With Coagulometer For Agglutination, Clotting, Or Prothrombin, Or For Particle (e.g., Cell, Etc.) Counting, Or Volume Or Characteristics Determination Patents (Class 422/73)
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Patent number: 8999243Abstract: A blood coagulation analysis device and method in which information relating to the coagulability of blood is evaluated based on a change generated in a permittivity measured in a coagulation process of the blood due to addition of a substance that activates or inactivates platelets to the blood.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2014Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Yoshihito Hayashi, MarcAurele Brun, Shinji Omori, Yoichi Katsumoto, Kazumasa Sato
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Patent number: 8999242Abstract: A device for measuring blood coagulation time is formed from a first substrate; a second substrate; a spacer layer disposed between the first and second substrates, said spacer layer having an opening formed therein defining a sample receiving chamber, a vented sink chamber, and an elongated reservoir forming a conduit for liquid movement between the sample receiving chamber and the sink chamber; a first electrode disposed on the first substrate, said first electrode being exposed in the reservoir portion through a first opening in the spacer layer; and a second electrode disposed on the second substrate, said second electrode being exposed in the reservoir portion through a second opening in the spacer layer. The device of the invention is used in combination with an apparatus that is connected to the first and second electrodes for measuring current flow between the first and second electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2013Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Assignee: AgaMatrix, Inc.Inventors: Ian Harding, Sridhar G. Iyengar, Ha Nguyen, Richard Williams, Anoop Rao
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Patent number: 8999729Abstract: A device for conducting an agglutination assay comprising several reaction vessels, each reaction vessel comprising an upper chamber having an opening for accepting reactants and/or a sample; and a lower chamber comprising an end in communication with the upper chamber for receiving fluids from the upper chamber, a closed end opposite to the end, and a matrix for separating agglutinates from non-agglutinates; wherein the device further comprises a rotating support able to rotate around an axis and holding pivotally the reaction vessels in a way to allow the reaction vessels to pivot about an axis essentially perpendicular to the rotation axis of the support when the latter is rotated, such that the fluids remain in the upper chamber when the support is not rotated, and can flow from the upper chamber to the lower chamber and into the matrix when the support is rotated.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2011Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Assignee: Symbion Medical Systems SarlInventors: Isabelle Delafosse, Fabrice Ummel, Antonio Yanez
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Patent number: 8992835Abstract: Provided herein are improved multi-way cell sorter systems and methods. For example, provided are systems and methods for the collection of cells that are sorted in multiple directions. The systems and methods allow for the construction of a multi-way sorter (e.g., a ten-way sorter in the space that currently only allows four-way sorting). In addition the device may actively sense the arrival of drops (with cells of interest) at a sample tube, and trigger an alarm when the drops' arrivals deviate from an expected pattern.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2014Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and CompanyInventors: Gerrit Jan van den Engh, Timothy Wayne Petersen
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Patent number: 8986611Abstract: A sample analysis apparatus configured to automatically press a start button upon installation of a sample tube is provided. The sample analysis apparatus includes: a body of the sample analysis apparatus; a door housing which may be provided in an opened state or a closed state, and configured to be coupled to the body of the sample analysis apparatus by a hinge; a tube accommodating unit included in the door housing and configured to accommodate the sample tube; a start button included in the body of the sample analysis apparatus and configured to start analysis of the sample; and an operating member positioned at a first position which is distant from the start button the sample tube is not installed in the tube accommodating unit, and a second position which is configured to operate the start button when a sample tube is installed and the door housing is closed.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2012Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yong Koo Lee, Tae Soo Kim, In Duk Hwang, Seock Woo Jang, Chul Ho Yun
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Patent number: 8974732Abstract: A method for determining the area of an analysis chamber covered by a biologic fluid sample quiescently residing within the chamber is provided. The chamber has a first panel with an interior surface, and a second panel with an interior surface, both of which panels are transparent.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2012Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignee: Abbott Point of Care, Inc.Inventors: Niten V. Lalpuria, Stephen C. Wardlaw
