Abstract: This invention relates to a kit and a method for the collection and analysis of complex protein mixtures. More particularly, the invention relates to a kit comprising a single barrel filtration well or a multi-well filtration plate wherein each well comprises an upper filtration zone; a lower filtration zone; a conical flow director zone; and, an elution tip, wherein the upper filtration zone and the lower filtration zone are separated by a retainer ring disposed within the lower filtration zone. The upper filtration zone comprises an upper collection zone, a sponge zone, and a deep bed filtration zone; and, the lower filtration zone comprises the retainer ring, a supported hydrophilic membrane and a lower bed filtration media. When used with an array of selected buffer solutions, the multi-well filtration plate can provide accurate, automated, high-throughput protein analysis by affinity chromatography.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods and apparatus for determination of ion concentrations, particularly in downhole water from hydrocarbon wells, aquifers etc. It is useful in a wide range of applications, including predicting the formation of scale and fingerprinting waters from different sources. More particularly, the invention relates to the use of ligands whose electronic configuration is altered by the binding of the scaling ions within a water sample. These alterations are detected electrochemically by applying varying potential to electrodes and measuring current flow as potential is varied, from which is derived the concentration of scaling ions in the fluid.

Abstract: A two step lateral flow assay method for identifying IgE antibodies in a sample comprises applying a sample to a sample port of a device, wherein the device is adapted to deliver the sample to a lateral flow matrix having a plurality of IgE antigen species immobilized at respective positions at a first location; allowing the sample to travel along the lateral flow matrix through the immobilized plurality of IgE antigen species to a second location downstream of the first location; and, after a predetermined period of time, applying liquid buffer to the lateral flow matrix to mobilize labeled reagent which is adapted to bind anti-IgE antibody and which is dried on the lateral flow matrix at a location upstream of the sample port delivery of the sample to the lateral flow matrix, and allowing labeled reagent mobilized by the liquid buffer to travel along the lateral flow matrix through the immobilized plurality of IgE antigen species and bind with any IgE antibody bound to the immobilized IgE antigen species, a

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and systems for the analysis of testosterone in a sample using supported liquid extraction and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Abstract: Electrokinetic devices and methods are described with the purpose of collecting assayable agents from a dielectric fluid medium. Electrokinetic flow may be induced by the use of plasma generation at high voltage electrodes and consequent transport of charged particles in an electric voltage gradient. In one embodiment, an ionic propulsion device for providing a sample for a bio-specific assay of aerosol particles comprises a housing receiving a sample of aerosol particles and enclosing a high voltage electrode to generate a plasma of electrically charged particles. A carrier assembly is removably receivable in the housing, the carrier assembly comprising a non-conductive carrier and an electrode removably secured to the carrier.

Abstract: Apparatuses for preparing a sample are disclosed herein. The apparatuses include a chamber, a first valve at least partially disposed in the first chamber, a second valve at least partially disposed in the first chamber, and a pump comprising an actuator and nozzle.

Abstract: Provided is a method for rapid nucleic acid purification. The method includes allowing the nucleic acid isolated from the biological sample to be adsorbed on a silica membrane; separating contaminants from the nucleic acid-adsorbed silica membrane by using paper chromatography; and eluting only high-purity nucleic acid from the silica membrane from which the contaminants are isolated by using a buffer, or applying at least one selected from direct PCR, RT-PCR, real-time PCR, and real-time RT-PCR to the nucleic acid bound onto the silica membrane.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices and methods for using the same are provided. Aspects of the invention include microfluidic devices that include a separation medium and a pan-capture binding medium. The microfluidic devices are configured to subject a sample to two or more directionally distinct electric fields. Also provided are methods of using the devices as well as systems and kits that include the devices. The devices, systems and methods find use in a variety of different applications, including diagnostic and validation assays.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of providing a risk evaluation and diagnosis of human cancer, by examining the presence, in the volatile fraction of a human saliva sample, of a combination of particulate biochemical volatile organic compounds, which is indicative of an increased risk of developing cancer.

