Abstract: Provided is a method and system for the rapid and accurate detection of growth and metabolism of a cellular microorganism in a population of microorganisms in a non-liquid, culture medium. Further provided is a gelled culture medium containing a non-toxic, water-soluble, phosphorescent compound which measures oxygen content (partial pressure) of a microorganism also contained therein, by oxygen-dependent quenching of phosphorescence; or the gel contains a fluorescent pH indicator that demonstrates growth of the microorganism by pH-dependent intensity change or wavelength shift in the emission spectrum. Further provided is a system and method for killing undesirable microorganisms or colonies in the culture medium without harming the surrounding microorganisms.

Abstract: A device for sample tissue disruption and/or cell lysis comprising: a piezoelectric material; and at least a second material in contact with the piezoelectric material; and wherein the second material has an uneven surface on an opposite side to that in contact with the piezoelectric material. The device may be made by assembling at least three layers and membranes for the valves and pumps. The piezoelectric material is actuated by an external voltage source to generate cavitation, which disrupts tissue and/or lyses cells, in particular by a modulated alternative external voltage. The invention further provides a method of disrupting tissue and/or lysing cells in a device. Also provided is a piezoelectric device comprising a piezoelectric material in contact with a second material, and wherein the second material has an uneven surface on an opposite side to that in contact with the piezoelectric material.

Abstract: Provided are a microfluidic device including an electrolysis device for cell lysis which includes an anode chamber, a cathode chamber and a separator, in which the separator is installed between the anode chamber and the cathode chamber, the anode chamber includes an inlet and an outlet for an anode chamber solution and an electrode, and the cathode chamber includes an inlet and an outlet for a cathode chamber solution and an electrode, and a method of electrochemically lysing cells using the same.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a sampling tube for collecting and processing a whole blood sample. The sampling tube contains a reagent for differential hemolysis of whole blood, wherein said reagent for differential hemolysis comprises a chemical for differential hemolysis and an anti-coagulant, and wherein said sampling tube is a ready-to-use and single-use sampling tube. It also relates to the use of said sampling tube in the processing of a whole blood sample for liquid chromatography and also to the use of a blood sample processed in such sampling tube in a liquid chromatography-based analysis.

Abstract: Systems and processes for the recovery of polyhydroxyalkanoates (“PHA”) from biomass are disclosed. In certain embodiments, the process includes the steps of extracting at least a portion of PHA from a disrupted quantity of PHA-containing biomass with an acetin solvent to produce a biomass phase (including residual biomass) and a PHA phase including at least a portion of the PHA from the biomass. The biomass phase and the PHA phase are separated, and at least a portion of PHA may be isolated from the PHA phase. Systems and processes including multiple disruption and/or extraction steps also are disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and agents for thermal conditioning of a biological cell, methods and uses of said agents for releasing and insulating ingredients outside the biological cell, and for quantitatively and qualitatively detecting the released ingredient and to a method for sampling biological cells which consists in carrying out in one step the sampling said biological cells in a culture medium and in releasing cellular ingredients during said sampling. Sampling devices are also disclosed.

Abstract: Devices and methods for thermally lysing of biological material, for example vegetative bacterial cells and bacterial spores, are provided. Hot solution methods for solubilizing bacterial spores are described. Systems for direct analysis are disclosed including thermal lysers coupled to sample preparation stations. Integrated systems capable of performing sample lysis, labeling and protein fingerprint analysis of biological material, for example, vegetative bacterial cells, bacterial spores and viruses are provided.

Abstract: A robotic beverage server that includes a robot, a beverage dispenser in fluid communication with a plurality of beverages contained within respective beverage storage receptacles and operable to dispense one or more of the beverages from the respective storage receptacles, and a controller to operate the robot to pick a container and move the container to the beverage dispenser and to operate the beverage dispenser to dispense one or more of the beverages from the storage receptacles into the container and transport the container to a user. A method of preparing a beverage or mixture of beverages that includes picking a container using a robot, moving the container to an automatic beverage dispenser, wherein the beverage dispenser is in fluid communication with and operable to dispense a plurality of beverages contained within a plurality of storage receptacles, dispensing a beverage into the container from the storage receptacles via the automatic beverage dispenser and delivering the container to a user.

Abstract: Composite materials with broad spectrum antimicrobial properties and methods and devices for fluid treatment utilizing said materials are provided. The antimicrobial composite materials may include combinations of activated carbon and a biguanide hydrate. A particular composition includes a mixture of carbon particles and particles of chlorhexidine hydrate, which is useful in fixed particle bed water treatment devices and methods.

