Abstract: An apparatus for classifying a picture of a reaction of reactants in a predetermined container; the apparatus comprising a first neural network arranged for receiving an input picture of a reaction of reactants in a predetermined container and for providing, for each reaction category of a first plurality of reaction categories, a probability that the input picture shows a reaction that belongs to said reaction category; a second neural network arranged for, if the first neural response provides a highest probability that the input picture shows a reaction that belongs to a predetermined reaction category, receiving a predetermined portion of the input picture and providing, for each reaction category of a second plurality of reaction categories, a probability that said predetermined portion of the input picture shows a reaction that belongs to said reaction category.

Abstract: An instrument for reading a lateral flow assay device by detecting color changes based on human perception includes an optics module having a camera, a signal processor, a storage memory and a comparator circuit. The storage memory has stored therein a dataset of sample readings of reference assay devices similar in structure and function to that of the lateral flow assay device. The sample readings are based on human visual perceptions of colorimetric changes in the detection zones of the reference assay devices. The comparator circuit compares the measured colorimetric data relating to the assay device read by the instrument with the stored database of sample readings based on human visual perceptions of the colorimetric changes of the reference assay devices, and generates a comparison signal which is provided to the signal processor. The signal processor generates a determination signal indicative of the presence, absence or quantity of an analyte.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices and methods for performing biological and chemical assays, such as immunoassays and nucleic acid assays, more particularly a homogeneous assay that does not use a wash step by using the aggregation and de-aggregation processes of microparticles or nanoparticles.

Abstract: A method having the steps of obtaining prepared image data captured by an image sensor receiving light propagated across a sample volume, containing a fluid possibly comprising microscopic objects of foreign origin, while illuminating the sample volume by coherent light. The prepared image data comprising, for a microscopic object, a prepared hologram pattern with prepared spatially alternating intensity formed by the interference fringes; providing filtered image data, comprising automatically filtering the prepared image data by an edge enhancing filter. the filtered image data comprising, for a prepared hologram pattern, a filtered hologram pattern. The presence of the microscopic object associated with the filtered hologram pattern in the sample volume of the fluid is automatically detected on the basis of the filtered hologram pattern.

Abstract: Described herein are compositions and methods for the treatment or prevention of ocular surface disorders including meibomian gland dysfunction, blepharitis, dry eye disease and other inflammatory and/or infectious diseases of the anterior surface of the eye(s). Said compositions and methods comprise keratolytic conjugates which demonstrate keratolytic activity, and anti-inflammatory or other desirable activities. Topical administration of said compositions to the eyelid margin or surrounding areas provides therapeutic benefit to patients suffering from ocular surface disorders.

Abstract: The present invention is a porcine animal, tissue, organ, cells and cell lines, which lack any expression of functional alpha 1,3 galactosyltransferase (alpha1,3GT). These animals, tissues, organs and cells can be used in xenotransplantation and for other medical purposes.

Abstract: Methods of using and making chemical sensors include exposing a functionalized electrode to a substance to be tested. The functionalized electrode is electrically connected to a sensor having a piezoelectric element and a piezoresistive element. A voltage on the functionalized electrode controls a resistance of the piezoresistive element. A current is measured passing through the piezoresistive element. The presence of the analyte is determined based on the measured current.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for normalization of a label-free system for calibration-free concentration analysis. The method comprises (1) providing a solution containing a control macromolecular particle of a known concentration at a pH lower than the pI of the macromolecular particle and a low ionic strength; (2) contacting the solution with a negatively charged optical sensor surface at a first flow rate to allow electrostatic binding of the macromolecular particle to the surface and obtaining a first sensorgram; (3) contacting the solution with the optical sensor surface at a second flow rate to allow electrostatic binding of the macromolecular particle to the surface and obtaining a second sensorgram; and (4) fitting the sensorgrams to a binding equation to determine a measured concentration of the control; wherein the optical sensor surface is not immobilized with a ligand for the control and the contacting steps are performed under mass transport limitations.

Abstract: An instrument for reading a lateral flow assay device by detecting color changes based on human perception includes an optics module having a camera, a signal processor, a storage memory and a comparator circuit. The storage memory has stored therein a dataset of sample readings of reference assay devices similar in structure and function to that of the lateral flow assay device. The sample readings are based on human visual perceptions of colorimetric changes in the detection zones of the reference assay devices. The comparator circuit compares the measured colorimetric data relating to the assay device read by the instrument with the stored database of sample readings based on human visual perceptions of the colorimetric changes of the reference assay devices, and generates a comparison signal which is provided to the signal processor. The signal processor generates a determination signal indicative of the presence, absence or quantity of an analyte.

