With Claimed Manipulation Of Container To Effect Reaction Or Use Of Container Of Claimed Optical Structure Patents (Class 436/165)
  • Patent number: 12044603
    Abstract: The present invention is related to the field of bio/chemical sampling, sensing, assays and applications. Particularly, the present invention is related to how to make the sampling/sensing/assay become simple to use, fast to results, highly sensitive, easy to use, using tiny sample volume (e.g. 0.5 uL or less), operated by a person without any professionals, reading by mobile-phone, or low cost, or a combination of them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2024
    Assignee: Essenlix Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen Y. Chou, Wei Ding
  • Patent number: 11933699
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to devices and methods for preparing a filtered solution from slurry for lateral flow testing of analytes of interest in agricultural or environmental samples. A porous frit is located adjacent to an outlet of a vessel containing slurry, and positive pressure is applied to the volume enclosed by a vessel body of the vessel to cause the slurry to pass through the porous frit and become a filtered solution that exits the outlet of the vessel. Devices and methods described herein allow more rapid, cleaner, and inexpensive production of filtered samples than conventional methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2024
    Assignee: Waters Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Lingyun Chen, Chris Borbone
  • Patent number: 11644476
    Abstract: An analysis device that includes a placement section, a pressing member, and a measurement member, has an analysis kit including a chip provided with a capillary through which a sample flows and a cartridge superimposed on the chip, and in which a liquid reservoir placed therein to enable a component present in sample can be measured in a state in which the chip and the cartridge have been fitted together. The analysis kit is placed on the placement section. The pressing member presses the analysis kit in a direction in which the cartridge is superimposed on the chip to sandwich the analysis kit between the pressing member and the placement section, and to fit the chip and the cartridge together. The measurement member that measures the component present in the sample in the analysis kit in which the chip and the cartridge have been fitted together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Assignee: ARKRAY, Inc.
    Inventors: Akihiro Yamamoto, Naotsugu Onuma
  • Patent number: 11321827
    Abstract: The present disclosure pertains to autonomous control of an imaging system. In some embodiments, training information including at least a plurality of images and action information are received. The plurality of images and action information are provided to a prediction model to train the prediction model. Further, an image capturing device is controlled to capture an image of a portion of a living organism, the image is processed, via the prediction model, to determine an action to be taken with respect to the image, and the determined action is taken with respect to the image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: Aivitae LLC
    Inventor: Bob Sueh-chien Hu
  • Patent number: 11311875
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sample device that allows for simultaneous analysis of multiple liquid samples (e.g., drinking water samples). More specifically, the sample device is adapted for use with a mobile water analyzer, the sample device including an upwardly open receptacle divided into a plurality of separate upwardly open compartments separated by dividing walls. Each of the compartments is configured to contain a separate water sample, and the sample device is adapted to receive the inlet opening of a removable test element of a mobile water analyzer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Assignee: GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES AS REPRESENTED BY THE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
    Inventor: David G. Wahman
  • Patent number: 11305288
    Abstract: Disclosed is an assay device comprising a high density of wells aligned thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2022
    Assignee: Plexium, Inc.
    Inventors: Yi Zhang, Jesse Lu, Alex Price, Pengyu Yang, Kandaswamy Vijayan
  • Patent number: 10907178
    Abstract: In an illustrative embodiment, automated multi-module cell editing instruments comprising one or more flow-through electroporation devices or modules are provided to automate genome editing in live cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Assignee: Inscripta, Inc.