Abstract: This disclosure describes a swab extraction device that can be used to collect a medical specimen, transport the specimen to a laboratory, and process and analyze the specimen.

Abstract: A differential extraction system is directed to a microfluidic-based integrated cartridge to automate differential extraction of specific cell types within a mixed sample. The integrated cartridge includes a sonication module for selective cell lysis, separating means to eliminate centrifugation, high surface area pillar chip modules to purify DNA from a cell lysate, and microfluidic circuitry to integrate the steps in an automated platform.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for preserving and extracting nucleic acids from saliva. The compositions include a chelating agent, a denaturing agent, buffers to maintain the pH of the composition within ranges desirable for DNA and/or RNA. The compositions may also include a reducing agent and/or antimicrobial agent. The invention extends to methods of using the compositions of the invention to preserve and isolate nucleic acids from saliva as well as to containers for the compositions of the invention.

Abstract: A biochip (100) for lysing and/or cell separation is formed to provide a sealed chamber for biological fluid. A conductive layer (140) bonded between upper (130) and lower (150) insulating layers is etched to form a microfluidic channel (250) between two electrodes (190, 200). The microfluidic channel connects a fluid inlet (11) and fluid outlet (120). The electrodes (190, 200) form an un-even electric field in the channel (250) to generate a dielectrophoretic force on the cells/particles within the sample fluid. A voltage source applies a suitable voltage to separate and/or lyse cells within the fluid.

Abstract: A sonication apparatus is directed to a microfluidic-based system to automate differential extraction of specific cell types within a mixed sample. The microfluidic-based system includes a sonication module for selective cell lysis, separating means to eliminate centrifugation, high surface area pillar chip modules to purify DNA from a cell lysate, and microfluidic circuitry to integrate the steps in an automated platform.

Abstract: A sample preparation device is disclosed. The sample preparation device includes a housing defining a passage way between a first opening and a second opening; and a sample filter occupying a section of said passage way. The sample filter contains a monolith adsorbent that specifically binds to nucleic acids. Also disclosed are sample filters containing glass frit is coated with an capture agent that binds specifically to an analyte of interest, sample filters containing a hydrophilic matrix with impregnated chemicals that lyses cell membranes, a cartridge base and an integrated sample preparation cartridge.

Abstract: Method for collecting cellular material of particular cells present in a liquid includes: a step (210) of introducing the liquid into a compartment via an upper opening of the compartment said compartment having a lower opening, a filter being positioned between the two openings which has micropores of a diameter intermediate between that of said particular cells and that of other cells, a filtering step (215) during which most of the liquid and most of the other cells pass through the filter, a step (230) of lysing the cells retained or: the filter and a step (245, 230) of collecting cellular material from the lysed cells, on the filter.

Abstract: A system for sorting and trapping magnetic target species includes a microfluidic trapping module designed to receive and then temporarily hold magnetic particles in place within the module. The magnetic particles flowing into the module are trapped there while the other sample components (non-magnetic) continuously flow through and out of the station, thereby separating and concentrating the species captured on the magnetic particles. The magnetic particles and/or their payloads may be released and separately collected at an outlet after the sample passes through the trapping module.

Abstract: A differential extraction system is directed to a micro fluidic-based integrated cartridge to automate differential extraction of specific cell types within a mixed sample. The integrated cartridge includes a sonication module for selective cell lysis, separating means to eliminate centrifugation, high surface area pillar chip modules to purify DNA from a cell lysate, and micro fluidic circuitry to integrate the steps in an automated platform.

Abstract: Provided are a microfluidic device including an electrolysis device for cell lysis which includes an anode chamber, a cathode chamber and a separator, in which the separator is installed between the anode chamber and the cathode chamber, the anode chamber includes an inlet and an outlet for an anode chamber solution and an electrode, and the cathode chamber includes an inlet and an outlet for a cathode chamber solution and an electrode, and a method of electrochemically lysing cells using the same.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and apparatuses for neutralizing cancer cells. In particular, the invention relates to separating of cancer cell type from a mixture of different cell types based on the differential rolling property of cancer cell on a substrate coated with a first molecules that exhibits adhesive property with the particular cell type and neutralizing the cancer cell by a second molecule that is also coated on the substrate. This technology is adaptable for use in vivo, in vitro, or ex vivo tumor neutralization.

