Abstract: Heterogeneous assays for different analytes in a single biological sample are performed simultaneously in a multiplexed assay that combines flow cytometry with the use of magnetic particles as the solid phase and yields an individual result for each analyte. The particles are distinguishable from each other by characteristics that permit them to be differentiated into groups, each group carrying an assay reagent bonded to the particle surface that is distinct from the assay reagents of particles in other groups. The magnetic particles facilitate separation of the solid and liquid phases, permitting the assays to be performed by automated equipment. Assays are also disclosed for the simultaneous detection of antibodies of different classes and a common antigen specificity or of a common class and different antigen specificities.

Abstract: The small molecule profiles of cells are compared to identify small molecules which are modulated in altered states. Cellular small molecule libraries, methods of identifying tissue sources, methods for treating genetic and non-genetic diseases, and methods for predicting the efficacy of drugs are also discussed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of preparing a nanoparticle film having metal ions incorporated and to a film prepared by said method. The invention furthermore relates to uses of such a film.

Abstract: A biochemical analysis unit has a flow-through area in which plural spot areas are arranged, and probes are spotted onto the spot areas. The biochemical analysis unit is set into a chamber of a reaction vessel. A reaction solution containing a target is supplied through an inlet into the chamber. A flow rate is adjusted such that the pressure loss may be 80 kPa when the reaction solution flows through the flow-through area. When the pressure loss is increased, the reaction solution flows through the flow-through area after equivalently spreading into a lower side of the chamber. Thus the flowing speed is decreased.

Abstract: The small molecule profiles of cells are compared to identify small molecules which are modulated in altered states. Cellular small molecule libraries, methods of identifying tissue sources, methods for treating genetic and non-genetic diseases, and methods for predicting the efficacy of drugs are also discussed.

Abstract: The small molecule profiles of cells are compared to identify small molecules which are modulated in altered states. Cellular small molecule libraries, methods of identifying tissue sources, methods for treating genetic and non-genetic diseases, and methods for predicting the efficacy of drugs are also discussed.

Abstract: The present invention provides an assay, suitable for neonatal screening of hemoglobinopathies by quantitatively determining the presence of at least one pair of hemoglobin (Hb) variants, determining the ratio between the signals obtained from each variant; and, based on that ratio, determining whether the tested subject is afflicted or not.

Abstract: The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) activity in a patient's bloodstream or other biological sample can serve as a diagnostic and prognostic index for cancer, diabetes, heart conditions, and other pathologies. Antibody-sandwich ELISA method and kits for VEGF as an antigen were developed to detect VEGF levels in biological samples from animal models and human patients and are used as a diagnostic/prognostic index.

Abstract: A method of single parameter and multiparameter characterizing of cells, particularly immunophenotyping of cells, is provided. The method preferably uses antibody coated microspheres which are adapted to bind to specific types of cells. One or more sets of coated microspheres are added simultaneously or sequentially to a suspension of cells and bind the cells they are adapted to bind. Cells may bind to one or more microspheres. The suspension is then filtered to trap bead-cell complexes. The complexes are preferably stained and then examined to characterize the cells, preferably the cells bound to the microspheres. A kit and apparatus for performing the method are also provided.

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: A specific and sensitive in vitro ELISA assay and diagnostic test kit is disclosed for determining levels of NT-proBNP protein in a variety of bodily fluids, non-limiting examples of which are blood, serum, plasma, urine and the like. The NT-proBNP ELISA assay test employs the sandwich ELISA technique to measure circulating NT-proBNP in human plasma. In order to obtain antibodies with specific binding properties for targeted amino acid sequences within human proBNP, recombinant human proBNP (or rhproBNP) was expressed and purified for use as an immunogen. Polyclonal antibodies (PAb) to specific amino acid sequences were subsequently purified from goat serum by sequential affinity purification. Monoclonal antibodies were raised against specific polypeptides. Recombinant human NT-proBNP (or rhNT-proBNP) was expressed and purified in order to obtain material for use in calibration of a quantitative method for measurement of human NT-proBNP.

