burned out in management and just want to cut pretty slides. I also do not want to move from western Mass. and do not want to commute more than 1 hour each way. I know it's picky, but that's what I want. SC I'm looking for a per-diem tech up in Brattleboro, Vt. Only 20 min. from Greenfield. Contact me for more info if you are interested. 802-257-8370 From saby_joseph_a <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 17 17:04:29 2009 From: saby_joseph_a <@t> yahoo.com (Joseph Saby) Date: Tue Feb 17 17:04:33 2009 Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding References: Message-ID: <118332.60421.qm@web33801.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Tracy- Where I used to work (at a place that shall remain nameless), we always kept our tissue being embedded in hot paraffin in the holding chamber.? Most of my work has been with animal tissues. Where I work now, we don't.? And I do bellieve you are right.? If the tissues remain in hot paraffin, the heat transfer rate is very high, and the tissues continue to "cook" even when the chamber temperature has been reduced (as close as feasible) to the melting point of the paraffin.? I have seen little effect on the tissues of longer-than-I-would-like time in the holding chamber without paraffin.? Without the paraffin, the tissues do not get that direct heat from the melted paraffin and survive delay much better. In short, I agree with you.? Not keeping the tissue in hot paraffin does not only not damage those tissues, it allows more flexiblity in your embedding times. Joe Saby, BA HT ________________________________ From: Tracy Bergeron To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 4:14:46 PM Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding Hi all question/dilemma of the day. ? ? ? ? I have been of the view that the longer tissue sat in melted paraffin the harder it got, especially animal tissue.? So with that said, for the past nearly 10 years I have not used melted paraffin in the holding chamber of the embedding center.? I just keep the chamber warm, and work that way.? Thus keeping the tissue from continuing to cook and harden in the wax. ? ? ? ? Everyone else I am currently working with has never seen the method I use, and firmly believe that this causes harm to the tissues if they are not in paraffin. ? ? ? ? Thoughts ideas etc.? I am dying to know if I am the only one that worries about length of time that animal tissue sits in paraffin. Thanks. Sincerely, Tracy E. Bergeron, B.S., HT, HTL (ASCP) Associate Scientist III, Pathology Comparative Pathology Laboratory Biogen Idec 14 Cambridge Center Cambridge, MA 02142 Direct:? 617-914-1115 Fax:? 617-679-3208 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From vapatpxs <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 17 17:29:58 2009 From: vapatpxs <@t> yahoo.com (Va Paula Sicurello) Date: Tue Feb 17 17:30:02 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sectioning Probems, again Message-ID: <733954.70817.qm@web46102.mail.sp1.yahoo.com> Hello Listers, I have embedded mouse hearts into Surgipath EM-400. The hearts are dropping out or rolling up and the sections are rolling onto themselves, not forming ribbons. The hearts were given to me in 70% ethanol after sitting in it for an unknown time. The sections are acting like it's dry outside yet it's rainy. I don't currently have access to an ice block with Downey in it. Other than soaking the blocks overnight in water (I'm trying that tonight) are there any other suggestions? Thanks, Paula Sicurello VA Medical Center San Diego Veterans Medical Research Foundation (VMRF) Core Microscope Facility, room B141 3350 La Jolla Village Dr., MC151 San Diego, CA 92161 858-552-8585 x2397 From tjasper <@t> copc.net Tue Feb 17 18:34:43 2009 From: tjasper <@t> copc.net (Thomas Jasper) Date: Tue Feb 17 18:34:49 2009 Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding References: <118332.60421.qm@web33801.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <90354A475B420441B2A0396E5008D4965E3011@copc-sbs.COPC.local> Tracy, I used to work at the same (nameless) place with Mr. Saby and I concur. In my opinion your colleagues are potentially causing harm to the tissue specimens (especially small, delicate ones) while you are not. Hot paraffin, specimens of various tissue types (particularly animal) and the resultant heat transfer is less than optimal. Consider...why is it so important to get your specimens off the processor(s) shortly after the run(s) have been completed? Answer...you don't want to "cook" them in liquid paraffin on the final station. So why cook them in a holding tank full of liquid paraffin while you embed? Also, the tissues (ideally) have been properly fixed, processed and infiltrated. No harm will befall them without liquid paraffin, until they are embedded. Good luck, Tom Jasper Thomas Jasper HT (ASCP) BAS Histology Supervisor Central Oregon Regional Pathology Services Bend, OR 97701 541/693-2677 tjasper@copc.net -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joseph Saby Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 3:04 PM To: Tracy Bergeron; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding Tracy- Where I used to work (at a place that shall remain nameless), we always kept our tissue being embedded in hot paraffin in the holding chamber.? Most of my work has been with animal tissues. Where I work now, we don't.? And I do bellieve you are right.? If the tissues remain in hot paraffin, the heat transfer rate is very high, and the tissues continue to "cook" even when the chamber temperature has been reduced (as close as feasible) to the melting point of the paraffin.? I have seen little effect on the tissues of longer-than-I-would-like time in the holding chamber without paraffin.? Without the paraffin, the tissues do not get that direct heat from the melted paraffin and survive delay much better. In short, I agree with you.? Not keeping the tissue in hot paraffin does not only not damage those tissues, it allows more flexiblity in your embedding times. Joe Saby, BA HT ________________________________ From: Tracy Bergeron To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 4:14:46 PM Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding Hi all question/dilemma of the day. ? ? ? ? I have been of the view that the longer tissue sat in melted paraffin the harder it got, especially animal tissue.? So with that said, for the past nearly 10 years I have not used melted paraffin in the holding chamber of the embedding center.? I just keep the chamber warm, and work that way.? Thus keeping the tissue from continuing to cook and harden in the wax. ? ? ? ? Everyone else I am currently working with has never seen the method I use, and firmly believe that this causes harm to the tissues if they are not in paraffin. ? ? ? ? Thoughts ideas etc.? I am dying to know if I am the only one that worries about length of time that animal tissue sits in paraffin. Thanks. Sincerely, Tracy E. Bergeron, B.S., HT, HTL (ASCP) Associate Scientist III, Pathology Comparative Pathology Laboratory Biogen Idec 14 Cambridge Center Cambridge, MA 02142 Direct:? 617-914-1115 Fax:? 617-679-3208 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com Tue Feb 17 18:38:54 2009 From: jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com (JoeNocito) Date: Tue Feb 17 18:38:46 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC000138465B80@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> References: <000601c99130$185aa060$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC000138465B80@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> Message-ID: <003601c99161$499fe280$dcdfa780$@rr.com> Don't hold back Barry, tell us what you really think JTT -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rittman, Barry R Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 4:16 PM To: 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I think that the entire system needs a good enema. Ever since I started work in a lab in 1957, salaries have been poor and not kept up with cost of living or reflected the skill of many of the histotechs. I feel that one of the major problems is that we have several categories of histotechs. Certified (I mean that in the nicest sense of the word!). Certified and also highly skilled. Skilled via on the job training. Robotic technicians. Until a system is put into place that requires all histotechs to be certified, or in training along a specific career pathway then things will never change. Along with this must be a system that requires employers to have well defined career paths for all their histotechs. This must include training outside of the routine work that they need to do in their specific laboratory. I must agree that getting rid of the practical part of the examination was how can I put this delicately ... imbecilic. The workplace needs to get back to being less of a bottom line factory in which careers of the employees is often not a consideration to a place where career paths are an integral part of the employment. The optimal environment is one where there is a two way street where both employer and employee benefit. While money is a consideration, it is not the only reason that individuals continue to work in a specific lab. Barry -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > ? > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to > use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > ? > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > ? > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > ? > ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ > ? > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > ? > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows > total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From janderson <@t> halozyme.com Tue Feb 17 19:01:49 2009 From: janderson <@t> halozyme.com (Jennifer Anderson) Date: Tue Feb 17 19:01:55 2009 Subject: [Histonet] slide labeling Message-ID: Hello. We're looking for a slide labeler for our lab. We'd like to be able to import/export to/from an excel template. I'd love to hear what all of you are using. I've used the Dako Seymour labeler before (but that uses its own software), and today I saw a Shurmark (pricey!) Thanks so much for your insight! Jennifer M. Anderson, Scientist Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. 11404 Sorrento Valley Road San Diego, CA 92121 858-704-8333 janderson@halozyme.com The information transmitted in this email is confidential and is intended only for the person(s) or entity to which it is addressed. Delivery of this message to any person other than the intended recipient(s) is not intended in any way to waive confidentiality or any applicable privilege. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by individuals or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited by Halozyme and may be in violation of applicable laws. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and delete/destroy this email. From vapatpxs <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 18 00:49:56 2009 From: vapatpxs <@t> yahoo.com (Va Paula Sicurello) Date: Wed Feb 18 00:50:05 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sectioning Probems, again In-Reply-To: <774220.13503.qm@web1102.biz.mail.sk1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <649912.5620.qm@web46109.mail.sp1.yahoo.com> For all those who wondered how I embedded my mouse hearts that won't section- The processing schedule is as follows: Tissue samples hold in 70% alcohol until the process begins using an Autotechnicon. If you don't know what that is, ask someone who has been doing histology for a loooong time. 80%, two 95's, 3 100's, 3 Citrisolve all for 1 hour with agitation. 2 changes of Surgipath EM-400 (same as I've used in clinical labs). Then 30 minutes to one hour in EM-400 under vacuum. Since I inherited all the reagents and embedding paraffins's and I have to get the histology core running with minimal expense (I know, I know, but tell that to the CEO) I must work with the reagents I have. I can tel you that liver samples were embedded using the same reagents and wax and they sectioned fine. Well, fine for liver. Thanks for any input you can give. Paula Paula Sicurello VA Medical Center San Diego Veterans Medical Research Foundation (VMRF) Core Microscope Facility, room B141 3350 La Jolla Village Dr., MC151 San Diego, CA 92161 858-552-8585 x2397 --- On Wed, 2/18/09, Paula Pierce wrote: > From: Paula Pierce > Subject: Re: [Histonet] Sectioning Probems, again > To: vapatpxs@yahoo.com > Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2009, 12:19 AM > Sounds like incomplete processing. What is your processing > schedule? > From Laura.Miller <@t> leica-microsystems.com Wed Feb 18 05:53:12 2009 From: Laura.Miller <@t> leica-microsystems.com (Laura.Miller@leica-microsystems.com) Date: Wed Feb 18 05:53:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Laura Miller is out of the office. Message-ID: I will be out of the office starting 02/17/2009 and will not return until 02/22/2009. I am at a sales meeting in Orlando, FL. I will be back in the office on Monday, February 23rd. Please call me on my cell phone at 630-212-0197 if you need to reach me. ______________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email ______________________________________________________________________ From sbruce <@t> vetpathservicesinc.com Wed Feb 18 06:16:00 2009 From: sbruce <@t> vetpathservicesinc.com (Suzanne Bruce) Date: Wed Feb 18 06:19:13 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Staining racks Message-ID: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A2855100@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> Hello, I work in plastics using Technovit 7200. We use plastic slides measuring 2x4cm. Does anyone else use slides this large and if so, what do you use as a staining rack or slide holder? They are too big to fit in the oversized glass slide racks. Thanks in advance for any help you can give me. Suzanne _______________________________ Suzanne Bruce, R.V.T. Histologist / Necropsy Coordinator Vet Path Services, Inc. (VPS) From sbruce <@t> vetpathservicesinc.com Wed Feb 18 06:29:39 2009 From: sbruce <@t> vetpathservicesinc.com (Suzanne Bruce) Date: Wed Feb 18 06:31:00 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sanderson's Rapid Bone Stain Message-ID: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A2855101@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> We are planning on trying this stain on our plastics. Has anyone tried it on paraffin slides? If so, what were the results? Thanks in advance for any help. Suzanne _______________________________ Suzanne Bruce, R.V.T. Histologist / Necropsy Coordinator From b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu Wed Feb 18 07:32:32 2009 From: b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu (Bernice Frederick) Date: Wed Feb 18 07:32:46 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <003601c99161$499fe280$dcdfa780$@rr.com> Message-ID: And another note- research labs think they can train anyone to do histology (trust me on this) and then can't figure out why their stuff is crap and then try to tell us how to do our job. This just happened and it wasn't the processing (we did it) but the quality of the sample submitted! As we are classified at NU as Sr. Research techs, we have to really fight the U for salary and we are only in the middle of the scale, but we are in a very relaxed atmosphere. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JoeNocito Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 6:39 PM To: 'Rittman, Barry R'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Don't hold back Barry, tell us what you really think JTT -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rittman, Barry R Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 4:16 PM To: 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I think that the entire system needs a good enema. Ever since I started work in a lab in 1957, salaries have been poor and not kept up with cost of living or reflected the skill of many of the histotechs. I feel that one of the major problems is that we have several categories of histotechs. Certified (I mean that in the nicest sense of the word!). Certified and also highly skilled. Skilled via on the job training. Robotic technicians. Until a system is put into place that requires all histotechs to be certified, or in training along a specific career pathway then things will never change. Along with this must be a system that requires employers to have well defined career paths for all their histotechs. This must include training outside of the routine work that they need to do in their specific laboratory. I must agree that getting rid of the practical part of the examination was how can I put this delicately ... imbecilic. The workplace needs to get back to being less of a bottom line factory in which careers of the employees is often not a consideration to a place where career paths are an integral part of the employment. The optimal environment is one where there is a two way street where both employer and employee benefit. While money is a consideration, it is not the only reason that individuals continue to work in a specific lab. Barry -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > ? > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to > use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > ? > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > ? > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > ? > ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ > ? > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > ? > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows > total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Christen <@t> vet.k-state.edu Wed Feb 18 08:25:24 2009 From: Christen <@t> vet.k-state.edu (Shelly Christenson) Date: Wed Feb 18 08:25:55 2009 Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <499BC5F4.EF61.003F.0@vet.k-state.edu> We also don't keep melted paraffin in the holding chamber of the embedding center. We keep the chamber just a little warmer than the melting point of the paraffin, been doing it this way for as long as I have been working here at the Veterinary diagnostic lab at KSU ( around 20 yrs). I also don't like the tissue to be left to long in hot paraffin and I still find that certain samples are still brittle, I know that processing schedule and size of sample has a lot to do with it, but we have only one processor and have to run all of our samples on the same program, so we soak the blocks a little longer on the ice. Shelly Christenson HT (ASCP) Veterinary Diagnostic Lab Kansas State University >>> Tracy Bergeron 2/17/2009 3:14 PM >>> Hi all question/dilemma of the day. I have been of the view that the longer tissue sat in melted paraffin the harder it got, especially animal tissue. So with that said, for the past nearly 10 years I have not used melted paraffin in the holding chamber of the embedding center. I just keep the chamber warm, and work that way. Thus keeping the tissue from continuing to cook and harden in the wax. Everyone else I am currently working with has never seen the method I use, and firmly believe that this causes harm to the tissues if they are not in paraffin. Thoughts ideas etc. I am dying to know if I am the only one that worries about length of time that animal tissue sits in paraffin. Thanks. Sincerely, Tracy E. Bergeron, B.S., HT, HTL (ASCP) Associate Scientist III, Pathology Comparative Pathology Laboratory Biogen Idec 14 Cambridge Center Cambridge, MA 02142 Direct: 617-914-1115 Fax: 617-679-3208 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 18 08:28:14 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Wed Feb 18 08:28:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] hematoxylin In-Reply-To: <68f635b90902171041n3a44550dn588db993d09e1f83@mail.gmail.com> Message-ID: <421723.77434.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Peter: If you prepared both liters at the same time, the one with the crystals probably should be the last one you filled up with the original mixture. When I used to make my own hematoxylin I took special attention of constantly agitating the mixture and filling 2 bottles with small mounts in a way that both bottles were completely?filled simultaneously. Probably that is the difference between your 2 bottles. Crystals are the result of not completely dissolving the components or precipitation due to lower temperature?in unequally?filled bottles. You could mix the contents of both bottles and fill them again sharing the solution equally between both. Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/17/09, Hana Peter wrote: From: Hana Peter Subject: [Histonet] hematoxylin To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2009, 1:41 PM Hello! I have two liters of hematoxylin Lillie Mayer modification, "home made" a month ago. One bottle (1L) seems perfectly OK, but the other have some precipitate (actually two or three very large crystals). They were stored in the same cupboard at room temperature. Two weeks ago we were a few days without the heating. Does anyone have an idea what might have happened to my hematoxylin? Can I do something to save this liter or should I discard it? What can I do to prevent it from forming crystals in the future? Thank you very much in advance! Hana Peter _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 18 08:40:06 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Wed Feb 18 08:40:12 2009 Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <349326.87972.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Tracy: Let me try?to dispel some misconceptions: 1- the tissues do not cook if are?left in melted paraffin as long as the paraffin is in just its melting point. 2- the tissue are already infiltrated with the paraffin, so there is no additional infiltration to occur 3- the tissues are already dehydrated when they get to the paraffin so they will not "dry out" (they are already dried) 4- the only way there could be some difficulty sectioning later is if the tissues are left a very long time in melted paraffin, like over the weekend. Otherwise there is no real adverse effect caused by leaving the tissues in melted paraffin during the short time that it takes to embed them, in the same way that if the tissue processor ends the cycle at a given moment and the embedding starts a few hours after that. I personally consider more problematic leaving the tissues outside the melted paraffin in a warm empty embedding center because there will always be a film of semisolid paraffin surrounding the tissue that will have to melted when the block is casted, and that is what can cause problems. I know it will very difficult for you to change what it seems you have been doing for years, but I would advise you to fill the holding tank of the embedding center with melted paraffin and place there the tissues until the blocks are done. Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/17/09, Tracy Bergeron wrote: From: Tracy Bergeron Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2009, 4:14 PM Hi all question/dilemma of the day. I have been of the view that the longer tissue sat in melted paraffin the harder it got, especially animal tissue. So with that said, for the past nearly 10 years I have not used melted paraffin in the holding chamber of the embedding center. I just keep the chamber warm, and work that way. Thus keeping the tissue from continuing to cook and harden in the wax. Everyone else I am currently working with has never seen the method I use, and firmly believe that this causes harm to the tissues if they are not in paraffin. Thoughts ideas etc. I am dying to know if I am the only one that worries about length of time that animal tissue sits in paraffin. Thanks. Sincerely, Tracy E. Bergeron, B.S., HT, HTL (ASCP) Associate Scientist III, Pathology Comparative Pathology Laboratory Biogen Idec 14 Cambridge Center Cambridge, MA 02142 Direct: 617-914-1115 Fax: 617-679-3208 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 18 08:41:45 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Wed Feb 18 08:41:50 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC000138465B80@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> Message-ID: <234544.27920.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Barry: I would not use an enema because you know what comes out when you put an enema in! Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/17/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "'Histonet'" Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2009, 5:16 PM I think that the entire system needs a good enema. Ever since I started work in a lab in 1957, salaries have been poor and not kept up with cost of living or reflected the skill of many of the histotechs. I feel that one of the major problems is that we have several categories of histotechs. Certified (I mean that in the nicest sense of the word!). Certified and also highly skilled. Skilled via on the job training. Robotic technicians. Until a system is put into place that requires all histotechs to be certified, or in training along a specific career pathway then things will never change. Along with this must be a system that requires employers to have well defined career paths for all their histotechs. This must include training outside of the routine work that they need to do in their specific laboratory. I must agree that getting rid of the practical part of the examination was how can I put this delicately ... imbecilic. The workplace needs to get back to being less of a bottom line factory in which careers of the employees is often not a consideration to a place where career paths are an integral part of the employment. The optimal environment is one where there is a two way street where both employer and employee benefit. While money is a consideration, it is not the only reason that individuals continue to work in a specific lab. Barry -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > ? > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to > use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > ? > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > ? > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > ? > ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ > ? > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > ? > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows > total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From jtrejo2 <@t> slu.edu Wed Feb 18 08:55:55 2009 From: jtrejo2 <@t> slu.edu (Julie Trejo) Date: Wed Feb 18 08:56:03 2009 Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding In-Reply-To: <499BC5F4.EF61.003F.0@vet.k-state.edu> References: <499BC5F4.EF61.003F.0@vet.k-state.edu> Message-ID: I've worked in several places and only one actually kept the tissues in hot paraffin at the embedding station and usually had alot of complaints on the brittleness of the tissues. I agree that there is no need for "extra cooking time" in melted paraffin, but I have learned a nice trick from a colleague in a positive manner for fatty tissue. Sometimes the fatty tissue is still raw-ish in the middle but would like to not re-process it, just fill the mold with melted paraffin and place it in the holding chamber on the embedding center. Exchange the paraffin every 20-30 minutes or so and after an hour or so, it is no longer raw. It cuts ALOT better. It helps with the fatty tissue, and also shows you the effect of having the tissues in the melted paraffin too long. Just a tip Julie On Wed, Feb 18, 2009 at 8:25 AM, Shelly Christenson < Christen@vet.k-state.edu> wrote: > We also don't keep melted paraffin in the holding chamber of the embedding > center. We keep the chamber just a little warmer than the melting point of > the paraffin, been doing it this way for as long as I have been working here > at the Veterinary diagnostic lab at KSU ( around 20 yrs). I also don't like > the tissue to be left to long in hot paraffin and I still find that certain > samples are still brittle, I know that processing schedule and size of > sample has a lot to do with it, but we have only one processor and have to > run all of our samples on the same program, so we soak the blocks a little > longer on the ice. > > Shelly Christenson HT (ASCP) > Veterinary Diagnostic Lab > Kansas State University > > >>> Tracy Bergeron 2/17/2009 3:14 PM >>> > Hi all question/dilemma of the day. > > I have been of the view that the longer tissue sat in melted > paraffin the harder it got, especially animal tissue. So with that said, > for the past nearly 10 years I have not used melted paraffin in the > holding chamber of the embedding center. I just keep the chamber warm, > and work that way. Thus keeping the tissue from continuing to cook and > harden in the wax. > > Everyone else I am currently working with has never seen the > method I use, and firmly believe that this causes harm to the tissues if > they are not in paraffin. > > Thoughts ideas etc. I am dying to know if I am the only one that > worries about length of time that animal tissue sits in paraffin. > > Thanks. > > Sincerely, > Tracy E. Bergeron, B.S., HT, HTL (ASCP) > Associate Scientist III, Pathology > Comparative Pathology Laboratory > Biogen Idec > 14 Cambridge Center > Cambridge, MA 02142 > Direct: 617-914-1115 > Fax: 617-679-3208 > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > -- Julie Trejo, HT(ASCP)cm Saint Louis University Department of Dermatology 314-256-3413 From igor.deyneko <@t> gmail.com Wed Feb 18 09:01:09 2009 From: igor.deyneko <@t> gmail.com (Igor Deyneko) Date: Wed Feb 18 09:01:13 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Anatomy & Physiology Message-ID: <35e16a770902180701y3e65455esd770eb2ae371c6f9@mail.gmail.com> Hello Everyone! I was wondering if anyone can advise a good book on Mouse and/or Rat anatomy and physiology and also the histology atlas. I looked on-line did not find anything credible. Also, can anyone advise a good HUMAN Anatomy & Physiology Book(s). Tank you in advance. PS. If it's not too hard, pleas include the title, author(s) , and ISBN. Igor Deyneko. Infinity Pharmaceuticals. From gu.lang <@t> gmx.at Wed Feb 18 09:03:33 2009 From: gu.lang <@t> gmx.at (Gudrun Lang) Date: Wed Feb 18 09:03:41 2009 Subject: AW: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: We never had paraffin in the holding chamber. Until now there have no negativ effects occurred. Gudrun Lang -----Urspr?ngliche Nachricht----- Von: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] Im Auftrag von Tracy Bergeron Gesendet: Dienstag, 17. Februar 2009 22:15 An: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Betreff: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding Hi all question/dilemma of the day. I have been of the view that the longer tissue sat in melted paraffin the harder it got, especially animal tissue. So with that said, for the past nearly 10 years I have not used melted paraffin in the holding chamber of the embedding center. I just keep the chamber warm, and work that way. Thus keeping the tissue from continuing to cook and harden in the wax. Everyone else I am currently working with has never seen the method I use, and firmly believe that this causes harm to the tissues if they are not in paraffin. Thoughts ideas etc. I am dying to know if I am the only one that worries about length of time that animal tissue sits in paraffin. Thanks. Sincerely, Tracy E. Bergeron, B.S., HT, HTL (ASCP) Associate Scientist III, Pathology Comparative Pathology Laboratory Biogen Idec 14 Cambridge Center Cambridge, MA 02142 Direct: 617-914-1115 Fax: 617-679-3208 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu Wed Feb 18 09:29:28 2009 From: b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu (Bernice Frederick) Date: Wed Feb 18 09:29:41 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <234544.27920.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Good one Ren?!!!!!! Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 8:42 AM To: 'Histonet'; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Barry: I would not use an enema because you know what comes out when you put an enema in! Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/17/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "'Histonet'" Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2009, 5:16 PM I think that the entire system needs a good enema. Ever since I started work in a lab in 1957, salaries have been poor and not kept up with cost of living or reflected the skill of many of the histotechs. I feel that one of the major problems is that we have several categories of histotechs. Certified (I mean that in the nicest sense of the word!). Certified and also highly skilled. Skilled via on the job training. Robotic technicians. Until a system is put into place that requires all histotechs to be certified, or in training along a specific career pathway then things will never change. Along with this must be a system that requires employers to have well defined career paths for all their histotechs. This must include training outside of the routine work that they need to do in their specific laboratory. I must agree that getting rid of the practical part of the examination was how can I put this delicately ... imbecilic. The workplace needs to get back to being less of a bottom line factory in which careers of the employees is often not a consideration to a place where career paths are an integral part of the employment. The optimal environment is one where there is a two way street where both employer and employee benefit. While money is a consideration, it is not the only reason that individuals continue to work in a specific lab. Barry -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > ? > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to > use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > ? > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > ? > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > ? > ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ > ? > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > ? > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows > total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From MadaryJ <@t> MedImmune.com Wed Feb 18 09:42:52 2009 From: MadaryJ <@t> MedImmune.com (Madary, Joseph) Date: Wed Feb 18 09:43:18 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histology Position in DC/MD area Message-ID: If you are interested in applying for this position, please do so online using the Medimmune Website. You maybe also deal directly with me at madaryj@medimmune.com. if you have any specific questons. You have to apply online to be considered for this position. We really are looking for top candidates, nothing entry-level. Good Luck! Also there is NO RELOCATION for this position. Major Duties and Responsibilities Full service EXPERT Histology Technician including necropsy on small rodents, processing, embedding, microtomy, cryotomy,routine, special and IHC staining of human and animal samples preparing microscopic slides from tissue samples for evaluation by a pathologist at Medimmune, part of Astra Zeneca. Requirements/Qualifications: Education: HT(ASCP), HTL(ASCP), QIHC(ASCP) or BS degree in science or related field. Experience: 10-20 years in a fully functioning research, pharma or hospital histology lab, preferably on the bench with sufficient administrative skills to supplement bench work. Special Skills/Abilities: Full tissue necropsy on rodents, trimming of animal tissues, programming and maintenance skills on various automated histology equipment to include tissue processors, microtomes, cryostats, stainers, embedders, coverslippers, ph meters, scales, pipetters, labelers. Expertise at embedding, microtomy, cryotomy, routine/special/IHC staining, reagent preparation, logistics, and superior trouble shooting skills. Should be able to cover most procedures manually in case of automated shut down. Job Complexity: Intermediate- some who is on the bench working as a tech now in all areas listed above is who we are looking to hire. Nick Madary, HT/HTL(ASCP)QIHC Histology Mgr, Medimmune 301.398.6360(lab), 4745(vm),9745(fax) "To the extent this electronic communication or any of its attachments contain information that is not in the public domain, such information is considered by MedImmune to be confidential and proprietary, and expected to be used only by the individual(s) for whom it is intended. If you have received this electronic communication in error, please reply to the sender advising of the error in transmission and delete the original message and any accompanying documents from your system immediately, without copying, reviewing or otherwise using them for any purpose. Thank you for your cooperation." To the extent this electronic communication or any of its attachments contain information that is not in the public domain, such information is considered by MedImmune to be confidential and proprietary. This communication is expected to be read and/or used only by the individual(s) for whom it is intended. If you have received this electronic communication in error, please reply to the sender advising of the error in transmission and delete the original message and any accompanying documents from your system immediately, without copying, reviewing or otherwise using them for any purpose. Thank you for your cooperation. From jennifer.l.hofecker <@t> Vanderbilt.Edu Wed Feb 18 09:47:42 2009 From: jennifer.l.hofecker <@t> Vanderbilt.Edu (Hofecker, Jennifer L) Date: Wed Feb 18 09:47:46 2009 Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding In-Reply-To: <349326.87972.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: <349326.87972.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <5F3F860CFE0F4741B1D87A88A58FAE9A0B56B6@mailbe01.mc.vanderbilt.edu> I was starting to feel all alone in the world, Rene'! First, let me say that animal tissue always seems a littler "drier" to me and I typically do work with human (neuro) tissue these days. I've never had a problem leaving cassettes in molten wax, as long as the processing was adequate and the temperature is correct. I have also worked without submerging in liquid paraffin and there are a few problems I've encountered. We use a lot of Histogel in our lab. If you embed those blocks without submerging them in wax they Histogel will likely pop right out of the paraffin when you attempt to section it. Another similar problem occurred when tissues had "cooled" a little in the holding chamber and were not re-warmed adequately before the block was embedded. The tissue was white and surrounded by a "circle" and when you tried to cut it, the "circle" and the tissue came out too. Of course, those of us who have embedded without submersion (we call that "dry" embedding here) know to be sure the tissue has the appropriate appearance in the molten paraffin (in the mold.) In my opinion, either way is acceptable but like everything else we do, it requires training and education for us to know potential pitfalls. Have a great rest of the week! Jennifer L. Hofecker HT(ASCP) Vanderbilt University Medical Center Division of Neuropathology Nashville, TN ph 615.343.0083 fax 615.343.7089 -----Original Message----- From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 8:40 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Tracy Bergeron Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding Tracy: Let me try?to dispel some misconceptions: 1- the tissues do not cook if are?left in melted paraffin as long as the paraffin is in just its melting point. 2- the tissue are already infiltrated with the paraffin, so there is no additional infiltration to occur 3- the tissues are already dehydrated when they get to the paraffin so they will not "dry out" (they are already dried) 4- the only way there could be some difficulty sectioning later is if the tissues are left a very long time in melted paraffin, like over the weekend. Otherwise there is no real adverse effect caused by leaving the tissues in melted paraffin during the short time that it takes to embed them, in the same way that if the tissue processor ends the cycle at a given moment and the embedding starts a few hours after that. I personally consider more problematic leaving the tissues outside the melted paraffin in a warm empty embedding center because there will always be a film of semisolid paraffin surrounding the tissue that will have to melted when the block is casted, and that is what can cause problems. I know it will very difficult for you to change what it seems you have been doing for years, but I would advise you to fill the holding tank of the embedding center with melted paraffin and place there the tissues until the blocks are done. Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/17/09, Tracy Bergeron wrote: From: Tracy Bergeron Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2009, 4:14 PM Hi all question/dilemma of the day. I have been of the view that the longer tissue sat in melted paraffin the harder it got, especially animal tissue. So with that said, for the past nearly 10 years I have not used melted paraffin in the holding chamber of the embedding center. I just keep the chamber warm, and work that way. Thus keeping the tissue from continuing to cook and harden in the wax. Everyone else I am currently working with has never seen the method I use, and firmly believe that this causes harm to the tissues if they are not in paraffin. Thoughts ideas etc. I am dying to know if I am the only one that worries about length of time that animal tissue sits in paraffin. Thanks. Sincerely, Tracy E. Bergeron, B.S., HT, HTL (ASCP) Associate Scientist III, Pathology Comparative Pathology Laboratory Biogen Idec 14 Cambridge Center Cambridge, MA 02142 Direct: 617-914-1115 Fax: 617-679-3208 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From JWeems <@t> sjha.org Wed Feb 18 09:51:04 2009 From: JWeems <@t> sjha.org (Weems, Joyce) Date: Wed Feb 18 09:51:19 2009 Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA53225F8@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> I used paraffin in the embedding side forever until just a few years ago when I "became enlightened". It really is unnecessary. To me, the mess it saves is worth not having it! J Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax -----Urspr?ngliche Nachricht----- Von: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] Im Auftrag von Tracy Bergeron Gesendet: Dienstag, 17. Februar 2009 22:15 An: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Betreff: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding Hi all question/dilemma of the day. I have been of the view that the longer tissue sat in melted paraffin the harder it got, especially animal tissue. So with that said, for the past nearly 10 years I have not used melted paraffin in the holding chamber of the embedding center. I just keep the chamber warm, and work that way. Thus keeping the tissue from continuing to cook and harden in the wax. Everyone else I am currently working with has never seen the method I use, and firmly believe that this causes harm to the tissues if they are not in paraffin. Thoughts ideas etc. I am dying to know if I am the only one that worries about length of time that animal tissue sits in paraffin. Thanks. Sincerely, Tracy E. Bergeron, B.S., HT, HTL (ASCP) Associate Scientist III, Pathology Comparative Pathology Laboratory Biogen Idec 14 Cambridge Center Cambridge, MA 02142 Direct: 617-914-1115 Fax: 617-679-3208 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. From ratliffjack <@t> hotmail.com Wed Feb 18 09:55:51 2009 From: ratliffjack <@t> hotmail.com (Jack Ratliff) Date: Wed Feb 18 09:55:54 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sanderson's Rapid Bone Stain In-Reply-To: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A2855101@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> References: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A2855101@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> Message-ID: Suzanne, I use this stain two ways routinely for "thick" or "ground" sections (35-50 microns) embedded in MMA & DBP. You can stain with SRBS alone @ RT for 3-5 minutes after a brief acid etch in 0.7% FA for 30 sec (rinse in DI water and blot dry) or combine it with a Van Gieson picrofuchsin counterstain for 1-2 minutes (rinse in 100% EtOH and blot dry) after staining first in SRBS @ 60C for 10 minutes (rinse in DI water @ 60C and blot dry). I have never used or needed to use SRBS on "thin" plastic sections because I routinely use MacNeals tetrachrome combined with Von Kossa and a Modified Goldner's to obtain all my bone related information. With that said, I have also never used this stain on paraffin sections and would be interested in the results if you try it. Jack Ratliff > Date: Wed, 18 Feb 2009 07:29:39 -0500 > From: sbruce@vetpathservicesinc.com > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] Sanderson's Rapid Bone Stain > > We are planning on trying this stain on our plastics. Has anyone tried it on paraffin slides? If so, what were the results? > > Thanks in advance for any help. > Suzanne > > _______________________________ > Suzanne Bruce, R.V.T. > Histologist / Necropsy Coordinator > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From NLinke <@t> mednet.ucla.edu Wed Feb 18 09:59:04 2009 From: NLinke <@t> mednet.ucla.edu (Linke, Noelle) Date: Wed Feb 18 09:59:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] 2 histology positions at UCLA Message-ID: <0C96F0BFE078D74C91A1C541D24A6AE43D28B64E@EMGMB1.ad.medctr.ucla.edu> Hi all, We currently have 2 positions available here at UCLA. The first is a histotech I position, a 50/50 clinical/research position working with us in the clinical lab as well as in the lab of one of our urologic pathology faculty (a great guy I might add). While not a requirement, if you have experience in whole mount prostate and/or manual IHC, FISH etc that would be wonderful! The second position is for a laboratory assistant/tech. This position involves staining, coverslipping, sending out slides, maintaining equipment, running the Ventana special stainers, answering phones etc. Please feel free to contact me or check out our website http://www.ucla.edu/employment.html . The histotech I position is currently listed, the lab assistant position has not been officially posted as of today but will be shortly. Thank you! Noelle No?lle Linke M.S., HTL(ASCP)QIHC Manager, Histology Services Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA 10833 Le Conte Ave A3-172 Los Angeles, CA 90095 Phone: 310-825-7397 Pager: 97471 nlinke@mednet.ucla.edu ________________________________ IMPORTANT WARNING: This email (and any attachments) is only intended for the use of the person or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged and confidential. You, the recipient, are obligated to maintain it in a safe, secure and confidential manner. Unauthorized redisclosure or failure to maintain confidentiality may subject you to federal and state penalties. If you are not the intended recipient, please immediately notify us by return email, and delete this message from your computer. From froyer <@t> bitstream.net Wed Feb 18 10:01:12 2009 From: froyer <@t> bitstream.net (Ford Royer) Date: Wed Feb 18 10:01:29 2009 Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding In-Reply-To: <349326.87972.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: <349326.87972.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <5731B58C2D3949FAA038418B080134BE@Ford> For those who know me, you know that I?ve been out of the lab for decades, but this is a topic that I don?t think has changed since I left the lab. We always kept the tissues in a paraffin bath while embedding. Never had a problem with them getting hard or brittle from this stage of the process. If we did get hard/brittle tissue blocks it was because we were leaving them too long in the ?bridge? stage (i.e. Xylene between the last alcohol and first paraffin) during processing. Ford M. Royer, MT(ASCP) Minnesota Medical, Inc. 7177 Madison Ave. W. Golden Valley, MN -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 8:40 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Tracy Bergeron Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding Tracy: Let me try?to dispel some misconceptions: 1- the tissues do not cook if are?left in melted paraffin as long as the paraffin is in just its melting point. 2- the tissue are already infiltrated with the paraffin, so there is no additional infiltration to occur 3- the tissues are already dehydrated when they get to the paraffin so they will not "dry out" (they are already dried) 4- the only way there could be some difficulty sectioning later is if the tissues are left a very long time in melted paraffin, like over the weekend. Otherwise there is no real adverse effect caused by leaving the tissues in melted paraffin during the short time that it takes to embed them, in the same way that if the tissue processor ends the cycle at a given moment and the embedding starts a few hours after that. I personally consider more problematic leaving the tissues outside the melted paraffin in a warm empty embedding center because there will always be a film of semisolid paraffin surrounding the tissue that will have to melted when the block is casted, and that is what can cause problems. I know it will very difficult for you to change what it seems you have been doing for years, but I would advise you to fill the holding tank of the embedding center with melted paraffin and place there the tissues until the blocks are done. Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/17/09, Tracy Bergeron wrote: From: Tracy Bergeron Subject: [Histonet] question of the day - embedding To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2009, 4:14 PM Hi all question/dilemma of the day. I have been of the view that the longer tissue sat in melted paraffin the harder it got, especially animal tissue. So with that said, for the past nearly 10 years I have not used melted paraffin in the holding chamber of the embedding center. I just keep the chamber warm, and work that way. Thus keeping the tissue from continuing to cook and harden in the wax. Everyone else I am currently working with has never seen the method I use, and firmly believe that this causes harm to the tissues if they are not in paraffin. Thoughts ideas etc. I am dying to know if I am the only one that worries about length of time that animal tissue sits in paraffin. Thanks. Sincerely, Tracy E. Bergeron, B.S., HT, HTL (ASCP) Associate Scientist III, Pathology Comparative Pathology Laboratory Biogen Idec 14 Cambridge Center Cambridge, MA 02142 Direct: 617-914-1115 Fax: 617-679-3208 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From ratliffjack <@t> hotmail.com Wed Feb 18 10:11:43 2009 From: ratliffjack <@t> hotmail.com (Jack Ratliff) Date: Wed Feb 18 10:11:47 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Staining racks In-Reply-To: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A2855100@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> References: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A2855100@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> Message-ID: Suzanne, I routinely use the 2x3 glass slides for "thin" sectioning on a sledge microtome and then the 2x4 plastic slides for the "ground" sectioning. Brain Research Labs makes a 4 inch slide rack that works perfectly for the 2x4 plastic slides! It is a stainless steel rack (item #3004) that holds 25-30 slides and costs $69.50 each. Jack Ratliff > Date: Wed, 18 Feb 2009 07:16:00 -0500 > From: sbruce@vetpathservicesinc.com > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] Staining racks > > > Hello, I work in plastics using Technovit 7200. We use plastic slides measuring 2x4cm. Does anyone else use slides this large and if so, what do you use as a staining rack or slide holder? They are too big to fit in the oversized glass slide racks. > > Thanks in advance for any help you can give me. > Suzanne > _______________________________ > Suzanne Bruce, R.V.T. > Histologist / Necropsy Coordinator > Vet Path Services, Inc. (VPS) > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu Wed Feb 18 10:26:25 2009 From: b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu (Bernice Frederick) Date: Wed Feb 18 10:26:34 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Triple stain problem- antigen retreival conflict Message-ID: Hi all, I need some suggestion here. A researcher has requested a triple stain on mouse tissue. We know the antibodies will cross react but the issue is this: Our protocols (worked up and pathologist approved) are such that we have a conflict of antigen retrieval. CD31 : proteinase K (rat ant-mouse) MAC-3: Ph9 (rat anti- mouse) Insulin: none ( guinea pig anti -swine) Any help will be appreciated!! Thanks, Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 From petuma <@t> mmm.com Wed Feb 18 10:27:42 2009 From: petuma <@t> mmm.com (petuma@mmm.com) Date: Wed Feb 18 10:27:36 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histobath Fluids Message-ID: I have noted postings by Bob Richmond and others concerning nonflammable alternatives to hydrocarbon bath fluids for Histobaths. I work as a heat transfer Application Engineer in the division of 3M that manufactures the Novec line of fluids including the HFE-7100 that has been mentioned. I do not want my posting to be too commercial but it is true that this fluid and others of similar chemistry functions quite well in these applications and have also been used in tissue preservation applications. I am happy to provide more information off-line to any interested parties. Please do not hesitate to contact me at petuma@mmm.com. Phil E. Tuma 3M Electronics Markets Materials Division 3M Center 236-2B-01 St. Paul, MN 55144 Tel: 651/737-9895 Fax: 651-736-4639 Mobile: 651-331-9927 From SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu Wed Feb 18 10:34:23 2009 From: SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu (Swain, Frances L) Date: Wed Feb 18 10:34:54 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Triple stain problem- antigen retreival conflict In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E3802AD1F44B6@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Dr. Chris Van der Loos has a wonderful textbook out that addresses these issues. You can either buy the book or contact Dr. Van der Loos via the histonet. He usually monitors this website. He has some excellent protocols which work really nicely. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Bernice Frederick Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 10:26 AM To: 'Histonet' Subject: [Histonet] Triple stain problem- antigen retreival conflict Hi all, I need some suggestion here. A researcher has requested a triple stain on mouse tissue. We know the antibodies will cross react but the issue is this: Our protocols (worked up and pathologist approved) are such that we have a conflict of antigen retrieval. CD31 : proteinase K (rat ant-mouse) MAC-3: Ph9 (rat anti- mouse) Insulin: none ( guinea pig anti -swine) Any help will be appreciated!! Thanks, Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. From Barry.R.Rittman <@t> uth.tmc.edu Wed Feb 18 10:35:56 2009 From: Barry.R.Rittman <@t> uth.tmc.edu (Rittman, Barry R) Date: Wed Feb 18 10:36:51 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: References: <234544.27920.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com>, Message-ID: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB12@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> True but unfortunately whatever hits the fan is not evenly distributed Barry ________________________________________ From: Bernice Frederick [b-frederick@northwestern.edu] Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 9:29 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; 'Histonet'; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Good one Ren?!!!!!! Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 8:42 AM To: 'Histonet'; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Barry: I would not use an enema because you know what comes out when you put an enema in! Ren? J. --- On Tue, 2/17/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: "'Histonet'" Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2009, 5:16 PM I think that the entire system needs a good enema. Ever since I started work in a lab in 1957, salaries have been poor and not kept up with cost of living or reflected the skill of many of the histotechs. I feel that one of the major problems is that we have several categories of histotechs. Certified (I mean that in the nicest sense of the word!). Certified and also highly skilled. Skilled via on the job training. Robotic technicians. Until a system is put into place that requires all histotechs to be certified, or in training along a specific career pathway then things will never change. Along with this must be a system that requires employers to have well defined career paths for all their histotechs. This must include training outside of the routine work that they need to do in their specific laboratory. I must agree that getting rid of the practical part of the examination was how can I put this delicately ... imbecilic. The workplace needs to get back to being less of a bottom line factory in which careers of the employees is often not a consideration to a place where career paths are an integral part of the employment. The optimal environment is one where there is a two way street where both employer and employee benefit. While money is a consideration, it is not the only reason that individuals continue to work in a specific lab. Barry -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained allowing the applicant to > use his/her credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear ~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > > ~Don't let your life end before it begins~ > > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows > total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From cmiller <@t> physlab.com Wed Feb 18 11:05:17 2009 From: cmiller <@t> physlab.com (Cheri Miller) Date: Wed Feb 18 11:04:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: References: <000601c99130$185aa060$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: <001601c991eb$12ed1840$4402a8c0@plab.local> Judy, Judy, You are exactly on the right track! I remember when I was training I worked with several techs. many shared their expertise, tricks and the little nuances we all have to make that tissue cut better or the stain to 'pop' They made me do the troubleshooting with gentle prodding, quizzing me along the way and making me use the knowledge they gave me to find the answers. I'm the tech I am today because of these gracious ladies. I also worked with a few who would not share. We all know techs like this. The one's that view knowledge as power and job security and they don?t get the "team" mentality. I never withhold information; actually I try and share with my OJT people everything I can to make them better techs. I currently use the Histo-QIP program through CAP to have an independent source view and grade their work; we then use it as part of our QA program. They will eventually take the exam. It is up to us to share and teach. Again my opinion, take it for what its worth. Cheryl Miller HT (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Physicians Laboratory,P.C. Omaha, Ne. 402 738 5052 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won?t even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > ? > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to > use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > ? > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > ? > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > ? > ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ > ? > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > ? > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows > total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet PRIVILEGED / CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION may be contained in this message. If you are not the addressee intended / indicated or agent responsible for delivering it to the addressee, you are hereby notified that you are in possession of confidential and privileged information. Any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately and delete this email from your system. PRIVILEGED / CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION may be contained in this message. If you are not the addressee intended / indicated or agent responsible for delivering it to the addressee, you are hereby notified that you are in possession of confidential and privileged information. Any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately and delete this email from your system. From PMonfils <@t> Lifespan.org Wed Feb 18 11:49:19 2009 From: PMonfils <@t> Lifespan.org (Monfils, Paul) Date: Wed Feb 18 11:49:27 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Half-catalysed PMMA? Message-ID: <4EBFF65383B74D49995298C4976D1D5E03835C97@LSRIEXCH1.lsmaster.lifespan.org> The PMMA embedding protocol we have followed for years calls for infiltration with uncatalysed monomer, then half catalysed monomer, then fully catalysed monomer. I am wondering if others do something similar. Specifically, is the intermediate step with half-catalysed monomer really necessary? From akbitting <@t> geisinger.edu Wed Feb 18 12:25:37 2009 From: akbitting <@t> geisinger.edu (Angela Bitting) Date: Wed Feb 18 12:25:51 2009 Subject: [Histonet] on-line Histology programs Message-ID: <499C0C51.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> I have a Lab assistant who would like to become an HT. She is interested in OJTing here with us and taking the required classes on-line so that she can sit for her HT exam. Can anyone recommend a good program for her? Thanks, Angie Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. -------------- next part -------------- BEGIN:VCARD VERSION:2.1 X-GWTYPE:USER FN:Bitting, Angela TEL;WORK:570-271-6844 ORG:;Histology EMAIL;WORK;PREF;NGW:AKBITTING@geisinger.edu N:Bitting;Angela END:VCARD From akbitting <@t> geisinger.edu Wed Feb 18 12:35:17 2009 From: akbitting <@t> geisinger.edu (Angela Bitting) Date: Wed Feb 18 12:35:41 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Pathos/ Milestone products Message-ID: <499C0E95.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> Does anyone have experiences with Milestone equipment, specifically the new KOS and Pathos Delta? Would you share your comments, pros and cons with me? Feel free to call me on the phone if you don't feel like typing a novel. Thanks. Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. -------------- next part -------------- BEGIN:VCARD VERSION:2.1 X-GWTYPE:USER FN:Bitting, Angela TEL;WORK:570-271-6844 ORG:;Histology EMAIL;WORK;PREF;NGW:AKBITTING@geisinger.edu N:Bitting;Angela END:VCARD From kalschev <@t> svm.vetmed.wisc.edu Wed Feb 18 13:37:11 2009 From: kalschev <@t> svm.vetmed.wisc.edu (Vicki Kalscheur) Date: Wed Feb 18 13:37:46 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Suzanne - Sanderson's Stain Message-ID: <005301c99200$4b5cfb90$c5d76880@vetmed.wisc.edu> Suzanne: I no longer use Sanderson's, however we did have nice results on plastic embedded sections, in conjuction with other calcified stains. Use caution in over-staining. I do not recall ever reading about usage on paraffin. The Villanueva Osteochrome bone stain can also be used on calcified - we used it with fluoro labels, and then viewed using confocal microscopy with beautiful architecture and active new bone formation. Vicki K From BMolinari <@t> heart.thi.tmc.edu Wed Feb 18 13:47:10 2009 From: BMolinari <@t> heart.thi.tmc.edu (Molinari, Betsy) Date: Wed Feb 18 13:47:14 2009 Subject: FW: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Message-ID: -----Original Message----- From: Molinari, Betsy Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 12:54 PM To: 'Bernice Frederick' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I don't like the generality of this statement. I work in a research lab and my "stuff" is not crap. The people that I work with do not produce crap, HT or no HT. I find research more challenging in fact than clinical. Everyday I get animal specimens of all types in various fixatives. Some have device implants of various materials and some are looking for cellular changes. Everything must be of photographic quality. I take great pride in my work and other techs in my department. At times I do receive samples that have been "abused" by the doctor or research fellow but that is not my labs' fault and we will speak to the researcher about future handling of their samples. Maybe I misunderstood and am reacting too strongly to you statement, but I get tired of some thinking that research histo techs are second class citizens. Betsy Molinari HT (ASCP) Texas Heart Institute Cardiovascular Pathology 6770 Bertner Ave Houston, TX 77030 832-355-6524 832-355-6812 (fax) -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Bernice Frederick Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 7:33 AM To: 'JoeNocito'; 'Rittman, Barry R'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology And another note- research labs think they can train anyone to do histology (trust me on this) and then can't figure out why their stuff is crap and then try to tell us how to do our job. This just happened and it wasn't the processing (we did it) but the quality of the sample submitted! As we are classified at NU as Sr. Research techs, we have to really fight the U for salary and we are only in the middle of the scale, but we are in a very relaxed atmosphere. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JoeNocito Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 6:39 PM To: 'Rittman, Barry R'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Don't hold back Barry, tell us what you really think JTT -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rittman, Barry R Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 4:16 PM To: 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I think that the entire system needs a good enema. Ever since I started work in a lab in 1957, salaries have been poor and not kept up with cost of living or reflected the skill of many of the histotechs. I feel that one of the major problems is that we have several categories of histotechs. Certified (I mean that in the nicest sense of the word!). Certified and also highly skilled. Skilled via on the job training. Robotic technicians. Until a system is put into place that requires all histotechs to be certified, or in training along a specific career pathway then things will never change. Along with this must be a system that requires employers to have well defined career paths for all their histotechs. This must include training outside of the routine work that they need to do in their specific laboratory. I must agree that getting rid of the practical part of the examination was how can I put this delicately ... imbecilic. The workplace needs to get back to being less of a bottom line factory in which careers of the employees is often not a consideration to a place where career paths are an integral part of the employment. The optimal environment is one where there is a two way street where both employer and employee benefit. While money is a consideration, it is not the only reason that individuals continue to work in a specific lab. Barry -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > ? > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to > use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > ? > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > ? > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > ? > ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ > ? > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > ? > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows > total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From leiker <@t> buffalo.edu Wed Feb 18 13:54:10 2009 From: leiker <@t> buffalo.edu (Merced Leiker) Date: Wed Feb 18 13:54:18 2009 Subject: [Histonet] looking for CD45 antibody In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <7ADC86C3F97C02320CAAF183@bchwxp2702.ad.med.buffalo.edu> (I'm going to try asking this again, as I only got 1 response and it wasn't what I was looking for. Thank you!) > Hello Histonetters, > > I am looking for a good CD45 (LCA) antibody for use in paraffin > immunofluorescence (or ANY application at this point) that is of a NON-mouse isotype (that is, it was raised in goat, rabbit, rat, or other species) > > > Can anyone refer one? > > Thank you! > > Merced M Leiker > Research Technician II > 354 BRB (pkgs) / 140 Farber Hall (letters) > School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences > State University of New York at Buffalo > 3435 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14214 > Ph: (716) 829-6033 > Fx: (716) 829-2725 > > "Without my flaws I'm really very boring." > - random internet blog commentator > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > From MMargiotta <@t> bmhmc.org Wed Feb 18 13:57:37 2009 From: MMargiotta <@t> bmhmc.org (Margiotta, Michele) Date: Wed Feb 18 13:57:42 2009 Subject: [Histonet] processing problem with fatty specimens Message-ID: Hi All, My Pathologist showed me several slides from the past few weeks that have a strange appearance in the fatty areas. The fat cells are squished together and don't have the open areas they usually have. Any ideas as to what is happening? And we haven't changed our processing schedule. Thanks! Michele Margiotta BMHMC Histology Supervisor 631-654-7192 DISCLAIMER: This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to which they are addressed. This communication may contain material protected by the attorney-client privilege. If you are not the intended recipient or the person responsible for delivering the e-mail to the intended recipient, be advised that you have received this e-mail in error and that any use, dissemination, forwarding, printing, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the sender via return e-mail or call Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center at (631) 654-7282. From BMolinari <@t> heart.thi.tmc.edu Wed Feb 18 13:58:49 2009 From: BMolinari <@t> heart.thi.tmc.edu (Molinari, Betsy) Date: Wed Feb 18 13:58:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <042795A0B0AD4CA9BA31B7F81DD334A1@lurie.northwestern.edu> Message-ID: Thanks for the clarification Bernice! -----Original Message----- From: Bernice Frederick [mailto:b-frederick@northwestern.edu] Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 1:31 PM To: Molinari, Betsy Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Betsy I was referring to those researchers that bring the crap (non-techs trying to do the histo). Not what we do. I do feel we are second class citizens because it is felt that "anyone" can do histo. They read a procedure in a paper and think we can do magic or, my favorite, give us IHC conditions that are done by hand and we do it on the autostainer. Sorry if you took it the wrong way. I was not picking on histotechs, but the non-knowledgable researcher that think they are histotechs and know more about it because the might have a PhD. I could get really started on that. I had to explain to someone the difference between a cross, longitudinal and tangential section and this person was supposed to have a science background! Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: Molinari, Betsy [mailto:BMolinari@heart.thi.tmc.edu] Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 12:54 PM To: Bernice Frederick Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I don't like the generality of this statement. I work in a research lab and my "stuff" is not crap. The people that I work with do not produce crap, HT or no HT. I find research more challenging in fact than clinical. Everyday I get animal specimens of all types in various fixatives. Some have device implants of various materials and some are looking for cellular changes. Everything must be of photographic quality. I take great pride in my work and other techs in my department. At times I do receive samples that have been "abused" by the doctor or research fellow but that is not my labs' fault and we will speak to the researcher about future handling of their samples. Maybe I misunderstood and am reacting too strongly to you statement, but I get tired of some thinking that research histo techs are second class citizens. Betsy Molinari HT (ASCP) Texas Heart Institute Cardiovascular Pathology 6770 Bertner Ave Houston, TX 77030 832-355-6524 832-355-6812 (fax) -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Bernice Frederick Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 7:33 AM To: 'JoeNocito'; 'Rittman, Barry R'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology And another note- research labs think they can train anyone to do histology (trust me on this) and then can't figure out why their stuff is crap and then try to tell us how to do our job. This just happened and it wasn't the processing (we did it) but the quality of the sample submitted! As we are classified at NU as Sr. Research techs, we have to really fight the U for salary and we are only in the middle of the scale, but we are in a very relaxed atmosphere. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JoeNocito Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 6:39 PM To: 'Rittman, Barry R'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Don't hold back Barry, tell us what you really think JTT -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rittman, Barry R Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 4:16 PM To: 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I think that the entire system needs a good enema. Ever since I started work in a lab in 1957, salaries have been poor and not kept up with cost of living or reflected the skill of many of the histotechs. I feel that one of the major problems is that we have several categories of histotechs. Certified (I mean that in the nicest sense of the word!). Certified and also highly skilled. Skilled via on the job training. Robotic technicians. Until a system is put into place that requires all histotechs to be certified, or in training along a specific career pathway then things will never change. Along with this must be a system that requires employers to have well defined career paths for all their histotechs. This must include training outside of the routine work that they need to do in their specific laboratory. I must agree that getting rid of the practical part of the examination was how can I put this delicately ... imbecilic. The workplace needs to get back to being less of a bottom line factory in which careers of the employees is often not a consideration to a place where career paths are an integral part of the employment. The optimal environment is one where there is a two way street where both employer and employee benefit. While money is a consideration, it is not the only reason that individuals continue to work in a specific lab. Barry -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > ? > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to > use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > ? > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > ? > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > ? > ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ > ? > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > ? > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows > total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From carmen.brown <@t> pds.usask.ca Wed Feb 18 14:31:33 2009 From: carmen.brown <@t> pds.usask.ca (Carmen Brown) Date: Wed Feb 18 14:31:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Please unsubscribe - Thanks - lab closed down - 10 jobs lost!! Message-ID: <1940037.1234989093346.JavaMail.clb408@mail.usask.ca> From Janet.Bonner <@t> FLHOSP.ORG Wed Feb 18 14:48:34 2009 From: Janet.Bonner <@t> FLHOSP.ORG (Bonner, Janet) Date: Wed Feb 18 14:49:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology References: <000601c99130$185aa060$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC000138465B80@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> <003601c99161$499fe280$dcdfa780$@rr.com> Message-ID: <5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F2905@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET> Well, there's the Pot calling the Kettle black!!!! Janet ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of JoeNocito Sent: Tue 2/17/2009 7:38 PM To: 'Rittman, Barry R'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Don't hold back Barry, tell us what you really think JTT -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rittman, Barry R Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 4:16 PM To: 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I think that the entire system needs a good enema. Ever since I started work in a lab in 1957, salaries have been poor and not kept up with cost of living or reflected the skill of many of the histotechs. I feel that one of the major problems is that we have several categories of histotechs. Certified (I mean that in the nicest sense of the word!). Certified and also highly skilled. Skilled via on the job training. Robotic technicians. Until a system is put into place that requires all histotechs to be certified, or in training along a specific career pathway then things will never change. Along with this must be a system that requires employers to have well defined career paths for all their histotechs. This must include training outside of the routine work that they need to do in their specific laboratory. I must agree that getting rid of the practical part of the examination was how can I put this delicately ... imbecilic. The workplace needs to get back to being less of a bottom line factory in which careers of the employees is often not a consideration to a place where career paths are an integral part of the employment. The optimal environment is one where there is a two way street where both employer and employee benefit. While money is a consideration, it is not the only reason that individuals continue to work in a specific lab. Barry -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained allowing the applicant to > use his/her credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear ~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > > ~Don't let your life end before it begins~ > > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows > total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ======================================================= The information contained in this message may be privileged and/or confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and deleting the material from any computer. ======================================================= From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 18 15:39:17 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Wed Feb 18 15:39:24 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <689993.9980.qm@web65707.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Maybe s/he had a PhD in "occult sciences"! Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/18/09, Molinari, Betsy wrote: From: Molinari, Betsy Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2009, 2:58 PM Thanks for the clarification Bernice! -----Original Message----- From: Bernice Frederick [mailto:b-frederick@northwestern.edu] Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 1:31 PM To: Molinari, Betsy Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Betsy I was referring to those researchers that bring the crap (non-techs trying to do the histo). Not what we do. I do feel we are second class citizens because it is felt that "anyone" can do histo. They read a procedure in a paper and think we can do magic or, my favorite, give us IHC conditions that are done by hand and we do it on the autostainer. Sorry if you took it the wrong way. I was not picking on histotechs, but the non-knowledgable researcher that think they are histotechs and know more about it because the might have a PhD. I could get really started on that. I had to explain to someone the difference between a cross, longitudinal and tangential section and this person was supposed to have a science background! Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: Molinari, Betsy [mailto:BMolinari@heart.thi.tmc.edu] Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 12:54 PM To: Bernice Frederick Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I don't like the generality of this statement. I work in a research lab and my "stuff" is not crap. The people that I work with do not produce crap, HT or no HT. I find research more challenging in fact than clinical. Everyday I get animal specimens of all types in various fixatives. Some have device implants of various materials and some are looking for cellular changes. Everything must be of photographic quality. I take great pride in my work and other techs in my department. At times I do receive samples that have been "abused" by the doctor or research fellow but that is not my labs' fault and we will speak to the researcher about future handling of their samples. Maybe I misunderstood and am reacting too strongly to you statement, but I get tired of some thinking that research histo techs are second class citizens. Betsy Molinari HT (ASCP) Texas Heart Institute Cardiovascular Pathology 6770 Bertner Ave Houston, TX 77030 832-355-6524 832-355-6812 (fax) -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Bernice Frederick Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 7:33 AM To: 'JoeNocito'; 'Rittman, Barry R'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology And another note- research labs think they can train anyone to do histology (trust me on this) and then can't figure out why their stuff is crap and then try to tell us how to do our job. This just happened and it wasn't the processing (we did it) but the quality of the sample submitted! As we are classified at NU as Sr. Research techs, we have to really fight the U for salary and we are only in the middle of the scale, but we are in a very relaxed atmosphere. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JoeNocito Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 6:39 PM To: 'Rittman, Barry R'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Don't hold back Barry, tell us what you really think JTT -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rittman, Barry R Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 4:16 PM To: 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I think that the entire system needs a good enema. Ever since I started work in a lab in 1957, salaries have been poor and not kept up with cost of living or reflected the skill of many of the histotechs. I feel that one of the major problems is that we have several categories of histotechs. Certified (I mean that in the nicest sense of the word!). Certified and also highly skilled. Skilled via on the job training. Robotic technicians. Until a system is put into place that requires all histotechs to be certified, or in training along a specific career pathway then things will never change. Along with this must be a system that requires employers to have well defined career paths for all their histotechs. This must include training outside of the routine work that they need to do in their specific laboratory. I must agree that getting rid of the practical part of the examination was how can I put this delicately ... imbecilic. The workplace needs to get back to being less of a bottom line factory in which careers of the employees is often not a consideration to a place where career paths are an integral part of the employment. The optimal environment is one where there is a two way street where both employer and employee benefit. While money is a consideration, it is not the only reason that individuals continue to work in a specific lab. Barry -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > ? > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained?allowing the applicant to > use?his/her?credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > ? > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > ? > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear?~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > ? > ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ > ? > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for?so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license?in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at?the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > ? > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and?shows > total?disregard?for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP).? What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work?? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From sbruce <@t> vetpathservicesinc.com Wed Feb 18 15:45:46 2009 From: sbruce <@t> vetpathservicesinc.com (Suzanne Bruce) Date: Wed Feb 18 15:50:16 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sanderson's Rapid Bone stain Message-ID: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A285510A@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> Hello, I posted earlier regarding the Sanderson's Rapid Bone stain. I forgot to mention that I will be using this stain on 75-100 micron thick ground sections embedded in Technovit 7200 plastic. I am also wondering about paraffin staining using this stain. Here's one response so far: "I've used Sanderson's on plastic sections a lot in the past, works well. Recently I tried it on rat tibias, decaled, FFPE. Very disappointing. They look like Toluidine blue-- all shades of blue & nothing else. Now I just stick with von kossa and/or tetrachrome for those. Kari" Any advice is welcome. Suzanne _______________________________ Suzanne Bruce, R.V.T. Histologist / Necropsy Coordinator Vet Path Services, Inc. (VPS) 6450 Castle Dr. Mason, OH 45040 Lab: (513) 469-0777 Fax: (513) 469-2474 Email: sbruce@vetpathservicesinc.com www.vetpathservicesinc.com From ratliffjack <@t> hotmail.com Wed Feb 18 16:24:37 2009 From: ratliffjack <@t> hotmail.com (Jack Ratliff) Date: Wed Feb 18 16:24:41 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sanderson's Rapid Bone stain In-Reply-To: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A285510A@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> References: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A285510A@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> Message-ID: What is the tissue? What are your endpoints? > Date: Wed, 18 Feb 2009 16:45:46 -0500 > From: sbruce@vetpathservicesinc.com > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] Sanderson's Rapid Bone stain > > Hello, I posted earlier regarding the Sanderson's Rapid Bone stain. I forgot to mention that I will be using this stain on 75-100 micron thick ground sections embedded in Technovit 7200 plastic. > > I am also wondering about paraffin staining using this stain. > > Here's one response so far: > "I've used Sanderson's on plastic sections a lot in the past, works well. Recently I tried it on rat tibias, decaled, FFPE. Very disappointing. They look like Toluidine blue-- all shades of blue & nothing else. Now I just stick with von kossa and/or tetrachrome for those. > > Kari" > > Any advice is welcome. > Suzanne > > _______________________________ > Suzanne Bruce, R.V.T. > Histologist / Necropsy Coordinator > Vet Path Services, Inc. (VPS) > 6450 Castle Dr. > Mason, OH 45040 > Lab: (513) 469-0777 > Fax: (513) 469-2474 > Email: sbruce@vetpathservicesinc.com > www.vetpathservicesinc.com > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com Wed Feb 18 16:32:12 2009 From: jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com (JoeNocito) Date: Wed Feb 18 16:31:58 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F2905@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET> References: <000601c99130$185aa060$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC000138465B80@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> <003601c99161$499fe280$dcdfa780$@rr.com> <5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F2905@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET> Message-ID: <004801c99218$bf02ec40$3d08c4c0$@rr.com> I don't know what you mean...... -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Bonner, Janet Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 2:49 PM To: JoeNocito; Rittman, Barry R; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Well, there's the Pot calling the Kettle black!!!! Janet ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of JoeNocito Sent: Tue 2/17/2009 7:38 PM To: 'Rittman, Barry R'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Don't hold back Barry, tell us what you really think JTT -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rittman, Barry R Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 4:16 PM To: 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I think that the entire system needs a good enema. Ever since I started work in a lab in 1957, salaries have been poor and not kept up with cost of living or reflected the skill of many of the histotechs. I feel that one of the major problems is that we have several categories of histotechs. Certified (I mean that in the nicest sense of the word!). Certified and also highly skilled. Skilled via on the job training. Robotic technicians. Until a system is put into place that requires all histotechs to be certified, or in training along a specific career pathway then things will never change. Along with this must be a system that requires employers to have well defined career paths for all their histotechs. This must include training outside of the routine work that they need to do in their specific laboratory. I must agree that getting rid of the practical part of the examination was how can I put this delicately ... imbecilic. The workplace needs to get back to being less of a bottom line factory in which careers of the employees is often not a consideration to a place where career paths are an integral part of the employment. The optimal environment is one where there is a two way street where both employer and employee benefit. While money is a consideration, it is not the only reason that individuals continue to work in a specific lab. Barry -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained allowing the applicant to > use his/her credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear ~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > > ~Don't let your life end before it begins~ > > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows > total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ======================================================= The information contained in this message may be privileged and/or confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and deleting the material from any computer. ======================================================= _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From hfedor <@t> jhmi.edu Wed Feb 18 16:33:19 2009 From: hfedor <@t> jhmi.edu (Helen Fedor) Date: Wed Feb 18 16:33:25 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Pathos Processing tissue problems Message-ID: <3201CF51728F6048A24FA3AFFFEEF1D3168DE9D5F7@JHEMTEXVS3.win.ad.jhu.edu> Hello, Our Surgical Pathology Department has been using the Pathos processor. I work in research and we have begun to have issues with the tissue falling off of the slide after pretreatment for IHC. Has anyone else noticed this happening? The tissue is much harder in the block than the standard method of processing. Is this normal? Does that have anything to do with the tissue falling off the slides? Thanks in advance. Helen L. Fedor Comprehensive Tissue Services Center Manager Prostate Spore Lab Manager 600 N. Wolfe St, Marburg Room 406 Baltimore, MD 21287-7065 410-614-1664 email:hfedor@jhmi.edu From sbruce <@t> vetpathservicesinc.com Wed Feb 18 16:32:17 2009 From: sbruce <@t> vetpathservicesinc.com (Suzanne Bruce) Date: Wed Feb 18 16:35:02 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sanderson's Rapid Bone stain References: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A285510A@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> Message-ID: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A285510E@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> The tissue in plastic will be rabbit femurs I believe. We haven't started anything yet, just getting references. As to the paraffin staining, I believe that was an overall question from my director to see if she could incorporate that stain in paraffin as well as our Technovit 7200 work. ________________________________ From: Jack Ratliff [mailto:ratliffjack@hotmail.com] Sent: Wed 2/18/2009 5:24 PM To: Suzanne Bruce; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Sanderson's Rapid Bone stain What is the tissue? What are your endpoints? > Date: Wed, 18 Feb 2009 16:45:46 -0500 > From: sbruce@vetpathservicesinc.com > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] Sanderson's Rapid Bone stain > > Hello, I posted earlier regarding the Sanderson's Rapid Bone stain. I forgot to mention that I will be using this stain on 75-100 micron thick ground sections embedded in Technovit 7200 plastic. > > I am also wondering about paraffin staining using this stain. > > Here's one response so far: > "I've used Sanderson's on plastic sections a lot in the past, works well. Recently I tried it on rat tibias, decaled, FFPE. Very disappointing. They look like Toluidine blue-- all shades of blue & nothing else. Now I just stick with von kossa and/or tetrachrome for those. > > Kari" > > Any advice is welcome. > Suzanne > > _______________________________ > Suzanne Bruce, R.V.T. > Histologist / Necropsy Coordinator > Vet Path Services, Inc. (VPS) > 6450 Castle Dr. > Mason, OH 45040 > Lab: (513) 469-0777 > Fax: (513) 469-2474 > Email: sbruce@vetpathservicesinc.com > www.vetpathservicesinc.com > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From sbruce <@t> vetpathservicesinc.com Wed Feb 18 16:56:14 2009 From: sbruce <@t> vetpathservicesinc.com (Suzanne Bruce) Date: Wed Feb 18 16:56:55 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Plastics staining article Message-ID: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A2855110@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> I keep seeing references to this article, but am having trouble finding it: Staining of plastic sections: a review of problems, explanations and possible solutions. RW Horobin, J Microscopy 131(2):173-186, 1983 Could someone point me in the right direction? Thanks in advance! Suzanne _______________________________ Suzanne Bruce, R.V.T. Histologist / Necropsy Coordinator Vet Path Services, Inc. (VPS) 6450 Castle Dr. Mason, OH 45040 Lab: (513) 469-0777 Fax: (513) 469-2474 Email: sbruce@vetpathservicesinc.com www.vetpathservicesinc.com From jse57 <@t> hotmail.com Thu Feb 19 07:23:13 2009 From: jse57 <@t> hotmail.com (janet erickson) Date: Thu Feb 19 07:23:16 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Needle biopsies in Embedding Center Message-ID: Does anyone have experience with the length of time needle biopsies can sit in the embedding center at 60 degrees C, without doing any harm to the tissue. The biopsies are processed in sponges and generally run on an overnight run in a VIP. I am concerned that a prolonged period of time may cause some cell distortion or dry/cook the tissue. Jan Erickson AUS Labs Orland Park, IL _________________________________________________________________ Stay up to date on your PC, the Web, and your mobile phone with Windows Live. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/msnnkwxp1020093185mrt/direct/01/ From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 19 07:55:53 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Thu Feb 19 07:55:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] on-line Histology programs In-Reply-To: <499C0C51.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> Message-ID: <375152.50870.qm@web65709.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> There are 2 very good programs on line. One at the Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis and the other is the HT program at Hartford Community College in Bel Air, MD. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/18/09, Angela Bitting wrote: From: Angela Bitting Subject: [Histonet] on-line Histology programs To: "histonet" Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2009, 1:25 PM I have a Lab assistant who would like to become an HT. She is interested in OJTing here with us and taking the required classes on-line so that she can sit for her HT exam. Can anyone recommend a good program for her? Thanks, Angie Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you._______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 19 07:59:04 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Thu Feb 19 07:59:09 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Pathos Processing tissue problems In-Reply-To: <3201CF51728F6048A24FA3AFFFEEF1D3168DE9D5F7@JHEMTEXVS3.win.ad.jhu.edu> Message-ID: <429606.38656.qm@web65702.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Much likely so! Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/18/09, Helen Fedor wrote: From: Helen Fedor Subject: [Histonet] Pathos Processing tissue problems To: "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2009, 5:33 PM Hello, Our Surgical Pathology Department has been using the Pathos processor. I work in research and we have begun to have issues with the tissue falling off of the slide after pretreatment for IHC. Has anyone else noticed this happening? The tissue is much harder in the block than the standard method of processing. Is this normal? Does that have anything to do with the tissue falling off the slides? Thanks in advance. Helen L. Fedor Comprehensive Tissue Services Center Manager Prostate Spore Lab Manager 600 N. Wolfe St, Marburg Room 406 Baltimore, MD 21287-7065 410-614-1664 email:hfedor@jhmi.edu _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From fudo <@t> ufl.edu Thu Feb 19 08:48:58 2009 From: fudo <@t> ufl.edu (FU,DONGTAO) Date: Thu Feb 19 08:49:02 2009 Subject: [Histonet] expression pattern of GFP fusion protein in cells and mouse Message-ID: <148842960.3051235054938266.JavaMail.osg@osgjas04.cns.ufl.edu> Hi, all A researcher met a problem of GFP fusion protein expression and is searching an answer from the specialists here. The following is his question: I am working with an AAV vector which contains a transgene (dystrophin) which is fused to GFP. When I inject this vector in mice, and stain the tissues with antibodies raised against GFP and dystrophin, I only pick up GFP. It is blazing. I was surprised not to see colocalization given that this is a fusion protein. (I used the same immunostaining protocol that others have successfully used before me to pick up dystrophin). So, the next thing I did was infect 293 cells with the same vector. When I stained those cells, I picked up beautiful expression of dystrophin and GFP. They were perfectly colocalized, as expected. So, my question is, have you seen examples where certain epitopes are masked in one cellular environment and not in another? (maybe the reason that I cannot detect the dystrophin in the mouse tissues, but I can in 293 cells). Does anyone know the possible answer of this phenomenon? Any thoughts will be greatly appreciated. Ann From leiker <@t> buffalo.edu Thu Feb 19 09:11:50 2009 From: leiker <@t> buffalo.edu (Merced Leiker) Date: Thu Feb 19 09:11:58 2009 Subject: [Histonet] looking for CD45 antibody In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Thank you everyone who replied with a suggestion!!! --On Tuesday, February 17, 2009 3:17 PM -0500 Merced Leiker wrote: > Hello Histonetters, > > I am looking for a good CD45 (CLA) antibody for use in paraffin > immunofluorescence that meets the following criteria: > > 1. unconjugated > 2. non-mouse isotype > 3. reacts with hamster OR greatest likelihood of reacting with hamster > (e.g., reacts with many other rodent species...) > > Can anyone refer one? > > Thank you! > > Merced M Leiker > Research Technician II > 354 BRB (pkgs) / 140 Farber Hall (letters) > School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences > State University of New York at Buffalo > 3435 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14214 > Ph: (716) 829-6033 > Fx: (716) 829-2725 > > "Without my flaws I'm really very boring." > - random internet blog commentator > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Merced M Leiker Research Technician II 354 BRB (pkgs) / 140 Farber Hall (letters) School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences State University of New York at Buffalo 3435 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14214 Ph: (716) 829-6033 Fx: (716) 829-2725 "Without my flaws I'm really very boring." - random internet blog commentator From mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu Thu Feb 19 09:33:48 2009 From: mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu (Geoff McAuliffe) Date: Thu Feb 19 09:37:16 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Plastics staining article In-Reply-To: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A2855110@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> References: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A2855110@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> Message-ID: <499D7BDC.4090809@umdnj.edu> Try a university library, OSU comes to mind. If you are close to a state univ. that has this in their collection you could go there and copy it. Otherwise they will probably charge you $1-2 per page to copy it. Geoff Suzanne Bruce wrote: > > I keep seeing references to this article, but am having trouble finding it: Staining of plastic sections: a review > of problems, explanations and possible solutions. RW Horobin, J Microscopy > 131(2):173-186, 1983 > > Could someone point me in the right direction? > > Thanks in advance! > Suzanne > _______________________________ > Suzanne Bruce, R.V.T. > Histologist / Necropsy Coordinator > Vet Path Services, Inc. (VPS) > 6450 Castle Dr. > Mason, OH 45040 > Lab: (513) 469-0777 > Fax: (513) 469-2474 > Email: sbruce@vetpathservicesinc.com > www.vetpathservicesinc.com > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** From billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net Thu Feb 19 09:55:00 2009 From: billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net (O'Donnell, Bill) Date: Thu Feb 19 09:55:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Please unsubscribe - Thanks - lab closed down - 10 jobslost!! In-Reply-To: <1940037.1234989093346.JavaMail.clb408@mail.usask.ca> References: <1940037.1234989093346.JavaMail.clb408@mail.usask.ca> Message-ID: Any details to this post? Bill -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Carmen Brown Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 2:32 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Please unsubscribe - Thanks - lab closed down - 10 jobslost!! _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From eearle <@t> ccpathology.com Thu Feb 19 09:56:25 2009 From: eearle <@t> ccpathology.com (Elizabeth Earle) Date: Thu Feb 19 09:56:28 2009 Subject: [Histonet] cactus spines Message-ID: Any ideas about how to get a section from FFPE cactus spine? They have not been decalcified; seem to have been just dropped into formalin and then processed. Thanks Elizabeth From tim.morken <@t> thermofisher.com Thu Feb 19 10:31:14 2009 From: tim.morken <@t> thermofisher.com (Morken, Tim) Date: Thu Feb 19 10:32:08 2009 Subject: [Histonet] on-line Histology programs In-Reply-To: <375152.50870.qm@web65709.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: <499C0C51.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> <375152.50870.qm@web65709.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: There is also an online course available from Darton College, Darton Georgia. Tim Morken -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:56 AM To: histonet; Angela Bitting Subject: Re: [Histonet] on-line Histology programs There are 2 very good programs on line. One at the Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis and the other is the HT program at Hartford Community College in Bel Air, MD. Ren? J. --- On Wed, 2/18/09, Angela Bitting wrote: From: Angela Bitting Subject: [Histonet] on-line Histology programs To: "histonet" Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2009, 1:25 PM I have a Lab assistant who would like to become an HT. She is interested in OJTing here with us and taking the required classes on-line so that she can sit for her HT exam. Can anyone recommend a good program for her? Thanks, Angie Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you._______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From trathborne <@t> somerset-healthcare.com Thu Feb 19 11:22:28 2009 From: trathborne <@t> somerset-healthcare.com (Rathborne, Toni) Date: Thu Feb 19 11:22:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Glass coverslippers In-Reply-To: Message-ID: We also have the CV5030 (and ST5020). Our Leica rep had recommended coverglass from StatLab (800-442-3573, or http://www.statlab.com ). They were cheaper than the Fisher coverglass that we had been using. We get the 24x50's in a 2oz box, which fits nicely into each coverglass holder. Our price per case is $39.32. Hope this helps. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Greg Dobbin Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:41 AM To: jclark@pcnm.com Cc: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Glass coverslippers The CV5030 works very well for us-as long as we spend a little more buying the higher grade coverslips that don't tend to be affected by humidity as much. Greg Greg Dobbin, R.T. Chief Technologist, Anatomic Pathology Dept. of Laboratory Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, P.O. Box 6600 Charlottetown, PE C1A 8T5 Phone: (902) 894-2337 Fax: (902) 894-2385 "I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have." - Thomas Jefferson ------------------------- Statement of Confidentiality This message (including attachments) may contain confidential or privileged information intended for a specific individual or organization. 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From ktuttle <@t> umm.edu Thu Feb 19 11:40:29 2009 From: ktuttle <@t> umm.edu (Kimberly Tuttle) Date: Thu Feb 19 11:41:09 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <004801c99218$bf02ec40$3d08c4c0$@rr.com> References: <000601c99130$185aa060$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC000138465B80@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> <003601c99161$499fe280$dcdfa780$@rr.com> <5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F2905@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET><5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F2905@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET> <004801c99218$bf02ec40$3d08c4c0$@rr.com> Message-ID: <499D533C.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> LOL! I know what she means, I still have nightmares after 15 years! But Im glad I am certified because I was properly and thoroughly trained by TSgt. Nocito. Kimberly C. Tuttle HT (ASCP) Pathology Biorepository and Research Core University of Maryland Room NBW58, UMMC 22 S. Greene St Baltimore, MD 21201 (410) 328-5524 (410) 328-5508 fax >>> "JoeNocito" 2/18/2009 5:32 pm >>> I don't know what you mean...... -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Bonner, Janet Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 2:49 PM To: JoeNocito; Rittman, Barry R; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Well, there's the Pot calling the Kettle black!!!! Janet ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of JoeNocito Sent: Tue 2/17/2009 7:38 PM To: 'Rittman, Barry R'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Don't hold back Barry, tell us what you really think JTT -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rittman, Barry R Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 4:16 PM To: 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I think that the entire system needs a good enema. Ever since I started work in a lab in 1957, salaries have been poor and not kept up with cost of living or reflected the skill of many of the histotechs. I feel that one of the major problems is that we have several categories of histotechs. Certified (I mean that in the nicest sense of the word!). Certified and also highly skilled. Skilled via on the job training. Robotic technicians. Until a system is put into place that requires all histotechs to be certified, or in training along a specific career pathway then things will never change. Along with this must be a system that requires employers to have well defined career paths for all their histotechs. This must include training outside of the routine work that they need to do in their specific laboratory. I must agree that getting rid of the practical part of the examination was how can I put this delicately ... imbecilic. The workplace needs to get back to being less of a bottom line factory in which careers of the employees is often not a consideration to a place where career paths are an integral part of the employment. The optimal environment is one where there is a two way street where both employer and employee benefit. While money is a consideration, it is not the only reason that individuals continue to work in a specific lab. Barry -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained allowing the applicant to > use his/her credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear ~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > > ~Don't let your life end before it begins~ > > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows > total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ======================================================= The information contained in this message may be privileged and/or confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and deleting the material from any computer. ======================================================= _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet This e-mail and any accompanying attachments may be privileged, confidential, contain protected health information about an identified patient or be otherwise protected from disclosure. State and federal law protect the confidentiality of this information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient; you are prohibited from using, disclosing, reproducing or distributing this information; you should immediately notify the sender by telephone or e-mail and delete this e-mail. From billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net Thu Feb 19 11:50:08 2009 From: billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net (O'Donnell, Bill) Date: Thu Feb 19 11:50:24 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Repeat post In-Reply-To: <499D533C.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> References: <000601c99130$185aa060$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC000138465B80@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> <003601c99161$499fe280$dcdfa780$@rr.com><5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F2905@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET><5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F2905@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET><004801c99218$bf02ec40$3d08c4c0$@rr.com> <499D533C.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> Message-ID: This is a repeat post of my invitation to join or view a blog concerned with histology and the current economy. We now have about 24 registered users and several comments and posts. The origional e-mail follows: -----Original Message----- Greetings fellow hsitology professionals. In today's economic climate, many of us are finding ourselves faced with changes in our policies, staffing, spending, etc. To that end I have started a histology blog. This is a place to see what is happening in other labs and to share your own comments. This blog is meant to be TEMPORARY in nature. IT IS NOT MEANT TO REPLACE THE HISTONET, as it is and remains a fine vehicle for communication and has a long history of serving our community world-wide. It is a place where threads can be long, unfettered and anonymous. Allowing anonimity will free us to feel comfortable in our expressions. People will need to register in order to comment. However, you choose your username and password. A real e-mail address is also needed, but if it is generic,, that is, does not contaiin your name or institution, that is fine. (example: tech@hotmail.com) The e-mail will only be used to contact you concerning this site and to send you data once it has been compiled. It will not be sold or used iin any other fashion. All registered users will be allowed contributer status. We hope to hear from clinical, research, and veterinary histologists, pathologists or administrators. Sales and staffing professionals are also most welcome. Every 30 days or so the accumulated data will be shared with each subscriber in the hopes that our profession might benefit from our collective wisdom and experiences. I am not collecting this info for any personal gain, nor is there any other motive than that of helping out our profession. The link is http://histoblog.deaconbill.com/ I will resend this message from time-to-time so that all might have a chance to participate. If you have any questions regarding the use of this blog, please e-mail me directly at bill@deaconbill.com From mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu Thu Feb 19 10:25:17 2009 From: mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu (Geoff McAuliffe) Date: Thu Feb 19 11:53:11 2009 Subject: [Histonet] cactus spines In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <499D87ED.5000401@umdnj.edu> Try embedding the spine in the buttocks of the person who embarked on this project without consulting you first. Geoff Elizabeth Earle wrote: > Any ideas about how to get a section from FFPE cactus spine? They have > not been decalcified; seem to have been just dropped into formalin and > then processed. > Thanks > Elizabeth > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** From CThornton <@t> dahlchase.com Thu Feb 19 12:08:50 2009 From: CThornton <@t> dahlchase.com (Clare Thornton) Date: Thu Feb 19 12:08:58 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC QC tissue Message-ID: Does anyone have a policy on what they can use for IHC control tissue? We use patient tissue but there is some disagreement as to how old the case should be. We never exhaust a patient block, however, we do prefer to use more recent tissues as to avoid any issues with antigenicity loss. Of course, we always check with a pathologist before cutting up patient tissue, but there are some pathologists that are ok using more recent cases and some who are not. What is everyone else doing in the clinical setting? Thanks, Clare J.Thornton, HTL (ASCP) Assistant Histology Supervisor Dahl-Chase Diagnostic Services 417 State Street, Suite 540 Bangor, ME 04401 cthornton@dahlchase.com From JonSorenson <@t> chiwest.com Thu Feb 19 12:24:09 2009 From: JonSorenson <@t> chiwest.com (Sorenson, Jon (Nampa)) Date: Thu Feb 19 12:26:19 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: cactus spines References: <20090219180551.2DD9E14R50@email4.catholichealth.net> Message-ID: After embedding in the buttocks and having the biopsy taken (to include the spines) try soaking the faced blocks in NAIR hair remover. Might help, Jon Jon Sorenson Histology Coordinator Mercy Medical Center JonSorenson@chiwest.com 208-463-5267 Try embedding the spine in the buttocks of the person who embarked on this project without consulting you first. Geoff Elizabeth Earle wrote: > Any ideas about how to get a section from FFPE cactus spine? They have > not been decalcified; seem to have been just dropped into formalin and > then processed. > Thanks > Elizabeth > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > From Bryan.Watson <@t> parkview.com Thu Feb 19 12:31:20 2009 From: Bryan.Watson <@t> parkview.com (Bryan Watson) Date: Thu Feb 19 12:31:41 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology In-Reply-To: <499D533C.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> References: <000601c99130$185aa060$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC000138465B80@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> <003601c99161$499fe280$dcdfa780$@rr.com> <5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F2905@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET><5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F2905@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET> <004801c99218$bf02ec40$3d08c4c0$@rr.com><004801c99218$bf02ec40$3d08c4c0$@rr.com> <499D533C.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> Message-ID: <499D5F2A.5674.0085.1@parkview.com> I would just like to say that it may, perhaps, be an advantage to be uncertified in the Histology field. I have lost 2 potential job opportunities to people who were not certified within the last year. Fortunately I am employed, however both of these jobs would have been much better than where I am now. The first one hired a med tech and the second one hired an uncertified Histotech. It makes me sad. . . >>> "Kimberly Tuttle" 2/19/2009 12:40 PM >>> LOL! I know what she means, I still have nightmares after 15 years! But Im glad I am certified because I was properly and thoroughly trained by TSgt. Nocito. Kimberly C. Tuttle HT (ASCP) Pathology Biorepository and Research Core University of Maryland Room NBW58, UMMC 22 S. Greene St Baltimore, MD 21201 (410) 328-5524 (410) 328-5508 fax >>> "JoeNocito" 2/18/2009 5:32 pm >>> I don't know what you mean...... -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Bonner, Janet Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 2:49 PM To: JoeNocito; Rittman, Barry R; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Well, there's the Pot calling the Kettle black!!!! Janet ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of JoeNocito Sent: Tue 2/17/2009 7:38 PM To: 'Rittman, Barry R'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Don't hold back Barry, tell us what you really think JTT -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rittman, Barry R Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 4:16 PM To: 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I think that the entire system needs a good enema. Ever since I started work in a lab in 1957, salaries have been poor and not kept up with cost of living or reflected the skill of many of the histotechs. I feel that one of the major problems is that we have several categories of histotechs. Certified (I mean that in the nicest sense of the word!). Certified and also highly skilled. Skilled via on the job training. Robotic technicians. Until a system is put into place that requires all histotechs to be certified, or in training along a specific career pathway then things will never change. Along with this must be a system that requires employers to have well defined career paths for all their histotechs. This must include training outside of the routine work that they need to do in their specific laboratory. I must agree that getting rid of the practical part of the examination was how can I put this delicately ... imbecilic. The workplace needs to get back to being less of a bottom line factory in which careers of the employees is often not a consideration to a place where career paths are an integral part of the employment. The optimal environment is one where there is a two way street where both employer and employee benefit. While money is a consideration, it is not the only reason that individuals continue to work in a specific lab. Barry -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained allowing the applicant to > use his/her credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear ~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > > ~Don't let your life end before it begins~ > > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows > total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ======================================================= The information contained in this message may be privileged and/or confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and deleting the material from any computer. ======================================================= _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet This e-mail and any accompanying attachments may be privileged, confidential, contain protected health information about an identified patient or be otherwise protected from disclosure. State and federal law protect the confidentiality of this information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient; you are prohibited from using, disclosing, reproducing or distributing this information; you should immediately notify the sender by telephone or e-mail and delete this e-mail. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From golder <@t> mail.nih.gov Thu Feb 19 12:56:17 2009 From: golder <@t> mail.nih.gov (Eric Gold) Date: Thu Feb 19 12:56:22 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Anti-Luciferase Paraffin Sections Message-ID: <17A111DF-EB87-478B-95F6-E4CC660EDE52@mail.nih.gov> Anybody have any luck with anti-luciferase stains on parrafin embedded tissue? I have gotten good stains on fresh fixed, but getting lots of background for my parrafin sections. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks -Eric From CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org Thu Feb 19 13:13:08 2009 From: CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org (Ingles Claire ) Date: Thu Feb 19 13:13:40 2009 Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology References: <000601c99130$185aa060$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC000138465B80@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> <003601c99161$499fe280$dcdfa780$@rr.com> <5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F2905@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET><5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F2905@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET> <004801c99218$bf02ec40$3d08c4c0$@rr.com><004801c99218$bf02ec40$3d08c4c0$@rr.com> <499D533C.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> <499D5F2A.5674.0085.1@parkview.com> Message-ID: Cheapskates!! Claire ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Bryan Watson Sent: Thu 2/19/2009 12:31 PM To: 'Histonet'; Kimberly Tuttle Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I would just like to say that it may, perhaps, be an advantage to be uncertified in the Histology field. I have lost 2 potential job opportunities to people who were not certified within the last year. Fortunately I am employed, however both of these jobs would have been much better than where I am now. The first one hired a med tech and the second one hired an uncertified Histotech. It makes me sad. . . >>> "Kimberly Tuttle" 2/19/2009 12:40 PM >>> LOL! I know what she means, I still have nightmares after 15 years! But Im glad I am certified because I was properly and thoroughly trained by TSgt. Nocito. Kimberly C. Tuttle HT (ASCP) Pathology Biorepository and Research Core University of Maryland Room NBW58, UMMC 22 S. Greene St Baltimore, MD 21201 (410) 328-5524 (410) 328-5508 fax >>> "JoeNocito" 2/18/2009 5:32 pm >>> I don't know what you mean...... -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Bonner, Janet Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 2:49 PM To: JoeNocito; Rittman, Barry R; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Well, there's the Pot calling the Kettle black!!!! Janet ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of JoeNocito Sent: Tue 2/17/2009 7:38 PM To: 'Rittman, Barry R'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Don't hold back Barry, tell us what you really think JTT -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rittman, Barry R Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 4:16 PM To: 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology I think that the entire system needs a good enema. Ever since I started work in a lab in 1957, salaries have been poor and not kept up with cost of living or reflected the skill of many of the histotechs. I feel that one of the major problems is that we have several categories of histotechs. Certified (I mean that in the nicest sense of the word!). Certified and also highly skilled. Skilled via on the job training. Robotic technicians. Until a system is put into place that requires all histotechs to be certified, or in training along a specific career pathway then things will never change. Along with this must be a system that requires employers to have well defined career paths for all their histotechs. This must include training outside of the routine work that they need to do in their specific laboratory. I must agree that getting rid of the practical part of the examination was how can I put this delicately ... imbecilic. The workplace needs to get back to being less of a bottom line factory in which careers of the employees is often not a consideration to a place where career paths are an integral part of the employment. The optimal environment is one where there is a two way street where both employer and employee benefit. While money is a consideration, it is not the only reason that individuals continue to work in a specific lab. Barry -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Judith L. Williams Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 1:36 PM To: Pamela Marcum Cc: 'Histonet'; 'Donna Hunter' Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology Hi all in histo world - well, time to get on the bandwagon! so, I agree with the other Old TEchs that came through the hard way like I did- it was much more of a challenge and the certification really meant something you worked HARD for! How do we pass that on the our newer techs. I think it is up to us to make sure they know how to do things- how to troubleshoot- how to make things by hand should they not get in the order of pre-made stuff! In a busy work world it is a challenge- but the only way they will learn now is if we train them. Are the schools doing this? yes, some are. The students that work with someone who has time to train them correctly OJT or otherwise are the lucky ones. Like the one working for you Pamela. Hopefully she will be able to pass on her knowledge to others. And for the certification - yes, the histology techs need to be certified- or they are called Histology Lab Assistants- even though they can cut or embed. and it is Tuesday......... not even Friday Judy On Tue, 17 Feb 2009, Pamela Marcum wrote: > Ah, the memories of having to find the tissue then gross, process, stain and > wait. You are absolutely correct it was a very exciting time to open that > envelope and find out I passed the both tests. Doing everything manually > from cutting, mounting and staining was nerve racking and worth every > minute. I knew what each stain would do and how to make it the best I could > by hand. > > I don't think the automated units give the same satisfaction and don't teach > troubleshooting the way we learned it. I made my stains so if it did not > work it was on me and no one else. We still do for new stains. I am > training someone now. She will know how to make the stains and what will > break the stains so even if we get an automated stainer it will be something > she will still be able troubleshoot. We do buy some stains as soon as I > know she understands why and how to make them. I won't even start on IHC > as I began with IF in brain when no kits were available and we made the > secondary after buying a primary. It was actually fun to learn and had > helped me over the years. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Donna Hunter > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:53 AM > To: Hermina Borgerink; Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree!!! I remember 29 years ago, I worked full time, had to do my > practical after hours and on the weekends was really proud of what I > accomplished completing that practical and passing it. Also Sitting in that > chair in the big auditorium for the longest 4 hours of my life trying to > read and take that test looking at those faded bent paper slides of stains > was so proud when I got that envelope stating I passed. I think they need > to bring back the old written test and slides that they used before all this > computer enhancement. > Donna > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hermina > Borgerink > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 11:29 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > It is my personal opinion that all Histology techs working within a clinical > setting today should be certified. Period. Histology requirements are no > longer what they used to be as complexity of procedures used in the lab are > increasingly becoming more demanding. I started out in 1961 straight out of > high school, but since then, over time, have gotten my HT, BA in biology, > HTL, and IHQ, all while continuing to work full time. > > I think it was a terrible mistake to abandon the practical exam for the > HT/HTL and rely solely on the written exam to judge the expertise of the > candidate for ASCP certification. Automation probably played a crucial part > in making the "hands-on" experience obsolete, but I think that practical > experience was invaluable because it reinforced and illuminated what the > written material was teaching. And while automation undoubtedly has many > benefits, unfortunately, it can also promote "dumbing-down" as it requires > little or no interaction with the user of the laboratory equipment. While I > was getting my personalized OTJ training from a pathologist in a medical > school's experimental setting, it was always understood that although we > were working with animal tissue, the patient's welfare ultimately was the > bottom line. This attitude not only inspired good laboratory practice, but > also the desire to learn and to do the best possible job I could. To this > day I find it immensely rewarding to perform special and IHC stains by hand > and achieve the expected results. > > So many other professions demand a college education followed by, or in > conjunction with, training in a particular skill, so why should our > profession be any different? With an increased level of education and > training will come a larger pay check and the well-deserved respect so > frequently lacking now. > > Hermina > > Hermina M. Borgerink, BA, HT, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Wake Forest University Primate > Center Department of Pathology Medical Center Blvd. > Winston-Salem, NC 27157 > Tel. (336) 716-1538 > Fax. (336) 716-1515 > e-mail: hborgeri@wfubmc.edu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kim Tournear > Sent: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 9:53 AM > To: Histonet > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > I agree with the overseas tech issue...my experience at Ventana Medical > allowed me to meet alot of well educated techs from across the ocean. What > difference does it make where the education comes from, as long as the > candidate is qualified to do the job? > > I think an ASCP certification should be obtained allowing the applicant to > use his/her credentials, and a state license (if applicable) without having > to go back for a degree they already have. > > We knew long before 2005, that the histology world was going in new > directions and that a histotech would be required to be certified. I fear > that at some point, hospitals will not hire any non-registered techs (of any > kind). > > Just my 2 cents worth.... > > > ~Kim Tournear ~HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) > Histology Supervisor > Tucson Medical Center > Tucson, AZ > > ~Don't let your life end before it begins~ > > OU Rocks!!!! > > --- On Mon, 2/16/09, Bernice Frederick wrote: > > From: Bernice Frederick > Subject: RE: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: "'Larry Woody'" , > histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7:28 AM > > Agreed. Kind of devalues one's education if there are uncertified techs. I > also think that it's silly that techs from outside the US are sometimes > forced to repeat their 4 years of college when they have the knowledge and > the equivalency from wherever and can do the job better than some techs > doing it for years. > Bernice > > > Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) > Northwestern University > Pathology Core Facility > ECOGPCO-RL > 710 N Fairbanks Court > Olson 8-421 > Chicago,IL 60611 > 312-503-3723 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Larry Woody > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:10 AM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > This has been an ongoing issue for so many years in histology, I've always > wanted to see a mandatory license in the field but that always starts a > firestorm of controversy. If you have surgery, you certainly want a board > certified surgeon to do it and same with the Pathologist that looks at the > slides so wouldn't you want a certified tech doing the lab work as well? > > Larry A. Woody > Seattle, Wa. > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Rene J Buesa > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Steven Coakley > > Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 7:58:26 AM > Subject: Re: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > > A hospital that relies on uncertified techs to do histology work is > motivated by the pursue of costs cuts (you can call it greed!) and shows > total disregard for quality of work and patient care. They may end losing > all those savings when settling a legal case. > Ren? J. > > --- On Wed, 2/11/09, Steven Coakley wrote: > > From: Steven Coakley > Subject: [Histonet] uncertified techs in Histology > To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 9:55 AM > > Any thoughts or experiences with my fellow HT/HTL's(ASCP). What the big > advantage do all these facilities think there gaining by going with > unregistered > techs, especially when theres always ongoing quality issues when theres so > many > trained certified HT looking for work? In my area of the country I can't > believe how many Hospitals go this way. > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission has been sent by > Northside Hospital. It may contain information that is confidential, > privileged, proprietary, or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you > are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you are not > authorized to read, print, retain, copy or disseminate this message, any > part of it, or any attachments. If you have received this message in error, > please delete this message and any attachments from your system without > reading the content and notify the sender immediately of the inadvertent > transmission. There is no intent on the part of the sender to waive any > privilege. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Judith Williams, PhD, HT(ASCP) Research Scientist Department of Comparative Medicine University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ======================================================= The information contained in this message may be privileged and/or confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and deleting the material from any computer. ======================================================= _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet This e-mail and any accompanying attachments may be privileged, confidential, contain protected health information about an identified patient or be otherwise protected from disclosure. State and federal law protect the confidentiality of this information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient; you are prohibited from using, disclosing, reproducing or distributing this information; you should immediately notify the sender by telephone or e-mail and delete this e-mail. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From wuyc_nju <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 19 13:27:21 2009 From: wuyc_nju <@t> yahoo.com (yichao wu) Date: Thu Feb 19 13:27:26 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Snap freeze tissue in the Operation Room? Message-ID: <301342.65081.qm@web56606.mail.re3.yahoo.com> HI, ? I just started to get involve in a clinical research in which we plan to collect patient biopsy and surgery samples, snap freeze them in cryomolds?and store for frozen sectioning later. ? We are trying to develop a practical protocol (SOPs) of the tissue processing procedures. In the research protocol it did not define where to get the snap freezing done. And I'm wondering how complicated it would be to bring the whole set of stuff into the Operation Room. ? If any of you are involved in such research activities or have experience working in a pathology department dealing with this type of research. Will it be more practical to wait outside of the Operation Room to get the biopsy or surgery tissue, and then transfer it into a pathology lab where the tissue could be processed? ? How much difference/protein lysis/hormone degradation it could be instead of doing the snap freezing in the Operation Room??It will be prostate tissue and intraprostatic testesterone level will need to be checked. ? BTW, if transferring the sample is practical,?under such circumstance, will Michel's transport medium or saline or PBS be used to temporarily?store the sample? ? Thanks, Beta From gu.lang <@t> gmx.at Thu Feb 19 14:15:38 2009 From: gu.lang <@t> gmx.at (Gudrun Lang) Date: Thu Feb 19 14:15:49 2009 Subject: [Histonet] FISH-troubleshooting Message-ID: Hi dear listmembers! What troubleshooting would you suggest for this problem: Her2neu FISH with Vysis-standard protocol (30 min 80?C pretreatment solution, 10 min 37?C 0,05% pepsin) The staining result is clear CEP-staining in green but no LSI-staining in red. With the same run, I had an amplified case, that was clearly seen with more or less bright signals. Hopefully waiting Gudrun Lang From sjchtascp <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 19 14:42:14 2009 From: sjchtascp <@t> yahoo.com (Steven Coakley) Date: Thu Feb 19 14:42:17 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE:uncertified techs Message-ID: <772136.99787.qm@web38204.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Wow has this discussion gone on an on.? Didn't know I was opening up a can of worms here?? Here's one better.? What about those individuals that have only worked at only one facility, trained OJT then getting there ASCP on thier own.? Absolutely no?HT exposure?at another facility.? Talk about narrow minded, one way thats there way requardless of the actual experience of other HT's.? Oh well tis the nature of "---------------"? Lukly a couple more years and I'll be done working.?? Or at least I hope. ? Later From michelle.broome <@t> novartis.com Thu Feb 19 14:45:07 2009 From: michelle.broome <@t> novartis.com (michelle.broome@novartis.com) Date: Thu Feb 19 14:45:18 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Cactus Spines In-Reply-To: <200902191803.n1JI3lFh001815@ch2ssaenov01.novartis.com> Message-ID: The histologist with a Botany degree who sits next to me suggests using Soft Block from Polysciences. Good luck!! Michelle histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu 02/19/2009 01:03 PM Please respond to histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu To histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu cc Subject Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 34 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 histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu You can reach the person managing the list at histonet-owner@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: cactus spines (Geoff McAuliffe) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Thu, 19 Feb 2009 11:25:17 -0500 From: Geoff McAuliffe Subject: Re: [Histonet] cactus spines To: Elizabeth Earle Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <499D87ED.5000401@umdnj.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Try embedding the spine in the buttocks of the person who embarked on this project without consulting you first. Geoff Elizabeth Earle wrote: > Any ideas about how to get a section from FFPE cactus spine? They have > not been decalcified; seem to have been just dropped into formalin and > then processed. > Thanks > Elizabeth > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** ------------------------------ _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet End of Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 34 **************************************** From rfields <@t> gidocs.net Thu Feb 19 15:08:25 2009 From: rfields <@t> gidocs.net (Rosa Fields) Date: Thu Feb 19 15:10:49 2009 Subject: [Histonet] CM..certified vs non-certified. Message-ID: <07732CE52EC3174AB891DE1C62DB4D8F6F9512@GIEXCHANGE.gidocs.net> It seems that the general consensus is people are sorry to see the practical part of the exam gone, but on the positive side, continuing education is now a requirement. When you pass the exam it is only good for 3 years, you must participate in the certificate maintenance program to keep your certificate. IMO, this is a positive step.. Rosa Fields, HT (ASCP) Gastroenterology Specialties Histology Supervisor 4545 R Street Lincoln, NE 68503 402-465-4545 rfields@gidocs.net The information contained in the message and the documents accompanying this message contain information that is privileged and confidential and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above.? If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication, other than its return to the sender, is strictly prohibited.? From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 19 15:17:25 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Thu Feb 19 15:17:28 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC QC tissue In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <399741.78247.qm@web65701.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Clare: I usually did NOT use patients blocks and let me explain you why: ? a patient with a positive and usually pathological entity has above normal epitope concentrations and when you use that highly positive target tissue to optimize the working concentration of your antibody it is possible that a much lower epitope concentration will either give a weakly positive or even negative reaction. I always used the internal controls of normal tissues or normal tissues as positive controls and optimized my antibody working concentrations with them. By doing so I assured that anything above normal, would have a positive reaction more intense than my controls. As to the blocks there is no big problem using them for long time, what you cannot use are previously cut sections that have been sitting around for more than 2 weeks, because the epitopes will oxidize and will give a negative reaction. That is how I did it. Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Clare Thornton wrote: From: Clare Thornton Subject: [Histonet] IHC QC tissue To: "'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu'" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 1:08 PM Does anyone have a policy on what they can use for IHC control tissue? We use patient tissue but there is some disagreement as to how old the case should be. We never exhaust a patient block, however, we do prefer to use more recent tissues as to avoid any issues with antigenicity loss. Of course, we always check with a pathologist before cutting up patient tissue, but there are some pathologists that are ok using more recent cases and some who are not. What is everyone else doing in the clinical setting? Thanks, Clare J.Thornton, HTL (ASCP) Assistant Histology Supervisor Dahl-Chase Diagnostic Services 417 State Street, Suite 540 Bangor, ME 04401 cthornton@dahlchase.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From sbruce <@t> vetpathservicesinc.com Thu Feb 19 15:39:59 2009 From: sbruce <@t> vetpathservicesinc.com (Suzanne Bruce) Date: Thu Feb 19 15:40:12 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Sanderson's Rapid Bone Stain Message-ID: <26DB1FDFBF9EE14AB3AACC873519A4A2855127@vpss1.VetPathServicesInc.local> Here are my responses: "Suzanne: I no longer use Sanderson's, however we did have nice results on plastic embedded sections, in conjuction with other calcified stains. Use caution in over-staining. I do not recall ever reading about usage on paraffin. The Villanueva Osteochrome bone stain can also be used on calcified - we used it with fluoro labels, and then viewed using confocal microscopy with beautiful architecture and active new bone formation. Vicki K" "Sanderson's - we've not used it on wax, but we do use it on 15-20 ?m ground sections. Method for resin: * Pre-heat Sanderson's to 55-60?C. Stain sections for approx 20 minutes (check every 5 minutes). * Wash slides in warm water and dry with tissue * Counterstain with Acid Fuchsin solution for 1 ? minutues. (2.5g acid fuchsin, 2.5ml glacial acetic acid, 500ml distilled water) * Drain slides and dry with tissue. " "I use this stain two ways routinely for "thick" or "ground" sections (35-50 microns) embedded in MMA & DBP. You can stain with SRBS alone @ RT for 3-5 minutes after a brief acid etch in 0.7% FA for 30 sec (rinse in DI water and blot dry) or combine it with a Van Gieson picrofuchsin counterstain for 1-2 minutes (rinse in 100% EtOH and blot dry) after staining first in SRBS @ 60C for 10 minutes (rinse in DI water @ 60C and blot dry). I have never used or needed to use SRBS on "thin" plastic sections because I routinely use MacNeals tetrachrome combined with Von Kossa and a Modified Goldner's to obtain all my bone related information. With that said, I have also never used this stain on paraffin sections and would be interested in the results if you try it. Jack Ratliff" "I've used Sanderson's on plastic sections a lot in the past, works well. Recently I tried it on rat tibias, decaled, FFPE. Very disappointing. They look like Toluidine blue-- all shades of blue & nothing else. Now I just stick with von kossa and/or tetrachrome for those. Kari" _______________________________ Suzanne Bruce, R.V.T. Histologist / Necropsy Coordinator Vet Path Services, Inc. (VPS) 6450 Castle Dr. Mason, OH 45040 Lab: (513) 469-0777 Fax: (513) 469-2474 Email: sbruce@vetpathservicesinc.com www.vetpathservicesinc.com From hfedor <@t> jhmi.edu Thu Feb 19 16:51:38 2009 From: hfedor <@t> jhmi.edu (Helen Fedor) Date: Thu Feb 19 16:51:48 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Pathos animal tissue processing Message-ID: <3201CF51728F6048A24FA3AFFFEEF1D3168E68E5A6@JHEMTEXVS3.win.ad.jhu.edu> Hello, Another question, Is anyone using the Pathos system to process animal tissues? I would really appreciate any comments good/ and or bad on this topic. Best regards, Helen From: Helen Fedor Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 5:33 PM To: 'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu' Subject: Pathos Processing tissue problems Hello, Our Surgical Pathology Department has been using the Pathos processor. I work in research and we have begun to have issues with the tissue falling off of the slide after pretreatment for IHC. Has anyone else noticed this happening? The tissue is much harder in the block than the standard method of processing. Is this normal? Does that have anything to do with the tissue falling off the slides? Thanks in advance. Helen L. Fedor Comprehensive Tissue Services Center Manager Prostate Spore Lab Manager 600 N. Wolfe St, Marburg Room 406 Baltimore, MD 21287-7065 410-614-1664 email:hfedor@jhmi.edu From CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org Thu Feb 19 16:55:09 2009 From: CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org (Ingles Claire ) Date: Thu Feb 19 16:55:14 2009 Subject: [Histonet] CM..certified vs non-certified. References: <07732CE52EC3174AB891DE1C62DB4D8F6F9512@GIEXCHANGE.gidocs.net> Message-ID: I firmly believe that all the book learning in the world can never replace good old experience. I don't think I could ever have passed the HTL the way it is now. I have always been a poor test taker. But give me something to troubleshoot and look out. You always have references to look up procedures and stains, but nothing is written to help anyone who doesn't inately understand the dynamics and reasons behind WHY we do something the way we do. I have always thought loosing the Practical part is like getting your driver's license without taking the driving part of the test. I also think that 'real' (certified or not) histotechs, who are concerned with quality work and are proud of and love the jobs they do don't need the 'incentive' of CE's. They naturally want to keep learning more about their field and ways to improve it. It's almost friday...let the flaming begin! Claire ________________________________ It seems that the general consensus is people are sorry to see the practical part of the exam gone, but on the positive side, continuing education is now a requirement. When you pass the exam it is only good for 3 years, you must participate in the certificate maintenance program to keep your certificate. IMO, this is a positive step.. From victor <@t> pathology.washington.edu Thu Feb 19 17:03:54 2009 From: victor <@t> pathology.washington.edu (Victor Tobias) Date: Thu Feb 19 17:03:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam Message-ID: <499DE55A.6030206@pathology.washington.edu> There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. From donna <@t> milestonemed.com Thu Feb 19 17:04:09 2009 From: donna <@t> milestonemed.com (Donna Willis) Date: Thu Feb 19 17:04:13 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Pathos animal tissue processing In-Reply-To: <3201CF51728F6048A24FA3AFFFEEF1D3168E68E5A6@JHEMTEXVS3.win.ad.jhu.edu> References: <3201CF51728F6048A24FA3AFFFEEF1D3168E68E5A6@JHEMTEXVS3.win.ad.jhu.edu> Message-ID: Helen, Are you currently using the system from animal processing or interesting in doing this in the future. Donna Willis, HT/HTL(ASCP) North American Application Manager Milestone Medical (866) 995-5300 toll free (269) 488-4040 fax www.milestonemed.com Helping Patients -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Helen Fedor Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 4:52 PM To: Helen Fedor; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Pathos animal tissue processing Hello, Another question, Is anyone using the Pathos system to process animal tissues? I would really appreciate any comments good/ and or bad on this topic. Best regards, Helen From: Helen Fedor Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 5:33 PM To: 'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu' Subject: Pathos Processing tissue problems Hello, Our Surgical Pathology Department has been using the Pathos processor. I work in research and we have begun to have issues with the tissue falling off of the slide after pretreatment for IHC. Has anyone else noticed this happening? The tissue is much harder in the block than the standard method of processing. Is this normal? Does that have anything to do with the tissue falling off the slides? Thanks in advance. Helen L. Fedor Comprehensive Tissue Services Center Manager Prostate Spore Lab Manager 600 N. Wolfe St, Marburg Room 406 Baltimore, MD 21287-7065 410-614-1664 email:hfedor@jhmi.edu _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Barry.R.Rittman <@t> uth.tmc.edu Thu Feb 19 17:30:29 2009 From: Barry.R.Rittman <@t> uth.tmc.edu (Rittman, Barry R) Date: Thu Feb 19 17:30:33 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <499DE55A.6030206@pathology.washington.edu> References: <499DE55A.6030206@pathology.washington.edu> Message-ID: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB14@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From victor <@t> pathology.washington.edu Thu Feb 19 17:34:23 2009 From: victor <@t> pathology.washington.edu (Victor Tobias) Date: Thu Feb 19 17:34:28 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB14@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> References: <499DE55A.6030206@pathology.washington.edu> <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB14@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> Message-ID: <499DEC7F.6080104@pathology.washington.edu> Barry, I agree with your statement, What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. Rittman, Barry R wrote: > Victor > I cannot believe that you have said this. > Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. > With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. > Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. > Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. > What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. > I am not holding my breath that this will happen. > Barry > > ________________________________________ > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] > Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM > To: Histonet > Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam > > There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. > To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to > whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist > has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is > acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested > in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they > shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. > So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is > Friday somewhere. > > Victor > > -- > Victor Tobias > Clinical Applications Analyst > University of Washington Medical Center > Dept of Pathology Room BB220 > 1959 NE Pacific > Seattle, WA 98195 > victor@pathology.washington.edu > 206-598-2792 > 206-598-7659 Fax > ================================================= > Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be > contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use > of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or > if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, > disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this > transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and > then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From JMacDonald <@t> mtsac.edu Thu Feb 19 22:33:03 2009 From: JMacDonald <@t> mtsac.edu (Jennifer MacDonald) Date: Thu Feb 19 22:33:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] on-line Histology programs In-Reply-To: References: <499C0C51.