Alkaloids, Amphetamines, And Barbiturates Patents (Class 436/816)
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Patent number: 8518653Abstract: A binding partner, especially an antibody fragment that specifically recognizes an antigen-antibody immune complex between anti-THC and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), is disclosed. The binding partner facilitates a non-competitive homogenous immunoassay for detection of cannabis use. A test kit comprising the binding partner is also described. Preferably the immunoassay is applied for roadside testing of saliva from suspected drivers.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2009Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Teknologian Tutkimuskeskus VTTInventors: Kristiina Takkinen, Hans Söderlund, Timo Pulli
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Patent number: 8501481Abstract: A system and method for tagging, tracking, locating and identifying people and vehicles transporting people using Perfluorocarbon tracers. An on-going problem faced by military as well as law enforcement personnel is that of friendly fire incidents. To prevent possible friendly-fire incidents, troops would separate the two layers of the uniform patch, thereby releasing a controlled release of the Perfluorocarbon vapors. Other “friendly” troops, equipped with sensors tuned to the specific perfluorocarbon characteristics would thus be able to literally view a plume around the tagged person or object. The system may conversely be used to tag enemies. Formulations of mixed perfluorocarbons may be used to provide coding of emissions.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2012Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Tracer Detection Technology Corp.Inventor: Jay Fraser
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Patent number: 8476027Abstract: A binding partner, especially an antibody fragment that specifically recognizes an antigen-antibody immune complex between anti-THC and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), is disclosed. The binding partner facilitates a non-competitive homogenous immunoassay for detection of cannabis use. A test kit comprising the binding partner is also described. Preferably the immunoassay is applied for roadside testing of saliva from suspected drivers.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2009Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: Teknologian Tutkimuskeskus VTTInventors: Kristiina Takkinen, Hans Söderlund, Timo Pulli
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Patent number: 8394626Abstract: The present invention includes but is not limited to a specimen collection device that includes a chamber capable of collecting a specimen, a specimen passage slot, a reservoir, a reservoir seal, and a test device. A sample or specimen added to the chamber flows through the specimen passage slot into the reservoir. Flow into the reservoir may be limited by the reservoir seal. The test device positioned within the reservoir detects the presence or concentration of an analyte within the sample or specimen.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2009Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: Alere Switzerland GmbHInventors: James T. Ramsey, Larry Hartselle
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Patent number: 8153435Abstract: A system and method for tagging, tracking, locating and identifying people and vehicles transporting people using Perfluorocarbon tracers. An on-going problem faced by military as well as law enforcement personnel is that of friendly fire incidents. To prevent possible friendly-fire incidents, troops would separate the two layers of the uniform patch, thereby releasing a controlled release of the Perfluorocarbon vapors. Other “friendly” troops, equipped with sensors tuned to the specific perfluorocarbon characteristics would thus be able to literally view a plume around the tagged person or object. The system may conversely be used to tag enemies. Formulations of mixed perfluorocarbons may be used to provide coding of emissions.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2010Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Tracer Detection Technology Corp.Inventor: Jay Fraser
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Patent number: 8137984Abstract: Methods, compositions, and apparatus for detecting the presence of caffeine in a liquid sample are provided. In certain embodiments, an internally referenced competitive assay allows a very precise determination of a threshold value of caffeine for use in semiquantitative types of ligand-receptor assays. By using a detection means that participates in two assays, sensitivity is doubled in the maximum sensitivity range and the range can be adjusted to match the predicted concentration range of an analyte. This format and the materials described herein allow the assay to complete within three minutes. In addition, this format accommodates common attributes of liquid samples for detecting caffeine, such as the inclusion of milk or sugar in a coffee-type beverage.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2009Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: PurpleCow LLC.Inventors: Anaflor Q. Graham, Carralee Hathaway, Mark S. Geisberg
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Patent number: 7888040Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2005Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: Concateno UK LimitedInventor: Ahmed Mohammed Taki Jehanli
