Abstract: The invention generally relates to systems and methods for mass spectrometry analysis of microorganisms in samples.

Abstract: Methods of the invention include the isolation of intact, viable microorganism(s) from positive blood culture (“PBC”) samples for use in downstream analyses such as identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (“AST”). The methods involve collecting a portion of the PBC sample, adding a choline-containing solution, lysing the blood cells, isolating the viable microorganism, and performing downstream analysis of the isolated, viable microorganism. The methods can be applied to a variety of gram-positive bacteria, gram-negative bacteria, and/or yeast, and particularly to strains of S. pneumoniae.

Abstract: Micro-organisms, including fungi, viruses and bacteria such as Mycobacteria and/or fragments of micro-organisms such as cell wall components present in an aqueous liquid are captured to a solid surface by adding to the liquid a sufficient quantity of a water soluble polymer in the presence of the solid surface to displace the micro-organisms and/or fragments from the liquid to the solid surface. The surface may be provided by a bead. The water soluble polymer may be polyethyleneglycol or polyvinylpyrrolidone.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and means for the neutralization, binding, and/or inactivation of antimicrobials in a test sample. The invention is also directed to a method of detecting the presence of one or more microorganisms in a test sample by culturing the test sample in a culture media comprising one or more primary amine-containing compounds.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for certification of carcasses, and for detecting a contaminated carcass and preventing its movement into or across a production area. The inventive methods comprise obtaining, early in the production process (pre-fabrication), a test sample from at least one test location of at least one split-portion of each carcass, wherein the test samples are obtained prior to or during chilling of the respective split portions, before entry thereof in the production chain. Composite test samples are assayed for pathogens or microbes, whereby certification is afforded, or whereby entry of the chilled split-carcass-Lot into the production area is precluded if the corresponding composite-Lot test sample is contaminated. Methods for remedial reconditioning of contaminated split-carcasses are provided, wherein essentially 100% of the carcasses are targeted to the production line. The inventive methods provide substantial public health benefit, and are efficient and economical to implement.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel promoter and terminator sequences for use in heterologous gene expression in eukaryotic cells, such as algal cells. The invention further provides expression cassettes comprising a promoter, as described herein, operably linked to a heterologous gene. The invention further provides expression vectors and host eukaryotic cells, such as algal cells, for expressing a protein encoded by the heterologous gene; and methods for identifying promoters.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for determining the presence and/or amount of viable cells in a liquid sample.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and systems for scanning, detecting, and monitoring microorganisms on solid or semi-solid media using intrinsic fluorescence (IF) measurements. The methods are further directed to detection, characterization and/or identification of microorganisms on a solid or semi-solid media using intrinsic fluorescence (IF) measurements that are characteristic of said microorganisms.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for detecting a fungal contamination in an internal environment, to the use thereof and also to a method for detecting a fungal contamination in an internal environment using such a device.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel substrates and methods for staining live stem cells. The stain may be used to identify induced pluripotent stem cell colonies during the process of somatic cell reprogramming.

Abstract: Methods for generating iPSCs and differentiated cells of interest by reprogramming donor cells that have been obtained in a non-invasive manner. In particular, the donor cells are exfoliated epithelial urine cells. The differentiated cells can be obtained by differentiation of the reprogrammed iPSCs or by direct reprogramming the urine cells.

Abstract: A method for analyzing platelets is described. In the method, a measurement sample is prepared by mixing a sample and a dye for staining platelets. The dye is selected from the group consisting of Capri blue, Nile blue and brilliant cresyl blue. Upon irradiating cells in the measurement sample with light, scattered light and fluorescence emitted from the cells are measured. The platelets are detected on the basis of the scattered light and the fluorescence. A reagent kit and a reagent are also described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of delivering an agent to a cancer cell, comprising: (a) obtaining a peptide that selectively binds to a cancer cell, wherein the peptide comprises a cancer targeting motif having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the peptide is attached or fused to an agent that one desires to target to a cancer cell; and (b) exposing the peptide to a population of cells suspected of containing cancer cells. The present invention also relates to a kit for applying the above method, comprising a peptide that binds to a cancer cell, wherein the peptide comprises a cancer targeting motif having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Abstract: An optical particle detecting device includes a light source that emits light, an optical fiber that carries the emitted light, an emission-side condensing lens that condenses the light emitted from an end portion of the optical fiber, and a jet mechanism that causes an airstream including a particle to cut across the beam condensed by the emission-side condensing lens.

Abstract: Among others, the present invention provides piezo-electric micro-devices for detecting at the microscopic level an electric, magnetic, electromagnetic, thermal, optical, acoustical, biological, chemical, physical, bio-chemical, bio-physical, physical-chemical, bio-physical-chemical, bio-mechanical, bio-electro-mechanical, electro-mechanical, or mechanical property of the biologic subject.

