Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for analysing the composition of a quenched flow reaction liquid comprising a quenched flow reactor, and a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) apparatus; wherein the quenched flow reactor is in fluid communication with the HPLC apparatus.

Abstract: A PCR vessel (1) is mainly constituted of a vessel body (11) having a reaction chamber (12) storing and reacting a specimen and a reagent at the time of PCR on a bottom portion (14) thereof, a lid body (6) fittable with the vessel body (11), and a reagent cassette (16) stored in a portion between a lower surface (7) of the lid body (5) and the reaction chamber (12) in the vessel body (11). The reagent cassette (16) has at least one reagent storing portion capable of sealing the reagent with sealing means such as paraffin solid before PCR and melted by heating in PCR. When structuring the PCR vessel in this manner, the sealing means is melted by heating in PCR and the reagent storing portion is opened when storing a specimen necessary for PCR in the vessel body and performing PCR in a state previously storing and sealing the reagent in the reagent storing portion. Then, the specimen and the reagent move to the lower reaction chamber.

Abstract: This system takes in raw cellular material collected using a provided swab, blood collection device, urine collection device, or other sample collection device and transforms that biological material into a digital result, identifying the presence, absence and/or quantity of nucleic acids, proteins, and/or other molecules of interest.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for isolating target biomolecules or cells from samples, particularly biological samples. In particular, the device comprises a loading mixture, which contains the biological sample and a first binding entity that specifically binds to the target biomolecule or target cell; and a micro-channel coated with a second binding entity that binds directly or indirectly to the first binding entity. Methods of capturing, detecting, and/or evaluating target biomolecules or target cells (e.g. cancer cells) in biological samples are also disclosed.

Abstract: A multiplexed testing strip testing device includes a hydrophobic paper-based strip housing element configured for placement of one or more testing strips. One or more alignment markers on the hydrophobic paper-based housing element are marked to facilitate placement of the one or more testing strips. A cover element is arranged above the strip housing element and includes a machine-readable test identifier on an upper surface. A removably attached filtering element is arranged on the hydrophobic paper-based strip housing element.

Abstract: In situ-generated microfluidic capture structures incorporating a solidified polymer network, methods of preparation and use, compositions and kits therefor are described. Microfluidic capture structures may be advantageously used for assays performed within the microfluidic environment, providing flexibility in assaying micro-objects such as biological cells. Assay reagents and analytes may be incorporated within the microfluidic capture structures.

Abstract: A composition including poly-oxygenated metal hydroxide material that comprises a clathrate containing oxygen gas (O2) molecules and a fuel. The poly-oxygenated metal hydroxide material, such as OX66™ material, is added to a fuel, such as, but not limited to, fuels such as petrol, alcohol and diesel, which are combustible in engines to create significantly increased horsepower and torque. The OX66™ material is added to fuel in different ratios to generate improved performance. The different ratios are based on several factors including the type and design of the engine, the type of fuel, and environmental parameters.

Abstract: Provided herein are instruments and cartridges for processing samples. The cartridges include fluidic circuits in which fluid movement can be regulated by diaphragm valves. In certain cartridges, deformable material providing a diaphragm contacts an interface in the instrument that actuates the diaphragm directly, without intervening actuation layer. Certain cartridges have a plurality of fluidic circuits and fluid distribution channels or pneumatic distribution channels configured to deliver fluids or pneumatic pressure to any of the fluidic circuits, selectively. Certain cartridges have compartments containing on-board reagents. Compartments can be closed by a film attached to a body the cartridge through a heat seal.

Abstract: Herein is described a method to rapidly screen a large chemical space for a compound that binds to a target protein through an iterative fragment assembly approach that can be performed at low reagent cost and without requiring purification of the assembled product. The method employs a library of test ligands each of which comprise a ‘bait’ molecule, which is known from prior art or prior screening to have some intrinsic affinity for the target protein, and a test moiety.

