Abstract: Techniques for fast and accurate measuring test strip intensities are disclosed herein. A method for measuring a test strip intensity comprising steps of obtaining an image of a sample line in a test strip and a plurality of reference lines, wherein the reference lines have known intensities; determining grayscale values of the sample line and the reference lines from the image; constructing a standard curve based on the grayscale values versus the known intensities of the reference lines; and determining the intensity of the sample line by fitting the grayscale value of the sample line on the standard curve.

Abstract: An isothermal reaction and analysis system may include a receiver to receive sample holders, a thermal control subsystem to control a temperature of the receiver, an excitation subsystem, a detection subsystem and an analysis subsystem. Excitation sources and/or detectors are positioned to enhance data collection. Sample holders may include filters, selectively blocking and passing wavelengths or bands of electromagnetic radiation.

Abstract: A testing apparatus for performing an assay, the testing apparatus comprising: a receptacle (2) containing a reagent, the reagent being reactive to an applied test sample by developing a colour or pattern variation; a portable device (1), e.g. a mobile phone or a laptop, comprising a processor and an image capture device (3), wherein the processor is configured to process data captured by the image capture device and output a test result for the applied test sample.

Abstract: A sample processing system comprising: a transporting apparatus for transporting a sample; a plurality of sample processing apparatuses, arranged along a direction in which the sample is transported by the transporting apparatus, for processing the sample transported by the transporting apparatus; a base on which at least one of the sample processing apparatuses is placed; and a movement restricting section for restricting, on the base, a movement area within which the sample processing apparatus moves, wherein the movement restricting section allows the sample processing apparatus to move on the base so as to change orientation of the sample processing apparatus, is disclosed. A base for a sample processing system and a sample processing apparatus are also disclosed.

Abstract: In a chromatography quantitative measuring apparatus, a beam applied from a light source to a chromatography test strip is formed into an elliptical shape by an optical means such as a cylindrical lens, a variation in absorbance that accompanies elution of a marker regent is detected while the elliptical beam is applied between a marker reagent hold part and a detection part, and a measurement is automatically started in a prescribed period of time since the detection of variation. According to the chromatography quantitative measuring apparatus so configured, non-uniform coloration is reduced by shaping the beam elliptically with the optical means, whereby the accuracy of quantitative analysis is enhanced, and the apparatus can be operated easily.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to analyte sensors comprising a heparin coating, and methods of coating analyte sensors. The heparin can be stably associated with at least a portion of a porous membrane that covers a portion of the analyte sensors. The heparin can be photochemically linked to the coating through the formation of covalent bonds.

Abstract: The invention is directed towards methods and compositions for identifying the amount of hydrofluoric acid in a buffered oxide etching composition. In buffered oxide etching compositions it is very difficult to measure the amount of hydrofluoric acid because it has varying equilibriums and it is toxic so it hard to handle and sample. When used to manufacture microchips however, incorrect amounts of hydrofluoric acid will ruin those chips. The invention utilizes a unique method of spectrographically measuring the hydrofluoric acid when in contact with added chromogenic agents to obtain exact measurements that are accurate, immediate, and safe.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detection of anything to which an antibody can be raised, or to which a chemical receptor can be fashioned, based on surface plasmon resonance. The apparatus and method have the capability to detect proteins, viruses, bacteria, toxins, pathogens, contaminants, chemical compounds, or nucleic acids based on surface plasmon resonance and surface receptor technologies which may include antibodies or chemical receptors. The device is field deployable and utilizes a single use sample holder card which includes the sample to be tested, test channels, waste reservoir and a functionalized test surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for testing a sample of bodily fluid, comprising a carrier band, which carries a plurality of consumable elements, wherein one end of the carrier band is attached to a wind-up device for winding the carrier band, together with used consumable elements, onto a reel for the band transport, and comprising a display for displaying information regarding the supply of yet unused consumable elements of the carrier band. According to the invention, it is provided that information regarding the supply of yet unused consumable elements of the carrier band is obtained from an angle of rotation and from a band transport length by which the carrier band is moved with a rotation of the reel about said angle of rotation.

