Abstract: Described herein are compounds that activate pyruvate kinase, for use in a method for increasing lifetime of the red blood cells, for regulating 2,3-diphosphoglycerate levels in blood and for treating sickle cell anemia.

Abstract: Intact erythrocytes with selected and often elevated levels of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) for use as quality controls for HbA1c assays and assay instruments are prepared by hypotonic dialysis of erythrocytes from a healthy mammal to permeabilize the erythrocyte membranes, infusion of the permeabilized erythrocytes with hemoglobin A1c, and de-permeabilization of the infused erythrocytes. Quality controls of essentially any level of HbA1c can be prepared in this manner and once prepared will be useful for monitoring the entire assay procedure, including the lysis of the erythrocytes in a typical sample.

Abstract: The present relates to methods for detecting DNA damage in subjects treated with an ATR inhibitor. More specifically, this invention relates to a method for measuring changes in levels of ?H2AX and/or pChk1Ser345 in, e.g., surrogate tissue cells, following ex vivo stimulation with a DNA damaging agent.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for filtering a liquid sample, wherein first capillary-driven filtration occurs and, after initial filling, pressure-operated filtration is performed by applying a vacuum or a positive pressure.

Abstract: A plasma or serum separator (10) for isolating plasma or serum from whole blood, comprises: a blood separation member (12), configured for separating blood applied to a first portion of the blood separation member (12) such that the plasma or serum of the blood is located in a second portion of the blood separation member (12); a holding member (14) covering and holding the blood separation member (12); a blood introducing portion (16) formed in a portion of the holding member (14) covering the first portion of the blood separation member (12); a plasma or serum sampling aperture (18) formed in a portion of the holding member (14) covering the second portion of the blood separation member (12), and at least one plasma or serum collecting cavity (22) arranged at the second portion of the blood separation member (12) in fluid communication with the plasma or serum sampling aperture (18) for collecting plasma or serum leaving the blood separation member (12) through the plasma or serum sampling aperture (18).

Abstract: A device for the laser transmission welding of two plastic assembly parts is provided, wherein at least one of the plastic assembly parts contains an absorber for laser light, comprising a processing head with a processing side, with a processing-side discharge shaft for at least one laser beam and with a laser-transparent pressing means for pressing together the plastic assembly parts, wherein the laser-transparent pressing means is guided decoupled from the processing head in the discharge shaft. Furthermore, a method for producing a welded joint between two plastic assembly parts by laser transmission welding is specified.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to the use of porous polymer materials as a medium for the storage of biological samples. The present invention also relates to a method of drying and storage of biological samples on the porous polymer materials. The biological samples include blood and blood plasma samples.

Abstract: A method of inhibiting alternative complement pathway activation in a mammal includes administering an amount of an antibody and/or fragment thereof that specifically binds to an epitope of the N terminus end of properdin effective to the inhibit alternative complement pathway in the subject.

Abstract: A disposable blood analysis cartridge may include a sample collection reservoir, an absorbance measurement channel, and an optical light scattering measurement channel. One or more valves may be disposed between the sample collection reservoir and the absorbance measurement channel and/or the optical light scattering measurement channel. A negative pressure may be applied to the cartridge to pull sample from the sample collection reservoir through the one or more valves and into the absorbance measurement channel and/or the optical light scattering measurement channel. Once the sample is pulled into the absorbance measurement channel and/or the optical light scattering measurement channel, the one or more valves may be closed. With the one or more valves closed, and in some cases, a pusher fluid may be provided to push the fluid sample to other regions of the disposable fluid blood analysis cartridge.

Abstract: A platelet preservation composition is disclosed. The composition comprises a photosensitizer, an inhibitor of platelet activation, and/or an anticoagulant. The preservation composition allows inactivation of pathogens in a platelet preparation while maintaining the functionality of the platelets.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions comprising desiccated biologics comprising a cell, protein, virus, nucleic acid, carbohydrate, or lipid, or any combination thereof, along with at least one membrane penetrable sugar, and at least one membrane impenetrable sugar, wherein the moisture content is from 5% to 95%, and to methods of preparing the same, and to methods of treating animals using the same.

Abstract: The present invention provides an aqueous composition for storage of red blood cells consisting essentially of: adenine; dextrose; at least one nonmetabolizable membrane-protectant sugar; and a specifically defined pH buffering system. Also provided are improved methods for preserving red blood cells and methods for increasing the viability, membrane retention, and recoverability while suppressing apoptosis, hemolysis, and post-reinfusion clearance of stored red blood cells which utilize the novel compositions.