Abstract: The present teachings provide apparatuses and methods for automated handling of samples, e.g., biological or chemical samples. The apparatuses and the methods of the present teachings allow automated performance of various sample manipulation steps without manual intervention. In a preferred embodiment, the present teachings provide apparatuses and methods for automated enrichment of templated beads produced by PCR.

Abstract: An apparatus filters particles from small volumes of liquid in a tubular vial having an open top and closed bottom with a tubular plunger sliding in the vial to force liquid through a filter at the end of the plunger and into a cavity in the plunger. The filter is held by a cap placed over the end of the plunger. The vial's bottom has an upward extending protrusion mating with a conforming recess in the cap to direct liquid to the protraction and filter as the cap abuts the bottom of the vial. Channels in the bottom help direct liquid flow.

Abstract: An electronic nose device is disclosed in an embodiment of the invention. The electronic nose device includes a fan module, a gas molecule sensor module, a control unit and an output unit. The fan module is used to pump air actively to the gas molecule sensor module. The gas molecule sensor module detects the air pumped into by the fan module. The gas molecule sensor module at least includes a gas molecule sensor which is covered with a compound. The compound is used to combine preset gas molecules. The control unit controls the fan module to suck air into the electronic nose device. Then the fan module transmits an air current to the gas molecule sensor module to generate a detected data. The output unit calculates the detected data to generate a calculation result and outputs an indicating signal to an operator or compatible host computer according to the calculation result.

Abstract: Methods for liquid-liquid extraction, as can be effected using polymeric reverse micelles, such methods as can be used in conjunction with various mass spectrometric techniques.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process and a device for parallel fractionating a multiplicity of individual samples (29) within a 3-dimensional separation medium (6), with the subsequent process steps being carried out: A first space (2) which extends essentially across all three space coordinates contains the separation medium (6). A multiplicity of individual samples (29) is arranged close to an interface of the first space (2), with the individual samples (29) being arranged essentially in a planar fashion, i.e. their particular center-of-gravity positions are described by two coordinates. Under the influence of one or more physical parameters, the individual samples (29) are able to migrate essentially perpendicularly to the area of their application through the separation medium (6), and are fractionated in the process according to one or more of their properties.

Abstract: A lab-on-chip-based system is described for the direct and multiple sampling, control of the volume, fluid filtration, biochemical reactions, sample transfer, and dried spot generation on the conventional and commercial cards for dried fluid spot. Within an all-in-one integrated holder, the invention allows the complete process required to ensure a quantitative analysis of blood, plasma or any other fluids, modification and enrichment of molecule subsets, and formation of a dried fluid spot on the specific spot location of a passive cellulose, non-cellulose, absorbent, or non-absorbent membrane material sampling.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for detecting and isolating phosphomolecules using phosphoaffinity materials that comprise a hydrated metal oxide. In an embodiment, a method for detecting a phosphomolecule in a sample involves (a) contacting a sample with a phosphoaffinity material comprising a hydrated metal oxide, under conditions wherein a phosphomolecule is capable of binding to the phosphoaffinity material to form a phosphomolecule-phosphoaffinity material complex, and (b) detecting formation of a phosphomolecule-phosphoaffinity material complex, thereby detecting a phosphomolecule in the sample.

Abstract: A sensor for detecting and/or quantifying the amount of analyte in a sample, the sensor including: a sensing region; and a barrier layer including a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-quenching, analyte-permeable membrane having an ROS-quenching agent adsorbed to the membrane; wherein the sensor is adapted so that the sample enters the sensing region of the sensor through the barrier layer.

Abstract: A solid phase for use in separation has been modified using an aqueous phase adsorption of a headgroup-modified lipid to generate analyte specific surfaces for use as a stationary phase in separations such as high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or solid phase extraction (SPE). The aliphatic moiety of the lipid adsorbs strongly to a hydrophobic solid surface, with the hydrophilic and active headgroups orienting themselves toward the more polar mobile phase, thus allowing for interactions with the desired solutes. The surface modification approach is generally applicable to a diversity of selective immobilization applications such as protein immobilization clinical diagnostics and preparative scale HPLC as demonstrated on capillary-channeled fibers, though the general methodology could be implemented on any hydrophobic solid support material.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing a zone. Information is obtained about an environment in the zone with a sensor system. A determination is made by an analyzer system as to whether a contagious condition is present in the zone using the information from the sensor system. An action is performed by a management system in response to the contagious condition being present.