Abstract: A gas-phase detection system based on detecting optochemical and optoelectrochemical signals. The sensing platform is particularly powerful for detection of nitrogen oxides at low ppbV concentrations. The optochemical analysis is based on the color development due to a chemical reaction taking place in an optimized material. The electrochemical analysis can be based on the doping level or redox potential changes of an electrochemical sensor; and optoelectrochemical detection can be based on a combination of the electrochemical and optoelectrochemical methodologies. Each independent signal can be simultaneously detected, increasing the reliability of detection.

Abstract: Gas detector tubes may be used to determine a concentration of target gases in air. The gas detector tubes described may be read either by and optical reader or visually by the user. A gas detector tube reader having an optical reader capable of reading a length of stain, a color change and color density of a reagent in a gas detector tube. The gas detector tube may further comprise sensors for measuring the environmental conditions during sampling.

Abstract: A multilayer Paper Analytical Device (PAD) is provided for detection of at least two chemical components indicative of a low quality pharmaceutical or dietary supplement product. A method for detection of at least two chemical components indicative of a low quality pharmaceutical or dietary supplement product is also provided that employs a multilayer PAD. A kit is provided for detection of at least two chemical components indicative of a low quality pharmaceutical or dietary supplement product that includes a multilayer PAD and instructions for using the kit.

Abstract: A system is provided for measuring an analyte concentration in a body fluid sample, comprising at least one cartridge that contains consumables for multiple measurements, a data carrier affixed to the cartridge that contains calibration information for the consumables, a hand-held device including a reading facility for receiving a cartridge of this type and for reading its data carrier, a measuring facility for measuring the result of a detection reaction, and a processor for controlling the measuring facility and for analysis of a measuring signal. At least one replaceable data storage unit is further provided in which supplementary data is stored. The data storage unit functions in combination with calibration information from the data carrier and is used by the processor to determine whether the consumables of the inserted cartridge renders a reliable measurement of analyte concentration.

Abstract: An apparatus for introducing a specimen into a flow cytometer comprises: a syringe having a hollow barrel containing the specimen, a plunger partially within the barrel and a needle that extends into a volume of a nozzle of the flow cytometer; a one-way port in the nozzle forming a seal against the needle; a mounting platform coupled to both the syringe and to the flow cytometer; and a syringe pump coupled to the plunger, the syringe pump comprising a motor, a drive mechanism coupled to the motor; and a clamping mechanism coupled to the drive mechanism, wherein the motor operates the drive mechanism so as to cause the clamping mechanism to depress the plunger into the barrel.

Abstract: An electronic device for analyzing an aqueous solution may comprise a housing, one or more measurement circuits and a control circuit all arranged inside the housing. The housing may be configured to receive a test element. The one or more measurement circuits may be configured to produce one or more corresponding sets of measurement signals relating to an aqueous solution received on the test element. The control circuit may include a memory having instructions stored therein that are executable by the control circuit to process the one or more sets of measurement signals to determine one or more corresponding characteristics of the aqueous solution.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides in vitro analyte meters that include a meter portion that is moveable relative to at least one other meter portion. Embodiments include moveable meters that are integrated with in vivo analyte systems. Also provided are methods, systems and kits.

Abstract: In some aspects, an analyte sensor is provided for detecting an analyte concentration level in a bio-fluid sample. The analyte sensor has a base with first and second ends, a concave recess in the first end, a second end receiving surface, and a sidewall extending between the ends. An electrode may be provided on the receiving surface with an electrochemically-active region coupled to the electrode. A conductor in electrical contact with the electrode may extend along the sidewall and may be adapted to be in electrical contact with a first contact of an analyte meter. Manufacturing methods and systems utilizing and dispensing the analyte sensors are provided, as are numerous other aspects.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are devices, systems and methods for simultaneously conducting multiple assays on a liquid sample for the presence of, and/or quantification of, analytes in the liquid sample. The device, which is referred to herein as a multi-assay cartridge or multi-strip assay cartridge (MSC), may be used in a system comprised of the cartridge and a reading device or reader for reading the assays in the cartridge.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a centrifugal rotor for delivering and analyzing biological sample. Chambers within the centrifugal rotor is used to split a biological sample, which comprises biological cellular components and biological fluids, into separate parts under centrifugal force after the biological sample being diluted, metered and distributed by the centrifugal rotor.

