Apparatus (20) and methods are provided for analyzing a blood sample. The blood sample is mixed with fluorescently-labeled antibodies and deposited within a sample chamber (52). The sample chamber, with the blood sample deposited therein is placed within an optical measurement unit (31). One or more of the fluorescent microscopic images of the blood sample within the sample chamber are acquired using a microscope of the optical measurement unit. A computer processor (28) performs immunophenotyping on the blood sample, by analyzing the one or more fluorescent microscopic images of the blood sample, and an output is generated at least partially in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
G01N 33/569 - Tests immunologiques; Tests faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques; Matériaux à cet effet pour micro-organismes, p.ex. protozoaires, bactéries, virus
G01N 15/1433 - utilisant la reconnaissance d’image
G01N 15/10 - Recherche de particules individuelles
2.
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ANALYZING A BODILY SAMPLE
Apparatus and methods are described including a digital camera, and a computer processor configured to drive the digital camera to acquire, for each of a plurality of imaging fields of a stained bodily sample, three or more digital images. At least one of the images is a brightfield image and at least two of the images are fluorescent images, each of the fluorescent images being acquired using respective first and second filters, which are different from each other. The computer processor performs image processing on the digital images, by extracting visual classification features from each of the three or more digital images, and identifies one or more entities that are contained within the bodily sample, based upon the image processing. Other applications are also described.
B01L 3/00 - Récipients ou ustensiles pour laboratoires, p.ex. verrerie de laboratoire; Compte-gouttes
G01N 15/01 - spécialement adaptée aux cellules biologiques, p.ex. aux cellules sanguines (recherche de la sédimentation des suspensions de particules dans du sang G01N 15/05)
G01N 15/10 - Recherche de particules individuelles
G01N 15/1433 - utilisant la reconnaissance d’image
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a bodily sample. A plurality of microscopic images of the sample are acquired, using respective imaging modalities. The microscopic images are analyzed to identify and classify components within the bodily sample, and any anomalies within the sample that require further analysis are detected. In response to detecting that there are anomalies within the sample that require further analysis, a display image is generated that combines the images that were acquired using respective imaging modalities. In response to detecting that there are no anomalies within the sample that require further analysis, an output is generated based upon the analysis of the microscopic images, without generating a display image that combines images that were acquired using respective imaging modalities. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described for analyzing a bodily sample. A microscope system acquires one or more microscope images of the bodily sample. A computer processor identifies elements as being candidates of a given entity, in the one or more images. The computer processor extracts, from the one or more images, at least one candidate-informative feature associated with the candidate, and at least one sample-informative feature that is indicative of contextual information related to the bodily sample. The computer processor processes the candidate-informative feature in combination with the sample-informative feature, and performs an action in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described for determining a property of a bodily sample using a microscope and optical-density-measurement apparatus, the apparatus including a sample carrier that includes a plurality of microscopy sample chambers configured to receive a first portion of the sample and to facilitate imaging of the first portion of the sample by the microscope, each of the microscopy sample chambers having an upper and a lower surface, and having respective heights between the upper and lower surfaces that are different from each other. The sample carrier includes at least one optical-density-measurement chamber configured to receive a second portion of the sample, and to facilitate optical density measurements being performed optical-density-measurement apparatus upon the second portion of the sample. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a cell sample that includes a plurality of cells. A series of images associated with a series of depth levels of the cell sample are acquired, by performing a depth scan of cell sample with a microscope. One of the depth levels is identified as being an optimum focal plane for imaging one or more entities within the cell sample using the microscope, under a first illumination condition. The cell sample is imaged under a second illumination condition that is different from the first illumination condition, using the microscope, by focusing the microscope at an investigative depth level that is based on the identified depth level. Other applications are also described.
G02B 7/38 - Systèmes pour la génération automatique de signaux de mise au point utilisant des techniques liées à la netteté de l'image mesurée en différents points de l'axe optique
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a digital microscope unit that includes a digital microscope. A biological cell sample that is disposed within a sample carrier is received into the digital microscope unit. It is determined that there is a variation in the focal depth of the biological sample with respect to the microscope due to curvature in the sample carrier and/or due to tolerance in setup of the microscope. In response to determining that there is the variation in the focal depth of the biological sample with respect to the microscope, the variation in the focal depth of the biological sample with respect to the microscope is accounted for. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described for use with an output device, and a blood sample that was drawn from a subject. A microscope system acquires first and second images of the blood sample at respective times. A computer processor determines whether, between acquisitions of the first and second images, there was relative motion between at least one erythrocyte within the sample and at least one entity within the sample, by comparing the first and second images to one another. At least partially in response thereto, the computer processor determines whether the entity is an extra-erythrocytic or an intra-erythrocytic entity, and generates an output on the output device, at least partially in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described for analyzing a bodily sample. A sample carrier (22), which houses the bodily sample, includes at least one fluidic channel (120), at least one analysis chamber (68), and a receptacle (92) that houses a diluent. A pump system (150) pumps the diluent from the receptacle (92) into the fluidic channel (120) in a first fluid flow direction, and subsequently, pumps the diluent and the bodily sample in a second fluid flow direction, which is a reverse of the first fluid flow direction, to thereby mix the diluent and the bodily sample within the receptacle (92). Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods for use with a blood sample are described. The blood sample is stained with a first dye that predominantly stains DNA, and a second dye that stains at least one other cellular component being different from DNA. A plurality of images of the blood sample are acquired. A candidate object is identified as being a candidate of a given entity. A first stained area, which is stained by the first dye and which is disposed within the candidate object, is identified. A second stained area, which is stained by the second dye and which is disposed within the candidate object, is identified. The entity is detected by determining that features of the stained areas satisfy predetermined criteria associated with the entity. Other applications are also described.
