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 liquid-transport device has a liquid-tight support (12) on which there is applied a start zone (24; 24?) for applying transport liquid to be transported and a target zone (26, 28; 26a-e) into which the transport liquid is to be transported and also a conduction zone that extends between the start zone (24, 24?) and the target zone (26, 28; 26a-e) and that has a microporous transport layer (14) in which the transport liquid flows by capillary force from the start zone (24; 24?) to the target zone (26, 28; 26a-e). The conduction zone has a multiplicity of open flow channels separated from one another by microporous bridges having open-pored side walls.

Abstract: A surface plasmon resonance fluorescence analysis device emits a light beam to a prism in which a metal film is formed on a prescribed surface while changing an angle of incidence relative to the metal film in a state in which the light beam is totally reflected, measures light generated on a surface of the metal film, determines an angle at which the light beam enters the metal film based on a change in intensity of the measured light, adjusts the emitting direction of the light beam so that the light beam enters the metal film at the determined angle of incidence, and measures fluorescence generated on the surface of the metal film in a state in which the light beam is emitted the adjusted direction.

Abstract: Disclosed in an individual information determining method in which individual information of a subject is determined based on one or a plurality of pieces of biomolecule data collected from a surface of a body surface of the subject.

Abstract: A system for identifying and making quantitative determinations with respect to deposits on a portion of the system, determining that the deposit is a contaminant, and decontaminating at least the portion of the system is described. The system uses an embedded controller. It further includes an embedded sensing portion monitoring an atmosphere above the sensing portion. The sensing portion communicates with at least said controller and detects a quantity of the deposits. The sensing portion can be a film layer on a surface. The system also includes an embedded self-decontaminating portion.

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: The present invention provides for a novel method and system for amplification of nucleic acids within a hydrogel of microfluidic volume using a hydrocarbon wax as a support substrate.

Abstract: A device for detecting the concentration of biological materials, is formed in a body having a plurality of fluidic paths connectable to a multi-microbalance structure carrying a plurality of microbalances, each microbalance having a sensitive portion facing a reaction chamber. The body and the multi-microbalance structure are configured to be mechanically coupled together and each microbalance is configured to be coupled to a respective fluidic path. Each fluidic path includes an inlet, a duct and a liquid waste, each duct being configured to be coupled with a respective reaction chamber. The plurality of fluidic paths and microbalances form at least one first and one second reference cells and one first sample cell.

Abstract: A single molecule sensing device includes a first electrode, a second electrode and a single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) connected to the first and second electrodes. At least one linker molecule having first and second functional groups is functionalized with a sidewall of the SWNT, the at least one linker molecule having the first functional group non-covalently functionalized with a sidewall of the single-walled carbon nanotube. A single sensitizing molecule having at least one functional group is functionalized with the second functional group of the at least one linker molecule.

Abstract: A method for diagnosing whether a subject suffering from an acute inflammation and in some cases systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is at increased risk for mortality. The method comprises determining the amount of the biomarker GDF-15 in a sample of said subject and comparing said amount to a reference. The method also relates to monitoring the development of acute inflammation in a subject by determining the amount of the biomarker GDF-15 in a first and a second sample of said subject wherein said first sample has been obtained prior to said second sample and comparing the amount of GDF-15 in said first and said second sample. Further encompassed are diagnostic devices and kits for carrying out the aforementioned methods.

Abstract: A device, method and system is provided for binding particles for the separation and/or isolation of biological materials. In particular, a container is provided including a suspension of binding particles for the isolation of biological material, inner walls forming an elongate groove at the bottom of said container, and a cover having openings and/or being penetrable for a linear arrangement of multiple pipets or pipet tips, said openings being located above and parallel to said elongate groove.

Abstract: Contemplated compositions, devices, and methods are drawn to various antigens from the pathogen M. tuberculosis and their use in vaccines, therapeutic agents, and various diagnostic tests. In particularly preferred aspects, the antigens are immunodominant and have quantified and known relative reactivities with respect to sera of a population infected with the pathogen, and/or have a known association with a disease parameter.