Abstract: A biological material test strip and adjacently-located reference color chart are affixed to a lid portion of an all-in-one specimen cup to perform color-based reaction testing of collected biological specimens in an uncalibrated environment. After specimen collection, the lid portion is secured to a container portion of the specimen cup. The cup may then be rotated into an upside down position causing the specimen, under the force of gravity, to pass from the container portion and into a volume of the lid portion, such that the test strip is exposed to the specimen as it is received into the volume of the lid portion. An image of the exposed test strip and adjacently-located reference color chart may then be captured and processed to identify any color matches between the individual test pads on the test strip and the corresponding sequences of reference color blocks on the reference chart.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for analyzing a sample liquid comprising a test tape having a plurality of test elements, a tape transport device which successively transports the test elements to a sample application site while advancing the tape, and a measuring device which scans the test elements loaded with sample liquid at a measuring site. The measuring site is located at a distance from the sample application site in the direction of tape movement. The tape transport is interrupted in order to exactly position a wetted area of the test elements carrying a sample liquid at the measuring site by means of a positioning device that responds to the presence of sample liquid on the test element.

Abstract: A specimen analyzing method and a specimen analyzing apparatus capable of measuring interference substances before analyzing a specimen. The method comprises a step for sucking the specimen stored in a specimen container (150) and sampling it in a first container (153), a step for optically measuring the specimen in the first container, a step for sampling the specimen in a second container (154) and preparing a specimen for measurement by mixing the specimen with a reagent in the second container, and a step for analyzing the specimen for measurement according to the results of the optical measurement of the specimen.

Abstract: A pair or receptacles capable of housing an emitter probe and a detector probe are installed inside a bioreactor to monitor the properties of the nutrient media without contacting the nutrient media.

Abstract: A carrier tape (20) wound on and extending between first and second spools (40) rotatably mounted to a read head (12) is submerged with a detector (44) mounted on a guide mechanism (42) into a fluid thermal media in the form of water or air contained in tanks (76-79). While submerged, the carrier tape (20) can be wound from one spool (40) to another. Further, the read head (12) can be plunged multiple times in opposite directions in the fluid thermal media. The detector (44) allows readings while the carrier tape (20) and the contents carried thereby are submerged in the fluid thermal media and can be a multi-channel, time-resolving photometer measuring fluorescence with at least one channel per row of wells (30) arranged in an array.

Abstract: An assay system includes an optical imager to acquire high resolution images of assay strips (e.g., lateral flow immunochromatographic test strips) and performs image processing to identify individual assay strips and determine results for each assay strip, by quantifies the presence or absence of test signal line(s) and control signal line(s). Assay strips may be in a holder or carrier contained in a specimen container also holding a specimen. The assay system automatically logs all results and data to a database that stores a high resolution image of the original immunochromatographic assay, the values of test line(s) and control line(s), and the test result. A user interface directs an end user through operation.

Abstract: A microfluidic device for detecting a flow parameter, includes a channel configured within a base body, the channel including a first inlet for feeding a first fluid and a second inlet for feeding a second fluid so as to form a fluid stream having the first and second fluids within the channel, and further including an output for providing the fluid stream on the output side, a first feeder including a micropump associated with the first inlet for selectively feeding the first fluid to the channel, a second feeder associated with the second inlet for feeding the second fluid to the channel; and a detector for detecting, on the basis of a different physical property of the first fluid and the second fluid within the channel, a measurement value dependent on a current flow parameter of the first or second fluid.

Abstract: A police tester to detect the presence of a target substance includes a housing adapted to be mounted in a police cruiser; a chemical reservoir insertable into the housing; a test swipe in a disc or an automated cartridge, the test swipe adapted to receive a chemical from the chemical reservoir, the test swipe including one or more chemically treated pads; a camera to capture an image from the test swipe; a processor coupled to the camera to process the image to detect the target substance; and a transmitter coupled to the processor to transmit a test result to a remote computer at a police headquarter.