C12Q 1/68 - Procédés de mesure ou de test faisant intervenir des enzymes, des acides nucléiques ou des micro-organismes; Compositions à cet effet; Procédés pour préparer ces compositions faisant intervenir des acides nucléiques
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a blood sample. Using a microscope (24), three images of a microscopic imaging field of the blood sample are acquired, each of the images being acquired using respective, different imaging conditions, and the first one of the three images being acquired under violet-light brightfield imaging. Using at least one computer processor (28), an artificial color microscopic image of the microscopic imaging field is generated, by mapping the first one of the three images to a red channel of the artificial color microscopic image, mapping a second one of the three images to a second color channel of the artificial color microscopic image, and mapping a third one of the three images to a third color channel of the artificial color microscopic image. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described including analyzing one or more microscopic images of the blood sample using a machine-learning classifier. An entity within the one or more microscopic images is identified using a first classification model, and a first estimated concentration of the entity within the sample is determined, based upon the entity as identified using the first classification model. The entity is identified within the one or more microscopic images using a second classification model, and a second estimated concentration of the entity within the sample is determined, based upon the entity as identified using the second classification model. The first and second estimated concentrations are compared to each other, and, in response to the comparison, a hybrid classification model that is a hybrid of the first and second classification models is used. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described use with a bodily sample that contains cells. A microscope (24) is focused, such that a focal plane of the microscope (24) at least approximately coincides with a level at which at least some cells belonging to the sample are at least partially disposed. At least one on-focus microscopic image of the sample, while the focal plane of the microscope (24) approximately coincides with the level. The microscope (24) is focused such that the focal plane of the microscope is offset with respect to the level, at least one off-focus microscopic image of the sample is acquired, while the focal plane of the microscope (24) is offset with respect to the level. A property of at least a portion of the sample is determined, at least partially based upon the on-focus and off-focus images. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are provided including imaging a blood sample that is a cell suspension deposited in a sample chamber. The cells are allowed to settle in the sample chamber to form a monolayer of cells. At least one microscopic image is acquired of the monolayer of cells using a microscope (24) while the microscope is focused at a monolayer-depth-level, and a first platelet count of platelets that have settled within the monolayer, is determined. An additional microscopic image of the simple is acquired, while the microscope is focused at a different depth level from the monolayer-depth-level, and a second platelet count of platelets that have not settled within the monolayer is determined. An output is generated based upon the first and second platelet counts. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described including preparing a blood sample for analysis by depositing the blood sample within a sample chamber (52), and placing the sample chamber, with the blood sample deposited therein, within a microscopy unit (24). One or more microscopic images of the sample chamber (52) with the blood sample deposited therein are acquired, using a microscope of the microscopy unit. Based upon the one or more images, an amount of one or more cell types within the sample chamber that had already settled within the sample chamber, prior to acquisition of the one or more microscopic images is determined. A characteristic of the sample is determined, at least partially in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described including introducing a cell suspension comprising red blood cells into a carrier that is a closed cavity that includes a base surface and a closed top, via an inlet defined by the carrier. The cells in the cell suspension are allowed to settle on the base surface of the carrier to form a monolayer of cells on the base surface of the carrier. At least one microscope image of at least a portion of the monolayer of cells is acquired. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described including placing at least a portion of a blood sample within a sample chamber (52), and acquiring microscopic images of the portion of the blood sample. Candidates of a given entity within the blood sample are identified, within the microscopic image. At least some of the candidates as being the given entity are validated, by performing further analysis of the candidates. A count of the candidates of the given entity is compared to a count of the validated candidates of the given entity, and at least the portion of the sample is invalidated from being used for performing at least some measurements upon the sample, at least partially based upon a relationship between the count of candidates and the count of validated candidates. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a microscopy unit that comprises an objective lens and a microscope camera. A cantilever includes an objective lens housing. A motor moves the cantilever along a direction of the optical axis of the objective lens. The cantilever is configured, during the movement of the cantilever, to support the objective lens within the objective lens housing such that an optical axis of the objective lens is aligned with the camera, without the objective lens being directly connected to the camera. Other applications are also described.