Abstract: A method for quantifying infectious particles of a virus in a sample comprises providing a layer of host cells of the virus, contacting the layer of host cells with a preparation of the sample, and culturing the cells under conditions wherein the cells are submerged in a thin layer of liquid culture medium, and wherein the virus infects host cells and releases its progeny from said infected host cells, imposing a flow of the liquid medium, wherein the spread of the viral progeny to uninfected host cells is enhanced, culturing the cells under conditions to allow further virus infection and viral gene expression, wherein infected host cells develop an observable indication of viral gene expression, and determining the number of infected host cells, whereby the number of infectious particles of the virus in the sample is quantified. The method may be used for measuring viral growth rate or for screening for antiviral compounds. Also provided are microfluidic devices suitable for the inventive method.

Abstract: The invention provides a modified form of saturation assay, which is based on the measurement of a free or unbound labelled reagent fraction (such that there is an increase in signal in the presence of analyte) and employs trapping zones to concentrate said unbound or free labelled fraction to avoid loss of sensitivity. Preferably, the assay is a membrane assay.

Abstract: A device for conducting an agglutination assay comprising several reaction vessels, each reaction vessel comprising an upper chamber having an opening for accepting reactants and/or a sample; and a lower chamber comprising an end in communication with the upper chamber for receiving fluids from the upper chamber, a closed end opposite to the end, and a matrix for separating agglutinates from non-agglutinates; wherein the device further comprises a rotating support able to rotate around an axis and holding pivotally the reaction vessels in a way to allow the reaction vessels to pivot about an axis essentially perpendicular to the rotation axis of the support when the latter is rotated, such that the fluids remain in the upper chamber when the support is not rotated, and can flow from the upper chamber to the lower chamber and into the matrix when the support is rotated.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed toward devices, systems, and method for conducting assays using sedimentation. In one example, a method includes layering a mixture on a density medium, subjecting sedimentation particles in the mixture to sedimentation forces to cause the sedimentation particles to move to a detection area through a density medium, and detecting a target analyte in a detection region of the sedimentation channel. In some examples, the sedimentation particles and labeling agent may have like charges to reduce non-specific binding of labeling agent and sedimentation particles. In some examples, the density medium is provided with a separation layer for stabilizing the assay during storage and operation. In some examples, the sedimentation channel may be provided with a generally flat sedimentation chamber for dispersing the particle pellet over a larger surface area.

Abstract: The present invention aims to provide an assay reagent and an assay for accurately measuring KL-6, in particular, an assay reagent and an assay for accurately measuring KL-6 in samples containing a rheumatoid factor and/or a nonspecific substance other than the rheumatoid factor. KL-6 in samples that contain a rheumatoid factor and/or a nonspecific substance other than the rheumatoid factor can be accurately measured using an immunoassay reagent comprising a solution at a pH of 4.0 to 5.5 containing a rheumatoid factor interference inhibitor and a solution of an insoluble carrier on which anti-KL-6 antibodies are immobilized.

Abstract: A method of processing a sample may include introducing a sample into a vessel, the vessel having proximal and distal ends, the sample being introduced into the proximal end of the vessel; incubating the sample in the vessel with a substance capable of specific binding to a preselected component of the sample; propelling components of the incubated sample, other than the preselected component, toward the proximal end of the vessel by clamping the vessel distal to the incubated sample and compressing the vessel where the incubated sample is contained; propelling the preselected component toward a distal segment of the vessel by clamping the vessel proximal to the preselected component and compressing the vessel where the preselected component is contained; and mixing the preselected component with a reagent in the distal segment of the vessel.

Abstract: There is disclosed apparatus and a system for effecting testing on a sample, such as for medical testing. The apparatus includes a sample chip (30) provided with at least two chambers (48, 50) within which analyte and a sample to be tested can be located, one chamber being a mixing chamber (48) and the other a detection chamber (50), the latter being provided with a sensor or means to enable sensing of one or more parameters pertaining to the sample. A detector unit (70, 170) includes a slot (76) for holding a sample carrier (30), drive means (94) for moving parts of a sample from the mixing chamber (48) to the detection chamber (50), such as by electromagnetic force, sensing means (60) for sensing the one or more parameters, a diagnostic unit (84) for analyzing the sensed parameters and a display unit (72) for displaying the results of the test to a user. The test unit (70, 170) is preferably handheld, which the sample carrier (30) is preferably in the form of a disposable chip.