Abstract: The present invention relates to sensors, in particular, biosensors based on organic thin-film transistors.

Abstract: Provided is an assay device and kit for detecting the presence or amount of an analyte of interest.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a chip for analyzing fluids which restricts the flow of a fluid and the flow velocity of the fluid at a reaction unit, where an antigen-antibody reaction occurs, to increase reactivity and sensitivity.

Abstract: Disclosed embodiments concern a microfluidic device comprising a bonding agent and two or more components. In particular disclosed embodiments, the microfluidic device is made out of the disclosed bonding agent. Also disclosed are embodiments of a method for making a microfluidic device, wherein the method includes using the disclosed bonding agent to couple two or more components together.

Abstract: A method of determining kinetic parameters for a reversible molecular interaction between a ligand immobilized to a solid support surface and a binding partner to the ligand in solution, comprises sequentially, without intermediate regeneration or renewal of the immobilized ligand, flowing a plurality of fluid volumes containing different known concentrations of the binding partner over the solid support surface, monitoring the momentary amount of binding partner bound to the solid support surface related to time and solution concentration of binding partner and collecting the binding data, and determining the kinetic parameters by globally fitting a predetermined kinetic model for the interaction between the binding partner and the immobilized ligand to the collected binding data, which model allows for mass transport limitation at the solid support surface.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and test kits for monitoring and detecting variation in an analyte level in a fluid sample from an individual variation using a uniquely determined analyte threshold value. In one implementation, luteinizing hormone is the monitored analyte and is compared with the determined threshold value to predict the onset of ovulation for the individual.

Abstract: The invention provides a test piece for detecting heavy metal ions in an aqueous system to be detected, comprising a substrate, a polymer coating layer and a layer of heavy metal ion-detecting agent, wherein the polymer coating layer is provided such that the surface of the test piece is hydrophobic. The invention further provides a process for detecting heavy metal ions in an aqueous system, a kit comprising the heavy metal ion test piece and a sensor. A portable test piece and/or a device can be provided by the test piece according to the invention, so as to detect the heavy metal ions in a convenient, efficient and rapid manner.

Abstract: The present invention is a biosensor apparatus that includes a substrate, a source on one side of the substrate, a drain spaced from the source, a conducting channel between the source and the drain, an insulator region, and receptors on a gate region for receiving target material. The receptors are contacted for changing current flow between the source and the drain. The source and the drain are relatively wide compared to length between the source and the drain through the conducting channel.

Abstract: The invention makes it possible to measure binding of a biochemical substance with a high throughput and with high sensitivity using a small cell capable of being filled with a small amount of chemical solution. A space between a first substrate and a second substrate such that probes are immobilized on their mutually facing planes is used as a cell that houses a specimen solution. Light is irradiated from a first substrate side, and reflected light is subjected to spectroscopy. Binding of the target with the probe is detected by a wavelength shift in the refection spectrum.

Abstract: An optical glucose sensor may include an optical fiber and a glucose-permeable membrane having a hollow interior and being coupled to the optical fiber's distal end. The membrane's hollow interior provides a compartment to house a competitive glucose binding affinity assay. The assay may include a glucose analog that may be labeled with a dye, and a glucose receptor that may be labeled with a fluorophore. The optical fiber may include a compound parabolic concentrator tip, and the compartment may additionally house a reflector disposed so as to face the optical fiber's tip. A fluorophore-labeled assay may be interrogated by an optical interrogating system including a light source and a filter substrate having one or more coatings to effect, e.g., an excitation filter and/or an emission filter. The interrogating system may be manufactured as a stacked planar integrated optical system and diced into smaller units.

Abstract: The present invention relates to detection systems and methods that detect fluorescence, luminescence, chemiluminescence or phosphorescence signatures in the form of an electrical signal conducted and emitted from metallic containing surfaces. Thus, the present invention provides for detecting fluorescence digitally and directly without the need for expensive detectors.

