Abstract: The present invention describes novel dyes, including coumarins, rhodamines, and rhodols that incorporate additional fused aromatic rings. The dyes of the invention absorb at a longer wavelength than structurally similar dyes that do not possess the fused aromatic rings. Many of the dyes of the invention are useful fluorescent dyes. The invention includes chemically reactive dyes, dye-conjugates, and the use of such dyes in staining samples and detecting ligands or other analytes.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for a human sample (S), analyzing the sample (S) and then determining a match with a member of the opposite sex is disclosed. In one embodiment, a customer purchases an AromaMatch™ Test Kit (14), which comprises a bottle of cleaning solution (20), a cotton ball (22) a sample patch (24), a sample bag (28) and a mailing envelope (30). The user (10) opens the kit (14), cleans a patch of skin somewhere on his or her body, and then applies the patch (24). After wearing the patch (24) for an appropriate time period, the patch (24) is removed, and placed in the sample bag (28). The user (10) writes his or her password on the sample bag (28), and then mails it in the return envelope (30). A laboratory analyzes the sample patch (24), and determines a set of genetic attributes (G1) that are associated with the sample (S). The user (10) receives an analysis report by mail, or views the results of the analysis on a website (18).

Abstract: A method of preparing a dry stick test device for determining an analyte in a milk sample by chemical assay. At least one reagent pad is provided by impregnating a first porous material with an aqueous solution including a reagent capable of reacting with the analyte, a derivative of the analyte or an indicator compound for the analyte to provide a detectable signal when in a moistened state. The reagent pad is dried. A development pad is provided by impregnating a second porous material with an aqueous solution including at least one controlling compound which, when in a moistened state, is capable of providing a condition required for the reagent to react with the analyte to provide the detectable signal. The impregnated second porous material is dried. The first porous material is immobilized with the second porous material, on a solid support, to obtain the dry stick test device.

Abstract: A sensor system, and a method of detecting a target analyte, comprises a chemically functionalized block copolymer, and a target analyte. The block copolymer exhibits a color change in the visible spectrum upon exposure to the target analyte.

Abstract: Unsymmetrical cyanine dyes that incorporate an aza-benzazolium ring moiety are described, including cyanine dyes substituted by a cationic side chain, monomeric and dimeric cyanine dyes, chemically reactive cyanine dyes, and conjugates of cyanine dyes. The subject dyes are virtually non-fluorescent when diluted in aqueous solution, but exhibit bright fluorescence when associated with nucleic acid polymers such as DNA or RNA, or when associated with detergent-complexed proteins. A variety of applications are described for detection and quantitation of nucleic acids and detergent-complexed proteins in a variety of samples, including solutions, electrophoretic gels, cells, and microorganisms.

Abstract: Provided is an assay method using an encoded particle-based platform. In the assay method, first, a plurality of encoded particles having codes distinguishable from one another according to kinds of included target materials are prepared. The plurality of encoded particles are provided onto a plate including a plurality of wells by pipetting, and disposed in the plurality of wells by a self-assembly method. An analyte is provided into the plurality of wells. The codes of the plurality of encoded particles disposed in the plurality of wells are decoded. The target materials of the plurality of encoded particles are released to cause a reaction between the target materials and the analyte.

Abstract: The invention includes compositions, devices, and methods for analyzing a polymer and/or polymer unit. The polymer may be a homo- or hetero-polymer such as DNA, RNA, a polysaccharide, or a peptide. The device includes electrodes that form a tunnel gap through which the polymer can pass. The electrodes are functionalized with a reagent attached thereto, and the reagent is capable of forming a transient bond to a polymer unit. When the transient bond forms between the reagent and the unit, a detectable signal is generated and used to analyze the polymer.

Abstract: Provided herein is technology relating to isolating nucleic acids. In particular, the technology relates to methods and kits for extracting nucleic acids from problematic samples such as stool.

Abstract: A sensitive and specific method of detecting chemical species, viruses and microorganisms is presented to improve performance of molecular-recognition-based assays utilizing particles decorated with molecular recognition agents such as antibodies and DNA probes, and observing analyte-dependent changes in the response of the particles to forces such as magnetic or gravitational forces or Brownian thermal fluctuations.

