Of A Liquid Patents (Class 436/150)
  • Patent number: 8349604
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a nano-based sensing device (a sensor) comprising a nano-scale working electrode that can be used for the ultra-sensitive detection of blood analytes, disease biomarkers, and other target molecules. The present invention also pertains to a method for detecting target molecules using the sensor as the sensor element of a microfluidic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: University of South Florida
    Inventors: Shyam S. Mohapatra, Arun Kumar
  • Patent number: 8345253
    Abstract: A system and method for molecule detection uses a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) system with detection spots having fixed nanostructures. An SPR assembly may be combined with a digital microfluidic control system such as an electrowetting-on-dielectric (EWOD) chip. The microfluidic system individually directs sample droplets to different detection spots of the SPR assembly, thus allowing the SPR examination of different samples or sample reactions on the same surface. The nanostructures at the detection spots enhance the sensitivity of the SPR signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: The Royal Institution for the Advancement of Learning/McGill University and Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada
    Inventors: Lidija Malic, Maryam Tabrizian, Teodor Veres, Bo Cui, Francois Normandin
  • Publication number: 20120309099
    Abstract: Provided is an automatic analyzing device including a sample container 2 for accommodating a sample 1 to be assayed, a dispensing probe 5 for dispensing the sample 1, and an electroconductive tip 11 removably mounted on a portion of the dispensing probe 5, the portion being to be dipped in the sample 1; wherein this analyzing device detects capacitance between the tip 11 of the dispensing probe 5 and a region having a ground potential 9 predefined as a reference electric potential in the analyzing device, and on the basis of a result of the detection, determines a mounted state of the tip 11 on the dispensing probe 5. A fall of the tip from the probe is thus immediately detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: HITACHI HIGH-TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shahed Sarwar, Kazuhiro Tanaka
  • Patent number: 8323572
    Abstract: A measuring device includes a first substrate; and a second substrate bonded on the first substrate. The second substrate has at least two inflow ports, at least two outflow ports, and an injection port. The two inflow ports, the two outflow ports, and the injection port penetrate the second substrate. The first substrate includes partition wall portions opposing to each other, and forming a first cavity between the partition wall portions, and forming at least two second cavities close against one of the partition wall portions. Each second cavity is provided adjacent to the first cavity. Through holes are provided in the respective partition wall portions to connect the first cavity and the second cavity to each other, and the through holes are adapted to capture an object to-be-tested introduced in the first cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignees: Panasonic Corporation, Agency for Science Technology and Research
    Inventors: Masaya Nakatani, Levent Yobas, Julien Reboud
  • Patent number: 8309028
    Abstract: The present invention provides a chemiresistor-based sensor for measuring the presence or amount of analyte in an electrolyte solution; said chemiresistor comprising (i) a chemiresistor film wherein the impedance of said nanoparticle film changes in the presence of an analyte; and (ii) two electrically conducting electrodes in electrical contact with said nanoparticle film; wherein said electrically conducting electrodes are adapted to be connected to a device for measuring the impedance of said chemiresistor film under a voltage signal and wherein the impedance of the double layer capacitor formed by the two electrically conducting electrodes in the presence of the electrolyte solution, is larger than the impedance of the chemiresistor film either before or after exposure of the chemiresistor film to the analyte. A method of using said chemiresistor-based sensor to measure the presence or amount of analyte is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation
    Inventors: Burkhard Raguse, Edith Chow
  • Patent number: 8309364
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Abbott Point of Care Inc.
    Inventors: Cary James Miller, John Lewis Emerson Campbell
  • Patent number: 8298828
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to various methods for measuring the amount of an analyte present in a biological fluid using an electrochemical testing process. Various embodiments are disclosed, including the use of AC test signals and the performance of tests having a Total Test Time within about 3.0 seconds or less, and/or having a clinically low Total System Error.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric R. Diebold, Terry A. Beaty, Harvey B. Buck, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8298488
    Abstract: A microfabricated TID comprises a microhotplate and a thermionic source disposed on the microhotplate. The microfabricated TID can provide high sensitivity and selectivity to nitrogen- and phosphorous-containing compounds and other compounds containing electronegative function groups. The microfabricated TID can be microfabricated with semiconductor-based materials. The microfabricated TID can be combined with a microfabricated separation column and used in microanalytical system for the rapid on-site detection of pesticides, chemical warfare agents, explosives, pharmaceuticals, and other organic compounds that contain nitrogen or phosphorus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick R. Lewis, Ronald P. Manginell, David R. Wheeler, Daniel E. Trudell
  • Patent number: 8268629
    Abstract: A system and method for characterizing a liquid hydrocarbon fuel having unknown or variable composition is described and shown herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: dTEC Systems L.L.C.
