Digestion Or Removing Interfering Materials Patents (Class 436/175)
  • Patent number: 7871813
    Abstract: A method of separating a cell-containing sample into a substantially cell-depleted portion, and a cell-containing portion comprising at least one of a stem cell, a lymphocyte, and a leukocyte comprises a step in which the sample is received in a vessel with at least one flexible wall. In another step, an additive and particles are added to the sample, wherein the additive substantially binds to the at least one of the stem cell, lymphocyte, and leukocyte, and the particles and wherein the particles substantially bind to the at least one of the stem cell, lymphocyte, and leukocyte, and the additive, thereby producing a cell-containing network. In a further step, the network is separated from the substantially cell-depleted portion by applying a magnetic force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Qualigen, Inc.
    Inventors: James Wyatt, Matthew Scott, Vijay K Mahant
  • Patent number: 7867765
    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: December 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: The General Hospital Corporation
    Inventors: Denise L. Faustman, Douglas E. Burger
  • Patent number: 7867779
    Abstract: A system and method for measuring and analyzing particles within a gas feed stream. In one aspect, the system includes a particle counter and a particle capture filter that are arranged in parallel. In another aspect, the system includes a purifying device to remove trace molecular impurities from a gas feed stream to reduce the presence of impurities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne Thomas McDermott, Richard Carl Ockovic, Dean Van-John Roth
  • Patent number: 7863012
    Abstract: The methods and reagents described in this invention are used to analyze circulating tumor cells, clusters, fragments, and debris. Analysis is performed with a number of platforms, including flow cytometry and the CellSpotterĀ® fluorescent microscopy imaging system. Analyzing damaged cells has shown to be important. However, there are two sources of damage: in vivo and in vitro. Damage in vivo occurs by apoptosis, necrosis, or immune response. Damage in vitro occurs during sample acquisition, handling, transport, processing, or analysis. It is therefore desirable to confine, reduce, eliminate, or at least qualify in vitro damage to prevent it from interfering in analysis. Described herein are methods to diagnose, monitor, and screen disease based on circulating rare cells, including malignancy as determined by CTC, clusters, fragments, and debris. Also provided are kits for assaying biological specimens using these methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Veridex, LLC
    Inventors: Galla Chandra Rao, Christopher Larson, Madeline Repollet, Herman Rutner, Leon W. M. M. Terstappen, Shawn Mark O'Hara, Steven Gross
  • Patent number: 7863050
    Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for gently lysing and solubilizing cells. Methods and compositions are further provided for quickly purifying high quality low molecular weight nucleic acid from host cells. Target cells are treated with a pre-chilled lysis solution having a zwitterionic detergent, for example n-Dodecyl-N,N-dimethyl-3-ammonio-1-propanesulfonate, and a brief room-temperature incubation. Where nucleic acid purification is required, the lysis solution-treated cells are contacted with a nucleic acid capture matrix having an average pore size of at least about 1 ?m.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Qiagen North American Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Domanico, Matt Myers, Kristian Keane, Lisa R. Braun, Thomas Kolzau
  • Patent number: 7858392
    Abstract: A system and corresponding method for processing of biological samples prior to spectroscopy analysis. The system includes a support for an organic sample, a solution applicator configured to apply a solution for extraction of at least one biomarker protein from the organic sample. The system includes a digester-medium applicator configured to apply to the organic sample a digesting medium capable of at least partial digestion of the biomarker proteins into peptides. The system includes a heating device configured to heat at least one of the organic sample, the solution, the digesting medium, and the biomarker proteins to a temperature above room temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Science and Engineering Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Nelli I. Taranenko, Berk Oktem, Appavu K. Sundaram, Vladimir M. Doroshenko
  • Patent number: 7858396
    Abstract: A lateral flow test strip for the analysis of a sample featuring numerous capture zones arranged in an array such that each capture zone is substantially equidistant from the sample containing area. The sample does not pass through another capture zone to reach any one of the other capture zones. The capture zones are preferably arranged in a linear array perpendicular to the flow of the sample through the lateral flow test strip. The lateral flow test strip allows for an increased number of simultaneous analyses of numerous analytes from one sample to occur on one lateral flow test strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Orasure Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul L.A.M. Corstjens, Keith Kardos, R. Sam Niedbala, Hans J. Tanke, Michel Zuiderwijk, Hans H. Feindt, Vijay K. Mokkapati, Jess Aaron Kimball
  • Patent number: 7858757
