Abstract: The invention provides nanoparticles and nanoparticle conjugates comprising one or more redox-active species, methods of making nanoparticles and nanoparticle conjugates, and methods for using nanoparticles and nanoparticle conjugates, for example, as diagnostic agents for the detection of various analytes.

Abstract: Chemiluminescent acridinium compounds are used in homogeneous assays to determine the concentration of an analyte in a sample without strong acid or strong base treatment. The chemiluminescent acridinium compounds include acridinium esters with electron donating functional groups at the C2 and/or C7 position on the acridinium nucleus to inhibit pseudo-base formation, or acridinium sulfonamides with or without electron donating functional groups at the C2 and/or C7 position on the acridinium nucleus.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method for the detection, preliminary screening or monitoring of a gynecological disease selected form ovarian cancers and endometriosis, in which STIP1 is used as a biomarker for the gynecological disease.

Abstract: An apparatus and a related method for performing particle agglutination reactions in a single, disposable probe tip are disclosed. The probe tip includes a sample cavity for sample acquisition, at least one flanking cavity for the capture of particles by centrifugation or other means, a transition zone for the mixing of the sample with reagents for agglutination and a detection zone for the optical detection of particle agglutination. A mechanism may be attached to the probe tip for the controlled movement of fluids through the internal volume of the probe tip. The probe tip is particularly useful for the automation of high-throughput agglutination-type assays.

Abstract: The invention provides methods, compositions, kits, and systems for the sensitive detection of cardiac troponin. Such methods, compositions, kits, and systems are useful in diagnosis, prognosis, and determination of methods of treatment in conditions that involve release of cardiac troponin.

Abstract: Isolated polynucleotides encoding novel galectin-8 variants polypeptides are provided. Also provided are methods and kits using same for diagnosing prognosing and treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other joint/chronic inflammatory diseases.

Abstract: A blood crossmatching apparatus, kit and methods for testing the compatibility of mammals for blood transfusion. Particulate layers in the apparatus allow nonagglutinated red blood cells to permeate through, while agglutinated red blood cells cannot. The apparatus also has a density solution. The density solution separates white blood cells from red blood cells in the whole blood when centrifuged, without lysing the red blood cells. Thus, the apparatus can be used to test whole blood.

Abstract: A bioaffinity assay for quantitative determination in a sample of free PAPP-A, defined as the pregnancy associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) that is not complexed to the proform of major basic protein (proMBP), where free PAPP-A is determined either i) as a calculated difference between measured total PAPP-A and measured PAPP-A complexed to proMBP, or ii) by a direct bioaffinity assay measuring only free PAPP-A. Also disclosed is a method for diagnosing an acute coronary syndrome in a person by using as marker either free PAPP-A as such or a ratio free PAPP-A/total PAPP-A, free PAPP-A/PAPP-A complexed to proMBP, or PAPP-A complexed to proMBP/total PAPP-A.

Abstract: The invention pertains, at least in part, to a method for forming an ordered structure of amphiphilic molecules, such as proteins. The method includes contacting a population of amphiphilic molecules with a interface; compressing said population laterally to an appropriate pressure, such that an ordered structure at the interface is formed. The invention also pertains to the two- and three-dimensional ordered structures that are formed using the planar membrane compression method of the invention.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to apparatuses and methods for reducing the content of albumin in serum, plasma and/or blood samples. The apparatuses comprise an insoluble support with a ligand attached thereto. According to certain embodiments of the invention, the ligand is a bromosulfophthalein, Cibacron Blue or Warfarin ligand or salts or esters thereof. Also provided are methods of making the apparatus, as well as kits and albumin-depleted samples produced by the methods of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions as well as methods for identifying compositions useful for treating or preventing cancer.

Abstract: The invention provides polypeptides comprising a variant heavy chain variable framework domain (VFR). In some embodiments, the amino acids defining the VFR form a loop of an antigen binding pocket. In an embodiment, the polypeptide is a variable domain of a monobody and has a variant VFR. The polypeptide may optionally comprise one or more complementary determining regions (CDRs) of antibody variable domains. In an embodiment, the polypeptide is a variable domain of a monobody and has a variant VFR and one or more variant CDRs. Libraries of polypeptides that include a plurality of different antibody variable domains generated by creating diversity in a VFR, and optionally, one or more CDRs are provided and may be used as a source for identifying novel antigen binding polypeptides that can be used therapeutically or as reagents. The invention also provides fusion polypeptides, compositions, and methods for generating and using the polypeptides and libraries.