    Inventors: Thomas Coleman, Frederick Wolf, James E Bruya
  • Patent number: 8262995
    Abstract: The invention concerns a pluggable data transfer module and a method that can be used to transfer data from an analytical system to a data processing unit in a galvanically decoupled manner. This invention is particularly suitable for medical fields of application in which recently it has become more and more desirable to process analytical data of a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Udo Manser, Dieter Schaefer, Michael Schabbach, Peter Kuenstler
  • Patent number: 8257978
    Abstract: Provided are novel technical means for obtaining useful knowledge in practical application of antioxidation action of dissolved hydrogen and in practical application of active oxygen scavenging action in water. Based on the temporal profile of the difference between the dissolved oxygen amount measured with forcibly dissolving hydrogen and the dissolved oxygen amount measured with blowing any other gas than hydrogen, the reaction between dissolved hydrogen and dissolved oxygen is quantitatively evaluated. Based on the temporal profile of the difference between the dissolved oxygen amount measured with making a photosensitizing dye contained in water and with forcibly dissolving hydrogen therein, and the dissolved oxygen amount measured without making a photosensitizing dye contained in water and with forcibly dissolving hydrogen therein, the reaction between dissolved hydrogen and dissolved oxygen is quantitatively evaluated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignees: Eureka-Lab Inc., Seiji Katayama
    Inventors: Seiji Katayama, Yumiko Katayama
  • Patent number: 8252599
    Abstract: Sample processing units useful for mixing and purifying materials, such as fluidic materials are provided. A sample processing unit typically includes a container configured to contain a sample comprising magnetically responsive particles, and one or more magnets that are in substantially fixed positions relative to the container. A sample processing unit also generally includes a conveyance mechanism configured to convey the container to and from a position that is within magnetic communication with the magnet, e.g., such that magnetically responsive particles with captured analytes can be retained within the container when other materials are added to and/or removed from the container. Further, a sample processing unit also typically includes a rotational mechanism that is configured to rotate the container, e.g., to effect mixing of sample materials disposed within the container. Related carrier mechanisms, sample processing stations, systems, and methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Ibis Biosciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven A. Hofstadler, Jared J. Drader, Jose R. Gutierrez, Paul J. Gleason, Rex O. Bare, Robert D. Miller, Jeffrey C. Smith
  • Publication number: 20120215460
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: BAYER HEALTHCARE LLC.
    Inventors: Huan-Ping Wu, Christine D. Nelson
  • Patent number: 8247241
    Abstract: According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for detecting a target compound including: injecting a test liquid containing a target compound into a colloid solution of magnetic nano-particles having an average particle diameter of 50 nm or less to allow the target compound to bind to the magnetic nano-particles, thereby forming bound magnetic nano-particles having a diameter of 100 nm or more; and bringing a dispersion liquid containing the bound magnetic nano-particles in proximity to a magnetic sensor including at least a magnetoresistive (MR) element and a permanent magnet while measuring the change in magnetic resistance to selectively detect the bound magnetic nano-particles, thereby indirectly detecting the target compound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Hirai, Masayoshi Kojima, Isao Tsuyuki
  • Publication number: 20120208283
    Abstract: Described systems and methods allow the detection of and determination of a concentration of a target analyte such as a biological cell, a virus, a polypeptide, a toxin, a pesticide, a drug, a drug residue, or a DNA strand, in a fluid sample. A variable stimulus, such as an oscillating magnetic field or a light beam of oscillating intensity, is applied to the sample, inducing variations in a position or shape of a constituent of the sample, or variations in a fluorescence of the sample. Such variations produce measurable variations in electric and/or optical properties of a sensor, variations which allow the determination of the concentration of the target analyte.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventors: Eugen Gheorghiu, Mihai Sorin David, Cristina Polonschii, Dumitru Bratu
  • Patent number: 8241918
    Abstract: A beverage dispensing device including a housing, a tapping device for dispensing a beverage, a beverage container connectable with the tapping device, a freshness indicator device, a data input unit for recording replacement of the beverage container, a temperature sensor for measuring the storage temperature of the beverage, a temperature controller for adjusting the cooling temperature of a chiller, a storage unit for storing the freshness criteria, and a processing unit. The temperature sensor transmits the current beverage storage temperature to the processing unit and the processing unit calculates, depending on a recorded storage temperature period and based on stored freshness criteria, the actual freshness of the beverage, the time left until expiry of the freshness of the beverage and/or the date of expiry of the freshness of the beverage. The processing unit transmits the calculated data to the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.A.
