Abstract: A system for acquiring data regarding a wound in tissue comprises at least one excitation light source configured to directly illuminate a wound with excitation light; a spectral filtering mechanism configured to permit passage of optical signals responsive to illumination of the wound and having at least one wavelength corresponding to bacterial, fungal, and/or other microorganism autofluorescence and/or bacterial, fungal, viral, and/or microbial fluorescence, the spectral filtering mechanism including a plurality of selectable filters respectively corresponding to different discrete spectral bandwidths; an optical sensor configured to detect the spectrally filtered signals; and a processor configured to receive the detected, filtered signals and to identify a fluorescent signature of bacteria in the wound based at least in part on the detected, filtered signals and to output data regarding the bacterial, fungal, viral, and/or microbial fluorescent signature.

Abstract: The embodiments disclose a portable microbial test kit including a plurality of organic materials configured to be processed for preservation and prevention of mold, bacteria infestations, rot, and decay and reduce and prevent any degradation, a storage facility, a plurality of hardware, and a plurality of equipment configured for storage and monitoring of the plurality of organic materials, wherein the hardware and the equipment are configured to monitor the condition of the organic materials during storage, a plurality of components coupled to the hardware and the equipment configured to electronically monitor the condition of the organic materials during storage, at least one electronic device coupled to the plurality of hardware and the plurality of equipment configured to report electronically the condition of the organic materials to the facility and customer, and a system coupled to the at least one electronic device configured for customers to automatically reorder hardware and equipment.

Abstract: A method for calibrating an imager of a reagent analyzer, comprises positioning a dry reagent pad at a first read position in a field of view of the imager, the first read position illuminated by an illumination source with a first intensity, detecting a reference optical signal by the imager, indicative of a first reflectance value of the dry reagent pad at the first read position, positioning the dry reagent pad at a second read position, the second read position illuminated with a second intensity different from the first intensity, detecting a first optical signal by the imager, indicative of a second reflectance value of the dry reagent pad at the second read position, and calculating, by a processor, a calibration factor for the dry reagent pad at the second read position based on a difference between the reference optical signal and the first optical signal.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system comprising a communication interface and computer for assigning a label to the biomolecule fingerprint, wherein the label corresponds to a biological state. The present disclosure also provides a sensor arrays for detecting biomolecules and methods of use. In some embodiments, the sensor arrays are capable of determining a disease state in a subject.

Abstract: Diagnostic assay devices for detecting the presence of an analyte in a sample solution may comprise a microreactor configured to form a sample solution containing the analyte, flow the sample solution therethrough in a first direction to form an analyte-capture molecule complex, and transfer the sample solution to an absorbent strip pad configured to flow therethrough, in a second direction crossing the first direction, the sample solution including the analyte-capture molecule complex and indicate a presence of the analyte-capture molecule complex. The diagnostic devices may be used, for example, to identify the presence of SARS-Cov2, RSV, influenza A, influenza B or other pathogens in samples from patients.

Abstract: The present invention provides a detection reagent and therapeutic target for B cell tumor after targeted therapy and related applications. The reagent composition comprises 3 groups of antibodies, with the first group of antibodies including an anti-CD38 antibody, an anti-CD10 antibody, an anti-CD34 antibody, an anti-CD19 antibody, an anti-CD24 an antibody, an anti-CD20 antibody, an anti-CD81 antibody, an anti-CD45 antibody; the second group of antibodies including an anti-CD38 antibody, an anti-CD10 antibody, an anti-CD34 antibody, an anti-CD19 antibody, an anti-CD20 antibody, an anti-CD72 antibody, an anti-CD45 antibody; and the third group of antibodies including an anti-cytoplasmic CD79a antibody. The reagent composition of the present invention can be applied for the detection of B-lymphocyte tumors after targeted therapy by flow cytometry.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for determining ammonium or ammonia in aqueous samples in accordance with the known Berthelot method, wherein the risk of incorrectly low results is greatly reduced by additionally measuring the extinction in the absorption range of the nitroprusside used as a catalyst.

