Abstract: A device and method for detecting by fluorescence microbial growth from sample substances are disclosed. For example, a method for the detection of visible-band fluorescence signals generated by at least one fluorescing compound excited by ultraviolet energy, comprising exciting said at least one fluorescing compound with ultraviolet energy emitted from a light-emitting diode comprising wavelengths below 400 nanometers, and detecting a visible-band fluorescence signal generated by said at least one excited fluorescing compound with at least one light detector sensitive to electromagnetic energy comprising wavelengths greater than or equal to 400 nanometers wavelength.

Abstract: The device for microbiological analyzes on samples of body fluids comprising: an incubation area for containers containing said samples; an analyzer for analyzing the inner atmosphere of said containers; a sorting system to sort the containers according to the carbon dioxide content detected by said analyzer.

Abstract: An automated system for identifying in a biological sample microorganisms and their antimicrobial susceptibility (AST). The system provided an automated platform for preparing, from a single biological sample, inoculates for both ID and AST. The system loads a plate for ID testing as samples are being prepared for AST testing. The system tracks the sample and the inoculates from the samples to link the test results to the sample and the patients from whom the sample was obtained.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a biological detection device and a detecting method. The biological detection device comprises a substrate, an electric field unit, a liquid crystal/polymer composite film (LCPCF), a power supply, a processing unit, and an image sensor. Because of the electrically tunable orientations of the liquid crystal (LC) director anchored among the polymer grains, the wettability of the LCPCF changes with an applied electric field. As a result, we can manipulate a blood droplet on the LCPCF by a wettability gradient owing to the distribution of LC directors on the LCPCF. The motion states of the blood droplet can be related to the various qualities of the blood, and finally determines the health of the test sample. The change of contact angle of blood on LCPCF and the blood droplet motion on LCPCF indicate the concentration of TG and the concentration of HDL.

Abstract: A wastewater treatment process elicits microorganisms to convert a waste stream/organic resource to intracellular biopolymer polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA). The process includes (i) waste stream/organic resource composition feed criteria, (ii) configuration coupled with operational parameters, and (iii) PHA-laden biomass separation and stabilization. A waste stream/organic resource capable of producing enhanced levels of PHA may be selected based on a combination of criteria, which may include short chain fatty acid concentration, protein concentration, polysaccharides concentration, and total suspended solids concentration. The waste stream is introduced into an aeration basin upon a specific configuration and operated under various parameter combinations for selecting/enriching microorganisms capable of producing PHA. The PHA-laden biomass is separated and stabilized for downstream PHA related product beneficial uses.

Abstract: The disclosure provides culture devices and methods for a microorganism in a sample. The devices include a base member, a cover sheet, an adhesive layer coupled to the base member or the cover sheet, and a cold water-soluble gelling agent disposed on the base member; wherein the devices are substantially optically transmissive when the gelling agent is hydrated with a clear liquid. Methods of use include detecting or enumerating microorganisms. The methods further provide for detecting a microorganism by detecting the presence or size of an abiogenic gas bubble in a culture device.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for separating, characterizing and/or identifying microorganisms in a test sample. The method of the invention comprises an optional lysis step for lysing non-microorganism cells that may be present in a test sample, followed by a subsequent separation step. The method may be useful for the separation, characterization and/or identification of microorganisms from complex samples such as blood-containing culture media. The invention further provides for the use of one or more identifier agents and interrogating the microorganism sample and/or said one or more identifier agents to produce measurements which characterizing and/or identifying the microorganism based on the produced measurements and/or the presence or absence of the identifier agent or a metabolized form of the identifier agent in the microorganism sample.

Abstract: A medium for the growth of vancomycin-resistant Enterococci comprising:— (i) a nutrient medium with an energy source effective to support growth and reproduction of vancomycin-resistant Enterococci; (ii) an effective amount of one or more selective agents to inhibit the growth of microorganisms other than vancomycin-resistant Enterococci; (iii) a Krebs cycle intermediate.

Abstract: The invention relates to a growth medium allying a fluorogenic substrate and a pH-sensitive fluorophore, in particular the combination of 4-methylumbelliferone (4-MU) and derivatives of fluorescein. This growth medium is used for the detection by fluorescence of microorganisms by coupling the fluorescence measurements relating to the pH-sensitive fluorophor and the fluorescence measurements relating to the activation of the fluorogenic substrate(s) by the microorganisms.

Abstract: A composition useful as a Reference Standard for measurement of Cetane Number or for use as a standard for determining a Derived Cetane Number consists essentially of a blend of n-hexadecane and 2,2,4,6,6-pentamethylheptane. The disclosed Reference Standards can be used directly as substitutes for blends of n-hexadecane and 2,2,4,4,6,8,8-heptamethylnonane in ASTM D613-10a for determining Cetane Number, or in ASTM D6890, ASTM D7170 or ASTM D7668 to determine a Derived Cetane Number.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of selecting and developing a chemically defined media (“CDM”) for use in the manufacture of biological products. In particular, the present invention is directed to screening methods to determine cell culture technique media supplement blends with enhanced performance characteristics. The present invention is also directed to identifying CDM supplement blends that demonstrate significant increases in harvest titer and/or viable cell density.

Abstract: A method for detecting and enumerating viable microorganisms in a sample suspected of containing said microorganisms: (1) contacting said microorganisms of said sample with repair compounds and a growth medium, and (2) incubating the product of step (1),and (3) detecting and enumerating said microorganisms, in which the microorganisms are of the species Legionella pneumophila, and in which the repair compounds comprise: (a)serine;(b)threonine;(c)a compound containing calcium ions at a dose of 10?6 to 10?2 mM;(d)a compound containing magnesium ions at a dose of 10?6 to 10?2 mM;(e)a compound containing potassium ions;(f) glutamic acid or a salt thereof; and (g)pyruvic acid or a salt thereof. The invention also discloses a kit for detecting and enumerating viable microorganisms of the species Legionella pneumophila in a sample suspected of containing said microorganisms.

Abstract: Provided are an alga in which productivity of a photosynthate is increased, and use of the alga. The alga of the present invention has an increased glutathione concentration in its chloroplast. A method of the present invention for producing biomass is a method for producing biomass with the use of the alga of the present invention or an alga produced by a method of the present invention for producing an alga.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for identifying biological objects on a substrate; the method comprises: (i) illuminating the substrate carrying the biological objects with a light beam; (ii) acquiring at least one optical image of the illuminated substrate; the light beam comprises a wavelength band, the wavelength band is selected to induce at least one optical aberration in the optical image of the illuminated substrate; the optical aberration is predetermined as characterizing the biological objects; and (iii) processing said at least one optical image to provide a value or a combination of values indicative of presence or absence of said at least one optical aberration; said value or combination of values permitting detection or identification of the biological objects on said substrate. The invention also provides a processing unit, a system and a database for use in connection with the method of the invention.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to systems and methods for mass spectrometry analysis of microorganisms in samples.

Abstract: Systems and methods for detecting and/or identifying target cells (e.g., bacteria) using engineered transduction particles are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes mixing a quantity of transduction particles within a sample. The transduction particles are associated with a target cell. The transduction particles are non-replicative, and are engineered to include a nucleic acid molecule formulated to cause the target cell to produce a series of reporter molecules. The sample and the transduction particles are maintained to express the series of the reporter molecules when target cell is present in the sample. A signal associated with a quantity of the reporter molecules is received. In some embodiments, a magnitude of the signal is independent from a quantity of the transduction particle above a predetermined quantity.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an isolated linear expression cassette. The disclosed cassette comprises a bidirectional promoter; a first gene and a second gene that the genes are respectively and operably linked to one end of the bidirectional promoter; a terminator located immediately next to end of each gene; a 5?-homogolgous region to genomic context of interest and a 3?-homogolgous region to genomic context of interest respectively flanking 5? end and 3? end of the cassette; and a dominant selection marker residing within the construct and being arranged in between the flanking 5?-homogolgous region to genomic context of interest and a 3?-homogolgous region to genomic context of interest. Preferably, the cassette is capable of being integrated into genome of transformed yeasts upon being transported into the transformed cell.

Abstract: A multi-channel system and methods for sorting particles according to one or more characteristics of the particles. The system includes multiple flow cytometry units, each unit can have a nozzle for producing a fluid stream containing a desired population of particles in a mixture of particles. Each of the units may be operable to sort said desired population of particles by interrogating the fluid stream with a beam of electromagnetic radiation and classifying particles based on one or more characteristics of the particles. The system also includes a common fluid delivery system for delivering sheath fluid to each flow cytometer unit for producing respective fluid streams.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a label-free viscosity-based analyte detection system using paramagnetic beads as an asynchronous magnetic bead rotation (AMBR) microviscometer. It is disclosed herein that the bead rotation period is linearly proportional to the viscosity of a solution comprising analytes surrounding the paramagnetic bead. Optical measurement of asynchronous microbead motion determines solution viscosity precisely in microscale volumes, thus allowing an estimate of analyte concentration. The results demonstrate the feasibility of viscosity-based analyte detection using AMBR in microscale aqueous volumes.

Abstract: The invention provides a bacterial isolate defined by accession number 040408-1 filed with the International Depository Authority of Canada. The bacteria are capable of detoxifying trichothecene mycotoxins. Also provided are compositions including the bacteria and methods of preventing or treating food or foodstuffs that are contaminated or susceptible to contamination with trichothecene mycotoxins. Kits are also provided.

Abstract: The invention concerns the field of cell culture technology. It concerns RNA having a specific sequence, expression vectors encoding said RNA, production host cell lines comprising said RNA, and methods of producing recombinant biopharmaceutical products using engineered host cell with altered levels of said RNAs, such as small non-coding RNAs, preferably microRNAs (miRNAs). The invention also relates to engineered host cells with altered levels in one or more of said RNAs. Those cell lines have improved secretion and/or growth characteristics in comparison to control cell lines.

Abstract: A recombinant microorganism is provided herein, in particular, a recombinant microorganism of the Azotobacteraceae family. The recombinant Azotobacter microorganism is capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen continuously in the presence of oxygen and externally fixed nitrogen sources. The present invention further provides a process for production of the recombinant microorganism and a composition comprising the recombinant microorganism for use as biofertilizers and/or for use in the preparation of a fertilizer composition. The recombinant microorganism produced by this invention is an environmental friendly, highly beneficial microorganism.

Abstract: Provided herein are an isolated or enriched population of tumor initiating cells derived from normal cells, cells susceptible to neoplasia, or neoplastic cells. Methods of use of the cells for screening for anti-hyperproliferative agents, and use of the cells for animal models of hyperproliferative disorders including metastatic cancer, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic methods are provided.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a batch of sample containers optimized for culturing particular animal cells or binding particular proteins under particular growth conditions. When a customer requires a batch of sample containers, an appropriate surface is first selected by a testing process. A test container is provided which has a surface subdivided into a plurality of test areas, for example in a two-dimensional square array. Each test area has a pre-defined combination of surface properties including a micro- or nano-structure and these properties are varied from test area to test area. The animal cells or protein of interest are then tested under the particular conditions to be used. The test area that provides the ‘best’ conditions is then selected. The manufacture of a production batch of containers is then carried out, wherein the test areas in the production batch all copy the ‘best’ surface structure selected in the test.

Abstract: The invention relates to a kit for detecting biofilms, which is in particular compatible with the agri-food industry and comprises a biofilm staining solution containing a stain in solution in a dilution phase compatible with the agri-food industry, wherein said stain is Coomassie blue, and a cleaning solution comprising said dilution phase.

Abstract: A method for detecting a xerophilic microorganism is provided. The method comprises providing a sample to be tested, an aqueous diluent comprising about 1.0 to about 10.2 weight percent glycerol, and a thin film culture device comprising a cold water-reconstitutable medium to facilitate the growth of a microorganism. The method further comprises mixing the sample with the aqueous diluent to form an inoculum, contacting a predefined amount of the inoculum with the reconstitutable medium to form an inoculated thin film culture device, incubating the inoculated thin film culture device for a period of time, and detecting a presence or an absence of colony of a microorganism. Kits for detecting a xerophilic microorganism according to the method are also provided.

Abstract: Systems and methods for detecting and/or identifying target cells (e.g., bacteria) using engineered transduction particles are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes mixing a quantity of transduction particles within a sample. The transduction particles are associated with a target cell. The transduction particles are non-replicative, and are engineered to include a nucleic acid molecule formulated to cause the target cell to produce a series of reporter molecules. The sample and the transduction particles are maintained to express the series of the reporter molecules when target cell is present in the sample. A signal associated with a quantity of the reporter molecules is received. In some embodiments, a magnitude of the signal is independent from a quantity of the transduction particle above a predetermined quantity.

Abstract: A process is provided for capturing or concentrating microorganisms for detection or assay. The process includes providing an adsorption buffer-modified inorganic concentration agent, providing a sample including at least one microorganism strain, and contacting the adsorption buffer-modified inorganic concentration agent with the sample such that at least a portion of the at least one microorganism strain is bound to or captured by the adsorption buffer-modified inorganic concentration agent. The adsorption buffer-modified inorganic concentration agent is prepared by a process including contacting at least one inorganic concentration agent with at least one cation-containing salt solution, so as to wet at least a portion of the inorganic concentration agent, and drying the resulting wet inorganic concentration agent.

Abstract: Microplate reader with optical measuring/detection device has housing, a microplate support and a moving unit. The moving unit moves the microplate support out and into the housing and horizontally within the housing. The reader has an integrated lid holding apparatus within the housing for lifting and placing a microplate lid on the microplate. The lid holding apparatus moves the microplate lid and/or the microplate support for moving the microplate in one respective vertical direction. A method for optically measuring a microplate in such a microplate reader places a covered microplate on the microplate support, retracts it into the housing, lifts the lid from the microplate, measures the microplate with the lifted lid, replaces the lid, and extends the support and the covered microplate out of the housing.

Abstract: Selective enrichment media and methods for selectively growing and detecting Salmonella spp. The media comprise a carbon and nitrogen source, an inorganic salt, a fermentable sugar, one or more selective agents, and an efflux pump inhibitor. Various selective agents include sulfa drugs, surfactants, aminocoumarins, cycloheximide, supravital stains, ascorbic acid, bromobenzoic acid, myricetin, rifamycins, polyketides, and oxazolidinones. Various efflux pump inhibitors include arylpiperazines, such as 1-(1-naphthylmethyl)piperazine, and quinoline derivatives, such as 4-chloroquinoline. The selective agents and efflux pump inhibitors are provided in the media in combinations and amounts that inhibit growth of non-Salmonella microorganisms without substantially affecting growth and metabolism of Salmonella species. Methods of selectively growing and detecting Salmonella species are provided.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the use of isotopically labeled citrulline for diagnosing the presence or absence of a bacterial infection in the lungs of a patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for a fast thermo-optical characterisation of particles. In particular, the present invention relates to a method and a device to measure the stability of (bio)molecules, the interaction of molecules, in particular biomolecules, with, e.g. further (bio)molecules, particularly modified (bio)molecules, particles, beads, and/or the determination of the length/size (e.g. hydrodynamic radius) ofindividual (bio)molecules, particles, beads and/or the determination of length/size (e.g. hydrodynamic radius).

Abstract: The present invention discloses a sperm selecting system and the method thereof. The brief concept of the present invention is to generate a flow field by hydraulic pressure difference then utilize the property that the sperm swims against the flow field so as to difference the sperms by vitality thereof. One of the main features of the present invention is that the sperms be selected are initially set at the entrance of the flow field instead of the exit of the system. Furthermore, an activating design can be selectively added to the present invention so as to activate the sperm be affected by the process of freeze storing.

Abstract: An apparatus and an assembly for processing a sample are provided. The apparatus comprises a plurality of spaced-apart reservoirs, a plurality of channels, and a plurality of outlets, each outlet comprising an effluent discharge opening. The apparatus forms a plurality of flow paths, each flow path comprising a reservoir, a channel, and an outlet. An analyte capture element can be slideably engaged in a channel in a position where it is in fluid communication with the flow path. The apparatus with the analyte capture element disposed in the flow path can be used to process a liquid sample. A method of detecting an analyte in the liquid sample is also provided.

Abstract: Electrokinetic devices and methods are described with the purpose of collecting assayable agents from a dielectric fluid medium. Electrokinetic flow may be induced by the use of plasma generation at high voltage electrodes and consequent transport of charged particles in an electric voltage gradient. In one embodiment, an ionic propulsion device for providing a sample for a bio-specific assay of aerosol particles comprises a housing receiving a sample of aerosol particles and enclosing a high voltage electrode to generate a plasma of electrically charged particles. A carrier assembly is removably receivable in the housing, the carrier assembly comprising a non-conductive carrier and an electrode removably secured to the carrier.

Abstract: Disclosed is a urine sample analyzer for analyzing particles contained in a urine sample and outputting analytical results. The analyzer includes a flow cell that accepts a measurement specimen, the measurement specimen comprising a urine sample mixed with a reagent, a light irradiation unit positioned to irradiate the flowing measurement specimen with light, a light detector that detects light from individual particles in the flowing measurement specimen, and a data processor that receives signal from the light detector, processes the signal to obtain parameter information corresponding to a length of a cell cluster, and classifies fungi in the measurement specimen into groups by using the parameter information.

Abstract: A method for the detection of metabolically active cells using microwells is provided. A sample containing one or more cells is segmented into a plurality of microwells each containing a metabolic indicator. The microwells are then monitored for a change in the level or activity of a metabolic indicator, thereby indicating the presence or absence of metabolically active cells in each microwell. Also provided are methods for the detection of cells such as bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics or for the detection of particular cell types such as mycobacteria. Also provided are screening methods for identifying compounds with an effect on cell growth or metabolism.

Abstract: Described herein are methods of detecting a wound infection and for detecting the presence or absence of microorganisms, for example, wound pathogens in a sample, by contacting a sample with an enzyme produced and/or secreted by the bacteria, and detecting modification or the absence of modification of the substrate, as an indicator of the presence or absence of the enzyme in the sample. The present invention also features a biosensor for detecting the presence or absence of bacteria in a sample.

Abstract: A method and point of use kit to determine under field conditions the presence and/or amount of a selected Pseudomonas species capable of bioremediating organic environmental pollutants, such as petroleum hydrocarbons.

Abstract: The invention provides vesicles that may be used in diagnosing infection, especially with infection by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The vesicles can be used in wound dressings.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for characterizing the antibiotic resistance of a microorganism, said method comprising the steps of (a) providing a reference mass spectrum of an antimicrobial compound, its enzymatic modification product, its molecular target, or of a substrate compound of a its modifying enzyme; (b) exposing a microorganism, a cell lysate thereof, or a growth medium supernatant thereof, to said antimicrobial compound or said substrate compound in aqueous liquid to thereby provide an exposed sample; (c) acquiring a mass spectrum of the exposed sample; (d) comparing the mass spectrum acquired in step c) with the reference mass spectrum of step (a), and (e) determining from said comparison whether modification of said antimicrobial compound, its modification product or its molecular target or of said substrate has occurred following said exposure, and establishing that said microorganism is potentially resistant to said antimicrobial compound when said modification is observed.

Abstract: A new device and method for detecting the presence of living microorganisms in test samples are described. The device includes a container having at least one section transparent to light with an incubation zone defined in the container, the incubation zone containing growth media in which the sample is cultured. A detection zone containing a matrix composed of a polymeric material which is substantially transparent to light, and at least one indicator reagent sensitive to carbon dioxide gas generated by the microorganisms in the incubation zone is located in the transparent section of the matrix. The matrix is configured to facilitate penetration of external light aimed at the transparent section of the container and interaction of the external light with the indicator reagent to yield interactive light that escapes through the transparent section of the container, said interactive light is being indicative of the presence and/or concentration of the microorganisms.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods of diagnosing the presence or absence of a bacterial infection in a patient, in particular, a tuberculosis infection, by measuring exhaled, isotopically labeled nitrogen gas after administration of isotopic ally labeled isoniazid.

Abstract: Disclosed are sample analysis apparatus and methods. A sample analysis apparatus includes a first unit that rotates a microfluidic apparatus including: a chamber having a space accommodating a sample, a channel that provides a path through which the sample flows; and a valve that selectively opens and closes the channel, a valve driver that supplies energy, used to operate the valve, to the valve in a state of being separated from the microfluidic apparatus, a third unit that rotates the valve driver with respect to a common rotation axis with a rotation axis of the microfluidic apparatus and the third unit, and a control unit that controls the first and third units and the valve driver to supply energy to the valve while the microfluidic apparatus and the valve driver are being rotated at the same rotation speed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of separating biological particles from the liquid containing same for purification, analysis and optionally diagnostic purposes. The inventive method comprises at least one step involving vertical filtration through a filter having a porosity that is adapted to the type of biological particles to be separated, such that said particles are retained by the filter. The invention is characterised in that: (i) the method involves the use of a filter comprising at least one basic filtration zone, whereby each basic filtration zone has a limited surface area; and (ii) the surface area of each basic filtration zone and the number of basic filtration zones are selected as a function of the type of liquid to be filtered, the type of biological particles to be separated and the volume of liquid to be filtered.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a microbial composition which is tailored based on the spectrum of microbes found more frequently from the intestine of non-secretor individuals than from the intestine of secretor individuals. The present invention further relates to a method of tailoring a microbial composition based on the spectrum of microbes found more frequently from the intestine of non-secretor individuals than from that of secretor blood group status. The present invention relates to use of the secretor status of an individual as a criterion for microbial supplementation tailored based on the differences in the spectra of microbes found between secretor and non-secretor individuals.

Abstract: A method of increasing biogenic production of a combustible gas from a subterranean geologic formation is described. The method may include extracting formation water from the geologic formation, where the extracted formation water includes at least a first species and a second species of microorganism. The method may also include analyzing the extracted formation water to identify the first species of microorganism that promotes the biogenic production of the combustible gas. An amendment may be introduced to the formation water to promote the growth of the first species of microorganism, and the biological characteristics of the formation water may be altered to decrease a population of the second species in the geologic formation.

Abstract: A method of determining nephrotoxicity of pharmaceuticals by conducting a metabolite formation study in cells using PAH in a control group; measuring metabolite formation; exposing cells to pharmaceuticals in the treatment group; conducting the metabolite formation study using PAH; measuring the metabolite formation in the treatment group; comparing the metabolite formation in the control and treatment group, and making a determination as to the nephrotoxicity of pharmaceutical.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for measuring airborne microorganisms in real time using a microorganism lysis system and ATP bioluminescence, the method including sampling the airborne microorganisms in a particle classification device to which an ATP-reactive luminescent agent is applied and, at the same time, lysing the microorganisms in a microorganism lysis system under continuous operation to extract adenosine triphosphate (ATP) of the microorganisms sampled in the particle classification device, thus inducing a luminescent reaction between the ATP-reactive luminescent agent and the ATP of the particle classification device in real time; and measuring the concentration of microorganisms using a light receiving device. According to the detection method using ATP organism illumination, the floating microorganisms in the gas phase can be readily detected and the detection can be automatically conducted in real time without manual labor.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for strain-specific identification and assessment of susceptibility of microorganisms based on the response of sensors in a colorimetric sensor array to metabolic products of the microorganism.