Abstract: Sensors based on single-walled carbon nanotubes and graphene which demonstrate extreme sensitivity as reflected in their electrical conductivity to gaseous molecules, such as NO, NO2 and NH3, when exposed to in situ ultraviolet (UV) illumination during measurement of the analytes are disclosed. The sensors are capable of detection limits of NO down to almost 150 parts-per-quadrillion (“ppq”), detection limits of NO2 to 2 parts-per-trillion (“ppt”), and detection limits of NH3 of 33 ppt.

Abstract: The present invention relates to dyes in general. The present invention provides a wide range of dyes and kits containing the same, which are applicable for labeling a variety of biomolecules such as nucleic acids, cells and microorganisms. The present invention also provides various methods of using the dyes for research and development, forensic identification, environmental studies, diagnosis, prognosis, and/or treatment of disease conditions.

Abstract: Disclosed are compounds of formula (I), a derivative, or a tautomer thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of said compound or said tautomer. Also disclosed are methods of preparing compound of formula (I), a derivative, or a tautomer thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of said compound or said tautomer. Further disclosed are methods of conducting drug discovery and research comprises applying the compound of formula (I), a derivative, or a tautomer thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of said compound or said tautomer in an investigation.

Abstract: A multi-dimensional chromatographic method for the separation of N-glycans. The method comprises providing a glycan preparation that includes at least one negatively charged N-glycan. The glycan preparation is then separated by anion-exchange chromatography and at least one secondary chromatographic technique.

Abstract: Novel recognitive hydrogels and sensors are provided, as well as methods of fabricating and using such hydrogels and sensors. Such recognitive hydrogels may comprise a molecularly imprinted polymer having a binding cavity specific for a triggering molecule and a conductive polymer associated with the molecularly imprinted polymer. Such sensors may comprise the recognitive hydrogels and an impedance sensing component. Such methods may comprise providing a triggering molecule, providing a sensor comprising a molecularly imprinted polymer having a binding cavity specific for the triggering molecule, a conductive polymer associated with the molecularly imprinted polymer, and an impedance sensing component, introducing the triggering molecule into the sensor, and detecting a change in impedance of the recognitive hydrogel with the impedance sensing component.

Abstract: The present invention relates to antisense oligonucleotides that modulate the expression of and/or function of Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG), in particular, by targeting natural antisense polynucleotides of Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG). The invention also relates to the identification of these antisense oligonucleotides and their use in treating diseases and disorders associated with the expression of SHBG.

Abstract: Provided is a microfluidic or nanofluidic apparatus which comprises: (a) a reservoir for one or more fluids; (b) a mixing device configured to mix the one or more fluids within the reservoir; and (c) a microfluidic or nanofluidic device in fluid connection with the reservoir; wherein the reservoir is suitable for containing a total volume of fluid of from 100 microliters to 100 milliliters. Also provided is a method of manufacturing the apparatus and the use of the apparatus to detect an analyte in a fluid.

Abstract: The present invention is provides isolated riboswitches with FRET pairs for distinguishing changes in regulatory interactions controlled by the expression platform domain found in riboswitches. The invention further provides methods of using those riboswitches to detect structural changes in the expression platform domain and to identify potential antibiotics.

Abstract: The invention provides human polymorphisms that are associated with Parkinson's disease (PD). Also disclosed are compositions and methods for use in diagnostics, prognostics, prevention, treatment and/or study of PD.

Abstract: The present invention provides devices and methods for real time detection of target agents in a sample. These devices utilize tracking technology and selective binding to allow the identification of one or more target agents in a sample, and preferably in a biological sample. The present invention provides specific embodiments employing radio frequency identification devices.

Abstract: A bio-threat simulant that includes a carrier and DNA encapsulated in the carrier. Also a method of making a simulant including the steps of providing a carrier and encapsulating DNA in the carrier to produce the bio-threat simulant.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved method for the bisulfite conversion of DNA. In certain time-temperature ranges the efficacy of the bisulfite conversion is clearly improved. By combination with denaturating solvents, new reaction conditions and new purification methods the efficacy can be further increased The converted DNA can subsequently be analysed by different methods. The present invention facilitates the analysis of cytosine methylation.

Abstract: A system (100) is described for characterizing and/or manipulating molecules. The system may especially be suitable for biological molecules, although the invention is not limited thereto. The system (100) comprises a substrate (110) comprising a nanostructure (120) being suitable for translocation of molecules through the nanostructure (120). It furthermore comprises a means (210) for translocating molecules through the nanostructure (120) and a plasmonic force field generating means (130) adapted for influencing the translocation speed of the particle by applying a plasmonic force field at the nanostructure (120). A corresponding method also is described.