Abstract: A two step lateral flow assay method for identifying IgE antibodies in a sample comprises applying a sample to a sample port of a device, wherein the device is adapted to deliver the sample to a lateral flow matrix having a plurality of IgE antigen species immobilized at respective positions at a first location; allowing the sample to travel along the lateral flow matrix through the immobilized plurality of IgE antigen species to a second location downstream of the first location; and, after a predetermined period of time, applying liquid buffer to the lateral flow matrix to mobilize labeled reagent which is adapted to bind anti-IgE antibody and which is dried on the lateral flow matrix at a location upstream of the sample port delivery of the sample to the lateral flow matrix, and allowing labeled reagent mobilized by the liquid buffer to travel along the lateral flow matrix through the immobilized plurality of IgE antigen species and bind with any IgE antibody bound to the immobilized IgE antigen species, a

Abstract: Devices and methods for testing a biological sample for an analyte of interest are provided that make use of a reaction chamber for receiving a reaction mixture, a housing positioned below the reaction chamber for receiving a test cassette, and a door that is positioned in the top portion of the housing. The door includes a ramp that extends downwardly into the housing such that biasing the ramp upwards opens the door into the cavity of the reaction chamber and places the reaction chamber in fluid communication with the insertion area to thereby allow the reaction mixture to flow onto a test cassette and allow for the determination of an amount of an analyte of interest.

Abstract: A host antigen-specific antibody testing system and method. The a ternary complex of the antigen, a ligand-bound anti-host IgM, and a non-host anti-antigen IgG detector conjugate selectively form a quaternary complex with host antibodies, wherein the host antibodies and IgG compete for the antigen, and the IgM binds the host antibodies. The quaternary complex is retained by an immobilized IgM ligand binding agent, and any residual ternary is retained by a later encountered immobilized anti-non-host IgG. If sufficient host antibodies have a high affinity for the antigen, the complex is detected at the quaternary complex detection region based on the presence of the detector, and if there are insufficient high affinity host antibodies, the ternary complex migrates past the quaternary complex detection region and is retained and detected at a control region.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a quantitative assay device and a method for the determination of an analyte, based on a test strip, which contains a porous test membrane allowing for capillary flow of the analyte and complexes of the analyte, a porous upstream membrane in fluid connection with the test membrane and a porous downstream membrane in fluid connection with the test membrane, wherein the test membrane contains two bands having deposited on there high and low concentrations of different calibrator agents and a test band capable of reacting with conjugated analyte complexes giving rise to a measurable signal.

Abstract: A device and method for performing a point of care diagnostic test for detecting and quantifying at least one analyte in a biological sample (e.g., a body fluid). A device may include an immunoassay apparatus and a holder with an adjustable variable angle stage for positioning the immunoassay apparatus relative to a light source and a detector device so as to optimize the angle of incidence and angle of radiation to optimize an elastic light scattering signal from the immunoassay apparatus. The elastic light scattering signal may be used to quantify the amount of the analyte(s) of interest present in the sample. The device is based upon elastic light scattering, so the variation in the angle of incidence and angle of reflection are optimized to maximize signal generation due to elastic light scattering.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are an apparatus and method for measuring biomedical data and a measurement strip. The apparatus includes a plurality of detection units arranged within a strip reception area on a plane and spaced apart from each other, a measurement type determination unit for determining whether reactive portions are present in areas of the measurement strip corresponding to the plurality of detection units based on detection results obtained by the detection units and determining a type of measurement based on results of the determination, a biomedical data measurement unit for activating part or all of the detection units according to the type of measurement determined by the measurement type determination unit, and measuring the biomedical data using the activated detection units, and an output unit for outputting the measured biomedical data to an outside.

Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a measurement kit for developing a first developing solution and a second developing solution from different directions to suppress background noise, and an immunochromatography kit. The present invention provides a measurement kit, which comprises a first developing member for supplying a first developing solution and a second developing member for supplying a second developing solution, wherein the developing direction of the first developing solution is allowed to intersect with the developing direction of the second developing solution, so that development is carried out by developing the first and second developing solutions in different developing directions, and a water absorbent portion is established on the downstream of each of the developing directions.

Abstract: The present invention provides an immunochromatographic device, which contains the following (a) and (b): (a) a first device part holding a first insoluble carrier used for developing a complex formed with an analyte and a labeling substance comprising a metal labeled with a first binding substance that can bind to the analyte and capturing the analyte and the labeling substance at a reaction portion containing a second binding substance that can bind to the analyte, and (b) a second device part holding a second insoluble carrier used for developing a liquid and a third insoluble carrier used for absorbing a liquid, in such a way that the first insoluble carrier does not come into contact with the second insoluble carrier and the third insoluble carrier.

