Abstract: The present invention provides an inexpensive and sensitive device and method for detecting and quantifying analytes present in a medium. The device comprises a metalized film upon which is printed a specific, predetermined pattern of an antibody-binding proteins. Upon attachment of a target analyte to select areas of the plastic film upon which the protein is printed, diffraction of transmitted and/or reflected light occurs via the physical dimensions and defined, precise placement of the analyte. A diffraction image is produced which can be easily seen with the eye or, optionally, with a sensing device.

Abstract: Devices and methods for collecting a fluid specimen and testing it are disclosed that avoid unduly exposing the tester to the specimen and eliminate the possibility of contaminating the remaining portion of the collected fluid. The device includes a first compartment for collecting the fluid and provides controlled volumes of fluid from the first compartment to a second compartment where the fluid is accessible to test strips. Fluid from the first compartment is transferred to the second compartment by use of a fluid metering valve having a valve cylinder with one or more wells formed on the surface of the cylinder. The fluid metering valve is fluidly connected to the first compartment at a first valve position and is fluidly connected to the second compartment at a second valve position.

Abstract: An apparatus for taking an intestinal sample of a human or animal patient comprises a holder part (1) and an expandable part (2) supported by the holder part and having one or more sampling areas (8) on the surface thereof. The expandable part (2) is in a non-expanded state rectally insertable into and retractable from the patient's intestine, and in an expanded state, inserted into the patient's intestine, the expandable part is capable of contacting the intestinal wall with at least one sampling area (8; 14). The apparatus further comprises protective livers (7a, 7b) for preventing said sampling area or areas (8) from contact with the intestinal wall and intestinal fluid at least when the expandable part (2) in the non-expanded state is being rectally inserted into the patient's intestine.

Abstract: The invention relates to an optical system for determining the distribution, environment, or activity of fluorescently labeled reporter molecules in cells for the purpose of screening large numbers of compounds for specific biological activity. The invention involves providing cells containing fluorescent reporter molecules in an array of locations and scanning numerous cells in each location with a fluorescent microscope, converting the optical information into digital data, and utilizing the digital data to determine the distribution, environment or activity of the fluorescently labeled reporter molecules in the cells. The array of locations may be an industry standard 96 well or 384 well microtiter plate or a microplate which is a microplate having a cells in a micropaterned array of locations. The invention includes apparatus and computerized method for processing, displaying and storing the data.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel microfluidic devices and methods that are useful for performing high-throughput screening assays. In particular, the devices and methods of the invention are useful in screening large numbers of different compounds for their effects on a variety of chemical, and preferably, biochemical systems.

Abstract: A chromatographic assay or test device for detection and/or determination of an analyte in a test sample, comprises a base member, and a chromatographic medium located in or on said base member, the base member being provided with a receptacle to receive an applicator having the sample applied thereto, and the applicator being movable when located in said receptacle between a first position in which the applicator is out of fluid contact with the chromatographic medium, and a second position in which the applicator is in fluid contact with the chromatographic medium so as to apply a sample on the applicator to the chromatographic medium. In an alternative aspect, the test device comprises a base member, and a second member, at least one of the base member and the second member including a chromatographic medium, and the second member being slidably movable with respect to the base member from a first position to a second position.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices for detecting the presence of a preselected analyte in a fluid sample. The devices comprise a substrate microfabricated to define a sample inlet port, and a mesoscale flow system that includes a sample flow channel extending from the inlet port. The mesoscale flow system further includes an analyte detection region in fluid communication with the flow channel comprised of a binding moiety for specifically binding the analyte. The detection region is constructed with a mesoscale dimension sufficiently small to enhance binding of the binding moiety and the analyte. The binding moiety may be immobilized in the detection region. The mesoscale detection systems of the invention may be used in a wide range of applications, including the detection of cells or macromolecules, or for monitoring reactions or cell culture growth.

Abstract: The full amino acid and DNA sequences of placental protein 13 (PP13) are disclosed. Also described are various PP13 derived peptide fragments, and a recombinant method for the production of PP13. PP13 may be used in a screening and a diagnostic method for pregnancy-related complications.

