Abstract:
A method of detecting a biological activity, comprising: providing, a sample that may comprise a first biological activity; a first indicator reagent that can be converted by the first biological activity to a first biological derivative; a gelling agent; and a plurality of particles, each particle comprising an organic polymer that receives and retains the first biological derivative, wherein the particles have a mean particle diameter between 0.05 microns and 20 microns; forming a hydrogel comprising the first indicator reagent and the plurality of particles; wherein at least a portion of the plurality of particles is dispersed in the hydrogel or disposed on a major surface of the hydrogel; bringing the sample into fluid communication with a portion of the hydrogel; and detecting the presence or absence of the first biological derivative, wherein the first biological derivative is retained by the plurality of particles; wherein detecting the presence or absence of the first biological derivative comprises detecting a fluorescent first biological derivative or a colored first biological derivative; and wherein the presence of the first biological derivative is indicative of the presence of a first biological activity.
Abstract:
Tools (100) are provided for use in uncapping one or more of a plurality of linearly-oriented, spaced-apart tubes; each cap having a cap upper surface with a depression. The tools comprise a body (30) having first portion (40) for engagement by a user and a second portion (50) for engaging a plurality of caps. The second portion comprises a plurality of spaced-apart projections (60). Each projection is configured for releasably engaging a cap. The projection may comprise two or more spaced-apart projection elements (62,64). Optionally, the first portion is configured in a non-coplanar relationship with respect to the second portion. Methods of use are also provided.
Abstract:
Methods for detecting target biological analytes within sample material using acousto-mechanical energy generated by a sensor are disclosed. The acousto-mechanical energy may be provided using an acousto-mechanical sensor, e.g., a surface acoustic wave sensor such as, e.g., a shear horizontal surface acoustic wave sensor (e.g., a LSH-SAW sensor). The detection of the target biological analytes in sample material are enhanced by contacting the target biological analyte and/or the sensor surface with liposomes that amplify the sensor sensitivity by (1) modifying the rheological properties of the fluid near the sensor surface; (2) changing the mass attached to the surface; and/or (3) modifying the dielectric properties of the fluid near the sensor surface, the sensor surface itself and/or any intervening layers on the sensor surface.