Abstract:
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.
Abstract:
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.
Abstract:
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.
Abstract:
An instrument includes 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 close off a fluidic channel in the body. A cartridge interface is configured to engage the cartridge.
Abstract:
Provided herein is a system and method for review of forensic report computer files. The can include a logic processor with a memory or storage configured with logic instructions to provide or facilitate: a data-accessing module for reading and reviewing an original forensic biological data file; an evaluation module for determining whether the original forensic biological data file meets quality criteria for uploading to a forensic matching or identification service or database; and a crowd-sourcing expert review module for communicating with one or more experts for review of the data file when quality criteria or not met and receiving notifications and results from the one or more experts.
Abstract:
A method includes providing a system comprising an electrophoresis cartridge interface that releasably engages with an electrophoresis cartridge that includes an anode, a cathode, and at least one electrophoresis capillary that is in fluid communication with the anode and the cathode. The method further includes receiving the electrophoresis cartridge at said electrophoresis cartridge interface and automatically establishing at least one of (i) optical communication between an optical detection assembly of the system and a portion of the at least one electrophoresis capillary, (ii) electrical communication between the system and the anode and cathode, (iii) fluidic communication between the system and the at least one electrophoresis capillary, (iv) thermal communication between the system and the electrophoresis cartridge or the at least one electrophoresis capillary; (v) electromagnetic communication between the system and the electrophoresis cartridge and (vi) magnetic communication between the system and the electrophoresis cartridge.
Abstract:
A live help provider graphical user interface depicting a provider graphical representation of a client device located at a user location and respective provider graphical representations of additional devices located at the user location in a manner that identifies each of the additional devices and depicts a spatial relationship of each of the additional devices relative to the client device at the user location.
Abstract:
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.
Abstract:
A system for performing capillary electrophoresis of multiple samples comprises a capillary containing a separation medium and having inlet and distal ends and an interrogation region; a power source configured to apply voltages between inlet and distal ends; and logic to cause execution of: applying a first substantially constant forward polarity electrophoresis voltage to the capillary; before all of the first DNA fragments have passed the interrogation region, applying a reverse polarity voltage pulse to the capillary, thereby transporting at least some of the first DNA fragments in the capillary toward the capillary inlet; introducing a second sample to the capillary inlet, the second sample comprising second DNA fragments having a plurality of different sizes; and applying a second substantially constant forward polarity electrophoresis voltage to the capillary to simultaneously perform electrophoresis on the second DNA fragments and the first DNA fragments.
Abstract:
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.