U.S. patent application number 11/900637 was filed with the patent office on 2008-05-01 for systems and methods for pathogen detection and response.
This patent application is currently assigned to Searete LLC, a limited liability corporation. Invention is credited to Edward K.Y. Jung, Eric C. Leuthardt, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. JR. Rinaldo, Lowell L. JR. Wood.
Application Number | 20080103746 11/900637 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39201069 |
Filed Date | 2008-05-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080103746 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jung; Edward K.Y. ; et
al. |
May 1, 2008 |
Systems and methods for pathogen detection and response
Abstract
The present disclosure relates to methods and systems that may
be used for detection of one or more pathogens and determining one
or more agents in response to pathogen detection.
Inventors: |
Jung; Edward K.Y.;
(Bellevue, WA) ; Leuthardt; Eric C.; (St. Louis,
MO) ; Levien; Royce A.; (Lexington, MA) ;
Lord; Robert W.; (Seattle, WA) ; Malamud; Mark
A.; (Seattle, WA) ; Rinaldo; John D. JR.;
(Bellevue, WA) ; Wood; Lowell L. JR.; (Bellevue,
WA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SEARETE LLC;CLARENCE T. TEGREENE
1756 - 114TH AVE., S.E.
SUITE 110
BELLEVUE
WA
98004
US
|
Assignee: |
Searete LLC, a limited liability
corporation
|
Family ID: |
39201069 |
Appl. No.: |
11/900637 |
Filed: |
September 11, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Patent Number |
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11893608 |
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11900637 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
703/11 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y02A 90/10 20180101;
G16H 10/40 20180101; G01N 33/5302 20130101; G16H 20/10 20180101;
G01N 2035/00158 20130101; B01L 3/5027 20130101; G01N 33/54326
20130101; G01N 35/00029 20130101; G16H 70/60 20180101; G01N 33/569
20130101; G06F 21/6245 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
703/011 |
International
Class: |
G06G 7/48 20060101
G06G007/48 |
Claims
1. A method comprising: identifying one or more pathogens present
within one or more samples obtained from an individual through use
of one or more microfluidic chips; accepting input associated with
the individual from whom the one or more samples were obtained; and
determining one or more agents that can be used to reduce the
pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens.
2. (canceled)
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the identifying one or more
pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual through use of one or more microfluidic chips comprises:
processing the one or more samples with the one or more
microfluidic chips to facilitate analysis of one or more pathogen
indicators associated with the one or more samples.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the identifying one or more
pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual through use of one or more microfluidic chips comprises:
analyzing one or more pathogen indicators with one or more analysis
units that are configured to operably associate with the one or
more microfluidic chips.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the accepting input associated
with the individual from whom the one or more samples were obtained
comprises: accepting input associated with one or more parameters
related to the individual.
6. (canceled)
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining one or more
agents that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one
of the one or more pathogens comprises: identifying one or more
chemical agents that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of the
at least one of the one or more pathogens that are identified.
8.-9. (canceled)
10. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining one or more
agents that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one
of the one or more pathogens comprises: identifying the one or more
agents that are not contraindicated by one or more substances used
by the individual.
11. (canceled)
12. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining one or more
agents that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one
of the one or more pathogens comprises: identifying the one or more
agents in response to one or more parameters associated with the
individual.
13.-14. (canceled)
15. The method of claim 1, further comprising: displaying
information associated with the one or more agents.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the displaying information
associated with the one or more agents comprises: displaying an
identity of the one or more agents.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein the displaying information
associated with the one or more agents comprises: displaying dosage
information associated with the one or more agents.
18. The method of claim 15, wherein the displaying information
associated with the one or more agents comprises: displaying
instructions associated with use of the one or more agents.
19. The method of claim 15, wherein the displaying information
associated with the one or more agents comprises: displaying
information associated with cost of the one or more agents.
20. The method of claim 15, wherein the displaying information
associated with the one or more agents comprises: displaying
information associated with insurance coverage related to the one
or more agents.
21. The method of claim 15, wherein the displaying information
associated with the one or more agents comprises: displaying one or
more contraindications associated with the one or more agents.
22. The method of claim 1, further comprising: transmitting one or
more signals that include information associated with the one or
more agents.
23. The method of claim 22, wherein the transmitting one or more
signals that include information associated with the one or more
agents comprises: transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with the identity of one or more agents.
24. The method of claim 22, wherein the transmitting one or more
signals that include information associated with the one or more
agents comprises: transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with the individual.
25. The method of claim 22, wherein the transmitting one or more
signals that include information associated with the one or more
agents comprises: transmitting the one or more signals through use
of a secure connection.
26. The method of claim 22, wherein the transmitting one or more
signals that include information associated with the one or more
agents comprises: transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with the one or more pathogens.
27. (canceled)
28. The method of claim 22, wherein the transmitting one or more
signals that include information associated with the one or more
agents comprises: transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with one or more locations of the
individual.
29. A system comprising: a signal-bearing medium bearing: one or
more instructions for identifying one or more pathogens present
within one or more samples obtained from an individual through use
of one or more microfluidic chips; one or more instructions for
accepting input associated with the individual from whom the one or
more samples were obtained; and one or more instructions for
determining one or more agents that can be used to reduce the
pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens.
30. The system of claim 29, further comprising: one or more
instructions for displaying information associated with the one or
more agents.
31. The system of claim 29, further comprising: one or more
instructions for transmitting one or more signals that include
information associated with the one or more agents.
32. The system of claim 29, wherein the signal-bearing medium
includes a computer-readable medium.
33. The system of claim 29, wherein the signal-bearing medium
includes a recordable medium.
34. The system of claim 29, wherein the signal-bearing medium
includes a communications medium.
35. A system comprising: means for identifying one or more
pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual through use of one or more microfluidic chips; means for
accepting input associated with the individual from whom the one or
more samples were obtained; and means for determining one or more
agents that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one
of the one or more pathogens responsive to the means for
identifying one or more pathogens present within one or more
samples obtained from an individual through use of one or more
microfluidic chips and the means for accepting input associated
with the individual from whom the one or more samples were
obtained.
36. The system of claim 35, further comprising: means for
displaying information associated with the one or more agents.
37. The system of claim 35, further comprising: means for
transmitting one or more signals that include information
associated with the one or more agents.
38. A system comprising: circuitry for identifying one or more
pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual through use of one or more microfluidic chips; circuitry
for accepting input associated with the individual from whom the
one or more samples were obtained; and circuitry for determining
one or more agents that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of
at least one of the one or more pathogens responsive to the
circuitry for identifying one or more pathogens present within one
or more samples obtained from an individual through use of one or
more microfluidic chips and the circuitry for accepting input
associated with the individual from whom the one or more samples
were obtained.
39. (canceled)
40. The system of claim 38, wherein the circuitry for identifying
one or more pathogens present within one or more samples obtained
from an individual through use of one or more microfluidic chips
comprises: circuitry for processing the one or more samples with
the one or more microfluidic chips to facilitate analysis of one or
more pathogen indicators associated with the one or more
samples.
41. The system of claim 38, wherein the circuitry for identifying
one or more pathogens present within one or more samples obtained
from an individual through use of one or more microfluidic chips
comprises: circuitry for analyzing one or more pathogen indicators
with one or more analysis units that are configured to operably
associate with the one or more microfluidic chips.
42. The system of claim 38, wherein the circuitry for accepting
input associated with the individual from whom the one or more
samples were obtained comprises: circuitry for accepting input
associated with one or more parameters related to the
individual.
43. (canceled)
44. The system of claim 38, wherein the circuitry for determining
one or more agents that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of
at least one of the one or more pathogens responsive to the
circuitry for identifying one or more pathogens present within one
or more samples obtained from an individual through use of one or
more microfluidic chips and the circuitry for accepting input
associated with the individual from whom the one or more samples
were obtained comprises: circuitry for identifying one or more
chemical agents that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of the
at least one of the one or more pathogens that are identified.
45.-46. (canceled)
47. The system of claim 38, wherein the circuitry for determining
one or more agents that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of
at least one of the one or more pathogens responsive to the
circuitry for identifying one or more pathogens present within one
or more samples obtained from an individual through use of one or
more microfluidic chips and the circuitry for accepting input
associated with the individual from whom the one or more samples
were obtained comprises: circuitry for identifying the one or more
agents that are not contraindicated by one or more substances used
by the individual.
48. (canceled)
49. The system of claim 38, wherein the circuitry for determining
one or more agents that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of
at least one of the one or more pathogens responsive to the
circuitry for identifying one or more pathogens present within one
or more samples obtained from an individual through use of one or
more microfluidic chips and the circuitry for accepting input
associated with the individual from whom the one or more samples
were obtained comprises: circuitry for identifying the one or more
agents in response to one or more parameters associated with the
individual.
50.-51. (canceled)
52. The system of claim 38, further comprising: circuitry for
displaying information associated with the one or more agents.
53. The system of claim 52, wherein the circuitry for displaying
information associated with the one or more agents comprises:
circuitry for displaying an identity of the one or more agents.
54. The system of claim 52, wherein the circuitry for displaying
information associated with the one or more agents comprises:
circuitry for displaying dosage information associated with the one
or more agents.
55. The system of claim 52, wherein the circuitry for displaying
information associated with the one or more agents comprises:
circuitry for displaying instructions associated with use of the
one or more agents.
56. The system of claim 52, wherein the circuitry for displaying
information associated with the one or more agents comprises:
circuitry for displaying information associated with cost of the
one or more agents.
57. The system of claim 52, wherein the circuitry for displaying
information associated with the one or more agents comprises:
circuitry for displaying information associated with insurance
coverage related to the one or more agents.
58. The system of claim 52, wherein the circuitry for displaying
information associated with the one or more agents comprises:
circuitry for displaying one or more contraindications associated
with the one or more agents.
59. The system of claim 38, further comprising: circuitry for
transmitting one or more signals that include information
associated with the one or more agents.
60. The system of claim 59, wherein the circuitry for transmitting
one or more signals that include information associated with the
one or more agents comprises: circuitry for transmitting the one or
more signals that include information associated with the identity
of the one or more agents.
61. The system of claim 59, wherein the circuitry for transmitting
one or more signals that include information associated with the
one or more agents comprises: circuitry for transmitting the one or
more signals that include information associated with the
individual.
62. The system of claim 59, wherein the circuitry for transmitting
one or more signals that include information associated with the
one or more agents comprises: circuitry for transmitting the one or
more signals through use of a secure connection.
63. The system of claim 59, wherein the circuitry for transmitting
one or more signals that include information associated with the
one or more agents comprises: circuitry for transmitting the one or
more signals that include information associated with the one or
more pathogens.
64. (canceled)
65. The system of claim 59, wherein the circuitry for transmitting
one or more signals that include information associated with the
one or more agents comprises: circuitry for transmitting the one or
more signals that include information associated with one or more
locations of the individual.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is related to and claims the benefit
of the earliest available effective filing date(s) from the
following listed application(s) (the "Related Applications") (e.g.,
claims earliest available priority dates for other than provisional
patent applications or claims benefits under 35 USC .sctn. 119(e)
for provisional patent applications, for any and all parent,
grandparent, great-grandparent, etc. applications of the Related
Application(s)).
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0002] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. UNKNOWN, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS
FOR RECEIVING PATHOGEN RELATED INFORMATION AND RESPONDING, naming
Edward K. Y. Jung, Eric C. Leuthardt, Royce A. Levien, Robert W.
Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell L. Wood,
Jr. as inventors, filed 11 Sep. 2007, which is currently
co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending
application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0003] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. UNKNOWN, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS
FOR TRANSMITTING PATHOGEN RELATED INFORMATION AND RESPONDING,
naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Eric C. Leuthardt, Royce A. Levien,
Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell
L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 11 Sep. 2007, which is currently
co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending
application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0004] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/893,608, entitled COMPUTATIONAL
SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATED TO NUTRACEUTICALS, naming Edward K. Y.
Jung, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D.
Rinaldo, Jr., Clarence T. Tegreene; and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as
inventors, filed 15 Aug. 2007, which is currently co-pending, or is
an application of which a currently co-pending application is
entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0005] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/893,606, entitled COMPUTATIONAL
SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATED TO NUTRACEUTICALS, naming Edward K. Y.
Jung, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D.
Rinaldo, Jr., Clarence T. Tegreene; and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as
inventors, filed 15 Aug. 2007, which is currently co-pending, or is
an application of which a currently co-pending application is
entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0006] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/893,605, entitled COMPUTATIONAL
SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATED TO NUTRACEUTICALS, naming Edward K. Y.
Jung, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D.
Rinaldo, Jr., Clarence T. Tegreene; and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as
inventors, filed 15 Aug. 2007, which is currently co-pending, or is
an application of which a currently co-pending application is
entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0007] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/888,627, entitled COMPUTATIONAL
METHODS AND SYSTEMS ASSOCIATED WITH NUTRACEUTICAL RELATED ASSAYS,
naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A.
Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., Clarence T. Tegreene, and Lowell L.
Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 31 Jul. 2007, which is currently
co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending
application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0008] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/888,614, entitled METHODS AND
SYSTEMS RELATED TO RECEIVING NUTRACEUTICAL ASSOCIATED INFORMATION,
naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A.
Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., Clarence T. Tegreene, and Lowell L.
Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 31 Jul. 2007, which is currently
co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending
application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0009] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/888,613, entitled METHODS AND
SYSTEMS RELATED TO TRANSMISSION OF NUTRACEUTICAL ASSOCIATED
INFORMATION, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Royce A. Levien, Robert W.
Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., Clarence T. Tegreene,
and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 31 Jul. 2007, which is
currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently
co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing
date.
[0010] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/824,529, entitled COMPUTATIONAL
SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATED TO NUTRACEUTICALS, naming Edward K. Y.
Jung, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D.
Rinaldo, Jr., Clarence T. Tegreene, and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as
inventors, filed 28 Jun. 2007, which is currently co-pending, or is
an application of which a currently co-pending application is
entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0011] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/824,604, entitled COMPUTATIONAL
SYSTEMS RELATED TO NUTRACEUTICALS, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Royce
A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr.,
Clarence T. Tegreene, and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed
28 Jun. 2007, which is currently co-pending, or is an application
of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the
benefit of the filing date.
[0012] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/799,465, entitled FLUIDIC DEVICES,
naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Eric C. Leuthardt, Royce A. Levien,
Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell
L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 30 Apr. 2007, which is currently
co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending
application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0013] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/799,462, entitled FLUIDIC METHODS,
naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Eric C. Leuthardt, Royce A. Levien,
Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell
L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 30 Apr. 2007, which is currently
co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending
application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0014] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/729,301, entitled METHODS FOR
PATHOGEN DETECTION, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Eric C. Leuthardt,
Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo,
Jr., and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 27 Mar. 2007,
which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a
currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the
filing date.
[0015] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/729,276, entitled DEVICES FOR
PATHOGEN DETECTION, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Eric C. Leuthardt,
Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo,
Jr., and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 27 Mar. 2007,
which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a
currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the
filing date.
[0016] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/729,275, entitled MICROFLUIDIC CHIPS
FOR PATHOGEN DETECTION, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Eric C.
Leuthardt, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John
D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 27
Mar. 2007, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of
which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit
of the filing date.
[0017] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/729,274, entitled SYSTEMS FOR
PATHOGEN DETECTION, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Eric C. Leuthardt,
Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo,
Jr., and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 27 Mar. 2007,
which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a
currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the
filing date.
[0018] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/637,638, entitled METHODS AND
SYSTEMS FOR ANALYSIS OF NUTRACEUTICAL ASSOCIATED COMPONENTS, naming
Edward K. Y. Jung, Eric C. Leuthardt, Royce A. Levien, Robert W.
Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell L. Wood,
Jr. as inventors, filed 11 Dec. 2006, which is currently
co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending
application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0019] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/637,616, entitled METHODS AND
SYSTEMS FOR ANALYSIS OF NUTRACEUTICAL ASSOCIATED COMPONENTS, naming
Edward K. Y. Jung, Eric C. Leuthardt, Royce A. Levien, Robert W.
Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell L. Wood,
Jr. as inventors, filed 11 Dec. 2006, which is currently
co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending
application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0020] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/523,809, entitled COMPUTATIONAL
AND/OR CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATED TO NUTRACEUTICAL AGENT
SELECTION AND DOSING, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Royce A. Levien,
Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell
L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 18 Sep. 2006, which is currently
co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending
application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0021] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/523,766, entitled COMPUTATIONAL
AND/OR CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATED TO NUTRACEUTICAL AGENT
SELECTION AND DOSING, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Royce A. Levien,
Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell
L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 18 Sep. 2006, which is currently
co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending
application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0022] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/518,540, entitled INDIVIDUALIZED
PHARMACEUTICAL SELECTION AND PACKAGING, naming Edward K. Y. Jung,
Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo,
Jr., and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 8 Sep. 2006, which
is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently
co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing
date.
[0023] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/515,357, entitled COMPUTATIONAL
AND/OR CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATED TO NUTRACEUTICAL AGENT
SELECTION AND DOSING, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Royce A. Levien,
Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell
L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 1 Sep. 2006, which is currently
co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending
application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0024] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/486,998, entitled COMPUTATIONAL
AND/OR CONTROL SYSTEMS RELATED TO INDIVIDUALIZED PHARMACEUTICAL AND
NUTRACEUTICAL SELECTION AND PACKAGING, naming Edward K. Y. Jung,
Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo,
Jr., and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 14 Jul. 2006,
which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a
currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the
filing date.
[0025] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/486,973, entitled COMPUTATIONAL
AND/OR CONTROL SYSTEMS RELATED TO INDIVIDUALIZED PHARMACEUTICAL AND
NUTRACEUTICAL SELECTION AND PACKAGING, naming Edward K. Y. Jung,
Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo,
Jr., and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 14 Jul. 2006,
which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a
currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the
filing date.
[0026] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/478,341, entitled COMPUTATIONAL
AND/OR CONTROL SYSTEMS RELATED TO INDIVIDUALIZED NUTRACEUTICAL
SELECTION AND PACKAGING, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Royce A. Levien,
Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell
L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 28 Jun. 2006, which is currently
co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending
application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0027] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/478,296, entitled COMPUTATIONAL
AND/OR CONTROL SYSTEMS RELATED TO INDIVIDUALIZED NUTRACEUTICAL
SELECTION AND PACKAGING, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Royce A. Levien,
Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell
L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 28 Jun. 2006, which is currently
co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending
application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
[0028] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/474,109, entitled CUSTOMIZED VISUAL
MARKING FOR MEDICATION LABELING, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Royce A.
Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and
Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 23 Jun. 2006, which is
currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently
co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing
date.
[0029] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/453,571, entitled INDIVIDUALIZED
PHARMACEUTICAL SELECTION AND PACKAGING, naming Edward K. Y. Jung,
Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo,
Jr., and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 14 Jun. 2006,
which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a
currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the
filing date.
[0030] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/314,945, entitled GENERATING A
REQUEST FROM A NUTRACEUTICAL INVENTORY, naming Edward K. Y. Jung,
Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo,
Jr., Clarence T. Tegreene, and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as inventors,
filed 20 Dec. 2005, which is currently co-pending, or is an
application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled
to the benefit of the filing date.
[0031] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/291,482, entitled GENERATING A
NUTRACEUTICAL REQUEST FROM AN INVENTORY, naming Edward K. Y. Jung,
Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo,
Jr., Clarence T. Tegreene, and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as inventors,
filed 30 Nov. 2005, which is currently co-pending, or is an
application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled
to the benefit of the filing date.
[0032] The United States Patent Office (USPTO) has published a
notice to the effect that the USPTO's computer programs require
that patent applicants reference both a serial number and indicate
whether an application is a continuation or continuation-in-part.
Stephen G. Kunin, Benefit of Prior-Filed Application, USPTO
Official Gazette Mar. 18, 2003, available at
http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/com/sol/og/2003/week11/patbene.htm.
The present Applicant Entity (hereinafter "Applicant") has provided
above a specific reference to the application(s) from which
priority is being claimed as recited by statute. Applicant
understands that the statute is unambiguous in its specific
reference language and does not require either a serial number or
any characterization, such as "continuation" or
"continuation-in-part," for claiming priority to U.S. patent
applications. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Applicant understands
that the USPTO's computer programs have certain data entry
requirements, and hence Applicant is designating the present
application as a continuation-in-part of its parent applications as
set forth above, but expressly points out that such designations
are not to be construed in any way as any type of commentary and/or
admission as to whether or not the present application contains any
new matter in addition to the matter of its parent
application(s).
[0033] All subject matter of the Related Applications and of any
and all parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, etc. applications
of the Related Applications is incorporated herein by reference to
the extent such subject matter is not inconsistent herewith.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0034] The present disclosure relates to methods and systems that
may be used for detection of one or more pathogens and determining
one or more agents in response to pathogen detection.
SUMMARY
[0035] In some embodiments one or more methods are provided that
include identifying one or more pathogens present within one or
more samples obtained from an individual through use of one or more
microfluidic chips, accepting input associated with the individual
from whom the one or more samples were obtained, and determining
one or more agents that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of
at least one of the one or more pathogens. The method may
optionally include displaying information associated with the one
or more agents. The method may optionally include transmitting one
or more signals that include information associated with the one or
more agents. In addition to the foregoing, other aspects are
described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the
present disclosure.
[0036] In some embodiments one or more methods are provided that
include receiving one or more signals that include information
associated with one or more agents determined in response to one or
more pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual and input associated with the individual from whom the
one or more samples were obtained and processing the information
associated with one or more agents determined in response to one or
more pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual and the input associated with the individual from whom
the one or more samples were obtained. The method may optionally
include packaging the one or more agents. The method may optionally
include shipping one or more packages that include the one or more
agents. In addition to the foregoing, other aspects are described
in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present
disclosure.
[0037] In some embodiments one or more methods are provided that
include identifying one or more pathogens present within one or
more samples obtained from an individual through use of one or more
microfluidic chips, accepting input associated with the individual
from whom the one or more samples were obtained, and transmitting
one or more signals that include information associated with the
identifying one or more pathogens present within one or more
samples obtained from an individual through use of one or more
microfluidic chips and the accepting input associated with the
individual from whom the one or more samples were obtained. The
method may optionally include receiving one or more signals that
include information associated with one or more agents that can be
used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more
pathogens. The method may optionally include displaying the
information associated with the one or more agents that can be used
to reduce the pathogenicity of the at least one of the one or more
pathogens. In addition to the foregoing, other aspects are
described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the
present disclosure.
[0038] In some embodiments one or more methods are provided that
include receiving one or more signals that include information
associated with identifying one or more pathogens present within
one or more samples obtained from an individual, receiving one or
more signals that include information associated with accepting
input associated with the individual from whom the one or more
samples were obtained, and determining one or more agents that can
be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or
more pathogens. The method may optionally include displaying
information associated with the one or more agents. The method may
optionally include transmitting the one or more signals that
include information associated with the one or more agents. The
method may optionally include packaging the one or more agents. The
method may optionally include shipping one or more packages that
include the one or more agents. In addition to the foregoing, other
aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a
part of the present disclosure.
[0039] In some embodiments a system is provided that includes a
signal-bearing medium bearing one or more instructions for
identifying one or more pathogens present within one or more
samples obtained from an individual through use of one or more
microfluidic chips; one or more instructions for accepting input
associated with the individual from whom the one or more samples
were obtained; and one or more instructions for determining one or
more agents that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at
least one of the one or more pathogens. The system may optionally
include one or more instructions for displaying information
associated with the one or more agents. The system may optionally
include one or more instructions for transmitting one or more
signals that include information associated with the one or more
agents. In addition to the foregoing, other system aspects are
described in the claims, drawings, and/or text forming a part of
the present disclosure.
[0040] In some embodiments a system is provided that includes a
signal-bearing medium bearing one or more instructions for
receiving one or more signals that include information associated
with one or more agents determined in response to one or more
pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual and input associated with the individual from whom the
one or more samples were obtained; and one or more instructions for
processing the information associated with one or more agents
determined in response to one or more pathogens present within one
or more samples obtained from an individual and the input
associated with the individual from whom the one or more samples
were obtained. The system may optionally include one or more
instructions for packaging the one or more agents. The system may
optionally include one or more instructions for shipping one or
more packages that include the one or more agents. In addition to
the foregoing, other system aspects are described in the claims,
drawings, and/or text forming a part of the present disclosure.
[0041] In some embodiments a system is provided that includes a
signal-bearing medium bearing one or more instructions for
identifying one or more pathogens present within one or more
samples obtained from an individual through use of one or more
microfluidic chips; one or more instructions for accepting input
associated with the individual from whom the one or more samples
were obtained; and one or more instructions for transmitting one or
more signals that include information associated with the
identifying one or more pathogens present within one or more
samples obtained from an individual through use of one or more
microfluidic chips and the accepting input associated with the
individual from whom the one or more samples were obtained. The
system may optionally include one or more instructions for
receiving one or more signals that include information associated
with one or more agents that can be used to reduce the
pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens. The
system may optionally include one or more instructions for
displaying the information associated with the one or more agents
that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the
one or more pathogens. In addition to the foregoing, other system
aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and/or text forming
a part of the present disclosure.
[0042] In some embodiments a system is provided that includes a
signal-bearing medium bearing one or more instructions for
receiving one or more signals that include information associated
with identifying one or more pathogens present within one or more
samples obtained from an individual; one or more instructions for
receiving one or more signals that include information associated
with accepting input associated with the individual from whom the
one or more samples were obtained; and one or more instructions for
determining one or more agents that can be used to reduce the
pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens. The
system may optionally include one or more instructions for
displaying information associated with the one or more agents. The
system may optionally include one or more instructions for
transmitting one or more signals that include information
associated with the one or more agents. The system may optionally
include one or more instructions for packaging the one or more
agents. The system may optionally include one or more instructions
for shipping one or more packages that include the one or more
agents. In addition to the foregoing, other system aspects are
described in the claims, drawings, and/or text forming a part of
the present disclosure.
[0043] In some embodiments one or more systems are provided that
include means for identifying one or more pathogens present within
one or more samples obtained from an individual through use of one
or more microfluidic chips, means for accepting input associated
with the individual from whom the one or more samples were
obtained; and means for determining one or more agents that can be
used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more
pathogens responsive to the means for identifying one or more
pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual through use of one or more microfluidic chips and the
means for accepting input associated with the individual from whom
the one or more samples were obtained. The system may optionally
include means for displaying information associated with the one or
more agents. The system may optionally include means for
transmitting one or more signals that include information
associated with the one or more agents. In addition to the
foregoing, other system aspects are described in the claims,
drawings, and/or text forming a part of the present disclosure.
[0044] In some embodiments one or more systems are provided that
include means for receiving one or more signals that include
information associated with one or more agents determined in
response to one or more pathogens present within one or more
samples obtained from an individual and input associated with the
individual from whom the one or more samples were obtained and
means for processing the information associated with the means for
receiving one or more signals that include information associated
with one or more agents determined in response to one or more
pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual and input associated with the individual from whom the
one or more samples were obtained. The system may optionally
include means for packaging the one or more agents. The system may
optionally include means for shipping one or more packages that
include the one or more agents. In addition to the foregoing, other
system aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and/or text
forming a part of the present disclosure.
[0045] In some embodiments one or more systems are provided that
include means for identifying one or more pathogens present within
one or more samples obtained from an individual through use of one
or more microfluidic chips, means for accepting input associated
with the individual from whom the one or more samples were
obtained, and means for transmitting one or more signals responsive
to the means for identifying one or more pathogens present within
one or more samples obtained from an individual through use of one
or more microfluidic chips and the means for accepting input
associated with the individual from whom the one or more samples
were obtained. The system may optionally include means for
receiving the one or more signals that include information
associated with one or more agents that can be used to reduce the
pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens. The
system may optionally include means for displaying the information
associated with the means for receiving the one or more signals
that include information associated with one or more agents that
can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one
or more pathogens. In addition to the foregoing, other system
aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and/or text forming
a part of the present disclosure.
[0046] In some embodiments one or more systems are provided that
include means for receiving one or more signals that include
information associated with identifying one or more pathogens
present within one or more samples obtained from an individual,
means for receiving one or more signals that include information
associated with accepting input associated with the individual from
whom the one or more samples were obtained, and means for
determining one or more agents that can be used to reduce the
pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens
responsive to the means for receiving one or more signals that
include information associated with identifying one or more
pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual and the means for receiving one or more signals that
include information associated with accepting input associated with
the individual from whom the one or more samples were obtained. The
system may optionally include means for displaying information
associated with the one or more agents. The system may optionally
include means for transmitting one or more signals that include
information associated with the one or more agents. The system may
optionally include means for packaging the one or more agents. The
system may optionally include means for shipping one or more
packages that include the one or more agents. In addition to the
foregoing, other system aspects are described in the claims,
drawings, and/or text forming a part of the present disclosure.
[0047] In some embodiments one or more systems are provided that
include circuitry for identifying one or more pathogens present
within one or more samples obtained from an individual through use
of one or more microfluidic chips, circuitry for accepting input
associated with the individual from whom the one or more samples
were obtained, circuitry for determining one or more agents that
can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one
or more pathogens responsive to the circuitry for identifying one
or more pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from
an individual through use of one or more microfluidic chips and the
circuitry for accepting input associated with the individual from
whom the one or more samples were obtained. The system may
optionally include circuitry for displaying information associated
with the one or more agents. The system may optionally include
circuitry for transmitting one or more signals that include
information associated with the one or more agents. In addition to
the foregoing, other system aspects are described in the claims,
drawings, and/or text forming a part of the present disclosure.
[0048] In some embodiments one or more systems are provided that
include circuitry for receiving one or more signals that include
information associated with one or more agents determined in
response to one or more pathogens present within one or more
samples obtained from an individual and input associated with the
individual from whom the one or more samples were obtained and
circuitry for processing the information associated with one or
more agents determined in response to one or more pathogens present
within one or more samples obtained from an individual and the
input associated with the individual from whom the one or more
samples were obtained. The system may optionally include circuitry
for packaging the one or more agents. The system may optionally
include circuitry for shipping one or more packages that include
the one or more agents. In addition to the foregoing, other system
aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and/or text forming
a part of the present disclosure.
[0049] In some embodiments one or more systems are provided that
include circuitry for identifying one or more pathogens present
within one or more samples obtained from an individual through use
of one or more microfluidic chips, circuitry for accepting input
associated with the individual from whom the one or more samples
were obtained, circuitry for transmitting one or more signals that
include information associated with the identifying one or more
pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual through use of one or more microfluidic chips and the
accepting input associated with the individual from whom the one or
more samples were obtained. The system may optionally include
circuitry for receiving one or more signals that include
information associated with one or more agents that can be used to
reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more
pathogens. The system may optionally include circuitry for
displaying the information associated with the one or more agents
that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of the at least one of
the one or more pathogens. In addition to the foregoing, other
system aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and/or text
forming a part of the present disclosure.
[0050] In some embodiments one or more systems are provided that
include circuitry for receiving one or more signals that include
information associated with identifying one or more pathogens
present within one or more samples obtained from an individual,
circuitry for receiving one or more signals that include
information associated with accepting input associated with the
individual from whom the one or more samples were obtained, and
circuitry for determining one or more agents that can be used to
reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more
pathogens responsive to the circuitry for receiving one or more
signals that include information associated with identifying one or
more pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual and the circuitry for receiving one or more signals that
include information associated with accepting input associated with
the individual from whom the one or more samples were obtained. The
system may optionally include circuitry for displaying information
associated with the one or more agents. The system may optionally
include circuitry for transmitting one or more signals that include
information associated with the one or more agents. The system may
optionally include circuitry for packaging the one or more agents.
The system may optionally include circuitry for shipping one or
more packages that include the one or more agents. In addition to
the foregoing, other system aspects are described in the claims,
drawings, and/or text forming a part of the present disclosure.
[0051] In some embodiments, means include but are not limited to
circuitry and/or programming for effecting the herein referenced
functional aspects; the circuitry and/or programming can be
virtually any combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware
configured to effect the herein referenced functional aspects
depending upon the design choices of the system designer. In
addition to the foregoing, other system aspects means are described
in the claims, drawings, and/or text forming a part of the present
disclosure.
[0052] In some embodiments, related systems include but are not
limited to circuitry and/or programming for effecting the herein
referenced method aspects; the circuitry and/or programming can be
virtually any combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware
configured to effect the herein referenced method aspects depending
upon the design choices of the system designer. In addition to the
foregoing, other system aspects are described in the claims,
drawings, and/or text forming a part of the present
application.
[0053] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not
intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative
aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further
aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by
reference to the drawings, claims, and the following detailed
description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0054] FIG. 1 illustrates an example system 100 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0055] FIG. 1A illustrates an example system 100 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0056] FIG. 1B illustrates an example system 100 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0057] FIG. 1C illustrates an example system 100 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0058] FIG. 2 illustrates an operational flow representing example
operations related to methods and systems responsive to the
detection of pathogens.
