Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for automating laboratory protocols utilizing modular processing components to allow systems to be reconfigured for processing a wide variety of disparate laboratory protocols are provided. In one aspect, a sample processing module is provided, including a housing configured to accommodate a pre-identified sample process, a standardized temperature input capable of interfacing with a temperature controller, a standardized fluid input capable of interfacing with an input fluid controller, and a standardized agitation connector capable of interfacing with an agitator. These standardized components provide interchangeability of the module with a module having a housing configured to accommodate a different pre-identified sample process in a sample processing system.

Abstract: A sensor, having a resonant frequency responsive to presence of an analyze, comprising a DC electrostatic excitation component, to produce a static force pulling a moveable element toward a backplate; an AC electrostatic excitation component, to produce an oscillation in the moveable element with respect to the backplate; and a sensor to detect contact between the moveable and the backplate.

Abstract: A curettage collection apparatus includes a plate that has first side, a second side, and a perimeter edge. The perimeter edge includes a first edge, a second edge, a third edge and a fourth edge wherein the first and second edges are positioned opposite of each other. The first edge is convexly arcuate and the second edge is concavely arcuate. An elongated rod is attached to and extends away from the first side.

Abstract: A storage cartridge for dispensing biosensors used in the determination of an analyte in body fluid comprises a hollow body for housing a stack of biosensors having an open top, a flexible conveying member disposed over the open top of the body, the flexible conveying member having an aperture formed therein for receiving a biosensor from the stack of biosensors, a plate adapted to press the sliding conveying member against the open top to form a substantially moisture-impervious seal around the open top of the body and to permit the conveying member to slide between the plate and the open top, and a biasing mechanism the stack of biosensors towards the open top.

Abstract: A sample compressor applies pressure to a sample collector and a sample application zone of a test strip to transfer a sample from the sample collector and a binding partner of an analyte to the sample application zone in a lateral flow device. At least one of the binding partners of the analyte is not located on the test strip prior to use of the lateral flow device. The test strip may be a universal test strip with no molecule that specifically binds the analyte is located on the test strip. The sample compressor may be a universal sample compressor also with no molecule that specifically binds the analyte on the sample compressor. The lateral flow device may also include one or more enhancement elements, where the enhancement elements bind to the analyte sandwich to increase a detection signal in the test zone.

Abstract: A cell capture system including an array, an inlet manifold, and an outlet manifold. The array includes a plurality of parallel pores, each pore including a chamber and a pore channel, an inlet channel fluidly connected to the chambers of the pores; an outlet channel fluidly connected to the pore channels of the pores. The inlet manifold is fluidly connected to the inlet channel, and the outlet channel is fluidly connected to the outlet channel. A cell removal tool is also disclosed, wherein the cell removal tool is configured to remove a captured cell from a pore chamber.

Abstract: A diagnostic test reader includes an assay interface, a locking mechanism, and a test unit. The assay interface is configured to receive a diagnostic assay. The locking mechanism is configured to lock the diagnostic assay within the assay interface in response to one of the diagnostic assay and the diagnostic test reader being given a first push in a first direction toward the other of the diagnostic assay and the diagnostic test reader. The locking mechanism is also configured to unlock the diagnostic assay within the assay interface in response to the one of the diagnostic assay and the diagnostic test reader being given a second push in the first direction. The test unit is configured to analyze the diagnostic assay.

Abstract: A detection system in a portable assay reader device is enabled or activated after a user applies a manual force to a portion of the reader device, to an object supporting the assay test strip, or to the assay test strip itself. The movement moves a switch from an open state to a closed state. The closed state enables a detection system to monitor one or more test regions in the assay test strip for a reaction. The detection system can include one or more imagers, one or more electrical detectors, one or more magnetic detectors, or one or more optical detectors that monitor the one or more test regions for applicable visible, electrical, magnetic, or optical reactions, respectively. The one or more imagers or detectors transmit data to a processing device to determine the results of a test.

Abstract: Novel manifolds and methods of flow through manifolds are described. Apparatus and techniques are described in which flow from a relatively large volume header is equally distributed to process channels. Methods of making laminated, microchannel devices are also described.