    Inventors: Guenter Zeitler, Matthias Bertram, Christian Baeumer
  • Publication number: 20120142117
    Abstract: The present invention provides a biosensor having a code electrode, a method for manufacturing the same, and a method for obtaining sensor information on the same, in which a code electrode for providing sensor information such as correction information, the type of biosensor, etc. is provided in each biosensor such that a measuring device can obtain necessary information on each biosensor from the code electrode, thus solving a variety of conventional problems. According to the present invention, since the biosensor includes the code electrode in itself and thus can directly provide a variety of information to the measuring device during the use of the biosensor, it is possible to solve the problems associated with the use of a bar code or scanner. Moreover, it is possible to improve the product value of biosensors. Further, since each biosensor can provide accurate sensor information to the measuring device, it is possible to improve the accuracy of measurement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: ALL MEDICUS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yon Chan Ahn, Mi Suk Park, Min Seok Cha, Hye Sook Jung
  • Patent number: 8192995
    Abstract: A method of correction of particle interference to hemoglobin measurement of a blood sample on a hematology analyzer is provided. The method includes mixing an aliquot of a blood sample with a lytic reagent to lyse red blood cells and forming a sample mixture; measuring absorbance of the sample mixture at a predetermined wavelength of a hemoglobin chromogen formed in the sample mixture, and obtaining an apparent hemoglobin concentration of the blood sample using obtained absorbance; measuring concentration and size of cellular particles remaining in the sample mixture; removing contribution of the cellular particles to the apparent hemoglobin concentration using the concentration and the size of the cellular particles to obtain a corrected hemoglobin concentration of the blood sample; and reporting the corrected hemoglobin concentration of the blood sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Beckman Coulter, Inc.
    Inventors: Shuliang Zhang, Jiuliu Lu, Min Zheng, Eric M. Grace, Jing Li, Maritza Lavernia, Ted W. Britton
  • Publication number: 20120135533
    Abstract: A chemical analytic apparatus of the present invention is the one which proposes that a miniaturization, a making low-cost and portability are possible and also the operation of each process of separation, concentration and dilution of specimen is possible, and, which includes: an introduction means (S1) that introduces a droplet to which magnetic ultrafine particles are mixed into another liquid that differs from the droplet while maintaining a single droplet; a conveyance means by which the droplet that includes the magnetic particles is conveyed in another liquid of the introduction means by applying magnetic field externally to the magnetic ultrafine particles; and processing means (S2 to S6) by which operations for processing of chemical analysis are performed one by one in the process in which the droplet to which the magnetic ultrafine particles are mixed is conveyed by the conveyance means
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2012
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Applicant: Japan Science and Technology Agency
    Inventors: Mitsuhiro Shikida, Kazuo Sato, Hiroyuki Honda, Kohta Inouchi
  • Patent number: 8187886
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: The General Hospital Corporation
    Inventors: Denise L. Faustman, Douglas E. Burger
  • Patent number: 8158430
    Abstract: The present invention provides fluidic devices and systems that allow detection of analytes from a biological fluid. The methods and devices are particularly useful for providing point-of-care testing for a variety of medical applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Theranos, Inc.