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a monoclonal antibody and corresponding hybridoma cells and antigens suitable for isolating fetal cells from maternal blood. The monoclonal antibody reacts with a surface antigen present on fetal red blood cells including their nucleated precursor cells, but not with surface antigens on adult erythroid cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Adnagen AG
    Inventors: Christiane Hollmann, Silke Zimmermann, Stefan Stachelhaus, Winfried Albert
  • Patent number: 7846748
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods of quantifying the amount or concentration of one or more peptides and/or proteins in one or more samples using differentially isotopically-labeled peptides and/or proteins. The invention also provides methods of identifying one or more peptides and/or proteins in one or more samples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
    Inventor: Christoph H. Borchers
  • Patent number: 7842916
    Abstract: A method of analyzing ions adsorbed on a surface of a mask for pattern formation of a semiconductor device, and an apparatus using the same are disclosed. The ion analyzing method includes: filling a heating container within a main chamber with a predetermined amount of a solvent; immersing a mask in the solvent-filled heating container; raising an internal pressure of the chamber to a predetermined level by supplying gas into the chamber; separating ions from a surface of the mask by heating the solvent within the heating container at a predetermined temperature for a predetermined period; and analyzing the ions by collecting the solvent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Dong-Hun Lee, Hae-Young Jeong, Byung-Cheol Cha, Sung-Jae Han
  • Patent number: 7829040
    Abstract: A vessel assembly is disclosed for high pressure high temperature chemistry. The vessel assembly includes a cylindrical vessel and a cylindrical vessel seal cover. The vessel and the seal cover have respective surfaces that, when engaged, define a circumferential interior passage between the vessel and the seal cover. A pressure release opening in the seal cover is in fluid communication with the circumferential passage. A retaining ring surrounds the vessel and the seal cover at the position where the vessel and the seal cover meet to maintain an outer circumferential engagement between the seal cover and the vessel when pressure forces gases in the vessel to flow into the circumferential passage and then outwardly from the pressure release opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: CEM Corporation
    Inventors: Wyatt Hargett, Jr., David Barclay
  • Patent number: 7824874
    Abstract: The present invention relates a method for the enumeration of in vivo gene mutation. The method utilizes differential staining of GPI-anchor deficient erythrocyte populations to distinguish between wild-type and pig-a gene mutants. Quantitative analyses can be conducted on erythrocytes and/or reticulocytes, and is based upon fluorescent emission and light scatter following exposure to an excitatory light source. Counting of mutant erythrocytes or reticulcoytes relative to the number of total erythrocytes or reticulocytes can be used to assess the DNA-damaging potential of an exogenous chemical agent, the DNA-damaging potential of an exogenous physical agent, the effects of an exogenous agent which can modify endogenously-induced DNA damage, and the effects of an exogenous agent which can modify exogenously-induced DNA damage. Kits for practicing the invention are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Litron Laboratories, Ltd.
    Inventor: Stephen D. Dertinger
  • Patent number: 7824876
    Abstract: A bioaffinity assay for quantitative determination in a sample of free PAPP-A, defined as the pregnancy associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) that is not complexed to the proform of major basic protein (proMBP), where free PAPP-A is determined either i) as a calculated difference between measured total PAPP-A and measured PAPP-A complexed to proMBP, or ii) by a direct bioaffinity assay measuring only free PAPP-A. Also disclosed is a method for diagnosing an acute coronary syndrome in a person by using as marker either free PAPP-A as such or a ratio free PAPP-A/total PAPP-A, free PAPP-A/PAPP-A complexed to proMBP, or PAPP-A complexed to proMBP/total PAPP-A.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Turun Yliopisto
    Inventors: Qiu-Ping Qin, Kim Pettersson
  • Patent number: 7824917
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of detecting a nucleic acid which is not restricted by the design of the base sequence of a nucleic acid probe. By repeating washing and detection in multiple stages, the present invention can improve the precision of sequence-specific hybridization stepwise and also can ease restrictions in designing the nucleic acid probes, in particular, restrictions on the Tm value (the temperature at which the nucleic acid double strand is dissociated into single strands) or the sequence length of the nucleic acid probes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Ooshima
  • Patent number: 7820448
    Abstract: A bulk sample is fed with a liquid into a mixing tank (1) where it is stirred to form a dispersion. A proportion of the dispersion is recycled from the bottom of the tank through a line to the top of the tank so that at least the dispersion in the recycle loop (3) is substantially homogeneous, and a representative sample of the dispersion is taken from the recycle loop, e.g. using a slurry sampler (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Johnson Matthey Public Limited Company
    Inventors: Peter William Ash, Piers Scott Grumett, Brian Harrison
  • Patent number: 7811826