Abstract: The invention concerns reagent delivery system for an apparatus for processing of biological samples arranged on microscope slides, comprising a reagent section having one or more reagent containers; a slide section in which at least one microscope slide is arranged; a probe for dispensing a portion of reagent onto a predetermined microscope slide, and means for handling the probe. The probe comprises a continuous prove tubing element extending through a rigid probe member and connecting the probe tip to a pneumatic pressure regulation device. The reagent containers are adapted for cooperation with the probe tip. In this manner a high though-put and a very low carry over of fluid residues is achieved since there is no assembled parts making up the inside volume of the probe in which the fluid may be retained.

Abstract: Provided are a micro-valve structure and a lab-on-a-chip module that include a polymer actuator. The micro-valve structure may include a flexible structure disposed on a substrate, and the polymer actuator inserted into the flexible structure. At this time, the flexible structure has a valve portion defining a microchannel and the polymer actuator is separated from the microchannel by the flexible structure. In addition, the polymer actuator is formed to change a width of the microchannel by controlling a displacement of the valve portion.

Abstract: A microfluidic-based flow assay and methods of manufacturing the same are provided. Specifically, the microfluidic flow assay includes a micropatterned surface that induces clot formation and an array of microfluidic channels though which blood flows. The micropatterned surface contains two clotting stimuli, one for inducing platelet adhesion and another for inducing the coagulation cascade.

Abstract: This invention provides rotors and methods of precisely metering a sample fluid and mixing the sample with a reagent. The rotors have a metering tube of defined volume that fills until sample flow is stopped by surface tension of a meniscus at a capillarity port, while excess sample is stripped from the metering tube inlet by centripetal force of the spinning rotor. By spinning the rotor at a higher speed, a reagent can be forced from a reagent chamber to contact the meniscus, breaking the surface tension and allowing the metered sample to mix with the reagent.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an analytical pretreatment device, comprising a supporting material 1, m inlet ports 3 as fluid injection ports, n outlet ports 4 as fluid outlet port, m×n hollow filament 5 communicating between the inlet ports and the outlet ports, and n filler cartridges 6 connected to the outlet ports (wherein, m is a natural number; and n is a natural number) that provides an analytical pretreatment device allowing easier automation of the analytical pretreatment step for improvement in operational accuracy and saving in labor.

Abstract: A thin film bio valve device and an apparatus for controlling the thin film bio valve device are effectively applied in a valve structure of a thin film device, such as a lab-on-a-chip, a protein chip, or a DNA chip, for diagnosing and/or detecting a small amount of material in a fluid.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an analytical pretreatment device, comprising a supporting material 1, m inlet ports 3 as fluid injection ports, n outlet ports 4 as fluid outlet port, m×n hollow filament 5 communicating between the inlet ports and the outlet ports, and n filler cartridges 6 connected to the outlet ports (wherein, m is a natural number; and n is a natural number) that provides an analytical pretreatment device allowing easier automation of the analytical pretreatment step for improvement in operational accuracy and saving in labor.

Abstract: The present invention provides biochips that include: (a) a plurality of cards, each card having a plurality of card apertures extending therethrough, each respective card aperture having one or more cross sectional areas; and (b) a plurality of gaskets, at least one gasket residing intermediate two neighboring cards, each gasket having a plurality of gasket apertures extending therethrough. At least some of the gasket apertures have an area that is greater than that of at least one adjacent card aperture. Different sets of the gasket apertures and card apertures define a plurality of fluidic flow channels. Also provided herein are methods of making and using biochips.

Abstract: A cassette for preparing a sample is disclosed herein. The cassette includes a housing, which encloses the structures and the processes used to prepare the sample.

