Provided is a capillary cartridge including a capillary, a capillary holding member fixed at a position of a predetermined length from one end of the capillary, and a block unit provided with a first member in which a main flow path is formed and a second member connected to the first member, and holding the capillary holding member by sandwiching the capillary holding member between the first member and the second member. The capillary holding member has a first hole through which the capillary passes, a first tapered part formed coaxially with the first hole, and a first rotation restricting part with a pressing surface of a predetermined projection shape. The first member is provided with a second tapered part linked to the main flow path and formed coaxially with the main flow path, and a second rotation restricting part linked to the second tapered part. The capillary is connected to the block unit by the pressing surface of the first rotation restricting part being pressed by the pressing surface of the second member in a state in which the rotation restricting parts of the capillary holding member and the first member are fitted to each other and the tapered parts of the capillary holding member and the first member are in contact with each other.
Provided is a capillary electrophoresis device in which it is easy to exchange a capillary. This capillary electrophoresis device comprises: a capillary cartridge 102 in which a capillary 101 has been positioned; a first structure 106 in which a path to which one end of the capillary is connected has been formed; and a second structure 107 in which a path to which the other end of the capillary is connected has been formed, wherein at least one among the first structure body and the second structure is moved within a predetermined range.
Disclosed are systems and methods for improving the function of analytical instruments used to analyze dye-labelled nucleic acid samples by minimizing spectral anomalies from dye data. A computer system communicatively coupled to the instrument is configured to select multiple different nucleic acids of different sizes and determine dye spectral profiles associated with each of the different nucleic acids. The spectral profiles are used to generate multiple dye matrices each respectively associated with different nucleic acid sizes. When analyzing a test sample, the dye matrices are then separately applied to nucleic acid fragments with sizes similar to the nucleic acids from which the dye matrices were derived, better tailoring the dye matrices to the conditions in which they were generated and minimizing unwanted dye data artifacts.
G01N 21/27 - ColourSpectral properties, i.e. comparison of effect of material on the light at two or more different wavelengths or wavelength bands using photo-electric detection
Performing sample quantitation and sample amplification may be performed in a sample cartridge or sample cartridges. Sample quantitation using qPCR may be performed during STR PCR on the sample. Samples need not be normalized prior to performing STR PCR. In certain embodiments, qPCR and STR PCR are performed on the same cartridge, optionally at the same time (or in real-time, or overlapping in time) and optionally using some or all of the same PCR apparatus. In other embodiments, qPCR and STR PCR are performed on different cartridges. Quantitation of the STR PCR sample may be performed without substantially delaying the STR PCR process.
Provided herein is an electrophoresis separation medium comprising: (a) a non-crosslinked or sparsely cross-linked polymer or copolymer; (b) one or more denaturant compounds, in an amount sufficient to inhibit re-naturation of single stranded polynucleotides; (c) an aqueous solvent; (d) optionally, a wall-coating material suited to inhibition of electroosmotic flow; and (e) optionally, an organic water miscible solvent such as DMSO or acetonitrile, wherein the electrophoresis separation medium exhibits functional stability for at least seven days at 23° C. Also provided herein are sieving compositions, including polymer-based sieving compositions, for molecular sieving as well as related kits, devices and methods of use. Such compositions can be useful for separation of biomolecules such as nucleic acids, proteins, glycoproteins and glycans.
Disclosed are methods for performing capillary electrophoresis on two or more nucleic acid samples. The methods employ a forward voltage to move a first sample forward from an inlet to an interrogation region in the capillary, then a backward voltage to move the first sample backward, and then a forward voltage again to move the first sample and a second sample forward. Systems and apparatuses for performing capillary electrophoresis are also provided.
C12Q 1/6806 - Preparing nucleic acids for analysis, e.g. for polymerase chain reaction [PCR] assay
C12Q 1/68 - Measuring or testing processes involving enzymes, nucleic acids or microorganismsCompositions thereforProcesses of preparing such compositions involving nucleic acids
C12Q 1/00 - Measuring or testing processes involving enzymes, nucleic acids or microorganismsCompositions thereforProcesses of preparing such compositions
7.
COMPOSITIONS, METHODS, KITS AND DEVICES FOR MOLECULAR ANALYSIS
Provided herein is an electrophoresis separation medium comprising: (a) a non-crosslinked or sparsely cross-linked polymer or copolymer; (b) one or more denaturant compounds, in an amount sufficient to inhibit re-naturation of single stranded polynucleotides; (c) an aqueous solvent; (d) optionally, a wall-coating material suited to inhibition of electroosmotic flow; and (e) optionally, an organic water miscible solvent such as DMSO or acetonitrile, wherein the electrophoresis separation medium exhibits functional stability for at least seven days at 23° C.
