Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for treating bronchial constriction related to asthma, anaphylaxis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), exercise-induced bronchospasm and post-operative bronchospasm. The treatment comprises transmitting impulses of energy non-invasively to selected nerve fibers that activate neural pathways to reduce the release of acetycholine from airway-related vagal preganglionic neurons within the brain of the patient. The transmitted energy impulses, comprising magnetic and/or electrical energy, stimulate the selected nerve fibers to produce the bronchodilation.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve to treat or prevent disorders in a patient. The devices comprise a handheld device having one or more electrode interfaces for contacting the outer skin surface of a patient, a power source and a signal generator coupled to the electrode/interfaces for applying one or more electrical impulses to a deep nerve within the patient, such as the vagus nerve. The device further comprises a filter situated in series between the signal generator and the electrode/interfaces for filtering out undesired high frequency components of the electrical impulses to create a cleaner, smoother signal. The filter may comprise an electrically conductive medium and/or a low-pass filter between the signal generator and the electrode/interface.

Abstract: The monitoring breathalyzer has an alcohol sensor, a non-volatile memory, a processing unit or processor, and a screen. The processing unit determines the accuracy of the breathalyzer using the user's body as a simulator. In monitoring mode, the processing unit receives a BAC% measurement from the alcohol sensor based on the breath sample provided by the user at a sample time and determines a reference point from the BAC% measurement. The sample time is determined based on the user's metabolism rate or based on a time to a predetermined calibration point from a drink start time.

Abstract: Systems, devices and techniques are disclosed for optically detecting single molecules using nanoscale chip configurations. In one aspect, a sensing device includes a composite membrane having an array of nanochannels that form openings at opposing sides of the membrane, a first and second substrate each including channels to carry a fluid containing particles, a fluidic module that is fluidically coupled to the channels to supply the fluid, a plurality of electrodes located along the channels, and an electrical module to generate an electric field via the electrodes to effectuate an electrokinetic force within the channels to steer the particles toward the openings of the nanochannels to immobilize the particles, in which the nanochannels operate as resonant structures to amplify localized fields produced in an optical interrogation of the immobilized particles.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present techniques provide systems and methods for isolating particular classes of biological molecules, for example, proteins or nucleic acids, from mixtures of biological components. The methods use solutions that react with the biological molecules to enhance their adsorption by substrates, allowing contaminants to be washed away from the targeted molecules. Embodiments include automated systems that can be used to implement the technique with no or minimal intervention. Other embodiments include separation column technologies that may be used in the techniques.

Abstract: A method of forming a sensor component includes forming a first layer over a sensor pad of a sensor of a sensor array. The first layer includes a first inorganic material. The method further includes forming a second layer over the first layer. The second layer includes a polymeric material. The method also includes forming a third layer over the second layer, the third layer comprising a second inorganic material; patterning the third layer; and etching the second layer to define a well over the sensor pad of the sensor array.

Abstract: An electrode element and fuel cell and a new method of manufacturing a fuel cell, particularly for use in a breath alcohol detector. This new element includes a reservoir for extra electrolyte that can allow near perfect capillary action to keep the electrode substrate full of electrolyte for long periods of time, increasing its useful life, especially under harsh conditions. Further, the capillary action need not work through a layer of electrode and can be integrally formed with the electrode element to eliminate or reduce loss due to connective surfaces. Wire connections and arrangements are generally of no concern in this design as the reservoirs for electrolyte connect directly to the substrate and electrolyte does not need to pass through an electrode.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing a high-acidity vinegar with improved efficiency compared with conventional methods and a high-acidity vinegar obtained by such method. The method of the present invention is characterized in that acetic acid fermentation is conducted with a culture solution which contains a compound having a thiol group or an S-substituted derivative thereof or a compound having a disulfide bond as an additive wherein a total nitrogen content of the culture solution is 0.023 w/v % or less. According to the method of the present invention, a high-acidity vinegar, which has a total nitrogen content of 0.015 w/v % or less and an acidity of 10 to 25 w/v % and contains a compound having a thiol group or an S-substituted derivative thereof or a compound having a disulfide bond at a concentration of 17 ?M or more in terms of sulfur atoms contained in the thiol group or disulfide bond can be obtained.

