Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for sample processing. A device may be provided, capable of receiving the sample, and performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing multiple assays. The device may comprise one or more modules that may be capable of performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing the steps using a small volume of sample.

Abstract: A preparation device for preparing a sample for measurement of a target biomolecule in a probe of a bodily fluid is disclosed that includes a substrate with a capillary network configured to transport the probe of the bodily fluid along the substrate. The substrate may be provided with a fluorescent, reflective or self-luminescent marker adapted to bind with the target biomolecule to emit a reaction radiation when excited by an excitation source. The fluorescent, reflective or self-luminescent marker is adapted, when bound to the target biomolecule and excited by the excitation source, together with the target biomolecule to emit the reaction radiation at an intensity proportional to a quantity of the target biomolecule in the probe of the bodily fluid.

Abstract: A universal respiratory detector for detecting a respiratory gas. The universal respiratory detector may include a plurality of layers with a visual indicator to quickly and reversibly change color to detect a respiratory gas parameter such as carbon dioxide. The color change may be visible from both sides of the detector. In some examples, the respiratory detector may be a biocompatible and conformable sticker for mounting on a person's face or an oxygen delivery device.

Abstract: Biological chemicals, potentially found in blood are measured by collecting sweat and determining the concentration or meaning of the selected chemical in sweat. The sweat can be collected using a time based, interval collector and analyzed using an external device. It can also be collected on a one time basis, using a flexible, chemical capacitor, or on a continuous basis using a chemical, field effect transducer.

Abstract: The present invention provides devices and systems for use at the point of care. The methods devices of the invention are directed toward automatic detection of analytes in a bodily fluid. The components of the device are modular to allow for flexibility and robustness of use with the disclosed methods for a variety of medical applications.

Abstract: Liquid level sensing apparatus and related methods are disclosed. An example method includes moving a cannula to pierce a seal of a container to provide access to a liquid in a cavity of the container; moving a probe through a passageway of the cannula and into the cavity of the container; and when the probe is at least partially positioned in the cannula: providing a first signal to the probe to cause the probe to emit a first electrical field; and providing a second signal to the cannula to cause the cannula to emit a second electrical field.

Abstract: Example embodiments of the present invention comprise an analyte sensing patch, comprising a substrate, and a sensing agent disposed on the substrate such that analyte can encounter the sensing agent through a side of the patch disposed adjacent the skin of a subject but not through a side of the patch disposed away from the skin of the subject. Example embodiments of the present invention comprise an analyte sensing patch, comprising a substrate, a sensing material disposed on the substrate in a first region thereof, an adhesive disposed on the substrate in a second region thereof, wherein the second region surrounds the first region, wherein the sensing agent undergoes a change in a discernible characteristic responsive to encounter with a predetermined analyte.

Abstract: Methods of generating performic acid by contacting aqueous oxidizing agent and aqueous formic acid source in liquid phase are disclosed. A system and apparatus for the in situ production of the performic acid chemistries is further disclosed. In particular, a continuous flow reactor is provided to generate performic acid at variable rates. Methods of employing the oxidizing biocide for various disinfection applications are also disclosed.

Abstract: An embodiment provides a method for measuring ions in a solution, including: preparing a measurement device comprising an active indicator, wherein the active indicator comprises a silver complex; introducing the measurement device to a solution, wherein the silver complex reacts with the solution and generates a precipitation comprising one of the elements selected from the group consisting of: silver chloride, silver sulfide, and mixtures thereof; and measuring an amount of one of the elements selected from the group consisting of: chloride and sulfide, in the solution, wherein the measuring comprises identifying a peak of the precipitation on a portion of the measurement device and comparing the peak to a measurement chart.

Abstract: A connection unit connects one end of each of two processing systems and includes a processing unit for carrying out necessary processing on a specimen in a specimen container held by a specimen holding rack. The first and second processing systems each have an opening and closing part that can be opened and closed to expose an access surface for an operator. The connection unit is configured so as to connect the first and second processing systems in such a way that a distance along a horizontal plane from the access surface of the first processing system to the one end of the second processing system is longer than a distance by which the opening and closing part of the first processing system moves when opening and closing. Thus, various layouts resulting from the structure are possible within an inspection room without diminishing the ease of operation.

