Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and systems for transducing measurements from medium of interest. One non-limiting example is in planta monitoring of plants. In one aspect, a micro- or nano-scale probe body includes one or more microprobes (e.g. microneedles or waveguides) to access desired plant tissue, and one or more microsensors on the probe body. A microcircuit on or in the probe body transduces relevant measurements from the microsensor(s). An output interface allows storage, communication, or transfer of the transduced measurement for further use. Non-limiting examples are processing into estimations of chemical concentrations or the like for biochemical sensing. As such, if used as in planta sensors, they can be minimally invasive and cost effective for both single use and use in sets for plural plants with one central station.

Abstract: A wastewater treatment method applicable to new or existing enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) treatment process designs which utilize the sequencing batch reactor (SBR) process activated sludge process treatment tanks. The method improves the performance and efficiency in the treatment of municipal and industrial wastewater to remove phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N). The method includes ceasing reaction cycles when a derivative of rate of change of the input flow volume of the air stream into the tank needed to maintain a low-range of dissolved oxygen (DO), in which an oxidation reduction potential (ORP) setpoint reaches a derivative value indicating that conversion of the ammonia nitrogen in the influent wastewater content to a nitrite or to a nitrate is complete.

Abstract: Hydrocracked bottoms fractions are treated to separate HPNA compounds and/or HPNA precursor compounds and produce a reduced-HPNA hydrocracked bottoms fraction effective for recycle, in a configuration of a single-stage hydrocracking reactor, series-flow once through hydrocracking operation, or two-stage hydrocracking operation. A process for separation of HPNA and/or HPNA precursor compounds from a hydrocracked bottoms fraction of a hydroprocessing reaction effluent comprises contacting the hydrocracked bottoms fraction with an effective quantity of a non-polar solvent to promote precipitation of HPNA compounds and/or HPNA precursor compounds. The soluble hydrocarbons in the hydrocracked bottoms fraction are separated into an HPNA-reduced hydrocracked bottoms portion that is recycled within hydrocracking operations.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and systems for transducing measurements from a medium of interest. One non-limiting example is in planta monitoring of plants. In one aspect, a micro- or nano-scale probe body includes one or more microprobes (e.g. microneedles or waveguides) to access desired plant tissue, and one or more microsensors on the probe body. A microcircuit on or in the probe body transduces relevant measurements from the microsensor(s). An output interface allows storage, communication, or transfer of the transduced measurement for further use. Non-limiting examples are processing into estimations of chemical concentrations or the like for biochemical sensing. As such, if used as in planta sensors, they can be minimally invasive and cost effective for both single use and use in sets for plural plants with one central station.

Abstract: A molecular detection apparatus 1 according to an embodiment includes: a collection unit collecting detection target gas containing molecules to be detected; a detector including a detection cell having an organic probe provided at a sensor unit, the organic probe capturing the collected molecule to be detected; and a discriminator discriminating the molecule to be detected by a detection signal generated by the molecule being captured by the organic probe. The detection cell has the organic probe containing a phosphonic acid structure or phosphoric acid structure.

Abstract: A stage smoke machine with a fast spray gas column includes an oil barrel, an oil pump, a gas tank, a first electromagnetic valve, a heater, a gas-filling device and a controller. In case of gas loss in the gas tank, the gas tank is replenished with the gas by the gas-filling device so that the gas pressure in the gas tank can be maintained at a pressure sufficient to fast spray smoke oil into the heater, thereby ensuring that every time the smoke machine is started, the smoke machine can quickly show a high level stage effect of fast sprayed smoke. Further, an electromagnetic valve module is formed by installing at least two electromagnetic valves integrally on a base.

Abstract: A method of measuring nitrate concentration in an aqueous sample include mixing the aqueous sample with a water-soluble thioether compound including a chromophore group in the presence of a water soluble catalyst; measuring a color change, and correlating the color change to nitrate concentration.

