Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a fine fluorescent particle, which does not cause concentration quenching and has low ecotoxicity. Specifically, the present invention relates to a fine fluorescent particle containing an AIE-active compound, the particle consisting of a network polymer, wherein the fine fluorescent particle is characterized in that the AIE-active compound is, for example, a compound represented by the following formula (1): wherein E represents silicon or germanium; R1 and R2, which are the same or different, each represent a hydrocarbon group containing 1 to 6 carbon atoms, or a substituted or unsubstituted phenyl group; and R3, R4, R5 and R6, which are the same or different, each represent a substituted or unsubstituted phenyl group.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy for cellular sample analysis. In some embodiments a method of performing mass spectroscopy analysis using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy system is provided. The method may include introducing a cellular sample comprising one or more cells or cellular particles into an inductively coupled plasma of the inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy system. The method may further include using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy system to assess the cellular sample by detecting and measuring one or more element tags in the cellular sample based on the element or isotopic compositions of the one or more element tags.

Abstract: A personal diagnostic patch device for biological analysis includes a sample acquisition layer for obtaining a fluid sample, a fluidic processing layer including a fluidic circuit for directing fluid flow, an assay results detection layer having a detector for detecting diagnostic results derived from fluid sample analysis, and a processor and transmitter for sending diagnostic results to a remote location. The layers are situated in register with each other and operatively attached with constituent elements in alignment to form the fluidic circuit for sample processing, detection, and analysis. Related systems include a remotely located user computer for receiving a signal from the patch device when the device is provided with the transmitter. The user computer may be connected to a network including any one or more of several different medical providers. Methods include use of the patch device for specific applications, related processes, and steps for manufacturing and assembling.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of loading reagent in a specimen handling device is disclosed. Fluids including specimen samples and reagents are moved between tubes during processing without directly passing over tubes which the reagents could contaminate. The apparatus may also include a head adapted to carry selected fluids in pipettes and a reagent receptacle adapted to permit entry of the head.

Abstract: This invention provides a biomolecule modifying substrate comprising biomolecules selectively fixed to given regions thereon. The biomolecule modifying substrate comprises: a substrate at least comprising a first surface and a second surface; a first linker molecule comprising a hydrocarbon chain and a functional group capable of selectively binding to the first surface at one end of the hydrocarbon chain, which is bound to the first surface via such functional group; a second linker molecule comprising a reactive group capable of binding to the hydrocarbon chain of the first linker molecule, which is bound to the first linker molecule via a bond between the reactive group and the hydrocarbon chain; and a biomolecule bound thereto via the second linker molecule.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method for producing a molecule immobilizing substrate, comprising at least the steps of: forming, on a substrate, a monomolecular film including hydroxyl groups, cyano groups, or oxiranyl groups, which are oriented toward an outmost surface of the monomolecular film; and chemically modifying the hydroxyl groups, cyano groups, or oxiranyl groups of the monomolecular film to transform them into carboxyl groups, to thereby form, on the substrate, the monomolecular film including the carboxyl groups, which are oriented toward an outmost surface of the monomolecular film. There can be provided: a method for producing a molecule immobilizing substrate which is free of occurrence of an immobilized-molecule peeling problem in the case of conducting an assay by immobilizing molecules on the substrate.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for producing a bioweapon-sensitive fibrous-network product, wherein the subject products exhibit a color change in response to exposure to a biological agent (or portion thereof) as used in a biological weapon. Also disclosed are fibrous-network products that contain units of biopolymeric material that impart a color change to the products in response to exposure to a biological agent (or portion thereof) as used in a biological weapon.

Abstract: An immunoassay device incorporating porous polymeric capture nanoparticles within either the sample collection vessel or pre-impregnated into a porous substratum within fluid flow path of the analytical device is presented. This incorporation of capture particles within the immunoassay device improves sensitivity while removing the requirement for pre-processing of samples prior to loading the immunoassay device. A preferred embodiment is coreshell bait containing capture nanoparticles which perform three functions in one step, in solution: a) molecular size sieving, b) target analyte sequestration and concentration, and c) protection from degradation. The polymeric matrix of the capture particles may be made of co-polymeric materials having a structural monomer and an affinity monomer, the affinity monomer having properties that attract the analyte to the capture particle.