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Patent number: 8974733Abstract: Using a microplate having wells for the dispensing and reaction of a sample including blood and a reagent, an automatic analyzer captures an image of whether reactions have occurred inside the wells and performs analysis, the automatic analyzer comprising: a section for, with captured images obtained by capturing images of the inside of the wells corresponding to categories, calculating photometric parameters of the images, evaluating whether a measurement result based on the images is negative for each test, and analyzing characteristic information of the sample; a section for matching and storing characteristic information of samples and measurement results; a section for extracting a photometric parameter of a measurement result judged as negative; and a section for calculating a difference between maximum and minimum values of an extracted photometric parameter, determining whether a measurement is valid using the difference, and adding a result of the determination to characteristic information.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2012Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignee: Beckham Coulter, Inc.Inventor: Tadashi Haga
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Patent number: 8968677Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2013Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Quantum Design International, Inc.Inventors: Ronald T. LaBorde, Nicholas J. Neild
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Patent number: 8968653Abstract: A sample analyzer comprising: a sample preparing section for preparing first and second measurement sample including reagent and sample; a first detector for detecting a predetermined component in the first measurement sample prepared by the sample preparing section; a second detector for detecting the predetermined component in the second measurement sample prepared by the sample preparing section; and a controller configured for performing operations, comprising: (a) controlling the first detector to detect the predetermined component in the first measurement sample prepared by the sample preparing section; (b) determining the reliability of the result detected by the first detector; (c) controlling the sample preparing section to prepare the second measurement sample from the same sample when the result has been determined to be unreliable; and (d) controlling the second detector to detect the predetermined component in the second measurement sample, is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2012Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Sysmex CorporationInventors: Daigo Fukuma, Takaaki Nagai, Masaharu Shibata
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Patent number: 8965574Abstract: A method for controlling an automated work cell which includes at least one robot arm having at least three degrees of freedom controlled according to a plurality of control axes; a control center; a device for controlling the robot arm which includes a plurality of motor controllers each controlling operation of one motor and suitable for operating at least one portion of the robot arm; and a communication bus between the control center and the device for controlling the robot arm; wherein the method includes steps of: a) sending instructions emitted by the control center to control the control axes to a single arithmetic unit belonging to the device for controlling the robot; b) determining, within the arithmetic unit and according to instructions received from the orders for each of the motors controlled by a motor controller; and c) sending each motor controller an order, determined in step b), for the motor controlled by each motor controller.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2011Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Staubli FavergesInventors: Luc Joly, Jean Michel Bonnet Des Tuves, François Pertin, Gérald Vogt
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Patent number: 8961878Abstract: A device for separating a sample of cells suspended in a bio-compatible ferrofluid is described. The device includes a microfluidic channel having a sample inlet, at least one outlet and a length between the same inlet and the at least one outlet, wherein a sample can be added to the sample inlet and flow along the microfluidic channel length to the at least one outlet. The device includes a plurality of electrodes and a power source for applying a current to the plurality of electrodes to create a magnetic field pattern along the microfluidic channel length. The present invention also includes a method of using said device for separating at least one cell type.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2010Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Yale UniversityInventor: Hur Koser
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Patent number: 8961903Abstract: A microfluidic passive device and a method for determining clotting time are described, of a fluid medium such as blood, of low production cost which can therefore be disposable. When optimised to determine blood clotting time, it requires a minimal whole blood sample (<5 ?L) and it is particularly suited to INR or PT determination, which can be used autonomously by patient without venipuncture. Monitoring, and processing means to interpret the results are comprised in an external coagulometer device. A production method for the manufacture of the microfluidic device is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2008Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Iline Microsystems, S.L.Inventors: Iñaki Sádaba Champetier De Ribes, Juan Antonio Peón Eguiguren