G01N 21/3577 - Couleur; Propriétés spectrales, c. à d. comparaison de l'effet du matériau sur la lumière pour plusieurs longueurs d'ondes ou plusieurs bandes de longueurs d'ondes différentes en recherchant l'effet relatif du matériau pour les longueurs d'ondes caractéristiques d'éléments ou de molécules spécifiques, p.ex. spectrométrie d'absorption atomique en utilisant la lumière infrarouge pour l'analyse de liquides, p.ex. l'eau polluée
G02B 21/36 - Microscopes aménagés pour la photographie ou la projection
G01N 21/31 - Couleur; Propriétés spectrales, c. à d. comparaison de l'effet du matériau sur la lumière pour plusieurs longueurs d'ondes ou plusieurs bandes de longueurs d'ondes différentes en recherchant l'effet relatif du matériau pour les longueurs d'ondes caractéristiques d'éléments ou de molécules spécifiques, p.ex. spectrométrie d'absorption atomique
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a cell sample that includes a plurality of cells disposed in a monolayer. A series of images associated with a series of depth levels of the cell sample are acquired, by performing a depth scan of cell sample with a microscope. One of the depth levels is identified as being an optimum focal plane for imaging one or more entities within the cell sample using the microscope, by identifying that a drop in image contrast occurs at the identified depth level relative to the image contrast of images acquired at depth levels within a given range of distances from the identified depth level. The cell sample is imaged using the microscope, by focusing the microscope at an investigative depth level that is based on the identified depth level. Other applications are also described.
G02B 7/38 - Systèmes pour la génération automatique de signaux de mise au point utilisant des techniques liées à la netteté de l'image mesurée en différents points de l'axe optique
Apparatus and methods are described for analyzing a bodily sample. A microscope system acquires one or more microscope images of the bodily sample. A computer processor identifies elements as being candidates of a given entity, in the one or more images. At least one sample-informative feature, relating to a characteristic of the candidates of the given entity in the sample as a whole, is extracted from the one or more images. A characteristic of the sample is determined at least partially based upon the sample-informative feature, and an output is generated in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described for analyzing a bodily sample. One or more microscope images of the bodily sample are acquired. Using at least one computer processor at least one sample-informative feature that is indicative of a characteristic of the bodily sample is extracted from the images. Based upon the sample-informative feature, the computer processor determines that there is a defect associated with the bodily sample, and determines a source of the defect. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a microscope (24) that acquires images of a bodily sample disposed in a sample carrier (22). A fluorescent, microscopic image of a given x-y region is acquired, while a focal plane of the microscope (24) is set at an estimated optimum focal plane. A focusing region-of-interest is identified within the acquired image, based on fluorescent entities that are disposed within the focusing region-of interest. A set of fluorescent focusing images of the region-of-interest are acquired with the microscope (24) focused at respective focusing levels. An optimum focal plane at which to acquire a microscopic image of the region is determined, at least partially based upon a relationship between a contrast-indicative parameter of each of the images and the focusing level at which the microscope (24) was focused when the image was acquired. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described including measuring hematocrit within a blood sample, by performing a first measurement on a first portion of the blood sample. Mean corpuscular volume in the blood sample is measured, by performing a second measurement on a second portion of the blood sample, the second portion being diluted with respect to the first portion. A red blood cell count per unit volume within the blood sample is determined by dividing the hematocrit measured within the first portion by the mean corpuscular volume measured within the second portion. Other applications are also described.
G01N 33/50 - Analyse chimique de matériau biologique, p.ex. de sang ou d'urine; Test par des méthodes faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques par ligands; Test immunologique
G01N 15/06 - Recherche de la concentration des suspensions de particules
G01N 33/49 - Analyse physique de matériau biologique de matériau biologique liquide de sang
G01N 33/569 - Tests immunologiques; Tests faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques; Matériaux à cet effet pour micro-organismes, p.ex. protozoaires, bactéries, virus
G01N 33/72 - Analyse chimique de matériau biologique, p.ex. de sang ou d'urine; Test par des méthodes faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques par ligands; Test immunologique faisant intervenir les pigments du sang, p.ex. l'hémoglobine, la bilirubine
G01N 15/01 - spécialement adaptée aux cellules biologiques, p.ex. aux cellules sanguines (recherche de la sédimentation des suspensions de particules dans du sang G01N 15/05)
24.
System and method for calculating focus variation for a digital microscope
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a digital microscope unit that includes a digital microscope. A biological cell sample that is disposed within a sample carrier is received into the digital microscope unit. It is determined that there is a variation in the focal depth of the biological sample with respect to the microscope due to curvature in the sample carrier and/or due to tolerance in setup of the microscope. In response to determining that there is the variation in the focal depth of the biological sample with respect to the microscope, the variation in the focal depth of the biological sample with respect to the microscope is accounted for. Other applications are also described.
G06K 9/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture ou la reconnaissance de caractères imprimés ou écrits ou pour la reconnaissance de formes, p.ex. d'empreintes digitales
Blood testing apparatus; blood testing equipment; automated
blood collection instruments; autologous blood processing
apparatus; autologous blood processing instruments;
apparatus for blood monitoring [for medical use]; apparatus
for blood analysis [for medical use]; electronic blood
oxygen saturation monitors [for medical use]; apparatus for
taking blood samples; diagnostic test kits for testing blood
count; blood count testing apparatus and equipment; medical
test kits for blood testing; apparatus for taking body fluid
samples; apparatus for analysis of a bodily sample; parts
and fittings for the aforesaid.