    Inventors: Jorge Bernate, Don Masquelier, Phillip Belgrader, Kevin Ness
  • Patent number: 10900879
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the optical measurement of at least the stability and the aggregation of particles in a liquid sample which is located in a sample container, wherein the method comprises the following steps: irradiating the sample with light of at least one first wavelength in order to fluorescently excite the particles, irradiating the sample with light of at least one second wavelength in order to examine the scattering of the particles, measuring the fluorescence light which is emitted by the sample; and measuring the extinction light at the second wavelength, wherein the irradiated light of the second wavelength runs through the sample container, is reflected back, runs again through the sample container in the opposite direction and exits as extinction light, wherein the stability is determined based on the measured fluorescence light and the aggregation is measured based on the measured extinction light. The invention further relates to a corresponding apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: NANOTEMPER TECHNOLOGIES GMBH
    Inventors: Philipp Baaske, Stefan Duhr, Dennis Breitsprecher, Jonathan Derix
  • Patent number: 10794900
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to apparatus, systems, compositions, and methods for analyzing a sample containing particles. A particle imaging system or analyzer can include a flowcell through which a urine sample containing particles is caused to flow, and a high optical resolution imaging device which captures images for image analysis. A contrast pattern for autofocusing is provided on the flowcell. The image processor assesses focus accuracy from pixel data contrast. A positioning motor moves the microscope and/or flowcell along the optical axis for autofocusing on the contrast pattern target. The processor then displaces microscope and flowcell by a known distance between the contrast pattern and the sample stream, thus focusing on the sample stream. Cell or particle images are collected from that position until autofocus is reinitiated, periodically, by input signal, or when detecting temperature changes or focus inaccuracy in the image data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: Iris International, Inc.
    Inventors: Bart J. Wanders, Eric Chapoulaud, Brett Jordan
  • Patent number: 10764538
    Abstract: Systems and methods analyzing body fluids contain cells including blood, bone marrow, urine, vaginal tissue, epithelial tissue, tumors, semen, and spittle are disclosed. The systems and methods utilize an improved technique for applying a monolayer of cells to a slide and generating a substantially uniform distribution of cells on the slide. Additionally aspects of the invention also relate to systems and method for utilizing multi-color microscopy for improving the quality of images captured by a light receiving device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Hematology, Inc.
    Inventors: James Winkelman, Milenko Tanasijevic, David Zahniser, James Linder
  • Patent number: 10697884
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and systems for image cytometry analysis, in particular using light sources to be cooled. Thereby is provided optimal light conditions for image cytometry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2020
    Assignee: ChemoMetec A/S
    Inventors: Martin Glensbjerg, Johan Holm, Søren Kjaerulff, Frans Ejner Ravn Hansen
  • Patent number: 10173219
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vessel for containing and storing a sample and subsequent easy access to individual specimens of the sample, in particular specimens of biological samples. One embodiment discloses a breakable multi-specimen storage vessel comprising a container comprising a lower end and an upper end, at least one end having an open end, the length of said container being continuously formed and provided with break portions at predetermined positions alongside thereof where said container is adapted to be broken into a plurality of specimens, each specimen having a first end provided with at least a part of a first fastening mechanism and a second end provided with at least a part of a second fastening mechanism, wherein the configuration of the first fastening mechanism is different from the configuration of the second fastening mechanism. The breakable storage vessel according to the present invention may be applied within cryogenic storage applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: 1CryoBio AG
    Inventors: Allan Rødtness, Anders Rørdam Michelsen, Henrik Neuschäfer Larsen
  • Patent number: 9714903
    Abstract: Provided is a specimen analysis apparatus. The specimen analysis apparatus includes an image photographing unit photographing an identification code disposed on a kit for specimen analyzing and a specimen reaction result reacting by injecting a specimen into the kit for specimen analyzing and a main body on which the image photographing unit is mounted. The image photographing unit photographs the identification code and the specimen reaction result with a time difference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2017
    Assignee: OSANG HEALTHCARE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Byeong Woo Bae, Sung Dong Lee, Rae Ho Kang, Ji Hun Shin, Ju Pyo Hong
  • Patent number: 9623411
    Abstract: In one embodiment described herein, a cartridge is provided comprising a cartridge frame; a plurality of diluents each in an expandable container; a plurality of reagents each in an expandable container; and a plurality of mixing vessels comprising empty expandable containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: Theranos, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Frenzel, Samartha Anekal, Daniel Young
  • Patent number: 9468423