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Publication number: 20150050741Abstract: Various embodiments of the present disclosure pertain to nanocomposites for detecting hydrocarbons in a geological structure. In some embodiments, the nanocomposites include: a core particle; a polymer associated with the core particle; a sulfur-based moiety associated with the polymer; and a releasable probe molecule associated with the core particle, where the releasable probe molecule is releasable from the core particle upon exposure to hydrocarbons. Additional embodiments of the present disclosure pertain to methods of detecting hydrocarbons in a geological structure by utilizing the nanocomposites of the present disclosure.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2013Publication date: February 19, 2015Applicant: William Marsh Rice UniversityInventors: James M. Tour, Chih-Chau Hwang, Wei Lu, Gedeng Ruan, Mason B. Tomson, Amy Kan, Lu Wang, Michael S. Wong, Gautam Kini, George J. Hirasaki, Clarence Miller
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Patent number: 8956879Abstract: An analysis device includes: a separation cavity 18 for separating a test liquid into a solution component and a solid component by using a centrifugal force; a higher specific gravity component quantitative cavity 23 for holding a portion of the separated solid component which has been transferred; a sample solution overflow cavity 22 arranged between the higher specific gravity component quantitative cavity 23 and the separation cavity 18 and connected to a connecting channel 21 for transporting the sample liquid from the separation cavity 18; and a capillary cavity 19 formed in the separation cavity 18 for temporarily holding a separated solution component (blood plasma) in the separation cavity 18. A blood plasma component 57a remaining in the separation cavity 18 is trapped by the capillary cavity 19.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2013Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: Panasonic Healthcare Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masanori Tanaka, Hirotaka Tanaka, Hiroshi Saiki
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Patent number: 8951474Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for analyzing particles in a solution including a unit configured to place a flow cell having a flow path for flowing a sample solution containing the particles; a unit configured to illuminate the sample solution flowing through the flow path of the flow cell; a photodetector that detects a scattered light and/or fluorescence generated from the particles in the sample solution; and a unit configured to analyze the particles based on their signal intensities detected by the photodetector, wherein the flow cell has the flow path formed in a substrate, a reflection plane is formed on the side surface of the flow path, the reflection plane leads the lights generated in the flow path of the flow cell and advancing in the substrate in-plane direction to a specified region of the surface of the flow cell, and the photodetector detects the light exiting from the specified region to the outside.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2010Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: On-Chip Biotechnologies Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kazuo Takeda
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Patent number: 8945472Abstract: The present invention provides a biosensor system comprising a light source, a cartridge adapted to be illuminated by said light source, a light detector adapted for detecting a signal originating from the cartridge, an illumination control means adapted to vary the illumination of the cartridge between at least two different states, a means for generating a first oscillation with a first frequency, and a means for generating a second oscillation with a second frequency, wherein the frame rate of the light detector is triggered by the first oscillation and the illumination control means is triggered by the second oscillation.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2008Date of Patent: February 3, 2015Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.Inventors: Josephus Arnoldus Henricus Maria Kahlman, Bart Michiels
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Patent number: 8940233Abstract: A cartridge for an apparatus for analyzing blood chemistry includes an apparatus frame having a compartment; a cartridge that is inserted into the compartment of the apparatus frame and includes a sensor card, a solution valve unit, and a blood introducing unit; a controller that receives a signal generated from the sensor card and processes the signal; a lever for the blood introducing unit connected to the apparatus frame; a power transmitting unit that is provided to the apparatus frame and transmits power of the lever for the blood introducing unit to open/close the blood introducing unit of the cartridge; a solution transporting unit that is provided to the apparatus frame and transports the solutions; and a driving unit that actuates the solution valve unit of the cartridge by the controller and opens or closes the tubing flowing of the solutions.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2008Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: I-Sens, Inc.Inventors: Tae Young Kang, Heejun Lee, Jeonghan Ha, Jungwon Shin, Hakhyun Nam, Geun Sig Cha
