Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of detection and quantitation of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), and diagnosis and detection of various CTGF-associated diseases and disorders.

Abstract: The sample liquids analysis system includes a probe which is automatically operable to successively aspirate sample liquids and reagent and/or other sample liquids processing liquids and to dispense the same in turn into sample liquids analysis apparatus for automatic, successive sample liquids analyses. Isolation liquid supply apparatus are operatively associated with the sample liquids aspirating and dispensing probe and operate to introduce an isolation liquid which is immiscible with the sample liquids and which selectively wets the probe to the substantial exclusion of the sample liquids, to the probe to, in combination with operatively associated rinse liquid supply apparatus which operate to fill the probe with a rinse liquid between successive sample liquids aspirations, reduce sample liquids carryover to ultra low levels.

Abstract: The sample liquids analysis system includes a probe which is automatically operable to successively aspirate sample liquids and reagent and/or other sample liquids processing liquids and to dispense the same in turn into sample liquids analysis apparatus for automatic, successive sample liquids analyses. Isolation liquid supply apparatus are operatively associated with the sample liquids aspirating and dispensing probe and operate to introduce an isolation liquid which is immiscible with the sample liquids and which selectively wets the probe to the substantial exclusion of the sample liquids, to the probe to, in combination with operatively associated rinse liquid supply apparatus which operate to fill the probe with a rinse liquid between successive sample liquids aspirations, reduce sample liquids carryover to ultra low levels.

Abstract: The lamellar body solubilization test (LBST) is a rapid and simple indicator of fetal lung maturity. The amniotic fluid contains lamellar bodies, the presence of which can be correlated to maturation of lung tissue. The test is conducted by measuring a difference in an optical property (turbidity, light scatter, innate or added fluorescence) of a sample of amniotic fluid or other physical property affected by the presence of particulate bodies suspended in a liquid, either 1) kinetically (rate method) or 2) as an end point method (pre- and post-), due to the unravelling or solubilization of the lamellar bodies caused by subjecting the sample to a physical or chemical agent, e.g., detergent or heat. The change in that property either rate of change or delta, by the destruction of the lamellar body structure provides an accurate indication of the concentration and size of the lamellar bodies in the sample of amniotic fluid, which in turn provides a good indication of fetal lung maturity.