Abstract: The invention provides an optical sensor, e.g a fibre optic sensor, for determining the presence or amount of an analyte in a medium, the sensor having an indicator provided in the form of a fluid. In one aspect, the sensor contains either a solution of the indicator itself, or a solution of a support material which is bonded to the indicator. Dendrimers are examples of suitable support materials.

Abstract: The invention encompasses analyzers and analyzer systems that include a single molecule analyzer, methods of using the analyzer and analyzer systems to analyze samples, either for single molecules or for molecular complexes. The single molecule uses electromagnetic radiation that is translated through the sample to detect the presence or absence of a single molecule. The single molecule analyzer provided herein is useful for diagnostics because the analyzer detects single molecules with zero carryover between samples.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method for measuring FRET by irradiating with laser light a measurement sample. FRET is transfer of energy from a first molecule to a second molecule. The first molecule and the second molecule are included in the measurement sample in which ligands are bound to receptors. The method includes the steps of: irradiating the measurement sample with laser light; measuring fluorescence emitted by the measurement sample; calculating a fluorescence lifetime of the first molecule; calculating a binding ratio; setting a binding condition for the measurement sample; and calculating a dissociation constant. In the dissociation constant calculating step, the dissociation constant is determined by using a least-squares method to fit a function having, as variables, a total concentration of the receptor in the measurement sample and the dissociation constant to the binding ratio calculated in the binding ratio calculating step.

Abstract: The invention relates to an analysis system for analyzing a sample on a test element. The system has an analysis unit for generating a signal as a function of an analyte contained in a sample, and a detection unit for detecting the signal. The analysis system further includes a test element holder into which the test element can be reversibly introduced and in which it can be positioned relative to the analysis unit and the detection unit. The test element contains at least one guide element, which is suitable for laterally guiding the test element, so that the test element in the test element holder is held and guided only on an outer region of the test element, and an inner region of the test element introduced into the test element holder remains free. The test element contains a sample application site in the inner region.

Abstract: A method of performing a bioassay comprising activating capsules containing a signal precursor that is hydrolysable from a latent form in which substantially no signal is generated to a form in which it is able to generate a detectable signal, said activating comprising treating said capsules with heat and with an acid or a base catalysing solution, the combination of said heat and the pH of the catalysing solution being such as to hydrolyse said precursor to the form in which it is able to generate a detectable signal.

Abstract: A device for testing an analyte comprises a pathway allowing passage of analyte from an application zone to a waste zone. The device includes label material that emits or modifies light and which binds to the analyte. Between the application and waste zones there is a capture zone having capture material for binding any analyte traversing the pathway to the pathway. A first optical filter on one surface of the device allows transmission of light emitted or modified by the label and blocks light of at least one other wavelength range. This enables the device to be illuminated from one surface and light emitted or modified by the label to be detected from the opposite surface. The device may include a second filter allowing shorter wavelength light to reach the label. The device may be viewed using an illuminating reader or held up to a light source for viewing.

Abstract: This invention relates to a detection system for measuring a fluorescent signal in a fluorescent assay. The system comprises a probe having a small sensing surface bound with a fluorescent label, and a light source and a detector both mounted at the proximal side of the sensing surface of the substrate. The invention also relates to a method for detecting an analyte in a liquid sample using a probe tip having a small surface area (?5 mm) and a high molecular weight polymer (?1 MD) having multiple binding molecules and multiple fluorescent labels. The binding reaction is accelerated by flowing the reaction solutions laterally and moving the probe tip up and down in the reaction vessels. The invention furthers relates to a fluorescent labeling composition comprising a cross-linked FICOLL® molecule having a plurality of binding molecules and a plurality of fluorescent labels.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods, reagents, kits and devices for carrying out a diagnostic assay for use in assessing the exposure to ionizing radiation in a biological sample of interest.

Abstract: The application discloses new biomarkers for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and particularly preeclampsia; methods for the diagnosis, prediction, prognosis and/or monitoring said disorders based on measuring said biomarkers; and kits and devices for measuring said biomarker and/or performing said methods.