Abstract: A compound, or a protonate or salt thereof, having a formula I of: wherein Y represents an optionally substituted aromatic group; n is 1 or 2; a is 0 to 4; R1 and R2 are each independently H; optionally substituted alkyl; optionally substituted aralkyl; acyl; phosphonyl; —SO2R12; —C(O)R13; —C(O)OR14; —C(O)NR15R16; —C(O)CH2R17; or —C(S)—NR18R19; —S(O)R20; or —SO2NR21R22, wherein R12-R22 are each independently H, optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted aralkyl, optionally substituted aryl, or —C(O)R23, wherein R23 is H, optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted aralkyl, or optionally substituted aryl; and each R3 is independently optionally substituted alkyl, halogen, optionally substituted alkoxy, optionally substituted carboxyl, amide; amino; or nitro.

Abstract: A method of determining a concentration of nitrate includes mixing an acid with a first mixture comprising an aldehyde, a chloride and at least one of a nitrate sample and distilled water so as to obtain a second mixture. The second mixture is reacted with a phenol so as to develop a color in a third mixture after a reaction time. The concentration of nitrate is determined colorimetrically with the third mixture.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a sensor capable of detecting an aromatic nitro compound explosive, and a preparation method thereof, and more specifically, to a nanosensor system, and a detection method using the same, wherein a quantum dot-based sensor for detecting an aromatic nitro compound explosive can conveniently detect an aromatic nitro compound explosive with high sensitivity on the basis of a change in energy transfer between quantum dots. The method for detecting an explosive of the present invention makes an explosive come in contact with a quantum dot thin film to which an explosive can combine, and measures a change in fluorescence wavelength, thereby sensing an explosive.

Abstract: A sampling system includes an analyte sampler that includes an enclosure; a mount disposed in the enclosure; a capillary tube disposed in the mount; and a thermal member disposed in the enclosure and including a first fluid supply member to provide a fluid to an interior of the enclosure. The sampling system also includes a manifold in fluid communication with the analyte sampler. A process for sampling an analyte includes subjecting the capillary tube to a negative pressure; and controlling the temperature of the capillary tube to immobilize the analyte in the capillary tube; providing an analyte to a second end of the capillary tube; and immobilizing the analyte in the capillary tube to sample the analyte.

Abstract: A fluorescence-based sensor can comprise a nanofiber mass of nanofibers having tubular morphology and a fluorescence detector, where fluorescence of the nanofibers decreases upon contact with a nitro-containing compound. The nanofibers can comprise carbazole-cornered, arylene-ethynylene tetracyclic macromolecules of formula I: where R1-R4 are alkyl-containing groups. The tubular morphology allows for highly selective detection of trinitrotoluene over other nitro-based compounds and oxidizing organic compounds.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a nanoparticle-based nitroaromatic explosive sensor for detecting nitroaromatic compounds, more specifically to stably detecting explosives in an aqueous solution by introducing, on the surface of the nanoparticles, a molecule which improves the dispersion force of the nanoparticles in an aqueous solution while binding strongly therewith, and which can simultaneously bind with the nitroaromatic compounds.

Abstract: A method of establishing a therapeutic window of wound fluid nitric oxide (WFNO) in the wound of a mammal, the method including: obtaining a wound fluid sample from a mammal; analyzing the WFNO level; determining whether the WFNO is at or below a lower threshold level, or is at or above an upper threshold level; wherein the lower threshold level and upper threshold level define the therapeutic window of WFNO; and treating the mammal with a substance that alters the WFNO level such that the therapeutic window of WFNO in the wound is established.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods and systems for detecting the presence of explosive elements. A sample element may be used to swipe an object for a test sample. The sample element may be positioned in a sample holder of a testing device having a heater. The heater may be programmed to heat the sample element and sample in a controlled manner through two or three temperature increases from approximately 35 degrees to 165 degrees centigrade in approximately 40 seconds. Prior to each temperature increase a first, second and third reagent fluid is applied to the sample holder, and during the temperature rise the sample holder is observed for the presence of various explosive elements by detecting colors as compared to a color chart. The color observations may be based on time and temperature variations using a testing device.