Abstract: Element tags based on novel metal-polymer conjugates are provided for elemental analysis of analytes, including ICP-MS. A polymer backbone is functionalized to irreversibly bind metals that are selected prior to use by the user. The polymer is further functionalized to attach a linker which allows for attachment to antibodies or other affinity reagents. The polymer format allows attachment of many copies of a given isotope, which linearly improves sensitivity. The metal-polymer conjugate tags enable multiplexed assay in two formats: bulk assay, where the average biomarker distribution in the sample is diagnostic, and single cell format to distinguish a rare (for example a diseased) cell in a complex sample (for example, blood).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a nanoscale or microscale particle for encapsulation and delivery of materials or substances, including, but not limited to, cells, drugs, tissue, gels and polymers contained within the particle, with subsequent release of the therapeutic materials in situ, methods of fabricating the particle by folding a 2D precursor into the 3D particle, and the use of the particle in in-vivo or in-vitro applications. The particle can be in any polyhedral shape and its surfaces can have either no perforations or nano/microscale perforations. The particle is coated with a biocompatible metal, e g gold, or polymer e g parvlene, layer and the surfaces and hinges of the particle are made of any metal or polymer combinations.

Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a method for increasing an amount of Protein A to be immobilized on the self-assembled monolayer. Immobilizing Protein A to the self-assembled monolayer through the structure represented following formula (II) obviates the object.

Abstract: An assay system designed to detect a protein biomarker in urine that is diagnostic for interstitial cystitis (IC). The presence of a 9 amino acid glycopeptide, antiproliferative factor (APF), in urine is unique to patients with IC. Urine samples from patients who exhibit symptoms consistent with IC are added to the assay system. Binding of APF to the cytoskeletal associated protein 4 (CKAP4) is positive for the presence of APF in urine and diagnostic for IC. The diagnostic system is a significant and surprising advance in diagnosis of IC and has commercial applications relevant to women and men who suffer from symptoms consistent with IC.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a composition for ultrasensitive bioassay applications. The composition includes a plurality of dispersible, nanoparticles having a size less than 500 nm. The nanoparticles are contain a metal catalyst or a metal catalyst precursor. The nanoparticles are conjugated to at least one biospecific binding reactant that is selectively reactive with a target analyte. The composition includes a dispersing medium. A method and a kit for conducting bioassays is described.

Abstract: The present invention concerns methods for detecting the presence of a micro-organism in a fluid, gaseous and solid samples, together with apparatus for use in same. The invention comprises the use of a plurality of hollow fibers to filter the fluid and the capture of the micro-organisms on the membrane by means of a specific binding pair.

Abstract: A method for determining the binding constant of interacting molecular species comprises the use of flat surfaces comprising perfluorinated polymers and measurements of reflected light intensity. The surfaces comprise at least one molecule with the receptor function absorbed or immobilized on the surface and at least one ligand that interacts with the receptor.

Abstract: A general methodology for the development of highly sensitive and selective sensors that can achieve portable, low-cost and quantitative detection of a broad range of targets using only a personal glucose meter (PGM) is disclosed. The method uses recognition molecules that are specific for a target agent, enzymes that can convert an enzyme substrate into glucose, and PGM. Also provided are sensors, which can include a solid support to which is attached a recognition molecule that permits detection of a target agent, wherein the recognition molecule specifically binds to the target agent in the presence of the target agent but not significantly to other agents as well as an enzyme that can catalyze the conversion of a substance into glucose, wherein the enzyme is attached directly or indirectly to the recognition molecule, and wherein in the presence of the target agent the enzyme can convert the substance into glucose. The disclosed sensors can be part of a lateral flow device.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for isolating cells, particularly antibody-secreting cells that have a high likelihood of secreting antibodies specific for a desired antigen for the purpose of making monoclonal antibodies.

