Measuring Electrical Property Patents (Class 422/82.01)
  • Patent number: 8968677
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for dispersion of a labeling conjugate in a diagnostic assay, the result being a one-step assay. By eliminating a conjugate pad as in conventional lateral diagnostic devices, and forming a frazil ice pellicle (FIP), rehydration and flow are improved resulting in better reproducibility, improved sensitivity, and reduced costs of individual assay devices. The formation of a frazil ice film formed on a super cooled surface of a sample receiving means simplifies assay assembly. Lyophilization of the FIP improves the release of a sample/analyte/label matrix into a macro channel as in a direct flow assay, while at the same time allowing reagents to mix and flow, thereby optimizing the assay performance. The reagents of the conjugate and the formation of the FIP stabilize the conjugate proteins and provide extended shelf life to the diagnostic assay device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Quantum Design International, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald T. LaBorde, Nicholas J. Neild
  • Patent number: 8969069
    Abstract: Disclosed are a glycated protein measurement sensor and a portable glycated protein measurement apparatus. The glycated protein measurement sensor includes: a sensing film (300) formed on a predetermined base material (100); and first and second unit sensors (10?, 10?) including a positive (+) electrode (400) and a negative (?) electrode (500) disposed facing each other at a predetermined distance on both ends of the sensing film (300). A ligand composition (600?) including an aromatic boron acid combined with a first target material (700) as an effective component is disposed on the first sensing film (300) of the first unit sensor (10?). Also, a receptor (600?) combined with the first or second target material (700) is disposed on the second sensing film (300) of the second unit sensor (10?). Here, the first target material (700) is a glycated protein (700?), and the second target material (700) is a protein (700?).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignees: NDD, Inc., IM Healthcare Co., Ltd., Fuzbien Technology Institute Inc.
    Inventors: Saeyoung Ahn, Steingrimur Stefansson
  • Patent number: 8967083
    Abstract: Mastitis in a milking animal is detected through sensing the capacitance effects in milk. Using frequencies of greater than 60 megahertz applied by a capacitance probe to milk as it streams through otherwise conventional milking equipment during milking, yields a reliably discernable shift in the phase angle, indicating the presence of mastitis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Hoey
  • Patent number: 8961765
    Abstract: Plastic electrophoresis separation chips are provided comprising a plurality of microfluidic channels and a detection window, where the detection window comprises a thin plastic; and the detection window comprises a detection region of each microfluidic channel. Such chips can be bonded to a support provided an aperture is provided in the support to allow detection of samples in the electrophoresis chip at the thin plastic detection window. Further, methods for electrophoretically separating and detecting a plurality of samples on the plastic electrophoresis separation chip are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: NetBio, Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene Tan, Cheuk Wai Kan, Heung Chuan Lam
  • Patent number: 8961883
    Abstract: A biochip including conductive particle and a device for detecting target antigen comprising the biochip are disclosed. According to the present invention, a target antigen can be effectively detected using a small amount of target antigen alone, whereby nonspecific detection signal can be reduced and an amplified signal can be detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Kyuho Song, Sunkil Kang, Dayeon Kang, Taeyoung Kim, Seungmok Han, Gueisam Lim, Jisu Kim
  • Patent number: 8962305
    Abstract: A biosensor chip with nano-structures. The biosensor chip includes a RF biosensor, comprising an isolated substrate; a ground plane; a filtering circuit; at least one cell detection area with nano-structures and a protection layer. The RF biosensor can detect the existence of the cancer cells, high frequency biological effects and the cells relationship between transfers by noninvasive method. The RF biosensor according to the invention can provide high accuracy and sensitivity in cancer cells detection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Kun Shan University
    Inventors: Hung-Wei Wu, Yong-Han Hong, Yu-Fu Chen, Yung-Wei Chen, Shu-Ting Teng
  • Patent number: 8951473