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Patent number: 8940234Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2012Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: Yuegang Zhang, Andrew A. Berlin, Qing Ma, Li-Peng Wang, Valluri Rao, Mineo Yamakawa
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Patent number: 8936753Abstract: A blood coagulation analyzer includes a detector and a controller. The detector includes a light source for emitting light to a prepared measurement sample and a light-receiving section for receiving light transmitted through the measurement sample. The controller is configured to performs operations comprising acquiring, based on the light detected by the detector, ratio information reflecting a ratio between a first value reflecting the intensity of the light transmitted through the measurement sample of a clotting reaction starting stage and a second value reflecting the intensity of the light transmitted through the measurement sample of a clotting reacting ending stage, and acquiring, based on the ratio information, a fibrinogen concentration in the blood sample.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2010Date of Patent: January 20, 2015Assignee: Sysmex CorporationInventors: Norimasa Yamamoto, Hiroyuki Fujino, Takamichi Naito, Naohiko Matsuo, Susumu Hoshiko
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Publication number: 20150017067Abstract: There is provided a fluid test strip, comprising a micro-sensor formed on a substrate surface and a reagent deposition site formed on the substrate surface, operate to control the size and location of a reagent deposition. There is also provided a method of forming fluid test strip, comprising forming a micro-sensor on a substrate surface and forming a reagent deposition site on the substrate surface, operable to control the size and location of a reagent deposition.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2013Publication date: January 15, 2015Inventors: Robert Ibbotson, Vladislav Djakov, Richard Dunn
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Patent number: 8921115Abstract: The invention includes systems, apparatuses and methods to evaluate the strength of clotting in addition to or separate from activated clotting time. The strength of clotting may be correlated with the amount of energy employed to move an object within blood. The strength of clotting may be correlated with the amount of time for fibrinolysis to occur. The strength of clotting may be determined by a system in which a ferromagnetic material is moved within blood.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2013Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Charlene Yuan, Trevor Huang
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Patent number: 8920726Abstract: This blood analyzer includes a sample preparation portion preparing a first measurement sample containing a blood sample and a hemolytic agent and a second measurement sample containing the blood sample, the same hemolytic agent as the hemolytic agent and a staining agent and a control portion classifying white blood cells in the first measurement sample into at least four groups of monocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils and others on the basis of fluorescent information and two types of scattered light information generated by a light information generation portion and classifying blood cells in the second measurement sample into at least malaria-infected red blood cells and others on the basis of fluorescent information and scattered light information generated by the light information generation portion.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2010Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Sysmex CorporationInventors: Hideaki Matsumoto, Kinya Uchihashi, Yuji Itose, Aya Konishi, Ayumu Yoshida
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Patent number: 8911669Abstract: A hematology analyzer is provided. In certain embodiments, the hematology analyzer comprises: a) a flow cell; b) a light source for directing light to the flow cell; c) a plurality of detectors for detecting a plurality of optical characteristics of a blood cell passing through the flow cell; and d) a data analysis workstation programmed to: i. enumerate test blood cells passing through the flow cell; and ii. flag a blood sample as containing lysis-resistant red blood cells or fragile white blood cells.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2009Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignee: Abbott LaboratoriesInventors: Martin Krockenberger, Richard B. Bordenkircher, Diana G. Garrett, John G. Glazier, James C. Bearden, Bodo Roemer, Giacomo Vacca
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Patent number: 8906309Abstract: A method for identifying, analyzing, and quantifying the cellular components of whole blood by use of an automated hematology analyzer and the detection of the light scattered, absorbed, and fluorescently emitted by each cell. More particularly, the aforementioned method involves identifying, analyzing, and quantifying the cellular components of whole blood by use of a light source having a wavelength ranging from about 400 nm to about 450 nm and multiple in-flow optical measurements and staining without the need for lysing red blood cells.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2010Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Abbott LaboratoriesInventors: Martin Krockenberger, Jiong Wu, Bodo Roemer, Giacomo Vacca