Abstract: Disclosed are biochips having a high detecting sensitivity with readiness in fabrication of microarray, and a method for fabricating the same, in which a solid support wound with fibers is immersed in a solution containing biomolecules to immobilize the biomolecules onto the fiber, and the individual fibers with the biomolecules immobilized thereon are straightened and arranged. The arranged fibers are embedded with a defined material and cut in a direction perpendicular to the lengthwise arrangement direction of the fibers to obtain thin chips. The chips are placed on a substrate to remove the material used for embedding and thereby remain fibers with the immobilized biomolecules on the substrate. This biochip fabrication method immobilizes a great number of biomolecules onto the fibers having a large surface area to enhance the detection sensitivity and allows production of a great number of substrates with an array of biomolecules immobilized simultaneously.

Abstract: A test strip adapted to receive a sample and detect an analyte therein is provided. The test strip comprises a sample addition zone to which a sample may be added; an absorbent zone proximal to the sample addition zone; one or more test zones distal to the sample addition zone, at least one of the test zones including a first analyte binding agent immobilized therein which is capable of binding to the analyte to be detected; and a terminal sample flow zone distal to the one or more test zones, the absorbent zone being positioned relative to the sample addition zone and having an absorption capacity relative to the other zones of the test strip such that a distal diffusion front of a sample added to the sample addition zone diffuses from the sample addition zone to a distal diffusion point within the terminal sample flow zone and then reverses direction and diffuses proximal relative to the one or more test zones.

Abstract: Methods and composition for inducing, detecting and modulating seizure in animal systems are provided. Methods for inducing seizure comprise (1) electrically stimulating an unanesthetized fly and detecting seizure induction in the fly (2) electrically stimulating a fly with less than 10V and detecting seizure induction in the fly; (3) electrically stimulating a population of wild-type flies and detecting seizure induction in most of the flies and (4) electrically stimulating a population of flies and quantitatively detecting seizure induction in the flies across genotypes or experience. Methods for modulating seizure induction comprise changing the activity of a novel seizure regulator in an animal system and confirming a resultant change in seizure inducibility of the system.

Abstract: A system for producing substantially identical specific binding ligand (e.g., nucleic acid) probe arrays, for instance, by preparing and replicating an original master array and/or by providing a reusable assay array that is capable of being regenerated. In one embodiment the system includes the preparation and use of a) a master array surface having address sequences immobilized in the form of a patterned, and optionally random, array, b) a multi-ligand conjugate having a binding domain complementary to an address sequence, a binding domain complementary to a target sequence, and a third ligand for use in forming (e.g., by binding or polymerization) the conjugates into or onto the surface of assay array, which can be used with or upon disassociation of the address and its complementary sequences.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for controlling magnetic particles by a sample distributor and is intended to process a sample liquid with high precision, sensitivity and reliability by arresting magnetic particles to separate them from the liquid and by suspending the magnetic particles in a liquid to mix the magnetic particles with the liquid again. The pipette portion of this invention has a front end portion, a reservoir portion, a liquid passage connecting the front end portion and the reservoir portion, and a separation region in the liquid passage that is subjected to a magnetic field. The pipette portion of this construction draws in or discharges a liquid for processing.

Abstract: A test device, system and method, the device composed of an elongated, toothbrush-shaped, transparent, plastic housing and a lateral-flow test strip for the detection of an analyte, such as a beta-lactam in milk, in the housing, the housing having an expansion cavity to receive expanded, liquid-contacted, absorbing material in the test strip, and to control lateral flow rate and times in the test strip.

Abstract: A thermostat array including an array of two or more capillary columns (10) or two or more channels in a microfabricated device is disclosed. A heat conductive material (12) surrounded each individual column or channel in array, each individual column or channel being thermally insulated from every other individual column or channel. One or more independently controlled heating or cooling elements (14) is positioned adjacent to individual columns or channels within the heat conductive material, each heating or cooling element being connected to a source of heating or cooling, and one or more independently controlled temperature sensing elements (16) is positioned adjacent to the individual columns or channels within the heat conductive material. Each temperature sensing element is connected to a temperature controller.

Abstract: A method for quantitatively and/or qualitatively assaying an analyte in a sample, wherein the analyte is a receptor binding compound, has low detection limits equivalent to those of radioreceptor assays. The method comprises the steps of a) contacting the sample with material comprising a receptor for the analyte in order for receptor-analyte binding to occur and b) further contacting the sample with a detectable ligand for the receptor in order for receptor-ligand binding to occur, followed by c) separating the resulting receptor bound and free fractions, d) subjecting the receptor bound fraction to dissociating conditions releasing the ligand from the receptor and e) assaying for the dissociated ligand in a manner known per se for the detection of the detectable ligand.