Abstract: Explosives detection polymers are provided that include a polyamine polymer, such as polyethylenimine, functionalized with a small molecule fluorophore. Methods for detecting an explosive material using polyamine polymers functionalized with a small molecule fluorophore are also provided. Sensors for explosive detection are provided that include a polyamine polymer functionalized with a small molecule fluorophore and a complementary analytical device.

Abstract: Reagents and methods are disclosed for detection of oxidizers and inorganic salts and other analytes of interest. The reagents can interact with their target analytes, especially oxidizer compositions or oxidizer-based explosives, to selectively enhance their ionization yield, interacting by chemical reaction or by forming an associative adduct which facilitates their detection. For example, the reagents can adduct with the counter-ion of the intended analyte for improved direct detection and/or react chemically via acid-base reactions to produce a new product for detection. In another aspect of the invention, reactive reagents and methods are also disclosed that facilitate indirect detection of the analyte at lower temperatures based on reduction-oxidation (redox) chemistry. These reagents are particularly useful in detecting oxidizer analytes.

Abstract: There is provided a method for the prevention and/or treatment of hypotension associated with hemodialysis, which method includes administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of at least one physiologically compatible compound which, in combination with iron, binds nitric oxide. There is further provided a method for identifying hemodialysis subjects for whom treatment with an effective amount of at least one physiologically compatible compound which, in combination with iron, binds nitric oxide is indicated. The method includes monitoring the subject's nitric oxide levels, and selecting those subjects having elevated nitric oxide levels for treatment with an effective amount of at least one physiologically compatible compound which, in combination with iron, binds nitric oxide, wherein the effective amount is sufficient to maintain the subject's nitric oxide levels within an acceptable range.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for analyzing a medical condition of a user. The apparatus may include a user interface configured to receive user identification information inputted by the user, an analyzer, and a processor all disposed within a common housing. The analyzer is configured to receive a biological specimen from the user and to analyze the biological specimen to generate analysis information. The processor is configured to store and forward the analysis information and to receive prescription information. The apparatus may include a communication unit configured to transmit the user identification information and the analysis information to a doctor at a remote location for review and to receive the prescription information from the doctor. The apparatus then may dispense the prescribed medication or print a medication prescription.

Abstract: A compound represented by the general formula (I) [R1 and R2 are amino groups that substitute at adjacent positions on the benzene ring; R3 and R4 are halogen atoms; R5 and R6 represent hydrogen atom, an acyl group or an acyloxy(C1-6 alkyl) group; R7 and R8 represent —(CH2)p—N(R9)(R10) (p is 1 to 4, and R9 and R10 represent —(CH2)n—COOH (n is 1 to 4))], which is useful for measuring a reactive nitrogen species existing in cells such as nitrogen monoxide or peroxynitrite at high sensitivity over a long period of time.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a kit and method for the colorimetric detection of precursors used in the assembly of homemade explosives (HMEs). More specifically, the present invention relates to a bulk HME precursor detection kit and methods of using a kit that is capable of bulk detection of HME precursors, such as urea nitrate, ammonium nitrate and potassium chlorate.

Abstract: A soil tester is disclosed, and comprises a housing and a sampling apparatus. The housing includes an interior sampling chamber configured to receive a sample container. The sampling apparatus comprises a photodetector and a light source. The photodetector is mounted along a portion of the interior sampling chamber and has a variable resistance determined by a property of incident light. The light source is mounted to the interior sampling chamber in a transmissive orientation relative to the photodetector so that a beam of light can be transmitted from the light source to the photodetector through the interior sampling chamber. A display on the housing is responsive to the photodetector.

Abstract: A method and device for detecting explosive compounds in an air sample in which the air sample is filtered with activated carbon treated with a weakly basic solution, after which the air sample is divided into two parts, with one part being heated at lower temperatures to decompose non-explosive nitrogenous compounds and the second part being heated at higher temperatures to decompose explosive nitrogenous compounds. Nitrogen dioxide is measured in both portions of the air sample with a spectrographic detector, and the presence or absence of explosive nitrogenous compounds in the air sample is determined.