Abstract: Disclosed is an assay (method) to quantify the amounts of catecholamine-O-methyltransferase (COMT) protein in samples, such as extracts from cell cultures, body fluids, tissues, and environmental samples. It uses novel agents (anti-NE, COMT-NE, or COMT-epitope-NE) in combination with two previously described agents (anti-COMT and COMT) in a competitive ELISA system to achieve this aim.

Abstract: Provided are a base plate and a method for thyroxine immunoassay, which are capable of decreasing the signal change rate caused by temperature change in a high-sensitivity immunoassay method for thyroxine. A base plate for thyroxine immunoassay which has a conjugate of thyroxine or a derivative thereof and albumin immobilized thereon, and in which the ratio of the molecule number of thyroxine or a derivative thereof to the molecule number of albumin in the immobilized conjugate, is disclosed.

Abstract: An affinity chromatography packing material includes porous mother particles that include a copolymer of a monomer mixture including a crosslinkable vinyl monomer and an epoxy group-containing vinyl monomer, a ligand being bound to the porous mother particles, and the porous mother particles including a ring-opening epoxy group produced by ring-opening of the epoxy group included in the porous mother particles.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for determining one or more cellularly bound analytes in a liquid sample, said method being carried out using a device comprising: at least one feeding zone (5) for applying the liquid sample; a porous membrane (2) that is suitable for letting cellular components penetrate therethrough and includes at least one indicator zone on the membrane, said indicator zone being able to interact with the cellularly bound analyte and containing at least one binding element against the cellularly bound analyte; and at least one absorption area (3) on the membrane, which absorbs the liquid after the liquid has passed the indicator zones. The at least one indicator zone lies between the feeding zone (5) and the absorption area (3).

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, compositions and kits for affinity isolation, affinity purification and affinity assay based on microbubbles coated with an affinity molecule. Particularly, the invention provides protein microbubbles coated with an affinity molecule. In addition, the invention provides glass microbubbles coated with an affinity molecule. Methods of using the microbubbles of the invention for isolating analytes and cells are specifically provided.

Abstract: The present invention includes assays and kits for detecting the assembly of an RNA binding protein-RNA complex and for detecting the activity of an RNA binding protein.

Abstract: A method for the analysis of at least two analytes in a liquid sample, in which a substrate is provided wherein at least two different types of capturing molecules are immobilized on the substrate and wherein each type of capturing molecule has specific affinity for an analyte. The sample is contacted with capturing molecules, wherein for at least one analyte to be analyzed contact is induced between the capturing molecules and a labelled detection molecule with specific affinity for the analyte, and for at least one another analyte to be contact is induced between the capturing molecules and a labelled version of the analyte. A detectable signal is measured from the labelled detection molecule and the labelled analyte on the substrate, wherein the concentration of the labelled analyte is adapted to the concentration of the analyte in the sample.

Abstract: Disclosed are a detection/quantification kit and a detection/quantification method for detecting/quantifying an analyte rapidly at a low cost and in a simple manner. Specifically, disclosed is a kit for detecting an analyte in a sample, comprising a first conjugate and a second conjugate, wherein the first conjugate comprises a first substance comprising a stimuli-responsive polymer and a first affinity substance having affinity for the analyte and bound to the first substance, and the second conjugate comprises a second substance carrying an electrical charge and a second affinity substance having affinity for the analyte and bound to the second substance. The first and second affinity substances can bind to different sites on the analyte simultaneously.

Abstract: A functional group and spacer group modified polymer composition, articles incorporating the composition, and methods for label-independent-detection using the articles, as defined herein.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for immobilization of biological molecules such as nucleic acids, peptides and proteins onto the surface of a glass or plastic solid support.

