The Z200 Open- FluorCam is a highly modular instrument with flexible geometry.  The LED panels and the light source generating saturating flashes can be arranged at various angles and distances from the sample.  The position of the camera may also be adjusted for added precision.  The maximum area for imaging with standard hardware is 13 x 13 cm, or 20 x 20 cm, depending on the size of selected light sources.  Much larger areas, up to 200 x 100 cm, can be imaged by the addition of LED panels and/or by mounting the whole system on a movable frame. Please  Contact Qubit for further details.

Applications

• Screening for photosynthetic performance
• Stress resistance or susceptibility
• Stomatal patchiness
• Metabolic perturbations
• Growth and yield

Samples:

• Leaves, plants, fruits, vegetables.
• Cyanobacteria, green algae.
• Sample size up to 13 cm x 13 cm, 20 x 20 cm.
• Imaging masks for 384-well plate, 96-well plate, Petri dish, etc.
• Dark room for adaptation as an option.

Experiments and Measured Parameters

• QA reoxidation (optional accessories)
• Quenching
• Kautsky induction
• OJIP (needs optional accessories)
• Fast fluorescence induction with 1us resolution (optional accessories)
• PAR absorptivity (needs optional accessories)
• Measured parameters: Fo, Fm, Fv, Fo’, Fm’, Fv’, QY(II),
• More than 50 calculated parameters including: NPQ, Fv/Fm (Maximum efficiency of photosynthesis), Fv’/Fm’, Fq’/Fm’ (Operating efficiency of photosynthesis PSII), Rfd, qN, qP, PAR-absorptivity, photosynthetic electron transport rate (ETR) and others

Images of more than 50 calculated parameters in one measurement:

Light Sources

• 4 Super Bright LED panels with different wavelengths (eg. 390, 450, 470, 505, 570, 605, 630, 735 nm (other also available))
• STF – Single Turnover Flash
• IR 735 nm (FAR)
• Actinic light up to 3,000 µmol (photons)/m²s
• Super pulse up to 7,500 µmol (photons)/m²s
• Variable excitation color

Different Emission Bands:

• 8 position filter wheel (optional).
• Chlorophyll fluorescence (high pass 695 nm, low pass 780 nm), GFP (high pass 495, low pass 660 nm, band pass 505/560

Imaging

• CCD format: 512 x 512 pixels, A/D: 12 bit (4096 grey levels), 50 images per second, 8.2-8.4 um pixel size (standard)
• CCD format: 640 x 480 pixels, A/D: 12 bit (4096 grey levels), 30 images per second, 6.45×6.45 um pixel size (optional)
• CCD format: 1392 x 1040 pixels, A/D: 12 bit (4096 grey levels), 6.45×6.45 um pixel size, 15 images per second (optional)

optional imaging formats are designed for measurements of slow processes and for applications where the higher spacial resolution is of importance.

FluorCam 7.0 Software

• Automated experimental protocols via a Windows Wizard
• Multiple (automatically repeated) experiments
• Automated labeling of individual plants, or samples, within the field of view
• Kinetic analysis of data from all samples within the field of view
• Numerous image manipulation tools
• Barcode reader support
• Export to Excel
• Windows 2000, XP, Vista

FluorCam software window:

Specifications:

• Fluorescence parameters (F0, FM, FV, FO’, FM’, FV’, QY(II)), Abs PAR-value, or the parameters that are calculated from fluorescence emission (e.g., NPQ, FV/FM, FV’/FM’, Rfd, qN, qP), PAR-absorptivity, photosynthetic electron transport rate (PS), and others
• Excitation light sources 390 nm, 450 nm, 470 nm, 505 nm, 570 nm, 605 nm, 630 nm, 735 nm, and others
• Saturating pulses intensity: Blue: Up to 6,000 µmol(photons)/m².s, Red: Up to 7,500 µmol(photons)/m².s, White: Up to 5,000 µmol(photons)/m².s
• Actinic light intensity Up to 3,000 µmol(photons)/m².s
• Filter wheel 8 positions
• Light regime Static or dynamic (sinus form)
• Actinic and saturating light Variable timing, special language and scripts
• Light regime Static or dynamic (sinus form)
• Custom defined protocols Variable timing, special language and scripts
• CCD detector wavelength range 400 – 1000 nm
• CCD format Standard: 512 x 512 pixels; optionally: 640 x 480 pixels or 1392 x 1040 pixels
• Pixel size 8.2 µm x 8.4 µm
• A/D bit resolution 12 bit
• Spectral response QE max at 540 nm (~70 %), 50 % roll-off at 400 nm and 650 nm
• Read-out noise Less than 12 electrons RMS – typically only 10 electrons
• Full-well capacity Greater than 70,000 electrons (unbinned)
• Imaging frequency 50 frames per second
• Bios Upgradeable firmware
• Communication port USB 2.0
• Dimensions 820 (W) x 820 (D) x 420 (H) mm in standard, 975 (W) x 975 (D) x 460 (H) mm in optional
• Weight Appr. 35 kg (standard), Appr. 55 kg (optional)
• Power Input Appr. 1100 W (standard), Appr. 1700 W (optional)
• Electrical 90 – 240 V