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Patent number: 8906308Abstract: A method for determining the volume or hemoglobin content of an individual red blood cell in a sample containing a population of red blood cells. The method may be performed on a hematology analyzer. Also provided are a hematology analyzer for performing the method and a computer-readable medium containing programming for performing the method.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2010Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Abbott LaboratoriesInventors: Martin Krockenberger, Diana G. Garrett, Giacomo Vacca
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Patent number: 8900515Abstract: The present invention provides a biosensing device, comprising an input unit, an analysis unit, a process unit, and a set unit for storing resulting data values as the basis for calibrating the biosensing device, to set up the calibration parameters of a strip of the biosensing device.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2011Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Assignee: Health & Life Co., Ltd.Inventor: Meng Yi Lin
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Patent number: 8900514Abstract: The invention discloses a blood analyzing device (100) comprising a holder (110) arranged for carrying a container (10) having a cuvette (20) containing a blood sample (30). The container (10) is positioned in the holder (110) so that a longitudinal axis (60) of the cuvette (20) is angled relative a horizontal axis (70). A light source (120) provides light (40) into the sample (30) and a detector (130) detects the output light (50) from a sub-portion of the blood sample (30). Kinetic information indicative of the change in hemoglobin concentration in a measuring volume (32, 34) is determined by a Hb processor (145) from the detected output light (50). An ESR processor (140) determines the erythrocyte sedimentation rate of the sample (30) based on the kinetic information.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2008Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Inventor: Tommy Forsell
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Publication number: 20140348706Abstract: A microfluidic device and a microfluidic system are provided. The microfluidic device includes a support substrate; and at least one filter array arranged on the support substrate and configured so as to trap a single cell in contact with the support substrate within the at least one filter array when a sample including a plurality of cells flows into the microfluidic device from a direction substantially perpendicular to a plane of the support substrate and flows out in a direction substantially parallel to the plane of the support substrate.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2012Publication date: November 27, 2014Inventor: Abdur Rub Abdur Rahman
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Publication number: 20140341780Abstract: A blood analysis apparatus configured such that a nozzle sucks a predetermined amount of a blood specimen in a specimen container, and dispenses the specimen to each blood cell counting part which obtains count data, and a control part processes the count data to perform blood analysis. In this apparatus, two or more blood cell counting parts (basophil counting part, LMNE counting part, red blood cell counting part, white blood cell counting part) are constituted to obtain the count data of the same particular blood cell type (white blood cells), and the control part calculates the ratio or number of the existing blood cell from each count data, and judges whether the amount of the blood specimen sucked in the nozzle is normal or insufficient by comparing respective calculation results to determine whether they are within the predetermined allowable ranges.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2014Publication date: November 20, 2014Applicant: HORIBA, Ltd.Inventor: Yuki Ishii
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Publication number: 20140341779Abstract: A diluted cleaning solution is contacted with the inner wall surface of an immunity measuring cell every time an immunity measurement treatment of a specimen is performed. Therefore, a diluting liquid is injected in advance, then a cleaning solution is injected, whereby a diluted cleaning solution is produced in the immunity measuring cell. As a result, the inner wall surface of the immunity measuring cell is maintained in a preferable state and the interval of the routine cleanings can be prolonged.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2014Publication date: November 20, 2014Applicant: HORIBA, Ltd.Inventor: Kazumasa Takemoto
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Patent number: 8889071Abstract: An apparatus for separating plasma by which plasma can be separated from a small amount of whole blood cell sample without centrifugation is disclosed. This apparatus includes a blood channel through which blood flows; and a plasma channel through which plasma separated from said blood flows. The plasma channel is arranged at least partially in parallel with said blood channel and the blood channel and the plasma channel are at least partially in contact with each other along the longitudinal direction of the channels. Blood is made to flow at a flow rate at which blood cell components in the blood flowing through the blood channel axially accumulate and at which hemolysis does not occur. The plasma moves to the plasma channel after being separated into a blood cell layer and a plasma layer.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2009Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignees: Institute of Microchemical Technology Co., Ltd., The University of TokyoInventors: Arata Aota, Takehiko Kitamori