Abstract: Detection of human antibodies directed against the tumor-specific protein Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor variant Class III (EGFRvIII) provide information on tumor burden and vaccine response. The methods of the invention permit the specific identification of antibodies that are able to bind to EGFRvIII. The methods are useful in determining the presence of an EGFRvIII-expressing tumor and in detecting immune responses following immunization with EGFRvIII-derived peptide as part of a cancer immunotherapy regimen.

Abstract: Device and method for detecting the presence of known or unknown toxic agents in a fluid sample. Targets in the sample are bound to releasable receptors immobilized in a reaction region of a micro- or nano-fluidic device. The receptors are selected based on their affinity for classes of known toxic agents. The receptors are freed and the bound and unbound receptors separated based on differential electrokinetic mobilities while they travel to a detection device.

Abstract: The present invention provides an approach for the simultaneous determination of the activation states of a plurality of proteins in single cells. This approach permits the rapid detection of heterogeneity in a complex cell population based on activation states, and the identification of cellular subsets that exhibit correlated changes in activation within the cell population. Moreover, this approach allows the correlation of cellular activities or properties. In addition, the use of potentiators of cellular activation allows for characterization of such pathways and cell populations.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to methods of using compositions that include sets of magnetic particles, members of each set being conjugated to an antibody specific for a pathogen, and magnets to isolate a pathogen from a body fluid sample.

Abstract: Whole cell, simultaneous target and drug-target assay using differentially labeled antibodies and flow cytometry. First antibody binds to total target and second antibody binds to the drug binding site of the target, thus drug binding will competitively inhibit the second antibody allowing for a competitive inhibition assay of drug-target binding. The assay allows for whole cell analysis and even analysis of mixed populations of cells, yet provides detailed kinetic assessment of drug activity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices and methods for the detection of analytes. In particular, the invention relates to methods for the qualitative and/or quantitative detection of analytes, comprising a microarray on a substrate, onto which probe molecules are immobilized on array elements, said microarray being disposed on a first surface of the device; and a detection chamber formed between the first surface including the microarray disposed thereon and a second surface, wherein the distance between the microarray and the second surface is variable, and wherein the second surface has a displacement structure.

Abstract: The invention relates to certain methods for the determination of an antigen content of a first antigen in a mixture comprising two or more antigens. The invention also relates to a potency test for an antigen in a combination vaccine. The method allows the determination of the antigen content in a mixture additionally comprising antibodies that are capable of binding with the antigen.

Abstract: Test kit for the detection of an analyte in an aqueous solution, including chromatographic test strips for a hapten-antihapten complex and first and second standardized vessels for receiving and positioning test strips, which include first and second hapten-coupled receptors against the analyte dried onto the interior wall for the formation of the hapten-antihapten complex, where a portion of the standardized vessels further include a known amount of analyte embedded in a glass-like layer of trehalose, which are dried onto the interior wall of the control vessel so that they dissolve during reaction of the sample with the hapten-coupled receptors. Through this standardization, analytes in unknown samples may be safely detected by immunochromatography within minutes through a hapten-antihapten complex.

Abstract: The present invention provides simple and rapid methods for measuring the function of a desired subset of lymphocytes, for example, T cells, B cells or NK cells. In addition, the present invention provides an all-in-one kit that contains reagents which permit a rapid and reliable analysis of the functions of T cells, B cells and NK cells obtained directly from whole blood or cord blood.