[0059] FIG. 3 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 2.
[0060] FIG. 4 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 2.
[0061] FIG. 5 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 2.
[0062] FIG. 6 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 2.
[0063] FIG. 7 illustrates an operational flow representing example
operations related to methods and systems responsive to the
detection of pathogens.
[0064] FIG. 8 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 7.
[0065] FIG. 9 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 7.
[0066] FIG. 10 illustrates an operational flow representing example
operations related to methods and systems responsive to the
detection of pathogens.
[0067] FIG. 11 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 10.
[0068] FIG. 12 illustrates an operational flow representing example
operations related to methods and systems responsive to the
detection of pathogens.
[0069] FIG. 13 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 12.
[0070] FIG. 14 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 12.
[0071] FIG. 15 illustrates an operational flow representing example
operations related to methods and systems responsive to the
detection of pathogens.
[0072] FIG. 16 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 15.
[0073] FIG. 17 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 15.
[0074] FIG. 18 illustrates an operational flow representing example
operations related to methods and systems responsive to the
detection of pathogens.
[0075] FIG. 19 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 18.
[0076] FIG. 20 illustrates an operational flow representing example
operations related to methods and systems responsive to the
detection of pathogens.
[0077] FIG. 21 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 20.
[0078] FIG. 22 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 20.
[0079] FIG. 23 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 20.
[0080] FIG. 24 illustrates an operational flow representing example
operations related to methods and systems responsive to the
detection of pathogens.
[0081] FIG. 25 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 24.
[0082] FIG. 26 illustrates an operational flow representing example
operations related to methods and systems responsive to the
detection of pathogens.
[0083] FIG. 27 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 26.
[0084] FIG. 28 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 26.
[0085] FIG. 29 illustrates an operational flow representing example
operations related to methods and systems responsive to the
detection of pathogens.
[0086] FIG. 30 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 29.
[0087] FIG. 31 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 29.
[0088] FIG. 32 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 29.
[0089] FIG. 33 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 29.
[0090] FIG. 34 illustrates an operational flow representing example
operations related to methods and systems responsive to the
detection of pathogens.
[0091] FIG. 35 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 34.
[0092] FIG. 36 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 34.
[0093] FIG. 37 illustrates an operational flow representing example
operations related to methods and systems responsive to the
detection of pathogens.
[0094] FIG. 38 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 37.
[0095] FIG. 39 illustrates an operational flow representing example
operations related to methods and systems responsive to the
detection of pathogens.
[0096] FIG. 40 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 39.
[0097] FIG. 41 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 39.
[0098] FIG. 42 illustrates an operational flow representing example
operations related to methods and systems responsive to the
detection of pathogens.
[0099] FIG. 43 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 42.
[0100] FIG. 44 illustrates alternate embodiments of the example
operational flow of FIG. 42.
[0101] FIG. 45 illustrates an example system 4500 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0102] FIG. 45A illustrates an example system 4500 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0103] FIG. 45B illustrates an example system 4500 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0104] FIG. 46 illustrates an example system 4600 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0105] FIG. 46A illustrates an example system 4600 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0106] FIG. 46B illustrates an example system 4600 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0107] FIG. 47 illustrates an example system 4700 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0108] FIG. 47A illustrates an example system 4700 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0109] FIG. 47B illustrates an example system 4700 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0110] FIG. 48 illustrates an example system 4800 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0111] FIG. 48A illustrates an example system 4800 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0112] FIG. 48B illustrates an example system 4800 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0113] FIG. 48C illustrates an example system 4800 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
[0114] FIG. 48D illustrates an example system 4800 in which
embodiments may be implemented.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0115] In the following detailed description, reference is made to
the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the
drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components,
unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments
described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not
meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other
changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of
the subject matter presented here.
[0116] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed
herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those
skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed
herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be
limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the
following claims.
[0117] FIG. 1 illustrates an example system 100 in which
embodiments may be implemented. In some embodiments, the system 100
is operable to provide a method that may be used to detect and
respond to one or more pathogens 106. In some embodiments, one or
more samples 104 may be processed with one or more microfluidic
chips 108 that are configured to detect one or more pathogens 106.
In some embodiments, one or more samples 104 may be processed with
one or more microfluidic chips 108 that are configured to analyze
one or more pathogens 106. In some embodiments, one or more samples
104 associated with an individual 102 may be processed. In some
embodiments, one sample 104 associated with an individual 102 may
be processed. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips
108 may be used to process one or more samples 104. In some
embodiments, one microfluidic chip 108 may be used to process one
or more samples 104. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic
chips 108 may be used to process one or more samples 104. In some
embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may be used to
process one sample 104. In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to accept one or more
samples 104. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips
108 may include one or more reservoirs. In some embodiments, one or
more microfluidic chips 108 may include one or more reagent inputs.
In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may be
configured to operably associate with one or more analysis units
110. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may be
configured to operably associate with one or more centrifugation
units. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to operably associate with one or more processing
units 112. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108
may be configured to operably associate with one or more
transmitting units 116. In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to operably associate with
one or more display units 114. In some embodiments, one or more
analysis units 110 may be used to detect one or more pathogens 106.
In some embodiments, one analysis unit 110 may be used to detect
one or more pathogens 106. In some embodiments, one or more
analysis units 110 may be portable analysis units 110. In some
embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be non-portable
analysis units 110. In some embodiments, one or more analysis units
110 may be hand-held analysis units 110. In some embodiments, one
or more analysis units 110 may include one or more user interfaces
122. In some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may
include one user interface 122. In some embodiments, one or more
analysis units 110 may include one or more user interfaces 122 that
are operably associated with the one or more analysis units 110. In
some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may include one or
more display units 114. In some embodiments, one or more analysis
units 110 may be operably associated with one or more display units
114. In some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may include
one or more user interfaces 122. In some embodiments, one or more
display units 114 may include one user interface 122. In some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may be operably
associated with one or more analysis units 110. In some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may be operably
associated with one or more display units 114. In some embodiments,
one or more processing units 112 may be operably associated with
one or more user inputs. In some embodiments, one or more
transmitting units 116 may transmit one or more signals 126. In
some embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may be
operably associated with one or more processing units 112. In some
embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may be operably
associated with one or more display units 114. In some embodiments,
one or more transmitting units 116 may be operably associated with
one or more analysis units 110. In some embodiments, one or more
transmitting units 116 may be operably associated with one or more
accepting units 118.
[0118] FIG. 1A illustrates an example system 100A in which
embodiments may be implemented. In some embodiments, the system
100A is operable to provide a method that may be used during the
detection and response to one or more pathogens 106. In some
embodiments, one or more signals 126 may be received by one or more
receiving units 136. Such signals 126 may include numerous types of
information. In some embodiments, such signals 126 may include
information related to agent information 128, sample information
130, individual information 132, pathogen information 134, and the
like. In some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may be
operably associated with one or more: processing units 112, display
units 114, transmitting units 116, user interfaces 122, packaging
units 138, shipping units 140, or substantially any combination
thereof. In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may
process information received by one or more receiving units 136. In
some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may be operably
associated with one or more: receiving units 136, display units
114, transmitting units 116, user interfaces 122, packaging units
138, shipping units 140, or substantially any combination thereof.
In some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display
information received from one or more receiving units 136. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display information
received from one or more processing units 112. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may be operably
associated with one or more: receiving units 136, processing units
112, transmitting units 116, user interfaces 122, packaging units
138, shipping units 140, or substantially any combination thereof.
In some embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may
transmit one or more signals 126. In some embodiments, one or more
transmitting units 116 may transmit one or more signals 126 that
include information received from one or more receiving units 136.
In some embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may
transmit one or more signals 126 that include information received
from one or more processing units 112. In some embodiments, one or
more transmitting units 116 may be operably associated with one or
more: receiving units 136, processing units 112, display units 114,
user interfaces 122, packaging units 138, shipping units 140, or
substantially any combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or
more user interfaces 122 may be operably associated with one or
more: receiving units 136, processing units 112, display units 114,
transmitting units 116, packaging units 138, shipping units 140, or
substantially any combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or
more packaging units 138 may package one or more agents 142. In
some embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may receive one
or more signals 126 from one or more transmitting units 116. In
some embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may be operably
associated with one or more: receiving units 136, processing units
112, display units 114, transmitting units 116, user interfaces
122, shipping units 140, or substantially any combination thereof.
In some embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may ship one or
more packages that include one or more agents 142. In some
embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may receive one or more
signals 126 from one or more transmitting units 116. In some
embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may be operably
associated with one or more: receiving units 136, processing units
112, display units 114, transmitting units 116, user interfaces
122, packaging units 138, or substantially any combination thereof.
In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may be
operably associated with one or more accepting units 118.
[0119] FIG. 1B illustrates an example system 100B in which
embodiments may be implemented. In some embodiments, the system
100B is operable to provide a method that may be used to detect and
respond to one or more pathogens 106. In some embodiments, one or
more samples 104 may be processed with one or more microfluidic
chips 108 that are configured to detect one or more pathogens 106.
In some embodiments, one or more samples 104 may be processed with
one or more microfluidic chips 108 that are configured to analyze
one or more pathogens 106. In some embodiments, one or more samples
104 associated with an individual 102 may be processed. In some
embodiments, one sample 104 associated with an individual 102 may
be processed. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips
108 may be used to process one or more samples 104. In some
embodiments, one microfluidic chip 108 may be used to process one
or more samples 104. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic
chips 108 may be used to process one or more samples 104. In some
embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may be used to
process one sample 104. In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to accept one or more
samples 104. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips
108 may include one or more reservoirs. In some embodiments, one or
more microfluidic chips 108 may include one or more reagent inputs.
In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may be
configured to operably associate with one or more analysis units
110. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may be
configured to operably associate with one or more centrifugation
units. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to operably associate with one or more processing
units 112. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108
may be configured to operably associate with one or more
transmitting units 116. In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to operably associate with
one or more display units 114. In some embodiments, one or more
analysis units 110 may be used to detect one or more pathogens 106.
In some embodiments, one analysis unit 110 may be used to detect
one or more pathogens 106. In some embodiments, one or more
analysis units 110 may be portable analysis units 110. In some
embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be non-portable
analysis units 110. In some embodiments, one or more analysis units
110 may be hand-held analysis units 110. In some embodiments, one
or more analysis units 110 may include one or more user interfaces
122. In some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may
include one user interface 122. In some embodiments, one or more
analysis units 110 may include one or more user interfaces 122 that
are operably associated with the one or more analysis units 110. In
some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may include one or
more display units 114. In some embodiments, one or more analysis
units 110 may be operably associated with one or more display units
114. In some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may include
one or more user interfaces 122. In some embodiments, one or more
display units 114 may include one user interface 122. In some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may be operably
associated with one or more analysis units 110. In some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may be operably
associated with one or more display units 114. In some embodiments,
one or more processing units 112 may be operably associated with
one or more user inputs. In some embodiments, one or more
processing units 112 may be operably associated with one or more
accepting units 118. In some embodiments, one or more transmitting
units 116 may transmit one or more signals 126. In some
embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may be operably
associated with one or more processing units 112. In some
embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may be operably
associated with one or more display units 114. In some embodiments,
one or more transmitting units 116 may be operably associated with
one or more analysis units 110. In some embodiments, one or more
transmitting units 116 may be operably associated with one or more
accepting units 118. In some embodiments, one or more receiving
units 136 may receive one or more signals 126. In some embodiments,
one or more receiving units 136 may be operably associated with one
or more: processing units 112, display units 114, transmitting
units 116, user interfaces 122, or substantially any combination
thereof.
[0120] FIG. 1C illustrates an example system 100C in which
embodiments may be implemented. In some embodiments, the system
100C is operable to provide a method that may be used during the
detection and response to one or more pathogens 106. In some
embodiments, one or more signals 126 may be received by one or more
receiving units 136. Such signals 126 may include numerous types of
information. In some embodiments, such signals 126 may include
information related to sample information 130, individual
information 132, pathogen information 134, and the like. In some
embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may be operably
associated with one or more: processing units 112, display units
114, transmitting units 116, user interfaces 122, packaging units
138, shipping units 140, or substantially any combination thereof.
In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may process
information received by one or more receiving units 136. In some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may be operably
associated with one or more: receiving units 136, display units
114, transmitting units 116, user interfaces 122, packaging units
138, shipping units 140, or substantially any combination thereof.
In some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display
information received from one or more receiving units 136. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display information
received from one or more processing units 112. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may be operably
associated with one or more: receiving units 136, processing units
112, transmitting units 116, user interfaces 122, packaging units
138, shipping units 140, or substantially any combination thereof.
In some embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may
transmit one or more signals 126. In some embodiments, one or more
transmitting units 116 may transmit one or more signals 126 that
include information received from one or more receiving units 136.
In some embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may
transmit one or more signals 126 that include information received
from one or more processing units 112. In some embodiments, one or
more transmitting units 116 may be operably associated with one or
more: receiving units 136, processing units 112, display units 114,
user interfaces 122, packaging units 138, shipping units 140, or
substantially any combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or
more user interfaces 122 may be operably associated with one or
more: receiving units 136, processing units 112, display units 114,
transmitting units 116, packaging units 138, shipping units 140, or
substantially any combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or
more packaging units 138 may package one or more agents 142. In
some embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may receive one
or more signals 126 from one or more transmitting units 116. In
some embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may be operably
associated with one or more: receiving units 136, processing units
112, display units 114, transmitting units 116, user interfaces
122, shipping units 140, or substantially any combination thereof.
In some embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may ship one or
more packages that include one or more agents 142. In some
embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may receive one or more
signals 126 from one or more transmitting units 116. In some
embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may be operably
associated with one or more: receiving units 136, processing units
112, display units 114, transmitting units 116, user interfaces
122, packaging units 138, or substantially any combination
thereof.
Sample
[0121] Numerous types of samples 104 may be analyzed through use of
system 100. In some embodiments, one or more samples 104 may be
associated with an individual 102. In some embodiments, one or more
samples 104 may be associated with one or more individuals 102. In
some embodiments, an individual 102 may be a human. In some
embodiments, an individual 102 may be a group of humans who share a
common pathogen infection. For example, in some embodiments, system
100 may be used to diagnose an individual 102 for infection with
one or more pathogens 106. In some embodiments, one or more samples
104 may include a liquid. In some embodiments, one or more samples
104 may include a solid. In some embodiments, one or more samples
104 may include a vapor. In some embodiments, one or more samples
104 may include a semi-solid. In some embodiments, one or more
samples 104 may include a gas. Examples of such samples 104
include, but are not limited to, samples 104 obtained from humans
(e.g., skin, breath, tissue, hair, saliva, blood, mucus,
cerebrospinal fluid, urine, fecal material, tears, urogenital
associated samples), samples 104 that are associated with, but not
limited to, one or more toxins, viruses, bacteria, protozoans,
single-celled organisms, fungus, algae, prions, microbes, cyst,
eggs, pathogenic proteins, or substantially any combination
thereof.
Agent
[0122] Numerous agents 142 may be selected. In some embodiments, an
agent 142 may include a substance that may be used in the
diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease in
a human or another animal. Such agents are recognized in the
official United States Pharmacopeia, official Homeopathic
Pharmacopeia of the United States, official National Formulary or
any supplement thereof.
[0123] In some embodiments, an agent 142 may include a chemical
agent 142. For example, in some embodiments, an agent 142 may be an
antibiotic, a steroid, an alcohol deterrent, an analgesic, an
anesthetic, an antacid, an antihelmintic, an antiallergic, an
antiamebic, an antiarteriosclerotic, an antibacterial, an
antibacterial adjuvant, an antiharrheal, an antidiuretic, an
antifungal, an antimalarial, an antiprotozoal, an antishphilitic,
an antitussive, an antiviral, a chelating agent, a choleretic, a
CNS stimulant, a decongestant, an antiseptic, a disinfectant, an
expectorant, a glucocorticoid, an HIV fusion inhibitor, an HIV
protease inhibitor, an immunomodulator, an immunosuppressant, a
protease inhibitor, a pulmonary surfactant, a respiratory
stimulant, a reverse transcriptase inhibitor, a sedative, a
hypnotic, a serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, a serotonin
receptor agonist, a serotonin receptor antagonist, a serotonin
reuptake inhibitor, a topoisomerast I inhibitor, a topoisomerase II
inhibitor, a tranquilizer, a vasodilator, a vasoprotectant, and the
like. Numerous agents 142 are known and have been described (e.g.,
Merck Index, Thirteenth Edition, Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse
Station, N.J. (2001); Mosby's Drug Guide, An Imprint of Elsevier,
St. Louis, Mo. (2004); The Merck Manual, Seventeenth Edition, Merck
Research Laboratories, Whitehouse Station, N.J. (1999); Physician's
Desk Reference, 58.sup.th Edition, Thomson Montvale, N.J.
(2004)).
[0124] In some embodiments, an agent 142 may include a mechanical
agent 142. Examples of mechanical agents 142 include, but are not
limited to, radiation, ultraviolet light, sonication, phototherapy,
and the like.
[0125] In some embodiments, an agent 142 may include a bioagent. In
some embodiments, a bioagent may be found in nature. In some
embodiments, an bioagent may be synthetic. For example, in some
embodiments, a bioagent may be produced through use of recombinant
nucleic acid technology. In some embodiments, a bioagent may be
assembled in vitro. For example, in some embodiments, a bioagent
may be a virus and/or bacteriophage against a pathogen that is
found in nature. In some embodiments, a bioagent may be a virus
and/or bacteriophage against a pathogen that is assembled in vitro.
In some embodiments, a bioagent may be a virus and/or bacteriophage
against a pathogen that includes recombinant nucleic acid (e.g.,
Merrill et al., PNAS (USA), 93:3188 (1996); Brussow, Microbiology,
151:2133-2140 (2005)). In some embodiments, an agent may include a
recombinant microbe. For example, in some embodiments, Yersinia,
Listeria, Salmonella, and/or Shigella may be used to deliver
recombinant products through the intestinal mucosa.
[0126] In some embodiment, an agent 142 may provide a synergistic
effect with another agent. In some embodiments, a first agent 142
may increase the effectiveness of a second agent 142. For example,
in some embodiments, a first agent 142 may be an antibacterial
adjuvant (e.g., a beta-lactamase inhibitor).
Pathogen/Pathogen Indicator
[0127] Numerous pathogens 106 may be processed, analyzed and/or
detected through use of system 100. In some embodiments, pathogens
106 include intact pathogens 106 and components of pathogens 106.
For example, in some embodiments, pathogens 106 may include
polynucleotides and/or polypeptides that are associated with a
pathogen 106. In some embodiments, pathogens 106 may include one or
more products of a pathogen 106. In some embodiments, pathogens 106
may include products and/or substrates that are associated with the
activity of one or more pathogen associated enzymes. Examples of
pathogens 106 that may be processed, analyzed and/or detected
through use of system 100 include, but are not limited to,
pathogens 106 associated with plants, animals, humans, fish, birds,
and the like. Examples of such pathogens 106 include, but are not
limited to, viruses, bacteria, prions, protozoans, single-celled
organisms, algae, eggs of pathogenic organisms, microbes, cysts,
molds, fungus, worms, amoeba, pathogenic proteins, or substantially
any combination thereof. Numerous pathogens 106 are known and have
been described (e.g., Foodborne Pathogens: Microbiology and
Molecular Biology, Caister Academic Press, eds. Fratamico, Bhunia,
and Smith (2005); Maizels et al., Parasite Antigens Parasite Genes:
A Laboratory Manual for Molecular Parasitology, Cambridge
University Press (1991); National Library of Medicine; Physician's
Desk Reference, 58.sup.th Edition, Thomson P D R, Montvale, N.J.
(2004)).
[0128] Numerous types of viruses may be identified. Such viruses
are known and have been described (e.g., U.S. Patent Appl. No.:
20060257852; Field's Virology, Knipe et al, (Fifth Edition)
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia, (2006)). Examples
of such viruses include, but are not limited to, hepatitis,
influenza, avian influenza, severe acute respiratory syndrome
coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)), human
immunodeficiency virus, herpes viruses, human papilloma virus,
rhinovirus, rotavirus, West Nile virus, and the like.
[0129] Examples of bacteria that may be identified include, but are
not limited to, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis,
Staphylococcus sp., Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus
agalactiae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Enterococcus sp., Bacillus
anthracis, Bacillus cereus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Lactobacillus
sp., Listeria monocytogenes, Nocardia sp., Rhodococcus equi,
Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, Corynebacterium diptheriae,
Propionibacterium acnes, Actinomyces sp., Clostridium botulinum,
Clostridium difficile, Clostridium perfringens, Clostridium tetani,
Mobiluncus sp., Peptostreptococcus sp., Neisseria gonorrhoeae,
Neisseria meningitides, Moraxella catarrhalis, Veillonella sp.,
Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Acinetobacter baumannii,
Bordetella pertussis, Brucella sp., Campylobacter sp.,
Capnocytophaga sp., Cardiobacterium hominis, Eikenella corrodens,
Francisella tularensis, Haemophilus ducreyi, Haemophilus
influenzae, Helicobacter pylori, Kingella kingae, Legionella
pneumophila, Pasteurella multocida, Klebsiella granulomatis,
Enterobacteriaceae, Citrobacter sp., Enterobacter sp., Escherichia
coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus sp., Salmonella enteriditis,
Salmonella typhi, Shigella sp., Serratia marcescens, Yersinia
enterocolitica, Yersinia pestis, Aeromonas sp., Plesiomonas
shigelloides, Vibrio cholerae, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Vibrio
vulnificus, Acinetobacter sp., Flavobacterium sp., Pseudomonas
aeruginosa, Burkholderia cepacia, Burkholderia pseudomallei,
Xanthomonas maltophilia, Stenotrophomonas maltophila, Bacteroides
fragilis, Bacteroides sp., Prevotella sp., Fusobacterium sp.,
Spirillum minus, or substantially any combination thereof.
[0130] Numerous prions may be identified. Examples of such prions
include, but are not limited to, bovine prion protein, human prion
protein, monkey prion protein, dog prion protein, and the like. The
amino acid sequences and/or nucleotide sequences of numerous prions
are known and have been reported (e.g., Premzl and Gamulin, B M C
Genomics, 8:1 (2007)).
[0131] Numerous pathogenic worms may be identified. Examples of
such worms include, but are not limited to, tapeworms, helminths,
whipworms, hookworms, ringworms, roundworms, pinworms, ascarids,
filarids, and the like.
[0132] In some embodiments, the eggs and/or cysts of pathogens 106
may be identified. Examples of such eggs and/or cysts include, but
are not limited to, eggs and/or cysts of: parasitic worms (e.g.,
Heterodera glycines, Trichinella), amoebe (e.g., Entamoeba
histolytica, Acanthamoeba), protozoans (e.g., Giardia,
cryptosporidium, Toxoplasma), and the like.
[0133] Numerous protozoans may be identified. Examples of
protozoans include, but are not limited to, slime molds,
flagellates, ciliates, and the like (e.g., cryptosporidium,
giardia, naegleria fowleri, acanthamoeba, entamoeba histolytica,
cryptosporidium parvum, cyclospora cayetanensis, isospora belli,
microsporidia) (Marshall et al., Clin, Micro. Rev., 10:67-85
(1997)).
[0134] Examples of pathogenic fungi include, but are not limited
to, dimorphic fungi that may assume a mold form but may also adopt
a yeast form, histoplasma capsulatum, coccidioides immitis,
candida, aspergillus, and the like.
[0135] Pathogenic algae include, but are not limited to, Prototheca
members, Helicosporidiu members, Chattonella members (e.g.,
Chattonella marina), and the like.
[0136] Numerous types of pathogenic proteins may be identified and
include, but are not limited to, toxins (e.g., exotoxing,
endotoxins), prions, and the like.
[0137] Numerous microbes may be identified. In some embodiments,
microbes may be prokaryotes. In some embodiments, microbes may be
eukaryotes. Examples of such microbes include, but are not limited
to, Giardia, amoeba (e.g., Entamoeba, Naegleria, Acanthamoeba),
trypanosomes, Plasmodium (e.g., Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium
vivax, Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium knowlesi),
Eimeria, Toxoplasma, Neospora, Mycoplasma, Leishmania, Trichomonas,
Cryptosporidium, Isospora, Balantidium, protozoans, Mycoplasma
hominis, Ureaplasma urealyticum, and the like.
[0138] In some embodiments, a pathogen 106 may be a member of
numerous groups of pathogens 106. For example, single-celled
organisms may include microbes, protozoans, and the like. In some
embodiments, a pathogen 106 may include an artificial device such
an electromechanical machine, a nano-machine, a micro-machine, and
the like.
Microfluidic Chip
[0139] Numerous types of microfluidic chips 108 may be utilized
within system 100. Methods to construct and utilize microfluidic
chips 108 have been described (e.g., U.S. Statutory Invention
Registration No. H201; U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,454,945; 6,818,435;
6,812,458; 6,794,196; 6,709,869; 6,582,987; 6,482,306; 5,726,404;
7,118,910; 7,081,192; herein incorporated by reference).
[0140] In some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 108 may be
configured to utilize microfluidic principles. Accordingly, in some
embodiments, a microfluidic chip 108 may be configured to include
one or more channels with at least one dimension that is less than
1 millimeter. However, in some embodiments, microfluidic chips 108
may be configured such that they do not utilize microfluidic
principles. Accordingly, in some embodiments, microfluidic chips
108 may be configured such that there are not any components that
have a dimension that is less than 1 millimeter. Accordingly, in
some embodiments, microfluidic chips 108 may be configured that
include components having a dimension that is less than 1
millimeter, while in other embodiments, microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured with components having dimensions that are greater
than 1 millimeter. In some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 108 may
include at least one component that has at least one dimension that
is less than 1 millimeter and at least one component having at
least one dimension that is greater than 1 millimeter.
[0141] For example, microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to
utilize a variety of methods to facilitate detection of one or more
pathogens 106. Examples of such methods include, but are not
limited to, nucleic acid (polynucleotide) hybridization based
methods, immunological based methods, chromatographic based
methods, affinity based methods, extraction based methods,
separation based methods, isolation based methods, filtration based
methods, enzyme based methods, isoelectric focusing methods, or
substantially any combination thereof.
[0142] Microfluidic chips 108 may utilize numerous methods to
facilitate detection of one or more pathogens 106. For example, in
some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may be
configured to utilize: chemiluminescent methods (e.g., U.S. Pat.
Nos. 6,090,545 and 5,093,268; herein incorporated by reference),
plasmon resonance sensors (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 7,030,989; herein
incorporated by reference), nuclear magnetic resonance detectors
(e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,194,900; herein incorporated by reference),
gradient-based assays (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 7,112,444; herein
incorporated by reference), reporter beads (e.g., U.S. Pat. No.
5,747,349; herein incorporated by reference), transverse
electrophoresis (e.g., Macounova et al., Analytical Chemistry,
73:1627-1633 (2001)); isoelectric focusing (e.g., Macounova et al.,
Analytical Chemistry, 72:3745-3751 (2000); Xu et al., Isoelectric
focusing of green fluorescent proteins in plastic microfluidic
channels. Abstracts of Papers of the American Chemical Society,
219:9-ANYL (2000); Macounova et al., Analytical Chemistry,
73:1627-1633 (2001)), diffusion based systems (e.g., Kamholz et
al., Biophysical Journal, 80:1967-1972 (2001); Hatch et al., Nature
Biotechnology, 19:461-465 (2001); U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,221,677;
5,972,710; herein incorporated by reference), high performance
liquid chromatography (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,923,907; herein
incorporated by reference), polynucleotide analysis (e.g.,
Belgrader et al., Biosensors & Bioelectronics, 14:849-852
(2000); Buchholz et al., Analytical Chemistry, 73:157-164 (2001);
Fan et al., Analytical Chemistry, 71:4851-4859 (1999); Koutny et
al., Analytical Chemistry, 72:3388-3391 (2000); Lee et al.,
Microfabricated plastic chips by hot embossing methods and their
applications for DNA separation and detection. Sensors and
Actuators B-Chemical, 75:142-148 (2001); U.S. Pat. No. 6,958,216;
herein incorporated by reference), capillary electrophoresis (e.g.,
Kameoka et al., Analytical Chemistry, 73:1935-1941 (2001)),
immunoassays (e.g., Hatch et al., Nature Biotechnology, 19:461-465
(2001); Eteshola and Leckband, D. Development and characterization
of an ELISA assay in PDMS microfluidic channels. Sensors and
Actuators B-Chemical 72:129-133 (2001); Cheng et al., Analytical
Chemistry, 73:1472-1479 (2001); Yang et al., Analytical Chemistry,
73:165-169 (2001)), flow cytometry (e.g., Sohn et al., Proc. Natl.
Acad. Sci., 97:10687-10690 (2000)), PCR amplification (e.g.,
Belgrader et al., Biosensors & Bioelectronics, 14:849-852
(2000); Khandurina et al., Analytical Chemistry, 72:2995-3000
(2000); Lagally et al., Analytical Chemistry, 73:565-570 (2001)),
cell manipulation (e.g., Glasgow et al., IEEE Transactions On
Biomedical Engineering, 48:570-578 (2001)), cell separation (e.g.,
Yang et al., Analytical Chemistry, 71:911-918 (1999)), cell
patterning (e.g., Chiu et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 97:2408-2413
(2000); Folch et al., Journal of Biomedical Materials Research,
52:346-353 (2000)), chemical gradient formation (e.g., Dertinger et
al., Analytical Chemistry, 73:1240-1246 (2001); Jeon et al.,
Langmuir, 16:8311-8316 (2000)), microcantilevers (e.g., U.S. Pat.
Nos. 7,141,385; 6,935,165; 6,926,864; 6,763,705; 6,523,392;
6,325,904; herein incorporated by reference), or substantially any
combination thereof.
[0143] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to utilize one or more magnets that may be used
during processing and/or analysis of one or more samples 104. For
example, in some embodiments, ferrous metallic particles may be
associated with one or more pathogens 106 that are associated with
one or more samples 104 (e.g., use of antibodies, aptamers,
peptides, polynucleotides, and the like that bind to one or more
pathogen indicators and that are coupled to a ferrous metallic
particle). The one or more pathogens 106 may be separated from the
remainder of the one or more samples 104 through use of one or more
magnets. In some embodiments, one or more magnets may be used to
create eddy currents that may be used to process and/or analyze one
or more samples 104. For example, in some embodiments, non-ferrous
metallic particles may be associated with one or more pathogens 106
that are associated with one or more samples 104 (e.g., use of
antibodies, aptamers, peptides, polynucleotides, and the like that
bind to one or more pathogen indicators and that are coupled to a
non-ferrous metallic particle). One or more microfluidic chips 108
may be configured such that passage of a non-ferrous metallic
particle through a magnetic field will cause an eddy current to
impart kinetic energy to the non-ferrous metallic particle and
provide for separation of the associated pathogens 106 from the
remainder of the one or more samples 104. In some embodiments, such
methods may be combined with additional methods to provide for
separation of one or more pathogens 106 from one or more samples
104. For example, magnetic separation may be used in combination
with one or more methods that may include, but are not limited to,
diffusion (e.g., use of an H-filter), filtration, precipitation,
immunoassay, immunodiffusion, and the like.
[0144] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to utilize ferrofluids to separate one or more
pathogens 106 from one or more samples 104. For example, in some
embodiments, a microfluidic chip 108 may include an H-filter where
a sample fluid and a ferrofluid flow substantially in parallel
(e.g., the sample fluid and the ferrofluid flow side-by-side
through the H-filter (horizontal) and/or above and below
(vertical)). In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips
108 may include a ferrofluid having magnetic particles such that
ferrous materials contained within the sample fluid are attracted
to the ferrofluid and thereby separated from the sample fluid.
Accordingly, such microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to
separate one or more pathogens 106 from one or more samples 104. In
some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may include a
ferrofluid having ferrous particles such that magnetic materials
contained within the sample fluid are attracted to the ferrofluid
and thereby separated from the sample fluid. Accordingly, in such
embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may be configured
to utilize ferrofluids to separate one or more pathogens 106 from
one or more samples 104.
[0145] Microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to process numerous
types of samples 104. For example, in some embodiments, a
microfluidic chip 108 may be configured to sonicate one or more
samples 104. In some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 108 may
include one or more ultrasonic electronic generators that produce a
signal (e.g., 20 kilohertz) that can be used to drive a
piezoelectric converter/transducer. This electrical signal may be
converted by the transducer to a mechanical vibration due to the
characteristics of the internal piezoelectric crystals. This
vibration can be amplified and transmitted to one or more probes
having tips that expand and contract to provide for sonication of
one or more samples 104. In some embodiments, a microfluidic chip
108 may include one or more sonication probes. Such probes may be
configured such that are able to operably associate with one or
more vibration sources in a detachable manner. Accordingly, in some
embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 that include one or
more probes may be configured to detachably connect with one or
more vibration sources that produce a vibration that can be coupled
to the one or more probes. In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may include one or more vibration
sources.