(1) Blood testing apparatus for the qualitative analysis of human blood, namely complete blood count (CBC) analysers; automated blood drawing instruments; apparatus for blood analysis [for medical use] namely, non-invasive blood cell counters; electronic blood oxygen saturation monitors [for medical use]; diagnostic test kits for testing blood count; parts and fittings for complete blood count (CBC) analysers, non-invasive blood cell counters, apparatus for taking blood samples, and medical electronic blood oxygen saturation monitors.
Blood testing apparatus; blood testing equipment; automated blood collection instruments, namely, blood drawing apparatus; medical apparatus in the nature of autologous blood processing apparatus; medical instruments in the nature of autologous blood processing instruments; medical apparatus for monitoring blood properties; apparatus for blood analysis; electronic blood oxygen saturation monitors for medical use; apparatus for taking blood samples; test kits comprising medical diagnostic apparatus for testing blood count; medical apparatus, namely, blood count testing apparatus and equipment; test kits comprising medical apparatus for blood testing; medical apparatus for taking body fluid samples; medical apparatus for analysis of a bodily sample; parts and fittings specially adapted for the aforesaid
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a bodily sample that contains an analyte disposed within water. The bodily sample is placed within a sample chamber a height of which is unknown. Light is directed through the sample at a first wavelength band, at which absorption of light by the analyte is relatively high, and at a second wavelength band that is centered around a wavelength of between 1,200 nm and 3,000 nm. The light that passes through the sample at each of the first and second wavelength bands is detected, and, based upon the detected light at each of the first and second wavelength bands, a concentration of the analyte within the bodily sample is determined, without directly measuring the height of the sample chamber. Other applications are also described.
G01N 21/31 - Couleur; Propriétés spectrales, c. à d. comparaison de l'effet du matériau sur la lumière pour plusieurs longueurs d'ondes ou plusieurs bandes de longueurs d'ondes différentes en recherchant l'effet relatif du matériau pour les longueurs d'ondes caractéristiques d'éléments ou de molécules spécifiques, p.ex. spectrométrie d'absorption atomique
Apparatus and methods are described including analyzing one or more microscopic images of the blood sample using a machine-learning classifier. An entity within the one or more microscopic images is identified using a first classification model, and a first estimated concentration of the entity within the sample is determined, based upon the entity as identified using the first classification model. The entity is identified within the one or more microscopic images using a second classification model, and a second estimated concentration of the entity within the sample is determined, based upon the entity as identified using the second classification model. The first and second estimated concentrations are compared to each other, and, in response to the comparison, a hybrid classification model that is a hybrid of the first and second classification models is used. Other applications are also described.
G06V 10/764 - Dispositions pour la reconnaissance ou la compréhension d’images ou de vidéos utilisant la reconnaissance de formes ou l’apprentissage automatique utilisant la classification, p.ex. des objets vidéo
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a bodily sample that contains an analyte disposed within water. The bodily sample is placed within a sample chamber a height of which is unknown. Light is directed through the sample at a first wavelength band, at which absorption of light by the analyte is relatively high, and at a second wavelength band that is centered around a wavelength of between 1,200 nm and 3,000 nm. The light that passes through the sample at each of the first and second wavelength bands is detected, and, based upon the detected light at each of the first and second wavelength bands, a concentration of the analyte within the bodily sample is determined, without directly measuring the height of the sample chamber. Other applications are also described.
G01N 21/31 - Couleur; Propriétés spectrales, c. à d. comparaison de l'effet du matériau sur la lumière pour plusieurs longueurs d'ondes ou plusieurs bandes de longueurs d'ondes différentes en recherchant l'effet relatif du matériau pour les longueurs d'ondes caractéristiques d'éléments ou de molécules spécifiques, p.ex. spectrométrie d'absorption atomique
Apparatus and methods are described including analyzing one or more microscopic images of the blood sample using a machine-learning classifier. An entity within the one or more microscopic images is identified using a first classification model, and a first estimated concentration of the entity within the sample is determined, based upon the entity as identified using the first classification model. The entity is identified within the one or more microscopic images using a second classification model, and a second estimated concentration of the entity within the sample is determined, based upon the entity as identified using the second classification model. The first and second estimated concentrations are compared to each other, and, in response to the comparison, a hybrid classification model that is a hybrid of the first and second classification models is used. Other applications are also described.
