Abstract: Antigenic protein fragments of Streptococcus pneumoniae to be used for the preparation of a medicament for the prevention and the treatment of bacterial infections and a method for the detection thereof, and related compositions using said epitopes, are disclosed.

Abstract: An antimicrobial susceptibility assay enabling a more rapid and direct result, including an assay dish including at least one chamber, at least one growth medium carried by the assay dish, at least one antimicrobial agent sample positionable at a sample location adjacent a growth medium in the assay dish, at least one interpretive indication positionable at a predetermined distance from the sample location adjacent a growth medium in the assay dish, and at least one interfitting element, said at least one interfitting element configured cooperate with the assay dish to enable at least one of: a) more accurately positioning said at least one antimicrobial sample at the sample position in contact with the growth medium; b) carrying said at least one interpretive indication positionable at a predetermined distance from said sample position; said assay enabling the interpretative indication to be visually compared with a margin of a zone of inhibition of microbial organism growth on said growth medium to determin

Abstract: Methods of detecting influenza, including differentiating between type and subtype are disclosed, for example to detect, type, and/or subtype an influenza infection. A sample suspected of containing a nucleic acid of an influenza virus, is screened for the presence or absence of that nucleic acid. The presence of the influenza virus nucleic acid indicates the presence of influenza virus. Determining whether the influenza virus nucleic acid is present in the sample can be accomplished by detecting hybridization between an influenza specific probe, influenza type specific probe, and/or subtype specific probe and an influenza nucleic acid. Probes and primers for the detection, typing and/or subtyping of influenza virus are also disclosed. Kits and arrays that contain the disclosed probes and/or primers also are disclosed.

Abstract: A kit is disclosed for preparing a measurement sample for detecting live cells, injured cells, VNC cells and dead microorganism cells in a test sample by the following steps: a) the step of treating the test sample with an enzyme having an activity of decomposing cells other than those of the microorganism, colloidal particles of proteins or lipids existing in the test sample, b) the step of treating the test sample with a topoisomerase poison and/or a DNA gyrase poison. c) the step of treating the test sample treated in the steps a) and b) with a nuclear stain agent, and d) the step of detecting the microorganism in the test sample treated with the nuclear stain agent by flow cytometry.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a fusion protein made from a synthetic gene construct comprising of elements derived from the Leishmania antigens K26, K39, and K9. The fusion protein is particularly useful in the diagnosis of leishmaniasis, particularly visceral leishmaniasis in animals such as humans and dogs.

Abstract: Certain embodiments described herein are directed to a reagent that includes an effective amount of an adsorber to remove interfering species present during heavy metal level measurement in a fluid sample. In some examples, the reagent can include an effective amount of an adsorber to remove a suitable amount of glutathione from the fluid sample such that the glutathione does not interfere with measurements of lead levels in the fluid sample.

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: Disclosed herein are fully human antibodies and antigen-binding fragments thereof that specifically bind human VEGF and inhibit VEGF binding to VEGF-R1 and VEGF-R2, and therefore inhibit VEGF signaling. The antibodies and antigen-binding fragments disclosed herein may be used, for example, to treat angiogenesis and conditions associated with angiogenesis both in vivo and in vitro.

Abstract: Recurrent gene fusions of androgen regulated genes and ETS family member genes in prostate cancer are described. Compositions and methods having utility in prostate cancer diagnosis, research, and therapy are also provided.

Abstract: A nucleic acid probe for classification of pathogenic bacterial species is capable of collectively detecting bacterial strains of the same species and differentially detecting them from other bacterial species. Any one of the base sequences of SEQ ID NOS. 84 to 86 and complementary or modified sequences thereof or a combination of at least two of them is used for detecting the gene of an infectious disease pathogenic bacterium.

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: Diagnostic in-vitro devices for use in the assaying of biological fluids are provided which include cover plates or backing strips which exhibit hydrophilic properties to assist in transport of the biological fluid or retention of same within the device. Exemplary diagnostic devices include lateral flow devices, microfluidic devices and microtiter plates. The devices may also be comprised of low fluorescent material in order to facilitate any diagnostic determination by use of fluorescent emissions. Hydrophilic properties may be imparted to the cover plates or backing strips by physical or chemical treatment thereof. The cover plates or backing strips may exhibit heat sealable or pressure sensitive properties.