Abstract: The invention provides, in different aspects, a system, sample preparation device, sample processing cartridge, kit, methods of use, business methods, and computer program product.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for purification of nucleic acids of cells or viruses are provided. The nucleic acid purification apparatus includes: a cell lysis capillary having a sample inlet through which samples and magnetic beads are introduced; a vibrator attached to the capillary and mixing the samples and the magnetic beads in the capillary; a laser generator attached to the capillary and supplying a laser to the capillary; and a magnetic force generator attached to the capillary and fixing the magnetic beads to a capillary wall. According to the method and apparatus, PCR yield can be increased since PCR inhibitors can be readily removed by means of a phase separation in a capillary. The use of an electromagnet ensures the removal of the PCR inhibitors. In addition, since cell lysis and DNA purification process can be simultaneously performed, LOC steps can be reduced.

Abstract: The invention relates to a modified microspin system for the isolation and purification of plasmid DNA. A disposable pre-filter column is used in combination with the traditional microspin column for increase speed and quality of plasmid DNA preparation. The disposable pre-filter column includes a pre-filter and a depth filter for optimal result. During plasmid DNA isolation, the lysate can be loaded directly to the assembly including the disposable pre-filter column and the microspin column. A quick spin causes the plasmid DNA to bind to the microspin column while the flocculents remain on top of the disposable pre-filter column, eliminates the need to first remove the flocculants containing cellular debris. This results in a much shortened process. Also provided are kits for isolation of plasmid DNA including the pre-filter column and the microspin columns.

Abstract: A fluid treatment chamber is provided for the deactivation of microorganisms in a fluid. The fluid treatment chamber comprises a housing and an electrode assembly. The housing comprises a fluid inlet for receiving fluid to be treated and a fluid outlet for allowing treated fluid to be retrieved. The electrode assembly is located within the housing and comprises at least two electrodes for generating an electric field there between. The electrodes have opposing convex electrode surface sections defining there between a biconcave treatment zone for treatment of the fluid by the most intense electric field generated by the electrode assembly. The treatment zone comprises a channel between the opposing convex electrode surface sections through which the fluid is to flow to receive treatment. The channel width tapers towards a vertical midsection of the channel due to the convex configuration of the opposing electrode surface sections.

Abstract: Methods are provided for differential extraction of DNA from at least two different cell types. Systems for carrying out the differential extraction methods are also provided. A kit is also provided for differential extraction of DNA from at least two different cell types using a multi-compartment container.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods, devices and systems for biological and chemical sample processing using microfluidic chips. The disclosed microfluidic chips contain at least two detection zones for interacting with pre-selected RNA sequences, DNA sequences, antibodies, or antigens to determine their presence in the sample. Systems are also described comprising a cassette having at least one port and a sample inlet in fluid communication with a detection zone for interacting with pre-selected RNA sequences, DNA sequences, antibodies, or antigens, or mixtures thereof, if present, in a sample. Methods for concurrent testing of at least two of RNA, DNA, antibody, and antigen in a sample are also described, as are methods for testing for pre-selected pathogens and microfluidic methods.

Abstract: Lysis/resealing process for preparing erythrocytes which contain an active ingredient (e.g. aspariginase or inositol hexaphosphate), the process comprising the following steps: (1) placing a globular concentrate in suspension in an isotonic solution having a haematocrit level which is equal to or greater than 65%, with refrigeration at from +1 to +8° C., (2) measuring the osmotic fragility based on a sample of erythrocytes from that same globular concentrate, preferably on a sample of the suspension obtained in step (1), (3) lysis and internalisation procedure of the active ingredient, inside the same chamber, at a temperature which is constantly maintained at from +1 to +8° C., comprising allowing the erythrocyte suspension having a haematocrit level which is equal to or greater than 65% and a hypotonic lysis solution which is refrigerated at from +1 to +8° C.

Abstract: Microfluidic systems and methods are disclosed which are adapted to transport and lyse cellular components of a test sample for analysis. The disclosed microfluidic systems and methods, which employ an electric field to rupture the cell membrane, cause unusually rapid lysis, thereby minimizing continued cellular activity and resulting in greater accuracy of analysis of cell processes.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for rapid disruption of cells or viruses using beads and a laser are provided. According to the method and apparatus for rapid disruption of cells or viruses using beads and a laser, cell lysis within 40 seconds is possible, the apparatus can be miniaturized using a laser diode, a DNA purification step can be directly performed after a disruption of cells or viruses, and a solution containing DNA can be transferred to a subsequent step after cell debris and beads to which inhibitors of a subsequent reaction are attached are removed with an electromagnet. In addition, by means of the cell lysis chip, an evaporation problem is solved, vibrations can be efficiently transferred to cells through magnetic beads, a microfluidics problem on a rough surface is solved by hydrophobically treating the inner surface of the chip, and the cell lysis chip can be applied to LOC.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided for reduction of pathogens in fluids containing blood products. Preferred methods include the steps of adding an effective, non-toxic amount of a photosensitizer such as riboflavin to the blood product and exposing the fluid to light having a peak wavelength.