Abstract: A sweat collection device includes an elongate concave sweat-collecting surface at a face thereof for placement over an iontophoresis-stimulated area of a patient's skin to collect sweat and pass it through an axial bore in the concavity. A length of flexible tubing is secured to the axial bore for receiving and storing the collected sweat. A chamber may be provided for holding the tubing in flat coiled condition. Collected sweat builds up within the tubing from the axial bore. The device can include markings to indicate when a minimum amount of sweat has been collected in the tubing and can indicated a range for collected sweat that takes into account variations in the tubing. An open end of the tubing can be flared for easy insertion of a blunt needle to extract sweat or a guide passage can guide insertion of the needle into the open end of the tubing.

Abstract: A system for imaging captured cells comprising: an illumination module configured to illuminate a target object; a platform configured to position the target object in relation to the illumination module; a filter module configured to filter light transmitted to the target object and/or to filter light received from the target object, an optical sensor configured to receive light from the target object and to generate image data; and a focusing and optics module configured to manipulate light transmitted to the optical sensor. The system can further comprise one or more of: a control system configured to control at least one of the illumination module, the platform, the focusing and optics module, the filter module, and the optical sensor; a tag identifying system configured to identify and communicate tag information from system elements; a thermal control module configured to adjust temperature parameters of the system; and an image stabilization module.

Abstract: A device and method for the rapid on-site detection of inhibitors of enzymes, such as, acetylcholinesterase is described where the device contains 2 reaction zones containing a reporter enzyme substrate. One reaction zone is for the test sample while the other is for an onboard negative control. Sample and control fluids are preincubated with the enzyme in separate reaction containers, then an aliquot of each reaction mixture is added to designated reaction zones on the test device. A purpose-built reader or an illuminating device, such as, containing an incandescent light source, a diode, a UV light source or any other illumination source that is suitable for the reporter or mere visualization is used to determine the level of reporter.

Abstract: Liquid level sensing apparatus are disclosed. An example liquid level sensing apparatus includes a cannula defining a body having a tip and an access channel. The tip to pierce a container, where the cannula is to be at least partially positioned in the container when the tip pierces the container. A probe is to be positioned in the access channel. A signal source is to electrically energize the probe and the cannula to cause the probe to emit a first signal and cause the cannula to emit a second signal.

Abstract: A moisture sensor includes a pair of electrode plates separated by a moisture absorbent material that forms the dielectric of a capacitive sensor. As the absorbent dielectric material absorbs moisture, such as perspiration, the capacitance of the sensor changes reflecting a quantitative measure of perspiration absorbed. The sensor can be stabilized by capacitively coupling the dielectric material to the skin of the user to improve sensor stability and noise rejection. The sensor can include a capacitive sensing integrated circuit that measures the capacitance of the sensor in close proximity to the electrodes to limit the introduction of noise.

Abstract: The present application discloses a multi-well cuvette for integrating the reaction between a sample and a reagent with the detection of a specific analyte included therein, and the multi-well cuvette comprises: a reaction chamber part having a sample and a reagent placed therein; and a detection part for detecting the reaction between the sample and the reagent, wherein the reaction chamber part comprises: an extraction member standby chamber in which a member for dividing or distributing the sample is on standby; a sample filling chamber; and a reagent filling chamber which is filled with the reagent, and in which the reaction with the sample is carried out, wherein the detection part comprises: a chromatography analysis means for a reactive product between the sample and the reagent; and a detection chamber for accommodating the same.

Abstract: Provided is a system for supplying a liquid (such as an irritant chemical solution) safely. This liquid supplying system comprises: a base on which a container containing liquid is placed; a hollow needle having a spired part; a first movement mechanism that moves the needle between a first needle position at which the spired part is separated from the container and a second needle position at which the spired part is passed through a wall of the container; a hollow tube having a smaller outer diameter than the inner diameter of the lumen of the needle; and a second movement mechanism that moves the tube between a first tube position separated from the container and a second tube position at which the tube is passed through the lumen of the needle located at the second needle position and is inserted inside the container.

Abstract: Systems and methods for electrochemically oxidizing components of a test-sensor reagent prior to deposition on a test sensor comprise at least a first electrode and a second electrode for contacting the test-sensor reagent. The first electrode and the second electrode may have hollow interior portions for contacting the test-sensor reagent to produce a modified test-sensor reagent having a reduced background current.

Abstract: A chemical exposure indication device is disclosed. The device is removably attachable to a structure and includes a substrate having a first surface and a second surface and an indicating layer overlying the first substrate surface. The indicating layer includes a coating material that is chemically reactive with a pre-determined chemical compound that is known to degrade the structure. When the coating material is exposed to that corrosive compound in a pre-determined level associated with degradation of a metallic structure, the coating material provides a visual indication of the presence of the corrosive compound.