Abstract: A lateral flow device includes a sample compressor and a test strip comprising a diverting zone. The diverting zone, which may include a barrier and/or a gap or ditch, stops or impedes flow. Flow is reinitiated and diverted into an alternate plane by compression of a sample compressor. Flow returns to the original, lateral plane, at the end of the diverting zone.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a diagnostic test kit that assesses ovarian reserve by measuring Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) in a liquid sample. The sample can be deposited on a first portion of the device for transport to a second portion of the device. The device can include a release medium formed of a first material and including a detectable label thereon and a capture medium, including a test site, in fluid communication with the release medium and formed of a second, different material.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an assay for detecting and differentiating multiple analytes, if present, in a single fluid sample, including devices and methods therefore.

Abstract: A lateral flow, membrane-based assay device for detecting the presence or quantity of an analyte residing in a test sample is provided. The device utilizes phosphorescence to detect the signals generated by excited phosphorescent labels. The labels may have a long emission lifetime so that background interference from many sources, such as scattered light and autofluorescence, is practically eliminated during detection. In addition, the phosphorescent labels may be encapsulated within particles to shield the labels from quenchers, such as oxygen or water, which might disrupt the phosphorescent signal.

Abstract: Devices and methods incorporate lysis agents into a point-of-care testing device. The sample is loaded, and then the sample travels until it encounters a lysis agent. The lysis agent is preferably pre-loaded onto the collection device. In a preferred embodiment, the initially lysis agent is localized between the sample application zone and the conjugate zone. The lysis agent is preferably soluble or miscible in the sample transport liquid, and the lysis agent is solubilized and activated upon contact with the sample transport liquid. The sample transport liquid then contains both lysis agent in solution or suspension and sample components in suspension. Any lysis-susceptible components in a sample, then being exposed in suspension to the lysis agent, are themselves lysed in situ. The running buffer then carries the analyte, including any lysis-freed components, to the detection zone.

Abstract: Test cells have a first sorbent strip with a sample receiving location and defining a first migration path, a distinct second sorbent strip which receives buffer solution and at least partially defines a second migration path distinct from and elongated relative to the first migration path, conjugate supported by the second strip, a test site located at a junction of the first and second strips and having an immobilized ligand-binding mechanism, and a divider which directs a first amount of the buffer to the first strip to move the sample to the test site and a second amount to the second strip to move the conjugate to the test site. The first and second migration paths have first and second lengths chosen so that ligand in the sample reaches the test site and binds to the immobilized ligand-binding mechanism prior to the conjugate reaching the test site.

Abstract: A lateral flow, membrane-based assay device for detecting the presence or quantity of an analyte residing in a test sample is provided. The device utilizes phosphorescence to detect the signals generated by excited phosphorescent labels. The labels may have a long emission lifetime so that background interference from many sources, such as scattered light and autofluorescence, is practically eliminated during detection. In addition, the phosphorescent labels may be encapsulated within particles to shield the labels from quenchers, such as oxygen or water, which might disrupt the phosphorescent signal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel lateral flow devices using two dimensional features, preferably, uniform two dimensional test and control features, and the methods for detecting an analyte using the lateral flow devices, and processes for making the lateral flow devices.

Abstract: The sensitivity of visually read lateral flow immunoassay tests is enhanced by adding a small quantity of fluorescing dye or fluorescing latex bead conjugates to the initial conjugate material. When the visible spectrum test line is visibly present, the test result is observed and recorded. However, in the case where the result is indeterminate, a light of an appropriate spectrum, such as a UV, visible, or infrared spectrum, is cast on the test line to excite and fluoresce the fluorescing latex beads which are bound in the test line in true positive tests to enhance the visible color at the test line.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an assay device and a method for using such for the quantitative determination of an analyte, based on a test strip, which contains a porous test membrane allowing for capillary flow of the analyte and complexes of the analyte, a porous upstream membrane in fluid connection with the test membrane and a porous downstream membrane in fluid connection with the test membrane, wherein the test membrane contains a test site having immobilized thereon a ligand capable of reacting with the analyte and binding such to the test site, and two standard band sites having immobilized thereon known high and low concentrations of a calibrator agent capable of reacting with a label conjugate and binding such to the standard sites, wherein the upstream membrane has a site for the application of a sample to be analyzed, and has a site downstream from the sample application site for depositing label conjugates capable of reacting with the analyte and label conjugates capable of reacting with the