Abstract: An ammonia gas detection apparatus includes an ammonia sensor that is configured to detect an ammonia gas in a gas stream and to generate a first output signal when the ammonia gas is detected in the gas stream. The ammonia sensor does not detect the ammonia gas in the gas stream when the gas stream further includes an interference gas that disrupts operation of the ammonia sensor. A discoloration gauge includes a reaction solution that changes from a first color to a second color responsive to exposure to the ammonia gas in the gas stream, regardless of the presence of the interference gas, and a detector that generates a second output signal responsive to the reaction solution changing from the first color to the second color. A communication interface outputs the first and second output signal to a host computer that detects presence of the ammonia gas.

Abstract: A system for automatically testing a fluid specimen to indicate the presence of specified chemical components in the specimen. The system utilizes an assaying device having a collection cup and a cap that carries at least one test strip. The device includes an integrated aliquot delivery mechanism actuatable to wet the test strip with an aliquot delivered from the fluid specimen. The assaying device operates in conjunction with an electronic reader device capable of actuating the aliquot delivery mechanism and reading the reaction of the test strip. A reader device defines a keyed receptacle for accommodating a complementary shaped cup housing in a particular orientation. The reader device includes a camera for capturing the image of a test strip, an actuator for actuating an aliquot delivery mechanism, and a microprocessor/controller for (1) controlling the camera and actuator and (2) processing the image.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a luminometer and methods which provides simple and effective measurement of a plurality of wells in a plurality of strips in an automatic fashion. The luminometer may be used in CLIA (Chemi Luminescent Immuno Assays). The luminometer allows for CLIA micro strip reading, and reads break-apart wells, with a plurality of wells per strip, and calculates results instantly and automatically. The luminometer has an automatic carrier positioning system which selectively positions the plurality of wells in the plurality of strips at a measuring position, wherein the drive system associated with the positioning system drives the carrier along a single axis of movement. An optical track system automatically provides Y axis movement of the carrier. The luminometer may have a calibration system for maintaining proper operation of the system in measurements therewith.

Abstract: A method of forming and using an auto-calibration circuit or label on a test sensor includes providing a label or circuit. The label or circuit includes a first layer, a second layer and a lamination portion. The second layer is located between the first layer and the lamination portion. The first layer includes polymeric material. The second layer includes conductive material. The label or circuit is applied to the test sensor via the lamination portion. After applying the label or circuit to the test sensor, portions of the second layer are ablated using a laser to form an auto-calibration pattern on the label or circuit.

Abstract: Fluid flow devices include a small plate (2), at least one flow channel (20) formed into this small plate, at least one storage channel (221-226) extending from this connection channel, and a set of valves (V1-V6), each of which is suitable for allowing or stopping the flow of fluid in a corresponding storage channel.

Abstract: A glucose tolerance test device comprising: a test zone having a means to receive at least first and second blood test samples spaced apart by a predetermined time interval; a timer to measure such a time interval, and for example to measure elapsed time after collection of a said first sample; an indicator to indicate at least that a second test is due, operatively Jinked to the timer so as to make such indication after lapse of a predetermined time interval; a data collector to collect data from the lest zone in relation to each test sample; a data register to store data in relation to each test sample, in data communication with said data collector. A method of use is also described.

Abstract: An analysis device having at least one sample addition zone, at least one sink, and at least one flow path connecting the at least one sample addition zone and the at least one sink. The at least one flow path includes projections substantially vertical to the surface of the substrate and having a height (H), diameter (D) and reciprocal spacing (t1, t2) such that lateral capillary flow of a liquid sample is achieved. The device includes at least two reaction zones in series, wherein each reaction zone is adapted to facilitating measurement of a response originating from one and the same analyte, and wherein the reaction zones are positioned to allow calculation of the concentration of at least one analyte. Advantages include that a more accurate value can be calculated, variations are reduced, and an estimation of the uncertainty of the response can be calculated.

Abstract: This invention relates to a technique for adjusting the temperature of a liquid held on an analyzing instrument (1) to a target value. The invention provides a temperature control method wherein thermal energy is supplied to liquid (10) by passing a magnetic flux across an analyzing instrument (1) for raising the temperature of the liquid. The invention also provides an analyzing instrument (1) and analyzing apparatus (X) which are suited to raising the temperature of a liquid (10) using a magnetic flux.