Abstract: A diagnostic tool is disclosed for accurately and rapidly diagnosing the condition of an ailing organ. Although applicable to numerous organ and organ systems, this application particularly illustrates the concept of conjunctive marker utilization as it relates to diagnosing and distinguishing congestive heart failure. The invention particularly relates to the conjunctive utilization of cardiac Troponin I (cTn-I) and natriuretic peptide, e.g. ANP, pro-ANP, BNP, pro-BNP and CNP as a retrospective tool for diagnosing the underlying mechanism of heart failure and as a prospective analytical device for monitoring disease progression and efficacy of therapeutic agents.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for inhibiting bubble formation during a chemical reaction. The apparatus comprises a base having a substantially planar surface with at least a portion of the surface representing a fluid contact area and a fluid comprising a liquid component in contact therewith. A cover and the base form an enclosure containing the fluid and a gas. A non-free-floating fluid-distribution member is provided that has a substantially flat surface in contact with the fluid. The member surface is disposed in an opposing and substantially parallel manner at a specified distance from fluid contact area. A gas-fluid interface having an interface radius is formed between the fluid and the gas. The apparatus also comprises means for maintaining a desired vapor pressure of the liquid component in the gas and means for immobilizing the cover with respect to the base. The interface radius is selected to result in a predetermined critical radius below which a bubble will shrink.

Abstract: Histamine may be quantitatively measured by performing the following steps. First, an oocyte that expresses histamine receptors is held in a recess formed at the bottom of a vessel. Then, first and second electrodes are inserted into the oocyte. Subsequently, the membrane potential of the oocyte is measured by using the first electrode to stabilize this membrane potential at a predetermined level by driving a current through the second electrode using circuitry for clamping the membrane potential of the oocyte. A sample is then infused into a fine reacting tube having an antigen immobilized on its inner surface together with some buffer solution to promote a histamine releasing reaction. The solution containing histamines that is released in the fine reacting tube is transferred to the vessel to make contact with the oocyte in the vessel.

Abstract: Improvements in the existing procedures and materials for conduct of high gradient magnetic separation (HGMS) are disclosed. The use of plastic coated matrices especially small spheres or balls which form superior magnetic gradient-intensifying supports are disclosed, along with improved methods and apparatus to conduct HGMS. The selection of small spheres in combination with the coating provides for uniform matrices of high stability.

Abstract: Multi-sectioned fluid delivery devices with sensor membranes for use in detection of target molecules in gas or liquid samples are provided.

Abstract: An automatic analysis apparatus comprises a reaction disk having many reaction containers arranged on it. A sample is pipetted from a sample container into the reaction containers, number of which is equal to number of analysis items pre-instructed to be analyzed. At the same time, the identical sample is pipetted into a backup reaction container for backing up the inspection. After that, analysis operation in regard to the instructed analysis items is performed and a first analysis result is obtained. If it is judged from the analysis result that re-analysis is necessary, the backup sample in regard to the sample corresponding to the judgment is pipetted from the backup reaction container into a new reaction container. Then, the analysis operation in regard to the sample is performed again.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel microfluidic devices and methods that are useful for performing high-throughput screening assays. In particular, the devices and methods of the invention are useful in screening large numbers of different compounds for their effects on a variety of chemical, and preferably, biochemical systems.

Abstract: A process for carrying out a specific binding assay (for example an immunoassay) in which (a) a sample under assay, possibly containing a substance being tested for, is reacted with (b) a specific binding partner for the substance being tested for, immobilised on a solid support, and (c) a specific binding partner for the substance being tested for which is conjugated to a detectable marker, thereby to form a complex by reaction between whatever quantities are present of the substance being tested for with reagents (b) and (c), in which the marker is immobilised to the support via the substance being tested for, and is detected or assayed as an index of the quantity present in the sample (a) of any of the substance being tested for; characterised in that reaction ingredients (a), (b) and (c) are all mixed in a single step for reaction in a single reaction liquid, and competitive interference between the binding reactions of the substance being tested for and reagents (b) and (c) is avoided either by use of an

Abstract: A method and apparatus for preparation of a substrate containing a plurality of sequences. Photoremovable groups are attached to a surface of a substrate. Selected regions of the substrate are exposed to light so as to activate the selected areas. A monomer, also containing a photoremovable group, is provided to the substrate to bind at the selected areas. The process is repeated using a variety of monomers such as amino acids until sequences of a desired length are obtained. Detection methods and apparatus are also disclosed.

