Particles such as blood cells can be categorized and counted by a digital image processor. A digital microscope camera can be directed into a flowcell defining a symmetrically narrowing flowpath in which the sample stream flows in a ribbon flattened by flow and viscosity parameters between layers of sheath fluid. A contrast pattern for autofocusing is provided on the flowcell, for example at an edge of a rear illumination opening. The image processor assesses focus accuracy from pixel data contrast. A positioning motor moves the microscope and/or flowcell along the optical axis for autofocusing on the contrast pattern target. The processor then displaces microscope and flowcell by a known distance between the contrast pattern and the sample stream, thus focusing on the sample stream. Blood cell images are collected from that position until autofocus is reinitiated, periodically, by input signal, or when detecting temperature changes or focus inaccuracy in the image data.
G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing
G01N 15/06 - Investigating concentration of particle suspensions
G01N 21/53 - Scattering, i.e. diffuse reflection within a body or fluid within a flowing fluid, e.g. smoke
G02B 7/36 - Systems for automatic generation of focusing signals using image sharpness techniques
G01N 33/80 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing involving blood groups or blood types
For analyzing a sample containing particles of at least two categories, such as a sample containing blood cells, a particle counter subject to a detection limit is coupled with an analyzer capable of discerning particle number ratios, such as a visual analyzer, and a processor. A first category of particles can be present beyond detection range limits while a second category of particles is present within respective detection range limits. The concentration of the second category of particles is determined by the particle counter. A ratio of counts of the first category to the second category is determined on the analyzer. The concentration of particles in the first category is calculated on the processor based on the ratio and the count or concentration of particles in the second category.
G01N 15/06 - Investigating concentration of particle suspensions
G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing
G01N 33/49 - Physical analysis of biological material of liquid biological material blood
G01N 21/53 - Scattering, i.e. diffuse reflection within a body or fluid within a flowing fluid, e.g. smoke
G02B 7/36 - Systems for automatic generation of focusing signals using image sharpness techniques
G01N 33/80 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing involving blood groups or blood types
For analyzing a sample containing particles of at least two categories, such as a sample containing blood cells, a particle counter subject to a detection limit is coupled with an analyzer capable of discerning particle number ratios, such as a visual analyzer, and a processor. A first category of particles can be present beyond detection range limits while a second category of particles is present within respective detection range limits. The concentration of the second category of particles is determined by the particle counter. A ratio of counts of the first category to the second category is determined on the analyzer. The concentration of particles in the first category is calculated on the processor based on the ratio and the count or concentration of particles in the second category.
G01N 21/53 - Scattering, i.e. diffuse reflection within a body or fluid within a flowing fluid, e.g. smoke
G01N 33/49 - Physical analysis of biological material of liquid biological material blood
G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing
G01N 33/80 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing involving blood groups or blood types
G02B 7/28 - Systems for automatic generation of focusing signals
G02B 7/36 - Systems for automatic generation of focusing signals using image sharpness techniques
The disclosed flow cytometer includes a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM). The WDM includes an extended light source providing light that forms an object, a collimating optical element that captures light from the extended light source and projects a magnified image of the object as a first light beam, and a first focusing optical element configured to focus the first light beam to a size smaller than the object of the extended light source to a first semiconductor detector. The disclosed flow cytometer further includes a composite microscope objective to direct light emitted by a particle in a flow channel in a viewing zone of the composite microscope to the extended light source, a fluidic system and a peristaltic pump configured to supply liquid sheath and liquid sample to the flow channel, and a laser diode system to illuminate the particle in the flow channel.
G02B 6/293 - Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals with wavelength selective means
Particles such as blood cells can be categorized and counted by a digital image processor. A digital microscope camera can be directed into a flowcell defining a symmetrically narrowing flowpath in which the sample stream flows in a ribbon flattened by flow and viscosity parameters between layers of sheath fluid. A contrast pattern for autofocusing is provided on the flowcell, for example at an edge of a rear illumination opening. The image processor assesses focus accuracy from pixel data contrast. A positioning motor moves the microscope and/or flowcell along the optical axis for autofocusing on the contrast pattern target. The processor then displaces microscope and flowcell by a known distance between the contrast pattern and the sample stream, thus focusing on the sample stream. Blood cell images are collected from that position until autofocus is reinitiated, periodically, by input signal, or when detecting temperature changes or focus inaccuracy in the image data.
G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing
G01N 15/06 - Investigating concentration of particle suspensions
G01N 21/53 - Scattering, i.e. diffuse reflection within a body or fluid within a flowing fluid, e.g. smoke
G02B 7/36 - Systems for automatic generation of focusing signals using image sharpness techniques
G01N 33/80 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing involving blood groups or blood types
A method and system for classification of cells and particles in a biological sample using an automated image-based feature extraction and classification architecture. A method operates by applying a mask or series of masks to an image, extracting features from the unmasked portions of the image based on the content and location of colored pixels, selecting a subset of the extracted features, and mapping the subset of the extracted features into a classifier architecture. In a majority of cases, the first level model architecture provides an accurate identification of the cell or particle. In a minority of cases, the classification of the cell or particle requires a second level step requiring the use of numerical or categorical values from the first level in combination with a second level model.