Abstract: A flow cytometry system and method for sorting a mixture of particles, such as a fluid switching sorting system for sorting selected particles which includes a control having a microprocessor programmed with instructions for implementing a control strategy for controlling the fluid delivery to the system to vary the rate at which fluid is delivered as a function of the purity or yield of a sub-population of particles.

Abstract: Isolated non-naturally occurring populations of spermatozoa (15) having high purity and technologies to differentiate spermatozoa (28) based on characteristics such as mass, volume, orientation, or emitted light including methods of analysis and apparatus such as beam shaping optics (30) and detectors (32).

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods for producing, including intra-operatively obtaining, a fixation device, and fixation devices produced thereby, containing an autologous cell concentrate from a physiological solution, wherein the cell concentrate is isolated without the need for centrifugation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for storing platelets to preserve the function and freshness of the platelets. More particularly, the present invention relates to the use of a preservative composition having an antiplatelet agent, an anticoagulant, and an oxygen carrier, for maintaining the freshness of platelets. Additionally, the composition may also contain an ultra-short acting broad spectrum anti-microbial agents. The preservative composition may be used to store platelets in a liquid state, a frozen state, or a freeze-dried state.

Abstract: A method of prevention/treatment of pathological consequences of DNA damage triggered by incorporation of circulating apoptotic chromatin fragments into healthy cells of individuals/patients in need therefore, said method comprising ex vivo or extra corporeal treatment of blood/plasma for removal of circulating chromatin fragments released from apoptotic cells which apoptotic chromatin fragments are capable of triggering DNA damage leading to genomic instability, senescence, apoptosis and cancerous transformation of healthy cells on being integrated into their genomes

Abstract: The present invention relates to a platelet additive solution (PAS) having an amount of one or more ?-galactosidase inhibitors with or without an amount of one or more sialidase inhibitors, and optionally one or more glycan-modifying agents; and one or more of PAS components that include a salt, a citrate source, a carbon source, or any combination thereof.

Abstract: Methods for processing and sorting sperm are disclosed. Portions of sperm sorting or staining processes may include standardizing sperm samples by adjusting the concentration of the sperm sample to a predetermined concentration and adjusting the pH of the sample to a predetermined value. Sperm may also be stained in a single staining buffer having a DNA selective dye and a quenching dye.

Abstract: Cell sorting methods that improve sorting efficiency and productivity by elevating sorting pressures and incorporate certain steps to help the cells better survive such elevated pressures. In the case of sperm, sorting the steps of standardizing sperm samples, staining sperm samples in a single step, calibrating a flow cytometer to place sperm in the leading edge of droplets, and changing a catch fluid distance may be incorporated individually, or in combination to help sperm better survive the sex sorting process.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for improving the ability of spermatozoa to fertilize an egg in vitro and/or vivo, said method comprising providing a medium comprising active vitamin D (calcitriol) or analogs thereof, providing a sample of spermatozoa, and incubating said sample of spermatozoa with said medium. In addition, the invention relates to compositions comprising active vitamin D or analogs thereof for use in the treatment of infertility in a male or female subject.

Abstract: A method of analyzing particles in a fluid stream including focusing a generally elliptical beam spot to a width less than the size of the particles. As particles pass through the beam spot electromagnetic radiation from the particles which is then detected and converted into electrical signals indicative of characteristics of the particles. The electrical signals may be digitally sampled to provide digital information which may be analyzed to extract information and to classify the particles.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for improving viability and/or stress tolerance of viable biological material and using the said material comprising applying hydrostatic pressure to said biological material; keeping the said viable biological material at the hydrostatic pressure for a predetermined time period; releasing the hydrostatic pressure; and using the said material for any desired purpose in accordance with any useful protocol. The usage of the said biological material incorporates any techniques, protocols that are applicable in the field of assisted reproductive techniques, biotechnical and/or biotechnological manipulations.

Abstract: The invention is in the field of coagulation diagnostics and relates to a heparin-insensitive method for determining direct coagulation factor inhibitors in a sample, in particular direct thrombin and factor Xa inhibitors.

Abstract: Described herein are kits for use in cryopreserving mammalian sperm including a composition that comprises a cryoprotectant; a membrane protectant that stabilizes or assists in stabilization of membranes of sperm; and monothioglycerol.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and systems for use in preparing a sample. The methods and systems may be used for lysing one or more structures in a sample (e.g., cells, viral particles, etc.). The methods and compositions may comprise a microfluidic chip or use thereof. The microfluidic chips disclosed herein may comprise (a) a substrate comprising a chamber, wherein at least one mechanical element may be located within the chamber; (b) a thermal element in contact with the chamber; and (c) at least one aperture within the surface of the substrate, wherein the aperture may be configured to insulate the chamber.

