Abstract: Methods for detecting target analytes utilizing an array of wells are advantageous for detection of low concentrations of target analytes. Use of an array of wells requires sealing of the wells. The methods provided herein utilize digital microfluidics to seal wells of an array with a fluid that is immiscible with the aqueous liquid present in the wells to prevent evaporation and contamination of the aqueous fluid during analysis of signals from the wells. The disclosed method include generating a biphasic droplet composed of the immiscible fluid and an aqueous fluid. The immiscible fluid present in the biphasic droplet is moved over the array of wells to seal the wells by electrically actuating the aqueous fluid present in the biphasic droplet which in turn pulls the immiscible fluid.

Abstract: An introducer sheath is described. The introducer sheath may include a tubular body. The tubular body may extend from a distal end toward a proximal end. The tubular body may include a lumen. The lumen may at least partially be defined by a wall. A channel may be disposed within the wall. The channel may be configured to receive a guidewire. The tubular body may include an expandable portion expandable to increase a cross-sectional area of the lumen.

Abstract: A stabilized fabric composed of a mesh or a woven fabric is disclosed as are methods of their manufacture, the manufacture of medical devices made using a stabilized fibers and stabilized medical devices are all disclosed. Fabrics can be stabilized by several techniques including: using mechanical, chemical and/or energetic fasteners at warp and weft intersections in the weave; by using various weaving techniques and fibers. Meshes can be stabilized when properly dimensioned and arranged junctions and struts of the necessary properties are used. All of these stabilized fabrics can be made of synthetic polymer materials such as ultrahigh molecular weight PE or PP and expanded PTFE.

Abstract: Digital pass verification systems and methods are disclosed herein. One or more servers are to distribute instructions on a network. The instructions, when executed, cause a first device carried by a person to at least: access a result of a diagnostic test performed on the person, the result provided by a second device; generate a machine-readable code in response to the result being negative; and display the machine-readable code on a display of the first device to enable the person to gain access to a location.

Abstract: A stabilized fabric composed of a mesh or a woven fabric is disclosed as are methods of their manufacture, the manufacture of medical devices made using a stabilized fibers and stabilized medical devices are all disclosed. Fabrics can be stabilized by several techniques including: using mechanical, chemical and/or energetic fasteners at warp and weft intersections in the weave; by using various weaving techniques and fibers. Meshes can be stabilized when properly dimensioned and arranged junctions and struts of the necessary properties are used. All of these stabilized fabrics can be made of synthetic polymer materials such as ultrahigh molecular weight PE or PP and expanded PTFE.

Abstract: Whey protein based liquid nutritional compositions are provided. The liquid nutritional compositions include at least 7% by weight protein and all of the protein is provided by a whey protein hydrolysate and an intact whey protein. The liquid nutritional compositions have a neutral pH, a low viscosity, and are shelf stable.

Abstract: Example automated diagnostic analyzers and methods for using the same are disclosed herein. An example apparatus described herein includes a first carousel rotatably coupled to a base and having a first axis of rotation. The example apparatus includes a second carousel rotatably coupled to the base and vertically spaced over the first carousel such that at least a portion of the second carousel is disposed over the first carousel. In the example apparatus, the second carousel has a second axis of rotation and a plurality of vessels. The example apparatus also includes a pipetting mechanism offset from the second axis of rotation. The example pipetting mechanism is to access the first carousel and the second carousel.

Abstract: Digital pass verification systems and methods are disclosed herein. An apparatus disclosed herein includes memory including instructions that, when executed, cause processor circuitry to: access a result of a diagnostic test associated with a test kit identification; associate the result of the diagnostic test with a user identification; and transmit the result of the diagnostic test and the test kit identification to a first device to cause the first device to generate a machine-readable pass on a display of the first device.

Abstract: Digital pass verification systems and methods are disclosed herein. One or more servers are to distribute instructions on a network. The instructions, when executed, cause a first device carried by a person to at least: access a result of a diagnostic test performed on the person, the result provided by a second device; generate a machine-readable code in response to the result being negative; and display the machine-readable code on a display of the first device to enable the person to gain access to a location.

Abstract: Diagnostic analyzers with pretreatment carousels and related methods are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a first carousel that includes a first annular array of slots to receive a first vessel. The example first carousel also includes a first track of rotation about the first carousel having a first diameter and a second track of rotation about the first carousel having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter. The example apparatus includes a first diverter to move the first vessel from the first track to the second track. In addition, the example apparatus includes a second carousel coaxial with the first carousel. The example second carousel includes a second annular array of slots to receive a second vessel.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention include hematology analysis reagents, systems and methods that can be used to preserve blood cell morphology and integrity as well as provide sample integrity and optical clarity to facilitate optical analysis of blood samples. In some embodiments, the reagents include a non-phosphate organic buffer and a sphering surfactant. The pH and osmolality of the reagents may be adjusted to desired ranges. In addition, the reagents can be simply diluted with de-ionized water prior to use.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods, kits, and compositions for detecting subject anti-HCV antibodies in a sample using NS3 capture peptides. In certain embodiments, at least two NS3 helicase (NS3h) capture peptides and at least two conjugate peptides (e.g., NS3h conjugate peptides) are employed together, which allows for a broad dynamic range of subject antibody detection in a one-step type assay. In other embodiments, methods are provided of detecting NS3-specific subject antibodies without the use of a reducing agent. In some embodiments, NS3-specific subject antibodies are detected with a ‘double shot’ of NS3 conjugate peptide (e.g., conjugate peptide added to a sample both before and after washing).