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Patent number: 7682836Abstract: A template (a molecule preferably of molecular size >500 Da, or a larger entity such as a cell, virus or tissue sample) is dissolved or suspended in a fluid. The fluid is frozen, and the template is removed (e.g. by dissolution or electrophoresis, or mechanically) to leave an “imprinted” frozen fluid. This is capable of selectively adsorbing the template substance. It is usable as a separation medium, a recognition element in sensors and assays, and as a catalyst.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2001Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: Cranfield UniversityInventors: Sergiy Anatoliyovich Piletsky, Olena Volodimirivna Piletska, Khalku Karim, Anthony Peter Francis Turner, Alessandra Bossi
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Patent number: 7569397Abstract: An immunoassay device has a housing defining a first opening for receiving a solution and a second opening through which a liquid sample is deposited, a strip of sorbent material having a test site with immobilized antigen or antibody for the ligand to be tested, and a filter for filtering the sample. The filter is located at the second opening and directly above the test site. The sorbent material defines a horizontal flow path in the housing for the solution from the first opening to the test site. In use, the sample is first applied via the filter to the test site, and then, after the ligand has been captured, a buffer added through the first opening is used to cause a secondary specific binder conjugated to a marker to migrate horizontally by capillary action to the test site where it can bind to the already captured ligand. This immunoassay offer several advantages over the traditional chromatographic immunoassays.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2008Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignee: Chembio Diagnostic Systems, Inc.Inventor: Javanbakhsh Esfandiari
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Patent number: 7569396Abstract: Methods, compositions, and apparatus for detecting the presence of caffeine in a liquid sample are provided. In certain embodiments, an internally referenced competitive assay allows a very precise determination of a threshold value of caffeine for use in semiquantitative types of ligand-receptor assays. By using a detection means that participates in two assays, sensitivity is doubled in the maximum sensitivity range and the range can be adjusted to match the predicted concentration range of an analyte. This format and the materials described herein allow the assay to complete within three minutes. In addition, this format accommodates common attributes of liquid samples for detecting caffeine, such as the inclusion of milk or sugar in a coffee-type beverage.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2006Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignee: PurpleCow LLCInventors: Anaflor Q. Graham, Carralee Hathaway, Mark S. Geisberg
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Patent number: 7563622Abstract: Methods for enhancement in accuracy of immunochemical analysis of heterogeneous biological fluids containing exogenous substances that can interfere in immunochemical analysis for endogenous analytes of interest. According to this method a heterogeneous biological fluid sample is pretreated with an interferant suppression effective amount of a molybdenum coordination complex, so as to reduce manifestation of the presence of said exogenous material under immunoassay conditions. This invention is suitable for the suppression of manifestation of exogenous substances, specifically metabolites of drugs of abuse, during the immunoassay of biological fluids of infants for detection of endogenous substances indicative of a wellness or disease state. This invention also has application for similar suppression exogenous substances in the biological fluid of adults that have been inadvertently exposed to such substances (e.g. secondhand smoke).Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2004Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Inventor: James Matthew Stephens
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Patent number: 7374946Abstract: Process and a test kit for the detection of drugs of methylenedioxy amphetamine family and derivatives, are disclosed. The process comprises (a) sampling sufficient amount of a material, suspected to be examined comprise of said methylenedioxyphenyl group; (b) admixing said sample with a sufficient amount of a strong acid reagent; and (c) detecting color gradual appearance and determining accordingly the presence of said methylenedioxy amphetamine drugs in predetermined interval of time. The test kit comprises a strong acid reagent; a color vs time chart comprising means for the detection of a specific drug by means of color and time of appearance, a reaction chamber wherein suspected material and said strong acid reagent are admixed and color is indicated; a sampler having means to collect sufficient amount of suspected material to be tested and to insert it to the reaction chamber.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2002Date of Patent: May 20, 2008Assignee: Baruch GlattsteinInventor: Baruch Glattstein
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Patent number: 7247502Abstract: Novel hapten-carrier conjugates are capable of inducing the production of antibodies, in vivo, that specifically bind to nicotine. These conjugates comprise a nicotine hapten conjugated to an immunogenic carrier protein. The novel conjugates preserve the chirality of nicotine in its native (S)-(?) state, and have good stability properties. The conjugates are useful in formulating vaccines for active immunization, that are used to prevent and treat nicotine addiction. The antibodies raised in response to the nicotine hapten-carrier conjugate are used for passive immunization. These antibodies are administered for prevention and treatment of nicotine addiction.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2004Date of Patent: July 24, 2007Assignee: Nabi BiopharmaceuticalsInventors: Sofiane Ennifar, Ali Ibrahim Fattom, Robert B. Naso