    Abstract: A container assembly including a shield disposed at least partially within a receiving cavity of a receptacle of a lid is disclosed. The shield provides a physical barrier that at least partially covers and blocks an entrance to the receiving cavity to prevent a patient and/or healthcare worker from needle stick injuries. In one embodiment, the shield is adapted to receive a stopper of a collection tube, and the shield is transitionable between a locked position in which the shield is restrained within an open end of the receptacle, and an unlocked position in which the shield is movable within the receiving cavity of the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventor: Robert G. Ellis
  • Patent number: 9341636
    Abstract: The method according to the invention is capable of characterizing a variation in the speed of particles or agglomeration of particles, the particles, such as blood particles, being contained in a liquid (12). The characterization method includes the following steps: introducing the liquid (12) into a fluid chamber (14); lighting the fluid chamber (14) using an excitation light beam (18) emitted by a light source (16), the light beam (18) extending through the fluid chamber (14) in a longitudinal direction (X); acquiring at least one image using a matrix photodetector (20), the image being formed by radiation transmitted by the lighted fluid chamber (14); and calculating, from at least one acquired image, at least one indicator characterizing the variation of the speed or agglomeration of the particles. During the acquisition step, the photodetector (20) is positioned at a distance (D2) smaller than 1 cm from the fluid chamber (14) in the longitudinal direction (X).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Commissariat à l'énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives
    Inventors: Vincent Poher, Myriam-Laure Cubizolles, Patrick Pouteau, Cédric Allier, Johanna Spiaczka
  • Patent number: 9329159
    Abstract: Methods and systems for colorimetrically analyzing a liquid medium by analyzing chemical test strip images are provided. The liquid medium can be industrial water in an industrial water system. Image analyzing software carries out the analysis. The results of the analysis can be used to diagnosing a chemical treatment regimen of the industrial water system. A chemical test strip holder can be used to enhance reliability and repeatability of the imaging process and/or subsequent analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventor: Robert S Walicki
  • Patent number: 9318312
    Abstract: An ultraviolet light generating target 20 includes a substrate 21 made of sapphire, quartz, or rock crystal; and a light-emitting layer 22 that is provided on the substrate 21 and that generates ultraviolet light upon receiving an electron beam. The light-emitting layer 22 includes powdered or granular Pr:LuAG crystals. By using such a light-emitting layer 22 as the target, the ultraviolet light generating efficiency can be increased more remarkably than when a Pr:LuAG single crystal film is used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: HAMAMATSU PHOTONICS K.K.
    Inventors: Yoshinori Honda, Fumitsugu Fukuyo, Yuji Kasamatsu, Takashi Suzuki, Takeaki Hattori, Koji Kawai, Shucheng Chu, Hiroyuki Taketomi
  • Patent number: 9283560
    Abstract: An integrated fluidic device comprising includes an input chamber that provides an input of a sample fluid, and a first overspill chamber in fluid communication with the input chamber. A metering conduit is in fluid communication with the fluid input chamber and the first overspill chamber. The metering conduit meters a first metered volume of fluid from the sample fluid, and the first overspill chamber receives fluid in excess of the first metered volume of fluid. A second overspill chamber is in fluid communication with the metering conduit. The metering conduit meters a second metered volume of fluid from the first metered volume of fluid, and the second overspill chamber receives fluid from the first metered volume of fluid in excess of the second metered volume of fluid. The second overspill chamber has a fluid actuated closable valve for controlling the metering of the second metered volume of fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2016
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Pamela Ann Dothie
  • Patent number: 9279800
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an apparatus, method, system for the determination of the aggregation rate of red blood cells. More specifically, the invention concerns a method, system, and the relative apparatus used to determine the aggregation rate of red blood cells, and other parameters related to these, such as viscosity, deformability, elasticity, density, in the field of in vitro medical analyses, using optical systems after or during inducted forces for red blood cell disruption and redistribution generated by ultrasound waves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: Alcor Scientific, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Sacchetti, Francesco Frappa
  • Patent number: 9266110
    Abstract: A reaction tube for performing isothermal polymerase chain reaction therein is provided and includes an upper section, a lower capillary section, a linkage connecting the upper section and the lower capillary section, and a thermal conductor. The lower capillary section has an annealing portion, an annular heating groove, and a close end. The annealing portion is connected with the linkage, and the annular heating groove is connected with the annealing portion. The close end is connected with the annular heating groove. The thermal conductor tightly embraces the annular heating groove of the lower capillary section for conducting heat. Accordingly, a heat generated from the heating source will conduct to the annular heating groove of the lower capillary section of the reaction tube, a temperature gradient along the reaction tube is then provided in order to perform a thermal convection, thereby performing the isothermal polymerase chain reaction in the reaction tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: GeneReach Biotechnology Corp.