Abstract: The present invention provides a solution bag that is used for medical treatment and stores solution used for an apparatus for analyzing blood chemistry that measures and analyzes the concentrations of electrolytes, the partial pressures of gases, and the concentrations of metabolites or the volume ratio of red blood cells contained in blood. The solution bag for an apparatus for analyzing blood chemistry of the present invention includes: a receptacle that contains a solution; a valve body that is attached to the receptacle and has a through-hole longitudinally formed therein; a valve spool that is disposed in the through-hole of the valve body; and a solution leakage preventing unit that is disposed in the valve spool, in which the valve body has a flow channel and a solution discharging pipe spaced at a predetermined distance from each other.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a serum or plasma separating material including a moisture curing component having a specific gravity of from 1.03 to 1.09, and a blood collection tube including the serum or plasma separating material. The present invention provides a serum or plasma separating material which is allowed to be present in a cured state between serum or plasma and a blood cell-containing component obtained after centrifugal separation when separating the serum or plasma component in a collection tube, exhibits a good storage stability capable of keeping the serum or the like and the cell-containing component in a separated state in the collection tube for a long period of time, is excellent in stability upon freezing or thawing and upon handling of a sample, and can be cured without need of irradiation with ultraviolet ray or the like, as well as a method of separating serum or plasma using the separating material.

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 receiving and transferring station (1) for coverslipped specimen slides (2, 2?, 2?) comprises at least one vertically upright magazine frame (5), open toward the receiving side, for at least one specimen slide magazine (4) having horizontally oriented compartments (6), and a rotation apparatus, connected to the magazine frame (5) and having a vertically upright rotation axis, for conveying the magazine frame (5) from a receiving position (3) into a transferring position (8).

Abstract: An assembly suitable for use in a laboratory instrument is set forth. The assembly comprises a plurality of guide rods that are disposed generally parallel with one another and a plurality of carriage assemblies connected for movement along the plurality of guide rods. A sub-carriage assembly is disposed on at least one of the carriage assemblies and is connected to the carriage assembly for movement in a direction transverse to the plurality of guide rods. A plurality of carriage drive mechanisms are employed to move the plurality of carriage assemblies independently along said plurality of guide rods and a sub-carriage drive mechanism is provided to move the sub-carriage assembly in a direction transverse to said plurality of guide rods.

Abstract: A multiwell plate device is provided having a frame, a substantially flat substrate and a multiwell structure supported by the substrate. The multiwell structure includes multiple bottomless wells formed therein. The substrate is supported by the frame and may be processed by an automated arrayer or instrument that is used to print or spot arrays in a pattern on a reaction surface of the substrate. Thereafter, the multiwell structure may be engaged with the substrate and the multiwell structure and substrate may be engaged with the frame in an upright orientation. For scanning or other analysis, the multiwell structure and substrate may be disengaged from the frame, inverted 180°, and then reengaged with the frame in the inverted orientation.

Abstract: The present invention provides integrated sample preparation systems and stabilized enzyme mixtures. In particular, the present invention provides microfluidic cards configured for processing a sample and generating DNA libraries that are suitable for use in sequencing methods or other suitable nucleic acid analysis methods. The present invention also provides stabilized enzyme mixtures containing an enzyme, BSA, and a sugar. Such enzyme mixtures may be lyophilized and stored at room temperature without significant loss of enzyme activity for months.

Abstract: The evaporator (10) efficiently evaporates solvent and/or introduces gases to multiple samples. The evaporator (10) contains a top plate (20) and a bottom plate (30). The top plate (20) is mated to the bottom plate (30) to define a main chamber (130) for distribution of gas. An input port (80) is defined within the bottom plate (30) of the evaporator (10) is in fluid communication with a gas distribution channel (100). The gas distribution channel (100) has a series of gas distribution ports (110A-C) increasing in diameter, in proportion to a distance from the input port (80), that provide for an even distribution of gas into the main chamber (130). Gas exits the main chamber (130) through exit ports (120A-C) defined within the bottom plate (30). Screws (50) respectively control gas flow to exit ports (120A-C) for delivery to an array of nozzles (90) on the bottom plate (30).

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosed technology comprise a chamber adapted for placement therein of a tablet, when a spring-loaded plunger is in a resting position. In this manner, a tablet, such as one formed of a sheet of absorbent material (e.g., made from bamboo or rayon) and pressed into the tablet form, may be evenly doused with a liquid such as water or soapy water without spillage or substantial (more than a few drops) spillage.