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Patent number: 7238533Abstract: Personal illicit drug detecting apparatus is disclosed which includes a substance chemically reactive to a suspected drug. The substance is provided in the form of a layer positioned on at least one finger of a user. The substance can be blended into finger nail polish and positioned on at least one nail by painting or positioned anywhere on a finger in the form of a decal. To test a suspected beverage the user inconspicuously moistens the substance on the finger or finger nail with liquid from a beverage and observes any change (e.g. color, image, etc.) of the layer on the finger nail or finger nail, wherein the change indicates the presence of the suspected drug in the beverage.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2003Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Inventors: Ronald Legge, Theresa Hopson, George Maracas, Pamela Bechtel
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Patent number: 7205162Abstract: Artificial antibodies or antibody mimics are described. They consist of polymers that carry specific binding sites mimicking the properties of antibodies. There is also described a method for producing artificial antibodies, in which polymerisable monomers carrying functional groups and crosslinking monomers are polymerised in the presence of a print molecule and subsequently the print molecule is removed leaving specific binding sites complementary to the print molecules. There are also described methods for determination and isolation of organic molecules using the artificial antibodies as well as therapeutic and diagnostic methods using these antibodies.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1999Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Inventors: Klaus Mosbach, Georg Vlatakis, Lars I. Andersson, Ralf Müller
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Patent number: 7148070Abstract: The present invention relates to a diagnostic test kit and method for detecting the presence of certain metabolic by-products in human urine. The kit includes a test strip with an exposed face side containing chemical reagents which react in the presence of selected metabolic by-products. The reverse side of the test strip has an adhesive backing which allows the strip to be mounted in the interior of a commode bowl, initially above the water level. Flushing the commode causes the water level to rise and contact the chemical reagents. The reaction can be visually observed by removing the test strip from within the commode bowl.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2003Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Inventor: Jimmy C. Minter
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Patent number: 7091049Abstract: An enhanced diffraction based biosensor system and method are provided for detecting an analyte of interest in a test medium. The system incorporates at least one additional detection tag substance with the analyte of interest, the tag emitting a measurable parameter that is different from optical diffraction characteristics of the analyte. The biosensor may be a “fluoroptical” system wherein the detection tag is a fluorescence emitting substance, including fluorescent-labeled diffraction enhancing elements. The enhanced diffraction biosensor system may determine the presence of analytes in biological fluids both qualitatively and quantitatively.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2002Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Rameshbabu Boga, Chibueze Obinna Chidebelu-Eze, Rosann M. Kaylor, Xuedong Song
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Patent number: 7060505Abstract: An assay device and method are provided which allow the determination of the presence or absence of at least one analyte in a test sample, while providing specific identification of the test subject. The assay device includes a reaction medium having at least one reaction zone and at least one control zone, which is capable of providing a pattern suitable for identifying the test subject. The pattern suitable for identifying the test subject is preferably a fingerprint. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the reaction zone and the control zone include at least one member of a ligand/receptor pair.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2004Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: La Mina, Inc.Inventor: Raouf Guirguis
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Patent number: 6949344Abstract: A method the direct analysis of an analyte in keratinized structures, e.g., hair and fingernails, which comprises preparing a mixture containing a low redox potential activator compound such as dithiothreitol or dithioerythritol, an enzyme suitable for the digestion of the keratin structure, a sample of the keratin structure and a biological detergent that aids the digestion of the keratinized structure at a relatively low pH, e.g., between about 6.2 and 8; permitting the enzyme to at least substantially digest the sample of keratin structure, and subjecting the digest solution to analysis, preferably by radioimmunoassay, to determine the identity and amount of analyte in the keratin structure sample. To accelerate the method, cupric sulfate may be added to the mixture after degradation of the keratin sample. The enzyme may be a peptidase, endopeptidase or proteinase, with papain, chymopapain, and proteinase K being preferred for use in the invention.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1991Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: Psychemical CorporationInventor: Werner Andreas Baumgartner