    Inventors: Shaunak Roy, Malissa Takahashi, Ian Gibbons, Edmond Ku, Thanh Dang, Tammy Burd, Adam Vollmer, Elizabeth A. Holmes
  • Patent number: 8153079
    Abstract: Microfluidic apparatus including integrated porous substrate/sensors that may be used for detecting targeted biological and chemical molecules and compounds. In one aspect, upper and lower microfluidic channels are defined in respective halves of a substrate, which are sandwiched around a porous membrane upon assembly. In other aspect, the upper and lower channels are formed such that a portion of the lower channel passes beneath a portion of the upper channel to form a cross-channel area, wherein the membrane is disposed between the two channels. In various embodiments, one or more porous membranes are disposed proximate to corresponding cross-channel areas defined by one or more upper and lower channels. The porous membrane may also have sensing characteristics, such that it produces a change in an optical and/or electronic characteristic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Mineo Yamakawa, John Heck, Selena Chan, Narayan Sundararajan
  • Patent number: 8148163
    Abstract: Sample processing units useful for mixing and purifying materials, such as fluidic materials are provided. A sample processing unit typically includes a container configured to contain a sample comprising magnetically responsive particles, and one or more magnets that are in substantially fixed positions relative to the container. A sample processing unit also generally includes a conveyance mechanism configured to convey the container to and from a position that is within magnetic communication with the magnet, e.g., such that magnetically responsive particles with captured analytes can be retained within the container when other materials are added to and/or removed from the container. Further, a sample processing unit also typically includes a rotational mechanism that is configured to rotate the container, e.g., to effect mixing of sample materials disposed within the container. Related carrier mechanisms, sample processing stations, systems, and methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Ibis Biosciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven A. Hofstadler, Jared J. Drader, Jose R. Gutierrez, Paul J. Gleason, Rex O. Bare, Robert D. Miller, Jeffrey C. Smith
  • Patent number: 8148160
    Abstract: Molecular sensing of target molecules is performed by using an electrode for molecular sensing in which detecting molecules which can shift a surface potential of the electrode by an interaction with the target molecules are bound directly or via coupling molecules to surface hydroxyl groups on a conductive metal oxide. By this molecular sensing, specific target molecules can be detected selectively and stably with high accuracy. It is also possible to detect an enantiomer selectively and stably with high accuracy. The present invention can provide a chemical sensing system which is useful in fields such as medicines, environments and foods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Waseda University
    Inventors: Tetsuya Osaka, Mariko Matsunaga, Tsubasa Ueno
  • Patent number: 8148164
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to various methods for measuring the amount of an analyte present in a biological fluid using an electrochemical testing process. Various embodiments are disclosed, including the use of AC test signals and the performance of tests having a Total Test Time within about 2.0 seconds or less, and/or having a clinically low Total System Error.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric R. Diebold, Terry A. Beaty, Harvey B. Buck, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8147674
    Abstract: A sensor system, device, and methods for determining the concentration of an analyte in a sample is described. Input signals including multiple duty cycles of sequential excitation pulses and relaxations are input to the sample. One or more signals output from the sample within 300 ms of the input of an excitation pulse may be correlated with the analyte concentration of the sample to improve the accuracy and/or precision of the analysis. Determining the analyte concentration of the sample from these rapidly measured output values may reduce analysis errors arising from the hematocrit effect, mediator background, and other error sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Bayer HealthCare LLC
    Inventor: Huan-Ping Wu
  • Patent number: 8148162
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Bayer HealthCare LLC
    Inventors: Huan-Ping Wu, Christine D. Nelson
  • Patent number: 8137625
    Abstract: A urea sensor includes a detecting portion which, in use, is immersed in a liquid accommodated in a urea solution tank for detecting the thermal conductivity of the liquid to detect whether the liquid accommodated in the urea solution tank is an aqueous urea solution; and an enclosing member enclosing a periphery of the detecting portion and including one or more vents penetrating the enclosing member. At least one of the vents is a lower vent being of a configuration and size such that a first hypothetical circle having a diameter of not less than 3.5 mm can be wholly contained within the lower vent. At least a portion of the lower vent is positioned below the detecting portion when the urea sensor is positioned for installation in the urea solution tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeo Sasanuma, Yoshikuni Sato, Akihiro Yoshida
  • Publication number: 20120045845
    Abstract: The present invention provides a test strip for measuring a concentration of an analyte of interest in a biological fluid, wherein the test strip may be encoded with information that can be read by a test meter into which the test strip is inserted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventors: Henning Groll, Michael J. Celentano
  • Publication number: 20120040468
    Abstract: The application provides a laboratory. The laboratory (400) comprises a portable casing (404). The portable casing (404) comprises a tray unit (407), an actuator unit (405, 412), an analyzer unit (419), and a communication unit (402, 415, 438). The tray unit (407) is used for receiving a cartridge (409). The cartridge (409) comprises an analyte reservoir (430) for receiving an analyte fluid, one or more chemical reagent reservoirs (432) for storing one or more chemical reagent fluids, and one or more channels (434) connecting the chemical reagent reservoirs (432) with the analyte reservoir (430). The channel (434) comprises a measurement area (436) whilst the measure measurement area (436) comprises a sensor. The actuator unit (405, 412) is used for reducing the volume of the analyte reservoir (430) and for reducing the volume of the chemical reagent reservoirs (432). The analyzer unit (419) is used for measuring a physical value in the measurement area (436) using the sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: E-VITAE PTE. LTD.
