US20110201045A1 - Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20110201045A1 US20110201045A1 US13/016,347 US201113016347A US2011201045A1 US 20110201045 A1 US20110201045 A1 US 20110201045A1 US 201113016347 A US201113016347 A US 201113016347A US 2011201045 A1 US2011201045 A1 US 2011201045A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- sample
- tube
- image
- region
- analysis
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N33/00—Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups G01N1/00 - G01N31/00
- G01N33/48—Biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Haemocytometers
- G01N33/483—Physical analysis of biological material
- G01N33/487—Physical analysis of biological material of liquid biological material
- G01N33/49—Blood
- G01N33/491—Blood by separating the blood components
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L3/00—Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glassware; Droppers
- B01L3/50—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes
- B01L3/502—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures
- B01L3/5021—Test tubes specially adapted for centrifugation purposes
- B01L3/50215—Test tubes specially adapted for centrifugation purposes using a float to separate phases
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L9/00—Supporting devices; Holding devices
- B01L9/06—Test-tube stands; Test-tube holders
- B01L9/065—Test-tube stands; Test-tube holders specially adapted for capillary tubes
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N15/00—Investigating characteristics of particles; Investigating permeability, pore-volume, or surface-area of porous materials
- G01N15/04—Investigating sedimentation of particle suspensions
- G01N15/042—Investigating sedimentation of particle suspensions by centrifuging and investigating centrifugates
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N15/00—Investigating characteristics of particles; Investigating permeability, pore-volume, or surface-area of porous materials
- G01N15/04—Investigating sedimentation of particle suspensions
- G01N15/05—Investigating sedimentation of particle suspensions in blood
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06T—IMAGE DATA PROCESSING OR GENERATION, IN GENERAL
- G06T7/00—Image analysis
- G06T7/0002—Inspection of images, e.g. flaw detection
- G06T7/0012—Biomedical image inspection
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L2300/00—Additional constructional details
- B01L2300/02—Identification, exchange or storage of information
- B01L2300/025—Displaying results or values with integrated means
- B01L2300/027—Digital display, e.g. LCD, LED
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L2300/00—Additional constructional details
- B01L2300/06—Auxiliary integrated devices, integrated components
- B01L2300/0609—Holders integrated in container to position an object
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L2300/00—Additional constructional details
- B01L2300/06—Auxiliary integrated devices, integrated components
- B01L2300/0627—Sensor or part of a sensor is integrated
- B01L2300/0654—Lenses; Optical fibres
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L2300/00—Additional constructional details
- B01L2300/08—Geometry, shape and general structure
- B01L2300/0832—Geometry, shape and general structure cylindrical, tube shaped
- B01L2300/0838—Capillaries
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N15/00—Investigating characteristics of particles; Investigating permeability, pore-volume, or surface-area of porous materials
- G01N15/04—Investigating sedimentation of particle suspensions
- G01N15/042—Investigating sedimentation of particle suspensions by centrifuging and investigating centrifugates
- G01N2015/045—Investigating sedimentation of particle suspensions by centrifuging and investigating centrifugates by optical analysis
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N2800/00—Detection or diagnosis of diseases
- G01N2800/22—Haematology
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06T—IMAGE DATA PROCESSING OR GENERATION, IN GENERAL
- G06T2207/00—Indexing scheme for image analysis or image enhancement
- G06T2207/30—Subject of image; Context of image processing
- G06T2207/30004—Biomedical image processing
- G06T2207/30024—Cell structures in vitro; Tissue sections in vitro
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Hematology (AREA)
- Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Pathology (AREA)
- Biochemistry (AREA)
- Immunology (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Dispersion Chemistry (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Clinical Laboratory Science (AREA)
- Ecology (AREA)
- Biophysics (AREA)
- Molecular Biology (AREA)
- Urology & Nephrology (AREA)
- Food Science & Technology (AREA)
- Medicinal Chemistry (AREA)
- Medical Informatics (AREA)
- Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging (AREA)
- Radiology & Medical Imaging (AREA)
- Quality & Reliability (AREA)
- Computer Vision & Pattern Recognition (AREA)
- Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
- Centrifugal Separators (AREA)
- Investigating Or Analysing Biological Materials (AREA)
- Automatic Analysis And Handling Materials Therefor (AREA)
Abstract
A method and device for analyzing a hematologic sample centrifuged within a capillary tube is provided. The device includes a tube holder, a sample imaging device, a processor, and a sample data display. The sample imaging device is operable to create a digital image of the sample within a region of the tube. The region is defined by substantially all of the radial width and axial length of the sample residing within the internal cavity of the tube in the region where the float resides after centrifugation. The sample imaging device is operable to produce signals representative of the image. The processor is adapted to produce information relating to bands of interest within the image based on the signals from the sample imaging device. The sample data display is adapted to display the results therefrom and/or a digital image of the sample within the region.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/305,449 filed Feb. 17, 2010 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/351,138 filed Jun. 3, 2010, each of which applications is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,027,660; 4,091,659; 4,137,755; 4,209,226; 4,558,947; 4,683,579; 5,132,087; 5,888,184; and 6,441,890 describe methods and apparatus for hematological analysis using a capillary tube and a space occupying insert that floats on the centrifuged red blood cells thereby expanding the surrounding buffy coat and permitting the measurement and quantization of the blood's layers. This method permits the determination of a compete blood count (CBC) consisting of hematocrit, a hemoglobin determination, a total white blood cell count with the latter presented as a total and percent granulocytes and total and percent lymphocytes plus monocytes, as well as a platelet count and a mean red cell hemoglobin concentration. It is widely used through the world for performing point of care CBC in human and veterinary medicine. The device, formerly manufactured and sold by Becton Dickinson, Inc. of New Jersey U.S.A. is now manufactured and sold by QBC Diagnostics, Inc., of Pennsylvania, U.S.A. The apparatus is sold under the trademark of QBC® hematology. The capillary tubes are referred to in the industry as “QBC® tubes”.
