Abstract: Fluid flow devices include a small plate (2), at least one flow channel (20) formed into this small plate, at least one storage channel (221-226) extending from this connection channel, and a set of valves (V1-V6), each of which is suitable for allowing or stopping the flow of fluid in a corresponding storage channel.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for analyzing particulates. A liquid having a plurality of particulates substantially linearly ordered in a streamline can be externally controlled to provide flow in first and second directions, where, generally, the first direction is opposite to the second direction. A target particulate can be measured from the plurality of particulates at or near a measurement area while the liquid flows in the first flow direction. The flow direction can be reversed and measured at the measurement area while flowing in the second direction. The particulates substantially retain the same linear order during at least one cycle, a cycle being defined by movement in the first direction followed by movement in the second direction.

Abstract: A biochemical assay is provided comprising a substrate being capable of binding at least a target analyte and eventually other constituents contained in a biological sample, a test zone on the substrate for sample application, a non-immobilized conjugate reagent provided in the test zone for labeling the analyte, the conjugate reagent being capable of specific binding to the analyte but remaining unbound to the substrate, and a flow path for transporting a washing liquid through the test zone and washing an excess of unbound conjugate reagent away from the test zone. The test zone is also a detection area for detecting the labeled analyte.

Abstract: A method and kit for assaying a cell sample for the presence of at least a threshold number of cells of a given type are disclosed. The kit includes an assay device having a sample chamber for receiving the cell sample and an elongate collection chamber containing a selected-density and/or viscosity medium and having along its length, a plurality of cell-collection regions, and particles which are capable of specific attachment to cells of the selected cell type, and which are effective, when attached to the cells, to increase the density or magnetic susceptibility of the cells. In operation, particle-bound cells and particles in the cell sample are drawn through the elongate collection chamber under the influence of a gravitational or selected centrifugal or magnetic-field force until the particle-bound cells and particles completely fill successive cell-collection regions in the collection chamber.

Abstract: A reaction vessel having a reaction chamber for holding a sample is fabricated by producing a housing having a rigid frame defining the minor walls of the chamber. The housing also defines a port for introducing fluid into the chamber. At least one sheet or film is attached to the rigid frame to form at least one major wall of the chamber. In preferred embodiments, two sheets or films are attached to opposite sides of the rigid frame to form two opposing major walls of the chamber, the major walls being connected to each other by the minor walls.

Abstract: A sample testing device for testing for the presence of a component of interest in a liquid sample comprises: (a) at least one capillary pathway which has an upstream end and a downstream end and which incorporates a reagent system capable of causing agglutination with said component to be detected (the test capillary); (b) preferably, but optionally, at least one capillary pathway having an upstream end and a downstream end (the control capillary); (c) a sampling region to which the liquid sample is applied and from which the sample is able to enter the upstream ends of the test capillary(s) and if present the control capillary(s); (d) a power source; (c) detection arrangements electrically associated with said power source for detecting the presence of liquid at a downstream region of said testing capillary(s) and if present the control capillary(s); (f) display means operated by said power source for indicating the result of the test; and (g) signal processing means associated with the power source, detect

Abstract: Rapid lateral flow immunoassays have an extensive history of use in both the clinical and home settings. These devices are used to test for a variety of analytes, such as drugs of abuse, hormones, proteins, urine or plasma components and the like. The present invention provides an improved procedural control that indicates to the test user that at least a portion of the applied sample has passed through the test result zone of the test strip, and optionally that the test is complete and the test results may be read.

Abstract: The invention relates to an analytical test element for analysis of a liquid sample. The analytical test element may contain a channel which is suitable for capillary transport of the liquid sample and which is provided with an inlet opening for the liquid sample and with an air outlet opening. At least one test field may be arranged in the channel, spaced apart from the inlet opening. The test element comprises a sample application site which is closed with a seal and which is designed in such a way that, when the seal is opened, the sample application site and the inlet opening of the channel are simultaneously open to the outside environment of the test element. The test element can then receive the liquid sample inside the channel via the sample application site and inlet opening, for analysis in the test field. The invention also relates to a test element magazine and to a system for analysis of liquid samples with at least one test element.

Abstract: Interactions between molecules that are components of self-assembled monolayers and other molecules can be amplified and transduced into an optical signal through the use of a mesogenic layer. The invention provides for a method for detecting an analyte, comprising contacting with said analyte a recognition moiety for said analyte, wherein said contacting causes at least a portion of a plurality of mesogens proximate to said recognition moiety to detectably switch from a first orientation to a second orientation upon contacting said analyte with said recognition moiety; and detecting said second orientation of said at least a portion of said plurality of mesogens, whereby said analyte is detected.