Abstract: Antigenic peptides that bind to MHC Class II molecules with the shared epitope referred to as HLA-DR molecules are disclosed. More specifically, are citrullinated antigenic peptides having an increased affinity for HLA-DR molecules and associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis. These novel peptides provide the basis for new methods of diagnosis and treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis.

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: Fluorescently labeled microsphere calibration and quality control particles for use in establishing standardized fluorescence detector setup, monitoring daily QC of flow cytometers and quantitative calibration of the fluorescence detectors in traceable units of measure (molecules equivalent soluble fluorescence; MESF).

Abstract: Devices and methods for the detection of antigens are disclosed. Devices and methods for detecting food-borne pathogens are disclosed.

Abstract: A gene encoding a novel protein that works as a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) for a Rho family protein being one group of small GTP-binding proteins, namely, a polynucleotide shown by the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1, SEQ ID NO: 3, or SEQ ID NO: 5, or the complementary strand, the equivalents of the polynucleotide, a protein encoded by the polynucleotide, a vector containing the polynucleotide, a transformant containing the vector, an antibody against the protein encoded by the polynucleotide, a method of identifying a compound that inhibits the function of the protein encoded by the polynucleotide and/or the expression of the polynucleotide, a method of determining a disease, a pharmaceutical composition, and a reagent kit are provided.

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: A nucleic acid probe for classification of pathogenic bacterial species is capable of collectively detecting bacterial strains of the same species and differentially detecting them from other bacterial species. Any one of the base sequences of SEQ ID NOS. 76 to 77 and complementary or modified sequences thereof or a combination of at least two of them is used for detecting the gene of an infectious disease pathogenic bacterium.

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: An apparatus and methods for binding an analyte of interest in a sample are provided. The apparatus comprises a substrate with an exposed surface with an compound, that is electrostatically charged or capable of forming hydrogen bonds, provided bound to the solid substrate. A recombinant single chain antibody (scFv) molecule specific for the analyte of interest, having one or more amino acids with charged or hydrogen-bond forming sidechains in a linker polypeptide portion, is bound to the layer on the solid substrate. When the analyte of interest is present in the sample the scFv binds the analyte to the solid substrate. The apparatus can be used with an immunoglobulin layer to detect Fc receptors, so as to detect microorganisms such as Staphylococcus aureus having protein A or protein G.

Abstract: A nucleic acid probe for classification of pathogenic bacterial species is capable of collectively detecting bacterial strains of the same species and differentially detecting them from other bacterial species. Any one of the base sequences of SEQ ID NOS. 68 to 69 and complementary or modified sequences thereof or a combination of at least two of them is used for detecting the gene of an infectious disease pathogenic bacterium.

Abstract: Compositions for enhancing satiety and weight loss in an individual, assays for assessing a tastant for enhancing satiety and weight loss, and methods of using the composition to suppress appetite and enhance weight loss are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel IL17RLP protein which is a member of the interleukin (IL)-17 receptor family. In particular, isolated nucleic acid molecules are provided encoding the human IL17RLP protein. IL17RLP polypeptides are also provided as are vectors, host cells and recombinant methods for producing the same. The invention further relates to screening methods for identifying agonists and antagonists of IL17RLP activity. Also provided are diagnostic methods for detecting immune system-related disorders and therapeutic methods for treating, diagnosing, detecting, and/or preventing immune system-related disorders.

Abstract: A substrate plate or device adapted for use with biological or chemical assays is disclosed. The device may take the form of a multi-well plate having a three-dimensional, porous layer as part of a support surface within each well for immobilizing probe species. The porous layer is characterized as having a plurality of interconnected voids defined by a matrix of contiguous solid material. A method and its variants are also described.

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 relates to a purified molecules, including antibodies, that bind specifically to murine ?-catenin phosphorylated at amino acid position Serine552 and to orthologs thereof, such as mammalian orthologs, including human orthologs. Methods of making and using such purified molecules are also provided. Kits containing such purified molecules are further provided.

