Abstract: A thin film culture device for detecting yeast and mold microorganisms in a sample is provided. The culture device comprises a body comprising a self-supporting substrate having a first major surface and a second major surface; a first adhesive composition disposed on a portion of the first major surface of the substrate; a substantially dry, cold-water-soluble first hydrogel-forming composition adhered to the first adhesive composition; and a plurality of indicator agents. The plurality of indicator agents comprises three indicator agents for detecting distinct glycosidase enzyme activities, an indicator agent for detecting an alkyl esterase enzyme activity, and an indicator agent for detecting a phosphatase enzyme activity, wherein each of the plurality of indicator agents comprises a detectable reporter group. A method of using the culture device is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for the ultrasensitive detection of beta hemolytic Streptococcus, a bacterium implicated in strep throat, using a specific protease marker. Also disclosed is a device as well as a biosensor, both of which are useful for the detection of beta hemolytic Streptococcus. The biosensor and the device can be used in conjunction with other reagents as part of a kit for detecting strep throat.

Abstract: A device and method for particle separation. The device includes at least one collimated light source operable to generate at least one collimated light source beam. The device further includes a first channel in a first plane and a focused particle stream nozzle operably connected to the first channel. The device further includes a second channel in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane. The second channel communicates with the first channel. The second channel comprises a second channel cross-section. The second channel is oriented to receive the collimated light source beam. The device further includes a third channel in a third plane orthogonal to the second plane. The third channel communicates with the second channel. The collimated light source beam is oriented to enter a cross-section of the first channel, then to pass through the second channel, and then to enter a cross-section of the third channel.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for detecting and characterizing motion-related error of moving micro-entities are described. Motion-related error may occur in streams of moving micro-entities, and may represent a deviation in and expected arrival time or an uncertainty in position of a micro-entity. Motion-related error of micro-entities is observed in a flow cytometer, e.g., as pulse jitter, and is found to have a functional dependence on a parameter related to a system clock. The motion-related error may be characterized by correlating measurements of micro-entities moving within a fluid stream.

Abstract: In one aspect the present invention provides a method of identifying a cell or cell colony which produces a polypeptide of interest, the method comprising exposing one or more cells to a marker compound which associates with a reference polypeptide, wherein production of the polypeptide of interest by the cells is linked to production of the reference polypeptide, and detecting association of the marker compound with the one or more cells, thereby identifying a cell or cell colony which produces the polypeptide of interest.

Abstract: An embodiment of the invention relates to a device for detecting an analyte in a sample. The device comprises a fluidic network and an integrated circuitry component. The fluidic network comprises a sample zone, a cleaning zone and a detection zone. The fluidic network contains a magnetic particle and/or a signal particle. A sample containing an analyte is introduced, and the analyte interacts with the magnetic particle and/or the signal particle through affinity agents. A microcoil array or a mechanically movable permanent magnet is functionally coupled to the fluidic network, which are activatable to generate a magnetic field within a portion of the fluidic network, and move the magnetic particle from the sample zone to the detection zone. A detection element is present which detects optical or electrical signals from the signal particle, thus indicating the presence of the analyte.

Abstract: An apparatus for fabricating a biochip is provided. The apparatus includes a reaction chamber which encapsulates the biochip to be sealed form an external environment. The apparatus further includes an exposure system which has a light source and a spatial light modulator. The spatial light modulator receives light from the light source and forms an optical image utilizing the light. The optical image is received by the biochip. The apparatus further includes a detection system which detects light proceeding form the biochip.

Abstract: A technique for high sensitivity evanescent field molecular sensing employs a detection scheme that simultaneously couples a polarized beam to a single mode of a waveguide, and couples the polarized beam out of the waveguide to specularly reflect the beam by the same grating. Strong interaction with the single (preferably TM) mode is provided by using a silicon on insulator (SOI) wafer having a waveguide thickness chosen between 10-400 nm so that the majority of the mode field strength spans the evanescent field. Well known, robust techniques for producing a grating on the waveguide are provided. Interrogation from a backside of the SOI wafer is taught.