Methods for analyzing raw electropherogram data are disclosed. Some methods includes extracting color data as a function of time or position from the raw electropherogram darta, selecting from the electropherogram one or more peaks that contain color data for a first dye and substantially no color data from other dyes used in electrophoresis. The method also includes determining the color spectrum of the first dye, and using the color spectrum of the first dye to deconvolve the color data of the raw electropherogram data to separate the contributions of each of the dyes to the raw electropherogram data. Systems and apparatus for producing electropherograms are also disclosed.
Abiochemical analysis includes a user interface module tp provide instructions for collecting and handling biochemical sampling and processing related to biometric data gathering as well as caturing biometric data using digital data capturing devices. The user interface module and display are intergrated with analysis and communications portions of the biometric biochemical analysis system to provide a portable system for multi-portion data collecting, stroage, verification and analysis.
C12Q 1/00 - Measuring or testing processes involving enzymes, nucleic acids or microorganismsCompositions thereforProcesses of preparing such compositions
A command center includes at least one network communications interface configured for two-way communications with a plurality of sites remote from the command center and at least one display screen and user interface. Each of the plurality of sites includes at least one forensic field test device configured to identify individuals using DNA samples from the individuals. The display screen and user interface are configured to depict aspects of forensic field test devices of the plurality of sites, wherein the aspects include a site identifier for each of the forensic field test devices and one or more additional aspects.
A live help system provides an intuitive display of help information on a user's graphical user interface. A request is received from a client device for help, and a live help provider interface is initiated at a live help location. Data is acquired regarding a user's location, including data on external devices in the user's location. Indicators are provided to allow the live help provider to point to or otherwise indicate items on the user interface or outside of the user interface. Live help input is captured at the live help provider interface. Instructions are then transmitted to the display of the client device to display live help input, as though the agent were present and interacting with or indicating items on the screen or off the screen.
G06F 3/00 - Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computerOutput arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
This disclosure provides, among other things, a cartridge comprising: (a) a cartridge body comprising a malleable material and having, disposed on a surface of the body, at least one valve body comprising a valve inlet and a valve outlet, each fluidically connected to a fluidic channel; and (b) a layer comprising a deformable material bonded to a surface of the cartridge body and sealing the at least one valve body at points of attachment, thereby forming at least one valve; wherein the at least one valve body is depressed in the cartridge body relative to the points of attachment and wherein the deformable material covering the at least one valve body retains sufficient elasticity after deformation such that in a ground state the valve is open. Also disclosed is an instrument comprising a cartridge interface and a cartridge as described herein engaged with the cartridge interface.
B01L 3/00 - Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glasswareDroppers
F16K 7/00 - Diaphragm cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage
F16K 7/16 - Diaphragm cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage with flat, dished, or bowl-shaped diaphragm arranged to be deformed against a flat seat the diaphragm being mechanically actuated, e.g. by screw-spindle or cam
F16K 99/00 - Subject matter not provided for in other groups of this subclass
G01N 27/26 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating electrochemical variablesInvestigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by using electrolysis or electrophoresis
Provided herein is a system and method for review of forensic report computer files. The method can involve notifying a plurality of service providers of a job to be performed, accepting a bid from a service provider to perform the job, providing the computer file to the service provider, receiving from the service provider a forensic result such as a reviewed file.
The present disclosure provides systems and methods for sample preparation, processing and analysis. Also provided in the present disclosure is a fully-integrated electrophoresis cartridge which has a small footprint and configured to removably engage with the system. An electrophoresis cartridge adapted to releasably engage with a cartridge interface of a system is provided. The electrophoresis cartridge comprises: an electrophoresis assembly including: (1) an anode sub-assembly comprising an anode, (2) a cathode sub-assembly comprising a cathode; and (3) at least one electrophoresis capillary having a first end and a second end, wherein the cathode and the anode are configured to provide a voltage gradient across the first end and the second end of the at least one electrophoresis capillary.
G01N 27/49 - Systems involving the determination of the current at a single specific value, or small range of values, of applied voltage for producing selective measurement of one or more particular ionic species
Provided herein is a fluidic cartridge having a body comprising a malleable material and a layer comprising a deformable material bonded to a surface of the body that seals one or more fluidic channels that communicate with one or more valve bodies formed in a surface of the body. The valve can be closed by applying pressure to the deformable material sufficient to crush and close off a fluidic channel in the body. Also provided are a cartridge interface configured to engage the cartridge. Also provided is a system including a cartridge interface and methods of using the cartridge and system.