Abstract: The present invention includes methods and devices for preventing interfering substances from affecting the accuracy of a lateral flow immunoassay. In preferred embodiments, a test strip includes a capturing zone that includes at least one mobile capturing reagent that separates at least one interfering substance from the analyte. The capturing zone is preferably located upstream of the sample application zone. In some embodiments, the reagent/conjugate zone is also located upstream of the sample application zone. The capturing zone may be located upstream, downstream, or overlapping with the reagent/conjugate zone in these embodiments. In other preferred embodiments, one or more mobile capturing reagents are included in the elution medium/running buffer. In yet other embodiments, the capturing reagent is incorporated into a sample collection device of a sample collection system, preferably separate from the chromatographic test strip. A lysis zone is also included in some preferred embodiments.

Abstract: The present invention related to a pregnancy test device that can selectively detect hyperglycosylated human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG-H) in a liquid sample. The sample can be deposited on a proximal portion of the device for transport to a distal portion of the device. The device can include a release medium formed of a first material and including a detectable label thereon and a capture medium, including a capture site, in fluid communication with the release medium and formed of a second, different material. At least one of the release medium and the capture medium includes a binding member that exhibits a moderate to high affinity for hCG-H and is selectively or preferentially reactive with hCG-H.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and article for storing genetic material or analytes from a biological sample by contacting said biological sample with a cellulose substrate comprising structural units of Formula I wherein X and Y are independently N—O-L-A or O, with the proviso that when Y is O, then X is N—O-L-A, and when X is O, then Y is N—O-L-A; L is a direct bond, an aliphatic radical, an aromatic radical, a cycloaliphatic radical, or a combination thereof; and A=COOH, SO3H, or a combination thereof. The invention also relates to a cellulose substrate comprising the structural units of Formula I, and a method of manufacturing the same.

Abstract: Methods for measuring the amount of two or more analytes of interest in a fluid sample, and kits useful in the methods, are disclosed. The methods involve determining a ratio of a detected amount of a single analyte of interest, to the sum of a detected amount of each of the analytes of interest plus a detected amount of a control, wherein the amount of each analyte of interest is directly or inversely related to the ratio for each analyte of interest.

Abstract: Compositions, methods and devices for the detection of anti-lipoidal antibodies and the diagnosis of disease, for example, syphilis, are described. In particular, a method for immobilizing a lipoidal antigen, comprising cardiolipin, lecithin, and cholesterol, on a solid support (such as a nitrocellulose membrane) is described. The ability to immobilize a lipoidal antigen on a membrane satisfies a long-felt need for a membrane-based assay for the detection of anti-lipoidal antibodies. Also described are immunoassay devices for concurrently performing treponemal and non-treponemal tests for syphilis.

Abstract: Compositions, methods and devices for the detection of anti-lipoidal antibodies and the diagnosis of disease, for example, syphilis, are described. In particular, a method for immobilizing a lipoidal antigen, comprising cardiolipin, lecithin, and cholesterol, on a solid support (such as a nitrocellulose membrane) is described. The ability to immobilize a lipoidal antigen on a membrane satisfies a long-felt need for membrane-based assay for the detection of anti-lipoidal antibodies. Also described are immunoassay devices for concurrently performing treponemal and non-treponemal tests for syphilis.

Abstract: Methods and devices for rapid lateral flow immunoassays to detect specific antibodies within a liquid sample while also validating the adequacy of the liquid sample for the presence of immunoglobulin and the integrity and immunoreactivity of the test reagents that detect the antibodies of interest, without requiring instrumentation. The methods and devices provide for delivery of a diluted liquid sample to a single location that simultaneously directs the liquid flow along two or more separate flow paths, one that serves as a positive control to confirm that all critical reagents of the test are immunoreactive, and that the sample being tested is adequate, and the other to detect specific antibodies if present.