Abstract: The invention relates to compositions and methods for multiplex decoding of microsphere array sensors.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for detecting, characterizing, and compensating motion-related error of moving micro-entities are described. Motion-related error may occur in streams of moving micro-entities, and may represent a deviation in and expected arrival time or an uncertainty in position of a micro-entity within the stream. Motion-related error of micro-entities is observed in a flow cytometer, e.g., as pulse jitter, and is found to have a functional dependence on a parameter of the system. The pulse jitter can be compensated, according to one embodiment, by adjusting data acquisition observation windows. For the flow cytometer, a reduction of pulse jitter can improve measurement accuracy, resolution of doublets, system throughput, and enable an increase in an interrogation region for probing the micro-entities.

Abstract: A novel sperm quality assessment device includes a main frame and a test pad. The test pad is encircled by the main frame and includes an exposed introductory portion. The test pad has greater hydrophilicity than the main frame, and includes an MTT reagent. Therefore, the activity pattern of the colored motile sperms can be used to estimate sperm quality, such as motility. The present device has the particular advantage of using paper to reduce manufacturing cost, and is also easy to use.

Abstract: A leukocyte measurement device is provided with a spread inspection window at a position separated from an opening part along a spreading direction of a blood-derived sample in a carrier, for making the carrier visible from outside. When the blood-derived sample is dropped from the opening part, leukocytes contained in the blood-derived sample are captured by the carrier in the vicinity of a dropping position, while erythrocytes and/or hemoglobin and the like spread through the carrier from the dropping position into a predetermined direction. Therefore, in the leukocyte measurement device, seeing through the spread inspection window the color of the erythrocytes and/or hemoglobin spread from the dropping position can determine whether it has already been used or not, whereby a simple structure can prevent measurers from erroneously reusing it.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and systems for assessing the developmental potential of mammalian embryos. The method of the invention comprises taking measurements of cytoplasmic movements in the embryo and/or periodic changes in the shape of the embryo at the single cell stage.

Abstract: A biochemical reactor involves an online cell examination microscope thereon. The online cell examination microscope comprises a main body, an objective lens, an observation entrance window, a sampling device, an external light source system. Said observation entrance window lies in front of said main body and the sampling device lies in front of said observation entrance window. An objective lens and said external light source system lie behind the observation entrance window in the main body. A reflector prism is installed between the external light source system and the objective lens. A reflector lies behind the objective lens and in front of the observation entrance window. An annular diaphragm is placed in front of the reflecting prism. A CCD or an area image sensor is arranged on the upper side of the reflectance prism.

Abstract: This invention provides a digital microfluidic manipulation device and a manipulation method thereof. This device comprises a PDMS membrane having a surface comprising a plurality of hydrophobic microstructures; a plurality of air chambers arranged in an array and placed under the PDMS membrane; and a plurality of air channels, each of which connects to a corresponding one of the plurality of air chambers. When a suction force is transmitted via one of the plurality of air channels to the corresponding air chamber, a portion of the PDMS membrane above the air chamber deforms toward the air chamber, so that the surface morphology and the contact angle of the liquid/solid interface of the surface comprising the plurality of hydrophobic microstructures are altered and thereby to drive droplets.

Abstract: A reagent kit for detecting bilirubin in a fluid sample. The reagent kit includes a body defining at least one fluid receiving well and an optical window positioned over each at least one fluid receiving well. Each window is formed of a material having a fluorescence intensity that is of a lower magnitude than the fluorescence to be detected from the bilirubin. A hematofluorometer configured to utilize the reagent kit is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for detecting resistant microorganisms to a therapeutic agent in a biological sample, comprising the following steps: a. inoculate the said sample, uncultured, on a first tube with, and on a second tube without, at least one therapeutic agent; preferentially further including at least one lysing agent and/or a buffer, and/or a suitable culture medium, or put the sample on a separation serum tube; and incubated it; b. add to both tubes a fluorescent marker; c. perform a fluorescence analysis for obtaining one or more fluorescence or growth parameters for each of the two tubes; wherein the microorganisms resistant phenotype of the biological sample to said therapeutic agent is obtained by comparing the one or more fluorescence parameters between the two tubes.