Abstract: A method includes, under control of control circuitry implementing a mixing protocol, aspirating reagents from multiple different reagent reservoirs into a cache channel. Designated amounts of the reagents are automatically aspirated from the corresponding reagent reservoirs by corresponding sippers based on the mixing protocol implemented by the control circuitry. The method also includes discharging the reagents from the cache channel into a mixing reservoir, and mixing the reagents within the mixing reservoir to form a reagent mixture.

Abstract: Systems, apparatuses, and methods for generating hot gases based on catalyzation involving flowing catalyst. Catalysis occurs in a flow-type mixing catalyzation channel in which a liquid catalyst mixes with a liquid reactant flowing in a desired flow regime, such as a striated (laminar) flow regime or a slug flow regime. Devices such as micro-thrusters for satellite and other applications and hot gas generators for powering another device, such as an electrical generator, can be made using one or more flow-type mixing catalyzation channels.

Abstract: Methods for detecting the presence or absence of, and for quantifying, one set of cells in a mixed cell population of at least two sets of cells especially Rh positive cells in a mixed population with Rh negative cells, as is found in a fetal maternal hemorrhage (FMH). The magnetic particles coated with anti-D antibodies are reacted with the Rh positive fetal cells in Rh negative maternal blood followed by a specific separation and quantifying technique. Gravitational forces or magnetic forces are used to move reacted magnetic particles to isolate, distinguish and quantify cells differentiated by antigenic composition. Rh positive cell volume is correlated to the volume of the original blood sample as an indication of the number of doses of RhIG needed to be administered to the mother to prevent subsequent Rh immunization.

Abstract: New methods and assays for multiplexed detection of analytes using phosphors that are uniform in morphology, size, and composition based on their unique optical lifetime signatures are described herein. The described assays and methods can be used for imaging or detection of multiple unique chemical or biological markers simultaneously in a single assay readout.

Abstract: Fungal infections are difficult to diagnose. The most common filamentous fungal infection, aspergillosis, carries with it a high mortality. Culture of the organism is difficult and obtaining samples, e.g., through a lung biopsy, sometimes causes morbidity. Biomarkers that indicate ‘early’ infection in it development are sought after. One such biomarker is detection of galactomannan (GM), a polysaccharide that is attached to hyphal cell walls and secreted during growth of the organism. Galactomannan is excreted in urine. Disclosed herein is a lateral flow assay comprising monoclonal antibodies that recognize specific residues of Aspergillus fumigatus for detecting GM in urine samples to provide a point-of-care detection device to allow for frequent screening and early diagnosis in patients at high risk for infection.

Abstract: In a method of manufacturing a quantum dot, a core may be formed using (utilizing) at least one cation precursor and at least one anion precursor. The core may be reacted with a shell forming precursor and a ligand forming precursor for more than one hour to form a shell enclosing the core and a ligand. A nanoparticle including the core, the shell and the ligand may be washed.

Abstract: Erythrocytes exposed to dialysis with an hypotonic buffer stably take up superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles and may be used MRI contrast agents. Such erythrocytes may also be used as drug delivery vehicles.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for purifying biomolecules or for analyzing whether an aqueous phase contains biomolecules by means of magnetic separation. The invention further relates to uses, to devices, and to kits that relate to the method according to the invention.

Abstract: The present application discloses nanoparticles, particularly nanoparticles of superparamagnetic iron oxide, which find utility in iron therapy and diagnostic imaging such as magnetic resonance (MR). The disclosed nanoparticles have been treated with an ?-hydroxyphosphonic acid conjugate containing polyethylene glycol as a hydrophilic moiety to render the nanoparticles sufficiently hydrophilic to find utility in diagnostic imaging. Among the modified hydrophilic nanoparticles disclosed are those in which the hydrophilic moieties of the modifying conjugate are polyethylene oxide-based polymers and have a molecular weight greater than 5,000 dalton and less than or equal to about 30,000 daltons. Surprisingly, these nanoparticles have a more rapid and complete processing in liver of retained nanoparticles when compared to similar nanoparticles in which the PEG-based hydrophilic moiety has a molecular weight less than 5,000.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a monoclonal antibody and corresponding hybridoma cells and antigens suitable for isolating fetal cells from maternal blood. The inventive monoclonal antibody reacts with a surface antigen present on fetal red blood cells including their nucleated precursor cells, but not with surface antigens on adult erythroid cell.