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> <375152.50870.qm@web65709.mail.ac4.yahoo.com>, Message-ID: Columbus State Community College also has one: [1]www.cscc.edu/His tology/admission.htm -----histonet-bounc To: histonet Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: 02/19/2009 08: Subject: RE: [Histonet] on-line Histology programs There is als Darton Georgia. Tim Morken -----Original Message----- From: histone [[2]mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthw Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2 To: histonet; Angela Bitting Subject: Re: [Histonet] on-l There are 2 very good programs on line. One a University School of Medicine in Indianapolis and the other i the HT program at Hartford Community College in Bel Air, MD. Ren? --- On Wed, 2/18/09, Angela Bitting S To: "histonet" hotmail.com Fri Feb 20 04:29:30 2009 From: joelleweaver <@t> hotmail.com (joelle weaver) Date: Fri Feb 20 04:29:40 2009 Subject: [Histonet] on-line Histology programs In-Reply-To: References: <499C0C51.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> <375152.50870.qm@web65709.mail.ac4.yahoo.com>, Message-ID: Thanks to Jennifer for posting our Columbus State Histology program as well. The web address she provided will give anyone interested a lot of background information. The lecture and theory is online, but there is a signifigant clinical portion that is performed in histology laboratories. Of course, I think our program is very good as well. I would welcome any inquiries or questions from anyone interested in looking into our program. We have very good success rate- currently 100% pass rate on the registry and excellent placment rate of our students. Thanks Joelle Weaver HTL (ASCP) > From: JMacDonald@mtsac.edu > To: tim.morken@thermofisher.com > Date: Thu, 19 Feb 2009 20:33:03 -0800 > Subject: RE: [Histonet] on-line Histology programs > CC: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > > Columbus State Community College also has one: [1]www.cscc.edu/His tology/admission.htm > > -----histonet-bounc=@lists.utsouthwestern.edu wrote: ----- > > To: histonet > From: "Morken, Tim" > Sent by: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: 02/19/2009 08:1AM > Subject: RE: [Histonet] on-line Histology programs > There is als=n online course available from Darton College, > Darton Georgia. > Tim Morken > -----Original Message----- > From: histone=bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [[2]mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthw=tern.edu] On Behalf > Of Rene J Buesa > Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2�9 5:56 AM > To: histonet; Angela Bitting > Subject: Re: [Histonet] on-l=e Histology programs > There are 2 very good programs on line. One a=he Indiana > University School of Medicine in Indianapolis and the other i= > the HT program at Hartford Community College in Bel Air, MD. > Ren?= > --- On Wed, 2/18/09, Angela Bitting wrote: > From: Angela Bitting > S=ject: [Histonet] on-line Histology programs > To: "histonet" > Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2009, 1:25 = > I have a Lab assistant who would like to become an HT. She is int erested in OJTing here with us and taking the required classes > on-lin=o that she can sit for her HT exam. Can anyone recommend > a good program =r her? > Thanks, > Angie > Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) > Technic= Specialist, Histology > Geisinger Medical Center > 100 N Academy Ave. = 23-00 > Danville, PA 17822 > phone 570-214-9634 > fax 570=71-5916 > No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However ma= > electrons were severly inconvienienced! > IMPORTANT WAR=NG: The information in this message (and the > documents attached to it, if=y) is confidential and may be > legally privileged. It is intended solely =r the addressee. > Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized.If you are > not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribut=n > or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is > prohi=ted and may be unlawful. If you have received this message > in error, plea= delete all electronic copies of this message > (and the documents attached= it, if any), destroy any hard > copies you may have created and notify me=mediately by replying > to this email. Thank you.________ ______________________ 5F__=F_____________ > Histonet mailing list > Hist=et@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [3]http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/=ilman/listinfo/histonet > ________ ______________________ 5F__=F_____________ > Histonet mailing list > Hist=et@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [4]http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/=ilman/listinfo/histonet > ____________ ______________________ 5F__=F_________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.u=outhwestern.edu > [5]http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/list=fo/histonet > > > References > > 1. file://localhost/tmp/3D"h 2. 3D"mailto:histonet-bounces@list 3. 3D"http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu= > 4. 3D"http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu= > 5. 3D"http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/lis_______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: E-mail. Chat. Share. Get more ways to connect. http://windowslive.com/explore?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_allup_explore_022009 From gliuygao <@t> hotmail.com Fri Feb 20 07:46:03 2009 From: gliuygao <@t> hotmail.com (yan gao) Date: Fri Feb 20 07:46:07 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IGF1 and IGF2 antibody Message-ID: Hi, Histonet. May I ask anyone have try to work out IGF1 and IGF2 antibody on mouse tissue? Thanks Yan Gao _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: Keep your life in sync. http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t1_allup_howitworks_022009 From rfields <@t> gidocs.net Fri Feb 20 07:50:58 2009 From: rfields <@t> gidocs.net (Rosa Fields) Date: Fri Feb 20 07:52:53 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam Message-ID: <07732CE52EC3174AB891DE1C62DB4D8F6F9513@GIEXCHANGE.gidocs.net> I also agree. It would be wonderful to have NSH administer the exam. The computer adaptive "written" part of the exam is excellent, and very standardized. If a national practical exam administered by NSH could take place at the summer session and fall meetings, I would be all for that. Of course many don't need the incentive of required CE to obtain it, but it helps to promote the profession. I hope it will raise the level of perceived professionalism by medical administrators. Rosa Fields, HT (ASCP) Gastroenterology Specialties Histology Supervisor 4545 R Street Lincoln, NE 68503 402-465-4545 rfields@gidocs.net The information contained in the message and the documents accompanying this message contain information that is privileged and confidential and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above.? If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication, other than its return to the sender, is strictly prohibited.? -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:34 PM To: Rittman, Barry R Cc: Histonet Subject: Re: [Histonet] Practical Exam Barry, I agree with your statement, What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. Rittman, Barry R wrote: > Victor > I cannot believe that you have said this. > Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. > With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. > Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. > Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. > What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. > I am not holding my breath that this will happen. > Barry > > ________________________________________ > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] > Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM > To: Histonet > Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam > > There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. > To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to > whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist > has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is > acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested > in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they > shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. > So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is > Friday somewhere. > > Victor > > -- > Victor Tobias > Clinical Applications Analyst > University of Washington Medical Center > Dept of Pathology Room BB220 > 1959 NE Pacific > Seattle, WA 98195 > victor@pathology.washington.edu > 206-598-2792 > 206-598-7659 Fax > ================================================= > Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be > contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use > of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or > if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, > disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this > transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and > then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From CareerStudio <@t> aol.com Fri Feb 20 08:00:57 2009 From: CareerStudio <@t> aol.com (CareerStudio@aol.com) Date: Fri Feb 20 08:01:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC / immunohistochemistry Positions open with Lab in Atlanta Message-ID: Talented IHC / immunohistochemistry individuals - from Lead Histotechnologists through Histology Supervisor are needed for a premier, established yet growing clinical reference lab in the Atlanta area. Familiarity desired with large libraries of antibodies (200+/-), antibody validations, QC'ing and troubleshooting stains, high volumes, sample variation and multiple staining platforms (Dako, Leica) My client is offering competitive compensation packages and relocation assistance. Yes, must be HT or HTL certified! Barbara Career Studio careerstudio@aol.com 561-738-6363 ************** Need a job? Find an employment agency near you. (http://yellowpages.aol.com/search?query=employment_agencies&ncid=emlcntusyelp00000003) From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Fri Feb 20 08:01:04 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Fri Feb 20 08:01:09 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB14@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> Message-ID: <208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu Fri Feb 20 08:14:50 2009 From: pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu (Pamela Marcum) Date: Fri Feb 20 08:14:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB14@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> References: <499DE55A.6030206@pathology.washington.edu> <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB14@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> Message-ID: <000301c99365$981ce420$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Thank You, Barry!! I agree totally with your comments and hope some one listens. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rittman, Barry R Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 6:30 PM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From ree3 <@t> leicester.ac.uk Fri Feb 20 08:32:33 2009 From: ree3 <@t> leicester.ac.uk (Edwards, R.E.) Date: Fri Feb 20 08:32:49 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE:uncertified techs In-Reply-To: <772136.99787.qm@web38204.mail.mud.yahoo.com> References: <772136.99787.qm@web38204.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A17455BB4DC1@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> Done working, dun speling two!! -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Steven Coakley Sent: 19 February 2009 20:42 To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] RE:uncertified techs Wow has this discussion gone on an on.? Didn't know I was opening up a can of worms here?? Here's one better.? What about those individuals that have only worked at only one facility, trained OJT then getting there ASCP on thier own.? Absolutely no?HT exposure?at another facility.? Talk about narrow minded, one way thats there way requardless of the actual experience of other HT's.? Oh well tis the nature of "---------------"? Lukly a couple more years and I'll be done working.?? Or at least I hope. ? Later _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From mabosso <@t> unipathllc.com Fri Feb 20 09:12:29 2009 From: mabosso <@t> unipathllc.com (Mary Abosso) Date: Fri Feb 20 09:12:34 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Express Message-ID: <43A451981FF6634795BE83B1B5494D631BDF2D@exchange.unipathllc.corp> Good Morning All - Our facility is looking to purchase a Sakura Express Tissue Processor and would like any feedback from other users as to how this affected molecular testing, as well as IHC. Were there any needed changes that needed to take place after implemented this processor? Mary Abosso From contact <@t> excaliburpathology.com Fri Feb 20 09:21:20 2009 From: contact <@t> excaliburpathology.com (Paula Pierce) Date: Fri Feb 20 09:21:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE:uncertified techs References: <772136.99787.qm@web38204.mail.mud.yahoo.com> <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A17455BB4DC1@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> Message-ID: <407751.90153.qm@web1101.biz.mail.sk1.yahoo.com> There - a place Their - possessive pronoun They're - contraction for "they are" ? ________________________________ From: "Edwards, R.E." To: Steven Coakley ; "Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:32:33 AM Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE:uncertified techs Done working, dun speling two!! -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Steven Coakley Sent: 19 February 2009 20:42 To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] RE:uncertified techs Wow has this discussion gone on an on.? Didn't know I was opening up a can of worms here?? Here's one better.? What about those individuals that have only worked at only one facility, trained OJT then getting there ASCP on thier own.? Absolutely no?HT exposure?at another facility.? Talk about narrow minded, one way thats there way requardless of the actual experience of other HT's.? Oh well tis the nature of "---------------"? Lukly a couple more years and I'll be done working.?? Or at least I hope. ? Later ? ? ? _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Barry.R.Rittman <@t> uth.tmc.edu Fri Feb 20 09:36:44 2009 From: Barry.R.Rittman <@t> uth.tmc.edu (Rittman, Barry R) Date: Fri Feb 20 09:36:52 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB14@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu>, <208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB17@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> Rene I have always regarded the mechanism of sending slides in to be a big flaw in the practical, it it did offer some standardization. cannot accept the cost logic. The real question here is why is the ASCP running this exam at all? I have great respect for the ASCP but is this organizations main goal to represent histotechs? The ASCP was not originally organized to look after our interests. I thought that the NSH and the individual state societies were instituted to do just that. In which case why is there not a standardized test that is administered by the NSH? This can be done on a state level with individuals who are nationally certified . Will this be more costly that the current system. Of course - but if histotechs wish for better recognition and pay I believe that this is the only path. An alternate for appropriate salary and better conditions is unionizing. I know this has some disadvantages but lets face it with the national shortage of histotechs why haven't slaries and conditons improved dramatically, why are untrained people in some cases allowed to work in some positions? I know that many who are .....of by this continuing saga but I can only apologize because I feel strongly about this (and because I have more time following my semi retirement!!). Barry ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa [rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From detmar <@t> lunenfeld.ca Fri Feb 20 09:42:59 2009 From: detmar <@t> lunenfeld.ca (Jacqui Detmar) Date: Fri Feb 20 09:43:40 2009 Subject: [Histonet] acid sphingomyelinase and gamma H2X antibodies References: Message-ID: Hello all. I am looking for antibodies against acid sphingomyelinase (Smpd1) and gamma H2X (phosphorylated histone). We would like to be able to use these antibodies for IHC against murine and human tissues (or either, but of course, cross-specificity would be great). Does anybody out there have any experience with these antibodies and can recommend a source? Thanks in advance, Jacqui Jacqui Detmar, Post-doctoral Fellow Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital 25 Orde Street, room 6-1001 AJ, Toronto, ON, Canada M5T 3H7 phone: 416-586-4800 x5607 fax: 416-586-8588 email: detmar@lunenfeld.ca From jqb7 <@t> cdc.gov Fri Feb 20 09:48:19 2009 From: jqb7 <@t> cdc.gov (Bartlett, Jeanine (CDC/CCID/NCZVED)) Date: Fri Feb 20 09:48:29 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Express In-Reply-To: <43A451981FF6634795BE83B1B5494D631BDF2D@exchange.unipathllc.corp> References: <43A451981FF6634795BE83B1B5494D631BDF2D@exchange.unipathllc.corp> Message-ID: <9A16CB5D55FC1648ADF11B63E72A1BE1333584@LTA3VS011.ees.hhs.gov> We have had no negative impact on either. We did many parallel runs initially and had to make no modifications. Jeanine Bartlett Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch (404) 639-3590 jeanine.bartlett@cdc.hhs.gov -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mary Abosso Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 10:12 AM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Sakura Express Good Morning All - Our facility is looking to purchase a Sakura Express Tissue Processor and would like any feedback from other users as to how this affected molecular testing, as well as IHC. Were there any needed changes that needed to take place after implemented this processor? Mary Abosso _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From tahseen <@t> brain.net.pk Fri Feb 20 09:55:27 2009 From: tahseen <@t> brain.net.pk (tahseen@brain.net.pk) Date: Fri Feb 20 09:55:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Disposal of chemicals containers Message-ID: <55619.202.125.145.178.1235145327.squirrel@brain.net.pk> Hi all, I am looking protocol for the disposal of chemicals containers (empty)e.g ethanol,xalline,DPX etc. Thanks Muhammad Tahseen Histology supervisor SKMCH&RC Lahore,Pakistan From billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net Fri Feb 20 10:00:33 2009 From: billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net (O'Donnell, Bill) Date: Fri Feb 20 10:00:44 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB14@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> <208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu Fri Feb 20 10:07:33 2009 From: SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu (Swain, Frances L) Date: Fri Feb 20 10:08:22 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB17@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> References: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB14@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu>, <208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB17@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> Message-ID: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E3802AE55AF79@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Thanks Barry. I think you have the best idea yet. The NSH needs to have a hand in our credientaling so why not have them do it all and if the practical is analyzed on the state level by certified techs in the area such as techs from other states who are not the co workers or friends of the techs testing would be a great idea. Our peers are more critical of us than others. This would be a good thing to address to the NSH President. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rittman, Barry R Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 9:37 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Rene I have always regarded the mechanism of sending slides in to be a big flaw in the practical, it it did offer some standardization. cannot accept the cost logic. The real question here is why is the ASCP running this exam at all? I have great respect for the ASCP but is this organizations main goal to represent histotechs? The ASCP was not originally organized to look after our interests. I thought that the NSH and the individual state societies were instituted to do just that. In which case why is there not a standardized test that is administered by the NSH? This can be done on a state level with individuals who are nationally certified . Will this be more costly that the current system. Of course - but if histotechs wish for better recognition and pay I believe that this is the only path. An alternate for appropriate salary and better conditions is unionizing. I know this has some disadvantages but lets face it with the national shortage of histotechs why haven't slaries and conditons improved dramatically, why are untrained people in some cases allowed to work in some positions? I know that many who are .....of by this continuing saga but I can only apologize because I feel strongly about this (and because I have more time following my semi retirement!!). Barry ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa [rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. From SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu Fri Feb 20 10:21:30 2009 From: SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu (Swain, Frances L) Date: Fri Feb 20 10:22:21 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: References: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB14@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> <208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E3802AE55AFB1@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> There has been reference to someone else taking the practical exam instead of the applicant. Since the written exam has become a computer generated program what is to stop someone from taking the exam for an applicant. The reasons given for dropping the exam are very shallow. The idea that Victor and Barry have been tauting are the best ones. The time has come that the NSH step in and regulate us. If the ASCP still wants to certify us then they can send a representative to the different district to oversee and participate in the scoring of the practical exam, etc. It would be a lot cheaper that way. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of O'Donnell, Bill Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 10:01 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. From Ronald.Houston <@t> nationwidechildrens.org Fri Feb 20 10:25:48 2009 From: Ronald.Houston <@t> nationwidechildrens.org (Houston, Ronald) Date: Fri Feb 20 10:26:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB17@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> Message-ID: <979FF5962E234F45B06CF0DB7C1AABB21B6454B1@chi2k3ms01.columbuschildrens.net> In the UK, histotechs and med techs are considered equal and as Biomedical Scientists, which is what the profession in the US should be aiming for. This was accomplished by the governing body, the Institute of Biomedical Sciences, and the Unions coming together. Was it pretty? Absolutely not, and there was a lot of ill-feeling and distrust for a while - but it was accomplished and salaries and government, and indeed public recognition increased. IBMS administers the examination, incredibly strict and extensive, and licences are administered by the Department of Health (if my memory serves me correctly). No licence - no work! Practical examinations are (were, I've been away for 20+ years)) held regionally at large teaching hospitals, and were also strictly administered - that way there was no possible way of someone doing the work for a student. The written examination for fellowship, also held regionally, comprises three parts; a two hour essay (from 4 topics), five short essays (~30 minutes each) and then a 3 hour multiple choice examination. Barry may also remember prior to this, the specialist exam also included an oral examination as well as written and practical - that was really testing your knowledge As I say, things may have changed recently, but laboratory staff in hospitals are still biomedical scientists, and much more highly respected than HTs over here. Far different from the US, but we need to get real and decide what the profession, not the ASCP, really wants. That can only come through the membership and the NSH Ronnie Houston, MS HT(ASCP)QIHC FIBMS Anatomic Pathology Manager Nationwide Children's Hospital 700 Children's Drive Columbus, OH 43205 (614) 722 5450 ronald.houston@nationwidechildrens.org www.NationwideChildrens.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rittman, Barry R Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 10:37 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Rene I have always regarded the mechanism of sending slides in to be a big flaw in the practical, it it did offer some standardization. cannot accept the cost logic. The real question here is why is the ASCP running this exam at all? I have great respect for the ASCP but is this organizations main goal to represent histotechs? The ASCP was not originally organized to look after our interests. I thought that the NSH and the individual state societies were instituted to do just that. In which case why is there not a standardized test that is administered by the NSH? This can be done on a state level with individuals who are nationally certified . Will this be more costly that the current system. Of course - but if histotechs wish for better recognition and pay I believe that this is the only path. An alternate for appropriate salary and better conditions is unionizing. I know this has some disadvantages but lets face it with the national shortage of histotechs why haven't slaries and conditons improved dramatically, why are untrained people in some cases allowed to work in some positions? I know that many who are .....of by this continuing saga but I can only apologize because I feel strongly about this (and because I have more time following my semi retirement!!). Barry ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa [rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ----------------------------------------- Confidentiality Notice: The following mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. The recipient is responsible to maintain the confidentiality of this information and to use the information only for authorized purposes. If you are not the intended recipient (or authorized to receive information for the intended recipient), you are hereby notified that any review, use, disclosure, distribution, copying, printing, or action taken in reliance on the contents of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. Thank you. From b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu Fri Feb 20 10:28:41 2009 From: b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu (Bernice Frederick) Date: Fri Feb 20 10:28:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <244EC262EC18442AB4172214196EFA44@lurie.northwestern.edu> When I was working on my practical, my fellow co-workers did not help as they had all gone through it themselves and left it to the tech to do it. You could ask a question for direction, but do the work? NEVER! Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of O'Donnell, Bill Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 10:01 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu Fri Feb 20 10:34:04 2009 From: pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu (Pamela Marcum) Date: Fri Feb 20 10:34:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E3802AE55AFB1@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> References: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB14@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu><208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E3802AE55AFB1@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Message-ID: <001701c99379$0b477c90$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> We would need more histologists presence in the office for that and not the "business people" running it now for shows. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Swain, Frances L Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 11:22 AM To: O'Donnell, Bill; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been reference to someone else taking the practical exam instead of the applicant. Since the written exam has become a computer generated program what is to stop someone from taking the exam for an applicant. The reasons given for dropping the exam are very shallow. The idea that Victor and Barry have been tauting are the best ones. The time has come that the NSH step in and regulate us. If the ASCP still wants to certify us then they can send a representative to the different district to oversee and participate in the scoring of the practical exam, etc. It would be a lot cheaper that way. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of O'Donnell, Bill Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 10:01 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Fri Feb 20 11:13:28 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Fri Feb 20 11:13:33 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <001701c99379$0b477c90$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: <752114.92313.qm@web65701.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> I can give you all 100:1 handicap that this will not happen, ever! Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, Pamela Marcum wrote: From: Pamela Marcum Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "'Swain, Frances L'" , "'O'Donnell, Bill'" , "'Histonet'" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 11:34 AM We would need more histologists presence in the office for that and not the "business people" running it now for shows. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Swain, Frances L Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 11:22 AM To: O'Donnell, Bill; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been reference to someone else taking the practical exam instead of the applicant. Since the written exam has become a computer generated program what is to stop someone from taking the exam for an applicant. The reasons given for dropping the exam are very shallow. The idea that Victor and Barry have been tauting are the best ones. The time has come that the NSH step in and regulate us. If the ASCP still wants to certify us then they can send a representative to the different district to oversee and participate in the scoring of the practical exam, etc. It would be a lot cheaper that way. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of O'Donnell, Bill Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 10:01 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu Fri Feb 20 11:22:31 2009 From: pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu (Pamela Marcum) Date: Fri Feb 20 11:22:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <752114.92313.qm@web65701.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: <001701c99379$0b477c90$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> <752114.92313.qm@web65701.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <001e01c9937f$d021de60$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> I do my best not to take bad bets so I will pass. There is no way ASCP will give it its control and more importantly revenue stream on this one. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 _____ From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 12:13 PM To: 'Swain, Frances L'; 'O'Donnell, Bill'; 'Histonet'; Pamela Marcum Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam I can give you all 100:1 handicap that this will not happen, ever! Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, Pamela Marcum wrote: From: Pamela Marcum Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "'Swain, Frances L'" , "'O'Donnell, Bill'" , "'Histonet'" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 11:34 AM We would need more histologists presence in the office for that and not the "business people" running it now for shows. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Swain, Frances L Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 11:22 AM To: O'Donnell, Bill; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been reference to someone else taking the practical exam instead of the applicant. Since the written exam has become a computer generated program what is to stop someone from taking the exam for an applicant. The reasons given for dropping the exam are very shallow. The idea that Victor and Barry have been tauting are the best ones. The time has come that the NSH step in and regulate us. If the ASCP still wants to certify us then they can send a representative to the different district to oversee and participate in the scoring of the practical exam, etc. It would be a lot cheaper that way. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of O'Donnell, Bill Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 10:01 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Luis.Chiriboga <@t> nyumc.org Fri Feb 20 11:52:46 2009 From: Luis.Chiriboga <@t> nyumc.org (Chiriboga, Luis) Date: Fri Feb 20 11:52:52 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <752114.92313.qm@web65701.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: <001701c99379$0b477c90$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> <752114.92313.qm@web65701.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <87EF241A3ACD47489DC61AEE79BC7D9ECBA755@MSGWSDCPMB01.nyumc.org> that's because its American society FOR CLINCAL pathologist, not anatomic.....(no offense intended) -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 12:13 PM To: 'Swain, Frances L'; 'O'Donnell, Bill'; 'Histonet'; Pamela Marcum Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam I can give you all 100:1 handicap that this will not happen, ever! Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, Pamela Marcum wrote: From: Pamela Marcum Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "'Swain, Frances L'" , "'O'Donnell, Bill'" , "'Histonet'" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 11:34 AM We would need more histologists presence in the office for that and not the "business people" running it now for shows. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Swain, Frances L Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 11:22 AM To: O'Donnell, Bill; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been reference to someone else taking the practical exam instead of the applicant. Since the written exam has become a computer generated program what is to stop someone from taking the exam for an applicant. The reasons given for dropping the exam are very shallow. The idea that Victor and Barry have been tauting are the best ones. The time has come that the NSH step in and regulate us. If the ASCP still wants to certify us then they can send a representative to the different district to oversee and participate in the scoring of the practical exam, etc. It would be a lot cheaper that way. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of O'Donnell, Bill Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 10:01 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------------------------------------ This email message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain information that is proprietary, confidential, and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you have received this email in error please notify the sender by return email and delete the original message. Please note, the recipient should check this email and any attachments for the presence of viruses. The organization accepts no liability for any damage caused by any virus transmitted by this email. ================================= From john <@t> imebinc.com Fri Feb 20 12:47:33 2009 From: john <@t> imebinc.com (John O'Brien) Date: Fri Feb 20 12:33:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Ventana TechMate Slide holders needed- Message-ID: <000601c9938b$b1028780$4a01a8c0@EXECUTIVE01> Trying to locate some old microscope Slide racks for the TechMate Slide stainer that was orginally manufactured by Bio Tech Solutions and was later aquired by Ventana. If any one know where to locate some of these old slide holder, it would be greatly appreciated.We are willing to trade or purchase these slide holders. From b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu Fri Feb 20 13:11:12 2009 From: b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu (Bernice Frederick) Date: Fri Feb 20 13:11:27 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <87EF241A3ACD47489DC61AEE79BC7D9ECBA755@MSGWSDCPMB01.nyumc.org> Message-ID: <51BD7E03644F40E7B5FBF1A8EE9FAD3C@lurie.northwestern.edu> You've got that right!!! We need the ASAP,ASAP (couldn't resist) Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Chiriboga, Luis Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 11:53 AM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Swain, Frances L; O'Donnell, Bill; Histonet; Pamela Marcum Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam that's because its American society FOR CLINCAL pathologist, not anatomic.....(no offense intended) -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 12:13 PM To: 'Swain, Frances L'; 'O'Donnell, Bill'; 'Histonet'; Pamela Marcum Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam I can give you all 100:1 handicap that this will not happen, ever! Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, Pamela Marcum wrote: From: Pamela Marcum Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "'Swain, Frances L'" , "'O'Donnell, Bill'" , "'Histonet'" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 11:34 AM We would need more histologists presence in the office for that and not the "business people" running it now for shows. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Swain, Frances L Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 11:22 AM To: O'Donnell, Bill; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been reference to someone else taking the practical exam instead of the applicant. Since the written exam has become a computer generated program what is to stop someone from taking the exam for an applicant. The reasons given for dropping the exam are very shallow. The idea that Victor and Barry have been tauting are the best ones. The time has come that the NSH step in and regulate us. If the ASCP still wants to certify us then they can send a representative to the different district to oversee and participate in the scoring of the practical exam, etc. It would be a lot cheaper that way. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of O'Donnell, Bill Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 10:01 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------------------------------------ This email message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain information that is proprietary, confidential, and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you have received this email in error please notify the sender by return email and delete the original message. Please note, the recipient should check this email and any attachments for the presence of viruses. The organization accepts no liability for any damage caused by any virus transmitted by this email. ================================= _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From mlbukhar <@t> ucalgary.ca Fri Feb 20 13:15:05 2009 From: mlbukhar <@t> ucalgary.ca (maureen bukhari) Date: Fri Feb 20 13:15:15 2009 Subject: [Histonet] NSH Message-ID: <009d01c9938f$89e2ac30$9da80490$@ca> I agree with all those who say the NSH should be the governing body in the USA for Histo-techs. It is a good organization, well-respected and tons of information is provided to all of us belonging to it (Canada is Region lX). In Canada we Histo-techs are part of the Canadian Society of Medical Laboratory Sciences. This gives us someone to answer to and a source of professional pride and recognition world-wide. I have worked with American Histology Techs in Saudi and UAE and feel a great kinship so I say NSH. You deserve the best regulatory body.! Looking forward to meeting some of the histonetters at the Georgia Conference on March 20th weekend. Maureen Maureen Bukhari MLT (CSMLS) Histology Technologist Lab 2B26A HRIC Building, 3330 Hospital Drive, NW, University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1 Phone:403-210-6524 e-mail: mlbukhar@ucalgary.ca From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Fri Feb 20 14:32:41 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Fri Feb 20 14:32:45 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB17@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> Message-ID: <666842.28404.qm@web65707.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Barry: Don't tell me, those were the 2 arguments posed by the ASCP to stop administering the practical test. On the other hand I know that the NSH is not structurally able to take care of that function. The other thing that you mention, UNIONIZING I strongly think would be a better avenue, although it will be an extremely difficult proposition. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Histonet" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 10:36 AM Rene I have always regarded the mechanism of sending slides in to be a big flaw in the practical, it it did offer some standardization. cannot accept the cost logic. The real question here is why is the ASCP running this exam at all? I have great respect for the ASCP but is this organizations main goal to represent histotechs? The ASCP was not originally organized to look after our interests. I thought that the NSH and the individual state societies were instituted to do just that. In which case why is there not a standardized test that is administered by the NSH? This can be done on a state level with individuals who are nationally certified . Will this be more costly that the current system. Of course - but if histotechs wish for better recognition and pay I believe that this is the only path. An alternate for appropriate salary and better conditions is unionizing. I know this has some disadvantages but lets face it with the national shortage of histotechs why haven't slaries and conditons improved dramatically, why are untrained people in some cases allowed to work in some positions? I know that many who are .....of by this continuing saga but I can only apologize because I feel strongly about this (and because I have more time following my semi retirement!!). Barry ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa [rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Fri Feb 20 14:36:34 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Fri Feb 20 14:36:39 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <52858.58186.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Bill: In my time when you accepted somebody else doing YOUR job and YOU being remunerated or accredited for it was called CHEATING and that is a moral turpitude issue, and really a problem, not as you say that was "not much of a problem"!. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, O'Donnell, Bill wrote: From: O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Histonet" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 11:00 AM If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Fri Feb 20 14:42:38 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Fri Feb 20 14:42:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E3802AE55AFB1@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Message-ID: <992885.9766.qm@web65705.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Ah, by the way! The ASCP Board of Registry (BOR) is soon cease to exist because it will "merge" with the National Certification Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA). Perhaps the new agency is the one to "lobby" to reinstate the practical test. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, Swain, Frances L wrote: From: Swain, Frances L Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "O'Donnell, Bill" , "Histonet" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 11:21 AM There has been reference to someone else taking the practical exam instead of the applicant. Since the written exam has become a computer generated program what is to stop someone from taking the exam for an applicant. The reasons given for dropping the exam are very shallow. The idea that Victor and Barry have been tauting are the best ones. The time has come that the NSH step in and regulate us. If the ASCP still wants to certify us then they can send a representative to the different district to oversee and participate in the scoring of the practical exam, etc. It would be a lot cheaper that way. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of O'Donnell, Bill Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 10:01 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Luis.Chiriboga <@t> nyumc.org Fri Feb 20 14:45:24 2009 From: Luis.Chiriboga <@t> nyumc.org (Chiriboga, Luis) Date: Fri Feb 20 14:45:29 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <666842.28404.qm@web65707.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB17@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> <666842.28404.qm@web65707.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <87EF241A3ACD47489DC61AEE79BC7D9ECBA758@MSGWSDCPMB01.nyumc.org> I would like to add one thought to this and it comes from my experience in lobbying over the that last 3 years since licensure was mandated here in NY..... No one (other than histologist) is/are going to do or help us achieve what we want......we have to do it ourselves. If this means empowering NSH or using some other method or approach, so be it. Everyone else (non-histologist and in particular pathologist) have their own agenda and rightfully so. It is up to us further our agenda/goals because we are our own "special interest group".... and no one else/other organization will do it for us. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 3:33 PM To: Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Barry: Don't tell me, those were the 2 arguments posed by the ASCP to stop administering the practical test. On the other hand I know that the NSH is not structurally able to take care of that function. The other thing that you mention, UNIONIZING I strongly think would be a better avenue, although it will be an extremely difficult proposition. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Histonet" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 10:36 AM Rene I have always regarded the mechanism of sending slides in to be a big flaw in the practical, it it did offer some standardization. cannot accept the cost logic. The real question here is why is the ASCP running this exam at all? I have great respect for the ASCP but is this organizations main goal to represent histotechs? The ASCP was not originally organized to look after our interests. I thought that the NSH and the individual state societies were instituted to do just that. In which case why is there not a standardized test that is administered by the NSH? This can be done on a state level with individuals who are nationally certified . Will this be more costly that the current system. Of course - but if histotechs wish for better recognition and pay I believe that this is the only path. An alternate for appropriate salary and better conditions is unionizing. I know this has some disadvantages but lets face it with the national shortage of histotechs why haven't slaries and conditons improved dramatically, why are untrained people in some cases allowed to work in some positions? I know that many who are .....of by this continuing saga but I can only apologize because I feel strongly about this (and because I have more time following my semi retirement!!). Barry ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa [rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------------------------------------ This email message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain information that is proprietary, confidential, and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. 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The organization accepts no liability for any damage caused by any virus transmitted by this email. ================================= From tpodawiltz <@t> lrgh.org Fri Feb 20 14:56:58 2009 From: tpodawiltz <@t> lrgh.org (Podawiltz, Thomas) Date: Fri Feb 20 15:01:26 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <52858.58186.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: , <52858.58186.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCE8@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> Rene, I can't and won't put words into Bill's mouth, especially since we have known each other for almost 30 years, but I think his question was, was there really a problem with people turning in someone else's work as their own. Where are the facts that it even happen? Tom Podawiltz, HT (ASCP) Histology Section Head/Laboratory Safety Officer LRGHealthcare 603-524-3211 ext: 3220 ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa [rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 3:36 PM To: Histonet; O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Bill: In my time when you accepted somebody else doing YOUR job and YOU being remunerated or accredited for it was called CHEATING and that is a moral turpitude issue, and really a problem, not as you say that was "not much of a problem"!. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, O'Donnell, Bill wrote: From: O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Histonet" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 11:00 AM If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting..... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet THIS MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL. This e-mail message and any attachments are proprietary and confidential information intended only for the use of the recipient(s) named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you may not print,distribute, or copy this message or any attachments. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this message and any attachments from your computer. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of LRGHealthcare. From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Fri Feb 20 15:06:37 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Fri Feb 20 15:06:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCE8@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> Message-ID: <838755.69133.qm@web65711.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Thomas: That you will have to ask the BOR of the ASCP because that was one of their 2 main reasons to stop administering that part of the certification. If Bill meant what you say, it was very poorly presented. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, Podawiltz, Thomas wrote: From: Podawiltz, Thomas Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "rjbuesa@yahoo.com" , "Histonet" , "O'Donnell, Bill" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 3:56 PM Rene, I can't and won't put words into Bill's mouth, especially since we have known each other for almost 30 years, but I think his question was, was there really a problem with people turning in someone else's work as their own. Where are the facts that it even happen? Tom Podawiltz, HT (ASCP) Histology Section Head/Laboratory Safety Officer LRGHealthcare 603-524-3211 ext: 3220 ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa [rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 3:36 PM To: Histonet; O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Bill: In my time when you accepted somebody else doing YOUR job and YOU being remunerated or accredited for it was called CHEATING and that is a moral turpitude issue, and really a problem, not as you say that was "not much of a problem"!. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, O'Donnell, Bill wrote: From: O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Histonet" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 11:00 AM If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting..... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet THIS MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL. This e-mail message and any attachments are proprietary and confidential information intended only for the use of the recipient(s) named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you may not print,distribute, or copy this message or any attachments. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this message and any attachments from your computer. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of LRGHealthcare. From Ronald.Houston <@t> nationwidechildrens.org Fri Feb 20 15:06:45 2009 From: Ronald.Houston <@t> nationwidechildrens.org (Houston, Ronald) Date: Fri Feb 20 15:07:19 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB17@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> Message-ID: <979FF5962E234F45B06CF0DB7C1AABB21B6454B8@chi2k3ms01.columbuschildrens.net> In the UK, histotechs and med techs are considered equal and as Biomedical Scientists, which is what the profession in the US should be aiming for. This was accomplished by the governing body, the Institute of Biomedical Sciences, and the Unions coming together. Was it pretty? Absolutely not, and there was a lot of ill-feeling and distrust for a while - but it was accomplished and salaries and government, and indeed public recognition increased. IBMS administers the examination, incredibly strict and extensive, and licences are administered by the Department of Health (if my memory serves me correctly). No licence - no work! Practical examinations are (were, I've been away for 20+ years)) held regionally at large teaching hospitals, and were also strictly administered - that way there was no possible way of someone doing the work for a student. The written examination for fellowship, also held regionally, comprises three parts; a two hour essay (from 4 topics), five short essays (~30 minutes each) and then a 3 hour multiple choice examination. Barry may also remember prior to this, the specialist exam also included an oral examination as well as written and practical - that was really testing your knowledge As I say, things may have changed recently, but laboratory staff in hospitals are still biomedical scientists, and much more highly respected than HTs over here. Far different from the US, but we need to get real and decide what the profession, not the ASCP, really wants. That can only come through the membership and the NSH Ronnie Houston, MS HT(ASCP)QIHC FIBMS Anatomic Pathology Manager Nationwide Children's Hospital 700 Children's Drive Columbus, OH 43205 (614) 722 5450 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rittman, Barry R Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 10:37 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Rene I have always regarded the mechanism of sending slides in to be a big flaw in the practical, it it did offer some standardization. cannot accept the cost logic. The real question here is why is the ASCP running this exam at all? I have great respect for the ASCP but is this organizations main goal to represent histotechs? The ASCP was not originally organized to look after our interests. I thought that the NSH and the individual state societies were instituted to do just that. In which case why is there not a standardized test that is administered by the NSH? This can be done on a state level with individuals who are nationally certified . Will this be more costly that the current system. Of course - but if histotechs wish for better recognition and pay I believe that this is the only path. An alternate for appropriate salary and better conditions is unionizing. I know this has some disadvantages but lets face it with the national shortage of histotechs why haven't slaries and conditons improved dramatically, why are untrained people in some cases allowed to work in some positions? I know that many who are .....of by this continuing saga but I can only apologize because I feel strongly about this (and because I have more time following my semi retirement!!). Barry ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa [rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. 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From pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu Fri Feb 20 15:11:19 2009 From: pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu (Pamela Marcum) Date: Fri Feb 20 15:11:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCE8@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> References: , <52858.58186.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCE8@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> Message-ID: <003001c9939f$c677e880$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Hi, This has nothing to do with Bill or you Tom however, when the practical was still being given people did come on histonet and ask for tissue in blocks and help finishing the exam. It was not a good thing and showed that some people were not able to acquire the tissues needed or were not looking for them. Since I saw this several times and many of us were upset about it, I can say at least a few people did not do their own if they could avoid it. I don't remember names or locations so please don't ask for them. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Podawiltz, Thomas Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 3:57 PM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet; O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Rene, I can't and won't put words into Bill's mouth, especially since we have known each other for almost 30 years, but I think his question was, was there really a problem with people turning in someone else's work as their own. Where are the facts that it even happen? Tom Podawiltz, HT (ASCP) Histology Section Head/Laboratory Safety Officer LRGHealthcare 603-524-3211 ext: 3220 ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa [rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 3:36 PM To: Histonet; O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Bill: In my time when you accepted somebody else doing YOUR job and YOU being remunerated or accredited for it was called CHEATING and that is a moral turpitude issue, and really a problem, not as you say that was "not much of a problem"!. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, O'Donnell, Bill wrote: From: O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Histonet" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 11:00 AM If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting..... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet THIS MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL. This e-mail message and any attachments are proprietary and confidential information intended only for the use of the recipient(s) named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you may not print,distribute, or copy this message or any attachments. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this message and any attachments from your computer. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of LRGHealthcare. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net Fri Feb 20 15:16:44 2009 From: billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net (O'Donnell, Bill) Date: Fri Feb 20 15:16:55 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam Message-ID: Rene, Ouch!!! Lighten up! I never accepted or condoned cheating! Of course it is immoral! Only a sociopath would honestly believe otherwise.I never used the words you quoted me as saying. Cheating was one of the two reasons (cost being the other) that you yourself stated was a motive for ASCP dropping the practical. Maybe I wasn't totally clear. What I proposed was that cheating was never at the scale or magnitude that it would be a viable reason for ASCP to dismiss the practical exam. I'm sure it occasionally occured, but I also believe in the basic goodness of human beings, so I'm pretty sure it was miniscule in proportion to those who completed their practicals in dignity and with honesty. My point is that it was not a reasonable justification to end the practical. If you have concrete proof, fine, I'd love to see it. If it is your opinion, fine, everyone has them, but don't confuse them. BTW "moral terpitude" is a redundant phrase, though an interesting choice. (Smile, Rene....no more flames. I didn't deserve it and besides.......it's Friday and I don't have the energy to joust. I'll be better rested on Monday). William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 2:37 PM To: Histonet; O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Bill: In my time when you accepted somebody else doing YOUR job and YOU being remunerated or accredited for it was called CHEATING and that is a moral turpitude issue, and really a problem, not as you say that was "not much of a problem"!. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, O'Donnell, Bill wrote: From: O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Histonet" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 11:00 AM If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From jstaruk <@t> masshistology.com Fri Feb 20 15:34:46 2009 From: jstaruk <@t> masshistology.com (jstaruk) Date: Fri Feb 20 15:34:51 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <4F99193BBA92466B900C8D173EB6DD54@JimPC> I have not been following this discussion but I scanned this one and remember receiving orders from private people to section certain tissues and stain them using a variety of staining procedures. The tissues and stains were very similar to the ones I had to submit when I took my practical. I never thought of it until now, I probably aided and abetted a few of these "cheaters" during my career! Jim _______________________ James E. Staruk HT(ASCP) www.masshistology.com www.nehorselabs.com -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of O'Donnell, Bill Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 4:17 PM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Rene, Ouch!!! Lighten up! I never accepted or condoned cheating! Of course it is immoral! Only a sociopath would honestly believe otherwise.I never used the words you quoted me as saying. Cheating was one of the two reasons (cost being the other) that you yourself stated was a motive for ASCP dropping the practical. Maybe I wasn't totally clear. What I proposed was that cheating was never at the scale or magnitude that it would be a viable reason for ASCP to dismiss the practical exam. I'm sure it occasionally occured, but I also believe in the basic goodness of human beings, so I'm pretty sure it was miniscule in proportion to those who completed their practicals in dignity and with honesty. My point is that it was not a reasonable justification to end the practical. If you have concrete proof, fine, I'd love to see it. If it is your opinion, fine, everyone has them, but don't confuse them. BTW "moral terpitude" is a redundant phrase, though an interesting choice. (Smile, Rene....no more flames. I didn't deserve it and besides.......it's Friday and I don't have the energy to joust. I'll be better rested on Monday). William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 ________________________________ From: Rene J Buesa [mailto:rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 2:37 PM To: Histonet; O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Bill: In my time when you accepted somebody else doing YOUR job and YOU being remunerated or accredited for it was called CHEATING and that is a moral turpitude issue, and really a problem, not as you say that was "not much of a problem"!. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, O'Donnell, Bill wrote: From: O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Histonet" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 11:00 AM If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net Fri Feb 20 16:30:47 2009 From: billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net (O'Donnell, Bill) Date: Fri Feb 20 16:31:16 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <003001c9939f$c677e880$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> References: , <52858.58186.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCE8@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> <003001c9939f$c677e880$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: It is interesting that this topic of OJT/School/Registered/Non-registered resurfaces every so often, and that it still evokes so many responses. Time to contribute a new thought (at least new to me, you know, like buying underwear at the Goodwill) (Sorry, a little Friday humor) Perhaps the practical was too narrow in its scope. It was certainly skewed in the direction of those in clinical work. Asking for human tissues when you had no recourse to them could, force a persons hand, to reach out for help in procuring tissues. That is not cheating. I don't think anyone here would call it that either. That is resourcefulness. I was lucky, I guess, in retrospect, that I worked in a clinical lab with plenty of tissues and resources to help me get it done. It never even dawned on me that other techs wouldn't have the same resources. That's not my point. Those who choose to cheat will always be around. Taking a strong moral stand against it, that's a good thing, but also a given stance because we all learned from our first grade teacher that we aren't supposed to cheat. I'm certain if cheating could be proven in a practical exam, that person(s) would not have been certified. Tough to prove though, isn't it. I'm not defending cheating, but I still hold it was a weak reason to pull the practical. OK, that's not really my point either - sorry, here it comes...... Now, I'm opening a whole new sub-topic. I offer my apologies for those who have been trying to skip over all these registry posts :} What I'm hearing is a general desire to have the practical returned. Great, I'm all for it. But perhaps we need to look at the nature of the practical. Should there be a different one for those in veterinary histology than the one for clinical (human tissues) histologists? Should there be one that is aimed at those who do research work? It would in my opinion be logical and certainly fair-minded. The practical should be to show the you can do the work you are currently doing, albeit in a standardized way. That is everyones PAS on an appendix should turn out to the same standard for the exam. But is it fair to ask someone, especially in this economy, to do things for their practical, that are removed from their practice? Another sub-point: If I take my practical while working clinical and later take a job doing veterinary work, granted, I might have the very basic of skills down, but, as those of you in vet work can attest, it's a whole 'nother animal.(no pun intended....well, actually it was) But the same would be true of someone coming into clinical from veterinary. Back to the main point: It would mean two or more sets of reviewers for the practical portion. Logistically this would add a layer of complication in getting started, but it is not insurmountable. If cheating can be arrested, or at least made less attractive, by something like this, and it might actually return the practical (because the cost issue is a non-issue, as it can be made up in the fees applied), it should at least be given a few seconds thought. I want to take just a little more of your time to commend all of those techs who did have to beg and borrow tissues, reagents and textbooks to finish and pass the registry practical. It shows a type of moxie we don't always see everyday. But it doesn't need to be that way if the practical is ever re-established. Now as to cheating and the general moral downfall of our society......I don't want to go there except to say that, no, I don't want to go there either. Just a few more thoughts (just thoughts and nothing more) on the subject: Should there be both a practical and written exam for each type human/non-human/research/pharmaceutical/food science of histology? Should one be recertified when changing types of histology jobs? Do blondes really have more fun? Have a grand weekend, and thanks for plowing through an old-man's post. Next one will be shorter. Maybe just a grunt or guff-fa William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: Pamela Marcum [mailto:pmarcum@vet.upenn.edu] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 3:11 PM To: 'Podawiltz, Thomas'; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; 'Histonet'; O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Hi, This has nothing to do with Bill or you Tom however, when the practical was still being given people did come on histonet and ask for tissue in blocks and help finishing the exam. It was not a good thing and showed that some people were not able to acquire the tissues needed or were not looking for them. Since I saw this several times and many of us were upset about it, I can say at least a few people did not do their own if they could avoid it. I don't remember names or locations so please don't ask for them. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Podawiltz, Thomas Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 3:57 PM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet; O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Rene, I can't and won't put words into Bill's mouth, especially since we have known each other for almost 30 years, but I think his question was, was there really a problem with people turning in someone else's work as their own. Where are the facts that it even happen? Tom Podawiltz, HT (ASCP) Histology Section Head/Laboratory Safety Officer LRGHealthcare 603-524-3211 ext: 3220 ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa [rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 3:36 PM To: Histonet; O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Bill: In my time when you accepted somebody else doing YOUR job and YOU being remunerated or accredited for it was called CHEATING and that is a moral turpitude issue, and really a problem, not as you say that was "not much of a problem"!. Ren? J. --- On Fri, 2/20/09, O'Donnell, Bill wrote: From: O'Donnell, Bill Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Histonet" Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 11:00 AM If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting..... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet THIS MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL. This e-mail message and any attachments are proprietary and confidential information intended only for the use of the recipient(s) named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you may not print,distribute, or copy this message or any attachments. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this message and any attachments from your computer. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of LRGHealthcare. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From esther.peters <@t> verizon.net Fri Feb 20 17:08:06 2009 From: esther.peters <@t> verizon.net (Esther Peters) Date: Fri Feb 20 17:08:27 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: References: , <52858.58186.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCE8@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> <003001c9939f$c677e880$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: <499F37D6.3000607@verizon.net> As one who first came into histology by working with the lowest phyla, and has continued to teach students the procedures for whatever critter they are working on, it seems to me that the basics and criteria for producing a properly embedded, sectioned, and stained H&E tissue sample are the same for all. Special stains might not always work exactly the same on different organisms (especially those from a marine environment vs. terrestrial) or demonstrate the same features (e.g., invertebrates lack myelin, fish erythrocytes are nucleated), but understanding whether someone can produce a good slide using any organism is the same. Indeed, those who work on insects, crustaceans, bivalves, and sponges, would welcome having human tissue to section! And those critters provide ample training in troubleshooting in histology! (My mentor at the marine research lab sacrificed a white rabbit for another student to work on who wanted to get the HT certification.) Just as I am sure not every piece of appendix looks entirely the same and processes exactly the same, there needs to be some standards but also some acceptance of diversity? Esther Peters, Ph.D. Assistant Professor George Mason University O'Donnell, Bill wrote: > It is interesting that this topic of OJT/School/Registered/Non-registered resurfaces every so often, and that it still evokes so many responses. > > Time to contribute a new thought (at least new to me, you know, like buying underwear at the Goodwill) (Sorry, a little Friday humor) > > Perhaps the practical was too narrow in its scope. It was certainly skewed in the direction of those in clinical work. Asking for human tissues when you had no recourse to them could, force a persons hand, to reach out for help in procuring tissues. That is not cheating. I don't think anyone here would call it that either. That is resourcefulness. I was lucky, I guess, in retrospect, that I worked in a clinical lab with plenty of tissues and resources to help me get it done. It never even dawned on me that other techs wouldn't have the same resources. > > That's not my point. > > Those who choose to cheat will always be around. Taking a strong moral stand against it, that's a good thing, but also a given stance because we all learned from our first grade teacher that we aren't supposed to cheat. I'm certain if cheating could be proven in a practical exam, that person(s) would not have been certified. Tough to prove though, isn't it. I'm not defending cheating, but I still hold it was a weak reason to pull the practical. > > OK, that's not really my point either - sorry, here it comes...... > > Now, I'm opening a whole new sub-topic. I offer my apologies for those who have been trying to skip over all these registry posts :} > > What I'm hearing is a general desire to have the practical returned. Great, I'm all for it. But perhaps we need to look at the nature of the practical. > > Should there be a different one for those in veterinary histology than the one for clinical (human tissues) histologists? Should there be one that is aimed at those who do research work? > It would in my opinion be logical and certainly fair-minded. > The practical should be to show the you can do the work you are currently doing, albeit in a standardized way. That is everyones PAS on an appendix should turn out to the same standard for the exam. But is it fair to ask someone, especially in this economy, to do things for their practical, that are removed from their practice? > > Another sub-point: > > If I take my practical while working clinical and later take a job doing veterinary work, granted, I might have the very basic of skills down, but, as those of you in vet work can attest, it's a whole 'nother animal.(no pun intended....well, actually it was) > > But the same would be true of someone coming into clinical from veterinary. > > Back to the main point: > > It would mean two or more sets of reviewers for the practical portion. Logistically this would add a layer of complication in getting started, but it is not insurmountable. > > If cheating can be arrested, or at least made less attractive, by something like this, and it might actually return the practical (because the cost issue is a non-issue, as it can be made up in the fees applied), it should at least be given a few seconds thought. > > I want to take just a little more of your time to commend all of those techs who did have to beg and borrow tissues, reagents and textbooks to finish and pass the registry practical. It shows a type of moxie we don't always see everyday. But it doesn't need to be that way if the practical is ever re-established. > > Now as to cheating and the general moral downfall of our society......I don't want to go there except to say that, no, I don't want to go there either. > > Just a few more thoughts (just thoughts and nothing more) on the subject: > > Should there be both a practical and written exam for each type human/non-human/research/pharmaceutical/food science of histology? > > Should one be recertified when changing types of histology jobs? > > Do blondes really have more fun? > > > Have a grand weekend, and thanks for plowing through an old-man's post. Next one will be shorter. Maybe just a grunt or guff-fa > > William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC > Lead Histologist > Good Samaritan Hospital > 10 East 31st Street > Kearney, NE 68847 > > > > -----Original Message----- > From: Pamela Marcum [mailto:pmarcum@vet.upenn.edu] > Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 3:11 PM > To: 'Podawiltz, Thomas'; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; 'Histonet'; O'Donnell, Bill > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam > > Hi, > > This has nothing to do with Bill or you Tom however, when the practical was still being given people did come on histonet and ask for tissue in blocks and help finishing the exam. It was not a good thing and showed that some people were not able to acquire the tissues needed or were not looking for them. Since I saw this several times and many of us were upset about it, I can say at least a few people did not do their own if they could avoid it. > I don't remember names or locations so please don't ask for them. > > Pamela A Marcum > University of Pennsylvania > School of Veterinary Medicine > Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) > 382 W Street Rd > Kennett Square PA 19438 > 610-925-6278 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Podawiltz, > Thomas > Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 3:57 PM > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Histonet; O'Donnell, Bill > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam > > Rene, I can't and won't put words into Bill's mouth, especially since we > have known each other for almost 30 years, but I think his question was, was > there really a problem with people turning in someone else's work as their > own. Where are the facts that it even happen? > > > Tom Podawiltz, HT (ASCP) > Histology Section Head/Laboratory Safety Officer > LRGHealthcare > 603-524-3211 ext: 3220 > ________________________________________ > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa > [rjbuesa@yahoo.com] > Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 3:36 PM > To: Histonet; O'Donnell, Bill > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam > > Bill: > In my time when you accepted somebody else doing YOUR job and YOU being > remunerated or accredited for it was called CHEATING and that is a moral > turpitude issue, and really a problem, not as you say that was "not much of > a problem"!. > Ren? J. > > --- On Fri, 2/20/09, O'Donnell, Bill > wrote: > > From: O'Donnell, Bill > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam > To: "Histonet" > Date: Friday, February 20, 2009, 11:00 AM > > If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical > exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would > cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing > other peoples practicals. > > I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize > "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred > sporadically in all the years prior. > > I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from > someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this > practicum. > > However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. > > William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC > Lead Histologist > Good Samaritan Hospital > 10 East 31st Street > Kearney, NE 68847 > > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa > Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM > To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam > > There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of > the > examination: > 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the > person > sending the slides was the one who really made them, and > 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the > reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the > practical > and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). > Ren? J. > > --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R > wrote: > > From: Rittman, Barry R > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam > To: "Victor Tobias" , > "Histonet" > Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM > > Victor > I cannot believe that you have said this. > Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate > test > of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. > With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the > pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a > written > examination. > Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the > technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual > laboratory. > Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, > useless. > What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test > that is administered by NSH. > I am not holding my breath that this will happen. > Barry > > ________________________________________ > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias > [victor@pathology.washington.edu] > Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM > To: Histonet > Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam > > There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. > To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to > whomever > signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified > that > this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one > pathologist > may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting..... > As > far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't > cut, stain and troubleshoot. > So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is > Friday somewhere. > > Victor > > -- > Victor Tobias > Clinical Applications Analyst > University of Washington Medical Center > Dept of Pathology Room BB220 > 1959 NE Pacific > Seattle, WA 98195 > victor@pathology.washington.edu > 206-598-2792 > 206-598-7659 Fax > ================================================= > Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be > contained > in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended > recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has > been > addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, > disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the > sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any > attachments. > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > THIS MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL. > This e-mail message and any attachments are proprietary and confidential > information intended only for the use of the recipient(s) named above. If > you are not the intended recipient, you may not print,distribute, or copy > this message or any attachments. If you have received this communication in > error, please notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this message and > any attachments from your computer. Any views or opinions expressed are > solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of > LRGHealthcare. > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > From SSCALISE <@t> beaumonthospitals.com Fri Feb 20 18:00:32 2009 From: SSCALISE <@t> beaumonthospitals.com (Sharon Scalise) Date: Fri Feb 20 18:00:49 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <499F37D6.3000607@verizon.net> References: , <52858.58186.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com><38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCE8@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org><003001c9939f$c677e880$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu><499F37D6.3000607@verizon.net> Message-ID: <499EFDD0.1CA9.00C8.0@beaumonthospitals.com> It is up to each individual institution to "test" a new hire for their competency. We are lucky to have both an HT and HTL program at our hospital so when we hire a graduating student we already know their work habits and skill level. If I do hire someone from the outside, they have 90 days that they are in a probationary period. If during this 90 day period they have not proven their ability to complete the required work according to our standards, they could be let go or I have the option to extend the probationary period. Whether they have completed a practical exam or not, they still need to prove they are competent after they are hired. We have had to hire from the outside (yes it is a pain going through this process) and you hope that your new hire is as competent as they claim to be. But in the end you will be the one stuck with an incompetent employee if you don't "test" them and catch it before their probationary period ends. Whether or not they have taken a practical exam really does not matter in the end, almost anyone can redo a stain enough times to get it right. The real question is, can they do it right on a daily basis and in a timely manner? Sharon E. Scalise, HTL (ASCP) Histology Supervisor William Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 248 898-5981 From tpodawiltz <@t> lrgh.org Fri Feb 20 19:11:02 2009 From: tpodawiltz <@t> lrgh.org (Podawiltz, Thomas) Date: Fri Feb 20 19:11:08 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <499EFDD0.1CA9.00C8.0@beaumonthospitals.com> References: , <52858.58186.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com><38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCE8@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org><003001c9939f$c677e880$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu><499F37D6.3000607@verizon.net>, <499EFDD0.1CA9.00C8.0@beaumonthospitals.com> Message-ID: <38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCEA@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> Based on what you just said, the students that come from your school do not have to do a 90 probationary period while someone you hire from the outside does? Man, could I have fun from a HR perspective on unequal treatment of new hires. Tom Podawiltz, HT (ASCP) Histology Section Head/Laboratory Safety Officer LRGHealthcare 603-524-3211 ext: 3220 ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Sharon Scalise [SSCALISE@beaumonthospitals.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 7:00 PM To: Bill O'Donnell; Esther Peters Cc: Histonet Subject: Re: [Histonet] Practical Exam It is up to each individual institution to "test" a new hire for their competency. We are lucky to have both an HT and HTL program at our hospital so when we hire a graduating student we already know their work habits and skill level. If I do hire someone from the outside, they have 90 days that they are in a probationary period. If during this 90 day period they have not proven their ability to complete the required work according to our standards, they could be let go or I have the option to extend the probationary period. Whether they have completed a practical exam or not, they still need to prove they are competent after they are hired. We have had to hire from the outside (yes it is a pain going through this process) and you hope that your new hire is as competent as they claim to be. But in the end you will be the one stuck with an incompetent employee if you don't "test" them and catch it before their probationary period ends. Whether or not they have taken a practical exam really does not matter in the end, almost anyone can redo a stain enough times to get it right. The real question is, can they do it right on a daily basis and in a timely manner? Sharon E. Scalise, HTL (ASCP) Histology Supervisor William Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 248 898-5981 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet THIS MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL. This e-mail message and any attachments are proprietary and confidential information intended only for the use of the recipient(s) named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you may not print,distribute, or copy this message or any attachments. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this message and any attachments from your computer. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of LRGHealthcare. From lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net Fri Feb 20 20:12:32 2009 From: lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net (Lee & Peggy Wenk) Date: Fri Feb 20 20:12:44 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Long answer - skip if not interested. Am responding to several (many) emails, not just to Rene's. Yes - that was 2 of the reasons (cheating and cost)that the practical exam was dropped. Please realize that I was not on the committee when the decision was made, but afterwards, I talked with ASCP Board of Registry, and with many of the people on the ASCP BOR Histotechnology Committee (of which all of the histotechs are very involved with NSH), and with the NSH representative on the Committee. ASCP could not guarantee that people were doing their own work. I have talked with people who complained to me about other people in their lab - they were having other people do their sectioning and/or staining. Sometimes it was the supervisor doing this, to make certain their "tech" passed the practical. Sometimes it was other techs, sometimes just to help out, sometimes as ordered by the supervisor or pathologist. I had people call me about this, and approach me at NSH about this, because they were concerned about the cheating. However, they did not want to call ASCP about it, and it would't do any good if I called ASCP. Usually the people did not tell me their name, city, state, or hospital, nor did they tell me the name of the candidate or the people involved in the cheating. And yes, there was a cost factor. Histotechs, if you remember, ended up paying the same exam fee at medtech, cytotechs, etc. PLUS an additional cost ($75 if I remember) to help cover some of the cost of the practical. The key word being SOME. So for every HT and HTL exam candidate, ASCP lost money. There were also other factors, such as: - Automation - Most people were doing their H&E on automated machines. Doing special stains on automated machines. Using automated coverslippers. Automated labelers. So it was the machine-work that was being graded. - Better microtomes and blades - It became very infrequent that someone turned in a slide set that had horrible knife lines or was cut too thick. - Kits and commercial stains - very few people are making their own hematoxylin or eosin, or most of the special stains. Regardless of whether they are staining by hand or on machine, very few people make stains anymore. So the grade was on commercial solutions, not solutions that the candidates made. As a result, most candidates could "do" the stain, and make a fairly good section - because of all the automation and kits. In fact, - from 2001-2004, 70-76% of HT candidates (High school and associate degree routes) could pass the practical, but only 50-53% could pass the written. - When the high school route was dropped, 2005-2007, 90-96% of the candidate could pass the practical, and 55-58% could pass the written (still some high school routes who had failed in 2004 but still had some additional chances to retake the exam). That's 90% could DO the sectioning and the staining! That wasn't the deciding factor in passing the exam! It was the written part. - Last year, in 2008, everyone taking the HT exam had an associate degree, and there was no practical, and 64% of candidates passed the written. So the exam is the same, but more people are passing because they have the biology and chemistry background behind them. This therefore lead to the primary reason for dropping the practical exam. The written/computer exam was the determining factor in whether someone passed or not. The practical exam was NOT the determining factor. There are 4 ways that people passed/failed the written and practical exams. 1. passed both 2. failed both 3. passed written, failed practical 4. failed written, passed practical At the time of the decision to drop the practical, about 50% of the applicants passed both parts (#1). That means that the other 50% failed either the written, or the practical, or both. If they knew their theory fairly well, and could troubleshoot based on the theory, they tended pass both the written and the practical (because they knew what the stain was supposed to look like, and could figure out how to manipulate the stain to make it work right). That's #1. That was 50% of the people. It was actually very rare that #3 happened, where they would pass the written (knew the theory) and yet fail the practical (couldn't do the sectioning/staining). If they didn't know their theory, and didn't pass the written, they also tended to not pass the practical. That's #2. That leaves #4, where they could DO the sectioning and DO the stain, so they passed the practical. However, they didn't know the theory of WHY or HOW anything worked, and therefore didn't know how to fix it, and therefore failed the written. There were a fair number of these people. But do we, as a profession, want people who can cut and stain when everything is working right, but don't know what "right" is supposed to look like, and therefore don't know when it isn't right, and definitely don't know how to fix it. So, out of these scenarios, #1 (passed both) & #2 (failed both) had the written exam predicting if the candidate would pass or fail. #3 (passed written, failed practical) rarely happened. #4, (failed the written but passed the practical), though it happened less frequently than #1, and more frequently than #2, is not good for our profession. I believe that if NSH or any organization tried to set up their own HT/HTL national certification exam, they would run into the same problems - cheating, automation, expense, and having the practical not really predict who is a good tech (90%+ were passing at the end, remember?). Also, remember that histotechs were the ONLY lab techs that had to take a practical. Med techs don't have to prove they can plate microorganism on a petri dish, phlebotimists don't have to prove they can hit a vein, all of the specialists in med tech don't have to prove they can run the equipment (flow, PCR, etc.), cytotechs don't have to prove they can adjust the Koehler illumination on a microscope. They do just a written exam. It is then up to the institution that hires them, to decide if they can really PHYSICALLY DO the task. If you want to know if someone you are interviewing can really section or stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch them. Have them embed tissue. Have them evaluate some slides at the microscope, and answer questions as to what the stain is and what's wrong with a bad stain, and suggest a substitute if you run out of a stain or a chemical. And USE the 3-6 months probation time. If someone can't do the job - get rid of them. If someone has a bad attitude, get rid of them. You owe it to yourself and your other employees, to have GOOD histotechs, not a body that is doing bad work and ruining the mood in the lab. It is OK to use our "powers" of being a supervisor, to FIRE someone, if it isn't working out. I know there is a shortage. I know you have to train people from scratch. I know we all bend over backwards to help everyone. But we all know within a short amount of time of hiring someone, whether someone is going to work out or not. That probation allows you to fire someone without all the documentation. USE IT! And get someone who is capable of learning, eager to learn, excited to have a job, willing to work hard, and gets along with everyone. One of the reasons that the high school route was dropped, was that only 40% could pass, after a minimum of 2 years experience. Yet 60% of candidates with the associate degree will pass, after a minimum of 1 year experience. So hire someone with an associate degree in biology. Trust me, there are NO jobs out there for people with associate degrees in biology. They would love to get a job in a lab. They have the background theory, so you won't have to spend so much time teaching. And, if they end up not being a good hire, for whatever reason (attitude, ability, drugs, whatever) - then fire them. Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 9:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net Fri Feb 20 20:34:25 2009 From: lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net (Lee & Peggy Wenk) Date: Fri Feb 20 20:34:36 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCEA@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> Message-ID: <678562B260FE41BDBB29969152E427AB@HPPav2> I'll respond to this, as these are my students. Yes, my students ARE hired at our hospital, AND with the 90 day probation, same as outside candidates. The difference is that, our department has already been working with the HT students for 7 months, and the HTL students for 11 months. 5 days a week, 8 hours a day. Everyone in the labs has been working with the students, and knows the students, and knows their knowledge and ability and personality and attitude. When there is an opening, the techs get a say in which student they want to hire and work with. Any program graduate hired in our labs is under the 90 day probabation, but basically they have already been through a 7 and 11 month "probation" as a student. We would still fire a graduate new hire during their 90 day probation. However, while they were students in our program, we had already gotten rid of students who did not learn well enough, or couldn't do the procedures, and, if there was an attitude problem, it either got settled, or they left. So by the time a student graduates and gets hired by our lab, there are very few suprises. If we are hiring someone from the outside, we don't know their knowledge, ability, personality and attitude. We don't know them. We don't know if how they will fit into our lab and with everyone else in the lab. And we haven't been assessing them for the previous 7 and 11 months. So the 90 days probation time is even more important. That's one of the reasons to have a School in your institution, or to be a clinical affiliate for a college-based HT/HTL program. Or even one of the on-line HT/HTL programs. You get to assess the students ahead of time, to see if you want to hire them, to see if they are capable, to see if they would be a good fit with your people. (Hint, hint - we need more programs, and more clinical affiliates!) Sharon - Please feel free to add anything else. I hope I'm not putting words in your mouth. I'm speaking as the program director, not as the histology lab supervisor. (disclaimer here) Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Podawiltz, Thomas Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:11 PM To: Sharon Scalise; Bill O'Donnell; Esther Peters Cc: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Based on what you just said, the students that come from your school do not have to do a 90 probationary period while someone you hire from the outside does? Man, could I have fun from a HR perspective on unequal treatment of new hires. Tom Podawiltz, HT (ASCP) Histology Section Head/Laboratory Safety Officer LRGHealthcare 603-524-3211 ext: 3220 ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Sharon Scalise [SSCALISE@beaumonthospitals.com] Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 7:00 PM To: Bill O'Donnell; Esther Peters Cc: Histonet Subject: Re: [Histonet] Practical Exam It is up to each individual institution to "test" a new hire for their competency. We are lucky to have both an HT and HTL program at our hospital so when we hire a graduating student we already know their work habits and skill level. If I do hire someone from the outside, they have 90 days that they are in a probationary period. If during this 90 day period they have not proven their ability to complete the required work according to our standards, they could be let go or I have the option to extend the probationary period. Whether they have completed a practical exam or not, they still need to prove they are competent after they are hired. We have had to hire from the outside (yes it is a pain going through this process) and you hope that your new hire is as competent as they claim to be. But in the end you will be the one stuck with an incompetent employee if you don't "test" them and catch it before their probationary period ends. Whether or not they have taken a practical exam really does not matter in the end, almost anyone can redo a stain enough times to get it right. The real question is, can they do it right on a daily basis and in a timely manner? Sharon E. Scalise, HTL (ASCP) Histology Supervisor William Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 248 898-5981 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet THIS MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL. This e-mail message and any attachments are proprietary and confidential information intended only for the use of the recipient(s) named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you may not print,distribute, or copy this message or any attachments. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this message and any attachments from your computer. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of LRGHealthcare. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From joelleweaver <@t> hotmail.com Sat Feb 21 02:10:36 2009 From: joelleweaver <@t> hotmail.com (joelle weaver) Date: Sat Feb 21 02:10:49 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: References: <208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Some good points are made here. 1. Now that most of the routes to certification require completion of a training program I think that some of the responsibility for making sure that those entering the field know BOTH theory and have the practical skills falls to those teaching and running the programs. I know in that our program, we INSIST on both, and they are equally weighted. In addition so-called "professional and behaviors and attitudes" are evaluated here, and students do not graduate without demonstrating ALL. I know that I personally take this very seriously (perhaps too seriously) because I feel that it reflects on everyone in the field. 2. The main problem seems to be the FEAR, I guess because of the shortage for insisting on # 4 as a baseline competency: " #4, where they could DO the sectioning and DO the stain, so they passed the practical. However, they didn't know the theory of WHY or HOW anything worked, and therefore didn't know how to fix it, and therefore failed the written. There were a fair number of these people. But do we, as a profession, want people who can cut and stain when everything is working right, but don't know what "right" is supposed to look like, and therefore don't know when it isn't right, and definitely don't know how to fix it." and "If you want to know if someone you are interviewing can really section or stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch them. Have them embed tissue. Have them evaluate some slides at the microscope, and answer questions as to what the stain is and what's wrong with a bad stain, and suggest a substitute if you run out of a stain or a chemical. AND the subsequent points: "USE the 3-6 months probation time. If someone can't do the job - get rid of them. If someone has a bad attitude, get rid of them. You owe it to yourself and your other employees, to have GOOD histotechs, not a body that is doing bad work and ruining the mood in the lab. It is OK to use our "powers" of being a supervisor, to FIRE someone, if it isn't working out. I know there is a shortage. I know you have to train people from scratch. I know we all bend over backwards to help everyone. But we all know within a short amount of time of hiring someone, whether someone is going to work out or not. That probation allows you to fire someone without all the documentation. USE IT! And get someone who is capable of learning, eager to learn, excited to have a job, willing to work hard, and gets along with everyone." I agree that I know it is hard, and there is probably a lot of pressure on histology supervisors and managers, but it is not doing anyone any favors by keeping this scenerio going. Thanks Peggy Joelle Weaver HTL (ASCP) > From: lpwenk@sbcglobal.net > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; victor@pathology.washington.edu; ; Barry.R.Rittman@uth.tmc.edu > Date: Fri, 20 Feb 2009 21:12:32 -0500 > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam > CC: > > Long answer - skip if not interested. Am responding to several (many) > emails, not just to Rene's. > > Yes - that was 2 of the reasons (cheating and cost)that the practical exam > was dropped. Please realize that I was not on the committee when the > decision was made, but afterwards, I talked with ASCP Board of Registry, and > with many of the people on the ASCP BOR Histotechnology Committee (of which > all of the histotechs are very involved with NSH), and with the NSH > representative on the Committee. > > ASCP could not guarantee that people were doing their own work. I have > talked with people who complained to me about other people in their lab - > they were having other people do their sectioning and/or staining. Sometimes > it was the supervisor doing this, to make certain their "tech" passed the > practical. Sometimes it was other techs, sometimes just to help out, > sometimes as ordered by the supervisor or pathologist. I had people call me > about this, and approach me at NSH about this, because they were concerned > about the cheating. However, they did not want to call ASCP about it, and it > would't do any good if I called ASCP. Usually the people did not tell me > their name, city, state, or hospital, nor did they tell me the name of the > candidate or the people involved in the cheating. > > And yes, there was a cost factor. Histotechs, if you remember, ended up > paying the same exam fee at medtech, cytotechs, etc. PLUS an additional cost > ($75 if I remember) to help cover some of the cost of the practical. The key > word being SOME. So for every HT and HTL exam candidate, ASCP lost money. > > There were also other factors, such as: > - Automation - Most people were doing their H&E on automated machines. Doing > special stains on automated machines. Using automated coverslippers. > Automated labelers. So it was the machine-work that was being graded. > - Better microtomes and blades - It became very infrequent that someone > turned in a slide set that had horrible knife lines or was cut too thick. > - Kits and commercial stains - very few people are making their own > hematoxylin or eosin, or most of the special stains. Regardless of whether > they are staining by hand or on machine, very few people make stains > anymore. So the grade was on commercial solutions, not solutions that the > candidates made. > > As a result, most candidates could "do" the stain, and make a fairly good > section - because of all the automation and kits. In fact, > - from 2001-2004, 70-76% of HT candidates (High school and associate degree > routes) could pass the practical, but only 50-53% could pass the written. > - When the high school route was dropped, 2005-2007, 90-96% of the candidate > could pass the practical, and 55-58% could pass the written (still some high > school routes who had failed in 2004 but still had some additional chances > to retake the exam). That's 90% could DO the sectioning and the staining! > That wasn't the deciding factor in passing the exam! It was the written > part. > - Last year, in 2008, everyone taking the HT exam had an associate degree, > and there was no practical, and 64% of candidates passed the written. So the > exam is the same, but more people are passing because they have the biology > and chemistry background behind them. > > This therefore lead to the primary reason for dropping the practical exam. > The written/computer exam was the determining factor in whether someone > passed or not. The practical exam was NOT the determining factor. There are > 4 ways that people passed/failed the written and practical exams. > 1. passed both > 2. failed both > 3. passed written, failed practical > 4. failed written, passed practical > > At the time of the decision to drop the practical, about 50% of the > applicants passed both parts (#1). That means that the other 50% failed > either the written, or the practical, or both. > > If they knew their theory fairly well, and could troubleshoot based on the > theory, they tended pass both the written and the practical (because they > knew what the stain was supposed to look like, and could figure out how to > manipulate the stain to make it work right). That's #1. That was 50% of the > people. > > It was actually very rare that #3 happened, where they would pass the > written (knew the theory) and yet fail the practical (couldn't do the > sectioning/staining). > > If they didn't know their theory, and didn't pass the written, they also > tended to not pass the practical. That's #2. > > That leaves #4, where they could DO the sectioning and DO the stain, so they > passed the practical. However, they didn't know the theory of WHY or HOW > anything worked, and therefore didn't know how to fix it, and therefore > failed the written. There were a fair number of these people. But do we, as > a profession, want people who can cut and stain when everything is working > right, but don't know what "right" is supposed to look like, and therefore > don't know when it isn't right, and definitely don't know how to fix it. > > So, out of these scenarios, #1 (passed both) & #2 (failed both) had the > written exam predicting if the candidate would pass or fail. #3 (passed > written, failed practical) rarely happened. #4, (failed the written but > passed the practical), though it happened less frequently than #1, and more > frequently than #2, is not good for our profession. > > I believe that if NSH or any organization tried to set up their own HT/HTL > national certification exam, they would run into the same problems - > cheating, automation, expense, and having the practical not really predict > who is a good tech (90%+ were passing at the end, remember?). > > Also, remember that histotechs were the ONLY lab techs that had to take a > practical. Med techs don't have to prove they can plate microorganism on a > petri dish, phlebotimists don't have to prove they can hit a vein, all of > the specialists in med tech don't have to prove they can run the equipment > (flow, PCR, etc.), cytotechs don't have to prove they can adjust the Koehler > illumination on a microscope. They do just a written exam. It is then up to > the institution that hires them, to decide if they can really PHYSICALLY DO > the task. > > If you want to know if someone you are interviewing can really section or > stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch > them. Have them embed tissue. Have them evaluate some slides at the > microscope, and answer questions as to what the stain is and what's wrong > with a bad stain, and suggest a substitute if you run out of a stain or a > chemical. > > And USE the 3-6 months probation time. If someone can't do the job - get rid > of them. If someone has a bad attitude, get rid of them. You owe it to > yourself and your other employees, to have GOOD histotechs, not a body that > is doing bad work and ruining the mood in the lab. > > It is OK to use our "powers" of being a supervisor, to FIRE someone, if it > isn't working out. I know there is a shortage. I know you have to train > people from scratch. I know we all bend over backwards to help everyone. But > we all know within a short amount of time of hiring someone, whether someone > is going to work out or not. That probation allows you to fire someone > without all the documentation. USE IT! And get someone who is capable of > learning, eager to learn, excited to have a job, willing to work hard, and > gets along with everyone. > > One of the reasons that the high school route was dropped, was that only 40% > could pass, after a minimum of 2 years experience. Yet 60% of candidates > with the associate degree will pass, after a minimum of 1 year experience. > So hire someone with an associate degree in biology. Trust me, there are NO > jobs out there for people with associate degrees in biology. They would love > to get a job in a lab. They have the background theory, so you won't have to > spend so much time teaching. And, if they end up not being a good hire, for > whatever reason (attitude, ability, drugs, whatever) - then fire them. > > Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS > Beaumont Hospital > Royal Oak, MI 48073 > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa > Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 9:01 AM > To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam > > There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of > the examination: > 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the > person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and > 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the > reviewers to qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the > practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). > Ren? J. > > --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: > > From: Rittman, Barry R > Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam > To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" > > Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM > > Victor > I cannot believe that you have said this. > Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate > test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. > With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the > pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a > written examination. > Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the > technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual > laboratory. > Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, > useless. > What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test > that is administered by NSH. > I am not holding my breath that this will happen. > Barry > > ________________________________________ > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias > [victor@pathology.washington.edu] > Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM > To: Histonet > Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam > > There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. > To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to > whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has > verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable > to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of > troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating > anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. > So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is > Friday somewhere. > > Victor > > -- > Victor Tobias > Clinical Applications Analyst > University of Washington Medical Center > Dept of Pathology Room BB220 > 1959 NE Pacific > Seattle, WA 98195 > victor@pathology.washington.edu > 206-598-2792 > 206-598-7659 Fax > ================================================= > Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be > contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the > intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the > message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, > reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. > Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all > copies of the message and any attachments. > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: Discover 10 secrets about the new Windows Live. http://windowslive.com/connect/post/jamiethomson.spaces.live.com-Blog-cns!550F681DAD532637!7540.entry?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_ugc_post_022009 From koellingr <@t> comcast.net Sat Feb 21 10:46:05 2009 From: koellingr <@t> comcast.net (koellingr@comcast.net) Date: Sat Feb 21 10:46:14 2009 Subject: [Histonet] expression pattern of GFP fusion protein in cells and mouse In-Reply-To: <148842960.3051235054938266.JavaMail.osg@osgjas04.cns.ufl.edu> Message-ID: <1766645759.531511235234765761.JavaMail.root@sz0001a.emeryville.ca.mail.comcast.net> DONGTAO FU, Was hoping to see some response for curiosity sake but haven't so this is my take.? In a former life have seen such an occurence. Not with these same reagents but similar happenings. And while I didn't take the time to investigate exactly why, we attributed it to posttranslational modifications. Those 293 cells are human kidney cells and while cells they are certainly different from mouse cells.? When you put in that AAV/dystrophin/GFP cassette into 293 or mice or any kind of other expression model, while they might be?transcribed similarly, each cell type (species) has it's own unique way of posttranslational modifications to the protein. Acetylation, alkylation, glycosylation, and hundreds of others, any one of which could modify an epitope or cover it up.? There are articles innumerable on how posttranslational modifications, different in different species, ?can affect? protein composition and shape (and obviously that could very well impact ability to see it with an antibody that might work perfectly well in detection in another system). Ray Koelling PhenoPtah Labs Seattle, WA ----- Original Message ----- From: "DONGTAO FU" To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 6:48:58 AM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific Subject: [Histonet] expression pattern of GFP fusion protein in cells and mouse Hi, all ??A researcher met a problem of GFP fusion protein expression and is searching an answer from the specialists here. The following is his question: ??I am working with an AAV vector which contains a transgene (dystrophin) which is fused to GFP. When I inject this vector in mice, and stain the tissues with antibodies raised against GFP and dystrophin, I only pick up GFP. It is blazing. I was surprised not to see colocalization given that this is a fusion protein. (I used the same immunostaining protocol that others have successfully used before me to pick up dystrophin). So, the next thing I did was infect 293 cells with the same vector. When I stained those cells, I picked up beautiful expression of dystrophin and GFP. They were perfectly colocalized, as expected. So, my question is, have you seen examples where certain epitopes are masked in one cellular environment and not in another? (maybe the reason that I cannot detect the dystrophin in the mouse tissues, but I can in 293 cells). ??Does anyone know the possible answer of this phenomenon? Any thoughts will be greatly appreciated. Ann _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net Sat Feb 21 11:36:24 2009 From: lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net (Lee & Peggy Wenk) Date: Sat Feb 21 11:36:34 2009 Subject: [Histonet] 2008 ASCP HT/HTL exam pass rate Message-ID: FYI: From ASCP Board of Registry webpage (look under program directors, if you want to so other stats (MT, MLT, CT, etc) >From ASCP BOR webpage. EXAMINATION STATISTICS FOR JANUARY - DECEMBER 2008 Reminder: Minimum score of 400 is required to pass. (Total = all candidates: NAACLS students (first time and repeaters); On-the-Job (OJT) (first time and repeaters)) (NAACLS first time students: students from NAACLS accredited program, first time taking exam) (Non-NAACLS first time students: NAACLS student repeaters; OJT first time and repeaters) HISTOTECHNICIAN (HT) Mean (total): 446 Range of score (total): 100-796 Total # taking exam: 681 Total pass: 437 (64%) Total # first time NAACLS students: 273 Total pass first time NAACLS students: 202 (74%) Total # Non-NAACLS first time students: 408 Total pass non-NAACLS first time students: 235 (58%) Total HT certified since 1948: 20,899 HISTOTECHNOLOGIST (HTL) Mean (total): 421 Range of score (total): 100-688 Total # taking exam: 229 Total pass: 140 (61%) Total # first time NAACLS students: 57 Total pass first time NAACLS students: 39 (68%) Total # Non-NAACLS first time students: 172 Total pass non-NAACLS first time students: 101 (59%) Total HTL certified since 1980: 2,655 Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 From jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com Sun Feb 22 10:56:17 2009 From: jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com (JoeNocito) Date: Sun Feb 22 10:56:26 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: References: <208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <003b01c9950e$7b3a9f50$71afddf0$@rr.com> With all this said so eloquently, the problem remains; not enough techs and not enough programs. The program here in San Antonio is in danger of closing. I, myself, have hired many of the students that rotated through my labs because I witnessed their work habits and abilities. If the program does close, it will never reopen again. What makes this such a tragic situation is that the local supervisors are their own worst enemies. About half of them complain that the program sucks, the students aren't any good and they refuse to take any more students. The ones complaining are naturally the ones who don't want to help fix the issues, they just whine. Egos are getting in the way, which in the long run, will hurt everyone. If the program does close, is anyone willing to work with me in trying to set up a long distance program like Glenda had in Indiana? As always, I'm sure I'll hear about this because I know I stepped on some toes again. It wouldn't be me if I didn't. Maybe if I took dance lessons, I won't step on any toes. Nah, that's not my style. JTT -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Lee & Peggy Wenk Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:13 PM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; 'Victor Tobias'; 'Histonet'; 'Rittman, Barry R' Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Long answer - skip if not interested. Am responding to several (many) emails, not just to Rene's. Yes - that was 2 of the reasons (cheating and cost)that the practical exam was dropped. Please realize that I was not on the committee when the decision was made, but afterwards, I talked with ASCP Board of Registry, and with many of the people on the ASCP BOR Histotechnology Committee (of which all of the histotechs are very involved with NSH), and with the NSH representative on the Committee. ASCP could not guarantee that people were doing their own work. I have talked with people who complained to me about other people in their lab - they were having other people do their sectioning and/or staining. Sometimes it was the supervisor doing this, to make certain their "tech" passed the practical. Sometimes it was other techs, sometimes just to help out, sometimes as ordered by the supervisor or pathologist. I had people call me about this, and approach me at NSH about this, because they were concerned about the cheating. However, they did not want to call ASCP about it, and it would't do any good if I called ASCP. Usually the people did not tell me their name, city, state, or hospital, nor did they tell me the name of the candidate or the people involved in the cheating. And yes, there was a cost factor. Histotechs, if you remember, ended up paying the same exam fee at medtech, cytotechs, etc. PLUS an additional cost ($75 if I remember) to help cover some of the cost of the practical. The key word being SOME. So for every HT and HTL exam candidate, ASCP lost money. There were also other factors, such as: - Automation - Most people were doing their H&E on automated machines. Doing special stains on automated machines. Using automated coverslippers. Automated labelers. So it was the machine-work that was being graded. - Better microtomes and blades - It became very infrequent that someone turned in a slide set that had horrible knife lines or was cut too thick. - Kits and commercial stains - very few people are making their own hematoxylin or eosin, or most of the special stains. Regardless of whether they are staining by hand or on machine, very few people make stains anymore. So the grade was on commercial solutions, not solutions that the candidates made. As a result, most candidates could "do" the stain, and make a fairly good section - because of all the automation and kits. In fact, - from 2001-2004, 70-76% of HT candidates (High school and associate degree routes) could pass the practical, but only 50-53% could pass the written. - When the high school route was dropped, 2005-2007, 90-96% of the candidate could pass the practical, and 55-58% could pass the written (still some high school routes who had failed in 2004 but still had some additional chances to retake the exam). That's 90% could DO the sectioning and the staining! That wasn't the deciding factor in passing the exam! It was the written part. - Last year, in 2008, everyone taking the HT exam had an associate degree, and there was no practical, and 64% of candidates passed the written. So the exam is the same, but more people are passing because they have the biology and chemistry background behind them. This therefore lead to the primary reason for dropping the practical exam. The written/computer exam was the determining factor in whether someone passed or not. The practical exam was NOT the determining factor. There are 4 ways that people passed/failed the written and practical exams. 1. passed both 2. failed both 3. passed written, failed practical 4. failed written, passed practical At the time of the decision to drop the practical, about 50% of the applicants passed both parts (#1). That means that the other 50% failed either the written, or the practical, or both. If they knew their theory fairly well, and could troubleshoot based on the theory, they tended pass both the written and the practical (because they knew what the stain was supposed to look like, and could figure out how to manipulate the stain to make it work right). That's #1. That was 50% of the people. It was actually very rare that #3 happened, where they would pass the written (knew the theory) and yet fail the practical (couldn't do the sectioning/staining). If they didn't know their theory, and didn't pass the written, they also tended to not pass the practical. That's #2. That leaves #4, where they could DO the sectioning and DO the stain, so they passed the practical. However, they didn't know the theory of WHY or HOW anything worked, and therefore didn't know how to fix it, and therefore failed the written. There were a fair number of these people. But do we, as a profession, want people who can cut and stain when everything is working right, but don't know what "right" is supposed to look like, and therefore don't know when it isn't right, and definitely don't know how to fix it. So, out of these scenarios, #1 (passed both) & #2 (failed both) had the written exam predicting if the candidate would pass or fail. #3 (passed written, failed practical) rarely happened. #4, (failed the written but passed the practical), though it happened less frequently than #1, and more frequently than #2, is not good for our profession. I believe that if NSH or any organization tried to set up their own HT/HTL national certification exam, they would run into the same problems - cheating, automation, expense, and having the practical not really predict who is a good tech (90%+ were passing at the end, remember?). Also, remember that histotechs were the ONLY lab techs that had to take a practical. Med techs don't have to prove they can plate microorganism on a petri dish, phlebotimists don't have to prove they can hit a vein, all of the specialists in med tech don't have to prove they can run the equipment (flow, PCR, etc.), cytotechs don't have to prove they can adjust the Koehler illumination on a microscope. They do just a written exam. It is then up to the institution that hires them, to decide if they can really PHYSICALLY DO the task. If you want to know if someone you are interviewing can really section or stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch them. Have them embed tissue. Have them evaluate some slides at the microscope, and answer questions as to what the stain is and what's wrong with a bad stain, and suggest a substitute if you run out of a stain or a chemical. And USE the 3-6 months probation time. If someone can't do the job - get rid of them. If someone has a bad attitude, get rid of them. You owe it to yourself and your other employees, to have GOOD histotechs, not a body that is doing bad work and ruining the mood in the lab. It is OK to use our "powers" of being a supervisor, to FIRE someone, if it isn't working out. I know there is a shortage. I know you have to train people from scratch. I know we all bend over backwards to help everyone. But we all know within a short amount of time of hiring someone, whether someone is going to work out or not. That probation allows you to fire someone without all the documentation. USE IT! And get someone who is capable of learning, eager to learn, excited to have a job, willing to work hard, and gets along with everyone. One of the reasons that the high school route was dropped, was that only 40% could pass, after a minimum of 2 years experience. Yet 60% of candidates with the associate degree will pass, after a minimum of 1 year experience. So hire someone with an associate degree in biology. Trust me, there are NO jobs out there for people with associate degrees in biology. They would love to get a job in a lab. They have the background theory, so you won't have to spend so much time teaching. And, if they end up not being a good hire, for whatever reason (attitude, ability, drugs, whatever) - then fire them. Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 9:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Sun Feb 22 11:04:19 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Sun Feb 22 11:04:28 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <003b01c9950e$7b3a9f50$71afddf0$@rr.com> Message-ID: <340646.77663.qm@web65701.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Joe: Not enough programs = not enough techs = not enough MONEY, or the whole way around starting with?"not enough money"?(Show me the money!) Ren? J. --- On Sun, 2/22/09, JoeNocito wrote: From: JoeNocito Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: lpwenk@sbcglobal.net, rjbuesa@yahoo.com, "'Victor Tobias'" , "'Histonet'" , "'Rittman, Barry R'" Date: Sunday, February 22, 2009, 11:56 AM With all this said so eloquently, the problem remains; not enough techs and not enough programs. The program here in San Antonio is in danger of closing. I, myself, have hired many of the students that rotated through my labs because I witnessed their work habits and abilities. If the program does close, it will never reopen again. What makes this such a tragic situation is that the local supervisors are their own worst enemies. About half of them complain that the program sucks, the students aren't any good and they refuse to take any more students. The ones complaining are naturally the ones who don't want to help fix the issues, they just whine. Egos are getting in the way, which in the long run, will hurt everyone. If the program does close, is anyone willing to work with me in trying to set up a long distance program like Glenda had in Indiana? As always, I'm sure I'll hear about this because I know I stepped on some toes again. It wouldn't be me if I didn't. Maybe if I took dance lessons, I won't step on any toes. Nah, that's not my style. JTT -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Lee & Peggy Wenk Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:13 PM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; 'Victor Tobias'; 'Histonet'; 'Rittman, Barry R' Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Long answer - skip if not interested. Am responding to several (many) emails, not just to Rene's. Yes - that was 2 of the reasons (cheating and cost)that the practical exam was dropped. Please realize that I was not on the committee when the decision was made, but afterwards, I talked with ASCP Board of Registry, and with many of the people on the ASCP BOR Histotechnology Committee (of which all of the histotechs are very involved with NSH), and with the NSH representative on the Committee. ASCP could not guarantee that people were doing their own work. I have talked with people who complained to me about other people in their lab - they were having other people do their sectioning and/or staining. Sometimes it was the supervisor doing this, to make certain their "tech" passed the practical. Sometimes it was other techs, sometimes just to help out, sometimes as ordered by the supervisor or pathologist. I had people call me about this, and approach me at NSH about this, because they were concerned about the cheating. However, they did not want to call ASCP about it, and it would't do any good if I called ASCP. Usually the people did not tell me their name, city, state, or hospital, nor did they tell me the name of the candidate or the people involved in the cheating. And yes, there was a cost factor. Histotechs, if you remember, ended up paying the same exam fee at medtech, cytotechs, etc. PLUS an additional cost ($75 if I remember) to help cover some of the cost of the practical. The key word being SOME. So for every HT and HTL exam candidate, ASCP lost money. There were also other factors, such as: - Automation - Most people were doing their H&E on automated machines. Doing special stains on automated machines. Using automated coverslippers. Automated labelers. So it was the machine-work that was being graded. - Better microtomes and blades - It became very infrequent that someone turned in a slide set that had horrible knife lines or was cut too thick. - Kits and commercial stains - very few people are making their own hematoxylin or eosin, or most of the special stains. Regardless of whether they are staining by hand or on machine, very few people make stains anymore. So the grade was on commercial solutions, not solutions that the candidates made. As a result, most candidates could "do" the stain, and make a fairly good section - because of all the automation and kits. In fact, - from 2001-2004, 70-76% of HT candidates (High school and associate degree routes) could pass the practical, but only 50-53% could pass the written. - When the high school route was dropped, 2005-2007, 90-96% of the candidate could pass the practical, and 55-58% could pass the written (still some high school routes who had failed in 2004 but still had some additional chances to retake the exam). That's 90% could DO the sectioning and the staining! That wasn't the deciding factor in passing the exam! It was the written part. - Last year, in 2008, everyone taking the HT exam had an associate degree, and there was no practical, and 64% of candidates passed the written. So the exam is the same, but more people are passing because they have the biology and chemistry background behind them. This therefore lead to the primary reason for dropping the practical exam. The written/computer exam was the determining factor in whether someone passed or not. The practical exam was NOT the determining factor. There are 4 ways that people passed/failed the written and practical exams. 1. passed both 2. failed both 3. passed written, failed practical 4. failed written, passed practical At the time of the decision to drop the practical, about 50% of the applicants passed both parts (#1). That means that the other 50% failed either the written, or the practical, or both. If they knew their theory fairly well, and could troubleshoot based on the theory, they tended pass both the written and the practical (because they knew what the stain was supposed to look like, and could figure out how to manipulate the stain to make it work right). That's #1. That was 50% of the people. It was actually very rare that #3 happened, where they would pass the written (knew the theory) and yet fail the practical (couldn't do the sectioning/staining). If they didn't know their theory, and didn't pass the written, they also tended to not pass the practical. That's #2. That leaves #4, where they could DO the sectioning and DO the stain, so they passed the practical. However, they didn't know the theory of WHY or HOW anything worked, and therefore didn't know how to fix it, and therefore failed the written. There were a fair number of these people. But do we, as a profession, want people who can cut and stain when everything is working right, but don't know what "right" is supposed to look like, and therefore don't know when it isn't right, and definitely don't know how to fix it. So, out of these scenarios, #1 (passed both) & #2 (failed both) had the written exam predicting if the candidate would pass or fail. #3 (passed written, failed practical) rarely happened. #4, (failed the written but passed the practical), though it happened less frequently than #1, and more frequently than #2, is not good for our profession. I believe that if NSH or any organization tried to set up their own HT/HTL national certification exam, they would run into the same problems - cheating, automation, expense, and having the practical not really predict who is a good tech (90%+ were passing at the end, remember?). Also, remember that histotechs were the ONLY lab techs that had to take a practical. Med techs don't have to prove they can plate microorganism on a petri dish, phlebotimists don't have to prove they can hit a vein, all of the specialists in med tech don't have to prove they can run the equipment (flow, PCR, etc.), cytotechs don't have to prove they can adjust the Koehler illumination on a microscope. They do just a written exam. It is then up to the institution that hires them, to decide if they can really PHYSICALLY DO the task. If you want to know if someone you are interviewing can really section or stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch them. Have them embed tissue. Have them evaluate some slides at the microscope, and answer questions as to what the stain is and what's wrong with a bad stain, and suggest a substitute if you run out of a stain or a chemical. And USE the 3-6 months probation time. If someone can't do the job - get rid of them. If someone has a bad attitude, get rid of them. You owe it to yourself and your other employees, to have GOOD histotechs, not a body that is doing bad work and ruining the mood in the lab. It is OK to use our "powers" of being a supervisor, to FIRE someone, if it isn't working out. I know there is a shortage. I know you have to train people from scratch. I know we all bend over backwards to help everyone. But we all know within a short amount of time of hiring someone, whether someone is going to work out or not. That probation allows you to fire someone without all the documentation. USE IT! And get someone who is capable of learning, eager to learn, excited to have a job, willing to work hard, and gets along with everyone. One of the reasons that the high school route was dropped, was that only 40% could pass, after a minimum of 2 years experience. Yet 60% of candidates with the associate degree will pass, after a minimum of 1 year experience. So hire someone with an associate degree in biology. Trust me, there are NO jobs out there for people with associate degrees in biology. They would love to get a job in a lab. They have the background theory, so you won't have to spend so much time teaching. And, if they end up not being a good hire, for whatever reason (attitude, ability, drugs, whatever) - then fire them. Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 9:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From gorhamk <@t> verizon.net Sun Feb 22 18:38:06 2009 From: gorhamk <@t> verizon.net (Kathy Gorham) Date: Sun Feb 22 18:38:15 2009 Subject: [Histonet] HT certifacation Message-ID: I have two young people in our lab that would like to get certified as a HT. One is looking into the Harford Community College on line and the other is trying for the "At least 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of academic credit from a regionally accredited college/university, with a combination of 12 semester hours (18 quarter hours) of biology and chemistry ". I have three questions. Does anyone know anything about the Harford School? Has anyone had a student from there to do their practicum in your lab? and I just want to be sure that the second student does not have to have an associate degree any longer; Just the 60 semester hours and 12 of biology/chemistry is that correct? Thank you Kathy Gorham H.T. Grande Ronde Hospital La Grande Oregon From ree3 <@t> leicester.ac.uk Mon Feb 23 04:47:54 2009 From: ree3 <@t> leicester.ac.uk (Edwards, R.E.) Date: Mon Feb 23 04:48:13 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <001701c99379$0b477c90$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> References: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB14@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu><208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E3802AE55AFB1@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> <001701c99379$0b477c90$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A17455BB4DCB@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> How about a Histologist for President?, that should do it! -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Pamela Marcum Sent: 20 February 2009 16:34 To: 'Swain, Frances L'; 'O'Donnell, Bill'; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam We would need more histologists presence in the office for that and not the "business people" running it now for shows. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Swain, Frances L Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 11:22 AM To: O'Donnell, Bill; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been reference to someone else taking the practical exam instead of the applicant. Since the written exam has become a computer generated program what is to stop someone from taking the exam for an applicant. The reasons given for dropping the exam are very shallow. The idea that Victor and Barry have been tauting are the best ones. The time has come that the NSH step in and regulate us. If the ASCP still wants to certify us then they can send a representative to the different district to oversee and participate in the scoring of the practical exam, etc. It would be a lot cheaper that way. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of O'Donnell, Bill Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 10:01 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From tbraud <@t> holyredeemer.com Mon Feb 23 07:57:41 2009 From: tbraud <@t> holyredeemer.com (Terri Braud) Date: Mon Feb 23 07:57:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview In-Reply-To: <1161e77900011052@HolyRedeemer.com> Message-ID: From a recent digest: I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an interview? We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any experiences that others have had. Terri Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) Anatomic Pathology Supervisor Laboratory Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under applicable federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do not distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. Thank you for your cooperation. From Charles.Embrey <@t> carle.com Mon Feb 23 08:28:28 2009 From: Charles.Embrey <@t> carle.com (Charles.Embrey) Date: Mon Feb 23 08:28:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview In-Reply-To: References: <1161e77900011052@HolyRedeemer.com> Message-ID: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A1FE64D@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> Maybe we need to submit this question to "lawyernet". Just from my basic understanding I could see how this might raise a problem but may still be worthwhile in the end. Employees are covered by workman's comp and other insurance as part of their employment but an applicant would be less protected. Of course, if an applicant sat down and couldn't get through three or four blocks without cutting themselves that would answer the question on whether you should hire them or not. I interviewed out West once for a PA position at University of Utah and was asked to gross a few specimens. The first specimen was a colon resection. I realized, from anatomic features that the specimen had been oriented backward by the surgeon. I pointed out that the proximal suture actually marked the distal end and was offered a job that afternoon. I also interviewed once in Ohio. I met the pathologist as he was walking out the door. He said he was on his way to do an autopsy and asked that I join him. We had a great chat while we did the autopsy together. Certifications, diplomas and job references are all great but must be taken with a grain of salt during the interview process. One of the worst histotechs for a production lab I ever had in the Air Force came to me as an honor graduate from the AFIP course. She knew histology inside and out but couldn't cut more than 15 blocks an hour to save her life. A demonstration goes a long way. Charles Embrey, PA(ASCP) -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Terri Braud Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 7:58 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >From a recent digest: I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an interview? We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any experiences that others have had. Terri Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) Anatomic Pathology Supervisor Laboratory Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center ------------------------------------------------------------------------ --------- CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under applicable federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do not distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. Thank you for your cooperation. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu Mon Feb 23 08:44:24 2009 From: b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu (Bernice Frederick) Date: Mon Feb 23 08:44:41 2009 Subject: [Histonet] 2008 ASCP HT/HTL exam pass rate In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <2009C570E87C426FADCC2346A2FC512A@lurie.northwestern.edu> 1.I see there's been a slow down for HTL- I was certified in 1985 and my number is in the early 1000's. 2. since our HR is very particular which makes it hard to remove people, our boss had taken the approach of hiring in people as temps to start and then makes them permanent (2-3 months) that way, we know they are competent. Our most recent hire was from an agency, so we had to wait for the contract time frame and we would not give her up at all- I put my foot down on it and she came via Romania. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Lee & Peggy Wenk Sent: Saturday, February 21, 2009 11:36 AM To: 'Histonet' Subject: [Histonet] 2008 ASCP HT/HTL exam pass rate FYI: From ASCP Board of Registry webpage (look under program directors, if you want to so other stats (MT, MLT, CT, etc) >From ASCP BOR webpage. EXAMINATION STATISTICS FOR JANUARY - DECEMBER 2008 Reminder: Minimum score of 400 is required to pass. (Total = all candidates: NAACLS students (first time and repeaters); On-the-Job (OJT) (first time and repeaters)) (NAACLS first time students: students from NAACLS accredited program, first time taking exam) (Non-NAACLS first time students: NAACLS student repeaters; OJT first time and repeaters) HISTOTECHNICIAN (HT) Mean (total): 446 Range of score (total): 100-796 Total # taking exam: 681 Total pass: 437 (64%) Total # first time NAACLS students: 273 Total pass first time NAACLS students: 202 (74%) Total # Non-NAACLS first time students: 408 Total pass non-NAACLS first time students: 235 (58%) Total HT certified since 1948: 20,899 HISTOTECHNOLOGIST (HTL) Mean (total): 421 Range of score (total): 100-688 Total # taking exam: 229 Total pass: 140 (61%) Total # first time NAACLS students: 57 Total pass first time NAACLS students: 39 (68%) Total # Non-NAACLS first time students: 172 Total pass non-NAACLS first time students: 101 (59%) Total HTL certified since 1980: 2,655 Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Kimberly.Marshall <@t> ahss.org Mon Feb 23 08:56:16 2009 From: Kimberly.Marshall <@t> ahss.org (Marshall, Kimberly) Date: Mon Feb 23 08:56:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Practical Exam Message-ID: It's a shame something I took so much pride in completing so long ago (Wont mention how long ago) Folks started cheating on. And it's sad the Pathologist that had to sign off on the OJT and all that would lie about it. To me the practical was the hardest part of the test, took the longest to get just perfect, and what makes you so proud when ya get that letter. Kind of sad people would think so little of the work to cheat. Just my two cents worth. Kimberly ============================================================================== The information contained in this message may be privileged and/or confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and deleting the material from any computer. ============================================================================== From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Mon Feb 23 09:05:18 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Mon Feb 23 09:05:22 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <927163.6568.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> I for one always required any applicant to prepare 20 slides stained with H&E. I can assure that I selected "difficult" blocks to cut and the applicant was required to sign a disclaimer that included that s/he he knew how to section and avoid injuries. The whole process was timed (to get a first idea about productivity) and I evaluated and graded?the slides at the end. The results were used as one of the elements to decide about offering the position (the fundamental)?but I waited until all the applicants had completed the tests so sometimes the applicant had to be contacted a few days later to let him/her know about the results. Ren? J. --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Terri Braud wrote: From: Terri Braud Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 8:57 AM >From a recent digest: I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an interview? We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any experiences that others have had. Terri Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) Anatomic Pathology Supervisor Laboratory Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under applicable federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do not distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. Thank you for your cooperation. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From trathborne <@t> somerset-healthcare.com Mon Feb 23 09:14:06 2009 From: trathborne <@t> somerset-healthcare.com (Rathborne, Toni) Date: Mon Feb 23 09:14:12 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview In-Reply-To: <927163.6568.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: We also have the staff talk to the applicant during this process. It gives you a good idea if the person can talk and cut at the same time. The last thing anyone wants is a histotech that has to stop sectioning during a conversation! -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:05 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Terri Braud Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview I for one always required any applicant to prepare 20 slides stained with H&E. I can assure that I selected "difficult" blocks to cut and the applicant was required to sign a disclaimer that included that s/he he knew how to section and avoid injuries. The whole process was timed (to get a first idea about productivity) and I evaluated and graded?the slides at the end. The results were used as one of the elements to decide about offering the position (the fundamental)?but I waited until all the applicants had completed the tests so sometimes the applicant had to be contacted a few days later to let him/her know about the results. Ren? J. --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Terri Braud wrote: From: Terri Braud Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 8:57 AM >From a recent digest: I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an interview? We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any experiences that others have had. Terri Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) Anatomic Pathology Supervisor Laboratory Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under applicable federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do not distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. Thank you for your cooperation. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE This message and any included attachments are from Somerset Medical Center and are intended only for the addressee. The information contained in this message is confidential and may contain privileged, confidential, proprietary and/or trade secret information entitled to protection 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 of the delivery error by e-mail or you may call Somerset Medical Center's computer Help Desk at 908-685-2200, ext. 4050. Be sure to visit Somerset Medical Center's Web site - www.somersetmedicalcenter.com - for the most up-to-date news, event listings, health information and more. From billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net Mon Feb 23 09:15:46 2009 From: billodonnell <@t> catholichealth.net (O'Donnell, Bill) Date: Mon Feb 23 09:16:03 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: References: <208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Peggy, You make good, sound points. Thank you. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Lee & Peggy Wenk Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:13 PM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; 'Victor Tobias'; 'Histonet'; 'Rittman, Barry R' Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Long answer - skip if not interested. Am responding to several (many) emails, not just to Rene's. Yes - that was 2 of the reasons (cheating and cost)that the practical exam was dropped. Please realize that I was not on the committee when the decision was made, but afterwards, I talked with ASCP Board of Registry, and with many of the people on the ASCP BOR Histotechnology Committee (of which all of the histotechs are very involved with NSH), and with the NSH representative on the Committee. ASCP could not guarantee that people were doing their own work. I have talked with people who complained to me about other people in their lab - they were having other people do their sectioning and/or staining. Sometimes it was the supervisor doing this, to make certain their "tech" passed the practical. Sometimes it was other techs, sometimes just to help out, sometimes as ordered by the supervisor or pathologist. I had people call me about this, and approach me at NSH about this, because they were concerned about the cheating. However, they did not want to call ASCP about it, and it would't do any good if I called ASCP. Usually the people did not tell me their name, city, state, or hospital, nor did they tell me the name of the candidate or the people involved in the cheating. And yes, there was a cost factor. Histotechs, if you remember, ended up paying the same exam fee at medtech, cytotechs, etc. PLUS an additional cost ($75 if I remember) to help cover some of the cost of the practical. The key word being SOME. So for every HT and HTL exam candidate, ASCP lost money. There were also other factors, such as: - Automation - Most people were doing their H&E on automated machines. Doing special stains on automated machines. Using automated coverslippers. Automated labelers. So it was the machine-work that was being graded. - Better microtomes and blades - It became very infrequent that someone turned in a slide set that had horrible knife lines or was cut too thick. - Kits and commercial stains - very few people are making their own hematoxylin or eosin, or most of the special stains. Regardless of whether they are staining by hand or on machine, very few people make stains anymore. So the grade was on commercial solutions, not solutions that the candidates made. As a result, most candidates could "do" the stain, and make a fairly good section - because of all the automation and kits. In fact, - from 2001-2004, 70-76% of HT candidates (High school and associate degree routes) could pass the practical, but only 50-53% could pass the written. - When the high school route was dropped, 2005-2007, 90-96% of the candidate could pass the practical, and 55-58% could pass the written (still some high school routes who had failed in 2004 but still had some additional chances to retake the exam). That's 90% could DO the sectioning and the staining! That wasn't the deciding factor in passing the exam! It was the written part. - Last year, in 2008, everyone taking the HT exam had an associate degree, and there was no practical, and 64% of candidates passed the written. So the exam is the same, but more people are passing because they have the biology and chemistry background behind them. This therefore lead to the primary reason for dropping the practical exam. The written/computer exam was the determining factor in whether someone passed or not. The practical exam was NOT the determining factor. There are 4 ways that people passed/failed the written and practical exams. 1. passed both 2. failed both 3. passed written, failed practical 4. failed written, passed practical At the time of the decision to drop the practical, about 50% of the applicants passed both parts (#1). That means that the other 50% failed either the written, or the practical, or both. If they knew their theory fairly well, and could troubleshoot based on the theory, they tended pass both the written and the practical (because they knew what the stain was supposed to look like, and could figure out how to manipulate the stain to make it work right). That's #1. That was 50% of the people. It was actually very rare that #3 happened, where they would pass the written (knew the theory) and yet fail the practical (couldn't do the sectioning/staining). If they didn't know their theory, and didn't pass the written, they also tended to not pass the practical. That's #2. That leaves #4, where they could DO the sectioning and DO the stain, so they passed the practical. However, they didn't know the theory of WHY or HOW anything worked, and therefore didn't know how to fix it, and therefore failed the written. There were a fair number of these people. But do we, as a profession, want people who can cut and stain when everything is working right, but don't know what "right" is supposed to look like, and therefore don't know when it isn't right, and definitely don't know how to fix it. So, out of these scenarios, #1 (passed both) & #2 (failed both) had the written exam predicting if the candidate would pass or fail. #3 (passed written, failed practical) rarely happened. #4, (failed the written but passed the practical), though it happened less frequently than #1, and more frequently than #2, is not good for our profession. I believe that if NSH or any organization tried to set up their own HT/HTL national certification exam, they would run into the same problems - cheating, automation, expense, and having the practical not really predict who is a good tech (90%+ were passing at the end, remember?). Also, remember that histotechs were the ONLY lab techs that had to take a practical. Med techs don't have to prove they can plate microorganism on a petri dish, phlebotimists don't have to prove they can hit a vein, all of the specialists in med tech don't have to prove they can run the equipment (flow, PCR, etc.), cytotechs don't have to prove they can adjust the Koehler illumination on a microscope. They do just a written exam. It is then up to the institution that hires them, to decide if they can really PHYSICALLY DO the task. If you want to know if someone you are interviewing can really section or stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch them. Have them embed tissue. Have them evaluate some slides at the microscope, and answer questions as to what the stain is and what's wrong with a bad stain, and suggest a substitute if you run out of a stain or a chemical. And USE the 3-6 months probation time. If someone can't do the job - get rid of them. If someone has a bad attitude, get rid of them. You owe it to yourself and your other employees, to have GOOD histotechs, not a body that is doing bad work and ruining the mood in the lab. It is OK to use our "powers" of being a supervisor, to FIRE someone, if it isn't working out. I know there is a shortage. I know you have to train people from scratch. I know we all bend over backwards to help everyone. But we all know within a short amount of time of hiring someone, whether someone is going to work out or not. That probation allows you to fire someone without all the documentation. USE IT! And get someone who is capable of learning, eager to learn, excited to have a job, willing to work hard, and gets along with everyone. One of the reasons that the high school route was dropped, was that only 40% could pass, after a minimum of 2 years experience. Yet 60% of candidates with the associate degree will pass, after a minimum of 1 year experience. So hire someone with an associate degree in biology. Trust me, there are NO jobs out there for people with associate degrees in biology. They would love to get a job in a lab. They have the background theory, so you won't have to spend so much time teaching. And, if they end up not being a good hire, for whatever reason (attitude, ability, drugs, whatever) - then fire them. Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 9:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu Mon Feb 23 09:47:20 2009 From: pmarcum <@t> vet.upenn.edu (Pamela Marcum) Date: Mon Feb 23 09:47:26 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: References: <208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <001201c995ce$0376d1d0$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> I agree with Peggy and the reasons for the change. (Don't like it in some ways just no way to guarantee someone will do their own work!) While several people have been amazed at how long this thread has gone on in HistoNet I think it shows the concern we all have for our profession (whether officially recognized or not). Those of us who came in when we made our own stains and used steel re-sharpened knives had to learn theory to survive and do good work. The automation and pre-made stains available have caused some to just skip that part even in the books. We are responsible for training our own people and hiring the best we can for our laboratories. However, each year we are seeing it slip back to OJT on instruments with some supervisors who are willing to go only with that training. When Joe said some of the people in San Antonio were complaining about the school. Perhaps they should look at the fact once through the school it is up to the supervisor and pathologist to continue that training and not assume they learned everything. Every lab is different and every pathologist/s will have preferences and those can not all be taught in any school. Please don't think I disapprove of OJT training. I just think it should be more hands on and less instrumentation at the beginning. It is how I have trained the person working with me and always will. I do research so I have more time and I know that is a factor. Just remember the old saying "If you can't do it right the first time when do you have time to do it over". Only good training and theory can answer that one along with a test of skills. Pamela A Marcum University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory (CORL) 382 W Street Rd Kennett Square PA 19438 610-925-6278 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of O'Donnell, Bill Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:16 AM To: lpwenk@sbcglobal.net; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Peggy, You make good, sound points. Thank you. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Lee & Peggy Wenk Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:13 PM To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; 'Victor Tobias'; 'Histonet'; 'Rittman, Barry R' Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Long answer - skip if not interested. Am responding to several (many) emails, not just to Rene's. Yes - that was 2 of the reasons (cheating and cost)that the practical exam was dropped. Please realize that I was not on the committee when the decision was made, but afterwards, I talked with ASCP Board of Registry, and with many of the people on the ASCP BOR Histotechnology Committee (of which all of the histotechs are very involved with NSH), and with the NSH representative on the Committee. ASCP could not guarantee that people were doing their own work. I have talked with people who complained to me about other people in their lab - they were having other people do their sectioning and/or staining. Sometimes it was the supervisor doing this, to make certain their "tech" passed the practical. Sometimes it was other techs, sometimes just to help out, sometimes as ordered by the supervisor or pathologist. I had people call me about this, and approach me at NSH about this, because they were concerned about the cheating. However, they did not want to call ASCP about it, and it would't do any good if I called ASCP. Usually the people did not tell me their name, city, state, or hospital, nor did they tell me the name of the candidate or the people involved in the cheating. And yes, there was a cost factor. Histotechs, if you remember, ended up paying the same exam fee at medtech, cytotechs, etc. PLUS an additional cost ($75 if I remember) to help cover some of the cost of the practical. The key word being SOME. So for every HT and HTL exam candidate, ASCP lost money. There were also other factors, such as: - Automation - Most people were doing their H&E on automated machines. Doing special stains on automated machines. Using automated coverslippers. Automated labelers. So it was the machine-work that was being graded. - Better microtomes and blades - It became very infrequent that someone turned in a slide set that had horrible knife lines or was cut too thick. - Kits and commercial stains - very few people are making their own hematoxylin or eosin, or most of the special stains. Regardless of whether they are staining by hand or on machine, very few people make stains anymore. So the grade was on commercial solutions, not solutions that the candidates made. As a result, most candidates could "do" the stain, and make a fairly good section - because of all the automation and kits. In fact, - from 2001-2004, 70-76% of HT candidates (High school and associate degree routes) could pass the practical, but only 50-53% could pass the written. - When the high school route was dropped, 2005-2007, 90-96% of the candidate could pass the practical, and 55-58% could pass the written (still some high school routes who had failed in 2004 but still had some additional chances to retake the exam). That's 90% could DO the sectioning and the staining! That wasn't the deciding factor in passing the exam! It was the written part. - Last year, in 2008, everyone taking the HT exam had an associate degree, and there was no practical, and 64% of candidates passed the written. So the exam is the same, but more people are passing because they have the biology and chemistry background behind them. This therefore lead to the primary reason for dropping the practical exam. The written/computer exam was the determining factor in whether someone passed or not. The practical exam was NOT the determining factor. There are 4 ways that people passed/failed the written and practical exams. 1. passed both 2. failed both 3. passed written, failed practical 4. failed written, passed practical At the time of the decision to drop the practical, about 50% of the applicants passed both parts (#1). That means that the other 50% failed either the written, or the practical, or both. If they knew their theory fairly well, and could troubleshoot based on the theory, they tended pass both the written and the practical (because they knew what the stain was supposed to look like, and could figure out how to manipulate the stain to make it work right). That's #1. That was 50% of the people. It was actually very rare that #3 happened, where they would pass the written (knew the theory) and yet fail the practical (couldn't do the sectioning/staining). If they didn't know their theory, and didn't pass the written, they also tended to not pass the practical. That's #2. That leaves #4, where they could DO the sectioning and DO the stain, so they passed the practical. However, they didn't know the theory of WHY or HOW anything worked, and therefore didn't know how to fix it, and therefore failed the written. There were a fair number of these people. But do we, as a profession, want people who can cut and stain when everything is working right, but don't know what "right" is supposed to look like, and therefore don't know when it isn't right, and definitely don't know how to fix it. So, out of these scenarios, #1 (passed both) & #2 (failed both) had the written exam predicting if the candidate would pass or fail. #3 (passed written, failed practical) rarely happened. #4, (failed the written but passed the practical), though it happened less frequently than #1, and more frequently than #2, is not good for our profession. I believe that if NSH or any organization tried to set up their own HT/HTL national certification exam, they would run into the same problems - cheating, automation, expense, and having the practical not really predict who is a good tech (90%+ were passing at the end, remember?). Also, remember that histotechs were the ONLY lab techs that had to take a practical. Med techs don't have to prove they can plate microorganism on a petri dish, phlebotimists don't have to prove they can hit a vein, all of the specialists in med tech don't have to prove they can run the equipment (flow, PCR, etc.), cytotechs don't have to prove they can adjust the Koehler illumination on a microscope. They do just a written exam. It is then up to the institution that hires them, to decide if they can really PHYSICALLY DO the task. If you want to know if someone you are interviewing can really section or stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch them. Have them embed tissue. Have them evaluate some slides at the microscope, and answer questions as to what the stain is and what's wrong with a bad stain, and suggest a substitute if you run out of a stain or a chemical. And USE the 3-6 months probation time. If someone can't do the job - get rid of them. If someone has a bad attitude, get rid of them. You owe it to yourself and your other employees, to have GOOD histotechs, not a body that is doing bad work and ruining the mood in the lab. It is OK to use our "powers" of being a supervisor, to FIRE someone, if it isn't working out. I know there is a shortage. I know you have to train people from scratch. I know we all bend over backwards to help everyone. But we all know within a short amount of time of hiring someone, whether someone is going to work out or not. That probation allows you to fire someone without all the documentation. USE IT! And get someone who is capable of learning, eager to learn, excited to have a job, willing to work hard, and gets along with everyone. One of the reasons that the high school route was dropped, was that only 40% could pass, after a minimum of 2 years experience. Yet 60% of candidates with the associate degree will pass, after a minimum of 1 year experience. So hire someone with an associate degree in biology. Trust me, there are NO jobs out there for people with associate degrees in biology. They would love to get a job in a lab. They have the background theory, so you won't have to spend so much time teaching. And, if they end up not being a good hire, for whatever reason (attitude, ability, drugs, whatever) - then fire them. Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 9:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From celebrej <@t> HHSC.CA Mon Feb 23 10:08:58 2009 From: celebrej <@t> HHSC.CA (Celebre Julia) Date: Mon Feb 23 10:09:02 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Training first time cutters Message-ID: <4D3667D4B5487546A3139FB918181FEA01F761B4@ipemail01.hhsc.ca> > > > It's been awhile since we've had to train someone to cut from scratch and I need your help to figure out two things: > 1. how long should it take a new cutter to cut 20 blocks, no levels, nothing fancy, just one H&E per block. > 2. what's the average length of training for the above to be accomplished? how long is long enough? > > Julia Celebre MLT > Anatomic Pathology > Hamilton General Hospital > 905-527-0271 ext 46179 > email: celebrej@hhsc.ca > This information is directed in confidence solely to the person named above and may not otherwise be distributed, copied or disclosed. Therefore, this information should be considered strictly confidential. If you have received this email in error, please notify the sender immediately via a return email for further direction. Thank you for your assistance. From dellav <@t> musc.edu Mon Feb 23 10:33:23 2009 From: dellav <@t> musc.edu (Della Speranza, Vinnie) Date: Mon Feb 23 10:34:28 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: References: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB14@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> <208033.29168.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: I've returned from a day off to an inbox stuffed with messages about the decision to eliminate the practical for the certification exam. I apologize if someone has already commented on this as I've got lots of reading to do in order to catch up. A very large reason the practical exam was eliminated was the very high pass rate. I don't have hard data to give you but it is my understanding that the practical pass rate exceeded 95% (my current "guestimate" based on my recollection of information I was given a few years ago) which to a testing agency implies that the exam is unnecessary if most taking it have no difficulty passing. Some of this success was thought to be the result of special stain automation being commonly available. Rene's comment (#1 below) was relevant to the observed high pass rate and the awareness that some examinees may have been using automation to complete their stains. The stark reality was that the vast majority of examinees passed the practical but a significant percentage were unsuccessful with the written portion of the exam. In response to this observation the ASCP in latter years insisted that the written exam had to be passed first before the practical could be submitted for grading. Vinnie Della Speranza Manager for Anatomic Pathology Services Medical University of South Carolina 165 Ashley Avenue Suite 309 Charleston, South Carolina 29425 Tel: (843) 792-6353 Fax: (843) 792-8974 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of O'Donnell, Bill Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 11:01 AM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam If, indeed, these were the two primary reasons for eliminating the practical exam, they are weak and lazy reasons. An increase in the fee to apply would cover costs, and, well, was it really that much of a problem of people doing other peoples practicals. I can't imagine it to be out of proportion to what might (I emphasize "might" and add "but likely did not") have occurred sporadically in all the years prior. I won't pass judgement on a single source, but would love to hear from someone who was a part of the decision process that eliminated this practicum. However, if it is true, my estimation of the ASCP has grossly deteriorated. William (Bill) O'Donnell, HT (ASCP) QIHC Lead Histologist Good Samaritan Hospital 10 East 31st Street Kearney, NE 68847 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 8:01 AM To: Victor Tobias; Histonet; Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam There were 2 fundamental reasons why ASCP eliminated the practical part of the examination: 1- they got to the conclusion that there was no way to determine if the person sending the slides was the one who really made them, and 2- it was getting too costly to send the slides to review or to gather the reviewers to?qualify the sections, so they decided to eliminate the practical and made the changes we have now (renewal and CEU). Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/19/09, Rittman, Barry R wrote: From: Rittman, Barry R Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam To: "Victor Tobias" , "Histonet" Date: Thursday, February 19, 2009, 6:30 PM Victor I cannot believe that you have said this. Although I did not think that the practical examination was the ultimate test of skill , it did at least provide some uniformity. With an extension of the logic that you use it is just as easy to allow the pathologist to certify that the technician is qualified even without a written examination. Without a somewhat standardized practical there is no guarantee that the technician will have any practical knowledge outside their individual laboratory. Didactic without adequate practical knowledge is, as far as I am concerned, useless. What is really needed is a national standardized written and practical test that is administered by NSH. I am not holding my breath that this will happen. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Victor Tobias [victor@pathology.washington.edu] Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:03 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam There has been discussion regarding the removal of the practical exam. To me it has not been removed, but the responsibility has shifted to whomever signs off on the student. In the case of OJT, the pathologist has verified that this student can cut and stain. Of course what is acceptable to one pathologist may not be to another. Do they get tested in the art of troubleshooting...... As far as the schools go, they shouldn't be graduating anyone that can't cut, stain and troubleshoot. So I don't really see a problem with the absence of the practical. It is Friday somewhere. Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 victor@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax ================================================= Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Charles.Embrey <@t> carle.com Mon Feb 23 10:46:23 2009 From: Charles.Embrey <@t> carle.com (Charles.Embrey) Date: Mon Feb 23 10:46:29 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Training first time cutters In-Reply-To: <4D3667D4B5487546A3139FB918181FEA01F761B4@ipemail01.hhsc.ca> References: <4D3667D4B5487546A3139FB918181FEA01F761B4@ipemail01.hhsc.ca> Message-ID: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A0537DA7A@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> You know that after all the heated discussion on certified verses non-certified techs, asking this question is like walking onto hot coals barefoot. Chuck -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Celebre Julia Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:09 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Training first time cutters > > > It's been awhile since we've had to train someone to cut from scratch and I need your help to figure out two things: > 1. how long should it take a new cutter to cut 20 blocks, no levels, nothing fancy, just one H&E per block. > 2. what's the average length of training for the above to be accomplished? how long is long enough? > > Julia Celebre MLT > Anatomic Pathology > Hamilton General Hospital > 905-527-0271 ext 46179 > email: celebrej@hhsc.ca > This information is directed in confidence solely to the person named above and may not otherwise be distributed, copied or disclosed. Therefore, this information should be considered strictly confidential. If you have received this email in error, please notify the sender immediately via a return email for further direction. Thank you for your assistance. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From ktuttle <@t> umm.edu Mon Feb 23 10:58:47 2009 From: ktuttle <@t> umm.edu (Kimberly Tuttle) Date: Mon Feb 23 10:59:22 2009 Subject: [Histonet] how long can slides stay in water or buffer Message-ID: <49A28F75.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> How long can you leave deparaffinized slides in water or buffer if you want to do IHC staining? Is leaving them in water or buffer preferable o letting them air dry? I was taught to never let sections dry out. Kimberly C. Tuttle HT (ASCP) Pathology Biorepository and Research Core University of Maryland Room NBW58, UMMC 22 S. Greene St Baltimore, MD 21201 (410) 328-5524 (410) 328-5508 fax This e-mail and any accompanying attachments may be privileged, confidential, contain protected health information about an identified patient or be otherwise protected from disclosure. State and federal law protect the confidentiality of this information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient; you are prohibited from using, disclosing, reproducing or distributing this information; you should immediately notify the sender by telephone or e-mail and delete this e-mail. From b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu Mon Feb 23 11:08:03 2009 From: b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu (Bernice Frederick) Date: Mon Feb 23 11:08:16 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Training first time cutters In-Reply-To: <4D3667D4B5487546A3139FB918181FEA01F761B4@ipemail01.hhsc.ca> Message-ID: It varies in my opinion. Some people take longer to catch on. I think ability goes along with workload- I cut quickly and accurately whereas others cut slower and just as accurately. I find I can vary as to tissue also- it depends on the tech. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Celebre Julia Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:09 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Training first time cutters > > > It's been awhile since we've had to train someone to cut from scratch and I need your help to figure out two things: > 1. how long should it take a new cutter to cut 20 blocks, no levels, nothing fancy, just one H&E per block. > 2. what's the average length of training for the above to be accomplished? how long is long enough? > > Julia Celebre MLT > Anatomic Pathology > Hamilton General Hospital > 905-527-0271 ext 46179 > email: celebrej@hhsc.ca > This information is directed in confidence solely to the person named above and may not otherwise be distributed, copied or disclosed. Therefore, this information should be considered strictly confidential. If you have received this email in error, please notify the sender immediately via a return email for further direction. Thank you for your assistance. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From ejschmid <@t> ucalgary.ca Mon Feb 23 11:52:29 2009 From: ejschmid <@t> ucalgary.ca (ejschmid@ucalgary.ca) Date: Mon Feb 23 11:52:48 2009 Subject: [Histonet] sucrose Message-ID: <2938.136.159.74.17.1235411549.squirrel@136.159.74.17> hi, is there any reason that using ordinary table sugar is less desirable than some formulation of Mol Bio grade sucrose when preparing a specimen for cryrosectioning? Eric From Mariya.Dobreva <@t> med.kuleuven.be Mon Feb 23 12:17:30 2009 From: Mariya.Dobreva <@t> med.kuleuven.be (Mariya Peneva Dobreva) Date: Mon Feb 23 12:17:40 2009 Subject: [Histonet] how long can slides stay in water or buffer In-Reply-To: <49A28F75.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> References: <49A28F75.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> Message-ID: <20090223191730.jm7fu6hvq800w4c8@webmail3.kuleuven.be> Never let them air dry! The staining won't work. They can stay in water quite some time, like hours. I even think they can stay 2-3 days at 4 degrees, but I'm not sure... With the buffers be careful! They can't stay in the buffers containing permeabilyzing agent (like tween20 or triton) longer than what is said in the protocol, otherwise you will damage the tissue/loose the epitope. There is no problem to keep them in PBS (or TBS) longer. Quoting Kimberly Tuttle : > How long can you leave deparaffinized slides in water or buffer if > you want to do IHC staining? Is leaving them in water or buffer > preferable o letting them air dry? I was taught to never let > sections dry out. > > Kimberly C. Tuttle HT (ASCP) > Pathology Biorepository and Research Core > University of Maryland > Room NBW58, UMMC > 22 S. Greene St > Baltimore, MD 21201 > (410) 328-5524 > (410) 328-5508 fax > > > > > This e-mail and any accompanying attachments may be privileged, > confidential, contain protected health information about an > identified patient or be otherwise protected from disclosure. State > and federal law protect the confidentiality of this information. If > the reader of this message is not the intended recipient; you are > prohibited from using, disclosing, reproducing or distributing this > information; you should immediately notify the sender by telephone > or e-mail and delete this e-mail. > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > -- Mariya Peneva Dobreva VIB Department of Molecular and Developmental Genetics (VIB11) KULeuven Faculty of Medicine, Department of Human Genetics (DME) Laboratory of Molecular biology (Celgen) Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N1, Herestraat 49 3000 Leuven, Belgium Tel.: +32 16 33 00 08 Fax: +32 16 34 59 16 Disclaimer: http://www.kuleuven.be/cwis/email_disclaimer.htm From rosenfeldtek <@t> hotmail.com Mon Feb 23 12:27:18 2009 From: rosenfeldtek <@t> hotmail.com (JR R) Date: Mon Feb 23 12:27:22 2009 Subject: [Histonet] sucrose In-Reply-To: <2938.136.159.74.17.1235411549.squirrel@136.159.74.17> References: <2938.136.159.74.17.1235411549.squirrel@136.159.74.17> Message-ID: If you work in a clinical lab, then yes, there are reasons to use reagent or better grade sugar. Yes, as in Heck yes. Composition, Consistency, Legality, and Ethics. A scientist wants the experiment to have controlled conditions. That's especially true for you clinical science types. You want the test to give the same results every time. Reagent grade materials help ensure that. Next, in a clinical lab, it's probably required. Reagents used for clinical testing need to be traceable and of known composition. Next, people's lives actually depend on the results that come back from clinical labs. So you don't want to screw around with questionable materials. That would be wrong. Finally, Sigma sells reagent grade sucrose for $60.00 per kilogram. That's pretty darn cheap. What clinical lab can't afford a lousy 60 bucks for a kilogram of reagents?! If you work in a Research Lab, like I do, then feel free to go ahead and take your chances. But even we lowly research scientists like to get consistent results. Jerry Ricks Research Scientist University of Washington Department of Pathology > Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:52:29 -0700 > From: ejschmid@ucalgary.ca > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] sucrose > > hi, > > is there any reason that using ordinary table sugar is less desirable than > some formulation of Mol Bio grade sucrose when preparing a specimen for > cryrosectioning? > > Eric > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live? Hotmail??more than just e-mail. http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howitworks_022009 From Mariya.Dobreva <@t> med.kuleuven.be Mon Feb 23 12:41:08 2009 From: Mariya.Dobreva <@t> med.kuleuven.be (Mariya Peneva Dobreva) Date: Mon Feb 23 12:41:17 2009 Subject: [Histonet] has anybody done SSEA-1 IHC on mouse embryo? In-Reply-To: <49A28F75.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> References: <49A28F75.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> Message-ID: <20090223194108.xf4u8miw8ps0s0g8@webmail5.kuleuven.be> Hi everybody, I need to perform immuno staining for SSEA-1 (stage specific embryonic antigen 1) on sectioned early mouse embryo - E6.5. I've tried all possible protocols and it never worked - different antigen retrievals, different amplification systems, without amplification, different incubation times and antibody concentrations, even different buffers... I have or too much background, or no signal. The epitope is on the cell surface, the primary antibody is mouse monoclonal, and the embryos are fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde. Any suggestions are very welcome, I just don't know what else to try! Thanks! -- Mariya Peneva Dobreva VIB Department of Molecular and Developmental Genetics (VIB11) KULeuven Faculty of Medicine, Department of Human Genetics (DME) Laboratory of Molecular biology (Celgen) Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N1, Herestraat 49 3000 Leuven, Belgium Tel.: +32 16 33 00 08 Fax: +32 16 34 59 16 Disclaimer: http://www.kuleuven.be/cwis/email_disclaimer.htm From laurie.colbert <@t> huntingtonhospital.com Mon Feb 23 13:35:06 2009 From: laurie.colbert <@t> huntingtonhospital.com (Laurie Colbert) Date: Mon Feb 23 13:35:12 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC staining on decalcified tissue Message-ID: <57BE698966D5C54EAE8612E8941D768304FEFB00@EXCHANGE3.huntingtonhospital.com> Does anyone have a different IHC staining protocol and/or modification for specimens that have been decalcified? CAP asks on the IHC checklist if the "procedure manual includes appropriate modifications to address such specimens." Laurie Colbert From Charlene.Henry <@t> STJUDE.ORG Mon Feb 23 13:56:29 2009 From: Charlene.Henry <@t> STJUDE.ORG (Henry, Charlene) Date: Mon Feb 23 13:56:34 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC staining on decalcified tissue. . In-Reply-To: <57BE698966D5C54EAE8612E8941D768304FEFB00@EXCHANGE3.huntingtonhospital.com> References: <57BE698966D5C54EAE8612E8941D768304FEFB00@EXCHANGE3.huntingtonhospital.com> Message-ID: <03E1F5968F60C5448635D49D38B283ED027A0C8563@SJMEMXMBS11.stjude.sjcrh.local> I have a single protocol for each antibody; but on this protocol I address each possible fixative and decalcification variable that may be requested with the particular antibody (formalin, B+, EDTA decalcification, formic acid decalcification, HCL decalcification etc). Sometimes the protocol remains the same for all variables but most of the time I will need a different pretreatment time and/or antibody dilution/incubation time. Hope this helps. Charlene -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Laurie Colbert Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 1:35 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] IHC staining on decalcified tissue. . Does anyone have a different IHC staining protocol and/or modification for specimens that have been decalcified? CAP asks on the IHC checklist if the "procedure manual includes appropriate modifications to address such specimens." Laurie Colbert _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Email Disclaimer: www.stjude.org/emaildisclaimer From rosenfeldtek <@t> hotmail.com Mon Feb 23 13:58:24 2009 From: rosenfeldtek <@t> hotmail.com (JR R) Date: Mon Feb 23 13:58:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to Really Annoy me. In-Reply-To: References: <927163.6568.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: All this talk of having people actually section as part of the interview process is offensive to me. I have hired and trained lots of histotechnologists. Mostly I train them myself, from scratch, but sometimes I hire them pre-trained. Then of course, I re-train them anyway so they can do the work to the specs of my lab. Any deficiencies they have will be corrected through training. By me. At my University there is a formal 30 day (maybe it's longer, I can't recall) probationary period for new hires. That's good enough. Why in the world would I need to have them section as part of an interview process? I am also offended by the "blocks per hour" language. Partly it's because in my lab we do exhaustive serial sectioning, so I consider a tech who gives me one block every half-hour to be doing a good job. Maybe it's different in clinical work, but...20 blocks per hour? And you expect quality work? Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? It's no wonder histopathologists feel overworked and underappreciated. Jerry Ricks Research Scientist University of Washington Department of Pathology > Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:14:06 -0500 > From: trathborne@somerset-healthcare.com > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; tbraud@holyredeemer.com > Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > CC: > > We also have the staff talk to the applicant during this process. It gives you a good idea if the person can talk and cut at the same time. The last thing anyone wants is a histotech that has to stop sectioning during a conversation! > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Rene J > Buesa > Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:05 AM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Terri Braud > Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > > > I for one always required any applicant to prepare 20 slides stained with H&E. I can assure that I selected "difficult" blocks to cut and the applicant was required to sign a disclaimer that included that s/he he knew how to section and avoid injuries. > The whole process was timed (to get a first idea about productivity) and I evaluated and graded the slides at the end. > The results were used as one of the elements to decide about offering the position (the fundamental) but I waited until all the applicants had completed the tests so sometimes the applicant had to be contacted a few days later to let him/her know about the results. > Ren? J. > > --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Terri Braud wrote: > > From: Terri Braud > Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 8:57 AM > > >From a recent digest: > stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch > them.> > > I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. > What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an > interview? > We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the > decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. > I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any > experiences that others have had. > Terri > > Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) > Anatomic Pathology Supervisor > Laboratory > Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center > > > > --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: > > This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which > it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, > and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under > applicable > federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do > not > distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. > Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. > > Thank you for your cooperation. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE > This message and any included attachments are from Somerset Medical Center > and are intended only for the addressee. The information contained in this > message is confidential and may contain privileged, confidential, > proprietary and/or trade secret information entitled to protection 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 of the delivery error > by e-mail or you may call Somerset Medical Center's computer Help Desk > at 908-685-2200, ext. 4050. > > Be sure to visit Somerset Medical Center's Web site - > www.somersetmedicalcenter.com - for the most up-to-date news, > event listings, health information and more. _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live? Hotmail??more than just e-mail. http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howitworks_022009 From marco.prunotto73 <@t> gmail.com Mon Feb 23 14:33:31 2009 From: marco.prunotto73 <@t> gmail.com (Marco Prunotto) Date: Mon Feb 23 14:33:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Beauty fo the Cell: call for contributions Message-ID: <206fe42c0902231233q44b0b7esad76e759e290d8ee@mail.gmail.com> Dear Colleagues, I open a blog entitled Beauty of the Cell. This in order to collect images of the Cell. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence are welcome from all of you. Main goal is to display beauty of the Cell and provide a reference for staining of different cell compartments from professionals all around the world. Please, provide a high resolution image (300 dpi, or more) and a low resolution (72 dpi, 1024 pixel size side). Provide also technical details of your staining (antibody code and factory, clone, dilution, incubation time, cell type stained, ...). Provide your details (Name, Institution/Department/main research interest. Images contributed to this blog have to be sent by email to: marco.prunotto73@gmail.com <%20marco.prunotto73@gmail.com> Images will be public domain and I will use them in order to write a book on beauty of the Cell. All your contributions are welcome. regards Marco Prunotto, Ph.D. From JWeems <@t> sjha.org Mon Feb 23 14:35:37 2009 From: JWeems <@t> sjha.org (Weems, Joyce) Date: Mon Feb 23 14:35:48 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tissue disposal Message-ID: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA536400E@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> How are people disposing of their tissue? Especially in the Atlanta area? Inquiring minds want to know..... Thanks! j Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. From marco.prunotto73 <@t> gmail.com Mon Feb 23 14:37:56 2009 From: marco.prunotto73 <@t> gmail.com (Marco Prunotto) Date: Mon Feb 23 14:38:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Beauty fo the Cell: call for contributions Message-ID: <206fe42c0902231237i37d88ebie22fbbd2b0d94cf4@mail.gmail.com> Dear Colleagues, I open a blog entitled Beauty of the Cell. This in order to collect images of the Cell. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence are welcome from all of you. Main goal is to display beauty of the Cell and provide a reference for staining of different cell compartments from professionals all around the world. Please, provide a high resolution image (300 dpi, or more) and a low resolution (72 dpi, 1024 pixel size side). Provide also technical details of your staining (antibody code and factory, clone, dilution, incubation time, cell type stained, ...). Provide your details (Name, Institution/Department/main research interest. Images contributed to this blog have to be sent by email to: marco.prunotto73@gmail.com <%20marco.prunotto73@gmail.com> Images will be public domain and I will use them in order to write a book on beauty of the Cell. All your contributions are welcome. regards From marco.prunotto73 <@t> gmail.com Mon Feb 23 14:54:31 2009 From: marco.prunotto73 <@t> gmail.com (Marco Prunotto) Date: Mon Feb 23 14:54:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Beauty of the Cell - site address and diffuse message (addenda) Message-ID: <206fe42c0902231254r38f7854fg6753a5f8b94ca0b8@mail.gmail.com> Dear Colleagues, Beauty of the Cell address is at: http://beautyofthecell.blogspot.com/ I wait your contributions at: marco.prunotto73@gmail.com please, diffuse this email to all your colleagues doing fine science. We need and urge reliable antibodies to obtain beautiful images of the Cell. Marco ----------------- Dear Colleagues, I open a blog entitled Beauty of the Cell. This in order to collect images of the Cell. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence are welcome from all of you. Main goal is to display beauty of the Cell and provide a reference for staining of different cell compartments from professionals all around the world. Please, provide a high resolution image (300 dpi, or more) and a low resolution (72 dpi, 1024 pixel size side). Provide also technical details of your staining (antibody code and factory, clone, dilution, incubation time, cell type stained, ...). Provide your details (Name, Institution/Department/main research interest. Images contributed to this blog have to be sent by email to: marco.prunotto73@gmail.com <%20marco.prunotto73@gmail.com> Images will be public domain and I will use them in order to write a book on beauty of the Cell. All your contributions are welcome. regards Marco Prunotto, Ph.D. RenalChild Foundation & Giannina Gaslini Children's Hospital, Genoa, Italy From Charles.Embrey <@t> carle.com Mon Feb 23 14:56:59 2009 From: Charles.Embrey <@t> carle.com (Charles.Embrey) Date: Mon Feb 23 14:57:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. In-Reply-To: References: <927163.6568.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A0537DA7B@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> Jerry, you are right that clinical work is different from research. You are wrong to consider 20 blocks per hour to be a "sweat-shop" pace. I've know scores of histotechs that cut well over 20 blocks per hour and produce high quality slides. Sorry you feel offended by this discussion but there is a real world outside of your university walls. Chuck -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JR R Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 1:58 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. All this talk of having people actually section as part of the interview process is offensive to me. I have hired and trained lots of histotechnologists. Mostly I train them myself, from scratch, but sometimes I hire them pre-trained. Then of course, I re-train them anyway so they can do the work to the specs of my lab. Any deficiencies they have will be corrected through training. By me. At my University there is a formal 30 day (maybe it's longer, I can't recall) probationary period for new hires. That's good enough. Why in the world would I need to have them section as part of an interview process? I am also offended by the "blocks per hour" language. Partly it's because in my lab we do exhaustive serial sectioning, so I consider a tech who gives me one block every half-hour to be doing a good job. Maybe it's different in clinical work, but...20 blocks per hour? And you expect quality work? Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? It's no wonder histopathologists feel overworked and underappreciated. Jerry Ricks Research Scientist University of Washington Department of Pathology > Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:14:06 -0500 > From: trathborne@somerset-healthcare.com > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; tbraud@holyredeemer.com > Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > CC: > > We also have the staff talk to the applicant during this process. It gives you a good idea if the person can talk and cut at the same time. The last thing anyone wants is a histotech that has to stop sectioning during a conversation! > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Rene J > Buesa > Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:05 AM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Terri Braud > Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > > > I for one always required any applicant to prepare 20 slides stained with H&E. I can assure that I selected "difficult" blocks to cut and the applicant was required to sign a disclaimer that included that s/he he knew how to section and avoid injuries. > The whole process was timed (to get a first idea about productivity) and I evaluated and graded the slides at the end. > The results were used as one of the elements to decide about offering the position (the fundamental) but I waited until all the applicants had completed the tests so sometimes the applicant had to be contacted a few days later to let him/her know about the results. > Ren? J. > > --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Terri Braud wrote: > > From: Terri Braud > Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 8:57 AM > > >From a recent digest: > stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch > them.> > > I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. > What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an > interview? > We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the > decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. > I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any > experiences that others have had. > Terri > > Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) > Anatomic Pathology Supervisor > Laboratory > Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center > > > > --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: > > This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which > it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, > and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under > applicable > federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do > not > distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. > Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. > > Thank you for your cooperation. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE > This message and any included attachments are from Somerset Medical Center > and are intended only for the addressee. The information contained in this > message is confidential and may contain privileged, confidential, > proprietary and/or trade secret information entitled to protection 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 of the delivery error > by e-mail or you may call Somerset Medical Center's computer Help Desk > at 908-685-2200, ext. 4050. > > Be sure to visit Somerset Medical Center's Web site - > www.somersetmedicalcenter.com - for the most up-to-date news, > event listings, health information and more. _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live(tm) Hotmail?...more than just e-mail. http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howitworks_022009_______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Mon Feb 23 15:05:37 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Mon Feb 23 15:05:41 2009 Subject: [Histonet] sucrose In-Reply-To: <2938.136.159.74.17.1235411549.squirrel@136.159.74.17> Message-ID: <21270.80393.qm@web65713.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> The thing rests in partial?hydration level?and chemical purity. Ren? J. --- On Mon, 2/23/09, ejschmid@ucalgary.ca wrote: From: ejschmid@ucalgary.ca Subject: [Histonet] sucrose To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 12:52 PM hi, is there any reason that using ordinary table sugar is less desirable than some formulation of Mol Bio grade sucrose when preparing a specimen for cryrosectioning? Eric _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From carrolpb <@t> umdnj.edu Mon Feb 23 15:26:12 2009 From: carrolpb <@t> umdnj.edu (Peter Carroll) Date: Mon Feb 23 15:34:15 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. In-Reply-To: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A0537DA7B@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> References: <927163.6568.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A0537DA7B@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> Message-ID: <49A31474.5020003@umdnj.edu> > Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? Pretty much. Having spent years doing path at a huge local hospital which featured a slave-driving lab director who was less qualified to run the lab than half the people working in it, I must say that I agree with this observation. At the same time, as much as I enjoy my more laid-back research path position now, I'd get fired in a heartbeat if I produced only one block every 30 minutes. Actually, I just got finished doing closer to 40 in the last hour, and today was a fairly slow day (yet not at all on par with the old clinical stats, were 8-12 techs embedded/sectioned closer to 800-1000 blocks per shift). Charles.Embrey wrote: > Jerry, you are right that clinical work is different from research. You are wrong to consider 20 blocks per hour to be a "sweat-shop" pace. I've know scores of histotechs that cut well over 20 blocks per hour and produce high quality slides. Sorry you feel offended by this discussion but there is a real world outside of your university walls. > Chuck > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JR R > Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 1:58 PM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. > > > All this talk of having people actually section as part of the interview process is offensive to me. > > I have hired and trained lots of histotechnologists. Mostly I train them myself, from scratch, but sometimes I hire them pre-trained. Then of course, I re-train them anyway so they can do the work to the specs of my lab. Any deficiencies they have will be corrected through training. By me. > > At my University there is a formal 30 day (maybe it's longer, I can't recall) probationary period for new hires. That's good enough. Why in the world would I need to have them section as part of an interview process? > > I am also offended by the "blocks per hour" language. Partly it's because in my lab we do exhaustive serial sectioning, so I consider a tech who gives me one block every half-hour to be doing a good job. > > Maybe it's different in clinical work, but...20 blocks per hour? And you expect quality work? > > Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? > > It's no wonder histopathologists feel overworked and underappreciated. > > Jerry Ricks > Research Scientist > University of Washington > Department of Pathology > > > > > > >> Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:14:06 -0500 >> From: trathborne@somerset-healthcare.com >> To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; tbraud@holyredeemer.com >> Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> CC: >> >> We also have the staff talk to the applicant during this process. It gives you a good idea if the person can talk and cut at the same time. The last thing anyone wants is a histotech that has to stop sectioning during a conversation! >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Rene J >> Buesa >> Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:05 AM >> To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Terri Braud >> Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> >> >> I for one always required any applicant to prepare 20 slides stained with H&E. I can assure that I selected "difficult" blocks to cut and the applicant was required to sign a disclaimer that included that s/he he knew how to section and avoid injuries. >> The whole process was timed (to get a first idea about productivity) and I evaluated and graded the slides at the end. >> The results were used as one of the elements to decide about offering the position (the fundamental) but I waited until all the applicants had completed the tests so sometimes the applicant had to be contacted a few days later to let him/her know about the results. >> Ren? J. >> >> --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Terri Braud wrote: >> >> From: Terri Braud >> Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 8:57 AM >> >> >From a recent digest: >> > stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch >> them.> >> >> I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. >> What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an >> interview? >> We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the >> decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. >> I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any >> experiences that others have had. >> Terri >> >> Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) >> Anatomic Pathology Supervisor >> Laboratory >> Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center >> >> >> >> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- >> >> >> >> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: >> >> This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which >> it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, >> and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under >> applicable >> federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do >> not >> distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. >> Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. >> >> Thank you for your cooperation. >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE >> This message and any included attachments are from Somerset Medical Center >> and are intended only for the addressee. The information contained in this >> message is confidential and may contain privileged, confidential, >> proprietary and/or trade secret information entitled to protection 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 of the delivery error >> by e-mail or you may call Somerset Medical Center's computer Help Desk >> at 908-685-2200, ext. 4050. >> >> Be sure to visit Somerset Medical Center's Web site - >> www.somersetmedicalcenter.com - for the most up-to-date news, >> event listings, health information and more. >> > > _________________________________________________________________ > Windows Live(tm) Hotmail?...more than just e-mail. > http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howitworks_022009_______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > From carrolpb <@t> umdnj.edu Mon Feb 23 15:27:47 2009 From: carrolpb <@t> umdnj.edu (Peter Carroll) Date: Mon Feb 23 16:02:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Beauty of the Cell - site address and diffuse message (addenda) In-Reply-To: <206fe42c0902231254r38f7854fg6753a5f8b94ca0b8@mail.gmail.com> References: <206fe42c0902231254r38f7854fg6753a5f8b94ca0b8@mail.gmail.com> Message-ID: <49A314D3.6030009@umdnj.edu> You've sent the list three emails about your blog within the last hour. We get the point! Marco Prunotto wrote: > Dear Colleagues, > > Beauty of the Cell address is at: http://beautyofthecell.blogspot.com/ > I wait your contributions at: marco.prunotto73@gmail.com > > please, diffuse this email to all your colleagues doing fine science. > We need and urge reliable antibodies to obtain beautiful images of the Cell. > > Marco > > > ----------------- > Dear Colleagues, > > I open a blog entitled Beauty of the Cell. > This in order to collect images of the Cell. > Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence are welcome from all of you. > Main goal is to display beauty of the Cell and provide a reference for > staining of different cell compartments from professionals all around the > world. > > Please, provide a high resolution image (300 dpi, or more) and a low > resolution (72 dpi, 1024 pixel size side). Provide also technical details of > your staining (antibody code and factory, clone, dilution, incubation time, > cell type stained, ...). Provide your details (Name, > Institution/Department/main research interest. > > Images contributed to this blog have to be sent by email to: > marco.prunotto73@gmail.com <%20marco.prunotto73@gmail.com> > Images will be public domain and I will use them in order to write a book on > beauty of the Cell. > All your contributions are welcome. > > regards > > > Marco Prunotto, Ph.D. > RenalChild Foundation & Giannina Gaslini Children's Hospital, Genoa, Italy > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > From leiker <@t> buffalo.edu Mon Feb 23 16:18:56 2009 From: leiker <@t> buffalo.edu (Merced Leiker) Date: Mon Feb 23 16:19:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Beauty of the Cell - site address and diffuse message (addenda) In-Reply-To: <49A314D3.6030009@umdnj.edu> References: <206fe42c0902231254r38f7854fg6753a5f8b94ca0b8@mail.gmail.com> <49A314D3.6030009@umdnj.edu> Message-ID: LOL!!!! --On Monday, February 23, 2009 4:27 PM -0500 Peter Carroll wrote: > You've sent the list three emails about your blog within the last hour. > We get the point! > > Marco Prunotto wrote: >> Dear Colleagues, >> >> Beauty of the Cell address is at: http://beautyofthecell.blogspot.com/ >> I wait your contributions at: marco.prunotto73@gmail.com >> >> please, diffuse this email to all your colleagues doing fine science. >> We need and urge reliable antibodies to obtain beautiful images of the >> Cell. >> >> Marco >> >> >> ----------------- >> Dear Colleagues, >> >> I open a blog entitled Beauty of the Cell. >> This in order to collect images of the Cell. >> Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence are welcome from all of you. >> Main goal is to display beauty of the Cell and provide a reference for >> staining of different cell compartments from professionals all around the >> world. >> >> Please, provide a high resolution image (300 dpi, or more) and a low >> resolution (72 dpi, 1024 pixel size side). Provide also technical >> details of your staining (antibody code and factory, clone, dilution, >> incubation time, cell type stained, ...). Provide your details (Name, >> Institution/Department/main research interest. >> >> Images contributed to this blog have to be sent by email to: >> marco.prunotto73@gmail.com <%20marco.prunotto73@gmail.com> >> Images will be public domain and I will use them in order to write a >> book on beauty of the Cell. >> All your contributions are welcome. >> >> regards >> >> >> Marco Prunotto, Ph.D. >> RenalChild Foundation & Giannina Gaslini Children's Hospital, Genoa, >> Italy _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > Merced M Leiker Research Technician II 354 BRB (pkgs) / 140 Farber Hall (letters) School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences State University of New York at Buffalo 3435 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14214 Ph: (716) 829-6033 Fx: (716) 829-2725 "Without my flaws I'm really very boring." - random internet blog commentator From rosenfeldtek <@t> hotmail.com Mon Feb 23 16:50:02 2009 From: rosenfeldtek <@t> hotmail.com (JR R) Date: Mon Feb 23 16:50:08 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--Charles Embrey In-Reply-To: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A0537DA7B@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> References: <927163.6568.