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.
The disclosure provides compositions comprising a biological material (e.g., a protein, a nucleic acid or a biological sample, or any combination thereof) in a substantially water-free, non-ionic or ionic organic solvent. To enhance, e.g., the stability and/or the solubility of the biological material in the substantially water-free fluid medium, the composition can comprise one or more substances (e.g., an antioxidant) described in the disclosure, and/or a metal salt. The biological material is soluble and stable, and retains its function and activity, when it is preserved in the substantially water- free fluid medium at ambient temperature or higher for extended periods of time. Therefore, the composition comprising the biological material does not need to be refrigerated or frozen during shipping or storage.
This disclosure provides an integrated and automated sample-to-answer system that, starting from a sample comprising biological material, generates a genetic profile in less than two hours. In certain embodiments, the biological material is DNA and the genetic profile involves determining alleles at one or a plurality of loci (e.g., genetic loci) of a subject, for example, an STR (short tandem repeat) profile, for example as used in the CODIS system. The system can perform several operations, including (a) extraction and isolation of nucleic acid; (b) amplification of nucleotide sequences at selected loci (e.g., genetic loci); and (c) detection and analysis of amplification product. These operations can be carried out in a system that comprises several integrated modules, including an analyte preparation module; a detection and analysis module and a control module.
This disclosure provides an integrated and automated sample-to-answer system that, starting from a sample comprising biological material, generates a genetic profile in less than two hours. In certain embodiments, the biological material is DNA and the genetic profile involves determining alleles at one or a plurality of loci (e.g., genetic loci) of a subject, for example, an STR (short tandem repeat) profile, for example as used in the CODIS system. The system can perform several operations, including (a) extraction and isolation of nucleic acid; (b) amplification of nucleotide sequences at selected loci (e.g., genetic loci); and (c) detection and analysis of amplification product. These operations can be carried out in a system that comprises several integrated modules, including an analyte preparation module; a detection and analysis module and a control module.
One aspect of the technology relates to a method comprising the steps of: moving a frame movably holding at least one hollow bore pin having a liquid dispensing tip, such that the liquid dispensing tip of the at least one hollow bore pin moves into a respective well of a set of target wells, and the liquid dispensing tip makes contact with a bottom surface of the respective well; continuing to move the frame after the liquid dispensing tip makes contact, such that the at least one hollow bore pin moves to a particular position (e.g., vertical position) within a range of positions (e.g., vertical positions) relative to and permitted by the frame.
The present invention provides methods and devices for performing nucleic acid amplification and sequencing on a solid substrate (e.g., a flow cell), including preparation of libraries of amplified DNA fragments for massively parallel (next-generation) sequencing.
C07H 21/04 - Compounds containing two or more mononucleotide units having separate phosphate or polyphosphate groups linked by saccharide radicals of nucleoside groups, e.g. nucleic acids with deoxyribosyl as saccharide radical
C40B 30/04 - Methods of screening libraries by measuring the ability to specifically bind a target molecule, e.g. antibody-antigen binding, receptor-ligand binding
This invention provides a device comprising at least one diaphragm valve actuated by a hydraulic actuation system. The device is comprised in a combination that includes a fluidics layer, an actuation layer and an elastic layer sandwiched between the fluidics layer and the actuation layer, wherein the diaphragm valve comprises: (a) a valve inlet and a valve outlet comprised in the fluidics layer; (b) a valve seat; (c) a diaphragm comprised in the elastic layer, wherein the diaphragm is actuatable to move into contact or out of contact with the valve seat, thereby closing or opening the diaphragm valve; and (d) an actuator comprising: (1 ) a hydraulic conduit comprised at least in part in the actuation layer; (2) a translator; and (3) an incompressible fluid contained within the hydraulic conduit, wherein the incompressible fluid communicates with the translator and with the diaphragm.
This invention provides a fluidic device comprising a diaphragm valve having a fluidics layer, an actuation layer and an elastic layer between the fluidics layer and the actuation layer, the elastic layer having a diaphragm that is mechanically sealed against the fluidics layer and the actuation layer by a sealing ring in the actuation layer.
The invention provides systems, devices, methods, and kits for performing an integrated analysis. The integrated analysis can include sample processing, library construction, amplification, and sequencing. The integrated analysis can be performed within one or more modules that are fluidically connected to each other. The one or more modules can be controlled and/or automated by a computer. The integrated analysis can be performed on a tissue sample, a clinical sample, or an environmental sample. The integrated analysis system can have a compact format and return results within a designated period of time.