Abstract: A general methodology to design label-free fluorescent functional nucleic acid sensors using a vacant site approach and an abasic site approach is described. In one example, a method for designing label-free fluorescent functional nucleic acid sensors (e.g., those that include a DNAzyme, aptamer or aptazyme) that have a tunable dynamic range through the introduction of an abasic site (e.g., dSpacer) or a vacant site into the functional nucleic acids. Also provided is a general method for designing label-free fluorescent aptamer sensors based on the regulation of malachite green (MG) fluorescence. A general method for designing label-free fluorescent catalytic and molecular beacons (CAMBs) is also provided. The methods demonstrated here can be used to design many other label-free fluorescent sensors to detect a wide range of analytes. Sensors and methods of using the disclosed sensors are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a set of glycosylated warfarin analogs which are useful as anti-tumor or anti-metastatic agents and as reagents for studying sugar uptake in cells.

Abstract: The invention provides the use of 2-picoline borane (2-PB) for the reductive amination of carbohydrates, especially glycans from book plasma, wherein the concentration of 2-PB is less than the concentration of NaBH(OAc)3 or NaBH3CN required to obtain comparable conversion of the carbohydrate. It also describes a process for labelling a carbohydrate, the process comprising contacting the carbohydrate with a labelling agent, e.g. 2-aminobenzoic acid, 2-aminobenzamide, APTS, etc. in the presence of 2-picoline borane as reducing agent. Labelling the carbohydrate in this way facilitates detection using HPLC techniques, e.g. HILIC-HPLC-FL, HILIC-ESI-IT-MS, or capillary electrophoresis.

Abstract: System for detection and/or analysis of nucleic acids using nanowires to detect covalent modification of nucleic acids.

Abstract: Use of Morpholinos, a class of uncharged DNA analogues, for surface-hybridization applications. Monolayers of Morpholino probes on gold supports are fabricated with methods similar to those employed with DNA, and are used to hybridize efficiently and sequence-specifically with target strands. Hybridization-induced changes in the interfacial charge organization are analyzed with electrochemical methods and compared for Morpholino and DNA probe monolayers. Molecular mechanisms connecting surface hybridization state to the interfacial capacitance are identified and interpreted through comparison to numerical Poisson-Boltzmann calculations. Positive as well as negative capacitive responses (contrast inversion) to hybridization are possible, depending on surface populations of mobile ions as controlled by the applied potential.

Abstract: In one embodiment of the present invention, a composition is disclosed for measuring a binding affinity between a nucleic acid and a test substance, which contains an organic fluorescent substance capable of binding to an RNA and which emits fluorescence having an intensity greater while the organic fluorescent substance is liberated from an RNA than while the organic fluorescent substance is bound to an RNA. This enables a highly accurate and easy measurement of a binding affinity between a test substance and a nucleic acid, and allows various substances to be examined as a test substance.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention concern methods and compositions related to detection of ovarian cancer, including detection of the stage of ovarian cancer, in some cases. In particular, the invention encompasses use of expression of TFAP2A and in some embodiments CA125 and/or E2F5 to identify ovarian cancer, including detecting mRNA and/or protein levels of the respective gene products. Kits for detection of ovarian cancer are also described.

Abstract: A method to monitor the progress of hybridization between nucleic acid strands in solution and Morpholino strands immobilized on a solid support such as a working electrode in-situ, in real-time, and using label-free electrochemical measurements sensitive to hybridization-induced changes in the near-surface dielectric constant and charge organization.

Abstract: Novel chemical compounds, with application in fluorometric analytical methods, for qualitative and quantitative determination of biomolecules. The aim of the invention is to identify and prove the suitability of such compounds. Said aim is achieved with compounds of formula (1) where R1 is an antenna function, R2 is a chelate forming agent, containing a coordinated lanthanide(III)ion, X is —OH or a group with affinity for the biomolecule, bonded to a carboxylate group of the chelate forming agent by means of an amide bond and Y is —H or a group with affinity for the biomolecule, coupled to the antenna function.

Abstract: The invention relates to a perylene diimide derivative and to an in vitro method for preparing the same. In addition, the invention relates to a method for detecting heparin in a sample using perylene diimide derivatives, wherein the interaction of the perylene diimide derivative with heparin modulates the intensity of the fluorescent signal of the mixture compared to the solution. The invention also comprises a diagnostic kit for detecting heparin in a sample in vitro, comprising the perylene diimide derivative, as well as the use of the perylene diimide derivative for neutralizing the anticoagulant activity of heparin.