Abstract: A method for obtaining information about proteinuria and/or nephropathy from urine samples is provided for evaluating a urine sample that includes detecting proteins in the urine sample with two types of detection reagents that differ in reactivity to at least one urinary protein; and based on an indicator calculated using the results of the detection with the two types of detection reagents.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for the determination of vitamin B6 in samples as well as to reagent compositions for assaying a sample for vitamin B6 and to a test kit suitable for carrying out the methods according to the present invention. Further, the invention relates to the use of such methods for the application to different analyzing devices such as micro-titer plate readers and fully automated clinical chemistry analyzers (autoanalyzers).

Abstract: Methods for performing dry chemistry, lateral flow-reconstituted chromatographic enzyme-driven assays are described. A combination of components necessary to elicit a specific enzyme reaction are predeposited as substrate in dry form together with ingredients necessary to produce a desired color upon occurrence of the desired reaction. The strip is equipped with a sample pad placed ahead of the substrate deposit in the flowstream, to which liquid sample is applied. The sample flows from the sample pad into the substrate zone where it immediately reconstitutes the dried ingredients while also intimately mixing with them and reacting with them at the fluid front. The fluid front moves rapidly into the final “read zone” wherein the color developed is read against predetermined color standards for the desired reaction. The assay in the format of the invention is faster and easier to perform than analogous wet chemistry assays.

Abstract: Provided is a protein concentration assay method that uses a protein indicating reagent and that enables highly accurate assay. The protein concentration assay method includes: optically analyzing a color exhibited after a sample to be assayed and a protein indicating reagent are brought into contact with each other; measuring pH of the sample to be assayed; and assaying a concentration of protein in the sample based on the result of the optical analysis, the measured value of pH, and data for protein concentration assay, wherein the protein indicating reagent is a protein indicating reagent whose color varies with pH and a concentration of protein, and the data for protein concentration assay include information indicating a way to assay the result of the optical analysis corresponding to the measured value of pH.

Abstract: The presently-disclosed subject matter includes methods and devices for diagnosing, prognosing, and treating brain damage in a subject, including brain damage caused by stroke or a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The methods can comprise providing a sample obtained from the subject, exposing the sample to an antibody selective for a visinin-like protein, detecting the presence of a complex that includes the antibody and the visinin-like protein, and diagnosing and/or prognosing the subject as having brain damage if there is the presence of the complex. Embodied methods can also comprise administering a treatment for brain damage if the subject includes the presence of the visinin-like protein.

Abstract: A coating mixture is presented for use on a bearing surface. The coating mixture includes a Guaiacum resin and a solvent in which the Guaiacum resin is dissolved. The Guaiacum resin may be about 50% or more of the coating mixture. The solvent may be an alcohol, for instance ethanol.

Abstract: A system is provided that includes a tray having a number of compartments for holding liquid samples and partitioning the liquid samples from one another. The liquid samples are prepared by adding an indicator configured to produce a characteristic change in light from the liquid samples when a target microbe metabolizes the indicator while the liquid samples are incubated. The system also includes a light sensor for sensing light from the liquid samples held in the tray while the plurality of liquid samples is incubated. The system further includes a processor coupled with the light sensor and configured to analyze the light from the liquid samples while the liquid samples are incubated to detect the characteristic change in light from one or more of the liquid samples if the target microbe is present in the liquid samples.

Abstract: An air removal test system for verifying adequate air removal during a sterilization cycle of a pre-vacuum type sterilizer includes specimen holder and a test strip. The test strip includes a solid indicator chemical, which liquefies and travels along a wicking element during the sterilization cycle. The test strip is configured to verify adequate removal of air during the sterilization cycle by displaying a color change through a window.

Abstract: A device is provided for determining total chlorine in liquids, the device including an indicator carrier that is impregnated with a color indicator that contains Michler's thioketone, the indicator carrier additionally containing as a color indicator at least one azine as well as an iodide, in particular potassium iodide and/or sodium iodide.

Abstract: A method may involve forming one or more photoresist layers over a sensor located on a structure, such that the sensor is covered by the one or more photoresist layers. The sensor is configured to detect an analyte. The method may involve forming a first polymer layer. Further, the method may involve positioning the structure on the first polymer layer. Still further, the method may involve forming a second polymer layer over the first polymer layer and the structure, such that the structure is fully enclosed by the first polymer layer, the second polymer layer, and the one or more photoresist layers. The method may also involve removing the one or more photoresist layers to form a channel through the second polymer layer, wherein the sensor is configured to receive the analyte via the channel.