G16H 30/40 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for processing medical images, e.g. editing
G16H 10/40 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of patient-related medical or healthcare data for data related to laboratory analysis, e.g. patient specimen analysis
G06T 7/33 - Determination of transform parameters for the alignment of images, i.e. image registration using feature-based methods
G06T 7/41 - Analysis of texture based on statistical description of texture
G16B 5/00 - ICT specially adapted for modelling or simulations in systems biology, e.g. gene-regulatory networks, protein interaction networks or metabolic networks
G16B 50/30 - Data warehousing; Computing architectures
G16B 40/10 - Signal processing, e.g. from mass spectrometry [MS] or from PCR
The disclosed flow cytometer includes a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM). The WDM includes an extended light source providing light that forms an object, a collimating optical element that captures light from the extended light source and projects a magnified image of the object as a first light beam, and a first focusing optical element configured to focus the first light beam to a size smaller than the object of the extended light source to a first semiconductor detector. The disclosed flow cytometer further includes a composite microscope objective to direct light emitted by a particle in a flow channel in a viewing zone of the composite microscope to the extended light source, a fluidic system and a peristaltic pump configured to supply liquid sheath and liquid sample to the flow channel, and a laser diode system to illuminate the particle in the flow channel.
G02B 6/293 - Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals with wavelength selective means
Particles such as blood cells can be categorized and counted by a digital image processor. A digital microscope camera can be directed into a flowcell defining a symmetrically narrowing flowpath in which the sample stream flows in a ribbon flattened by flow and viscosity parameters between layers of sheath fluid. A contrast pattern for autofocusing is provided on the flowcell, for example at an edge of a rear illumination opening. The image processor assesses focus accuracy from pixel data contrast. A positioning motor moves the microscope and/or flowcell along the optical axis for autofocusing on the contrast pattern target. The processor then displaces microscope and flowcell by a known distance between the contrast pattern and the sample stream, thus focusing on the sample stream. Blood cell images are collected from that position until autofocus is reinitiated, periodically, by input signal, or when detecting temperature changes or focus inaccuracy in the image data.
G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing
G01N 15/06 - Investigating concentration of particle suspensions
G01N 21/53 - Scattering, i.e. diffuse reflection within a body or fluid within a flowing fluid, e.g. smoke
G02B 7/36 - Systems for automatic generation of focusing signals using image sharpness techniques
G01N 33/80 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing involving blood groups or blood types
G01N 33/49 - Physical analysis of biological material of liquid biological material blood
G01N 15/00 - Investigating characteristics of particles; Investigating permeability, pore-volume or surface-area of porous materials
For analyzing a sample containing particles of at least two categories, such as a sample containing blood cells, a particle counter subject to a detection limit is coupled with an analyzer capable of discerning particle number ratios, such as a visual analyzer, and a processor. A first category of particles can be present beyond detection range limits while a second category of particles is present within respective detection range limits. The concentration of the second category of particles is determined by the particle counter. A ratio of counts of the first category to the second category is determined on the analyzer. The concentration of particles in the first category is calculated on the processor based on the ratio and the count or concentration of particles in the second category.
G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing
G01N 15/06 - Investigating concentration of particle suspensions
G01N 21/53 - Scattering, i.e. diffuse reflection within a body or fluid within a flowing fluid, e.g. smoke
G02B 7/36 - Systems for automatic generation of focusing signals using image sharpness techniques
G01N 33/80 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing involving blood groups or blood types
G01N 33/49 - Physical analysis of biological material of liquid biological material blood
G01N 15/00 - Investigating characteristics of particles; Investigating permeability, pore-volume or surface-area of porous materials
A method and system for classification of cells and particles in a biological sample using an automated image-based feature extraction and classification architecture. A method operates by applying a mask or series of masks to an image, extracting features from the unmasked portions of the image based on the content and location of colored pixels, selecting a subset of the extracted features, and mapping the subset of the extracted features into a classifier architecture. In a majority of cases, the first level model architecture provides an accurate identification of the cell or particle. In a minority of cases, the classification of the cell or particle requires a second level step requiring the use of numerical or categorical values from the first level in combination with a second level model.
G16H 30/40 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for processing medical images, e.g. editing
G16H 10/40 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of patient-related medical or healthcare data for data related to laboratory analysis, e.g. patient specimen analysis
G06T 7/33 - Determination of transform parameters for the alignment of images, i.e. image registration using feature-based methods
G06T 7/41 - Analysis of texture based on statistical description of texture
G16B 5/00 - ICT specially adapted for modelling or simulations in systems biology, e.g. gene-regulatory networks, protein interaction networks or metabolic networks
G16B 50/30 - Data warehousing; Computing architectures
G16B 40/10 - Signal processing, e.g. from mass spectrometry [MS] or from PCR
11.
Flowcell systems and methods for particle analysis in blood samples
The present disclosure relates to apparatus, systems, compositions, and methods for analyzing a sample containing particles. In some aspects the system comprises an analyzer which may be a visual analyzer. In one aspect, this disclosure relates to a particle imaging system comprising a flowcell through which a sample containing particles is caused to flow, and a high optical resolution imaging device which captures images for image analysis of samples. Other compositions, methods and features of this disclosure are disclosed herein.