- The QBC® hematology system includes a number of different complex instruments for reading the QBC® tubes, each of which has an illumination system, a power source, an imaging and optical system, a microprocessor, and a display. These devices can cost anywhere from several hundred to many thousands of U.S. dollars. The current versions of both the stand-alone reader and the integral reader-centrifuge (QBC® STAR reader) provide for a linear scan of the tube, either while it is stationary in the case of the stand-alone reader or while the centrifuge is in motion, as is the case with the QBC® STAR reader. In both cases, the linear scan is limited to scanning a single axially extending line scan of the tube, which evaluates only a thin stripe of the area of interest within the tube. Because this method of scanning can only scan a thin stripe of the area of interest at a given time, it is necessary to take multiple axially extending scans taken at different circumferential positions of the tube to determine which of the scans can be used for analytical purposes. By looking at several different scans, each taken at a different circumferential position, it is possible to ascertain whether any particular scan is representative of the sample or if it contains an unrepresentative anomaly. Also, because of the narrow scan, the mechanical and optical alignment of the instrument must be held to a very high tolerance, which also increases the cost of the device.
- This is particularly true in the case of the QBC® STAR reader, because the QBC® tube is read while the centrifuge is in motion, necessitating an elaborate timing system to ensure that illumination occurs exactly when the tube is in position under the linear scanning device (e.g., CCD scanner). Another, related problem is the need to provide elaborate vibration damping so that the relative tube and reader position be maintained during this process.
- These considerations force the analysis tube readers to have a relatively high price, which limits the market size for the QBC® hematology system because health care providers are reluctant and/or unable to make the requisite equipment investment when the equipment is only used for a few tests per day. In those instances when the point of care giver does not have the analysis equipment, the patient is subjected to the significant inconvenience, harm and expense of having to go to a private laboratory and having to wait often several days to get the result. The lack of an analysis device also makes the physician's job more difficult by precluding immediate results at the point of care. Additionally, regulatory requirements of the United States require that the providers of the test be subject to regulatory supervision under the CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act) laws.
- What is needed, therefore, is a simple, inexpensive, robust method for reading the centrifuged blood sample at the point of care with immediate availability of results while the health care providers are still with the patient. In addition, a method and device are needed that can provide accuracy results and methodological adherence to proper analytic techniques, as well as quality control measures, particularly those that will permit CLIA waiving, which is subject to less burdensome regulations.
- According to one aspect of the present invention, a device for analyzing a hematologic sample centrifuged within a capillary tube is provided. The tube has an internal compartment with a radial width and an axial length and a float disposed within the tube. The device includes a tube holder, a sample imaging device, a processor, and a sample data display. The sample imaging device is operable to create a digital image of the sample within a region of the tube. The region is defined by substantially all of the radial width and axial length of the sample residing within the internal cavity of the tube in the region where the float resides after centrifugation. The sample imaging device is operable to produce signals representative of the image. The processor is adapted to produce information relating to bands of interest within the image based on the signals from the sample imaging device. The sample data display is adapted to display the results therefrom and/or a digital image of the sample within the region.
- According to another aspect of the present invention, a method of analyzing a hematologic sample deposited within a capillary tube is provided. The tube has an internal cavity with a radial width and an axial length, and a float disposed within the tube. The method includes the steps of: a) centrifuging the sample to create constituent bands within the sample disposed in the tube; b) creating an image of a region of the centrifuged sample, which region is defined by substantially all of the radial width and axial length of the sample residing within the internal cavity of the tube in a region where the float resides after centrifugation; c) determining a position for one or more band boundaries using the image; and d) producing analysis results based on the determined band boundaries.
- Advantages associated with the present analysis device include the provision of a less expensive, and easier to manufacture, analysis device. The imaging of substantially all of the radial width and a significant portion of the axial length of a centrifuged sample within a capillary tube eliminates many problems associated with narrow linear array sensing. For example, prior art linear array sensing is susceptible to circumferentially located bandwidth anomalies; e.g., if the bandwidth at a particular circumferential position is irregularly too small or too big, data based on that band width will be inaccurate. For this reason, the prior art devices take multiple linear array sensings at non-contiguous circumferential positions and average those sensings, or otherwise compare them to one another for accuracy. The prior art devices, therefore, require hardware that can rotate one or both of the linear sensing array and the sample. The hardware must also be able to provide very accurate mechanical and optical alignment of the instrument relative to the sample, and in the case of a dynamic sensing device like the QBC® STAR reader, also provide elaborate imaging controls and vibration damping. The present device also provides significant quality control mechanisms.
- On the other hand, the prior art linear imaging had the advantage of minimal geometric distortion. Since all prior art imaging data was in the form of a narrow linear segment taken at a right angle to the tube as it was scanned, each band position was exactly related to its digital representation. In the case of the image array as used in the present device, in which the tube is positioned some distance from the imaging lens and camera, the bands in the tube are foreshortened in proportion to their distance from the center of the optical axis, and the sides of the tube are particularly affected by this effect, sometimes making them appear crescent shaped. This geometric distortion, in addition to any other distortions from the lens, is preferably accounted for in order to enhance the accuracy of the results. For example, the geometric distortion can be accounted for by using a correction table which accounts for each pixel, or regions in the image. The correction table can be used to re-map the image so that the image positions correctly correspond to the actual locations on the tube surface. This type of correction table can be automatically generated by imaging and analyzing a known ‘calibration’ standard or if only geometric distortion is involved, the corrections can be simply calculated based on the known distances involved. Alternatively, the geometric distortion can be accounted for by correcting the band lengths following their preliminary measurement.