Abstract: An aquatic environment monitoring system and method that includes correction for adverse conditions in the monitoring system involving the development of confidence levels for certain conditions in the monitoring system using stored information related to the aquatic environment and/or the monitoring system. Corrections to adverse conditions may be made by the environment monitoring system automatically by the monitoring system and manually via communications to a user of the system.

Abstract: In order to provide an analysis method that is capable of determining a glycan structure with high detection sensitivity, a method of the present invention includes the steps of: carrying out triple quadrupole mass spectrometry at various values of CID energy; creating an energy-resolved profile including yield curves representing relationships between (i) a value of the CID energy and (ii) measured amounts of specific types of product ions; preparing a reference profile, and identifying a glycan structure of a test material by comparing the energy-resolved profile with the reference profile.

Abstract: Provided herein are explosives detection substrates which include an electrospun (electro)sprayed and/or dry spun aromatic polymer, such as polystyrene, and a small molecule fluorophore. Methods for detecting an explosive material using such substrates are also provided.

Abstract: A method for the detection of explosives using a single sample. The explosives include nitro aliphatic and nitro aromatic-based explosives. The method includes steps which require different pHs to discriminate between these types of explosives and at least in the detection step of the nitro aliphatic explosive requires the presence of a nitro aromatic compound. A kit for detecting explosives which includes a medium for collecting a sample, a base optionally impregnated on the medium; and a nitro aromatic solution for detecting a nitro aliphatic explosive by contacting the solution with the sample on the medium. A reagent including a nitro aromatic compound, having one or more additional electron withdrawing groups, in the presence of a basic compound usable for detecting nitro aliphatic explosives.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention relates to an ultrathin micro-electromechanical chemical sensing device which uses swelling or straining of a reactive organic material for sensing. In certain embodiments, the device comprises a contact on-off switch chemical sensor. For example, the device can comprises a small gap separating two electrodes, wherein the gap can be closed as a result of the swelling or stressing of an organic polymer coating on one or both sides of the gap. In certain embodiments, the swelling or stressing is due to the organic polymer reacting with a target analyte.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for determining the presence of oxidizing salts. According to the current invention, analyte is collected on a swipe and subsequently heated to a temperature sufficient to release a detectible vapor phase component of the oxidizing salt. The vapor phase component passes reacts with a pH sensitive molecule. Reaction of the vapor phase product with the pH sensitive molecule produces a detectible change in response intensity.

Abstract: A detection kit comprises a plurality of swabs, each of the plurality of swabs having the form of a stick, being bundled together in a single test kit for detection of a plurality of chemical compounds. A user opens a detection kit, swabs a surface or surfaces with the bundled sticks, collecting chemical constituents to be tested on detection surfaces of each of the plurality of sticks. Liquids, mists, vapors and powders may be tested in one method, utilizing one or more dry reagents on the detection surfaces. The sticks may comprise a volume of fluid, releasably contained within the sticks, such that when activated, a fluid, such as a reagent or solvent, is wicked by a wicking tip to the detection surface of the stick. For example, a mechanism is provided that is capable of breaking a vial or ampoule containing the fluid, when activated by a twisting motion or compression. Adhesive may be present on one or more of the detection surfaces.

Abstract: A point-of-care, screening kit for use by a heath care worker to create custom test strips for screening the bodily fluids of an individual for various, medical conditions includes: (a) a plurality of reagents (12), (b) a substrate (18) configured to: i) receive one of the reagents and react with it so as to cause it to acquire a first characteristic color, and, ii) upon the addition of the individual's bodily fluid to the substrate, acquire, as a result of the formulation of each of the reagents, a second, dichotomous characteristic color when the individual has a specific one of the various, medical conditions.

Abstract: In order to provide an analysis method that is capable of determining a glycan structure with high detection sensitivity, a method of the present invention includes the steps of: carrying out triple quadrupole mass spectrometry at various values of CID energy; creating an energy-resolved profile including yield curves representing relationships between (i) a value of the CID energy and (ii) measured amounts of specific types of product ions; preparing a reference profile, and identifying a glycan structure of a test material by comparing the energy-resolved profile with the reference profile.