G06K 9/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture ou la reconnaissance de caractères imprimés ou écrits ou pour la reconnaissance de formes, p.ex. d'empreintes digitales
Apparatus and methods are provided including imaging a blood sample that is a cell suspension deposited in a sample chamber. The cells are allowed to settle in the sample chamber to form a monolayer of cells. At least one microscopic image is acquired of the monolayer of cells using a microscope (24) while the microscope is focused at a monolayer-depth-level, and a first platelet count of platelets that have settled within the monolayer, is determined. An additional microscopic image of the sample is acquired, while the microscope is focused at a different depth level from the monolayer-depth-level, and a second platelet count of platelets that have not settled within the monolayer is determined. An output is generated based upon the first and second platelet counts. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described use with a bodily sample that contains cells. A microscope (24) is focused, such that a focal plane of the microscope (24) at least approximately coincides with a level at which at least some cells belonging to the sample are at least partially disposed. At least one on-focus microscopic image of the sample, while the focal plane of the microscope (24) approximately coincides with the level. The microscope (24) is focused such that the focal plane of the microscope is offset with respect to the level, at least one off-focus microscopic image of the sample is acquired, while the focal plane of the microscope (24) is offset with respect to the level. A property of at least a portion of the sample is determined, at least partially based upon the on-focus and off-focus images. Other applications are also described.
G01N 15/01 - spécialement adaptée aux cellules biologiques, p.ex. aux cellules sanguines (recherche de la sédimentation des suspensions de particules dans du sang G01N 15/05)
G01N 15/05 - Recherche de la sédimentation des suspensions de particules dans du sang
G01N 15/1433 - utilisant la reconnaissance d’image
34.
ARTIFICIAL GENERATION OF A COLOR BLOOD SMEAR IMAGE
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a blood sample. Using a microscope (24), three images of a microscopic imaging field of the blood sample are acquired, each of the images being acquired using respective, different imaging conditions, and the first one of the three images being acquired under violet-light brightfield imaging. Using at least one computer processor (28), an artificial color microscopic image of the microscopic imaging field is generated, by mapping the first one of the three images to a red channel of the artificial color microscopic image, mapping a second one of the three images to a second color channel of the artificial color microscopic image, and mapping a third one of the three images to a third color channel of the artificial color microscopic image. Other applications are also described.
G01N 21/00 - Recherche ou analyse des matériaux par l'utilisation de moyens optiques, c. à d. en utilisant des ondes submillimétriques, de la lumière infrarouge, visible ou ultraviolette
G06T 7/90 - Détermination de caractéristiques de couleur
G01N 21/17 - Systèmes dans lesquels la lumière incidente est modifiée suivant les propriétés du matériau examiné
G02B 21/36 - Microscopes aménagés pour la photographie ou la projection
Apparatus and methods are provided including imaging a blood sample that is a cell suspension deposited in a sample chamber. The cells are allowed to settle in the sample chamber to form a monolayer of cells. At least one microscopic image is acquired of the monolayer of cells using a microscope (24) while the microscope is focused at a monolayer-depth-level, and a first platelet count of platelets that have settled within the monolayer, is determined. An additional microscopic image of the sample is acquired, while the microscope is focused at a different depth level from the monolayer-depth-level, and a second platelet count of platelets that have not settled within the monolayer is determined. An output is generated based upon the first and second platelet counts. Other applications are also described.
G01N 33/49 - Analyse physique de matériau biologique de matériau biologique liquide de sang
G01N 15/14 - Recherche par des moyens électro-optiques
G01N 15/00 - Recherche de caractéristiques de particules; Recherche de la perméabilité, du volume des pores ou de l'aire superficielle effective de matériaux poreux
G01N 15/10 - Recherche de particules individuelles
Apparatus and methods are described use with a bodily sample that contains cells. A microscope (24) is focused, such that a focal plane of the microscope (24) at least approximately coincides with a level at which at least some cells belonging to the sample are at least partially disposed. At least one on-focus microscopic image of the sample, while the focal plane of the microscope (24) approximately coincides with the level. The microscope (24) is focused such that the focal plane of the microscope is offset with respect to the level, at least one off-focus microscopic image of the sample is acquired, while the focal plane of the microscope (24) is offset with respect to the level. A property of at least a portion of the sample is determined, at least partially based upon the on-focus and off-focus images. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a blood sample. Using a microscope (24), three images of a microscopic imaging field of the blood sample are acquired, each of the images being acquired using respective, different imaging conditions, and the first one of the three images being acquired under violet-light brightfield imaging. Using at least one computer processor (28), an artificial color microscopic image of the microscopic imaging field is generated, by mapping the first one of the three images to a red channel of the artificial color microscopic image, mapping a second one of the three images to a second color channel of the artificial color microscopic image, and mapping a third one of the three images to a third color channel of the artificial color microscopic image. Other applications are also described.
G02B 21/16 - Microscopes adaptés pour éclairage ultraviolet
A61B 1/04 - Instruments pour procéder à l'examen médical de l'intérieur des cavités ou des conduits du corps par inspection visuelle ou photographique, p.ex. endoscopes; Dispositions pour l'éclairage dans ces instruments combinés avec des dispositifs photographiques ou de télévision
G02B 21/36 - Microscopes aménagés pour la photographie ou la projection
Blood testing apparatus; blood testing equipment; automated
blood collection instruments; autologous blood processing
apparatus; autologous blood processing instruments;
apparatus for blood monitoring [for medical use]; apparatus
for blood analysis [for medical use]; electronic blood
oxygen saturation monitors [for medical use]; apparatus for
taking blood samples; test kits comprising medical
diagnostic apparatus for testing blood count; blood count
testing apparatus and equipment; test kits comprising
medical apparatus for blood testing; apparatus for taking
body fluid samples; apparatus for analysis of a bodily
sample; parts and fittings for the aforesaid.