Abstract: The invention provides diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic uses for detecting COP1 overexpression in a variety of cancers. The methods and uses can further include detecting p53 expression. The invention also provides reagents and kits for use in screening for test compounds that interfere with COP1 and p53 binding.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an optical imaging system communicatively connected to a microwave energy producing source wherein the combination provides for increases in chemical reaction times and the ability to monitor the reactions in real time with sufficient resolution to view the location of intracellular components labeled with luminescent molecules as well as interaction with other biomolecules and responses to localized environmental variables in living cells and tissues during the application of a microwave field.

Abstract: The present invention relates to nucleic acid molecules encoding Neutrokine-alpha and/or Neutrokine-alphaSV polypeptides, including soluble forms of the extracellular domain. Neutrokine-alpha and/or Neutrokine-alphaSV polypeptides are also provided as are vectors, host cells and recombinant methods for producing the same. The invention further relates to antibodies or portions thereof that specifically bind Neutrokine-alpha and/or Neutrokine-alphaSV and diagnostic and therapeutic methods using these antibodies. Also provided are diagnostic methods for detecting immune system-related disorders and therapeutic methods for treating immune system-related disorders using the compositions of the invention.

Abstract: The invention provides a method to efficiently express high levels of a recombinant untagged NT-proBNP for use as a calibrator in NT-proBNP immunoassays.

Abstract: Novel human genes falling within the category of family genes relating to p53 gene which is known as a cell proliferation regulatory gene, and gene products thereof. A human p51 gene characterized by containing a base sequence encoding an amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO:1; a human p51 gene having a base sequence consisting of the 145- to 1488-bases in the sequence represented by SEQ ID NO:2; vectors containing these genes; host cells transformed with these vectors; a process for producing a p51 protein having the amino sequence represented by SEQ ID NO:1; which comprises culturing the above host cells and harvesting the protein from the thus obtained culture; and the p51 protein having the amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO:1.

Abstract: The present invention relates to nucleotide sequences of TCL-1 genes and amino acid sequences of their encoded proteins, as well as derivatives and analogs thereof, and antibodies thereto. The TCL-1 gene sequence is preferentially expressed early in T and B lymphocyte differentiation. The present invention further relates to the use of TCL-1 genes and their encoded proteins as diagnostic and therapeutic reagents for the detection and treatment of disease states associated with chromosomal abnormalities.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel polypeptide encoding a protein which is the full length human ortholog of E3? ubiquitin ligase. The invention also relates to vector, host cells, antibodies and recombinant methods for producing the polypeptide. In addition, the invention discloses therapeutic, diagnostic and research utilities for these and related products.

Abstract: The invention discloses nearly 443 novel phosphorylation sites identified in signal transduction proteins and pathways underlying human carcinoma, and provides phosphorylation-site specific antibodies and heavy-isotope labeled peptides (AQUA peptides) for the selective detection and quantification of these phosphorylated sites/proteins, as well as methods of using the reagents for such purpose. Among the phosphorylation sites identified are sites occurring in the following protein types: Protein kinases (including Serine/Threonine dual specificity, and Tyrosine kinases), Adaptor/Scaffold proteins, Transcription factors, Phospoatases, Tumor supressors, Ubiquitin conjugating system proteins, Translation initiation complex proteins, RNA binding proteins, Apoptosis proteins, Adhesion proteins, G protein regulators/GTPase activating protein/Guanine nucleotide exchange factor proteins, and DNA binding/replication/repair proteins, as well as other protein types.

Abstract: It is intended to provide a therapeutic agent for neuroblastoma. More particularly, it is intended to provide the therapeutic agent for neuroblastoma containing an ARID3b inhibitor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for detecting or quantifying an analyte in a test sample including providing at least one test mixture including a test sample, at least one marker complex, wherein each marker complex includes a particle, a marker, and one member of a coupling group, a first binding material selected to bind to a portion of the analyte, a second binding material selected to bind with a portion of the analyte other than the portion of the analyte for which the first binding material is selected, analyte analog, and/or marker conjugate. The at least one test mixture is passed through a membrane. The amount of marker on the membrane is detected and correlated to the presence or amount of analyte in the test sample.

