6525--UV Cryostat 36C25626Q0610

Statement of Work 1.1 Background The Research Service at the Central Arkansas Veterans Health Care System (CAVHS) in Little Rock, Arkansas is requesting a new requirement for the purchase of an Epredia HM525 NX UV Cryostat to replace our old HM525. Our existing HM525 cryostat is almost 25 years old and well beyond its end of life date (2011). It does not always function properly, which can impede the progress and outcomes of the research projects. In research labs, cryostats play a key role in the study of tissues, allowing for detailed examination and analysis of various biological components. This cryostat will be used by various VA Merit funded laboratories. A cryostat is a specialized laboratory instrument used to maintain ultra-low temperatures to preserve and section frozen tissue samples, allowing for microscopic examination. By maintaining cryogenic temperatures, the cryostat ensures that delicate biological tissues remain intact, which is crucial for medical diagnostics and research purposes. The device operates at extremely low temperatures, which prevents tissue degradation. By freezing samples before sectioning, the cryostat enables the creation of thin tissue slices that can then be analyzed under a microscope. This process is vital for ensuring that the sample's structure remains unaltered, which is essential for accurate research outcomes. In research labs, histology and histopathology, cryostats play a critical role in preserving tissue samples and providing fast results. By using cryogenic temperatures to freeze and maintain the integrity of tissues, cryostats allow for efficient sectioning of specimens with precision. This process ensures that tissue samples remain intact for further analysis, contributing to quicker diagnoses and more accurate research outcomes. There will not be any VA Sensitive information associated with this requirement. 1.2 Objective Purchase a Brand Name Epredia HM525 NX UV Cryostat w EC70 pkg. Training shall be provided by the Technical Representative. Scheduling for training shall be coordinated with the COR/POC Robert Justus 501-257-4823 within 7 business days post installation. *Please refer to the Brand Name/Salient Characteristics document included in the acquisition plan and to be uploaded in FORCE for all required and Essential/significant physical, functional, and performance characteristics. 1.2.1 Line Items Required for Purchase 956641EC70 Ins HM525 NX UV w EC70 pkg