[0146] In some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 108 may be
configured to mix one or more samples 104. For example, in some
embodiments, a microfluidic chip 108 may include a mixing chamber
which includes one or more ferrous mixing members and
electromagnets which are configured such that motion may be
imparted to the one or more ferrous mixing members. In some
embodiments, a microfluidic chip 108 may include one or more mixing
chambers that include two or more electromagnets positioned around
the one or more mixing chambers and one or more ferrous members
positioned within the one or more mixing chambers and between the
electromagnets. Accordingly, mixing of one or more materials within
the one or more mixing chambers may be facilitated by alternating
current between the electromagnets positioned around the mixing
chamber. In some embodiments, a mixing chamber may include an
elastomeric material that includes a ferrous material (e.g., an
elastomeric-ferrous material) such that movement of the
elastomeric-ferrous material may be facilitated through use of one
or more magnets, such as electromagnets.
[0147] In some embodiments, elastomeric-ferrous materials may be
utilized to fabricate pumps that are associated with microfluidic
chips 108. For example, in some embodiments, a tube may include an
elastomeric material that includes ferrous material such that
movement of the elastomeric material may be facilitated through use
of one or more magnets. Accordingly, valves and ferrous materials
may be associated with the elastomeric tube such that expansion of
a portion of the elastomeric tube through the action of a magnet,
such as an electromagnetic, will act like a vacuum pump to draw
fluids into the expanded portion of the elastomeric tube. In some
embodiments, release of the elastomeric material from the magnetic
field will cause the expanded portion of the tube to contract and
will act to push the fluid from the formerly expanded portion of
the elastomeric tubing. In some embodiments, valves may be
positioned within the tube to provide for directional flow of fluid
through the elastomeric tube. Accordingly, such pumps may be
configured as vacuum pumps, propulsion type pumps, and/or both
vacuum and propulsion type pumps.
[0148] In some embodiments, microfluidic chips 108 may be
configured to utilize magnetically actuated fluid handling. In some
embodiments, a microfluidic chip 108 may utilize magnetic fluid
(e.g., ferrofluid, ferrogel, and the like) to move one or more
gases and/or liquids through flow channels. For example,
magnetically actuated slugs of magnetic fluid may be moved within
channels of a microfluidic chip 108 to facilitate valving and/or
pumping of one or more gases and/or liquids. In some embodiments,
the magnets used to control gas and/or liquid movement may be
individual magnets that are moved along the flow channels and/or
one or more arrays of magnets that may be individually controlled
to hold or move one or more magnetic slugs. In some embodiments, an
array of electromagnets may be positioned along a flow channel
which may be turned on and off in a predetermined pattern to move
magnetic fluid slugs in desired paths in one or more flow channels.
Methods to construct magnetically actuated fluid handling devices
have been described (e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,408,884 and 7,110,646;
herein incorporated by reference).
[0149] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
process one or more samples 104 through use of polynucleotide
interaction. Numerous methods based on polynucleotide interaction
may be used. Examples of such methods include, but are not limited
to, those based on polynucleotide hybridization, polynucleotide
ligation, polynucleotide amplification, polynucleotide degradation,
and the like. Methods that utilize intercalation dyes, FRET
analysis, capacitive DNA detection, and nucleic acid amplification
have been described (e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,118,910 and 6,960,437;
herein incorporated by reference). In some embodiments,
fluorescence resonance energy transfer, fluorescence quenching,
molecular beacons, electron transfer, electrical conductivity, and
the like may be used to analyze polynucleotide interaction. Such
methods are known and have been described (e.g., Jarvius, DNA Tools
and Microfluidic Systems for Molecular Analysis, Digital
Comprehensive Summaries of Uppsala Dissertations from the Faculty
of Medicine 161, ACTA UNIVERSITATIS UPSALIENSIS UPPSALA 2006, ISBN:
91-554-6616-8; Singh-Zocchi et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci.,
100:7605-7610 (2003); Wang et al., Anal. Chem., 75:3941-3945
(2003); Fan et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 100:9134-9137 (2003);
U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,958,216; 5,093,268; 6,090,545; herein incorporated
by reference). In some embodiments, one or more polynucleotides
that include at least one carbon nanotube are combined with one or
more samples 104, and/or one or more partially purified
polynucleotides obtained from one or more samples 104. The one or
more polynucleotides that include one or more carbon nanotubes are
allowed to hybridize with one or more polynucleotides that may be
present within the one or more samples 104. The one or more carbon
nanotubes may be excited (e.g., with an electron beam and/or an
ultraviolet laser) and the emission spectra of the excited
nanotubes may be correlated with hybridization of the one or more
polynucleotides that include at least one carbon nanotube with one
or more polynucleotides that are included within the one or more
samples 104. Methods to utilize carbon nanotubes as probes for
nucleic acid interaction have been described (e.g., U.S. Pat. No.
6,821,730; herein incorporated by reference).
[0150] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to facilitate detection of one or more pathogens 106
through use of protein interaction. Numerous methods based on
protein interaction may be used. In some embodiments, protein
interaction may be used to immobilize one or more pathogens 106. In
some embodiments, protein interaction may be used to separate one
or more pathogens 106 from one or more samples 104. Examples of
such methods include, but are not limited to, those based on ligand
binding, protein-protein binding, protein cross-linking, use of
green fluorescent protein, phage display, the two-hybrid system,
protein arrays, fiber optic evanescent wave sensors,
chromatographic techniques, fluorescence resonance energy transfer,
regulation of pH to control protein assembly and/or
oligomerization, regulation of ion concentration to control protein
assembly and/or oligomerization, and the like. Methods that may be
used to construct protein arrays have been described (e.g., Warren
et al., Anal. Chem., 76:4082-4092 (2004) and Walter et al., Trends
Mol. Med., 8:250-253 (2002), U.S. Pat. No. 6,780,582; herein
incorporated by reference).
[0151] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to facilitate detection of one or more pathogens 106
through use of peptide interaction. Peptides are generally
described as being polypeptides that include less than one hundred
amino acids. For example, peptides include dipeptides, tripeptides,
and the like. In some embodiments, peptides may include from two to
one hundred amino acids. In some embodiments, peptides may include
from two to fifty amino acids. In some embodiments, peptides may
include from two to one twenty amino acids. In some embodiments,
peptides may include from ten to one hundred amino acids. In some
embodiments, peptides may include from ten to fifty amino acids.
Accordingly, peptides can include numerous numbers of amino acids.
Numerous methods based on peptide interaction may be used. In some
embodiments, peptide interaction may be used to immobilize one or
more pathogens 106. In some embodiments, peptide interaction may be
used to separate one or more pathogens 106 from one or more samples
104. Examples of such methods include, but are not limited to,
those based on ligand binding, peptide-protein binding,
peptide-peptide binding, peptide-polynucleotide binding, peptide
cross-linking, use of a fluorescent protein, phage display, the
two-hybrid system, protein arrays, peptide arrays, fiber optic
evanescent wave sensors, chromatographic techniques, fluorescence
resonance energy transfer, regulation of pH to control peptide
and/or protein assembly and/or oligomerization, and the like.
Accordingly, virtually any technique that may be used to analyze
proteins may be utilized for the analysis of peptides. In some
embodiments, high-speed capillary electrophoresis may be used to
detect one or more pathogens 106 through use of fluorescently
labeled phosphopeptides as affinity probes (Yang et al., Anal.
Chem., 10.1021/ac061936e (2006)). Methods to immobilize proteins
and peptides have been reported (Taylor, Protein Immobilization:
Fundamentals and Applications, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York
(1991)).
[0152] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to facilitate detection of one or more pathogens 106
through use of antibody interaction. Antibodies may be raised that
will bind to numerous pathogens 106 through use of known methods
(e.g., Harlow and Lane, Antibodies: A Laboratory Manual, Cold
Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y. (1988)).
Antibodies may be configured in numerous ways within one or more
microfluidic chips 108 to process one or more pathogens 106. For
example, in some embodiments, antibodies may be coupled to a
substrate within a microfluidic chip 108. One or more samples 104
may be passed over the coupled antibodies to facilitate binding of
one or more pathogens 106 to the one or more antibodies to form one
or more antibody-pathogen complexes. A labeled detector antibody
that binds to the pathogen 106 (or the antibody-pathogen complex)
may then be passed over the one or more antibody-pathogen complexes
such that the labeled detector antibody will label the pathogen 106
(or the antibody-pathogen complex). Numerous labels may be used
that include, but are not limited to, enzymes, fluorescent
molecules, radioactive labels, spin labels, redox labels, and the
like. In other embodiments, antibodies may be coupled to a
substrate within a microfluidic chip 108. One or more samples 104
may be passed over the antibodies to facilitate binding of one or
more pathogens 106 to the one or more antibodies to form one or
more antibody-pathogen complexes. Such binding provides for
detection of the antibody-pathogen complex through use of methods
that include, but are not limited to, surface plasmon resonance,
conductivity, and the like (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 7,030,989; herein
incorporated by reference). In some embodiments, antibodies may be
coupled to a substrate within a microfluidic chip 108 to provide
for a competition assay. One or more samples 104 may be mixed with
one or more reagent mixtures that include one or more labeled
pathogens 106. The mixture may then be passed over the antibodies
to facilitate binding of pathogens 106 in the sample 104 and
labeled pathogens 106 in the reagent mixture to the antibodies. The
unlabeled pathogens 106 in the sample 104 will compete with the
labeled pathogens 106 in the reagent mixture for binding to the
antibodies. Accordingly, the amount of label bound to the
antibodies will vary in accordance with the concentration of
unlabeled pathogen 106 in the sample 104. In some embodiments,
antibody interaction may be used in association with
microcantilevers to process one or more pathogens 106. Methods to
construct microcantilevers are known (e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos.
7,141,385; 6,935,165; 6,926,864; 6,763,705; 6,523,392; 6,325,904;
herein incorporated by reference). In some embodiments, one or more
antibodies may be used in conjunction with one or more aptamers to
process one or more samples 104. Accordingly, in some embodiments,
aptamers and antibodies may be used interchangeably to process one
or more samples 104.
[0153] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to process one or more samples 104 through use of
chemical interaction. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic
chips 108 may be configured to utilize chemical extraction to
process one or more samples 104. For example, in some embodiments,
one or more samples 104 may be mixed with a reagent mixture that
includes one or more solvents in which the one or more pathogens
106 are soluble. Accordingly, the solvent phase containing the one
or more pathogens 106 may be separated from the sample phase to
provide for detection of the one or more pathogens 106. In some
embodiments, one or more samples 104 may be mixed with a reagent
mixture that includes one or more chemicals that cause
precipitation of one or more pathogens 106. Accordingly, the sample
phase may be washed away from the one or more precipitated
pathogens 106 to provide for detection of the one or more pathogens
106. Accordingly, reagent mixtures that include numerous types of
chemicals that interact with one or more pathogens 106 may be
used.
[0154] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to process one or more samples 104 through use of
diffusion. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108
may be configured to process one or more fluid samples 104 through
use of an H-filter. For example, a microfluidic chip 108 may be
configured to include a channel through which a fluid sample 104
and a second fluid flow such that the fluid sample 104 and the
second fluid undergo substantially parallel flow through the
channel without significant mixing of the sample fluid and the
second fluid. As the fluid sample 104 and the second fluid flow
through the channel, one or more pathogens 106 in the fluid sample
104 may diffuse through the fluid sample 104 into the second fluid.
Accordingly, such diffusion provides for the separation of the one
or more pathogens 106 from the sample 104. Methods to construct
H-filters have been described (e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,742,661;
6,409,832; 6,007,775; 5,974,867; 5,971,158; 5,948,684; 5,932,100;
5,716,852; herein incorporated by reference). In some embodiments,
diffusion based methods may be combined with immunoassay based
methods to process and detect one or more pathogens 106. Methods to
conduct microscale diffusion immunoassays have been described
(e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,541,213; herein incorporated by reference).
Accordingly, microfluidic chips 108 may be configured in numerous
ways to process one or more pathogens 106 through use of
diffusion.
[0155] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to facilitate detection of one or more pathogens 106
through use of filtration. In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to include one or more
filters that have a molecular weight cut-off. For example, a filter
may allow molecules of low molecular weight to pass through the
filter while disallowing molecules of high molecular weight to pass
through the filter. Accordingly, one or more pathogens 106 that are
contained within a sample 104 may be allowed to pass through a
filter while larger molecules contained within the sample 104 are
disallowed from passing through the filter. Accordingly, in some
embodiments, a microfluidic chip 108 may include two or more
filters that selectively retain, or allow passage, of one or more
pathogens 106 through the filters. Such configurations provide for
selective separation of one or more pathogens 106 from one or more
samples 104. Membranes and filters having numerous molecular weight
cut-offs are commercially available (e.g., Millipore, Billerica,
Mass.). In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to provide for dialysis of one or more samples 104.
For example, in some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 108 may be
configured to contain one or more samples 104 in one or more sample
chambers that are separated from one or more dialysis chambers by a
semi-permeable membrane. Accordingly, in some embodiments, one or
more pathogens 106 that are able to pass through the semi-permeable
membrane may be collected in the dialysis chamber. In other
embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be retained in the one
or more sample chambers while other sample components may be
separated from the one or more pathogens 106 by their passage
through the semi-permeable membrane into the dialysis chamber.
Accordingly, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may be configured
to include two or more dialysis chambers for selective separation
of one or more pathogens 106 from one or more samples 104.
Semi-permeable membranes and dialysis tubing is available from
numerous commercial sources (e.g., Millipore, Billerica, Mass.;
Pierce, Rockford, Ill.; Sigma-Aldrich, St. Louis, Mo.). Methods
that may be used for microfiltration have been described (e.g.,
U.S. Pat. No. 5,922,210; herein incorporated by reference).
[0156] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to process one or more samples 104 through use of
chromatography. Numerous chromatographic methods may be used to
process one or more samples 104. Examples of such chromatographic
methods include, but are not limited to, ion-exchange
chromatography, affinity chromatography, gel filtration
chromatography, hydroxyapatite chromatography, gas chromatography,
reverse phase chromatography, thin layer chromatography, capillary
chromatography, size exclusion chromatography, hydrophobic
interaction media, and the like. In some embodiments, a
microfluidic chip 108 may be configured to process one or more
samples 104 through use of one or more chromatographic methods. In
some embodiments, chromatographic methods may be used to process
one or more samples 104 for one or more pathogens 106 that include
one or more polynucleotides. For example, in some embodiments, one
or more samples 104 may be applied to a chromatographic media to
which the one or more polynucleotides bind. The remaining
components of the sample 104 may be washed from the chromatographic
media. The one or more polynucleotides may then be eluted from
chromatographic media in a more purified state. Similar methods may
be used to process one or more samples 104 for one or more
pathogens 106 that include one or more proteins or polypeptides
(e.g., Mondal and Gupta, Biomol. Eng., 23:59-76 (2006)).
Chromatography media able to separate numerous types of molecules
is commercially available (e.g., Bio-Rad, Hercules, Calif.; Qiagen,
Valencia, Calif.; Pfizer, New York, N.Y.; Millipore, Billerica,
Mass.; GE Healthcare Bio-Sciences Corp., Piscataway, N.J.).
[0157] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to process one or more samples 104 through use of
aptamer interaction. In some embodiments, one or more aptamers may
include polynucleotides (e.g., deoxyribonucleic acid; ribonucleic
acid; and derivatives of polynucleotides that may include
polynucleotides that include modified bases, polynucleotides in
which the phosphodiester bond is replaced by a different type of
bond, or many other types of modified polynucleotides). In some
embodiments, one or more aptamers may include peptide aptamers.
Methods to prepare and use aptamers have been described (e.g.,
Collett et al., Methods, 37:4-15 (2005); Collet et al., Anal.
Biochem., 338:113-123 (2005); Cox et al., Nucleic Acids Res., 30:20
e108 (2002); Kirby et al., Anal. Chem., 76:4066-4075 (2004);
Ulrich, Handb. Exp. Pharmacol., 173:305-326 (2006); Baines and
Colas, Drug Discovery Today, 11:334-341 (2006); Guthrie et al.,
Methods, 38:324-330 (2006); Geyer et al., Chapter 13: Selection of
Genetic Agents from Random Peptide Aptamer Expression Libraries,
Methods in Enzymology, Academic Press, pg. 171-208 (2000); U.S.
Pat. No. 6,569,630; herein incorporated by reference). Aptamers may
be configured in numerous ways within one or more microfluidic
chips 108 to process one or more pathogens 106. For example, in
some embodiments, aptamers may be coupled to a substrate within a
microfluidic chip 108. One or more samples 104 may be passed over
the aptamers to facilitate binding of one or more pathogens 106 to
the one or more aptamers to form one or more aptamer-pathogen
complexes. Labeled detector antibodies and/or aptamers that bind to
the pathogen 106 (or the aptamer-pathogen complex) may then be
passed over the one or more aptamer-pathogen complexes such that
the labeled detector antibodies and/or aptamers will label the
pathogen 106 (or the aptamer-pathogen complex). Numerous labels may
be used that include, but are not limited to, enzymes, fluorescent
molecules, radioactive labels, spin labels, redox labels, and the
like. In other embodiments, aptamers may be coupled to a substrate
within a microfluidic chip 108. One or more samples 104 may be
passed over the aptamers to facilitate binding of one or more
pathogens 106 to the one or more aptamers to form one or more
aptamer-pathogen complexes. Such binding provides for detection of
the aptamer-pathogen complex through use of methods that include,
but are not limited to, surface plasmon resonance, conductivity,
and the like (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 7,030,989; herein incorporated by
reference). In some embodiments, aptamers may be coupled to a
substrate within a microfluidic chip 108 to provide for a
competition assay. One or more samples 104 may be mixed with one or
more reagent mixtures that include one or more labeled pathogens
106. The mixture may then be passed over the aptamers to facilitate
binding of pathogens 106 in the sample 104 and labeled pathogens
106 in the reagent mixture to the aptamers. The unlabeled pathogens
106 in the sample 104 will compete with the labeled pathogens 106
in the reagent mixture for binding to the aptamers. Accordingly,
the amount of label bound to the aptamers will vary in accordance
with the concentration of unlabeled pathogens 106 in the sample
104. In some embodiments, aptamer interaction may be used in
association with microcantilevers to process one or more pathogens
106. Methods to construct microcantilevers are known (e.g., U.S.
Pat. Nos. 7,141,385; 6,935,165; 6,926,864; 6,763,705; 6,523,392;
6,325,904; herein incorporated by reference). In some embodiments,
one or more aptamers may be used in conjunction with one or more
antibodies to process one or more samples 104. In some embodiments,
aptamers and antibodies may be used interchangeably to process one
or more samples 104. Accordingly, in some embodiments, methods
and/or systems for processing and/or detecting pathogen indicators
may utilize antibodies and aptamers interchangeably and/or in
combination.
[0158] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to facilitate detection of one or more pathogens 106
through use of electrical conductivity. In some embodiments, one or
more samples 104 may be processed through use of magnetism. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more samples 104 may be
combined with one or more tagged polynucleotides that are tagged
with a ferrous material, such as a ferrous bead. The tagged
polynucleotides and the polynucleotides in the one or more samples
104 may be incubated to provide hybridized complexes of the tagged
polynucleotides and the sample polynucleotides. Hybridization will
serve to couple one or more ferrous beads to the polynucleotides in
the sample 104 that hybridize with the tagged polynucleotides.
Accordingly, the mixture may be passed over an electromagnet to
immobilize the hybridized complexes. Other components in the sample
104 may then be washed away from the hybridized complexes. In some
embodiments, a chamber containing the magnetically immobilized
hybridized complexes may be heated to release the sample
polynucleotides from the magnetically immobilized tagged
polynucleotides. The sample polynucleotides may then be collected
in a more purified state. In other embodiments, similar methods may
be used in conjunction with antibodies, aptamers, peptides,
ligands, and the like. Accordingly, one or more microfluidic chips
108 may be configured in numerous ways to utilize magnetism to
process one or more samples 104. In some embodiments, one or more
samples 104 may be processed through use of eddy currents. Eddy
current separation uses electromagnetic induction in conducting
materials to separate non-ferrous metals by their different
electric conductivities. An electrical charge is induced into a
conductor by changes in magnetic flux cutting through it. Moving
permanent magnets passing a conductor generates the change in
magnetic flux. Accordingly, in some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to include a magnetic
rotor such that when conducting particles move through the changing
flux of the magnetic rotor, a spiraling current and resulting
magnetic field are induced. The magnetic field of the conducting
particles may interact with the magnetic field of the magnetic
rotor to impart kinetic energy to the conducting particles. The
kinetic energy imparted to the conducting particles may then be
used to direct movement of the conducting particles. Accordingly,
non-ferrous particles, such as metallic beads, may be utilized to
process one or more samples 104. For example, in some embodiments,
one or more samples 104 may be combined with one or more tagged
polynucleotides that are tagged with a non-ferrous material, such
as an aluminum bead. The tagged polynucleotides and the
polynucleotides in the one or more samples 104 may be incubated to
provide hybridized complexes of the tagged polynucleotides and the
sample polynucleotides. Hybridization will serve to couple one or
more ferrous beads to the polynucleotides in the sample 104 that
hybridize with the tagged polynucleotides. Accordingly, the mixture
may be passed through a magnetic field to impart kinetic energy to
the non-ferrous bead. This kinetic energy may then be used to
separate the hybridized complex. In other embodiments, similar
methods may be used in conjunction with antibodies, aptamers,
peptides, ligands, and the like. Accordingly, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may be configured in numerous ways to
utilize eddy currents to process one or more samples 104. One or
more microfluidic chips 108 may be configured in numerous ways to
utilize electrical conductivity to process one or more samples
104.
[0159] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to process one or more samples 104 through use of
isoelectric focusing. Methods have been described that may be used
to construct capillary isoelectric focusing systems (e.g., Herr et
al., Investigation of a miniaturized capillary isoelectric focusing
(cIEF) system using a full-field detection approach, Mechanical
Engineering Department, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif.; Wu
and Pawliszyn, Journal of Microcolumn Separations, 4:419-422
(1992); Kilar and Hjerten, Electrophoresis, 10:23-29 (1989); U.S.
Pat. Nos. 7,150,813; 7,070,682; 6,730,516; herein incorporated by
reference). Such systems may be modified to provide for the
processing of one or more samples 104.
[0160] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to facilitate detection of one or more pathogens 106
through use of electrophoresis. In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to process one or more
samples 104 through use of one-dimensional electrophoresis. In some
embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may be configured
to process one or more samples 104 through use of two-dimensional
electrophoresis. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic
chips 108 may be configured to process one or more samples 104
through use of gradient gel electrophoresis. In some embodiments,
one or more microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to process one
or more samples 104 through use of electrophoresis under denaturing
conditions. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108
may be configured to process one or more samples 104 through use of
electrophoresis under native conditions. One or more microfluidic
chips 108 may be configured to utilize numerous electrophoretic
methods.
[0161] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to facilitate detection of one or more pathogens 106
through use of immunoassay. In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to process one or more
samples 104 through use of enzyme linked immunosorbant assay
(ELISA). In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108
may be configured to process one or more samples 104 through use of
radioimmuno assay (RIA). In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to process one or more
samples 104 through use of enzyme immunoassay (EIA). In some
embodiments, such methods may utilize antibodies (e.g., monoclonal
antibodies, polyclonal antibodies, antibody fragments, single-chain
antibodies, and the like), aptamers, or substantially any
combination thereof. In some embodiments, a labeled antibody and/or
aptamer may be used within an immunoassay. Numerous types of labels
may be utilized in association with immunoassays. Examples of such
labels include, but are not limited to, radioactive labels,
fluorescent labels, enzyme labels, spin labels, magnetic labels,
gold labels, colorimetric labels, redox labels, and the like.
Numerous immunoassays are known and may be configured for
processing one or more samples 104.
[0162] In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be configured to facilitate detection of one or more pathogens 106
through use of one or more competition assays. In some embodiments,
one or more microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to process one
or more samples 104 through use of one or more polynucleotide based
competition assays. One or more microfluidic chips 108 may be
configured to include one or more polynucleotides coupled to a
substrate, such as a polynucleotide array. The one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may be further configured so that a sample
104 and/or substantially purified polynucleotides obtained from one
or more samples 104, may be mixed with one or more reagent mixtures
that include one or more labeled polynucleotides to form an
analysis mixture. This analysis mixture is then passed over the
substrate such that the labeled polynucleotides and the sample
polynucleotides are allowed to hybridize to the polynucleotides
that are immobilized on the substrate. The sample polynucleotides
and the labeled polynucleotides will compete for binding to the
polynucleotides that are coupled on the substrate. Accordingly, the
presence and/or concentration of the polynucleotides in the sample
104 can be determined through detection of the label (e.g., the
concentration of the polynucleotides in the sample 104 will be
inversely related to the amount of label that is bound to the
substrate). Numerous labels may be used that include, but are not
limited to, enzymes, fluorescent molecules, radioactive labels,
spin labels, redox labels, and the like. In some embodiments, one
or more microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to include one or
more antibodies, proteins, peptides, and/or aptamers that are
coupled to a substrate. The one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
be further configured so that a sample 104 and/or substantially
purified sample polypeptides and/or sample peptides obtained from
one or more samples 104, may be mixed with one or more reagent
mixtures that include one or more labeled polypeptides and/or
labeled peptides to form an analysis mixture. This analysis mixture
can then be passed over the substrate such that the labeled
polypeptides and/or labeled peptides and the sample polypeptides
and/or sample peptides are allowed to bind to the antibodies,
proteins, peptides, and/or aptamers that are immobilized on the
substrate. The sample polypeptides and/or sample peptides and the
labeled polypeptides and/or sample peptides will compete for
binding to the antibodies, proteins, peptides, and/or aptamers that
are coupled on the substrate. Accordingly, the presence and/or
concentration of the sample polypeptides and/or sample peptides in
the sample 104 can be determined through detection of the label
(e.g., the concentration of the sample polypeptides and/or sample
peptides in the sample 104 will be inversely related to the amount
of label that is bound to the substrate). Numerous labels may be
used that include, but are not limited to, enzymes, fluorescent
molecules, radioactive labels, spin labels, redox labels, and the
like. Microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to utilize numerous
types of competition assays.
[0163] Accordingly, microfluidic chips 108 may be configured for
analysis of numerous types of pathogens 106 (e.g., intact pathogen
106 and/or portion of pathogen).
Analysis Unit
[0164] System 100 may include one or more analysis units 110.
Analysis units 110 may be configured for analysis of numerous types
of pathogens 106. In some embodiments, one or more analysis units
110 may be configured for analysis of one or more polynucleotides,
polypeptides, polysaccharides, enzyme activities, and the like. In
some embodiments, one or more polynucleotides, polypeptides,
polysaccharides, enzyme activities, and the like that are
associated with one or more pathogens 106 may be analyzed. In some
embodiments, one or more polynucleotides, polypeptides,
polysaccharides, enzyme activities, and the like that are
associated with pathogen 106 activity may be analyzed.
[0165] For example, in some embodiments, one or more analysis units
110 may be configured for analysis of one or more polypeptides
through use of numerous techniques that include, but are not
limited to, competition assays, immunological methods (e.g.,
sandwich assays), and the like.
[0166] In other embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be
configured for analysis of one or more polynucleotides through use
of numerous techniques that include, but are not limited to,
competition assays, electron transfer assays, electrical
conductivity assays, and the like.
[0167] In some embodiments, an analysis unit 110 may include one or
more centrifugation units. In some embodiments, one or more
centrifugation units may be configured to operably associate with
one or more microfluidic chips 108. Accordingly, in some
embodiments, one or more centrifugation units may be used to
facilitate analysis and/or detection of one or more pathogens 106.
Methods to fabricate devices that may be used to drive fluid
movement through centripetal acceleration in a microfluidics system
have been described (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,709,869; herein
incorporated by reference).
[0168] For example, in some embodiments, one or more centrifugation
units may be used to facilitate the analysis of one or more
polynucleotides from one or more samples 104 that are applied to
one or more microfluidic chips 108 (e.g., U.S. patent application
Ser. Nos. 11/699,770; 11/699,920; 11/699,747; and 11/699,774;
herein incorporated by reference).
[0169] In some embodiments, one or more centrifugation units may be
configured to centrifuge one or more microfluidic chips 108 to
facilitate movement of one or more samples 104, one or more
reagents, one or more fluids, and the like through the one or more
microfluidic chips 108.
[0170] In some embodiments, one or more centrifugation units may be
configured to centrifuge one or more microfluidic chips 108 to
create a gradient. In some embodiments, velocity gradients may be
created to facilitate analysis of one or more samples 104. For
example, glycerol gradients may be used to separate polypeptides
from one or more samples 104. In other embodiments, density
gradients may be created to facilitate analysis of one or more
samples 104. For example, cesium chloride may be used to create a
density gradient to facilitate the analysis of one or more
polynucleotides. In some embodiments, gradient centrifugation may
be used to analyze one or more viral particles.
[0171] In some embodiments, one or more centrifugation units may be
configured to centrifuge one or more microfluidic chips 108 to
facilitate chromatographic separations of components within one or
more samples 104. For example, chromatographic media may be packed
within a microfluidic chip 108 to facilitate the separation of
components, such as pathogens 106, from one or more samples 104.
Such chromatographic media is commercially available (e.g., Qiagen
Sciences, Germantown, Md. and Pfizer, New York, N.Y.).
[0172] In some embodiments, an analysis unit 110 may include one or
more reagent delivery units. In some embodiments, one or more
reagent delivery units may be configured to operably associate with
one or more microfluidic chips 108. Accordingly, in some
embodiments, one or more reagent delivery units may be configured
to contain one or more reagents that may be used within one or more
microfluidic chips 108 to analyze and/or detect one or more
pathogens 106. In some embodiments, one or more reagent delivery
units may include one or more pumps to facilitate delivery of one
or more reagents. Numerous types of pumps may be used within a
reagent delivery unit. In some embodiments, one or more reagent
delivery units may be configured to operably associate with one or
more centrifugation units. Accordingly, reagents may be delivered
through use of centrifugal force. Reagent delivery units may be
configured in numerous ways. For example, in some embodiments,
reagent delivery units may include one or more reagent reservoirs,
one or more waste reservoirs or substantially any combination
thereof. Reagent delivery units may be configured to contain and/or
deliver numerous types of reagents. Examples of such reagents
include, but are not limited to, phenol, chloroform, alcohol, salt
solutions, detergent solutions, solvents, reagents used for
polynucleotide precipitation, reagents used for polypeptide
precipitation, reagents used for polynucleotide extraction,
reagents used for polypeptide extraction, reagents used for
chemical extractions, and the like. Accordingly, reagent delivery
units may be configured to contain and/or deliver virtually any
reagent that may be used for the analysis of one or more pathogens
106.
[0173] In some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be
configured to facilitate detection of one or more pathogens 106
with at least one technique that includes spectroscopy,
electrochemical detection, polynucleotide detection, fluorescence
anisotropy, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, electron
transfer, enzyme assay, electrical conductivity, isoelectric
focusing, chromatography, immunoprecipitation, immunoseparation,
aptamer binding, filtration, electrophoresis, use of a CCD camera,
immunoassay, or substantially any combination thereof.
[0174] In some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be
configured to operably associate with one or more microfluidic
chips 108. For example, in some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may include a window (e.g., a quartz window,
a cuvette analog, and/or the like) through which one or more
analysis units 110 may determine if one or more pathogens 106 are
present and/or determine the concentration of one or more pathogens
106. In such embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be
configured to utilize numerous techniques, such as visible light
spectroscopy, ultraviolet light spectroscopy, infrared
spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and the like, to detect
one or more pathogens 106.
[0175] In some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be
configured to facilitate detection and/or analysis of one or more
pathogens 106 through use of surface plasmon resonance. In some
embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may include one or
more antibodies, aptamers, proteins, peptides, polynucleotides, and
the like, that are bound to a substrate (e.g., a metal film) that
is associated with a prism through which one or more analysis units
110 may shine light to detect one or more pathogens 106 that
interact with the one or more antibodies, aptamers, proteins,
peptides, polynucleotides, and the like, that are bound to a
substrate.
[0176] In some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be
configured to facilitate detection and/or analysis of one or more
pathogens 106 through use of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). In
such embodiments, the analysis units 110 may be configured to
accept an NMR probe and are configured to detect one or more
pathogens 106 through use of NMR spectroscopy.
[0177] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
detected and/or analyzed through use of spectroscopy. Numerous
types of spectroscopic methods may be used. Examples of such
methods include, but are not limited to, ultraviolet spectroscopy,
visible light spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, x-ray
spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, mass spectroscopy, plasmon
resonance (e.g., Cherif et al., Clinical Chemistry, 52:255-262
(2006) and U.S. Pat. No. 7,030,989; herein incorporated by
reference), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Raman
spectroscopy, fluorescence quenching, fluorescence resonance energy
transfer, intrinsic fluorescence, ligand fluorescence, and the
like.
