Abstract: This invention relates to binding protein assays. In particular, this invention relates to binding protein assays for B12 and folate in serum or plasma. More specifically, this invention provides a sequential assay that uses a combination of specific binding proteins, and anti-binding protein antibodies to measure B12 and folate in serum or plasma.

Abstract: A chromogenic assay for determination of blood coagulation Factor VIII:Ca, using an indicator of Factor Xa simultaneously as a measure of Factor VIII:Ca concentration and as an inhibitor of Factor Xa. This technique can be applied to measure the concentration of an activating enzyme using the rate of conversion of the indicator molecule of the product of that enzyme as an indirect indicator of enzyme concentration.

Abstract: This invention pertains to a PT Assay Calibrator and a method of preparing a PT Assay Calibrator including a coagulation factor such as recombinant FVII or recombinant FVIIa that will allow preparation of PT calibration curves with values about 100% and which will give results analogous to those obtained using fresh normal plasma.

Abstract: The Prothrombin Time (PT) is used as a screening test for blood coagulation factor deficiencies and for monitoring oral anti-coagulant therapy using coumadin. Thromboplastin reagents activate the extrinsic pathway of coagulation and are the basis for the Prothrombin Time (PT) test. This invention describes the use of barium sulfate and chaotropic agents, and nonionic detergents, for the extraction of sensitive thromboplastin reagents from tissue. Extraction with sodium thiocyanate alone also greatly enhances thromboplastin sensitivity. This invention should be useful for all thromboplastins and will improve their sensitivity for all PT-based tests and specific assays.

Abstract: Aqueous solutions containing buffers and electrolytes are adjusted to levels required for calibration of both blood gas analyzers and ion selective electrolyte analyzers. A control material, composed of similar matrix, is adjusted to three levels of blood gas and electrolyte conditions. These quality control materials are used to monitor blood gas/electrolyte laboratory instrumentation.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a device for the safe removal of blood from a supply vessel with an aperture holder in which a part having an aperture is held and to which a capillary is attached, whereby the supply vessel can be closed by a cover part. The cover part a region through which the capillary can be inserted into the supply vessel when the cover part is closed. Furthermore, the supply vessel and the aperture holder have a locking mechanism, so that the supply vessel can be locked to the aperture holder.

Abstract: A multiport equalization probe or needle includes an elongate body with a first and second end. The probe includes two or more lumens and an inlet and outlet for each lumen. It is closed at the first end which has a sharpened, conical configuration. Conduits provide separate connections between the lumens and a pump assembly which removes material through the lumens.

Abstract: A biosynthetic cerebrospinal fluid control and method of use. Additionally, this invention relates to the isolation and purification of stable liquid human prealbumin, a component in the biosynthetic cerebrospinal fluid control.

Abstract: A chromogenic assay for determination of Protein S, using an indicator of Factor Xa as a measure of Protein S concentration. This technique utilizes the dependency of activated Protein C on Protein S in order to inactivate a known portion of Factor VIII. Residual Factor VIII is then activated and acts with Factor IXa to activate Factor X. The chromogenic substrate is then cleaved by Factor Xa and the rate of conversion of the indicator molecule is an indirect indicator of free Protein S.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a biosynthetic cerebrospinal fluid control and method of use. Additionally, this invention relates to the isolation and purification of stable liquid human prealbumin, a component in the biosynthetic cerebrospinal fluid control.

Abstract: The Prothrombin Time (PT) is used as a screening test for blood coagulation factor deficiencies and for monitoring oral anti-coagulant therapy using coumadin. Thromboplastin reagents activate the extrinsic pathway of coagulation and are the basis for the Prothrombin Time (PT) test. This invention describes the use of barium sulfate and chaotropic agents, and nonionic detergents, for the extraction of sensitive thromboplastin reagents from tissue. Extraction with sodium thiocyanate alone also greatly enhances thromboplastin sensitivity. This invention should be useful for all thromboplastins and will improve their sensitivity for all PT-based tests and specific assays.

Abstract: Methods are provided for measuring the procoagulant activity of platelets in blood by means of a chromogenic assay which is specific for procoagulant phospholipids. These methods include the determination of the resting activity and/or excitability of platelets, which determines the threshold at which activating clotting factors (circulating in blood) are dangerous. Also methods are provided for screening drugs for their potential inhibitory effect on the activation of platelets.

Abstract: A class of fluorescent rare earth chelates and the ligands upon which they are based whose molecular structure incorporates a plurality of substituted arylpyridine diacid units attached to a central template structure is disclosed. These ligands function as efficient energy transfer groups in fluorescent tagging reagents and tracers.