Abstract: A microorganism detecting device is provided for illuminating a solution with light, for detecting fluorescent light that is produced by a microorganism included in the solution, and for detecting the number of microorganisms included in the solution. The microorganism detecting device includes a relationship storing device that stores a correlation relationship between a number of microorganisms in a solution and a number of colonies formed by the microorganisms on a culture medium, and a converting portion that uses the correlation relationship to convert, into a number of colonies that may be formed, the number of microorganisms detected by the microorganism detecting device.

Abstract: The present teachings provide a detection cell for a biological material and methods for detecting biological material including a photosensitive material optically coupled to an interior volume containing the biological material so to avoid optical components or an external light source.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to microfluidic devices adapted for facilitating cytometry analysis of particles flowing therethrough. In certain embodiments, the microfluidic devices have onboard sterilization capabilities. In other embodiments, microfluidic devices have integral collection bags and methods for keeping the microfluidic channels clean.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a unit to be used for detection of interactions of biologically relevant molecules using a carrier on which the biologically relevant molecules are immobilized, comprising: a hollow holder having an open part at one end with the other end being closed; and a carrier-supporting member that can be inserted into the hollow holder, on which is mounted a carrier upon which biologically relevant molecules are immobilized, wherein: while the carrier-supporting member is being inserted into the hollow holder, a rear-end portion of the carrier-supporting member is engaged with an edge of the open part of the hollow holder, so that the hollow holder is sealed and the positions of the carrier-supporting member and the hollow holder are determined; and the area on the left and the area on the right of the axial center, which are defined by the inner side of the hollow holder and the external side of the carrier-supporting member on which the carrier has been mounted, are approximately th

Abstract: An assay system designed to detect a protein biomarker in urine that is diagnostic for interstitial cystitis (IC). The presence of a 9 amino acid glycopeptide, antiproliferative factor (APF), in urine is unique to patients with IC. Urine samples from patients who exhibit symptoms consistent with IC are added to the assay system. Binding of APF to the cytoskeletal associated protein 4 (CKAP4) is positive for the presence of APF in urine and diagnostic for IC. The diagnostic system is a significant and surprising advance in diagnosis of IC and has commercial applications relevant to women and men who suffer from symptoms consistent with IC.

Abstract: The invention provides systems, modules, bioreactor and methods for the automated culture, proliferation, differentiation, production and maintenance of tissue engineered products. In one aspect is an automated tissue engineering system comprising a housing, at least one bioreactor supported by the housing, the bioreactor facilitating physiological cellular functions and/or the generation of one or more tissue constructs from cell and/or tissue sources. A fluid containment system is supported by the housing and is in fluid communication with the bioreactor. One or more sensors are associated with one or more of the housing, bioreactor or fluid containment system for monitoring parameters related to the physiological cellular functions and/or generation of tissue constructs; and a microprocessor linked to one or more of the sensors. The systems, methods and products of the invention find use in various clinical and laboratory settings.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method for analyzing a liquid cell sample, comprising the steps of: a) providing at least one liquid cell sample in a sample vial; b) obtaining data linked to the cells in the sample by performing differential digital holographic microscopy on said liquid cell sample in said sample vial. In a second aspect, the invention also provides for a system for analyzing a liquid cell sample, comprising (i) a differential digital holographic microscope comprising illumination means, a differential interferometer and a digital recording device connected to a processing device such as a computer; (ii) at least one exchangeable sample vial comprising a liquid cell (iii) a movable sample vial holder; characterized in that (iv) said sample vial holder is adapted to receive said sample vial; (v) said sample vial holder is adapted to position said sample vial such that the focal plane of the objective lens of said differential digital holographic microscope lies in the vial.