- The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent in light of the following drawings and detailed description of the present invention.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the present invention hematology analysis device. -
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a capillary tube. -
FIG. 3 is an enlarged partial view of a tube such as that shown inFIG. 2 . - Referring to
FIGS. 1-3 , a blood sample for analysis within the QBC® hematology system is typically obtained either from a venous or capillary sample, centrifuged in a simple, small dedicated centrifuge which may be either battery powered or AC powered. U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,027,660; 4,683,579 and 6,441,890, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, describe methods and apparatus for hematological analysis using a capillary tube and a space occupying insert that floats on the centrifuged red blood cells thereby expanding the surrounding buffy coat and permitting the measurement and quantization of the blood's layers. Thecapillary tube 10 includes a body that extends between a closedbottom 12 and an open top 14. In some embodiments, the “closed bottom” may be vented to allow the escape of gas. The open top 14 provides access to aninternal cavity 16 that has a radial width 18 and an axially extendinglength 20. In those embodiments where thetube 10 is cylindrical, the radial width 18 is the inner diameter of thetube 10. The present invention is not limited to use with any particular type of capillary tube. U.S. Pat. No. 4,027,660, for example, describes a QBC® style capillary tube operable to contain a fluid sample and a volume occupying mass 22 (hereinafter referred to as a “float”), and the information available by virtue of the relative positioning of thefloat 22 within the sample after centrifugation. U.S. Pat. No. 6,444,436 describes a different style of capillary tube that can be used with the present invention; e.g., one having a polynomial (e.g., rectilinear) cross-sectional geometry.FIGS. 2 and 3 of the present application diagrammatically illustrate acapillary tube 10 with a sample and afloat 22 disposed in theinternal cavity 16 of thetube 10. The centrifuged sample disposed in thetube 10 illustrates the constituent bands 24 (24 a, 24 b, 24 c, 24 d, 24 e) and the band boundaries 25 (25 a, 25 b, 25 c, 25 d) therebetween. U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,683,579 and 6,441,890 describe automated devices for reading the centrifuged sample by way of an axially extending linear scan of a limited portion of the sample disposed within the QBC® tube, which limited linear portion is disposed at a particular circumferential position of thetube 10. - The present invention analysis device operates with a
capillary tube 10 such as those provided within a QBC® hematology system; i.e., atube 10 filled with a sample that has been centrifuged to produce the separated constituent layers (i.e., “bands”) 24 within the sample. One embodiment of thepresent analysis device 28 includes ahousing 30 containing atube holder 32, asample imaging device 34, aprocessor 36 adapted to produce information relating to bands 24 of interest within the image based on the signals from thesample imaging device 34, asample data display 38, and may include anoperator input device 40 that enables the operator to enter relevant patient information. - In some embodiments, the
analysis device 28 further includes acentrifuge 42 with aplaten 44 configured to hold one or morecapillary tubes 10 in a position where thetubes 10 extend radially outward from a central axis. In these embodiments, theanalysis device 28 can perform both the centrifugation and the image analysis. Thecentrifuge 42 is operable to centrifugally spin thetube 10 containing the sample about the central axis at speeds sufficient to create constituent layer separation within the sample disposed in thetube 10. In these embodiments, theplaten 44 is an example of atube holder 32. In other embodiments, thetube holder 32 may be independent of thecentrifuge 42. - The
sample imaging device 34 includes a digital camera operable to image substantially all of the radial width 18 andaxial length 20 of the sample residing within theinternal cavity 16 of thetube 10 in the region 46 (seeFIG. 3 ) where thefloat 22 resides after centrifugation in a single image, and to produce signals representative of the image. In the preferred embodiments, thesample imaging device 34 is operable to image aregion 48 comprising substantially all of the radial width 18 andaxial length 20 of the sample within thetube 10 in a single image, and to produce signals representative of the image. Alternately, two or more cameras can be used to image separate portions of thetube 10, which portions are contiguous with one another. The images of the contiguous regions can be subsequently combined and analyzed or are separately analyzed. Either the digital camera itself, or an independent light source within thesample imaging device 34, provides sufficient lighting so that bands 24 of interest within the centrifuged sample may be differentiated within the sample image. The optical resolution of the camera must be sufficient to provide adequate clarity within the image for the analysis at hand; e.g., to differentiate bands 24 of interest. As indicated above, thesample imaging device 34 may be incorporated into a QBC® tube type reader, or may be an independent device (e.g., a portable digital camera, a cell phone camera, etc.) configured for use with such a reader. An example of an acceptable digital camera is a Bayer-type matrix color camera. If, for example, a standard Aptina® five megapixel color camera chip with a frame width of 2592 pixels is used, it can produce a theoretical image resolution of 0.02 mm, which is acceptable for most analyses. If a color camera is used, color filters and different illumination types are likely not required. A grey scaled camera may also be used because the separated buffy coat layers have different light scattering properties and may therefore be detected using a black and white camera, although this measurement is less robust and requires more controlled illumination. Thesample imaging device 34 may be described as an “area-array imaging device” because it images substantially all of the radial width 18 andaxial length 20 of the sample within theinterior cavity 16. If a plurality of cameras is used within the presentsample imaging device 34, the images they produce are contiguous with one another thereby permitting the plurality of images to be combined into a single representative image. The linear scan devices of the prior art, in contrast, are limited to producing narrow linear segments that do not extend across the full radial width 18, and the circumferential linear segments are not contiguous with each other. As a result, the circumferentially positioned linear segments cannot be combined into a single representative image. Examples of acceptable independent light sources include white and/or blue LEDs, operable either in a steady state mode or in the case of the QBC® STAR type reader, in a pulsed mode. The relative blue spectrum of a white LED or the inclusion of a separate blue LED can excite the fluorescence of a dye such as Acridine Orange in thetube 10. - The
