Abstract: A method for analysis of red blood cell production dynamics is disclosed. The method comprises: (ai) separating RBCs in the blood sample into ordered subsets of RBCs based on relative age-related physical parameter of the RBCs, or (aii) obtaining a pair of estimates simultaneously, the pair of the estimates comprising a first estimate and a second estimate, the first estimate being a measurement of the size of individual RBCs, the second estimate being a measurement of the activity or concentration of the biomarker, sorting the pair into ordered subsets of data based on the first estimate to obtain paired estimates; (b) generating a mathematical pattern or a graphical pattern based on the paired estimates or the ordered subsets of data; and (c) comparing the mathematical pattern or the graphical pattern with established patterns to determine the RBC production dynamics in the person.

Abstract: Methods and kits for performing a two-phase optical assay for one or more than one analyte without intrinsic optical contrast in a sample are disclosed. The method requires use of a functionalized microparticle immobilized with two or more than functional components and an additional set of one or more than one functional component. The assay can be performed in one single container and does not need a wash step.

Abstract: A sampling cap (10) for a cuvette (72) or other liquid sampling device is provided, which includes a cap body (12) having a fixedly mounted, axially extending capillary collection tube (40). The body (12) includes first and section end sections (14, 16) with in an intermediate shoulder (18). Each of the sections (14, 16) is equipped with friction fitting ribs (24, 30). In use, the second end section (16) of cap body (12) is positioned within the open end of a holder (68) or cuvette (72), and the assembly is manipulated to cause a fluid sample (e.g., blood) to be drawn into capillary tube (40). The cap body (12) is then detached and inverted, and the first end section (14) is pressed into the open end (70) of cuvette (72) with capillary tube (40) thereby located within the confines of the cuvette (72). The liquid sample within the capillary tube (40) is then discharged into the cuvette (72) by shaking or the like.

Abstract: The present invention provides an assay for an analyte in solution. The assay relies, in part, on associating two catalytic activities in close proximity to each other (e.g., by conjugating each enzyme to a ligand that binds the analyte) and providing substrates that produce a colored product only when both activities are bound to the same molecule in solution.

Abstract: The present invention provides an assay for an analyte in solution. The assay relies, in part, on associating two catalytic activities in close proximity to each other (e.g., by conjugating each enzyme to a ligand that binds the analyte) and providing substrates that produce a colored product only when both activities are bound to the same molecule in solution.

Abstract: The present invention provides an assay for an analyte in solution. The assay relies, in part, on associating two catalytic activities in close proximity to each other (e.g., by conjugating each enzyme to a ligand that binds the analyte) and providing substrates that produce a colored product only when both activities are bound to the same molecule in solution.

Abstract: The present invention provides an assay for an analyte in solution. The assay relies, in part, on associating two catalytic activities in close proximity to each other (e.g., by conjugating each enzyme to a ligand that binds the analyte) and providing substrates that produce a colored product only when both activities are bound to the same molecule in solution.

Abstract: A lysing agent and a method for utilizing the lysing agent in the identification and enumeration of cells of a select subclass of leucocytes is provided. The lysing agent includes formaldehyde, an alkali or alkaline earth salt of a weak acid and a polyhydric alcohol.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for separating mononuclear cells from other cells in a blood sample which is more rapid than the currently used density gradient material and which provides a better separation than methods utilizing thixotropic, gel-like material. In the method, a water soluble density gradient material is placed in a centrifuged tube. A water insoluble, thixotropic, gel-like substance is also placed in the container. A blood sample is placed in the container and the container is centrifuged for a time during which various components interchange positions and the gel-like substance forms a barrier between the mononuclear cells and the other cells of the blood sample.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for separating mononuclear cells from other cells in a blood sample which is more rapid than the currently used density gradient material and which provides a better separation than methods utilizing thixotropic, gel-like material. In the method, a water soluble density gradient material is placed in a centrifuged tube. A water insoluble, thixotropic, gel-like substance is also placed in the container. A blood sample is placed in the container and the container is centrifuged for a time during which various components interchange positions and the gel-like substance forms a barrier between the mononuclear cells and the other cells of the blood sample.

Abstract: A lysing agent and a method for utilizing the lysing agent in the identification and enumeration of cells of a select subclass of leucocytes is provided. The lysing agent includes formaldehyde, an alkali or alkaline earth salt of a weak acid and a polyhydric alcohol.

Abstract: A method for identifying subpopulations of cells of interest without interference from other cells. In the method, a sample of at least three (3) types of cells, including a first and second type of cell which form a subpopulation of cells of interest and a third type of cell which interferes with the identification of said subpopulation, is divided into at least two (2) aliquots. A first antibody which is specific for the third type of interfering cells but not for the subpopulation, is labeled with two (2) fluorochromes, each of the fluorochromes having distinct emission spectra. The labeled first antibody is then added to a first one of the sample aliquots so as to label the third type of cells with the first antibody. A first analysis is performed by analyzing each cell to determine the fluorescence emitted and to count the third type of cells so as to distinguish the third type of cells from the subpopulation. The information obtained from the first analysis is retained for subsequent use.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process of preparing blood spreads for microscopical examination wherein a smooth and homogeneous plasma layer is obtained. A combination of steps including timely fixation for the purpose of cell preservation, producing a cross-linked matrix in the plasma and performing of chemical reactions by diffusing reagents across an interface, are performed for the purpose of stabilizing both the cell shape and the smoothness and homogeneity of the plasma layer, while the fresh and still wet blood spread is immersed in a non-polar, water immisicible, solvent.