Abstract: A system and method employing at least one semiconductor device, or an arrangement of insulating and metal layers, having at least one detecting region which can include, for example, a recess or opening therein, for detecting a charge representative of a component of a polymer, such as a nucleic acid strand proximate to the detecting region, and a method for manufacturing such a semiconductor device. The system and method can thus be used for sequencing individual nucleotides or bases of ribonucleic acid (RNA) or deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). The semiconductor device includes at least two doped regions, such as two n-typed regions implanted in a p-typed semiconductor layer or two p-typed regions implanted in an n-typed semiconductor layer. The detecting region permits a current to pass between the two doped regions in response to the presence of the component of the polymer, such as a base of a DNA or RNA strand.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device having at least one constriction that is sized to permit translocation of only a single copy of the molecule. The device has a pair of spaced apart sensing electrodes that border the constriction, which may be a nanopore. The first electrode is connected to a first affinity element and the second electrode is connected to a second affinity element. The first and second affinity elements are configured to temporarily form hydrogen bonds with first and second portions of the target molecule as the latter passes through the constriction.

Abstract: A system for administering negative pressure therapy to a wound includes a screen adapted to be positioned at the wound. A reduced pressure source is in fluid communication with the screen, and a Hood gas transducer is exposed to a reduced pressure provided by the reduced pressure source. The reduced pressure supplied by the reduced pressure source induces hyperperfusion of a blood gas at the wound.

Abstract: The invention provides a device for contacting a surface of a patient's body to determine a physiologic parameter in a measurement region of a tissue of the patient. The device typically comprises a sensor responsive to the physiologic parameter and a probe housing the sensor. The probe is constructed to allow the sensor to be secured at a sensing site adjacent to the measurement region, without disturbing the blood flow within the measurement region of the tissue. The device may also include a means for reducing interference in the sensing area. Preferably, the device further comprises an indicating means operably connected to the sensor for indicating an analyte quantity and/or concentration associated with the physiologic parameter.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing an optical semiconductor apparatus includes: cutting a UV-curable adhesive silicone composition sheet into small chips; disposing the resulted chip on a surface of an optical semiconductor device; irradiating UV-rays to the chip via a photomask according to lithography; developing an uncured portion of the chip with a solvent; and heat-curing after that. The UV-curable adhesive silicone composition sheet is obtained by forming a UV-curable adhesive silicone composition into sheet-form, the UV-curable adhesive silicone composition including: (A) an organopolysiloxane having a resin structure of R1SiO3/2, R22SiO2/2, and R3aR4bSiO(4-a-b)/2 units, (B) an organohydrogenpolysiloxane having a resin structure of R1SiO3/2, R22SiO2/2, and R3cHdSiO(4-c-d)/2 units, and (C) a photoactive catalyst. The UV-curable adhesive silicone composition is in a plastic solid state or a semi-solid state in an uncured state at room temperature.

Abstract: The embodiments relate to an apparatus and a method for detecting liquids or substances from liquids in spatially separate reaction zones. The embodiments further relate to the use of the apparatus in a plug-in module or a chip card which can be used for rapid immunological tests, for example, with the help of a reading device. The liquids or substances from liquids are detected by means of a sensor array which includes at least two sensors and on which at least one diaphragm is arranged. Individual sensors are spatially separated from each other on a plane by means of walls. The diaphragm can be filled with liquid that is to be analyzed. Sealed reaction chambers are created when pressure is applied to the diaphragm. Pores in the diaphragm are completely closed in the zone of the walls while the pores are merely reduced in size and liquid can continue to be exchanged in zones directly above the sensors.

Abstract: A nanogap sensor includes a first layer in which a micropore is formed; a graphene sheet disposed on the first layer and including a nanoelectrode region in which a nanogap is formed, the nanogap aligned with the micropore; a first electrode formed on the grapheme sheet; and a second electrode formed on the graphene sheet, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode are connected to respective ends of the nanoelectrode region.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cartridge (790) for processing a fluid comprising (i)a pre-treatment fluidic system with an inlet (710) via which the fluid can be supplied and at least one primary processing chamber (712) in which said fluid can be processed; (ii) a post-treatment fluidic system with at least one secondary processing chamber (755) in which fluid can be processed; (iii) a fluid-treatment element (701) that is permeable to at least a part oft he fluid and that couples the post-treatment fluidic system to the pre-treatment fluidic system. The fluid-treatment element may particularly be a filter material (701) integrated into at least one foil (702, 703, 704).