Abstract: An integrated meter system for determining information related to an analyte of a fluid sample includes a meter including a housing and a plurality of test sensors. Each of the plurality of test sensors includes a penetrating member, a testing portion, and a channel. The channel is adapted to receive the fluid sample. The test sensors are removably located within the housing. At least one of the test sensors is removably connected to an adjacent test sensor. The integrated meter system also includes a test-sensor advancement mechanism that is configured to advance the test sensors.

Abstract: The disclosed invention relates to monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) which recognize human fatty acid synthase (hFAS) and are distinct from previously known anti-hFAS antibodies. Compositions, devices and kits comprising the MAbs are provided along with methods of using the MAbs in a variety of applications.

Abstract: A chemical indicating device (10) for detection of chloride ions in a sample is provided. The chemical indicating device (10) includes a carrier matrix (12) and an indicator (14) having silver and vanadate supported on the carrier matrix (12). A method for detecting chloride ions is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices for efficient transport, transfer and movement of fluids. In particular, the invention provides fluidic micro-structures for controlled transport and movement of liquids in devices for analytical and other purposes. Devices of the invention include one or more features that can enhance performance of the fluid transfer, referred to as a pre-shooter stop, a butterfly structure, a cascade structure, a waste chamber inlet, a capillary driven sample inlet chamber, a capillary stop structure, a bifurcation flow-through structure, and a hydrophobic vent.

Abstract: Provided is a microfluidic device that can automatically perform various types of biological blood analysis. In the microfluidic device, a specimen is centrifugally separated and the centrifugally separated specimen is diluted into various dilution ratios. Also, at least two reagents that are required for one reaction and that need to be separately stored are stored in separate chambers, and they are mixed when a reaction is needed. Thus, various conventional blood analyzing reagents can be used as they are or after being minimally processed in the microfluidic device.

Abstract: A test strip with a sample receiving chamber having a novel flared portion that terminates in a sample receiving opening. The flared portion provides a reservoir from which sample fluid can be drawn into the capillary or sample receiving chamber. The wider opening provided by the present invention is easier to “target” with a sample fluid. In preferred embodiments, the hydrophilic reagent layer extends to the dosing end or side of the test strip and further promotes wicking of the sample into the sample receiving chamber and thus reduces dose hesitation. In other preferred embodiments, a tapered dosing end is provided on the test strip in combination with the flared portion, and this combination create a test strip that will draw sample fluid into the sample receiving chamber regardless of where along the dosing edge of the test strip the fluid sample makes contact.

Abstract: Methods of manufacturing test strips are disclosed. Embodiments include laminating a two piece covering layer over a substrate with a series of cavities, wherein the two pieces are separated by a gap, the gap forming a vent opening for the cavities. Other embodiments include covering the sample receiving chamber with a cover thinner than the cover covering the body of the test strip, the thicker body cover absorbing more force than the chamber cover to reduce the possibility of adhesives squeezing out from under the chamber cover. The present invention also provides an advantageous method of mass-producing the inventive test strips without having to align the slot or vent opening laterally with respect to the test strips and without having to punch a vent opening. The method is also well suited to mass production by roll processing techniques.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods and devices for rapid testing of solid, semi-solid, or liquid specimens, such a stool, blood, urine, saliva, or swab specimens of the cervix, urethra, nostril, throat, and for environmental testing.

Abstract: A component measuring apparatus is provided with a case having a cylindrical case main body and a cover arranged to cover the base end opening section of the case main body; a chip mounting section for mounting a chip; a light measuring section for detecting a prescribed component; a printed board whereupon a control section having a function of controlling the operation of the light measuring section is arranged; a liquid crystal display device; a battery arranging section for arranging a battery provided on the cover; an O-ring arranged between the case main body and the light measuring section on the leading end section of the case main body; and an O-ring arranged between the case main body and the cover on the base end opening section of the case main body. Sealing of inside the case is ensured by the O-ring.

Abstract: The invention concerns coated test elements and in particular test elements comprising a capillary gap which have a hydrophobic structured coating at least in the area surrounding the capillary gap.

Abstract: A test apparatus is disclosed for measuring a component. The test apparatus maintains the amount of a specimen to be used for a reaction with a reagent at a constant value by allowing all of a fluid specimen to be measured and thus improves the accuracy and reproducibility of a test. The test apparatus includes a solution storage unit capable of holding a solution beforehand or allowing a solution to be filled therein, a capillary having a first end part and a second end part for storing the fluid specimen, and a test piece for measuring the component to be measured in the specimen. The solution storage unit and the second end part of the capillary are communicable with each other, and the first end part of the capillary is placed so as to be in contact with the test piece.

Abstract: A test strip with a covering layer having a novel slot. The slot divides the inventive covering layer into two parts and provides a vent opening that allows air to escape as fluid enters a cavity or sample receiving chamber formed in the test strip. In preferred embodiments, the covering layer is clear such that the user can see through it and the slot doubles as a “fill line.” The user can thus watch the fluid sample enter the test strip, progress through the capillary cavity, and then stop at the slot or fill-line. This provides positive assurance to the user that the sample size is sufficient and the test strip has been filled properly. The present invention also provides an advantageous method of mass-producing the inventive test strips without having to align the slot or vent opening laterally with respect to the test strips and without having to punch a vent opening. The method is also well suited to mass production by roll processing techniques.

Abstract: In one aspect, a diagnostic test system includes a housing, a reader, and a data analyzer. The housing includes a port for receiving a test strip. The reader obtains separable light intensity measurements from localized regions of an area of the detection zone exposed for optical inspection, wherein each of the localized regions is characterized by at least one surface dimension smaller than the first dimension. The data analyzer identifies ones of the light intensity measurements obtained from the at least one test region and computes at least one parameter from the identified ones of the light intensity measurements. In another aspect, the reader obtains a respective set of light intensity measurements from each of multiple corresponding regions of the exposed surface area of the detection zone, and the data analyzer computes at least one parameter from at least one of the sets of light intensity measurements.

Abstract: An analysis instrument for processing a microfluidic device, having sample storage means, a microfluidic device holder, sample loading means for loading sample into a microfluidic device disposed in the holder, processing means for enabling a reaction in a microfluidic device, and detection means for detecting and/or measuring the reaction is disclosed. The microfluidic device holder is adapted to hold the microfluidic device including a tape in position for processing and/or detection. A microfluidic processing device is also disclosed which includes a reaction chamber, and a sample loading chamber into which a sample is injectable. The reaction chamber is operatively connected to the sample loading chamber. A cover extends across at least part of the sample loading chamber. The cover and the reaction chamber include pierceable material and are separated by an overspill cavity configured to accept any overspill of an injected sample.

Abstract: A sample acquiring device for volumetric enumeration of white blood cells in a blood sample comprises a measurement cavity for receiving a blood sample. The measurement cavity has a predetermined fixed thickness. The sample acquiring device further comprises a reagent, which is arranged in a dried form on a surface defining the measurement cavity. The reagent comprises a hemolysing agent for lysing red blood cells in the blood sample, and a staining agent for selectively staining white blood cells in the blood sample. A system comprises the sample acquiring device and a measurement apparatus. The measurement apparatus comprises a sample acquiring device holder, a light source, and an imaging system for acquiring a digital image of a magnification of the sample. The measurement apparatus further comprises an image analyser arranged to analyse the acquired digital image for determining the number of white blood cells in the blood sample.

Abstract: A test strip with a sample receiving chamber having a novel flared portion that terminates in a sample receiving opening. The flared portion provides a reservoir from which sample fluid can be drawn into the capillary or sample receiving chamber. The wider opening provided by the present invention is easier to “target” with a sample fluid. In preferred embodiments, the hydrophilic reagent layer extends to the dosing end or side of the test strip and further promotes wicking of the sample into the sample receiving chamber and thus reduces dose hesitation. In other preferred embodiments, a tapered dosing end is provided on the test strip in combination with the flared portion, and this combination create a test strip that will draw sample fluid into the sample receiving chamber regardless of where along the dosing edge of the test strip the fluid sample makes contact.

Abstract: A testing device is provided which is able to distribute a liquid sample to a plurality of reaction sections by a simple operation without using a tip dispenser, and also achieves individually independent reaction systems without causing reaction sections to be in communication with each other due to a liquid sample. The testing device has a transparent molded body which includes: a storage chamber for injecting/holding a liquid sample; a reaction chamber for causing a reaction of the sample; a receiving chamber for sucking and receiving the sample, with the storage chamber and the reaction chamber being in communication with each other via a distributing flow path, and the reaction chamber and the receiving chamber being in communication with each other via a sucking flow path; and a liquid reservoir between the reaction chamber and the receiving chamber.