Abstract: A multi-compartment resealable container for testing for the presence of micro-organisms is provided with or adapted to receive a sample in a first substantially rigid transparent compartment, a growth medium in a second compartment, and a sanitizer in a third compartment, the compartments being separated by foil seals, the second and third compartments have an associated plunger which when depressed causes serrated cutters to puncture the foil seal and allow the contents to be added to the liquid containing or comprising the sample.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a low temperature plasma probe for desorbing and ionizing at least one analyte in a sample material and methods of use thereof. In one embodiment, the invention generally relates to a low temperature plasma probe including: a housing having a discharge gas inlet port, a probe tip, two electrodes, and a dielectric barrier, in which the two electrodes are separated by the dielectric barrier, in which application of voltage from a power supply generates a low temperature plasma, and in which the low temperature plasma is propelled out of the discharge region by the electric field and/or the discharge gas flow.

Abstract: A method of determining a concentration of nitrate includes mixing an acid with a first mixture comprising an aldehyde, a chloride and at least one of a nitrate sample and distilled water so as to obtain a second mixture. The second mixture is reacted with a phenol so as to develop a color in a third mixture after a reaction time. The concentration of nitrate is determined colorimetrically with the third mixture.

Abstract: Methods and kits to detect and quantitate NOx compounds in a biological sample are provided. The methods include reacting a mixture that includes a nitrite compound and a chromogenic reagent to form a colored compound, contacting the mixture with a retention medium configured to retain the colored compound, and detecting the colored compound retained on the retention medium.

Abstract: Methods for determining the concentration of nitrates in several types of water samples by photochemical reduction without the use of toxic materials such as cadmium or hydrazine, and having an approximately 100% reduction efficiency are described. A water sample mixed with a buffered aqueous solution including ammonium salts and EDTA is irradiated using ultraviolet light having wavelengths effective for photochemical conversion of nitrate and nitrite ions (NOx) to detectable species. The resulting species may be quantitatively determined by diazotization using sulfanilamide followed by coupling with N-(1-napthyl)ethylenediamine dihydrochloride which produces a water-soluble azo dye having a magenta color which may be colorimetrically measured at 540 nm from which the nitrate and nitrite concentration in the sample is determined.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the determination of polysorbate in a protein-containing sample. The method of the present invention involves the pretreatment of the sample by alkaline hydrolysis followed by colorimetric determination.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for near real-time in-situ soil solution measurements is presented. An outer sleeve is placed in soil where ionic concentrations of organic or inorganic species are to be measured. A porous section connects with the outer sleeve (the porous section initially loaded with distilled water) equilibrates with the solution present in soil pores to form a solution to be measured. The initial distilled water is displaced within the porous section by a removable plunger. After substantial equilibration of the solution to be measured within the apparatus, the plunger is removed and a removable probe replaced. The probe may be an Ion Selective Electrode, or a transflection dip probe. The probe then may be used under computer control for measurement of solution properties. The Ion Selective Electrode may measure nitrate (NO3?) concentrations. The transflection dip probe may be read with spectrometer with an input deuterium light source.

Abstract: A panel for monitoring levels of biomarkers, including an assay having at least one inflammation monitoring test, at least one oxidative stress monitoring test, and at least one antioxidant activity monitoring test. A method of monitoring an individual's health, by collecting a sample from the individual, applying the sample to an assay panel, performing at least one inflammation monitoring test, at least one oxidative stress monitoring test, and at least one antioxidant activity monitoring test in the panel, and determining levels of biomarkers related to inflammation, oxidative stress, and antioxidant activity and therefore providing information regarding the individual's relative health and/or risk of developing one or more diseases.

Abstract: A senor uses a transduction mechanism of attenuating electroluminescence. Luminescence from a light emitting diode is attenuated as a consequence of direct interaction of an analyte and a electroluminescent material, An electroluminescent diode sensor (EDS) is fabricated in a way that allows the electroluminescent material in the diode to be exposed to gaseous, liquid or solid sample(s) which may affect the luminescence intensity of the diode.