    Inventors: Chen Su, Ping-Hua Teng
  • Patent number: 9260740
    Abstract: The contamination of foodstuffs, additives, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and the like by undesirable micro-organisms is threat to public health. On occasion, the level of bacteria that conventional testing techniques are designed to look for is so low that the test result for the bacterium is “negative”. However, the bacterium although present in un-detectably small amounts may multiply under the right conditions and given the shelf life of the product, may be able to recover to an extent whereby public health is threatened. This problem is alleviated by the provision of micro-organism testing apparatus comprising (a) an incubator, and (b) a multi-compartment resealable container provided with or adapted to receive a growth medium in one compartment and having a growth medium additive in another compartment, the compartments being separated by a barrier whose removal or puncture will expose the medium to the additive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: ZYZEBA TESTING LIMITED
    Inventor: Rosemary Katherine Cameron Sharpin
  • Patent number: 9165357
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods for determining a wavefront position of a liquid on a surface of an assay test strip placing a liquid on the surface of the test strip; and acquiring one or more signals from the surface of the test strip at one or more times, comparing the one or more acquired signals to a threshold, wherein the wavefront position is a position on the surface of the test strip where a signal is greater than or less than a threshold (e.g., fixed or dynamic threshold). Such methods may be used to determine the wavefront velocity of a liquid on a surface of an assay test strip and the transit time of a liquid sample to traverse the one or more positions on the surface of the assay test strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Assignee: Alverix, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott Dylewski
  • Patent number: 9157903
    Abstract: A device includes a plasma separation membrane, a capillary channel positioned adjacent the plasma separation membrane to receive plasma from blood placed on the plasma separation membrane, at least one cuvette coupled to the capillary channel, a gas permeable membrane, and a distribution channel coupled to the capillary channel to provide plasma to the cuvette, wherein the cuvette is configured to hold an amount of plasma with reagent suitable for colorimetric assay by a tester to hold the device. Variations include the use of a quantitation channel to provide a selected amount of plasma and a mixing channel to mix plasma with a diluent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2015
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Lynn Seifried, Ron Bardell
  • Patent number: 9067203
    Abstract: A specimen cup system includes a cup defining first and second reservoirs in fluid communication with one another. The first reservoir has an open top with spaced-apart upper and lower annular flanges defined at the open top's external periphery. A test card is permanently disposed in the second reservoir. A base, rotatably coupled to the cup, defines a chamber having an opening therein. The opening of the chamber is in fluid communication only with the first reservoir when the base is in a first position, and is in fluid communication only with the second reservoir when the base is in a second position. A seal, rim, and lid cooperate with the upper and lower annular flanges of the open top of the first reservoir to seal the first reservoir after a specimen has been deposited therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: UVERA DIAGNOSTICS, INC.