Abstract: The present invention provides materials, devices, and methods related to determination of an analyte. In some embodiments, an analyte may be determined by monitoring, for example, a change in an optical signal of a luminescent material (e.g., particle) upon exposure to an analyte. The present invention may be particularly advantageous in that some embodiments may comprise an emissive species useful as an internal reference standard. Methods of the invention may also be useful in the quantitative determination of an analyte. In some cases, the present invention may allow for selective determination of an analyte.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a biochip is provided. First, a first self-assembled monolayer is coated on a substrate. Next, a plurality of first biomedical molecular dots are formed on the first self-assembled monolayer by micro-titration technique. After the bonding reaction between the first biomedical molecular point and the first self-assembled monolayer, a second self-assembled monolayer is deposited on the surface of the first self-assembled monolayer by evaporation. The second self-assembled monolayer attached on the plurality of first biomedical molecular dots and the first self-assembled monolayer not bonded to the substrate are removed, so that the first biomedical molecular dots immobilized on the first self-assembled monolayer are exposed. Finally, a second biomedical molecular layer is immobilized on the exposed portions of the first biomedical molecular dots.

Abstract: A system of quantitatively determining a biomolecule, which has: allowing fluorescent silica particles capable of emitting fluorescence detectable by a flow cytometer to capture a target biomolecule fluorescent-labelled for quantitative determination; detecting the fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent silica particles themselves by using the flow cytometer; and measuring the intensity of the fluorescence of the labelled target biomolecule, thereby quantitatively determining the target biomolecule.

Abstract: Provided are a method for increasing an amount of streptavidin to be immobilized on the self-assembled monolayer and a sensor which comprises streptavidin immobilized with the method. The method of the current technology is characterized by that one molecule of an amino acid is interposed between the self-assembled monolayer and the molecule of streptavidin.

Abstract: A method for determining the amount of NT-proBNP in blood samples from animals. The method includes detecting degradation products of NT-proBNP by various methods, including using antibodies, kits and device.

Abstract: Peptides useful in determining the presence of autoantibodies in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a non-invasive method for surveilling mixing and separation of a suspension in an analytical system using solid phase particles for separation of an analyte by measuring particle distribution with a camera attached to a pipetting device.

Abstract: A diagnostic marker is composed of particles that have a diameter of from 1 nm to 100 ?m, the particles possessing on their surfaces a site that has a high specific bonding ability to a specific antigen residing on the mucosa of digestive cancers and a site that has a low bonding ability to the mucosa of digestive organs, and further incorporating an identification material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a nanoscale or microscale particle for encapsulation and delivery of materials or substances, including, but not limited to, cells, drugs, tissue, gels and polymers contained within the particle, with subsequent release of the therapeutic materials in situ, methods of fabricating the particle by folding a 2D precursor into the 3D particle, and the use of the particle in in-vivo or in-vitro applications The particle can be in any polyhedral shape and its surfaces can have either no perforations or nano/microscale perforations The particle is coated with a biocompatible metal, e g gold, or polymer e g parvlene, layer and the surfaces and hinges of the particle are made of any metal or polymer combinations.

Abstract: A coated magnetic particle comprising an optionally porous magnetic polymer particle of a matrix polymer, said polymer particle having on a surface and/or in the pores thereof superparamagnetic crystals, said coated particle having a coat formed of a coating polymer, wherein said coated magnetic particle is essentially non-autofluorescent.

Abstract: An osteochondral plug includes a first scaffold and a second scaffold. The first scaffold may be a solid scaffold containing one or more pendant reactive functional groups. The second scaffold capable of reacting with the one or more pendant reactive functional groups of the first scaffold.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the manipulation of colloidal particulates and biomolecules at the interface between an insulating electrode such as silicon oxide and an electrolyte solution. Light-controlled electrokinetic assembly of particles near surfaces relies on the combination of three functional elements: the AC electric field-induced assembly of planar aggregates; the patterning of the electrolyte/silicon oxide/silicon interface to exert spatial control over the assembly process; and the real-time control of the assembly process via external illumination. The present invention provides a set of fundamental operations enabling interactive control over the creation and placement of planar arrays of several types of particles and biomolecules and the manipulation of array shape and size. The present invention enables sample preparation and handling for diagnostic assays and biochemical analysis in an array format, and the functional integration of these operations.

Abstract: Methods are provided for detecting and optionally quantitating multiple analytes, including nucleic acid and/or polypeptide analytes, in particle-based assays that can be highly multiplexed. Compositions, systems, and kits related to the methods are also featured.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a method for in vitro prognosticating and/or diagnosing cerebral cerebral malaria, wherein said method comprises a step of detecting non-erythroid spectrin or fragments thereof, and/or antibodies directed against non-erythroid spectrin, in a biological sample. Reagents and kits for performing this method are also disclosed.