processor 36 is adapted (e.g., programmed) to perform several tasks, including: a) controlling thesample imaging device 34 based on the analysis at hand; b) controlling thecentrifuge 42 for those embodiments that include one; c) receiving and acting on operator input entered through theoperator input device 40; and d) producing information relating to bands 24 of interest within the image based on the signals from thesample imaging device 34. The extent of the information relating to the bands 24 can vary depending upon the embodiment of thedevice 28. For example, theprocessor 36 may be adapted to provide information relating to the adequacy of the sample image, and/or with algorithmic capability that is operable to analyze the signals representative of the sample image and produce data (e.g., CBC, hematocrit, WBC count, etc.) relating thereto based on characteristics of the different bands 24 within the centrifuged sample. In some applications, theprocessor 36 can be adapted to produce graphic markings based on the analysis of the sample that can be superimposed over the sample image when displayed to illustrate the calculated band boundaries 25 relative to the sample image. Using the analysis of a blood sample as an example, graphic markings can be used to identify features such as the: a) bottom of thetube 10; b) bottom of thefloat 22; c) red blood cell/granulocyte interphase; d) granulocyte/lymphocyte and monocyte interphase; e) lymphocyte and monocyte/platelet interphase; f) platelet/plasma interphase; g) top of thefloat 22; h) plasma/air interphase; etc. - The sample data display 38 is in communication with the
processor 36 and includes a display screen. The display screen is an electronic screen (e.g., flat screen LED, LCD, etc.) operable to display the calculated results and/or a digital image of the sample residing within the centrifuged sample with sufficient optical resolution so that the image can be evaluated by a technician operator to provide the information pertaining to the bands 24 of interest within the centrifuged sample. In those embodiments that include an operator input device 40 (e.g., key pad, touch screen, etc.), theoperator input device 40 allows the operator to enter relevant patient or other information, if desired. Thesample display 38 may be integral with thehousing 30, or it may be an independent device in communication with theprocessor 36. For example, universal monitors are often used in medical facilities, which monitors have the capability of displaying data from more than one analysis device. In such an application, the data to be displayed may be viewed on an integral display screen and/or a remotely located display device in communication with theprocessor 36. - In some embodiments, the
analysis device 28 includes acommunication port 50 for sending the signals representative of the sample image to a remote location. Thecommunication port 50 can be a hardwire port for communicating by hardwire connection to a remote site, or it can be a wireless communication connection (e.g., similar to that used in a wireless phone). - In some embodiments, fiduciary marks 52 (i.e., calibration, measurement marks, etc.) may be placed on or in the
capillary tube 10, or thetube holder 32, or on a measuring device positioned adjacent the tube 10 (e.g., a ruler) to facilitate geometric and/or optical calibration and thereby account for any image distortion introduced by the camera. In those instances where the fiduciary marks are placed on or in the tube, a particularly useful embodiment is one wherein the marks are positioned relative to the internal cavity to permit geometric evaluation of sample within the internal cavity. In those instances wherefiduciary marks 52 are disposed on a measuring device positioned adjacent thetube 10, the measurement device can measure along an axis that is maintained parallel to the lengthwise axis (e.g., axial direction) of thetube 10. In such embodiments, the measurement device is preferably in close proximity (e.g., in the same focal plane) as thesample tube 10. Alternately, a look-up-table can be provided by factory calibration to serve this function. During the image processing and analysis steps, the calibration information can be used to ensure correct length measurements of thetube 10 features, regardless of their position in the image frame or distance from the camera and can compensate for instrument-to-instrument differences. - A fluid sample (e.g., whole blood) is collected from a patient and deposited into a
capillary tube 10 such as those used in the QBC® hematology system for subsequent centrifugation. As indicated above, the centrifuge may be independent of, or incorporated into, theanalysis device 28. The sample is centrifuged for a period of time adequate to create constituent layer separation within the sample disposed in thetube 10, and the representative bands 24 associated therewith. The centrifuged sample is then imaged using thesample imaging device 34. The image includes substantially all of the radial width 18 andaxial length 20 of the sample residing within theinternal cavity 16 of thetube 10 in the region where thefloat 22 resides after centrifugation. Becausecapillary tubes 10 are not always filled with the exact same volume of fluid sample, thesample imaging device 34 preferably images theregion 48 of thetube 10 from the top meniscus to the bottom of the red blood cell layer. It is desirable, but not required, that the bottom of thetube 10 be imaged as well. If the sample being imaged is disposed within a STAR type QBC® tube, for example, the total length between the tube bottom to the tube top fill position is approximately 53 mm. The distance from the tube top fill position to the bottom of thefloat 22 in most instances is about 37 mm. In thosedevice 28 embodiments that include a centrifuge, the sample may be centrifuged and the centrifuge subsequently stopped or slowed to a very low RPM prior to the imaging. Thesample imaging device 34 produces signals representative of each image and communicates those signals to theprocessor 36. - The images signals are subsequently analyzed within the
processor 36 using image processing algorithms to isolate and analyze the bands 24 of interest within the sample, and in some instances relevant sections of the bands 24. Before or after the image signals are analyzed, the image signals may be sent to the sample data display 38 for evaluation by the operator. The ability to have an operator visually evaluate an image that includes substantially all of the radial width 18 of the sample within thetube 10, and a relevant portion of theaxial length 20 of the sample is a substantial advancement of the technology. A person of skill in the art will recognize that no automated system can account for all potential variables within the sample image. For example, during the centrifugation process, there is a chance that sample will exit thecapillary tube 10 and pass into the retaining tube of the centrifuge. In such instances, the released sample can contaminate the exterior of thecapillary tube 10 and inhibit accurate analysis. Similarly, a misplaced tube label or debris deposited on the exterior of thecapillary tube 10 during handling can also inhibit or prevent accurate analysis. In these instances, the ability of thepresent device 28 to produce a single substantially complete image of the centrifuged sample will enable the operator to identify such potential problems and take appropriate action. As another example, the image