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: Antibodies and fragments that bind to the protein target c-Met, particularly to epitopes located in the c-Met extracellular domain, are provided, as are methods of use of the antibodies and kits, for treating an unwanted cell, in particular, a cell associated with a c-Met-related condition such as a cancer, a metastasis, or an inflammatory condition.

Abstract: The present invention provides for methods and systems for detecting steroids. Examples of such steroids include estrogen, progesterone, androgen, testosterone, and derivatives and analogs thereof. Systems useful for carrying out the method include tripartite constructs including a DNA-binding domain, a ligand binding domain, and an activation domain. The present invention provides numerous improvements over previous diagnostic systems for detection of steroids, such advantages include that the method allows for detection of steroid analogs and derivatives, whose structures may not yet be known, the method is generally applicable to a wide variety of organisms, and numerous ligand binding domains may be used in conjunction with the present system.

Abstract: Methods of binding and detecting a microorganism on a solid substrate. The microorganism is bound on a solid substrate covalently bound to a capture agent having a saccharide moiety. A lectin capable of binding to the microorganism and the saccharide moiety of the capture agent is added to the sample to bind the microorganism on the solid substrate. Further provided are biosensor devices, such as a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) device or a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) device, that incorporate the solid substrate for the detection of microorganisms.

Abstract: The enzyme Lp-PLA2 in purified form, an isolated nucleic acid molecule encoding Lp-PLA2, the use of an inhibitor of the enzyme Lp-PLA2 in therapy and a method of screening compounds to identify those compounds which inhibit the enzyme.

Abstract: A specimen collection apparatus and method is provided that allows for obtaining a specimen of evidence from a crime scene or evidence of any event and the sequential use and transfer and analysis of such evidence in a manner which maintains a demonstrable chain of custody.

Abstract: The present invention relates to oligonucleotide primers and primer sets that can be used to identify the bacterial pathogen Acidovorax avenae subsp. citrulli in a test sample.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for use in a flow through assay process is disclosed. The method is characterised by a “pre-incubation step” in which the sample which is to be analyzed (typically for the presence of a particular protein), and a detection analyte (typically one or more antibodies bound to colloidal gold or a fluorescent tag) which is known to bind to the particular protein may bind together for a desired period of time. This pre-incubation step occurs before the mixture of sample and detection analyte come into contact with a capture analyte bound to a membrane. The provision of the pre-incubation step has the effect of both improving the sensitivity of the assay and reducing the volume of sample required for an assay. An apparatus for carrying out the method is disclosed defining a pre-incubation chamber for receiving the sample and detection analyte having a base defined by a membrane and a second membrane to which a capture analyte is bound.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to molecules such as peptides, polypeptides and proteins which interact immunologically with T lymphocytes in subjects having peanut allergy, or allergy to other tree nuts, and genetic sequences encoding same. These molecules are preferentially immunointeractive with T cells in subjects having an allergy to the Ara h 2 allergen. The molecules of the present invention are useful in the development of diagnostic, therapeutic and prophylactic agents for conditions characterized by an aberrant, inappropriate or otherwise unwanted immune response to Ara h 2 or derivative or homologue thereof.

Abstract: A novel anti-human tenascin ST2146 monoclonal antibody is described endowed with high affinity with the native antigen and high tumor selectivity. The cST2146 hybridoma is stably producing the antibody in high density culture conditions and is suitable for the industrial development of ST2146-based products. ST2146 exhibits properties exploitable for both therapeutic and diagnostic applications.

Abstract: A object of the present invention is to provide an immunochromatography method that makes it possible to rapidly detect an ultratrace amount of an analyte that has been impossible to analyze by conventional immunochromatography methods. The present invention provides an immunochromatography method, which comprises developing an analyte and a labeling substance which is modified with a first binding substance against the analyte in a mixed state on a porous carrier and capturing the analyte and the label at a reaction site on the porous carrier having a second binding substance against the analyte or a substance capable of binding to the first binding substance against the analyte, so as to detect the analyte, wherein the labeling substance having an average particle size of 1 ?m or more and 20 ?m or less is detected.