Medical devices; medical instruments; electronic medical
instruments; medical diagnostic instruments; medical
analysis instruments; medical analytical apparatus; medical
diagnostic apparatus for medical purposes; blood testing
apparatus; blood testing equipment; automated blood
collection instruments; autologous blood processing
apparatus; autologous blood processing instruments;
apparatus for blood monitoring [for medical use]; apparatus
for blood analysis [for medical use]; electronic blood
oxygen saturation monitors [for medical use]; apparatus for
taking blood samples; test kits comprising medical
diagnostic apparatus for testing blood count; blood count
testing apparatus and equipment; test kits comprising
medical apparatus for blood testing; apparatus for taking
body fluid samples; apparatus for analysis of a bodily
sample; parts and fittings for the aforesaid.
Apparatus and methods are described including placing at least a portion of a blood sample within a sample chamber (52), and acquiring microscopic images of the portion of the blood sample. Candidates of a given entity within the blood sample are identified, within the microscopic image. At least some of the candidates as being the given entity are validated, by performing further analysis of the candidates. A count of the candidates of the given entity is compared to a count of the validated candidates of the given entity, and at least the portion of the sample is invalidated from being used for performing at least some measurements upon the sample, at least partially based upon a relationship between the count of candidates and the count of validated candidates. Other applications are also described.
G01N 15/00 - Recherche de caractéristiques de particules; Recherche de la perméabilité, du volume des pores ou de l'aire superficielle effective de matériaux poreux
G01N 15/01 - spécialement adaptée aux cellules biologiques, p.ex. aux cellules sanguines (recherche de la sédimentation des suspensions de particules dans du sang G01N 15/05)
Apparatus and methods are described including preparing a blood sample for analysis by depositing the blood sample within a sample chamber (52), and placing the sample chamber, with the blood sample deposited therein, within a microscopy unit (24). One or more microscopic images of the sample chamber (52) with the blood sample deposited therein are acquired, using a microscope of the microscopy unit. Based upon the one or more images, an amount of one or more cell types within the sample chamber that had already settled within the sample chamber, prior to acquisition of the one or more microscopic images is determined. A characteristic of the sample is determined, at least partially in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described including placing at least a portion of a blood sample within a sample chamber (52), and acquiring microscopic images of the portion of the blood sample. Candidates of a given entity within the blood sample are identified, within the microscopic image. At least some of the candidates as being the given entity are validated, by performing further analysis of the candidates. A count of the candidates of the given entity is compared to a count of the validated candidates of the given entity, and at least the portion of the sample is invalidated from being used for performing at least some measurements upon the sample, at least partially based upon a relationship between the count of candidates and the count of validated candidates. Other applications are also described.
G06K 9/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture ou la reconnaissance de caractères imprimés ou écrits ou pour la reconnaissance de formes, p.ex. d'empreintes digitales
G01N 33/49 - Analyse physique de matériau biologique de matériau biologique liquide de sang
Apparatus and methods are described including preparing a blood sample for analysis by depositing the blood sample within a sample chamber (52), and placing the sample chamber, with the blood sample deposited therein, within a microscopy unit (24). One or more microscopic images of the sample chamber (52) with the blood sample deposited therein are acquired, using a microscope of the microscopy unit. Based upon the one or more images, an amount of one or more cell types within the sample chamber that had already settled within the sample chamber, prior to acquisition of the one or more microscopic images is determined. A characteristic of the sample is determined, at least partially in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described including successively acquiring a plurality of microscopic images of a portion of a blood sample, and tracking motion of pixels within the successively acquired microscopic images. Trypomastigote parasite candidates within the blood sample are identified, by identifying pixel motion that is typical of trypomastigote parasites. It is determined that the blood sample is infected with trypomastigote parasites, at least partially in response thereto. An output is generated indicating that that the blood sample is infected with trypomastigote parasites. Other applications are also described.
G01N 15/01 - spécialement adaptée aux cellules biologiques, p.ex. aux cellules sanguines (recherche de la sédimentation des suspensions de particules dans du sang G01N 15/05)
G01N 15/10 - Recherche de particules individuelles
Apparatus and methods for determining a property of a bodily sample using a microscope are described. A sample carrier includes a plurality of microscopy sample chambers configured to receive a least a portion of the bodily sample, while the sample is imaged by the microscope. Each of the microscopy sample chambers has an upper and a lower surface, and the microscopy sample chambers have respective heights between the upper and lower surfaces that are different from each other. The sample carrier defines a microscopy sample chamber inlet hole, that is fluid communication with all of the microscopy sample chambers, such as to facilitate filling of all of the microscopy sample chambers with the portion of the bodily sample, via the microscopy sample chamber inlet hole. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described including placing a sample into a sample carrier that comprises a plurality of regions having upper and lower surfaces, having respective heights that are different from each other, and being configured such that cells form a monolayer, the monolayer within respective regions of the sample carrier having respective, different densities from each other, due to the respective regions of the sample carrier having respective heights that are different from each other. Microscopic images are acquired of each of the plurality of regions. Measurements are performed upon cell types that have a relatively high density upon microscopic images of a region of the sample chamber having a relatively low height, and measurements are performed upon cell types that have a relatively low density upon microscopic images of a region of the sample chamber having a relatively great height. Other applications are also described.