Abstract: A system for warning of corrosion, chemical, or radiological substances. The system comprises painting a surface with a paint or coating that includes an indicator material and monitoring the surface for indications of the corrosion, chemical, or radiological substances.

Abstract: A paint that warns of radiological or chemical substances comprising a paint operatively connected to the surface, an indicator material carried by the paint that provides an indication of the radiological or chemical substances, and a thermo-activation material carried by the paint. In one embodiment, a method of warning of radiological or chemical substances comprising the steps of painting a surface with an indicator material, and monitoring the surface for indications of the radiological or chemical substances. In another embodiment, a paint is operatively connected to a vehicle and an indicator material is carried by the paint that provides an indication of the radiological or chemical substances.

Abstract: A blood glucose test instrument kit having modular component parts capable of being assembled into a plurality of different handheld blood glucose test instruments is disclosed. The kit comprises the combination of an interconnection platform adapted to connect to a collection of interoperable modules. The collection of interoperable modules including: a plurality of different measurement engine modules, at least one user interface module, at least one power supply module. A handheld blood glucose test instrument is assembled by the interconnection to the interconnection platform of at least one measurement engine module, at least one user interface module, and at least one power supply module. The inter-module communication among the modules connected thereto to achieve enhanced glucose test instrument reliability by effecting at least one reliability protocol selected from a group of reliability protocols.

Abstract: Described herein is an analyte detection device and method related to a portable instrument suitable for point-of-care analyses. In some embodiments, a portable instrument may include a disposable cartridge, an optical detector, a sample collection device and/or sample reservoir, reagent delivery systems, fluid delivery systems, one or more channels, and/or waste reservoirs. Use of a portable instrument may reduce the hazard to an operator by reducing an operator's contact with a sample for analysis. The device is capable of obtaining diagnostic information using cellular- and/or particle-based analyses and may be used in conjunction with membrane- and/or particle-based analysis cartridges. Analytes, including proteins and cells and/or microbes may be detected using the membrane and/or particle based analysis system.

Abstract: A glucose monitor having only a test strip reader and wireless transmission to a remote hand held calculation processor. All glucose data processing occurs in a remote hand held calculator processor with the glucose monitor providing only sensing and wireless transfer of data. In an embodiment, the glucose monitor includes a button for use in wirelessly pairing the monitor to a smart phone for data communication with a non-proprietary communication protocol, and a light source to communicate the progress of the pairing. In a further embodiment, the glucose monitor includes a switch coupled to the strip reader such that power is applied to the monitor when a test strip is inserted and power is removed with the withdrawal of the test strip. In another embodiment, inserting the test strip and activating the switch also places the glucose monitor into the pairing search mode to communication with a host remote processor.

Abstract: An optical reflectance kit including a reading device and membrane test strip is disclosed for conducting a lateral flow assay. The reading device is portable. Assays may be conducted on bodily fluids to detect with high sensitivity the presence of certain hormones, glucose, or other bodily fluids of interest. Membrane test strips may receive a test fluid or test sample containing an analyte to be detected. The membrane test strips may be inserted directly into a receiving port of a reading device. Shielding stray light from the receiving port improves sensitivity and reduces the entry of stray or ambient light into the reading device. The reading device also includes one or more sensors capable of detecting the intensity of reflected electromagnetic radiation.

Abstract: The present invention provides an assay device for performing an assay on a liquid sample using a detection conjugate capable of binding to an antigen and containing a label, said device comprising a substrate having a substrate surface, wherein the surface comprises projections substantially perpendicular to said surface, said projections having a height, diameter and distance capable of generating lateral capillary flow of a fluid in said passage, said surface comprising a sample addition zone, a reaction zone and an absorbing zone, said zones being connected by at least one fluid passage, wherein said device has a first functionality verifying feature located between the sample addition zone and the reaction zone, and a second functionality verifying feature located within the absorbing zone, and both functionality verifying features being features capable of undergoing a detectable change when contacted by the sample, said assay device further comprising at least one alignment verification zone.