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement (1) and to a method for the electrical detection of liquid samples (5) by means of lateral flow assays. The lateral flow assay comprises a membrane (4) that is arranged on a front side of a first carrier (2). The first carrier (2) is electrically insulating. On the front side of the first carrier (2) between the carrier (2) and the membrane (4), electrically conductive electrodes (3) are arranged in direct contact with the membrane (4).

Abstract: An analyte sensor for the continuous or semi-continuous monitoring of physiological parameters and a method for making the analyte sensor are disclosed. In one aspect, the analyte sensor includes a crosslinked, hydrophilic copolymer in contact with a surface of an electrode, and an analyte sensing component embedded within the crosslinked, hydrophilic copolymer. The crosslinked, hydrophilic copolymer has methacrylate-derived backbone chains of first methacrylate-derived units, second methacrylate-derived units and third methacrylate-derived units. The first and second methacrylate-derived units have side chains that can be the same or different, and the third methacrylate-derived units in different backbone chains are connected by hydrophilic crosslinks.

Abstract: An analyte sensor for the continuous or semi-continuous monitoring of physiological parameters and a method for making the analyte sensor are disclosed. In one aspect, the analyte sensor includes an electrode, a sensing layer in contact with a surface of the electrode, and a protective membrane. The sensing layer is a crosslinked, hydrophilic copolymer including poly(alkylene oxide) and poly(vinyl pyridine), and an analyte sensing component is immobilized within the crosslinked, hydrophilic copolymer. The protective membrane is a crosslinked, hydrophilic copolymer including alkylene oxide, vinyl pyridine and styrene units. The method involves the formation of a sensing layer on a surface of an electrode, followed by the formation of a protective membrane on a surface of the sensing layer.

Abstract: A biochip including a plate-like diaphragm part provided with a through-hole, a wall part provided at an outer periphery of the diaphragm part, and a reinforcing part formed in a portion other than the through-hole in the diaphragm part.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include analyte-responsive compositions and electrochemical analyte sensors having a sensing layer that includes an analyte-responsive enzyme and a cationic polymer. Also provided are systems and methods of making the sensors and using the electrochemical analyte sensors in analyte monitoring.

Abstract: Generally, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to analyte determining methods and devices (e.g., electrochemical analyte monitoring systems) that have improved uniformity of distribution of the sensing layer by inclusion of a high-boiling point solvent, where the sensing layer is disposed proximate to a working electrode of in vivo and/or in vitro analyte sensors, e.g., continuous and/or automatic in vivo monitoring using analyte sensors and/or test strips. Also provided are systems and methods of using the, for example electrochemical, analyte sensors in analyte monitoring.

Abstract: A biosensor measurement system and a method for detecting abnormal measurement in a biosensor, which can significantly enhance the measurement precision without depending on the user's operation manner or the like, can be provided. A voltage application pattern for applying a voltage to a working electrode, a counter electrode, and a detection electrode has a halt period between a first application period and a second application period, and a reduction current measurement value obtained in the first application period is compared with a reduction current measurement value obtained in the second application period, and the measurement values are not outputted when a difference between the measurement values is outside a predetermined range.

Abstract: A coated-wire potentiometric sensor comprising an electronically conducting substrate electrode coated with an ionically conductive sensing layer and an outermost surface consisting of or comprising in and/or on a first molecular species which is capable of reversibly adsorbing a second molecular species and a method for measuring the affinity between a first molecular species and a second molecular species comprising the steps of: providing a potentiometric sensor of the coated-wire type having an outermost surface; adapting said outermost surface so that consists of or comprises said first molecular species; placing said sensor in a system for the recording of sensorgrams; recording a sensorgram of the adsorption of a second molecular species on said first molecular species of or comprised in and/or on said adapted outermost surface.