Abstract: A method of detecting a peroxidic explosive includes providing a sample which may comprise the peroxidic explosive. A mixture comprising at least one ionic liquid and at least one volatile organic solvent is provided. The sample is taken up in the mixture so as to provide a sample for detection. The sample for detection is analytically detected so as to determine whether it includes the peroxidic explosive.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method for quick and simultaneous determination of 16 inorganic anions and organic acids in tobacco by ion chromatography The retention behavior of inorganic anions and organic acids on the anion exchange column was investigated using potassium hydroxide produced by EGC-II KOH eluent autogenerator as eluent. The optimized gradient elution condition was obtained. The samples were prepared through extraction, filtration and dilution before analysis. The separation was performed on an anion exchange column. The time of the gradient elution program was 50 mins. Under the optimized conditions, the calibration of peak area for all the analytes were linear in the ranges of 105. The method in the present invention has the advantadges of simplicity, rapidity and accuracy, and is able to simultaneously determine 16 inorganic anions and organic acids in tobacco by one single time of injection.

Abstract: A photoconductive sensor compound for detecting explosives can have a structure I: where R is a morphology control group, A is a linking group, B is a electron donor that is selective for transferring electrons to PTCDI backbone upon irradiation to make the resulting nanostructures conductive, and R1 through R8 are side groups.

Abstract: The present application relates to copolymers having at least one optionally substituted fluoranthene as a first monomer unit and at least one optionally substituted pyrrole as a second monomer unit. The copolymer may, for example, emit green light when exposed to a blue or ultraviolet radiation. Methods of making the copolymer are also disclosed, as well as methods and apparatuses for producing light and detecting nitroaromatics using the copolymer.

Abstract: A detection device for detecting analytes in liquid specimen is provided. The detection device comprises: a specimen chamber for collecting or storing a liquid specimen; a detecting chamber for containing a detecting element; and a through hole for transferring the liquid specimen between the specimen chamber and the detecting chamber. The through hole can be opened or self-sealed. The sealing or opening of the through hole controls whether or not the liquid specimen in the specimen chamber enters the detecting chamber via the through hole. Furthermore, a detection method is provided.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods of detecting anions in solution. In particular, the methods can be used to detect trace anions in solution. For example, the anions can be present in an amount of between about 500 femtomoles to about 10 millimoles.

Abstract: A method of simultaneously detecting peroxide and nitrogen-based explosives includes the steps of applying a conversion reagent to a sample, the conversion reagent oxidizing in the presence of peroxide and inorganic nitrate explosives; applying a test reagent including a luminescent compound to the sample; exciting the luminescent compound with ultraviolet light; and simultaneously determining the presence of one or more explosives based on quenching, brightening or a shift in wavelength of the luminescence over time. Explosives may also be detected based on color changes of the sample. Optionally, phase transfer reagents, catalysts, colorimetric agents and zinc dust may be added to improve detection of explosives. Alternatively, an assay-type method may be utilized wherein a sample is added to the conversion and/or test reagents and the reagent is spotted on a substrate before exposure to ultraviolet light.

Abstract: This invention provides polymeric coordination compounds capable of forming three-dimensional microporous metal organic frameworks (MMOFs) that are useful for detection of explosive compounds. The polymeric coordination compounds comprise a repeating unit comprising a transition metal coordinated to at least one binding member of a bidentate binding site on each of two polyfunctional ligands and one binding site of a bis-pyridine exodentate bridging ligand, for example, the repeating unit comprising formula [Zn2(bpdc)2(bpee)] (bpdc=4,4?-biphenyldicarboxylate; bpee=1,2-bipyridylethene). Methods of preparing such polymeric coordination compounds, methods of using them for detection of explosive compounds, and sensors or sensor arrays comprising such polymeric coordination compounds for detection of explosive compounds, especially those comprising one or more nitro (—NO2) groups, are also disclosed.

Abstract: A device for detecting an analyte in a sample is provided, which comprises: a collecting chamber containing an opening for collecting a liquid sample; a detecting element for detecting an analyte in the liquid sample; and a lid for covering the opening of the collecting chamber. The device further comprises an indicating device thereon to indicate whether or not the lid covers at an appointed position. The operation of the device is very simple.