Abstract: Discussed herein are methods and devices for storing, handling, loading or dispensing of pipette tips. Some embodiments allow repetitive loading of an array of multiple pipette tips that are stored in a nested configuration.

Abstract: An apparatus for processing a specimen from a fluid sample includes a first set of one or more microfluidic channels configured to deliver the sample fluid to a filter disposed on an inflatable bladder configured to transfer the specimen from the filter to a slide. The apparatus is configured to collect an approximate monolayer of particles and includes a second set of one or more microfluidic channels configured to remove fluid flowing through the filter disposed on the inflatable bladder. The apparatus also includes a pressure source, a sample container connected to the pressure source and the first set of one or more microfluidic channels, a fluid flow gauge configured to measure a fluid flow rate through the filter, and a stain source connected to the first set of one or more microfluidic channels.

Abstract: A fluid sampling system for sampling the contents of a container of fluid includes an elongate hollow sampling conduit extending between a first end for withdrawing the fluid from the container and a second end for returning the fluid to the container, pump means for circulating the fluid between the container and the sampling conduit, a sample probe having a tip extending into the sampling conduit so as to contact the fluid within the sampling conduit, and a controller unit for controlling flow of the fluid within the sampling conduit and monitoring the properties of interest of the fluid within the sampling conduit via signals received from the sample probe. The present invention also provides an in-line pH probe.

Abstract: A biosensor container comprising a housing defining an internal glucose test strip compartment. The housing has an engagement portion for retaining a detachable means for storing data, and the means for storing data has data stored thereon specific to a batch of glucose test strips. At least one of the housing and the means for storing data includes at least one data reading element that is externally accessible when the means for storing data is retained by the engagement portion of the housing. The container includes various fail safe features to prevent mishandling and insure the user obtains the correct results. The housing includes means for connecting to the bG meter only when the means for storing data is retained by the housing. The housing further includes means for dispensing glucose test strips only when the housing is in either of an attached-to meter mode or a stand-alone mode.

Abstract: The systems and methods disclosed herein permit automated preparation of biological specimens for examination. The disclosed systems and methods provide fast, efficient, and highly uniform specimen processing using minimal quantities of fluids. The methods include at least a fixing phase for fixing a biological specimen to a substrate such as a microscope slide, a staining phase for staining the specimen, and a rinsing phase for rinsing the specimen. One or more of the fixing, staining, and rinsing phases include one or more agitation cycles for distributing reagents evenly and uniformly across the specimen. The systems can be implemented as a standalone device or as a component in a larger system for preparing and examining biological specimens.

Abstract: There is described a sample holder for decomposition or extraction of a sample material, the sample holder comprising: a frame adapted to receive at least two open-ended sample recipients having sealing caps thereon for holding the sample material; and a rack cover releasably securable to the frame and comprising at least two compression caps to be positioned on the sealing caps in order to exert a pressure thereon, thereby forming a pressure-relief valve for each one of the at least two open-ended sample recipients.

Abstract: A piston nest (10) is provided that includes a plurality of spaced apart single nesting units (12) interconnected by a web (13). Each of the single nesting units is configured a hollow cylindrical body having a first open end about a distal end of the body and a second open end about the proximal end. The hollow cylindrical body also includes a first (24) and a second (26) retention member for retaining a piston within the single nesting unit. The first and the second retention members are spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical body.

Abstract: Systems and methods for processing and analyzing samples are disclosed. The system may process samples, such as biological fluids, using assay cartridges which can be processed at different processing locations. In some cases, the system can be used for PCR processing. The different processing locations may include a preparation location where samples can be prepared and an analysis location where samples can be analyzed. To assist with the preparation of samples, the system may also include a number of processing stations which may include processing lanes. During the analysis of samples, in some cases, thermal cycler modules and an appropriate optical detection system can be used to detect the presence or absence of certain nucleic acid sequences in the samples. The system can be used to accurately and rapidly process samples.