G01N 35/08 - Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups ; Handling materials therefor using a stream of discrete samples flowing along a tube system, e.g. flow injection analysis
G01N 33/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups
G01N 31/00 - Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroups; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods
G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing
G01N 33/80 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing involving blood groups or blood types
The present disclosure relates to apparatus, systems, compositions, and methods for analyzing a sample containing particles. A particle imaging system or analyzer can include a flowcell through which a urine sample containing particles is caused to flow, and a high optical resolution imaging device which captures images for image analysis. A contrast pattern for autofocusing is provided on the flowcell. The image processor assesses focus accuracy from pixel data contrast. A positioning motor moves the microscope and/or flowcell along the optical axis for autofocusing on the contrast pattern target. The processor then displaces microscope and flowcell by a known distance between the contrast pattern and the sample stream, thus focusing on the sample stream. Cell or particle images are collected from that position until autofocus is reinitiated, periodically, by input signal, or when detecting temperature changes or focus inaccuracy in the image data.
A method for dynamic focusing is presented that can be performed by a dynamic focusing controller that can receive images from the image capture device, and for each image, determine a border of the particle within the image, and calculate a pixel intensity ratio of the image based on the border of the particle. The dynamic focusing controller can also calculate a median pixel intensity ratio from the pixel intensity ratios for each image, determine a focal distance direction based on the median pixel intensity ratio, calculate a focal distance based on the median pixel intensity ratio when the focal distance direction is positive, and calculate the focal distance based on a median border width when the focal distance direction is negative. The autofocusing controller can then send an instruction to the focusing mechanism to adjust the image capture device by the focal distance in the focal distance direction.
The disclosed flow cytometer includes a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM). The WDM includes an extended light source providing light that forms an object, a collimating optical element that captures light from the extended light source and projects a magnified image of the object as a first light beam, and a first focusing optical element configured to focus the first light beam to a size smaller than the object of the extended light source to a first semiconductor detector. The disclosed flow cytometer further includes a composite microscope objective to direct light emitted by a particle in a flow channel in a viewing zone of the composite microscope to the extended light source, a fluidic system and a peristaltic pump configured to supply liquid sheath and liquid sample to the flow channel, and a laser diode system to illuminate the particle in the flow channel.
G02B 6/293 - Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals with wavelength selective means
A method and system for classification of cells and particles in a biological sample using an automated image-based feature extraction and classification architecture. A method operates by applying a mask or series of masks to an image, extracting features from the unmasked portions of the image based on the content and location of colored pixels, selecting a subset of the extracted features, and mapping the subset of the extracted features into a classifier architecture. In a majority of cases, the first level model architecture provides an accurate identification of the cell or particle. In a minority of cases, the classification of the cell or particle requires a second level step requiring the use of numerical or categorical values from the first level in combination with a second level model.
G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
Aspects and embodiments of the instant disclosure provide a particle and/or intracellular organelle alignment agent for a particle analyzer used to analyze particles contained in a sample. An exemplary particle and/or intracellular organelle alignment agent includes an aqueous solution, a viscosity modifier, and/or a buffer. Embodiments also encompass systems, compositions, and methods for analyzing a sample containing particles. Parrticles such as blood cells can be categorized and counted by a digital image processor. A digital microscope camera can be directed, for example using certain focusing techniques, into a flowcell defining a symmetrically narrowing flowpath in which the sample stream flows in a ribbon flattened by flow and viscosity parameters between layers of sheath fluid. Blood cell images can be collected and analyzed using dynamic range extension processes and systems.
G01N 33/80 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing involving blood groups or blood types
The disclosed flow cytometer includes a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM). The WDM includes an extended light source providing light that forms an object, a collimating optical element that captures light from the extended light source and projects a magnified image of the object as a first light beam, and a first focusing optical element configured to focus the first light beam to a size smaller than the object of the extended light source to a first semiconductor detector. The disclosed flow cytometer further includes a composite microscope objective to direct light emitted by a particle in a flow channel in a viewing zone of the composite microscope to the extended light source, a fluidic system and a peristaltic pump configured to supply liquid sheath and liquid sample to the flow channel, and a laser diode system to illuminate the particle in the flow channel.
G02B 6/293 - Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals with wavelength selective means
The disclosed flow cytometer includes a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM). The WDM includes an extended light source providing light that forms an object, a collimating optical element that captures light from the extended light source and projects a magnified image of the object as a first light beam, and a first focusing optical element configured to focus the first light beam to a size smaller than the object of the extended light source to a first semiconductor detector. The disclosed flow cytometer further includes a composite microscope objective to direct light emitted by a particle in a flow channel in a viewing zone of the composite microscope to the extended light source, a fluidic system and a peristaltic pump configured to supply liquid sheath and liquid sample to the flow channel, and a laser diode system to illuminate the particle in the flow channel.
F04B 11/00 - Equalisation of pulses, e.g. by use of air vessels; Counteracting cavitation
G01N 35/10 - Devices for transferring samples to, in, or from, the analysis apparatus, e.g. suction devices, injection devices
G02B 6/293 - Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals with wavelength selective means
Systems and methods for imaging a plurality of blood fluid samples or other types of samples include processing at least a portion of a sample to enhance imageability of certain particles in that portion and subsequently imaging the sample portion. In some instances, processing and imaging of various samples may be staged in a manner to optimize throughput of the system or method.