Abstract: A microbial detection article and methods of using the same, the article comprising: a base member comprising a self-supporting water impervious substrate with first and second generally opposed major surfaces; a filter assembly defining a filter assembly aperture therein, and having a composite filter body mounted across the filter assembly aperture; wherein the composite filter body comprises: a microporous membrane, and a water-absorbent layer in fluid communication with the microporous membrane; and a cover sheet.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cell capture system for use in determining the presence and/or amount of cells, for example, viable cells, in a liquid sample, and to methods of using such a cell capture system.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of detecting viable cells in a cell sample, using a membrane permeable fluorescent label that permeates both viable and non-viable cells and a membrane impermeant quencher that selectively permeates non-viable cells.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to methods of using compositions that include sets of magnetic particles, members of each set being conjugated to an antibody specific for a pathogen, and magnets to isolate a pathogen from a body fluid sample.

Abstract: The invention provides a family of agents that target bacterial infection, which can be used as imaging agents or therapeutic agents. The agents can be used to image sites of bacterial infection as well as other physiological processes in a subject.

Abstract: A method is provided for identifying a hyphal fungus in a sample by similarity comparisons between a mass spectrum of the fungus and reference spectra. The method includes growing fresh hyphae without any adhering contact to surfaces as to form a mycelium with undifferentiated hyphae cells. A sample is prepared from the hyphae cells, and a mass spectrum is acquired of the hyphae cell sample. The mass spectrum is matched with at least one reference spectrum.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic nanoparticle having a Curie temperature which is within a biocompatible temperature range, a method for preparing same, and a nanocomposite and a target substance detection composition comprising the magnetic nanoparticle. As the magnetic nanoparticle of the present invention has a Curie temperature within the temperature range of 0 degrees centigrade to 41 degrees centigrade, the ferromagnetic and paramagnetic properties of the magnetic nanoparticle may be controlled within a biocompatible temperature range at a temperature at which a biological control agent is not destroyed, and the temperature of the magnetic nanoparticle is adjusted to control the magnetic properties thereof such that the properties of the magnetic nanoparticle may be used only when ferromagnetic properties are required, such as in the case of signal amplification in detecting, separating, and delivering biological control agents.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to in vitro methods for mimicking in vivo pathological or physiologic conditions. The methods comprise applying shear forces to a cell type or cell type plated on a surface within a cell culture container. Methods for testing drugs or compounds in such systems are also described.

Abstract: Pathogen and chemical detection systems for use with a patient support apparatus and related methods are disclosed. A fluid or biologic sample from the vicinity of a person supported by a person support apparatus is acquired and transmitted to a pathogen detection sensor. A graphical caregiver interface is supplied output from the pathogen detection sensor and detects the presence of a chemical. The graphical caregiver interface communicates with an electronic medical records database, and alarm and a nurse call system.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for inactivation and/or extraction of acid-fast bacteria (e.g., mycobacteria or nocardia), the method comprising the following sequential steps: (a) acquiring a test sample known to contain or that may contain acid-fast bacteria and suspending the test sample in a container containing ethanol and beads; (b) bead beating and/or vortexing the container to break up clumps and/or disrupt acid-fast bacteria cells in the container; and (c) subsequently incubating the suspension for at least about 3 minutes at room temperature to inactivate any acid-fast bacteria contained in the test sample. In accordance with the present invention, the test sample can subsequently be pelleted by centrifugation, resuspended with formic acid, acetonitrile added, and subjected to mass spectrometry for characterization and/or identification of the acid-fast bacteria.

Abstract: The present invention provides small molecules for endothelial cell activation and compositions thereof and methods of making and using the same.

Abstract: Methods are provided for detection of a target cell type within a cell population, and compositions are provided comprising cells and an indicator that indicates the number of cells of the target cell type in the cell population. Examples are provided in which these methods are used to detect human embryonic stem cells within a differentiated cell population with exquisite sensitivity. Differentiated cells produced from embryonic stem cells can be characterized by these methods before transplantation into a recipient, thereby providing further assurance of safety.

Abstract: By using the method and equipment according to this invention it is possible to analyse rapidly a large number of microbiological culture samples, or alternatively of liquid phase samples, based on the gases or gaseous compounds released by them. This invention exploits generally a sample line, along which the samples move, and it can be used for the microbial control tasks in hospitals, industry, hygiene and environmental fields. In this system gas is led into the culture vessels during the growth of the microbe, and gases released by the culture or liquids derived from them are collected into the chambers, capsules or equivalents.