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Patent number: 8889072Abstract: Disclosed are computer-implemented methods of sorting particles from a particle stream in a flow cytometer. The methods include: calculating sort decision making parameters using the raw event data values from a flow cytometer and a sort logic; performing sort logic computations using the sort logic definition and the sort decision making parameters to generate sort decisions; converting the sort decisions into sort commands; and sending the one or more sort commands to the flow cytometer. Sort logic computations may include algorithmically using conditional branching logic, and may include sort logic equations having mathematical functions characterizing one or more regions of interest in multidimensional data space. Such mathematical functions may be determined based on one or more parameters provided by a user. Also disclosed are corresponding systems having a flow cytometer and a computer.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2012Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Beckman Coulter, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey W. Degeal, Charles S. Bay, Edward A. Stanton, Paul Barclay Purcell, George C. Malachowski
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Patent number: 8889369Abstract: A method for the enumeration of micronucleated erythrocyte populations while distinguishing platelet and platelet-associated aggregates involves the use of a first fluorescent labeled antibody having binding specificity for a surface marker for reticulocytes, a second fluorescent labeled antibody having binding specificity for a surface marker for platelets, and a nucleic acid staining dye that stains DNA (micronuclei) in erythrocyte populations. Because the fluorescent emission spectra of the first and second fluorescent labeled antibodies do not substantially overlap with one another or with the emission spectra of the nucleic acid staining dye, upon excitation of the labels and dye it is possible to detect the fluorescent emission and light scatter produced by the erythrocyte populations and platelets, and count the number of cells from one or more erythrocyte populations in said sample.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2013Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Litron Laboratories, Ltd.Inventor: Stephen D. Dertinger
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Patent number: 8889069Abstract: A sample processing apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a sample processing section, a transporting section, an identification data acquirer and a system controller. When identification data of a washing fluid tube is acquired by the identification data acquirer, the system controller controls the transporting section to supply the washing fluid tube to the sample processing section. When the washing fluid tube arrives at the sample processing section, the sample processing section aspirates the washing fluid in the supplied washing fluid tube and performs a washing of at least one part of the sample processing section. The system controller prohibits the washing with the washing fluid tube if identification data of a sample tube is acquired after the identification data of the washing fluid tube is acquired and before the washing is started.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2012Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Sysmex CorporationInventors: Daigo Fukuma, Keisuke Kuwano
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Patent number: 8883491Abstract: The present invention generally relates to systems and methods for counting biomolecules or cells. In certain embodiments, the invention provides a cell counting or biomolecule counting system including: a covered chamber having a known height and configured to hold a suspension of biomolecules or cells in a sample; at least one fluorescent light source connected to at least one fluorescent light beam narrowing device; a bright-field light source connected to a bright-field light beam narrowing device; a microscope objective; a detection device; a fluorescent filter assembly to allow only excitation light to illuminate the sample and allow only emission light from the sample to be imaged by the detection device; and a movable light shutter to block bright-field light during fluorescent detection.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2009Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: Nexcelom Bioscience LLCInventors: Bo Lin, Peter Y. Li, Jean Qiu, Timothy Smith, Todd Sobolewski, Alnoor Pirani
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Patent number: 8883079Abstract: A water-quality monitoring system for an aquatic environment that includes a monitoring unit and a chemical indicator wheel designed and configured to be submerged in the water being monitored. The chemical indicator wheel includes a holder that supports a number of chemical indicators selected for use in measuring levels of constituents of the water. When in use, the wheel is drivingly engaged with a monitoring/measuring unit that includes at least one reader for reading the chemical indicators. In some embodiments, each apparatus includes a plurality of immobilized-dye-based chemical indicators that undergo an optically detectable physical change as levels of one or more constituents of the water change. Also disclosed are a variety of features that can be used to provide the monitoring system with additional functionalities.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2012Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: Step Ahead Innovations, Inc.Inventor: James E. Clark