[0178] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
detected and/or analyzed through use of electrochemical detection.
In some embodiments, one or more polynucleotides may be analyzed
through use of electrochemical detection. For example, in some
embodiments, a polynucleotide that includes a redox label, such as
ferrocene is coupled to a gold electrode. The labeled
polynucleotide forms a stem-loop structure that can self-assemble
onto a gold electrode by means of facile gold-thiol chemistry.
Hybridization of a sample polynucleotide induces a large
conformational change in the surface-confined polynucleotide
structure, which in turn alters the electron-transfer tunneling
distance between the electrode and the redoxable label. The
resulting change in electron transfer efficiency may be measured by
cyclic voltammetry (Fan et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci.,
100:9134-9137 (2003); Wang et al., Anal. Chem., 75:3941-3945
(2003); Singh-Zocchi et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 100:7605-7610
(2003)). Such methods may be used to analyze numerous
polynucleotides, such as messenger ribonucleic acid, genomic
deoxyribonucleic acid, fragments thereof, and the like.
[0179] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
detected and/or analyzed through use of polynucleotide analysis. In
some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be configured
to use polynucleotide analysis. Numerous methods may be used to
analyze one or more polynucleotides. Examples of such methods
include, but are not limited to, those based on polynucleotide
hybridization, polynucleotide ligation, polynucleotide
amplification, polynucleotide degradation, and the like. Methods
that utilize intercalation dyes, fluorescence resonance energy
transfer, capacitive deoxyribonucleic acid detection, and nucleic
acid amplification have been described (e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos.
7,118,910 and 6,960,437; herein incorporated by reference). Such
methods may be adapted to provide for analysis of one or more
pathogens 106. In some embodiments, fluorescence quenching,
molecular beacons, electron transfer, electrical conductivity, and
the like may be used to analyze polynucleotide interaction. Such
methods are known and have been described (e.g., Jarvius, DNA Tools
and Microfluidic Systems for Molecular Analysis, Digital
Comprehensive Summaries of Uppsala Dissertations from the Faculty
of Medicine 161, ACTA UNIVERSITATIS UPSALIENSIS UPPSALA 2006, ISBN:
91-554-6616-8; Singh-Zocchi et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci.,
100:7605-7610 (2003); Wang et al., Anal. Chem., 75:3941-3945
(2003); Fan et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 100:9134-9137 (2003);
U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,958,216; 5,093,268; 6,090,545; herein incorporated
by reference). In some embodiments, one or more polynucleotides
that include at least one carbon nanotube may be combined with one
or more samples 104, and/or one or more partially purified
polynucleotides obtained from one or more samples 104. The one or
more polynucleotides that include one or more carbon nanotubes are
allowed to hybridize with one or more polynucleotides that may be
present within the one or more samples 104. The one or more carbon
nanotubes may be excited (e.g., with an electron beam and/or an
ultraviolet laser) and the emission spectra of the excited
nanotubes may be correlated with hybridization of the one or more
polynucleotides that include at least one carbon nanotube with one
or more polynucleotides that are included within the one or more
samples 104. Accordingly, polynucleotides that hybridize to one or
more pathogens 106 may include one or more carbon nanotubes.
Methods to utilize carbon nanotubes as probes for nucleic acid
interaction have been described (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,821,730;
herein incorporated by reference). Numerous other methods based on
polynucleotide analysis may be used to analyze one or more
pathogens 106.
[0180] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
detected and/or analyzed through use of fluorescence anisotropy.
Fluorescence anisotropy is based on measuring the steady state
polarization of sample fluorescence imaged in a confocal
arrangement. A linearly polarized laser excitation source
preferentially excites fluorescent target molecules with transition
moments aligned parallel to the incident polarization vector. The
resultant fluorescence is collected and directed into two channels
that measure the intensity of the fluorescence polarized both
parallel and perpendicular to that of the excitation beam. With
these two measurements, the fluorescence anisotropy, r, can be
determined from the equation: r=(Intensity parallel-Intensity
perpendicular)/(Intensity parallel+2(Intensity perpendicular))
where the I terms indicate intensity measurements parallel and
perpendicular to the incident polarization. Fluorescence anisotropy
detection of fluorescent molecules has been described. Accordingly,
fluorescence anisotropy may be coupled to numerous fluorescent
labels as have been described herein and as have been
described.
[0181] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
detected and/or analyzed through use of fluorescence resonance
energy transfer (FRET). Fluorescence resonance energy transfer
refers to an energy transfer mechanism between two fluorescent
molecules. A fluorescent donor is excited at its fluorescence
excitation wavelength. This excited state is then nonradiatively
transferred to a second molecule, the fluorescent acceptor.
Fluorescence resonance energy transfer may be used within numerous
configurations to detected and/or analyze one or more pathogens
106. For example, in some embodiments, an antibody may be labeled
with a fluorescent donor and one or more pathogens 106 may be
labeled with a fluorescent acceptor. Accordingly, such labeled
antibodies and pathogens 106 may be used within competition assays
to facilitate detection and/or the determination of the
concentration of one or more pathogens 106 in one or more samples
104. Numerous combinations of fluorescent donors and fluorescent
acceptors may be used to analyze one or more pathogens 106.
Accordingly, in some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips
108 may be configured to include a window (e.g., quartz) through
which fluorescent light may pass to provide for detection of one or
more pathogens 106 through use of fluorescence resonance energy
transfer. Accordingly, fluorescence resonance energy transfer may
be used in conjunction with competition assays and/or numerous
other types of assays to analyze and/or detect one or more
pathogens 106.
[0182] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
detected and/or analyzed through use of electron transfer. Electron
transfer is the process by which an electron moves from an electron
donor to an electron acceptor causing the oxidation states of the
electron donor and the electron acceptor to change. In some
embodiments, electron transfer may occur when an electron is
transferred from one or more electron donors to an electrode. In
some embodiments, electron transfer may be utilized within
competition assays to analyze one or more pathogens 106. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108
may include one or more polynucleotides that may be immobilized on
one or more electrodes. The immobilized polynucleotides may be
incubated with a reagent mixture that includes sample
polynucleotides and polynucleotides that are tagged with an
electron donor. Hybridization of the tagged polynucleotides to the
immobilized polynucleotides allows the electron donor to transfer
an electron to the electrode to produce a detectable signal 126.
Accordingly, a decrease in signal due to the presence of one or
more polynucleotides that are pathogens 106 in the reagent mixture
indicates the presence of a pathogen 106 in the sample 104. Such
methods may be used in conjunction with polynucleotides,
polypeptides, peptides, antibodies, aptamers, and the like. One or
more analysis units 110 may be configured to operably associate
with one or more microfluidic chips 108 to utilize numerous
electron transfer based assays to provide for detection of one or
more pathogens 106.
[0183] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
detected and/or analyzed through use of one or more enzyme assays.
Numerous enzyme assays may be used to provide for detection of one
or more pathogens 106. Examples of such enzyme assays include, but
are not limited to, beta-galactosidase assays, peroxidase assays,
catalase assays, alkaline phosphatase assays, and the like. In some
embodiments, enzyme assays may be configured such that an enzyme
will catalyze a reaction involving an enzyme substrate that
produces a fluorescent product. Accordingly, one or more analysis
units 110 may be configured to facilitate detection of fluorescence
resulting from the fluorescent product. Enzymes and fluorescent
enzyme substrates are known and are commercially available (e.g.,
Sigma-Aldrich, St. Louis, Mo.). In some embodiments, enzyme assays
may be configured as binding assays that provide for detection of
one or more pathogens 106. For example, in some embodiments, one or
more microfluidic chips 108 may be configured to include a
substrate to which is coupled one or more antibodies, aptamers,
peptides, proteins, polynucleotides, ligands, and the like, that
will interact with one or more pathogens 106. One or more samples
104 may be passed across the substrate such that one or more
pathogens 106 present within the one or more samples 104 will
interact with the one or more antibodies, aptamers, peptides,
proteins, polynucleotides, ligands, and the like, and be
immobilized on the substrate. One or more antibodies, aptamers,
peptides, proteins, polynucleotides, ligands, and the like, that
are labeled with an enzyme may then be passed across the substrate
such that the one or more labeled antibodies, aptamers, peptides,
proteins, polynucleotides, ligands, and the like, will bind to the
one or more immobilized pathogens 106. An enzyme substrate may then
be introduced to the one or more immobilized enzymes such that the
enzymes are able to catalyze a reaction involving the enzyme
substrate to produce a fluorescent product. Such assays are often
referred to as sandwich assays. Accordingly, one or more analysis
units 110 may be configured to provide for detection of one or more
products of enzyme catalysis to provide for detection of one or
more pathogens 106.
[0184] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
detected and/or analyzed through use of electrical conductivity. In
some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be configured
to provide for detection of one or more pathogens 106 through use
of electrical conductivity. In some embodiments, microfluidic chips
108 may be configured to operably associate with one or more
analysis units 110 such that the one or more analysis units 110 can
detect one or more pathogens 106 through use of electrical
conductivity. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips
108 may be configured to include two or more electrodes that are
each coupled to one or more detector polynucleotides. Interaction
of a pathogen associated polynucleotide, such as hybridization,
with two detector polynucleotides that are coupled to two different
electrodes will complete an electrical circuit. This completed
circuit will provide for the flow of a detectable electrical
current between the two electrodes and thereby provide for
detection of one or more pathogen associated polynucleotides that
indicate the presence of one or more pathogens 106. In some
embodiments, the electrodes may be carbon nanotubes (e.g., U.S.
Pat. No. 6,958,216; herein incorporated by reference). In some
embodiments, electrodes may include, but are not limited to, one or
more conductive metals, such as gold, copper, iron, silver,
platinum, and the like; one or more conductive alloys; one or more
conductive ceramics; and the like. In some embodiments, electrodes
may be selected and configured according to protocols typically
used in the computer industry that include, but are not limited to,
photolithography, masking, printing, stamping, and the like. In
some embodiments, other molecules and complexes that interact with
one or more pathogens 106 may be used to detect the one or more
pathogens 106 through use of electrical conductivity. Examples of
such molecules and complexes include, but are not limited to,
proteins, peptides, antibodies, aptamers, and the like. For
example, in some embodiments, two or more antibodies may be
immobilized on one or more electrodes such that contact of the two
or more antibodies with a pathogen 106, such as a spore, a
bacterium, a virus, an egg, a worm, a cyst, a protozoan, a
single-celled organism, a fungus, an algae, and the like, will
complete an electrical circuit and facilitate the production of a
detectable electrical current.
[0185] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
detected and/or analyzed through use of isoelectric focusing. In
some embodiments, analysis units 110 may be configured to provide
for detection of one or more pathogens 106 through use of
isoelectric focusing. In such embodiments, one or more analysis
units 110 may be configured to associate with one or more
microfluidic chips 108 that are configured to utilize isoelectric
focusing to detect and/or analyze one or more pathogens 106. In
some embodiments, native isoelectric focusing may be utilized. In
some embodiments, denaturing isoelectric focusing may be utilized.
Methods to construct microfluidic channels that may be used for
isoelectric focusing have been reported (e.g., Macounova et al.,
Anal Chem., 73:1627-1633 (2001); Macounova et al., Anal Chem.,
72:3745-3751 (2000); Herr et al., Investigation of a miniaturized
capillary isoelectric focusing (cIEF) system using a full-field
detection approach, Mechanical Engineering Department, Stanford
University, Stanford, Calif.; Wu and Pawliszyn, Journal of
Microcolumn Separations, 4:419-422 (1992); Kilar and Hjerten,
Electrophoresis, 10:23-29 (1989); U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,150,813;
7,070,682; 6,730,516; herein incorporated by reference). In some
embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be configured to
include one or more CCD cameras that can be used to detect one or
more pathogens 106 that are analyzed through isoelectric focusing.
In some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be
configured to include one or more spectrometers that can be used to
detect one or more pathogens 106. Numerous types of spectrometers
may be utilized to detect one or more pathogens 106 following
isoelectric focusing. In some embodiments, one or more analysis
units 110 may be configured to utilize refractive index to detect
one or more pathogens 106.
[0186] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
detected and/or analyzed through use of chromatographic methodology
alone or in combination with additional analysis and/or detection
methods. In some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be
configured for use with chromatographic methods. Accordingly, in
some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be configured
to operably associate with one or more microfluidic chips 108 and
detect one or more pathogens 106 that were analyzed through use of
chromatographic methods. In some embodiments, the one or more
analysis units 110 may be configured to operably associate with one
or more microfluidic chips 108 and supply solvents and other
reagents to the one or more microfluidic chips 108. For example, in
some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may include pumps
and solvent/buffer reservoirs that are configured to supply
solvent/buffer flow through chromatographic media (e.g., a
chromatographic column) that is operably associated with one or
more microfluidic chips 108. Numerous types of chromatographic
methods and media may be used to analyze one or more samples 104
and provide for detection of one or more pathogens 106.
Chromatographic methods include, but are not limited to, low
pressure liquid chromatography, high pressure liquid chromatography
(HPLC), microcapillary low pressure liquid chromatography,
microcapillary high pressure liquid chromatography, ion exchange
chromatography, affinity chromatography, gel filtration
chromatography, size exclusion chromatography, thin layer
chromatography, paper chromatography, gas chromatography, and the
like. Methods that may be used to prepare microcapillary HPLC
columns (e.g., columns with a 100 micrometer-500 micrometer inside
diameter) have been described (e.g., Davis et al., Methods, A
Companion to Methods in Enzymology, 6: Micromethods for Protein
Structure Analysis, ed. by John E. Shively, Academic Press, Inc.,
San Diego, 304-314 (1994); Swiderek et al., Trace Structural
Analysis of Proteins. Methods of Enzymology, ed. by Barry L. Karger
& William S. Hancock, Spectrum, Publisher Services, 271, Chap.
3, 68-86 (1996); Moritz and Simpson, J. Chromatogr., 599:119-130
(1992)). Methods to prepare affinity columns have been described.
Briefly, a biotinylated site may be engineered into a polypeptide,
peptide, aptamer, antibody, or the like. The biotinylated protein
may then be incubated with avidin coated polystyrene beads and
slurried in Tris buffer. The slurry may then be packed into a
capillary affinity column through use of high pressure packing.
Affinity columns may be prepared that may include one or more
molecules and/or complexes that interact with one or more pathogens
106. For example, in some embodiments, one or more aptamers that
bind to one or more pathogens 106 may be used to construct an
affinity column. Accordingly, numerous chromatographic methods may
be used alone, or in combination with additional methods, to
process and detect one or more pathogens 106. Numerous detection
methods may be used in combination with numerous types of
chromatographic methods. Accordingly, one or more analysis units
110 may be configured to utilize numerous detection methods to
detect one or more pathogens 106 that are analyzed through use of
one or more chromatographic methods. Examples of such detection
methods include, but are not limited to, conductivity detection,
use of ion-specific electrodes, refractive index detection,
calorimetric detection, radiological detection, detection by
retention time, detection through use of elution conditions,
spectroscopy, and the like. For example, in some embodiments, one
or more chromatographic markers may be added to one or more samples
104 prior to the samples 104 being applied to a chromatographic
column. One or more analysis units 110 that are operably associated
with one or more microfluidic chips 108 that include a
chromatographic column may be configured to detect the one or more
chromatographic markers and use the elution time and/or position of
the chromatographic markers as a calibration tool for use in
detecting one or more pathogens 106. Accordingly, chromatographic
methods may be used in combination with additional methods and in
combination with numerous types of detection methods.
[0187] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
detected and/or analyzed through use of immunoprecipitation. In
some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be configured
to provide for detection of one or more pathogens 106 through use
of immunoprecipitation. In some embodiments, an analysis unit 110
may be configured to associated with one or more microfluidic chips
108 that are configured to utilize immunoprecipitation to analyze
one or more pathogens 106. In some embodiments, immunoprecipitation
may be utilized in combination with additional analysis and/or
detection methods to analyze and/or detect one or more pathogens
106. In some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be
configured to analyze one or more samples 104 through use of
immunoprecipitation. For example, in some embodiments, one or more
samples 104 may be combined with one or more antibodies that bind
to one or more pathogens 106 to form one or more antibody-pathogen
complexes. An insoluble form of an antibody binding constituent,
such as protein A (e.g., protein A-sepharose bead, protein
A-magnetic bead, protein A-ferrous bead, protein A-non-ferrous
bead, and the like), Protein G, a second antibody, an aptamer, and
the like, may then be mixed with the antibody-pathogen complex such
that the insoluble antibody binding constituent binds to the
antibody-pathogen complex and provides for precipitation of the
antibody-pathogen complex. Such complexes may be separated from
other sample components to provide for detection of one or more
pathogens 106. For example, in some embodiments, sample components
may be washed away from the precipitated antibody-pathogen
complexes. In some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 that
are configured for immunoprecipitation may include one or more
centrifugation units to assist in precipitating one or more
antibody-pathogen complexes. In some embodiments, aptamers
(polypeptide and/or polynucleotide) may be used in combination with
antibodies or in place of antibodies. Accordingly, one or more
analysis units 110 may be configured to detect one or more
pathogens 106 through use of numerous detection methods in
combination with immunoprecipitation based methods.
[0188] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
analyzed through use of immunoseparation. In some embodiments, one
or more analysis units 110 may be configured to analyze one or more
pathogens 106 through use of immunoseparation. For example, in some
embodiments, an analysis unit 110 may be configured to associate
with one or more microfluidic chips 108 that are configured to
analyze one or more pathogens 106 through use of immunoseparation.
In some embodiments, immunoseparation may be utilized in
combination with additional analysis and/or detection methods to
detect one or more pathogens 106. In some embodiments, one or more
analysis units 110 may be configured to analyze one or more samples
104 through use of immunoseparation. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more samples 104 may be combined with one or
more antibodies that bind to one or more pathogens 106 to form one
or more antibody-pathogen complexes. An antibody binding
constituent may be added that binds to the antibody-pathogen
complex. Examples of such antibody binding constituents that may be
used alone or in combination include, but are not limited to,
protein A (e.g., protein A-sepharose bead, protein A-magnetic bead,
protein A-ferrous bead, protein A-non-ferrous bead, and the like),
Protein G, a second antibody, an aptamer, and the like. Such
antibody binding constituents may be mixed with an
antibody-pathogen complex such that the antibody binding
constituent binds to the antibody-pathogen complex and provides for
separation of the antibody-pathogen complex. In some embodiments,
the antibody binding constituent may include a tag that allows the
antibody binding constituent and complexes that include the
antibody binding constituent to be separated from other components
in one or more samples 104. In some embodiments, the antibody
binding constituent may include a ferrous material. Accordingly,
antibody-pathogen complexes may be separated from other sample
components through use of a magnet, such as an electromagnet. In
some embodiments, an antibody binding constituent may include a
non-ferrous metal. Accordingly, antibody-pathogen complexes may be
separated from other sample components through use of an eddy
current to direct movement of one or more antibody-pathogen
complexes. In some embodiments, two or more forms of an antibody
binding constituents may be used to detect one or more pathogens
106. For example, in some embodiments, a first antibody binding
constituent may be coupled to a ferrous material and a second
antibody binding constituent may be coupled to a non-ferrous
material. Accordingly, the first antibody binding constituent and
the second antibody binding constituent may be mixed with
antibody-pathogen complexes such that the first antibody binding
constituent and the second antibody binding constituent bind to
antibody-pathogen complexes that include different pathogens 106.
Accordingly, in such embodiments, different pathogens 106 from a
single sample 104 and/or a combination of samples 104 may be
separated through use of direct magnetic separation in combination
with eddy current based separation. In some embodiments, one or
more samples 104 may be combined with one or more antibodies that
bind to one or more pathogens 106 to form one or more
antibody-pathogen complexes. In some embodiments, the one or more
antibodies may include one or more tags that provide for separation
of the antibody-pathogen complexes. For example, in some
embodiments, an antibody may include a tag that includes one or
more magnetic beads, a ferrous material, a non-ferrous metal, an
affinity tag, a size exclusion tag (e.g., a large bead that is
excluded from entry into chromatographic media such that
antibody-pathogen complexes pass through a chromatographic column
in the void volume), and the like. Accordingly, one or more
analysis units 110 may be configured to analyze one or more
pathogens 106 through use of numerous analysis methods in
combination with immunoseparation based methods. In some
embodiments, aptamers (polypeptide and/or polynucleotide) may be
used in combination with antibodies or in place of antibodies.
[0189] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
analyzed through use of aptamer binding. In some embodiments, one
or more analysis units 110 may be configured to analyze one or more
pathogens 106 through use of aptamer binding. In some embodiments,
aptamer binding may be utilized in combination with additional
analysis and/or detection methods to detect one or more pathogens
106. For example, in some embodiments, one or more samples 104 may
be combined with one or more aptamers that bind to one or more
pathogens 106 to form one or more aptamer-pathogen complexes. Such
complexes may be detected through use of numerous methods that
include, but are not limited to, fluorescence resonance energy
transfer, fluorescence quenching, surface plasmon resonance, and
the like. In some embodiments, aptamer binding constituents may be
added that bind to the aptamer-pathogen complex. Numerous aptamer
binding constituents may be utilized. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more aptamers may include one or more tags to
which one or more aptamer binding constituents may bind. Examples
of such tags include, but are not limited to, biotin, avidin,
streptavidin, histidine tags, nickel tags, ferrous tags,
non-ferrous tags, and the like. In some embodiments, one or more
tags may be conjugated with a label to provide for detection of one
or more complexes. Examples of such tag-label conjugates include,
but are not limited to, Texas red conjugated avidin, alkaline
phosphatase conjugated avidin, CY2 conjugated avidin, CY3
conjugated avidin, CY3.5 conjugated avidin, CY5 conjugated avidin,
CY5.5 conjugated avidin, fluorescein conjugated avidin, glucose
oxidase conjugated avidin, peroxidase conjugated avidin, rhodamine
conjugated avidin, agarose conjugated anti-protein A, alkaline
phosphatase conjugated protein A, anti-protein A, fluorescein
conjugated protein A, IRDye.RTM. 800 conjugated protein A,
peroxidase conjugated protein A, sepharose protein A, alkaline
phosphatase conjugated streptavidin, AMCA conjugated streptavidin,
anti-streptavidin (Streptomyces avidinii) (rabbit) IgG Fraction,
beta-galactosidase conjugated streptavidin, CY2 conjugated
streptavidin, CY3 conjugated streptavidin, CY3.5 conjugated
streptavidin, CY5 conjugated streptavidin, CY5.5 conjugated
streptavidin, fluorescein conjugated streptavidin, IRDye.RTM. 700DX
conjugated streptavidin, IRDye.RTM. 800 conjugated streptavidin,
IRDye.RTM. 800CW conjugated streptavidin, peroxidase conjugated
streptavidin, phycoerythrin conjugated streptavidin, rhodamine
conjugated streptavidin, Texas red conjugated streptavidin,
alkaline phosphatase conjugated biotin, anti-biotin (rabbit) IgG
fraction, beta-galactosidase conjugated biotin, glucose oxidase
conjugated biotin, peroxidase conjugated biotin, alkaline
phosphatase conjugated protein G, anti-protein G (rabbit) Agarose
conjugated, anti-protein G (Rabbit) IgG fraction, fluorescein
conjugated protein G, IRDye.RTM. 800 conjugated protein G,
peroxidase conjugated protein G, and the like. Many such labeled
tags are commercially available (e.g., Rockland Immunochemicals,
Inc., Gilbertsville, Pa.). Such labels may also be used in
association with other methods to analyze and detect one or more
pathogens 106. Aptamer binding constituents may be mixed with an
aptamer-pathogen complex such that the aptamer binding constituent
binds to the aptamer-pathogen complex and provides for separation
of the aptamer-pathogen complex. In some embodiments, the aptamer
binding constituent may include a tag that allows the aptamer
binding constituent and complexes that include the aptamer binding
constituent to be separated from other components in one or more
samples 104. In some embodiments, the aptamer binding constituent
may include a ferrous material. Accordingly, aptamer-pathogen
complexes may be separated from other sample components through use
of a magnet, such as an electromagnet. In some embodiments, an
aptamer binding constituent may include a non-ferrous metal.
Accordingly, aptamer-pathogen complexes may be separated from other
sample components through use of an eddy current to direct movement
of one or more aptamer-pathogen complexes. In some embodiments, two
or more forms of aptamer binding constituents may be used to
analyze one or more pathogens 106. For example, in some
embodiments, a first aptamer binding constituent may be coupled to
a ferrous material and a second aptamer binding constituent may be
coupled to a non-ferrous material. Accordingly, the first aptamer
binding constituent and the second aptamer binding constituent may
be mixed with aptamer-pathogen complexes such that the first
aptamer binding constituent and the second aptamer binding
constituent bind to aptamer-pathogen complexes that include
different pathogens 106. Accordingly, in such embodiments,
different pathogens 106 from a single sample 104 and/or a
combination of samples 104 may be separated through use of direct
magnetic separation in combination with eddy current based
separation. In some embodiments, one or more samples 104 may be
combined with one or more aptamers that bind to one or more
pathogens 106 to form one or more aptamer-pathogen complexes. In
some embodiments, the one or more aptamers may include one or more
tags that provide for separation of the aptamer-pathogen complexes.
For example, in some embodiments, an aptamer may include a tag that
includes one or more magnetic beads, a ferrous material, a
non-ferrous metal, an affinity tag, a size exclusion tag (e.g., a
large bead that is excluded from entry into chromatographic media
such that antibody-pathogen complexes pass through a
chromatographic column in the void volume), and the like.
Accordingly, one or more analysis units 110 may be configured to
detect one or more pathogens 106 in combination with numerous
analysis methods. In some embodiments, antibodies may be used in
combination with aptamers and/or in place of aptamers.
[0190] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
analyzed through use of electrophoresis. In some embodiments, one
or more analysis units 110 may be configured to analyze one or more
samples 104 through use of electrophoresis. In some embodiments,
such analysis units 110 may be configured to operably associate
with one or more microfluidic chips 108 that are configured to
detect and/or analyze one or more pathogens 106 through use of
electrophoresis. Numerous electrophoretic methods may be utilized
to analyze and/or detect one or more pathogens 106. Examples of
such electrophoretic methods include, but are not limited to,
capillary electrophoresis, one-dimensional electrophoresis,
two-dimensional electrophoresis, native electrophoresis, denaturing
electrophoresis, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, agarose gel
electrophoresis, and the like. Numerous detection methods may be
used in combination with one or more electrophoretic methods to
detect one or more pathogens 106. In some embodiments, one or more
pathogens 106 may be detected according to the position to which
the one or more pathogens 106 migrate within an electrophoretic
field (e.g., a capillary and/or a gel). In some embodiments, the
position of one or more pathogens 106 may be compared to one or
more standards. For example, in some embodiments, one or more
samples 104 may be mixed with one or more molecular weight markers
prior to gel electrophoresis. The one or more samples 104 that
include the one or more molecular weight markers, may be subjected
to electrophoresis and then the gel may be stained. In some
embodiments, refraction, absorbance, and/or fluorescence may be
used to determine the position of sample components within a gel.
In such embodiments, the molecular weight markers may be used as a
reference to detect one or more pathogens 106 present within the
one or more samples 104. In some embodiments, one or more
components that are known to be present within one or more samples
104 may be used as a reference to detect one or more pathogens 106
present within the one or more samples 104. In some embodiments,
gel shift assays may be used to detect one or more pathogens 106.
For example, in some embodiments, a sample 104 (e.g., a single
sample 104 or combination of multiple samples 104) may be split
into a first sample 104 and a second sample 104. The first sample
104 may be mixed with an antibody, aptamer, ligand, or other
molecule and/or complex that binds to the one or more pathogens
106. The first and second samples 104 may then be subjected to
electrophoresis. The gels corresponding to the first sample 104 and
the second sample 104 may then be analyzed to determine if one or
more pathogens 106 are present within the one or more samples 104.
Analysis units 110 may be configured in numerous ways to analyze
and detect one or more pathogens 106 through use of
electrophoresis.
[0191] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
detected and/or analyzed through use of one or more charge-coupled
device (CCD) cameras. In some embodiments, one or more analysis
units 110 that include one or more CCD cameras may be configured to
operably associate with one or more microfluidic chips 108. Such
analysis units 110 may be utilized in combination with numerous
analysis methods. Examples of such methods include, but are not
limited to, electrophoresis; competition assays; methods based on
polynucleotide interaction, protein interaction, peptide
interaction, antibody interaction, aptamer interaction,
immunoprecipitation, immunoseparation, and the like. For example,
in some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be
configured to analyze one or more samples 104 through use of
immunoprecipitation. In some embodiments, one or more antibodies
may be conjugated to a fluorescent label such that binding of one
or more labeled antibodies to one or more pathogens 106 included
within one or more samples 104 will form a fluorescently labeled
antibody-pathogen complex. One or more insoluble pathogen binding
constituents, such as a sepharose bead that includes an antibody or
aptamer that binds to the one or more pathogens 106, may be bound
to the fluorescently labeled antibody-pathogen complex and used to
precipitate the complex. One or more analysis units 110 that
include a CCD camera that is configured to detect fluorescent
emission from the one or more fluorescent labels may be used to
detect the one or more pathogens 106. In some embodiments, one or
more CCD cameras may be configured to utilize dark frame
subtraction to cancel background and increase sensitivity of the
camera. In some embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may
include one or more filters to select and/or filter wavelengths of
energy that can be detected by one or more CCD cameras (e.g., U.S.
Pat. No. 3,971,065; herein incorporated by reference). In some
embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may include polarized
lenses. One or more analysis units 110 may be configured in
numerous ways to utilize one or more CCD cameras to detect one or
more pathogens 106.
[0192] In some embodiments, one or more pathogens 106 may be
analyzed through use of immunoassay. In some embodiments, one or
more analysis units 110 may be configured to analyze one or more
samples 104 through use of immunoassay. In some embodiments, one or
more analysis units 110 may be configured to operably associate
with one or more microfluidic chips 108 that are configured to
analyze one or more samples 104 through use of immunoassay.
Numerous types of detection methods may be used in combination with
immunoassay based methods. In some embodiments, a label may be used
within one or more immunoassays that may be detected by one or more
analysis units 110. Examples of such labels include, but are not
limited to, fluorescent labels, spin labels, fluorescence resonance
energy transfer labels, radiolabels, electrochemiluminescent labels
(e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,093,268; 6,090,545; herein incorporated by
reference), and the like. In some embodiments, electrical
conductivity may be used in combination with immunoassay based
methods.
[0193] In some embodiments, an analysis unit 110 may be configured
to utilize numerous detection methods. Examples of such detection
methods include, but are not limited to, colorimetric methods,
spectroscopic methods, resonance based methods, electron transfer
based methods (redox), conductivity based methods, gravimetric
based assays, turbidity based methods, ion-specific based methods,
refractive index based methods, radiological based methods, or
substantially any combination thereof.
Processing Unit
[0194] The system 100 may include one or more processing units 112.
In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may include
memory and/or one or more databases that include information
related to agents 142. In some embodiments, one or more processing
units 112 may access memory and/or one or more databases that
include information related to agents 142. Such information may
include: identities of agents 142, contraindications of agents 142,
dosages for use of agents 142, administration schedules for agents
142, methods of administration for agents 142, cost of agents 142,
coverage of agents 142 by insurance companies, coverage of agents
142 by health care providers, chemical structures for agents 142,
generic names for agents 142, brand names for agents 142,
geographical distributions for agents 142, regulatory restrictions
related to agents 142, alternatives to agents 142, side-effects of
agents 142, agents 142 that reduce the pathogenicity of pathogens
106, stability of agents 142, shelf-life of agents 142, recommended
shipping procedures for agents 142, and the like. Accordingly, one
or more processing units 112 may access memory and/or one or more
databases to determine one or more agents 142 that may be used to
reduce the pathogenicity of one or more detected pathogens 106. In
some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may access one
or more remote databases. For example, in some embodiments, one or
more processing units 112 may access one or more databases at
pharmaceutical companies, pharmacies, health care facilities, and
the like. Accordingly, in some embodiments, one or more processing
units 112 may include a computer. In some embodiments, one or more
processing units 112 may perform numerous types of calculations.
For example, in some embodiments, one or more processing units 112
may calculate one or more dosages of one or more agents 142 for
administration to one or more individuals 102. Accordingly, in some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may perform numerous
types of calculations in response to information related to one or
more individuals 102. For example, in some embodiments, one or more
processing units 112 may calculate dosages of one or more agents
142 for administration to one or more specific individuals 102.
Display Unit
[0195] The system 100 may include one or more display units 114.
Numerous types of display units 114 may be used in association with
system 100. Examples of such display units 114 include, but are not
limited to, liquid crystal displays, printers, audible displays,
cathode ray displays, plasma display panels, Braille displays,
passive displays, chemical displays, active displays, and the like.
In some embodiments, display units 114 may display information in
numerous languages. Examples of such languages include, but are not
limited to, English, Spanish, German, Japanese, Chinese, Italian,
and the like. In some embodiments, display units 114 may display
information pictographically, calorimetrically, and/or physically,
such as displaying information in Braille.