Abstract: The present invention related to a pregnancy test device that can selectively detect hyperglycosylated human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG-H) in a liquid sample. The sample can be deposited on a proximal portion of the device for transport to a distal portion of the device. The device can include a release medium formed of a first material and including a detectable label thereon and a capture medium, including a capture site, in fluid communication with the release medium and formed of a second, different material. At least one of the release medium and the capture medium includes a binding member that exhibits a moderate to high affinity for hCG-H and is selectively or preferentially reactive with hCG-H.

Abstract: The invention comprises a device for detecting an analyte in a liquid sample deposited on a first portion of the device for transport to a second portion of the device that is in fluid contact with the first portion. In specific embodiments, the device comprises a labeled conjugate comprising a binding member reactive with a first epitope of the analyte and a label comprising a gold colloid, preferably having a mean particle size of 50 nm to 100 nm. In further embodiments, the device comprises a capture component comprising polymerized streptavidin. The diagnostic device is particularly useful in the preparation of pregnancy test kits.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to immunoassays for detecting one or more target analytes in a fluid sample wherein the detection reaction occurs on a solid support and involves an amplification system. In particular, the invention is directed to making and using a test device having at least one site for detecting the presence of at least one target analyte, wherein a conjugate comprising dextran-polystreptavidin is immobilized at the test site(s) as a capture reagent for a complex containing the target analyze.

Abstract: The invention comprises a device for detecting an analyte in a liquid sample deposited on a first portion of the device for transport to a second portion of the device that is in fluid contact with the first portion. In specific embodiments, the device comprises a labeled conjugate comprising a binding member reactive with a first epitope of the analyte and a label comprising a gold colloid, preferably having a mean particle size of 50 nm to 100 nm. In further embodiments, the device comprises a capture component comprising polymerized streptavidin. The diagnostic device is particularly useful in the preparation of pregnancy test kits.

Abstract: Methods for quantitatively measuring the amount of an analyte of interest in a fluid sample, and kits useful in the methods, are disclosed. The methods comprise sandwich assays, and utilize an internal calibration reaction that closely mimics the reaction of test particles by the use of a two-step reaction.

Abstract: A diagnostic and testing apparatus and related methods for the use of the same are disclosed which derive and use antibodies to equine albumin and equine hemoglobin in testing apparatus, kits, and methods for detecting and localizing gastric and colonic ulcers or bleeding in horses. Fecal droppings from a horse to be tested are placed in a container together with a buffered liquid solution and mixed thoroughly, following which several drops of liquid from the container are placed into a test kit. Visual markers in the test kits signify the detection of the indicators equine hemoglobin and equine albumin, which are respectively indicative of the presence of gastric and/or colonic ulcers or bleeding.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the determination of the concentration of a non-volatile analyte in an aqueous sample medium, with the use of an optical sensor which contains a luminescent dye and is calibrated at the user site by means of a single-point-calibration. To enable the user to completely dispense with all calibration media a luminescence measurement value is obtained at the user site with the sensor in contact with the aqueous or bloodlike sample medium, which value is referenced to the relative characteristic obtained at the factory site and to a measured dry calibration value obtained at the user site, the concentration of the non-volatile analyte being deduced from these data.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a diagnostic method for the detection of small quantities of amniotic fluid in the vagina. More specifically, the invention relates to the detection of PAMG-1 in the vagina using anti-PAMG-1 antibodies.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a lateral flow assay for detecting the presence of an analyte in a liquid test sample. The lateral flow assay represents an improvement in the ability to accurately and with high fidelity to detect the presence or absence of a target analyte in a liquid sample, in part, by encompassing a reference region of immobilized, non-diffusible analyte that allows for detection of any factors that interfere with the interaction and binding of the analyte to the labeled capture reagent. Any influences on the interaction and binding of the analyte that is free in solution in the liquid test sample to its complementary labeled reagent will be encountered in parallel in the binding between the immobilized analyte in reference region to the labeled reagent as it diffuses through the reference region. In one embodiment, the lateral flow assay of the invention is a urine-based human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) assay.