Abstract: Method and device to simultaneously detect different antibodies and antigens via immunoenzimatic tests and ELISA (Enzyme Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay) constituted by small absorbent cylinders, on which the immunocomplexes are formed, blocked at a modular distance on a probe; that carries a label to identify the sample under examination.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an immunological test for determining NT-proBNP comprising at least two antibodies to NT-proBNP, wherein at least one of the antibodies to NT-proBNP is a monoclonal antibody. One of these antibodies is directed at least against parts of the epitope of NT-proBNP comprising the amino acids 38 to 50. In addition, one of these antibodies is directed at least against parts of the epitope of NT-proBNP comprising the amino acids 1 to 37 or 43 to 76. The epitope recognized by the antibodies can slightly overlap.

Abstract: Arrays of microparticle populations, each population labeled with a single fluorescent dye, are provided for use in multiplex assays. The populations form a virtual multidimensional array wherein each microparticle is identified by fluorescence intensity in two different fluorescence detection channels. The arrays are useful in a variety of assays, including multiplex, multi-analyte assays for the simultaneous detection of two or more analytes by, for example, flow cytometry, and a labeling reagents in, for example, microscopy. The use of singly-dyed microparticles to form multidimensional arrays greatly simplifies the creation of multiplex assays.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to the field of biomolecule detection. More specifically, the present invention relates to compositions, methods and systems for the detection and manipulation of biomolecules using magnetic particles.

Abstract: The present invention provides a carrier for immobilizing a bio-derived polymer, and especially, the present invention provides a carrier of diamond fine particle for immobilizing a DNA, RNA, protein and peptide, as well as a DNA chip substrate, a carrier for trapping virus and a vaccine. The carrier is prepared by the steps comprising: preparing an initial mixture including a diamond and a non-diamond by means of explosion of a detonating agent; subjecting the initial mixture to an oxidation treatment to obtain a suspension solution including the diamond; and separating a phase including the diamond. According to the present invention, after the oxidation treatment, a basic material having per se volatility or to generate a decomposed material having volatility is added, to neutralize with nitric acid, and thereby obtained diamond fine particle has a functional group on the surface thereof.

Abstract: A method for determining the concentration of factor VIIa-antithrombin complexes is disclosed which has application to estimating the level of intravascular exposure of tissue factor, assessing patient risk for hypercoagulation or other coagulopathies, and monitoring patients for factor VIIa-antithrombin complexes over time which can reveal changes in risk for hypercoagulation or other coagulopathies and/or effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy. Antibodies suitable for use in an in vitro assay for determining the concentration of factor VIIa-antithrombin complexes and methods for making the same are also disclosed.

Abstract: An interactive system is provided with at least one active surface of plastic from monomers containing at least one structural element derived from a carbon dioxide (A), and at least one substance associated to a linker with at least one structural element (B) capable of establishing a hydrogen bond, and involving an interaction between the structural elements (A) and (B). The interactive system is suitable for presenting and eliminating substances in liquids.

Abstract: The present invention provides a carrier for immobilizing a bio-derived polymer, and especially, the present invention provides a carrier of diamond fine particle for immobilizing a DNA, RNA, protein and peptide, as well as a DNA chip substrate, a carrier for trapping virus and a vaccine. The carrier is prepared by the steps comprising: preparing an initial mixture including a diamond and a non-diamond by means of explosion of a detonating agent; subjecting the initial mixture to an oxidation treatment to obtain a suspension solution including the diamond; and separating a phase including the diamond. According to the present invention, after the oxidation treatment, a basic material having per se volatility or to generate a decomposed material having volatility is added, to neutralize with nitric acid, and thereby obtained diamond fine particle has a functional group on the surface thereof.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are disclosed for reducing non-specific binding in a binding assay for the determination of an analyte in a sample where one of the reagents for conducting the binding assay comprises a solid support comprising a polysaccharide. The method comprises including in an assay medium for conducting the binding assay a soluble compound comprising a protein linked to a polysaccharide. Also disclosed are methods and compositions for determining the presence and/or amount of an analyte in a sample suspected of containing the analyte. The methods include as reagents a solid support comprising a polysaccharide and a soluble compound comprising a protein linked to a polysaccharide.