available with thepresent device 28 will also enable the operator to evaluate other aspects of the sample image for potential problems; e.g., overall image quality, accuracy of sample coloration, the degree to which a blood sample may be lipemic or icteric, etc. In those applications where the operator evaluates the image after processing and boundary markings are assigned by theprocessor 36, the operator can evaluate whether the assigned boundary markings are accurately positioned relative to the sample image. Hence, the ability to have an operator visually evaluate an image using thepresent device 28 provides considerable quality controls to the analysis process. It should be emphasized that the present instrument, as described herein, may be used in locations where trained operators are present, and also locations where no trained operators are present (e.g., a CLIA-waived environment). In the latter type location, the sample images captured by thepresent device 28 may be sent to a remotely located trained operator for analysis. If it is not possible to have a trained operator review the image and/or results within a predetermined period of time, thepresent device 28 may be programmed to prevent the release of any data if the sample image has any detectable anomalies. A visual image analysis is preferable in that the criteria for analysis rejection can be loosened, but a purely automated analysis (e.g., that checks for anomalies) is preferable to no analysis at all. - The extent to which the
present device 28 images the centrifuged sample within thetube 10 makes possible another quality control mechanism. As indicated above, thepresent device 28 images substantially all of the radial width 18 and a significant portion of the axial length of the centrifuged sample. In some instances, the radial portion of the image can be expanded to a point outside of thecapillary tube 10 to include other imageable features such as calibration markers or areas. The image characteristics associated with the regions outside of thecapillary tube 10 can be compared against the characteristics of the region inside thetube 10. Inconsistencies identified by the comparison of the characteristics (e.g., brightness) can be used to evaluate the accuracy of the image. This type of quality control is not possible using the prior art reading devices that utilize a linear scanning device, which has essentially only a one pixel width. - Although the invention has been described and illustrated with respect to exemplary embodiments thereof, the foregoing and various other additions and omissions may be made therein and thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Claims (20)
1. A device for analyzing a hematologic sample centrifuged within a capillary tube, which tube has an internal compartment with a radial width and an axial length and a float disposed within the tube, the device comprising:
a tube holder;
a sample imaging device, operable to create a digital image of the sample within a region of the tube, which region is defined by substantially all of the radial width and axial length of the sample residing within the internal cavity of the tube in the region where the float resides after centrifugation, and to a produce signals representative of the image;
a processor adapted to produce information relating to the image based on the signals from the sample imaging device;
a sample data display adapted to display the information relating to the digital image of the sample within the region.
2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the sample data display is further adapted to display the information from the processor.
3. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a communication port adapted to send the signals representative of the image to a location remote from the device.
4. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a centrifuge with a platen configured to hold at least one capillary tube in a position where the tube extends radially outward from a central axis, and is operable to centrifugally spin the tube containing the sample about the central axis at speeds sufficient to create constituent layer separation within the sample disposed in the tube.
5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the sample imaging device includes one or more digital cameras.
6. The device of claim 5 , wherein the digital camera is operable to create a single image of the region of the tube, wherein the region is defined by substantially all of the width and axial length of the sample within the tube.
7. The device of claim 5 , wherein the digital camera is a Bayer-type matrix color camera.
8. The device of claim 5 , wherein the digital camera is a grey-scaled black and white camera.
9. The device of claim 1 , wherein the tube holder, sample imaging device, processor, and sample data display are mounted in or on a housing.
10. A method of analyzing a hematologic sample deposited within a capillary tube, which tube has an internal cavity with a radial width and an axial length, and a float disposed within the tube, the method comprising the steps of:
centrifuging the sample to create constituent bands within the sample disposed in the tube;
creating an image of a region of the centrifuged sample, which region is defined by substantially all of the radial width and axial length of the sample residing within the internal cavity of the tube in a region where the float resides after centrifugation;
determining a position for one or more band boundaries using the image; and
producing analysis results based on the determined band boundaries.
11. The method of claim 10 , further comprising the step of displaying the image.
12. The method of claim 11 , further comprising the step of superimposing graphic markings in the displayed image at positions of the determined band boundaries.
13. The method of claim 10 , wherein the image is created using a digital camera.
14. The method of claim 13 , wherein the step of creating the image includes creating a single image of the region of the tube using the digital camera, wherein the region is defined by substantially all of the width and axial length of the sample within the tube.
15. The method of claim 10 , further comprising the step of transmitting the image of the region of the centrifuged sample tube to a location remote from an image location where the image was created.
16. The method of claim 15 , further comprising the step of analyzing the image at the remote location and producing data relating to the analysis, and transmitting the analysis data back to the image location.
17. The method of claim 15 , further comprising the step of analyzing the image at the remote location for quality control and producing quality control data, and transmitting the quality control data back to the image location.
18. A capillary tube, comprising:
a body having an internal cavity, an open top, and a vented bottom, wherein the internal cavity extends between the open top and the vented bottom, and is sized to permit the entry of liquid into the internal cavity through the open top by capillary action; and
fiduciary marks on or in the body, which marks are operable to permit geometric evaluation of sample within the internal cavity.
19. The tube of claim 18 , wherein the fiduciary marks are positioned relative to the internal cavity to permit geometric evaluation of sample within the internal cavity.