Abstract: Hematology control compositions and systems used to measure a plurality of parameters in a blood sample are provided. The hematology control compositions are particularly useful as a control for multi-parameter, automated instrument systems. The control compositions comprise a reticulocyte component, a white blood cell component, a red blood cell component, a nucleated red blood cell component, a platelet component and a reticulated platelet component. Methods of making and using the control compositions are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and devices for detecting a target nucleic acid molecule. A set of oligonucleotide probes integrated into an electric circuit, where the oligonucleotide probes are positioned such that they can not come into contact with one another, are contacted with a sample. If the sample contains a target nucleic acid molecule, one which has sequences complimentary to both probes, the target nucleic acid molecule can bridge the gap between the probes. The resulting bridge can then carry electrical current between the two probes, indicating the presence of the target nucleic acid molecule.

Abstract: A cartridge for separating a desired analyte from a fluid sample has a sample flow path and a lysing chamber in the sample flow path. The lysing chamber contains at least one filter for capturing cells or viruses from the sample as the sample flows through the lysing chamber. Beads are also disposed in the lysing chamber for rupturing the cells or viruses to release the analyte therefrom. An analyte flow path extends from the lysing chamber and diverges from the sample flow path. The analyte flow path preferably leads to a reaction chamber for chemically reacting and optically detecting the analyte. The cartridge also includes at least one flow controller (e.g., valves) for directing the sample into the waste chamber after the sample flows through the lysing chamber and for directing the analyte separated from the sample into the analyte flow path.

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: Disclosed are an immunoassay device which comprises a labeled substance dotting portion and a specimen dotting portion provided thereon, and an immunoassay method using the device.

Abstract: A immunochromatographical test device including a cap, an absorbent pad, a membrane, a test strip, a holder, and a housing is disclosed. The housing contains the membrane and the test strip which contains immunoreagents. Secured to the holder is the absorbent pad which contains the sample to be tested. The cap fits over the holder and the holder fits within the housing. When the absorbent pad contacts the membrane, the membrane indicates that a proper amount of the sample has been collected. When the absorbent pad contacts the test strip, a reaction, if any, can be observed via a window formed within the housing.

Abstract: A method for detecting the binding of a test compound to a probe molecule comprises providing a test compound, the test compound having a first fluorophore bound thereto, and providing a screening substrate. The screening substrate comprises a solid support, a probe molecule bound to the solid support, and a second fluorophore bound to the solid support adjacent the probe molecule. An advantage of the invention is that this obviates the need for binding the second fluorophore directly to the probe molecule. Preferably, the second fluorophore is bound to the solid support by a flexible linker group. This enables the second fluorophore to interogate different positions on the probe molecule, which is also bound to the solid support adjacent the linker group, enhancing the ability of the method of the invention to detect positive binding events (specific binding of the test compound to the probe molecule.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus to perform reagent-free assays, which apparatus utilizes an all solid probe having an enzyme label that acts on a substrate by obtaining electrons directly from the electrode by bioelectrocatalysis.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for at least one of detecting, quantifying or isolating at least one analyte from a liquid medium in which the analyte is distributed and comprises providing a reagent comprised of particles having a receptor for an analyte fixed to the particles distributed in the medium and a capturing means having an exposed surface defining an active zone. An intermediate reagent is formed by the complex of the reagent with the analyte. A second receptor is fixed in the active zone to capture either the analyte bound by the reagent or the receptor (capture partners). The active zone serves as a site of isolation and concentration of the capture partners.

Abstract: Histamine may be quantitatively measured by performing the following steps. First, an oocyte that expresses histamine receptors is held in a recess formed at the bottom of a vessel. Then, first and second electrodes are inserted into the oocyte. Subsequently, the membrane potential of the oocyte is measured by using the first electrode to stabilize this membrane potential at a predetermined level by driving a current through the second electrode using circuitry for clamping the membrane potential of the oocyte. A sample is then infused into a fine reacting tube having an antigen immobilized on its inner surface together with some buffer solution to promote a histamine releasing reaction. The solution containing histamines that is released in the fine reacting tube is transferred to the vessel to make contact with the oocyte in the vessel.

Abstract: Histamine may be quantitatively measured by performing the following steps. First, an oocyte that expresses histamine receptors is held in a recess formed at the bottom of a vessel. Then, first and second electrodes are inserted into the oocyte. Subsequently, the membrane potential of the oocyte is measured by using the first electrode to stabilize this membrane potential at a predetermined level by driving a current through the second electrode using circuitry for clamping the membrane potential of the oocyte. A sample is then infused into a fine reacting tube having an antigen immobilized on its inner surface together with some buffer solution to promote a histamine releasing reaction. The solution containing histamines that is released in the fine reacting tube is transferred to the vessel to make contact with the oocyte in the vessel.

Abstract: A microchip device for electrophoresis includes not only a microchip having a separation flow route for separating a sample electrophoretically and an electrical power source for applying a migration potential difference along the separation flow route but also a grating for dispersing light received from each position within a specified range along the separation flow route in a direction perpendicular to the separation flow route, a two-dimensional light-receiving device such as charge-coupled devices for receiving dispersed light from the grating at light-receiving positions which are two-dimensionally distributed parallel to and and perpendicular to the separation flow route, and a data processor for receiving measured values obtained repeatedly by said two-dimensional light-receiving means and carrying out multi-point averaging on the measured values for each of the light-receiving positions.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for evanescent light fluoroimmunoassays are disclosed. The apparatus employs a planar waveguide with an integral semi-cylindrical lens, and has multi-analyte features and calibration features, along with improved evanescent field intensity. A preferred embodiment of the biosensor and assay method have patches of capture molecules each specific for a different analyte disposed adjacent within a single reservoir. The capture molecules are immobilized to the patches on the waveguide surface by site-specific coupling of thiol groups on the capture molecules to photo-affinity crosslinkers which in turn are coupled to the waveguide surface or to a non-specific-binding-resistant coating on the surface. The patches of different antibodies are produced by selectively irradiating a portion of the waveguide surface during the process of coupling the photo-affinity crosslinkers the selective irradiation involving a mask, a laser light source, or the like.

Abstract: A apparatus for assaying glycated proteins and other analytes in biological samples such as blood, in which a sample is presented to the apparatus, includes an inlet port between moveable between first and second inlets, such that the inlet can be brought into liquid communication with each inlet in turn. The inlet port accommodates a filter or binder. The apparatus also includes a microprocessor operable via a key pad, at least one light emitter and at least one light detector, a display and driver, and an A to D converter, and is operatively connected to a power source.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a method for separating at least one species of biological entities from a sample solution, by contacting the sample with a matrix of magnetic particles formed on a substrate such as a sheet a gel, etc. The particles in the matrix are coupled to entities capable of specifically binding to the species of biological entities to be separated. The separation is carried out either for detection purposes for obtaining separately each species of biological entities or for synthesis purposes. The invention further concerns matrices of magnetic particles formed on various substrates and kits for use in the method.

Abstract: Non-invasive methods are provided for obtaining biological samples of mammary fluid or mammary fluid components by administering oxytocin to a patient to stimulate expression of mammary fluid. During or after mammary fluid expression, a biological sample is collected in the form of whole mammary fluid, whole cells or cellular components, other selected liquid or solid fractions of the mammary fluid, purified or bulk proteins, glycoproteins, peptides, nucleotides or other desired Constituents of mammary fluid. Methods and kits are also provided for determining the presence or amount of a breast disease marker in biological samples of mammary fluid or mammary fluid components obtained according to the above sample collection methods. Also provided within the invention are novel breast pump and breast pump adapter devices which incorporate a solid phase sample collection medium integrated within the breast pump or adapter or otherwise fluidly connected therewith.

Abstract: Histamine may be quantitatively measured by performing the following steps. First, an oocyte that expresses histamine receptors is held in a recess formed at the bottom of a vessel. Then, first and second electrodes are inserted into the oocyte. Subsequently, the membrane potential of the oocyte is measured by using the first electrode to stabilize this membrane potential at a predetermined level by driving a current through the second electrode using circuitry for clamping the membrane potential of the oocyte. A sample is then infused into a fine reacting tube having an antigen immobilized on its inner surface together with some buffer solution to promote a histamine releasing reaction. The solution containing histamines that is released in the fine reacting tube is transferred to the vessel to make contact with the oocyte in the vessel.

