Abstract: Disclosed herein are biomarkers for hepatocellular carcinoma and pancreatic cancer. The biomarkers may be laminin gamma 2 monomer, PIVKA-II, AFP, CEA, CA19-9, or combinations thereof. Also disclosed herein are methods of diagnosing, prognosing, classifying risk, and monitoring progression of hepatocellular carcinoma or pancreatic cancer by the detecting the level of laminin gamma 2 monomer, PIVKA-II, AFP, CEA, CA19-9, or combinations thereof.

Abstract: A compact optical imaging system including a single filter and a light source that provides lateral illumination for bead detection in digital assays. The light source is configured to emit light toward the detection vessel. The single filter is positioned to receive light reflected from a sample in the detection vessel, that originated from the light source, and receive an output from a sample in the detection vessel. A detector is configured to receive a portion of the reflected light and a portion of the output that passes through the single filter.

Abstract: Methods of reducing background noise in signal-generating digital assays, such as fluorescent digital immunoassays, using a colorant are disclosed. The methods utilize a binding member that specifically binds to an analyte in a biological sample. The binding member is conjugated to a signal generating compound, e.g., an enzyme, which is dissociated from the binding member. A colorant is added with a signal generating substrate, e.g., a fluorogenic or chromogenic substrate for the enzyme, or after a signal generating substrate to reduce background noise in a fluorescent digital immunoassay. The signal generated between the signal generating compound and the signal generating substrate is detected and correlated to the presence and/or concentration of the analyte.