Abstract: An insert for a centrifuge tube suitable for use in density gradient separation is described. The insert includes a member sized to fit within the tube for dividing the tube into a top portion and a bottom portion. Optionally the insert has a support extending or depending from the member for positioning the member within the tube. At least two openings are located on the member so that a first opening is closer to a bottom end of the tube relative to a second opening when the insert is positioned in the centrifuge tube. Also described are methods for separating a target population of cells from a sample using the insert for a centrifuge tube.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for isolating and detecting rare cells from a biological sample containing other types of cells. In particular, the present invention includes a debulking step that uses a microfabricated filters for filtering fluid samples and the enriched rare cells can be used in a downstream process such as identifies, characterizes or even grown in culture or used in other ways. The invention also include a method of determining the aggressiveness of the tumor or of the number or proportion of cancer cells in the enriched sample by detecting the presence or amount of telomerase activity or telomerase nucleic acid or telomerase expression after enrichment of rare cells. This invention further provides an efficient and rapid method to specifically remove red blood cells as well as white blood cells from a biological sample.

Abstract: The present invention discloses methods, kits-of-parts, and devices for the selective lysis of eukaryotic cells in a sample comprising micro-organisms such as bacteria unicellular fungi. The selective lysis is obtained by incubating the sample in an ionic surfactant under alkaline conditions.

Abstract: The methods of this invention involve preventing the formation of a complex between adenine and riboflavin by reducing the amount of adenine in a solution containing blood or blood components to be pathogen reduced.

Abstract: It is intended to provide a serum which contains a large amount of growth factors capable of efficiently promoting the growth of stem cells. A human serum for cell culture which shows a residual ratio of platelets remaining within 20 minutes after blood collection in relation to the whole amount of the platelets is 0% to 20%, and a release ratio of cell growth factors is 20% to 100%.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods, kits and compositions for inactivating viral agents in or on articles including blood based products and feature a light sensitive compound selected from the group consisting of hypericin, pseudohypericin and hypocrellin, and a group of light producing compounds comprising luciferase, luciferin and ATP.

Abstract: Methods and devices for stabilizing a biological sample for analysis, comprising the steps of obtaining in a sample collection device a biological sample from a subject, the biological sample including at least one circulating cell-free first nucleic acid from the subject. The methods may include a step of contacting the biological sample while within the sample collection device with a protective agent composition that includes a preservative agent, an optional anticoagulant, and a quenching agent to form a mixture that includes the protective agent composition and the sample.

Abstract: A blood component sampling system and method are disclosed. The system is pre-connected and includes a collected blood component container and a reservoir having substantially fixed volume and at least one volumetric indicator indicating a selected volume and a sample container docking station configured to cooperate with a sample collection container. The system and method provide ease of sampling with reduced risk of contamination.

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 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 present invention aims to provide a mononuclear cell preparation material capable of improving the mononuclear cell recovery while reducing granulocyte contamination, and a mononuclear cell preparation method which improves the mononuclear cell recovery. Provided is a mononuclear cell preparation material for removing granulocytes from blood to prepare mononuclear cells, which includes a nonwoven fabric made of a polyamide resin. Also provided is a method for preparing mononuclear cells using a device with the mononuclear cell preparation material packed in a container, the method including the steps of: (A) passing blood through the mononuclear cell preparation device from an inlet side to an outlet side of the device, thereby capturing granulocytes in the device; and (B) passing a washing solution through the mononuclear cell preparation device from the inlet side to the outlet side of the device, thereby recovering mononuclear cells remaining in the device.

Abstract: Extract fractions of Dioscorea sp. and methods of preparing the extract fractions are disclosed. The extract fractions enhance the proliferation and differentiation of bone marrow cells. Also described are a method for treatment of osteoporosis and a method for alleviation of side effects caused by chemotherapy by using the extract fractions of Dioscorea sp.

Abstract: Methods for treating blood. The methods comprise obtaining whole blood from a donor, mixing the whole blood with a red blood cell enhancement composition, and incubating the mixture of whole blood and red blood cell enhancement composition. The method can be performed at a time proximate to the time of obtaining blood from the donor, or after the blood has been stored for a period of time. The method rejuvenates red blood cells.