Abstract: Provided is a method and device for identifying glycated protein in a sample using a matrix including a boronic acid moiety that binds glycated proteins.

Abstract: A pipette tip device for use in dispersive SPE. The device includes a pipette tip having a lower barrier, loose sorbent that is freely moveable during the extraction process, and a baffle system that is shaped to disrupt the flow of liquid sample that is aspirated into the pipette tip. The baffle system includes an insert that may be separate from or monolithic with the interior of the pipette tip.

Abstract: To perform accurate measurement in the analysis of chemical components with low concentration, pretreatment such as concentration and purification of samples is essential. For high-throughput of pretreatment of biological samples, various random clinical testing is encountered, where analytes change from sample to sample. The pretreatment apparatus has a separating agent selectively separating a specific component by allowing a sample solution to flow therethrough. A holding section holds a plurality of housing sections, which house the separating agent therein, and has an endless track. A pressurizing section applies pressure to the housing section in a continuous and random-accessible manner; and an extraction solution receiver mechanism selectively receives an extracted solution from the separating agent housed in the housing section. A mass spectrometer is that can be connected to the pretreatment apparatus. Thus, a large number of specimens can be simultaneously processed.

Abstract: A filter vial and piston are provided where the vial has a cylindrical wall with a closed bottom and open top and with the hollow, tubular piston therein. The piston has a distal end covered by a cup having a proximal cup seal extending outward to engage the walls of the vial to form a fluid tight seal with the vial during use. The distal end of the piston has a piston flange extending outwardly and located adjacent a recess in the piston so the cup forms a snap fit over the piston flange and extends into the recess. The piston flange causes the cup to bulge sufficiently outward to form a fluid tight seal with the vial during use. A filter is placed in the bottom of the cup and abuts an inwardly extending lip on the cup. The filter is held against the lip by a piston support at the distal end of the piston. A cup support at a distal end of the cup also helps support the filter.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for desolvating flowing liquid streams while retaining temporal resolution of dissolved substrates are disclosed. A novel small-scale self-regulating spray dryer preserves temporal resolution while desolvating a liquid chromatography eluent stream and depositing the solute onto an optical surface for infrared spectrographic analysis. The liquid eluent is pumped through a heated nebulizer to create a high-speed jet of solute containing liquid and solvent vapor. This jet is directed circumferentially inside a hot cylindrical cavity. Centrifugal force causes the larger liquid droplets to travel along the outer diameter of the cavity. The cavity surface is heated to cause the droplets to film boil. Film boiling reduces droplet contact with the cavity surface thereby retaining the solute in the droplets. The solute temperature is limited by controlling the pressure into which the solvent evaporates from the droplets.

Abstract: This invention pertains to a method of preparing biological material from a biological sample selected from the group consisting of blood and sputum samples. The method includes the step of altering at least one constitutive characteristic of the biological sample in the presence of a capturing scaffold by adding a lysis buffer containing a solubilising agent and a detergent to the biological sample, for simultaneously inhibiting coagulation of the biological sample; lysing the biological sample to release the biological material from the biological sample, thus making the biological material available; and capturing at least one fraction of the biological material on the capturing scaffold.

Abstract: A method is provided for enhancing the binding of reagents to ligands. In the method a ligand is immobilized on a porous support and incubated with a reagent solution. The binding of the reagent to the ligand is increased by a cycling process of passing the reagent solution through the support multiple times. A device that facilitates the cycling process is disclosed. The invention also provides a method to detect multiple ligands using the cycling process.

