Abstract: Various systems and methods of operating an analyte measurement device is provided. The device has a display, user interface, processor, memory and user interface buttons. In one example, one of the methods can be achieved by measuring an analyte with the analyte measurement device; displaying a value representative of the analyte; prompting a user to activate a test reminder; and activating the test reminder to remind a user to conduct a test measurement at a different time. Other methods and systems are also described and illustrated.

Abstract: This application provides devices for modeling ischemic stroke conditions. The devices can be used to culture neurons and to subject a first population of the neurons to low-oxygen conditions and a second population of neurons to normoxic conditions. The neurons are cultured on a porous barrier, and on the other side of the barrier run one or more fluid-filled channels. By flowing fluid with different oxygen levels through the channels, one can deliver desired oxygen concentrations to the cells nearest those channels.

Abstract: An array of sensors arranged in matched pairs of transistors with an output formed on a first transistor and a sensor formed on the second transistor of the matched pair. The matched pairs are arranged such that the second transistor in the matched pair is read through the output of the first transistor in the matched pair. The first transistor in the matched pair is forced into the saturation (active) region to prevent interference from the second transistor on the output of the first transistor. A sample is taken of the output. The first transistor is then placed into the linear region allowing the sensor formed on the second transistor to be read through the output of the first transistor. A sample is taken from the output of the sensor reading of the second transistor. A difference is formed of the two samples.

Abstract: In general, the present disclosure is directed toward a novel hybrid spintronic device for converting chemical absorption into a change in magnetoresistance. This device uses a novel magnetic material which depends on the attachment of an organic structure to a metallic film for its magnetism. Changes in the chemical environment lead to absorption on the surface of this organometallic bilayer and thus modify its magnetic properties. The change in magnetic properties, in turn, leads to a change in the resistance of a magnetoresistive structure or a spin transistor structure, allowing a standard electrical detection of the chemical change in the sensor surface.

Abstract: An electronic system for selectively detecting and identifying a plurality of chemical species, which comprises an array of nanostructure sensing devices, is disclosed. Within the array, there are at least two different selectivities for sensing among the nanostructure sensing devices. Methods for fabricating the electronic system are also disclosed. The methods involve modifying nanostructures within the devices to have different selectivity for sensing chemical species. Modification can involve chemical, electrochemical, and self-limiting point defect reactions. Reactants for these reactions can be supplied using a bath method or a chemical jet method. Methods for using the arrays of nanostructure sensing devices to detect and identify a plurality of chemical species are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides a biosensing device, comprising an input unit, an analysis unit, a process unit, and a set unit for storing resulting data values as the basis for calibrating the biosensing device, to set up the calibration parameters of a strip of the biosensing device.

Abstract: A stationary gas monitoring and testing system includes one or more gas monitoring stations 20, each of which includes at least one gas sensor. The system also includes a supply of testing span gas, a supply of testing zero gas, a gas distribution network connecting each gas sensor to the span gas supply and the zero gas supply through substantially separate conduits, and a controller for enabling the delivery of gas from the supply into the network for delivery to the one or more sensors. A one-way poppet valve at each gas monitor allows the supply conduits to be pressurized in advance. Pre-pressurized separate supply conduits minimize or eliminate the delay in delivering gas to each sensor for testing and calibration.

Abstract: A device and method for filtering blood is disclosed herein. The device can filter blood and attach analytes within the blood to magnetic particles. The analytes can then be strongly bound to an analyzing device by a magnetic force. The analytes can then be counted by the analyzing device and the result can be displayed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting a gas in electrical equipment by coupling a gas detection device to the electrical equipment is provided. The method includes providing an electro-magnetic source, positioning an electro-magnetic detector to receive light emitted from the electro-magnetic source, and positioning a membrane between the electro-magnetic source and the electro-magnetic detector, such that the electro-magnetic detector only receives light from the electro-magnetic source that has been transmitted through the membrane. The method also includes detecting at least one gas, such that detection of at least one gas includes preventing or allowing communication of the electro-magnetic source and the electro-magnetic detector, and emitting a signal, by the electro-magnetic detector, in response to the detection of the at least one gas.

Abstract: A water-quality monitoring system for an aquatic environment that includes a monitoring unit and a chemical indicator wheel designed and configured to be submerged in the water being monitored. The chemical indicator wheel includes a holder that supports a number of chemical indicators selected for use in measuring levels of constituents of the water. When in use, the wheel is drivingly engaged with a monitoring/measuring unit that includes at least one reader for reading the chemical indicators. In some embodiments, each apparatus includes a plurality of immobilized-dye-based chemical indicators that undergo an optically detectable physical change as levels of one or more constituents of the water change. Also disclosed are a variety of features that can be used to provide the monitoring system with additional functionalities.