Abstract: A method for sampling a sulphur-containing solid product including supplying a gas flow comprising hydrogen sulphide, bringing the gas flow into contact with a solid reagent and reacting the solid reagent with the hydrogen sulphide contained in the gas flow, the reaction fixing the sulphur of the hydrogen sulphide by forming a sulphur-containing solid product which is different in color from the solid reagent, and recovering the sulphur-containing solid product. The invention also relates to a device suitable for the implementation of this method.

Abstract: A method for generating and localizing a signal in a solid phase substrate detection system comprises applying a solution of target material to a substrate; binding the target with a specific affinity molecule having an attached label, the label comprising multiple signal precursor molecules; applying a carrier to the substrate, and treating the label to convert the signal precursor molecules to signal generating molecules. The carrier comprises solvent for the label and thickener for localizing the signal. The carrier may include developer that converts signal precursor molecules to signal generating molecules. Developer is not necessary if the signal precursor molecules are converted to signal generating molecules by e.g. temperature change, pH change, sonication, light irradiation, microwave heating. A test device for detecting target in a fluid sample, and a kit of parts for determining the presence of target in a fluid sample are also disclosed.

Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for dispersion of a labeling conjugate in a diagnostic assay, the result being a one-step assay. By eliminating a conjugate pad as in conventional lateral diagnostic devices, and forming a frazil ice pellicle (FIP), rehydration and flow are improved resulting in better reproducibility, improved sensitivity, and reduced costs of individual assay devices. The formation of a frazil ice film formed on a super cooled surface of a sample receiving means simplifies assay assembly. Lyophilization of the FIP improves the release of a sample/analyte/label matrix into a macro channel as in a direct flow assay, while at the same time allowing reagents to mix and flow, thereby optimizing the assay performance. The reagents of the conjugate and the formation of the FIP stabilize the conjugate proteins and provide extended shelf life to the diagnostic assay device.

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 optic light guide test sensor comprises a light guide, a reagent-coated membrane, and a mesh layer. The reagent-coated membrane and the mesh layer are attached to the light guide at an output end of the light guide. The light guide test sensor is adapted to be used to test the level of an analyte in a biological fluid sample when used with a readhead. A method of manufacturing the light guide test sensor involves providing a plurality of light guides, providing a strip of reagent-coated membrane, and providing a strip of mesh layer. The reagent-coated membrane and mesh layer are attached to the light guides by ultrasonic welding. The reagent-coated membrane and mesh layer may also be attached to the light guides by adhesive.

Abstract: Systems and methods for detecting the presence of biomolecules in a sample using biosensors that incorporate resonators which have functionalized surfaces for reacting with target biomolecules. In one embodiment, a device includes a piezoelectric resonator having a functionalized surface configured to react with target molecules, thereby changing the mass and/or charge of the resonator which consequently changes the frequency response of the resonator. The resonator's frequency response after exposure to a sample is compared to a reference, such as the frequency response before exposure to the sample, a stored baseline frequency response or a control resonator's frequency response.

Abstract: A chemical indicator device for use in detecting exposure to an oxidizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide, comprising a substrate or support upon which is disposed a chemical indicator composition (ink) for detecting an oxidizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide. The chemical indicator composition further comprises an indicator dye that achieves a distinct range of different color changes with clear transitions between colors, upon exposure to different doses of the oxidizing agent, thus allowing for both a qualitative and semi-quantitative assessment of exposure to the agent.

Abstract: The invention is directed towards methods and compositions for identifying the amount of ammonium acid in a buffered oxide etching composition. In buffered oxide etching compositions it is very difficult to measure the amount of ammonium 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 ammonium acid will ruin those chips. The invention utilizes a unique method of spectrographically measuring the ammonium acid when in contact with added chromogenic agents to obtain exact measurements that are accurate, immediate, and safe.

Abstract: A three dimensional lignocellulosic detection device includes a first lignocellulosic substrate and a second lignocellulosic substrate. When the first lignocellulosic substrate is in contact with a liquid specimen through capillary effect, the sample is absorbed into the second lignocellulosic substrate through the first lignocellulosic substrate, reacts with the detecting reagent on the second lignocellulosic substrate and makes a detection test. The three dimensional lignocellulosic detection device of the present invention have inherent advantages of the lignocellulosic such as natural material, low cost, easy manipulation and capillary effect and results in a good preventive diagnostic platform. Also, users may achieve preventive disease diagnostics without spending additional time and/or money.

