Abstract: The invention relates to compositions, methods, devices, and kits for non-specifically isolating bacterial cells. The compositions comprise a solid support which has a surface comprising a combination of a carbohydrate and a biotin-binding protein, wherein the protein is covalently bonded to the carbohydrate, and wherein the protein is linked to the solid support via the carbohydrate; and at least one of 1) a plurality of bacterial cells non-specifically bound to the combination of the carbohydrate and the protein or 2) an amphiphilic glycoside of a steroid or triterpene. The methods, devices, and kits include at least one of these compositions.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods of capturing bacterial whole cells that includes the use of one or more antibodies having antigenic specificities for one or more distinct analytes characteristic of the specific bacterium, followed by analyzing the target whole cells using a direct or indirect ATP assay.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods of analyzing a sample for a bacterium of interest. In particular, the methods involve an initial capture process that includes the use of one or more antibodies having antigenic specificities for one or more distinct analytes characteristic of the specific bacterium. After initial capture of a specific bacterium, techniques of analyzing involve colorimetric techniques, particularly using colorimetric sensors that include polydiacetylene (PDA) materials.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, the invention relates to methods of capturing bacterial whole cells that includes the use of two or more antibodies having antigenic specificities for two or more distinct analytes characteristic of the specific bacterium. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to methods of analyzing a sample for a bacterium of interest. In particular, the methods are useful for detecting one or more analytes characteristic of a bacterium of interest, such as components of cell walls that are characteristic of a bacterium, particularly Staphylococcus aureus.

Abstract: Methods for detecting target biological analytes within sample material using acousto-mechanical energy generated by a sensor are disclosed. The acousto-mechanical energy may be provided using an acousto-mechanical sensor, e.g., a surface acoustic wave sensor such as, e.g., a shear horizontal surface acoustic wave sensor (e.g., a LSH-SAW sensor). The detection of the target biological analytes in sample material are enhanced by coupling of the target biological analyte (e.g., through the use of magnetic particles), application of a magnetic field to draw the target analyte to the sensor surface, and subsequent removal of the magnetic field before measuring detection.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for making flexible circuits in which portions of a tie layer are removed by etching the underlying polymer. Also disclosed are flexible circuits made by this method.