[0196] In some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may be
physically coupled to one or more microfluidic chips 108. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may be remotely coupled
to one or more microfluidic chips 108. In some embodiments, one or
more display units 114 may be physically coupled to one or more
analysis units 110. In some embodiments, one or more display units
114 may be remotely coupled to one or more analysis units 110. In
some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may be physically
coupled to one or more detection units. In some embodiments, one or
more display units 114 may be remotely coupled to one or more
detection units. Accordingly, one or more display units 114 may be
positioned in one or more locations that are remote from the
position where analysis of one or more pathogens 106 takes place.
Examples of such remote locations include, but are not limited to,
the offices of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and the like.
Signal
[0197] Numerous types of signals 126 may be used in association
with system 100. Examples of such signals 126 include, but are not
limited to, optical signals 126, radio signals 126, wireless
signals 126, hardwired signals 126, infrared signals 126,
ultrasonic signals 126, and the like.
[0198] In some embodiments, one or more signals 126 may not be
encrypted. In some embodiments, one or more signals 126 may be
encrypted. In some embodiments, one or more signals 126 may be sent
through use of a secure mode of transmission. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more signals 126 may be transmitted to a
specified individual. In some embodiments, one or more signals 126
may be transmitted to a specified group. In some embodiments, one
or more signals 126 may include code that is specific for an
individual. In some embodiments, such code may include anonymous
code that is specific for an individual. Accordingly, information
included within one or more signals 126 may be protected against
being accessed by others who are not the intended recipient. In
some embodiments, one or more signals 126 may include information
that includes statements regarding non-disclosure of information
included within the one or more signals 126 (e.g., statements
against copying information, statements against unauthorized
dissemination of information, statements about unauthorized opening
of an information packet by an unintended recipient, and the like).
In some embodiments, one or more signals 126 may be sent in a
manner that conforms with privacy regulations as set forth by law.
For example, in some embodiments, one or more signals 126 may be
transmitted in accordance with the Health Information Privacy and
Protection Act.
Transmitting Unit
[0199] The system 100 may include one or more transmitting units
116. Numerous types of transmitting units 116 may be used in
association with system 100. Examples of such transmitting units
116 include, but are not limited to, transmitters that transmit one
or more optical signals, radio signals, wireless signals, hardwired
signals, infrared signals, ultrasonic signals, and the like (e.g.,
U.S. Pat. Nos. RE39,785; 7,260,768; 7,260,764; 7,260,402;
7,257,327; 7,215,887; 7,218,900; herein incorporated by reference).
In some embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may
transmit one or more signals 126 that are encrypted. Numerous types
of transmitters are known and have been described (e.g., U.S. Pat.
Nos. and Published U.S. Patent Applications: U.S. Pat. Nos.
7,236,595; 7,260,155; 7,227,956; US2006/0280307; herein
incorporated by reference).
Receiving Unit
[0200] The system 100 may include one or more receiving units 136.
Numerous types of receiving units 136 may be used in association
with system 100. Examples of such receiving units 136 include, but
are not limited to, receivers that receive one or more optical
signals, radio signals, wireless signals, hardwired signals,
infrared signals, ultrasonic signals, and the like. Such receivers
are known and have been described (e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. RE39,785;
7,218,900; 7,254,160; 7,245,894; 7,206,605; herein incorporated by
reference).
Accepting Unit
[0201] The system 100 may include one or more accepting units 118.
In some embodiments, one or more accepting units 118 may accept
input 120 from one or more users 124. In some embodiments, the user
124 may be an individual 102 from whom one or more samples 104 were
obtained. In some embodiments, the user 124 may be someone other
than an individual 102 from whom one or more samples 104 were
obtained. In some embodiments, input 120 may be entered into one or
more accepting units 118 through use of a user interface 122. For
example, in some embodiments, input 120 may be entered into an
accepting unit 118 through use of a keyboard, a keypad, an audio
based system, a wireless system, and the like. In some embodiments,
one or more users 124 may enter input 120 into an accepting unit
118 through use of a wireless device, such as a mobile telephone,
personal data assistant, a radio transmitter, and the like. In some
embodiments, one or more accepting units 118 may include a touch
screen on which informational choices are displayed. For example, a
touch screen may display a series of questions that a user 124 may
answer. Such questions may include questions pertaining to an
individual's 102 height, weight, blood pressure, exercise habits,
substance use habits, sleep habits, occupation, insurance provider,
health care provider, financial information, location, cholesterol
level, metabolic indicators, and the like. In some embodiments, an
accepting unit 118 may include memory in which input 120 may be
stored. In some embodiments, an accepting unit 118 may include a
database in which input 120 may be stored. In some embodiments, an
accepting unit 118 may include a receiver that is configured to
receive wireless signals 126. In some embodiments, an accepting
unit 118 may include a receiver that is configured to operably
connect to a telephone connection, a data port, a digital cable, an
optical cable, and the like.
Input
[0202] Numerous types of input 120 may be entered into system 100.
Examples of such input 120 include, but are not limited to, an
individual's 102 height, weight, blood pressure, exercise habits,
substance use habits, sleep habits, occupation, insurance provider,
health care provider, financial information, location, cholesterol
level, metabolic indicators, and the like.
Packaging Unit
[0203] The system 100 may include one or more packaging units 138.
In some embodiments, packaging units 138 may be configured to
package one or more agents 142 in unit dosage form. In some
embodiments, packaging units 138 may be configured to package one
or more agents 142 in numerous types of administration forms. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may
package one or more agents 142 in packaging material that provides
for release of the one or more agents 142 at selected positions
within an individual 102 (e.g., stomach, intestine, eye, nose,
lungs, etc.). In some embodiments, one or more packaging units 138
may package one or more agents 142 in packaging material that
provides for administration of the one or more agents 142. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may
package one or more agents 142 for interperitoneal administration,
nasal administration, pulmonary administration, intravenous
administration, intraperitoneal administration, and the like. In
some embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may package one
or more agents 142 with one or more pharmaceutically acceptable
carriers or excipients.
Shipping Unit
[0204] The system 100 may include one or more shipping units 140.
In some embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may address one
or more packages for delivery to a destination. Examples of such
destinations include, but are not limited to, the residence of an
individual 102, a hospital, a medical field station, a ship, a
health care facility, a pharmacy, and the like. In some
embodiments, a shipping unit 140 may include circuitry and program
instructions that provide for access to shipping schedules and
routes used by shipping companies. Accordingly, in some
embodiments, a shipping unit 140 may determine a route for shipping
one or more packages that is responsive to the identity of one or
more agents 142 that are to be shipped. For example, in some
embodiments, an agent 142 may need to be packaged in dry ice to
preserve the agent 142. Accordingly, a shipping unit 140 may select
overnight delivery to a destination to preserve the integrity of
the agent 142. Accordingly, one or more shipping units 140 may
select a schedule and route that is appropriate for an agent 142
that is to be shipped.
User Interface/User
[0205] Numerous types of users 124 may interact with system 100. In
some embodiments, a user 124 may be human. In some embodiments, a
user 124 may be non-human. In some embodiments, a user 124 may
interact with one or more microfluidic chips 108, one or more
reagent delivery units, one or more centrifugation units, one or
more analysis units 110, one or more detection units, one or more
display units 114, one or more user interfaces 122, or
substantially any combination thereof. The user can interact
through use of numerous types of user interfaces 122. For example,
one or more users 124 may interact through use of numerous user
interfaces 122 that utilize hardwired methods, such as through use
of a keyboard, use of wireless methods, use of the internet, and
the like. In some embodiments, a user 124 may be a health-care
worker. Examples of such health-care workers include, but are not
limited to, physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and the like. In some
embodiments, a user 124 may be a hiker, a farmer, a food inspector,
a cook, a traveler, and the like.
[0206] FIG. 2 illustrates an operational flow 200 representing
examples of operations that are related to the performance of a
method for identifying one or more pathogens 106 and determining
one or more agents 142 that may be used to reduce the pathogenicity
of at least one of the one or more pathogens 106. In FIG. 2 and in
following figures that include various examples of operations used
during performance of the method, discussion and explanation may be
provided with respect to any one or combination of the
above-described examples of FIGS. 1-1C, and/or with respect to
other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood that
the operations may be executed in a number of other environments
and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIGS. 1-1C. Also,
although the various operations are presented in the sequence(s)
illustrated, it should be understood that the various operations
may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated,
or may be performed concurrently.
[0207] After a start operation, the operational flow 200 includes
an identifying operation 210 involving identifying one or more
pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual through use of one or more microfluidic chips. In some
embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be used to identify
one or more pathogens 106 present within one or more samples 104
obtained from an individual 102 through use of one or more
microfluidic chips 108.
[0208] After a start operation, the operational flow 200 includes
an accepting operation 220 involving accepting input associated
with the individual from whom the one or more samples were
obtained. In some embodiments, one or more accepting units 118 may
be used to accept input 120 associated with an individual 102 from
whom one or more samples 104 were obtained.
[0209] After a start operation, the operational flow 200 includes a
determining operation 230 involving determining one or more agents
that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the
one or more pathogens. In some embodiments, one or more processing
units 112 may be used to determine one or more agents 142 that can
be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of one or more
pathogens 106.
[0210] FIG. 3 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 200 of FIG. 2. FIG. 3 illustrates example
embodiments where the identifying operation 210 may include at
least one additional operation. Additional operations may include
an operation 302, operation 304, and/or operation 306.
[0211] At operation 302, the identifying operation 210 may include
accepting the one or more samples with the one or more microfluidic
chips. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 108 may
accept one or more samples 104. In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may accept one or more samples 104 that
include one or more liquids. In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may accept one or more samples 104 that
include one or more solids. In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may accept one or more samples 104 that
include one or more gases. In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may accept one or more samples 104 that
include one or more biological samples 104. Examples of biological
samples 104 include, but are not limited to, blood, cerebrospinal
fluid, mucus, breath, urine, fecal material, skin, tissue, tears,
hair, and the like.
[0212] At operation 304, the identifying operation 210 may include
processing the one or more samples with the one or more
microfluidic chips to facilitate analysis of one or more pathogen
indicators associated with the one or more samples. In some
embodiments, the identifying operation 210 may include processing
one or more samples 104 with one or more microfluidic chips 108
through use of polynucleotide interaction, protein interaction,
peptide interaction, antibody interaction, chemical interaction,
diffusion, filtration, chromatography, aptamer interaction,
electrical conductivity, isoelectric focusing, electrophoresis,
immunoassay, competition assay, or substantially any combination
thereof.
[0213] At operation 306, the identifying operation 210 may include
analyzing one or more pathogen indicators with one or more analysis
units that are configured to operably associate with the one or
more microfluidic chips. In some embodiments, identifying operation
210 may include analyzing the one or more pathogen indicators with
one or more analysis units 110 through use of at least one
technique that includes spectroscopy, electrochemical detection,
polynucleotide detection, fluorescence anisotropy, fluorescence
resonance energy transfer, electron transfer, enzyme assay,
electrical conductivity, isoelectric focusing, chromatography,
immunoprecipitation, immunoseparation, aptamer binding,
electrophoresis, use of a CCD camera, immunoassay, or substantially
any combination thereof.
[0214] FIG. 4 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 200 of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 illustrates example
embodiments where the accepting operation 220 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 402, and/or operation 404.
[0215] At operation 402, the accepting operation 220 may include
accepting input associated with one or more parameters related to
the individual. In some embodiments, one or more accepting units
118 may accept input 120 associated with one or more parameters
related to an individual 102. In some embodiments, the one or more
parameters may be physical parameters. In some embodiments, the one
or more parameters may be psychological parameters. In some
embodiments, the one or more parameters may be financial
parameters. In some embodiments, the one or more parameters may be
health care provided related parameters (e.g., physician's name,
insurance provider, HMO name, prescription plan, etc.).
[0216] At operation 404, the accepting operation 220 may include
accepting input associated with one or more parameters related to
age, weight, height, body composition, substance use, liver health,
allergies, prescription drug use, non-prescription drug use,
insurance coverage, pregnancy status, blood pressure, child bearing
plans, one or more activities, environmental exposure, diagnosed
disease, disease status, treatment history, family history, genetic
markers, disease predisposition, or location. In some embodiments,
one or more accepting units 118 may accept input 120 associated
with one or more parameters related to age, weight, height, body
composition (e.g., body mass index, fat percentage), substance use
(e.g., alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs), liver health, allergies,
prescription drug use, non-prescription drug use, insurance
coverage (e.g., prescription plan, insurance limits, limitations on
providers, HMO limitations), pregnancy status (e.g., pregnant, not
pregnant, unknown), blood pressure, child bearing plans (e.g., yes,
no, time when planning to become pregnant), one or more activities
(e.g., travel, athletic activities, occupational activities,
driving), location (e.g., travel to foreign nation, local address,
town, city), or substantially any combination thereof.
[0217] FIG. 5 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 200 of FIG. 2. FIG. 5 illustrates example
embodiments where the determining operation 230 may include at
least one additional operation. Additional operations may include
an operation 502, operation 504, operation 506, operation 508,
and/or operation 510.
[0218] At operation 502, the determining operation 230 may include
identifying one or more chemical agents that can be used to reduce
the pathogenicity of the at least one of the one or more pathogens
that are identified. In some embodiments, one or more processing
units 112 may identify one or more chemical agents 142 that can be
used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one pathogen 106 that
is identified. Numerous chemical agents 142 may be identified.
Examples of such chemical agents 142 include, but are not limited
to, antibiotics, ozone, peroxides, chlorinated compounds, acids,
bases, alcohols, and the like (e.g., Merck Index, Thirteenth
Edition, Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse Station, N.J. (2001) and
Mosby's Drug Guide, An Imprint of Elsevier, St. Louis, Mo. (2004)).
In some embodiments, such chemical agents 142 may be identified
that are specific for one or more identified pathogens 106.
[0219] At operation 504, the determining operation 230 may include
identifying one or more mechanical agents that can be used to
reduce the pathogenicity of the at least one of the one or more
pathogens that are identified. In some embodiments, one or more
processing units 112 may identify one or more mechanical agents 142
that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one
pathogen 106 that is identified. Numerous mechanical agents 142 may
be identified. Examples of such mechanical agents 142 include, but
are not limited to, ultraviolet light, irradiation, and the like.
In some embodiments, such mechanical agents 142 may be identified
that are specific for one or more identified pathogens 106.
[0220] At operation 506, the determining operation 230 may include
identifying the one or more bioagents that can be used to reduce
the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens that
are identified. In some embodiments, one or more processing units
112 may identify one or more bioagents that can be used to reduce
the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens 106
that are identified. For example, in some embodiments, one or more
processing units 112 may identify one or more bacteriophages that
may be used to reduce the disease causing ability of a bacteria. In
some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may identify one
or more invasive recombinant bacteria that may be used to deliver a
gene product that may be used to reduce the disease causing ability
of one or more pathogens. For example, in some embodiments, such
recombinant bacteria may be engineered to produce an antibiotic. In
some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may identify one
or more inactivated pathogens (e.g., viruses, bacteria, fungi) that
may be used to induce an immune response against one or more
pathogens.
[0221] At operation 508, the determining operation 230 may include
identifying the one or more agents that are not contraindicated by
one or more substances used by the individual. In some embodiments,
one or more processing units 112 may identify one or more agents
142 that are not contraindicated by one or more substances used by
an individual 102. For example, in some embodiments, an individual
102 may use one or more prescription medications. In such
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may identify one or
more agents 142 that do not contraindicate the one or more
prescription medications. In some embodiments, an individual 102
may use one or more substances such as tobacco or alcohol that may
contraindicate an agent 142. Accordingly, one or more processing
units 112 may identify one or more agents 142 that are not affected
by one or more substances used by an individual 102 and/or that do
not affect one or more substances used by an individual 102.
Accordingly, one or more processing units 112 may identify one or
more agents 142 with regard to numerous types of substances used by
an individual 102.
[0222] At operation 510, the determining operation 230 may include
identifying the one or more additional agents that act
synergistically with the one or more agents that can be used to
reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more
pathogens. In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112
may identify one or more additional agents 142 that act
synergistically with the one or more agents 142 that can be used to
reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more
pathogens. In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112
may identify one or more additional agents 142 that increase the
effectiveness of one or more antibiotics. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may identify one or
more antibacterial adjuvants (e.g., beta-lactamase inhibitors) that
may act synergistically with one or more antibiotics. In some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may identify one or
more agents 142 that up regulate an immune response against a
pathogen that may act synergistically with one or more other agents
142. In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may
identify one or more agents 142 that down regulate an immune
response against a pathogen that may act synergistically with one
or more other agents 142.
[0223] FIG. 6 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 200 of FIG. 2. FIG. 6 illustrates example
embodiments where the determining operation 230 may include at
least one additional operation. Additional operations may include
an operation 602, operation 604, and/or operation 606.
[0224] At operation 602, the determining operation 230 may include
identifying the one or more agents in response to one or more
parameters associated with the individual. In some embodiments, one
or more processing units 112 may identify one or more agents 142 in
response to one or more parameters associated with the individual
102. Accordingly, in some embodiments, one or more agents 142 may
be identified for application to a specific individual 102. Such
embodiments provide for personalized selection and dosing of agents
142 that may be used to treat pathogen infection. Numerous
parameters associated with an individual 102 may be considered.
Examples of such parameters include, but are not limited to, size,
weight, allergies, body composition, substance use, and the
like.
[0225] At operation 604, the determining operation 230 may include
identifying one or more agents in response to at least one
parameter associated with the individual that includes age, weight,
height, body composition, substance use, liver health, allergies,
prescription drug use, non-prescription drug use, insurance
coverage, pregnancy status, blood pressure, environmental exposure,
diagnosed disease, disease status, treatment history, family
history, genetic markers, disease predisposition, or child bearing
plans. In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may
identify one or more agents 142 in response to at least one
parameter associated with the individual 102 that includes age,
weight, height, body composition, substance use, liver health,
allergies, prescription drug use, non-prescription drug use,
insurance coverage, pregnancy status, blood pressure, child bearing
plans, or substantially any combination thereof.
[0226] At operation 606, the determining operation 230 may include
identifying one or more agents that reduce the pathogenicity of at
least one virus, bacterium, worm, egg, cyst, protozoan,
single-celled organism, fungus, algae, pathogenic protein, or
microbe. In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may
identify one or more agents 142 that reduce the pathogenicity of at
least one virus, bacterium, worm, egg, cyst, protozoan,
single-celled organism, fungus, algae, pathogenic protein, or
microbe. Numerous agents 142 are known that will reduce the
pathogenicity of one or more pathogens 106 (The Merck Index, 13th
Edition, An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals,
Merck & Co. Inc., Whitehouse Station, N.J. 2001; Mosby's Drug
Guide, Mosby, Inc., St. Louis, Mo. 2004; Remington: The Science and
Practice of Pharmacy, 20th Edition, Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins, Philadelphia, Pa. 2000; Physicians' Desk Reference, 58th
Edition, Thompson, P D R, Montvale, N.J. 2004).
[0227] FIG. 7 illustrates operational flow 700 that includes
operations 710, 720, and 730, that correspond to operations 210,
220, and 230 as illustrated in FIG. 2, with an optionally included
displaying operation 740 and represents examples of operations that
are related to the performance of a method for identifying one or
more pathogens 106 and determining one or more agents 142 that may
be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or
more pathogens 106. In FIG. 7 and in following figures that include
various examples of operations used during performance of the
method, discussion and explanation may be provided with respect to
any one or combination of the above-described examples of FIGS.
1-1C, and/or with respect to other examples and contexts. However,
it should be understood that the operations may be executed in a
number of other environments and contexts, and/or modified versions
of FIGS. 1-1C. Also, although the various operations are presented
in the sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the
various operations may be performed in other orders than those
which are illustrated, or may be performed concurrently.
[0228] After a start operation, the operational flow 700 optionally
includes a displaying operation 740 involving displaying
information associated with the one or more agents. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may be used to display
information associated with one or more agents 142. Numerous types
of display units 114 may be used to display information. Examples
of such display units 114 include, but are not limited to, liquid
crystal displays, light emitting diode displays, audio displays,
Braille displays, graphical displays, and the like. Numerous types
of information may be displayed. Examples of such types of
information include, but are not limited to, the identity of one or
more agents 142, the dosage of one or more agents 142,
contraindications associated with the one or more agents 142,
administration method to be used with one or more agents 142,
administration schedule associated with one or more agents 142, and
the like.
[0229] FIG. 8 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 700 of FIG. 7. FIG. 8 illustrates example
embodiments where the displaying operation 740 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 802, operation 804, and/or operation 806.
[0230] At operation 802, the displaying operation 740 may include
displaying an identity of the one or more agents. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may be used to display
an identity of one or more agents 142. In some embodiments, one or
more display units 114 may display the identity of one or more
agents 142 in numerous languages (e.g., English, French, Spanish,
Italian, Japanese, etc.). In some embodiments, one or more display
units 114 may display the identity of one or more agents 142
according to chemical name, brand name, generic name, name
according to location (e.g., name in a given country), and the
like.
[0231] At operation 804, the displaying operation 740 may include
displaying dosage information associated with the one or more
agents. In some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may be
used to display dosage information associated with one or more
agents 142. In some embodiments, dosage may be displayed with
reference to a schedule. For example, in some embodiments, an agent
142 may be administered more often at a lower dosage while in other
embodiments the agent 142 may be administered less often at a
higher dose. In some embodiments, a dosage of one or more agents
142 may depend upon the method used to administer the one or more
agents 142. For example, in some embodiments, an agent 142 may be
administered orally, intravenously, or nasally. Accordingly, the
dosage that is displayed may depend on the methods used to
administer the agent 142.
[0232] At operation 806, the displaying operation 740 may include
displaying instructions associated with use of the one or more
agents. In some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may be
used to display instructions associated with use of one or more
agents 142. In some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may
display a schedule for administration of one or more agents 142. In
some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display
instructions with regard to routes for administration of one or
more agents 142. In some embodiments, one or more display units 114
may display instructions for food and/or beverage consumption
during administration of one or more agents 142. Accordingly,
numerous types of information may be displayed by one or more
display units 114.
[0233] FIG. 9 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 700 of FIG. 7. FIG. 9 illustrates example
embodiments where the displaying operation 740 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 902, operation 904, and/or operation 906.
[0234] At operation 902, the displaying operation 740 may include
displaying information associated with cost of the one or more
agents. In some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may be
used to display information associated with the cost of one or more
agents 142. In some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may
display a combination of agents 142 based on the combined cost of
the agents 142. For example, in some embodiments, two or more
agents 142 may be displayed that are compatible with each other and
an individual 102 as well as providing the lowest cost when
compared to other comparable agents 142. In some embodiments, one
or more display units 114 may display a group of agents 142 and
their associated cost. In some embodiments, one or more display
units 114 may display a group of agents 142 and information related
to whether the cost of the agents 142 will be paid by an
individual's health care plan or insurance. Numerous types of
information may be displayed with regard to the cost of one or more
agents 142.
[0235] At operation 904, the displaying operation 740 may include
displaying information associated with insurance coverage related
to the one or more agents. In some embodiments, one or more display
units 114 may be used to display information associated with
insurance coverage related to one or more agents 142. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display a group of
agents 142 and information related to which of the agents 142 are
included within a health care or insurance plan. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display alternative
health care or insurance plans under which the cost of one or more
agents 142 will be covered. Accordingly, in such embodiments, an
individual 102 may be presented with information that allows the
individual 102 to select an insurance or health care plan under
which the cost of one or more agents 142 will be covered.
[0236] At operation 906, the displaying operation 740 may include
displaying one or more contraindications associated with the one or
more agents. In some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may
be used to display one or more contraindications associated with
one or more agents 142. In some embodiments, one or more display
units 114 may display one or more selected agents 142 and
additional agents 142 that contraindicate the selected agents 142.
In some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display
activities that are contraindicated by one or more selected agents
142. For example, in some embodiments, one or more display units
114 may indicate that an individual 102 should not drive or operate
machinery following administration of one or more agents 142.
Accordingly, numerous types of information may be displayed.
[0237] FIG. 10 illustrates operational flow 1000 that includes
operations 1010, 1020, 1030, and 1040 that correspond to operations
710, 720, 730, and 740 as illustrated in FIG. 7 with an optionally
included transmitting operation 1050 and represents examples of
operations that are related to the performance of a method for
identifying one or more pathogens 106 and determining one or more
agents 142 that may be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least
one of the one or more pathogens 106. In FIG. 10 and in following
figures that include various examples of operations used during
performance of the method, discussion and explanation may be
provided with respect to any one or combination of the
above-described examples of FIGS. 1-1C, and/or with respect to
other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood that
the operations may be executed in a number of other environments
and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIGS. 1-1C. Also,
although the various operations are presented in the sequence(s)
illustrated, it should be understood that the various operations
may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated,
or may be performed concurrently.
[0238] After a start operation, the operational flow 1000
optionally includes a transmitting operation 1050 involving
transmitting one or more signals that include information
associated with the one or more agents. In some embodiments, one or
more transmitting units 116 may be used to transmit one or more
signals 126 that include information associated with one or more
agents 142. The one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit
signals 126 through use of numerous technologies. For example, such
signals 126 may be transmitted through use of the internet, radio
waves, optical cables, cellular telephone connections, telephone
connections, satellite telephone connections, and the like. The one
or more signals 126 may be transmitted to, and received by,
numerous types of receivers. For example, one or more signals 126
may be received by pharmacies, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies,
health care providers, nutraceutical companies, and the like.
[0239] FIG. 11 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 1000 of FIG. 10. FIG. 11 illustrates example
embodiments where the transmitting operation 1050 may include at
least one additional operation. Additional operations may include
an operation 1102, operation 1104, operation 1106, operation 1108,
operation 1110, and/or operation 1112.
[0240] At operation 1102, the transmitting operation 1050 may
include transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with the identity of one or more agents. In
some embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit
one or more signals 126 that include information associated with
the identity of one or more agents 142. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit one or
more signals 126 that include information associated with the brand
name, the generic name, the chemical name, the structure,
identifiers associated with an agent 142, or substantially any
combination thereof.
[0241] At operation 1104, the transmitting operation 1050 may
include transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with the individual. In some embodiments,
one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit one or more signals
126 that include information associated with an individual 102. One
or more signals 126 that include numerous types of information
associated with an individual 102 may be transmitted. Examples of
such information include, but are not limited to, height, weight,
age, substances used by an individual 102 (e.g., alcohol, tobacco,
prescription medication, non-prescription medication, illicit
drugs, etc.), body composition, allergies, physical characteristics
(e.g., blood pressure, heart rate, intraocular pressure, etc.),
activities, and the like.
[0242] At operation 1106, the transmitting operation 1050 may
include transmitting the one or more signals through use of a
secure connection. In some embodiments, one or more transmitting
units 116 may transmit one or more signals 126 through use of a
secure connection. For example, in some embodiments, one or more
signals may be encrypted. In some embodiments, one or more signals
may be sent through use of a secure mode of transmission. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more signals may be
transmitted to a specified individual. In some embodiments, one or
more signals may be transmitted to a specified group. In some
embodiments, one or more signals may include code that is specific
for an individual. In some embodiments, such code may include
anonymous code that is specific for an individual. Accordingly,
information included within one or more signals may be protected
against being accessed by others who are not the intended
recipient. In some embodiments, one or more signals may include
information that includes statements regarding non-disclosure of
information included within the one or more signals (e.g.,
statements against copying information, statements against
unauthorized dissemination of information, statements about
unauthorized opening of an information packet by an unintended
recipient, and the like). In some embodiments, one or more signals
may be sent in a manner that conforms with privacy regulations as
set forth by law. For example, in some embodiments, one or more
signals may be transmitted in accordance with the Health
Information Privacy and Protection Act. In some embodiments, one or
more signals may be sent with information that includes a request
for a return receipt.
[0243] At operation 1108, the transmitting operation 1050 may
include transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with the one or more pathogens. In some
embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit one or
more signals 126 that include information associated with the one
or more pathogens 106. The one or more signals 126 may include
numerous types of information associated with one or more pathogens
106. Examples of such information include the identity of a
pathogen 106, the concentration of a pathogen 106, drug resistance
characteristics of a pathogen 106, and the like. In some
embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit one or
more signals 126 that include information associated with the
virulence of one or more pathogens 106. For example, some
pathogenic strains of E. coli exhibit increased virulence relative
to other strains of E. coli. Such virulent strains may be
identified by the presence of virulence determinants. Examples of
such virulence determinants include, but are not limited to,
adhesions (e.g., CFAI/CFAII, type 1 fimbriae, P fimbriae, S
fimbriae, Intimin), invasions (e.g., hemolysisn, siderophores and
siderophore uptake systems, Shigella-like "invasins" for
intracellular invasion and spread), toxins (e.g., LT toxin, ST
toxin, Shiga-like toxin, cytotoxins, endotoxin LPS), antiphagocytic
surface properties (e.g., capsules, K antigens,
lipopolysaccharides), somatic antigens, flagellar antigens, and the
like. Accordingly, one or more signals may include information
related to numerous types of virulence indicators.
[0244] At operation 1110, the transmitting operation 1050 may
include transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with one or more locations of the one or
more pathogens. In some embodiments, one or more transmitting units
116 may transmit one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with one or more locations of the one or more pathogens
106. For example, in some embodiments, one or more transmitting
units 116 may transmit one or more signals 126 that include
information associated with where an individual 102 is physically
experiencing a pathogen infection (e.g., eye infection, nasal
infection, gastrointestinal tract infection, etc). In some
embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit one or
more signals 126 that include information associated with the
geographical location of the pathogen 106. For example, one or more
signals 126 may include information that indicates where the
pathogen 106 and/or individual 102 who is infected with the
pathogen 106 is located (e.g., United States, Canada, Europe, Asia,
Middle East, etc.). In some embodiments, the one or more signals
126 may include global positioning system (GPS) coordinates.
[0245] At operation 1112, the transmitting operation 1050 may
include transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with one or more locations of the
individual. In some embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116
may transmit one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with one or more locations of the individual 102. In
some embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit
one or more signals 126 that include information associated with
the geographical location of an individual 102. For example, one or
more signals 126 may include information that indicates where an
individual 102 is located (e.g., United States, Canada, Europe,
Asia, Middle East, etc.). In some embodiments, the one or more
signals 126 may include global positioning system (GPS)
coordinates.
[0246] FIG. 12 illustrates an operational flow 1200 representing
examples of operations that are related to the performance of a
method for identifying one or more pathogens 106 and determining
one or more agents 142 that may be used to reduce the pathogenicity
of at least one of the one or more pathogens 106. In FIG. 12 and in
following figures that include various examples of operations used
during performance of the method, discussion and explanation may be
provided with respect to any one or combination of the
above-described examples of FIGS. 1-1C, and/or with respect to
other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood that
the operations may be executed in a number of other environments
and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIGS. 1-1C. Also,
although the various operations are presented in the sequence(s)
illustrated, it should be understood that the various operations
may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated,
or may be performed concurrently.
[0247] After a start operation, the operational flow 1200 includes
a receiving operation 1210 involving receiving one or more signals
that include information associated with one or more agents
determined in response to one or more pathogens present within one
or more samples obtained from an individual and input associated
with the individual from whom the one or more samples were
obtained. In some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may
be used to receive one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with one or more agents 142 determined in response to
one or more pathogens 106 present within one or more samples 104
obtained from an individual 102 and input 120 associated with the
individual 102 from whom the one or more samples 104 were obtained.
In some embodiments, the one or more signals 126 may include
information associated with the identity of one or more agents 142,
the dosage of one or more agents 142, the method of administration
for one or more agents 142, contraindications associated with the
one or more agents 142, an administration schedule associated with
the one or more agents 142, and the like. In some embodiments, the
one or more signals 126 may include information associated with an
individual 102 that includes, but is not limited to, physical
characteristics of the individual 102 (e.g., height, weight, body
composition, heart rate, blood pressure, etc.), mental
characteristics of an individual 102 (e.g., mood, depression,
mental disorders, predisposition toward suicide, etc.),
physiological characteristics (e.g., allergic responses, blood
pressure drop in response to medication, etc.), and the like.
[0248] After a start operation, the operational flow 1200 includes
a processing operation 1220 involving processing the information
associated with one or more agents determined in response to one or
more pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual and the input associated with the individual from whom
the one or more samples were obtained. In some embodiments, one or
more processing units 112 may be used to process information
associated with one or more agents 142 determined in response to
one or more pathogens 106 present within one or more samples 104
obtained from an individual 102 and input 120 associated with the
individual 102 from whom the one or more samples 104 were obtained.