In some embodiments, a method is provided for returning medical data comprising a test result from a particle analyzer including receiving a clinical data query in an initial format from an input object. After receiving the clinical data query, transforming the clinical data query into multiple different query types, each different query type having a different format from the initial format, each different query type for querying a different medical database or object graph in memory. Querying the medical databases using one of the query types based on the medical database. In response to the querying, receiving the data sets from the medical databases including the test result from the particle analyzer. Once data sets are received, output at least some information from the data sets.
G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
G01N 33/48 - Biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Haemocytometers
The disclosed flow cytometer includes a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM). The WDM includes an extended light source providing light that forms an object, a collimating optical element that captures light from the extended light source and projects a magnified image of the object as a first light beam, and a first focusing optical element configured to focus the first light beam to a size smaller than the object of the extended light source to a first semiconductor detector. The disclosed flow cytometer further includes a composite microscope objective to direct light emitted by a particle in a flow channel in a viewing zone of the composite microscope to the extended light source, a fluidic system and a peristaltic pump configured to supply liquid sheath and liquid sample to the flow channel, and a laser diode system to illuminate the particle in the flow channel.
G02B 6/293 - Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals with wavelength selective means
Aspects and embodiments of the instant disclosure provide a particle and/or intracellular organelle alignment agent for a particle analyzer used to analyze particles contained in a sample. An exemplary particle and/or intracellular organelle alignment agent includes an aqueous solution, a viscosity modifier, and/or a buffer.
The present disclosure relates to a staining methodology employing a particle contrast agent composition capable of rapidly staining cells in a single step. The particle contrast agent composition can be comprised of a combination of one or more particle contrast agents and one or more permeabilizing agents, optionally including one or more fixing agents and other components. The particle contrast agent composition can include Crystal Violet, 5PD-Lytic, and Proclin 300.
Aspects and embodiments of the instant disclosure provide a particle and/or intracellular organelle alignment agent for a particle analyzer used to analyze particles contained in a sample. An exemplary particle and/or intracellular organelle alignment agent includes an aqueous solution, a viscosity modifier, and/or a buffer.
The present disclosure relates to apparatus, systems, compositions, and methods for analyzing a sample containing particles. In some aspects the system comprises an analyzer which may be a visual analyzer. In one aspect, this disclosure relates to a particle imaging system comprising a flowcell through which a sample containing particles is caused to flow, and a high optical resolution imaging device which captures images for image analysis of samples. Other compositions, methods and features of this disclosure are disclosed herein.
G01N 33/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups
G01N 31/00 - Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroups; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods
G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing
G01N 33/80 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing involving blood groups or blood types
Systems and methods for imaging a plurality of blood fluid samples or other types of samples include processing at least a portion of a sample to enhance imageability of certain particles in that portion and subsequently imaging the sample portion. In some instances, processing and imaging of various samples may be staged in a manner to optimize throughput of the system or method.
Systems and methods for imaging a plurality of blood fluid samples or other types of samples include processing at least a portion of a sample to enhance imageability of certain particles in that portion and subsequently imaging the sample portion. In some instances, processing and imaging of various samples may be staged in a manner to optimize throughput of the system or method.
Aspects and embodiments of the instant disclosure provide a particle and/or intracellular organelle alignment agent for a particle analyzer used to analyze particles contained in a sample. An exemplary particle and/or intracellular organelle alignment agent includes an aqueous solution, a viscosity modifier, and/or a buffer. Embodiments also encompass systems, compositions, and methods for analyzing a sample containing particles. Particles such as blood cells can be categorized and counted by a digital image processor. A digital microscope camera can be directed, for example using certain focusing techniques, into a flowcell defining a symmetrically narrowing flowpath in which the sample stream flows in a ribbon flattened by flow and viscosity parameters between layers of sheath fluid. Blood cell images can be collected and analyzed using dynamic range extension processes and systems.
G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing
G01N 33/80 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing involving blood groups or blood types
The disclosed flow cytometer includes a laser diode ("LD") based optical subsystem for impinging a beam of light upon particles passing through a viewing zone, a composite microscope objective for gathering and imaging light scattered from or fluoresced by particles passing through the viewing zone, a fluidic subsystem for supplying a liquid sheath flow to the viewing zone, a peristaltic pump for injecting into the liquid sheath flow a liquid sample flow carrying particles that passes together with the liquid sheath flow through the viewing zone, a multimode optical fiber that receives scattered and fluoresced light from the viewing zone that the composite microscope objective gathers and images, and a wavelength division multiplexer for optically separating into color bands light received via the optical fiber.
The disclosed flow cytometer includes a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM). The WDM includes an extended light source providing light that forms an object, a collimating optical element that captures light from the extended light source and projects a magnified image of the object as a first light beam, and a first focusing optical element configured to focus the first light beam to a size smaller than the object of the extended light source to a first semiconductor detector. The disclosed flow cytometer further includes a composite microscope objective to direct light emitted by a particle in a flow channel in a viewing zone of the composite microscope to the extended light source, a fluidic system and a peristaltic pump configured to supply liquid sheath and liquid sample to the flow channel, and a laser diode system to illuminate the particle in the flow channel.