Abstract: An in vitro sensor point-of-care sensor including a substrate, a sensing system, and a reference system. The substrate can include a first cavity and a second cavity. The sensing system can be disposed within the first cavity and include an optode membrane, a selectively-permeable membrane, and a plurality of microbeads. The optode membrane can be sensitive to an analyte in the biological fluid. The selectively-permeable membrane can cover an opening of the first cavity. The plurality of microbeads can be associated with at least one of the optode membrane and the selectively-permeable membrane. The reference system can be disposed within the second cavity.

Abstract: A device for characterizing the biological properties of cells can include a plurality of dual-compartment assay chambers wherein the compartments of each chamber are separated by a cell layer across which ions can flow. The biological properties of the cell layer in the presence or absence of experimental compounds can be determined by measuring an electrical gradient across the layer. A individual dual-compartment chamber of this type may be referred to as an “Ussing chamber.

Abstract: An electrochemical sensor strip includes an electrode support and a cover plate, which cooperatively defines a sample receiving space, an opening, and a sample passage. The electrode support has a downstream recessed region defining the sample receiving space and formed with a plurality of through holes. Electrodes are disposed respectively in the through holes. At least one of the electrodes has a lowered top surface that is lowered relative to a surface of the downstream recessed region to define a shallow space. A filter extends into the sample receiving space from the opening and through the sample passage and covers a portion of a reaction reagent layer. The reaction reagent layer extends into the shallow space. The filter extends above the shallow space and the electrode.

Abstract: A nanoconverter or nanosensor is disclosed capable of directly generating electricity through physisorption interactions with molecules that are dipole containing organic species in a molecule interaction zone. High surface-to-volume ratio semiconductor nanowires or nanotubes (such as ZnO, silicon, carbon, etc.) are grown either aligned or randomly-aligned on a substrate. Epoxy or other nonconductive polymers are used to seal portions of the nanowires or nanotubes to create molecule noninteraction zones. By correlating certain molecule species to voltages generated, a nanosensor may quickly identify which species is detected. Nanoconverters in a series parallel arrangement may be constructed in planar, stacked, or rolled arrays to supply power to nano- and micro-devices without use of external batteries. In some cases breath, from human or other life forms, contain sufficient molecules to power a nanoconverter.

Abstract: A dissolved oxygen sensor for use with a single use-bioreactor/container is provided. The bioreaction vessel includes a plastic wall defining a bioreaction chamber therein, and having an aperture therethrough. A membrane holder is attached to an inner surface of the plastic wall. The membrane holder has a cylindrical portion passing through the aperture. A sensor window membrane is coupled to the membrane holder proximate the aperture. The sensor window membrane has a high oxygen permeability, but forms a water-tight seal with the membrane holder.

Abstract: For measuring concentrations of fluid-soluble gases with improved drift stability and low production costs, thus dispensing with tedious calibration and/or drift correction routines and re-membraning procedures, a sensor and a system are provided, comprising at least two electrodes, which are covered by sensor fluid at at least one detection site; and an ion-balancing means (50), for example a mixed-bed ion-exchange resin, in contact with the sensor fluid for removing polluting ions.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device that functions as a glucose sensor. The device has a reference electrode; a counter electrode, a working electrode; an electrically conducting membrane; an enzyme layer; a semi-permeable membrane; a first layer of a first hydrogel in operative communication with the working electrode; the first layer of the first hydrogel being operative to store oxygen; wherein the amount of stored oxygen is proportional to the number of freeze-thaw cycles that the hydrogel is subjected to; and a second layer of the second hydrogel. Disclosed too is a method that comprises using periodically biased amperometry towards interrogation of implantable glucose sensors to improve both sensor's sensitivity and linearity while at the same time enable internal calibration against sensor drifts that originate from changes in either electrode activity or membrane permeability as a result of fouling, calcification and/or fibrosis.

Abstract: An electrochemical sensor and a method for using an electrochemical sensor are described where the electrochemical sensor comprises a working electrode having thereon one or more redox species that are sensitive to an analyte to be measured and a polymer coating that provides for interaction between the redox species and the analyte.