Abstract: A cartridge device having a receiving portion for receiving a blood sample and a jack portion for receiving a plug; a stirring device for circulating the blood sample within the receiving portion; and an electrode holder having at least one incorporated electrode wire pair; wherein the electrode holder is attachable to the cell such that one end of the at least one electrode wire pair forms a sensor unit for measuring the electrical impedance between the two electrode wires of the at least one electrode wire pair within the blood sample and that the opposite end of the at least one electrode wire pair forms a plug portion being connectable directly to the plug for an electrical connection of the sensor unit to an analyzer.

Abstract: Provided are nanoscale devices suitable for multiplexed, parallel detection of multiple analytes and methods for fabricating such devices.

Abstract: A method of distinguishing a control solution from a sample in an electrochemical test sensor is performed. The method includes adding a control marker to the control solution. The control solution includes the control marker and analyte. The test sensor includes working and counter electrodes, and a reagent. A potential is applied to the test sensor to oxidize the control marker and the analyte. The resulting electrical current is measured. A potential is applied to the test sensor lower than the other potential in which the potential is sufficient to oxidize the analyte and not the control marker. The resulting electrical current is measured. Determining whether a control solution or a sample is present based on the measured electrical currents. To increase the measured current, a salt may be added to the control solution in an amount sufficient to increase the electrical current by at least 5% as compared to a control solution in the absence of a salt.

Abstract: Disclosed is a sensor for detecting explosive devices. The sensor includes a ferromagnetic metal and a molecular recognition reagent coupled to the ferromagnetic metal. The molecular recognition reagent is operable to expand upon absorption of vapor from an explosive material such that the molecular recognition reagent changes a tensile stress upon the ferromagnetic metal. The explosive device is detected based on changes in the magnetic switching characteristics of the ferromagnetic metal caused by the tensile stress.

Abstract: A sensor chip is configured to measure the temperature of a blood sample and includes a capillary section and an electrode unit. The capillary section allows the blood sample to be introduced therein. The electrode unit is configured to measure the temperature of the blood sample and includes a working electrode and a counter electrode. The working electrode and the counter electrode respectively include a reaction reagent layer containing an electrolyte. Further, the electrode unit is configured to receive a predetermined voltage to be applied in measuring the temperature of the blood sample for allowing a result of the measurement to be less affected by increase and reduction in a glucose concentration and the like.

Abstract: A method of measuring an analyte in a biological fluid comprises applying an excitation signal having a DC component and an AC component. The AC and DC responses are measured; a corrected DC response is determined using the AC response; and a concentration of the analyte is determined based upon the corrected DC response. Other methods and devices are disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring during dynamic processes that determines when effective measurements of thermal effusivity and/or thermal conductivity can be made during a portion of a cycle during a calibration phase, then measures thermal effusivity and/or thermal conductivity during a subsequent dynamic process in dependence upon the time delay value and the measurement duration value until a desired value is obtained. A sensor having a measurement period of between one to two seconds allows monitoring of materials during dynamic processes such as tumbling, blending, mixing, and rocking. For example, measurements can be made until a value indicative of a desired mixture condition is obtained.

Abstract: Nucleic acid and protein sequences relating to a cation channel which is sperm-specific (CatSper3) are disclosed. The CatSper3 protein is shown to be specifically expressed in sperm. Nucleic acids, vectors, transformed cells, transgenic animals, polypeptides, and antibodies relating to the CatSper3 gene and protein are disclosed. Also provided are methods of in vitro fertilization and contraception, methods of identifying modulators of CatSper3 activity, methods of genotyping subjects with respect to CatSper3, and methods of diagnosing and treating CatSper3-mediated disorders, including infertility. Related business methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for isolating a target molecule from a sample. In an embodiment, the method involves contacting a sample with a capture agent, the agent comprising a siderophore and a transition metal cation, under conditions wherein the agent is capable of binding a target molecule to form a target molecule-capture agent complex, wherein the target molecule is selected from the group consisting of a phosphorylated molecule, a nitrotyrosine-containing molecule and a sulfated molecule, and separating the target molecule-capture agent complex from the sample, thereby isolating the target molecule from the sample. Also provided are methods for determining the presence of a target molecule in a sample, that involve contacting a sample with a capture agent, the agent comprising a siderophore and a transition metal cation.