Abstract: The present invention provides a biosensor cartridge (11) comprising a bottom portion (1) with a well (2) adapted to accommodate a liquid sample and a cover portion (3) for closing said well (2). The well (2) has a sensor surface (4). The bottom portion (1) is adapted for allowing light to enter along a first optical path (5), to be reflected at the sensor surface (4) and to exit along a second optical path (6). The invention further relates to a method of manufacturing such a cartridge (11).

Abstract: A system for removing liquid waste from an automated diagnostic instrument. The system comprises (a) an accumulator having at least one inlet for waste liquids and at least one outlet for waste liquids; (b) a vacuum sub-system connected to the accumulator, the vacuum sub-system comprising a vacuum pump; and (c) a drain portion for removing waste liquids comprising a peristaltic pump having spring-loaded rollers. The liquid waste from the automated diagnostic instrument is moved by a pressure differential created by the vacuum pump and the peristaltic pump having spring-loaded rollers.

Abstract: A microfluidic arrangement for extracting and optionally processing an extract from a sample and for transferring the extract in flowable form to a microfluidic chip using an extractor with a compressible extraction chamber and at least one opening thereof, a reactor that has a reaction chamber, an inlet opening that communicates with the at least one opening of the extractor, wherein the two openings define a flow path between the chambers, an outlet opening for fluidically connecting to the microfluidic chip and a ventilation opening of the reaction chamber, and having a filter arrangement installed in the flow path between the extractor and the reactor. A lab-on-a-chip system with such a microfluidic arrangement and a microfluidic chip that is rigidly connected to the reactor.

Abstract: A holder (10) housing defines a plurality of individual wells (14) sized to retain a substrates such as a bio-chip (20) or microscope slide in a vertical orientation, and to retain a volume of liquid (22) sufficient to immerse the bio-chip. The wells are spaced-apart with an approximately 9 mm pitch and the holder has a form factor approximating an SBS Standard 96-well microplate. The holder configuration is such that it can be manipulated with standard robotic equipment (30), and can be fabricated using injection molding processes.

Abstract: Systems and methods disclosed include: a support apparatus configured to detachably receive a chip; movable pins extendible from a first position to a second position, where, in the first position, the movable pins do not contact a chip positioned on the support apparatus, and in the second position, the movable pins contact electrical terminals of a heating element within a chip positioned on the support apparatus; a radiation source configured to direct radiation to be incident on a chip positioned on the support apparatus; a detector; and an electronic processor, the electronic processor being configured to detect molecules in a sample positioned within the chip, and to determine a temperature of the chip by measuring an electrical resistance between two of the multiple pins connected to the electrical terminals.

Abstract: A method of random-access storage and retrieval of any particular compartmentalized samples from a integral array of storage compartments with an apparatus to wholly excise intact sample-containing compartments and then convey the liberated samples intact in their respective compartments to designated locations of an adapted receiving tray, where they are releaseably locked in place.

Abstract: A microfluidic flow cell for removably interfacing with a removable-member for performing a reaction therebetween. The microfluidic flow cell device comprises at least one reaction portion defining with the removable-member a reaction chamber when in an interfaced position thereof. The microfluidic flow cell comprises at least one fluid-receiving portion for receiving a fluid therein and being in fluid communication with the reaction chamber. When the microfluidic flow cell and the removable-member are in the interfaced position, the cell is adapted to allow for the fluid in the fluid-receiving portion to flow to the reaction chamber. Devices, systems and methods comprising this microfluidic flow cell are also disclosed.

Abstract: Systems and methods that can be used to detect materials of interest in a suspension are disclosed. A suspension suspected of containing a material of interest and a float are added to a tube. When the tube, float and suspension are centrifuged together, the float expands the axial length of a layer that contains the material of interest between the outer surface of the main body of the float and the inner wall of the tube. The float includes features located on the main body of the float that enhance mixing of various agents to be added to the suspension. The features may also increase the flow of the suspension fluid and materials around the float during centrifugation.