    Inventor: Mehdi Khaled
  • Patent number: 8105841
    Abstract: An assembly determines an analyte concentration in a sample of body fluid. The assembly includes a test sensor having a fluid-receiving area for receiving a sample of body fluid, where the fluid-receiving area contains a reagent that produces a measurable reaction with an analyte in the sample. The assembly also includes a meter having a port or opening configured to receive the test sensor; a measurement system configured to determine a measurement of the reaction between the reagent and the analyte; and a temperature-measuring system configured to determine a measurement of the test-sensor temperature when the test sensor is received into the opening. The meter determines a concentration of the analyte in the sample according to the measurement of the reaction and the measurement of the test-sensor temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Bayer Healthcare LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey D. Blais, Steve Sun, Bern Harrison, Narasinha C. Parasnis, Serban F. Peteu, Tony Nguyen, Paul Ripley, Xin Wang, Igor Gofman
  • Patent number: 8101413
    Abstract: Embodiments provide expanded ability to communicate calibration information to diagnostic systems for determining a characteristic of a test sample. An example system for determining a characteristic of a test sample includes: a test sensor for receiving a test sample; a sensor meter responsive to the test sensor, the sensor meter determining a characteristic of the test sample received on the test sensor; and a calibration element including electrical contacts readable by the sensor meter. The electrical contacts are configurable in one of a plurality of patterns that communicates, to the sensor meter, information relating to the determination of the characteristic of the test sample. The plurality of patterns include two or more of the electrical contacts that are electrically isolated from any other electrical contacts. The sensor meter determines at least partially the information from the electrical contacts by determining a combination of values corresponding to the isolated electrical contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Bayer Healthcare LLC
    Inventor: Stephen P. Cheal
  • Patent number: 8101126
    Abstract: A sensor-dispensing instrument (10) adapted to handle a sensor pack containing a plurality of sensors and to perform a test using one of the sensors. The sensor-dispensing instrument includes an outer housing (12) and a mechanical mechanism contained therein for rotating the sensor pack and ejecting one of the sensors from the sensor pack and through a sensor slot on the housing. The sensor-dispensing instrument also includes a sensor actuator to engage with a sensor disposed in the sensor slot, and a sensor release (66) that is movable to disengage the sensor actuator from the sensor disposed in the sensor slot and permit the discharge of the sensor the sensor release additionally activating a sensor release mechanism that has a sensor release aid arm, a mounting block, and a pivot pin that connects the sensor release aid arm to the mounting block, wherein the sensor release aid arm is adapted to contact the sensor disposed in the sensor slot to assist removal of the sensor from the sensor slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Bayer HealthCare LLC
    Inventors: Bruce A. Flora, John P. Creaven, Russell J. Micinski
  • Patent number: 8093064
    Abstract: Methods of utilizing magnetic particles or beads (MBs) in droplet-based (or digital) microfluidics are disclosed. The methods may be used in enrichment or separation processes. A first method employs the droplet meniscus to assist in the magnetic collection and positioning of MBs during droplet microfluidic operations. The sweeping movement of the meniscus lifts the MBs off the solid surface and frees them from various surface forces acting on the MBs. A second method uses chemical additives to reduce the adhesion of MBs to surfaces. Both methods allow the MBs on a solid surface to be effectively moved by magnetic force. Droplets may be driven by various methods or techniques including, for example, electrowetting, electrostatic, electromechanical, electrophoretic, dielectrophoretic, electroosmotic, thermocapillary, surface acoustic, and pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Gaurav Jitendra Shah, Chang-Jin Kim
  • Patent number: 8080205
    Abstract: Analyte meter protectors, meters that include the same, and methods. In one example, a ketone monitoring system is provided wherein a port protector is used in combination with a meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Abbott Diabetes Care Inc.