G02B 6/293 - Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals with wavelength selective means
The present disclosure relates to apparatus, systems, compositions, and methods for analyzing a sample containing particles. A particle imaging system or analyzer can include a flowcell through which a urine sample containing particles is caused to flow, and a high optical resolution imaging device which captures images for image analysis. A contrast pattern for autofocusing is provided on the flowcell. The image processor assesses focus accuracy from pixel data contrast. A positioning motor moves the microscope and/or flowcell along the optical axis for autofocusing on the contrast pattern target. The processor then displaces microscope and flowcell by a known distance between the contrast pattern and the sample stream, thus focusing on the sample stream. Cell or particle images are collected from that position until autofocus is reinitiated, periodically, by input signal, or when detecting temperature changes or focus inaccuracy in the image data.
Aspects and embodiments of the instant disclosure provide a particle and/or intracellular organelle alignment agent for a particle analyzer used to analyze particles contained in a sample. An exemplary particle and/or intracellular organelle alignment agent includes an aqueous solution, a viscosity modifier, and/or a buffer.
The present disclosure relates to compositions, methods, and kits for the detection, separation and/or isolation of microorganisms. Specifically, the disclosure relates to compositions, methods, and kits for using polylysine-coated particles to capture microorganisms such as bacteria.
ABSTRACT OF DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to compositions, methods, and kits for the rapid detection, separation and/or isolation of microorganisms. Specifically, the disclosure relates to compositions, methods, and kits for using vancomycin - PVA backbone complexes to capture and/or concentrate microorganisms in an aqueous sample, such as gram positive and/or gram negative bacteria in solution.
The present disclosure relates to a staining methodology employing a particle contrast agent composition capable of rapidly staining cells in a single step. The particle contrast agent composition can be comprised of a combination of one or more particle contrast agents, one or more permeabilizing agents, and one or more fixing agents. The particle contrast agent composition can include Crystal Violet, New Methylene Blue, Saponin, and Gluteraldehyde.
G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing
G01N 33/80 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing involving blood groups or blood types
G01N 21/53 - Scattering, i.e. diffuse reflection within a body or fluid within a flowing fluid, e.g. smoke
The present disclosure relates to a staining methodology employing a particle contrast agent composition capable of rapidly staining cells in a single step. The particle contrast agent composition can be comprised of a combination of one or more particle contrast agents and one or more permeabilizing agents, optionally including one or more fixing agents and other components. The particle contrast agent composition can include Crystal Violet, 5PD-Lytic, and Proclin 300.
Particles such as blood cells can be categorized and counted by a digital image processor. A digital microscope camera can be directed into a flowcell defining a symmetrically narrowing flowpath in which the sample stream flows in a ribbon flattened by flow and viscosity parameters between layers of sheath fluid. A contrast pattern for autofocusing is provided on the flowcell, for example at an edge of a rear illumination opening. The image processor assesses focus accuracy from pixel data contrast. A positioning motor moves the microscope and/or flowcell along the optical axis for autofocusing on the contrast pattern target. The processor then displaces microscope and flowcell by a known distance between the contrast pattern and the sample stream, thus focusing on the sample stream. Blood cell images are collected from that position until autofocus is reinitiated, periodically, by input signal, or when detecting temperature changes or focus inaccuracy in the image data.
G01N 15/06 - Investigating concentration of particle suspensions
G01N 21/53 - Scattering, i.e. diffuse reflection within a body or fluid within a flowing fluid, e.g. smoke
G01N 33/49 - Physical analysis of biological material of liquid biological material blood
G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing
G01N 33/80 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing involving blood groups or blood types
The present disclosure relates to a staining methodology employing a particle contrast agent composition capable of rapidly staining cells in a single step. The particle contrast agent composition can be comprised of a combination of one or more particle contrast agents, one or more permeabilizing agents, and one or more fixing agents. The particle contrast agent composition can include Crystal Violet, New Methylene Blue, Saponin, and Gluteraldehyde.
The present disclosure relates to apparatus, systems, compositions, and methods for analyzing a sample containing particles. In some aspects the system comprises an analyzer which may be a visual analyzer. In one aspect, this disclosure relates to a particle imaging system comprising a flowcell through which a sample containing particles is caused to flow, and a high optical resolution imaging device which captures images for image analysis of samples. Other compositions, methods and features of this disclosure are disclosed herein.
The present disclosure relates to apparatus, systems, compositions, and methods for analyzing a sample containing particles. In some aspects the system comprises an analyzer which may be a visual analyzer. In one aspect, this disclosure relates to a particle imaging system comprising a flowcell through which a sample containing particles is caused to flow, and a high optical resolution imaging device which captures images for image analysis of samples. Other compositions, methods and features of this disclosure are disclosed herein.
G01N 33/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups
G01N 31/00 - Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroups; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods
G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing
G01N 33/80 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing involving blood groups or blood types
G01N 21/53 - Scattering, i.e. diffuse reflection within a body or fluid within a flowing fluid, e.g. smoke
For analyzing a sample containing particles of at least two categories, such as a sample containing blood cells, a particle counter subject to a detection limit is coupled with an analyzer capable of discerning particle number ratios, such as a visual analyzer, and a processor. A first category of particles can be present beyond detection range limits while a second category of particles is present within respective detection range limits. The concentration of the second category of particles is determined by the particle counter. A ratio of counts of the first category to the second category is determined on the analyzer. The concentration of particles in the first category is calculated on the processor based on the ratio and the count or concentration of particles in the second category.