Abstract: A device and method which comprises a sensing surface on a membrane, solid surface or electrode, where the sensing surface contains a dye or chromophore chosen in relation to a particular target substance to be detected and quantified. The dye or chromophore is of a type which produces an electrical signal upon illumination. The particular dye or chromophore chosen for a particular target substance is one in which the presence of the target substance causes a change in the electrical signal produced. The presence of the target substance modifies the expected photo-induced charge movements (PICM) produced by the sensing surface upon illumination. The photo-induced charge movements produce signals which are detected by electronic circuits, and the presence and concentration of the target substance is determined by analyzing the difference between the PICM of the target sample versus the PICM of a control sample lacking the target substance.

Abstract: Cells and methods of producing hydrogen and oxygen from an aqueous solution at about 90% of the Faraday Limit are provided. An exemplary method includes the steps of placing a graphite electrode and a nickel electrode in an alkaline solution comprising colloidal silver, colloidal magnesium and a powdered metal such as aluminum, and applying a constant positive voltage to the nickel electrode. Further, the example includes cyclically applying a negative voltage potential to the graphite electrode by turning on the negative applied voltage for a first time period and switching off the negative voltage for a second time period. The second time period should be sufficient to permit removal of substantially all or at least some of any aluminum or zinc deposited on the graphite electrode. Graphite-containing electrodes may be pretreated to infuse with a precious metal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a hydrophobic valve for liquids having an appreciable surface tension comprising magnetic particles, said device comprising at least two planar solid substrates with a functionalized surface each, wherein at least a first solid substrate has a patterned surface comprising at least two hydrophilic areas separated from one another by at least one hydrophobic area, wherein the said two planar substrates are disposed with a distance to one another in a sandwiched, parallel fashion, in such way that said functionalized surfaces are facing one another, said valve further comprising a magnetic actuator.

Abstract: A microfluidic cartridge for isolating biological molecules having a capture chamber containing functionalized solid supports maintained in a fluidized state provides reduced pressure drops and bubble formation during microfluidic extraction. The cartridge may include an electric field lysis chamber and/or a chemical lysis chamber. The electric-field lysis chamber may comprise an electrically insulating structure arranged between two opposing planar electrodes.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a housing having a support surface to support a cartridge, a socket attached to the housing, and an actuator associated with the socket. The socket surface includes one or more socket positioning members, a plurality of electrical contacts and a plurality of magnets. The socket is configured to move relative to the support surface of the housing, with the one or more socket positioning members located in a fixed relation to the plurality of electrical contacts so that when the socket is spaced proximate to the support surface of the housing, the one or more socket positioning members engage with the one or more cartridge positioning members to align the plurality of electrical contacts of the socket with the plurality of electrical contact pads of the cartridge. The actuator is configured to align each magnet with a respective fluid conduit of the processing device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a sterilization and disinfection apparatus. In particular, the present invention relates to a sterilization and disinfection apparatus for surgical equipment. Thus preferred embodiments may have a number of advantages over the prior art which can include: reduced risk of spillage of the sterilization fluid outside the sterilization apparatus; reduced risk of contamination of the equipment after sterilization through inadvertent contact with the equipment by the user; economy of use of the sterilization fluid; improved convenience of transport and storage of sterilized equipment in the sterilization apparatus; automatic override procedure to reduce the risk of overexposure of the equipment to the sterilization fluid if the correct sterilization cycle is not followed; automatic control of contact time of the equipment with the sterilization fluid to avoid over processing and resultant damage; and data logging to provide traceability of the previous sterilization cycles used.

Abstract: An apparatus for transfer of a liquid using a diaphragm that separates a working fluid volume from a working air volume and can controllably induce a change pressure to draw or expel a target fluid into a tube. The apparatus is particularly suitable for automated processing of nucleic acids and other samples includes a disposable container comprising a tray and a flexible barrier. The barrier is configured to seal with a top edge of the tray, providing a closed, aseptic work area within the sealed tray. A pipette head and/or other sample manipulation device can be attached to the inside of the barrier under the diaphraghm, and the barrier can include an interface for a robotic arm or other device. When the barrier is sealed over the tray, the barrier separates the contents of the tray from the robot or other manipulation device.