Abstract: Screening assays and methods of performing such assays are provided. In certain examples, the assays and methods may be designed to determine whether or not two or more species can associate with each other. In some examples, the assays and methods may be used to determine if a known antigen binds to an unknown monoclonal antibody.

Abstract: System and method for detecting and measuring chemical perturbations in a sample. The system and method are useful for non-invasive pH monitoring of blood or blood products sealed in storage bags.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and system for monitoring, detecting, and/or characterizing a biological particle that may be present in a sample whereby the method may be accomplished non-invasively by utilizing a time-dependent spectroscopic technique to obtain at least two measurements of a growth composition comprising a sample and correlating said measurements for the detection and/or characterization of a biological particle, that may be present in the sample.

Abstract: The invention provides systems, modules, bioreactor and methods for the automated culture, proliferation, differentiation, production and maintenance of tissue engineered products. In one aspect is an automated tissue engineering system comprising a housing, at least one bioreactor supported by the housing, the bioreactor facilitating physiological cellular functions and/or the generation of one or more tissue constructs from cell and/or tissue sources. A fluid containment system is supported by the housing and is in fluid communication with the bioreactor. One or more sensors are associated with one or more of the housing, bioreactor or fluid containment system for monitoring parameters related to the physiological cellular functions and/or generation of tissue constructs; and a microprocessor linked to one or more of the sensors. The systems, methods and products of the invention find use in various clinical and laboratory settings.

Abstract: A system for performing high-speed, high-resolution imaging cytometry includes a scanning region that is illuminated by light including at least first and second wavelength bands. The system also includes a cell transport mechanism that transports a cell through the scanning region such that the cell is illuminated. The system further includes a set of at least one linear light sensor, and an optical system that selectively directs light emitted from the cell to two portions of the linear light sensor set such that emitted light in a third wavelength band is primarily directed to a first portion of the linear light sensor set, and emitted light in a fourth wavelength band is primarily directed to a second portion of the linear light sensor set. The system repeatedly takes readings of light falling on the linear light sensor set while the cell is transported through the scanning region.

Abstract: Devices and methods that measure one or more properties of a living cell culture that is contained in liquid media within a vessel, and typically analyzes plural cell cultures contained in plural vessels such as the wells of a multiwell microplate substantially in parallel. The devices incorporate a sensor that remains in equilibrium with, e.g., remains submerged within, the liquid cell media during the performance of a measurement and during addition of one or more cell affecting fluids such as solutions of potential drug compounds.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention encompass automated systems and methods for analyzing immature platelet parameters in an individual based on a biological sample obtained from blood of the individual. Exemplary techniques involve correlating aspects of direct current (DC) impedance, radiofrequency (RF) conductivity, and/or light measurement data obtained from the biological sample with an evaluation of immature platelet conditions in the individual.

Abstract: A hand-held microfluidic testing device is provided that includes a housing having a cartridge receiving port, a cartridge for input to the cartridge receiving port having a sample input and a channel, where the channel includes a mixture of Raman-scattering nanoparticles and a calibration solution, where the calibration solution includes chemical compounds capable of interacting with a sample under test input to the cartridge and the Raman-scattering nanoparticles, and an optical detection system in the housing, where the optical detection system is capable of providing an illuminated electric field, where the illuminating electric field is capable of being used for Raman spectroscopy with the Raman-scattering nanoparticles and the calibration solution to analyze the sample under test input to the cartridge.

Abstract: Compounds are provided that are either fluorogenic or fluorophoric. Compositions and articles that include the compounds are also provided. Additionally, methods of detecting a microorganism using the compounds are provided. The compounds are fluorinated and can be used advantageously under acidic conditions.

Abstract: The invention relates to microscale cell separating apparatus which are able to separate cells on the basis of size of the cells, interaction of the cells with surfaces of the apparatus, or both. The apparatus comprises a stepped or sloped separation element (16) interposed between an inlet region (20) and an outlet region (22) of a void that can be tilled with fluid. The void can be enclosed within a cover (12) and fluid flow through the void engages cells with the separation element. Only cells which have (or can deform to have) a characteristic dimension smaller than or equal to the distance between a step and the cover or body can pass onto or past a step. Modifications of surfaces within the apparatus can also inhibit passage of cells onto or past a step.