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fast and simple method for fractional measurement of small particle low density lipoprotein (LDL). The method for quantifying small particle LDL in a test sample entails a first step of separating the small particle LDL from other low density lipoproteins, and a second step of measuring cholesterol, triglycerides or proteins in the separated small particle LDL.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Denka Seiken Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuki Itoh, Tsutomu Hirano
  • Patent number: 7807475
    Abstract: A membrane having a refined surface as well as to a process and an apparatus for producing such a membrane, and which is useful, in particular, for rapid diagnostic tests for identifying specific analytes in liquid media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Sartorius Stedim Biotech GmbH
    Inventors: Hans Beer, Klaus Froese, Lothar Knoechelmann, Duane B. Piechocki
  • Patent number: 7803523
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a method for preparation of a biological sample for measurement of protein epitopes that allows for the preservation of intracellular protein epitopes and detection of signal transduction pathways based on the ability to capture transient activation states of the epitopes. The method provided by the invention allows for the rapid fixation of biological samples containing red blood cells, to ensure that epitopes of signal transduction molecules and other intracellular protein epitopes are preserved in the active state. The method of the invention further allows for lysis of red blood cells, thereby making it a useful method for cytometric analysis of biological samples, including, for example, whole blood, bone marrow aspirates, peritoneal fluids, and other red blood cell containing samples. The invention also provides a method to recover or ā€œunmaskā€ epitopes on intracellular antigens that have been made inaccessible by the cross linking fixative necessary to fix the sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignees: University Health Network, Beckman Coulter, Inc.
    Inventors: Sue Chow, David Hedley, T. Vincent Shankey, Patricia Grom
  • Patent number: 7795024
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and methods for expansion of hematopoietic stem cell numbers. The stem cells are cultured and differentiated cells and endogenous growth factors are removed (depleted), permitting long term culture and expansion of the stem cells. The hematopoietic stem cells are used in numerous therapeutic procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Insception Bioscience, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerard Madlambayan, Peter Zandstra
  • Patent number: 7795038
    Abstract: An assay device and method for measuring the concentration of HDL-associated cholesterol in a blood-fluid sample are described. The assay design prevents interference by reagents used for such removal with the HDL quantification reaction or with other assays carried out on the same sample. If desired, removal of non-HDL lipoproteins and assay of HDL cholesterol can be carried out without interruption of the assay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Cholestech Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald M. Jones, Thomas E. Worthy, Jeffrey Shindelman, Neal F. Bellet, Anthony J. Nugent
  • Publication number: 20100227413
    Abstract: A vessel assembly is disclosed for high pressure high temperature chemistry. The vessel assembly includes a cylindrical vessel and a cylindrical vessel seal cover. The vessel and the seal cover have respective surfaces that, when engaged, define a circumferential interior passage between the vessel and the seal cover. A pressure release opening in the seal cover is in fluid communication with the circumferential passage. A retaining ring surrounds the vessel and the seal cover at the position where the vessel and the seal cover meet to maintain an outer circumferential engagement between the seal cover and the vessel when pressure forces gases in the vessel to flow into the circumferential passage and then outwardly from the pressure release opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventors: Wyatt Hargett, JR., David Barclay
  • Patent number: 7785898
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods for identifying and/or enriching fetal cells from maternal blood, using as fetal cell markers the antibodies that the mother produces against paternally inherited fetal antigens. The fetal cell-maternal antibody complexes are identified and isolated using labelled agents that bind to the maternal antibodies. The present invention also provides fetal cells, isolated by use of said maternal antibodies, as a source of fetal DNA for prenatal genetic diagnosis of the fetus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Genetic Technologies Limited
    Inventor: Ralph M. Bohmer
  • Publication number: 20100213367
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for the soft desorption of analyte from a sample, in which an optical beam absorbed within an irradiate zone of the sample causes vibrational excitations of a component within the sample. The optical beam, providing sufficient energy to superheat the component, is provided for a time interval that is less than the time duration required for the loss of energy out of the irradiated zone due to thermal diffusion and acoustic expansion. The superheated component thus drives ablation within the irradiated zone, resulting in the soft desorption of analyte without ionization and fragmentation. The ejected ablation plume may be directed towards the inlet of a mass analysis device for detection of the desorbed analyte, which is preferably ionized by a linear resonant photo-ionization step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: R.J. Dwayne Miller