Abstract: Nucleic acid and protein sequences relating to a cation channel which is sperm-specific (CatSper1) are disclosed. The CatSper1 protein is shown to be specifically expressed in sperm and to be necessary for sperm motility. Nucleic acids, vectors, transformed cells, transgenic animals, polypeptides, and antibodies relating to the CatSper1 gene and protein are disclosed. Also provided are methods of in vitro fertilization and contraception, methods of identifying modulators of CatSper1 activity, methods of genotyping subjects with respect to CatSper1, and methods of diagnosing and treating CatSper1-mediated disorders, including infertility.

Abstract: A method for determining an NOx concentration in a measurement gas is provided, where a measurement value for the NOx concentration is determined from the sensor signal of a gas sensor and a measurement value for the concentration of a second component in the measurement gas is determined. A corrected value for the NOx in the measurement gas is determined from the measurement values, and the measurement value and the corrected measurement value for the NOx concentration are displayed and/or output.

Abstract: The sensitivity of a chemiresistor sensor can be dynamically tuned using mechanical strain. The increase in sensitivity is a smooth, continuous function of the applied strain, and the effect can be reversible. Sensitivity tuning enables the response curve of the sensor to be dynamically optimized for sensing analytes, such as volatile organic compounds, over a wide concentration range.

Abstract: The present invention relates to bead incubating and washing on a droplet actuator. Methods for incubating magnetically responsive beads that are labeled with primary antibody, a sample (i.e., analyte), and secondary reporter antibodies on a magnet, on and off a magnet, and completely off a magnet are provided. Also provided are methods for washing magnetically responsive beads using shape-assisted merging of droplets. Also provided are methods for shape-mediated splitting, transporting, and dispensing of a sample droplet that contains magnetically responsive beads. The apparatuses and methods of the invention provide for rapid time to result and optimum detection of an analyte in an immunoassay.

Abstract: A biosensor system determines analyte concentration from an output signal generated by an oxidation/reduction reaction of the analyte. The biosensor system adjusts a correlation for determining analyte concentrations from output signals at one temperature to determining analyte concentrations from output signals at other temperatures. The temperature-adjusted correlation between analyte concentrations and output signals at a reference temperature may be used to determine analyte concentrations from output signals at a sample temperature.

Abstract: A combustible gas sensor for detecting a combustible analyte includes a first sensing element including a first conductive element in electrical connection with an electronic circuitry, a first support structure in operative connection with the first conductive element, a catalyst supported on the first support structure for catalyzing a reaction of the analyte, and a system for measuring a variable related to the reactance of the first sensing element. Changes in the measured variable over time provide an indication of an operational status of the first sensing element.

Abstract: Nucleic acid and protein sequences relating to a cation channel which is sperm-specific (CatSper4) are disclosed. The CatSper4 protein is shown to be specifically expressed in sperm. Nucleic acids, vectors, transformed cells, transgenic animals, polypeptides, and antibodies relating to the CatSper4 gene and protein are disclosed. Also provided are methods of in vitro fertilization and contraception, methods of identifying modulators of CatSper4 activity, methods of genotyping subjects with respect to CatSper4, and methods of diagnosing and treating CatSper4-mediated disorders, including infertility. Related business methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for determining the amount of live pore forming bacterial toxin protein in a sample is provided, the method including the steps of a) forming a membrane comprising a lipid bilayer and a receptor, b) contacting the membrane with an ion solution and the sample, c) measuring ion flow through the membrane, d) comparing the ion flow through the membrane to a standard curve, and e) determining the amount of pore forming bacterial toxin protein in the sample. A kit for determining the amount of live pore forming bacterial toxin protein present in the sample is also provided.

Abstract: Applicant discloses a sensing element for sensing an organic chemical analyte, comprising a first electrode and a second electrode, and a microporous, hydrophobic, analyte-responsive dielectric material disposed at least in proximity to the first and second electrodes. The analyte-responsive dielectric material may be a polymer of intrinsic microporosity. An electrical property of the sensing element, such as capacitance, can be monitored in order to sense an organic chemical analyte.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides the description of an inexpensive and disposable handheld device for detecting Circulating tumor cells (CTC) in blood called a handheld CTC detector (HCTCD). The HCTCD is capable of detecting less than 1 CTC per milliliter. The HCTCD consists of a dense array of high aspect ratio freestanding metallic nanoneedles, functionalized with antibodies that integrated within a microfluidic device and selectively capture and count (using electrical signal detection) the CTCs. By selecting a right functionalization protocol for the nanoneedles array, the HCTCD can be used for selective capturing a variety of rare cells that are mixed in human fluids.