Abstract: The invention provides coated sensors for detecting the presence of analytes. The sensor comprises one or more fluorescent sources, such as one or more quantum dots or one or more fluorescent dyes, a polymeric matrix, a surface coating, and one or more analyte sensing components. The surface coating may be a conformal polymeric film, permeable to the analyte, which may be deposited via a solventless process such as initiated chemical vapor deposition or photoinitiated chemical vapor deposition. The surface coating may increase the biocompatibility of the sensor, reduce nonspecific protein adsorption, and/or sequester functional sensor components within the sensor. The invention also provides methods for detecting the presence of an analyte with coated sensors of the invention.

Abstract: Multiplex binding assay assemblies are disclosed. The assemblies generally include at least one assay bar that includes a top side, a bottom side, and at least one well accessible from the top side of the assay bar. Each well includes a side surface, a bottom surface, an open top end, and at least one secondary container, with each secondary container including a capillary tube that (i) begins at a location within an interior volume of the well and (ii) ends at a location beneath the bottom surface of the assay bar. The assemblies further include a dispenser bar that is adapted to be positioned adjacent to the top side of the assay bar, which includes one or more reservoirs that are configured to provide one or more reagents to the at least one secondary container located in each well of the assay bar.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device having an internal and an external functional element for producing a fluid stream having a core stream and an sheath stream. The device having an internal and an external functional element is distinguished by an internal component for shaping a core stream, an external functional element having a section for guiding an sheath stream and a section for focusing the sheath stream having core stream at the free end of the functional element, wherein the device having an internal and an external functional element is formed in such a manner that the functional element for shaping the core stream is spatially separated from the external functional element having a section for focusing the sheath stream and/or the section for guiding the sheath stream. In a further aspect, an apparatus for separating particles having this device having an internal and an external functional element is provided. In particular, this is a flow-cytometry apparatus in this case.

Abstract: A new device and method for detecting the presence of living microorganisms in test samples are described. The device comprises a container with at least one section transparent to light, a growth zone located in said container containing a mixture of growth media capable of supporting growth of the microorganisms, and at least one indicator substrate that changes its optical properties due to growth of the microorganisms. A detection zone is located in the container adjacent to the transparent section, and a barrier layer comprising porous solid material separates the two zones, allowing diffusion of molecules and ions of metabolic by-products of the organisms, while preventing microorganisms and particulate matter of the test sample from penetrating into the detection zone.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention provide methods and systems for optimally staining biological samples for analysis. In one embodiment, images of a sample are recorded before and after the application of a staining reagent and a decolorization reagent. A difference image is then generated based at least in part on a comparison of the images of the sample recorded before and after the application of the staining and decolorization reagents. Application parameters of the staining and decolorization reagents are then corrected based at least in part on the difference image such that the reagents may be optimally reapplied to generate a final image of the sample that may enable a user to better differentiate at least one target of interest in the sample. In one example, embodiments of the present invention allow for the generation of images that show only Gram-positive bacteria or only Gram-negative bacteria.

Abstract: Mycoplasma contamination of a known cell line is detected by collecting a Raman spectrum of a targeted volume within a sample, the targeted volume containing a known cell line of interest, obtaining a reference spectrum uniquely associated with the known cell line where the obtained reference spectrum is known to be free of mycoplasma and comparing, using a processing device, the reference spectrum to the collected spectrum. Mycoplasma is further detected by identifying whether there are unnatural molecular compositions within the collected spectrum based upon the comparison of the reference spectrum to the collected spectrum and providing an indication as to whether mycoplasma is detected in the collected Raman spectrum based upon whether unnatural molecular compositions are identified within the collected spectrum.