In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may search
one or more databases to determine one or more agents 142 that may
be utilized to reduce the pathogenicity of the one or more
pathogens 106. In some embodiments, one or more processing units
112 may search one or more databases to determine one or more
agents 142 that may be alternatives to an identified agent 142. In
some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may determine if
the cost of one or more agents 142 is covered by a health care plan
or insurance of an individual 102. In some embodiments, one or more
processing units 112 may determine if the cost of one or more
agents 142 is covered by a health care plan or the insurance of an
individual 102 and identify alternative agents 142 that are
covered. In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may
determine if the one or more agents 142 are available in the
location of the individual 102. In some embodiments, one or more
processing units 112 may determine alternative agents 142 that are
available at the location of the individual 102.
[0249] FIG. 13 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 1200 of FIG. 12. FIG. 13 illustrates example
embodiments where the receiving operation 1210 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 1302, operation 1304, operation 1306, operation 1308,
operation 1310, and/or operation 1312.
[0250] At operation 1302, the receiving operation 1210 may include
receiving the one or more signals that include an identity of the
one or more agents. In some embodiments, one or more receiving
units 136 may receive one or more signals 126 that include an
identity of one or more agents 142. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may receive one or
more signals 126 that include information associated with the brand
name, the generic name, the chemical name, the structure,
identifiers associated with an agent 142, or substantially any
combination thereof.
[0251] At operation 1304, the receiving operation 1210 may include
receiving the one or more signals that include information
associated with one or more dosages of the one or more agents. In
some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may receive one
or more signals 126 that include information associated with one or
more dosages of the one or more agents 142. In some embodiments,
the one or more dosages may be commercially available dosages. In
some embodiments, the one or more dosages may be specific for an
individual 102 (e.g., dosages that are determined based on the
physical characteristics of the individual 102, the metabolic
characteristics of the individual 102, etc.).
[0252] At operation 1306, the receiving operation 1210 may include
receiving the one or more signals that include information
associated with the individual. In some embodiments, one or more
receiving units 136 may receive one or more signals 126 that
include information associated with an individual 102. One or more
signals 126 that include numerous types of information associated
with an individual 102 may be received. Examples of such
information include, but are not limited to, height, weight, age,
substances used by an individual 102 (e.g., alcohol, tobacco,
prescription medication, non-prescription medication, illicit
drugs, etc.), body composition, allergies, physical characteristics
(e.g., blood pressure, heart rate, intraocular pressure, etc.),
activities, and the like.
[0253] At operation 1308, the receiving operation 1210 may include
receiving one or more signals through use of a secure connection.
In some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may receive
one or more signals 126 through use of a secure connection. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more signals may be received
that are encrypted. In some embodiments, one or more signals may be
received through use of a secure mode. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more signals may only be received by a
specified individual. In some embodiments, one or more signals may
be received by a specified group. In some embodiments, one or more
signals may include code that is specific for an individual. In
some embodiments, such code may include anonymous code that is
specific for an individual. Accordingly, information included
within one or more signals may be protected against being accessed
by others who are not the intended recipient. In some embodiments,
one or more signals may include information that includes
statements regarding non-disclosure of information included within
the one or more signals (e.g., statements against copying
information, statements against unauthorized dissemination of
information, statements about unauthorized opening of an
information packet by an unintended recipient, and the like). In
some embodiments, one or more signals may be received in a manner
that conforms with privacy regulations as set forth by law. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more signals may be received
in accordance with the Health Information Privacy and Protection
Act. In some embodiments, receipt of one or more signals will cause
a return receipt to be sent that confirms receipt of the one or
more signals.
[0254] At operation 1310, the receiving operation 1210 may include
receiving the one or more signals that include information
associated with one or more locations of the one or more agents. In
some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may receive one
or more signals 126 that include information associated with one or
more locations of one or more agents 142. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more signals 126 may include information
associated with a specific pharmaceutical company, pharmaceutical
distributor, hospital, pharmacy, health care facility, and the
like, that have a supply of one or more agents 142. Accordingly, in
some embodiments, such signals 126 may be transmitted by one or
more transmitting units 116 that are associated with one or more
processing units 112 that are able to access one or more databases
that provide location information for agents 142.
[0255] At operation 1312, the receiving operation 1210 may include
receiving the one or more signals that include information
associated with the location of the individual. In some
embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may receive one or
more signals 126 that include information associated with one or
more locations of the individual 102. In some embodiments, one or
more receiving units 136 may receive one or more signals 126 that
include information associated with the geographical location of an
individual 102. For example, one or more signals 126 may include
information that indicates where an individual 102 is located
(e.g., United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, Middle East, etc.). In
some embodiments, the one or more signals 126 may include global
positioning system (GPS) coordinates.
[0256] FIG. 14 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 1200 of FIG. 12. FIG. 14 illustrates example
embodiments where the processing operation 1220 may include at
least one additional operation. Additional operations may include
an operation 1402, operation 1404, operation 1406, operation 1408,
and/or operation 1410.
[0257] At operation 1402, the processing operation 1220 may include
determining availability of the one or more agents. In some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may determine the
availability of one or more agents 142. In some embodiments, one or
more processing units 112 may access one or more databases to
determine the availability of one or more agents 142. For example,
in some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may access
one or more databases associated with a pharmaceutical company, a
pharmacy, a pharmaceutical distributor, a health care facility, a
health care provider, and the like, to determine if one or more
agents 142 are available.
[0258] At operation 1404, the processing operation 1220 may include
determining one or more alternatives to the one or more agents. In
some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may determine
one or more alternatives to one or more agents 142. In some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may determine that an
identified agent 142 is not available and therefore select an
alternative agent 142 that is available. Accordingly, in some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may have access to
databases of available agents 142 such as those at pharmacies,
hospitals, health care facilities, pharmaceutical distributors,
pharmaceutical companies, and the like. In some embodiments, one or
more processing units 112 may select an alternative agent 142 based
on the insurance or health plan associated with an individual 102.
In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may select an
alternative agent 142 that does not contraindicate another
substance or medication that an individual 102 is using.
[0259] At operation 1406, the processing operation 1220 may include
determining if the one or more agents are covered by insurance
carried by the individual. In some embodiments, one or more
processing units 112 may determine if the one or more agents 142
are covered by insurance carried by the individual 102. For
example, one or more processing units 112 may access a database
that contains information related to health care plans or insurance
policies so that the one or more processing units 112 may be used
to determine if the cost of one or more agents 142 will be covered
by the plan and/or policy. In some embodiments, one or more
processing units 112 may determine that the cost of an agent 142 is
not covered by a plan or policy and may therefore determine a
suitable alternative agent 142 that is covered by the plan or
policy associated with an individual 102.
[0260] At operation 1408, the processing operation 1220 may include
billing one or more providers for the one or more agents. In some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may bill one or more
providers for the one or more agents 142. Numerous providers may be
billed for one or more agents 142. Examples of such providers
include, but are not limited to, insurance companies, flex spending
accounts, Medicare, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, health maintenance
organizations, and the like.
[0261] At operation 1410, the processing operation 1220 may include
selecting the one or more agents for delivery to the individual. In
some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may select one
or more agents 142 for delivery to an individual 102. In some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may select the one or
more agents 142 indicated in one or more received signals 126 for
delivery to an individual 102. In some embodiments, one or more
processing units 112 may select an alternative to the one or more
agents 142 indicated in one or more received signals 126 for
delivery to an individual 102.
[0262] FIG. 15 illustrates operational flow 1500 that includes
operations 1510 and 1520, that correspond to operations 1210 and
1220 as illustrated in FIG. 12, with an optionally included
packaging operation 1530 and represents examples of operations that
are related to the performance of a method for identifying one or
more pathogens 106 and determining one or more agents 142 that may
be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or
more pathogens 106. In FIG. 15 and in following figures that
include various examples of operations used during performance of
the method, discussion and explanation may be provided with respect
to any one or combination of the above-described examples of FIGS.
1-1C, and/or with respect to other examples and contexts. However,
it should be understood that the operations may be executed in a
number of other environments and contexts, and/or modified versions
of FIGS. 1-1C. Also, although the various operations are presented
in the sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the
various operations may be performed in other orders than those
which are illustrated, or may be performed concurrently.
[0263] After a start operation, the operational flow 1500
optionally includes a packaging operation 1530 involving packaging
the one or more agents. In some embodiments, one or more packaging
units 138 may be used to package one or more agents 142. In some
embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may be used to package
one or more agents 142 in packaging material. In some embodiments,
one or more packaging units 138 may package one or more agents 142
for administration to an individual 102. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may package individual
dosages of one or more agents 142 for a specific individual 102.
Accordingly, in such embodiments, a packaging unit 138 may be used
for individualized agent 142 packaging.
[0264] FIG. 16 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 1500 of FIG. 15. FIG. 16 illustrates example
embodiments where the packaging operation 1530 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 1602, operation 1604, and/or operation 1606.
[0265] At operation 1602, the packaging operation 1530 may include
formulating the one or more agents into unit dosage form. In some
embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may formulate one or
more agents 142 into unit dosage form. In some embodiments, a unit
dosage form may include one or more amounts of one or more agents
142, such as pharmaceutical agents 142, that are suitable as
unitary dosages for an individual 102 with each unit containing a
predetermined quantity of at least one agent 142 calculated to
produce a desired effect, such as a therapeutic effect, in
association with one or more suitable pharmaceutical carriers. Such
unit dosage forms may be packaged in numerous configurations that
include, but are not limited to, tablets, capsules, ampoules, and
other administration forms known in the art and described herein.
In some embodiments, two or more unit dosage forms of one or more
agents 142 may be packaged into an administration form. For
example, in some embodiments, two unit dosage forms may be wrapped
into an administration form through use of a continuous wrapper
such that they are released at different times following
administration to an individual 102. In such an example, two unit
dosage forms are included within one administration form.
[0266] At operation 1604, the packaging operation 1530 may include
packaging two or more of the agents into a single administration
form. In some embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may
package two or more agents 142 into a single administration form.
For example, in some embodiments, two agents 142 may be wrapped
into a single administration form through use of a continuous
wrapper such that they are released at different times following
administration to an individual 102. In some examples, two unit
dosage forms may be included within one administration form.
[0267] At operation 1606, the packaging operation 1530 may include
formulating the one or more agents into an administration form in
response to input associated with the individual from whom the one
or more samples were obtained. In some embodiments, one or more
packaging units 138 may formulate one or more agents 142 into an
administration form in response to input 120 associated with an
individual 102 from whom one or more samples 104 were obtained. For
example, in some embodiments, an individual 102 may work at night
where an agent 142 may interfere with the individual's function.
Accordingly, one or more agents 142 may be formulated to be
released during the day when the individual 102 is not working. In
some embodiments, one or more agents 142 may be formulated for oral
administration according to a preference of an individual 102.
Accordingly, one or more agents 142 may be formulated in numerous
ways in response to input 120 associated with an individual
102.
[0268] FIG. 17 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 1500 of FIG. 15. FIG. 17 illustrates example
embodiments where the packaging operation 1530 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 1702, operation 1704, and/or operation 1706.
[0269] At operation 1702, the packaging operation 1530 may include
packaging the one or more agents with one or more pharmaceutically
acceptable carriers. In some embodiments, one or more packaging
units 138 may package one or more agents 142 with one or more
pharmaceutically acceptable carriers. In some embodiments, one or
more agents 142 (e.g., pharmaceuticals) may be packaged with one or
more solid or gel phase carriers or excipients. Examples of such
carriers or excipients include, but are not limited to,
croscarmellose sodium, providone, microcrystalline cellulose,
calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, various sugars, starches,
cellulose derivatives, gelatin, pregelatinized starch, polymers
such as polyethylene glycols, lactose, lactose monohydrate,
sucrose, talc, gelatin, agar, pectin, acacia, magnesium stearate,
stearic acid and substantially any combination thereof. If a solid
carrier is used, the one or more agents 142 may be tableted, placed
in a hard gelatin capsule in powder or pellet form, packaged in the
form of a troche or lozenge, and the like.
[0270] In some embodiments, one or more agents 142 may be packaged
with a liquid carrier or excipient. Examples of such liquid
carriers include syrup, peanut oil, olive oil, water,
physiologically compatible buffers (i.e., Hanks solution and
Ringers solution), physiological saline buffer, and the like. If a
liquid carrier is used, the administration form may be in the form
of a syrup, emulsion, drop, soft gelatin capsule, sterile
injectable solution, suspension in an ampoule or vial, non-aqueous
liquid suspension, and the like.
[0271] One or more agents 142 may be packaged in stable
water-soluble administration forms. For example, in some
embodiments, a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of one or more
agents 142 may be dissolved in an aqueous solution of an organic or
inorganic acid, such as 0.3M solution of succinic acid or citric
acid. If a soluble salt form is not available, an agent 142 may be
dissolved in a suitable cosolvent or combination of cosolvents.
Examples of suitable cosolvents include, but are not limited to,
alcohol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol 300, polysorbate 80,
glycerin and the like in concentrations ranging from 0-60% of the
total volume. In some embodiments, one or more agents 142 may be
dissolved in DMSO and diluted with water. The administration form
may also be in the form of a solution of a salt form of one or more
agents 142 in an appropriate aqueous vehicle such as water or
isotonic saline or dextrose solution.
[0272] In some embodiments, agents 142 that are hydrophobic may be
packaged through use of a cosolvent system comprising benzyl
alcohol, a nonpolar surfactant, a water-miscible organic polymer,
and an aqueous phase. The cosolvent system may be the VPD
co-solvent system. VPD is a solution of 3 percent weight/volume
benzyl alcohol, 8 percent weight/volume of the nonpolar surfactant
polysorbate 80, and 65 percent weight/volume polyethylene glycol
300, made up to volume in absolute ethanol. The VPD co-solvent
system (VPD:5W) consists of VPD diluted 1:1 with a 5 percent
dextrose in water solution. This co-solvent system dissolves
hydrophobic agents 142, and itself produces low toxicity upon
systemic administration. The proportions of a co-solvent system may
be varied considerably without destroying its solubility and
toxicity characteristics. Furthermore, the identity of the
co-solvent components may be varied: for example, other
low-toxicity nonpolar surfactants may be used instead of
polysorbate 80; the fraction size of polyethylene glycol may be
varied; other biocompatible polymers may replace polyethylene
glycol (i.e., polyvinyl pyrrolidone; and other sugars or
polysaccharides may substitute for dextrose). Many other delivery
systems may be used to administer hydrophobic agents 142 as well.
For example, liposomes and emulsions are well known examples of
delivery vehicles or carriers for hydrophobic drugs. Certain
organic solvents such as dimethysulfoxide also may be employed,
although usually at the cost of greater toxicity.
[0273] Some agents 142 may be packaged as salts with
pharmaceutically compatible counter ions. Pharmaceutically
compatible salts may be formed with many acids, including
hydrochloric, sulfuric, acetic, lactic, tartaric, malic, succinic,
etc. Salts of agents 142 tend to be more soluble in aqueous or
other protonic solvents than are the corresponding free-base
forms.
[0274] Numerous carriers and excipients are known and are
commercially available (i.e., The Merck Index, 13th Edition, An
Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals, Merck & Co.
Inc., Whitehouse Station, N.J. 2001; Mosby's Drug Guide, Mosby,
Inc., St. Louis, Mo. 2004; Remington: The Science and Practice of
Pharmacy, 20th Edition, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins,
Philadelphia, Pa. 2000; Physicians' Desk Reference, 58th Edition,
Thompson, P D R, Montvale, N.J. 2004; U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,773,721;
7,053,107; 7,049,312 and Published U.S. Patent Application No.
20040224916; herein incorporated by reference).
[0275] In addition, in some embodiments, one or more agents 142 may
be packaged with pharmaceutically acceptable poloxamers,
humectants, binders, disintegrants, fillers, diluents, lubricants,
glidants, flow enhancers, compression aids, coloring agents,
sweeteners, preservatives, suspending agents, dispersing agents,
film formers, coatings, flavoring agents, printing inks, or
substantially any combination thereof.
[0276] At operation 1704, the packaging operation 1530 may include
packaging the one or more agents with packaging material. In some
embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may package one or
more agents 142 with packaging material. One or more agents 142
(e.g., pharmaceuticals) may be packaged in numerous types of
packaging material. Examples of packaging material include, but are
not limited to, containers, boxes, ampoules, vials, syringes, and
the like. In some embodiments, packaging material may include
advertising. In some embodiments, packaging material may include
instructions for administration. Such instructions may include time
for administration, route of administration, the name of the
individual 102 to whom the one or more agents 142 are to be
administered, the identity of the one or more agents 142, the
dosage of the one or more agents 142, appropriate buffers for
suspension of the one or more agents 142, the source of the one or
more agents 142, the name of a physician or physicians who
prescribed the one or more agents 142, the date when the one or
more agents 142 were prescribed, the date when the one or more
agents 142 were packaged, the date when the one or more agents 142
were manufactured, the expiration date of the one or more agents
142, and the like.
[0277] At operation 1706, the packaging operation 1530 may include
packaging the one or more agents with packaging material and
addressing the packaging material for delivery to one or more
addresses. In some embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may
package one or more agents 142 with packaging material and address
the packaging material for delivery to one or more addresses. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may
package one or more agents 142 in one or more dispensing containers
(e.g., a box, ampoule, vial, syringe, etc.), and then package the
one or more dispensing containers in packaging material (e.g.,
boxes, crates, envelopes, pouches, etc.) that is addressed for
delivery to one or more addresses. In some embodiments, one or more
packaging units 138 may package one or more prepackaged agents 142
in one or more shipping containers (e.g., boxes, crates, envelopes,
pouches, etc.) and addressing the one or more shipping containers
for delivery to one or more addresses. Numerous addresses could be
used. Examples of such addresses include, but are not limited to,
addresses to hospitals, military field stations, pharmacies,
individuals, health care facilities, and the like.
[0278] FIG. 18 illustrates operational flow 1800 that includes
operations 1810, 1820, and 1830, that correspond to operations
1510, 1520, and 1530 as illustrated in FIG. 15, with an optionally
included shipping operation 1840 and represents examples of
operations that are related to the performance of a method for
identifying one or more pathogens 106 and determining one or more
agents 142 that may be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least
one of the one or more pathogens 106. In FIG. 18 and in following
figures that include various examples of operations used during
performance of the method, discussion and explanation may be
provided with respect to any one or combination of the
above-described examples of FIGS. 1-1C, and/or with respect to
other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood that
the operations may be executed in a number of other environments
and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIGS. 1-1C. Also,
although the various operations are presented in the sequence(s)
illustrated, it should be understood that the various operations
may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated,
or may be performed concurrently.
[0279] After a start operation, the operational flow 1800
optionally includes a shipping operation 1840 involving shipping
one or more packages that include the one or more agents. In some
embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may be used to ship one
or more packages that include one or more agents 142. In some
embodiments, a shipping unit 140 may include logic that selects one
or more routes that may be used to deliver one or more packages
that include one or more agents 142. For example, in some
embodiments, a shipping unit 140 may select a shipping route
through the Southern United States in the winter time to avoid
shipping delays due to snowfall. Accordingly, one or more shipping
units 140 may select from numerous routes to ship one or more
packages. In some embodiments, a shipping unit 140 may select a
service to ship a package. Examples of such shipping services
include, but are not limited to, United States Postal Service,
United Postal Service, Federal Express, and the like.
[0280] FIG. 19 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 1800 of FIG. 18. FIG. 19 illustrates example
embodiments where the shipping operation 1840 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 1902, operation 1904, operation 1906, and/or operation
1908.
[0281] At operation 1902, the shipping operation 1840 may include
shipping the one or more packages through use of one or more common
carriers. In some embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may
be used to ship one or more packages through use of one or more
common carriers. In some embodiments, one or more shipping units
140 may include logic that selects one or more common carriers for
shipping one or more packages. Examples of common carriers include,
but are not limited to, airline shipping services, ground shipping
services, nautical shipping services, and the like.
[0282] At operation 1904, the shipping operation 1840 may include
shipping the one or more packages to the individual from whom the
one or more samples were obtained. In some embodiments, one or more
shipping units 140 may be used to ship one or more packages to an
individual 102 from whom one or more samples 104 were obtained.
[0283] At operation 1906, the shipping operation 1840 may include
shipping the one or more packages to one or more treatment
facilities. In some embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may
be used to ship one or more packages to one or more treatment
facilities. Examples of treatment facilities include, but are not
limited to, hospitals, clinics, military field hospitals, ship
infirmaries, and the like.
[0284] At operation 1908, the shipping operation 1840 may include
shipping the one or more packages to one or more pharmacies. In
some embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may be used to
ship one or more packages to one or more pharmacies.
[0285] FIG. 20 illustrates an operational flow 2000 representing
examples of operations that are related to the performance of a
method for identifying one or more pathogens 106 and determining
one or more agents 142 that may be used to reduce the pathogenicity
of at least one of the one or more pathogens 106. In FIG. 20 and in
following figures that include various examples of operations used
during performance of the method, discussion and explanation may be
provided with respect to any one or combination of the
above-described examples of FIGS. 1-1C, and/or with respect to
other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood that
the operations may be executed in a number of other environments
and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIGS. 1-1C. Also,
although the various operations are presented in the sequence(s)
illustrated, it should be understood that the various operations
may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated,
or may be performed concurrently.
[0286] After a start operation, the operational flow 2000 includes
an identifying operation 2010 involving identifying one or more
pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual through use of one or more microfluidic chips. In some
embodiments, one or more analysis units 110 may be used to identify
one or more pathogens 106 present within one or more samples 104
obtained from an individual 102 through use of one or more
microfluidic chips 108.
[0287] After a start operation, the operational flow 2000 includes
an accepting operation 2020 involving accepting input associated
with the individual from whom the one or more samples were
obtained. In some embodiments, one or more accepting units 118 may
be used to accept input 120 associated with an individual 102 from
whom one or more samples 104 were obtained.
[0288] After a start operation, the operational flow 2000 includes
a transmitting operation 2030 involving transmitting one or more
signals that include information associated with the identifying
one or more pathogens present within one or more samples obtained
from an individual through use of one or more microfluidic chips
and the accepting input associated with the individual from whom
the one or more samples were obtained. In some embodiments, one or
more transmitting units 116 may be used to transmit one or more
signals 126 that include information associated with identifying
one or more pathogens 106 present within one or more samples 104
obtained from an individual 102 through use of one or more
microfluidic chips 108 and accepting input 120 associated with the
individual 102 from whom the one or more samples 104 were
obtained.
[0289] FIG. 21 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 2000 of FIG. 20. FIG. 21 illustrates example
embodiments where the identifying operation 2010 may include at
least one additional operation. Additional operations may include
an operation 2102, operation 2104, and/or operation 2106.
[0290] At operation 2102, the identifying operation 2010 may
include accepting the one or more samples with the one or more
microfluidic chips. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic
chips 108 may accept one or more samples 104. In some embodiments,
one or more microfluidic chips 108 may accept one or more samples
104 that include one or more liquids. In some embodiments, one or
more microfluidic chips 108 may accept one or more samples 104 that
include one or more solids. In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may accept one or more samples 104 that
include one or more gases. In some embodiments, one or more
microfluidic chips 108 may accept one or more samples 104 that
include one or more biological samples 104. Examples of biological
samples 104 include, but are not limited to, blood, cerebrospinal
fluid, mucus, breath, urine, fecal material, skin, tissue, tears,
hair, and the like.
[0291] At operation 2104, the identifying operation 2010 may
include processing the one or more samples with the one or more
microfluidic chips to facilitate analysis of one or more pathogen
indicators associated with the one or more samples. In some
embodiments, the identifying operation 2010 may include processing
one or more samples 104 with one or more microfluidic chips 108
through use of polynucleotide interaction, protein interaction,
peptide interaction, antibody interaction, chemical interaction,
diffusion, filtration, chromatography, aptamer interaction,
electrical conductivity, isoelectric focusing, electrophoresis,
immunoassay, competition assay, or substantially any combination
thereof.
[0292] At operation 2106, the identifying operation 2010 may
include analyzing one or more pathogen indicators with one or more
analysis units that are configured to operably associate with the
one or more microfluidic chips. In some embodiments, identifying
operation 2010 may include analyzing the one or more pathogen
indicators with one or more analysis units 110 through use of at
least one technique that includes spectroscopy, electrochemical
detection, polynucleotide detection, fluorescence anisotropy,
fluorescence resonance energy transfer, electron transfer, enzyme
assay, electrical conductivity, isoelectric focusing,
chromatography, immunoprecipitation, immunoseparation, aptamer
binding, electrophoresis, use of a CCD camera, immunoassay, or
substantially any combination thereof.
[0293] FIG. 22 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 2000 of FIG. 20. FIG. 22 illustrates example
embodiments where the accepting operation 2020 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 2202, and/or operation 2204.
[0294] At operation 2202, the accepting operation 2020 may include
accepting input associated with one or more parameters related to
the individual. In some embodiments, one or more accepting units
118 may accept input 120 associated with one or more parameters
related to an individual 102. In some embodiments, the one or more
parameters may be physical parameters. In some embodiments, the one
or more parameters may be psychological parameters. In some
embodiments, the one or more parameters may be financial
parameters. In some embodiments, the one or more parameters may be
health care provided related parameters (e.g., physician's name,
insurance provider, HMO name, prescription plan, etc.).
[0295] At operation 2204, the accepting operation 2020 may include
accepting input associated with one or more parameters related to
age, weight, height, body composition, substance use, liver health,
allergies, prescription drug use, non-prescription drug use,
insurance coverage, pregnancy status, blood pressure, child bearing
plans, one or more activities, environmental exposure, diagnosed
disease, disease status, treatment history, family history, genetic
markers, disease predisposition, or location. In some embodiments,
one or more accepting units 118 may accept input 120 associated
with one or more parameters related to age, weight, height, body
composition (e.g., body mass index, fat percentage), substance use
(e.g., alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs), liver health, allergies,
prescription drug use, non-prescription drug use, insurance
coverage (e.g., prescription plan, insurance limits, limitations on
providers, HMO limitations), pregnancy status (e.g., pregnant, not
pregnant, unknown), blood pressure, child bearing plans (e.g., yes,
no, time when planning to become pregnant), one or more activities
(e.g., travel, athletic activities, occupational activities,
driving), location (e.g., travel to foreign nation, local address,
town, city), or substantially any combination thereof.
[0296] FIG. 23 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 2000 of FIG. 20. FIG. 23 illustrates example
embodiments where the transmitting operation 2030 may include at
least one additional operation. Additional operations may include
an operation 2302, operation 2304, operation 2306, and/or operation
2308.
[0297] At operation 2302, the transmitting operation 2030 may
include transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with an identity of the one or more
pathogens. In some embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116
may transmit one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with an identity of one or more pathogens 106. In some
embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit one or
more signals 126 that include information associated with a
particular strain of one or more pathogens 106. For example, in
some embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit
one or more signals 126 that include information associated with
one or more pathogens 106 that are resistant to one or more
antibiotics.
[0298] At operation 2304, the transmitting operation 2030 may
include transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with virulence of at least one of the one or
more pathogens. In some embodiments, one or more transmitting units
116 may transmit one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with virulence of at least one of the one or more
pathogens 106. For example, some pathogenic strains of E. coli
exhibit increased virulence relative to other strains of E. coli.
Such virulent strains may be identified by the presence of
virulence determinants. Examples of such virulence determinants
include, but are not limited to, adhesions (e.g., CFAI/CFAII, type
1 fimbriae, P fimbriae, S fimbriae, Intimin), invasions (e.g.,
hemolysisn, siderophores and siderophore uptake systems,
Shigella-like "invasins" for intracellular invasion and spread),
toxins (e.g., LT toxin, ST toxin, Shiga-like toxin, cytotoxins,
endotoxin LPS), antiphagocytic surface properties (e.g., capsules,
K antigens, lipopolysaccharides), somatic antigens, flagellar
antigens, and the like. Accordingly, one or more signals may
include information related to numerous types of virulence
indicators.
[0299] At operation 2306, the transmitting operation 2030 may
include transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with age, weight, height, body composition,
substance use, liver health, allergies, prescription drug use,
non-prescription drug use, insurance coverage, pregnancy status,
blood pressure, child bearing plans, one or more activities,
environmental exposure, diagnosed disease, disease status,
treatment history, family history, genetic markers, disease
predisposition, or location. In some embodiments, one or more
transmitting units 116 may transmit one or more signals 126 that
include information associated with the age, weight, height, body
composition, substance use, liver health, allergies, prescription
drug use, non-prescription drug use, insurance coverage, pregnancy
status, blood pressure, child bearing plans, one or more
activities, location, or substantially any combination thereof,
that is associated with an individual 102.
[0300] At operation 2308, the transmitting operation 2030 may
include transmitting the one or more signals through use of a
secure connection. In some embodiments, one or more transmitting
units 116 may transmit one or more signals 126 through use of a
secure connection. For example, in some embodiments, one or more
signals may be encrypted. In some embodiments, one or more signals
may be sent through use of a secure mode of transmission. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more signals may be
transmitted to a specified individual. In some embodiments, one or
more signals may be transmitted to a specified group. In some
embodiments, one or more signals may include code that is specific
for an individual. In some embodiments, such code may include
anonymous code that is specific for an individual. Accordingly,
information included within one or more signals may be protected
against being accessed by others who are not the intended
recipient. In some embodiments, one or more signals may include
information that includes statements regarding non-disclosure of
information included within the one or more signals (e.g.,
statements against copying information, statements against
unauthorized dissemination of information, statements about
unauthorized opening of an information packet by an unintended
recipient, and the like). In some embodiments, one or more signals
may be sent in a manner that conforms with privacy regulations as
set forth by law. For example, in some embodiments, one or more
signals may be transmitted in accordance with the Health
Information Privacy and Protection Act. In some embodiments, one or
more signals may be sent with information that includes a request
for a return receipt.
[0301] FIG. 24 illustrates operational flow 2400 that includes
operations 2410, 2420, and 2430, that correspond to operations
2010, 2020, and 2030 as illustrated in FIG. 20, with an optionally
included receiving operation 2440 and represents examples of
operations that are related to the performance of a method for
identifying one or more pathogens 106 and determining one or more
agents 142 that may be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least
one of the one or more pathogens 106. In FIG. 24 and in following
figures that include various examples of operations used during
performance of the method, discussion and explanation may be
provided with respect to any one or combination of the
above-described examples of FIGS. 1-1C, and/or with respect to
other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood that
the operations may be executed in a number of other environments
and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIGS. 1-1C. Also,
although the various operations are presented in the sequence(s)
illustrated, it should be understood that the various operations
may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated,
or may be performed concurrently.
[0302] After a start operation, the operational flow 2400
optionally includes a receiving operation 2440 involving receiving
one or more signals that include information associated with one or
more agents that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at
least one of the one or more pathogens. In some embodiments, one or
more receiving units 136 may receive one or more signals 126 that
include information associated with one or more agents 142 that can
be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of one or more
pathogens 106. In some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136
may receive one or more signals 126 that include the identity of
one or more chemical agents 142 that can be used to reduce the
pathogenicity of at least one pathogen 106. Numerous chemical
agents 142 may be identified. Examples of such chemical agents 142
include, but are not limited to, antibiotics, ozone, peroxides,
chlorinated compounds, acids, bases, alcohols, and the like (e.g.,
Merck Index, Thirteenth Edition, Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse
Station, N.J. (2001) and Mosby's Drug Guide, An Imprint of
Elsevier, St. Louis, Mo. (2004)). In some embodiments, such
chemical agents 142 may be identified that are specific for one or
more identified pathogens 106.
[0303] FIG. 25 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 2400 of FIG. 24. FIG. 25 illustrates example
embodiments where the receiving operation 2440 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 2502, operation 2504, operation 2506, operation 2508,
and/or operation 2510.
[0304] At operation 2502, the receiving operation 2440 may include
receiving the one or more signals that include information
associated with an identity of at least one of the one or more
agents. In some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may
receive one or more signals 126 that include information associated
with an identity of at least one of the one or more agents 142. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may
receive one or more signals 126 that include information associated
with the brand name, the generic name, the chemical name, the
structure, identifiers associated with an agent 142, or
substantially any combination thereof.
[0305] At operation 2504, the receiving operation 2440 may include
receiving the one or more signals that include information
associated with methods of administration for at least one of the
one or more agents. In some embodiments, one or more receiving
units 136 may receive one or more signals 126 that include
information associated with methods of administration for at least
one of one or more agents 142. Examples of methods of
administration include, but are not limited to, oral
administration, intravenous administration, transdermal
administration, intraperitoneal administration, intraocular
administration, nasal administration, pulmonary administration,
rectal administration, vaginal administration, and the like.