Abstract: The presence of a detectable entity within a detection volume of a microfabricated elastomeric structure is sensed through a change in the electrical or magnetic environment of the detection volume. In embodiments utilizing electronic detection, an electric field is applied to the detection volume and a change in impedance, current, or combined impedance and current due to the presence of the detectable entity is measured. In embodiments utilizing magnetic detection, the magnetic properties of a magnetized detected entity alter the magnetic field of the detection volume. This changed magnetic field induces a current which can reveal the detectable entity. The change in resistance of a magnetoresistive element may also reveal the passage of a magnetized detectable entity.

Abstract: Microorganisms, particularly bacteria, are identified and characterized on the basis of a mass spectrometric measurement of their protein profiles with ionization by matrix-assisted laser desorption. In order to measure the microbial resistance to antibiotics, the protein profiles of microorganisms are measured after cultivation for a short time duration in nutrient media containing the antibiotics.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices are described for multiple single-cell capturing and processing utilizing microfluidics. Tools and techniques are provided for capturing, partitioning, and/or manipulating individual cells from a larger population of cells along with generating genetic information and/or reactions related to each individual cell. Different capture configurations may be utilized to capture individual cells and then processing each individual cell in a multi-chamber reaction configuration. Some embodiments may provide for specific target amplification, whole genome amplification, whole transcriptome amplification, real-time PCR preparation, copy number variation, preamplification, mRNA sequencing, and/or haplotyping of the multiple individual cells that have been partitioned from the larger population of cells. Some embodiments may provide for other applications. Some embodiments may be configured for imaging the individual cells or associated reaction products as part of the processing.

Abstract: A method for preparing induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, which comprises steps as follows: step 1, introducing one or more stem cell pluripotency factors into somatic cells; step 2, culturing the somatic cells, into which the stem cell pluripotency factor has been introduced in the Step 1, by using medium supplemented with lithium salt; and step 3, identifying and characterizing the induced pluripotent stem cells. Furthermore, there provided a medium for preparing induced pluripotent stem cells, which comprising lithium salt. The medium supplemented with lithium salt is used for efficiently inducing pluripotent stem cells. Lithium salt is able to increase the production efficiency of mouse iPS cells by 5-60 times. The present method for inducing iPS cells is in favor of improving the safety of iPS technique and application of iPS cells in regenerative medicine.

Abstract: A system for real-time sizing of fluid-borne particles is disclosed. The system further determines, in real time, whether the detected particles are biological or non-biological. As the fluid is being tested, it is exposed to a microbe collection filter which is cultured to determine the type of microbes present in the fluid being tested.

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: A method and point of use kit to determine under field conditions the presence and/or amount of a selected Pseudomonas species capable of bioremediating organic environmental pollutants, such as petroleum hydrocarbons.

Abstract: A method for detecting a cancer cell, including: contacting in vitro a peripheral blood-containing sample including test cells and a labeling substance; allowing the test cells to incorporate the labeling substance to label the test cells; and detecting, as a cancer cell, a cell showing a higher degree of labeling with the labeling substance than that shown by a normal cell in the peripheral blood-containing sample.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to fluorogenic schiff base-forming dyes capable of detecting analytes containing aldehyde and ketone groups. The dyes contain nucleophilic hydrazinyl appendages and are capable of binding and detecting analytes in situ.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and compositions for the differentiation of stromal cells from adipose tissue into hematopoietic supporting stromal cells and myocytes of both the skeletal and smooth muscle type. The cells produced by the methods are useful in providing a source of fully differentiated and functional cells for research, transplantation and development of tissue engineering products for the treatment of human diseases and traumatic tissue injury repair.

Abstract: A sorting methodology in which bulk analysis of samples that have a low probability of containing a rare particle is performed first. Only those samples in which the bulk analysis has detected one or more rare particles are subjected to a flow cytometry process to isolate the rare particle(s). In one embodiment, a microwell plate provides for high throughput sorting in an enclosed environment. The microwell plate includes a plurality of wells and a microfluidic layer adapted for flow cytometry wherein particles from a given well are interrogated and sorted into other wells. The microfluidic layer advantageously includes fluid switches to permit bi-directional flow cytometry.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel fluorescent derivatives of polyamines having a benzoxadiazole group, to a method for preparing the same and to the use thereof as diagnosis tools for emphasising the polyamine transport system in cancerous cells in order to adapt the treatment thereof, and thus for selecting patients carrying such tumors in order to adapt their treatment. The derivatives are of the formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, in which: R1 is one or more NO2 groups in position 4 or 6, or a SO2Ph, SO2NMe2, SO2NH2 or SO3H group; R2 is hydrogen, C1-6 alkyl, benzyl, a perfluoroalkyl group; the values of a, b, c range from 2 to 5 independently from each other and represent alkylene chains separating the amino groups, and the values of d and e can independently be 0 or 1.