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A0537DA7B@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> Message-ID: Hi Charles... So, in this 20 blocks per hour scenario, what kind of tissue and sectioning are you talking about. How many slides per specimen are made, and how many sections per slide? Are these serial sections that exhaust the entire block or is there tissue left in the block after sectioning? I could see doing 20 blocks an hour if you just needed a few slides per specimen. We do a lot of work with mouse brachiocephalic artery, and mouse aortic sinus which are pretty small. I have my techs put five serial sections per slide, and we end up with 30-50 slides per animal. I encourage them to examine at least every other slide under the microscope before proceeding to cut the next slide. Charles, you wrote: "You are wrong to consider 20 blocks per hour to be a "sweat-shop" pace." I gather from other people's responses to my post there are a lot of techs who consider their workplaces to be like "sweat-shops" for a variety of reasons. My approach to retaining labor is to interview wisely, pay people well, and treat them like the excellent professionals they are. On the rare occasion that performance is below-par, I offer them extra training and assistance. Only once in 20 years have I had to fire anyone. Yes, I am aware that there is a world beyond academia. Mind you, I consider the academic world to also be part of the "real world." But common sense, professionalism and simple human decency apply in every setting, whether it be academic, commercial, or clinical. Jerry Ricks Research Scientist University of Washington. Department of Pathology > Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 14:56:59 -0600 > From: Charles.Embrey@carle.com > To: rosenfeldtek@hotmail.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. > CC: > > Jerry, you are right that clinical work is different from research. You are wrong to consider 20 blocks per hour to be a "sweat-shop" pace. I've know scores of histotechs that cut well over 20 blocks per hour and produce high quality slides. Sorry you feel offended by this discussion but there is a real world outside of your university walls. > Chuck > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JR R > Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 1:58 PM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. > > > All this talk of having people actually section as part of the interview process is offensive to me. > > I have hired and trained lots of histotechnologists. Mostly I train them myself, from scratch, but sometimes I hire them pre-trained. Then of course, I re-train them anyway so they can do the work to the specs of my lab. Any deficiencies they have will be corrected through training. By me. > > At my University there is a formal 30 day (maybe it's longer, I can't recall) probationary period for new hires. That's good enough. Why in the world would I need to have them section as part of an interview process? > > I am also offended by the "blocks per hour" language. Partly it's because in my lab we do exhaustive serial sectioning, so I consider a tech who gives me one block every half-hour to be doing a good job. > > Maybe it's different in clinical work, but...20 blocks per hour? And you expect quality work? > > Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? > > It's no wonder histopathologists feel overworked and underappreciated. > > Jerry Ricks > Research Scientist > University of Washington > Department of Pathology > > > > > > > Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:14:06 -0500 > > From: trathborne@somerset-healthcare.com > > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; tbraud@holyredeemer.com > > Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > > CC: > > > > We also have the staff talk to the applicant during this process. It gives you a good idea if the person can talk and cut at the same time. The last thing anyone wants is a histotech that has to stop sectioning during a conversation! > > > > -----Original Message----- > > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Rene J > > Buesa > > Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:05 AM > > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Terri Braud > > Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > > > > > > I for one always required any applicant to prepare 20 slides stained with H&E. I can assure that I selected "difficult" blocks to cut and the applicant was required to sign a disclaimer that included that s/he he knew how to section and avoid injuries. > > The whole process was timed (to get a first idea about productivity) and I evaluated and graded the slides at the end. > > The results were used as one of the elements to decide about offering the position (the fundamental) but I waited until all the applicants had completed the tests so sometimes the applicant had to be contacted a few days later to let him/her know about the results. > > Ren? J. > > > > --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Terri Braud wrote: > > > > From: Terri Braud > > Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 8:57 AM > > > > >From a recent digest: > > > stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch > > them.> > > > > I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. > > What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an > > interview? > > We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the > > decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. > > I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any > > experiences that others have had. > > Terri > > > > Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) > > Anatomic Pathology Supervisor > > Laboratory > > Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center > > > > > > > > --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > > > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: > > > > This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which > > it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, > > and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under > > applicable > > federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do > > not > > distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. > > Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. > > > > Thank you for your cooperation. > > > > _______________________________________________ > > Histonet mailing list > > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > Histonet mailing list > > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE > > This message and any included attachments are from Somerset Medical Center > > and are intended only for the addressee. The information contained in this > > message is confidential and may contain privileged, confidential, > > proprietary and/or trade secret information entitled to protection 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 of the delivery error > > by e-mail or you may call Somerset Medical Center's computer Help Desk > > at 908-685-2200, ext. 4050. > > > > Be sure to visit Somerset Medical Center's Web site - > > www.somersetmedicalcenter.com - for the most up-to-date news, > > event listings, health information and more. > > _________________________________________________________________ > Windows Live(tm) Hotmail?...more than just e-mail. > http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howitworks_022009_______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live? Hotmail?:?more than just e-mail. http://windowslive.com/explore?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_explore_022009 From CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org Mon Feb 23 16:59:16 2009 From: CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org (Ingles Claire ) Date: Mon Feb 23 16:59:22 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam References: , <52858.58186.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com><38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCE8@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> <003001c9939f$c677e880$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: Hmmmm... I remember a fellow tech. Lazy SOB. He had passed the test for the HTL, but couldn't pass the practical, because he really didn't know what he was doing (or cared). He once asked me if I would stain his registry slides along with our regular run of special stains. Needless to say I said NO! He couldn't understand why. (course I don't think he ever understood why his charm never worked on me either) I don't know if he ever passed the exam. I think he was at least on his second attempt at the practical. I also knew a path resident that was even lazier than the 'histotech' and didn't give a rat's patoot either. THAT really gave me the shutters/steamed me up. Then again, a lot of the Path residents didn't like me because I would take tissue back to them to recut because it was too thick to process adequately. Extra work you know. I'm so glad I only have to deal with one fellow a year now. They are much better to begin with. Claire ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Pamela Marcum Sent: Fri 2/20/2009 3:11 PM To: 'Podawiltz, Thomas'; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; 'Histonet'; 'O'Donnell, Bill' Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Hi, This has nothing to do with Bill or you Tom however, when the practical was still being given people did come on histonet and ask for tissue in blocks and help finishing the exam. It was not a good thing and showed that some people were not able to acquire the tissues needed or were not looking for them. Since I saw this several times and many of us were upset about it, I can say at least a few people did not do their own if they could avoid it. I don't remember names or locations so please don't ask for them. From cbarone <@t> NEMOURS.ORG Mon Feb 23 17:01:34 2009 From: cbarone <@t> NEMOURS.ORG (Barone, Carol ) Date: Mon Feb 23 17:01:44 2009 Subject: [Histonet] for submission: re: quantatative fluorescent systems for tissue In-Reply-To: <20090223180431.3DB78281@mail03.nemours.org> Message-ID: <37E4BAC017F57141AF64FAA5AEB04CE801471B07@wlmmsx01.nemours.org> Hitech'er's: Is there a fluorescent system (chemluninescent or bead system) for quantitatative reading of fluorescently prepared tissue sections? reader/ Scanner....and used with what kind of detection? Where do I start? -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 1:05 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 43 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 histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu You can reach the person managing the list at histonet-owner@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: Training first time cutters (Bernice Frederick) 2. sucrose (ejschmid@ucalgary.ca) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 11:08:03 -0600 From: "Bernice Frederick" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Training first time cutters To: "'Celebre Julia'" , Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" It varies in my opinion. Some people take longer to catch on. I think ability goes along with workload- I cut quickly and accurately whereas others cut slower and just as accurately. I find I can vary as to tissue also- it depends on the tech. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Celebre Julia Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:09 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Training first time cutters > > > It's been awhile since we've had to train someone to cut from scratch and I need your help to figure out two things: > 1. how long should it take a new cutter to cut 20 blocks, no levels, nothing fancy, just one H&E per block. > 2. what's the average length of training for the above to be accomplished? how long is long enough? > > Julia Celebre MLT > Anatomic Pathology > Hamilton General Hospital > 905-527-0271 ext 46179 > email: celebrej@hhsc.ca > This information is directed in confidence solely to the person named above and may not otherwise be distributed, copied or disclosed. Therefore, this information should be considered strictly confidential. If you have received this email in error, please notify the sender immediately via a return email for further direction. Thank you for your assistance. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 2 Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:52:29 -0700 (MST) From: ejschmid@ucalgary.ca Subject: [Histonet] sucrose To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <2938.136.159.74.17.1235411549.squirrel@136.159.74.17> Content-Type: text/plain;charset=iso-8859-1 hi, is there any reason that using ordinary table sugar is less desirable than some formulation of Mol Bio grade sucrose when preparing a specimen for cryrosectioning? Eric ------------------------------ _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet End of Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 43 **************************************** From CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org Mon Feb 23 17:03:29 2009 From: CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org (Ingles Claire ) Date: Mon Feb 23 17:05:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam References: , <52858.58186.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com><38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCE8@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org><003001c9939f$c677e880$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> <499F37D6.3000607@verizon.net> Message-ID: Hey, I thought WE were the lowest phylum.(at least as far as most respect goes) :) Claire ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Esther Peters Sent: Fri 2/20/2009 5:08 PM To: O'Donnell, Bill Cc: Histonet Subject: Re: [Histonet] Practical Exam As one who first came into histology by working with the lowest phyla, and has continued to teach students the procedures for whatever critter they are working on, it seems to me that the basics and criteria for producing a properly embedded, sectioned, and stained H&E tissue sample are the same for all. Special stains might not always work exactly the same on different organisms (especially those from a marine environment vs. terrestrial) or demonstrate the same features (e.g., invertebrates lack myelin, fish erythrocytes are nucleated), but understanding whether someone can produce a good slide using any organism is the same. Indeed, those who work on insects, crustaceans, bivalves, and sponges, would welcome having human tissue to section! And those critters provide ample training in troubleshooting in histology! (My mentor at the marine research lab sacrificed a white rabbit for another student to work on who wanted to get the HT certification.) Just as I am sure not every piece of appendix looks entirely the same and processes exactly the same, there needs to be some standards but also some acceptance of diversity? Esther Peters, Ph.D. Assistant Professor George Mason University From jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com Mon Feb 23 18:07:13 2009 From: jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com (JoeNocito) Date: Mon Feb 23 18:07:15 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: References: , <52858.58186.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com><38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCE8@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> <003001c9939f$c677e880$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> Message-ID: <004501c99613$d895a2c0$89c0e840$@rr.com> A rat's patoot? Is that like a rodent's behind? -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Ingles Claire Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 4:59 PM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Hmmmm... I remember a fellow tech. Lazy SOB. He had passed the test for the HTL, but couldn't pass the practical, because he really didn't know what he was doing (or cared). He once asked me if I would stain his registry slides along with our regular run of special stains. Needless to say I said NO! He couldn't understand why. (course I don't think he ever understood why his charm never worked on me either) I don't know if he ever passed the exam. I think he was at least on his second attempt at the practical. I also knew a path resident that was even lazier than the 'histotech' and didn't give a rat's patoot either. THAT really gave me the shutters/steamed me up. Then again, a lot of the Path residents didn't like me because I would take tissue back to them to recut because it was too thick to process adequately. Extra work you know. I'm so glad I only have to deal with one fellow a year now. They are much better to begin with. Claire ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Pamela Marcum Sent: Fri 2/20/2009 3:11 PM To: 'Podawiltz, Thomas'; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; 'Histonet'; 'O'Donnell, Bill' Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Hi, This has nothing to do with Bill or you Tom however, when the practical was still being given people did come on histonet and ask for tissue in blocks and help finishing the exam. It was not a good thing and showed that some people were not able to acquire the tissues needed or were not looking for them. Since I saw this several times and many of us were upset about it, I can say at least a few people did not do their own if they could avoid it. I don't remember names or locations so please don't ask for them. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com Mon Feb 23 18:16:14 2009 From: jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com (JoeNocito) Date: Mon Feb 23 18:16:18 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. In-Reply-To: <49A31474.5020003@umdnj.edu> References: <927163.6568.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A0537DA7B@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> <49A31474.5020003@umdnj.edu> Message-ID: <004601c99615$1b152520$513f6f60$@rr.com> In a previous life, I went on a two week vacation. When I came back, I had two new techs that I never had a chance to interview. They were hired in my absence (that's why it's a previous life). They couldn't cut, embed or do special stains. Being a clinical training site, I proceeded to teach these "experienced" techs just like I taught my students. I was furious at the powers at be because of this situation. These people couldn't handle it and both quit with in a year. When I started interviewing for those positions, I gave each applicant a 20 question exam and gave them 5 blocks to cut. I needed to have an objective way to choose the best candidate so I would not have any repercussions or accusations that I hired one over the other because one had longer hair or a prettier smile or because I had something against some one. The lab was getting busier by the day and I just couldn't afford to teach "experienced" techs from scratch. Just my four cents worth (inflation is a killer). -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Peter Carroll Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 3:26 PM Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. > Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? Pretty much. Having spent years doing path at a huge local hospital which featured a slave-driving lab director who was less qualified to run the lab than half the people working in it, I must say that I agree with this observation. At the same time, as much as I enjoy my more laid-back research path position now, I'd get fired in a heartbeat if I produced only one block every 30 minutes. Actually, I just got finished doing closer to 40 in the last hour, and today was a fairly slow day (yet not at all on par with the old clinical stats, were 8-12 techs embedded/sectioned closer to 800-1000 blocks per shift). Charles.Embrey wrote: > Jerry, you are right that clinical work is different from research. You are wrong to consider 20 blocks per hour to be a "sweat-shop" pace. I've know scores of histotechs that cut well over 20 blocks per hour and produce high quality slides. Sorry you feel offended by this discussion but there is a real world outside of your university walls. > Chuck > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JR R > Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 1:58 PM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. > > > All this talk of having people actually section as part of the interview process is offensive to me. > > I have hired and trained lots of histotechnologists. Mostly I train them myself, from scratch, but sometimes I hire them pre-trained. Then of course, I re-train them anyway so they can do the work to the specs of my lab. Any deficiencies they have will be corrected through training. By me. > > At my University there is a formal 30 day (maybe it's longer, I can't recall) probationary period for new hires. That's good enough. Why in the world would I need to have them section as part of an interview process? > > I am also offended by the "blocks per hour" language. Partly it's because in my lab we do exhaustive serial sectioning, so I consider a tech who gives me one block every half-hour to be doing a good job. > > Maybe it's different in clinical work, but...20 blocks per hour? And you expect quality work? > > Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? > > It's no wonder histopathologists feel overworked and underappreciated. > > Jerry Ricks > Research Scientist > University of Washington > Department of Pathology > > > > > > >> Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:14:06 -0500 >> From: trathborne@somerset-healthcare.com >> To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; tbraud@holyredeemer.com >> Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> CC: >> >> We also have the staff talk to the applicant during this process. It gives you a good idea if the person can talk and cut at the same time. The last thing anyone wants is a histotech that has to stop sectioning during a conversation! >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Rene J >> Buesa >> Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:05 AM >> To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Terri Braud >> Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> >> >> I for one always required any applicant to prepare 20 slides stained with H&E. I can assure that I selected "difficult" blocks to cut and the applicant was required to sign a disclaimer that included that s/he he knew how to section and avoid injuries. >> The whole process was timed (to get a first idea about productivity) and I evaluated and graded the slides at the end. >> The results were used as one of the elements to decide about offering the position (the fundamental) but I waited until all the applicants had completed the tests so sometimes the applicant had to be contacted a few days later to let him/her know about the results. >> Ren? J. >> >> --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Terri Braud wrote: >> >> From: Terri Braud >> Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 8:57 AM >> >> >From a recent digest: >> > stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch >> them.> >> >> I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. >> What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an >> interview? >> We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the >> decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. >> I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any >> experiences that others have had. >> Terri >> >> Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) >> Anatomic Pathology Supervisor >> Laboratory >> Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center >> >> >> >> ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----- >> >> >> >> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: >> >> This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which >> it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, >> and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under >> applicable >> federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do >> not >> distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. >> Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. >> >> Thank you for your cooperation. >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE >> This message and any included attachments are from Somerset Medical Center >> and are intended only for the addressee. The information contained in this >> message is confidential and may contain privileged, confidential, >> proprietary and/or trade secret information entitled to protection 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 of the delivery error >> by e-mail or you may call Somerset Medical Center's computer Help Desk >> at 908-685-2200, ext. 4050. >> >> Be sure to visit Somerset Medical Center's Web site - >> www.somersetmedicalcenter.com - for the most up-to-date news, >> event listings, health information and more. >> > > _________________________________________________________________ > Windows Live(tm) Hotmail?...more than just e-mail. > http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howi tworks_022009_______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From amosbrooks <@t> gmail.com Mon Feb 23 18:23:51 2009 From: amosbrooks <@t> gmail.com (Amos Brooks) Date: Mon Feb 23 18:23:55 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exams Message-ID: <582736990902231623i87d8060i8e51f6d36efb7a40@mail.gmail.com> Hi, It's interesting that there are histo programs that would be on the brink of closing. This is certainly NOT due to a lack of need in the field. It sounds like a lack of support. Really WE need to take this by the horns. Raise your hand if you have ever participated in a high school Carer Day or Health Fair. I don't see many hands ... probably because I am looking at a computer screen! For that matter how many of us could even tell someone intersted in the field where to go (reasonably locally) to get formal training? (Gauntlet toss warning!) With regard to having separate exams for clinical and vetrernary tissue: The idea has merit since animal tissue is harder to cut than human. Maybe all the tissue should be animal to separate the wheat from the chaff. (Just so you know that is intended as a joke, don't flame me too hard.) None of us should get too cockey, and we should all be capable of both. Any good histotech that actually wants to get a job should approach the process like a scientist (showing educational qualifications) and an artist. Gathering a portfolio of work you have done would be a good way of demonstrating you are capable of the work just like the practical exam. Did you really do this work? ... Well did you really do your own practical? is a similar question. Thanks, Amos From Barry.R.Rittman <@t> uth.tmc.edu Mon Feb 23 18:32:26 2009 From: Barry.R.Rittman <@t> uth.tmc.edu (Rittman, Barry R) Date: Mon Feb 23 18:32:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. In-Reply-To: <004601c99615$1b152520$513f6f60$@rr.com> References: <927163.6568.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A0537DA7B@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> <49A31474.5020003@umdnj.edu>,<004601c99615$1b152520$513f6f60$@rr.com> Message-ID: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB29@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> Joe how many previous lives did you have, and what were you in each of them? I think that it is a great idea to have individuals cutting some test blocks. While it is true that you can fire individuals within their probationary period, the pressure from administration in many cases is not to do so and you have wasated time trying to train them to the position. It is also a very expensive proposition both in time and financially to advertise positions and interview for these positions. You certainly cannot determine an individuals expertise by their resume or even by certification. After all what does 20 years experience denote? It can be a fruitfull 20 years with varied experiences or one year repeated 20 times. I would opt for the individual who has 20 years varied experience. Let the applicants cut some blocks, with the due consideration that interviewing is stressful for them as well as for the interviewer. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JoeNocito [jnocito@satx.rr.com] Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 6:16 PM To: 'Peter Carroll' Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. In a previous life, I went on a two week vacation. When I came back, I had two new techs that I never had a chance to interview. They were hired in my absence (that's why it's a previous life). They couldn't cut, embed or do special stains. Being a clinical training site, I proceeded to teach these "experienced" techs just like I taught my students. I was furious at the powers at be because of this situation. These people couldn't handle it and both quit with in a year. When I started interviewing for those positions, I gave each applicant a 20 question exam and gave them 5 blocks to cut. I needed to have an objective way to choose the best candidate so I would not have any repercussions or accusations that I hired one over the other because one had longer hair or a prettier smile or because I had something against some one. The lab was getting busier by the day and I just couldn't afford to teach "experienced" techs from scratch. Just my four cents worth (inflation is a killer). -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Peter Carroll Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 3:26 PM Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. > Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? Pretty much. Having spent years doing path at a huge local hospital which featured a slave-driving lab director who was less qualified to run the lab than half the people working in it, I must say that I agree with this observation. At the same time, as much as I enjoy my more laid-back research path position now, I'd get fired in a heartbeat if I produced only one block every 30 minutes. Actually, I just got finished doing closer to 40 in the last hour, and today was a fairly slow day (yet not at all on par with the old clinical stats, were 8-12 techs embedded/sectioned closer to 800-1000 blocks per shift). Charles.Embrey wrote: > Jerry, you are right that clinical work is different from research. You are wrong to consider 20 blocks per hour to be a "sweat-shop" pace. I've know scores of histotechs that cut well over 20 blocks per hour and produce high quality slides. Sorry you feel offended by this discussion but there is a real world outside of your university walls. > Chuck > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JR R > Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 1:58 PM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. > > > All this talk of having people actually section as part of the interview process is offensive to me. > > I have hired and trained lots of histotechnologists. Mostly I train them myself, from scratch, but sometimes I hire them pre-trained. Then of course, I re-train them anyway so they can do the work to the specs of my lab. Any deficiencies they have will be corrected through training. By me. > > At my University there is a formal 30 day (maybe it's longer, I can't recall) probationary period for new hires. That's good enough. Why in the world would I need to have them section as part of an interview process? > > I am also offended by the "blocks per hour" language. Partly it's because in my lab we do exhaustive serial sectioning, so I consider a tech who gives me one block every half-hour to be doing a good job. > > Maybe it's different in clinical work, but...20 blocks per hour? And you expect quality work? > > Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? > > It's no wonder histopathologists feel overworked and underappreciated. > > Jerry Ricks > Research Scientist > University of Washington > Department of Pathology > > > > > > >> Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:14:06 -0500 >> From: trathborne@somerset-healthcare.com >> To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; tbraud@holyredeemer.com >> Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> CC: >> >> We also have the staff talk to the applicant during this process. It gives you a good idea if the person can talk and cut at the same time. The last thing anyone wants is a histotech that has to stop sectioning during a conversation! >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Rene J >> Buesa >> Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:05 AM >> To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Terri Braud >> Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> >> >> I for one always required any applicant to prepare 20 slides stained with H&E. I can assure that I selected "difficult" blocks to cut and the applicant was required to sign a disclaimer that included that s/he he knew how to section and avoid injuries. >> The whole process was timed (to get a first idea about productivity) and I evaluated and graded the slides at the end. >> The results were used as one of the elements to decide about offering the position (the fundamental) but I waited until all the applicants had completed the tests so sometimes the applicant had to be contacted a few days later to let him/her know about the results. >> Ren? J. >> >> --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Terri Braud wrote: >> >> From: Terri Braud >> Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 8:57 AM >> >> >From a recent digest: >> > stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch >> them.> >> >> I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. >> What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an >> interview? >> We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the >> decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. >> I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any >> experiences that others have had. >> Terri >> >> Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) >> Anatomic Pathology Supervisor >> Laboratory >> Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center >> >> >> >> ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----- >> >> >> >> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: >> >> This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which >> it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, >> and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under >> applicable >> federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do >> not >> distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. >> Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. >> >> Thank you for your cooperation. >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE >> This message and any included attachments are from Somerset Medical Center >> and are intended only for the addressee. The information contained in this >> message is confidential and may contain privileged, confidential, >> proprietary and/or trade secret information entitled to protection 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 of the delivery error >> by e-mail or you may call Somerset Medical Center's computer Help Desk >> at 908-685-2200, ext. 4050. >> >> Be sure to visit Somerset Medical Center's Web site - >> www.somersetmedicalcenter.com - for the most up-to-date news, >> event listings, health information and more. >> > > _________________________________________________________________ > Windows Live(tm) Hotmail?...more than just e-mail. > http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howi tworks_022009_______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com Mon Feb 23 19:33:28 2009 From: jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com (JoeNocito) Date: Mon Feb 23 19:33:33 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. In-Reply-To: <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB29@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> References: <927163.6568.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A0537DA7B@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> <49A31474.5020003@umdnj.edu>, <004601c99615$1b152520$513f6f60$@rr.com> <75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB29@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> Message-ID: <000301c9961f$e5fdae10$b1f90a30$@rr.com> I'll never tell -----Original Message----- From: Rittman, Barry R [mailto:Barry.R.Rittman@uth.tmc.edu] Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 6:32 PM To: JoeNocito; 'Peter Carroll' Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. Joe how many previous lives did you have, and what were you in each of them? I think that it is a great idea to have individuals cutting some test blocks. While it is true that you can fire individuals within their probationary period, the pressure from administration in many cases is not to do so and you have wasated time trying to train them to the position. It is also a very expensive proposition both in time and financially to advertise positions and interview for these positions. You certainly cannot determine an individuals expertise by their resume or even by certification. After all what does 20 years experience denote? It can be a fruitfull 20 years with varied experiences or one year repeated 20 times. I would opt for the individual who has 20 years varied experience. Let the applicants cut some blocks, with the due consideration that interviewing is stressful for them as well as for the interviewer. Barry ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JoeNocito [jnocito@satx.rr.com] Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 6:16 PM To: 'Peter Carroll' Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. In a previous life, I went on a two week vacation. When I came back, I had two new techs that I never had a chance to interview. They were hired in my absence (that's why it's a previous life). They couldn't cut, embed or do special stains. Being a clinical training site, I proceeded to teach these "experienced" techs just like I taught my students. I was furious at the powers at be because of this situation. These people couldn't handle it and both quit with in a year. When I started interviewing for those positions, I gave each applicant a 20 question exam and gave them 5 blocks to cut. I needed to have an objective way to choose the best candidate so I would not have any repercussions or accusations that I hired one over the other because one had longer hair or a prettier smile or because I had something against some one. The lab was getting busier by the day and I just couldn't afford to teach "experienced" techs from scratch. Just my four cents worth (inflation is a killer). -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Peter Carroll Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 3:26 PM Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. > Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? Pretty much. Having spent years doing path at a huge local hospital which featured a slave-driving lab director who was less qualified to run the lab than half the people working in it, I must say that I agree with this observation. At the same time, as much as I enjoy my more laid-back research path position now, I'd get fired in a heartbeat if I produced only one block every 30 minutes. Actually, I just got finished doing closer to 40 in the last hour, and today was a fairly slow day (yet not at all on par with the old clinical stats, were 8-12 techs embedded/sectioned closer to 800-1000 blocks per shift). Charles.Embrey wrote: > Jerry, you are right that clinical work is different from research. You are wrong to consider 20 blocks per hour to be a "sweat-shop" pace. I've know scores of histotechs that cut well over 20 blocks per hour and produce high quality slides. Sorry you feel offended by this discussion but there is a real world outside of your university walls. > Chuck > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JR R > Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 1:58 PM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. > > > All this talk of having people actually section as part of the interview process is offensive to me. > > I have hired and trained lots of histotechnologists. Mostly I train them myself, from scratch, but sometimes I hire them pre-trained. Then of course, I re-train them anyway so they can do the work to the specs of my lab. Any deficiencies they have will be corrected through training. By me. > > At my University there is a formal 30 day (maybe it's longer, I can't recall) probationary period for new hires. That's good enough. Why in the world would I need to have them section as part of an interview process? > > I am also offended by the "blocks per hour" language. Partly it's because in my lab we do exhaustive serial sectioning, so I consider a tech who gives me one block every half-hour to be doing a good job. > > Maybe it's different in clinical work, but...20 blocks per hour? And you expect quality work? > > Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? > > It's no wonder histopathologists feel overworked and underappreciated. > > Jerry Ricks > Research Scientist > University of Washington > Department of Pathology > > > > > > >> Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:14:06 -0500 >> From: trathborne@somerset-healthcare.com >> To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; tbraud@holyredeemer.com >> Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> CC: >> >> We also have the staff talk to the applicant during this process. It gives you a good idea if the person can talk and cut at the same time. The last thing anyone wants is a histotech that has to stop sectioning during a conversation! >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Rene J >> Buesa >> Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:05 AM >> To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Terri Braud >> Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> >> >> I for one always required any applicant to prepare 20 slides stained with H&E. I can assure that I selected "difficult" blocks to cut and the applicant was required to sign a disclaimer that included that s/he he knew how to section and avoid injuries. >> The whole process was timed (to get a first idea about productivity) and I evaluated and graded the slides at the end. >> The results were used as one of the elements to decide about offering the position (the fundamental) but I waited until all the applicants had completed the tests so sometimes the applicant had to be contacted a few days later to let him/her know about the results. >> Ren? J. >> >> --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Terri Braud wrote: >> >> From: Terri Braud >> Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 8:57 AM >> >> >From a recent digest: >> > stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch >> them.> >> >> I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. >> What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an >> interview? >> We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the >> decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. >> I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any >> experiences that others have had. >> Terri >> >> Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) >> Anatomic Pathology Supervisor >> Laboratory >> Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center >> >> >> >> ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----- >> >> >> >> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: >> >> This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which >> it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, >> and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under >> applicable >> federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do >> not >> distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. >> Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. >> >> Thank you for your cooperation. >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE >> This message and any included attachments are from Somerset Medical Center >> and are intended only for the addressee. The information contained in this >> message is confidential and may contain privileged, confidential, >> proprietary and/or trade secret information entitled to protection 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 of the delivery error >> by e-mail or you may call Somerset Medical Center's computer Help Desk >> at 908-685-2200, ext. 4050. >> >> Be sure to visit Somerset Medical Center's Web site - >> www.somersetmedicalcenter.com - for the most up-to-date news, >> event listings, health information and more. >> > > _________________________________________________________________ > Windows Live(tm) Hotmail?...more than just e-mail. > http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howi tworks_022009_______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet= From lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net Tue Feb 24 04:12:48 2009 From: lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net (Lee & Peggy Wenk) Date: Tue Feb 24 04:12:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] HT certifacation In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <732E9F08B6BA4A60B9541E3CD6A4D351@HPPav2> The OJT route does say a minimum of 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) with 12 semester hours (18 quarter hours) of biology and chemistry. This allows for someone with, for example, 3 years of college (90 semester hours) to take the HT exam. They don't have an associate degree, they don't don't a baccalaurate degree. They are somewhere in between. This person can therefore take the HT exam, as they have more than the minimum 60 semester hours that is required (which is about what is needed for an associate degree). Just for clarification, it's 12 semester hours of biology and chemistry combined. Not 12 semester hours each. So if each course is 4 semester hours, then two biology classes and one chemistry class would qualify. Or one biology and two chemistry classes. Peggy A. Wenk, HTK(ASCP)SLS Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Kathy Gorham Sent: Sunday, February 22, 2009 7:38 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] HT certifacation I have two young people in our lab that would like to get certified as a HT. One is looking into the Harford Community College on line and the other is trying for the "At least 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of academic credit from a regionally accredited college/university, with a combination of 12 semester hours (18 quarter hours) of biology and chemistry ". I have three questions. Does anyone know anything about the Harford School? Has anyone had a student from there to do their practicum in your lab? and I just want to be sure that the second student does not have to have an associate degree any longer; Just the 60 semester hours and 12 of biology/chemistry is that correct? Thank you Kathy Gorham H.T. Grande Ronde Hospital La Grande Oregon _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From ree3 <@t> leicester.ac.uk Tue Feb 24 04:42:55 2009 From: ree3 <@t> leicester.ac.uk (Edwards, R.E.) Date: Tue Feb 24 04:43:05 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam In-Reply-To: <004501c99613$d895a2c0$89c0e840$@rr.com> References: , <52858.58186.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com><38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCE8@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> <003001c9939f$c677e880$095a5b82@vet.upenn.edu> <004501c99613$d895a2c0$89c0e840$@rr.com> Message-ID: <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A17455BB4DD5@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> No, I believe "Rat's Patout" was originally a Cajun song, by Lionel and the Mossy Banks. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JoeNocito Sent: 24 February 2009 00:07 To: 'Ingles Claire '; 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam A rat's patoot? Is that like a rodent's behind? -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Ingles Claire Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 4:59 PM To: Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Hmmmm... I remember a fellow tech. Lazy SOB. He had passed the test for the HTL, but couldn't pass the practical, because he really didn't know what he was doing (or cared). He once asked me if I would stain his registry slides along with our regular run of special stains. Needless to say I said NO! He couldn't understand why. (course I don't think he ever understood why his charm never worked on me either) I don't know if he ever passed the exam. I think he was at least on his second attempt at the practical. I also knew a path resident that was even lazier than the 'histotech' and didn't give a rat's patoot either. THAT really gave me the shutters/steamed me up. Then again, a lot of the Path residents didn't like me because I would take tissue back to them to recut because it was too thick to process adequately. Extra work you know. I'm so glad I only have to deal with one fellow a year now. They are much better to begin with. Claire ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Pamela Marcum Sent: Fri 2/20/2009 3:11 PM To: 'Podawiltz, Thomas'; rjbuesa@yahoo.com; 'Histonet'; 'O'Donnell, Bill' Subject: RE: [Histonet] Practical Exam Hi, This has nothing to do with Bill or you Tom however, when the practical was still being given people did come on histonet and ask for tissue in blocks and help finishing the exam. It was not a good thing and showed that some people were not able to acquire the tissues needed or were not looking for them. Since I saw this several times and many of us were upset about it, I can say at least a few people did not do their own if they could avoid it. I don't remember names or locations so please don't ask for them. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From joelleweaver <@t> hotmail.com Tue Feb 24 04:48:18 2009 From: joelleweaver <@t> hotmail.com (joelle weaver) Date: Tue Feb 24 04:48:24 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. In-Reply-To: <49A31474.5020003@umdnj.edu> References: <927163.6568.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A0537DA7B@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> <49A31474.5020003@umdnj.edu> Message-ID: I'm not sure why asking someone to cut on an interview would be offensive? I have been asked to demonstrate my technical skills on interviews and had no problem with it whatsoever. The way I look at it, the histology role has at least two aspects- the theoretical and scientific background knowledge and the technical proficiency. I think a manager can get some inference about your knowledge from your resume and education, but that does not tell them much about your technical abilities. I think that it is perfectly fair to get some measure and insight into the other half by asking for a demonstration. It is really a practical assessment in my opinion, as to whether your combination of knowledge and technical skill level is a good fit for that particular lab situation. Clearly, in a large clinical lab being able to produce the volume and maintain the quality is key. Perhaps in a research area, education or theoretical knowledge might be more important. I think that if you are confident of your abilities in all areas, then this would not be any sort of offense? On another note, neither your resume or your slides will tell them much about your personality "fit", attendance or general attitude, but that is what references are for, and also the probationary period. Joelle Weaver HTL (ASCP) > Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:26:12 -0500 > From: carrolpb@umdnj.edu > CC: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. > > > Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? > > Pretty much. Having spent years doing path at a huge local hospital > which featured a slave-driving lab director who was less qualified to > run the lab than half the people working in it, I must say that I agree > with this observation. > > At the same time, as much as I enjoy my more laid-back research path > position now, I'd get fired in a heartbeat if I produced only one block > every 30 minutes. Actually, I just got finished doing closer to 40 in > the last hour, and today was a fairly slow day (yet not at all on par > with the old clinical stats, were 8-12 techs embedded/sectioned closer > to 800-1000 blocks per shift). > > > > Charles.Embrey wrote: > > Jerry, you are right that clinical work is different from research. You are wrong to consider 20 blocks per hour to be a "sweat-shop" pace. I've know scores of histotechs that cut well over 20 blocks per hour and produce high quality slides. Sorry you feel offended by this discussion but there is a real world outside of your university walls. > > Chuck > > > > -----Original Message----- > > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JR R > > Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 1:58 PM > > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. > > > > > > All this talk of having people actually section as part of the interview process is offensive to me. > > > > I have hired and trained lots of histotechnologists. Mostly I train them myself, from scratch, but sometimes I hire them pre-trained. Then of course, I re-train them anyway so they can do the work to the specs of my lab. Any deficiencies they have will be corrected through training. By me. > > > > At my University there is a formal 30 day (maybe it's longer, I can't recall) probationary period for new hires. That's good enough. Why in the world would I need to have them section as part of an interview process? > > > > I am also offended by the "blocks per hour" language. Partly it's because in my lab we do exhaustive serial sectioning, so I consider a tech who gives me one block every half-hour to be doing a good job. > > > > Maybe it's different in clinical work, but...20 blocks per hour? And you expect quality work? > > > > Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? > > > > It's no wonder histopathologists feel overworked and underappreciated. > > > > Jerry Ricks > > Research Scientist > > University of Washington > > Department of Pathology > > > > > > > > > > > > > >> Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:14:06 -0500 > >> From: trathborne@somerset-healthcare.com > >> To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; tbraud@holyredeemer.com > >> Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > >> CC: > >> > >> We also have the staff talk to the applicant during this process. It gives you a good idea if the person can talk and cut at the same time. The last thing anyone wants is a histotech that has to stop sectioning during a conversation! > >> > >> -----Original Message----- > >> From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > >> [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Rene J > >> Buesa > >> Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:05 AM > >> To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Terri Braud > >> Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > >> > >> > >> I for one always required any applicant to prepare 20 slides stained with H&E. I can assure that I selected "difficult" blocks to cut and the applicant was required to sign a disclaimer that included that s/he he knew how to section and avoid injuries. > >> The whole process was timed (to get a first idea about productivity) and I evaluated and graded the slides at the end. > >> The results were used as one of the elements to decide about offering the position (the fundamental) but I waited until all the applicants had completed the tests so sometimes the applicant had to be contacted a few days later to let him/her know about the results. > >> Ren? J. > >> > >> --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Terri Braud wrote: > >> > >> From: Terri Braud > >> Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > >> To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > >> Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 8:57 AM > >> > >> >From a recent digest: > >> >> stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch > >> them.> > >> > >> I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. > >> What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an > >> interview? > >> We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the > >> decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. > >> I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any > >> experiences that others have had. > >> Terri > >> > >> Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) > >> Anatomic Pathology Supervisor > >> Laboratory > >> Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center > >> > >> > >> > >> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > >> > >> > >> > >> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: > >> > >> This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which > >> it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, > >> and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under > >> applicable > >> federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do > >> not > >> distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. > >> Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. > >> > >> Thank you for your cooperation. > >> > >> _______________________________________________ > >> Histonet mailing list > >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > >> > >> > >> > >> > >> _______________________________________________ > >> Histonet mailing list > >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > >> > >> > >> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE > >> This message and any included attachments are from Somerset Medical Center > >> and are intended only for the addressee. The information contained in this > >> message is confidential and may contain privileged, confidential, > >> proprietary and/or trade secret information entitled to protection 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 of the delivery error > >> by e-mail or you may call Somerset Medical Center's computer Help Desk > >> at 908-685-2200, ext. 4050. > >> > >> Be sure to visit Somerset Medical Center's Web site - > >> www.somersetmedicalcenter.com - for the most up-to-date news, > >> event listings, health information and more. > >> > > > > _________________________________________________________________ > > Windows Live(tm) Hotmail?...more than just e-mail. > > http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howitworks_022009_______________________________________________ > > Histonet mailing list > > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > _______________________________________________ > > Histonet mailing list > > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live?: Discover 10 secrets about the new Windows Live. http://windowslive.com/connect/post/jamiethomson.spaces.live.com-Blog-cns!550F681DAD532637!7540.entry?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_ugc_post_022009 From kmerriam2003 <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 24 06:31:58 2009 From: kmerriam2003 <@t> yahoo.com (Kim Merriam) Date: Tue Feb 24 06:32:01 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Streck's Fixative Message-ID: <342904.68994.qm@web50303.mail.re2.yahoo.com> Hi?Everyone, I am reading an article in the latest JHC about detection of phospho-proteins with the use of Streck's fixative.? I would like to try some of this fixative, but I can't seem to find it on the Streck labs website.? It is listed on the Fisher website, but?the item has apparently been discontinued. Can someone tell me how to order this? Thanks, Kim ?Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)QIHC Cambridge, MA From b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu Tue Feb 24 07:32:53 2009 From: b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu (Bernice Frederick) Date: Tue Feb 24 07:33:08 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting toReallyAnnoy me. In-Reply-To: <49A31474.5020003@umdnj.edu> Message-ID: Peter, Don't start with the research and blocks per hour- I had a case where I had step and serial at each step with 8 sections on the slide and had to exhaust the block, so 1 block every 20-30 minutes is not hard to come by. We also deal with clinical trials and that means sterile sectioning so cleaning time etc means maybe 30 blocks in a day (we cut a fair amount of slides for correlative studies) Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Peter Carroll Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 3:26 PM Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting toReallyAnnoy me. > Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? Pretty much. Having spent years doing path at a huge local hospital which featured a slave-driving lab director who was less qualified to run the lab than half the people working in it, I must say that I agree with this observation. At the same time, as much as I enjoy my more laid-back research path position now, I'd get fired in a heartbeat if I produced only one block every 30 minutes. Actually, I just got finished doing closer to 40 in the last hour, and today was a fairly slow day (yet not at all on par with the old clinical stats, were 8-12 techs embedded/sectioned closer to 800-1000 blocks per shift). Charles.Embrey wrote: > Jerry, you are right that clinical work is different from research. You are wrong to consider 20 blocks per hour to be a "sweat-shop" pace. I've know scores of histotechs that cut well over 20 blocks per hour and produce high quality slides. Sorry you feel offended by this discussion but there is a real world outside of your university walls. > Chuck > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of JR R > Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 1:58 PM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. > > > All this talk of having people actually section as part of the interview process is offensive to me. > > I have hired and trained lots of histotechnologists. Mostly I train them myself, from scratch, but sometimes I hire them pre-trained. Then of course, I re-train them anyway so they can do the work to the specs of my lab. Any deficiencies they have will be corrected through training. By me. > > At my University there is a formal 30 day (maybe it's longer, I can't recall) probationary period for new hires. That's good enough. Why in the world would I need to have them section as part of an interview process? > > I am also offended by the "blocks per hour" language. Partly it's because in my lab we do exhaustive serial sectioning, so I consider a tech who gives me one block every half-hour to be doing a good job. > > Maybe it's different in clinical work, but...20 blocks per hour? And you expect quality work? > > Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? > > It's no wonder histopathologists feel overworked and underappreciated. > > Jerry Ricks > Research Scientist > University of Washington > Department of Pathology > > > > > > >> Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:14:06 -0500 >> From: trathborne@somerset-healthcare.com >> To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; tbraud@holyredeemer.com >> Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> CC: >> >> We also have the staff talk to the applicant during this process. It gives you a good idea if the person can talk and cut at the same time. The last thing anyone wants is a histotech that has to stop sectioning during a conversation! >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Rene J >> Buesa >> Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:05 AM >> To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Terri Braud >> Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> >> >> I for one always required any applicant to prepare 20 slides stained with H&E. I can assure that I selected "difficult" blocks to cut and the applicant was required to sign a disclaimer that included that s/he he knew how to section and avoid injuries. >> The whole process was timed (to get a first idea about productivity) and I evaluated and graded the slides at the end. >> The results were used as one of the elements to decide about offering the position (the fundamental) but I waited until all the applicants had completed the tests so sometimes the applicant had to be contacted a few days later to let him/her know about the results. >> Ren? J. >> >> --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Terri Braud wrote: >> >> From: Terri Braud >> Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview >> To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 8:57 AM >> >> >From a recent digest: >> > stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch >> them.> >> >> I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. >> What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an >> interview? >> We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the >> decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. >> I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any >> experiences that others have had. >> Terri >> >> Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) >> Anatomic Pathology Supervisor >> Laboratory >> Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center >> >> >> >> ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----- >> >> >> >> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: >> >> This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which >> it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, >> and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under >> applicable >> federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do >> not >> distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. >> Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. >> >> Thank you for your cooperation. >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Histonet mailing list >> Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet >> >> >> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE >> This message and any included attachments are from Somerset Medical Center >> and are intended only for the addressee. The information contained in this >> message is confidential and may contain privileged, confidential, >> proprietary and/or trade secret information entitled to protection 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 of the delivery error >> by e-mail or you may call Somerset Medical Center's computer Help Desk >> at 908-685-2200, ext. 4050. >> >> Be sure to visit Somerset Medical Center's Web site - >> www.somersetmedicalcenter.com - for the most up-to-date news, >> event listings, health information and more. >> > > _________________________________________________________________ > Windows Live(tm) Hotmail?...more than just e-mail. > http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howi tworks_022009_______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Anna.Inman <@t> stmarygj.org Tue Feb 24 07:41:19 2009 From: Anna.Inman <@t> stmarygj.org (Inman, Anna) Date: Tue Feb 24 07:41:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histo wrap Message-ID: <2925AE271EAAD440AF48FCCEB8002D0908B80C92@smgmail01.smgj.sclhs.net> Does anyone have a vendor for Histo Wrap - we have found this to be the best in terms of filtering? Thank you in advance Anna Anna.Inman@stmarygj.org CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. From kimtournear <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 24 08:02:56 2009 From: kimtournear <@t> yahoo.com (Kim Tournear) Date: Tue Feb 24 08:03:01 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tissue disposal In-Reply-To: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA536400E@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> Message-ID: <951318.3082.qm@web54201.mail.re2.yahoo.com> SteriCycle takes ours...we have to use yellow barrels labeled "pathology waste" and try to seperate "identifiable" tissue from "unidentifiable" tissues, which for us would be limbs, products of conception (if there is a fetus that could be recognized), and some mastectomies...Once Stericycle takes it, they incenerate it so that nothing can be identified. I'm not sure what they do with the ashes after that. ~Kim Tournear?~ HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Tucson Medical Center Tucson,? AZ ? ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ ? OU Rocks!!!! --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Weems, Joyce wrote: From: Weems, Joyce Subject: [Histonet] Tissue disposal To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 1:35 PM How are people disposing of their tissue? Especially in the Atlanta area? Inquiring minds want to know..... Thanks! j Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From kimtournear <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 24 08:03:14 2009 From: kimtournear <@t> yahoo.com (Kim Tournear) Date: Tue Feb 24 08:03:26 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tissue disposal In-Reply-To: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA536400E@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> Message-ID: <809712.13400.qm@web54206.mail.re2.yahoo.com> SteriCycle takes ours...we have to use yellow barrels labeled "pathology waste" and try to seperate "identifiable" tissue from "unidentifiable" tissues, which for us would be limbs, products of conception (if there is a fetus that could be recognized), and some mastectomies...Once Stericycle takes it, they incenerate it so that nothing can be identified. I'm not sure what they do with the ashes after that. ~Kim Tournear?~ HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Tucson Medical Center Tucson,? AZ ? ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ ? OU Rocks!!!! --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Weems, Joyce wrote: From: Weems, Joyce Subject: [Histonet] Tissue disposal To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 1:35 PM How are people disposing of their tissue? Especially in the Atlanta area? Inquiring minds want to know..... Thanks! j Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From kimtournear <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 24 08:03:17 2009 From: kimtournear <@t> yahoo.com (Kim Tournear) Date: Tue Feb 24 08:03:30 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tissue disposal In-Reply-To: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA536400E@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> Message-ID: <151447.10988.qm@web54206.mail.re2.yahoo.com> SteriCycle takes ours...we have to use yellow barrels labeled "pathology waste" and try to seperate "identifiable" tissue from "unidentifiable" tissues, which for us would be limbs, products of conception (if there is a fetus that could be recognized), and some mastectomies...Once Stericycle takes it, they incenerate it so that nothing can be identified. I'm not sure what they do with the ashes after that. ~Kim Tournear?~ HT (ASCP), QIHC (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Tucson Medical Center Tucson,? AZ ? ~Don't?let your life end before it begins~ ? OU Rocks!!!! --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Weems, Joyce wrote: From: Weems, Joyce Subject: [Histonet] Tissue disposal To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 1:35 PM How are people disposing of their tissue? Especially in the Atlanta area? Inquiring minds want to know..... Thanks! j Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Tue Feb 24 08:27:04 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Tue Feb 24 08:27:08 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tissue disposal In-Reply-To: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA536400E@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> Message-ID: <490450.93700.qm@web65704.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> We used to incinerate it on site. Ren? J. --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Weems, Joyce wrote: From: Weems, Joyce Subject: [Histonet] Tissue disposal To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 3:35 PM How are people disposing of their tissue? Especially in the Atlanta area? Inquiring minds want to know..... Thanks! j Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From Kristopher.Kalleberg <@t> unilever.com Tue Feb 24 09:28:32 2009 From: Kristopher.Kalleberg <@t> unilever.com (Kalleberg, Kristopher) Date: Tue Feb 24 09:28:37 2009 Subject: [Histonet] IHC kits Message-ID: <0E6BC087F70F9C47ACFF2C203D6E329C059CA604@NTRSEVS30002.s3.ms.unilever.com> Hello, I have been using the ABC kits from Vector Labs and have had great success typically. Does anyone have an recommendations on other IHC kits such as DAKO or Invitrogen? Does anyone have any input as to which kits are best for IHC? Is it worth trying to change over to another kit to save some time/steps in protocol or hope for better sensitivity? Any recommendations will be greatly appreciated. Thanks. Kris From CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org Tue Feb 24 09:56:19 2009 From: CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org (Ingles Claire ) Date: Tue Feb 24 09:57:18 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This isstarting to ReallyAnnoy me. References: <927163.6568.qm@web65716.mail.ac4.yahoo.com><44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A0537DA7B@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com><49A31474.5020003@umdnj.edu>, <004601c99615$1b152520$513f6f60$@rr.com><75A0543E23D3A7458012D9E02EDBEC00013847FB29@UTHCMS1.uthouston.edu> <000301c9961f$e5fdae10$b1f90a30$@rr.com> Message-ID: It would probably take too long to recount anyway... Claire ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of JoeNocito Sent: Mon 2/23/2009 7:33 PM To: 'Rittman, Barry R'; 'Peter Carroll' Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This isstarting to ReallyAnnoy me. I'll never tell -----Original Message----- From: Rittman, Barry R [mailto:Barry.R.Rittman@uth.tmc.edu] Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 6:32 PM To: JoeNocito; 'Peter Carroll' Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to ReallyAnnoy me. Joe how many previous lives did you have, and what were you in each of them? From tpodawiltz <@t> lrgh.org Tue Feb 24 10:00:57 2009 From: tpodawiltz <@t> lrgh.org (Podawiltz, Thomas) Date: Tue Feb 24 10:02:52 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tissue disposal In-Reply-To: <490450.93700.qm@web65704.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA536400E@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org>, <490450.93700.qm@web65704.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <38667E7FB77ECD4E91BFAEB8D98638631D33B5BCEC@LRGHEXVS1.practice.lrgh.org> We decant the formalin off, then put the tissue into pathology waste boxes, which are then incinerated. Tom Podawiltz, HT (ASCP) Histology Section Head/Laboratory Safety Officer LRGHealthcare 603-524-3211 ext: 3220 ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa [rjbuesa@yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2009 9:27 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Weems, Joyce Subject: Re: [Histonet] Tissue disposal We used to incinerate it on site. Ren? J. --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Weems, Joyce wrote: From: Weems, Joyce Subject: [Histonet] Tissue disposal To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 3:35 PM How are people disposing of their tissue? Especially in the Atlanta area? Inquiring minds want to know..... Thanks! j Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet THIS MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL. This e-mail message and any attachments are proprietary and confidential information intended only for the use of the recipient(s) named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you may not print,distribute, or copy this message or any attachments. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this message and any attachments from your computer. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of LRGHealthcare. From cmiller <@t> physlab.com Tue Feb 24 10:42:45 2009 From: cmiller <@t> physlab.com (Cheri Miller) Date: Tue Feb 24 10:42:51 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Practical Exam, RE: testing cutting ability Message-ID: <002601c9969e$eb7fcbf0$4402a8c0@plab.local> Where is the fence??? It looks like a P---ing match between dogs. We ALL worked hard on our certification no matter how we got it. And due to the shortage I assume we ALL work hard now. Fast or slow matters not. Histology, good histology needs many talents such as; scientific knowledge, troubleshooting, manual dexterity and artistry...We all create. Again, my 2 cents and please understand my intention is not to incite anger. Cheryl Miller HT (ASCP) Histology Supervisor Physicians Laboratory,P.C. Omaha, Ne. 402 738 5052 PRIVILEGED / CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION may be contained in this message. If you are not the addressee intended / indicated or agent responsible for delivering it to the addressee, you are hereby notified that you are in possession of confidential and privileged information. Any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately and delete this email from your system. From asachau <@t> titanmed.com Tue Feb 24 11:04:32 2009 From: asachau <@t> titanmed.com (April Sachau) Date: Tue Feb 24 11:05:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Electron Microscopy In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <7E3ACD48BA6E26408F3188FBF08693F701C94808@titansbs1.corp.titanmed.com> Hello Histoland! I am seeking an individual with Electron Microscopy experience... please contact me if you have it or know of someone that does. Thanks! April Sachau Titan Medical Group Staff Supervisor Phone (866) 332-9600 Ext. 1023 Fax (402) 332-5181 asachau@titanmed.com see us on the web at www.titanmed.com From Kathleen.Caleri <@t> RoswellPark.org Tue Feb 24 12:00:02 2009 From: Kathleen.Caleri <@t> RoswellPark.org (Caleri, Kathleen) Date: Tue Feb 24 11:59:45 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Giemsa Stain Message-ID: <97101976F8A044468CA74FE11883B90E2B886488@VISTA.roswellpark.org> Our lab was using B-5 to fix our bone marrow specimens, and the resulting Giemsa stains were very nice...In order to use the pneumatic tube system at the facility we had to switch to 10% NBF ( we are in the process of choosing a zinc formalin fixative) and now the Giemsas are a funny turquoise, and very pale....has anyone ever encountered this? any ideas?? Regards, Kate Kathleen Caleri, BS, MLT, HT (ASCP) Histology Lab Supervisor Pathology Roswell Park Cancer Institute (716) 845-1329 "the future of mankind lies waiting for those who come to understand their lives and take up their responsibilities to help others" This email message may contain legally privileged and/or confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient(s), or the employee or agent responsible for the delivery of this message to the intended recipient(s), you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution, or use of this email message is prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately by e-mail and delete this email message from your computer. Thank you. From jcline <@t> wchsys.org Tue Feb 24 12:11:41 2009 From: jcline <@t> wchsys.org (Joyce Cline) Date: Tue Feb 24 12:11:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histo wrap In-Reply-To: <2925AE271EAAD440AF48FCCEB8002D0908B80C92@smgmail01.smgj.sclhs.net> Message-ID: <22567CBE88724E0E937F08DF4C4AE76D@wchsys.org> I order direct from Obex Industries, who makes Histowrap. ______________________________________________________________________ Does anyone have a vendor for Histo Wrap - we have found this to be the best in terms of filtering? Thank you in advance Anna Anna.Inman@stmarygj.org CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ***** CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE ***** 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. From kelly_colpitts <@t> hotmail.com Tue Feb 24 12:39:52 2009 From: kelly_colpitts <@t> hotmail.com (Kelly Colpitts) Date: Tue Feb 24 12:39:59 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Full-Time histology position in Fayetteville, NC Message-ID: Hi Histoland, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, NC is currently looking for a full-time histotechnician or histotechnologist. For more information and/or to apply, please see the posting on the hospital's career website: www.capefearcareers.com Have a great day, Kelly Colpitts, HT(ASCP) _________________________________________________________________ It?s the same Hotmail?. If by ?same? you mean up to 70% faster. http://windowslive.com/online/hotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_AE_Same_022009 From ktuttle <@t> umm.edu Tue Feb 24 13:24:34 2009 From: ktuttle <@t> umm.edu (Kimberly Tuttle) Date: Tue Feb 24 13:24:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Laser Capture Microdissection System In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <49A40322.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> Im looking at Leica, Zeiss, or Arcturus. If you have one of these, let me know how you like it. Thanks Kimberly C. Tuttle HT (ASCP) Pathology Biorepository and Research Core University of Maryland Room NBW58, UMMC 22 S. Greene St Baltimore, MD 21201 (410) 328-5524 (410) 328-5508 fax This e-mail and any accompanying attachments may be privileged, confidential, contain protected health information about an identified patient or be otherwise protected from disclosure. State and federal law protect the confidentiality of this information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient; you are prohibited from using, disclosing, reproducing or distributing this information; you should immediately notify the sender by telephone or e-mail and delete this e-mail. From arsenn <@t> hsh.org Tue Feb 24 13:29:35 2009 From: arsenn <@t> hsh.org (Senn, Amy R) Date: Tue Feb 24 13:29:41 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Cheryl Message-ID: I totally agree with you Cheryl!!! Amy, HT Camp Hill PA Confidentiality Disclaimer: The information contained in this communication may be confidential, is intended for the use of the recipient named above, and may be legally privileged.If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication, or any of its contents, is strictly prohibited. If you received this communication in error, please resend this communication to the sender and delete the original message and any copy of it from your computer system. Thank You From algranth <@t> u.arizona.edu Tue Feb 24 13:55:11 2009 From: algranth <@t> u.arizona.edu (Andrea Grantham) Date: Tue Feb 24 13:54:20 2009 Subject: [Histonet] cutting teeth Message-ID: <6.2.3.4.1.20090224123627.02707570@algranth.inbox.email.arizona.edu> I'm hoping that this isn't as painful as the actual process we all went through as children. I'm told that one of the investigators here will be sending a couple hundred teeth to my lab soon. I have never processed or sectioned teeth before so I'm hoping that I can find a few good suggestions on histonet. Here is what they are doing - based on two papers from JOE in 05 and 07: Fixation is in 10% NBF - how long do you fix teeth? Is temperature something to consider here? Decalcification is done in a solution of equal parts of 50% formic acid and 20% sodium citrate. The papers say 10 days is enough to decalcify teeth. Is it enough time? Following decal they infiltrated the teeth using "Skinner's method". Anybody know what this involves? One paper says Methyl salicylate was used as a clearing agent. Why is this better than traditional processing on my VIP using Clear Rite 3 as a clearing agent? In the papers the teeth were embedded in Paraplast and sectioned at 5 microns and then thinner, they actually want thinner sections - like 2 microns. We are looking for pulp tissue. Then they want a Brown and Brenn stain and maybe a trichrome. Thanks, Andi ..................................................................... : Andrea Grantham, HT(ASCP) Dept. of Cell Biology & Anatomy : : Sr. Research Specialist University of Arizona : : (office: AHSC 4212) P.O. Box 245044 : : (voice: 520-626-4415) Tucson, AZ 85724-5044 USA : : (FAX: 520-626-2097) (email: algranth@u.arizona.edu) : :...................................................................: http://www.cba.arizona.edu/histology-lab.html From sbreeden <@t> nmda.nmsu.edu Tue Feb 24 14:04:22 2009 From: sbreeden <@t> nmda.nmsu.edu (Breeden, Sara) Date: Tue Feb 24 14:04:28 2009 Subject: [Histonet] BVD Antibody Message-ID: <4D14F0FC9316DD41972D5F03C070908B017E66DD@nmdamailsvr.nmda.ad.nmsu.edu> I need a source for BVD antibody and would appreciate suggestion. Thank you. Sally Breeden, HT(ASCP) NM Dept. of Agriculture Veterinary Diagnostic Services PO Box 4700 Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-841-2576 From akbitting <@t> geisinger.edu Tue Feb 24 14:20:05 2009 From: akbitting <@t> geisinger.edu (Angela Bitting) Date: Tue Feb 24 14:21:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] BVD Antibody In-Reply-To: <4D14F0FC9316DD41972D5F03C070908B017E66DD@nmdamailsvr.nmda.ad.nmsu.edu> References: <4D14F0FC9316DD41972D5F03C070908B017E66DD@nmdamailsvr.nmda.ad.nmsu.edu> Message-ID: <49A41025.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> I'm fighting a compulsion to make a bad underwear joke. Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! >>> "Breeden, Sara" 2/24/2009 3:04 PM >>> I need a source for BVD antibody and would appreciate suggestion. Thank you. Sally Breeden, HT(ASCP) NM Dept. of Agriculture Veterinary Diagnostic Services PO Box 4700 Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-841-2576 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. -------------- next part -------------- BEGIN:VCARD VERSION:2.1 X-GWTYPE:USER FN:Bitting, Angela TEL;WORK:570-271-6844 ORG:;Histology EMAIL;WORK;PREF;NGW:AKBITTING@geisinger.edu N:Bitting;Angela END:VCARD From Ronald.Houston <@t> nationwidechildrens.org Tue Feb 24 14:20:46 2009 From: Ronald.Houston <@t> nationwidechildrens.org (Houston, Ronald) Date: Tue Feb 24 14:21:29 2009 Subject: [Histonet] BVD Antibody In-Reply-To: <4D14F0FC9316DD41972D5F03C070908B017E66DD@nmdamailsvr.nmda.ad.nmsu.edu> Message-ID: <979FF5962E234F45B06CF0DB7C1AABB21B6454DD@chi2k3ms01.columbuschildrens.net> For IHC? Ronnie Houston Anatomic Pathology Manager Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus OH 43205 (614) 722 5450 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Breeden, Sara Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2009 3:04 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] BVD Antibody I need a source for BVD antibody and would appreciate suggestion. Thank you. Sally Breeden, HT(ASCP) NM Dept. of Agriculture Veterinary Diagnostic Services PO Box 4700 Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-841-2576 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ----------------------------------------- Confidentiality Notice: The following mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. The recipient is responsible to maintain the confidentiality of this information and to use the information only for authorized purposes. If you are not the intended recipient (or authorized to receive information for the intended recipient), you are hereby notified that any review, use, disclosure, distribution, copying, printing, or action taken in reliance on the contents of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. Thank you. From gvdobbin <@t> ihis.org Tue Feb 24 14:46:46 2009 From: gvdobbin <@t> ihis.org (Greg Dobbin) Date: Tue Feb 24 14:47:21 2009 Subject: [Histonet] BVD Antibody Message-ID: Did you check VMRD? http://www.vmrd.com/products/antibodies/detailInfIG.aspx?CATNO=D89 Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus MAb (gp55) Catalog No.: D89 Description: Binds to 55 kDa of BVDV. Made using NADL strain. Binds to most BVDV strains. Does not bind Oregon C24V strain. IgG2a isotype. Suitable for immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry and virus neutralization. This monoclonal antibody is produced as mouse ascites fluid, clarified by centrifugation, and filtered through a 0.2 micrometer filter. The concentration is 1.0 mg/ml in phosphate-buffered saline, preserved with 10 ppm ProClin 300. Format: Mouse ascites Size: 0.1, 0.5 and 1 mg Expiration: One year from date of QC release. Storage: Store at 2-7?C. Do not freeze! Greg Dobbin, R.T. Chief Technologist, Anatomic Pathology Dept. of Laboratory Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, P.O. Box 6600 Charlottetown, PE C1A 8T5 Phone: (902) 894-2337 Fax: (902) 894-2385 "I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have." - Thomas Jefferson ------------------------- Statement of Confidentiality This message (including attachments) may contain confidential or privileged information intended for a specific individual or organization. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately. If you are not the intended recipient, you are not authorized to use, disclose, distribute, copy, print or rely on this email, and should promptly delete this email from your entire computer system. D?claration de confidentialit? Le pr?sent message (y compris les annexes) peut contenir des renseignements confidentiels ? l'intention d'une personne ou d'un organisme particulier. Si vous avez re?u la pr?sente communication par erreur, veuillez en informer l'exp?diteur imm?diatement. Si vous n'?tes pas le destinataire pr?vu, vous n'avez pas le droit d'utiliser, divulguer, distribuer, copier ou imprimer ce courriel ou encore de vous en servir, et vous devriez l'effacer imm?diatement de votre syst?me informatique. ------------------------- From dellav <@t> musc.edu Tue Feb 24 14:49:18 2009 From: dellav <@t> musc.edu (Della Speranza, Vinnie) Date: Tue Feb 24 14:50:24 2009 Subject: [Histonet] cutting teeth In-Reply-To: <6.2.3.4.1.20090224123627.02707570@algranth.inbox.email.arizona.edu> References: <6.2.3.4.1.20090224123627.02707570@algranth.inbox.email.arizona.edu> Message-ID: Andi, you may want to contact Bob Skinner directly with your questions. skinnerroberta@uams.edu I worked with Bob for about twelve years and he was and as far as I know is still using methyl salicylate in place of xylene as a clearing agent. Methyl salicylate avoids the brittleness and hardening that can occur with xylene. I don't know if he's compared his clearing technique with Clear Rite. Bob's work is in orthopaedics, I don't know if he's done much with teeth recently but I know he did some eons ago. Vinnie Della Speranza Manager for Anatomic Pathology Services Medical University of South Carolina 165 Ashley Avenue Suite 309 Charleston, South Carolina 29425 Tel: (843) 792-6353 Fax: (843) 792-8974 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Andrea Grantham Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2009 2:55 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] cutting teeth I'm hoping that this isn't as painful as the actual process we all went through as children. I'm told that one of the investigators here will be sending a couple hundred teeth to my lab soon. I have never processed or sectioned teeth before so I'm hoping that I can find a few good suggestions on histonet. Here is what they are doing - based on two papers from JOE in 05 and 07: Fixation is in 10% NBF - how long do you fix teeth? Is temperature something to consider here? Decalcification is done in a solution of equal parts of 50% formic acid and 20% sodium citrate. The papers say 10 days is enough to decalcify teeth. Is it enough time? Following decal they infiltrated the teeth using "Skinner's method". Anybody know what this involves? One paper says Methyl salicylate was used as a clearing agent. Why is this better than traditional processing on my VIP using Clear Rite 3 as a clearing agent? In the papers the teeth were embedded in Paraplast and sectioned at 5 microns and then thinner, they actually want thinner sections - like 2 microns. We are looking for pulp tissue. Then they want a Brown and Brenn stain and maybe a trichrome. Thanks, Andi ..................................................................... : Andrea Grantham, HT(ASCP) Dept. of Cell Biology & Anatomy : : Sr. Research Specialist University of Arizona : : (office: AHSC 4212) P.O. Box 245044 : : (voice: 520-626-4415) Tucson, AZ 85724-5044 USA : : (FAX: 520-626-2097) (email: algranth@u.arizona.edu) : :...................................................................: http://www.cba.arizona.edu/histology-lab.html _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From carrolpb <@t> umdnj.edu Tue Feb 24 13:32:35 2009 From: carrolpb <@t> umdnj.edu (Peter Carroll) Date: Tue Feb 24 15:05:16 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Laser Capture Microdissection System In-Reply-To: <49A40322.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> References: <49A40322.90CE.001A.3@umm.edu> Message-ID: <49A44B53.9020802@umdnj.edu> we have the zeiss PALM lcm machine... love it. Kimberly Tuttle wrote: > Im looking at Leica, Zeiss, or Arcturus. If you have one of these, let me know how you like it. > > Thanks > > Kimberly C. Tuttle HT (ASCP) > Pathology Biorepository and Research Core > University of Maryland > Room NBW58, UMMC > 22 S. Greene St > Baltimore, MD 21201 > (410) 328-5524 > (410) 328-5508 fax > > > > > This e-mail and any accompanying attachments may be privileged, confidential, contain protected health information about an identified patient or be otherwise protected from disclosure. State and federal law protect the confidentiality of this information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient; you are prohibited from using, disclosing, reproducing or distributing this information; you should immediately notify the sender by telephone or e-mail and delete this e-mail. > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > From JWeems <@t> sjha.org Tue Feb 24 15:33:12 2009 From: JWeems <@t> sjha.org (Weems, Joyce) Date: Tue Feb 24 15:32:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] BVD Antibody In-Reply-To: <49A41025.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> References: <4D14F0FC9316DD41972D5F03C070908B017E66DD@nmdamailsvr.nmda.ad.nmsu.edu> <49A41025.2B7F.00C9.0@geisinger.edu> Message-ID: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA5364219@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> Don't fight it... It will soon be Friday.. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Angela Bitting Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2009 3:20 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Sara Breeden Subject: Re: [Histonet] BVD Antibody I'm fighting a compulsion to make a bad underwear joke. Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP) Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! >>> "Breeden, Sara" 2/24/2009 3:04 PM >>> I need a source for BVD antibody and would appreciate suggestion. Thank you. Sally Breeden, HT(ASCP) NM Dept. of Agriculture Veterinary Diagnostic Services PO Box 4700 Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-841-2576 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. From shive003 <@t> umn.edu Tue Feb 24 16:01:59 2009 From: shive003 <@t> umn.edu (Jan Shivers) Date: Tue Feb 24 16:02:08 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: BVD Antibody Message-ID: > IDEXX - they bought the Ab rights to the clone previously produced and > sold > by Cornell. But it's very hard to get them to sell it to you. They use > it to create their own ELISA test kits, I believe. > > Jan Shivers > UMN VDL > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Breeden, Sara" > To: > Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2009 2:04 PM > Subject: [Histonet] BVD Antibody > > > I need a source for BVD antibody and would appreciate suggestion. Thank > you. > > > > Sally Breeden, HT(ASCP) > > NM Dept. of Agriculture > > Veterinary Diagnostic Services > > PO Box 4700 > > Albuquerque, NM 87106 > > 505-841-2576 > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > From lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net Tue Feb 24 18:30:44 2009 From: lpwenk <@t> sbcglobal.net (Lee & Peggy Wenk) Date: Tue Feb 24 18:30:51 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Giemsa Stain In-Reply-To: <97101976F8A044468CA74FE11883B90E2B886488@VISTA.roswellpark.org> Message-ID: <59C219B6ECFF4C63B55E3F7710246094@HPPav2> I'd say underfixation with 10% NBF. Try extending the time in formalin, before going into decal. Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Caleri, Kathleen Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2009 1:00 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Giemsa Stain Our lab was using B-5 to fix our bone marrow specimens, and the resulting Giemsa stains were very nice...In order to use the pneumatic tube system at the facility we had to switch to 10% NBF ( we are in the process of choosing a zinc formalin fixative) and now the Giemsas are a funny turquoise, and very pale....has anyone ever encountered this? any ideas?? Regards, Kate Kathleen Caleri, BS, MLT, HT (ASCP) Histology Lab Supervisor Pathology Roswell Park Cancer Institute (716) 845-1329 "the future of mankind lies waiting for those who come to understand their lives and take up their responsibilities to help others" This email message may contain legally privileged and/or confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient(s), or the employee or agent responsible for the delivery of this message to the intended recipient(s), you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution, or use of this email message is prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately by e-mail and delete this email message from your computer. Thank you. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From tifei <@t> foxmail.com Tue Feb 24 23:48:13 2009 From: tifei <@t> foxmail.com (TF) Date: Tue Feb 24 23:48:28 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Inflammation cell marker on Tissue & Quantitive Immunohistofluorscence Message-ID: <200902251348078120498@foxmail.com> Dear All: Just wonder any one have the experience to work on inflammation on different tissues, especially Liver, SKIN, and Brain? We want to look at wound-resulted inflammation level in these tissues, using immunohistochemical techniques rather RT-PCR / WB on cytokine levels. Can anyone recommend different cell markers for these tisses, separately? Another question is how about the Quantitive Immunohistofluorscence. I have some sections stained with Ed-1, marker of macrophage. It is very hard to count the number of positive cells ...can we use immunofluorescence instensity (same exposure time) or the area of positive region as the quantitive index? At least semi-qunatitive. 2009-02-25 TF From tgenade <@t> gmail.com Wed Feb 25 08:13:42 2009 From: tgenade <@t> gmail.com (Tyrone Genade) Date: Wed Feb 25 08:13:50 2009 Subject: [Histonet] interesting SMI 31 antibody results Message-ID: Hello all, I'm hoping someone has some experience in using the SMI 31 antibody to label neurofilament in healthy and diseased tissue. I have been using SMI 31R (from Covance) to label axons in the fish, Nothobranchius guentheri, with good success---I can distinguish axons and nerve tracts very nicely. I've used it on whole mount brains collected from young, middle age and old fish. What I see is that the antibody is labeling cell bodies as well as axons in the optic tectum in all whole mounts regardless of age (though the intensity of the signal does appear to increases with age within the cell bodies). The Covance MSDS says "in pathological conditions, reaction with SMI 31 may be found in neuronal cell bodies." The AbCam MSDS says "In pathological conditions, reaction with ab24573 may be found also in neuronal cell bodies. Numerous studies have indicated that phosphorylated epitopes on other target proteins like MAP1B and tau are also recognized by SMI-31R." Has SMI 31 (ever) been seen to label non-pathological neuronal cell-bodies? I'm very happy to see cell-body labeling as I expect to see neurodegeneration, but not in young fish... Comments? Thoughts? Any articles you think I should read? -- Tyrone Genade http://tgenade.freeshell.org email: tgenade@freeshell.org tel: +27-84-632-1925 (c) ******************************************************************************** "For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all." 1 Timothy 2:5-6 From sjchtascp <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 25 08:56:12 2009 From: sjchtascp <@t> yahoo.com (Steven Coakley) Date: Wed Feb 25 08:56:15 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Moh's techniques Message-ID: <164204.1533.qm@web38206.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Good morning all, ? I'm learning a new way to do Moh's.? Much more relaxed compared to how I did them years ago with a Pathologist looking over my shoulder while I attempted to cryosection 12, 3,9,12 o'clock boarders, stain them by hand and the Dermatologist wanting the results "yesterday".? I'd like??to get some ideas as to techniques Moh's Techs are using out there that work well in assuring that one gets the entire skin edge.? I'd also Like to shadow in any fairly local Moh's labs in the So.WI or No. Ill. area. ? Thanks everyone, ? Steve ? From jrobertson <@t> pathologysciences.com Wed Feb 25 09:24:58 2009 From: jrobertson <@t> pathologysciences.com (Jodie Robertson) Date: Wed Feb 25 09:25:03 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Histo wrap In-Reply-To: <2925AE271EAAD440AF48FCCEB8002D0908B80C92@smgmail01.smgj.sclhs.net> References: <2925AE271EAAD440AF48FCCEB8002D0908B80C92@smgmail01.smgj.sclhs.net> Message-ID: <518CD6920AA7154193CBE5977CD88073177EB3@psmgsrv2.PSMG.local> Obex. Jodie Robertson, HT (ASCP) QIHC -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Inman, Anna Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2009 5:41 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Histo wrap Does anyone have a vendor for Histo Wrap - we have found this to be the best in terms of filtering? Thank you in advance Anna Anna.Inman@stmarygj.org CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 25 09:31:00 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Wed Feb 25 09:31:05 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to Really Annoy me. In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <682694.3259.qm@web65705.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Instead of being so offended, why you just try to find out how different is academia from an AP histology lab? Ren? J. --- On Mon, 2/23/09, JR R wrote: From: JR R Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to Really Annoy me. To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 2:58 PM All this talk of having people actually section as part of the interview process is offensive to me. I have hired and trained lots of histotechnologists. Mostly I train them myself, from scratch, but sometimes I hire them pre-trained. Then of course, I re-train them anyway so they can do the work to the specs of my lab. Any deficiencies they have will be corrected through training. By me. At my University there is a formal 30 day (maybe it's longer, I can't recall) probationary period for new hires. That's good enough. Why in the world would I need to have them section as part of an interview process? I am also offended by the "blocks per hour" language. Partly it's because in my lab we do exhaustive serial sectioning, so I consider a tech who gives me one block every half-hour to be doing a good job. Maybe it's different in clinical work, but...20 blocks per hour? And you expect quality work? Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? It's no wonder histopathologists feel overworked and underappreciated. Jerry Ricks Research Scientist University of Washington Department of Pathology > Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:14:06 -0500 > From: trathborne@somerset-healthcare.com > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; tbraud@holyredeemer.com > Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > CC: > > We also have the staff talk to the applicant during this process. It gives you a good idea if the person can talk and cut at the same time. The last thing anyone wants is a histotech that has to stop sectioning during a conversation! > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Rene J > Buesa > Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:05 AM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Terri Braud > Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > > > I for one always required any applicant to prepare 20 slides stained with H&E. I can assure that I selected "difficult" blocks to cut and the applicant was required to sign a disclaimer that included that s/he he knew how to section and avoid injuries. > The whole process was timed (to get a first idea about productivity) and I evaluated and graded the slides at the end. > The results were used as one of the elements to decide about offering the position (the fundamental) but I waited until all the applicants had completed the tests so sometimes the applicant had to be contacted a few days later to let him/her know about the results. > Ren? J. > > --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Terri Braud wrote: > > From: Terri Braud > Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 8:57 AM > > >From a recent digest: > stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch > them.> > > I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. > What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an > interview? > We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the > decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. > I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any > experiences that others have had. > Terri > > Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) > Anatomic Pathology Supervisor > Laboratory > Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center > > > > --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: > > This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which > it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, > and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under > applicable > federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do > not > distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. > Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. > > Thank you for your cooperation. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE > This message and any included attachments are from Somerset Medical Center > and are intended only for the addressee. The information contained in this > message is confidential and may contain privileged, confidential, > proprietary and/or trade secret information entitled to protection 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 of the delivery error > by e-mail or you may call Somerset Medical Center's computer Help Desk > at 908-685-2200, ext. 4050. > > Be sure to visit Somerset Medical Center's Web site - > www.somersetmedicalcenter.com - for the most up-to-date news, > event listings, health information and more. _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live? Hotmail??more than just e-mail. http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howitworks_022009_______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From pritchm <@t> ccf.org Wed Feb 25 09:31:09 2009 From: pritchm <@t> ccf.org (Pritchard, Michele) Date: Wed Feb 25 09:31:31 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Inflammation cell marker on Tissue & Quantitive Immunohistofluorscence In-Reply-To: <200902251348078120498@foxmail.com> Message-ID: <7CEB62F1535B9E44AD8A5FEFB2E10F6E02151395@CCHSCLEXMB56.cc.ad.cchs.net> I have a few suggestions that could help. I am interested in both inflammation and fibrosis in liver and have looked for markers of these two pathologies in several different ways. You say you have used ED-1, this suggests to me that you are likely staining rat liver. If you ever use mouse, the absolute best marker for Kupffer cells, liver resident macrophages, is F4/80. I have been using an antibody for F4/80 from Serotec for many years with wonderful results. For assessing neutrophils, I would suggest two different methods, IHC using a NIMP-R14 Ab (AbCAM) as well as a histochemical stain for chloracetate esterase. To get a bulk assessment of total leukocytes in the liver, you could try CD45 (CLA, common leukocyte antigen). This will not break down the various immune subsets, but it certainly can tell you if there is an increase in total leukocytes (as one would expect during inflammatory response). If you would like me to send you a list of markers for specific lymphocyte subsets, please let me know and I will be happy to furnish you with some ideas. However, when most people think inflammation, the first cells they think of are neutrophils...and then, of course, macrophages. ICAM (intracellular adhesion molecule)-1 is upregulated on hepatic sinusoidal endothelium with inflammation, and it thought to play an important role in extravasation of neutrophils from hepatic sinusoids into the parenchyma. I have used an ICAM-1 Ab from R&D systems to do this (in mice). We routinely perform TNFa IHC in liver. Strikingly, we find that hepatocytes as well as Kupffer cells can produce TNFa. I can give you info on the Ab we use for this immunofluorescence (IF) if you would like. As far as quantification goes, our lab quantifies TNFa IF using ImagePro software and uses intensity of staining. It is also possible to quantify individual fluorescent cells with ImagePro. Simply speaking, you 'educate' (program) the software to count for you. You can achieve this by telling the program what colour pixels = positive. This program will also allow you to determine intensity of each individual spot if you would like; I don't know if ED-1 expression changes with activation of macrophages, so I don't know if intensity measures would help you or not. With respect to the quantification, once counted, you can edit what it counted to remove non-specific staining that happened to fall within the fluorescent parameters you set. For example, sometimes, a speck of non-cell associated fluorophore shows up, I remove these spots. To help in this regard, DAPI staining is used; if any given cell contains a nucleus and my marker of interest, I count it...those random fluorophore bits are anuclear which gives me rational to untag them. This is a *MUCH* faster way to enumerate cells than counting by hand. I hope this helps, if you have further questions, concerns, want additional details, please feel free to contact me. I could discuss this for days but don't want to bore you if I am not addressing your specific questions. Kind regards: --->mtp Michele T. Pritchard, Ph.D. Research Associate Nagy Laboratory Department of Pathobiology/NE40 Lerner Research Institute Cleveland Clinic 9500 Euclid Avenue Cleveland, OH 44195 phone: 216.444.8613 fax: 216.636.1493 email: pritchm@ccf.org Lab location: Lerner Research Institute NE4-214 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of TF Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 12:48 AM To: histonet Subject: [Histonet] Inflammation cell marker on Tissue & Quantitive Immunohistofluorscence Dear All: Just wonder any one have the experience to work on inflammation on different tissues, especially Liver, SKIN, and Brain? We want to look at wound-resulted inflammation level in these tissues, using immunohistochemical techniques rather RT-PCR / WB on cytokine levels. Can anyone recommend different cell markers for these tisses, separately? Another question is how about the Quantitive Immunohistofluorscence. I have some sections stained with Ed-1, marker of macrophage. It is very hard to count the number of positive cells ...can we use immunofluorescence instensity (same exposure time) or the area of positive region as the quantitive index? At least semi-qunatitive. 2009-02-25 TF _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet =================================== P Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail Cleveland Clinic is ranked one of the top hospitals in America by U.S. News & World Report (2008). Visit us online at http://www.clevelandclinic.org for a complete listing of our services, staff and locations. Confidentiality Note: This message is intended for use only by the individual or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential, and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please contact the sender immediately and destroy the material in its entirety, whether electronic or hard copy. Thank you. From Ronald.Houston <@t> nationwidechildrens.org Wed Feb 25 09:37:09 2009 From: Ronald.Houston <@t> nationwidechildrens.org (Houston, Ronald) Date: Wed Feb 25 09:38:11 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting toReally Annoy me. In-Reply-To: <682694.3259.qm@web65705.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <979FF5962E234F45B06CF0DB7C1AABB21B6454E5@chi2k3ms01.columbuschildrens.net> Come on, children - it's now time-out for this topic Ronnie Houston Anatomic Pathology Manager Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus OH 43205 (614) 722 5450 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 10:31 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; JR R Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting toReally Annoy me. Instead of being so offended, why you just try to find out how different is academia from an AP histology lab? Ren? J. --- On Mon, 2/23/09, JR R wrote: From: JR R Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to Really Annoy me. To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 2:58 PM All this talk of having people actually section as part of the interview process is offensive to me. I have hired and trained lots of histotechnologists. Mostly I train them myself, from scratch, but sometimes I hire them pre-trained. Then of course, I re-train them anyway so they can do the work to the specs of my lab. Any deficiencies they have will be corrected through training. By me. At my University there is a formal 30 day (maybe it's longer, I can't recall) probationary period for new hires. That's good enough. Why in the world would I need to have them section as part of an interview process? I am also offended by the "blocks per hour" language. Partly it's because in my lab we do exhaustive serial sectioning, so I consider a tech who gives me one block every half-hour to be doing a good job. Maybe it's different in clinical work, but...20 blocks per hour? And you expect quality work? Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? It's no wonder histopathologists feel overworked and underappreciated. Jerry Ricks Research Scientist University of Washington Department of Pathology > Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:14:06 -0500 > From: trathborne@somerset-healthcare.com > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; tbraud@holyredeemer.com > Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > CC: > > We also have the staff talk to the applicant during this process. It gives you a good idea if the person can talk and cut at the same time. The last thing anyone wants is a histotech that has to stop sectioning during a conversation! > > -----Original Message----- > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Rene J > Buesa > Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:05 AM > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Terri Braud > Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > > > I for one always required any applicant to prepare 20 slides stained with H&E. I can assure that I selected "difficult" blocks to cut and the applicant was required to sign a disclaimer that included that s/he he knew how to section and avoid injuries. > The whole process was timed (to get a first idea about productivity) and I evaluated and graded the slides at the end. > The results were used as one of the elements to decide about offering the position (the fundamental) but I waited until all the applicants had completed the tests so sometimes the applicant had to be contacted a few days later to let him/her know about the results. > Ren? J. > > --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Terri Braud wrote: > > From: Terri Braud > Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 8:57 AM > > >From a recent digest: > stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and watch > them.> > > I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent digest. > What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an > interview? > We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the > decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. > I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any > experiences that others have had. > Terri > > Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) > Anatomic Pathology Supervisor > Laboratory > Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center > > > > --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: > > This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which > it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential, > and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under > applicable > federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please do > not > distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original E-Mail. > Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. > > Thank you for your cooperation. > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE > This message and any included attachments are from Somerset Medical Center > and are intended only for the addressee. The information contained in this > message is confidential and may contain privileged, confidential, > proprietary and/or trade secret information entitled to protection 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 of the delivery error > by e-mail or you may call Somerset Medical Center's computer Help Desk > at 908-685-2200, ext. 4050. > > Be sure to visit Somerset Medical Center's Web site - > www.somersetmedicalcenter.com - for the most up-to-date news, > event listings, health information and more. _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live(tm) Hotmail?...more than just e-mail. http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howitworks_022009_______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ----------------------------------------- Confidentiality Notice: The following mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. The recipient is responsible to maintain the confidentiality of this information and to use the information only for authorized purposes. If you are not the intended recipient (or authorized to receive information for the intended recipient), you are hereby notified that any review, use, disclosure, distribution, copying, printing, or action taken in reliance on the contents of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. Thank you. From mitchellja <@t> email.chop.edu Wed Feb 25 10:30:22 2009 From: mitchellja <@t> email.chop.edu (Janice Mitchell) Date: Wed Feb 25 10:30:53 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Hi histoland, Anyone out there using canada balsam? If so where are you purchasing? Thanks in adva Message-ID: Hi histoland, Anyone out there using canada balsam? If so where are you purchasing? Thanks in advance. Janice From mbisher <@t> Princeton.EDU Wed Feb 25 10:58:01 2009 From: mbisher <@t> Princeton.EDU (Peggy Bisher) Date: Wed Feb 25 10:58:08 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Hi histoland, Anyone out there using canada balsam? If so where are you purchasing? Thanks in adva In-Reply-To: Message-ID: We have a bottle of it here in the lab. It came from Acros, which means we ordered it from Fisher Scientific. Maggie On 2/25/09 11:30 AM, "Janice Mitchell" wrote: > Hi histoland, Anyone out there using canada balsam? If so where are > you purchasing? Thanks in advance. Janice > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From louise.renton <@t> gmail.com Wed Feb 25 11:01:49 2009 From: louise.renton <@t> gmail.com (louise renton) Date: Wed Feb 25 11:01:54 2009 Subject: [Histonet] slidex filing pages Message-ID: Hi all, Anyone familiar with Slidex pages - rigid pastic pages in which one can store slides (20/page)? These pages are pre-punched so they can go into ring binder but there is also a filing box that one can use. We have been using these for years, but the agency that dealt with the parent company has pulled out and we are getting no joy from Slidex Japan. Seems they don't answer English correspondence. Any thoughts?-- Louise Renton Bone Research Unit University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg South Africa "There are nights when the wolves are silent and only the moon howls". George Carlin No trees were killed in the sending of this message. However, many electrons were terribly inconvenienced. From rosenfeldtek <@t> hotmail.com Wed Feb 25 11:16:07 2009 From: rosenfeldtek <@t> hotmail.com (JR R) Date: Wed Feb 25 11:16:13 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to Really Annoy me. In-Reply-To: <682694.3259.qm@web65705.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> References: <682694.3259.qm@web65705.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Message-ID: "Instead of being so offended, why you just try to find out how different is academia from an AP histology lab? Ren? J." I believe that I have already described an understanding that research is different than clinical. I did actually start off as a nurse way back when. Human dignity is the same everywhere though. It sounds like clinical labs mostly treat their Histotechs like dogs--starting with the interview, and continuing throughout the Tech's career. And I find that offensive. Jerry Ricks Research Scientist University of Washington Department of Pathology > > --- On Mon, 2/23/09, JR R wrote: > > From: JR R > Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability--This is starting to Really Annoy me. > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 2:58 PM > > All this talk of having people actually section as part of the interview > process is offensive to me. > > I have hired and trained lots of histotechnologists. Mostly I train them > myself, from scratch, but sometimes I hire them pre-trained. Then of course, I > re-train them anyway so they can do the work to the specs of my lab. Any > deficiencies they have will be corrected through training. By me. > > At my University there is a formal 30 day (maybe it's longer, I can't > recall) probationary period for new hires. That's good enough. Why in the > world would I need to have them section as part of an interview process? > > I am also offended by the "blocks per hour" language. Partly > it's because in my lab we do exhaustive serial sectioning, so I consider a > tech who gives me one block every half-hour to be doing a good job. > > Maybe it's different in clinical work, but...20 blocks per hour? And you > expect quality work? > > Jeez, are clinical histopath labs just sweat-shops? > > It's no wonder histopathologists feel overworked and underappreciated. > > Jerry Ricks > Research Scientist > University of Washington > Department of Pathology > > > > > > > Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:14:06 -0500 > > From: trathborne@somerset-healthcare.com > > To: rjbuesa@yahoo.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; > tbraud@holyredeemer.com > > Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > > CC: > > > > We also have the staff talk to the applicant during this process. It gives > you a good idea if the person can talk and cut at the same time. The last thing > anyone wants is a histotech that has to stop sectioning during a conversation! > > > > -----Original Message----- > > From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Rene J > > Buesa > > Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 10:05 AM > > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Terri Braud > > Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > > > > > > I for one always required any applicant to prepare 20 slides stained with > H&E. I can assure that I selected "difficult" blocks to cut and > the applicant was required to sign a disclaimer that included that s/he he knew > how to section and avoid injuries. > > The whole process was timed (to get a first idea about productivity) and I > evaluated and graded the slides at the end. > > The results were used as one of the elements to decide about offering the > position (the fundamental) but I waited until all the applicants had completed > the tests so sometimes the applicant had to be contacted a few days later to let > him/her know about the results. > > Ren? J. > > > > --- On Mon, 2/23/09, Terri Braud wrote: > > > > From: Terri Braud > > Subject: [Histonet] RE: testing cutting ability during an interview > > To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > Date: Monday, February 23, 2009, 8:57 AM > > > > >From a recent digest: > > or > > stain, set them down at a microtome during the interview process, and > watch > > them.> > > > > I have a question about the following statement plucked from a recent > digest. > > What are the legal ramifications if a person cuts themselves during an > > interview? > > We've had this discussion at my place of employment and came to the > > decision that it would leave us open to a legal liability. > > I would love to hear some discussion on this subject, as well as any > > experiences that others have had. > > Terri > > > > Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP) > > Anatomic Pathology Supervisor > > Laboratory > > Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center > > > > > > > > > --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > > > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: > > > > This E-Mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to > which > > it was sent. It may contain information that is privileged and/or > confidential, > > and the use or disclosure of such information may also be restricted under > > applicable > > federal and state law. If you received this communication in error, please > do > > not > > distribute any part of it or retain any copies, and delete the original > E-Mail. > > Please notify the sender of any error by E-Mail. > > > > Thank you for your cooperation. > > > > _______________________________________________ > > Histonet mailing list > > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > Histonet mailing list > > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE > > This message and any included attachments are from Somerset Medical Center > > and are intended only for the addressee. The information contained in > this > > message is confidential and may contain privileged, confidential, > > proprietary and/or trade secret information entitled to protection 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 of the delivery error > > by e-mail or you may call Somerset Medical Center's computer Help Desk > > at 908-685-2200, ext. 4050. > > > > Be sure to visit Somerset Medical Center's Web site - > > www.somersetmedicalcenter.com - for the most up-to-date news, > > event listings, health information and more. > > _________________________________________________________________ > Windows Live? Hotmail??more than just e-mail. > http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howitworks_022009_______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live? Hotmail??more than just e-mail. http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howitworks_022009 From FUNKM <@t> mercyhealth.com Wed Feb 25 12:32:32 2009 From: FUNKM <@t> mercyhealth.com (Marcia Funk) Date: Wed Feb 25 12:32:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tube station Message-ID: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue specimens through the tube station ? Thanks Marcia Marcia Funk Histology Laboratory Mercy Medical Center North Iowa Mason City, IA, 50401 From mpence <@t> grhs.net Wed Feb 25 12:53:00 2009 From: mpence <@t> grhs.net (Mike Pence) Date: Wed Feb 25 12:53:14 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tube station In-Reply-To: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> Message-ID: <661949901A768E4F9CC16D8AF8F2838C017A3AB8@IS-E2K3.grhs.net> We have a policy that state what items can and cannot be tubed and tissue specimens are one that we do not allow to be tubed. Mike -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Marcia Funk Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 12:33 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Tube station We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue specimens through the tube station ? Thanks Marcia Marcia Funk Histology Laboratory Mercy Medical Center North Iowa Mason City, IA, 50401 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From HornHV <@t> archildrens.org Wed Feb 25 12:55:33 2009 From: HornHV <@t> archildrens.org (Horn, Hazel V) Date: Wed Feb 25 12:55:42 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tube station In-Reply-To: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> References: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> Message-ID: <9AE8AA9E1F644B4AA6C155FB6FD51C6317D83073@EMAIL.archildrens.org> We do not allow formalin fixed specimens to be tubed. Hazel Horn Hazel Horn, HT/HTL (ASCP) Supervisor of Histology Arkansas Children's Hospital 1 Children's Way Slot 820 Little Rock, AR 72202 phone 501.364.4240 fax 501.364.3155 visit us on the web at: www.archildrens.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Marcia Funk Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 12:33 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Tube station We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue specimens through the tube station ? Thanks Marcia Marcia Funk Histology Laboratory Mercy Medical Center North Iowa Mason City, IA, 50401 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************** The information contained in this message may be privileged and confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by replying to the message and deleting it from your computer. Thank you. From paw555 <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 25 13:11:22 2009 From: paw555 <@t> yahoo.com (pam plumlee) Date: Wed Feb 25 13:11:26 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Plant Histology Message-ID: <479984.42273.qm@web31906.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Hi Histonetters: I was hoping someone could share a simple plant tissue (green stem and buds) processing program with me. I have never done plant histology, but would like to earn some extra credit for a horticulture class I'm taking. Thanks, Pam Plumlee H.T. From whitmorel <@t> mindspring.com Wed Feb 25 13:21:15 2009 From: whitmorel <@t> mindspring.com (whitmorel) Date: Wed Feb 25 13:21:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Mohs technique Message-ID: <23409049.1235589675823.JavaMail.root@elwamui-lapwing.atl.sa.earthlink.net> First of all, there is no apostrophe in Mohs. Sorry, being picky is a necessity for a Mohs tech. How are you mounting your tissue? Are you using a glass slide to mount the tissue? There are several different method out there for mounting tissue so you can be sure the entire epidermis is completely down and air bubbles are out of the tissue. You might have your surgeon contact the Mohs College and see about getting a trainer to come and work with you. With your background, the 2 days the College suggests would work great. The other alternative is to go and visit a trainer. If you go onto the website www.mohscollege.org you can find a list of Mohs histotech trainers. Lynn Whitmore HT(ASCP) Mohs Histotechnology Trainer - >------------------------------ > >Message: 17 >Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 06:56:12 -0800 (PST) >From: Steven Coakley >Subject: [Histonet] Moh's techniques >To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Message-ID: <164204.1533.qm@web38206.mail.mud.yahoo.com> >Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 > >Good morning all, >? >I'm learning a new way to do Moh's.? Much more relaxed compared to how I did them years ago with a Pathologist looking over my shoulder while I attempted to cryosection 12, 3,9,12 o'clock boarders, stain them by hand and the Dermatologist wanting the results "yesterday".? I'd like??to get some ideas as to techniques Moh's Techs are using out there that work well in assuring that one gets the entire skin edge.? I'd also Like to shadow in any fairly local Moh's labs in the So.WI or No. Ill. area. >? >Thanks everyone, >? >Steve >? > > > > >------------------------------ > >M From gu.lang <@t> gmx.at Wed Feb 25 13:24:51 2009 From: gu.lang <@t> gmx.at (Gudrun Lang) Date: Wed Feb 25 13:25:00 2009 Subject: AW: [Histonet] Tube station In-Reply-To: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> References: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> Message-ID: <6AC9DD87387B4B33AD121A4E7EE50126@dielangs.at> We let unfixed specimen for frozens send through the tube. And also specimen in formalin with tight caps and small enough for the tube. The container are packed in extra bags and with blister-plastic. Gudrun -----Urspr?ngliche Nachricht----- Von: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] Im Auftrag von Marcia Funk Gesendet: Mittwoch, 25. Februar 2009 19:33 An: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Betreff: [Histonet] Tube station We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue specimens through the tube station ? Thanks Marcia Marcia Funk Histology Laboratory Mercy Medical Center North Iowa Mason City, IA, 50401 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From dellav <@t> musc.edu Wed Feb 25 13:26:42 2009 From: dellav <@t> musc.edu (Della Speranza, Vinnie) Date: Wed Feb 25 13:26:48 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tube station In-Reply-To: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> References: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> Message-ID: We do not tube any tissue samples, fresh or fixed, and yes, we do have a tube station available to us. Potential contamination of the tube system from a leaking specimen container is one legitimate concern but we also have some here worried that a fresh specimen might enter the tube system never to be seen again. I'm not sure how realistic that fear is with modern systems that track each transaction however I'm reluctant to find out the hard way. Emotions aside, as a matter of policy we do not tube any tissues. Vinnie Della Speranza Manager for Anatomic Pathology Services Medical University of South Carolina 165 Ashley Avenue Suite 309 Charleston, South Carolina 29425 Tel: (843) 792-6353 Fax: (843) 792-8974 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Marcia Funk Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 1:33 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Tube station We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue specimens through the tube station ? Thanks Marcia Marcia Funk Histology Laboratory Mercy Medical Center North Iowa Mason City, IA, 50401 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu Wed Feb 25 14:07:03 2009 From: b-frederick <@t> northwestern.edu (Bernice Frederick) Date: Wed Feb 25 14:07:23 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tube station In-Reply-To: Message-ID: Ever since a leaky container and a biohazard bag opened in the tube containing bile- No Way. They had to shut the system down to clean it. And it went across the street and up 3 floors! University of Chicago has a dumbwaiter that sends samples from surgery to the gross room. Nifty!!! Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Della Speranza, Vinnie Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 1:27 PM To: 'Marcia Funk'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Tube station We do not tube any tissue samples, fresh or fixed, and yes, we do have a tube station available to us. Potential contamination of the tube system from a leaking specimen container is one legitimate concern but we also have some here worried that a fresh specimen might enter the tube system never to be seen again. I'm not sure how realistic that fear is with modern systems that track each transaction however I'm reluctant to find out the hard way. Emotions aside, as a matter of policy we do not tube any tissues. Vinnie Della Speranza Manager for Anatomic Pathology Services Medical University of South Carolina 165 Ashley Avenue Suite 309 Charleston, South Carolina 29425 Tel: (843) 792-6353 Fax: (843) 792-8974 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Marcia Funk Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 1:33 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Tube station We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue specimens through the tube station ? Thanks Marcia Marcia Funk Histology Laboratory Mercy Medical Center North Iowa Mason City, IA, 50401 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From talulahgosh <@t> gmail.com Wed Feb 25 14:17:35 2009 From: talulahgosh <@t> gmail.com (Emily Sours) Date: Wed Feb 25 14:17:41 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tube station In-Reply-To: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> References: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> Message-ID: A tube station?! Is that like the internet--a series of connected tubes?! Emily On Wed, Feb 25, 2009 at 1:32 PM, Marcia Funk wrote: > > We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue > specimens through the tube > station ? Thanks Marcia > > Marcia Funk > Histology Laboratory > Mercy Medical Center North Iowa > Mason City, IA, 50401 > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > -- It's like hearing Billy Joel play "Piano Man"-- joyless for all involved, but demanded by a higher power. --Kevin Murphy, Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull rifftrax From Janet.Bonner <@t> FLHOSP.ORG Wed Feb 25 14:27:22 2009 From: Janet.Bonner <@t> FLHOSP.ORG (Bonner, Janet) Date: Wed Feb 25 14:27:32 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tube station References: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> Message-ID: <5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F2921@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET> No, the patient tissue is too precious to "loose" should the tube get stuck, and the legal implications are well..... Nor do you want a hazardous fluid such as Formalin to spill within the tube system. So we just don't. We have couriers to go among the departments or our staff will do the pick-up. The tube system is great for paper items, addressograph labels, or if a floor/department needs a form. Janet Janet L. Bonner, HTL (ASCP) Pathology Laboratory ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Marcia Funk Sent: Wed 2/25/2009 1:32 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Tube station We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue specimens through the tube station ? Thanks Marcia Marcia Funk Histology Laboratory Mercy Medical Center North Iowa Mason City, IA, 50401 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ======================================================= The information contained in this message may be privileged and/or confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and deleting the material from any computer. ======================================================= From carrolpb <@t> umdnj.edu Wed Feb 25 14:28:59 2009 From: carrolpb <@t> umdnj.edu (Peter Carroll) Date: Wed Feb 25 14:34:18 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tube station In-Reply-To: References: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> Message-ID: <49A5AA0B.80906@umdnj.edu> > Is that like the internet--a series of connected tubes?! Nope, its more like this.... http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tube_station From Sharon.Davis-Devine <@t> carle.com Wed Feb 25 15:11:14 2009 From: Sharon.Davis-Devine <@t> carle.com (Sharon.Davis-Devine) Date: Wed Feb 25 15:11:18 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red Message-ID: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A04257C61@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> We have ordered Nuclear Fast Red from both EMS and Sigma and neither one of them seem to work very well. Both appear to have very weak staining. Is there someone out there in Histoland that could lead us to Nuclear Fast Red that actually works? Thanks is advance for all of your recommendations. Sharon Davis-Devine, CT (ASCP) Cytology Supervisor Carle Clinic 602 West University Urbana, Illinois 61801 Phone: 217-383-3572 Email: sharon.davis-devine@carle.com From jrobertson <@t> pathologysciences.com Wed Feb 25 15:16:05 2009 From: jrobertson <@t> pathologysciences.com (Jodie Robertson) Date: Wed Feb 25 15:16:09 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red In-Reply-To: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A04257C61@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> References: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A04257C61@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> Message-ID: <518CD6920AA7154193CBE5977CD88073177EC1@psmgsrv2.PSMG.local> Try Newcomer Supply. Jodie Robertson, HT (ASCP) QIHC -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Sharon.Davis-Devine Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 1:11 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red We have ordered Nuclear Fast Red from both EMS and Sigma and neither one of them seem to work very well. Both appear to have very weak staining. Is there someone out there in Histoland that could lead us to Nuclear Fast Red that actually works? Thanks is advance for all of your recommendations. Sharon Davis-Devine, CT (ASCP) Cytology Supervisor Carle Clinic 602 West University Urbana, Illinois 61801 Phone: 217-383-3572 Email: sharon.davis-devine@carle.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From september.amspacher <@t> bassett.org Wed Feb 25 15:18:07 2009 From: september.amspacher <@t> bassett.org (Amspacher, September) Date: Wed Feb 25 15:18:17 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red In-Reply-To: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A04257C61@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> Message-ID: <9485D6C8CD957E488B81B56B0EBB28A44F454B@ex3.bassett.org> Newcomer or American Master Tech -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Sharon.Davis-Devine Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 4:11 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red We have ordered Nuclear Fast Red from both EMS and Sigma and neither one of them seem to work very well. Both appear to have very weak staining. Is there someone out there in Histoland that could lead us to Nuclear Fast Red that actually works? Thanks is advance for all of your recommendations. Sharon Davis-Devine, CT (ASCP) Cytology Supervisor Carle Clinic 602 West University Urbana, Illinois 61801 Phone: 217-383-3572 Email: sharon.davis-devine@carle.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu Wed Feb 25 15:22:34 2009 From: mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu (Geoff McAuliffe) Date: Wed Feb 25 15:32:48 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red In-Reply-To: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A04257C61@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> References: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A04257C61@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> Message-ID: <49A5B69A.9080309@umdnj.edu> Hi Sharon: This is a common complaint with this stain. Some (not me) have had good results with "Brizillant" from Anatech. Geoff Sharon.Davis-Devine wrote: > We have ordered Nuclear Fast Red from both EMS and Sigma and neither one > of them seem to work very well. Both appear to have very weak staining. > Is there someone out there in Histoland that could lead us to Nuclear > Fast Red that actually works? Thanks is advance for all of your > recommendations. > > > > > > Sharon Davis-Devine, CT (ASCP) > > Cytology Supervisor > > Carle Clinic > > 602 West University > > Urbana, Illinois 61801 > > Phone: 217-383-3572 > > Email: sharon.davis-devine@carle.com > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** From mtc205 <@t> Lehigh.EDU Wed Feb 25 15:47:16 2009 From: mtc205 <@t> Lehigh.EDU (Matthew T Close) Date: Wed Feb 25 15:47:20 2009 Subject: [Histonet] muscle skinning solution for fluorescence microscopy Message-ID: <20819464.1235598436924.JavaMail.mtc205@lehigh.edu> I am in need of a good, working chemical skinnig technique for skeletal muscle fibers. I will be staining skinned, isolated fibrils with Rh-Phalloidin and DAPI stains for observation and analysis using a fluorescence scope. Thanks. --------------------------------- Matthew T. Close Lehigh University Department of Biological Sciences From claycal44 <@t> yahoo.com Wed Feb 25 15:48:20 2009 From: claycal44 <@t> yahoo.com (nancy lowen) Date: Wed Feb 25 15:48:24 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red In-Reply-To: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A04257C61@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> Message-ID: <168016.97490.qm@web65613.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Accurate Chemical and Scientific Corp.? 50 ml. bottles.? Our VWR rep found it for us. Nancy Nancy.lowen@med.va.gov --- On Wed, 2/25/09, Sharon.Davis-Devine wrote: From: Sharon.Davis-Devine Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2009, 1:11 PM We have ordered Nuclear Fast Red from both EMS and Sigma and neither one of them seem to work very well. Both appear to have very weak staining. Is there someone out there in Histoland that could lead us to Nuclear Fast Red that actually works? Thanks is advance for all of your recommendations. Sharon Davis-Devine, CT (ASCP) Cytology Supervisor Carle Clinic 602 West University Urbana, Illinois 61801 Phone: 217-383-3572 Email: sharon.davis-devine@carle.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From asmith <@t> mail.barry.edu Wed Feb 25 18:26:04 2009 From: asmith <@t> mail.barry.edu (Smith, Allen) Date: Wed Feb 25 18:27:12 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Nuclear fast red In-Reply-To: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A04257C61@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> References: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A04257C61@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> Message-ID: I bought my nuclear fast red from Aldrich 15 years ago. Kernechtrot (nuclear fast red with an aluminum mordant) solutions made from it still work well and still last about a year. Allen A. Smith, Ph.D. Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine Miami Shores, Florida -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Sharon.Davis-Devine Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 4:11 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red We have ordered Nuclear Fast Red from both EMS and Sigma and neither one of them seem to work very well. Both appear to have very weak staining. Is there someone out there in Histoland that could lead us to Nuclear Fast Red that actually works? Thanks is advance for all of your recommendations. Sharon Davis-Devine, CT (ASCP) Cytology Supervisor Carle Clinic 602 West University Urbana, Illinois 61801 Phone: 217-383-3572 Email: sharon.davis-devine@carle.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From louise.renton <@t> gmail.com Thu Feb 26 03:27:04 2009 From: louise.renton <@t> gmail.com (louise renton) Date: Thu Feb 26 03:27:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] slide storage pages Message-ID: hi guys perhaps I wasn't that clear in my query. the sheets I am looking for are for storing microscopy slides, not photo ones....sorry bout that. hope there are still some suggestions out there -- Louise Renton Bone Research Unit University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg South Africa "There are nights when the wolves are silent and only the moon howls". George Carlin No trees were killed in the sending of this message. However, many electrons were terribly inconvenienced. From ree3 <@t> leicester.ac.uk Thu Feb 26 03:32:40 2009 From: ree3 <@t> leicester.ac.uk (Edwards, R.E.) Date: Thu Feb 26 03:32:51 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tube station In-Reply-To: References: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> Message-ID: <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A17455BB4DE6@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> There is only one tube station, Mornington Crescent!!. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Emily Sours Sent: 25 February 2009 20:18 To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Tube station A tube station?! Is that like the internet--a series of connected tubes?! Emily On Wed, Feb 25, 2009 at 1:32 PM, Marcia Funk wrote: > > We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue > specimens through the tube > station ? Thanks Marcia > > Marcia Funk > Histology Laboratory > Mercy Medical Center North Iowa > Mason City, IA, 50401 > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > -- It's like hearing Billy Joel play "Piano Man"-- joyless for all involved, but demanded by a higher power. --Kevin Murphy, Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull rifftrax _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From boreades <@t> gmail.com Thu Feb 26 06:26:42 2009 From: boreades <@t> gmail.com (=?ISO-8859-1?Q?Sebasti=E1n_Vecchio?=) Date: Thu Feb 26 06:26:47 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Vegetal Histology. Message-ID: <8546b4020902260426o6cfd2ad3i66e138502d37ef6b@mail.gmail.com> Hi histonetters!! Can any one recommendme a few good resources in vegetal histology, mainly in techniques to processing vegetals. Thanks in advance Sebastian. From benoit.delatour <@t> u-psud.fr Thu Feb 26 07:06:47 2009 From: benoit.delatour <@t> u-psud.fr (=?ISO-8859-1?Q?Beno=EEt_Delatour?