Abstract: Methods and devices for removing small negatively charged molecules from a biological sample mixture that uses a solid-phase extraction material that includes a hydrophilic solid support at least partially embedded within a hydrophobic matrix.

Abstract: Methods and devices for removing small negatively charged molecules from a biological sample mixture that uses an anion exchange material that has associated therewith a polyoxyalkylene.

Abstract: Sample processing devices with variable valve structures and methods of using the same are disclosed. The valve structures allow for removal of selected portions of the sample material located within the process chamber. Removal of the selected portions is achieved by forming an opening in a valve septum at a desired location. The valve septums may be large enough to allow for adjustment of the location of the opening based on the characteristics of the sample material in the process chamber. If the sample processing device is rotated after the opening is formed, the selected portion of the material located closer to the axis of rotation exits the process chamber through the opening. The remainder of the sample material cannot exit through the opening because it is located farther from the axis of rotation than the opening.

Abstract: Methods and devices for removing small negatively charged molecules from a biological sample mixture that uses an anion exchange material.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and kits for isolating nucleic acid from a sample, preferably from a biological sample, using a microfluidic device and sedimenting reagent.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and kits for isolating nucleic acid from a sample, preferably from a biological sample, using solid phase material.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and kits for isolating nucleic acid from a sample, preferably from a biological sample, using a microfluidic device and a concentration step.

Abstract: Sample processing devices with variable valve structures and methods of using the same are disclosed. The valve structures allow for removal of selected portions of the sample material located within the process chamber. Removal of the selected portions is achieved by forming an opening in a valve septum at a desired location. The valve septums may be large enough to allow for adjustment of the location of the opening based on the characteristics of the sample material in the process chamber. If the sample processing device is rotated after the opening is formed, the selected portion of the material located closer to the axis of rotation exits the process chamber through the opening. The remainder of the sample material cannot exit through the opening because it is located farther from the axis of rotation than the opening.

Abstract: To optimize the delivery of all-trans retinoic acid to lung tissue, the potential of vehiculating this drug in liposomes and delivering it via aerosol was determined. Liposomes provide a means to prevent local irritation of lung tissue, reduce pulmonary toxicity, prolong therapeutic levels, and generate high drug concentrations at the tumor sites. Therefore, the delivery of ATRA to the lung tissue in mice was accomplished by nebulization of L-ATRA. The liposomes in the aerosol were uniform, stable, and retained the drug well. The drug was effectively delivered at high concentrations to the lungs of mice and was retained at least up to 96 h after a single exposure to L-ATRA aerosols. The aerosol-delivered ATRA was biologically active as demonstrated by its ability to induce the expression of tissue-type transglutaminase. Aerosol delivery of L-ATRA offers an effective way to deliver high levels of ATRA to the lung without apparent pulmonary toxic effects.