G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing
G01N 15/06 - Investigating concentration of particle suspensions
G01N 33/80 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Testing involving biospecific ligand binding methods; Immunological testing involving blood groups or blood types
Aspects and embodiments of the instant disclosure provide a particle and/or intracellular organelle alignment agent for a particle analyzer used to analyze particles contained in a sample. An exemplary particle and/or intracellular organelle alignment agent includes an aqueous solution, a viscosity modifier, and/or a buffer.
The present disclosure relates to a staining methodology employing a particle contrast agent composition capable of rapidly staining cells in a single step. The particle contrast agent composition can be comprised of a combination of one or more particle contrast agents and one or more permeabilizing agents, optionally including one or more fixing agents and other components. The particle contrast agent composition can include Crystal Violet, 5PD-Lytic, and Proclin 300.
Particles such as blood cells can be categorized and counted by a digital image processor. A digital microscope camera can be directed into a flowcell defining a symmetrically narrowing flowpath in which the sample stream flows in a ribbon flattened by flow and viscosity parameters between layers of sheath fluid. A contrast pattern for autofocusing is provided on the flowcell, for example at an edge of a rear illumination opening. The image processor assesses focus accuracy from pixel data contrast. A positioning motor moves the microscope and/or flowcell along the optical axis for autofocusing on the contrast pattern target. The processor then displaces microscope and flowcell by a known distance between the contrast pattern and the sample stream, thus focusing on the sample stream. Blood cell images are collected from that position until autofocus is reinitiated, periodically, by input signal, or when detecting temperature changes or focus inaccuracy in the image data.
For analyzing a sample containing particles of at least two categories, such as a sample containing blood cells, a particle counter subject to a detection limit is coupled with an analyzer capable of discerning particle number ratios, such as a visual analyzer, and a processor. A first category of particles can be present beyond detection range limits while a second category of particles is present within respective detection range limits. The concentration of the second category of particles is determined by the particle counter. A ratio of counts of the first category to the second category is determined on the analyzer. The concentration of particles in the first category is calculated on the processor based on the ratio and the count or concentration of particles in the second category.
The present disclosure relates to apparatus, systems, compositions, and methods for analyzing a sample containing particles. A particle imaging system or analyzer can include a flowcell through which a urine sample containing particles is caused to flow, and a high optical resolution imaging device which captures images for image analysis. A contrast pattern for autofocusing is provided on the flowcell. The image processor assesses focus accuracy from pixel data contrast. A positioning motor moves the microscope and/or flowcell along the optical axis for autofocusing on the contrast pattern target. The processor then displaces microscope and flowcell by a known distance between the contrast pattern and the sample stream, thus focusing on the sample stream. Cell or particle images are collected from that position until autofocus is reinitiated, periodically, by input signal, or when detecting temperature changes or focus inaccuracy in the image data.
Aspects and embodiments of the instant disclosure provide a particle and/or intracellular organelle alignment agent for a particle analyzer used to analyze particles contained in a sample. An exemplary particle and/or intracellular organelle alignment agent includes an aqueous solution, a viscosity modifier, and/or a buffer. Embodiments also encompass systems, compositions, and methods for analyzing a sample containing particles. Particles such as blood cells can be categorized and counted by a digital image processor. A digital microscope camera can be directed, for example using certain focusing techniques, into a flowcell defining a symmetrically narrowing flowpath in which the sample stream flows in a ribbon flattened by flow and viscosity parameters between layers of sheath fluid. Blood cell images can be collected and analyzed using dynamic range extension processes and systems.
This invention describes compositions and methods for use in PSA assays having low functional sensitivity which are useful, for example, in the detection of early stage recurrence of prostate disease following treatment and in the determination of whether patients have prostate cancer recurrence or stable disease.
A flow cytometer including a laser diode based optical subsystem for impinging a beam of light upon particles passing through a viewing zone; a composite microscope objective for gathering and imaging light scattered from or fluoresced by particles passing through the viewing zone; a fluidic subsystem for supplying a liquid sheath flow to the viewing zone; a peristaltic pump for injecting into the liquid sheath flow a liquid sample flow carrying particles that passes together with the liquid sheath flow through the viewing zone; a multimode optical fiber that receives scattered and fluoresced light from the viewing zone that the composite microscope objective gathers and images; and a wavelength division multiplexer for optically separating into color bands light received via the optical fiber.
Methods and kits related to non-equilibrium, ultrasensitive two-site assays for detecting analytes are provided. In one aspect, a two-site assays for detecting analytes under non-equilibrium analyte binding conditions, using low concentrations of reporter specificity molecule (e.g., reporter antibody) and kits for performing the same is provided. In another aspect, methods for selecting antibodies or specificity molecules with low dissociation constants for use as reporter antibodies in non-equilibrium two-site immunoassays, including two-site immuno-PCR assays, and assays performed with those antibodies, are also provided.
The present invention provides a streamline-based device and a method for using the device for continuous separation of particles including cells in biological fluids. The device includes a main microchannel and an array of side microchannels disposed on a substrate. The main microchannel has a plurality of stagnation points with a predetermined geometric design, for example, each of the stagnation points has a predetermined distance from the upstream edge of each of the side microchannels. The particles are separated and collected in the side microchannels.