Abstract: Provided are a method of conveniently and efficiently removing abnormal prion protein from a blood product and a method of removing leukocyte simultaneously with abnormal prion protein. The method of removing an abnormal prion protein from a blood product includes filtering the blood product through a filter filled with a carrier coated with a polymer, which is composed of three units including 20 mol % or more and 40 mol % or less of a unit originating from a hydrophobic polymerizable monomer, 5 mol % or more and 13 mol % or less of a unit originating from a polymerizable monomer containing a basic nitrogen-containing part, and a unit originating from a polymerizable monomer containing a protonic neutral hydrophilic part as the balance, and then recovering the filtered blood product.

Abstract: An anchoring/capturing system for selecting or analyzing a CHO cell according to a product secreted by the CHO cell is described. The anchoring/capturing system comprises a first antibody or a first antigen-binding fragment for anchoring to the extracellular surface of the CHO cell, and a second antibody or a second antigen-binding fragment for binding the secreted product. Uses and methods involving the anchoring/capturing system are provided.

Abstract: An apparatus that allows for separating and collecting a fraction of a sample. The apparatus, when used with a centrifuge, allows for the creation of at various fractions in the apparatus. A buoy system that may include a first buoy portion and a second buoy member operably interconnected may be used to form at least three fractions from a sample during a substantially single centrifugation process. Therefore, the separation of various fractions may be substantially quick and efficient. Also selected fractions from the sample can be applied to a patient, either alone or as part of a mixture.

Abstract: The present specification provides hematology control compositions having particular utility with a red blood cell component for devices using electronic and optical means for blood determinations, and methods for using the compositions.

Abstract: The present invention includes a microfluidic device comprising one or more parking loops 12, each parking loop 12 comprising a bypass channel 14 and a lower branch 16 capable of retaining one or more drops, wherein bypass channel 14 has a smaller hydrodynamic resistance than the lower branch 16.

Abstract: This disclosure is directed to systems and methods for immunomagnetic separation of a target analyte of a suspension from the other component materials of the suspension. The system may be composed of a tube, a float, and a magnet. The magnet introduces a magnetic field or a magnetic gradient to the system. The system may also include a solution containing a particle to conjugate the target analyte to form a target analyte-particle complex. The particle is capable of being attracted by the magnetic field or magnetic gradient introduced by the magnet. The target analyte-particle complex may be attracted to the sidewall of the tube after the suspension undergoes density-based separation, such as by centrifugation.

Abstract: Devices, compositions, and methods for handling, separating, packaging, and utilization of spermatozoa (1) that can be derived from previously frozen sperm samples collected from a male mammal. Specifically, techniques to uniformily stain (2) spermatozoal DNA even when derived from previously frozen sperm and separation techniques to separate and isolate spermatozoa even when derived from previously frozen sperm samples into X-chromosome bearing and Y-chromosome bearing populations having high purity.

Abstract: An improved method for storing platelets and compositions that contain stored platelets for use in transfusions. The method entails obtaining a platelet concentrate from blood obtained from an individual and holding the platelet concentrate at refrigerated temperatures under an atmosphere having a pressure of from 3.5 to 5 bars comprising more than 65% xenon and for at least one week. Also provided is a refrigerated composition that contains a platelet concentrate, wherein the platelet concentrate contains xenon, and wherein the platelet concentrate has been isolated from an individual for at least seven days.

Abstract: A container suitable for storing biological material which is laser etched with a two-dimensional bar code and methods for producing the same. The container can be in the form of a straw having a thickness between about 0.1 mm and about 0.3 mm or can be in the form of another container that holds multiple straws. The laser etched mark can be in the form of a two-dimensional bar code may be located on an exterior surface of the container, and when the container is a straw, it remains unwarped and impermeable to fluids.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a nucleated red blood cell simulating particle, which may be leukocytes bound to a fluorescent-staining inhibitor capable of stably binding to the nucleus or a nucleic acid in a cell so as to reduce the binding capacity of the particles to a fluorescent dye during their detection. The present disclosure also provides a method for preparing nucleated red blood cell simulating particles, including the following steps: (a) obtaining purified leukocytes; (b) suspending the leukocytes in a cell treatment solution containing a fluorescent-staining inhibitor which stably binds to the nucleus or a nucleic acid in a cell, and (c) washing the obtained product. The present disclosure also provides a hematology control mixture containing the nucleated red blood cell simulating particles.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an apparatus, method, system for the determination of the aggregation rate of red blood cells. More specifically, the invention concerns a method, system, and the relative apparatus used to determine the aggregation rate of red blood cells, and other parameters related to these, such as viscosity, deformability, elasticity, density, in the field of in vitro medical analyses, using optical systems after or during inducted forces for red blood cell disruption and redistribution generated by ultrasound waves.