Abstract: A sorptive extraction layer for immobilized liquid extraction of target molecules preferably from biological samples is disclosed. The sorptive extraction layer is mainly composed of ethylene-acrylate-copolymer. Preferably, microplate wells are at least partially coated with such a sorptive extraction layer. There is also disclosed a method of extracting target molecules preferably from biological samples. According to this method, immobilized liquid extraction is carried out with a sorptive extraction layer which is mainly composed of ethylene-acrylate-copolymer.

Abstract: A method for assessing a corrosion inhibitor in a coolant, comprises providing a test kit comprising a first chamber containing an acid buffer and a solvent immiscible therein and a second chamber containing an indicator, the second chamber being in fluid communication with the first chamber and being configured such that retraction of the second chamber draws fluid into the first chamber and advancement forces fluid into the second chamber; drawing a coolant sample into the first chamber; contacting the coolant sample with the acid buffer and solvent in the first chamber and extracting the corrosion inhibitor into the solvent; allowing the solvent and buffer to separate in the first chamber; forcing a portion of the separated solvent into the second chamber; contacting the separated solvent with the indicator in the second chamber, and obtaining a visual indication of the presence of corrosion inhibitor in the coolant sample.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a microfluidic system comprising: a microchannel containing several elements of two non-miscible fluids, the microchannel comprising a droplet (30) containing magnetic particles (M), and a device for generating inside the microchannel magnetic field, said device comprising an activable magnetic element, the activable magnetic element comprising a tip (5,6), the microfluidic system being configured to transport the droplet by flow or by pressure difference.

Abstract: A method for making a number (N) of samples react under the same reaction conditions that includes heating a number of reaction containers simultaneously and maintaining the reaction containers at a predetermined temperature; placing a sample in each heated reaction chamber and maintaining a two-phase solution at a predetermined temperature; stirring the sample that is heated to the predetermined temperature to create a uniform solution, which is maintained for a predetermined time; and cooling the uniform solution without cooling the reaction container after the predetermined period of time has passed so as to gain a two-phase solution within the reaction container, where the samples have a solution where the phase state of a reaction solvent changes in a reversible manner between a two-phase solution state and a uniform solution state when the temperature fluctuates over or under a certain constant temperature.

Abstract: A sample collection system capable of collecting, storing and dispensing a liquid sample is disclosed. The collection system includes a collector composed of a material which has the unique ability to express constituents of interest at levels which are much more concentrated than their levels in the fluid samples from which they are expressed, where the expressed highly concentrated sample can then be used with modern rapid screening/testing protocols, such as solid phase assays, to test for the constituents of interest. Thus, it is now possible to obtain analytes of interest, such as the HIV protein antibodies, from saliva samples at concentrations that are detectable with systems and/or devices that are typically utilized only for blood serum or plasma testing. The collector is sized and shaped to fit within a recovery container, which, in turn, is sized and shaped to fit within a collection tube.

Abstract: The present teachings provide, in part, methods of separating two-dimensional nanomaterials by atomic layer thickness. In certain embodiments, the present teachings provide methods of generating graphene nanomaterials having a controlled number of atomic layer(s).

Abstract: The invention relates to means for processing a sample fluid containing different components, particularly magnetic particles (M) and targets (cells) (C+M) labeled with magnetic particles. A processing device (100) according to the invention comprises a container (110) with a first compartment (120) that can be filled with a sample fluid and that is separated from a second compartment (130) by a filtering element (140). The filtering element (140) allows the passage of only at least one selected component (M) of the sample. Moreover, an optical surface (150), for example a microscopy slide, is provided in one (120) of the compartments. Components (C+M) of the sample that are in this compartment (120) collect on the optical surface (150). The migration of sample components (M, C+M) is preferably assisted by magnetic fields (B1, B2).

Abstract: Methods and systems for processing samples fixed to a porous substrate generally comprising, a compressor defining one or more fluid isolation areas, a support, for the porous substrate, having an opening corresponding to one or more of the fluid isolation areas of the compressor, an actuator that causes at least a portion of the compressor to press against the porous substrate, a fluid inlet having access to the fluid isolation area at least when the compressor is pressed against the porous substrate, and a fluid outlet to receive fluid, through the opening in the support corresponding to the fluid isolation area of the compressor, at least when the compressor is pressed against the porous substrate.