Abstract: The invention relates to a microfabricated device for the rapid detection of DNA, proteins or other molecules associated with a particular disease. The devices and methods of the invention can be used for the simultaneous diagnosis of multiple diseases by detecting molecules (e.g. amounts of molecules), such as polynucleotides (e.g., DNA) or proteins (e.g., antibodies), by measuring the signal of a detectable reporter associated with hybridized polynucleotides or antigen/antibody complex. In the microfabricated device according to the invention, detection of the presence of molecules (i.e., polynucleotides, proteins, or antigen/antibody complexes) are correlated to a hybridization signal from an optically-detectable (e.g. fluorescent) reporter associated with the bound molecules. These hybridization signals can be detected by any suitable means, for example optical, and can be stored for example in a computer as a representation of the presence of a particular gene.

Abstract: An immunological or immunohematological assay system is disclosed that includes a filter vessel capable of containing an assay sample, an incubator, a sample separation system, an image acquisition system, and a robotic pipettor. The immunological assay system may also include a washer. Also disclosed is an immunological assay method that includes the steps of placing a immunological assay sample in a filter vessel, which includes a filter, adding testing reagents to the filter vessel, incubating the sample and reagent mixture in the filter vessel, separating the sample and reagent mixture in the filter vessel into components above and below the filter, and analyzing the filter vessel to determine the presence of interactions between the sample and reagents.

Abstract: The present invention provides single molecule analyses of species of use in analytical, diagnostic or prognostic assays. In exemplary embodiments, the assays utilize samples prepared by novel methods, affording assays of unexpected sensitivity and robustness. The method is described in a non-limiting manner by reference to cytokine assays.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods, reagents and kits for diagnosing and/or for the prognosis of non-autoimmune acute joint inflammation by detecting cytokine biomarkers in a sample obtained from an individual thought to be suffering from joint injury. The cytokine biomarkers used with the methods and kits of the present invention are IL-6, MIP-1?, MCP1 and IFN?.

Abstract: Use of busulfan amide as stabilized standards in immunoassays for quantifying the amount of busulfan in samples of human biological fluids, methods for carrying out said immunoassay and kits for use in said immunoassay.

Abstract: The invention provides proteins from Staphylococcus aureus, including amino acid sequences and corresponding nucleotide sequences. The proteins are useful for vaccines, immunogenic compositions, diagnostics, enzymatic studies, and as targets for antibiotics.

Abstract: A method of using a fluid transfer and mixing collection assembly includes depressing a flexible member to cause a force to be imparted to a breakable vial to break the vial, releasing the second fluid therein into an interior of the flexible member; releasing the flexible member to impart a negative pressure in the interior of the flexible member to draw a first fluid into the interior of the flexible member through the inlet check valve to mix with the second fluid; and depressing the flexible member to impart a positive pressure in the interior of the flexible member to pump the mixed first fluid and second fluid out of the interior of the flexible member through an outlet check valve and be transferred to test media.

Abstract: A membrane-based assay device for detecting the presence or quantity of an analyte residing in a test sample is provided. The device utilizes a self-calibrated magnetic binding assay format (e.g., sandwich, competitive, etc.) that includes detection probes capable of generating a detection signal (e.g., fluorescent non-magnetic particles) and calibration probes capable of generating a calibration signal (e.g., fluorescent magnetic particles). The amount of the analyte within the test sample is proportional (e.g., directly or inversely) to the intensity of the detection signal calibrated by the intensity of the calibration signal. It has been discovered that the fluidics-based device of the present invention provides an accurate, inexpensive, and readily controllable method of determining the presence of an analyte in a test sample.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of predicting or detecting labor in a female subject and methods of testing a compound for an ability to delay the onset of labor. The present invention also provides methods of testing a labor marker useful in the diagnostic methods, isolated peptides identified in the present invention, methods for inhibiting labor, utilizing the peptides, and kits comprising methods of the present invention.

Abstract: It is an object to be achieved by the present invention to provide a method for detecting cancer and a cell growth inhibiting agent by the identification of genes exhibiting characteristic behavior in cancers such as oral squamous-cell carcinoma. The present invention provides a method for detecting cancer, which comprises detecting at least one gene alteration existing in chromosomal region 4q35 in a specimen.