    Inventors: Richard M Nee, William D Nee
  • Patent number: 9063111
    Abstract: The present invention relates to chemical sensors with hybrid characteristics, which are thermo-mechanically stable and able to respond to changes in the environment, particularly in the presence of amine and/or amide and/or oxide-reducing compounds, and/or vapor thereof by color change, as well as its incorporation into sensitive polymeric composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignees: Braskem S.A., Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul
    Inventors: Edwin Moncada Acevedo, Gilvan Pozzobon Pires, João Henrique Zimnoch Dos Santos
  • Patent number: 9057724
    Abstract: Label complexes, lateral flow apparatus and methods of detecting a high molecular weight substance are shown and described. In one embodiment, the label complex includes an antispecies antibody and another antibody having sensitivity to both the antispecies antibody and to a control line capture agent, an antibody binding protein and a detectable component. Typically, the antibody binding protein may bind to a receptor for the analyte or to the anti-species antibody. In yet other embodiments, a lateral flow test strip includes the label complex and a solid support that traverses lateral flow of a liquid sample and provides a detectable signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2015
    Assignee: Charm Sciences, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven J. Saul
  • Patent number: 9039995
    Abstract: A testing cartridge for metering of a sample to be tested. The testing cartridge includes a casing defining a casing opening and a sliding member defining a sliding member opening. The casing opening or the sliding member opening can define a specified volume, wherein the casing opening and the sliding member opening collectively define a sample application region dimensioned to accommodate receiving an amount of sample exceeding the specified volume. The sliding member is movable transversely to the casing opening by having the sliding member and the casing traverse across each other's respective openings to remove excess sample from the received amount of sample and retain the specified volume from the received amount of sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Cardiogenics Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Daniel Thorogood, Paul Saunders
  • Patent number: 9040304
    Abstract: A multi-channel system and methods for sorting particles according to one or more characteristics of the particles. The system includes multiple flow cytometry units, each unit can have a nozzle for producing a fluid stream containing a desired population of particles in a mixture of particles. Each of the units may be operable to sort said desired population of particles by interrogating the fluid stream with a beam of electromagnetic radiation and classifying particles based on one or more characteristics of the particles. The system also includes a common fluid delivery system for delivering sheath fluid to each flow cytometer unit for producing respective fluid streams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Inguran, LLC
    Inventors: Gary Durack, Jeffrey D. Wallace, Gary P. Vandre, Lon A. Westfall, Jeremy T. Hatcher, Niraj V. Nayak
  • Publication number: 20150132856
    Abstract: The preparation of silver quantum clusters embedded in organic-templated-boehmite-nanoarchitecture (OTBN) and its use as a sensor for quantity of water flow measured by change of color in visible light upon flow of contaminated water have been provided. Silver quantum clusters-embedded OTBN are highly luminescent. Since the quantum clusters are embedded in the matrix, they are highly stable over a long period of time. The composition described here is utilized in the form of a device for ‘visible/ultraviolet light color change-based detection’ upon passage of water through a water purification device. Upon interaction with ions present in water, luminescent silver clusters undergo chemical transformation to Ag2S nanoparticles. The transformation is reflected in the form of visible color change (from pink to black) and luminescence quenching (from red emission to negligible luminescence).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: Thalappil Pradeep, Leelavathi Annamalai, Mohan Udhaya Sankar, Chaudhary Amrita, n/a Anshup, Thumu Udayabhaskara Rao
  • Publication number: 20150132861
    Abstract: A diagnostic system is provided herein that includes an instrument comprising an electrochemiluminescence (ECL) detector, and a cartridge configured to fit within a portion of the instrument, wherein the cartridge includes at least one reagent including an ECL label and a blood collection holder. Also provided herein is a system that includes a diagnostic instrument, which includes a pump, an ECL detector, an incubator, a magnet, and an output device, and a cartridge configured to fit within a portion of the diagnostic instrument, a sample holder configured to fit within the cartridge, and a closed fluidic loop between the diagnostic instrument and the cartridge when the cartridge is fit within a portion of the diagnostic instrument, wherein the cartridge is configured to accept a sample from the sample holder and place the sample in fluidic communication with the diagnostic instrument via the closed fluidic loop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: Wellstat Diagnostics, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Alan Cook, Sang Cho, Charles Quentin Davis, Kevin E Dorsey, Jason Charles Harley, Jonathan Leland, Rober Krikor Matikyan, Sjef Otten, Jeffrey Howard Peterman, Brian B Thomas
  • Patent number: 9028756