Abstract: Devices and methods for measuring prothrombin time (PT) and hematocrit (HCT) by analyzing the change in reactance in a sample are presented. A diagnostic device for measuring HCT and PT of a fluid includes a relative electrode-type sensor device and a blood test card assembly including one or more pairs of electrodes, wherein alternating current (AC) provided by the sensor device is used to measure and calculate HCT and PT of blood test using the reactance analysis.

Abstract: The invention relates to transmembrane protein pore for use in detecting a analyte in a sample. The pore comprises a molecular adaptor that facilitates an interaction between the pore and the analyte. The adaptor is covalently attached to the pore in an orientation that allows the analyte to be detected using the pore.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and method for non-invasive detection of an analyte in a fluid sample. In one embodiment, the device comprises: a collection chamber containing an absorbent hydrogel material; a fluidic channel connected to the collection chamber; a sensing chamber connected to the fluidic channel, wherein the device is comprised of a compressible housing that allows transfer of fluid collected by the collection chamber to be transferred to be extracted and withdrawn to the sensing chamber upon compression of the device, wherein the sensing chamber contains a material that specifically detects the analyte and wherein the sensing chamber is operably linked to a processor containing a potentiostat that allows detection of the analyte using electrochemical sensing.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of dispersing or circulating magnetically responsive beads within a droplet in a droplet actuator. The invention, in one embodiment, makes use of a droplet actuator with a plurality of droplet operations electrodes configured to transport the droplet, and a magnetic field present at a portion of the plurality of droplet operations electrodes. A bead-containing droplet is provided on the droplet actuator in the presence of the uniform magnetic field. Beads are circulated in the droplet during incubation by conducting droplet operations on the droplet within a uniform region of the magnetic field wherein droplet operations do not allow magnetically responsive beads to be introduced into a region of the magnetic field which is sufficiently non-uniform to cause bead clumping resulting in a more homogenous distribution of the beads in the droplet. Other embodiments are also provided.

Abstract: An electrochemical immunosensor system with reduced interference, comprising: a first immunosensor that generates an electrochemical signal based on the formation of a sandwich between an immobilized antibody, a target analyte and a labeled antibody, wherein a portion of the signal arises from non-specific binding of the labeled antibody in the region of the first immunosensor, and a second immunosensor that acts as an immuno-reference sensor and generates a signal that is the same as or predictably related to the degree of non-specific binding which occurs in the region of the first immunosensor, and has an immunocomplex between an immobilized antibody and an endogenous or exogenous protein that is in the sample and that is not the target analyte.

Abstract: A change in impedance of a electromechanical resonating sensor is utilized to detect and/or measure a change in mass accumulated on the sensor. The impedance is monitored at a fixed frequency. The fixed frequency may be at or near the resonance frequency of the sensor. In various configurations, the sensor comprises a quartz crystal microbalance sensor or a piezoelectric cantilever sensor.

Abstract: An array of sensors arranged in matched pairs of transistors with an output formed on a first transistor and a sensor formed on the second transistor of the matched pair. The matched pairs are arranged such that the second transistor in the matched pair is read through the output of the first transistor in the matched pair. The first transistor in the matched pair is forced into the saturation (active) region to prevent interference from the second transistor on the output of the first transistor. A sample is taken of the output. The first transistor is then placed into the linear region allowing the sensor formed on the second transistor to be read through the output of the first transistor. A sample is taken from the output of the sensor reading of the second transistor. A difference is formed of the two samples.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of assaying for tetrahydrocannabinol in a body fluid. The method includes contacting a sample of body fluid with an imine capable of reacting with tetrahydrocannabinol to yield a quinone imine, and detecting the formation of a quinone imine, where the sample is contacted with the reagent compound at a pH of at least 10.5.

Abstract: Sensors for the detection of free radicals and free radical forming compounds including, for example, peroxides, as well as energetic radiation, UV light, plasma or heat each such sensor including a functional component are described herein. In addition, this disclosure includes methods for making such sensors and methods for using sensors including a functional component and devices incorporating such sensors.

Abstract: A device for detecting an analyte present in a fluid includes a fluorous sensing phase into which the analyte enters selectively in comparison with other components of the fluid.

Abstract: The present invention provides multi-dimensional sensors with fluidic flow channels for processing fluid samples.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods of isolating white blood cells (WBCs) from a sample, e.g., whole blood, using magnetic particles that specifically bind to WBCs and a series of specific steps and conditions. The methods can include one or more of decreasing the viscosity of the sample prior to WBC isolation, agitating the sample at specified frequencies, and/or using a sample container arranged such that all of the sample is placed in close proximity (e.g., within 5, 2, 1, or 0.5 mm) to the source of the magnetic field. The new methods provide for isolation of WBC preparations with high yield, purity, and viability. The methods are designed for compatibility with automation protocols for rapid processing of multiple samples.