Abstract: The present invention provides fluorescent biopolymers that are amino acid polymers conjugated to multiple mono-chlorinated 3-carbonyl-7-hydroxy-coumarin dyes, and methods of their use. The fluorescent biopolymers containing multiple mono-chlorinated 3-carbonyl-7-hydroxy-coumarin dyes generally exhibit superior fluorescence properties compared to biopolymers labeled with multiple non-chlorinated hydroxycoumarin dyes. The fluorescent biopolymers of the invention in which the amino acid polymer is an antigen-specific antibody are particularly useful for analyzing cells by flow cytometers that are equipped with a violet laser as an excitation source due to their strong absorption at 405 nm and high fluorescence quantum yield.

Abstract: Topiramate analogs have substituents at the sulfamate group, 9-position, or 10-position. Topiramate analogs may include immunogenic moieties to prepare anti-topiramate antibodies, or antigenic moieties for immunodiagnostic assays. Also, the topiramate analog can include tracer moieties for detecting the presence or amount of the analog during an immunodiagnostic assay. Additionally, the topiramate analogs can be used in immunodiagnostic assays to compete with topiramate for binding with anti-topiramate antibodies. Such an immunodiagnostic assay can be used for detecting the presence of topiramate in a sample obtained from a subject previously administered topiramate by the following: combining an anti-topiramate antibody and a topiramate analog with a sample to form a first composition; allowing any free topiramate from the sample and the topiramate analog to compete for binding with the antibody; detecting binding between the topiramate analog and the antibody.

Abstract: A method for detecting an analyte can include binding an analyte with a first reagent which is associated with a magnetic particle, allowing analyte to interact with an excess amount of a second reagent capable of interacting with the analyte, and magnetically separating a portion of analyte-bound second reagent from excess second reagent. After the magnetic separation, the interaction of the analyte and the second reagent can be disrupted to produce a detectable form of the second reagent, which can be detected. A device and system suited to performing the method are also described.

Abstract: The present invention is in the technical field of ligand-binding assays for detection of antigen-specific antibodies. Specifically a method for preparation of a versatile positive control, components of which can be mixed and matched in numerous combinations to render positive controls for antigen specific antibodies of a wide variety of Immunoglobulin classes (e.g., IgG, IgA, IgM, IgE etc.) in both human and animals is described. Also disclosed are assay methods and kits in which the positive control components are used for detection of antigen-specific antibodies in biological and non-biological matrices.

Abstract: An analytical test element for blood analyses is provided having an application site and a microfluidic channel structure in fluid communication with the application site. The channel structure includes at least first and second analytical channels for receiving first and second portions of a blood sample applied to the application site. The first analytical channel includes a first analytical site to determine the total haemoglobin value (Hb) of the blood sample. The second analytical channel includes a second analytical site to determine a glycohaemoglobin value (HbA1c) of the blood sample.

Abstract: A self-contained device using a gravitationally encouraged, interrupted downward and programmed flow of fluid to provide for rapid confirmatory immunological testing (“RCIT”) in a point-of-care setting. A fluid specimen such as blood, saliva or urine is deposited into a first chamber carrying a colloidal conjugate of antigens or antibodies pathogenically specific to the condition being tested and premixed with a first measured, reactive mix buffer solution carried within an openable tank. Alternately, the buffer solution is preformulated to carry the colloidal conjugate in suspension. The premixture flows out of the first chamber toward chromatographic test strips having a single layer of uniformly dispersed porous matrix material such as polyethylene and inclined in a downward flow orientation. The flow is interrupted by a holding reservoir which is drained by siphoning, gravity and capillary forces. The delayed and regulated flow provides an incubation time for a better affinity binding of the specimen.

Abstract: The present invention identifies biomarkers that are diagnostic of nerve cell injury, organ injury, and/or neuronal disorders. Detection of different biomarkers of the invention are also diagnostic of the degree of severity of nerve injury, the cell(s) involved in the injury, and the subcellular localization of the injury.

Abstract: Methods of diagnosing a tauopathy and predicting whether a subject will develop a tauopathy are provided. Also provided are antibody preparations that specifically bind to tau phosphorylated at tyr394 and/or tyr310. Methods of inhibiting tau phosphorylation in a cell and methods of treating a subject having a tauopathy are additionally provided. Methods of treating a subject at risk for a tauopathy are also provided. Additionally, non-human mammals comprising a transgene encoding an abl tyrosine kinase are provided. Also provided are methods of evaluating whether a compound inhibits development of a tauopathy.