[0306] At operation 2506, the receiving operation 2440 may include
receiving the one or more signals that include information
associated with contraindicators of the one or more agents. In some
embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may receive one or
more signals 126 that include information associated with
contraindicators of the one or more agents 142. In some
embodiments, contraindicators may include prescription
pharmaceutical agents 142 (e.g., opiates, psychotropic drugs,
selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, lithium, alpha-blockers,
beta-blockers, antibiotics, cholesterol lowering drugs, heart
medications). In some embodiments, contraindicators may include
non-prescription pharmaceutical agents 142 (e.g., antacids,
acetaminophen, aspirin, cold medications, anti-histamines). In some
embodiments, contraindicators may include substances such as
nicotine, alcohol, nutraceuticals, and the like. For example, in
some embodiments, Saint John's Wort may be indicated as a
contraindicator of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
[0307] At operation 2508, the receiving operation 2440 may include
receiving the one or more signals that include information
associated with side-effects of the one or more agents. In some
embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may receive one or
more signals 126 that include information associated with
side-effects of the one or more agents 142. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more signals 126 may include information
associated with lower potassium levels associated with diuretic
usage. Signals 126 may include information associated with numerous
side-effects that include mental side-effects (e.g., excitability,
depression, irritability), physical side-effects (e.g., drowsiness,
insomnia, dizziness, reduced coordination, increased blood
pressure), and the like.
[0308] At operation 2510, the receiving operation 2440 may include
receiving the one or more signals through use of a secure
connection. In some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136
may receive one or more signals 126 through use of a secure
connection. For example, in some embodiments, one or more signals
may be received that are encrypted. In some embodiments, one or
more signals may be received through use of a secure mode. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more signals may only be
received by a specified individual. In some embodiments, one or
more signals may be received by a specified group. In some
embodiments, one or more signals may include code that is specific
for an individual. In some embodiments, such code may include
anonymous code that is specific for an individual. Accordingly,
information included within one or more signals may be protected
against being accessed by others who are not the intended
recipient. In some embodiments, one or more signals may include
information that includes statements regarding non-disclosure of
information included within the one or more signals (e.g.,
statements against copying information, statements against
unauthorized dissemination of information, statements about
unauthorized opening of an information packet by an unintended
recipient, and the like). In some embodiments, one or more signals
may be received in a manner that conforms with privacy regulations
as set forth by law. For example, in some embodiments, one or more
signals may be received in accordance with the Health Information
Privacy and Protection Act. In some embodiments, receipt of one or
more signals will cause a return receipt to be sent that confirms
receipt of the one or more signals.
[0309] FIG. 26 illustrates operational flow 2600 that includes
operations 2610, 2620, 2630, and 2640, that correspond to
operations 2410, 2420, 2430, and 2440 as illustrated in FIG. 24,
with an optionally included displaying operation 2650 and
represents examples of operations that are related to the
performance of a method for identifying one or more pathogens 106
and determining one or more agents 142 that may be used to reduce
the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens 106.
In FIG. 26 and in following figures that include various examples
of operations used during performance of the method, discussion and
explanation may be provided with respect to any one or combination
of the above-described examples of FIGS. 1-1C, and/or with respect
to other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood
that the operations may be executed in a number of other
environments and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIGS. 1-1C.
Also, although the various operations are presented in the
sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the various
operations may be performed in other orders than those which are
illustrated, or may be performed concurrently.
[0310] After a start operation, the operational flow 2600
optionally includes a displaying operation 2650 involving
displaying the information associated with the one or more agents
that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of the at least one of
the one or more pathogens. In some embodiments, one or more display
units 114 may display information associated with one or more
agents 142 that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least
one of one or more pathogens 106. Numerous types of information may
be displayed. Examples of such information include, but are not
limited to, the identity of an agent 142, dosage of an agent 142,
method of administration for an agent 142, and the like.
[0311] FIG. 27 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 2600 of FIG. 26. FIG. 27 illustrates example
embodiments where the displaying operation 2650 may include at
least one additional operation. Additional operations may include
an operation 2702, operation 2704, and/or operation 2706.
[0312] At operation 2702, the displaying operation 2650 may include
displaying the information on one or more passive displays. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display information
on one or more passive displays. In some embodiments, one or more
display units 114 may include one or more liquid crystal displays
(LCD). Methods to construct passive displays have been described
(e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,807,967; 4,729,636; 4,436,378; 4,257,041;
herein incorporated by reference).
[0313] At operation 2704, the displaying operation 2650 may include
displaying the information on one or more active displays. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display information
on one or more active displays. Numerous active display units 114
are known and include, but are not limited to, quarter-video
graphics array (QVGA), video graphics array (VGA), super video
graphics array (SVGA), extended graphics array (XGA), wide extended
graphics array (WXGA), super extended graphics array (SXGA), ultra
extended graphics array (UXGA), wide super extended graphics array
(WSXGA), and wide ultra extended graphics array (WUXGA).
[0314] At operation 2706, the displaying operation 2650 may include
displaying the information in graphical form. In some embodiments,
one or more display units 114 may display information in graphical
form. Numerous types of graphical formats may be used. Examples of
such graphical formats include, but are not limited to, use of
shapes, use of colors, use of symbols (e.g., smiley face, frowny
face, thumbs up sign, thumbs down sign, histograms, bar graphs, pie
charts, and the like).
[0315] FIG. 28 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 2600 of FIG. 26. FIG. 28 illustrates example
embodiments where the displaying operation 2650 may include at
least one additional operation. Additional operations may include
an operation 2802, operation 2804, and/or operation 2806.
[0316] At operation 2802, the displaying operation 2650 may include
displaying the information in audio form. In some embodiments, one
or more display units 114 may display information in audio form. In
some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display
information in voice format. For example, in some embodiments, a
human voice may indicate the identity of one or more agents 142
that may be used to reduce the pathogenicity of one or more
pathogens 106. Numerous types of information may be presented in
audio format.
[0317] At operation 2804, the displaying operation 2650 may include
displaying the information in typographical form. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display information
in typographical form. Information may be presented in numerous
languages (e.g., Italian, Spanish, English, Japanese). In some
embodiments, the typographical form may include numbers.
[0318] At operation 2806, the displaying operation 2650 may include
displaying the information in Braille. In some embodiments, one or
more display units 114 may display information in Braille.
Accordingly, in some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may
include a pad on which messages in Braille may be displayed. In
some embodiments, such pads may be constructed of an elastomeric
material that is positioned relative to a series of movable rods
such that the rods may be positioned to create messages in Braille.
In some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may print
information in Braille.
[0319] FIG. 29 illustrates an operational flow 2900 representing
examples of operations that are related to the performance of a
method for identifying one or more pathogens 106 and determining
one or more agents 142 that may be used to reduce the pathogenicity
of at least one of the one or more pathogens 106. In FIG. 29 and in
following figures that include various examples of operations used
during performance of the method, discussion and explanation may be
provided with respect to any one or combination of the
above-described examples of FIGS. 1-1C, and/or with respect to
other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood that
the operations may be executed in a number of other environments
and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIGS. 1-1C. Also,
although the various operations are presented in the sequence(s)
illustrated, it should be understood that the various operations
may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated,
or may be performed concurrently.
[0320] After a start operation, the operational flow 2900 includes
a receiving operation 2910 involving receiving one or more signals
that include information associated with identifying one or more
pathogens present within one or more samples obtained from an
individual. In some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136
may be used to receive one or more signals 126 that include
information associated with identifying one or more pathogens 106
present within one or more samples 104 obtained from an individual
102.
[0321] After a start operation, the operational flow 2900 includes
a receiving operation 2920 involving receiving one or more signals
that include information associated with accepting input associated
with the individual from whom the one or more samples were
obtained. In some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may
be used to receive one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with accepting input 120 associated with an individual
102 from whom one or more samples 104 were obtained.
[0322] After a start operation, the operational flow 2900 includes
a determining operation 2930 involving determining one or more
agents that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one
of the one or more pathogens. In some embodiments, one or more
processing units 112 may be used to determine one or more agents
142 that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of
one or more pathogens 106.
[0323] FIG. 30 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 2900 of FIG. 29. FIG. 30 illustrates example
embodiments where the receiving operation 2910 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 3002, operation 3004, operation 3006, operation 3008,
and/or operation 3010.
[0324] At operation 3002, the receiving operation 2910 may include
receiving the one or more signals that include information
associated with an identity of the at least one of the one or more
pathogens. In some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may
receive one or more signals 126 that include information associated
with an identity of at least one of one or more pathogens 106. Such
information may include information associated with a particular
strain of one or more pathogens 106.
[0325] At operation 3004, the receiving operation 2910 may include
receiving the one or more signals that include information
associated with a concentration of the at least one of the one or
more pathogens. In some embodiments, one or more receiving units
136 may receive one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with a concentration of at least one of one or more
pathogens 106. In some embodiments, such information may indicate
the severity of a pathogen infection. In some embodiments, such
information may be used to track treatment of an infection. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more signals 126 may be
received at times following the initiation of a treatment schedule.
Accordingly, the effectiveness of a treatment scheme may be
monitored.
[0326] At operation 3006, the receiving operation 2910 may include
receiving one or more signals that include information associated
with drug resistance of at least one of the one or more pathogens.
In some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may receive
one or more signals 126 that include information associated with
drug resistance of at least one of one or more pathogens 106. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may
receive one or more signals 126 that include information associated
with one or more pathogens 106 that are resistant to one or more
antibiotics.
[0327] At operation 3008, the receiving operation 2910 may include
receiving the one or more signals that include information
associated with virulence of at least one of the one or more
pathogens. In some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may
receive one or more signals 126 that include information associated
with virulence of at least one of the one or more pathogens 106.
For example, some pathogenic strains of E. coli exhibit increased
virulence relative to other strains of E. coli. Such virulent
strains may be identified by the presence of virulence
determinants. Examples of such virulence determinants include, but
are not limited to, adhesions (e.g., CFAI/CFAII, type 1 fimbriae, P
fimbriae, S fimbriae, Intimin), invasions (e.g., hemolysisn,
siderophores and siderophore uptake systems, Shigella-like
"invasins" for intracellular invasion and spread), toxins (e.g., LT
toxin, ST toxin, Shiga-like toxin, cytotoxins, endotoxin LPS),
antiphagocytic surface properties (e.g., capsules, K antigens,
lipopolysaccharides), somatic antigens, flagellar antigens, and the
like. Accordingly, one or more signals may include information
related to numerous types of virulence indicators.
[0328] At operation 3010, the receiving operation 2910 may include
receiving the one or more signals through use of a secure
connection. In some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136
may receive one or more signals 126 through use of a secure
connection. For example, in some embodiments, one or more signals
may be received that are encrypted. In some embodiments, one or
more signals may be received through use of a secure mode. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more signals may only be
received by a specified individual. In some embodiments, one or
more signals may be received by a specified group. In some
embodiments, one or more signals may include code that is specific
for an individual. In some embodiments, such code may include
anonymous code that is specific for an individual. Accordingly,
information included within one or more signals may be protected
against being accessed by others who are not the intended
recipient. In some embodiments, one or more signals may include
information that includes statements regarding non-disclosure of
information included within the one or more signals (e.g.,
statements against copying information, statements against
unauthorized dissemination of information, statements about
unauthorized opening of an information packet by an unintended
recipient, and the like). In some embodiments, one or more signals
may be received in a manner that conforms with privacy regulations
as set forth by law. For example, in some embodiments, one or more
signals may be received in accordance with the Health Information
Privacy and Protection Act. In some embodiments, receipt of one or
more signals will cause a return receipt to be sent that confirms
receipt of the one or more signals.
[0329] FIG. 31 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 2900 of FIG. 29. FIG. 31 illustrates example
embodiments where the receiving operation 2920 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 3102, operation 3104, and/or operation 3106.
[0330] At operation 3102, the receiving operation 2920 may include
receiving the one or more signals that include information
associated with one or more parameters related to the individual.
In some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136 may receive
one or more signals 126 that include information associated with
one or more parameters related to an individual 102. In some
embodiments, the one or more parameters may be physical parameters.
In some embodiments, the one or more parameters may be
psychological parameters. In some embodiments, the one or more
parameters may be financial parameters. In some embodiments, the
one or more parameters may be health care provided related
parameters (e.g., physician's name, insurance provider, HMO name,
prescription plan, etc.).
[0331] At operation 3104, the receiving operation 2920 may include
receiving the one or more signals that include information
associated with one or more parameters related to age, weight,
height, body composition, substance use, liver health, allergies,
prescription drug use, non-prescription drug use, insurance
coverage, pregnancy status, blood pressure, child bearing plans,
one or more activities, environmental exposure, diagnosed disease,
disease status, treatment history, family history, genetic markers,
disease predisposition, or location. In some embodiments, one or
more receiving units 136 may receive one or more signals 126 that
include information associated with one or more parameters related
to age, weight, height, body composition, substance use, liver
health, allergies, prescription drug use, non-prescription drug
use, insurance coverage, pregnancy status, blood pressure, child
bearing plans, one or more activities, location, or substantially
any combination thereof.
[0332] At operation 3106, the receiving operation 2920 may include
receiving the one or more signals through use of a secure
connection. In some embodiments, one or more receiving units 136
may receive one or more signals 126 through use of a secure
connection. For example, in some embodiments, one or more signals
may be received that are encrypted. In some embodiments, one or
more signals may be received through use of a secure mode. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more signals may only be
received by a specified individual. In some embodiments, one or
more signals may be received by a specified group. In some
embodiments, one or more signals may include code that is specific
for an individual. In some embodiments, such code may include
anonymous code that is specific for an individual. Accordingly,
information included within one or more signals may be protected
against being accessed by others who are not the intended
recipient. In some embodiments, one or more signals may include
information that includes statements regarding non-disclosure of
information included within the one or more signals (e.g.,
statements against copying information, statements against
unauthorized dissemination of information, statements about
unauthorized opening of an information packet by an unintended
recipient, and the like). In some embodiments, one or more signals
may be received in a manner that conforms with privacy regulations
as set forth by law. For example, in some embodiments, one or more
signals may be received in accordance with the Health Information
Privacy and Protection Act. In some embodiments, receipt of one or
more signals will cause a return receipt to be sent that confirms
receipt of the one or more signals.
[0333] FIG. 32 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 2900 of FIG. 29. FIG. 32 illustrates example
embodiments where the receiving operation 2930 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 3202, operation 3204, operation 3206, operation 3208,
and/or operation 3210.
[0334] At operation 3202, the determining operation 2930 may
include identifying the one or more chemical agents that can be
used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more
pathogens that are identified. In some embodiments, one or more
processing units 112 may identify one or more chemical agents 142
that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of one
or more pathogens 106 that are identified. Numerous chemical agents
142 may be used to reduce the pathogenicity of one or more
pathogens 106. Examples of such chemical agents 142 include, but
are not limited to, antibiotics, ozone, peroxides, chlorinated
compounds, acids, bases, alcohols, and the like (e.g., Merck Index,
Thirteenth Edition, Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse Station, N.J.
(2001) and Mosby's Drug Guide, An Imprint of Elsevier, St. Louis,
Mo. (2004)). In some embodiments, such chemical agents 142 may be
specific for one or more identified pathogens 106.
[0335] At operation 3204, the determining operation 2930 may
include identifying the one or more mechanical agents that can be
used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more
pathogens that are identified. In some embodiments, one or more
processing units 112 may identify one or more mechanical agents 142
that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of one
or more pathogens 106 that are identified. Examples of such
mechanical agents 142 include, but are not limited to, ultraviolet
light, irradiation, and the like. In some embodiments, such
mechanical agents 142 may be specific for one or more identified
pathogens 106.
[0336] At operation 3206, the determining operation 2930 may
include identifying the one or more bioagents that can be used to
reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more
pathogens that are identified. In some embodiments, one or more
processing units 112 may identify one or more bioagents that can be
used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more
pathogens that are identified. For example, in some embodiments,
one or more processing units 112 may identify one or more
bacteriophages that may be used to reduce the disease causing
ability of a bacteria. In some embodiments, one or more processing
units 112 may identify one or more invasive recombinant bacteria
that may be used to deliver a gene product that may be used to
reduce the disease causing ability of one or more pathogens. For
example, in some embodiments, such recombinant bacteria may be
engineered to produce an antibiotic. In some embodiments, one or
more processing units 112 may identify one or more inactivated
pathogens (e.g., viruses, bacteria, fungi) that may be used to
induce an immune response against one or more pathogens.
[0337] At operation 3208, the determining operation 2930 may
include identifying the one or more agents that are not
contraindicated by one or more substances used by the individual.
In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may identify
one or more agents 142 that are not contraindicated by one or more
substances used by an individual 102. For example, in some
embodiments, an individual 102 may use one or more prescription
medications. In such embodiments, one or more processing units 112
may identify one or more agents 142 that do not contraindicate the
one or more prescription medications. In some embodiments, an
individual 102 may use one or more substances such as tobacco or
alcohol that may contraindicate an agent 142. Accordingly, one or
more processing units 112 may identify one or more agents 142 that
are not affected by one or more substances used by an individual
102 and/or that do not affect one or more substances used by an
individual 102. Accordingly, one or more processing units 112 may
identify one or more agents 142 with regard to numerous types of
substances used by an individual 102.
[0338] At operation 3210, the determining operation 2930 may
include identifying the one or more additional agents that act
synergistically with the one or more agents that can be used to
reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more
pathogens. In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112
may identify one or more additional agents 142 that act
synergistically with the one or more agents 142 that can be used to
reduce the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more
pathogens. In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112
may identify one or more additional agents 142 that increase the
effectiveness of one or more antibiotics. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may identify one or
more antibacterial adjuvants (e.g., beta-lactamase inhibitors) that
may act synergistically with one or more antibiotics. In some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may identify one or
more agents 142 that up regulate an immune response against a
pathogen that may act synergistically with one or more other agents
142. In some embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may
identify one or more agents 142 that down regulate an immune
response against a pathogen that may act synergistically with one
or more other agents 142.
[0339] FIG. 33 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 2900 of FIG. 29. FIG. 33 illustrates example
embodiments where the receiving operation 2930 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 3302, operation 3304, and/or operation 3306.
[0340] At operation 3302, the determining operation 2930 may
include identifying the one or more agents in response to one or
more parameters associated with the individual. In some
embodiments, one or more processing units 112 may identify one or
more agents 142 in response to one or more parameters associated
with the individual 102. Accordingly, in some embodiments, one or
more agents 142 may be identified for application to a specific
individual 102. Such embodiments provide for personalized selection
and dosing of agents 142 that may be used to treat pathogen
infection. Numerous parameters associated with an individual 102
may be considered. Examples of such parameters include, but are not
limited to, size, weight, allergies, body composition, substance
use, and the like.
[0341] At operation 3304, the determining operation 2930 may
include identifying the one or more agent in response to at least
one parameter associated with the individual that includes age,
weight, height, body composition, substance use, liver health,
allergies, prescription drug use, non-prescription drug use,
insurance coverage, pregnancy status, blood pressure, environmental
exposure, diagnosed disease, disease status, treatment history,
family history, genetic markers, disease predisposition, or child
bearing plans. In some embodiments, one or more processing units
112 may identify one or more agents 142 in response to at least one
parameter associated with the individual 102 that includes age,
weight, height, body composition, substance use, liver health,
allergies, prescription drug use, non-prescription drug use,
insurance coverage, pregnancy status, blood pressure, child bearing
plans, or substantially any combination thereof.
[0342] At operation 3306, the determining operation 2930 may
include identifying the one or more agents that reduce the
pathogenicity of at least one virus, bacterium, worm, egg, cyst,
protozoan, single-celled organism, fungus, algae, pathogenic
protein, or microbe. In some embodiments, one or more processing
units 112 may identify one or more agents 142 that reduce the
pathogenicity of at least one virus, bacterium, worm, egg, cyst,
protozoan, single-celled organism, fungus, algae, pathogenic
protein, or microbe. Numerous agents 142 are known that will reduce
the pathogenicity of one or more pathogens 106 (The Merck Index,
13th Edition, An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals,
Merck & Co. Inc., Whitehouse Station, N.J. 2001; Mosby's Drug
Guide, Mosby, Inc., St. Louis, Mo. 2004; Remington: The Science and
Practice of Pharmacy, 20th Edition, Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins, Philadelphia, Pa. 2000; Physicians' Desk Reference, 58th
Edition, Thompson, P D R, Montvale, N.J. 2004).
[0343] FIG. 34 illustrates operational flow 3400 that includes
operations 3410, 3420, and 3430, that correspond to operations
2910, 2920, and 2930 as illustrated in FIG. 29, with an optionally
included displaying operation 3440 and represents examples of
operations that are related to the performance of a method for
identifying one or more pathogens 106 and determining one or more
agents 142 that may be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least
one of the one or more pathogens 106. In FIG. 34 and in following
figures that include various examples of operations used during
performance of the method, discussion and explanation may be
provided with respect to any one or combination of the
above-described examples of FIGS. 1-1C, and/or with respect to
other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood that
the operations may be executed in a number of other environments
and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIGS. 1-1C. Also,
although the various operations are presented in the sequence(s)
illustrated, it should be understood that the various operations
may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated,
or may be performed concurrently.
[0344] After a start operation, the operational flow 3400
optionally includes a displaying operation 3440 involving
displaying information associated with the one or more agents. In
some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may be used to
display information associated with one or more agents 142.
Numerous types of display units 114 may be used to display
information. Examples of such display units 114 include, but are
not limited to, liquid crystal displays, light emitting diode
displays, audio displays, Braille displays, graphical displays, and
the like. Numerous types of information may be displayed. Examples
of such types of information include, but are not limited to, the
identity of one or more agents 142, the dosage of one or more
agents 142, contraindications associated with the one or more
agents 142, administration method to be used with one or more
agents 142, administration schedule associated with one or more
agents 142, and the like.
[0345] FIG. 35 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 3400 of FIG. 34. FIG. 35 illustrates example
embodiments where the displaying operation 3440 may include at
least one additional operation. Additional operations may include
an operation 3502, operation 3504, and/or operation 3506.
[0346] At operation 3502, the displaying operation 3440 may include
displaying the information on one or more passive displays. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display information
on one or more passive displays. In some embodiments, one or more
display units 114 may include one or more liquid crystal displays
(LCD). Methods to construct passive displays have been described
(e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,807,967; 4,729,636; 4,436,378; 4,257,041;
herein incorporated by reference).
[0347] At operation 3504, the displaying operation 3440 may include
displaying the information on one or more active displays. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display information
on one or more active displays. Numerous active display units 114
are known and include, but are not limited to, quarter-video
graphics array (QVGA), video graphics array (VGA), super video
graphics array (SVGA), extended graphics array (XGA), wide extended
graphics array (WXGA), super extended graphics array (SXGA), ultra
extended graphics array (UXGA), wide super extended graphics array
(WSXGA), and wide ultra extended graphics array (WUXGA).
[0348] At operation 3506, the displaying operation 3440 may include
displaying the information in graphical form. In some embodiments,
one or more display units 114 may display information in graphical
form. Numerous types of graphical formats may be used. Examples of
such graphical formats include, but are not limited to, use of
shapes, use of colors, use of symbols (e.g., smiley face, frowny
face, thumbs up sign, thumbs down sign, histograms, bar graphs, pie
charts, and the like).
[0349] FIG. 36 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 3400 of FIG. 34. FIG. 36 illustrates example
embodiments where the displaying operation 3440 may include at
least one additional operation. Additional operations may include
an operation 3602, operation 3604, and/or operation 3606.
[0350] At operation 3602, the displaying operation 3440 may include
displaying the information in audio form. In some embodiments, one
or more display units 114 may display information in audio form. In
some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display
information in voice format. For example, in some embodiments, a
human voice may indicate the identity of one or more agents 142
that may be used to reduce the pathogenicity of one or more
pathogens 106. Numerous types of information may be presented in
audio format.
[0351] At operation 3604, the displaying operation 3440 may include
displaying the information in typographical form. In some
embodiments, one or more display units 114 may display information
in typographical form. Information may be presented in numerous
languages (e.g., Italian, Spanish, English, Japanese). In some
embodiments, the typographical form may include numbers.
[0352] At operation 3606, the displaying operation 3440 may include
displaying the information in Braille. In some embodiments, one or
more display units 114 may display information in Braille.
Accordingly, in some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may
include a pad on which messages in Braille may be displayed. In
some embodiments, such pads may be constructed of an elastomeric
material that is positioned relative to a series of movable rods
such that the rods may be positioned to create messages in Braille.
In some embodiments, one or more display units 114 may print
information in Braille.
[0353] FIG. 37 illustrates operational flow 3700 that includes
operations 3710, 3720, 3730, and 3740, that correspond to
operations 3410, 3420, 3430, and 3440 as illustrated in FIG. 34,
with an optionally included transmitting operation 3750 and
represents examples of operations that are related to the
performance of a method for identifying one or more pathogens 106
and determining one or more agents 142 that may be used to reduce
the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens 106.
In FIG. 37 and in following figures that include various examples
of operations used during performance of the method, discussion and
explanation may be provided with respect to any one or combination
of the above-described examples of FIGS. 1-1C, and/or with respect
to other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood
that the operations may be executed in a number of other
environments and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIGS. 1-1C.
Also, although the various operations are presented in the
sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the various
operations may be performed in other orders than those which are
illustrated, or may be performed concurrently.
[0354] After a start operation, the operational flow 3700
optionally includes a transmitting operation 3750 involving
transmitting the one or more signals that include information
associated with the one or more agents. In some embodiments, one or
more transmitting units 116 may transmit one or more signals 126
that include information associated with one or more agents 142.
The one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit signals 126
through use of numerous technologies. For example, such signals 126
may be transmitted through use of the internet, radio waves,
optical cables, cellular telephone connections, telephone
connections, satellite telephone connections, and the like. The one
or more signals 126 may be transmitted to, and received by,
numerous types of receivers. For example, one or more signals 126
may be received by pharmacies, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies,
health care providers, nutraceutical companies, and the like.
[0355] FIG. 38 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 3700 of FIG. 37. FIG. 38 illustrates example
embodiments where the transmitting operation 3750 may include at
least one additional operation. Additional operations may include
an operation 3802, operation 3804, operation 3806, operation 3808,
operation 3810, and/or operation 3812.
[0356] At operation 3802, the transmitting operation 3750 may
include transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with the identity of one or more agents. In
some embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit
one or more signals 126 that include information associated with
the identity of one or more agents 142. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit one or
more signals 126 that include information associated with the brand
name, the generic name, the chemical name, the structure,
identifiers associated with an agent 142, or substantially any
combination thereof.
[0357] At operation 3804, the transmitting operation 3750 may
include transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with an individual. In some embodiments, one
or more transmitting units 116 may transmit one or more signals 126
that include information associated with an individual 102. One or
more signals 126 that include numerous types of information
associated with an individual 102 may be transmitted. Examples of
such information include, but are not limited to, height, weight,
age, substances used by an individual 102 (e.g., alcohol, tobacco,
prescription medication, non-prescription medication, illicit
drugs, etc.), body composition, allergies, physical characteristics
(e.g., blood pressure, heart rate, intraocular pressure, etc.),
activities, and the like.
[0358] At operation 3806, the transmitting operation 3750 may
include transmitting the one or more signals through use of a
secure connection. In some embodiments, one or more transmitting
units 116 may transmit one or more signals 126 through use of a
secure connection. For example, in some embodiments, one or more
signals may be encrypted. In some embodiments, one or more signals
may be sent through use of a secure mode of transmission. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more signals may be
transmitted to a specified individual. In some embodiments, one or
more signals may be transmitted to a specified group. In some
embodiments, one or more signals may include code that is specific
for an individual. In some embodiments, such code may include
anonymous code that is specific for an individual. Accordingly,
information included within one or more signals may be protected
against being accessed by others who are not the intended
recipient. In some embodiments, one or more signals may include
information that includes statements regarding non-disclosure of
information included within the one or more signals (e.g.,
statements against copying information, statements against
unauthorized dissemination of information, statements about
unauthorized opening of an information packet by an unintended
recipient, and the like). In some embodiments, one or more signals
may be sent in a manner that conforms with privacy regulations as
set forth by law. For example, in some embodiments, one or more
signals may be transmitted in accordance with the Health
Information Privacy and Protection Act. In some embodiments, one or
more signals may be sent with information that includes a request
for a return receipt.
[0359] At operation 3808, the transmitting operation 3750 may
include transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with the one or more pathogens. In some
embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit one or
more signals 126 that include information associated with the one
or more pathogens 106. The one or more signals 126 may include
numerous types of information associated with one or more pathogens
106. Examples of such information include the identity of a
pathogen 106, the concentration of a pathogen 106, drug resistance
characteristics of a pathogen 106, and the like.
[0360] At operation 3810, the transmitting operation 3750 may
include transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with one or more locations of the one or
more pathogens. In some embodiments, one or more transmitting units
116 may transmit one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with one or more locations of the one or more pathogens
106. For example, in some embodiments, one or more transmitting
units 116 may transmit one or more signals 126 that include
information associated with where an individual 102 is physically
experiencing a pathogen infection (e.g., eye infection, nasal
infection, gastrointestinal tract infection, etc). In some
embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit one or
more signals 126 that include information associated with the
geographical location of the pathogen 106. For example, one or more
signals 126 may include information that indicates where the
pathogen 106 and/or individual 102 who is infected with the
pathogen 106 is located (e.g., United States, Canada, Europe, Asia,
Middle East, etc.). In some embodiments, the one or more signals
126 may include global positioning system (GPS) coordinates.
[0361] At operation 3812, the transmitting operation 3750 may
include transmitting the one or more signals that include
information associated with one or more locations of the
individual. In some embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116
may transmit one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with one or more locations of the individual 102. In
some embodiments, one or more transmitting units 116 may transmit
one or more signals 126 that include information associated with
the geographical location of an individual 102. For example, one or
more signals 126 may include information that indicates where an
individual 102 is located (e.g., United States, Canada, Europe,
Asia, Middle East, etc.). In some embodiments, the one or more
signals 126 may include global positioning system (GPS)
coordinates.
[0362] FIG. 39 illustrates operational flow 3900 that includes
operations 3910, 3920, 3930, 3940, and 3950 that correspond to
operations 3710, 3720, 3730, 3740, and 3750 as illustrated in FIG.
37 with an optionally included packaging operation 3960 and
represents examples of operations that are related to the
performance of a method for identifying one or more pathogens 106
and determining one or more agents 142 that may be used to reduce
the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens 106.
In FIG. 39 and in following figures that include various examples
of operations used during performance of the method, discussion and
explanation may be provided with respect to any one or combination
of the above-described examples of FIGS. 1-1C, and/or with respect
to other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood
that the operations may be executed in a number of other
environments and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIGS. 1-1C.
Also, although the various operations are presented in the
sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the various
operations may be performed in other orders than those which are
illustrated, or may be performed concurrently.
[0363] After a start operation, the operational flow 3900
optionally includes a packaging operation 3960 involving packaging
the one or more agents. In some embodiments, one or more packaging
units 138 may package one or more agents 142. In some embodiments,
one or more packaging units 138 may be used to package one or more
agents 142 in packaging material. In some embodiments, one or more
packaging units 138 may package one or more agents 142 for
administration to an individual 102. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may package individual
dosages of one or more agents 142 for a specific individual 102.
Accordingly, in such embodiments, a packaging unit 138 may be used
for individualized agent 142 packaging.
[0364] FIG. 40 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 3900 of FIG. 39. FIG. 40 illustrates example
embodiments where the packaging operation 3960 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 4002, operation 4004, and/or operation 4006.
[0365] At operation 4002, the packaging operation 3960 may include
formulating the one or more agents into unit dosage form. In some
embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may formulate one or
more agents 142 into unit dosage form. In some embodiments, a unit
dosage form may include one or more amounts of one or more agents
142, such as pharmaceutical agents 142, that are suitable as
unitary dosages for an individual 102 with each unit containing a
predetermined quantity of at least one agent 142 calculated to
produce a desired effect, such as a therapeutic effect, in
association with one or more suitable pharmaceutical carriers. Such
unit dosage forms may be packaged in numerous configurations that
include, but are not limited to, tablets, capsules, ampoules, and
other administration forms known in the art and described herein.
In some embodiments, two or more unit dosage forms of one or more
agents 142 may be packaged into an administration form. For
example, in some embodiments, two unit dosage forms may be wrapped
into an administration form through use of a continuous wrapper
such that they are released at different times following
administration to an individual 102. In such an example, two unit
dosage forms are included within one administration form.
[0366] At operation 4004, the packaging operation 3960 may include
packaging two or more of the agents into a single administration
form. In some embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may
package two or more agents 142 into a single administration form.
For example, in some embodiments, two agents 142 may be wrapped
into a single administration form through use of a continuous
wrapper such that they are released at different times following
administration to an individual 102. In some examples, two unit
dosage forms may be included within one administration form.
[0367] At operation 4006, the packaging operation 3960 may include
formulating the one or more agents into an administration form in
response to input associated with the individual from whom the one
or more samples were obtained. In some embodiments, one or more
packaging units 138 may formulate one or more agents 142 into an
administration form in response to input 120 associated with an
individual 102 from whom one or more samples 104 were obtained. For
example, in some embodiments, an individual 102 may work at night
where an agent 142 may interfere with the individual's function.
Accordingly, one or more agents 142 may be formulated to be
released during the day when the individual 102 is not working. In
some embodiments, one or more agents 142 may be formulated for oral
administration according to a preference of an individual 102.