Abstract: A detection device for detecting analytes in liquid specimen is provided. The detection device comprises: a specimen chamber for collecting or storing a liquid specimen; a detecting chamber for containing a detecting element; and a through hole for transferring the liquid specimen between the specimen chamber and the detecting chamber. The through hole can be opened or self-sealed. The sealing or opening of the through hole controls whether or not the liquid specimen in the specimen chamber enters the detecting chamber via the through hole. Furthermore, a detection method is provided.

Abstract: The present disclosure is based in part on the finding that sFc?RI is a novel biomarker for IgE-mediated disorders. Methods for diagnosing, treating and/or monitoring IgE-mediated disorders are also described. The disclosure further provides assays to detect sFc?RI in a sample.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a porphyrinogen based sensor having selective binding affinity for an explosive chemical. Upon binding of the target molecule, the porphyrinogen derivative undergoes a detectable adsorption and emission of electromagnetic radiation.

Abstract: A lateral flow assay device includes a housing, and a test strip disposed within the housing having a membrane with a detection region and a collection region. A sample meter includes a first end for absorption of a test sample, and a storage section that receives and stores at least a component of the test sample. An opening in the housing is sized for insertion of the sample meter into the housing such that the storage section of the sample meter is disposed adjacent the collection region of the membrane. The test sample component is transferable from the storage section to the collection region for subsequent migration to the detection region. An activatable isolation mechanism is provided within the housing and is disposed so as to isolate portions of the sample meter storage section upon activation thereof such that a defined length of the storage section is presented to the collection region of the membrane.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for preparation and/or treatment of a biological sample comprising a set of storage chambers and/or reaction chambers intended for receiving a fluid, the chambers being separated by walls so as to constitute a set of adjacent chambers. It also relates to an analysis apparatus capable of using such a device and also a method of using this device. The device comprises a base and a drawer comprising the set of adjacent chambers, the drawer being movable relative to the base, the drawer comprising a contact surface on which emerge first means for placing in fluidic communication linked to the volume of at least one chamber, the contact surface of the drawer being intended to be positioned facing a contact surface of the base comprising at least one position at which there are arranged second fluidic communication means linked to detection means. The invention has a preferred application in the field of medical diagnosis.

Abstract: Biological and chemical sensors based on surface charge changes in a pore or channel, such as a nanopore or nanochannel, are employed to detect targeted analytes in an electrolyte solution having a low ion concentration. Receptors within the pore or channel capture a targeted analyte, causing a change in surface charge that affects ionic conductance. The change in ionic conductance is detected, evidencing the presence of the targeted analyte. A secondary tag may be introduced to the pore or channel for binding with a captured analyte in certain circumstances for causing a change in the surface charge.

Abstract: An optical glucose sensor comprising: a sensing region comprising a boronic acid receptor for binding to glucose and a fluorophore associated with said receptor; an optical waveguide for directing incident light onto the sensing region; and a hydrophilic, polymeric, glucose-permeable barrier layer which is provided on at least a part of the sensing region; wherein the sensor is adapted so that glucose enters the sensing region of the sensor through said barrier layer.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for pretreatment of a desired sample in a discrete fluid analyzing instrument comprises automated means for handling and analyzing the sample and means for performing a pretreatment step on the sample or a sub-sample of the sample. The means for pretreatment are used for immobilizing at least one substance or analyte from the sample or sub-sample wherein the substance or analyte is reversibly immobilized. Usually, the apparatus further comprises means for eluting the substance or analyte from the capture means prior to analysis.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for detecting an a biomarker indicative of an inflammatory condition, including a capillary tube adapted for one or more biomarkers to adhere to an interior surface thereof, a light source for energizing quantum dots conjugated with the biomarkers within the capillary tube, and a detection system for detecting and quantifying fluorescent energy emitted by the quantum dots in one or more predetermined wavelength ranges, each wavelength range being correlated to one and only one of the biomarkers. A method of stabilizing the fluorescence intensity of quantum dots is also disclosed.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention there is provided a bi-stable oscillator circuit for detecting a load imparted to a surface. The bi-stable oscillator comprises an electrical amplifier, at least one resonator comprising an electrical transducer having a resonant frequency, a surface of the resonator forming the surface on which the load is to be detected and an impedance network having a resonant frequency.