Abstract: This invention relates to a composite material that comprises a support member that has a plurality of pores extending through the support member and, located in the pores of the support member, and filling the pores of the support member, a macroporous cross-linked gel. The invention also relates to a process for preparing the composite material described above, and to its use. The composite material is suitable, for example, for separation of substances, for example by filtration or adsorption, including chromatography, for use as a support in synthesis or for use as a support for cell growth.

Abstract: An immunoassay test strip includes a sample pad for receiving a liquid patient sample; a conjugate pad fluidly coupled to the sample pad, wherein the conjugate pad contains a substantially uniform application of conjugate reagent; a contact pad fluidly coupled to the conjugate pad; a porous or bibulous member, e.g., made from nitrocellulose, fluidly coupled to the contact pad which is capable or transporting a liquid sample along the test strip, wherein the porous or bibulous member serves as the solid support upon which immunoreactions occur, and an absorbent pad fluidly coupled to the porous or bibulous member, which serves to draw sample fluid introduced onto the sample pad through the respective conjugate pad, contact pad and porous or bibulous member.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a luminescent immunoassay method for detecting an analyte in a liquid sample with high sensitivity. The invention provides a unique combination of (i) using a probe having a small sensing surface area for binding analyte molecules, (ii) using a high molecular weight branched polymer conjugated with multiple binding molecules and multiple luminescent labels, and (iii) cycling the probe having immunocomplex formed back to the reagent vessel and amplification vessel 1-10 times and repeating the reaction with the reagent and the amplification polymer, to improve the sensitivity of detection level. For each cycling, the luminescent signal is increased significantly over the noise.

Abstract: Hemoglobin, its variants, and glycated forms of each are determined individually in a multiplex assay that permits correction of the measured level of HbA1c to account for glycated variants and other factors related to the inclusion of the variants in the sample. New antibodies that are particularly well adapted to the multiplex assay are also provided.

Abstract: A conjugate of a modified randomly branched asymmetric polymer without a core and a member of a binding pair is described. The modified randomly branched asymmetric polymer can contain chain branches, terminal branches or both. The modified randomly branched asymmetric polymer can contain random asymmetric branches or random asymmetric junctions. The binding pair can be an antibody, antigen or a ligand. The conjugate includes a drug.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel compositions of binding moiety-nanoparticle conjugates, aggregates of these conjugates, and novel methods of using these conjugates, and aggregates. The nanoparticles in these conjugates can be magnetic metal oxides, either monodisperse or polydisperse. Binding moieties can be, e.g., oligonucleotides, polypeptides, or polysaccharides. Oligonucleotide sequences are linked to either non-polymer surface functionalized metal oxides or with functionalized polymers associated with the metal oxides. The novel compositions can be used in assays for detecting target molecules, such as nucleic acids and proteins, in vitro or as magnetic resonance (MR) contrast agents to detect target molecules in living organisms.

Abstract: The inventions relates to compositions and method for determining the absolute counts of cells per unit volume of a sample. Such a method comprises: (a) providing a container containing (i) a predetermined quantity of microparticles; and (ii) a cell-binding agent; in which the microparticles are disposed in or on a matrix which adheres to at least one wall of the container such that substantially all the microparticles are thereby attached to the container; (b) adding a known volume of sample to the container; (c) determining the ratio of microparticles to cells by counting microparticles and cells in a volume of the sample; and (d) determining the absolute count of cells by multiplying the number of cells per microparticle by the concentration of microparticles in the sample.

Abstract: Use of a latex of perfluorinated polymers having particles with an average diameter between 5 and 200 nm for determining the binding constant of two interacting molecular species by Laser Light Scattering (LLS), said polymeric particles comprising on the surface an amphiphilic non ionic surfactant, the same or a different surfactant ended with a receptor and a ligand interacting with the receptor.

Abstract: Ligand Drug conjugate compounds comprising a ?-glucuronide-based linker and methods of using such compounds are provided.