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Facility/Payload OverviewBrief Facility Summary
The Portable Clinical Blood Analyzer (PCBA) tests a blood sample for certain predetermined constituents The PCBA, a compact, automated instrument, performs the test of a 65 microliter sample in 120 seconds. The PCBA supported the Cellular Biotechnology Operations Science System (CBOSS) and StelSys Liver Cell Function Research (StelSys) investigations, a series of experiments to refine and further develop bioreactor technology. PCBA is also utilized for crew Medical Operations on the ISS.
Facility Manager(s)Information Pending
Facility DeveloperAbbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, IL
Sponsoring AgencyNational Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Expeditions Assigned|3|4|5|
Previous ISS MissionsInformation Pending
Facility/Payload Description
Facility Summary
- The Portable Clinical Blood Analyzer (PCBA) is a hand-held, automated instrument which analyzes fluid samples in small, portable cartridges to measure the acidity or alkalinity (pH); partial pressure of carbon dioxide (ppCO2), bicarbonate (HCO3), sodium (Na), potassium (K); and glucose levels. The test takes 120 seconds on a 65 microliter sample.
- The PCBA displays information on an LCD screen, which is protected by a translucent plastic cover to prevent breakage. The PCBA is powered by two 9-Volt alkaline batteries. The PCBA is a flight-certified piece of equipment that was previously flown in the Shuttle and Shuttle/Mir Programs.
The Portable Clinical Blood Analyzer (PCBA) is a hand-held measuring device used to measure the acidity or alkalinity (pH); partial pressure of carbon dioxide (ppCO2); and bicarbonate (HCO3), sodium (Na), potassium (K), chloride (Cl) and glucose levels in fluid samples.
The PCBA is designed to deliver quantitative results for a panel of tests on a single, small sample (approximately 65 microliters) in approximately 120 seconds.
The PCBA unit is a hand-held device similar in size to a television remote control device. The PCBA unit has a Hitachi 64180 microprocessor and can store 50 test records (230 bytes/record). It can withstand temperatures of -10 to 50 degrees Celsius, and up to 65% relative humidity during storage. The PCBA unit measures 3.5 cm x 6.5 cm x 18 cm and weighs 0.54 kg.
Four subsystems make up the PCBA: the mechanical system, electrical system, software, and a liquid crystal display. Once a sample is inserted into the PCBA for analysis, the mechanical system brings the PCBA's electrical connector into contact with sensors contained in a blood cartridge. The electrical system activates sensors and measures output signals. PCBA software controls both the electrical and mechanical systems, mediates the sequence of events, interprets the sensors' electrical signals, calculates analytic concentrations and controls the display of results and other messages. PCBA software can be programmed to analyze unique blood parameters.
The front panel of the PCBA has the following buttons: "0" through "9", "DIS", "CLR", "ENT", "PRT", "*", as well as unlabeled menu buttons: up and down. A Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) shows test results. Underneath the LCD display is a battery compartment; the PCBA runs on two 9-Volt batteries. A slot for the sample cartridge is located on the side. The PCBA can operate in the following modes: testing mode, data retrieval mode, and data download mode.
Prior to use, the PCBA undergoes two internal quality control tests. The first test uses a metal electronic cartridge simulator to electronically perform like a sample-filled cartridge when inserted in the PCBA. This reusable cartridge tests two known control solutions to verify the device can analyze specimens to pre-determined range extremes (high and low). While the PCBA performs internal electronic checks and calibration during each testing cycle, the electronic cartridge simulator provides an independent check on the ability of the unit to take accurate measurements of voltage, current and resistance from the cartridge. A PCBA will pass or fail this electronic test depending on whether or not it measures these signals within limits specified in the analyzer software.
Results of these tests are compared to PCBA range-control cards to verify that the PCBA is properly calibrated. A sample is then transferred to a cartridge that is placed into the PCBA for analysis.
The PCBA is approximately 8?x2?x2? in size and weighs approximately 2 lbs. Test cartridges are approximately 1?x1?x1/4?.
Operations
Facility Operations
On a daily basis, prior to use, the PCBA undergoes two internal quality control tests. The first test uses a metal, electronic cartridge simulator to electronically perform like a sample-filled cartridge when inserted in the PCBA. This reusable cartridge tests two known control solutions to verify the device can analyze specimens to pre-determined range extremes (both high and low). While the PCBA performs internal electronic checks and calibration during each testing cycle, the electronic cartridge simulator provides an independent check on the ability of the unit to take accurate measurements of voltage, current and resistance from the cartridge. A PCBA will pass or fail this electronic test depending on whether or not it measures these signals within limits specified in the analyzer software. Results of these tests are compared to PCBA range-control cards to verify that the PCBA is properly calibrated. A sample is then transferred to a cartridge that is placed into the PCBA for analysis.
Results/More Information
During operations on the ISS the PCBA has performed nominally.
Availability
Related Web Sites
Publications
Results Publications
Related Publications
- Smith SM, Davis-Street JE, Fontenot TB, Lane HW. Assessment of a portable clinical blood analyzer during space flight. Clinical Chemistry. ;43(6): 1056-1065. 1997
Images
NASA Image: ISS003E5572 - View of a Fixative Label Kit, Portable Clinical Blood Analysis (PCBA) equipment and caps in the U.S. Laboratory/Destiny taken during Expedition Three.+ View Larger Image
Information Provided and Updated by the ISS Program Scientist's Office