Abstract: A system for the indirect detection of agglutination in an agglutination assay using optical density measurement and a reaction vessel. Light emitted by light source is transmitted through reaction vessel containing components of an agglutination reaction that is detected by light detector. As particles in the reaction vessel settle in the absence of agglutination they are concentrated in a reaction vessel lower volume and increase the optical density of the light path through the reaction vessel. Light detector generates an output signal related to said optical density. Said output signal is read and interpreted by an instrument to detect a presence or absence of agglutination. Other embodiments are described and shown.

Abstract: The present invention relates to hydroxyapatite doped with Fe2+ ions and Fe3+ ions which partially substitute the calcium ions in the crystal lattice. The hydroxyapatite is characterized by an intrinsic magnetism of 0.05 to 8 emu/g, measured by applying a magnetic field of 34 Oe, due to the presence of magnetic nano-domains in the crystal lattice of HA, given the limited amount of magnetic secondary phases present, less than about 3% by volume. The intrinsically magnetic hydroxyapatite can be loaded with biological substances selected in the group consisting of proteins, genes, stem cells, growth factors, vascularization factors, active substances and drugs, under the control of an external magnetic field, as a carrier and release agent for biological substances or drugs, as a contrast agent in diagnostics or for bone or osteocartilage regeneration.

Abstract: Compositions and methods comprising proteins that bind specifically to adalimumab are disclosed herein. Adalimumab is a monoclonal antibody specific for the cytokine TNF-? and was developed to treat TNF-? mediated inflammatory diseases. In one aspect of the instant invention, the binding proteins are antibodies directed toward adalimumab. These antibodies, including binding fragments thereof, can be used in a clinical setting as well as for research and development. For example, these anti-adalimumab antibodies can be employed to neutralize adalimumab.

Abstract: A method for the enumeration of micronucleated erythrocyte populations while distinguishing platelet and platelet-associated aggregates involves the use of a first fluorescent labeled antibody having binding specificity for a surface marker for reticulocytes, a second fluorescent labeled antibody having binding specificity for a surface marker for platelets, and a nucleic acid staining dye that stains DNA (micronuclei) in erythrocyte populations. Because the fluorescent emission spectra of the first and second fluorescent labeled antibodies do not substantially overlap with one another or with the emission spectra of the nucleic acid staining dye, upon excitation of the labels and dye it is possible to detect the fluorescent emission and light scatter produced by the erythrocyte populations and platelets, and count the number of cells from one or more erythrocyte populations in said sample.

Abstract: Detection of the presence or absence of, RH positive cells in a mixed population with Rh negative cells, as is found in a fetal maternal hemorrhage (FMH). The novel methods utilize gravitational forces or applying magnetic forces to reactive magnetic particles to isolate, distinguish and quantify cells. Particles aggregate and are pulled or settle by gravity through a transparent separating solution into a measuring zone where the volume of Rh positive cells can be measured. Rh positive cell volume is correlated to the volume of the original blood sample as an indication of the number of doses of RhIG needed to be administered to the mother to prevent subsequent Rh immunization.

Abstract: The invention discloses an aqueous method of making polymer coated superparamagnetic nanoparticles. Nanoparticles made by the method are included in the invention.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to magnetic resonance (MR)-based methods and kits for measuring the viscosity of liquid samples.

Abstract: A system and method are provided to detect target analytes based on magnetic resonance measurements. Magnetic structures produce distinct magnetic field regions having a size comparable to the analyte. When the analyte is bound in those regions, magnetic resonance signals from the sample are changed, leading to detection of the analyte.

Abstract: A method of testing bacterial cells for antimicrobial susceptibility includes preparing a suspension of the bacterial cells in a non-nutrient medium, mixing with the suspension an antimicrobial, a carbohydrate usable by the bacterial cells, metallic nanoparticles, and a lectin, and incubating the mixture while monitoring a parameter of the nanoparticles responsive to use of the carbohydrate by the bacterial cells. More broadly stated, the invention includes a method of testing an agent for its effect on cell metabolism by preparing a suspension of cells in a non-nutrient medium, mixing the suspension with the agent, adding a carbohydrate usable by the cells, metallic nanoparticles, and a lectin with binding specificity for the added carbohydrate, and monitoring a nanoparticle parameter responsive to the cells.