Abstract: Compositions containing bacteriophages and methods of using bacteriophages in microorganism detection assays and microbial growth and plating media are disclosed. The lytic ability of these phages to control the growth of non-target populations provides superior sensitivity and specificity to detection assays and reduces false negative and false positive results. The removal of contaminating bacteria reduces the microbial competition for nutrients in the growth media thereby increasing the efficiency and productivity of the culture. The phage treatment of the sample increases the proportion of target microorganisms in the sample over contaminating bacteria thereby requiring less time for enrichment to obtain a significant signal improving overall signal to noise ratio in assays and providing for higher yield of end product in microbiological production systems.

Abstract: The invention mainly relates to the mass spectrometric identification of pathogens in blood cultures from blood-stream infections (septicemia). The invention provides a method with which microbial pathogens can be separated in purified form from blood after a relatively brief cultivation in a blood culture flask, without any interfering human proteins or any residual fractions of blood particles such as erythrocytes and leukocytes, and can be directly identified by mass spectrometric measurement of their protein profiles. The method is based on the use of relatively strong tensides to destroy the blood particles by dissolving the weak cell membranes and most of the internal structures of the blood particles; in spite of the fact that tensides are regarded as strong ionization inhibitors in MALDI and other ionization processes required for mass spectrometric measurements.

Abstract: The disclosed methods use a multi-phase system to separate samples according to the density of an analyte of interest. The method uses a multi-phase system that comprises two or more phase-separated solutions and a phase component such as a surfactant or polymer. The density of the analyte of interest differs from the densities of the rest of the sample. The density of the analyte of interest is substantially the same as one or more phases. Thus, when the sample is introduced to the multi-phase system, the analyte of interest migrates to the phase having the same density as the analyte of interest, passing through one or more phases sequentially.

Abstract: Compounds and methods are disclosed that are useful for noninvasive imaging in the near-infrared spectral range. The cyanine compounds of Formula I are presented: wherein Q is a portion of a polymethine bridge: Also included are bioconjugates of the compounds of Formula I, methods of labeling biomolecules with the compounds, and methods of imaging.

Abstract: The field of the invention is the analysis of target microorganisms in a complex sample. The present invention more particularly relates to a culture medium for the detection of at least one target microorganism including: at least one natural or synthetic fermentation or enzymatic activity substrate, and at least one selective agent, which inhibits non-target microorganisms, constituted by para-amino benzoic acid, one of its derivatives or one of their salts, at a concentration of between 0.05 and 1 g/L.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method of procuring allograft tissue. In an embodiment, the method includes inserting an allograft through an opening into a procurement extraction container, sealing the opening, adding extraction fluid through a second opening, agitating the fluid, collecting the fluid for detection of contamination, and sealing the second opening. There is disclosed a procurement extraction container. In one embodiment, the container includes a wall defining an interior to receive the allograft, an opening into the interior, sized to receive the allograft, a closure device for the opening, the closure device providing a hermetic seal, a second opening providing a second passageway into the interior, the second opening having a connector interface and a second closure device providing a hermetic seal so as to provide, with the first closure and the at least one wall, a sterile barrier. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for determining the age of ginseng roots using chromatography-mass spectroscopy. It comprises: extracting a metabolome from a ginseng sample; subjecting the metabolome to liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy (LC/MS) or gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC/MS) to afford an analysis result; converting the LC/MS or GC/MS analysis result to statistically accessible data; and performing a statistical analysis of the data to determine the age of ginseng sample. Based on the metabolite fingerprinting of metabolomics, the method can determine the exact age of ginseng roots from a very small amount of roots within a short time in a non-destructive manner with minimal damage to the roots.

Abstract: Finding biologically relevant cancer markers is key to developing an effective treatment. Once specific antigens have been identified that are present on the cell population responsible for propagating tumors, T cells can be genetically altered to target these antigens and then used for personalized T cell therapy. A method to identify and select peptide antigens that effectively associate with and are presented by host HLA surface molecules originating from tumor cells responsible for the persistence and propagation of a cancer has been developed. The system of using these data to produce T cells engineered to express T cell receptors recognizing the peptide antigens is used in the production of a personalized adoptive T cell therapy for cancer that eliminates the cells capable of tumor propagation and cancer progression. The system is especially useful in the production of cancer treatments to achieve complete durable remission of cancers of epithelial origin.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of diagnosing a cancer or providing a prognosis for a cancer by analyzing the level of expression of a marker that is a downstream target of N-cadherin.

Abstract: DNA enhancer sequences are provided for use in constructs to identify early stage embryonic cells. The enhancer sequences can be used in parallel with short-hairpin RNA in a vector construct for endogenously regulated gene knockdowns. The disclosed enhancer sequences can be used to isolate a selected population of early stage embryonic cells.