References:

• Berger S. et al. (2006): J. Exp. Bot. 58 (4): 797-806.
• Bartak M. et al. (2006): Ecophysiology 149 (4): 553-560.
• Zabka M. et al. (2006): Mycopathologia 162 (1): 65-68.
• Hajek J., Bartak M. and Dubova J. (2006): Biol. Plant. 50 (4): 624-634.
• Matous K. et al. (2006): Photosynth. Res. 90 (2): 243-253.
• Hogewoning S.W. and Harbinson J. (2007): J. Exp. Bot. 58 (3): 453-463.
• Bartak M. et al. (2007): Polar Biol. 31 (1): 47-51.

Applications:

• Screening for photosynthetic performance.
• Stress resistance or susceptibility.
• Stomatal patchiness.
• Metabolic perturbations.
• Growth and yield.

Samples:

• leaves, stems, seeds, roots whole small plants, fruits
• calluses and seedlings on petri plates
• Cyanobacteria, green algae.
• Sample size up to 13 cm x 13 cm.
• Imaging masks for 384-well plate, 96-well plate, Petri dish, etc.

Various Light Sources

• 4 Super Bright LED panels with different wavelengths (for example: 390, 450, 470, 505, 570, 605, 630, 735 nm, and others)
• Standard version of the FluorCam system includes one pair of LED panels (Measuring Light and Actinic Light 1) typically 618 nm. second pair of panels provides Actinic Light 2 and Saturating Pulse (these two panels are mounted on customer’s demand in blue (455 nm), red (618 nm), or white color), other colors also available as options
• Additional LED panel may be mounted around the camera to the top stand in infra-red (735 nm), ultra-violet (360 or 380 nm), or green (505 nm) (optional)
• Single Turnover Flash (STF): 120,000 µmol(photons)/m².s in 100µs pulse (in the Q_A re-oxidation version)
• Actinic light intensity:
  - 300-2,500 µmol(photons)/m²/s in the standard version depending on light wavelength,
  - up to 5,000 µmol(photons)/m²/s in the light-upgraded version
• Super pulse intensity:
  - up to 3,000 µmol(photons)/m².s (in the standard version),
  - up to 10,000 µmol(photons)/m².s (in the light-upgraded version

Different Emission Bands

• Filter wheel with 8 positions
• For chlorophyll fluorescence (high pass 695 nm, low pass 780 nm), GFP (high pass 495, low pass 660 nm, band pass 505/560 nm), PAR (clear glass), YFP, CY3, CY5 and other fluorescence colors (see Z125 GFP FluorCam-Closed)

Experiments and Measured Parameters

• Fv/Fm
• Kautsky induction
• Quenching analysis
• steady state fluorescence eg. ChlF, GFP and other FPs (filter wheel required)
• QA re-oxidation (needs optional electronic module)
• Fast fluorescence induction (OJIP) with 1µs resolution (needs optional electronic module)
• PAR absorptivity (needs optional accessories: filter wheel and additional IR LED panel)
• Measured parameters: F_O, F_M, F_V, F_O’, F_M’, F_V’, F_T
• More than 50 calculated parameters: F_V/F_M, F_V’/F_M’, Phi_PSII , NPQ, qN, qP, Rfd, PAR-absorptivity coefficient, electron transport rate (ETR), and many others

Images of more than 50 calculated parameter in one measurements:

FluorCam 7.0 Software

• Automated experimental protocols via a Windows Wizard.
• Multiple (automatically repeated) experiments.
• Automated labeling of individual plants, or samples, within the field of view.
• Kinetic analysis of data from all samples within the field of view.
• Numerous image manipulation tools.
• Barcode reader support.
• Export to Excel.
• Windows 2000, XP, Vista, W7 compatible

FluorCam Software window:

Specifications:

• Fluorescence parameters: (F0, FM, FV, F0’, FM’, FV’, QY(II)), Abs PAR-value, or the parameters that are calculated from fluorescence emission (e.g., NPQ, FV/FM, FV’/FM’, Rfd, qN, qP), PAR-absorptivity, photosynthetic electron transport rate (PS), and others
• Excitation light sources: 455 nm, 470 nm, 505 nm, 570 nm, 605 nm, 618 nm, 630 nm, 735 nm, white and others
• Saturating pulses intensity: 3,000 µmol(photons)/m²/s (in a standard version), 10,000 µmol(photons)/m²/s (in the light-upgraded version)
•  Actinic light intensity:   Up to 2,500 µmol(photons)/m²/s (depending on light wavelength)
• Filter wheel: 8 positions
• Light regime: Static or dynamic (sinus form)
• Actinic and saturating light: Variable timing, special language and scripts
• Custom defined protocols: Variable timing, special language and scripts
• CCD detector wavelength range:  400 – 1000 nm
• CCD format:512 x 512 pixels; optionally 1024 x 768 pixels or 1392 x 1040 pixels
• Imaging frequency: Maximum 50 frames per second
• pixel size: 8.2 µm x 8.4 µm; optionally 6.45 µm x 6.45 µm
• A/D bit resolution: 12 bit (4096 gray levels)
• Spectral response: QE max at 540 nm (~70 %), 50 % roll-off at 400 nm and 650 nm
• Read-out noise: Less than 12 electrons RMS – typically only 10 electrons
• Full-well capacity: Greater than 70,000 electrons (unbinned)
• Bios: upgradeable firmware
• Communication port: USB 2.0
• Dimensions: 471 x mm x 473mm x 512 mm
• Weight: 40 kg
• Power input: 1100 W
• Electrical: 90 -240V

References:

• Chi W. et al.(2008):Plant Physiol. 147:573-584.
• Miura E. et al.(2007): Plant Cell 19: 1313-1328.
• Hogewoning S.W. and Harbinson J. (2007): J. Exp. Bot. 58 (3): 453-463.
• Bartak M. et al. (2007): Polar Biol. 31 (1): 47-51.
• Pfalz J. et al. (2006): Plant Cell 18: 176-197.
• Berger S. et al. (2006): J. Exp. Bot. 58 (4): 797-806.
• Bartak M. et al. (2006): Ecophysiology 149 (4): 553-560.
• Zabka M. et al. (2006): Mycopathologia 162 (1): 65-68.
• Hajek J., Bartak M. and Dubova J. (2006): Biol. Plant. 50 (4): 624-634.
• Matous K. et al. (2006): Photosynth. Res. 90 (2): 243-253.
• Diaz C. et al. (2005): Plant Physiology 138: 898-908.

The Z125 GFP Closed FluorCam can serve for a number of applications using green fluorescent proteins in molecular and cellular biology.  The basic system of the Z100 Closed FluorCam (CCD camera, four fixed LED panels) is supplemented by a fully motorized and software-controlled filter wheel and appropriate filter sets for the detection and imaging of green fluorescent protein (GFP), red-shifted GFP, or yellow fluorescent protein (YFP).  The blue emitting and red fluorescent protein can be detected and imaged in absence of chlorophyll.  The device configuration also provides user-friendly and quick transition between the GFP and chlorophyll fluorescence detection and imaging.

Applications:

• GFP detection and expression studies.
• Screening of photosynthetic performance.
• stress resistance studies.
• Plant-microbe interactions research.
• Bacterial-protozoan interactions research.

Samples:

• Leaves, stems, seeds, roots whole small plants, fruits
• small animals
• calluses, seedlings on petri plates
• Cyanobacteria, green algae, bacteria.
• Sample size up to 13 cm x 13 cm.

GFP Arabidopsis seedlings on petri plate:

Experiments and Measured Parameters:

• Fv/Fm
• Quenching.
• Kautsky induction.
• QA reoxidation (needs optional accessories).
• OJIP (needs optional accessories).
• Fast fluorescence induction with 1µs resolution (needs optional accessories).

Key Features:

• Combines imaging of GFP and chlorophyll fluorescence.
• Included high-resolution CCD camera: full resolution 1392 x 1040 (15 fps), 30 fps at resolution 640 x 480; integration times from microseconds to seconds; binning options. The camera is specifically intended for detection of weak signals demanding long integration times; the setup retains most of the functionalities for chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics measurement.
• Four light-upgraded LED panels (4 panels 470 nm OR 2 panels 447 nm + 2 panels 470 nm OR 2 panels 627 nm and 2 panels 470 nm) Additional UV, 505, 570, 605, 630, 735 nm (optional).
• 8 position filter wheel – motorized and software-controlled (included).
• Adjustable shelf system for different plant sizes (included).
• Dark room for adaptation (included).
• Supplied with a high-end computer and user-friendly software (included).