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 biological growth plate scanner includes a multi-color illumination system that illuminates a biological growth plate with different illumination colors. A monochromatic image capture device captures images of the biological growth plate during illumination of the growth plate with each of the illumination colors. A processor combines the images to form a composite multi-color image, and/or individual components of the composite image, and analyzes the composite image to produce an analytical result such as a colony count or a presence/absence result. The biological growth plate scanner may include both front and back illumination components. The back illumination component may include a diffuser element disposed under the biological growth plate. The diffuser element receives light from one or more laterally disposed illumination sources, and distributes the light to illuminate a back side of the biological growth plate.

Abstract: An instrument for ascertaining a viable aerobic microbe count at to employing a two-point calibration curve of tthreshold to TVC for each type of sample. One point on the calibration curve is the x-intercept value (i.e., an estimated or experimental value for the logarithm of the minimum viable aerobic microbe count at commencement of testing (to) in a sample effective for causing the sample to reach tThreshold substantially instantaneously upon commencement of incubation). The other point is ascertained experimentally from a sample having a smaller known viable aerobic microbe count at to.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for conducting the identification and quantification of micro-organisms, e.g., bacteria in biological samples. More particularly, the invention relates to a system comprising a disposable cartridge and an optical cup or cuvette having a tapered surface; an optics system including an optical reader and a thermal controller; an optical analyzer; a cooling system; and an improved spectrometer. The system may utilize the disposable cartridge in the sample processor and the optical cup or cuvette in the optical analyzer.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and a system of cell detection and analysis. The present invention may incorporate at least an optical source, a fluidic chip and a detection module. Cells may be caused to flow within the fluidic chip and specifically past a detection window section accessible by the optical source. The flowing cells may be identified and/or analyzed. The detection module may specifically count the cells of interest as they flow past the detection window section of the chip. The detection module may further be operable to generate or otherwise capture images of the cells as they flow past the window and to use these images collectively for the purpose of analyzing the cells. The present invention may be portable and operable in remote locations.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for conducting the identification and quantification of micro-organisms, e.g., bacteria, in biological samples. More particularly, the invention relates to a system comprising a disposable cartridge and an optics cup or cuvette having a tapered surface; wherein the walls are angled to allow for better coating and better striations of the light. The system may utilize the disposable cartridge in the sample processor and the optics cup or cuvette in the optical analyzer, wherein the optics cup also has a floor in the shape of an inverted arch.

Abstract: An optical fiber is combined with a photonic crystal structure (PCS) that is optically coupled to the optical fiber. The fiber has an exposed fiber surface, and the PCS is affixed to the optical fiber and disposed on or in proximity to the exposed fiber surface. The PCS includes an elongate probe member configured for biological probing. The elongate probe member includes an optical resonant cavity. In an experiment, this was accomplished using an optical fiber tip with a semiconductor template attached to its side face. The semiconductor structure had a thin, needle-like tip (including a nanobeam cavity) which can be suitably inserted inside (or broken off inside) a biological cell without causing cytotoxicity.

Abstract: A hepatic fibrosis detection apparatus and system include an input device, for receiving age and serum biochemical variables, the serum biochemical variables at least including blood platelet, hyaluronic acid, serum direct bilirubin, pro-thrombin time, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase and serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase; a classifier, for performing hepatic fibrosis staging according to the age and serum biochemical variables received by the input device and transient elastography imaging data; and an output device, for outputting a result of the hepatic fibrosis staging of the classifier. The system provides various benefits such as non-invasiveness, high practicability, simple method, low cost and high safety.

Abstract: An inline sample filter for a flow cytometer.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for assay of multiple analytes. The method uses a sensing element comprising a substrate upon which is arranged a multiplicity of recognition elements, such that each element is laid out in a predetermined pattern. Each pattern is unique in that it can give rise to a characteristic diffraction pattern in the assay. The patterns may or may not be interpenetrating on the substrate surface. The method of detecting multiple analytes includes contacting the medium of analytes with the patterned substrate, illuminating the substrate by a light source, and detecting any resultant diffraction image. The pattern of diffraction and the intensity of the diffracted signal provides information about the existence of specific analytes and their quantification.