Accordingly, one or more agents 142 may be formulated in numerous
ways in response to input 120 associated with an individual
102.
[0368] FIG. 41 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 3900 of FIG. 39. FIG. 41 illustrates example
embodiments where the packaging operation 3960 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 4102, operation 4104, and/or operation 4106.
[0369] At operation 4102, the packaging operation 3960 may include
packaging the one or more agents into one or more pharmaceutically
acceptable carriers. In some embodiments, one or more packaging
units 138 may package one or more agents 142 with one or more
pharmaceutically acceptable carriers. In some embodiments, one or
more agents 142 (e.g., pharmaceuticals) may be packaged with one or
more solid or gel phase carriers or excipients. Examples of such
carriers or excipients include, but are not limited to,
croscarmellose sodium, povidone, microcrystalline cellulose,
calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, various sugars, starches,
cellulose derivatives, gelatin, pregelatinized starch, polymers
such as polyethylene glycols, lactose, lactose monohydrate,
sucrose, talc, gelatin, agar, pectin, acacia, magnesium stearate,
stearic acid and substantially any combination thereof. If a solid
carrier is used, the one or more agents 142 may be tableted, placed
in a hard gelatin capsule in powder or pellet form, packaged in the
form of a troche or lozenge, and the like.
[0370] In some embodiments, one or more agents 142 may be packaged
with a liquid carrier or excipient. Examples of such liquid
carriers include syrup, peanut oil, olive oil, water,
physiologically compatible buffers (i.e., Hanks solution and
Ringers solution), physiological saline buffer, and the like. If a
liquid carrier is used, the administration form may be in the form
of a syrup, emulsion, drop, soft gelatin capsule, sterile
injectable solution, suspension in an ampoule or vial, non-aqueous
liquid suspension, and the like.
[0371] One or more agents 142 may be packaged in stable
water-soluble administration forms. For example, in some
embodiments, a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of one or more
agents 142 may be dissolved in an aqueous solution of an organic or
inorganic acid, such as 0.3M solution of succinic acid or citric
acid. If a soluble salt form is not available, an agent 142 may be
dissolved in a suitable cosolvent or combination of cosolvents.
Examples of suitable cosolvents include, but are not limited to,
alcohol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol 300, polysorbate 80,
glycerin and the like in concentrations ranging from 0-60% of the
total volume. In some embodiments, one or more agents 142 may be
dissolved in DMSO and diluted with water. The administration form
may also be in the form of a solution of a salt form of one or more
agents 142 in an appropriate aqueous vehicle such as water or
isotonic saline or dextrose solution.
[0372] In some embodiments, agents 142 that are hydrophobic may be
packaged through use of a cosolvent system comprising benzyl
alcohol, a nonpolar surfactant, a water-miscible organic polymer,
and an aqueous phase. The cosolvent system may be the VPD
co-solvent system. VPD is a solution of 3 percent weight/volume
benzyl alcohol, 8 percent weight/volume of the nonpolar surfactant
polysorbate 80, and 65 percent weight/volume polyethylene glycol
300, made up to volume in absolute ethanol. The VPD co-solvent
system (VPD:5W) consists of VPD diluted 1:1 with a 5 percent
dextrose in water solution. This co-solvent system dissolves
hydrophobic agents 142, and itself produces low toxicity upon
systemic administration. The proportions of a co-solvent system may
be varied considerably without destroying its solubility and
toxicity characteristics. Furthermore, the identity of the
co-solvent components may be varied: for example, other
low-toxicity nonpolar surfactants may be used instead of
polysorbate 80; the fraction size of polyethylene glycol may be
varied; other biocompatible polymers may replace polyethylene
glycol (i.e., polyvinyl pyrrolidone; and other sugars or
polysaccharides may substitute for dextrose). Many other delivery
systems may be used to administer hydrophobic agents 142 as well.
For example, liposomes and emulsions are well known examples of
delivery vehicles or carriers for hydrophobic drugs. Certain
organic solvents such as dimethysulfoxide also may be employed,
although usually at the cost of greater toxicity.
[0373] Some agents 142 may be packaged as salts with
pharmaceutically compatible counter ions. Pharmaceutically
compatible salts may be formed with many acids, including
hydrochloric, sulfuric, acetic, lactic, tartaric, malic, succinic,
etc. Salts of agents 142 tend to be more soluble in aqueous or
other protonic solvents than are the corresponding free-base
forms.
[0374] Numerous carriers and excipients are known and are
commercially available (i.e., The Merck Index, 13th Edition, An
Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals, Merck & Co.
Inc., Whitehouse Station, N.J. 2001; Mosby's Drug Guide, Mosby,
Inc., St. Louis, Mo. 2004; Remington: The Science and Practice of
Pharmacy, 20th Edition, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins,
Philadelphia, Pa. 2000; Physicians' Desk Reference, 58th Edition,
Thompson, P D R, Montvale, N.J. 2004; U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,773,721;
7,053,107; 7,049,312 and Published U.S. Patent Application No.
20040224916; herein incorporated by reference).
[0375] In addition, in some embodiments, one or more agents 142 may
be packaged with pharmaceutically acceptable poloxamers,
humectants, binders, disintegrants, fillers, diluents, lubricants,
glidants, flow enhancers, compression aids, coloring agents,
sweeteners, preservatives, suspending agents, dispersing agents,
film formers, coatings, flavoring agents, printing inks, or
substantially any combination thereof.
[0376] At operation 4104, the packaging operation 3960 may include
packaging the one or more agents into packaging material. In some
embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may package one or
more agents 142 with packaging material. One or more agents 142
(e.g., pharmaceuticals) may be packaged in numerous types of
packaging material. Examples of packaging material include, but are
not limited to, containers, boxes, ampoules, vials, syringes, and
the like. In some embodiments, packaging material may include
advertising. In some embodiments, packaging material may include
instructions for administration. Such instructions may include time
for administration, route of administration, the name of the
individual 102 to whom the one or more agents 142 are to be
administered, the identity of the one or more agents 142, the
dosage of the one or more agents 142, appropriate buffers for
suspension of the one or more agents 142, the source of the one or
more agents 142, the name of a physician or physicians who
prescribed the one or more agents 142, the date when the one or
more agents 142 were prescribed, the date when the one or more
agents 142 were packaged, the date when the one or more agents 142
were manufactured, the expiration date of the one or more agents
142, and the like.
[0377] At operation 4106, the packaging operation 3960 may include
packaging the one or more agents into packaging material and
addressing the packaging material for delivery to one or more
addresses. In some embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may
package one or more agents 142 with packaging material and address
the packaging material for delivery to one or more addresses. For
example, in some embodiments, one or more packaging units 138 may
package one or more agents 142 in one or more dispensing containers
(e.g., a box, ampoule, vial, syringe, etc.), and then package the
one or more dispensing containers in packaging material (e.g.,
boxes, crates, envelopes, pouches, etc.) that is addressed for
delivery to one or more addresses. In some embodiments, one or more
packaging units 138 may package one or more prepackaged agents 142
in one or more shipping containers (e.g., boxes, crates, envelopes,
pouches, etc.) and addressing the one or more shipping containers
for delivery to one or more addresses. Numerous addresses could be
used. Examples of such addresses include, but are not limited to,
addresses to hospitals, military field stations, pharmacies,
individuals, health care facilities, and the like.
[0378] FIG. 42 illustrates operational flow 4200 that includes
operations 4210, 4220, 4230, 4240, 4250, and 4260 that correspond
to operations 3910, 3920, 3930, 3940, 3950, and 3960 as illustrated
in FIG. 39 with an optionally included shipping operation 4270 and
represents examples of operations that are related to the
performance of a method for identifying one or more pathogens 106
and determining one or more agents 142 that may be used to reduce
the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens 106.
In FIG. 42 and in following figures that include various examples
of operations used during performance of the method, discussion and
explanation may be provided with respect to any one or combination
of the above-described examples of FIGS. 1-1C, and/or with respect
to other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood
that the operations may be executed in a number of other
environments and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIGS. 1-1C.
Also, although the various operations are presented in the
sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the various
operations may be performed in other orders than those which are
illustrated, or may be performed concurrently.
[0379] After a start operation, the operational flow 4200
optionally includes a shipping operation 4270 involving shipping
one or more packages that include the one or more agents. In some
embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may ship one or more
agents 142. In some embodiments, a shipping unit 140 may include
logic that selects one or more routes that may be used to deliver
one or more packages that include one or more agents 142. For
example, in some embodiments, a shipping unit 140 may select a
shipping route through the Southern United States in the winter
time to avoid shipping delays due to snowfall. Accordingly, one or
more shipping units 140 may select from numerous routes to ship one
or more packages. In some embodiments, a shipping unit 140 may
select a service to ship a package. Examples of such shipping
services include, but are not limited to, United States Postal
Service, United Postal Service, Federal Express, and the like.
[0380] FIG. 43 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 4200 of FIG. 42. FIG. 43 illustrates example
embodiments where the shipping operation 4270 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 4302, and/or operation 4304.
[0381] At operation 4302, the shipping operation 4270 may include
shipping the one or more packages through use of one or more common
carriers. In some embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may
be used to ship one or more packages through use of one or more
common carriers. In some embodiments, one or more shipping units
140 may include logic that selects one or more common carriers for
shipping one or more packages. Examples of common carriers include,
but are not limited to, airline shipping services, ground shipping
services, nautical shipping services, and the like.
[0382] At operation 4304, the shipping operation 4270 may include
shipping the one or more packages to the individual from whom the
one or more samples were obtained. In some embodiments, one or more
shipping units 140 may be used to ship one or more packages to an
individual 102 from whom one or more samples 104 were obtained.
[0383] FIG. 44 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example
operational flow 4200 of FIG. 42. FIG. 44 illustrates example
embodiments where the shipping operation 4270 may include at least
one additional operation. Additional operations may include an
operation 4402, and/or operation 4404.
[0384] At operation 4402, the shipping operation 4270 may include
shipping the one or more packages to one or more treatment
facilities. In some embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may
be used to ship one or more packages to one or more treatment
facilities. Examples of treatment facilities include, but are not
limited to, hospitals, clinics, military field hospitals, ship
infirmaries, and the like.
[0385] At operation 4404, the shipping operation 4270 may include
shipping the one or more packages to one or more pharmacies. In
some embodiments, one or more shipping units 140 may be used to
ship one or more packages to one or more pharmacies.
[0386] FIG. 45 illustrates a partial view of a system 4500 that
includes a computer program 4504 for executing a computer process
on a computing device. An embodiment of the system 4500 is provided
using a signal-bearing medium 4502 bearing one or more instructions
for identifying one or more pathogens 106 present within one or
more samples 104 obtained from an individual 102 through use of one
or more microfluidic chips; one or more instructions for accepting
input 120 associated with the individual 102 from whom the one or
more samples 104 were obtained; and one or more instructions for
determining one or more agents 142 that can be used to reduce the
pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens 106. The
one or more instructions may be, for example, computer executable
and/or logic-implemented instructions. In some embodiments, the
signal-bearing medium 4502 may include a computer-readable medium
4506. In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4502 may
include a recordable medium 4508. In some embodiments, the
signal-bearing medium 4502 may include a communications medium
4510.
[0387] FIG. 45A illustrates a partial view of a system 4500 that
includes a computer program 4504 for executing a computer process
on a computing device. An embodiment of the system 4500 is provided
using a signal-bearing medium 4502 bearing one or more instructions
for identifying one or more pathogens 106 present within one or
more samples 104 obtained from an individual 102 through use of one
or more microfluidic chips; one or more instructions for accepting
input 120 associated with the individual 102 from whom the one or
more samples 104 were obtained; one or more instructions for
determining one or more agents 142 that can be used to reduce the
pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens; and one
or more instructions for displaying information associated with the
one or more agents 142. The one or more instructions may be, for
example, computer executable and/or logic-implemented instructions.
In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4502 may include a
computer-readable medium 4506. In some embodiments, the
signal-bearing medium 4502 may include a recordable medium 4508. In
some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4502 may include a
communications medium 4510.
[0388] FIG. 45B illustrates a partial view of a system 4500 that
includes a computer program 4504 for executing a computer process
on a computing device. An embodiment of the system 4500 is provided
using a signal-bearing medium 4502 bearing one or more instructions
for identifying one or more pathogens 106 present within one or
more samples 104 obtained from an individual 102 through use of one
or more microfluidic chips; one or more instructions for accepting
input 120 associated with the individual 102 from whom the one or
more samples 104 were obtained; one or more instructions for
determining one or more agents 142 that can be used to reduce the
pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens; one or
more instructions for displaying information associated with the
one or more agents; and one or more instructions for transmitting
one or more signals 126 that include information associated with
the one or more agents 142. The one or more instructions may be,
for example, computer executable and/or logic-implemented
instructions. In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4502
may include a computer-readable medium 4506. In some embodiments,
the signal-bearing medium 4502 may include a recordable medium
4508. In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4502 may
include a communications medium 4510.
[0389] FIG. 46 illustrates a partial view of a system 4600 that
includes a computer program 4604 for executing a computer process
on a computing device. An embodiment of the system 4600 is provided
using a signal-bearing medium 4602 bearing one or more instructions
for receiving one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with one or more agents 142 determined in response to
one or more pathogens 106 present within one or more samples 104
obtained from an individual 102 and input 120 associated with the
individual 102 from whom the one or more samples 104 were obtained;
and one or more instructions for processing the information
associated with one or more agents 142 determined in response to
one or more pathogens 106 present within one or more samples 104
obtained from an individual 102 and the input 120 associated with
the individual 102 from whom the one or more samples 104 were
obtained. The one or more instructions may be, for example,
computer executable and/or logic-implemented instructions. In some
embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4602 may include a
computer-readable medium 4606. In some embodiments, the
signal-bearing medium 4602 may include a recordable medium 4608. In
some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4602 may include a
communications medium 4610.
[0390] FIG. 46A illustrates a partial view of a system 4600 that
includes a computer program 4604 for executing a computer process
on a computing device. An embodiment of the system 4600 is provided
using a signal-bearing medium 4602 bearing one or more instructions
for receiving one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with one or more agents 142 determined in response to
one or more pathogens 106 present within one or more samples 104
obtained from an individual 102 and input 120 associated with the
individual 102 from whom the one or more samples 104 were obtained;
one or more instructions for processing the information associated
with one or more agents 142 determined in response to one or more
pathogens 106 present within one or more samples 104 obtained from
an individual 102 and the input 120 associated with the individual
102 from whom the one or more samples 104 were obtained; and one or
more instructions for packaging the one or more agents 142. The one
or more instructions may be, for example, computer executable
and/or logic-implemented instructions. In some embodiments, the
signal-bearing medium 4602 may include a computer-readable medium
4606. In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4602 may
include a recordable medium 4608. In some embodiments, the
signal-bearing medium 4602 may include a communications medium
4610.
[0391] FIG. 46B illustrates a partial view of a system 4600 that
includes a computer program 4604 for executing a computer process
on a computing device. An embodiment of the system 4600 is provided
using a signal-bearing medium 4602 bearing one or more instructions
for receiving one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with one or more agents 142 determined in response to
one or more pathogens 106 present within one or more samples 104
obtained from an individual 102 and input 120 associated with the
individual 102 from whom the one or more samples 104 were obtained;
one or more instructions for processing the information associated
with one or more agents 142 determined in response to one or more
pathogens 106 present within one or more samples 104 obtained from
an individual 102 and the input 120 associated with the individual
102 from whom the one or more samples 104 were obtained; one or
more instructions for packaging the one or more agents; and one or
more instructions for shipping one or more packages that include
the one or more agents 142. The one or more instructions may be,
for example, computer executable and/or logic-implemented
instructions. In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4602
may include a computer-readable medium 4606. In some embodiments,
the signal-bearing medium 4602 may include a recordable medium
4608. In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4602 may
include a communications medium 4610.
[0392] FIG. 47 illustrates a partial view of a system 4700 that
includes a computer program 4704 for executing a computer process
on a computing device. An embodiment of the system 4700 is provided
using a signal-bearing medium 4702 bearing one or more instructions
for identifying one or more pathogens 106 present within one or
more samples 104 obtained from an individual 102 through use of one
or more microfluidic chips; one or more instructions for accepting
input 120 associated with the individual 102 from whom the one or
more samples 104 were obtained; and one or more instructions for
transmitting one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with the identifying one or more pathogens 106 present
within one or more samples 104 obtained from an individual 102
through use of one or more microfluidic chips 108 and the accepting
input 120 associated with the individual 102 from whom the one or
more samples 104 were obtained. The one or more instructions may
be, for example, computer executable and/or logic-implemented
instructions. In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4702
may include a computer-readable medium 4706. In some embodiments,
the signal-bearing medium 4702 may include a recordable medium
4708. In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4702 may
include a communications medium 4710.
[0393] FIG. 47A illustrates a partial view of a system 4700 that
includes a computer program 4704 for executing a computer process
on a computing device. An embodiment of the system 4700 is provided
using a signal-bearing medium 4702 bearing one or more instructions
for identifying one or more pathogens 106 present within one or
more samples 104 obtained from an individual 102 through use of one
or more microfluidic chips; one or more instructions for accepting
input 120 associated with the individual 102 from whom the one or
more samples 104 were obtained; one or more instructions for
transmitting one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with the identifying one or more pathogens 106 present
within one or more samples 104 obtained from an individual 102
through use of one or more microfluidic chips 108 and the accepting
input 120 associated with the individual 102 from whom the one or
more samples 104 were obtained; and one or more instructions for
receiving one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with one or more agents 142 that can be used to reduce
the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens 106.
The one or more instructions may be, for example, computer
executable and/or logic-implemented instructions. In some
embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4702 may include a
computer-readable medium 4706. In some embodiments, the
signal-bearing medium 4702 may include a recordable medium 4708. In
some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4702 may include a
communications medium 4710.
[0394] FIG. 47B illustrates a partial view of a system 4700 that
includes a computer program 4704 for executing a computer process
on a computing device. An embodiment of the system 4700 is provided
using a signal-bearing medium 4702 bearing one or more instructions
for identifying one or more pathogens 106 present within one or
more samples 104 obtained from an individual 102 through use of one
or more microfluidic chips; one or more instructions for accepting
input 120 associated with the individual 102 from whom the one or
more samples 104 were obtained; one or more instructions for
transmitting one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with the identifying one or more pathogens 106 present
within one or more samples 104 obtained from an individual 102
through use of one or more microfluidic chips 108 and the accepting
input 120 associated with the individual 102 from whom the one or
more samples 104 were obtained; one or more instructions for
receiving one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with one or more agents 142 that can be used to reduce
the pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens; and
one or more instructions for displaying the information associated
with the one or more agents 142 that can be used to reduce the
pathogenicity of at least one of the one or more pathogens 106. The
one or more instructions may be, for example, computer executable
and/or logic-implemented instructions. In some embodiments, the
signal-bearing medium 4702 may include a computer-readable medium
4706. In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4702 may
include a recordable medium 4708. In some embodiments, the
signal-bearing medium 4702 may include a communications medium
4710.
[0395] FIG. 48 illustrates a partial view of a system 4800 that
includes a computer program 4804 for executing a computer process
on a computing device. An embodiment of the system 4800 is provided
using a signal-bearing medium 4802 bearing one or more instructions
for receiving one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with identifying one or more pathogens 106 present
within one or more samples 104 obtained from an individual; one or
more instructions for receiving one or more signals 126 that
include information associated with accepting input 120 associated
with the individual 102 from whom the one or more samples 104 were
obtained; and one or more instructions for determining one or more
agents 142 that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least
one of the one or more pathogens 106. The one or more instructions
may be, for example, computer executable and/or logic-implemented
instructions. In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4802
may include a computer-readable medium 4806. In some embodiments,
the signal-bearing medium 4802 may include a recordable medium
4808. In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4802 may
include a communications medium 4810.
[0396] FIG. 48A illustrates a partial view of a system 4800 that
includes a computer program 4804 for executing a computer process
on a computing device. An embodiment of the system 4800 is provided
using a signal-bearing medium 4802 bearing one or more instructions
for receiving one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with identifying one or more pathogens 106 present
within one or more samples 104 obtained from an individual; one or
more instructions for receiving one or more signals 126 that
include information associated with accepting input 120 associated
with the individual 102 from whom the one or more samples 104 were
obtained; one or more instructions for determining one or more
agents 142 that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least
one of the one or more pathogens; and one or more instructions for
displaying information associated with the one or more agents 142.
The one or more instructions may be, for example, computer
executable and/or logic-implemented instructions. In some
embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4802 may include a
computer-readable medium 4806. In some embodiments, the
signal-bearing medium 4802 may include a recordable medium 4808. In
some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4802 may include a
communications medium 4810.
[0397] FIG. 48B illustrates a partial view of a system 4800 that
includes a computer program 4804 for executing a computer process
on a computing device. An embodiment of the system 4800 is provided
using a signal-bearing medium 4802 bearing one or more instructions
for receiving one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with identifying one or more pathogens 106 present
within one or more samples 104 obtained from an individual; one or
more instructions for receiving one or more signals 126 that
include information associated with accepting input 120 associated
with the individual 102 from whom the one or more samples 104 were
obtained; one or more instructions for determining one or more
agents 142 that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least
one of the one or more pathogens; one or more instructions for
displaying information associated with the one or more agents; and
one or more instructions for transmitting one or more signals 126
that include information associated with the one or more agents
142. The one or more instructions may be, for example, computer
executable and/or logic-implemented instructions. In some
embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4802 may include a
computer-readable medium 4806. In some embodiments, the
signal-bearing medium 4802 may include a recordable medium 4808. In
some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4802 may include a
communications medium 4810.
[0398] FIG. 48C illustrates a partial view of a system 4800 that
includes a computer program 4804 for executing a computer process
on a computing device. An embodiment of the system 4800 is provided
using a signal-bearing medium 4802 bearing one or more instructions
for receiving one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with identifying one or more pathogens 106 present
within one or more samples 104 obtained from an individual; one or
more instructions for receiving one or more signals 126 that
include information associated with accepting input 120 associated
with the individual 102 from whom the one or more samples 104 were
obtained; one or more instructions for determining one or more
agents 142 that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least
one of the one or more pathogens; one or more instructions for
displaying information associated with the one or more agents; one
or more instructions for transmitting one or more signals 126 that
include information associated with the one or more agents; and one
or more instructions for packaging the one or more agents 142. The
one or more instructions may be, for example, computer executable
and/or logic-implemented instructions. In some embodiments, the
signal-bearing medium 4802 may include a computer-readable medium
4806. In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4802 may
include a recordable medium 4808. In some embodiments, the
signal-bearing medium 4802 may include a communications medium
4810.
[0399] FIG. 48D illustrates a partial view of a system 4800 that
includes a computer program 4804 for executing a computer process
on a computing device. An embodiment of the system 4800 is provided
using a signal-bearing medium 4802 bearing one or more instructions
for receiving one or more signals 126 that include information
associated with identifying one or more pathogens 106 present
within one or more samples 104 obtained from an individual; one or
more instructions for receiving one or more signals 126 that
include information associated with accepting input 120 associated
with the individual 102 from whom the one or more samples 104 were
obtained; one or more instructions for determining one or more
agents 142 that can be used to reduce the pathogenicity of at least
one of the one or more pathogens; one or more instructions for
displaying information associated with the one or more agents; one
or more instructions for transmitting one or more signals 126 that
include information associated with the one or more agents; one or
more instructions for packaging the one or more agents; and one or
more instructions for shipping one or more packages that include
the one or more agents 142. The one or more instructions may be,
for example, computer executable and/or logic-implemented
instructions. In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4802
may include a computer-readable medium 4806. In some embodiments,
the signal-bearing medium 4802 may include a recordable medium
4808. In some embodiments, the signal-bearing medium 4802 may
include a communications medium 4810.
[0400] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or
singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate
from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the
plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The
various singular/plural permutations are not expressly set forth
herein for sake of clarity.
[0401] While particular aspects of the present subject matter
described herein have been shown and described, it will be apparent
to those skilled in the art that, based upon the teachings herein,
changes and modifications may be made without departing from the
subject matter described herein and its broader aspects and,
therefore, the appended claims are to encompass within their scope
all such changes and modifications as are within the true spirit
and scope of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, it
is to be understood that the invention is defined by the appended
claims. It will be understood by those within the art that, in
general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims
(e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as
"open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as
"including but not limited to," the term "having" should be
interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be
interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). It will be
further understood by those within the art that if a specific
number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an
intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence
of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an
aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain
usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more"
to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases
should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim
recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any
particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to
inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same
claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least
one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or
"an" should typically be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one
or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles
used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a
specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly
recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such
recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the
recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations,"
without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations,
or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where
a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is
used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one
having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a
system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be
limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B
together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C
together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to
"at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general such a
construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art
would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least
one of A, B, or C" would include but not be limited to systems that
have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together,
B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be
further understood by those within the art that virtually any
disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative
terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be
understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the
terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase
"A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or
"B" or "A and B."
[0402] Those having skill in the art will recognize that the state
of the art has progressed to the point where there is little
distinction left between hardware and software implementations of
aspects of systems; the use of hardware or software is generally
(but not always, in that in certain contexts the choice between
hardware and software can become significant) a design choice
representing cost vs. efficiency tradeoffs. Those having skill in
the art will appreciate that there are various vehicles by which
processes and/or systems and/or other technologies described herein
can be effected (e.g., hardware, software, and/or firmware), and
that the preferred vehicle will vary with the context in which the
processes and/or systems and/or other technologies are deployed.
For example, if an implementer determines that speed and accuracy
are paramount, the implementer may opt for a mainly hardware and/or
firmware vehicle; alternatively, if flexibility is paramount, the
implementer may opt for a mainly software implementation; or, yet
again alternatively, the implementer may opt for some combination
of hardware, software, and/or firmware. Hence, there are several
possible vehicles by which the processes and/or devices and/or
other technologies described herein may be effected, none of which
is inherently superior to the other in that any vehicle to be
utilized is a choice dependent upon the context in which the
vehicle will be deployed and the specific concerns (e.g., speed,
flexibility, or predictability) of the implementer, any of which
may vary. Those skilled in the art will recognize that optical
aspects of implementations will typically employ optically-oriented
hardware, software, and/or firmware.
[0403] The foregoing detailed description has set forth various
embodiments of the devices and/or processes via the use of block
diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples. Insofar as such block
diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples contain one or more functions
and/or operations, it will be understood by those within the art
that each function and/or operation within such block diagrams,
flowcharts, or examples can be implemented, individually and/or
collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or
virtually any combination thereof. In one embodiment, several
portions of the subject matter described herein may be implemented
via Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Field
Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs),
or other integrated formats. However, those skilled in the art will
recognize that some aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein, in
whole or in part, can be equivalently implemented in integrated
circuits, as one or more computer programs running on one or more
computers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more
computer systems), as one or more programs running on one or more
processors (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more
microprocessors), as firmware, or as virtually any combination
thereof, and that designing the circuitry and/or writing the code
for the software and or firmware would be well within the skill of
one of skill in the art in light of this disclosure. In addition,
those skilled in the art will appreciate that the mechanisms of the
subject matter described herein are capable of being distributed as
a program product in a variety of forms, and that an illustrative
embodiment of the subject matter described herein applies
regardless of the particular type of signal-bearing medium used to
actually carry out the distribution. Examples of a signal-bearing
medium include, but are not limited to, the following: a recordable
type medium such as a floppy disk, a hard disk drive, a Compact
Disc (CD), a Digital Video Disk (DVD), a digital tape, a computer
memory, etc.; and a transmission type medium such as a digital
and/or an analog communication medium (e.g., a fiber optic cable, a
waveguide, a wired communications link, a wireless communication
link, etc.).
[0404] In a general sense, those skilled in the art will recognize
that the various embodiments described herein can be implemented,
individually and/or collectively, by various types of
electro-mechanical systems having a wide range of electrical
components such as hardware, software, firmware, or virtually any
combination thereof; and a wide range of components that may impart
mechanical force or motion such as rigid bodies, spring or
torsional bodies, hydraulics, and electro-magnetically actuated
devices, or virtually any combination thereof. Consequently, as
used herein "electro-mechanical system" includes, but is not
limited to, electrical circuitry operably coupled with a transducer
(e.g., an actuator, a motor, a piezoelectric crystal, etc.),
electrical circuitry having at least one discrete electrical
circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one integrated
circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one application
specific integrated circuit, electrical circuitry forming a general
purpose computing device configured by a computer program (e.g., a
general purpose computer configured by a computer program which at
least partially carries out processes and/or devices described
herein, or a microprocessor configured by a computer program which
at least partially carries out processes and/or devices described
herein), electrical circuitry forming a memory device (e.g., forms
of random access memory), electrical circuitry forming a
communications device (e.g., a modem, communications switch, or
optical-electrical equipment), and any non-electrical analog
thereto, such as optical or other analogs. Those skilled in the art
will also appreciate that examples of electro-mechanical systems
include but are not limited to a variety of consumer electronics
systems, as well as other systems such as motorized transport
systems, factory automation systems, security systems, and
communication/computing systems. Those skilled in the art will
recognize that electro-mechanical as used herein is not necessarily
limited to a system that has both electrical and mechanical
actuation except as context may dictate otherwise.
[0405] In a general sense, those skilled in the art will recognize
that the various aspects described herein which can be implemented,
individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware,
software, firmware, or any combination thereof can be viewed as
being composed of various types of "electrical circuitry."
Consequently, as used herein "electrical circuitry" includes, but
is not limited to, electrical circuitry having at least one
discrete electrical circuit, electrical circuitry having at least
one integrated circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one
application specific integrated circuit, electrical circuitry
forming a general purpose computing device configured by a computer
program (e.g., a general purpose computer configured by a computer
program which at least partially carries out processes and/or
devices described herein, or a microprocessor configured by a
computer program which at least partially carries out processes
and/or devices described herein), electrical circuitry forming a
memory device (e.g., forms of random access memory), and/or
electrical circuitry forming a communications device (e.g., a
modem, communications switch, or optical-electrical equipment).
Those having skill in the art will recognize that the subject
matter described herein may be implemented in an analog or digital
fashion or some combination thereof.
[0406] Those skilled in the art will recognize that it is common
within the art to implement devices and/or processes and/or systems
in the fashion(s) set forth herein, and thereafter use engineering
and/or business practices to integrate such implemented devices
and/or processes and/or systems into more comprehensive devices
and/or processes and/or systems. That is, at least a portion of the
devices and/or processes and/or systems described herein can be
integrated into other devices and/or processes and/or systems via a
reasonable amount of experimentation. Those having skill in the art
will recognize that examples of such other devices and/or processes
and/or systems might include--as appropriate to context and
application--all or part of devices and/or processes and/or systems
of (a) an air conveyance (e.g., an airplane, rocket, hovercraft,
helicopter, etc.), (b) a ground conveyance (e.g., a car, truck,
locomotive, tank, armored personnel carrier, etc.), (c) a building
(e.g., a home, warehouse, office, etc.), (d) an appliance (e.g., a
refrigerator, a washing machine, a dryer, etc.), (e) a
communications system (e.g., a networked system, a telephone
system, a voice-over IP system, etc.), (f) a business entity (e.g.,
an Internet Service Provider (ISP) entity such as Comcast Cable,
Quest, Southwestern Bell, etc), or (g) a wired/wireless services
entity (e.g., such as Sprint, Cingular, Nextel, etc.), etc.
[0407] Although user 170 is shown/described herein as a single
illustrated figure, those skilled in the art will appreciate that a
user 124 may be representative of a human user 124, a robotic user
124 (e.g., computational entity), and/or substantially any
combination thereof (e.g., a user 124 may be assisted by one or
more robotic ). In addition, a user 124 as set forth herein,
although shown as a single entity may in fact be composed of two or
more entities. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, in
general, the same may be said of "sender" and/or other
entity-oriented terms as such terms are used herein.
[0408] The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates
different components contained within, or connected with, different
other components. It is to be understood that such depicted
architectures are merely exemplary, and that in fact many other
architectures can be implemented which achieve the same
functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components
to achieve the same functionality is effectively "associated" such
that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two
components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality
can be seen as "associated with" each other such that the desired
functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or
intermedial components. Likewise, any two components so associated
can also be viewed as being "operably connected", or "operably
coupled", to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and
any two components capable of being so associated can also be
viewed as being "operably couplable", to each other to achieve the
desired functionality. Specific examples of operably couplable
include but are not limited to physically mateable and/or
physically interacting components and/or wirelessly interactable
and/or wirelessly interacting components and/or logically
interacting and/or logically interactable components.
[0409] All publications, patents and patent applications cited
herein are incorporated herein by reference. The foregoing
specification has been described in relation to certain embodiments
thereof, and many details have been set forth for purposes of
illustration, however, it will be apparent to those skilled in the
art that the invention is susceptible to additional embodiments and
that certain of the details described herein may be varied
considerably without departing from the basic principles of the
invention.
* * * * *
References