20. The tube of claim 18 , wherein the body is a generally cylindrical.
Priority Applications (6)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/016,347 US20110201045A1 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2011-01-28 | Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube |
EP11706990A EP2536505A1 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2011-02-17 | Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube |
PCT/US2011/025233 WO2011103281A1 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2011-02-17 | Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube |
CN201180019527.3A CN102985181B (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2011-02-17 | Array imaging system imaging and analysis centrifugal analyzer tube is used to perform the method and apparatus of analysis of Hematology Changes |
US15/207,074 US10585084B2 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2016-07-11 | Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube |
US16/812,959 US20200278341A1 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2020-03-09 | Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US30544910P | 2010-02-17 | 2010-02-17 | |
US35113810P | 2010-06-03 | 2010-06-03 | |
US13/016,347 US20110201045A1 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2011-01-28 | Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US15/207,074 Continuation US10585084B2 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2016-07-11 | Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20110201045A1 true US20110201045A1 (en) | 2011-08-18 |
Family
ID=44369681
Family Applications (4)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/016,392 Active 2032-04-06 US8774487B2 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2011-01-28 | Method and apparatus for remotely performing hematologic analysis utilizing a transmitted image of a centrifuged analysis tube |
US13/016,347 Abandoned US20110201045A1 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2011-01-28 | Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube |
US15/207,074 Active US10585084B2 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2016-07-11 | Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube |
US16/812,959 Abandoned US20200278341A1 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2020-03-09 | Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/016,392 Active 2032-04-06 US8774487B2 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2011-01-28 | Method and apparatus for remotely performing hematologic analysis utilizing a transmitted image of a centrifuged analysis tube |
Family Applications After (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US15/207,074 Active US10585084B2 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2016-07-11 | Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube |
US16/812,959 Abandoned US20200278341A1 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2020-03-09 | Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (4) | US8774487B2 (en) |
EP (2) | EP2536505A1 (en) |
CN (2) | CN102971077B (en) |
WO (2) | WO2011103281A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11161109B2 (en) | 2019-09-19 | 2021-11-02 | Invidx Corp. | Point-of-care testing cartridge with sliding cap |
US11327084B2 (en) | 2019-09-19 | 2022-05-10 | Invidx Corp. | Joint hematology and biochemistry point-of-care testing system |
Families Citing this family (34)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10426356B2 (en) | 2011-07-09 | 2019-10-01 | Gauss Surgical, Inc. | Method for estimating a quantity of a blood component in a fluid receiver and corresponding error |
US8897523B2 (en) | 2011-07-09 | 2014-11-25 | Gauss Surgical | System and method for counting surgical samples |
US9870625B2 (en) | 2011-07-09 | 2018-01-16 | Gauss Surgical, Inc. | Method for estimating a quantity of a blood component in a fluid receiver and corresponding error |
US9646375B2 (en) | 2011-07-09 | 2017-05-09 | Gauss Surgical, Inc. | Method for setting a blood transfusion parameter |
IN2014DN10121A (en) | 2012-05-14 | 2015-08-21 | Gauss Surgical | |
EP2850559B1 (en) | 2012-05-14 | 2021-02-24 | Gauss Surgical, Inc. | System and method for estimating a quantity of a blood component in a fluid canister |
US10641644B2 (en) | 2012-07-09 | 2020-05-05 | Gauss Surgical, Inc. | System and method for estimating an amount of a blood component in a volume of fluid |
CN103604484B (en) * | 2013-10-29 | 2017-02-22 | 北京利德曼生化股份有限公司 | Liquid level detection device for full-automatic biochemical analyzer reaction disc |
US9590933B2 (en) * | 2013-11-14 | 2017-03-07 | Empire Technology Development Llc | Generation of a communication request based on visual selection |
WO2015160997A1 (en) | 2014-04-15 | 2015-10-22 | Gauss Surgical, Inc. | Method for estimating a quantity of a blood component in a fluid canister |
US9773320B2 (en) | 2014-04-15 | 2017-09-26 | Gauss Surgical, Inc. | Method for estimating a quantity of a blood component in a fluid canister |
WO2016187070A1 (en) | 2015-05-15 | 2016-11-24 | Gauss Surgical, Inc. | Method for projecting blood loss of a patient during a surgery |
WO2016187072A1 (en) | 2015-05-15 | 2016-11-24 | Gauss Surgical, Inc. | Methods and systems for characterizing fluids from a patient |
WO2016187071A1 (en) | 2015-05-15 | 2016-11-24 | Gauss Surgical, Inc. | Systems and methods for assessing fluids from a patient |
WO2017112939A1 (en) | 2015-12-23 | 2017-06-29 | Gauss Surgical, Inc. | Method for estimating blood component quantities in surgical textiles |
US10527635B1 (en) | 2015-12-31 | 2020-01-07 | Cerner Innovation, Inc. | Specimen integrity monitoring device for automated blood sample processing systems |