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Patent number: 6818452Abstract: A test strip assembly for detecting the presence of a substance in liquid sample comprises a contact detection pad in communication with a reagent-free absorbent strip. The absorbent strip receives the liquid sample and communicates it to the contact detection pad via lateral flow. The absorbent strip and contact detection pad are adhered to a support. A liquid impermeable pad is disposed adjacent to and spaced apart from the contact detection pad to prevent any further travel of the sample. Further add-on assemblies may be coupled to the base test strip assembly. The test strip assembly may be disposed in a housing along with a drug test strip to form a device that performs multiple types of tests. Methods for assaying and manufacturing are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2001Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Assignee: Branan Medical Corp.Inventor: Raphael C. Wong
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Patent number: 6797481Abstract: Methods, compositions and kits are disclosed. The methods are directed to determining the presence of one or more analytes in a sample suspected of containing any one of a plurality of the analytes. A combination is provided comprising in a medium (i) the sample, (ii) a binding partner for each of the analytes, (iii) for each of the analytes, a first reagent comprising a member of a signal producing system, a ligand and an analyte analog, and (iv) a second reagent comprising a binding partner for the ligand. The binding of the binding partner for the ligand is affected by the presence of an analyte and alters the amount of signal produced by the member of the signal producing system. The signal thus is modulated if one or more of the analytes are present in the sample. The amount of the signal is determined and is related to the presence of one or more of the analytes in the sample. The method may be homogeneous or heterogeneous.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2000Date of Patent: September 28, 2004Assignee: Dade Behring Marburg GmbHInventors: Edwin F. Ullman, Marcel Pirio, Mary C. Ericson, Daniel B. Wagner, Dariush Davalian
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Patent number: 6702988Abstract: A system and method for on-site drug testing rapidly and objectively performs a drug screen on a urine sample at a collection center. The system includes a plurality of collection centers, wherein each collection center includes a test station for performing the drug testing. The test station includes collection cups for holding urine samples, test kits which couple to the collection cups in a fixed position, and an automatic reader which holds the collection cups and test kits in a fixed position under a predetermined level of illumination and produces an electronic image of the test kit. The test station also includes a computer workstation and a bar-code reader. The computer workstation generates electronic test order forms and receives image data from the automatic imaging system to evaluate the test results as indicated on the test kits. The bar-code reader is used to enter bar-code information which associate the collection cups and the test kits with the respective people being tested.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1999Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventors: Peter J. Sagona, David P. O'Bryan
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Patent number: 6645776Abstract: The excitation of label molecules usable in chemical and biochemical analysis by electrical pulses at electrodes covered with a thin insulating film, and the use of such electrodes in chemical, clinical and biochemical analysis. The electrodes include a conducting base material that has been coated with an organic or inorganic insulating film or multiple layers of such films, so that either one or several label compounds can be excited to an excited state which is deexcited by emission of ultraviolet, visible or infrared light, in aqueous solution providing the basis for reproducible analytical applications in bioaffinity assays such as immunoassays and DNA-probing assays.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2001Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: Labmaster OyInventors: Sakari Kulmala, Timo Ala-Kleme, Jarkko Eskola, Timo Korpela
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Patent number: 6613583Abstract: Electrochemiluminescent label compounds containing multimetallic centers separated by bridging ligands are described. An example of a multimetallic electrochemiluminescent label suitable for use in electrochemiluminescence (ECL) methods, [(bpy)2Ru]2(bphb)4+, demonstrates ECL efficiencies 2 to 3 times greater than those for Ru(bpy)32+ in acetonitrile and aqueous media. Such multimetallic ECL compounds may be especially useful in the design of new labels for bioanalytical applications, such as immunoassays and DNA probes.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1998Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Assignee: IGEN International, Inc.Inventors: Mark M. Richter, Allen J. Bard, Russel H. Schmehl