The present invention provides novel binding pair compositions of defined and limited stability comprising nucleic acid detection markers useful for the homogeneous, sensitive detection of analytes. Also provided are methods for the sensitive homogenous detection of analytes, particularly analytes of clinical relevance. Kits for preparing binding pairs of the invention and for performing the methods of the invention are also provided.
C12Q 1/68 - Measuring or testing processes involving enzymes, nucleic acids or microorganisms; Compositions therefor; Processes of preparing such compositions involving nucleic acids
G01N 33/542 - Immunoassay; Biospecific binding assay; Materials therefor with immune complex formed in liquid phase with steric inhibition or signal modification, e.g. fluorescent quenching
C07K 16/30 - Immunoglobulins, e.g. monoclonal or polyclonal antibodies against material from animals or humans against receptors, cell surface antigens or cell surface determinants from tumour cells
C12N 15/10 - Processes for the isolation, preparation or purification of DNA or RNA
53.
ANALYTICAL SYSTEM FOR PERFORMING LABORATORY PROTOCOLS AND ASSOCIATED METHODS
Systems, devices, and methods for automating laboratory protocols utilizing cooperative efforts between differing components including fluidics, agitation and thermal control for processing a wide variety of disparate laboratory protocols are provided. In one aspect, a sample processing module is provided, including a housing configured to accommodate a pre-identified sample process, a temperature input capable of interfacing with a temperature controller, a fluid input capable of interfacing with an input fluid controller, a fluid output capable of interfacing with an output fluid controller, and a standardized agitation connector capable of interfacing with an agitator. A control system interfaces with the temperature input, fluid input, fluid output, and agitation connector to enable the system to perform laboratory protocols that require complex, sequential fluidic steps in association with the temperature and agitation control.
A system and method for analyzing a specimen containing particles that can be difficult to differentiate. The system and method determines a first collective count of a selected group of particles in the specimen, treats at least a portion of the specimen to alter a subgroup of the selected group of particles, determines a second collective count of any of the selected group of particles in the treated portion of the specimen, and subtracts the second collective count from the first collective count to determine a differentiation count for the subgroup of particles altered by the treating of the specimen. The system and method is described with the example of determining concentrations of red and white blood cells in a specimen (e.g. spinal fluid), using auto-particle recognition techniques, without attempting to distinguish and count red versus white blood cells co-existing in the same specimen portion.
G06K 9/46 - Extraction of features or characteristics of the image
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
E03B 1/00 - Methods or layout of installations for water supply
C12Q 1/00 - Measuring or testing processes involving enzymes, nucleic acids or microorganisms; Compositions therefor; Processes of preparing such compositions
G01N 33/48 - Biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Haemocytometers
Systems, devices, and methods for automating laboratory protocols utilizing modular processing components to allow systems to be reconfigured for processing a wide variety of disparate laboratory protocols are provided. In one aspect, a sample processing module is provided, including a housing configured to accommodate a pre-identified sample process, a standardized temperature input capable of interfacing with a temperature controller, a standardized fluid input capable of interfacing with an input fluid controller, and a standardized agitation connector capable of interfacing with an agitator. These standardized components provide interchangeability of the module with a module having a housing configured to accommodate a different pre-identified sample process in a sample processing system.
G01N 37/00 - INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES - Details not covered by any other group of this subclass
A centrifugal assembly is provided that can be used in common laboratory fixed angle or swinging bucket centrifuges for the separation of material, such as parasitic ova, based on particle density. The centrifugal assembly allows the fluid level to be gently adjusted to form a meniscus without disruption of the buoyant matter, such as ova. The centrifugal assembly also enables a user to easily and hygienically collect and transfer a measured amount of a sample, such as fecal material, and to break apart and mix the sample with a floatation fluid contained in a centrifuge tube.
A rotor is provided for the centrifugal separation of a composite fluid, such as animal or human blood, into components. An inner surface of the rotor includes at least one hydrophobic area having a first surface energy sufficiently low to provide a flow path for a lower density fluid component to flow to the bottom of a central collection chamber after centrifugal separation. A method of separating a composite fluid into components using such a rotor is also provided. Additionally, a method of manufacturing such a rotor is provided.
B04B 3/00 - Centrifuges with rotary bowls in which solid particles or bodies become separated by centrifugal force and simultaneously sifting or filtering
B01D 21/26 - Separation of sediment aided by centrifugal force
B01D 43/00 - Separating particles from liquids, or liquids from solids, otherwise than by sedimentation or filtration
58.
CENTRIFUGAL DEVICE AND METHOD FOR FLUID COMPONENT SEPARATION
A rotor is provided for the centrifugal separation of a composite fluid, such as animal or human blood, into components. An inner surface of the rotor includes at least one hydrophobic area having a first surface energy sufficiently low to provide a flow path for a lower density fluid component to flow to the bottom of a central collection chamber after centrifugal separation. A method of separating a composite fluid into components using such a rotor is also provided. Additionally, a method of manufacturing such a rotor is provided.
