66 -- Multi-label counter

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) plans to negotiate on a sole source basis, with Perkin Elmer Life and Analytical Sciences for a Victor-D multi-label counter, product #1420-020 which includes fluorescence and time-resolved fluorescence, multicalc advanced operating/data reduction software for IBM compatible. Through this announcement, alternate sources are being offered the opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities to provide this equipment identified above. To be considered qualified, sources must submit a capabilities statement that demonstrates in writing their ability to meet the following requirements: The new fluorometer must contain gated capabilities to efficiently measuring Perkin Elmer DELFIA fluoroimmunoassay kits used in the laboratory. (It is imperative that the Perkin Elmer DELFIA FIA kits continue to be used for studies conducted in the laboratory to maintain consistency of results). Specifically, the fluorometer must be able to measure time-resolved fluorescence for the europium chelates used in Perkin Elmer DELFIA time-resolved FIAs. Measurements must be delayed about 200-400 microseconds after photo-excitation to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio. The fluorometer must be able to excite chelates with a pulse of light produced at a wavelength of about 335-340 nanometers, and read the fluorescent signal at a wavelength of about 615 nanometers. The excitation and emission cycles must repeat at least 1000 cycles per second. The fluorometer must be designed and constructed to provide optimal performance characteristics (precision & accuracy) when using DELFIA FIA kits, and to allow easy selection of assay protocols on the fluorometer's operating software. The instrument must be pre-programmed to accept and handle Perkin Elmer DELFIA FIA protocols. It must also be designed to allow for easy custom programming for additional assays. Pre-programmed and custom programmed data must be yielded using Windows-based software that has bi-directional communication with the fluorometer. The fluorometer software should allow the following data to be generated and accumulated:1. Automatically track and plot at least six levels of controls in a variety of outputs to include Levy Jennings Plot, CUSUM with V-Mask plate and display histograms of the data. 2. Automatically track and plot various trend parameters including ED-20, ED-50, ED-80, slope, y-intercept, and minimum detectable dose in Levy Jennings Plot, CUSUM with V-Mask Plot, and display histograms of this data. 3. Automatically track and plot at least six user-defined variables (e.g. running median, ED-70) in a Levy Jennings plot, CUSUM with V-Mask plot, and display histograms of this data. 4. Automatically track and plot daily patient means in a Levy Jennings Plot, CUSUM with V-Mask plot, and display histograms of this data. 5. Automatically calculate standard curves and patient doses. 6. Be able to halt a curve, and allow editing of standard points, without interrupting the instrument or system. 7. Allow utilization of a work listed to identify the samples that are being run. Qualified organizations may submit capabilities statement which addresses the requirements and contains material in sufficient detail to allow NIOSH to determine if the party can furnish the required equipment. Capabilities are to be received in the contracting office no later than fifteen days from the date of this announcement. Submit written information to NIOSH, Jennifer Bayer, C-5, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, Ohio 45226. Information received will be used solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed requirement is based upon responses to this notice and is solely within the discretion of the Government. All responsible sources may submit a response which shall be considered by the Agency.