  • Patent number: 7776266
    Abstract: A food testing device for testing for the presence of harmful contaminants in a food sample, includes a vessel adapted for holding a liquefied food sample, a liquefier operatively associated with the vessel for converting an unliquefied food sample into a liquefied food sample, at least one test assay dispensable from the device, wherein the test assay includes at least one assay reagent having an affinity for at least one harmful contaminant, and capable of both detecting the presence of the harmful contaminant in the liquefied food sample, and producing a visual cue upon recognition of the harmful contaminant; and a radiation detector disposed proximately to the vessel for indicating the presence of ionizing radiation in the food sample at amounts exceeding normal background levels to detect the presence of a radioactive agent as the harmful contaminant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Harrogate Holdings
    Inventor: Robert B. Royds
  • Patent number: 7776583
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods for conducting assays of samples, such as whole blood, that may contain cells or other particulate matter. Also disclosed are systems, devices, equipment, kits and reagents for use in such methods. One advantage of certain disclosed methods and systems is the ability to rapidly measure the concentration of an analyte of interest in blood plasma from a whole blood sample without blood separation and hematocrit correction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Meso Scale Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Mark A. Billadeau, Jeff D. Debad, Eli N. Glezer, Jonathan K. Leland, Charles A. Wijayawardhana
  • Patent number: 7776605
    Abstract: The invention provides among other things methods and kits based on assaying for cardiac troponin autoantibodies, either in conjunction with an assay for cardiac troponin and/or as an independent indicator of cardiac pathology, such as myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, and/or ischemic heart disease. Assay methods of the invention can be employed among other things to identify cardiac pathology, or risk thereof, in subjects who have an autoimmune disease or who are related to an individual with an autoimmune disease. In particular embodiments, the invention also provides a method of determining whether a subject having, or at risk for, a cardiac pathology is a candidate for immunosuppressive therapy or immunoabsorption therapy. The invention also provides kits and kit components that are useful for performing the methods of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Abbott Laboratories
    Inventors: Phillip G. Mattingly, Maciej Adamczyk, Roy Jeffrey Brashear, Robert C. Doss
  • Patent number: 7771986
    Abstract: A system and an apparatus for use in detecting a target microorganism or agent is disclosed which involves a solid support carrying a binding partner specific for the particular microorganism or agent and the solid support being characterised in that it defines means for protecting the binding partner from being dislodged or scraped off the solid support by physical means. The provision of protection against the binding partner being dislodged from or scraped off the solid support improves the reliability of tests such as immunoassays being conducted with the solid support and also enables such tests to be automated. Modules and machines for use with the solid support, and the automated conduct of tests are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Megan Ash, David William Edwards, Aaron Peter Gibbeson, Dianne Barbara Kerr, Lisa Frances Moncur, Philip Albert Myers
  • Patent number: 7767465
    Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions for improving assay accuracy for plasma samples by decreasing or eliminating false results due to platelet interference. The compositions of the present invention comprise compositions that include a platelet interference reducing agent in an amount effective to decrease the platelet interference activity in the plasma sample, particularly platelet-rich plasma sample, to be analyzed. The most preferred platelet interference reducing agent of the present invention is 1-(1,3-Bis(hydroxymethyl-2,5-dioxoimidazolidin-4-iyl)-1,3-bis(hydroxymethyl) urea, also called ā€œDiazolidinyl ureaā€ or ā€œDZUā€.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc
    Inventors: Bin Zhang, E. Sabrinah Chapman-Montgomery, Edward P. Kang
  • Patent number: 7767467
    Abstract: A device for the separation of small particles or cells from a fluid suspension of the same is described. The device includes a coaxial tubular design in which the inner tube is a micro porous tube that allows the passage of liquids and certain particulates up to a certain size cut-off, and the outer tube allows for the collection of passed fluids. Inlet and outlet ports allow the introduction and flushing of components of interest. Embodiments of the device can be used for the separation of blood components, the sequestering of micro spheres used in micro-sphere-based immuno assay, and sample filtration. Other applications are not precluded. Another field of application for this device is in the separation of plasma from red blood cells. The red blood cells will not pass through the membrane due to their size, but plasma will.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Global FIA, Inc.