C12Q 1/70 - Measuring or testing processes involving enzymes, nucleic acids or microorganismsCompositions thereforProcesses of preparing such compositions involving virus or bacteriophage
B01F 3/00 - Mixing, e.g. dispersing, emulsifying, according to the phases to be mixed
B01J 19/00 - Chemical, physical or physico-chemical processes in generalTheir relevant apparatus
G01N 1/00 - SamplingPreparing specimens for investigation
A capillary electrophoresis device includes capillaries are thermally regulated on a thermally responsive electrical path attached to an electrically insulating circuit board. An optical scanner scans an array of capillaries. A laser, optical detector and optical selector are in an arrangement that allows the optical detector to selectively detect an optical signal from anyone or more of the plurality of electrophoresis capillaries.
In one aspect, this invention provides an article fabricated in one piece comprising at least one aperture through the piece, wherein the aperture defines a non-micro fiuidic volume, and a micro fiuidic channel formed in a surface of the piece onto which the aperture opens, wherein the channel is in fiuidic communication with the aperture, wherein the aperture and the microfluidic channel define a fiuidic circuit.
This invention provides composite plastic articles and methods of making them. The articles can be fluidic or microfluidic devices having fluidic conduits and, optionally, pneumatic conduits that regulate flow in the fluidic conduits. The articles comprise a first substrate coated with a layer of a material that comprises, or onto which have been introduced, reactive groups. For example, the substrate can be a plastic coated with an oxide or a siloxane onto which hydroxyl groups have been introduced. These articles are covalently bonded with other articles comprising reactive groups on their surfaces, for example, polysiloxanes treated to have silanol groups. Certain articles have specified locations on their surfaces that are not bonded to the other piece. For example, the coating can be removed from these locations before bonding. Such locations can be useful as functional elements of various devices, such as valve seats in valves of microfluidic devices.
B23B 7/00 - Automatic or semi-automatic turning-machines with a single working-spindle, e.g. controlled by camsEquipment thereforFeatures common to automatic and semi-automatic turning-machines with one or more working-spindles
The invention provides for devices and methods for interfacing microchips to cartridges and pneumatic manifolds. The design of the cartridges, microchips, and pneumatic manifolds can allow for the use of magnetic forces to capture magnetic beads in a chamber formed between the microchip and the cartridge or a chamber within the microchip. The devices of the invention can be used for mRNA amplification and purification.
This invention provides fluidic devices, in particular microfluidic devices, with diaphragm valves having low failure rates Low failure rates are achieved by inhibiting sticking of the diaphragm to Junctional surfaces such as valve seats, valve chamber and fluidic channels and conduits One way to implement this is to provide exposed surfaces facing the diaphragm, particularly valve seats, with a low energy material, such as a noble metal, a perfluoπnated polymer, a self-assembled monolayer, hard diamond, diamond-like carbon or a metal oxide In other embodiments, the valves are provided with ridges and the diaphragm is adhered to the fluidic or actuation layer with an adhesive material.
The invention provides a system that can process a raw biological sample, perform a biochemical reaction and provide an analysis readout. For example, the system can extract DNA from a swab, amplify STR loci from the DNA, and analyze the amplified loci and STR markers in the sample. The system integrates these functions by using microfluidic components to connect what can be macrofluidic functions. In one embodiment the system includes a sample purification module, a reaction module, a post- reaction clean-up module, a capillary electrophoresis module and a computer. In certain embodiments, the system includes a disposable cartridge for performing analyte capture. The cartridge can comprise a fluidic manifold having macrofluidic chambers mated with microfluidic chips that route the liquids between chambers. The system fits within an enclosure of no more than 10 ft3, and can be a closed, portable, and/or a battery operated system. The system can be used to go from raw sample to analysis in less than 4 hours.
This invention provides microfluidic devices that comprise a fluidics layer having microfluidic channels and one or more regulating layers that regulate the movement of fluid in the channels. The microfluidic devices can be used to mix one or more fluids. At least a portion of the fluidics layer can be isolated from the regulating layer, for example in the form of a shelf. Such isolated portions can be used as areas in which the temperature of liquids is controlled. Also provided are instruments including thermal control devices into which the microfluidic device is engaged so that the thermal control device controls temperature in the isolated portion, and a movable magnetic assembly including magnets with shields so that a focused magnetic field can be applied to or withdrawn from the isolated portion or any other portion of the microfluidic device. Also provided are methods of mixing fluids. The methods include stacking a plurality of alternating boluses of different liquids in a microfluidic channel, and moving the stacked boluses through the channel. In another method, the boluses are moved into a diaphragm valve having a volume able to accommodate several boluses, and then pumping the liquids out of the valve.
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