    Abstract: The application generally describes devices, systems, and methods for determination of one or more analytes. Embodiments described herein may be useful as sensors for analytes such as explosives, chemical warfare agents, and/or toxins. In some cases, chemiresistor or chemFET sensor devices for monitoring volatile organics, especially chemical warfare agents such as sarin, are described. Some embodiments comprise functionalized carbon nanotube/conjugated polymer composites (6) as sensing material. In some embodiments, the polymer is poly(3-hexylthiophene), 3PHT, optionally substituted with calixarenes, or hexafluoroisopropanol susbstituted polythiophene, HFIP-PT. Biosensing embodiments are also described, as well as methods of manufacturing the devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Fei Wang, Timothy M. Swager
  • Patent number: 8945912
    Abstract: In one aspect, described herein are field effect chemical sensor devices useful for chemical and/or biochemical sensing. Also provided herein are methods for single molecule detection. In another aspect, described herein are methods useful for amplification of target molecules by PCR.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois
    Inventors: Rashid Bashir, Ashraf Alam, Demir Akin, Oguz Hasan Elibol, Bobby Reddy, Donald E. Bergstrom, Yi-Shao Liu
  • Publication number: 20150031582
    Abstract: A method comprising (a) obtaining one or more biological samples from a subject wherein the subject has undergone an organ transplant; (b) determining the amount and type of one or more volatile organic compounds in the biological sample; and (c) correlating the amount of volatile organic compounds to a degree of transplant rejection. A device comprising a plurality of sensors configured to detect a plurality of volatile organic compounds in a biological sample of a subject having undergone an organ transplant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON SYSTEM
    Inventors: Dong Cai, Zhifeng Ren, Xian C. Li, Renard L. Thomas
  • Publication number: 20150031118
    Abstract: A mass sensor has a common RF input, a set of mass sensor cells, and a common hold input. Each of the mass sensor cells has a local input node coupled to the common RF input, a local output node, a mass-dependent RF filter that includes an electroacoustic resonator having receptors immobilized on a surface thereof, an RF detector, and a hold circuit having a local hold input. The RF filter, the RF detector and the hold circuit are connected in series between the local input node and the local output node. The common hold input is coupled to the local hold inputs of the hold circuits of at least a subset of the mass sensor cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Applicant: Avago Technologies General IP (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
    Inventor: Mark A. UNKRICH
  • Publication number: 20150031572
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to the field of diagnostics for neuronal toxicity and toxicological assessments for risk stratification of chemical compounds. Specifically, it relates to a method for diagnosing neuronal toxicity. It also relates to a method for determining whether a compound is capable of inducing such neuronal toxicity in a subject and to a method of identifying a drug for treating neuronal toxicity. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a device and a kit for diagnosing neuronal toxicity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Applicant: BASF SE
    Inventors: Tilmann B. Walk, Bennard van Ravenzwaay, Werner Mellert, Eric Fabian, Volker Strauss, Hennicke Kamp, Jan C. Wiemer, Ralf Looser, Michael Manfred Herold, Alexandre Prokoudine
  • Patent number: 8940143
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention relates to a biochip comprising at least two measurement electrodes, a synthesis electrode, a ground electrode, a gap between the at least two measurement electrodes, a porous dielectric isolation layer and a gel comprising a probe in the gap, wherein the porous dielectric isolation layer is between the synthesis electrode and the gel. Yet other embodiments relate to the method of manufacturing the biochip and using the biochip for electrical detection of bio-species.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Valery M. Dubin, Nikolay Suetin
  • Patent number: 8940230
    Abstract: A cell for conducting electrochemiluminescence measurements is disclosed. The cell in one embodiment provides a measurement cell housing having a cavity, a fluid inlet channel for inducing fluid into the cavity and a fluid outlet channel for discharging fluid from the cavity at axial ends. The cell also provides at least one working electrode and a counter electrode on or in the cavity, and an optical viewing element for observing electrochemiluminescence effects in the cavity, wherein the fluid inlet channel has an at least approximately continuous curved course in a transition area to the cavity so that the fluid inlet channel at its end which is joined to the cavity is shaped in such a manner as to constitute a continuous course of the transition between the fluid inlet channel and the cavity to generate a largely steady flow profile when inducing fluid into the measurement cell cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Kühnl, Herbert Buschek, Reinhold Krämer, Petra Ickler
  • Patent number: 8940235
    Abstract: A chemical sensor is disclosed. The chemical sensor is an electronic device including in specific embodiments a first transistor and a second transistor. The first transistor includes a semiconducting layer made of a first semiconductor and carbon nanotubes. The second transistor includes a semiconducting layer made of a second semiconductor, and does not contain carbon nanotubes. The two transistors vary in their response to chemical compounds, and the differing response can be used to determine the identity of certain chemical compounds. The chemical sensor can be useful as a disposable sensor for explosive compounds such as trinitrotoluene (TNT). The electronic device is used in conjunction with an analyzer that processes information generated by the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yiliang Wu, Ping Liu, Anthony James Wigglesworth
  • Patent number: 8940234
    Abstract: Systems and methods for detecting the presence of biomolecules in a sample using biosensors that incorporate resonators which have functionalized surfaces for reacting with target biomolecules. In one embodiment, a device includes a piezoelectric resonator having a functionalized surface configured to react with target molecules, thereby changing the mass and/or charge of the resonator which consequently changes the frequency response of the resonator. The resonator's frequency response after exposure to a sample is compared to a reference, such as the frequency response before exposure to the sample, a stored baseline frequency response or a control resonator's frequency response.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Yuegang Zhang, Andrew A. Berlin, Qing Ma, Li-Peng Wang, Valluri Rao, Mineo Yamakawa
  • Publication number: 20150018244
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to the field of diagnostics for hyperthyroidism and toxicological assessments for risk stratification of chemical compounds. Specifically, it relates to a method for diagnosing hyperthyroidism. It also relates to a method for determining whether a compound is capable of inducing such hyperthyroidism in a subject and to a method of identifying a drug for treating hyperthyroidism. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a device and a kit for diagnosing hyperthyroidism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: BASF SE
    Inventors: Tilmann B. Walk, Bennard van Ravenzwaay, Werner Mellert, Eric Fabian, Volker Strauss, Hennicke Kamp, Jan C. Wiemer, Ralf Looser, Michael Manfred Herold, Alexandre Prokoudine
  • Publication number: 20150017740
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and a system based on a multi-gate field effect transistor for sensing molecules in a gas or liquid sample. The said FET transistor comprises dual gate lateral electrodes (and optionally a back gate electrode) located on the two sides of an active region, and a sensing surface on top of the said active region. Applying voltages to the lateral gate electrodes, creates a conductive channel in the active region, wherein the width and the lateral position of the said channel can be controlled. Enhanced sensing sensitivity is achieved by measuring the channels conductivity at a plurality of positions in the lateral direction. The use of an array of the said FTE for electronic nose is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Gil Shalev, Yossi Rosenwaks
  • Publication number: 20150018237
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to the field of diagnostics for bone disorders and toxicological assessments for risk stratification of chemical compounds. Specifically, it relates to a method for diagnosing a bone disorder. It also relates to a method for determining whether a compound is capable of inducing such a bone disorder in a subject and to a method of identifying a drug for treating a bone disorder. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a device and a kit for diagnosing a bone disorder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: BASF SE
    Inventors: Tilmann B. Walk, Bennard van Ravenzwaay, Werner Mellert, Eric Fabian, Volker Strauss, Hennicke Kamp, Jan C. Wiemer, Ralf Looser, Michael Manfred Herold, Alexandre Prokoudine
  • Patent number: 8932525
    Abstract: Described herein is an apparatus for characterizing an analyte in breath and related method. The apparatus comprises an interactant that is configured to interact with the analyte in breath to generate a change in thermal energy relative to a base thermal energy. The apparatus further comprises a piezoelectric system that is coupled to the interactant, comprises at least one piezoelectric material having a material property, and generates a signal that comprises information useful in characterizing the analyte in breath. The signal is in response to a change in a material property of the piezoelectric material. The change in the material property is in response to the change in thermal energy. The apparatus may be used for a variety of applications such as, for example, personal health monitoring, clinical diagnostics, safety and law enforcement monitoring, and others.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Invoy Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Lubna M. Ahmad, Srinivas Tadigadapa
  • Patent number: 8932868
    Abstract: A method an system is disclosed for the detection and/or allocation of at least one point mutation in target DNA and/or RNA duplexes. The method comprises obtaining a functionalized surface which is coated with probe DNA and/or RNA whereto target DNA and/or RNA duplexes are attached, contacting said functionalized surface to an electrolytic solution having a neutral pH in a flow cell and measuring a first impedance value within said electrolytic solution, and then adding a chemical to the electrolytic solution which is able to achieve denaturation of the target DNA and/or RNA. The method further comprises measuring a second impedance value within the flow cell after completion of the denaturation of the DNA and/or RNA target, and then obtaining a value representative for the impact of the chemical on the impedance of the electrolytic solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignees: IMEC, Universiteit Hasselt
    Inventors: Bart Van Grinsven, Ward De Ceuninck, Patrick Wagner
  • Publication number: 20150011423
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to the field of diagnostics for kidney toxicity and toxicological assessments for risk stratification of chemical compounds. Specifically, it relates to a method for diagnosing kidney toxicity. It also relates to a method for determining whether a compound is capable of inducing such kidney toxicity in a subject and to a method of identifying a drug for treating kidney toxicity. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a device and a kit for diagnosing kidney toxicity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Applicant: BASF SE
    Inventors: Hennicke Kamp, Tilmann B. Walk, Bennard van Ravenzwaay, Werner Mellert, Eric Fabian, Volker Strauss, Jan C. Wiemer, Ralf Looser, Michael Manfred Herold, Alexandre Prokoudine
  • Publication number: 20150004059
    Abstract: A test sensor container (400) is designed for use with an analyte measuring system (40). The test sensor container (100) may include a cartridge (200) including a plurality of stacked individual compartments (202) connected to one another in an accordion-style fashion. Each individual compartment (202) is collapsible from an expanded to a collapsed condition and is dimensioned to hold a test sensor (6) when in the expanded condition. The test sensor container further includes at least one foil cover (116) sealing the plurality of compartments (102, 202).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Applicant: BAYER HEALTHCARE LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Brown, Martin Antoine Mathelier, Sung-Kwon Jung
  • Publication number: 20150004710
    Abstract: Reagents and methods are disclosed for detection of oxidizers and inorganic salts and other analytes of interest. The reagents can interact with their target analytes, especially oxidizer compositions or oxidizer-based explosives, to selectively enhance their ionization yield, interacting by chemical reaction or by forming an associative adduct which facilitates their detection. For example, the reagents can adduct with the counter-ion of the intended analyte for improved direct detection and/or react chemically via acid-base reactions to produce a new product for detection. In another aspect of the invention, reactive reagents and methods are also disclosed that facilitate indirect detection of the analyte at lower temperatures based on reduction-oxidation (redox) chemistry. These reagents are particularly useful in detecting oxidizer analytes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Applicant: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Kerin E. Gregory, Roderick R. Kunz, Michael Sworin
  • Patent number: 8920727
    Abstract: A device is intended to electrochemically measure biochemical reactions and includes a base plate, a sensor array situated on the latter, a coating of the base plate, and a sealing film with at least one recess. The recess is mechanically connected to the base plate and/or to the coating of the base plate and forms a flow cell above the sensor array. An inlet and an outlet of the flow cell are in the form of continuous recesses in the base plate. The active surfaces of the sensors are free of the coating and regions of the base plate adjacent to the sensors are covered by the coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH
    Inventor: Heike Barlag
  • Patent number: 8920628
    Abstract: Systems and methods for multiple analyte analysis are provided. In one embodiment, a method includes determining concentrations of first and second analytes in a sample. The first and second analytes may be, for example, glucose and hydroxybutyrate. In this form, an indication related to the measured concentration of hydroxybutyrate is provided in response to determining that the concentration of hydroxybutyrate is above a predetermined value. In a further aspect of this form, a quantitative indication representative of the measured glucose concentration is automatically provided regardless of the value of the measured glucose concentration. In another embodiment, a system includes a meter configured to interact with a test element to assess first and second analytes in a sample. Further embodiments, forms, objects, features, advantages, aspects, and benefits shall become apparent from the description and drawings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin T. Gerber, Eric R. Diebold
  • Patent number: 8920728
    Abstract: A biological test member, and method of making the same, is disclosed with the member including a substrate. The test member has usefulness, for example, in testing a person's blood glucose level. A first layer and a second layer of conductive metal are printed or otherwise applied on the substrate in an electrode pattern. The metal or metals are cured or sintered at a low, non-damaging temperature, such as by applying one or more pulses of a high-energy broad spectrum light. A layer of reagent may be provided on said second metal layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Abner David Joseph
  • Publication number: 20140377871
    Abstract: It is described a method and a system for wireless in-situ sampling of a reservoir fluid from a hydrocarbon reservoir comprising obtaining a number of local samples of the reservoir fluid from different zones of the reservoir at given times. Local characterization of production fluid is obtained based on identifying chemical fingerprints of each of the number of local samples. This information can be used to determine local production rates from different zones in the well or from coming led wells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Applicant: SINVENT AS
    Inventors: Kolbjorn Zahlsen, Lars Kilaas, Paal Skjetne
  • Patent number: 8916343
    Abstract: The subject invention concerns materials and methods for detecting nucleic acid sequences. One aspect of the invention concerns a silicon-based “biochip” comprising nucleic acid immobilized thereon. In one embodiment, the silicon comprises microcavities. The nucleic acid to be assayed for the presence of one or more target nucleic acid sequences is immobilized on the silicon. A nucleic acid, such as an oligonucleotide probe, having a sequence substantially complementary to the target nucleic acid sequence can be used to detect the immobilized nucleic acid on the silicon. If the nucleic acid used for detection hybridizes with a target nucleic acid sequence, the hybridized sequences can be detected directly or indirectly. In an exemplified embodiment, the oligonucleotide probe can be labeled with a detectable label, for example, a fluorescent molecule. The subject invention also concerns methods for detecting a target nucleic acid using a silicon-based biochip of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignees: University of South Florida, Alabama State University
    Inventors: Arun Kumar, Ashok Kumar, Shree R. Singh, Souheil Zekri
  • Patent number: 8916035
    Abstract: An arrangement and a method measures cell vitalities with a sensor array. The sensor array is formed on a surface of a semiconductor chip. The semiconductor chip has integrated circuits and an integrated circuit is associated with each sensor of the sensor array, for processing the measurement signals of the respective sensor. The integrated circuits are formed in the semiconductor chip spatially in each case below the associated sensor and neighboring sensors of the sensor array have a center-to-center in the range of micrometers. The pH and/or pO2 can be measured in the environment of a living cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH
    Inventors: Alexander Frey, Walter Gumbrecht, Peter Paulicka, Meinrad Schienle, Daniel Sickert, Manfred Stanzel
  • Publication number: 20140371105
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sensor assembly to detect and quantify organic and/or inorganic mercury compounds, including elemental mercury that may be present in gases or liquids, such as natural gas, air, condensates, crude oil, refined petroleum gas or liquids, and water including connate water, condensed water and water containing hydrate inhibitor(s). The sensor assembly includes a housing having a flow channel defined by an inlet, a sensor array, and an outlet. The sensor array is based on the differential sorption properties measured using a surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensor array, a chemiresistor array, or a combination of the two.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventors: David Glynn Thomas, Nicholas Paul Langley, Nicholas Charles Last, Roderick J. Travis
  • Patent number: 8911603
    Abstract: An LED-based materials analysis apparatus that measures the photoelectrochemical response of materials to illumination. The apparatus uses an array of light sources such as a plurality of LEDs that provide light of desired wavelengths to illuminate one or more samples of materials of interest that are immersed in an electrolyte. A measurement circuit is connected between a transparent conductor attached to each sample of interest and a counter electrode. In some measurements, a third, standard electrode may be connected to the measurement circuit. A pulsing circuit that operates the LEDs causes each sample to be tested according to a predetermined sequence. Data is collected using a programmable computer operating under the control of instructions recorded on a machine readable medium. The data is analyzed and is available to be displayed to a user, recorded in a database, or communicated to another apparatus or process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Jay R. Winkler, Gates R. Winkler
  • Patent number: 8912006
    Abstract: This application provides devices for modeling ischemic stroke conditions. The devices can be used to culture neurons and to subject a first population of the neurons to low-oxygen conditions and a second population of neurons to normoxic conditions. The neurons are cultured on a porous barrier, and on the other side of the barrier run one or more fluid-filled channels. By flowing fluid with different oxygen levels through the channels, one can deliver desired oxygen concentrations to the cells nearest those channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignees: The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc., The University of South Florida
    Inventors: Anilkumar Harapanahalli Achyuta, Javier Cuevas, Shivshankar Sundaram, Chris Katnik
  • Patent number: 8911606
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and devices for dielectrokinetic chromatography. As disclosed, the devices comprise microchannels having at least one perturber which produces a non-uniformity in a field spanning the width of the microchannel. The interaction of the field non-uniformity with a perturber produces a secondary flow which competes with a primary flow. By decreasing the size of the perturber the secondary flow becomes significant for particles/analytes in the nanometer-size range. Depending on the nature of a particle/analyte present in the fluid and its interaction with the primary flow and the secondary flow, the analyte may be retained or redirected. The composition of the primary flow can be varied to affect the magnitude of primary and/or secondary flows on the particles/analytes and thereby separate and concentrate it from other particles/analytes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Gabriela S. Chirica, Gregory J. Fiechtner, Anup K. Singh
  • Patent number: 8906695
    Abstract: In general, the present disclosure is directed toward a novel hybrid spintronic device for converting chemical absorption into a change in magnetoresistance. This device uses a novel magnetic material which depends on the attachment of an organic structure to a metallic film for its magnetism. Changes in the chemical environment lead to absorption on the surface of this organometallic bilayer and thus modify its magnetic properties. The change in magnetic properties, in turn, leads to a change in the resistance of a magnetoresistive structure or a spin transistor structure, allowing a standard electrical detection of the chemical change in the sensor surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: University of South Carolina
    Inventors: Thomas M. Crawford, Samir Y. Garzon
  • Patent number: 8906305
    Abstract: An instrument adapted to determine an analyte concentration of a fluid sample using a test sensor is disclosed. The instrument comprises a display adapted to display information to a user, a user-interface mechanism adapted to allow the user to interact with the instrument, a first test-sensor cartridge, and a body portion including at least a first opening and a second opening formed therein. The first opening is adapted to receive a test sensor from the first test-sensor cartridge. The second opening is adapted to store at least one additional test-sensor cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Bayer HealthCare LLC
    Inventors: Allen J. Brenneman, Huan-Ping Wu
  • Patent number: 8900515
    Abstract: The present invention provides a biosensing device, comprising an input unit, an analysis unit, a process unit, and a set unit for storing resulting data values as the basis for calibrating the biosensing device, to set up the calibration parameters of a strip of the biosensing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Health & Life Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Meng Yi Lin
  • Patent number: 8900517
    Abstract: An electronic system for selectively detecting and identifying a plurality of chemical species, which comprises an array of nanostructure sensing devices, is disclosed. Within the array, there are at least two different selectivities for sensing among the nanostructure sensing devices. Methods for fabricating the electronic system are also disclosed. The methods involve modifying nanostructures within the devices to have different selectivity for sensing chemical species. Modification can involve chemical, electrochemical, and self-limiting point defect reactions. Reactants for these reactions can be supplied using a bath method or a chemical jet method. Methods for using the arrays of nanostructure sensing devices to detect and identify a plurality of chemical species are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Nanomix, Inc.