Abstract: Provided is a biological membrane including at least one ring-like polypeptide, where the at least one of the ring-like polypeptide is not a membrane protein, a surface being associated with at least one ring-like polypeptide capable of integration into a cell membrane, an electrode including said surface and electronically and biomedical devices including the electrodes for recording and stimulating cell activity.

Abstract: A potentiometric probe comprising: a housing, which has a first chamber, in which a reference half-cell is formed, which is in communication with a medium surrounding the housing via an electrolytic contact location arranged in a wall of the housing. The housing has a second chamber, in which a measuring half cell is formed, wherein the second chamber is closed on one end by a measuring membrane, such that a surface area of the measuring membrane facing away from the second chamber is in contact with the medium surrounding the housing, and wherein the measuring half cell has a lengthwise extension between the measuring membrane and a closure element bounding the measuring half cell on an end lying opposite the measuring membrane. A quotient of a separation of the measuring membrane from the closure element and an outer diameter of the housing amounts to less than 5, especially less than 2.

Abstract: Design of a disposable screen printed electrode (SPE) for sensing percentage glycated hemoglobin using electrochemistry is disclosed. SPE has four electrodes, one working electrode for the detection of glycated hemoglobin, one working electrode for the detection of hemoglobin and the other two electrodes are counter and reference electrodes that are common for both detection schemes. It also has a cellulose acetate membrane with lysis agents and surfactant embedded in it. Lysis agents lyse erythrocytes and release hemoglobin. Surfactants modify hemoglobin structure and enhance the rate the electron transfer and thereby the output signal during the electrochemical analysis. The SPE is low cost and user friendly. The only input from the user is a drop of blood.

Abstract: A sensor device for detecting at least one analyte in a fluid, in particular in a body fluid, is disclosed. The sensor device includes at least one closed detector chamber and at least one electrical sensor having at least one sensor electrode. The detector chamber can be connected to the fluid in such a way that the analyte can penetrate into the detector chamber. The detector chamber includes at least one detector substance. The detector substance is designed to influence at least one electrical property of the electrical sensor, in particular at least one electrical property of the sensor electrode, depending on a concentration of the analyte in the detector chamber.

Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for determining the concentration of a reduced form of a redox species. For example, a device can include a working electrode and a counter electrode spaced by a predetermined distance so that reaction produces from the counter electrode arrive at the working electrode. An electric potential difference can be applied between the electrodes, and the potential of the working electrode can be selected such that the rate of electro-oxidation of the reduced form of the species is diffusion controlled. Current as a function of time can be determined, the magnitude of the steady state current can be estimated, and a value indicative of the diffusion coefficient and/or of the concentration of the reduced form of the species can be obtained from the change in current with time and the magnitude of the steady state current. Other embodiments of apparatuses, devices, and methods are also provided.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a sensor membrane. The sensor membrane comprises one or more conversion layers wherein the one or more conversion layers are capable of converting a non-charged analyte into a charged species, one or more polymeric layers wherein the one or more polymeric layers act as matrices to host the one or more conversion layers and wherein the one or more conversion layers and one or more polymeric layers create oppositely charged regions within the membrane.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel device for biosensing and energy storage. The present invented device comprises an electrode having a nanopore structured and bio-communicationally active cyclodextrin attached thereto. The device has demonstrated robust analytical performances for direct single subtype breast cancer measurements without mediators, or native enzyme, and without antibodies labeling; the device is capable to store energy by direct bio-communication with the living cancer cells at real time is demonstrated. It is beneficial in the health care diagnostic applications.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include analyte-responsive compositions and electrochemical analyte sensors having a sensing layer that includes an analyte-responsive enzyme and a cationic polymer. Also provided are systems and methods of making the sensors and using the electrochemical analyte sensors in analyte monitoring.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the measurement of hydrogen peroxide and optionally other biomarkers in a gaseous mixture, and in particular to a microfabricated device. The device comprises hydrogen peroxide capturing means and an electromechanical sensor comprising a sensing element in direct contact with the capturing means. The device further comprises means to measure the potential of the sensing element and/or the current through it as a result of a changing hydrogen peroxide concentration in the gaseous mixture. The device also comprises cooling/heating means for cooling and/or heating the capturing means. The device is preferably applied for online measurement of the hydrogen peroxide content in exhaled air.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of inhibiting the insertion of one or more membrane proteins into a lipid bilayer. The invention also relates to a method of inserting a pre-determined number of membrane proteins into a lipid bilayer and lipid bilayers having a pre-determined number of membrane proteins inserted therein. The lipid bilayers of the invention are useful as sensor arrays, particularly for sequencing nucleic acids.