    Inventors: Duane K. Wolcott, Graham D. Marshall
  • Patent number: 7754435
    Abstract: The invention relates to novel nucleic acids encoding a mammalian PCADM-1 gene, and proteins encoded thereby, whose expression is increased in certain diseases, disorders, or conditions, including, but not limited to, prostate cancer. The invention further relates to methods of detecting and treating prostate cancer, comprising modulating or detecting PCADM-1 expression and/or production and activity of PCADM-1 polypeptide. Further, the invention relates to novel assays for the identification of DNA-binding proteins and the double-stranded oligonucleotide sequences that specifically bind with them. Finally, the invention relates to DNAZYMs or DNA enzymes which specifically bind PCADM-1 mRNA to inhibit PCADM-1 gene expression and thereby destroy tumor cells and tumor tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Philadelphia Health and Education Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Stearns, Youji Hu, Min Wang
  • Patent number: 7749763
    Abstract: The invention relates to kits and methods for analyzing hair, particularly for determining the amount of damage to hair, including placing hair into a solution containing at least one metal ion so that an amount of the metal ion is attached to the hair, removing the hair from the solution, determining the amount of metal ion attached to the hair, and determining the amount of damage to the hair based upon the amount of metal ion attached to the hair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: L'Oreal S.A.
    Inventors: Gregory Shmuylovich, Henry T. Kalinoski, Robert Picone, Jacob Rosen, Michael A. Kravetz
  • Patent number: 7749722
    Abstract: A method for measuring an analyte in a whole blood sample comprising the steps of (1) bringing the whole blood sample into contact with a first substance which is carried on an insoluble carrier and specifically binds to the analyte to be measured and a second substance which is labeled with an alkaline phosphatase and specifically binds to the analyte to be measured, and (2) measuring a resulting complex on the basis of an enzyme reaction of the alkaline phosphatase, the measuring step (2) being carried out in the presence of an inhibitor of endogenous alkaline phosphatases, is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Kagaku Istron, Inc.
    Inventors: Yoshikazu Okamura, Takashi Kurihara, Hiroyuki Yokoi, Junichi Ogawa
  • Publication number: 20100167410
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mass spectrometric method for the detection and for the quantification of double stranded nucleic acids which are not covalently associated with one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Applicants: BioSpring Gesellschaft fĆ¼r Biotechnologie mbH, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-UniversitƤt Frankfurt am Main
    Inventors: Huseyin AygĆ¼n, Michael Karas, Ute Bahr
  • Patent number: 7744820
    Abstract: A Plasma or serum separation membrane that enables omitting centrifugal separation, is free from hemolysis attributed to destruction of red blood cells and realizes easy and rapid separation of plasma or serum from blood; and a filter apparatus including the plasma or serum separation membrane. In particular, a plasma or serum separation membrane being a membrane for separation of plasma or serum from blood and having a void ratio of 30% or below; and a filter apparatus comprising a filter member capable of attaining movement of plasma swifter than movement of blood cells and a plasma or serum separation membrane connected in series with a rear side of the filter member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Inventors: Katsuya Togawa, Ryusuke Okamoto, Hironobu Isogawa
  • Patent number: 7744817
    Abstract: A manifold assembly that directs fluid to and from individually selectable sample receiving trays of a tissue processing system includes a manifold, fluid conduits machined in the manifold, and valves that may be selectively configured to provide a direct fluid path to or from a particular tray. The valves are controlled by a controller that positions each valve such that a desired path is created. Pressure is created in supply and/or drain bottles to supply or drain fluid from the trays supported by the manifold assembly. Independently operated heaters are provided on the manifold assembly to heat the trays to desired temperatures. Thermoelectric cooling elements may also provided to cool the heaters and/or trays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Sakura Finetek U.S.A., Inc.