Abstract: Histamine may be quantitatively measured by performing the following steps. First, an oocyte that expresses histamine receptors is held in a recess formed at the bottom of a vessel. Then, first and second electrodes are inserted into the oocyte. Subsequently, the membrane potential of the oocyte is measured by using the first electrode to stabilize this membrane potential at a predetermined level by driving a current through the second electrode using circuitry for clamping the membrane potential of the oocyte. A sample is then infused into a fine reacting tube having an antigen immobilized on its inner surface together with some buffer solution to promote a histamine releasing reaction. The solution containing histamines that is released in the fine reacting tube is transferred to the vessel to make contact with the oocyte in the vessel.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for preparation of a substrate containing a plurality of sequences. Photoremovable groups are attached to a surface of a substrate. Selected regions of the substrate are exposed to light so as to activate the selected areas. A monomer, also containing a photoremovable group, is provided to the substrate to bind at the selected areas. The process is repeated using a variety of monomers such as amino acids until sequences of a desired length are obtained. Detection methods and apparatus are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of isolating a biological material by a) providing a biological material which is bound to a porous matrix (C11), and b) compressing the matrix under conditions where the biological material is released from the surface of the matrix into an elution liquid. brings about the advantage that the emission of aerosols into the environment is greatly reduced. It is also possible to obtain highly concentrated and minute amounts of solution. The method is also easy to automate.

Abstract: A method of analyzing cells in a carrier solution comprises the following steps: (a) Introducing the carrier solution into a conduit having a surface portion (preferably a substantially flat surface portion). The carrier solution has the cells suspended therein. (b) Allowing the cells to settle on the surface portion, the surface portion including at least one imaging field. In an alternate embodiment, one or more discreet capture zones (e.g., formed from an affinity species immobilized on the substrate or a textured region on the substrate) are formed on the surface portion, and this step (b) comprises capturing the cells in the capture zone. (c) Sequentially interrogating a plurality of the cells in the imaging field with emitted light. (d) Processing resultant light from the imaging field. (e) Generating digital information for each of the plurality of cells from the resultant light. (f) Generating a response file for each of the plurality of cells from the digital information.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for rapidly analyzing samples for analytes of interest by an homogeneous immunofluorescence assay. The apparatus includes a sample test cartridge having a high control sample section, a low control sample section, and at least one test sample section. Each of these sections contain at least one pre-loaded reagent housed in a well within the cartridge wherein the low control sample section contains a known low amount of an analyte of interest and the high control sample section contains a known high amount of an analyte of interest. The cartridge includes a biosensor comprising a planar waveguide having first and second parallel plane surfaces and an edge extending between them, the edge having a receiving region for receiving a light beam.

Abstract: Formed constituents of a quiescent anticoagulated whole blood sample are optically or visually analyzed in a sample chamber which has a varying through plane thickness due to convergent opposing sample chamber walls. At least one of the convergent walls of the chamber is transparent so that the blood sample constituents can be observed. The chamber's varying thickness produces a first lesser thickness region in the chamber wherein a quiescent monolayer of red blood cells in the sample will reside after the sample is introduced into and fills the chamber. Larger formed constituents such as white blood cells in the sample are unable to enter the aforesaid lesser thickness region of the chamber. The red cells which reside in the greater thickness regions will agglomerate to form rouleaux and lacunea. The exact thickness of the chamber at any particular location in the chamber can be predetermined, or can be determined in situ as the sample is being analyzed.

Abstract: A method for determining whether a subject has had a stroke and, if so, the type of stroke which includes analyzing the subject's body fluid for at least four selected markers of stroke, namely, myelin basic protein, S100 protein, neuronal specific enolase and a brain endothelial membrane protein such as thrombomodulin or a similar molecule. The data obtained from the analyses provide information as to the type of stroke, the onset of occurrence and the extent of brain damage and allow a physician to determine quickly the type of treatment required by the subject.

Abstract: A method of evaluating a carbohydrate in a sample. The method includes providing a low valency carbohydrate binding ligand, providing a glycoconjugate which includes a label, and a carbohydrate moiety, contacting the low valency carbohydrate binding ligand and the glycoconjugate with the sample, determining the extent of binding of the low valency carbohydrate binding ligand with the glycoconjugate, the binding of the low valency carbohydrate binding ligand with the glycoconjugate being correlated with the amount of carbohydrate in the sample.