Abstract: A method of determining the presence or amount of analyte in a fluid sample, which comprises: contacting a fluid sample with a binding reagent that comprises a plurality of cleavable species and wherein said species, when cleaved, are detectable using electrochemical means; separating any binding reagent-analyte complex that forms from the unbound binding reagent; cleaving the cleavable species from the immobilized binding reagent-analyte complex; and detecting the cleaved species using electrochemical means.

Abstract: The present invention concerns compositions and methods for evaluating fertility in humans and animals. The invention may also be used to identify reproductive cancers such as testicular cancer. In various embodiments of the invention, an Sptrx-3 enzyme is used as a fertility marker. Sptrx-3 may be detected in accordance with the invention in vitro or in vivo.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and its kit for quantitatively detecting a specific analyte with a single capturing agent. The quantitative detection of a specific analyte with a single capturing agent comprises: firstly combining the tested analyte with a solid phase capturing agent, then labeling analyte which has been trapped by the capturing agent with a report molecule; secondly eluting the labeled analyte from the complex, recombining the tested analyte with a new solid phase capturing agent, and ascertaining the content of analyte by detecting the report molecule's label signal. The kit of the invention comprises a capturing device, a detecting device, a report molecule for labeling and an analysis substance eluate. The advantages of the invention are the need of one single capturing agent, the capability of detecting for many analytes which can't be tested at present, wide application, high sensibility and low noise.

Abstract: Raman Active Reagents (ERLs) are developed which use a nanoparticle substrate substantially covered with a mixed monolayer derived from a Raman active reporter molecule and an analyte binding molecule that both bind to the surface of the nanoparticle and thereby avoid the necessity for separate synthesis of a bifunctional linker molecule in making the ERL.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an immunoassay involving a multiplex of antibodies that recognize the same analyte but that have a different cross-reactivity to structurally similar compounds. Data obtained from the immunoassay involving observed analyte concentrations is input into an algorithm to determine the true concentration of the analyte in a sample.

Abstract: A method for preparing receptor-coated particles is described which comprises the following steps: a) providing a support body, b) conducting a liquid containing particles into or onto the support body, c) immobilizing the particles on at least one surface area of the support body, d) conducting a liquid which contains receptors or receptor building blocks for synthesizing polymeric receptors over the immobilized particles, e) coupling the receptors or receptor building blocks location—or/and time-specifically to the immobilized particles at in each case predetermined positions of the support body, f) repeating, where appropriate, the steps (d) and (e), until the desired receptors have been synthesized on the immobilized particles at the in each case predetermined positions of the support body.

Abstract: The invention relates to a biosensor device with an actuating element comprising a biorecognition element that is capable of binding target molecules from a sample of interest, wherein the actuating element comprises a polymer material, can be actuated by actuating means between a first and a second position.

Abstract: The present invention provides immunoassays which are highly specific for detection in biological samples of methamphetamine and other drugs of abuse of the methamphetamine group such as ecstasy and other ecstasy class drugs. More particularly, competitive assays are provided comprising: (a) contacting said sample with (i) a pseudoephedrine/carrier conjugate in which pseudoephedrine is linked via its hydroxyl group to the carrier and (ii) an antibody which is capable of binding both one or more drugs of the methamphetamine group and said conjugate; and (b) determining whether the binding of said antibody to said conjugate is reduced by the presence of said sample, a reduction in binding being indicative that the sample contains a methamphetamine group drug.

Abstract: A blood crossmatching apparatus, kit and methods for testing the compatibility of mammals for blood transfusion. Particulate layers in the apparatus allow nonagglutinated red blood cells to permeate through, while agglutinated red blood cells cannot. The apparatus also has a density solution layered above particulate layers. The density solution separates white blood cells from red blood cells in the whole blood when centrifuged, without lysing the red blood cells. Thus, the apparatus can be used to test whole blood.

Abstract: A method for quantitatively determining the amount of maleimidyl groups on a polymer fine particle containing at least maleimidyl groups, by allowing a fluorescent material having an SH group to react with the maleimidyl groups and determining the amount of maleimidyl groups by means of measuring the fluorescence of the fluorescent material.

Abstract: Apparatus components including rigid supports suitable for use in an affinity column, affinity columns, and an affinity columns in fluid communication with an analytical column, such as in a high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) column, are disclosed. Methods of using the apparatus components to detect the presence of one or more analytes are also disclosed.