    Inventor: Xuan S. Bui
  • Patent number: 7727767
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for the quantitative analysis of a metal element contained in a resin material, which permits quantitatively analyzing the harmful substance such as lead contained in a resin material, comprising decomposing the resin material within a container having at least the inner surface formed of a glassy carbon in the presence of an aqueous solution of an oxidizing acid, heating the organic residue of the decomposed resin material so as to convert the residue into an ash, and quantitatively measuring the metal element contained in the organic residue converted into the ash.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Kaushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Miyuki Takenaka
  • Patent number: 7722858
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of determining whether an individual is at risk for atherosclerosis, comprising the step of measuring the level of cLDL and/or autoantibody to cLDL in a sample obtained from this individual. The invention further discloses a method of reducing carbamylation in an individual with a monomeric amino acid or other enzymatic or non-enzymatic inhibitors of carbamylation. The instant invention also provides a method to decrease the level of cLDL by direct elimination of cLDL from the blood or plasma of an individual. The invention also provides a method of treating or preventing atherosclerosis in an individual by inhibiting aggregation and/or deposition of cLDL in the individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignees: Board of Trustees of the University of Arkansas, The United States of America as represented by the Department of Veterans Affairs
    Inventors: Sudhir V. Shah, Alexei G. Basnakian, Yousri M. Barri
  • Patent number: 7713688
    Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods for cell separation. These reagents and techniques specifically agglutinate cells via surface antigen recognition and can be used to recover even rare cell types in high yield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: BioE, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel P. Collins
  • Patent number: 7709313
    Abstract: A method of manufacture and device for a dual-gate CMOS structure. The structure includes a first plate in an insulating layer and a second plate above the insulating layer electrically corresponding to the first plate. An isolation structure is between the first plate and the second plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Andres Bryant, Edward J. Nowak, Richard Q. Williams
  • Patent number: 7704753
    Abstract: The present invention provides devices, methods and kits for detecting the presence of an analyte in a liquid sample and indicating to the user the presence or absence of the analyte through the formation of a recognizable symbol during the assay. In one embodiment, the present invention provides test strips having a matrix including a sample application zone, a reagent zone, and a detection zone. Within the detection zone are located positive and negative control areas, and an analyte binding area. The positive control area contains one or more components that exhibit a first color when dry and a second color when wetted. When the assay is conducted, the positive control area is wetted by the assay fluids and turns to a second color, thereby functioning as a positive procedural control. When analyte is present in the sample, it binds at the analyte binding area, which interacts with the positive control area to form a second recognizable symbol at the detection zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Inverness Medical Switzerland GmbH
    Inventors: Zuifen Tang, Dengfeng Xiong, Shujiang Wu, Zhumin Guan
  • Patent number: 7695973
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods for quantitation of glycated protein in a biological sample using a solid support matrix by making a first bound protein measurement total bound protein under conditions where both glycated and non-glycated protein bind to the support in making a second bound protein measurement under conditions where glycated protein is bound to the support and non-glycated protein is not substantially bound. Diagnostic devices and kits comprising the methods of the present invention are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Scripps Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Ralph P. McCroskey, Cameron E. Melton
  • Patent number: 7687273
    Abstract: A method for separating and purifying the active hematinic species (AHS) present in iron-saccharidic compositions, including AHS such as sodium ferric gluconate complex, ferric hydroxide-sucrose complex and ferric saccharate complex and others of similar form and function. The method separates the AHS from one or more excipients and, preferably, lyophilizes the separated AHS. Separation of the AHS permits its analytical quantification, further concentration, purification and/or lyophilization as well as preparation of new and useful products and pharmaceutical compositions, including those useful for the treatment of humans and animals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Chromaceutical Advanced Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert A. Beck, Robert A. Mateer, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7682831
    Abstract: A method of measuring a lipid in a specific lipoprotein characterized by using a polycyclic polyoxyalkylene derivative at least in the step of determining the specificity of the measurement of the target lipid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Sekisui Medical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shoko Yamamoto, Mitsuaki Yamamoto, Kazuo Nakanishi, Kazunori Saito
  • Patent number: 7674598