    Inventors: Frederic Arbogast, Paul Strasma, Lawrence Azzano, Kenneth Gary
  • Patent number: 8077311
    Abstract: Provided is a flow-through CO2 system for simultaneously measuring surface seawater pH, carbon dioxide fugacity (fCO2), and total dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC). All measurements are based on spectrophotometric determinations of solution pH at multiple wavelengths using sulfonephthalein indicators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: University of South Florida
    Inventors: Robert H. Byrne, Eric Kaltenbacher, Xuewu Liu
  • Patent number: 8058077
    Abstract: The present invention provides a test strip for measuring a concentration of an analyte of interest in a biological fluid, wherein the test strip may be encoded with information that can be read by a test meter into which the test strip is inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Henning Groll, Michael J. Celentano
  • Patent number: 8053245
    Abstract: A system for detecting biomaterials that are suspected to be present in a medium that contains multiple materials. A hydrated substrate has water molecules entrapped within molecular spaces between polymeric chains of the substrate. The hydrated substrate also has detection material, which has a specific affinity for a target material. The entrapped water molecules provide a source of water for the detection material such that a change in charge occurs when the target material and detection material coalesce. A display unit detects the change in charge and provides an indication that the target material is present when the change in charge is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Nanotel Biotechnologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Angelo Karavolos
  • Patent number: 8030100
    Abstract: The application relates to a chemical sensor device comprising a substrate (1), a sensor medium (3) formed on the substrate, the sensor medium comprising one-dimensional nanoparticles, wherein the one-dimensional nanoparticles essentially consist of a semiconducting AxBy compound, e.g. V2O5 and detection means (2) for detecting a change of a physical property of the sensor medium e.g. conductivity. The porosity of the sensor medium supports a fast access of the analyte to the sensing material and therefore a fast response of the sensor. The selectivity and sensitivity of the sensor can be tailored by doping the one-dimensional nanoscale material with different dopants or by varying the dopant concentration. Sensitivity of the sensor device to an analyte, preferably an amine, can be increased by increasing relative humidity of the sample to at least 5%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Sony Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Isabelle Besnard, Tobias Vossmeyer, Akio Yasuda, Marko Burghard, Ulrich Schlecht
  • Patent number: 8026104
    Abstract: A biosensor system determines an analyte concentration of a biological sample using an electrochemical process without Cottrell decay. The biosensor system generates an output signal having a transient decay, where the output signal is not inversely proportional to the square root of the time. The transient decay is greater or less than the ?0.5 decay constant of a Cottrell decay. The transient decay may result from a relatively short incubation period, relatively small sample reservoir volumes, relatively small distances between electrode surfaces and the lid of the sensor strip, and/or relatively short excitations in relation to the average initial thickness of the reagent layer. The biosensor system determines the analyte concentration from the output signal having a transient decay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Bayer HealthCare LLC
    Inventors: Huan-Ping Wu, Steven C. Charlton, Amy H. Chu, Andrew J. Edelbrock, Sung-Kwon Jung, Dijia Huang
  • Patent number: 8012421
    Abstract: A concentration monitor for monitoring a concentration of a plurality of use solutions, each of the plurality of use solutions being, at least, a concentrate in a diluent, each of the plurality of use solutions having a resistivity which varies as a function of both temperature and an amount of the concentrate contained in a given amount of the diluent. A resistivity probe is adapted for use with at least one of the plurality of use solutions for taking a measurement related to the resistivity of the at least one of the plurality of use solutions. A temperature sensor is adapted for use with the at least one of the plurality of use solutions for taking a measurement related to the temperature of the at least one of the plurality of use solutions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Mehus, Charles A. Hodge, Quang Van Dao
  • Patent number: 8008089
    Abstract: A system for checking measurement results is provided with a urine qualitative analyzer for measuring the specific gravity of a urine, urinary particle analyzer for measuring urine conductivity, and a computer. The urine specific gravity measured by the urine qualitative analyzer, and the urine conductivity measured by the urinary particle analyzer are respectively transmitted to the computer. The correlative relationship between urine specific gravity and urine conductivity is stored in the memory of the computer, and the computer determines whether or not the received urine specific gravity and conductivity match the correlative relationship, and this determination result is output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventors: Masakazu Fukuda, Yutaka Ikeda, Hiromi Onomichi
  • Patent number: 8008082