Abstract: Provided are methods comprising the use of non-sugar organic compatible solutes for protection and preservation of the activity of biologically active molecules and conjugate labels. The methods are particularly adaptable for use in conjunction with immunoassays, such as for example, immunochromatographic test assays and may be incorporated into any test methodology wherein a dry test strip is used as a carrier for depositing, mobilizeable and/or immobilized biologically active molecules and/or conjugate labels.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of determining anti-infectious agent IgG avidity, for example, human anti-cytomegalovirus and human anti-toxoplasma IgG avidity, using a competitive assay format.

Abstract: Novel conjugates of busulfan and novel busulfan immunogens derived from ?-substituted derivatives of busulfan and antibodies generated by these busulfan linked immunogens are useful in immunoassays for the quantification and monitoring of busulfan in biological fluids.

Abstract: A chemical composition including a fluorescent polymer and a receptor that is specific for both a target biological agent and a chemical moiety including (a) a recognition element, (b) a tethering element, and (c) a property-altering element is disclosed. Both the fluorescent polymer and the receptor are co-located on a support. When the chemical moiety is bound to the receptor, the property-altering element is sufficiently close to the fluorescent polymer to alter the fluorescence emitted by the polymer. When an analyte sample is introduced, the target biological agent, if present, binds to the receptor, thereby displacing the chemical moiety from the receptor, resulting in an increase of detected fluorescence. Assays for detecting the presence of a target biological agent are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention is a structure capable of detecting a target molecule, the invention including a functionalized polymer matrix having chemically reactive groups and at least one biomolecule attached to the chemically reactive groups to form a surface-modified bioresponsive polymer matrix.

Abstract: Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor biointerface with a rigid thiol linker layer and/or interaction layer ligand loading with reversible collapse and/or iron oxide nanoparticle sensor response amplification.

Abstract: A biologically active conjugate is disclosed comprising a biopolymer and a therapeutic agent joined by a disulfide bond. The conjugate, when formulated in a pharmaceutical composition with a suitable carrier, has improved in vivo stability and activity, and can be targeted to a variety of cells, tissues and organs.

Abstract: New applications for the use of distinguishable particulate labels available in a variety of hues and sized in the submicron range are described. These applications include profiling of cellular components, obtaining secretion patterns, identifying a multiplicity of components in chromatographic or electrophoretic techniques and identification of desired immunoglobulin secreting cells.

Abstract: A device and method allowing evaluation of the contents of a sealed primary container by means of an integral sensor which is separated from the contents of the sealed primary container yet provides information on quality of the contents of the primary container without breaking the sealed system. The integral sensor device includes a biosensor retained within a plastic construct by a gated-pore membrane. Pores in the membrane open in response to an environmental change in the primary container allowing the contents of the primary container to contact the biosensor. Status of the contents of the primary container can be determined by inspection of the biosensor, visually or via a fiberoptic probe, through the optical window of the plastic construct.

Abstract: A plurality of particles of from about 5 nm to 100 ?m possessing predetermined isoelectric points in the pH range from about 2.5 to 11 is used in a method of detection of a plurality of analytes, wherein the isoelectric particles of each isoelectric point further contain a label and a member of a binding pair capable of interacting with a selected analyte. The particles that formed specific binding pairs are recovered and separated by isoelectric focusing, followed by the detection of the labels associated with the particles. A flow cytometer may be used as a detector of the isoelectric particles.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention can provide a method capable of easily realizing immobilization with the optimum density derived from a concentration control and without phase separation in coadsorption of a number of molecules. The immobilization method can include the step of dissolving a plurality of molecules to be immobilized to a solid phase substrate with a solvent to obtain a solution of the plurality of molecules, and the step of incubating the solution and the solid phase substrate in touch therewith. Each of the molecules can include a solid phase substrate joint portion having a jointing property to the solid phase substrate, a functional portion having a specific function, and a linker portion positioned between the solid phase substrate joint portion and the functional portion.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of predicting pregnancy outcome in a subject by determining the amount of an early pregnancy associated molecular isoform of hCG in a sample. The present invention further provides a method for determining the amount of early pregnancy associated molecular isoforms of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in a sample. The present invention also provides a diagnostic kit for determining the amount of early pregnancy associated hCG is a sample. The present invention additionally provides an antibody which specifically binds to an early pregnancy associated molecular isoform of human chorionic gonadotropin. Finally, the present invention provides methods for detecting trophoblast or non-trophoblast malignancy in a sample.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for detecting and/or measuring the concentration of fluoride (F?) or hydrogen fluoride (HF) in a sample, comprising the steps consisting of bringing said sample, in aqueous solution, into contact with a silylated organic compound in order to obtain a measurement solution, with said silylated organic compound being desilylated when it is in the presence of hydrofluoric acid or a fluoride, with the silylated organic compound and the desilylated organic compound being able to be detected and/or measured separately from each other; and detecting and/or measuring, in said measurement solution, the appearance of the desilylated against compound or the disappearance of the silylated organic compound, which takes place if fluoride or hydrogen fluoride is present in the sample. The method enables the presence of hydrogen fluoride or of fluorine to be detected very easily and expediently at concentrations of 10?2 l of HF/106 l of air (10 ppb) or else of 0.