    Abstract: Methods for differentially identifying cells in an instrument employ compositions containing a combination of selected antibodies and fluorescent dyes having different cellular distribution patterns and specificities, as well as antibodies and fluorescent dyes characterized by overlapping emission spectra which form non-compensatable spectral patterns. When utilizing the compositions described herein consisting of fluorescent dyes and fluorochrome labeled antibodies with overlapping spectra that cannot be separated or distinguished based upon optical or electronic compensation means, a new fluorescent footprint is established. This new fluorescent footprint is a result of the overlapping spectra and the combined cellular staining patterns of the dyes and fluorochrome labeled antibodies chosen for the composition. The new fluorescent footprint results in histogram patterns that are useful for the identification of additional cell populations or subtypes in hematological disease.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Beckman Coulter, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald D. Paul, Oilda Rubio, Diana B. Careaga, Lidice L. Lopez, Ravindra Mylvaganam
  • Patent number: 7674622
    Abstract: A method for enumerating white blood cells and nucleated red blood cells. The steps of the method are as follows: (a) providing a lysed sample of whole blood; (b) introducing the lysed sample to a light-scattering multi-angle depolarizing flow cytometer; (c) removing depolarizing interference, e.g., lipid droplets and other measured particles; (d) differentiating nucleated red blood cells and noise from white blood cells in the absence of depolarizing interference; (e) differentiating nucleated red blood cells from noise in the absence of depolarizing interference and white blood cells; and (f) differentiating possible platelet clumps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Abbott Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Diana G. Garrett, Hyejung C. Lee, Show-Chu Wong, Bodo Roemer, Sherb M. Edmondson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7666685
    Abstract: This invention generally relates to a screening method for identifying compositions suitable for use in an oral composition (e.g., a confection or chewing gum product) effective for the treatment of oral cavity malodor associated with the consumption of garlic. In particular, this invention relates to a screening method for determining the ability of a composition to reduce the concentration of a sulfide or disulfide compound (e.g., diallyl disulfide) present in a model sample or solution which is representative of the oral cavity of a subject after consuming garlic, as an indicator of the effectiveness of that composition in the treatment of oral cavity malodor associated with the consumption of garlic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company
    Inventors: Russell A. Bazemore, Charles J. Harrison, Michael J. Greenberg
  • Patent number: 7659122
    Abstract: Disclosed is a single population of simulated leukocyte granules prepared from mammalian whole white blood cells, which is useful in calibrators for a hematology analyzer, a calibrator which includes the single population of simulated leukocyte granules. Disclosed is also a method of preparing the single population of simulated leukocyte granules. The method of preparing single population of simulated leukocyte granules includes the actions of: obtaining mammalian whole white blood cells; treating the mammalian whole white blood cells with a hemolytic agent and a leukocyte treating liquid which includes an isotonic saline solution. The isotonic saline solution may include a fixative, an oxidizer, and a carbohydrate compound; fixing the treated mammalian whole white blood cells with a fixative; and suspending the fixed cells in a preservation medium for long-term preservation of fixed cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Xiaonan Guo
  • Patent number: 7638292
    Abstract: A method for detection and/or quantification of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) in a sample derived from an individual's blood, the method being based on a sandwich immunoassay employing at least two capture antibodies and at least one tracer antibody, in which a first capture antibody is directed to the N-terminal part of cTnI, to the C-terminal part of cTnI or to the part of the cTnI midfragment, which is slightly affected by the interfering factor, and a second capture antibody is directed to another of these parts, and a tracer antibody is directed to the N-terminal part of cTnI, to the C-terminal part of cTnI or to TnC, which is complexed with cTnI.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: University of Turku
    Inventors: Susann Eriksson, Kim Pettersson
  • Patent number: 7638290
    Abstract: The invention relates to a reagent and a process for the identification and counting of biological cells in a sample. This reagent comprises a cell lysing agent selected from at least one detergent in a concentration capable of specifically lysing a given type of cells in the sample, and a stain capable of marking the intracellular nucleic acids of the remaining unlysed cells. Application in particular for the identification and counting of cells using an automated analysis system based on flow cytometry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: ABX
    Inventors: Didier Lefevre, Sylvie Veriac, Henri Champseix
  • Patent number: 7638340
    Abstract: A method of eliminating the reactivity of lipoarabinomannan contained in a sample to a Limulus reagent including at least the step of allowing the sample containing lipoarabinomannan to coexist together with a metal salt or a buffer; and a method of assaying an endotoxin and a method of detecting an endotoxin-associated disease by using the above-described method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Seikagu Corporation
    Inventors: Shigenori Tanaka, Shoji Takahashi