Abstract: Methods for analyzing mixtures of polysaccharides, for example heparin such as unfractionated heparin and enoxaparin are described. In some instances, the mixtures are analyzed using fast performance liquid chromatography (FPLC) and high liquid performance chromatography (HPLC), e.g., strong anion exchange HPLC.

Abstract: Sample processing units useful for mixing and purifying materials, such as fluidic materials are provided. A sample processing unit typically includes a container configured to contain a sample comprising magnetically responsive particles, and one or more magnets that are in substantially fixed positions relative to the container. A sample processing unit also generally includes a conveyance mechanism configured to convey the container to and from a position that is within magnetic communication with the magnet, e.g., such that magnetically responsive particles with captured analytes can be retained within the container when other materials are added to and/or removed from the container. Further, a sample processing unit also typically includes a rotational mechanism that is configured to rotate the container, e.g., to effect mixing of sample materials disposed within the container. Related carrier mechanisms, sample processing stations, systems, and methods are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the total synthesis of epicocconone analogs of formula (I): The invention also relates to novel epicocconone analogs.

Abstract: A system and method for measuring signals having a wide range of intensity components using detectors adapted for use in biological analysis devices. In certain biological analysis applications, signals emitted by a sample may have intensity components that vary over several orders of magnitude. Measurement of such a signal may yield an acceptable quality for one intensity component at the expense of another component. For example, a detector configured to measure a relatively weak intensity component may cause it to overflow when subjected to a relatively strong intensity component. The detector can be adapted to be operated at different configurations to allow measurements of different components of the signal, and the results can be combined to yield an accurate representation of the signal.

Abstract: A diagnostic device is provided that includes a plurality of retainment regions, with the retainment regions that are separated by at least one dissolvable barrier. The retainment regions can be interconnected through at least one fluid processing passageway. A retainment region can include a container such as a retainment region, well, chamber, or other receptacle, or a retainment region such as a surface on which the material is retained. The retainment regions can include a reaction retainment region, one or more reagent retainment regions, each containing unreacted reagents, and a sample retainment region. A pressure-actuated valve can be positioned in each fluid processing passageway interconnecting the one or more reagent retainment regions with the respective intermediate retainment regions interposed between each of the one or more reagent retainment regions and the reaction retainment region. The dissolvable barrier can be a fluid flow modulator in the at least one fluid processing passageway.

Abstract: Described systems and methods allow the detection of and determination of a concentration of a target analyte such as a biological cell, a virus, a polypeptide, a toxin, a pesticide, a drug, a drug residue, or a DNA strand, in a fluid sample. A variable stimulus, such as an oscillating magnetic field or a light beam of oscillating intensity, is applied to the sample, inducing variations in a position or shape of a constituent of the sample, or variations in a fluorescence of the sample. Such variations produce measurable variations in electric and/or optical properties of a sensor, variations which allow the determination of the concentration of the target analyte.

Abstract: A hepatocellular carcinoma marker comprising a sugar chain represented by any one of the (1) to (7) shown below is used for a method for diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma, especially for differential diagnosis between liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Abstract: The present invention provides luminescent metal ion complexes for use in a wide range of biological and chemical studies. The luminescent metal ion complexes of the invention comprise a metal ion chelating component covalently bound to a carrier molecule. Also provided are methods of making and using the luminescent metal ion complexes.

Abstract: Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) platforms and methods of making and using such platforms are disclosed herein. Such platforms can be made by immobilizing a biomaterial (e.g., a carbohydrate such as a glycan) by reacting an azide-functional group attached to a surface of a solid substrate with at least one cyclooctyne (e.g., a dibenzocyclooctyne) having a biomaterial or biomaterial binding group attached thereto. In certain embodiments the immobilized biomaterial can be detected using, for example, surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy.

Abstract: Methods are provided for detecting and optionally quantitating multiple analytes, including nucleic acid and/or polypeptide analytes, in particle-based assays that can be highly multiplexed. Compositions, systems, and kits related to the methods are also featured.