    Inventors: Jean-Christophe P. Gabriel, Philip G. Collins, George Gruner, Keith Bradley
  • Publication number: 20140342441
    Abstract: The present invention provides, among others, 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2013
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: ANPAC BIO-MEDICAL SCIENCE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chris C. Yu, Xuedong Du, He Yu
  • Publication number: 20140342359
    Abstract: Contemplated methods and devices comprise use of a charged probe and a neutralizer in the electrochemical detection of a wide range of analytes, including nucleic acids, proteins, and small molecules. In certain embodiments the neutralizer forms a complex with the probe that has a reduced charge magnitude compared to the probe itself, and is displaced from the probe when the complex is exposed to the analyte.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Inventors: Shana O. Kelley, Alexandre Zaragoza, Edward Hartley Sargent, Jagotamoy Das, Kristin Cederquist
  • Patent number: 8890216
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus relating to very large scale FET arrays for analyte measurements. ChemFET (e.g., ISFET) arrays may be fabricated using conventional CMOS processing techniques based on improved FET pixel and array designs that increase measurement sensitivity and accuracy, and at the same time facilitate significantly small pixel sizes and dense arrays. Improved array control techniques provide for rapid data acquisition from large and dense arrays. Such arrays may be employed to detect a presence and/or concentration changes of various analyte types in a wide variety of chemical and/or biological processes. In one example, chemFET arrays facilitate DNA sequencing techniques based on monitoring changes in hydrogen ion concentration (pH), changes in other analyte concentration, and/or binding events associated with chemical processes relating to DNA synthesis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Life Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan M. Rothberg, Wolfgang Hinz, Kim L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8883518
    Abstract: The present invention provides fluidic devices and systems that allow detection of analytes from a biological fluid. The methods and devices are particularly useful for providing point-of-care testing for a variety of medical applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Theranos, Inc.
    Inventors: Shaunak Roy, Melissa Takahashi, Ian Gibbons, Edmond Ku, Thanh Dang, Tammy Burd, Adam Vollmer, Elizabeth A. Holmes
  • Patent number: 8883079
    Abstract: A water-quality monitoring system for an aquatic environment that includes a monitoring unit and a chemical indicator wheel designed and configured to be submerged in the water being monitored. The chemical indicator wheel includes a holder that supports a number of chemical indicators selected for use in measuring levels of constituents of the water. When in use, the wheel is drivingly engaged with a monitoring/measuring unit that includes at least one reader for reading the chemical indicators. In some embodiments, each apparatus includes a plurality of immobilized-dye-based chemical indicators that undergo an optically detectable physical change as levels of one or more constituents of the water change. Also disclosed are a variety of features that can be used to provide the monitoring system with additional functionalities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Step Ahead Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Clark
  • Patent number: 8882988
    Abstract: The potentiometric device and method selective for pioglitazone relates to the detection of pioglitazone in urine, in other liquid biological samples, and in pharmaceutical preparations for quality control testing and the like, and particularly to the use of a potentiometric sensor for potentiometric detection and measurement of the concentration of pioglitazone. The potentiometric sensor includes a plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC) matrix membrane having an ionophore impregnated or embedded therein. The ionophore is an iodobismuth anion in which the iodobismuth anion forms a complex with pioglitazone. The polymer membrane is plasticized with either ortho-nitrophenyl octyl ether (NPOE) or dioctyl phthalate (DOP).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: UMM Al-Qura University
    Inventor: Amr Lotfy Saber Hefny
  • Patent number: 8882977
    Abstract: Glucose and ATP biosensors have important applications in diagnostics and research. Combining single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with Pt nanoparticles can significantly enhance the performance of electrochemical biosensors. This disclosure illustrates the use of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) to modify SWCNTs to increase SWCNT solubility in water. Multiple embodiments with this configuration allows for exploration of new schemes of combining ssDNASWCNT and Pt black in aqueous media systems. These embodiments resulted in a nanocomposite with enhanced biosensor performance. The ssDNA-SWCNT/Pt black nanocomposite constructed by a layered scheme proved most effective in terms of biosensor activity. The key feature of this structure and method of use is the exploitation of ssDNASWCNTs as molecular templates for Pt black electrodeposition. Glucose and ATP microbiosensors fabricated utilizing this structure and method of use exhibited high sensitivity, wide linear range and low limit of detection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Purdue Research Foundation