Abstract: A method and kit for assaying a cell sample for the presence of at least a threshold number of cells of a given type are disclosed. The kit includes an assay device having a sample chamber for receiving the cell sample and an elongate collection chamber containing a selected-density and/or viscosity medium and having along its length, a plurality of cell-collection regions, and particles which are capable of specific attachment to cells of the selected cell type, and which are effective, when attached to the cells, to increase the density or magnetic susceptibility of the cells. In operation, particle-bound cells and particles in the cell sample are drawn through the elongate collection chamber under the influence of a gravitational or selected centrifugal or magnetic-field force until the particle-bound cells and particles completely fill successive cell-collection regions in the collection chamber.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions (e.g., peptide compositions) useful for the detection of antibodies that bind to Borrelia antigens. The peptide compositions comprise polypeptide sequences comprising variants in the IR6 domain of the Borrelia VlsE protein. The invention also provides devices, methods, and kits comprising such peptide compositions and useful for the detection of antibodies that bind to Borrelia antigens and the diagnosis of Lyme disease.

Abstract: A method and device for detecting analytes in a test sample. Embodiments include methods for quantitatively detecting analytes within a range of concentrations. In an embodiment the method includes a lateral flow test strip with multiple test areas for capturing a labeled receptor to provide a detectable signal.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for assessing heart failure in vitro including the steps of measuring in a sample the concentration of the marker SFRP-3, of optionally measuring in the sample the concentration of one or more other marker(s) of heart failure, and of assessing heart failure by comparing the concentration determined in for SFRP-3 and the concentration(s) determined for the optionally one or more other marker to the concentration of this marker or these markers as established in a reference population. Also disclosed are the use of SFRP-3 as a marker protein in the assessment of heart failure, a marker combination comprising SFRP-3 and a kit for measuring SFRP-3.

Abstract: An anchoring/capturing system for selecting or analyzing a CHO cell according to a product secreted by the CHO cell is described. The anchoring/capturing system comprises a first antibody or a first antigen-binding fragment for anchoring to the extracellular surface of the CHO cell, and a second antibody or a second antigen-binding fragment for binding the secreted product. Uses and methods involving the anchoring/capturing system are provided.

Abstract: A versatile drug testing device (a lateral flow diagnostic testing device) includes a flat transparent carrier with a top and a bottom with the carrier having a series of independent parallel grooves formed therein running from adjacent to the top to adjacent to the bottom of the carrier, each groove having a first opening and a second opening above the first opening therein adjacent to the bottom of the carrier, at least one drug test strip installed in one of said grooves with its absorbent pad contiguous to the openings and a cover layer attached to the carrier operable to sealing close each of said grooves whereby the bottom of the device can be immersed in a specimen of urine, body fluid, or other biological specimen to wet the pad of the at least one test strip though the ingress of the specimen though the associated openings and the test results on the test strip can be easily viewed through the transparent carrier.

Abstract: The invention provides a device and method for the rapid identification of patients suspected of having thalassemia. The invention provides a test strip for the aqueous detection of thalassemia related proteins in whole blood. The test strip includes antibodies specific to the gamma 4, (?4) protein and provides easy visual discrimination between a positive result and a negative result. The invention can be used in remote or clinical settings.

Abstract: The invention relates to certain methods for the determination of an antigen content of a first antigen in a mixture comprising two or more antigens. The invention also relates to a potency test for an antigen in a combination vaccine. The method allows the determination of the antigen content in a mixture additionally comprising antibodies that are capable of binding with the antigen.

Abstract: A method or platform for monoclonal antibody based biomarker discovery is disclosed. The method according to the invention provides for the integration of analyte collection, hybridoma screening and nanovolume integrated mass spectrometry (NVIMS) to achieve a robust screening system that is capable, for example, of cutting 4-6 years off of the classical biomarker discovery and development process. The invention provides a platform for the rapid, high-throughput production, isolation and characterization of, e.g., disease specific biomarkers together with highly specific monoclonal antibodies. The method of the invention has a variety of applications such as, but not limited to, drug testing, biohazard applications, ecological applications, physiological applications and/or pathology screening applications. The method of the invention is also capable of being performed or used as or with a high-throughput screening process or system of the invention.

Abstract: The invention features a method of attaching a ligand that has a free carboxyl group to a solid support by adding an amino group to the ligand to form a ligand-amino derivative, converting the ligand amino derivative to a ligand sulfhydryl derivative, attaching the ligand sulfhydryl derivative to a protein to form a ligand-linker-protein conjugate, and applying the ligand-linker-protein conjugate to the solid support. The method is particularly useful for immobilizing small molecule ligands having a free carboxyl group, such as cloxicillin, to a lateral-flow test strip, in order to make a detection zone on the test strip that exhibits a clear signal and enhanced sensitivity.