Abstract: Systems for filling sample array by droplet dragging are provided. One aspect of the invention provides an array filling system for filling a platen having a platen surface and an array of receptacles, the receptacles having an internal surface and the receptacles separated by the platen surface, the system comprising: a liquid transfer device capable of holding liquid; and a controller configured to position the liquid transfer device in proximity to the platen surface and to move the liquid transfer device across the surface and over the receptacles to be filled so as to cause sequential communication of liquid in the liquid transfer device with the interior surface of each receptacle.

Abstract: A device and method for enhancing rapid confirmatory immunological testing (“RCIT”) in chromatography strip-type rapid IVD devices useful in, for example, clinical, point-of-care, laboratory or over-the-counter settings. The device drives a flow fluid, primarily under the force of gravity alone, through a first chamber having a porous dam structure to enhance and substantially complete the first affinity binding reaction between a source of mobilizable labeled binding members and an analyte in the fluid. Flow through the dam causes a delay, mixing and trapping of the typically chemically disuniform initial fluid front so that fluid exiting the dam exhibits a more uniformly high degree of first affinity binding and decreased non-affinity binding.

Abstract: A method and kit for assaying a cell sample for the presence of at least a threshold number of cells of a given type are disclosed. The kit includes an assay device having a sample chamber for receiving the cell sample and an elongate collection chamber containing a selected-density and/or viscosity medium and having along its length, a plurality of cell-collection regions, and particles which are capable of specific attachment to cells of the selected cell type, and which are effective, when attached to the cells, to increase the density or magnetic susceptibility of the cells. In operation, particle-bound cells and particles in the cell sample are drawn through the elongate collection chamber under the influence of a gravitational or selected centrifugal or magnetic-field force until the particle-bound cells and particles completely fill successive cell-collection regions in the collection chamber.

Abstract: The present invention provides a micro mechanical system for performing assays for determining the presence of one or more selected analytes in a sample. The device comprises of a base and a disposable strip with at least one reaction well and at least one moveable member capable of moving fluids and parts through the fluids in a defined reaction well. Reagents in the reaction chambers and or the moveable members, react with the sample to yield a physically detectable change. The moveable parts are capable of executing motions that either mix, move reaction components, exchange or systematically deliver reagents to targets in the cartridge. Sensors in the base are configured to detect and or quantify the presence of a sample in the reaction well and of analytes in the sample. The signal is converted to an output on a visual display window on the external part of the base.

Abstract: An absorption spectrometric analysis microchip with a chamber for holding a sample, a chamber for holding a reagent which reacts with this sample, a mixing chamber for mixing the reagent with the sample with the formation of a mixture and a sensing part with a sensing chamber for holding the mixture with a light incidence surface for the entry of light into the sensing chamber and a light exit surface for emergence of light from the sensing chamber. At least one of the light incidence surface and light exit surface is located in a recess area of the sensing part.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an analytical tool (1) comprising a substrate (10), a capillary (13) which is formed on the substrate (10) and into which a sample liquid is to be loaded by movement of the sample liquid in the capillary. The substrate (10) is provided with a liquid movement preventer for preventing the sample liquid loaded into the capillary (13) from moving further. Preferably, the liquid movement preventer includes a stepped portion (18B) projecting from the substrate or a recess provided at the substrate.

Abstract: The present invention provides a micro mechanical system for performing assays for determining the presence of one or more selected analytes in a sample. The device comprises of a base and a disposable strip with at least one reaction well and at least one moveable member capable of moving fluids and parts through the fluids in a defined reaction well. Reagents in the reaction chambers and or the moveable members, react with the sample to yield a physically detectable change. The moveable parts are capable of executing motions that either mix, move reaction components, exchange or systematically deliver reagents to targets in the cartridge. Sensors in the base are configured to detect and or quantify the presence of a sample in the reaction well and of analytes in the sample. The signal is converted to an output on a visual display window on the external part of the base.

Abstract: The present invention relates to miscible blends of the polycarbonate of bisphenol A and polyesters from aromatic dicarboxylic acids, 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol, ethylene glycol, and 2,2?-(sulfonylbis(4,1-phenyleneoxy)-bis(ethanol).

Abstract: Disclosed are polymer compositions comprising: (A) a first component comprising about 1 to 99 percent by weight at least one polyester (A) comprising: (1) diacid residues selected from the group consisting of terephthalic acid residues, isophthalic acid residues and mixtures thereof, and (2) diol residues selected from the group consisting of 1,4 -cyclohexanedimethanol residues, ethylene glycol residues and mixtures thereof; wherein the molar ratio of 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol to ethylene glycol is less than 0.