Abstract: An immunochromatoassay method that allows high detection sensitivity measurement. The method including the steps of: permeating an analyte solution that includes a visibly labeled second binding substance that specifically binds to a detection target substance into a test area of a chromatography medium provided with a first binding substance that specifically binds to the detection target substance, simultaneously with or after the permeation of the analyte solution into the test area, permeating a visual recognition aid solution into the chromatograph medium, the solution having a refractive index whose refractive index difference ?n from that of the chromatograph medium is ?0.1??n?0.1, and visually observing the test area while the visual recognition aid solution is permeated in the test area.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a screening method for a compound and includes a step of detecting binding between a vitamin D receptor and CDP. A novel method enabling screening in vitro of a compound having strong bone forming action and low side effects, a compound participating in osteoblast differentiation and selected by the method of screening, a therapeutic agent containing the compound for diseases intervening in the increase in vitamin D-mediated transcriptional activity by a complex of a vitamin D receptor and CDP, and a kit for performing the screening method are provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides molecules, including IgGs, non-IgG immunoglobulins, proteins and non-protein agents, that have increased in vivo half-lives due to the presence of an IgG constant domain, or a portion thereof that binds the FcRn, having one or more amino acid modifications that increase the affinity of the constant domain or fragment for FcRn. Such proteins and molecules with increased half-lives have the advantage that smaller amounts and or less frequent dosing is required in the therapeutic, prophylactic or diagnostic use of such molecules.

Abstract: Devices and methods for the detection of antigens are disclosed. Devices and methods for detecting food-borne pathogens are disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel enteropeptidase polypeptides, polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides, nucleotide constructs, vectors, host cells comprising the polynucleotides, and methods for producing the polypeptides and polynucleotides. Such polypeptides are useful as protein engineering tool for enzymatic cleavage of fusion proteins. Also provided are kits comprising the polypeptides of the invention.

Abstract: The present invention concerns antibodies to C3b and the prevention and treatment of complement-associated disorder using such antibodies.

Abstract: A tube and float system for use in separation and axial expansion of the buffy coat is provided. The system includes a transparent, or semi-transparent, flexible sample tube and a rigid separator float having a specific gravity intermediate that of red blood cells and plasma. The sample tube has an elongated sidewall having a first cross-sectional inner diameter. The float consists of a main body portion and one or more support members protruding from the main body portion to engage and support the sidewall of the sample tube. The main body portion and the support members of the float have a cross-sectional diameter less than that of the first cross-sectional inner diameter of the tube when the sample tube is expanded, such as by centrifugation. The main body portion of the float together with an axially aligned portion of the sidewall define an annular volume therebetween.

Abstract: The present invention relates to sensitive, rapid and convenient assays for detection and or quantification of one or more analyte(s) in solution using multivalent proximity probes. The proximity probes each comprise several binding moieties, such as antibodies, and associated nucleic acid(s). When the binding moieties have bound to their analyte(s), the nucleic acids on opposite proximity probes interact with each other and a signal is generated based on this interaction. The multivalent proximity probes are especially valuable for highly sensitive and specific protein detection.

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: The present disclosure relates to Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome, nucleic acids encoding the BHD gene, and antibodies that specifically bind to the BHD protein (folliculin). In addition, the present disclosure relates to methods of diagnosing BHD disease and related conditions, such as spontaneous pneumothorax and kidney cancer, by detection of altered expression of folliculin using folliculin-specific antibodies.

Abstract: Nucleic acids encoding various monocyte cell proteins from a primate, reagents related thereto, including specific antibodies, and purified proteins are described. Methods of using reagents and related diagnostic kits are also provided.

Abstract: This invention relates to anti-P-selectin antibodies and, in particular, to anti-P-selectin antibodies and variants thereof that contain an Fc part derived from human origin and do not bind complement factor C1q. These antibodies have new and inventive properties causing a benefit for a patient suffering from critical limb ischemia or peripheral arterial occlusive disease (CLI/PAOD).