Abstract: A pretreatment device applied in sampling and providing a reaction space for biochemical reaction is disclosed. The pretreatment device includes a quantitative sampler being capable of collecting a constant volume of a sample; a devastating device having a hollow cylindrical structure coupled to the quantitative sampler to damage a thin-film like protective membrane of the quantitative sampler such that the reaction reagent flows out of the reagent container; a reaction device having a tubular structure and providing the reaction space for biochemical reaction of the reaction reagent and the sample; a hollow ring-shaped structure to position and stable the connection of the devastating device and the quantitative sampler with the hollow ring-shaped structure being coupled to the reaction device; and an anti-drain device preventing the reaction reagent and the sampler from flowing out before the biochemical reaction is completed.

Abstract: A device (1) for extracting an extraction material, in particular for solid-phase micro-extraction, comprises an extractor (130) and a tip (100) for penetrating a separating layer, wherein the extractor (130) is connected to the tip (100). In a method for extracting an extraction material from a container with an extraction device (1), a separating layer of the container is penetrated by a tip (100) of an extractor (130), and the extraction material is extracted.

Abstract: A method of extracting or removing a liquid phase from a whole sample using a centrifugal force is disclosed. Centrifugal forces are used to apply pressure to a whole sample and drive a liquid phase through a passage region that can be perforated and/or porous and maintain a drier portion within a separate container. The whole sample can be drier, which includes a remaining sample where excess or a selected amount of liquid is removed. Direct access to the separate container or area can then be made to provide for an efficient withdrawal of the drier material from the separation container.

Abstract: A method includes providing a container, introducing a substance into the container, and introducing a readily dissolvable film into the container such that the dissolvable film overlies the substance within the container. An alternative method includes providing a container, providing a readily dissolvable film, the film comprising a substance carried by the film, and introducing the film into the container.

Abstract: Described herein are high-throughput methods of monitoring D-serine levels in plasma. The assay involves the use of strong cation solid phase extraction (SPE) to isolate D-serine from plasma, followed by quantitation of D-serine using the D-amino acid oxidase- (DAAO-) catalyzed reaction. Also described are methods of screening for compounds that act as DAAO inhibitors.

Abstract: A receptacle having a plurality of interconnected chambers arranged to permit multiple process steps or processes to be performed independently or simultaneously. The receptacles are manufactured to separate liquid from dried reagents and to maintain the stability of the dried reagents. An immiscible liquid, such as an oil, is included to control loading of process materials, facilitate mixing and reconstitution of dried reagents, limit evaporation, control heating of reaction materials, concentrate solid support materials to prevent clogging of fluid connections, provide minimum volumes for fluid transfers, and to prevent process materials from sticking to chamber surfaces. The receptacles can be adapted for use in systems having a processing instrument that includes an actuator system for selectively moving fluid substances between chambers and a detector. The actuator system can be arranged to concentrate an analyte present in a sample.

Abstract: Porous sol-gel material essentially consisting of units of one or more first polyalkoxysilanes chosen from the following compounds: (chloromethyl)triethoxysilane; 1,3-dimethyltetramethoxydisiloxane; ethyl trimethoxysilane; triethoxy(ethyl)silane; triethoxymethylsilane; triethoxy(vinyl)silane; trimethoxymethylsilane; trimethoxy(vinyl)silane; tetraethoxysilane or tetramethoxysilane (TMOS) and of units of one or more second polyalkoxysilanes chosen from the following compounds: (N-(3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl)ethylenediamine; 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) and 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, in a first polyalkoxysilane/second polyalkoxysilane molar ratio of 1/0.01 to 1/1, optionally comprising a probe molecule, method of preparation and applications in the trapping of monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and other pollutants or in their detection.

Abstract: Nanoporous materials can be used to enrich samples for subsequent analysis of substances contained in the sample. The method is shown to enrich the yield of species in the low molecular weight proteome, allowing detection of small peptides in the low nanomolar range.