US10267813B1 (en) * | 2015-12-31 | 2019-04-23 | Cerner Innovation, Inc. | Monitoring specimen integrity in automated blood sample processing system |
US10311569B1 (en) | 2015-12-31 | 2019-06-04 | Cerner Innovation, Inc. | Identifying liquid blood components from sensed data to monitor specimen integrity |
US10209267B1 (en) | 2015-12-31 | 2019-02-19 | Cerner Innovation, Inc. | Sample extraction and rotation device for automated blood sample processing systems |
US9958665B2 (en) * | 2016-05-11 | 2018-05-01 | Bonraybio Co., Ltd. | Testing equipment with magnifying function |
CN106056612B (en) * | 2016-06-03 | 2019-01-11 | 盈开生物科技(上海)有限公司 | Blood layered recognition method |
RU2762936C2 (en) | 2016-10-28 | 2021-12-24 | Бекман Каултер, Инк. | System for assessing substance preparation |
JP7268879B2 (en) | 2017-01-02 | 2023-05-08 | ガウス サージカル,インコーポレイテッド | Tracking Surgical Items Predicting Duplicate Imaging |
US11229368B2 (en) | 2017-01-13 | 2022-01-25 | Gauss Surgical, Inc. | Fluid loss estimation based on weight of medical items |
EP3357842B1 (en) | 2017-02-03 | 2022-03-23 | Roche Diagnostics GmbH | Laboratory automation system |
US11108575B2 (en) | 2017-07-26 | 2021-08-31 | Amazon Technologies, Inc. | Training models for IOT devices |
US11902396B2 (en) | 2017-07-26 | 2024-02-13 | Amazon Technologies, Inc. | Model tiering for IoT device clusters |
US10980085B2 (en) * | 2017-07-26 | 2021-04-13 | Amazon Technologies, Inc. | Split predictions for IoT devices |
GB2573126B (en) | 2018-04-24 | 2022-11-09 | Entia Ltd | A method and apparatus for determining haemoglobin concentration |
EP3801861A1 (en) * | 2018-06-07 | 2021-04-14 | Wilco AG | Method and apparatus for monitoring a drive mechanism of an automated inspection system for inducing motion to a container partially filled with a liquid |
EP3839515A1 (en) * | 2019-12-18 | 2021-06-23 | Roche Diagnostics GmbH | Method and devices for assessing the suitability of a sample tube for use in a laboratory automation system |
US11611580B1 (en) | 2020-03-02 | 2023-03-21 | Amazon Technologies, Inc. | Malware infection detection service for IoT devices |
US11489853B2 (en) | 2020-05-01 | 2022-11-01 | Amazon Technologies, Inc. | Distributed threat sensor data aggregation and data export |
GB2617833A (en) * | 2022-04-19 | 2023-10-25 | Entia Ltd | An analysis apparatus and method |
Citations (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4027660A (en) * | 1976-04-02 | 1977-06-07 | Wardlaw Stephen C | Material layer volume determination |
US4259012A (en) * | 1979-11-19 | 1981-03-31 | Wardlaw Stephen C | Blood count reader |
US4558947A (en) * | 1983-11-07 | 1985-12-17 | Wardlaw Stephen C | Method and apparatus for measuring blood constituent counts |
US5132087A (en) * | 1989-10-16 | 1992-07-21 | Kristen L Manion | Apparatus for measuring blood constituent counts |
US5888184A (en) * | 1997-03-10 | 1999-03-30 | Robert A. Levine | Method for rapid measurement of cell layers |
US6197523B1 (en) * | 1997-11-24 | 2001-03-06 | Robert A. Levine | Method for the detection, identification, enumeration and confirmation of circulating cancer and/or hematologic progenitor cells in whole blood |
US6285450B1 (en) * | 1998-03-02 | 2001-09-04 | Bradley S. Thomas | Blood centrifugation device with movable optical reader |
US6444436B1 (en) * | 2000-02-22 | 2002-09-03 | David L. Rimm | Evacuated container assembly for analysis of a blood sample for the presence or absence of rare events |
US6506606B1 (en) * | 1995-06-06 | 2003-01-14 | Brigham And Women's Hospital | Method and apparatus for determining erythrocyte sedimentation rate and hematocrit |
US20080179301A1 (en) * | 2006-08-25 | 2008-07-31 | Guy Garty | Systems and methods for etching materials |
Family Cites Families (21)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1634711A (en) | 1925-12-15 | 1927-07-05 | Edward Haas | Wrapping machine |
US1639211A (en) | 1926-10-22 | 1927-08-16 | James A Campo | Nut lock |
US4137755A (en) * | 1976-09-20 | 1979-02-06 | Wardlaw Stephen C | Material layer volume determination |
US4209226A (en) * | 1979-01-22 | 1980-06-24 | Levine Robert A | Optical viewing instrument including capillary tube and holder |
JPS5661650A (en) * | 1979-10-24 | 1981-05-27 | Omron Tateisi Electronics Co | Analyzing device of cell |
US4683579A (en) * | 1985-12-27 | 1987-07-28 | Wardlaw Stephen C | Method and apparatus for measuring blood constituent counts |
US5723285A (en) * | 1996-05-30 | 1998-03-03 | Levine; Robert A. | Assembly for detecting blood-borne parasites and measuring blood sample parameters in a centrifuged sample of blood |
CN1206832A (en) * | 1997-03-10 | 1999-02-03 | S·C·沃德罗 | Method for rapid measurement of cell layers |
US6911315B2 (en) * | 1997-11-24 | 2005-06-28 | David L. Rimm | Method for the detection, identification, enumeration and confirmation of virally infected cells and other epitopically defined cells in whole blood |
US6197532B1 (en) * | 1998-01-22 | 2001-03-06 | Board Of Supervisors Of Louisiana State University And Agricultural And Mechanical College | Diagnosis and detection of breast cancer and other cancers |
US6002474A (en) * | 1998-03-02 | 1999-12-14 | Becton Dickinson And Company | Method for using blood centrifugation device with movable optical reader |
JP2000329779A (en) * | 1999-05-19 | 2000-11-30 | Sefa Technology Kk | Sedimentation speed measuring method and its device |
US6388740B1 (en) * | 1999-06-22 | 2002-05-14 | Robert A. Levine | Method and apparatus for timing intermittent illumination of a sample tube positioned on a centrifuge platen and for calibrating a sample tube imaging system |
US6365104B1 (en) * | 1999-06-25 | 2002-04-02 | Becton Dickinson And Company | Assembly for analyzing blood samples |
CN1645139A (en) * | 2004-12-27 | 2005-07-27 | 长春迪瑞实业有限公司 | Method for analysing non-centrifugal urine by image identifying system |