Abstract: The invention relates to an in vitro diagnosis device (10) for the detection of at least one reaction between an erythrocytic phenotype antigen and an antibody specifically directed against said antigen in a sample of blood or one of the components thereof. The device is characterised in that it comprises: a substrate (12); and a hydrophobic porous membrane (14) having a thickness of between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm and a pore diameter of between 2 and 30 ?m, said membrane comprising at least one hydrophilic reaction zone (16) intended to receive the sample. The invention also relates to the uses of said device in immunohematology.

Abstract: There is provided a method for identifying at least one foetal erythroblast the method comprising: (a) detecting the expression of at least one foetal erythroblast specific marker selected from the group consisting of neutral amino acid transporter B (SLC1A5), solute carrier family 3 (activators of dibasic and neutral amino acid transport) member 2 isoform A (SLC3A2), Splice Isoform A of Chloride channel protein 6, Transferrin receptor protein 1, Splice Isoform 3 of Protein GPR107 precursor, Olfactory receptor 11H4, Splice Isoform 1 of Protein C9orf5, Cleft lip and palate transmembrane protein 1, BCG induced integral membrane protein BIGM103, Antibacterial protein FALL-39 precursor, CAAX prenyl protease 1 homolog, Splice Isoform 2 of Synaptophysin-like protein, Vitamin K epoxide reductase complex subunit 1-like protein 1, Splice Isoform 1 of Protein C20orf22 (ABHD12), Hypothetical protein DKFZp564K247 (Hypoxia induced gene 1 protein) (IPI Accession No.

Abstract: Methods and devices for evaluating a sample from a subject for the presence of a mixed population of cells, e.g., a sample having more than one distinct populations of cells, e.g., red blood cells (RBCs). Also included are methods and devices for Coombs crossmatch and DAT testing.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for inhibiting complement activation and uses thereof. More specifically, the present invention provides methods for inhibiting complement activation using polyphosphates.

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: This invention relates to determination of quantitative expression of plasma membrane proteins as biomarkers in the erythrocytes. The invention includes simple, quantitative assay platforms which can be made available in most diagnostic laboratories. The platform allows performing personalized, quantitative tests for the direct expression level of a wide range of membrane proteins from small volume blood samples and connecting them to individual genetic variability, disease conditions, disease stages and complications, treatment protocols, pharmacological responses, or toxic side effects.

Abstract: A medical analysis method uses a medical analysis machine provided with a poly-articulated robot (70) comprising joints defining at least six axes of rotation (A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6) and adapted for spacing and/or orienting a terminal member (66) according to six degrees of freedom, the terminal member bearing a grasping member (78) adapted for grasping a container (16). The medical analysis method comprises at least the succession of steps consisting of providing a container (16) containing a sample to be treated stemming from a human being or an animal, transferring said container (16) towards at least one treatment station of the medical analysis machine (100) by means of the poly-articulated robot, treating the sample in a treatment station, transferring the container towards a station for capturing images, and displaying the treatment results through a user interface.

Abstract: OX40 is a potent immune stimulating target. Provided herein are methods for the treatment of cancer patients using (3X40 agonists methods to predict clinical outcome of the treatment by correlation of the treatment and an increase in OX40-induced T cell proliferation.

Abstract: The present invention recognizes that diagnosis and prognosis of many conditions can depend on the enrichment of rare cells, especially tumor cells, from a complex fluid sample such as a blood sample. In particular, the present invention is directed to methods and compositions for detecting a non-hematopoietic cell, e.g., a non-hematopoietic tumor cell, in a blood sample via, inter alia, removing red blood cells (RBCs) from a blood sample using a non-centrifugation procedure, removing white blood cells (WBCs) from said blood sample to enrich a non-hematopoietic cell, if any, from said blood sample; and assessing the presence, absence and/or amount of said enriched non-hematopoietic cell.

Abstract: A facile method of localising sulfhydryl (—SH) group containing biomolecules, in particular peptides, to the membranes of living cells and enveloped viruses and a kit for use in a biological laboratory in accordance with the method.

Abstract: The present invention recognizes that diagnosis and prognosis of many conditions can depend on the enrichment of rare cells, especially tumor cells, from a complex fluid sample such as a blood sample. In particular, the present invention is directed to methods and compositions for detecting a non-hematopoietic cell, e.g., a non-hematopoietic tumor cell, in a blood sample via, inter alia, removing red blood cells (RBCs) from a blood sample using a non-centrifugation procedure, removing white blood cells (WBCs) from said blood sample to enrich a non-hematopoietic cell, if any, from said blood sample; and assessing the presence, absence and/or amount of said enriched non-hematopoietic cell.