Abstract: A substrate includes; a fiducial mark disposed on the substrate, an area on the substrate on which a probe material is configured to be immobilized, the area being separated from the fiducial mark, and a probe immobilization compound disposed on the area on the substrate on which the probe material is configured to be immobilized, wherein the fiducial mark has a structure which reflects irradiated light at a greater intensity than an intensity of reflected irradiated light form the area on the substrate not corresponding to the fiducial mark.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed to automatically detect the presence of a substance on a test swipe by capturing a background image of the test swipe; applying one or more test chemicals to a test swipe; adjusting the temperature of the test swipe to a predetermined temperature range; capturing an in-situ image of the test swipe after the application of chemical at the predetermined temperature range; subtracting the background image from the in-situ image; generating a difference value from the two images; and searching a known database to identify the substance.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of loading reagent in a specimen handling device is disclosed, where the apparatus includes a deck with a plurality of positions defined thereon and each of the positions visually marked by a distinct one of a first set of icons. Each of a plurality of trays is removably securable to a selected one of the positions on the deck and includes the distinct one of the first set of icons visually marking the selected one of the positions. Reagent receptacles on each of the plurality of trays are visually marked by a distinct one of a second set of icons, and a kit is provided with a plurality of containers with selected reagents therein, each of the containers being visually marked by the distinct one of the second set of icons visually marking the receptacle into which that reagent is to be poured. The fluids including specimen samples and reagents are moved between tubes during processing without directly passing over tubes which the reagents could contaminate.

Abstract: A delivery apparatus for selectively delivering one or more liquid reagents into a reaction or test chamber (2), especially of an assay apparatus, the apparatus comprising: one or more respective storage chambers (5,6) for containing the one or more liquid reagents and arranged generally above the reaction or test chamber (2); and a plunger element (4) arranged and operable for insertion into the mouth of a selected storage chamber so as to displace a selected reagent from therewithin into the reaction or test chamber (2) generally therebelow by gravitational liquid overflow from the mouth of the chamber. The apparatus may conveniently be provided as a discrete delivery unit, with the storage chambers (5,6) prefilled with the selected reagents.

Abstract: A reaction vessel having a reaction chamber for holding a sample is fabricated by producing a housing having a rigid frame defining the minor walls of the chamber. The housing also defines a port for introducing fluid into the chamber. At least one sheet or film is attached to the rigid frame to form at least one major wall of the chamber. In preferred embodiments, two sheets or films are attached to opposite sides of the rigid frame to form two opposing major walls of the chamber, the major walls being connected to each other by the minor walls.

Abstract: This invention is in the field of medical devices. Specifically, the present invention provides portable medical devices that allow real-time detection of analytes from a biological fluid. The methods and devices are particularly useful for providing point-of-care testing for a variety of medical applications.

Abstract: An optical measurement apparatus is provided for conducting a test by efficiently reading color development of a reagent after reaction by optical measurement. To the above end, an optical measurement apparatus is provided which is to be used with at least one test instrument mounted to the apparatus. The test instrument includes a carrier provided with at least one reagent retaining portion which retains a reagent, and a sample is applied to the carrier. The optical measurement apparatus includes a reader for reading color development of the reagent retaining portion, and a controller for performing driving control of the reader and determination. The controller performs the determination by utilizing data obtained by a reading operation P to read the color development of the reagent performed after the lapse of a reaction completion period Tr1-Tr6 from the mounting of the test instrument, and the reaction completion period depends on the reagent.

Abstract: An analytical biochemistry system featuring a substrate with reactants immobilized thereon at fixed, known locations, a holder supporting the substrate and a manipulator for transporting the holder to a fixed sample and to an inspection station. The reactants are binding agents for a target biomolecule in a sample which forms a bound substance having a detectable characteristic. The holder may be a standard pipettor, optionally carried by a robot arm or hand as the manipulator to contact the sample for detection of the presence of target biomolecules within the sample. In one embodiment, the holder is a pipette tip within which the substrate is housed, or it may be a pipette adapter which bears the substrate and fits within the sample wells of a standard microtiter plate.