    Abstract: A specimen analyzing method and a specimen analyzing apparatus capable of measuring interference substances before analyzing a specimen. The method comprises a step for sucking the specimen stored in a specimen container (150) and sampling it in a first container (153), a step for optically measuring the specimen in the first container, a step for sampling the specimen in a second container (154) and preparing a specimen for measurement by mixing the specimen with a reagent in the second container, and a step for analyzing the specimen for measurement according to the results of the optical measurement of the specimen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventors: Norimasa Yamamoto, Takashi Yamato, Naohiko Matsuo, Satoshi Iguchi
  • Publication number: 20150118690
    Abstract: A sample analyzer has an illuminator for illuminating an assay sample to cause luminescence, and a support for a sample vessel containing the assay sample. The support is adapted to position the assay sample proximate the illuminator. A detector is positioned along an optical axis extending from the illuminator, through the positioned assay sample, to the detector, so as to detect the luminescence from the assay sample. A reflector is removably disposed between the illuminator and the assay sample so as to reflect a portion of the luminescence back through the positioned assay sample toward the detector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: Siemens Healthcare Diagnostic Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Jasperse, Normand P. Desmarais
  • Publication number: 20150111200
    Abstract: The present teachings provide for systems, and components thereof, for detecting and/or analyzing light. These systems can include, among others, optical reference standards utilizing luminophores, such as nanocrystals, for calibrating, validating, and/or monitoring light-detection systems, before, during, and/or after sample analysis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventors: J. Michael PHILLIPS, Kevin S. Bodner, Aldrich N. K. Lau, Mark F. Oldham, Donald R. Sandell, David H. Tracy, Steven J. Boege
  • Patent number: 9012234
    Abstract: A mobile water analyzing system for determining an analyte in a water sample includes a basic unit and a test element configured to be inserted into the basic unit. The test element includes a sample line with an inlet opening configured to receive the water sample, a measuring section forming a measuring track and configured to allow the determination of an analyte, a pump opening, and a key reagent disposed inside the sample line. The basic unit includes a test element receptacle configured to hold the inserted test element, an analyzer with an analyzer measuring track formed by the measuring section, and a pump actuator cooperatively connected with the pump opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Hach Lange GmbH
    Inventors: Ulrich Lundgreen, Aria Farjam, Rolf Uthemann, Andreas Mitreiter, Isabel Huenig, Markus Lenhard, Rainer Froemel, Hans-Joachim Kumpch
  • Patent number: 8999723
    Abstract: A reliable, low cost device for determining when dangerous levels of hydrogen gas have been generated in a transformer is disclosed. The hydrogen indicator is defined by a module assembly that threads into either the headspace or into the oil-filled body of a transformer. The module has an open interior that contains a film that incorporates a hydrogen-sensitive chemochromic indicator. The indicator film is visible through a lens. When the film has been exposed to hydrogen, chemical changes in the chemochromic indicator cause the film to change color—the color change is immediately visible through the lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Serveron Corporation
    Inventor: Steven Mahoney
  • Patent number: 8999264
    Abstract: A coating formula and method for surface coating non-porous surfaces. Microfluidic devices including said coating achieve desired properties including increased hydrophilicity, improved adhesion, stability and optical clarity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Pugia
  • Patent number: 8992860
    Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for minimizing or eliminating diffusion effects. Diffused regions of a segmented flow of multiple, miscible fluid species may be vented off to a waste channel, and non-diffused regions of fluid may be preferentially pulled off the channel that contains the segmented flow. Multiple fluid samples that are not contaminated via diffusion may be collected for analysis and measurement in a single channel. The systems and methods for minimizing or eliminating diffusion effects may be used to minimize or eliminate diffusion effects in a microfluidic system for monitoring the amplification of DNA molecules and the dissociation behavior of the DNA molecules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Canon U.S. Life Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Murphy, Scott Corey, Alex Flamm, Ben Lane, Conrad Laskowski, Chad Schneider
  • Patent number: 8980572
    Abstract: A method for generating and localizing a signal in a solid phase substrate detection system comprises applying a solution of target material to a substrate; binding the target with a specific affinity molecule having an attached label, the label comprising multiple signal precursor molecules; applying a carrier to the substrate, and treating the label to convert the signal precursor molecules to signal generating molecules. The carrier comprises solvent for the label and thickener for localizing the signal. The carrier may include developer that converts signal precursor molecules to signal generating molecules. Developer is not necessary if the signal precursor molecules are converted to signal generating molecules by e.g. temperature change, pH change, sonication, light irradiation, microwave heating. A test device for detecting target in a fluid sample, and a kit of parts for determining the presence of target in a fluid sample are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Supernova Diagnostics, Inc.
