Abstract: An apparatus and method for performing analysis and identification of molecules have been presented. In one embodiment, a portable molecule analyzer includes a sample input/output connection to receive a sample, a nanopore-based sequencing chip to perform analysis on the sample substantially in real-time, and an output interface to output result of the analysis.

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.

Abstract: A humidity determining device 20 includes first and second humidity determining sensors 17, 18 and a control unit 21. When the first and second humidity determining sensors 17, 18 react with a chemical substance, the humidity determining performance of the first humidity determining sensor 17 and the humidity determining performance of the second humidity determining sensor 18 change with time at different amounts of change. The control unit 21 computes a difference value between a first humidity value and a second humidity value determined by the first and second humidity determining sensors 17, 18. When the difference value is greater than a predetermined reference value, the control unit 21 outputs an anomaly signal indicating that the humidity determining performance of at least one of the first or second humidity determining sensors 17, 18 has been reduced.

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.

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.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of altering the sensitivity and/or selectivity of a chemiresistor sensor, to a sensor and a sensor array produced by such method.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to tube-in-a-tube electronic materials and electronic chemical sensors comprising tube-in-a-tube configurations such as covalently functionalized double-walled carbon nanotubes.

Abstract: A synergistic improvement of a precious metal assaying device with its associated electronic decoding algorithms further employing a precise feed of an electrolyte from a disposable flexing cartridge and through porous media for conveying electrolyte to create a reproducible electrochemical contact by a wetting action between a reference electrode in the assaying device and an external specimen under test where the electrolyte is passed through a novel slit diaphragm permitting efflux of electrolyte and reflux of unused electrolyte that results in a self-cleaning flush of the assaying device. The synergistic slit diaphragm permits the flow of electrolyte from the flexing cartridge in response to the positive pressure and the cleansing return of unused electrolyte on negative pressure of the cartridge, thereby solving a contamination problem which was a major shortcoming in such assaying devices.

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.

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?).

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.

Abstract: A corrosion protection performance degradation detection sensor includes a detection electrode that reacts with the corrosion inhibitor dissolved in the solvent and forms on a surface thereof an electrode surface film which inhibits corrosion, a counter electrode that is disposed so as to face the detection electrode, and an AC power supply that applies an AC voltage between the detection electrode and the counter electrode. A change in concentration of the corrosion inhibitor in the solvent is detected, on the basis of a change in impedance of the electrode surface film formed on the surface of the detection electrode.

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.

Abstract: A structure for a chemical sensing device, the structure comprising at least one electrically conductive element located in, and protruding from, at least one recess. A method of manufacturing the structure includes: (a) providing a template comprising at least one recess having a recess depth; (b) providing an electrically conductive material in the at least one recess; and (c) removing part of the template to decrease the recess depth of the at least one recess, thereby forming said protruding at least one electrically conductive element.

Abstract: A test tape device is disclosed herein for use with a replaceable analytical tape cassette, where the device includes a housing having a cassette compartment covered by a cassette door and a housing opening for sample application, a protective cover that can be moved between a closed position covering the housing opening and a release position allowing access to the housing opening and a door lock for retaining the cassette door in the closed position, wherein the protective cover is coupled with the door lock via an interlocking mechanism, such that the door lock can only be unlocked in the release position of the cover.

Abstract: An apparatus for the diagnosis of a biological sample is disclosed. An embodiments of the apparatus includes a probe, a probe head distally connectable to the probe, the probe head further comprising a plurality of electrode elements thereby forming an electrode array where each electrode element is variably actuatable to apply an electrical signal to the biological sample; an RF signal source for applying the electrical signal to the electrode array; an electrode selector adapted and configured to switch the electrical signal from the RF signal source between the plurality of electrode elements; and a detection circuit for analyzing a dielectric property received from the biological sample. Methods and kits for diagnosing a biological sample are also disclosed.

Abstract: A sensor chip is configured to measure the temperature of a blood sample and includes a capillary section and an electrode unit. The capillary section allows the blood sample to be introduced therein. The electrode unit is configured to measure the temperature of the blood sample and includes a working electrode and a counter electrode. The working electrode and the counter electrode respectively include a reaction reagent layer containing an electrolyte. Further, the electrode unit is configured to receive a predetermined voltage to be applied in measuring the temperature of the blood sample for allowing a result of the measurement to be less affected by increase and reduction in a glucose concentration and the like.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel sensor for detecting the early stages of catalyst coking in fuel reforming systems and methods for making and using the same. The sensor may be manufactured by inkjet printing a colloidal suspension of ceramic powders to create thin (about 20 ?m) catalytic and conductive elements of the sensor. The sensor may be used to determine the presence of coking conditions during processes at a level below the detection limit available using thermogravimetric analyzers (TGA) (<10 ?g), thereby reducing catalyst coking in systems.

Abstract: The ability to switch at will between amperometric measurements and potentiometric measurements provides great flexibility in performing analysis of unknowns. Apparatus and methods can provide such switching to collect data from an electrochemical cell. The cell may contain a reagent disposed to measure glucose in human blood.

Abstract: A sensor element for a sensor or measuring device for measuring fluids, with a housing, the interior of which is sealed toward the outside and through which the fluid to measured can flow, and with at least one electrode arrangement in the housing interior, the electrode arrangement having at least one electrode and forming at least one measuring path.

Abstract: The presence of a detectable entity within a detection volume of a microfabricated elastomeric structure is sensed through a change in the electrical or magnetic environment of the detection volume. In embodiments utilizing electronic detection, an electric field is applied to the detection volume and a change in impedance, current, or combined impedance and current due to the presence of the detectable entity is measured. In embodiments utilizing magnetic detection, the magnetic properties of a magnetized detected entity alter the magnetic field of the detection volume. This changed magnetic field induces a current which can reveal the detectable entity. The change in resistance of a magnetoresistive element may also reveal the passage of a magnetized detectable entity.

Abstract: The measurement device comprises a sensor holder to which is removable to a biosensor. The sensor holder has measurement-use connection terminals that are in contact with the electrode system in the biosensor and are used to take off signals required for measuring the specific component, and thermocouple-use connection terminals that are in contact with the thermocouple in the biosensor and are used to take off the thermoelectromotive force signals.

Abstract: The sensitivity of a chemiresistor sensor can be dynamically tuned using mechanical strain. The increase in sensitivity is a smooth, continuous function of the applied strain, and the effect can be reversible. Sensitivity tuning enables the response curve of the sensor to be dynamically optimized for sensing analytes, such as volatile organic compounds, over a wide concentration range.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides the description of an inexpensive and disposable handheld device for detecting Circulating tumor cells (CTC) in blood called a handheld CTC detector (HCTCD). The HCTCD is capable of detecting less than 1 CTC per milliliter. The HCTCD consists of a dense array of high aspect ratio freestanding metallic nanoneedles, functionalized with antibodies that integrated within a microfluidic device and selectively capture and count (using electrical signal detection) the CTCs. By selecting a right functionalization protocol for the nanoneedles array, the HCTCD can be used for selective capturing a variety of rare cells that are mixed in human fluids.

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods and devices for reducing interference from heterophile antibodies in an analyte immunoassay. In one embodiment, the invention is to a method comprising the steps of (a) amending a biological sample such as a whole blood sample with non-human IgM or fragments thereof by dissolving into said sample a dry reagent to yield a non-human IgM concentration of at least about 20 ?g/mL or equivalent fragment concentration; and (b) performing an electrochemical immunoassay on the amended sample to determine the concentration of said analyte in said sample. Preferably, the sample is amended with IgG or fragments thereof in addition to the IgM of fragments thereof.

Abstract: A combinatorial screening method and system are provided. The combinatorial system and method provide rapid data generation for characterization of phase change material. The characterization data is collected through a multipoint probe card where multiple regions are characterized in a single annealing cycle.

Abstract: A sensor chip (100) for detecting particles, the sensor chip (100) comprising a substrate (102), an electric connection structure (104) arranged in a surface portion of the substrate (102) and adapted for an electric connection to an electric connection element (106), a sensor active region (108) arranged in another surface portion of the substrate (102) and being sensitive to the presence of the particles to be detected, and a continuous dielectric layer (110) covering the substrate (102) including covering the electric connection structure (104) and the sensor active region (108).

Abstract: In an FET configuration having a channel with a small thickness, transistor characteristics vary for different FETs in the same array, and therefore when the same gate voltage is applied, the sensitivities of DNA detection may be insufficient. To this end, the change in the channel current when DNA passes through the nanopore is detected while applying an optimum gate voltage for each nanopore FET to attain a predetermined channel current value to a plurality of nanopore FETs disposed on the same substrate, and four types of bases constituting DNA are distinguished.

Abstract: A vapor sensor is constructed from a single glass filament less than 2 millimeters in diameter and greater than 1 millimeters in length, the filament having a first end and a second end separated by a long axis and comprising electrodes at each end, coated with a resilient material, and a first layer of conducting particles embedded in the resilient material and forming a conducting path between ends of the filament.

Abstract: A combinatorial screening method and system are provided. The combinatorial system and method provide rapid data generation for characterization of phase change material. The characterization data is collected through a multipoint probe card where multiple regions are characterized in a single annealing cycle.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of dispersing or circulating magnetically responsive beads within a droplet in a droplet actuator. The invention, in one embodiment, makes use of a droplet actuator with a plurality of droplet operations electrodes configured to transport the droplet, and a magnetic field present at a portion of the plurality of droplet operations electrodes. A bead-containing droplet is provided on the droplet actuator in the presence of the uniform magnetic field. Beads are circulated in the droplet during incubation by conducting droplet operations on the droplet within a uniform region of the magnetic field wherein droplet operations do not allow magnetically responsive beads to be introduced into a region of the magnetic field which is sufficiently non-uniform to cause bead clumping resulting in a more homogenous distribution of the beads in the droplet. Other embodiments are also provided.

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.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a gas sensor (1) for detecting gases, with at least one gas-sensitive layer which is applied to a substrate (2), wherein at least one conductor track (3) for contact-connecting the layer is also provided on the substrate (2), and wherein the conductor track (3) is formed from a doped metal oxide material with non-catalytic properties in order to avoid the conductor track (3) influencing the detection of the gas. This avoids the disadvantages of the prior art and provides contact-connection of the gas-sensitive layers which does not influence the sensitive properties when detecting the gas by means of the layer.

Abstract: A wireless chemical sensor includes an electrical conductor and a material separated therefrom by an electric insulator. The electrical conductor is an unconnected open-circuit shaped for storage of an electric field and a magnetic field. In the presence of a time-varying magnetic field, the first electrical conductor resonates to generate harmonic electric and magnetic field responses. The material is positioned at a location lying within at least one of the electric and magnetic field responses so-generated. The material changes in electrical conductivity in the presence of a chemical-of-interest.

Abstract: A method for analyzing a fluid containing one or more analytes of interest includes; measuring a plurality of properties of a sample fluid with unknown concentrations of the one or more analytes of interest; and using the measurements and a model of the relationship between the plurality of properties and concentrations of the one or more analytes to calculate the concentration of at least one of the analytes of interest. The model may be an artificial neural network. The method may be used to monitor the concentration of inhibitors of gas hydrate formation in a fluid. Apparatus for use in the method is also provided.

Abstract: Sensors for the detection of free radicals and free radical forming compounds including, for example, peroxides, as well as energetic radiation, UV light, plasma or heat each such sensor including a functional component are described herein. In addition, this disclosure includes methods for making such sensors and methods for using sensors including a functional component and devices incorporating such sensors.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method for fixing a histological sample, in which a target fixing time for the sample is defined and the sample is exposed to the action of a fixative, the exposure start time being stored in a memory associated with the sample. The sample is no longer exposed to the fixative when an action time of the fixative on the sample is equal to or greater than the target fixing time.

Abstract: The invention concerns an analyzer, typically for analyzing body fluids, which has one or several exchangeable cassettes (consumables) that contain operating liquids, operating materials and/or consumables and can be inserted into corresponding holders of the analyzer, wherein the analyzer has a system for exchanging ambient air which has a filter unit on the inlet side of the analyzer to filter the ambient air that needs to be exchanged. The filter unit is integrated into at least one of the exchangeable cassettes in order to minimize the amount of maintenance for the analyzer.

Abstract: A device for detecting an analyte present in a fluid includes a fluorous sensing phase into which the analyte enters selectively in comparison with other components of the fluid.

Abstract: A method of analyzing a blood sample is provided. The method comprises providing a system configured to perform an analysis of a glucose level of the blood sample disposed on a test medium, wherein the test medium is one of a quantity of test media in a user's supply, monitoring, by the system, the number of test media of the supply used in performing the analysis, determining, by the system, that a threshold value of test media has been reached, the threshold value being less than the quantity, and performing, by the system, once the threshold value has been reached, an ordering procedure.

Abstract: A sensor for determining the concentration of a gas in gas mixtures, which has a measuring and a reference electrode as well as a polymer layer, which is in contact with the gas mixture and with the measuring electrode. A pH sensitive electrode is provided as the measuring electrode.

Abstract: A machine for producing and dispensing liquid and semi-liquid consumer food products such as ice creams, whipped cream, yogurt and the like comprises a container for a basic product of the consumer food product, a feed and treatment circuit for the basic product, comprising a feed pump, dispensing means positioned at an outfeed end of the feed and treatment circuit, and a device for checking the bacterial load of the product during production/dispensing; an electronic control unit controlling and regulating the various steps for measuring the bacterial load.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a structure comprising a biological membrane and a porous or perforated substrate, a biological membrane, a substrate, a high throughput screen, methods for production of the structure membrane and substrate, and a method for screening a large number of test compounds in a short period. More particularly it relates to a structure comprising a biological membrane adhered to a porous or perforated substrate, a biological membrane capable of adhering with high resistance seals to a substrate such as perforated glass and the ability to form sheets having predominantly an ion channel or transporter of interest, a high throughput screen for determining the effect of test compounds on ion channel or transporter activity, methods for manufacture of the structure, membrane and substrate, and a method for monitoring ion channel or transporter activity in a membrane.

Abstract: A simple and low cost device to detect the presence of mercury or other trace metals in the environment and quantify said concentration by spectrophotometric, colorimetric, or electrical conductivity is disclosed. Owing to its small size, it is suitable for portable mercury detectors or detectors that may be worn as badges in the breathing zone of workers.

Abstract: A precious metal testing apparatus and methods adapted to analyze impurities in a precious metal test sample is described. The testing apparatus contains a test probe that has a replaceable portion and that is connected to a meter to measure resistance. The replaceable portion contains or forms a reservoir that includes at least one electrolyte component, a conductive member, and a fibrous tip. The electrolyte component is fluidly associated with a fiber tip and the conductive member contacts an electrical contact located outside the reservoir. Methods of testing and instructions regarding such methods are also included.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to paper-based substrates and apparatus comprising such substrates. The apparatus may include a patterned conductive structure coupled to the paper-based substrate, wherein the patterned conductive structure responds to electromagnetic radiation.

Abstract: The invention concerns a test element analytical system for the analytical examination of a sample, especially a body fluid, comprising at least one test element with one or more measuring zones and contact areas located on the test element, in particular electrodes or conductor paths, the sample to be examined being brought into the measuring zone to carry out an analysis in order to determine a characteristic measured quantity for the analysis, and an evaluation instrument with a test element holder for positioning the test element in a measuring position and a measuring device for measuring the characteristic change, the test element holder containing contact elements with contact areas which enable an electrical contact between the contact areas of the test element and the contact areas of the test element holder, characterized in that one of these contact areas is provided with an electrically conductive hard material surface.

Abstract: Systems, kits, and methods for quantitation of metabolites of vitamin D by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The systems, kits, and methods described herein stabilize and/or promote the formation of the protonated molecular ion ([M+H]+) for the vitamin D metabolites in the ionization source (e.g., electrospray ionization (“ESI”)). Formation of the molecular ion does not involve loss of a water molecule from the parent molecule. Subsequent fragmentation of the [M+H]+ ion yields product ions that are specific to each molecular ion. The systems, kits, and methods described herein provide for no compromise in specificity and provide for a significant increase in sensitivity relative to previously described methods.

Abstract: The disclosure provides sensor for gas sensing including CO2 gas sensors comprising a porous framework sensing area for binding an analyte gas.

Abstract: A GMR sensor stripe provides a sensitive mechanism for detecting the presence of magnetized particles bonded to biological molecules that are affixed to a substrate. The adverse effect of hysteresis on the maintenance of a stable bias point for the magnetic moment of the sensor stripe free layer is eliminated by a combination of biasing the sensor stripe along its longitudinal direction rather than the usual transverse direction and by using the overcoat stress and magnetostriction of magnetic layers to create a compensatory transverse magnetic anisotropy. By connecting the stripes in an array and making the spaces between the stripes narrower than the dimension of the magnetized particle and by making the width of the stripes equal to the dimension of the particle, the sensitivity of the sensor array is enhanced.