Filter sets for the most commonly used GFP proteins:

Proteins of the GFP family demonstrate a great spectral diversity and they often have different excitation and emission spectra. Therefore it is important to use the most appropriate filter sets so as to obtain maximum sensitivity for GFP viewing.

• Red-shifted variants ( EGFP)

Single excitation peak is centered at about 488 nm and the emission peak is at 507 nm.
Suggested filter set: short pass 480 for excitation and 532/28 or 530/25 for emission.

• Original  GFP variants (GFP)

Single excitation peak is centered at about 395 nm and the emission peak is at 504 nm.
Suggested filter set: short pass 420nm for excitation and 532/28 or 530/25 for emission.

• Blue-emitting variants (EBFP)

Excitation peak around 384 nm and the emission peak near 448 nm.
Suggested filter set:  short pass 400nm for excitation and 469/35 for emission.

Tsien (1998). Annu. Rev. Biochem. 67: 509-544.

FluorCam 7.0 Software

• Automated experimental protocols via a Windows Wizard.
• Multiple (automatically repeated) experiments.
• Automated labeling of individual plants, or samples, within the field of view.
• Kinetic analysis of data from all samples within the field of view.
• Numerous image manipulation tools.
• Imaging masks for 384-well plate, 96-well plate, Petri dish, etc.
• Barcode reader support.
• Export to Excel.
• Windows 2000, XP, Windows 7, Vista compatible.

GFP expression in corn kernels as captured by GFP FluorCam – closed:

Corn kernels captured by the GFP FluorCam – closed.  GFP expressing kernels in upper rows, control kernels in bottom rows:

The Z450 Handy GFP Cam is designed for the investigation of green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression in small plants, leaves, animals, calluses and seedlings on plates, tissues or bacterial colonies both in the laboratory and the field.  Typical size of an investigated object is 3.5 x 3.5 cm or less.  Samples are placed within the field of view of the CCD camera, and fluorescence emission is monitored quantitatively.  Values are displayed numerically and are also used to construct a false colour image of the sample to show heterogeneity of the emission signal.   With modifications this fluorcam can also be used for chlorophyll fluorescence detection and imaging like the Z300 Handy FluorCam.  For imaging of  larger areas please see the  Z125 GFP FluorCam-Closed.

• Measuring unit consists of ultrahigh sensitivity CCD camera, objective, and a sample chamber with four integrated panels of LEDs. The measuring unit is portable and perfectly suited for field operation.
• Battery pack: GFP–FluorCam needs external NiMH batteries to operate. Small switching power supply for laboratory operation and battery recharging is provided. The batteries and the power supply fit inside a convenient shoulder bag.
• CCD camera is equipped with a F1/1.4 objective with zoom. It produces 512 × 512 pixel images of 12-bit  grey scale with a maximal frequency of 50 frames / sec. Images are recorded synchronously with measuring light flashes. Data transmission is facilitated via USB2.0 port.  Optional, high resolution CCD camera is available, 1392×1040 pixels (15 frames per minute) or 640×480 pixels (30 frames per minute).
• Light Sources: Measuring flashes and the continuous actinic light are generated in four panels, each containing 25 blue LEDs (max = 455 nm) or two blue LED panels and two cyan panels (475 nm). The LEDs generate measuring flashes of 10 μs -250 μs duration as well as continuous light of adjustable intensity (max. 2000 μmol photons m^-2 s^-1) and duration. The irradiance of the measuring flashes as well as of the actinic light at the sample level is uniform within ± 5 % over an area of 3.5 × 3.5 cm.
• Software: The instrument is controlled by a Windows 2000/XP, Vista compatible FluorCam software.  The easy-to-use software features various sophisticated mathematical operations for enhanced image contrast, noise filtering and many others: automated experimental protocols via a windows wizard, multiple experiments, intelligent image segmentation, automated labeling of samples (optional), kinetic analysis of data, image manipulation tools, export to Excel

• Computing: High-end notebook computer with USB 2.0 interface and the software are included.

Image of Arabidopsis seedlings on petri plate captured by GFP-cam.  GFP-expressing seedlings in red and WT seedlings in gray:

The Z450 Handy GFP-Cam is typically produced with 455 nm or 475 nm excitation LEDs and 510 nm emission filters. This combination is best suited for the popular EGFP (red-shifted variant).