Abstract: A test device and method for determining the presence or absence of one or more analytes in a fluid sample, the test device including a support or member bearing a mark thereon, and a matrix or member containing a capture zone. In operation, an observation area in the test device becomes transparent, thereby allowing the user to view a mark that is present on a support that is disposed beneath the observation area. Typically, the mark on the underlying support is configured as a minus (?) sign. In the absence of analyte in the sample, the test device presents a negative result as a minus (?) signal. In the presence of analyte in the sample, however, the mark operates in concert with a perpendicular test line on the observation area to present a positive result as a plus (+) signal that is visible to the user.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a lateral flow assay and system, including a test strip, for detection and quantification of analytes in samples, such as samples containing cells and fluid. In general, according to the present invention, a test strip for a lateral flow assay for detection of at least one analyte in a sample comprises: (1) a chromatographic strip, a sample filter, a fluid-impermeable barrier, and means for providing a mobilizable detectable agent that is capable of binding to the at least one analyte or to the capture agent after capturing the analyte to the chromatographic strip such that the mobilizable detectable agent migrates through the chromatographic strip and contacts sample that has passed through the sample filter and also has migrated through the chromatographic strip. The test strip allows detection with or without quantitation of an analyte in a sample containing whole cells.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for non-invasive analysis of saliva includes a user friendly lolli-pop like apparatus that is self contained and provides the user with a method to obtain saliva by sucking or licking on the pop head, the saliva activates a color change reaction on the apparatus that results in a color visual response that can be compared to a color coded alphanumeric gauge for analysis in monitoring health conditions and concerns.

Abstract: A test strip for immunochromatography comprising a sample receiving member, a label holding member, and a chromatography membrane is described. The chromatography membrane has a first detection zone and a second detection zone. The second detection zone is formed by utilizing a blocking material and the second substance. A method for producing above the test strip is also described.

Abstract: The subject invention is an immunoassay for the semi-quantitative test kit for determination of human chrionic gonadtropin (hCG) in fluid sample (such as urine) as an aid in the diagnosis of a certain stage of pregnancy. The test device includes five strips having each having a dipping end or sample ends where sample can be applied. Results are indicated by coloration of two bands across a clear area of the strips, one band being coated with a reagent such as hCG antigens and the other with a reagent such as goat/rabbit polyclonal antibody gold conjugate. The combination of color indications on the bands provides the test results.

Abstract: This invention provides an immunochromatography detection apparatus exhibiting excellent convenience, sensitivity, and specificity, a detection method therefore, a kit using the same, and a method for producing such apparatus and kit, by constructing a solid-phase support, on which the conditions for the reaction wherein an analyte specifically binds to a labeled reagent containing a ligand that specifically binds to the analyte and those for the reaction wherein a capture reagent specifically binds to a complex of the analyte and the labeled reagent in the immunochromatography detection method are continuously optimized, and the pretreated specimens are optimized for such reactions.

Abstract: A chromatographic specific binding assay strip device, comprising: a non-permeable platform strip; a permeable membrane testing strip positioned on top of said non-permeable platform strip, with the testing strip comprising at least one capture reagent site containing a capture reagent for at least one specific analyte, a sample receiving pad positioned on top of and at a proximal end of the non-permeable platform strip, with the sample receiving pad having contact with a proximal end of said permeable membrane testing strip, a reservoir pad positioned on top of and at a distal end of said non-permeable membrane testing strip, with the reservoir pad having contact with a proximal end of said permeable membrane test strip; a supporting strip attached to and extending from the proximal end of said non-permeable platform strip; and a conjugate pad positioned on said supporting strip, said conjugate pad comprising a semi-permeable membrane containing a colorant conjugate.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an apparatus for thin-layer cell smear preparation and in-situ hybridization, comprising at least one positioning device and a sealing device. The positioning device comprises at least one first opening. When the positioning device is set on a carrier device, the wall of the first opening and the carrier device form a cavity. The cavity is used to accommodate a cell suspension. The sealing device is provided on the positioning device for sealing the cavity to form an enclosed space.

Abstract: Provided are methods comprising the use of non-sugar organic compatible solutes for protection and preservation of the activity of biologically active molecules and conjugate labels. The methods are particularly adaptable for use in conjunction with immunoassays, such as for example, immunochromatographic test assays and may be incorporated into any test methodology wherein a dry test strip is used as a carrier for depositing, mobilizeable and/or immobilized biologically active molecules and/or conjugate labels.