Abstract: The present disclosure includes a magnetic bead (MB) quantum dot (QD) nanoparticle assay for detecting, capturing, separating, and/or quantifying a target in a sample.

Abstract: Disclosed are a method for detecting a biomolecule including: immobilizing a nucleic acid aptamer capable of specifically binding to a biomolecule to be detected on the surface of a bead on which fluorophores are arranged; hybridizing the nucleic acid aptamer with a guard nucleic acid (g-nucleic acid) labeled with a quencher to quench fluorescence; and reacting a sample including the biomolecule to be detected with the nucleic acid aptamer and detecting a fluorescence signal emitted as the biomolecule binds with the nucleic acid aptamer and the g-nucleic acid labeled with the quencher is separated, and a device for detecting a biomolecule for conducting the detection method. The present disclosure allows for effective, convenient and fast detection of the biomolecule to be detected, enables quantitative analysis, and enables detection of even a trace amount of sample.

Abstract: A plasmon sensor has a first metal layer and a second metal layer. The first metal layer has a bottom surface and a top surface configured to be supplied with an electromagnetic wave. The second metal layer has a top surface confronting the bottom surface of the first metal layer. Between the first metal layer and the second metal layer, there is provided a hollow region configured to be filled with a specimen containing a medium. Analyte capturing bodies are physically adsorbed at least one of below the first metal layer and above the second metal layer.

Abstract: The invention provides, inter alia, methods, devices and reagents for the preparation of native and non-denatured biomolecules using solid-phase extraction channels. The invention is particularly suited for the purification, concentration and/or analysis of protein analytes. The invention further provides, inter alia, methods, devices and reagents for the purification, concentration and/or analysis of multi-protein complexes.

Abstract: A test element, analytical system and method for optical analysis of fluid samples is provided. The test element has a substrate and a microfluidic channel structure, which is enclosed by the substrate and a cover layer. The channel structure has a measuring chamber with an inlet opening. The test element has a first level, which faces the cover layer, and a second level, which interconnects with the first level such that the first level is positioned between the cover layer and the second level. A part of the measuring chamber extending through the first level forms a measuring zone connecting with a part of the measuring chamber that extends partially into the second level, forming a mixing zone. Optical analysis of fluid samples is carried out by light guided through the first level parallel to the cover layer, such that the light traverses the measuring zone along an optical axis.

Abstract: A metal buffer layer assisted guided mode resonance (GMR) biosensor is disclosed. The GMR biosensor includes a substrate, a metal buffer layer and a waveguide layer. The metal buffer layer is disposed on the substrate and the waveguide layer is disposed on the metal buffer layer. The metal buffer layer, which is disposed adjacent to the waveguide layer, can carry out the total reflection and provide extra phase compensation of the total reflection at the same time. Accordingly, the propagation constant of the resonance wave would be much closer to the sensitivity of the phase, and the resonance electric field of the GMR biosensor would be much closer to the sensitive area. Consequently, the sensitivity of the GMR biosensor could be improved.

Abstract: The present technology provides an illustrative method for analyte monitoring using surface plasmons with a refreshable surface. The method includes placing a solution to be monitored in contact with a working surface of a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) generation system. The working surface includes a metal surface disposed on a glass surface, and the metal surface includes a first binding substance that provides binding sites for an analyte. The method further includes applying light to the metal surface at a plurality of angles over a period of time, measuring a reflectance of the light at each of the plurality of angles to determine an SPR angle, and monitoring changes to the SPR angle over the period of time. The working surface of the SPR generation system is refreshed by depositing a new layer of the first binding substance on the working surface of the SPR generation system.

Abstract: A lateral flow device may include one or more enhancement elements, where the enhancement elements bind to the analyte sandwich to increase a detection signal in the test zone. In preferred embodiments, some or all of the enhancement elements are encapsulated.