This invention describes compositions and methods for use in PSA assays having low functional sensitivity which are useful, for example, in the detection of early stage recurrence of prostate disease following treatment and in the determination of whether patients have early stage biochemical reoccurrence (ES-BCR) or stable disease. exponential fit
A chemistry strip reader and method for analyzing chemistry strips. A conveyor moves chemical strips through different imaging positions at discrete points in time across the field of view of a camera, which captures images of each chemistry strip at different discrete times. A processor determines reflectance values for each of the chemical strips from the captured images at the discrete points in time. Calibration targets adjacent the chemistry strips can be used to adjust the determined reflectance values. The light source can sequentially illuminate each chemistry strip with three different wavelengths of light, where the processor calculates a concentration determination associated with the chemistry strip by calculating different chromaticity coordinates for the different wavelengths of light, and comparing them to known chromaticity coordinates for known analyte concentrations.
A chemistry strip reader and method for analyzing chemistry strips. A conveyor moves chemical strips through different imaging positions at discrete points in time across the field of view of a camera, which captures images of each chemistry strip at different discrete times. A processor determines reflectance values for each of the chemical strips from the captured images at the discrete points in time. Calibration targets adjacent the chemistry strips can be used to adjust the determined reflectance values. The light source can sequentially illuminate each chemistry strip with three different wavelengths of light, where the processor calculates a concentration determination associated with the chemistry strip by calculating different chromaticity coordinates for the different wavelengths of light, and comparing them to known chromaticity coordinates for known analyte concentrations.
A centrifugal fecal analyzer device is disclosed for the separation of ova from fecal specimens for microscopic examination. More particularly, the centrifugal device includes a rotor housing, a coring assembly, a mixing chamber centrally located within the housing, and a sediment chamber radially outwardly of the mixing chamber. The coring assembly used to collect a fecal sample is introduced int the rotor assembly through a central top opening, and a detachable handle is removed. The rotor assembly is placed in a centrifuge an spun. A coverslip is placed over the rotor assembly opening, and the ova adhere to the coverslip for analysis using standard microscop methods. In another aspect of the present invention, a centrifugal device is provided in which the ova are delivered through centrifugation to a pipette tip for dispensing onto a microscope slide or coverslip.
G01N 9/30 - Investigating density or specific gravity of materials; Analysing materials by determining density or specific gravity by using centrifugal effects
A facial recognition system that captures a plurality two-dimensional images of a target face, creates a three-dimensional facial model from the plurality of two-dimensional images of a target face, moves the three-dimensional facial model to a predetermined pose orientation to result in a normalized three-dimensional facial model, extracts measurements from the normalized three-dimensional facial model, and compares the extracted measurements to other facial measurements stored in a data base. Measurement extraction can be enhanced by modifying the data format of the normalized three-dimensional facial model into range and color image data.
A system and method for analyzing a specimen containing particles that can be difficult to differentiate. The system and method determines a first collective count of a selected group of particles in the specimen, treats at least a portion of the specimen to alter a subgroup of the selected group of particles, determines a second collective count of any of the selected group of particles in the treated portion of the specimen, and subtracts the second collective count from the first collective count to determine a differentiation count for the subgroup of particles altered by the treating of the specimen. The system and method is described with the example of determining concentrations of red and white blood cells in a specimen (e.g. spinal fluid), using auto-particle recognition techniques, without attempting to distinguish and count red versus white blood cells co-existing in the same specimen portion.
G06K 9/46 - Extraction of features or characteristics of the image
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
E03B 1/00 - Methods or layout of installations for water supply
C12Q 1/00 - Measuring or testing processes involving enzymes, nucleic acids or microorganisms; Compositions therefor; Processes of preparing such compositions
A system and method for analyzing a specimen containing particles that can be difficult to differentiate. The system and method determines a first collective count of a selected group of particles in the specimen, treats at least a portion of the specimen to alter a subgroup of the selected group of particles, determines a second collective count of any of the selected group of particles in the treated portion of the specimen, and subtracts the second collective count from the first collective count to determine a differentiation count for the subgroup of particles altered by the treating of the specimen. The system and method is described with the example of determining concentrations of red and white blood cells in a specimen (e.g. spinal fluid), using auto-particle recognition techniques, without attempting to distinguish and count red versus white blood cells co-existing in the same specimen portion.
A method and apparatus for locating the boundary of an object. An electronic image of the object is formed, having a plurality of image pixels. Groups of the image pixels are identified that represent edge segments of the object. Patches are formed around the image pixel groups, where each patch is dimensioned and positioned to entirely contain one of the image pixel groups. A patch merge process is preformed that merges any two of the patches together that overlap each other by a predetermined amount, to form a merged patch that is dimensioned and positioned to entirely contain the two merged patches. The merge process continues for any overlapping patches and merged patches until none of the patches and the merged patches overlap each other by the predetermined amount. All the edge segments contained within one of the merged patches are associated as representing the boundary of the object.
A particle analyzer that includes a specimen source, a flow cell, a pump and delivery tube for transporting specimen fluid from the specimen source to the flow cell, a dispensing valve for injecting stain from a stain source into the specimen fluid in the delivery tube, and a mixing device for mixing the stain and the specimen fluid together. The mixing device includes a cylindrical shaped member having an outer surface, a channel formed in the outer surface with the channel including circumferential and longitudinal turns, and a hollow mixing tube disposed in the channel. As the stain and the specimen fluid flow through the mixing tube, they travel through the circumferential and longitudinal turns and are mixed together. A fluid sensor employing a sensor RC circuit and a reference RC circuit detects capacitance changes in the delivery tube for detecting the presence or absence of fluid therein.
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