Corn Kernels captured by the Z450 Handy GFP-Cam.  GFP containing kernels are in upper rows (lighter) and control kernels (no GFP expression) in bottom rows.

The Z500 Micro-FluorCam extends the complete capacity of kinetic Chlorophyll fluorescence imaging to the realm of individual cells and sub-cellular structures. All conventional fluorescence parameters can be mapped with micrometer resolution so that individual chloroplasts or even grana, stroma and thylakoid segments can be investigated.

The standard Micro-FluorCam allows imaging measurements of Chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics with a fixed set of excitation wavelengths (usually two); each wavelength is provided by an appropriate LED. It is based on a combined excitation/detection module that can be mounted to different microscope stands. For more sophisticated measurements and analysis see the Z550 Fluorescence Kinetic Microscope FC.

Key Features:

• 10 µs to 20 ms exposure time per frame
• 512 x 512 (or 640 x 480, or 1392 x 1040) pixels spatial resolution.
• 12bit dynamic range.
• 70 % peak quantum yield with about 4 electrons readout noise.
• Combination of kinetic Chl/GFP-fluorescence imaging and standard wide-field fluorescence microscopy (optional).
• Motorized 6-position filter wheel (optional).
• Multiple fluorophore imaging (optional).

Five Device Versions:

• Micro-FluorCam -ST
• Micro-FluorCam -EN
• Micro-FluorCam FC -MFW
• Micro-FluorCam FC -EFW
• Z550  Fluorescence Kinetic Microscope FC

1. Micro-FluorCam  -ST
Included Components: CCD camera; Simple microscope frame; Optical compartment; Control unit; High-performance PC; Excitation light sources; Software package; User’s guide.

2. Micro-FluorCam -EN
Included Components: CCD camera; Mechanically enhanced microscope frame (Olympus BX40) with exchangeable and extend able components; Mechanically enhanced optical compartment; Control unit; High-performance PC; Excitation light sources; Software package; User’s guide.

3. Micro-FluorCam -MFW
Included Components: 6-position mechanical filter wheel; CCD camera; Mechanically enhanced microscope frame (Olympus BX40) with exchangeable and extendable components; Mechanically enhanced optical compartment; Control unit; High-performance PC; Excitation light sources; Software package; User’s guide.

4. Micro-FluorCam -EFW
Included Components: 6-position fully software-controlled filter wheel; CCD camera; Mechanically enhanced microscope frame (Olympus BX40) with exchangeable and extendable components; Mechanically enhanced optical compartment; Control unit; High-performance PC; Excitation light sources; Software package; User’s guide.

5. Z550 Kinetic Fluorescence Microscope FC
Click here to learn more about the Kinetic Fluorescence Microscope.

Standard Camera:

• 512 x 512 pixels.
• A/D: 12 bit (4096 grey levels).
• 8.2 µm x 8.4 µm pixel size.
• 50 images per second.
• Advantageous for rapid processes measurements.

Advanced Camera:

• 640 x 480 pixels and 1392 x 1040 pixels, respectively.
• A/D: 12 bit (4096 gray levels).
• 6.45 µm x 6.45 µm pixel size.
• 30 and 15 images per second, respectively.
• Great for slow processes measurements and for applications where the higher spatial resolution is of high importance.

Imaging of Multiple Fluorophores:

• Chlorophyll fluorescence .
• Different fluorescence proteins (GFP, enhanced GFP, blue-emitting variant).
• Other fluorescent dyes (CY3, CY5).

References

• Kuepper H. et al. 2000. Photosyntetica 38 (4): 553-570.
• Ferimazova N. et al. 2002. Photochem. Photobiol. 76, 501-508.
• Vacha F. et al. 2005. Micron 36 (6): 483-502.
• Adamec F., Kaftan D. and Nedbal L. 2005. J. Phycol. 41, p. 835.
• Vacha F. et al. 2007. Micron 38, 170-175.

What leaf Image captured by the Micro FluorCam:

The Q-Box CO650 Plant CO₂ Analysis Package may be used to measure photosynthesis, respiration and photorespiration in attached or detached leaves maintained in a leaf chamber attached to an open flow gas exchange system.

Operation of the Q-Box CO650 involves the use of an infrared CO2 gas analyzer (Q-S151) to measure, at different times, the concentration of CO2 in a gas entering a leaf chamber, and the concentration of CO2 in the same gas after it leaves the chamber. Measurement of the difference between influx and efflux CO2 concentration (differential CO2) and measurement of the flow of gas through the chamber, allow calculation of photosynthetic CO2 fixation rate.  The method can also be used to measure CO2 evolution from the leaf in the dark (dark respiration) or in the light (photorespiration).