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Patent number: 8877510Abstract: A cartridge device having a receiving portion for receiving a blood sample and a jack portion for receiving a plug; a stirring device for circulating the blood sample within the receiving portion; and an electrode holder having at least one incorporated electrode wire pair; wherein the electrode holder is attachable to the cell such that one end of the at least one electrode wire pair forms a sensor unit for measuring the electrical impedance between the two electrode wires of the at least one electrode wire pair within the blood sample and that the opposite end of the at least one electrode wire pair forms a plug portion being connectable directly to the plug for an electrical connection of the sensor unit to an analyzer.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2013Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignee: F. Hoffmann-La Roche AGInventors: Andreas Calatzis, Ben Krüger, Marc Wittwer
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Publication number: 20140315317Abstract: A method for checking blood status comprises: a step of supplying blood to the centrifuge container of a disk; a step of rotating the disk to centrifuge the blood into blood cells and blood plasma in the centrifuge container, and detecting the actual moving distance per hour of the blood cells in the centrifuge container; and a step of establishing a first graph which represents the actual moving distance of the blood cells per hour, and a second graph which represents the theoretical moving distance of the blood cells per hour, and thereafter calculating the hematocrit of the blood cells and the viscosity of the blood plasma by comparing the first graph with the second graph.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2012Publication date: October 23, 2014Inventors: Dong Sung Kim, Moonwoo La, Sangmin Park
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Patent number: 8865476Abstract: The present invention comprises methods and systems that use acoustic radiation pressure.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2008Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: Life Technologies CorporationInventors: Michael D. Ward, Carleton C. Stewart, Gregory Kaduchak
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Patent number: 8863962Abstract: An improved actuator for use in a microfluidic particle sorting system utilizes a staggered packing scheme for a plurality of actuators used to selectively deflect a particle in an associated sorting channel from a stream of channels. An actuator block may be provided for housing a two-dimensional array of actuators, each configured to align with an actuation port in an associated sorting chip containing a plurality of sorting channels. The actuator block may include a built-in stressing means to pre-stress each actuator housed by the block. An actuator comprising a piezo-electric stack may employ contact-based electrical connection rather than soldered wires to improve packing density. The actuator may be an external actuator. That is, the external actuator is external to the substrate in which the sorting channels are formed.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2012Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: Cytonome/St, LLCInventors: Andrew Johnson, John R. Gilbert, Manish Deshpande, Hugh Lewis, Bernard Bunner
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Patent number: 8865420Abstract: The present invention provides an approach for the simultaneous determination of the activation states of a plurality of proteins in single cells. This approach permits the rapid detection of heterogeneity in a complex cell population based on activation states, and the identification of cellular subsets that exhibit correlated changes in activation within the cell population. Moreover, this approach allows the correlation of cellular activities or properties. In addition, the use of potentiators of cellular activation allows for characterization of such pathways and cell populations.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2008Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior UniversityInventors: Omar D. Perez, Garry P. Nolan, Jonathan M. Irish
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Patent number: 8865072Abstract: This analysis apparatus includes a transporter transporting the specimens to the first measurement unit and the second measurement unit, and a control portion so controlling the transporter as to transport a first specimen container, stored in the rack, storing a first specimen to the first measurement unit and as to transport a second specimen container, stored in the rack along with the first specimen container, storing a second specimen to the second measurement unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2010Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: Sysmex CorporationInventors: Takaaki Nagai, Yuichi Hamada, Masaharu Shibata
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Patent number: 8865074Abstract: A sample analysis cartridge and a sample cartridge reader are provided. In measuring a particular component included in a sample flowing in a microfluidic channel, a numerical value of hematocrit is reflected to thus improve the accuracy of measurement of the particular component.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2010Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Keumcheol Kwak, Seokjung Hyun, Taeyoon Lee, Jitae Kim, Dayeon Kang, Gueisam Lim, Yeonjae Kang