G01N 33/50 - Analyse chimique de matériau biologique, p.ex. de sang ou d'urine; Test par des méthodes faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques par ligands; Test immunologique
G01N 21/31 - Couleur; Propriétés spectrales, c. à d. comparaison de l'effet du matériau sur la lumière pour plusieurs longueurs d'ondes ou plusieurs bandes de longueurs d'ondes différentes en recherchant l'effet relatif du matériau pour les longueurs d'ondes caractéristiques d'éléments ou de molécules spécifiques, p.ex. spectrométrie d'absorption atomique
Medical devices; medical instruments; electronic medical
instruments; medical diagnostic instruments; medical
analysis instruments; medical analytical apparatus; medical
diagnostic apparatus for medical purposes; blood testing
apparatus; blood testing equipment; automated blood
collection instruments; autologous blood processing
apparatus; autologous blood processing instruments;
apparatus for blood monitoring [for medical use]; apparatus
for blood analysis [for medical use]; electronic blood
oxygen saturation monitors [for medical use]; apparatus for
taking blood samples; diagnostic test kits for testing blood
count; blood count testing apparatus and equipment; medical
test kits for blood testing; apparatus for taking body fluid
samples; apparatus for analysis of a bodily sample; parts
and fittings for the aforesaid.
48.
Sample carrier for microscopy and optical density measurements
Apparatus and methods are described for determining a property of a bodily sample using a microscope and optical-density-measurement apparatus, the apparatus including a sample carrier that includes a plurality of microscopy sample chambers configured to receive a first portion of the sample and to facilitate imaging of the first portion of the sample by the microscope, each of the microscopy sample chambers having an upper and a lower surface, and having respective heights between the upper and lower surfaces that are different from each other. The sample carrier includes at least one optical-density-measurement chamber configured to receive a second portion of the sample, and to facilitate optical density measurements being performed optical-density-measurement apparatus upon the second portion of the sample. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described including placing a first portion of a biological sample into a source sample portion chamber of a sample carrier, and placing a second portion of the biological sample into a diluted sample portion chamber. The second portion of the biological sample is diluted with respect to the first portion of the biological sample. Using an optical measurement device, a bulk-level measurand of the sample that relates to a parameter of the biological sample as a whole is measured, by performing a measurement upon the first portion of the biological sample. Microscopic images of the second portion of the biological sample are acquired. Other applications are also described.
G01N 33/49 - Analyse physique de matériau biologique de matériau biologique liquide de sang
G01N 15/00 - Recherche de caractéristiques de particules; Recherche de la perméabilité, du volume des pores ou de l'aire superficielle effective de matériaux poreux
G01N 15/05 - Recherche de la sédimentation des suspensions de particules dans du sang
G01N 15/06 - Recherche de la concentration des suspensions de particules
G01N 33/50 - Analyse chimique de matériau biologique, p.ex. de sang ou d'urine; Test par des méthodes faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques par ligands; Test immunologique
G01N 33/569 - Tests immunologiques; Tests faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques; Matériaux à cet effet pour micro-organismes, p.ex. protozoaires, bactéries, virus
G01N 33/72 - Analyse chimique de matériau biologique, p.ex. de sang ou d'urine; Test par des méthodes faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques par ligands; Test immunologique faisant intervenir les pigments du sang, p.ex. l'hémoglobine, la bilirubine
G01N 15/01 - spécialement adaptée aux cellules biologiques, p.ex. aux cellules sanguines (recherche de la sédimentation des suspensions de particules dans du sang G01N 15/05)
Apparatus and methods are described for determining a property of a biological sample. A sample carrier includes a glass substrate configured to define a first surface of a sample chamber that is configured to receive the sample, and a plastic substrate configured to define a second surface of the sample chamber. The height of the sample chamber at each location within the sample chamber is defined by a gap between the first surface and the second surface. An adhesive adheres the glass substrate to the plastic substrate. The plastic substrate is shaped such that the sample chamber defines a first region and a second region, with the sample chamber defining a predefined variation in height between the first region and the second region. Other applications are also described.