The Q-Box CO650 includes a Humidity/Temperature sensor (Q-S161) which measures relative humidity of the air before and after it has passed through the leaf chamber, and the temperature of the air at the RH sensor.  The RH differential between influx and efflux air, the air temperature, and the flow rate through the leaf chamber, allow calculation of leaf transpiration rates.

An LED Light Source (A113) supplies photosynthetically active radiation to the leaf with minimum heat load.  The LED light source can deliver approximately 1400 µmol photons/m2/s at maximum output.
For calculations of leaf conductance, leaf temperature measurements are required.  An optional S171 Leaf Thermistor can be added to the package and fitted in the bottom portion of the leaf chamber for measurements of leaf temperature during experiments.  If S171 is not included an assumption that the leaf temperature is the same as air temperature can be made.
Analog signals from all of the sensors are converted to digital signals via two integrated LabQuest mini interfaces (6 channels).  Data is displayed, recorded and manipulated on a PC or Macintosh computer using Logger Pro software.

The Q-Box CO650 Plant CO2 Analysis Package contains:

• Q-A101 laboratory stand (free standing or integrated into Q-Box)
• A113 LED Light Source
• Q-P651 Gas pump (4L/min no load)
• G112 Flow Through Leaf Chamber
• G122 Large Gas Bags (2)
• Q-G266 Flow Monitor (0-1L/min)
• Q-S151 CO2 Analyzer (0-2000ppm) (Includes CO2 and H2O scrubbers)
• Q-S161 RH/temperature sensor
• C610 two integrated LabQuest Mini data interfaces 
• C901 Logger Pro Software
• C404 Customized Setup Software
• Q-Box Accessory Kit
• Rugged Water-proof case housing the sensors and analyzers
• Manual
• individual power supplies for stand alone use of the sensors and analyzers

optional components:

• S171 Leaf chamber thermistor (for leaf conductance calculations)
• A248 Battery pack and charger (for field use)

Sample of data from a detached leaf:

Q-Box CO650 software provides a calculation template page so photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, leaf conductance can be easily determined.

Contact Qubit for more information on Q-Box CO650 package.

The Q-Box SR1LP Soil Respiration Package provides the user with all of the materials required to measure soil respiration using an open-flow gas exchange system when the rate of respiration is high, or as a closed-flow recirculation system when the rate of respiration is low.  The Battery Pack and Charger allow the use of the package in the field conditions.  Air is pumped at a known flow rate through the soil chamber and sensors.  The concentration of CO2 in the air is determined using the Q-S151 CO2 Analyzer.   In the open-flow system the difference in CO2 concentration entering the flow through the cuvette holding the soil sample and exiting it is used to calculate the rate of respiration.  In a closed-flow system the initial rate of CO2 accumulation in the soil chamber (placed on top of the soil surface) is used to determine the rate of respiration. 

 In addition to soil respiration Q-Box SR1LP package allows measurements of soil temperature with the S132 temperature probe and water loss from the soil with the S161 Temperature/Relative Humidity sensor.  The flow through the system is monitored by the Q-G266 Flow Monitor.  The Analog signals from all of the sensors and analyzers are converted to digital signals via two integrated LabQuest mini interfaces (6 channels).  Data is displayed, recorded and manipulated on a PC or Macintosh computer using Logger Pro software.

The Q-Box SR1LP Soil Respiration Package includes:

• Q-P651 Gas Pump (!L/min no load)
• G180 Soil Chamber with collar (10.2cm x 20cm high)
• G115 Flow Through Chamber (3.8 x 20cm)
• Q-S151 CO2 Analyzer (0-2000 ppm) (Includes CO2 and H2O scrubbers)
• S132 Temperature Probe
• Q-S161 RH/Temperature Sensor
• Q-G266 Flow Monitor (0-1L/min)
• G122 Gas Bags Large (30L x 2)
• A248 Battery Pack and Charger
• C610 Two integrated LabQuest Mini interfaces
• C901 Logger Pro Software
• C404 Customized Setup Software
• Q-Box Accessory Kit
• Rugged water proof case housing all sensors and analyzers
• Manual
• individual power supplies for stand alone use of analyzers and sensors

Sample soil respiration data from a closed-flow system:

Q-Box SR1LP software provides calculation templated for determination of soil respiration rates.

There are many other potential applications for Q-Box SR1LP package both in open flow and closed gas exchange systems.  For example, it can be used to measure CO2 exchange from any organism or sample maintained in a flow-through chamber.  In addition, it can be used to examine respiration or fermentation in aqueous suspensions when air or N2 is bubbled through the suspension and the outflow gas is analyzed using the CO2 Analyzer.  Provided that CO2 production rates are in the correct range, the package can be used to measure CO2 production of virtually any biological system. For more information on Q-Box SR1LP package please contact Qubit.

The PH1LP Photosynthesis teaching Package may be used to measure photosynthesis in attached or detached leaves maintained in a sealed leaf chamber. O2 is produced by the light reactions of photosynthesis causing an accumulation of O2 in the chamber, which is measured by a gas phase O2 sensor. The rate at which O2 concentration in the chamber increases provides a measurement of the rate of photosynthesis.

The PH1LP Photosynthesis Package includes everything you require to conduct numerous experiments investigating photosynthetic physiology in a teaching laboratory. You supply only the computer and the plant! Equipment specifications and experimental designs are fully documented in an Instructor’s Manual. A separate Student’s Manual guides undergraduates through experimental protocols and data handling. Minimal set-up time is required and experiments are easy to perform.

The PH1LP Package Includes:

• A101 Laboratory Stand
• A102 Accessories Bracket
• A111 Halogen Light Source
• A112 Voltage Regulator
• A211 Leaf Chamber Accessories Kit
• G111 Leaf Chamber
• G121 Small Gas Bags
• G123 12 Straws
• S101 Diffusion Based O2 Sensor
• S141 Light Sensor
• C410 LabPro Interface
• C901 Logger Pro Software
• C404 Customized Setup Software
• Instructor’s and Student’s Manuals

Photosynthesis requires both light and CO2. In the PH1LP Photosynthesis Package, light is provided by a halogen light source (A111), the intensity of which, may be varied by a sliding dimmer control (A112) . The amount of light passing through the leaf is measured by a photosensor (S141) placed beneath the transparent leaf chamber. CO2 is supplied from a gas bag (G121), which the user inflates with exhaled breath, the breath providing sufficient CO2 (usually about 3%) to saturate photosynthesis. The concentration of CO2 in the chamber declines as it is fixed in photosynthesis, and its rate of fixation is directly related to the rate of O2 production. Eventually, the CO2 concentration declines to a level that will not support net fixation, and O2 production ceases as a consequence. At this point (the CO2 compensation point) the O2 concentration in the chamber remains stable unless processes are activated that inhibit photosynthesis or stimulate respiratory O2 consumption.

The photosynthesis package is best used to measure photosynthetic O2 production under CO2-saturated conditions, and the experiments described in the manuals reflect its capability under these optimal conditions. However, there is great scope for measuring the effects on photosynthesis of other environmental parameters such as light quantity and quality. In addition, plants may be pre-treated in various ways that affect their photosynthetic rate and the effects of these treatments may be measured under conditions of both CO2 and light saturation.

The photosynthesis package may also be used to measure leaf respiration. If the flux of light to the leaf chamber is maintained below the light compensation point, respiratory O2 consumption will exceed photosynthetic O2 evolution, and the O2 concentration in the chamber will decline. The O2 sensor is able to measure this decline in O2 concentration, and the rate of decline provides a measurement of leaf “dark respiration”.

Applications

The Photosynthesis Package is suitable for use in both entry-level undergraduate courses and in research-based upper level courses. The Instructor’s Manual provides step-by-step protocols for each experiment. It includes suggested variations to make experiments more or less challenging.

Experiments Include:

• Photosynthetic rate
• Light compensation point
• Light saturation point
• Photochemical efficiency
• Wavelength dependence of photosynthesis
• Temperature effects on photosynthesis
• Photoinhibition
• CO2 limitation of photosynthesis
• Comparison of sun and shade plants
• Comparison of C3 and C4 species

A leaf is enclosed in a transparent chamber incorporating a sensor that measures photosynthetic O2 evolution. Calibration of the O2 sensor requires only that its output be adjusted to read atmospheric O2 level (20.9%). The student fills a gas bag with exhaled air (approximately 17% O2 and 3% CO2) which is then pumped through the chamber. The chamber is then sealed and the leaf illuminated with a halogen light source. Chamber O2 concentration increases as photosynthesis progresses.

Light level may be varied using a voltage regulator control. The light level used in the experiment is monitored by a light sensor situated beneath the leaf chamber. Light sensor output is given in µmol quanta/m²/s and no calibration is required. Analog outputs from both the O2 sensor and the light sensor are converted to digital signals by a LabPro Interface. They are recorded and displayed to the screen using Logger Pro data-acquisition software. The software is also used for subsequent data analysis.

In the following graph, the derivative of O2 concentration against time has been calculated to produce a data set representing photosynthetic rate (%O2 increase per minute). This derivative has been plotted against irradiance to generate a photosynthetic light response curve.

Dr. Steven Spilatro of Marietta College, Marietta, Ohio, has put together a great Photosynthesis Investigation Study Guide. It is definitely worth a look!

MCGES – Multichannel Gas Exchange System allows studies of metabolism and physiology of living organisms via measurements of gas exchange. Qubit Systems can provide Gas Exchange Systems customized to your specifications and needs, to study photosynthesis, respiration, transpiration, N2-fixation and other processes.

MCGES-Multichannel Gas Exchange System may be controlled by the C950 Multichannel Gas Exchange Software to measure the flow of gases to the samples, through the sample chambers and to the gas analyzers. The C950 software controls all data acquisition from the sensors and analyzers, graphically displays the data and calculates gas exchange rates as required. Please  Contact QUBIT with your specifications and we will design your gas exchange system.

In a MCGES the reference gas may be supplied to the system from an air pump or from compressed gas tanks or an air compressor. If several gas mixtures are to be used then a gas mixing system is included (G400). Gasses can be humidified and dehumidified using a humidity controller.

In a multichannel system the gas enters the flow controller where it is split between sample channels, the flow in each channel being controlled by needle valves and measured by separate mass flow monitor. Gas Flow Controllers are available for any number of channels in multiples of four (4 (G248), 8 (G245) channels etc).

Gas enters each sample chamber which may or may not be temperature controlled. The structure of the chamber will depend on the organism. At Qubit, we can build chambers to your specifications. The effluent gas from each chamber enters a Gas Switcher (4 channel - G243, 8 channel – G244) that selects one of the channels for analysis, and vents the others to the atmosphere. Alternatively, the gas flow through the non-selected channels may be stopped, sealing that channel.

Gas from the selected channel is analyzed by one or several analyzers that may be arranged in a series or in parallel. Qubit supplies a wide range of analyzers for measuring CO2, O2, water vapor, H2, CH₄, N2O and other gases. Different analyzers are available across a wide range of gas concentrations and offer various features such as on board data acquisitions, rapid response times etc. We also offer gas conditioning columns, such as scrubbers for water and CO2 (A382).

Qubit Systems personnel have been designing gas exchange systems for over 30 years, and have published extensively on the physiology of respiration, photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation. We are committed to providing researchers with the most appropriate gas exchange system for a particular application at the best possible price, and we are always available to provide expert advice freely without obligation.   Contact QUBIT for furhter information.

References:

• M. R. Odiere, K. G. Koski, H. A. Weiler and M. E. Scott. Concurrent nematode infection and pregnancy induce physiological responses that impair linear growth in the murine foetus. Parasitology Vol 137,  p991-1002 (2010).

• Jumbo-Lucioni P, Ayroles JF, Chambers MM, Jorday KW, Leips J, Mackay TFC, DeLuca M. Systems Genetics analysis of body weight and energy metabolism traits in Drosophila melanogaster. BMC Genomics:11 p297- 309 (2010)

The S191 Potometer may be used by itself or in conjunction with Qubit’s S161 Humidity and Temperature Sensor to measure changes in plant transpiration of a cut leaf or a branch as environmental and physiological conditions change. The S191 Potometer measures changes in pressure as a result of water uptake by the cut leaf or branch.  The sensor can be calibrated to relate such pressure changes to absolute rates of water uptake.

The S191 Potometer comes with flexible vinyl tubing of two different diameters. One end of a sealed vinyl tube is attached to the instrument, the other end to the cut stem of a plant or a petiole of a detached leaf. The tube contains an air bubble in contact with the Potometer and an unbroken column of water in contact with the cut end of the plant stem. The air bubble expands as the plant stem draws the water up the tube. The pressure sensor in the Potometer monitors the reduction in pressure within the air bubble. The Potometer can also be configured for measurement of root pressure. 

Qubit recommends the use of the C410 LabPro data acquisition interface and C901 Logger Pro software with the S191 Potometer.

Specifications:

• State-of-the-art monolithic silicon pressure sensor
• Response Time: 1 ms
• Pressure Range: 15 – 115 kPa
• Voltage Output: 0 - 5 V
• Temperature Compensated
• power supply: 9.0-12V, 0.56A
• size (h/w/l) cm 3.0/5.4/8.3
• weight (g): 100
• materials: plastic (black)
• Analog output requires Analong-to-Digital Interface (i.e. C410 LabPro Interface)
• warranty: 1 years