Abstract: A versatile drug testing device (a lateral flow diagnostic testing device) includes a flat transparent carrier with a top and a bottom with the carrier having a series of independent parallel grooves formed therein running from adjacent to the top to adjacent to the bottom of the carrier, each groove having a first opening and a second opening above the first opening therein adjacent to the bottom of the carrier, at least one drug test strip installed in one of said grooves with its absorbent pad contiguous to the openings and a cover layer attached to the carrier operable to sealing close each of said grooves whereby the bottom of the device can be immersed in a specimen of “urine”, “body fluid” or “other biological specimen” to wet the pad of the at least one test strip though the ingress of the specimen though the associated openings and the test results on the test strip can be easily viewed through the transparent carrier.

Abstract: A multi-dimensional method for simultaneously analyzing multiple analytes within a sample solution, comprising adding affinity selectors to a sample solution containing analytes to be measured, the affinity selectors having an affinity for one or more of the analytes within the sample solution; allowing immune complexes to form between the affinity selectors and the analytes; partially or totally resolving the formed immune complexes from non-analyte substances within the sample solution; dissociating the resolved immune complexes; separating the analytes and the affinity selectors of the dissociated immune complexes from one another by capturing the analytes through a surface adsorption process; transferring the captured analytes to a detection means; and resolving the analytes with the detection means in accordance with their mass-to-charge ratios.

Abstract: An embodiment of the invention relates to a device for detecting an analyte in a sample. The device comprises a fluidic network and an integrated circuitry component. The fluidic network comprises a sample zone, a cleaning zone and a detection zone. The fluidic network contains a magnetic particle and/or a signal particle. A sample containing an analyte is introduced, and the analyte interacts with the magnetic particle and/or the signal particle through affinity agents. A microcoil array or a mechanically movable permanent magnet is functionally coupled to the fluidic network, which are activatable to generate a magnetic field within a portion of the fluidic network, and move the magnetic particle from the sample zone to the detection zone. A detection element is present which detects optical or electrical signals from the signal particle, thus indicating the presence of the analyte.

Abstract: The invention provides kits and methods for detecting or monitoring the number of cells in sample. The cell comprises a cell surface associated protein (CSAP) comprising a cytoplasmic (cytosolic) and an extracellular (ecto) domain. The kit comprises: (i) a chromatographic device; and (ii) a CSAP-binding agent. The method comprises: (i) optionally contacting the sample with an agent capable of lysing or permeabilizing CSAP bearing cells; (ii) contacting the sample with a CSAP-binding agent that binds to the cytoplasmic domain of the CSAP; and (iii) directly or indirectly evaluating the level or presence of bound CSAP in the sample.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for treating or preventing antibody mediated graft rejection and blood typing.

Abstract: The present invention is related to accurate detection methods for the measurement only of myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels or neutrophils, preferably equine neutrophils, in complex biological samples. The present invention is further related to ELISA and SIEFED assays for such detection. SIEFED detection sensitivity of active peroxidase activity was found to be enhanced by the addition of nitrite. Such MPO measurement finds its use in many applications such as the prediction, diagnosis and/or monitoring of pathologies correlated with neutrophil activation and/or destruction; the evaluation of drugs and/or immunomodulators; the assessment of immune responses, either natural and/or after treatment with immunomodulators and/or drugs; and the study of cells and their ability to fight microorganisms and/or to destroy them.

Abstract: Whole cell, simultaneous target and drug-target assay using differentially labeled antibodies and flow cytometry. First antibody binds to total target and second antibody binds to the drug binding site of the target, thus drug binding will competitively inhibit the second antibody allowing for a competitive inhibition assay of drug-target binding. The assay allows for whole cell analysis and even analysis of mixed populations of cells, yet provides detailed kinetic assessment of drug activity.

Abstract: Methods, materials, apparatus and systems are described for performing capillary flow assay. In one aspect, a system includes a sample collection unit to collect a sample liquid and a sample testing and storing unit to interface with the sample collection unit to test and store the collected sample liquid. The sample testing and storing unit includes a sample inlet shaped to receive the collected sample from the sample collection unit, and a sample well positioned below the sample inlet to retain at least a portion of the sample liquid. The sample testing and storing unit includes a sample housing unit to store a remainder of the sample liquid not retained in the sample well, and an analyte testing unit housing shaped to receive an analyte detecting unit to test a presence of a target analyte in the sample liquid.

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.

Abstract: Methods and reagents are disclosed for pretreating a sample suspected of containing a hydrophobic drug for conducting an assay method for detecting the hydrophobic drug. A combination is provided in a medium that includes the sample, a releasing agent for releasing the hydrophobic drug and the metabolites from endogenous binding moieties, and a selective solubility agent that provides for substantially equal solubility of the hydrophobic drug and the metabolites in the medium. The selective solubility agent includes a water miscible, non-volatile organic solvent and is present in the medium in a concentration sufficient to provide for substantially equal solubility of the hydrophobic drug and the metabolites in the medium. The medium, which may further include a hemolytic agent, is incubated under conditions for releasing the hydrophobic drug and the metabolites from endogenous binding moieties. The pretreated sample may be subjected to an assay for determining the hydrophobic drug.

Abstract: Provided is a method for screening a plurality of compounds for an ability to bind to a heterodimer of EGFR and another ERBB family member. Also provided are compounds that bind to heterodimers of EGFR and another ERBB family member, and methods of using the identified compounds to suppress the growth of a tumor associated with EGFR heterodimer activity in a subject.

Abstract: The present invention provides an approach for the simultaneous determination of the activation states of a plurality of proteins in single cells. This approach permits the rapid detection of heterogeneity in a complex cell population based on activation states, and the identification of cellular subsets that exhibit correlated changes in activation within the cell population. Moreover, this approach allows the correlation of cellular activities or properties. In addition, the use of potentiators of cellular activation allows for characterization of such pathways and cell populations.

Abstract: A method and kit for assaying a cell sample for the presence of at least a threshold number of cells of a given type are disclosed. The kit includes an assay device having a sample chamber for receiving the cell sample and an elongate collection chamber containing a selected-density and/or viscosity medium and having along its length, a plurality of cell-collection regions, and particles which are capable of specific attachment to cells of the selected cell type, and which are effective, when attached to the cells, to increase the density or magnetic susceptibility of the cells. In operation, particle-bound cells and particles in the cell sample are drawn through the elongate collection chamber under the influence of a gravitational or selected centrifugal or magnetic-field force until the particle-bound cells and particles completely fill successive cell-collection regions in the collection chamber.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for detecting specific target-cells in a simple and time saving way, using paramagnetic particles, antibodies recognizing the Fc portions of target-cell associating antibodies and target-cell associating antibodies directed to specific antigen determinants in the target-cell membranes. Incubation of the cell suspension with a mild detergent and/or second set of antibodies or antibody fragments, prelabeled or not with fluorescent agents, metallocolloids, radioisotopes, biotincomplexes or certain enzymes allowing visualization, with dramatically increase the specificity of the method. The method can further be used for isolation of the target-cells by magnetic field application and kit for performing the method according to the invention is described.

Abstract: A method for analyzing a biological sample by antibody profiling for identifying forensic samples or for detecting the presence of an analyte. In an embodiment of the invention, the analyte is a drug, such as marijuana, Cocaine (crystalline tropane alkaloid), methamphetamine, methyltestosterone, or mesterolone. The method comprises attaching antigens to a surface of a solid support in a preselected pattern to form an array wherein locations of the antigens are known; contacting the array with the biological sample such that a portion of antibodies in the sample reacts with and binds to the antigens in the array to form immune complexes; washing away antibodies that do form immune complexes; and detecting the immune complexes, to form an antibody profile. Forensic samples are identified by comparing a sample from an unknown source with a sample from a known source.