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Patent number: 8858884Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: American Sterilizer CompanyInventors: Phillip P. Franciskovich, Tricia A. Cregger
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Patent number: 8857244Abstract: The present invention is directed to a cartridge device for a measuring system for measuring viscoelastic characteristics of a sample liquid, in particular a blood sample, comprising a cartridge body having at least one measurement cavity formed therein and having at least one probe element arranged in said at least one measurement cavity for performing a test on said sample liquid; and a cover being attachable on said cartridge body; wherein said cover covers at least partially said at least one measurement cavity and forms a retaining element for retaining said probe element in a predetermined position within said at least one measurement cavity. The invention is directed to a measurement system and a method for measuring viscoelastic characteristics of a sample liquid.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2013Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: C A Casyso AGInventors: Axel Schubert, José Javier Romero-Galeano, Max Kessler
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Patent number: 8852524Abstract: Cells in a suspension are counted in a hemocytometer slice with a chamber of controlled depth and one or more reservoirs along one or more side edges of the chamber. The suspension is fed to a reservoir to first fill the reservoir, and then to overflow into the chamber. The result is an even distribution of the cells in the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2011Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.Inventor: Kun Guo
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Publication number: 20140295472Abstract: A device utilizing agglutination and its method of use to diagnose diseases or conditions. The diagnostic device may comprise a substrate having pores, an agglutination zone, and a test readout zone wherein said agglutination zone is functionalized with an agglutinating agent to cause agglutination of the sample.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2012Publication date: October 2, 2014Applicant: THE ADMINISTRATORS OF THE TULANE EDUCATIONAL FUNDInventors: Sergey S. Shevkoplyas, Xiaoxi Yang, Julie Kanter Washko, Nathaniel Zane Piety
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Patent number: 8845968Abstract: The present application provides apparatus (300, 400) and methods for determining the density of a fluid sample. In particular, it provides a sensor device which can be loaded with a fluid sample such as blood, and which further comprises at least one oscillating beam member or resonator (108, 109, 110). Exposure of the blood sample to clotting agents allows a clotting reaction to commence. The device allows the density of the sample fluid to be monitored with reference to the oscillation of the vibrating beam member, thus allowing the monitoring of the clotting of the fluid sample.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2007Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Highland Biosciences LimitedInventor: Richard Day
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Patent number: 8845964Abstract: A sample analyzer comprising: a measurement section; a transportation section; an identification data obtainer; and a system controller; is disclosed. The system controller is configured to acquire a result of determination regarding whether a sample needs a re-measurement for a sample based on a result of a measurement of the sample. When the system controller recognizes a presence of the washing fluid tube transported by the transportation section before a determination result regarding a necessity of re-measurement is obtained for an already aspirated sample, the system controller prohibits the supply of the washing fluid in the washing fluid tube to the measurement section.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2012Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Sysmex CorporationInventors: Daigo Fukuma, Keisuke Kuwano
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Publication number: 20140273249Abstract: High range activated clotting time (HR-ACT) tests detect blood clotting time in blood samples which have high levels of heparin. Reagents such as calcium chloride and kaolin within the test apparatus trigger clotting. The cartridge is treated with a strong surface treatment process, such as an atmospheric plasma treatment, to increase the hydrophilic property of the test chamber, there may be a significant reduction in the kaolin concentration required to activate the blood sample and initiate the coagulation process. The kaolin concentration may be further reduced if the buffer component used in the buffer saline contains phosphate. The reduction of the kaolin concentration allows more calcium to be released from the kaolin to participate in the clotting process. The combined effect of adding a surface treatment to the cartridge to increase the hydrophilic property of reaction chamber and adding phosphate into buffered saline allows for clot detection of blood samples containing 5˜6 U/mL heparin.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: MEDTRONIC, INC.Inventors: Charlene Yuan, Trevor C. Huang, Tessy Kanayinkal, Mary Jo Passenheim, Craig D. Petersen, Ivan Akunovich