Abstract: An integrated microelectronic sensor is provided in a disposable flow membrane sensing device. The integrated sensors detect electromagnetic effect labels in flow detection zones above the sensor in the membrane. The labels are small particles that give off a detectable electromagnetic signal. They are commonly used for isolating and quantifying biochemical targets of interest. The sensors are fabricated using planar integrated circuit technologies. Sensors can detect labels of several types including magnetic, electric, and photonic. These types all have in common the fact that the sensor detects the label at a distance. Magnetoresistive sensors for detecting magnetic labels, and photodiodes for detecting photonic labels are described. A system for using the sensors is described. There are disposable cartridges with a backing that supports the sensors and membrane is described. The integrated sensor in the cartridge is designed to be discarded after use. Also, label excitation sources are provided.

Abstract: A reader for mechanical actuation of fluids within a test cartridge. The instrument interface including multiple independently-controlled plungers aligned to respective fluidic pouches on a test cartridge that is inserted into a testing apparatus embodying the instrument interface. The plungers include tips for applying mechanical force to the respective fluidic pouches.

Abstract: A method for enhancing the detection sensitivity of a piezoelectric microcantilever sensor. The method may involve providing a piezoelectric microcantilever and inducing a change in the Young's modulus during detection of a species of interest. The change in the Young's modulus may be induced or enhanced by the application of a DC bias electric field to the piezoelectric layer that enhances non-180° polarization domain switching of the piezoelectric layer. The change in the Young's modulus may also result from binding of the species of interest to the piezoelectric microcantilever sensor or a combination of binding and application of a DC bias electric field Significantly enhanced detection sensitivity results from the changed Young's modulus of the piezoelectric layer.

Abstract: A blood coagulation system analyzing method includes acquiring information relating to the coagulability of blood based on a change generated in a complex permittivity spectrum measured in a coagulation process of the blood due to addition of a substance that activates or inactivates platelets to the blood.

Abstract: The disclosure provides sensor for gas sensing including CO2 gas sensors comprising a porous framework sensing area for binding an analyte gas.

Abstract: A gas sensor cell using a liquid crystal composite material is provided. The gas sensor cell has recovery capability and can be reused. Upon gas adsorption, the liquid crystal composite material has visually detectable color changes and changes in electrical properties to facilitate the measurement of gas concentration from low to high.

Abstract: The present invention includes a magnetically susceptible polymer component, a method of making the same, and apparatuses and systems for mixing, separating or localizing a magnetically susceptible polymer compound in a reaction. The magnetically susceptible polymer component includes a polymer and a magnetically susceptible particle of a predetermined size, which yields a component having a much-improved magnetic reactivity due to the increase in magnetic material by mass percentage. The apparatuses and systems of the present invention employ controllable magnetic fields distributable in perpendicular directions in order to precisely control the orientation, position and relative motion of any magnetically susceptible components within a reaction vessel.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sensor assembly comprising a first electronic wiring substrate having a first and a second surface and at least one analyte sensor formed on the first surface thereof, the at least one analyte sensor being connected with one or more electrical contact points, a second electronic wiring substrate having a first and a second surface and at least one analyte sensor formed on the first surface part thereof, the at least one analyte sensor being connected with one or more electrical contact points, and a spacer having a through-going recess with a first and a second opening, wherein the first substrate, the second substrate and the spacer are arranged in a layered structure, where the first surface of the first substrate closes the first opening of the spacer and the first surface of the second substrate closes the second opening of the spacer, thereby forming a measuring cell which is faced by at least one sensor from each of the substrates.

Abstract: A GMR sensor stripe provides a sensitive mechanism for detecting the presence of magnetized particles bonded to biological molecules that are affixed to a substrate. The adverse effect of hysteresis on the maintenance of a stable bias point for the magnetic moment of the sensor stripe free layer is eliminated by a combination of biasing the sensor stripe along its longitudinal direction rather than the usual transverse direction and by using the overcoat stress and magnetostriction of magnetic layers to create a compensatory transverse magnetic anisotropy. By connecting the stripes in an array and making the spaces between the stripes narrower than the dimension of the magnetized particle and by making the width of the stripes equal to the dimension of the particle, the sensitivity of the sensor array is enhanced.