    Inventors: D. Marshall Porterfield, Tae-Gon Cha, Jong Hyun Choi, Jonathan C. Claussen, Alfred R. Diggs, Jin Shi
  • Patent number: 8877518
    Abstract: Provided are nanoscale devices suitable for multiplexed, parallel detection of multiple analytes and methods for fabricating such devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania
    Inventors: Haim H. Bau, Michael Schrlau
  • Patent number: 8877036
    Abstract: A system for measuring a solution pH includes a potentiostat with a working electrode made of an electro-conductive solid polymer transducer, an input to receive the potential to be applied between the working electrode and a reference electrode, and an output to transmit a signal representative of the current flowing between a counter electrode and the working electrode, the three electrodes being immerged into the solution. The system further includes a digital processor connected to a digital to analog converter for generating the potential to be applied between the working and the reference electrodes; and to an analog to digital converter for receiving a digital value representative of the current. The digital processor is adapted to modify the potential to maintain the current inside a predetermined range such that the potential is representative of the solution pH when the current is inside the predetermined range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Universite Catholique de Louvain
    Inventors: Sami Yunus, Patrick Bertrand, Anne Attout
  • Patent number: 8877037
    Abstract: Internally calibrated pH and other analyte sensors based on redox agents provide more accurate results when the redox active reference agent is in a constant chemical environment, yet separated from the solution being analyzed in such a way as to maintain electrical contact with the sample. Room temperature ionic liquids (RTIL) can be used to achieve these results when used as a salt bridge between the reference material and the sample being analyzed. The RTIL provides the constant chemical environment and ionic strength for the redox active material (RAM) and provides an electrolytic layer that limits or eliminates direct chemical interaction with the sample. A broad range of RAMs can be employed in a variety of configurations in such “Analyte Insensitive Electrode” devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Senova Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph A. Duimstra, Lee Leonard, Gregory G. Wildgoose, Eric Lee
  • Patent number: 8877034
    Abstract: Methods for determining the hematocrit of a blood sample, and devices and systems used in conjunction with the same. The hematocrit value can be determined on its own, and further, it can be further used to determine a concentration of an analyte in a sample. In one exemplary embodiment of a method for determining the hematocrit value in a blood sample, a volume of blood is provided in a sample analyzing device having a working and a counter electrode. An electric potential is applied between the electrodes and an initial fill velocity of the sample into the device is calculated. The hematocrit of the blood, as well as a concentration of an analyte in view of the initial fill velocity can then be determined. Systems and devices that take advantage of the use of an initial fill velocity to determine hematocrit levels and make analyte concentration determinations are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: LifeScan, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald C. Chatelier, Dennis Rylatt, Linda Raineri, Alastair M. Hodges
  • Patent number: 8877023
    Abstract: An electrochemical-based analytical test strip for the determination of an analyte (such as glucose) in a bodily fluid sample (for example, a whole blood sample) and/or a characteristic of the bodily fluid sample (for example, hematocrit) includes a first sample-receiving chamber with first and second sample-application openings, and first and second electrodes. The first and second electrodes are disposed in the first sample-receiving chamber between the first and second sample-application openings. The electrochemical-based analytical test strip also includes a second sample-receiving chamber and a plurality of electrodes disposed in the second sample-receiving chamber. In addition, the second sample-receiving chamber intersects the first sample-receiving chamber between the first and second electrodes, thereby defining a chamber intersection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Lifescan Scotland Limited
    Inventors: Lynsey Whyte, Scott Sloss, Neil Whitehead, David McColl, Antony Smith
  • Patent number: 8877510
    Abstract: A cartridge device having a receiving portion for receiving a blood sample and a jack portion for receiving a plug; a stirring device for circulating the blood sample within the receiving portion; and an electrode holder having at least one incorporated electrode wire pair; wherein the electrode holder is attachable to the cell such that one end of the at least one electrode wire pair forms a sensor unit for measuring the electrical impedance between the two electrode wires of the at least one electrode wire pair within the blood sample and that the opposite end of the at least one electrode wire pair forms a plug portion being connectable directly to the plug for an electrical connection of the sensor unit to an analyzer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG
    Inventors: Andreas Calatzis, Ben Krüger, Marc Wittwer