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

Abstract: This invention relates generally to methods and apparatus for desorption and ionization of analytes for the purpose of subsequent scientific analysis by such methods, for example, as mass spectrometry or biosensors. More specifically, this invention relates to the field of mass spectrometry, especially to the type of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization, time-of-flight mass spectrometry used to analyze macromolecules, such as proteins or biomolecules. Most specifically, this invention relates to the sample probe geometry, sample probe composition, and sample probe surface chemistries that enable the selective capture and desorption of analytes, including intact macromolecules, directly from the probe surface into the gas (vapor) phase without added chemical matrix.

Abstract: The invention provides extraction columns for the purification of an analyte (e.g., a biological macromolecule, such as a peptide, protein or nucleic acid) from a sample solution, as well as methods for making and using such columns. The invention is characterized by the use of low dead volume columns, which is achieved in part by the use of low pore volume frits (e.g., membrane screens) to contain a bed of extraction media in the column. Low dead volume facilitates the elution of the captured analyte into a very small volume of desorption solution, allowing for the preparation of low volume samples containing relatively high concentrations of analyte.

Abstract: This document provides methods and materials involved in removing polypeptides (e.g., high abundance polypeptides) from stool samples. For example, methods and materials for preparing a stool sample for detecting polypeptides of low abundance are provided. For example, this document provides methods and materials for depleting abundant polypeptides common to stool from normal, healthy humans from a stool sample. Such depleted stool samples can be used to detect polypeptides of interest such as low abundance polypeptides or neoplasm-specific polypeptide markers that can be present in a mammal suffering from a disease such as cancer.

Abstract: A receptacle having a plurality of interconnected chambers arranged to permit multiple process steps or processes to be performed independently or simultaneously. The receptacles are manufactured to separate liquid from dried reagents and to maintain the stability of the dried reagents. An immiscible liquid, such as an oil, is included to control loading of process materials, facilitate mixing and reconstitution of dried reagents, limit evaporation, control heating of reaction materials, concentrate solid support materials to prevent clogging of fluid connections, provide minimum volumes for fluid transfers, and to prevent process materials from sticking to chamber surfaces. The receptacles can be adapted for use in systems having a processing instrument that includes an actuator system for selectively moving fluid substances between chambers and a detector. The actuator system can be arranged to concentrate an analyte present in a sample.

Abstract: An analytical method comprising performing a first fractionation of a polymer sample based on differences in crystallizability to provide a first set of sample fractions, performing a first analysis on the first set of sample fractions, performing a second fractionation of the first set of sample fractions to produce a second set of sample fractions, performing a second analysis on the second set of sample fractions, and synchronizing the first fractionation and second fractionation to provide about concurrent analysis of the polymer sample.

Abstract: A concentration measuring apparatus for hydrogen sulfide includes an absorbing liquid that can absorb gaseous hydrogen sulfide as sulfide ion; a hollow fiber membrane contactor that contacts a gas flow with a flow of the absorbing liquid through a membrane, so that the absorbing liquid absorbs gaseous hydrogen sulfide in the gas flow as sulfide ion; a pump for a first channel that feeds the absorbing liquid to the hollow fiber membrane contactor; an oxidizer that exothermically reacts with sulfide ion; a pump for a second channel that feeds the oxidizer to the absorbing liquid; a first thermometer that measures a temperature of the absorbing liquid before the sulfide ion that the absorbing liquid has absorbed exothermically reacts with the oxidizer; and a second thermometer that measures the temperature of the absorbing liquid after the sulfide ion that the absorbing liquid has absorbed exothermically reacts with the oxidizer.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs). In particular, the present invention relates to reusable, ecologically friendly MIPs that can be produced in relatively large quantities, methods of producing the same, and methods of utilizing the same (e.g., to sequester and/or adsorb target compounds (e.g., mycotoxins)). Compositions and methods of the invention find use in a variety of applications including dietary therapeutic, prophylactic, food and beverage processing and manufacture, as well as research, quality control and traceability applications.