Abstract: Provided are a fluorescent on/off switchable compound for a gene analysis, which is highly stable and highly sensitive, and enables amplification and observation of a trace gene signal, and a labeling reagent for detection of a bio-related material, which uses the fluorescent on/off switchable compound. A compound represented by the following formula (I?): wherein X is a hydrogen atom or a carboxylic acid-protecting group, Y is a 2,4-dinitrobenzenesulfonyl group, a 2-cyano-4-nitrobenzenesulfonyl group or a 5-nitropyridin-2-ylsulfonyl group, R1, R2, R3 and R4 are each independently a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a hydroxyl group, an alkyl group having a carbon number of 1 to 6, an alkoxy group having a carbon number of 1 to 6, an aryl group having a carbon number of 6 to 10, or a cyano group.

Abstract: A method is provided for fabricating a nanochannel. The method comprises providing a microchannel and controlling collapse of the microchannel so that it collapses to form a nanochannel of desired dimensions. The method employs a collapsible, flexible material such as the elastomer polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to form the nanochannel. A master is provided that is configured to have geometric conditions that promote a desired frequency of microchannel collapse. A collapsible material having a stiffness that also promotes a desired frequency of microchannel collapse is molded on the master. The molded collapsible material is removed from the master and bonded to a base, thereby forming the microchannel, which then collapses (or is collapsed) to form the nanochannel of desired dimensions. Nanofluidic and microfluidic devices comprising complex nanochannel structures and micro to nanochannel transitions are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention is in the field of household cleaning, for example laundry products and methods. The invention is directed to the use of indicator materials, such as fluorescent indicator materials, for detecting or visualizing organic laundry soils, particularly those that tend to be invisible to the naked eye, such as sebum, perspiration, biological soils, odor-causing soils/stains and tannins. In addition, the present invention is directed to methods of using indicator materials, such as fluorescent indicator materials, to detect such soils on fabrics, and to determine and demonstrate the cleaning efficacy of a laundry product.

Abstract: A method for identifying A. baumannii with OXA-131-like drug resistance in diabetic patients includes the steps of obtaining a sample from a patient; identifying an isolate as A. baumannii; screening the isolate for genes encoding an OXA-51-like enzyme; sequencing any of the genes encoding an OXA-51-like enzyme; and identifying the isolate as OXA-131-like when the sequence matches the sequence for OXA-90 (SEQ ID NO: 1), OXA-130 (SEQ ID NO: 2), OXA-131 (SEQ ID NO: 3), or OXA-132 (SEQ ID NO: 4). The method may further include the step of identifying the ISAba1 sequence upstream from the gene encoding the OXA-131-like enzyme.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a nucleic acid molecule for use in the treatment or preventive treatment of a patient after stent implantation or balloon dilatation, wherein the nucleic acid molecule is selected from (a) a single-stranded nucleic acid molecule comprising or consisting of the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3 or 4 or a sequence having at least 90% sequence identity to the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3 or 4; (b) a hairpin RNA, wherein one of the regions forming the double-stranded portion of said hairpin RNA comprises or consists of the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3 or 4 or a sequence having at least 90% sequence identity to the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3 or 4; (c) an at least partially double-stranded RNA comprising two separate single strands, wherein a region within one of the strands, said region being located within the double-stranded portion of said double-stranded RNA, comprises or consists of the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3 or 4 or a sequence having at least 90% sequence identit

Abstract: The invention relates to continuous flow systems, in particular thermocyclers for the automated and continuous cycling of fluid between a plurality of temperature zones in the amplification of nucleic acids. The invention also relates to an improved sample port for introducing a volume of a liquid sample into a continuous flow system.

Abstract: Methods of performing confocal laser microscopy on a polymer array disposed on a silicon wafer substrate, the method comprising the steps of providing a silicon wafer substrate having a top side and a bottom side, coating the top side of the silicon wafer with an oxide coating to provide an oxide coated wafer, covalently coupling a plurality of probes to the top side of the coated wafer to provide a fixed polymer array, hybridizing the fixed polymer array with a plurality of labeled ligands, and assaying for one or more hybridized ligands using confocal laser fluorescence microscopy to detect hybridization are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of Hedgehog signalling, and more specifically to a cell-based assay system and methods for identifying inhibitors and/or antagonists of specific cellular events in said signalling pathway. The present invention hereby proposes a novel approach for identifying inhibitors and/or antagonists downstream of the signalling components Smoothened and Patched, e.g. at the Gli-level. The assay comprises cells lacking a functional Sufu protein, which according to the invention is a protein component of emerging importance in the Hedgehog signalling pathway.