    Inventors: Ling Wai Wong, Pui Yee Cangel Chan, Wing Cheung Mak, King Keung Sin, Reinhard Renneberg
  • Patent number: 8980641
    Abstract: A method of rapidly detecting trace materials including biohazards, toxins, radioactive materials, and narcotics in situ is disclosed. A corresponding apparatus is disclosed. A trace of the material is collected on a pad of the card component, collected by swiping the pad on suspected surface or exposure to the suspected air volume. A novel card component is disclosed that when inserted in a chemical detection unit (CDU), releases reaction chemicals from flexible walled capsules in desired sequence. The exposed pad containing trace material and chemicals are heated in the chemical detection unit to produce a spectral pattern that is analyzed by the optical electronics in the CDU and results are displayed, stored and/or transmitted over a communications network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Detectachem, LLC
    Inventors: Vaughan L. Clift, Kristin L. Harriman, Richard L. Pettys, David M. Headley, Tiffany M. Conerly
  • Patent number: 8980177
    Abstract: Disclosed is a fluidic assay device for assaying at least one property of a liquid sample, the device comprising: (i) a liquid sample application region; (ii) at least one test flow path in liquid flow communication with the sample application region; (iii) a reference flow path in liquid flow communication with the sample application region; and (iv) a junction region, at which the test flow path and the reference flow path contact one another, the junction region typically comprising an outlet, conduit, chamber or other portion which permits the onward flow of liquid; wherein a liquid flowing along the reference flow path, upon reaching the junction region, has the effect of preventing the flow of liquid along the test flow path. The invention relates to a fluidic device for the passage of a liquid. It also relates to an assay device suitable for measurement of the amount and/or presence of an analyte in, or property of, a fluid sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Alere Switzerland GmbH
    Inventors: Stephen John Carlisle, David Tolley
  • Patent number: 8968660
    Abstract: A chemical analyzer analyzes a sample for a target chemical. The sample and reagent are added to a measurement cell until a detectable change is observed. A reference compound, which does not take part in the reaction between the target chemical and reagent, is added to the reagent. By measuring the concentration of the reference compound, the amount of reagent used may be determined. In one embodiment, a mechanism introduces the sample, adds reagent, mixes, cleans, and flushes the measurement cell, which incorporates a longitudinal chamber having inlets for the sample and reagent and an outlet for measured sample/reagent mixtures. A detector located in or adjacent to the chamber between the inlets and outlet and a piston movable in the chamber carries seals such that movement of a piston sequentially opens the inlets and expels the fluid. The analyzer also includes a device that delivers reagent to a measurement cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Aqualysis Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Stephen Charles Davis, John David Petty, John Thomas Huberts
  • Patent number: 8969085
    Abstract: Methods and assay for the portable colorimetric detection of an antioxidant in a food sample. The method includes the steps of providing a colorimetric reagent, the reagent including a plurality of ceria nanoparticles immobilized to a support, contacting the colorimetric reagent with the food sample, and detecting an optical property of the colorimetric reagent, where a change in the optical property of the colorimetric reagent is associated with the presence of antioxidant in the food sample. The change in the optical property of the colorimetric reagent is dependent upon the concentration of the antioxidant in the food sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Clarkson University
    Inventors: Erica Sharpe, Emanuela Silvana Andreescu, Daniel Andreescu
  • Patent number: 8961898
    Abstract: The present invention provides a bilayer membrane produced using a microchannel capable of easily forming bilayer membranes such as planar lipid bilayer membranes in large quantities, and a production method thereof. A process for producing a bilayer membrane of the present invention comprises forming a state where two liquid phases or liquid and gaseous phases each containing amphipathic molecules are alternately arranged in a microchannel, discharging one of the two liquid phases or the gaseous phase of the liquid and gaseous phases through branch minichannels formed in the wall on one side or in the walls on both sides to contact the remaining liquid phases adjacent to each other, and thereby forming a side-by-side arrangement of bilayer membranes comprising the amphipathic molecules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Tokyo Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Takasi Nisisako, Takahiro Baba