Abstract: The instant invention provides an economical flow-through method for determining amount of target proteins in a sample. An antibody preparation (whether polyclonal or monoclonal, or any equivalent specific binding agent) is used to capture and thus enrich a specific monitor peptide (a specific peptide fragment of a protein to be quantitated in a proteolytic digest of a complex protein sample) and an internal standard peptide (the same chemical structure but including stable isotope labels). Upon elution into a suitable mass spectrometer, the natural (sample derived) and internal standard (isotope labeled) peptides are quantitated, and their measured abundance ratio used to calculate the abundance of the monitor peptide, and its parent protein, in the initial sample.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an anti-human HMGB1 antibody having high capability of binding to human high mobility group box protein-1 (HMGB1) with a high probability. According to the present invention, a highly sensitive immunoassay method and immunoassay reagent for human HMGB1 in a sample using the anti-human HMGB1 antibody are provided. Specifically, provided herein are: an avian-derived anti-human HMGB1 antibody specifically binding to the amino acid sequence shown by the following formula (I): Lys Pro Asp Ala Ala Lys Lys Gly Val Val Lys Ala Glu Lys Ser (I) of human HMGB1; and an immunoassay method and an immunoassay reagent for human HMGB1 in a sample, which are characterized by using the antibody.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for measuring SARS virus nucleocapsid protein (SARS-NP) using first and second antibodies both binding specifically to SARS-NP, wherein the first or second antibody is an antibody recognizing an epitope located in a region (Region C) of amino acid 283 to 422 from the N-terminus of the amino acid sequence of SARS-NP.

Abstract: This invention demonstrates that KRC molecules have multiple important functions as modulating agents in regulating a wide variety of cellular processes including: inhibiting NFkB transactivation, increasing TNF-alpha induced apoptosis, inhibiting JNK activation, inhibiting endogenous TNF-alpha expression, promoting immune cell proliferation and immune cell activation (e.g., in Th1 cells), activating IL-2 expression e.g., by activating the AP-1 transcription factor, and increasing actin polymerization. The present invention also demonstrates that KRC interacts with TRAF. Furthermore, the present invention demonstrates that KRC physically interacts with the c-Jun component of AP-1 to control its degradation Methods for identifying modulators of KRC activity are provided. Methods for modulating an immune response using agents that modulate KRC activity are also provided.

Abstract: Antibodies that interact with osteoprotegerin ligand (OPGL) are described. Methods of treating osteopenic disorders by administering a pharmaceutically effective amount of antibodies to OPGL are described. Methods of detecting the amount of OPGL in a sample using antibodies to OPGL are described.

Abstract: Provided are anti-idiotypic antibodies specific for a CDR of an anti-MMP-14 antibody for use as reagents in novel assays for anti-MMP-14 antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions and vaccines.

Abstract: ULBP4, a novel member of the ULBP family has been isolated and characterized. ULBP4 is a useful activator of immune effector cells, particularly of NK cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a newly identified receptor belonging to the superfamily of G-protein-coupled receptors. The invention also relates to polynucleotides encoding the receptor. The invention further relates to methods using the receptor polypeptides and polynucleotides as a target for diagnosis and treatment in receptor-mediated disorders, specifically, cardiovascular diseases, including congestive heart failure. The invention further relates to drug-screening methods using the receptor polypeptides and polynucleotides to identify agonists and antagonists for diagnosis and treatment. The invention further encompasses agonists and antagonists based on the receptor polypeptides and polynucleotides. The invention further relates to procedures for producing the receptor polypeptides and polynucleotides.

Abstract: Novel B7-like polypeptides, proteins, and nucleic acid molecules are disclosed. In addition to isolated, full-length B7-like proteins, the invention further provides isolated B7-like fusion proteins, antigenic peptides, and anti-B7-like antibodies. The invention also provides B7-like nucleic acid molecules, recombinant expression vectors containing a nucleic acid molecule of the invention, host cells into which the expression vectors have been introduced, and nonhuman transgenic animals in which a B7-like gene has been introduced or disrupted. Diagnostic, screening, and therapeutic methods utilizing compositions of the invention are also provided.

Abstract: Methods that permit the rapid release of one or more analytes from head or body hair or other keratinized structures of an individual (who may previously have ingested one or more of the analytes) are provided. The methods can include contacting the keratinized structure with a reducing agent but not with a proteolytic agent. The methods can further include identification and quantification of the one or more analytes by known analytical techniques such as immunoassays. The described methods do not damage the analyte and do not cause harmful effects on a subsequently-used analyte detection probe (e.g., an antibody).