=) Date: Thu Feb 26 07:06:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Triton x-100 stability Message-ID: <49A693E7.4090503@u-psud.fr> Dear Histoneters, We have recently experienced some troubles in carrying out routine immuno against nuclear fos protein (unexpected weak signal). We have troubleshooted all what was possible to troubleshoot (use of 3 different primary antibodies batches, two secondary ab, new buffers, change the revelation kit etc.). Immunos directed against other epitopes (eg amyloid-beta) give satisfactory results but the IHC in trouble, that targets intranuclear epitopes, is still defective. I suspect now that the non-ionic surfactant we are using (Triton x-100) could have been degraded by high temperatures we had for several weeks in the lab (due to a central heating problem in our building). I made some temp. measurements in the reactives cupboard (around 35-40?C). Does anyone have any information on Triton x-100 stability? According to manufacturers' recommendations, the product should be stored at RT but I did not succeed to get more precise information. I thank you in advance for all comments, suggestions and alternatives. B. Delatour -- Laboratoire de Neurobiologie de l'Apprentissage, de la M?moire & de la Communication, NAMC, CNRS UMR 8620, B?t 446 Universit? Paris-Sud 91405 Orsay Cedex, FRANCE Email benoit.delatour@u-psud.fr Web http://www.namc.u-psud.fr If you think research is expensive, try disease. From SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu Thu Feb 26 07:23:05 2009 From: SwainFrancesL <@t> uams.edu (Swain, Frances L) Date: Thu Feb 26 07:23:41 2009 Subject: [Histonet] slide storage pages In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E3802AE8D0BAF@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Hi Louise: There are two companies that I know of that sell those Microscope Slide viewing and storage sheets. They are Ted Pella Catalog #2111-10 and ProSciTech catalog # H172 they are in Australia. Ted Pella also has the binder to keep them in. I think that ProSciTech does also. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of louise renton Sent: Thursday, February 26, 2009 3:27 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] slide storage pages hi guys perhaps I wasn't that clear in my query. the sheets I am looking for are for storing microscopy slides, not photo ones....sorry bout that. hope there are still some suggestions out there -- Louise Renton Bone Research Unit University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg South Africa "There are nights when the wolves are silent and only the moon howls". George Carlin No trees were killed in the sending of this message. However, many electrons were terribly inconvenienced. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. From alexandra.meinl <@t> gmail.com Thu Feb 26 08:18:19 2009 From: alexandra.meinl <@t> gmail.com (Alexandra Meinl) Date: Thu Feb 26 08:18:27 2009 Subject: [Histonet] PAI-1 antibody needed Message-ID: Hi all, I'm looking for a PAI-1 antibody that works on FFPE mouse tissue. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance, Alexandra Alexandra MEINL Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology Contact @ Bernhard Gottlieb University School of Dentistry, Waehringerstr. 25a, A-1090 Vienna From kynemitz <@t> travmax.com Thu Feb 26 09:31:53 2009 From: kynemitz <@t> travmax.com (Kyla Nemitz) Date: Thu Feb 26 09:31:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Local PRN and Contract in Northern NJ/Greater NYC area! Message-ID: <9416D9FA37C1C04FA83D69684E95D2E720BBFFEF@exbk2.maxhealth.com> Good morning HistoNet! One of my clients in the greater NYC Metro area is looking for a LOCAL histo tech to work PRN (with potential for full time) starting somewhat ASAP. If you or anyone you know is currently looking for supplemental income in the NY/NJ area, please let me know. ASCP is preferred, but not required. Thank you in advance, I hope to hear from you soon! Kyla Nemitz TravelMax Medical Professionals - Maxim Healthcare Tel: 888.800.1855 or 813.371.5175 Fax: 800.294.1248 Search our jobs or apply online at: www.TravelMaxAllied.com , www.tmaxnursing.com From relia1 <@t> earthlink.net Thu Feb 26 09:49:11 2009 From: relia1 <@t> earthlink.net (Pam Barker) Date: Thu Feb 26 09:49:19 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RELIA Histology Careers Bulletin 2/26/09 Are you in your dream job? Message-ID: Hi Histonetters!! What is your dream job? I am not talking about chief chocolate taster for Godiva or counting your lottery winnings. I mean are you in your dream job? If so what is it about your job that makes it great. If not what is it that would make your job the best? Is it more money? Is it more or less responsibility? Is it a different schedule? Is it a different location? If you are not in your dream job let me help!! Let?s talk about it Maybe I can find that dream job for you. My services are free of charge to you and completely confidential. Shoot me an e-mail and tell me what it is that would make your dream job in histology. I have openings with my clients or we can customize a job search especially for you. All of the opportunities I represent are permanent positions with premier companies nationwide. They offer excellent salaries benefits and sign-on bonuses/relocation assistance. FYI here is a list of my current openings: HISTOLOGY MANAGEMENT Boston, MA ? Histology Supervisor ? Research Environment Los Angeles, CA ? Afternoon shift for National Reference Lab Histology Supervisor Night Shift ? Ft. Lauderdale, FL HISTOTECHS PA- Pittsburgh, Dayshift HT or HTL required. WA - Spokane, Clinical Position in newly remodeled lab! CA - Los Angeles, Histotechnician/Histotechnologist ASCP cert req CA ? San Francisco Histotechnician/Histotechnologist MA ? North of Boston 2nd shift position Histotechnician/Histotechnologist MA ? Cape Cod, Histotechnician/Histotechnologist OH - Cincinatti, Histotechnician/Histotechnologist FL- Ft. Lauderdale 2nd and 3rd shift positions Histotechnician/Histotechnologist If you or any of your friends would like to chat about your dream job and how I can help or more information about any of the positions listed please contact me. I would be more than happy to assist you. You can reach me at 866-607-3542 or relia1@earthlink.net Remember it never hurts to look Hope to hear from you soon . Thanks-Pam Thank You! Pam M. Barker President Relia 5703 Red Bug Lake Road #330 Winter Springs, FL 32708-4969 Phone: (407)657-2027 Cell: (407)353-5070 FAX: (407)678-2788 Toll Free: (866)607-3542 e-mail: relia1@earthlink.net From RSRICHMOND <@t> aol.com Thu Feb 26 13:06:46 2009 From: RSRICHMOND <@t> aol.com (Robert Richmond) Date: Thu Feb 26 13:06:50 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Nuclear fast red Message-ID: Nuclear fast red is a dye that will eventually go out of manufacture, and certainly if you're having trouble with it you need to be looking for an alternative. Anatech has been offering brazilin, a natural dye very similar to hematoxylin, except that with an alum mordant it's red rather than purple. They offer both the dry dyestuff, and a ready-to-use solution called "Brazilliant". I haven't seen this dye in action, and I'd like to know what results people are having with it. There is one problem on the horizon: unlike logwood, which is an invasive species in the Caribbean islands where it was introduced from Mexico, brazil wood is supposedly an endangered or threatened species. (I have no commercial connection with Anatech.) Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist Knoxville TN From jennifer.l.hofecker <@t> Vanderbilt.Edu Thu Feb 26 13:18:35 2009 From: jennifer.l.hofecker <@t> Vanderbilt.Edu (Hofecker, Jennifer L) Date: Thu Feb 26 13:18:40 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tennessee Meeting Call for Vendors Message-ID: <5F3F860CFE0F4741B1D87A88A58FAE9A0B5787@mailbe01.mc.vanderbilt.edu> Greetings Histonet friends! The Tennessee Society for Histotechnology is now accepting registration for vendors. Our meeting will be held at the Double Tree hotel in downtown Memphis, June 25-27. The full program will be available soon. Exhibitor information was sent, via email, today. If you are interested in exhibiting at our meeting and did not receive the information, please don't hesitate to contact me. Also, be sure to check out our new website www.tnsh.org . Thank you to all of our fabulous vendors who have supported us through the years. Have a great rest of the week! Jennifer Jennifer L. Hofecker HT(ASCP) Vanderbilt University Medical Center Division of Neuropathology Nashville, TN ph 615.343.0083 fax 615.343.7089 TSH Secretary TSH 2009 Exhibit Coordinator From mtc205 <@t> Lehigh.EDU Thu Feb 26 13:29:22 2009 From: mtc205 <@t> Lehigh.EDU (Matthew T Close) Date: Thu Feb 26 13:29:25 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re:Triton X-100 instability Message-ID: <13423880.1235676562920.JavaMail.mtc205@lehigh.edu> I have not heard of temperature directly affecting the stability of Trit However problem, it could affected its stability. How the climate control crisis? If bottle, the higher temps. combined with the e to air may have provided the means to partially deg Also, I assume you are diluting your triton X wi how much air is in the container that you store the the summer, we have climate control issues in my lab (us humidity issues) and I can't have my carboy less than 3/4 of the way full or the pH of my RO water starts to drop. Its worth checking.&nbs gradually making its way int triton x, but it certainly could antibody. Matt < Matthew T. Close Lehigh University Department of Biological Sciences From carl.hobbs <@t> kcl.ac.uk Thu Feb 26 13:56:23 2009 From: carl.hobbs <@t> kcl.ac.uk (Hobbs, Carl) Date: Thu Feb 26 13:57:38 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red Message-ID: <11D9615B89C10747B1C985966A63D7CA293AC44B12@KCL-MAIL04.kclad.ds.kcl.ac.uk> I agree with Geoff re NFRed staining solution. I have always had good results with home-made NFRed, if only for 2/4 months. Much cheaper too. Sure, try Neutral red: differentiate in water until you like the contrast then, blot dry your section and immerse in Xylene after a time that you think has made that section dry....then mount in DPX, for eg You do not give any details re your Preps: So..... Could be cells/sections Could be fixation problems Could be technical errors. Could be old solution of NFR ? carlos ________________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] Sent: 26 February 2009 18:02 To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 49 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 histonet-request@lists.utsouthwestern.edu You can reach the person managing the list at histonet-owner@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. Tube station (Marcia Funk) 2. RE: Tube station (Mike Pence) 3. RE: Tube station (Horn, Hazel V) 4. Plant Histology (pam plumlee) 5. Re: Mohs technique (whitmorel) 6. AW: [Histonet] Tube station (Gudrun Lang) 7. RE: Tube station (Della Speranza, Vinnie) 8. RE: Tube station (Bernice Frederick) 9. Re: Tube station (Emily Sours) 10. RE: Tube station (Bonner, Janet) 11. Re: Tube station (Peter Carroll) 12. Nuclear fast red (Sharon.Davis-Devine) 13. RE: Nuclear fast red (Jodie Robertson) 14. RE: Nuclear fast red (Amspacher, September) 15. Re: Nuclear fast red (Geoff McAuliffe) 16. muscle skinning solution for fluorescence microscopy (Matthew T Close) 17. Re: Nuclear fast red (nancy lowen) 18. RE: Nuclear fast red (Smith, Allen) 19. slide storage pages (louise renton) 20. RE: Tube station (Edwards, R.E.) 21. Vegetal Histology. (Sebasti?n Vecchio) 22. Triton x-100 stability (Beno?t Delatour) 23. RE: slide storage pages (Swain, Frances L) 24. PAI-1 antibody needed (Alexandra Meinl) 25. Local PRN and Contract in Northern NJ/Greater NYC area! (Kyla Nemitz) 26. RELIA Histology Careers Bulletin 2/26/09 Are you in your dream job? (Pam Barker) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 13:32:32 -0500 From: "Marcia Funk" Subject: [Histonet] Tube station To: Message-ID: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue specimens through the tube station ? Thanks Marcia Marcia Funk Histology Laboratory Mercy Medical Center North Iowa Mason City, IA, 50401 ------------------------------ Message: 2 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 12:53:00 -0600 From: "Mike Pence" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Tube station To: "Marcia Funk" , Message-ID: <661949901A768E4F9CC16D8AF8F2838C017A3AB8@IS-E2K3.grhs.net> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" We have a policy that state what items can and cannot be tubed and tissue specimens are one that we do not allow to be tubed. Mike -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Marcia Funk Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 12:33 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Tube station We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue specimens through the tube station ? Thanks Marcia Marcia Funk Histology Laboratory Mercy Medical Center North Iowa Mason City, IA, 50401 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 3 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 12:55:33 -0600 From: "Horn, Hazel V" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Tube station To: "Marcia Funk" , Message-ID: <9AE8AA9E1F644B4AA6C155FB6FD51C6317D83073@EMAIL.archildrens.org> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" We do not allow formalin fixed specimens to be tubed. Hazel Horn Hazel Horn, HT/HTL (ASCP) Supervisor of Histology Arkansas Children's Hospital 1 Children's Way Slot 820 Little Rock, AR 72202 phone 501.364.4240 fax 501.364.3155 visit us on the web at: www.archildrens.org -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Marcia Funk Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 12:33 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Tube station We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue specimens through the tube station ? Thanks Marcia Marcia Funk Histology Laboratory Mercy Medical Center North Iowa Mason City, IA, 50401 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************** The information contained in this message may be privileged and confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by replying to the message and deleting it from your computer. Thank you. ------------------------------ Message: 4 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 11:11:22 -0800 (PST) From: pam plumlee Subject: [Histonet] Plant Histology To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <479984.42273.qm@web31906.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 Hi Histonetters: I was hoping someone could share a simple plant tissue (green stem and buds) processing program with me. I have never done plant histology, but would like to earn some extra credit for a horticulture class I'm taking. Thanks, Pam Plumlee H.T. ------------------------------ Message: 5 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:21:15 -0500 (EST) From: whitmorel Subject: [Histonet] Re: Mohs technique To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <23409049.1235589675823.JavaMail.root@elwamui-lapwing.atl.sa.earthlink.net> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8 First of all, there is no apostrophe in Mohs. Sorry, being picky is a necessity for a Mohs tech. How are you mounting your tissue? Are you using a glass slide to mount the tissue? There are several different method out there for mounting tissue so you can be sure the entire epidermis is completely down and air bubbles are out of the tissue. You might have your surgeon contact the Mohs College and see about getting a trainer to come and work with you. With your background, the 2 days the College suggests would work great. The other alternative is to go and visit a trainer. If you go onto the website www.mohscollege.org you can find a list of Mohs histotech trainers. Lynn Whitmore HT(ASCP) Mohs Histotechnology Trainer - >------------------------------ > >Message: 17 >Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 06:56:12 -0800 (PST) >From: Steven Coakley >Subject: [Histonet] Moh's techniques >To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu >Message-ID: <164204.1533.qm@web38206.mail.mud.yahoo.com> >Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 > >Good morning all, >?? >I'm learning a new way to do Moh's.?? Much more relaxed compared to how I did them years ago with a Pathologist looking over my shoulder while I attempted to cryosection 12, 3,9,12 o'clock boarders, stain them by hand and the Dermatologist wanting the results "yesterday".?? I'd like????to get some ideas as to techniques Moh's Techs are using out there that work well in assuring that one gets the entire skin edge.?? I'd also Like to shadow in any fairly local Moh's labs in the So.WI or No. Ill. area. >?? >Thanks everyone, >?? >Steve >?? > > > > >------------------------------ > >M ------------------------------ Message: 6 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 20:24:51 +0100 From: "Gudrun Lang" Subject: AW: [Histonet] Tube station To: "'Marcia Funk'" Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <6AC9DD87387B4B33AD121A4E7EE50126@dielangs.at> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" We let unfixed specimen for frozens send through the tube. And also specimen in formalin with tight caps and small enough for the tube. The container are packed in extra bags and with blister-plastic. Gudrun -----Urspr?ngliche Nachricht----- Von: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] Im Auftrag von Marcia Funk Gesendet: Mittwoch, 25. Februar 2009 19:33 An: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Betreff: [Histonet] Tube station We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue specimens through the tube station ? Thanks Marcia Marcia Funk Histology Laboratory Mercy Medical Center North Iowa Mason City, IA, 50401 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 7 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:26:42 -0500 From: "Della Speranza, Vinnie" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Tube station To: "'Marcia Funk'" , "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" We do not tube any tissue samples, fresh or fixed, and yes, we do have a tube station available to us. Potential contamination of the tube system from a leaking specimen container is one legitimate concern but we also have some here worried that a fresh specimen might enter the tube system never to be seen again. I'm not sure how realistic that fear is with modern systems that track each transaction however I'm reluctant to find out the hard way. Emotions aside, as a matter of policy we do not tube any tissues. Vinnie Della Speranza Manager for Anatomic Pathology Services Medical University of South Carolina 165 Ashley Avenue Suite 309 Charleston, South Carolina 29425 Tel: (843) 792-6353 Fax: (843) 792-8974 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Marcia Funk Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 1:33 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Tube station We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue specimens through the tube station ? Thanks Marcia Marcia Funk Histology Laboratory Mercy Medical Center North Iowa Mason City, IA, 50401 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 8 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:07:03 -0600 From: "Bernice Frederick" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Tube station To: "'Della Speranza, Vinnie'" , "'Marcia Funk'" , Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Ever since a leaky container and a biohazard bag opened in the tube containing bile- No Way. They had to shut the system down to clean it. And it went across the street and up 3 floors! University of Chicago has a dumbwaiter that sends samples from surgery to the gross room. Nifty!!! Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Northwestern University Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Della Speranza, Vinnie Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 1:27 PM To: 'Marcia Funk'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Tube station We do not tube any tissue samples, fresh or fixed, and yes, we do have a tube station available to us. Potential contamination of the tube system from a leaking specimen container is one legitimate concern but we also have some here worried that a fresh specimen might enter the tube system never to be seen again. I'm not sure how realistic that fear is with modern systems that track each transaction however I'm reluctant to find out the hard way. Emotions aside, as a matter of policy we do not tube any tissues. Vinnie Della Speranza Manager for Anatomic Pathology Services Medical University of South Carolina 165 Ashley Avenue Suite 309 Charleston, South Carolina 29425 Tel: (843) 792-6353 Fax: (843) 792-8974 -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Marcia Funk Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 1:33 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Tube station We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue specimens through the tube station ? Thanks Marcia Marcia Funk Histology Laboratory Mercy Medical Center North Iowa Mason City, IA, 50401 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 9 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 15:17:35 -0500 From: Emily Sours Subject: Re: [Histonet] Tube station To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8 A tube station?! Is that like the internet--a series of connected tubes?! Emily On Wed, Feb 25, 2009 at 1:32 PM, Marcia Funk wrote: > > We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue > specimens through the tube > station ? Thanks Marcia > > Marcia Funk > Histology Laboratory > Mercy Medical Center North Iowa > Mason City, IA, 50401 > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > -- It's like hearing Billy Joel play "Piano Man"-- joyless for all involved, but demanded by a higher power. --Kevin Murphy, Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull rifftrax ------------------------------ Message: 10 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 15:27:22 -0500 From: "Bonner, Janet" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Tube station To: "Marcia Funk" , histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <5F31F38C96781A4FBE3196EBC22D47807F2921@fhosxchmb006.ADVENTISTCORP.NET> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 No, the patient tissue is too precious to "loose" should the tube get stuck, and the legal implications are well..... Nor do you want a hazardous fluid such as Formalin to spill within the tube system. So we just don't. We have couriers to go among the departments or our staff will do the pick-up. The tube system is great for paper items, addressograph labels, or if a floor/department needs a form. Janet Janet L. Bonner, HTL (ASCP) Pathology Laboratory ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Marcia Funk Sent: Wed 2/25/2009 1:32 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Tube station We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue specimens through the tube station ? Thanks Marcia Marcia Funk Histology Laboratory Mercy Medical Center North Iowa Mason City, IA, 50401 _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ======================================================= The information contained in this message may be privileged and/or confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and deleting the material from any computer. ======================================================= ------------------------------ Message: 11 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 15:28:59 -0500 From: Peter Carroll Subject: Re: [Histonet] Tube station To: Emily Sours Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <49A5AA0B.80906@umdnj.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed > Is that like the internet--a series of connected tubes?! Nope, its more like this.... http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tube_station ------------------------------ Message: 12 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 15:11:14 -0600 From: "Sharon.Davis-Devine" Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red To: Message-ID: <44780C571F28624DBB446DE55C4D733A04257C61@EXCHANGEBE1.carle.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" We have ordered Nuclear Fast Red from both EMS and Sigma and neither one of them seem to work very well. Both appear to have very weak staining. Is there someone out there in Histoland that could lead us to Nuclear Fast Red that actually works? Thanks is advance for all of your recommendations. Sharon Davis-Devine, CT (ASCP) Cytology Supervisor Carle Clinic 602 West University Urbana, Illinois 61801 Phone: 217-383-3572 Email: sharon.davis-devine@carle.com ------------------------------ Message: 13 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 13:16:05 -0800 From: "Jodie Robertson" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red To: "Sharon.Davis-Devine" , Message-ID: <518CD6920AA7154193CBE5977CD88073177EC1@psmgsrv2.PSMG.local> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Try Newcomer Supply. Jodie Robertson, HT (ASCP) QIHC -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Sharon.Davis-Devine Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 1:11 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red We have ordered Nuclear Fast Red from both EMS and Sigma and neither one of them seem to work very well. Both appear to have very weak staining. Is there someone out there in Histoland that could lead us to Nuclear Fast Red that actually works? Thanks is advance for all of your recommendations. Sharon Davis-Devine, CT (ASCP) Cytology Supervisor Carle Clinic 602 West University Urbana, Illinois 61801 Phone: 217-383-3572 Email: sharon.davis-devine@carle.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 14 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:18:07 -0500 From: "Amspacher, September" Subject: RE: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red To: "Sharon.Davis-Devine" , Message-ID: <9485D6C8CD957E488B81B56B0EBB28A44F454B@ex3.bassett.org> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Newcomer or American Master Tech -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Sharon.Davis-Devine Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 4:11 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red We have ordered Nuclear Fast Red from both EMS and Sigma and neither one of them seem to work very well. Both appear to have very weak staining. Is there someone out there in Histoland that could lead us to Nuclear Fast Red that actually works? Thanks is advance for all of your recommendations. Sharon Davis-Devine, CT (ASCP) Cytology Supervisor Carle Clinic 602 West University Urbana, Illinois 61801 Phone: 217-383-3572 Email: sharon.davis-devine@carle.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 15 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:22:34 -0500 From: Geoff McAuliffe Subject: Re: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red To: "Sharon.Davis-Devine" Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <49A5B69A.9080309@umdnj.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Hi Sharon: This is a common complaint with this stain. Some (not me) have had good results with "Brizillant" from Anatech. Geoff Sharon.Davis-Devine wrote: > We have ordered Nuclear Fast Red from both EMS and Sigma and neither one > of them seem to work very well. Both appear to have very weak staining. > Is there someone out there in Histoland that could lead us to Nuclear > Fast Red that actually works? Thanks is advance for all of your > recommendations. > > > > > > Sharon Davis-Devine, CT (ASCP) > > Cytology Supervisor > > Carle Clinic > > 602 West University > > Urbana, Illinois 61801 > > Phone: 217-383-3572 > > Email: sharon.davis-devine@carle.com > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > > > -- -- ********************************************** Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D. Neuroscience and Cell Biology Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854 voice: (732)-235-4583 mcauliff@umdnj.edu ********************************************** ------------------------------ Message: 16 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:47:16 -0500 (EST) From: Matthew T Close Subject: [Histonet] muscle skinning solution for fluorescence microscopy To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <20819464.1235598436924.JavaMail.mtc205@lehigh.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8" I am in need of a good, working chemical skinnig technique for skeletal muscle fibers. I will be staining skinned, isolated fibrils with Rh-Phalloidin and DAPI stains for observation and analysis using a fluorescence scope. Thanks. --------------------------------- Matthew T. Close Lehigh University Department of Biological Sciences ------------------------------ Message: 17 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 13:48:20 -0800 (PST) From: nancy lowen Subject: Re: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu, "Sharon.Davis-Devine" Message-ID: <168016.97490.qm@web65613.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 Accurate Chemical and Scientific Corp.? 50 ml. bottles.? Our VWR rep found it for us. Nancy Nancy.lowen@med.va.gov --- On Wed, 2/25/09, Sharon.Davis-Devine wrote: From: Sharon.Davis-Devine Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2009, 1:11 PM We have ordered Nuclear Fast Red from both EMS and Sigma and neither one of them seem to work very well. Both appear to have very weak staining. Is there someone out there in Histoland that could lead us to Nuclear Fast Red that actually works? Thanks is advance for all of your recommendations. Sharon Davis-Devine, CT (ASCP) Cytology Supervisor Carle Clinic 602 West University Urbana, Illinois 61801 Phone: 217-383-3572 Email: sharon.davis-devine@carle.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 18 Date: Wed, 25 Feb 2009 19:26:04 -0500 From: "Smith, Allen" Subject: [Histonet] RE: Nuclear fast red To: 'Sharon.Davis-Devine' Cc: "'Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu'" Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" I bought my nuclear fast red from Aldrich 15 years ago. Kernechtrot (nuclear fast red with an aluminum mordant) solutions made from it still work well and still last about a year. Allen A. Smith, Ph.D. Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine Miami Shores, Florida -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Sharon.Davis-Devine Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 4:11 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Nuclear fast red We have ordered Nuclear Fast Red from both EMS and Sigma and neither one of them seem to work very well. Both appear to have very weak staining. Is there someone out there in Histoland that could lead us to Nuclear Fast Red that actually works? Thanks is advance for all of your recommendations. Sharon Davis-Devine, CT (ASCP) Cytology Supervisor Carle Clinic 602 West University Urbana, Illinois 61801 Phone: 217-383-3572 Email: sharon.davis-devine@carle.com _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 19 Date: Thu, 26 Feb 2009 11:27:04 +0200 From: louise renton Subject: [Histonet] slide storage pages To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 hi guys perhaps I wasn't that clear in my query. the sheets I am looking for are for storing microscopy slides, not photo ones....sorry bout that. hope there are still some suggestions out there -- Louise Renton Bone Research Unit University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg South Africa "There are nights when the wolves are silent and only the moon howls". George Carlin No trees were killed in the sending of this message. However, many electrons were terribly inconvenienced. ------------------------------ Message: 20 Date: Thu, 26 Feb 2009 09:32:40 +0000 From: "Edwards, R.E." Subject: RE: [Histonet] Tube station To: 'Emily Sours' , "histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Message-ID: <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A17455BB4DE6@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" There is only one tube station, Mornington Crescent!!. -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Emily Sours Sent: 25 February 2009 20:18 To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Tube station A tube station?! Is that like the internet--a series of connected tubes?! Emily On Wed, Feb 25, 2009 at 1:32 PM, Marcia Funk wrote: > > We have just installed a tube station do you send your tissue > specimens through the tube > station ? Thanks Marcia > > Marcia Funk > Histology Laboratory > Mercy Medical Center North Iowa > Mason City, IA, 50401 > > > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > -- It's like hearing Billy Joel play "Piano Man"-- joyless for all involved, but demanded by a higher power. --Kevin Murphy, Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull rifftrax _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ------------------------------ Message: 21 Date: Thu, 26 Feb 2009 10:26:42 -0200 From: Sebasti?n Vecchio Subject: [Histonet] Vegetal Histology. To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <8546b4020902260426o6cfd2ad3i66e138502d37ef6b@mail.gmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 Hi histonetters!! Can any one recommendme a few good resources in vegetal histology, mainly in techniques to processing vegetals. Thanks in advance Sebastian. ------------------------------ Message: 22 Date: Thu, 26 Feb 2009 14:06:47 +0100 From: Beno?t Delatour Subject: [Histonet] Triton x-100 stability To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: <49A693E7.4090503@u-psud.fr> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Dear Histoneters, We have recently experienced some troubles in carrying out routine immuno against nuclear fos protein (unexpected weak signal). We have troubleshooted all what was possible to troubleshoot (use of 3 different primary antibodies batches, two secondary ab, new buffers, change the revelation kit etc.). Immunos directed against other epitopes (eg amyloid-beta) give satisfactory results but the IHC in trouble, that targets intranuclear epitopes, is still defective. I suspect now that the non-ionic surfactant we are using (Triton x-100) could have been degraded by high temperatures we had for several weeks in the lab (due to a central heating problem in our building). I made some temp. measurements in the reactives cupboard (around 35-40?C). Does anyone have any information on Triton x-100 stability? According to manufacturers' recommendations, the product should be stored at RT but I did not succeed to get more precise information. I thank you in advance for all comments, suggestions and alternatives. B. Delatour -- Laboratoire de Neurobiologie de l'Apprentissage, de la M?moire & de la Communication, NAMC, CNRS UMR 8620, B?t 446 Universit? Paris-Sud 91405 Orsay Cedex, FRANCE Email benoit.delatour@u-psud.fr Web http://www.namc.u-psud.fr If you think research is expensive, try disease. ------------------------------ Message: 23 Date: Thu, 26 Feb 2009 07:23:05 -0600 From: "Swain, Frances L" Subject: RE: [Histonet] slide storage pages To: "louise renton" , "Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu" Message-ID: <5B6165D78AC14544974A844787B47E3802AE8D0BAF@MAIL5.ad.uams.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Hi Louise: There are two companies that I know of that sell those Microscope Slide viewing and storage sheets. They are Ted Pella Catalog #2111-10 and ProSciTech catalog # H172 they are in Australia. Ted Pella also has the binder to keep them in. I think that ProSciTech does also. Frances L. Swain HT(ASCP) A. A. S. Special Procedures Technician Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Center for Orthopaedic Research Barton Research Building 2R28 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock AR 72205 (501) 686-8739 PHONE (501) 686-8987 FAX swainfrancesl@uams.edu email -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of louise renton Sent: Thursday, February 26, 2009 3:27 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] slide storage pages hi guys perhaps I wasn't that clear in my query. the sheets I am looking for are for storing microscopy slides, not photo ones....sorry bout that. hope there are still some suggestions out there -- Louise Renton Bone Research Unit University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg South Africa "There are nights when the wolves are silent and only the moon howls". George Carlin No trees were killed in the sending of this message. However, many electrons were terribly inconvenienced. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. ------------------------------ Message: 24 Date: Thu, 26 Feb 2009 15:18:19 +0100 From: Alexandra Meinl Subject: [Histonet] PAI-1 antibody needed To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8 Hi all, I'm looking for a PAI-1 antibody that works on FFPE mouse tissue. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance, Alexandra Alexandra MEINL Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology Contact @ Bernhard Gottlieb University School of Dentistry, Waehringerstr. 25a, A-1090 Vienna ------------------------------ Message: 25 Date: Thu, 26 Feb 2009 10:31:53 -0500 From: Kyla Nemitz Subject: [Histonet] Local PRN and Contract in Northern NJ/Greater NYC area! To: Message-ID: <9416D9FA37C1C04FA83D69684E95D2E720BBFFEF@exbk2.maxhealth.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Good morning HistoNet! One of my clients in the greater NYC Metro area is looking for a LOCAL histo tech to work PRN (with potential for full time) starting somewhat ASAP. If you or anyone you know is currently looking for supplemental income in the NY/NJ area, please let me know. ASCP is preferred, but not required. Thank you in advance, I hope to hear from you soon! Kyla Nemitz TravelMax Medical Professionals - Maxim Healthcare Tel: 888.800.1855 or 813.371.5175 Fax: 800.294.1248 Search our jobs or apply online at: www.TravelMaxAllied.com , www.tmaxnursing.com ------------------------------ Message: 26 Date: Thu, 26 Feb 2009 10:49:11 -0500 From: "Pam Barker" Subject: [Histonet] RELIA Histology Careers Bulletin 2/26/09 Are you in your dream job? To: "'Histonet'" Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Hi Histonetters!! What is your dream job? I am not talking about chief chocolate taster for Godiva or counting your lottery winnings. I mean are you in your dream job? If so what is it about your job that makes it great. If not what is it that would make your job the best? Is it more money? Is it more or less responsibility? Is it a different schedule? Is it a different location? If you are not in your dream job let me help!! Let?s talk about it? Maybe I can find that dream job for you. My services are free of charge to you and completely confidential. Shoot me an e-mail and tell me what it is that would make your dream job in histology. I have openings with my clients or we can customize a job search especially for you. All of the opportunities I represent are permanent positions with premier companies nationwide. They offer excellent salaries benefits and sign-on bonuses/relocation assistance. FYI here is a list of my current openings: HISTOLOGY MANAGEMENT Boston, MA ? Histology Supervisor ? Research Environment Los Angeles, CA ? Afternoon shift for National Reference Lab Histology Supervisor Night Shift ? Ft. Lauderdale, FL HISTOTECHS PA- Pittsburgh, Dayshift HT or HTL required. WA - Spokane, Clinical Position in newly remodeled lab! CA - Los Angeles, Histotechnician/Histotechnologist ASCP cert req CA ? San Francisco Histotechnician/Histotechnologist MA ? North of Boston 2nd shift position Histotechnician/Histotechnologist MA ? Cape Cod, Histotechnician/Histotechnologist OH - Cincinatti, Histotechnician/Histotechnologist FL- Ft. Lauderdale 2nd and 3rd shift positions Histotechnician/Histotechnologist If you or any of your friends would like to chat about your dream job and how I can help or more information about any of the positions listed please contact me. I would be more than happy to assist you. You can reach me at 866-607-3542 or relia1@earthlink.net Remember it never hurts to look? Hope to hear from you soon . Thanks-Pam Thank You! Pam M. Barker President Relia 5703 Red Bug Lake Road #330 Winter Springs, FL 32708-4969 Phone: (407)657-2027 Cell: (407)353-5070 FAX: (407)678-2788 Toll Free: (866)607-3542 e-mail: relia1@earthlink.net ------------------------------ _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet End of Histonet Digest, Vol 63, Issue 49 **************************************** From vjp2105 <@t> columbia.edu Thu Feb 26 14:40:46 2009 From: vjp2105 <@t> columbia.edu (Vanessa J. Phelan) Date: Thu Feb 26 14:40:50 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Ideal fixation of mouse prostate Message-ID: Hi everyone, I am very new to histonet, actually just joined.I hope you guys can help. I was wondering if anyone has any experience in the fixing and processing of mouse issues, namely prostate or bladder. I am currently trying to optomize protocols for this as I have very recently taken on the position of histology manager in a research lab, before this I worked with human samples. We have the VIP processor, and the protocol being followed at the mo is, fixation overnight (though the tissues are tiny) and then washed in PBS and then into 25% alcohol (sometimes over night) and then into the processor, the cycle starts with alcohol instead of formalin. I fear that the tissues are being overfixed and also does anyone leave their tissues in 25% alcohol before processing? Thanking you in advance for any input, Nessa From rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com Thu Feb 26 15:30:47 2009 From: rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com (Rene J Buesa) Date: Thu Feb 26 15:30:56 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Ideal fixation of mouse prostate In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <342955.97401.qm@web65712.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> I don't think that your tissues are overfixed (under separate cover I am sending an article on the subject of fixation time) but I think it is a very bad idea to leave the tissues overnight in alcohol (even worse at 25%). Once the tissue as fixed (as you do now) the processing should start and the dehydration should be shorter than for human tissues because mouse tissues have less water than human and will tend to get very friable and dificult to cut. Also xylene is a proble. I will send you a protocol with mineral oil under separate cover. Ren? J. --- On Thu, 2/26/09, Vanessa J. Phelan wrote: From: Vanessa J. Phelan Subject: [Histonet] Ideal fixation of mouse prostate To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Thursday, February 26, 2009, 3:40 PM Hi everyone, I am very new to histonet, actually just joined.I hope you guys can help. I was wondering if anyone has any experience in the fixing and processing of mouse issues, namely prostate or bladder. I am currently trying to optomize protocols for this as I have very recently taken on the position of histology manager in a research lab, before this I worked with human samples. We have the VIP processor, and the protocol being followed at the mo is, fixation overnight (though the tissues are tiny) and then washed in PBS and then into 25% alcohol (sometimes over night) and then into the processor, the cycle starts with alcohol instead of formalin. I fear that the tissues are being overfixed and also does anyone leave their tissues in 25% alcohol before processing? Thanking you in advance for any input, Nessa _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From asmith <@t> mail.barry.edu Thu Feb 26 15:48:52 2009 From: asmith <@t> mail.barry.edu (Smith, Allen) Date: Thu Feb 26 15:50:00 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Nuclear fast red In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: I have used brazalum, made by substituting brazilin for hematoxylin in the recipe for Mayer's hemalum. It stains nuclei a slightly deeper red than nuclear fast red. Colorfastness is excellent. I have 40-year old slides stained with brazalum that still look as they did on the day I made them. Allen A. Smith, Ph.D. Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Robert Richmond Sent: Thursday, February 26, 2009 2:07 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Re: Nuclear fast red Nuclear fast red is a dye that will eventually go out of manufacture, and certainly if you're having trouble with it you need to be looking for an alternative. Anatech has been offering brazilin, a natural dye very similar to hematoxylin, except that with an alum mordant it's red rather than purple. They offer both the dry dyestuff, and a ready-to-use solution called "Brazilliant". I haven't seen this dye in action, and I'd like to know what results people are having with it. There is one problem on the horizon: unlike logwood, which is an invasive species in the Caribbean islands where it was introduced from Mexico, brazil wood is supposedly an endangered or threatened species. (I have no commercial connection with Anatech.) Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist Knoxville TN _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet From histonet.nospam <@t> vneubert.com Thu Feb 26 17:25:12 2009 From: histonet.nospam <@t> vneubert.com (V. Neubert) Date: Thu Feb 26 17:25:20 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Dilution of acetone Message-ID: <49A724D8.10808@vneubert.com> Dear Histonetters, to which level can I dilute acetone with water? Any chance to get it to 50% acetone / 50% a. dest. or even further? Thank you for replying ASAP :) Have a nice weekend, Valentin From jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com Thu Feb 26 17:41:29 2009 From: jnocito <@t> satx.rr.com (JoeNocito) Date: Thu Feb 26 17:41:28 2009 Subject: [Histonet] overseas jobs Message-ID: <005401c9986b$bf85a820$3e90f860$@rr.com> Howdy Histo land, I'm posting this message for one of my current students. She graduates in August from the Histology program and wants to know what the job market is overseas, especially in the U.K. Any ideas? What will she have to do to be able to work in Europe or Australia? Thanks for your time. JTT From Tony_Reilly <@t> health.qld.gov.au Thu Feb 26 18:32:27 2009 From: Tony_Reilly <@t> health.qld.gov.au (Anthony Reilly) Date: Thu Feb 26 18:33:18 2009 Subject: [Histonet] overseas jobs In-Reply-To: <005401c9986b$bf85a820$3e90f860$@rr.com> References: <005401c9986b$bf85a820$3e90f860$@rr.com> Message-ID: <49A7C13B.471C.0039.0@health.qld.gov.au> Hello Joe This is an interesting question following on from all of the discussion recently about uncertified techs. In Australia you need tertiary qualifications to work in a technical position in Histology. Histologists are regarded and paid at the same level as all other staff working in medical pathology laboratories. There are 2 levels of staff with those people with an Associate Diploma called Laboratory Technicians and those with a degree called Medical Scientists ( a little extra pay) generally, though the names can vary a little from region to region. Most Scientists have done a B.Sc in Medical Laboratory Science which involves studying Histology, Haematology, Biochemistry, Blood Transfusion Medicine, Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Studies and qualifies the graduate to work in any of these fields and I have known a number of people including my wife who have changed vocation more than once in their working life. She started in Microbiology had 8 years in Histology including EM moved to Haematology for a few years and now runs a smaller multiskilled laboratory where she does Haematology, Blood Banking, Biochemistry and limited Microbiology on a daily basis. The first 7 years of my working life were spent in Histology during the day and on the on-call roster for nights and weekends to do Haematology, Blood Banking, Biochemistry and Microbiology. Hence the equal status with other disciplines. To get back to your original question she would need firstly to get a work visa as in my organisation (public government laboratory) we are not permitted to interview anybody who does not have a work visa and we can not arrange for people to get them. Secondly she would need to get her qualifications assessed by either a government body or our institute the Australian Institute of Medical Scientists (AIMS). Their website can be found on the net. If she is graded at degree level she can be employed as a Medical Scientist, if assessed at Diploma level employed as a Technician but if it is assessed below that level such as a certificate she could only be employed as a Laboratory Assistant. ( much less pay) I hope this is useful. P.S. I always enjoy your insightful contributions to the Histonet. regards Tony Reilly Chief Scientist Anatomical Pathology Pathology Queensland Level 1, Building 15 Princess Alexandra Hospital Ipswich Rd, Woolloongabba Q 4102 Australia Ph: 07 32402412 Fax:07 32402930 tony_reilly@health.qld.gov.au >>> "JoeNocito" 27/02/2009 9:41 am >>> Howdy Histo land, I'm posting this message for one of my current students. She graduates in August from the Histology program and wants to know what the job market is overseas, especially in the U.K. Any ideas? What will she have to do to be able to work in Europe or Australia? Thanks for your time. JTT _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ******************************************************************************** This email, including any attachments sent with it, is confidential and for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). This confidentiality is not waived or lost, if you receive it and you are not the intended recipient(s), or if it is transmitted/received in error. Any unauthorised use, alteration, disclosure, distribution or review of this email is strictly prohibited. The information contained in this email, including any attachment sent with it, may be subject to a statutory duty of confidentiality if it relates to health service matters. If you are not the intended recipient(s), or if you have received this email in error, you are asked to immediately notify the sender by telephone collect on Australia +61 1800 198 175 or by return email. You should also delete this email, and any copies, from your computer system network and destroy any hard copies produced. If not an intended recipient of this email, you must not copy, distribute or take any action(s) that relies on it; any form of disclosure, modification, distribution and/or publication of this email is also prohibited. Although Queensland Health takes all reasonable steps to ensure this email does not contain malicious software, Queensland Health does not accept responsibility for the consequences if any person's computer inadvertently suffers any disruption to services, loss of information, harm or is infected with a virus, other malicious computer programme or code that may occur as a consequence of receiving this email. Unless stated otherwise, this email represents only the views of the sender and not the views of the Queensland Government. ********************************************************************************** From srnty <@t> aol.com Thu Feb 26 20:04:15 2009 From: srnty <@t> aol.com (srnty@aol.com) Date: Thu Feb 26 20:04:27 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Is it the processing? Message-ID: <8CB6696D39CBDEC-13C8-F36@WEBMAIL-MB03.sysops.aol.com> Dear valued colleagues, ? After 30 years as a histotechnologist, I left the field to pursue a different career about 8 years ago. Now I?m working part-time evenings in a lab that does GI biopsies exclusively, processing them with a TBS SHUR/Wave 1200 microwave. ? The tech who does the cutting and staining during the day is having?difficulties with special stain quality consistency. Specifically with the Trichrome and Giemsa for Helicobacter. Now this is a very experienced tech who has never had this problem anywhere else she has worked. She does beautiful work, genuinely cares about quality, and is meticulous in following procedure. ? ? Since I have no experience with microwave processing, these are our only thoughts: The microwave processing is inconsistent causing the inconsistent staining. The physician reading the slides has much higher standards than any of the other pathologists she has worked with! Before I do a potentially massive series of trials to see if we can identify the problem, I thought I would ask if anyone out there has any related experience that they would share that might be helpful? ? Many, many thanks! Marg Hagerty, HT, HTL, QIHC From RSRICHMOND <@t> aol.com Thu Feb 26 22:42:36 2009 From: RSRICHMOND <@t> aol.com (Robert Richmond) Date: Thu Feb 26 22:42:43 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Nuclear fast red In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Sarah Jones at Dako responds - and Sarah, please forgive me for quoting you onto Histonet, but this seems to me to be a public message: > Brazilliant will soon not be available for some time. The government in the > state of Pernambuco in Brazil has declared a 10 year moratorium on the > felling of the Pernambuco trees from which this dye is made. This took > place in September of 2007, if I remember correctly. Violin bows are also > made from this tree. I was doing some work here at Dako trying to use it in > place of Nuclear Fast Red. But when I learned of this moratorium (at the > Biological Stain Commission Annual Meeting in June of 2008), I stopped > working on it. I believe I sent you some of my photomicrographs taken at > that time. I never heard back from you, so I thought you lost interest. I > can send them to you again if you want me to. Just let me know. And Allen Smith responded: > I have used brazalum, made by substituting brazilin for hematoxylin in the recipe for Mayer's hemalum. It stains nuclei a slightly deeper red than nuclear fast red. Colorfastness is excellent. I have 40-year old slides stained with brazalum that still look as they did on the day I made them. > Allen A. Smith, Ph.D. > Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine ********************** I think this clarifies the problem. I would hope that something could be worked out with the Brazilian government for the very small amount of brazil wood histologists require, but the Brazilian government has been difficult about issues like this - see a number of citations in Science over the last few years. Sarah, I was much impressed by your photomicrographs of stains with brazalum nuclear counterstaining, and I apologize for having failed to reply earlier. Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist Knoxville TN From louise.renton <@t> gmail.com Fri Feb 27 01:59:27 2009 From: louise.renton <@t> gmail.com (louise renton) Date: Fri Feb 27 01:59:32 2009 Subject: [Histonet] thanks Message-ID: thanks to all who replied to my query regarding slide filing pages - I have lots of browsing to do today - yay!!! have a great weekend! -- Louise Renton Bone Research Unit University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg South Africa "There are nights when the wolves are silent and only the moon howls". George Carlin No trees were killed in the sending of this message. However, many electrons were terribly inconvenienced. From lpendovski <@t> fvm.ukim.edu.mk Fri Feb 27 07:59:16 2009 From: lpendovski <@t> fvm.ukim.edu.mk (Lazo Pendovski) Date: Fri Feb 27 08:01:10 2009 Subject: [Histonet] sodium 5.5-diehylbarbiturate Message-ID: <001a01c998e3$95b03100$b364a8c0@LazoAnatomija> Hi, I need help with ATPase muscle fiber staining in lambs. I am investigating the skeletal muscle fibers in lambs breaded extensively in mount-hills regions in Macedonia. But, I have a problem with a one chemical - sodium 5.5-diehylbarbiturate. The problem is that I can't get this substance in my country. So please, does any one know substitute or a protocol without Sodium barbital? Any help you can give me would be greatly appreciated. Lazo ass. m-r Lazo Pendovski, M.Sc., DVM University of St. "Cyril and Methodist" Faculty of Veterinary medicine Department of Functional Morphology Lazar Pop- Trajkov 5-7 1000 Skopje, R. of Macedonia tel: +389 2 3240 710 fax: +389 2 3114 619 mob:+389 70 766 017 e-mail: lpendovski@fvm.ukim.edu.mk From adafeldman <@t> anatechltdusa.com Fri Feb 27 11:11:16 2009 From: adafeldman <@t> anatechltdusa.com (Ada Feldman) Date: Fri Feb 27 11:11:24 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Brazilliant In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: For general information: Brazilliant is the product name for Anatech's red nuclear stain solution. It is available and will continue to be available for the foreseeable future. The dye brazilin used to prepare Brazilliant also will continue to be available from Anatech. Ada T. Feldman ANATECH LTD. 1020 Harts Lake Road Battle Creek, MI 49037 Phone: 800.262.8324 Fax: 269.964.8084 email: adafeldman@anatechltdusa.com website: www.anatechltdusa.com On Feb 26, 2009, at 11:42 PM, Robert Richmond wrote: > Sarah Jones at Dako responds - and Sarah, please forgive me for > quoting you onto Histonet, but this seems to me to be a public > message: > >> Brazilliant will soon not be available for some time. The >> government in the >> state of Pernambuco in Brazil has declared a 10 year moratorium on >> the >> felling of the Pernambuco trees from which this dye is made. This >> took >> place in September of 2007, if I remember correctly. Violin bows >> are also >> made from this tree. I was doing some work here at Dako trying to >> use it in >> place of Nuclear Fast Red. But when I learned of this moratorium >> (at the >> Biological Stain Commission Annual Meeting in June of 2008), I >> stopped >> working on it. I believe I sent you some of my photomicrographs >> taken at >> that time. I never heard back from you, so I thought you lost >> interest. I >> can send them to you again if you want me to. Just let me know. > > And Allen Smith responded: > >> I have used brazalum, made by substituting brazilin for >> hematoxylin in the recipe for Mayer's hemalum. It stains nuclei a >> slightly deeper red than nuclear fast red. Colorfastness is >> excellent. I have 40-year old slides stained with brazalum that >> still look as they did on the day I made them. >> Allen A. Smith, Ph.D. >> Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine > ********************** > I think this clarifies the problem. I would hope that something could > be worked out with the Brazilian government for the very small amount > of brazil wood histologists require, but the Brazilian government has > been difficult about issues like this - see a number of citations in > Science over the last few years. > > Sarah, I was much impressed by your photomicrographs of stains with > brazalum nuclear counterstaining, and I apologize for having failed to > reply earlier. > > Bob Richmond > Samurai Pathologist > Knoxville TN > > _______________________________________________ > Histonet mailing list > Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu > http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet > From RSRICHMOND <@t> aol.com Fri Feb 27 11:33:45 2009 From: RSRICHMOND <@t> aol.com (Robert Richmond) Date: Fri Feb 27 11:33:50 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Brazilliant In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Ada Feldman at Anatech, thanks for setting us all straight about the availability of brazilin and Brazilliant. I think it's very important that this dye get into histologic use, given the uncertain future of nuclear fast red. Apparently Anatech has found a source for brazilin other than the endangered brazilwood (Caesalpinia echinata). According to the Wikipedia article http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilin several other species of Caesalpinia contain brazilin. Ada, would it be appropriate to ask what Anatech's source is? That Wikipedia article doesn't mention the histologic use of brazilin. much less contain a photomicrograph. Could somebody fix that? - I haven't yet learned how to edit Wikipedia. Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist Knoxville TN ******************************************************************* On Fri, Feb 27, 2009 at 12:11 PM, Ada Feldman wrote: > For general information: > Brazilliant is the product name for Anatech's red nuclear stain solution. It > is available and will continue to be available for the foreseeable future. > The dye brazilin used to prepare Brazilliant also will continue to be > available from Anatech. > > > Ada T. Feldman > ANATECH LTD. > 1020 Harts Lake Road > Battle Creek, MI 49037 > Phone: 800.262.8324 > Fax: 269.964.8084 > email: adafeldman@anatechltdusa.com > website: www.anatechltdusa.com > > > On Feb 26, 2009, at 11:42 PM, Robert Richmond wrote: > > Sarah Jones at Dako responds - and Sarah, please forgive me for > quoting you onto Histonet, but this seems to me to be a public > message: > > Brazilliant will soon not be available for some time. The government in the > state of Pernambuco in Brazil has declared a 10 year moratorium on the > felling of the Pernambuco trees from which this dye is made. This took > place in September of 2007, if I remember correctly. Violin bows are also > made from this tree. I was doing some work here at Dako trying to use it in > place of Nuclear Fast Red. But when I learned of this moratorium (at the > Biological Stain Commission Annual Meeting in June of 2008), I stopped > working on it. I believe I sent you some of my photomicrographs taken at > that time. I never heard back from you, so I thought you lost interest. I > can send them to you again if you want me to. Just let me know. > > And Allen Smith responded: > > I have used brazalum, made by substituting brazilin for hematoxylin in the > recipe for Mayer's hemalum. It stains nuclei a slightly deeper red than > nuclear fast red. Colorfastness is excellent. I have 40-year old slides > stained with brazalum that still look as they did on the day I made them. > Allen A. Smith, Ph.D. > Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine > > ********************** > I think this clarifies the problem. I would hope that something could > be worked out with the Brazilian government for the very small amount > of brazil wood histologists require, but the Brazilian government has > been difficult about issues like this - see a number of citations in > Science over the last few years. > Sarah, I was much impressed by your photomicrographs of stains with > brazalum nuclear counterstaining, and I apologize for having failed to > reply earlier. > Bob Richmond > Samurai Pathologist > Knoxville TN From arvidsonkristen <@t> yahoo.com Fri Feb 27 12:00:50 2009 From: arvidsonkristen <@t> yahoo.com (kristen arvidson) Date: Fri Feb 27 12:00:58 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Quality assurance program Message-ID: <867120.97110.qm@web65708.mail.ac4.yahoo.com> I would like to do something different (more) than what we are doing right now with qa/qc.? We write everything down that we do so we can track it and then when there are mistakes I will talk to the person who makes them.? What are people doing in their labs to stop these mistakes in the first place? I know there are tools out there like L.E.A.N, but I was hoping to go another route for now.? I have added more check lists and made many process changes but sometimes I feel as though people need extra incentive to do well.? Sad but true.? Thanks for any help!! From ranna_m <@t> hotmail.com Fri Feb 27 11:34:24 2009 From: ranna_m <@t> hotmail.com (ranna_m@hotmail.com) Date: Fri Feb 27 12:07:11 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Vacation reply In-Reply-To: Message-ID: New shopping new life! ? trading compa digital product fac wholesalers,retailsalers,and personal custo world. They export all kinds of digital products and offer competitive and reasonable price and high quality goods for our clien ts,so i think we you make a big profit if we do business with them.And th after-sales-service.In my opinion we that. Look forward to your early reply!< [1]www.keyavo.com E-mail: [2]keyavo@188.com MSN : [3]keyavo@live.cn References 1. 3D"http://www.keyavo.com/" 2. file://localhost/tmp/3D"m 3. 3D"mailto:keyavo From gvdobbin <@t> ihis.org Fri Feb 27 12:15:29 2009 From: gvdobbin <@t> ihis.org (Greg Dobbin) Date: Fri Feb 27 12:15:57 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Embedding bone marrow aspirates Message-ID: Hello Colleagues, I'm looking for opinions/experience regarding the following idea: I am thinking about using Histogel (not pushing this product over another, just don't know what else to call it!!) to localize the aspirate to a more confined area, hopefully more consistently on a single plane, and perhaps improve the "cutability" of the more brittle, crumbly specimens. Currently we filter BM aspirates with a piece of lenspaper, scrape the tissue from the "filter" onto a smaller piece of lenspaper that is then folded and placed between 2 biopsy pads in a cassette. Then the embedder has to scrape the processed material into the embedding mold and hopefully get most of it in the same plane (which he does reasonably well). What I would like to do is scrape most of the tissue to the bottom of the lenspaper filter cone, add histogel and then place the resulting pellet in a cassette for subsequent processing. I look forward to reading your knowledgeable replies. Have a nice weekend everyone. Sincerely, Greg Greg Dobbin, R.T. Chief Technologist, Anatomic Pathology Dept. of Laboratory Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, P.O. Box 6600 Charlottetown, PE C1A 8T5 Phone: (902) 894-2337 Fax: (902) 894-2385 "I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have." - Thomas Jefferson ------------------------- Statement of Confidentiality This message (including attachments) may contain confidential or privileged information intended for a specific individual or organization. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately. If you are not the intended recipient, you are not authorized to use, disclose, distribute, copy, print or rely on this email, and should promptly delete this email from your entire computer system. D?claration de confidentialit? Le pr?sent message (y compris les annexes) peut contenir des renseignements confidentiels ? l'intention d'une personne ou d'un organisme particulier. Si vous avez re?u la pr?sente communication par erreur, veuillez en informer l'exp?diteur imm?diatement. Si vous n'?tes pas le destinataire pr?vu, vous n'avez pas le droit d'utiliser, divulguer, distribuer, copier ou imprimer ce courriel ou encore de vous en servir, et vous devriez l'effacer imm?diatement de votre syst?me informatique. ------------------------- From nsnauss <@t> bellsouth.net Fri Feb 27 12:42:00 2009 From: nsnauss <@t> bellsouth.net (Nathanial nauss) Date: Fri Feb 27 12:42:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sulfated Alcian Blue Message-ID: <116774.23931.qm@web83908.mail.sp1.yahoo.com> I need some help, has any one used the sulfated alcian blue to stain for amyloid.? We have a case that looks like it should be positive but it is not staining with the Congo Red.? Any help would be great. Nathaniel From melissa.ribeiro <@t> brinegroup.com Fri Feb 27 12:47:47 2009 From: melissa.ribeiro <@t> brinegroup.com (Melissa Ribeiro) Date: Fri Feb 27 12:47:52 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Help, Histotechnologist with grossing experience References: <174479.25186.qm@web38201.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <43904A2EECEAB54D8A023931049FEA4C0D6117@brin-sbs01.brinegroup.local> Hi members of Histonet, I am having a hard time finding Histotechnologists in the Boston, MA area who have experience in Grossing ... could someone help me or guide me in the right direction? It looks like I can only find PA's who have this specific skill. I am recruiting around a Histotech, Grosser position in a non-hospital clinical lab and my client has request someone who is HT or HTL, but not a PA. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Melissa Ribeiro Healthcare Division Brine Group Staffing Solutions 20 Mall Road, Suite 225 Burlington, MA 01803 mribeiro@brinegroup.com Ph. (781) 272-3400 ext. 228 Fax (781) 494-3401 From TJJ <@t> stowers.org Fri Feb 27 12:49:39 2009 From: TJJ <@t> stowers.org (Johnson, Teri) Date: Fri Feb 27 12:50:11 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Re: Ideal fixation of mouse prostate Message-ID: Vanessa, Overnight fixation should not be a problem for these samples depending on what will be done to them at a later time. For samples needing studies for mRNA or some IHC markers, you want to avoid prolonged exposure to formalin fixation. You'll need to optimize your fixation based on those needs. If it is for H&E or routine special stains only, overnight is fine. Regarding leaving in 25% alcohol, that also shouldn't be a problem but if it isn't necessary, why do it? We routinely fix our samples overnight, and then dehydrate to 70% alcohol where they may have to sit until we can get them on the processor if it is already running another program. Our tissue processor starts in 70% alcohol. We have not experienced any issues with having tissue samples too brittle from sitting in this alcoholic solution. For paraffin processing, you should only need 10-20 minutes per station on the VIP processor. You should avoid extended times in absolute alcohol and xylenes because your samples will get overly brittle. We have one xylene station on our processor, followed by two stations of Clear-Rite 3. We use the one station of xylene because it is more tolerant to water than the Clear-Rite 3. There is generally enough humidity around here that it may affect our processor solutions. The Clear-Rite 3 completes the clearing step and is a better agent (in my opinion) for mouse tissues than using 3 changes of xylene. Others on this list use xylene routinely with no trouble. Teri Johnson, HT(ASCP)QIHC Managing Director Histology Facility Stowers Institute for Medical Research 1000 E. 50th St. Kansas City, MO 64110 From JWeems <@t> sjha.org Fri Feb 27 12:50:48 2009 From: JWeems <@t> sjha.org (Weems, Joyce) Date: Fri Feb 27 12:52:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Sulfated Alcian Blue In-Reply-To: <116774.23931.qm@web83908.mail.sp1.yahoo.com> References: <116774.23931.qm@web83908.mail.sp1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA5364795@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> We use it all the time. What can I do to help? J Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Nathanial nauss Sent: Friday, February 27, 2009 1:42 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Sulfated Alcian Blue I need some help, has any one used the sulfated alcian blue to stain for amyloid.? We have a case that looks like it should be positive but it is not staining with the Congo Red.? Any help would be great. Nathaniel _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. From carl.hobbs <@t> kcl.ac.uk Fri Feb 27 14:39:37 2009 From: carl.hobbs <@t> kcl.ac.uk (Hobbs, Carl) Date: Fri Feb 27 14:40:35 2009 Subject: [Histonet] re: Nuclear fast red Message-ID: <11D9615B89C10747B1C985966A63D7CA293AC44B15@KCL-MAIL04.kclad.ds.kcl.ac.uk> My sincere apologies...I uploaded the previous Histonet list because I forgot to enter the appropriate "re: xxxx" in "subject" of email. Contrite carl From CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org Fri Feb 27 16:40:36 2009 From: CIngles <@t> uwhealth.org (Ingles Claire ) Date: Fri Feb 27 16:43:06 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tube station References: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com> <7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A17455BB4DE6@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> Message-ID: I always preferred King's Cross myself, but I was only visiting... Claire PS, Don't confuse us poor Americans. We're used to the 'L', etc. ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Edwards, R.E. Sent: Thu 2/26/2009 3:32 AM To: 'Emily Sours'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Tube station There is only one tube station, Mornington Crescent!!. From JWeems <@t> sjha.org Fri Feb 27 16:55:12 2009 From: JWeems <@t> sjha.org (Weems, Joyce) Date: Fri Feb 27 16:57:47 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Tube station In-Reply-To: References: <49A53A60.9B87.00AC.0@mercyhealth.com><7722595275A4DD4FA225B92CDBF174A17455BB4DE6@EXC-MBX3.cfs.le.ac.uk> Message-ID: <5D64396A0D4A5346BEBC759022AAEAA5364809@ITSSSXM01V6.one.ads.che.org> Oh... Now I get it!!! Duh... -----Original Message----- From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Ingles Claire Sent: Friday, February 27, 2009 5:41 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Tube station I always preferred King's Cross myself, but I was only visiting... Claire PS, Don't confuse us poor Americans. We're used to the 'L', etc. ________________________________ From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Edwards, R.E. Sent: Thu 2/26/2009 3:32 AM To: 'Emily Sours'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Tube station There is only one tube station, Mornington Crescent!!. _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This email, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete this message. From vapatpxs <@t> yahoo.com Fri Feb 27 17:23:46 2009 From: vapatpxs <@t> yahoo.com (Va Paula Sicurello) Date: Fri Feb 27 17:23:52 2009 Subject: [Histonet] Gills 3 Hematoxylin Message-ID: <604200.73025.qm@web46112.mail.sp1.yahoo.com> Hi Histo People, I tried to H&E with a Vector Lab's Gill's Formulation of Hematoxylin. Everything E'd just fine but there is no H. Is there a way to go back and re-H after coverslipping? As a clarifier I used 1% glacial acetic acid for 20 seconds and blueing was saturated Lithium carbonate. I am using Gill's of unknown age (for 1 minute), the slides seemed sort of light after the water rinses but I went on thinking it would blue later. Nope-there is no nuclear stain at all. Can I go back and fix this? Remove coverslips, rehydrate and re-Hematoxylin? Please give me any suggestions you can think of. These blocks were a pain in the rear to section and I'd hate to have to resection them. Boo-Hoo & Waaah, Paula Sicurello VA Medical Center San Diego Veterans Medical Research Foundation (VMRF) Core Microscope Facility, room B141 3350 La Jolla Village Dr., MC151 San Diego, CA 92161 858-552-8585 x2397 From gayle.callis <@t> bresnan.net Sat Feb 28 14:57:54 2009 From: gayle.callis <@t> bresnan.net (gayle callis) Date: Sat Feb 28 14:58:04 2009 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Acetone dilution Message-ID: <000901c999e7$39e0d1e0$ada275a0$@callis@bresnan.net> Valentin, Diluting acetone in no different than diluting another solvent e.g. absolute ethanol. I generally measure the water into a graduated cylinder, then add the solvent. So if you want 50% acetone, measure out 50 ml distilled water, then add acetone to the 100 ml mark on a 100 ml capacity graduated cylinder. I don't know of any reason why you could not do a different percentage of acetone, whether higher or lower either. Gayle M. Callis HTL(ASCP)HT,MT Bozeman MT