Abstract: A biosensor comprises a substrate; a reference electrode; a working electrode; a counter electrode; and a plurality of permeability adjusting spacers. The reference electrode, the working electrode and the plurality of permeability adjusting spacers are all being disposed to be substantially parallel to each other to create a plurality of enzyme containing porous sections. The enzyme containing porous sections contain an enzyme; where the enzyme is operative to react with a metabolite to determine the concentration of the metabolite. By combining a number of the aforementioned biosensors, the differential concentration of a target enzyme or protein is determined by monitoring the changes on its metabolite substrates.

Abstract: Among others, the present invention provides apparatus for detecting a disease, comprising a system delivery biological subject and a probing and detecting device, wherein the probing and detecting device includes a first micro-device and a first substrate supporting the first micro-device, the first micro-device contacts a biologic material to be detected and is capable of measuring at the microscopic level an electric, magnetic, electromagnetic, thermal, optical, acoustical, biological, chemical, physical, or mechanical property of the biologic material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of producing a lipid bilayer over a microcavity open on one side and to a microstructure for investigating lipid bilayers and an associated measuring arrangement. The method of producing a lipid bilayer over a microcavity open on one side comprises the following steps: filling the microcavity with an electrolyte solution; moving a fluid containing dissolved lipids in a first direction onto the microcavity; moving the fluid in a second direction away from the microcavity; monitoring the formation of the lipid bilayer over the microcavity by detecting an impedance between a counter-electrode connected to the fluid and a measuring electrode, which is arranged inside the microcavity.

Abstract: Novel membranes comprising various polymers containing heterocyclic nitrogen groups are described. These membranes are usefully employed in electrochemical sensors, such as amperometric biosensors. More particularly, these membranes effectively regulate a flux of analyte to a measurement electrode in an electrochemical sensor, thereby improving the functioning of the electrochemical sensor over a significant range of analyte concentrations. Electrochemical sensors equipped with such membranes are also described.

Abstract: There are provided a method and apparatus for detecting nucleic acid using bead and nanopore, and more specifically, a method and apparatus capable of detecting nucleic acid fragments of 70 bps to 300 bps in length by a nanopore detection unit with nanopores of 20 to 120 nm in diameter by attaching a bead to a nucleic acid probe and then detecting the bead attached to nucleic acid not nucleic acid itself. Accordingly, the present invention can detect the nucleic acid fragments using the nanopore detection unit with nanopores of 20 to 120 nm in diameter, even in case where Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) products are given as the sample, particularly the PCR products are the nucleic acid fragments of 70 to 300 bps in length.

Abstract: A biosensor for determining the concentration of an analyte in a biological sample. The biosensor comprises a support, a reference electrode or a counter electrode or both disposed on the support, a working electrode disposed on the support, the working electrode spaced apart from the other electrode or electrodes on the support, a covering layer defining a sample chamber over the electrodes, an aperture in the covering layer for receiving a sample, and at least one layer of mesh in the sample chamber between the covering layer and the electrodes. The at least one layer of mesh has coated thereon a silicone surfactant. Certain silicone surfactants are as effective as fluorinated surfactants with respect to performance of biosensors. These surfactants, when coated onto the mesh layer of the biosensor, are effective in facilitating the transport of aqueous test samples, such as blood, in the sample chamber.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of surface water monitoring. More specifically, the present invention provides low-cost, real-time bio-electrochemical sensors for surface water monitoring based on the metabolism of one or more electrogenic microbes.

Abstract: A conductor/insulator/porous film device is provided which is used in electrochemiluminescence methods and instrumentation based on the chemical excitation of label molecules with subsequent measurement of the luminescence in order to quantitate analyte concentrations especially in bioaffinity assays.