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Patent number: 6602892Abstract: A method for predicting nicotine replacement dosage to achieve a target nicotine serum concentration relies on measuring blood nicotine concentration prior to smoking cessation. At least two values corresponding to other patient characteristics, such as body mass, cumulative smoking, psychological dependence, age, and menopausal status, are also determined and used to predict expected blood nicotine concentrations based on nicotine replacement dosages. Such methods are useful in achieving target blood nicotine concentrations for smoking cessation and therapy.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1995Date of Patent: August 5, 2003Inventor: David P. L. Sachs
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Patent number: 6558956Abstract: Techniques and devices for detecting and analyzing controlled substances and the like are discussed including highly reactive sensor molecules which are coated on a spectroscopic sample surface (4) and which may chemically react with a given analyte to form a covalently bonded adduct with spectral characteristics unique to the new adduct. The techniques provide the basis of a detection system with high sensitivity and high specificity in which the surface can even be washed to remove interfering or nonreactive compounds. The sensor molecules which comprise the coating (8) may have three major components: a central molecular scaffold (“CMS”), a “tether” terminated by a surface attachment group “SAG,” and a reactive functional group “RFG” which may be highly reactive towards certain classes of molecules.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1999Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: The University of WyomingInventors: Keith T. Carron, Robert C. Corcoran
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Patent number: 6534325Abstract: The present invention provides an immunoassay method for the highly sensitive detection of amphetamines, methamphetamines, and methylenedioxy designer amphetamines in urine samples. Commercially available reagents for the determination of amphetamines and methamphetamines are used with a calibrator comprising a known amount of a substance selected from the group consisting of methylenedioxy designer amphetamines.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2000Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: Roche Diagnostics CorporationInventors: Alan J. McNally, Huiru Zhao, Krystyna Goc-Szkutnicka
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Patent number: 6472227Abstract: The present invention is directed to a fluorescence polarization immunoassay for barbiturates, to the various components needed for preparing and carrying out such an assay, and to methods of making these components. Specifically, tracers, immunogens and antibodies are disclosed, as well as methods for preparing them and a reagent kit containing them. The tracers and the immunogens are made from substituted barbiturate compounds. A fluorescein moiety is included in the tracer, while a poly(amino acid) forms a part of the immunogen. The assay is conducted by measuring the degree of polarization retention of plane—polarized light that has been passed through a sample containing antiserum and tracer.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 1993Date of Patent: October 29, 2002Assignee: Abbott LaboratoriesInventors: Maciej Adamczyk, Luis A. Cantarero, Robert Edward Dubler, Jonathan Grote, Patrick J. Jonas, Jane Ann Nelson
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Patent number: 6472228Abstract: This invention relates to novel tracers and their synthesis and use in an immunoassay for the detection of controlled drugs such as amphetamine (APM), methamphetamine (MAPM) and their derivatives, in a biological or aqueous sample. In particular, this invention provides methods for synthesizing novel tracers in which a non-controlled substance is both the starting material in tracer synthesis and the binding site on the resulting novel tracer for the antibody, thereby eliminating the necessity of using controlled substances as starting materials. In addition, the novel tracers of the present invention can be used as an analyte analog in an immunoassay, such as a continuous flow displacement immunoassay. It was unexpectedly discovered that the novel tracers of the present invention substantially improve the performance of the continuous flow displacement immunoassay as compared with conventionally designed tracers.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2000Date of Patent: October 29, 2002Assignee: Lifepoint, Inc.Inventors: Guohong Wang, Thomas Foley
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Patent number: 6461873Abstract: The caffeine detector uses a paper chromatographic technique to measure the concentration of caffeine in a beverage. The device includes a well or other receptacle for containing a predetermined test volume of the beverage. A paper strip is suspended so that one end of the strip dips into the well. The strip is divided into two zones, the first zone being coated with at least one molecular imprint polymer (MIP) which absorbs substances which may interfere with quantification of caffeine. The second zone is coated with an MIP which selectively absorbs caffeine and chromogenic reagents which provide calorimetric visualization of the migration of caffeine through the second zone. The second zone bears indicia calibrating the paper strip so that the concentration of caffeine in the beverage may be determined by the height or distance which the caffeine migrates up the paper strip.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Inventors: Daniel Catania, Steven Ignelzi, Steven Baugh