Abstract: An analysis device includes: a separation cavity 18 for separating a test liquid into a solution component and a solid component by using a centrifugal force; a higher specific gravity component quantitative cavity 23 for holding a portion of the separated solid component which has been transferred; a sample solution overflow cavity 22 arranged between the higher specific gravity component quantitative cavity 23 and the separation cavity 18 and connected to a connecting channel 21 for transporting the sample liquid from the separation cavity 18; and a capillary cavity 19 formed in the separation cavity 18 for temporarily holding a separated solution component (blood plasma) in the separation cavity 18. A blood plasma component 57a remaining in the separation cavity 18 is trapped by the capillary cavity 19.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for isolating cells, particularly antibody-secreting cells that have a high likelihood of secreting antibodies specific for a desired antigen for the purpose of making monoclonal antibodies.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a lateral flow immuno-assay system capable of rapidly, cost effectively, and quantitatively detecting and assessing the level of HIT antibodies in body fluids of a patient. Also taught are methods for employing the system to assist in diagnosis of HIT, and for screening or detecting a changing titer of HIT antibodies in the body fluids of a patient to determine susceptibility toward HIT.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for detecting cardiovascular oxidative stress in an individual, comprising detecting in a blood sample from the individual modification of a cysteine at position 45 of the ?1-subunit of the human erythrocyte ATP-dependent Na+K+ pump protein or of an equivalent cysteine in a homologue or variant thereof. The invention further relates to a kit for detecting cardiovascular oxidative stress in an individual, the kit comprising at least one agent for detecting the presence of a modification in a cysteine at position 45 of the ?1-subunit of the human erythrocyte ATP-dependent Na+K+ pump protein or of an equivalent cysteine in a homologue or variant thereof, wherein said modification is a result of oxidation.

Abstract: Methods for detecting and/or imaging erythrocyte precursor cells are provided.

Abstract: A method and kit for determining antibody sensitivity and quality of a clone cell stain. The method comprises: obtaining a solid-phase carrier, cells and an antibody; adsorbing the antibody on the solid-phase carrier; incubating the cells and the antibody; preserving cells bound with the antibody; and dyeing and counting the cells bound with the antibody, so as to determine the antibody sensitivity or the quality of the clone cell stain based on the cell count. The kit comprises components used in the method.

Abstract: An assaying kit is for pre-transfusion blood group matching between two blood samples. The kit includes at least two assemblies (101,201) corresponding to the first and the second blood sample, each assembly has at least two test units (1). Each test unit (1) includes a reagent containing an antigen present on erythrocytes or an antibody able to bind to an antigen present on erythrocytes. Each test unit (1) also includes a membrane (2) permeable to free erythrocytes (6) and impermeable to hemagglutinated erythrocytes. The antibody contained in the first test unit for both the first assembly (101) and the second assembly (201) corresponds to a first blood group and the antibody contained in the second test units for both the first assembly (101) and the second assembly (201) corresponds to a second blood group.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for identifying the characteristics of a liquid sample due to capillary force are disclosed. The apparatus and the method spread the blood sample (which is obtained from the blood of a subject, or a mixture containing the blood of two different subjects) having an agglutination portion in a distribution space due to the capillary force.

Abstract: The invention relates to anti-?2 integrin antibodies and their uses. Humanized antibodies are disclosed that bind to the I domain of ?2 integrin and inhibit the interaction of ?2?1 integrin with collagen. Also disclosed are therapeutic uses of anti-?2 integrin antibodies in treating ?2?1-mediated disorders, including anti-?2 integrin antibodies that bind to ?2 integrin without activating platelets.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for phenotyping blood and/or performing an irregular agglutinin test and/or for determination of compatibility of a donor and receiver, using an aqueous solution of ferrofluid, obtained from a mixture of polyoxoanions of Fe(III) and at least one metal M(II) of oxidation state II. The invention further relates to a kit for carrying out said procedure.

Abstract: The present inventions relates to kits and methods for diagnosing and monitoring breast cancer. An increase in the level or activity of proteins of the ubiquitin/proteasome pathway, and ancillary proteins thereof, as compared to normal control or benign tissue is indicative of breast cancer.