  • Publication number: 20150044777
    Abstract: A visual indication test kit is provided. The visual indication test kit includes a single collector including a plurality of plugs, wherein the plurality of plugs are configured to serve as extraction points for analytes, and mix a plurality of reagents with a plurality of analytes extracted onto the plurality of plugs, wherein the mixing of the plurality of reagents and the plurality of analytes facilitates performing a plurality of visual indications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventors: Deborah Foy, Edward Locke, Julian Parker, Anthony Pomozzi, Matthew Rixon, III
  • Patent number: 8945939
    Abstract: The invention is directed towards methods and compositions for identifying the amount of hydrofluoric acid in a buffered oxide etching composition. In buffered oxide etching compositions it is very difficult to measure the amount of hydrofluoric acid because it has varying equilibriums and it is toxic so it hard to handle and sample. When used to manufacture microchips however, incorrect amounts of hydrofluoric acid will ruin those chips. The invention utilizes a unique method of spectrographically measuring the hydrofluoric acid when in contact with added chromogenic agents to obtain exact measurements that are accurate, immediate, and safe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Amy M. Tseng, Brian V. Jenkins, Robert Mack
  • Patent number: 8945936
    Abstract: In one aspect of the invention, a method includes determining an amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in dialysate flowing through a dialysis system using a CO2 sensor associated with the dialysis system, determining, using a pH sensor associated with the dialysis system, a pH level of the dialysate, and calculating a level of bicarbonate in the dialysate based at least in part on the determined amount of CO2 measured in the gas and the determined pH level of the dialysate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Fresenius Medical Care Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen R. Ash, Thomas A. Sullivan, David Carr, Michael James Beiriger
  • Publication number: 20150031135
    Abstract: A method for calibrating an imager of a reagent analyzer, comprises positioning a dry reagent pad at a first read position in a field of view of the imager, the first read position illuminated by an illumination source with a first intensity, detecting a reference optical signal by the imager, indicative of a first reflectance value of the dry reagent pad at the first read position, positioning the dry reagent pad at a second read position, the second read position illuminated with a second intensity different from the first intensity, detecting a first optical signal by the imager, indicative of a second reflectance value of the dry reagent pad at the second read position, and calculating, by a processor, a calibration factor for the dry reagent pad at the second read position based on a difference between the reference optical signal and the first optical signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Applicant: SIEMENS HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTICS INC.
    Inventors: Chris Thomas Zimmerle, Amy Zercher, Jennifer Ann Goldsburg
  • Patent number: 8940246
    Abstract: A system for diagnostic testing may include a meter for performing a diagnostic test on a sample applied to a test media, the meter having a housing and an interface for receiving a signal representing coding information, and a container configured to contain test media compatible with the meter, the container having a coding element associated therewith. Additionally, the system may provide a mechanism for removing the meter from an interconnected test container and reattaching it to a new container using on-container coding methods that can recalibrate the meter for the new container of test strips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Nipro Diagnostics, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary T. Neel, Brent E. Modzelewski, George R. Rounds, Carlos Oti, Allan Javier Caban, Jeffrey Akins
  • Kit
    Patent number: 8940248
    Abstract: A kit comprising a carrier and vessels arranged on the carrier, wherein different reagents are contained in different vessels, the vessels are arranged with an openable closing device on top of the carrier, the carrier has a footprint on the bottom side for being placed on a base, and the carrier has bottom positioning means for being positioned on at least one workplace of an automated laboratory system for microtiter plates according to the SBS standard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Eppendorf AG
    Inventors: Judith Lucke, Jens-Peter Kroog, Helmut Knofe