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Patent number: 6406922Abstract: A drug of abuse test kit for testing low volumes of a fluid sample having a transparent flat bag container for retaining a fluid sample to be tested and the open end of the container has a recloseable closure. The container is maintained in a substantially vertical position and has an open end which receives a multiple drug test card having a plurality of immunoassay test strips thereon with visual endpoints to indicate presence or absence of a particular drug. A process and a modification thereof for testing of low volumes of a fluid sample and a process for quality control of a test card are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2001Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Assignee: American Bio Medica Corp.Inventors: Douglas Casterlin, Henry J. Wells, Stan Cipkowski
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Patent number: 6403383Abstract: A diagnostic test kit has a cup-like container for retaining a fluid sample to be tested and the open top end of the container is closed by a closure cap on the open end. There is a slit in the closure cap to receive a multiple test card having a plurality of immunoassay test strips thereon with visual endpoints to indicate presence or absence of a selected antigen or antibody. The height of the container is such that the visual indication of the presence or absence of a selected antigen or antibody is visible above the closure cap when the bottom end of the test card is in contact with the fluid sample within the container.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 1999Date of Patent: June 11, 2002Assignee: American Bio Medica Corp.Inventors: Douglas Casterlin, Stan Cipkowski
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Patent number: 6391261Abstract: A device for measuring, concurrently from the same sample solution, the pH and presence or quantity of an analyte in the solution. The pH and analyte measuring sections of the invention are contained within the same holding structure.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2000Date of Patent: May 21, 2002Assignee: Lifepoint, Inc.Inventors: Greg Liang, Thomas Foley
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Patent number: 6352863Abstract: An assay device and method are provided which allow the determination of the presence or absence of at least one analyte in a test sample, while providing specific identification of the test subject. The assay device includes a reaction medium having at least one reaction zone and at least one control zone, which is capable of providing a pattern suitable for identifying the test subject. The pattern suitable for identifying the test subject is preferably a fingerprint. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the reaction zone and the control zone include at least one member of a ligand/receptor pair.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 1997Date of Patent: March 5, 2002Assignee: La Mina, Inc.Inventor: Raouf A. Guirguis
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Patent number: 6350582Abstract: A method for the direct analysis of the presence of an analyte which becomes embedded in keratinized structures, e.g., hair, fingernails and toenails, from the bloodstream of a subject which comprises preparing a mixture containing dithiothreitol or dithioerythritol (“DTT”), an enzyme suitable for the digestion of the keratin structure and a sample of the keratin structure; permitting the enzyme to digest the sample of keratin structure to form a digest solution, followed by the addition of a salt of a metal of copper, zinc, manganese, iron, lead, cadmium, mercury, silver and cobalt to deactivate the DTT; and finally subjecting the digest solution to analysis to determine the presence of the analyte in the keratin structure sample. The protease enzymes papain, chymopapain, and proteinase K are preferred for use in the invention.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2000Date of Patent: February 26, 2002Assignee: Psychemedics CorporationInventor: Werner Andreas Baumgartner
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Patent number: 6251690Abstract: The excitation of label molecules usable in chemical and biochemical analysis by electrical pulses at electrodes covered with a thin insulating film, and the use of such electrodes in chemical, clinical and biochemical analysis. The electrodes include a conducting base material that has been coated with an organic or inorganic insulating film or multiple layers of such films, so that either one or several label compounds can be excited to an excited state which is deexcited by emission of ultraviolet, visible or infrared light, in aqueous solution providing the basis for reproducible analytical applications in bioaffinity assays such as immunoassays and DNA-probing assays.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 1999Date of Patent: June 26, 2001Inventors: Sakari Kulmala, Timo Ala-Kleme, Jarkko Eskola, Timo Korpela
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Patent number: 6228658Abstract: A test strip for the immunochemical detection of substances after sampling from surfaces, with a conjugate zone (2) located between an eluent application zone (1) at one end of the test strip and a reaction zone (3) at the opposite end, the zones being in liquid connection with one another. A section of the test strip in the area including the eluent application zone and the reaction zone is used to wipe off the surface and as a sampling zone (4). The eluent application zone may be used as a sampling zone. The test strip is connected to a preferably flexurally rigid test strip holder (6), which does not cover the sampling zone (4).Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 1998Date of Patent: May 8, 2001Assignee: Drager Sicherheitstechnik GmbHInventors: Philip-Michael Formica, Rainer Polzius, Andreas Manns