US7499581B2 (en) * | 2005-02-10 | 2009-03-03 | Forhealth Technologies, Inc. | Vision system to calculate a fluid volume in a container |
JP4819119B2 (en) * | 2005-04-30 | 2011-11-24 | サムスン エレクトロニクス カンパニー リミテッド | Biodisc and biodriver device, and analysis method using the same |
JP2008040994A (en) * | 2006-08-09 | 2008-02-21 | Chugoku Electric Power Co Inc:The | Analysis management task support device and computer program for analysis management task support |
CN201184883Y (en) * | 2007-07-16 | 2009-01-21 | 山东优生医疗科技有限公司 | Full-automatic blood conventional intelligent analyzer |
US20090274348A1 (en) | 2008-04-30 | 2009-11-05 | Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Inc. | Immunodiagnostic test apparatus having at least one imager to provide agglutination evaluations during centrifugration cycle |
US7982201B2 (en) * | 2009-09-08 | 2011-07-19 | Jadak, Llc | System and method for detection of liquid level in a vessel |
-
2011
- 2011-01-28 US US13/016,392 patent/US8774487B2/en active Active
- 2011-01-28 US US13/016,347 patent/US20110201045A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2011-02-17 EP EP11706990A patent/EP2536505A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2011-02-17 EP EP11706991A patent/EP2536506A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2011-02-17 WO PCT/US2011/025233 patent/WO2011103281A1/en active Application Filing
- 2011-02-17 CN CN201180019479.8A patent/CN102971077B/en active Active
- 2011-02-17 WO PCT/US2011/025240 patent/WO2011103285A1/en active Application Filing
- 2011-02-17 CN CN201180019527.3A patent/CN102985181B/en active Active
-
2016
- 2016-07-11 US US15/207,074 patent/US10585084B2/en active Active
-
2020
- 2020-03-09 US US16/812,959 patent/US20200278341A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4027660A (en) * | 1976-04-02 | 1977-06-07 | Wardlaw Stephen C | Material layer volume determination |
US4259012A (en) * | 1979-11-19 | 1981-03-31 | Wardlaw Stephen C | Blood count reader |
US4558947A (en) * | 1983-11-07 | 1985-12-17 | Wardlaw Stephen C | Method and apparatus for measuring blood constituent counts |
US5132087A (en) * | 1989-10-16 | 1992-07-21 | Kristen L Manion | Apparatus for measuring blood constituent counts |
US6506606B1 (en) * | 1995-06-06 | 2003-01-14 | Brigham And Women's Hospital | Method and apparatus for determining erythrocyte sedimentation rate and hematocrit |
US5888184A (en) * | 1997-03-10 | 1999-03-30 | Robert A. Levine | Method for rapid measurement of cell layers |
US6197523B1 (en) * | 1997-11-24 | 2001-03-06 | Robert A. Levine | Method for the detection, identification, enumeration and confirmation of circulating cancer and/or hematologic progenitor cells in whole blood |
US6285450B1 (en) * | 1998-03-02 | 2001-09-04 | Bradley S. Thomas | Blood centrifugation device with movable optical reader |
US6444436B1 (en) * | 2000-02-22 | 2002-09-03 | David L. Rimm | Evacuated container assembly for analysis of a blood sample for the presence or absence of rare events |
US20080179301A1 (en) * | 2006-08-25 | 2008-07-31 | Guy Garty | Systems and methods for etching materials |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11161109B2 (en) | 2019-09-19 | 2021-11-02 | Invidx Corp. | Point-of-care testing cartridge with sliding cap |
US11327084B2 (en) | 2019-09-19 | 2022-05-10 | Invidx Corp. | Joint hematology and biochemistry point-of-care testing system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US10585084B2 (en) | 2020-03-10 |
CN102971077A (en) | 2013-03-13 |
US20200278341A1 (en) | 2020-09-03 |
EP2536506A1 (en) | 2012-12-26 |
WO2011103285A1 (en) | 2011-08-25 |
CN102985181A (en) | 2013-03-20 |
US20110200239A1 (en) | 2011-08-18 |
US8774487B2 (en) | 2014-07-08 |
WO2011103281A1 (en) | 2011-08-25 |
EP2536505A1 (en) | 2012-12-26 |
CN102971077B (en) | 2016-04-20 |
US20160320369A1 (en) | 2016-11-03 |
CN102985181B (en) | 2016-04-20 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20200278341A1 (en) | Method and apparatus for performing hematologic analysis using an array-imaging system for imaging and analysis of a centrifuged analysis tube | |
US8911679B2 (en) | Color-based reaction testing of biological materials | |
JP6927465B2 (en) | Model-based methods and equipment for classifying interfering factors in specimens | |
JP4911172B2 (en) | Analytical apparatus and use thereof | |
CN106233308B (en) | Systems, devices, and methods for sample integrity verification | |
EP2715611B1 (en) | Cell counting systems and methods | |
JP5330317B2 (en) | Biological sample analysis method and analyzer | |
EP2875351B1 (en) | Rapid measurement of formed blood component sedimentation rate from small sample volumes | |
CN109328356B (en) | Systems, devices, and related methods for assessing the integrity of a biological sample | |
WO2013173674A1 (en) | Fish eye lens analyzer | |
EP3252476A1 (en) | Liquid surface inspection device, automated analysis device, and processing device | |
JP2012159318A (en) | Analyzer | |
EP3532807A1 (en) | Assessment and control of reagents in automated slide preparation | |
JP2022507121A (en) | Methods and equipment for pia mater imaging | |
JP7386236B2 (en) | Method and apparatus for determining HILN using deep adaptation networks for both serum and plasma samples | |
US10591409B2 (en) | Systems, devices, and methods for sample integrity verification | |
CN209656550U (en) | A kind of blood plasma chyle and hemolysis test device based on camera | |
WO2023079436A1 (en) | Micromixer and method for concentration measurement of unknown sample |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: LEVINE, ROBERT A., CONNECTICUT Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:LEVINE, JOSHUA D.;REEL/FRAME:025823/0335 Effective date: 20101223 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |