Background [0.33]{tone - important}//intro music//

• (Intro) The process of sample distribution is mission critical in Analytical Research and Development Syracuse N.Y.. (Past chart)The sample distribution process is responsible for expediting the appropriate samples and information to the scientists so that required analysis can be performed and communicated to other functional departments. This will advance potential candidates throughout the drug development pipeline. Any bottlenecks or miscommunications in this process can cause unwanted delays, confusion, and poor work efficiency.

Introduction to the Process [0.75] {tone - necessary yet not exciting}

• (Transition) In order to identify bottlenecks an evaluation of the sample distribution process was performed considering the impact of new technologies in automation and information management. (Current Chart) The result of this evaluation showed many process which are amenable to automation.
• (The paper trail) Currently all information is maintained on paper. Any time a scientist or manager needs information they must find it in folders and file cabinets. This makes the transfer and collation of information difficult and time consuming
• (The aliquoting process flow chart) A significant part of the sample distribution is the actual aliquoting process which is very tedious and mundane. It consists of creating and applying labels to every vial. Then the preparation of the source vial (The manual aliquoting) followed by the uncapping, aliquoting, and recapping of each vial. These tasks can become extremely time consuming taking into consideration the number of and the different type of samples required for analysis by the department.

Introduction to the System[0.5] {tone - powerful & impressive}//end intro music// //main music//

• (System pan the second one) A results of the evaluation of the process, is the Sample Distribution System. This system takes advantage of new technologies in the areas of information management, web development, and hardware from three separate vendors. Its primary components are a a Genesis Liquid Handling Station for sample aliquoting , Zymark XP Robot for the transporting of labware, and a BDC Barcode Labeler for creating and applying labels to destination vials.

• (Uncapping and labeling vials (first version)) The first part of the aliquoting process is the labeling and uncapping of vials. This is accomplished with the XP Robot, the BDC Labeler, and several other Zymark peripherals. Notice how the robot works in conjunction with the labeler and uncapper in order to concurrently complete the uncapping and labeling of vials.

• (Preparation of the source vial) Here the XP Robot will acquire the source vial from a temperature controlled rack[pause], use a linear shaker to ensure homogenity[pause], re grip the vial[pause], uncap the vial[pause], store the cap[pause], and places the vial into the deck of the Genesis. Notice the source vial remains under the sterile conditions of the hood throughout the process.

• (Aliquoting) A Genesis liquid handling station is used to perform the aliquoting of samples. First the system will prime itself, followed by a tip off and the acquisition of disposable tips. The tip off and disposable tips are used to ensure sample integrity. An inhouse automation team created a flexible software package used to run the Genesis. Here the flexibility is demonstrated using the liquid detection abilities of the Genesis to acquire the precise amount of sample needed. And the quick, accurate, and simultaneous delivery to the destination vials.

• (Capping and storing destination vials) Once the aliquoting is complete it is critical to cap and store the destination vials. The capping procedure was refined to create a smooth and efficient process. The entire capping is performed under the sterile conditions of the laminar flow hood[pause]. The systems supports several different temperature storage conditions, here the XP Robot places the destination vials into a - 20 degree Celsius freezer, from which the appropriate scientists can acquire their samples.

Interface[0.5] {tone - impressive yet easy} //end main music// //conclusion music//

• (Overview GUI) The entire functionality of the Sample Distribution System is controlled through a single interface. (GUI-mode and init) The operator has the ability to select different modes of operation[pause] and initialize the system accordingly.[pause] (GUI-work orders) Control of the setup and run parameters of the system is provided through variations of work orders. [pause] (GUI-Genesis) The operator has control over all system components, [pause] here the options for the Genesis are shown, notice different tabs for different functional groups such as error and event logging, diagnostics, configuration, general options, and notification messages.

STS[0.25] {tone - exciting and helpful}

• (STS System overview) One of the subsystems supported is the intranet enabled Sample Tracking System. (STS menus)This subsystem is designed for sample status management, inventory control, trail of custody, documentation of sample shipping, and generating several customized reports for prioritization of sample analysis, and a number of ad-hoc reports used throughout drug development.

Conclusion[0.5] {tone - important}

• (System pan) The Sample Distribution System takes advantage of state of the art technologies in order to improve efficiency and to assist in minimizing bottle necks and miscommunications in the sample distribution process. Tools such as the Sample Distribution System, allow Analytical Research & Development to meet decreasing timelines and increased sample load which help maintain Bristol Myers Squibb’s leading role in the pharmaceutical development.