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Patent number: 6174688Abstract: A method of determining the concentration of a sample antigen in the presence of an interferant by (1) running two immunoassays on the sample: one assay where the interferant influences the binding of both the sample antigen and a labeled antigen and a second assay where the interferant influences the binding of the sample antigen but not the labeled antigen; (2) obtaining a plot of the possible sample antigen concentrations versus the possible interferant concentrations corresponding to the readout for the sample for each of the two immunoassays; and (3) determining the sample antigen concentration and the interferant concentration which correspond to the point that appears on both of the immunoassay plots.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1999Date of Patent: January 16, 2001Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Robert A. Brizzolara
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Patent number: 6165800Abstract: A new class of chemiluminescent acridinium or benzacridinium compounds is disclosed by virtue of forming an intramolecular energy transfer conjugate (ETC) between the acridinium or benzacridinium compound and a luminophore. A method of extending the emission wavelengths of acridinium or benzacridinium esters in order to further reduce or eliminate the emission spectral overlap between the parent polysubstituted aryl Acridinium Esters (DMAE) and Benzacridinium Esters (LEAE) is disclosed. The ETC's retain the unique desired properties of acridinium or benzacridinium compounds including complete light emission in very short period of time, monophasic emission spectrum, simplicity of triggering mechanism, ability of labeling the biological molecules of interest to form a tracer, and good stability. Additionally, the range of the emission spectrum of an acridinium or benzacridinium compound can now be shifted at will and at longer leap through the choice of a luminophore as the integral part of an ETC molecule.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 1998Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Assignee: Bayer CorporationInventors: Qingping Jiang, Jun Xi, Anand Natrajan, David Sharpe, Marcus Baumann, Rolf Hilfiker, Erika Schmidt, Paul Senn, Fritz Thommen, Adrian Waldner, Alex Alder, Say-Jong Law
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Patent number: 6156272Abstract: A method and apparatus for urine self testing wherein the apparatus is placed directly into the toilet after urination which avoids the direct placement and retention of an apparatus in the stream of urine as is common with urine testing devices. The apparatus detects the presence of certain chemicals in dilute urine such as the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the urine of a pregnant woman. An opening in the apparatus is fitted with a fluid absorption device which acts to concentrate the diluted urine on an indicator strip which contains antibodies, enzymes and antibody blockers which will provide a reactive change, usually of color, when subjected to a predetermined chemical such as hCG. The apparatus functions in dilute urine when placed in a toilet after urination and is largely constructed of biodegradable materials so that it can be flushed into the sewage system or a septic tank.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 1998Date of Patent: December 5, 2000Assignee: All Technologies CorporationInventors: Steven H. Lee, Barry F. Lillard
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Patent number: 6124136Abstract: A method of monitoring compliance of a patient that has been placed on a methadone maintenance program by determining plasma methadone concentration from urine methadone concentration. An unadulterated urine sample is obtained from the patient. The urine methadone concentration, pH, and specific gravity are measured. The plasma methadone concentration is calculated as a function of urine methadone concentration, specific gravity, and pH. The calculated plasma methadone concentration is compared with an expected value for the maintenance program prescribed.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 1993Date of Patent: September 26, 2000Assignee: U. D. Testing, Inc.Inventor: Michael Kell
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Patent number: 6066505Abstract: In a fluorescence polarization assay for determining the amount of a target analyte in a test sample, wherein the amount of analyte is related to the amount of fluorescence emitted from the analyte-containing reagent medium, the improvement comprising contacting the analyte-containing reagent medium with of at least one compound from the group consisting of 1,10-phenanthroline, 8-hydroxy-7-iodo-5-quinoline, naphthalene-1-sulfonic acid, salts thereof, and any combination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 1998Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Assignee: Roche Diagnostics CorporationInventors: Charles Cheng, Raymond Thomas Wong, Kathryn Sarah Schwenzer
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Patent number: 6025200Abstract: A method of tagging and detecting objects is disclosed which comprises the steps of: (a) applying a volatile taggant to the object; and (b) subsequently detecting the presence of the taggant by the absorption, transmittance, reflectance, photon emission or fluorescence of the taggant and therefore a proximity of the tagged object. The present invention therefore provides optical sensing means which do not require physical separation of differing compounds for discrimination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1996Date of Patent: February 15, 2000Assignee: Tracer Detection Technology Corp.Inventors: Norman Kaish, Jay Fraser, Volkan Otugen, Svetozar Popovic