Abstract: Provided is a method of disrupting cells comprising adding gold nanorods to a solution containing cells and irradiating the gold nanorods with a laser to disrupt the cells. A method and an apparatus for continuously disrupting cells and amplifying nucleic acids in a single microchamber are also provided, wherein the method comprises introducing a solution containing cells and gold nanorods into a microchamber, irradiating a laser onto the gold nanorods to disrupt the cells, and amplifying a nucleic acid from the disrupted cells in the microchamber.

Abstract: The present invention provides an automated system for purification of a substance of interest. The system generally comprises an instrument for moving fluids through the system, a reagent pack for storing fluids, and a purification cartridge. The cartridge comprises two filtration units for binding substances based on different physical properties. The cartridge also comprises rotary valves for control of movement of fluids on the cartridge. In preferred embodiments, the system is useful for purifying RNA from blood samples.

Abstract: A system for collection, stabilization, and preparing total DNA for direct purification from biological samples is provided.

Abstract: A device for nucleic acid preparation includes an outer housing and an inner housing carried within the outer housing and rotatable with respect to the outer housing. The inner housing defines an inner chamber and includes inlet and outlet ports and a nucleic acid extraction substrate within the inner chamber. The outer housing includes a sample inlet port, wash fluid inlet and outlet ports, and elute fluid inlet and outlet ports, and the ports of the inner housing can be selectively aligned with ports of the outer housing by rotating the inner housing with respect to the outer housing. By aligning one or both ports of the inner housing with the appropriate ports of the outer housing, sample material can be introduced into the chamber and wash and elution fluids can be passed through the chamber. Nucleic acid from the sample introduced into the chamber is captured on the extraction substrate and is released from the extraction substrate by sonication prior to being eluted out of the chamber.

Abstract: Provided is a method of isolating nucleic acid from cells using a single surface, wherein a compound represented by Formula 1 is bound to the surface. Also provided are an apparatus for isolation of nucleic acids, and a bead for isolating nucleic acids.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method, a chip, a device and a system for extraction of biological material form biological cells. The invention involves exposing the biological particles to an alternating electric field in a sample chamber and may also involve subsequent analysis of the biological material after the extraction.

Abstract: A system for processing oil from algae is disclosed. Specifically, the system recycles byproducts of the process for use as nutrients during algae growth and oil production. The system includes a conduit for growing algae and an algae separator that removes the algae from the conduit. Also, the system includes a device for lysing the algae and an oil separator to remove the oil from the lysed matter. Further, the system includes a biofuel reactor that receives oil from the oil separator and synthesizes biofuel and glycerin. Moreover, the algae separator, oil separator and biofuel reactor all recycle byproducts back to the conduit to support further algae growth.

Abstract: The invention provides apparatus, reagents, and methods for rapidly isolating plasmid DNA from a bacterial alkaline lysate.

Abstract: This invention provides a microfluidic device comprising an inlet and an outlet which are connected with each other through a microchannel, wherein a polymerized hydrophobic porous polymer is bonded to magnetic beads and to the walls of the microchannel. The invention is further directed to methods of making and using the microfluidic device.

Abstract: The invention is a method for the development of assays for the simultaneous detection of multiple bacteria. A bacteria of interest is selected. A host bacteria containing plasmid DNA from a T even bacteriophage that infects the bacteria of interest is infected with T4 reporter bacteriophage. After infection, the progeny bacteriophage are plating onto the bacteria of interest. The invention also includes single-tube, fast and sensitive assays which utilize the novel method.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for isolating a biologic product, such as plasmid DNA, from cells. The method involves lysing cells in a controlled manner separate insoluble components from a fluid lysate containing cellular components of interest, followed by membrane chromatographic techniques to purify the cellular components of interest. The process utilizes a unique lysis apparatus, ion exchange and, optionally, hydrophobic interaction chromatography membranes in cartridge form, and ultrafiltration. The process can be applied to any biologic product extracted from a cellular source. The process uses a lysis apparatus, including a high shear, low residence-time mixer for advantageously mixing a cell suspension with a lysis solution, a hold time that denatures impurities, and an air-sparging bubble mixer that gently yet thoroughly mixes lysed cells with a neutralization/precipitation buffer and floats compacted precipitated cellular material.

Abstract: A micromachined cell lysis device with electrodes that are spaced by less than 10 ?m from one another. The cells are attracted to the space between the electrodes and then lysed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for the isolation of DNA or cell nuclei or a mixture thereof from cell samples in a CD device. The method includes treating a suspension of whole cells with a lysis reagent so as to lyse the cytoplasmic membrane and at least some of the nuclear membranes, and introducing the lysate into micro-channels of a microfabricated apparatus in which each of the micro-channels is provided with a barrier disposed in the channel to impede the passage or flow of DNA and cell nuclei while allowing the passage of liquid through the micro-channel so that a mesh comprising DNA is formed in the channel.

Abstract: A container for holding cells or viruses for disruption comprises a chamber defined by two spaced apart, opposing major walls and side walls connecting the major walls to each other. At least one of the major walls has an external surface to which the transducer may be coupled and is sufficiently flexible to flex in response to vibratory motion of the transducer. The container also has at least one port for introducing the cells or viruses into the chamber. In some embodiments, the chamber contains beads for aiding the disruption of the cells or viruses.

Abstract: This invention relates to devices and methods for performing active, multi-step molecular and biological sample preparation and diagnostic analyses employing immunochemical techniques. It relates generally to bioparticle separation, bioparticle enrichment, and electric field-mediated immunochemical detection on active electronic matrix devices utilizing AC and DC electric fields. More specifically, the invention relates to devices and methods for sample preparation/manipulation, immunoimmobilization, and immunoassays, all of which can be conducted on one or more active electronic chip devices within a single system. These manipulations are useful in a variety of applications, including, for example, detection of pathogenic bacteria and biological warfare agents, point-of-care diagnostics, food or medical product quality control assays, and other biological assays.

Abstract: A device for use with an ultrasonic transducer to lyse components of a fluid sample comprises a cartridge having a lysing chamber, an inlet port in fluid communication with the lysing chamber, and an outlet port for exit of the sample from the lysing chamber. The inlet and outlet ports are positioned to permit flow of the sample through the lysing chamber, and the chamber contains at least one solid phase for capturing the sample components to be lysed as the sample flows through the chamber. The lysing chamber is defined by at least one wall having an external surface for contacting the transducer to effect the transfer of ultrasonic energy to the chamber.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for the isolation of DNA or cell nuclei or a mixture thereof from cell samples in a CD device. The method includes treating a suspension of whole cells with a lysis reagent so as to lyse the cytoplasmic membrane and at least some of the nuclear membranes, and introducing the lysate into micro-channels of a microfabricated apparatus in which each of the micro-channels is provided with a barrier disposed in the channel to impede the passage or flow of DNA and cell nuclei each while allowing the passage of liquid through the micro-channel so that a mesh comprising DNA is formed in the channel.

Abstract: A chromatography material for separation of nucleic acid mixtures, having a carrier and ion exchanger functions applied to it is described, whereby the carrier comprises a fibrous material. In addition, a method that is performed with the chromatography material according to this invention is also described.

Abstract: In a vector purification device, bacteria containing vectors are cultured in a culture medium in a culture tank, the culture medium is concentrated by filtration with a first TFF film, and the concentrated culture medium is replaced with a buffer solution by filtering a mixture of the culture medium and the buffer solution by the TFF film while supplying the buffer solution from a buffer tank. The bacteria subjected to bacteriolysis by an alkali solution supplied from an alkali tank are passed through a second TFF film to remove undesired substances. Since the TFF films are used in place of a centrifugal separator for concentration or the like, a series of operations can be carried out continuously in a closed system. Further, a crudely purified vector solution is treated with a surfactant to separate vector DNAs from endotoxins as separate layers, and the endotoxins are removed.

Abstract: Process and apparatus for the continuous purification and concentration of leukocytes from blood, characterized in that said process comprises the following steps: (a) seperating plasma from the blood by filtration in order to achieve a filtered buffy coat fraction; (b) adding an aqueous solution, which is hypotonic in relation to plasma, to the buffy coat fraction from step (a), in order to achieve lysation of erythrocytes contained in the buffy coat fraction; (c) mixing the buffy coat fraction and the aqueous hypotonic solution from step (b) in a mixing device; (d) leading the mixture from step (c) through a retention vessel; (e) leading the mixture from step (d) through a centrifuge in order to seperate the leukocytes; (f) collecting the separated leukocytes from step (e).