    Abstract: A method and system for switching the dispensing of a first solution from a first vessel to dispensing a second solution from a second vessel when a parameter of the first solution crosses a threshold is described. In one embodiment, a fluid dispensing apparatus includes a first vessel and a second vessel. The first vessel includes an output conduit adapted to dispense the first solution from the first vessel into a fluid receiving region. The second vessel includes an output conduit adapted to dispense the second solution from the second vessel into the fluid receiving region. The apparatus includes a first sensor positioned to measure a parameter of the first solution before the first fluid enters the fluid receiving region. The apparatus also includes a second sensor positioned to measure a parameter of the second solution before the second solution enters the fluid receiving region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventors: David R. Howland, Matt Hayas
  • Patent number: 7998666
    Abstract: An analyte test element for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a physiological sample fluid having a first and a second surface in a predetermined distance opposite from each other, said both surfaces are provided with two substantially equivalent patterns forming areas of high and low surface energy which are aligned mostly congruent, whereby the areas with high surface energy create a sample distribution system with at least two detection areas, characterized in that the detection areas of first and second surface are also provided with two corresponding patterns of working and reference electrodes of electrochemical detection means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Egomedical Technologies AG
    Inventors: Matthias Stiene, Ingrid Rohm
  • Patent number: 7988917
    Abstract: The present invention concerns embodiments of a system for determining the concentration of an analyte in a body fluid which comprises an analytical test element and an instrument separate therefrom, wherein at least a part of the electrical components of the system are comprised of polymer electronics. Embodiments of the analytical test element comprise an area with reagent chemistry for the detection of an analyte and a transponder configured for wireless transmission of lot-specific data and/or measured values. The instrument has a reading module configured for wireless transmission of data, or data and energy, to the test element and an evaluation unit for evaluating the data or measured values received by the transponder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Bernd Roesicke, Manfred Seidenstricker
  • Patent number: 7981661
    Abstract: The fluidic system of the preferred embodiment includes a sheath pump to pump sheath fluid from a sheath container into an interrogation zone, a sheath volume measurement device to measure the fluid in the sheath container, a waste pump to pump the sheath fluid and a sample fluid as waste fluid from the interrogation zone into a waste container, and a waste volume measurement device to measure the fluid in the waste container. The system also includes a controller connected to the sheath pump, the waste pump, and the volume measurement devices. The sheath pump and/or the waste pump draw sample fluid from a sample container into the interrogation zone, which functions to provide a location for the fluidic system and an optical system of the flow cytometer to cooperatively facilitate the analysis of the sample fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Accuri Cytometers, Inc.
    Inventor: Collin A. Rich
  • Patent number: 7981363
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignees: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc., Roche Operations Ltd.
    Inventors: David W. Burke, Lance S. Kuhn, Terry A. Beaty, Vladimir Svetnik
  • Patent number: 7981681
    Abstract: Method for the automatic analysis of a blood sample in which: an analysis solution containing the blood sample, a diluent, and at least one compound to lyze the erythrocytes; at least one compound to stabilize the haemoglobin in the form of a chromogenic complex, is formed in a single dilution and analysis tank, the haemoglobin level is measured in this analysis solution by spectrophotometry in the tank after the lysis of the erythrocytes; and an appropriate quantity of this analysis solution is taken from the tank on which a leucocytic differentiation is carried out by an optical elements characterized in that the analysis solution also contains at least one compound to protect the leucocytes, allowing the distinguishing of at least four main leucocyte sub-populations. A haematological analysis apparatus for the implementation of such a method is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: C2 Diagnostics
    Inventors: Henri Champseix, Jérôme Giraud
  • Patent number: 7981678
    Abstract: A device includes a sensor array and a processor is automatically calibrated. The sensor array collects data from a pattern using at least one of a capacitive measurement and a radio frequency measurement. The pattern is included on a calibration storage device. The processor receives the data from the sensor array and calibrates the device in accordance with the data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Bayer Healthcare LLC
    Inventors: Jeffery S. Reynolds, Mu Wu, Matthew Holzer, Hoi-Cheong Steve Sun
  • Patent number: 7977112
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignees: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc., Roche Operations Ltd.
    Inventors: David W. Burke, Lance S. Kuhn, James Maxwell