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Patent number: 6022693Abstract: A method for the direct analysis of the presence of an analyte which becomes embedded in keratinized structures, e.g., hair, fingernails and toenails, from the bloodstream of a subject which comprises preparing a mixture containing dithiothreitol or dithioerythritol ("DTT"), an enzyme suitable for the digestion of the keratin structure and a sample of the keratin structure; permitting the enzyme to digest the sample of keratin structure to form a digest solution, followed by the addition of a salt of a metal of copper, zinc, manganese, iron, lead, cadmium, mercury, silver and cobalt to deactivate the DTT; and finally subjecting the digest solution to analysis to determine the presence of the analyte in the keratin structure sample. The protease enzymes papain, chymopapain, and proteinase K are preferred for use in the invention.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 1997Date of Patent: February 8, 2000Assignee: Psychemedics CorporationInventor: Werner Andreas Baumgartner
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Patent number: 5981298Abstract: A device and related method for performing one or more immunoassays to detect the presence of respective analytes in a sample. The device involves the use of a unitary bibulous material providing one or more flow paths having a common origin site and a plurality of respective reagent zones providing the reagents necessary for performing a visual readout, competitive immunoassay for the presence of the respective analyte.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1997Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Assignee: Surmodics, Inc.Inventors: Stephen J. Chudzik, Martha J. Hamilton
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Patent number: 5976895Abstract: A drug abuse test kit has a transparent cup-like container for retaining a fluid sample to be tested and the open top end of the container is closed by an inner closure insert seated within the open end. There is a slit in the inner closure insert to receive a multiple drug test card having a plurality of immunoassay test strips thereon with visual endpoints to indicate presence or absence of a particular drug. The container is provided with an outer cover to close and seal the container when a sample therein is to be transported.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 1996Date of Patent: November 2, 1999Assignee: American BioMedica CorporationInventor: Stan Cipkowski
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Patent number: 5849599Abstract: A method for making a preconjugate which includes immunogenic species of a polymorphic analyte. The method is carried out by reacting an activated binding moiety, and a polymorphic analyte at room temperature for between about 10 hours and about 60 hours. The attaching reaction results in an excess of the preconjugate which includes the immunogenic species of the polymorphic analyte. The preconjugate can be used to make an immunoreactive conjugate useful as a developer antigen in a competitive inhibition immunoassay for the polymorphic analyte.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 1997Date of Patent: December 15, 1998Assignee: Beckman Instruments, Inc.Inventors: Chan S. Oh, Anthony K. Cheng, Josephine M. Michael, Thomas S. Dobashi
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Patent number: 5846703Abstract: Fluorescence immunoassays methods are provided which use fluorescent dyes which are free of aggregation and serum binding. Such immunoassay methods are thus, particularly useful for the assay of biological fluids, such as serum, plasma, whole blood and urine.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 1993Date of Patent: December 8, 1998Assignee: Diatron CorporationInventors: Robert F. Devlin, Walter B. Dandliker, Peter O. G. Arrhenius
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Patent number: 5840588Abstract: Immunoassays of psychoactive drugs including psychotomimetic drugs, narcotic drugs, and tetrahydrocannabinols and treatment methods based on the antigenic properties of protein conjugates of these drugs. These methods are based upon treating the psychoactive substances as haptens and utilizing their protein conjugates to produce antibodies to the psychoactive materials themselves. The immunoassay methods include both agglutination and agglutination-inhibition reactions. The treatment methods include treatment or both exogenous, administered drugs (such as cannabinols, LSD, heroin and morphine) and endogenous substances (such as N,N-Dimethyltryptamine and 5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine, by active immunization and also passive immunization.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 1995Date of Patent: November 24, 1998Inventor: Meir Strahilevitz
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Patent number: 5747352Abstract: Bidentate reagents for rapidly and quantitatively assaying the concentration of pharmacological agents in biological samples are described. The reagents are used in an immunoassay format for determining the concentration of desired, preselected pharmacological agents, such as benzoylecgonine, cocaine, an opiate, PCP, digoxigenin, acetaminophen, carbamazepine, phenytoin, primidone, theophylline, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, vancomycin, quinidine or a cannabinoid.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 1994Date of Patent: May 5, 1998Assignee: Beckman Instruments, Inc.Inventors: Cheng F. Yan, Chan S. Oh, Anthony K. Cheng