Abstract: An immunoassay comprises the steps of: (a) mixing a whole blood sample with sensitized insoluble carrier particles smaller than erythrocytes to cause an immune agglutination reaction; (b) introducing the resulting immune agglutination reaction mixture including agglutinated particles and unagglutinated particles to a flow cell, irradiating the particles passing through the flow cell with laser light, and detecting scattered lights generated thereby; (c) setting a threshold value for distinguishing unagglutinated particles from agglutinated particles and a threshold value for distinguishing the agglutinated particles from blood cells with regard to intensity of the scattered light; and (d) distinguishing and counting the unagglutinated particles, the agglutinated particles and the blood cells from the scattered lights detected in the step (b), in reference to the threshold values set in the step (c).

Abstract: A substrate plate or device adapted for use with biological or chemical assays is disclosed. The device may take the form of a multi-well plate having a three-dimensional, porous layer as part of a support surface within each well for immobilizing probe species. The porous layer is characterized as having a plurality of interconnected voids defined by a matrix of contiguous solid material. A method and its variants are also described.

Abstract: The present invention provides a thiosulfonate-activated ionophore comprising an ionophore, a spacer group, and an alkylthiosulfonate moiety. A preferred ionophore is gramicidin A. A preferred alkylthiosulfonate is methanethiosulfonate. The present invention also provides a conjugate comprising an ionophore, a spacer group, and a recognition molecule. Further the invention related to membranes incorporating the conjugates and biosensors comprising said membranes.

Abstract: An evanescent-field sensor system and method of using the system to detect either liquid- or airborne biological pathogens, chemical agents, and other harmful or toxic species is provided. The sensor system involves 1) an evanescent-field sensor having a substrate surface with at least a partial bio- or chemo-responsive layer, which forms a part of a serially renewable sensing region; 2) an optical interrogation apparatus for monitoring the bio- or chemo-responsive layer; and 3) an air-fluid delivery system. The optical interrogation apparatus has a light source, an optical delivery system, and a detection instrument or device. The air-fluid delivery system includes either macro or micro-fluidic passages designed to convey biological or chemical analytes to a sensing region.

Abstract: A method for detecting specific associations between a tethered molecule and an untethered target molecule. The method comprises (1) selecting a tethered molecule; (2) alternately impinging THz radiation onto the tethered molecule and onto a sample including the tethered and untethered target molecules; (3) detecting the radiation impinged on the tethered molecule to form a reference signal and the radiation impinged on the sample to form a sample signal; and (4) comparing the reference signal with the sample signal to generate a specimen signal indicative of an association between the selected tethered and target molecules. The method will detect whether a selected tethered molecule and the desired target exhibit any affinity or, in cases where the affinity is known, will detect the presence of the target molecule in a sample. Also provided is an apparatus for detecting specific associations between a tethered molecule and an untethered target molecule.

Abstract: A biosensor has a micrometer sized antibody substrate surface which may include patterned single or multiple antibody substrates. The substrate is capable of detecting multiple chemical species simultaneously and/or continuously monitoring a single chemical species.