Abstract: A device and a process are proposed for separating constituents of a sample fluid, wherein the sample fluid is supplied by capillary force to a receiving region (7) for metering, stopping or delaying the sample fluid and the sample fluid is pre-treated with a soluble chemical (13) in the receiving region (7) before the sample fluid is supplied to a separating device (5) for separating off constituents of the sample fluid.

Abstract: A wetness indicator material may be used on a substrate to form a wetness sensor. The sensor may show either the presence or absence of an aqueous-based fluid or water-containing medium, such as vaginal fluid or urine in a personal hygiene article. The wetness sensor may be incorporated into the article. The wetness indicator material includes a standard colorant that does not change color when wetted. The standard colorant increases the range of hues exhibited by the wetness indicator material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device and method for detecting analytes in a sample.

Abstract: A method is taught for the accurate determination of the premature rupture of membranes (PROM), defined as spontaneous rupture of membranes before the onset of uterine contractions. More specifically, a lateral flow assay strip tests for at least two antigens to greatly limit or eliminate the possibility of false negatives. A built in timer in the cassette holding the lateral flow assay further increases the accuracy of the test. A collection buffer vial with self-contained shipping and dropper caps and built in stand is also taught.

Abstract: Described here are systems, devices, cartridges, methods, and kits for detecting or quantifying at least two different analytes using at least two different techniques, in a single sample. The cartridges typically comprise at least two test sites and the location of at least one test site is not dependent on a corresponding measurement device. The systems generally comprise a device, memory, and a processing module. The device comprises a light source, an array detector, and a port configured to accept at least a portion of a cartridge. The processing module is configured to perform an image analysis of the cartridge. The methods comprise the steps of acquiring calibration information, acquiring an image of the cartridge, performing an image analysis, and cycling through specific detection or quantification techniques corresponding to the techniques required by the test sites. Computer readable media are also described.

Abstract: A sterilization indicator system and method of using the system to determine efficacy of a sterilization process. The system includes a vial having a first compartment containing spores of one or more species of microorganism; a second compartment containing a growth medium with a disaccharide, an oligosaccharide or a polysaccharide in which the vial is free of monosaccharide; an enzyme, capable of acting upon the monosaccharide to yield reaction products and electron transfer, disposed on two or more electrodes adapted to carry an electrical signal resulting from the electron transfer, the pair of electrodes positioned to contact the combined contents of the first compartment and the second compartment during incubation; and an apparatus linked or linkable to the electrodes and adapted to detect and measure the electrical signal resulting from electron transfer when the enzyme acts upon the monosaccharide.

Abstract: Provided is a temperature sensitive indicator, which can be held in a desired state and is not affected by temperature of a finger at the time of an operation of the temperature sensitive indicator. The temperature sensitive indicator includes: a member base (13) including an upper base member (11) and a lower base member (12); and a label component (21) sandwiched and held between the upper base member and the lower base member of the member base under a state in which a pulled-out portion on one end side of the label component is protruded outward.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for sensing an analyte in a fluid.

Abstract: Disclosed is an assay device for the determination of the presence and/or extent if an analyte in a liquid sample over an extended concentration range comprising a first assay and a second assay, wherein the first assay for an analyte comprises a first flow-path having a sole detection zone capable of immobilizing a labelled binding reagent and the second assay for said analyte comprises a second flow-path having a sole detection zone capable of immobilizing a labelled binding reagent, wherein the presence of labelled binding reagent at the detection zones provides an indication of the presence and/or extent of analyte in said liquid sample.

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: A reagent or particles having reagent supported thereon are applied to a matrix material by a contact printing process for example in which the matrix material is brought into contact with a rotating contact roll having the reagent or particles having reagent supported thereon disposed thereon so as to transfer the reagent or particles having reagent supported thereon to the matrix material. Such a contact printing processes allow high speed and high volume production of an assay device.

Abstract: A multilayered optical sensing patch, for the measurement of conditions, such as pH, oxygen level, etc, within containers, is provided. The multilayered optical sensing patch of the present invention is comprised of a heat sealable polymer substrate layer, and a polymeric sensing membrane later attached thereto. The polymer sensing membrane layer is formed of a porous polymer support membrane, and an optical sensing composition (comprising a reactive indicator) covalently bonded thereto. The heat sealable polymer substrate layer is capable of being securely bonded to the inner layer of bioreactor bags, as well as the porous polymer support substrate layer. Further, the porous polymer support membrane layer provides a firm supporting structure for the polymeric sensing layer, thereby protecting the optical sensing composition disposed therein from degradation/damage.