G01N 33/50 - Analyse chimique de matériau biologique, p.ex. de sang ou d'urine; Test par des méthodes faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques par ligands; Test immunologique
G01N 21/31 - Couleur; Propriétés spectrales, c. à d. comparaison de l'effet du matériau sur la lumière pour plusieurs longueurs d'ondes ou plusieurs bandes de longueurs d'ondes différentes en recherchant l'effet relatif du matériau pour les longueurs d'ondes caractéristiques d'éléments ou de molécules spécifiques, p.ex. spectrométrie d'absorption atomique
Apparatus and methods are described including a microscope system configured to acquire first and second images of a blood sample at respective times. A computer processor determines whether, between acquisitions of the first and second images, there was motion of a given entity within the sample, by comparing the first and second images to one another. At least partially in response thereto, the computer processor distinguishes between the given entity being a non-parasitic entity and the given entity being a parasite, and generates an output on the output device, at least partially in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
G02B 7/38 - Systèmes pour la génération automatique de signaux de mise au point utilisant des techniques liées à la netteté de l'image mesurée en différents points de l'axe optique
G02B 21/26 - Platines; Moyens de réglage pour celles-ci
(1) Medical devices for the qualitative analysis of human blood, namely complete blood count (CBC) analysers; medical analytical apparatus, namely, non-invasive blood cell counters; automated blood drawing instruments; electronic blood oxygen saturation monitors for medical use; apparatus for taking blood samples; diagnostic test kits for testing blood count; parts and fittings for complete blood count (CBC) analysers, non-invasive blood cell counters, apparatus for taking blood samples, and medical electronic blood oxygen saturation monitors.
Medical devices for monitoring blood properties; medical diagnostic instruments for the analysis of body fluids; electronic medical instruments for the analysis of blood; medical analysis instruments, namely, hematology analyzers; medical analytical apparatus, namely, hematology analyzers; medical diagnostic apparatus for medical purposes for analysis of bodily fluids; blood testing apparatus; blood testing equipment; automated blood collection instruments, namely, blood drawing apparatus; autologous blood processing apparatus for medical use; autologous blood processing instruments for medical use; apparatus for blood monitoring for medical use; apparatus for blood analysis for medical use; electronic blood oxygen saturation monitors for medical use; apparatus for taking blood samples; test kits comprising medical diagnostic apparatus for testing blood count; test kits comprising medical apparatus for blood testing; apparatus for taking body fluid samples for medical purposes; apparatus for analysis of bodily fluid samples for medical purposes; parts and fittings specially adapted for the aforesaid
Blood testing apparatus; blood testing equipment; automated blood collection instruments, namely, blood drawing apparatus; autologous blood processing apparatus for medical use; autologous blood processing instruments for medical use; apparatus for blood monitoring for medical use; apparatus for blood analysis for medical use; electronic blood oxygen saturation monitors for medical use; apparatus for taking blood samples; test kits comprising medical diagnostic apparatus for testing blood count; test kits comprising medical apparatus for blood testing; apparatus for taking body fluid samples for medical purposes; apparatus for analysis of a bodily fluid samples for medical purposes; parts and fittings specially adapted for the aforesaid
(1) Medical devices for the qualitative analysis of human blood, namely complete blood count (CBC) analysers; medical analytical apparatus, namely, non-invasive blood cell counters; automated blood drawing instruments; electronic blood oxygen saturation monitors for medical use; apparatus for taking blood samples; diagnostic test kits for testing blood count; parts and fittings for complete blood count (CBC) analysers, non-invasive blood cell counters, apparatus for taking blood samples, and medical electronic blood oxygen saturation monitors.
(1) Blood testing apparatus for the qualitative analysis of human blood, namely complete blood count (CBC) analysers; automated blood drawing instruments; apparatus for blood analysis [for medical use] namely, non-invasive blood cell counters; electronic blood oxygen saturation monitors [for medical use]; diagnostic test kits for testing blood count; parts and fittings for complete blood count (CBC) analysers, non-invasive blood cell counters, apparatus for taking blood samples, and medical electronic blood oxygen saturation monitors.
Medical devices for monitoring blood properties; medical diagnostic instruments for the analysis of body fluids; electronic medical instruments for the analysis of blood; medical analysis instruments, namely, hematology analyzers; medical analytical apparatus, namely, hematology analyzers; medical diagnostic apparatus for medical purposes for analysis of bodily fluids; blood testing apparatus; blood testing equipment; automated blood collection instruments, namely, blood drawing apparatus; autologous blood processing apparatus for medical use; autologous blood processing instruments for medical use; apparatus for blood monitoring for medical use; apparatus for blood analysis for medical use; electronic blood oxygen saturation monitors for medical use; apparatus for taking blood samples; test kits comprising medical diagnostic apparatus for testing blood count; test kits comprising medical apparatus for blood testing; apparatus for taking body fluid samples for medical purposes; apparatus for analysis of bodily fluid samples for medical purposes; parts and fittings specially adapted for the aforesaid
Apparatus and methods are described including a sample carrier (22) configured to carry a portion of a bodily sample, at least a portion of the sample carrier being configured to fluoresce, at least under certain conditions. An optical measurement device (24) performs optical measurements upon the portion of the bodily sample that is housed within the sample carrier (22), and at least partially photobleaches an area within the portion of the sample carrier (22) by causing the area to fluoresce. By detecting that the area within the portion of the sample carrier (22) has been photobleached, an output is generated indicating that at least a portion of the sample carrier (22) is contaminated or that optical measurements cannot be performed on the portion of the sample carrier (22), or the optical measurement device (24) is prevented from performing optical measurements upon a sample portion housed within the given portion of the sample carrier (22).
Apparatus and methods are described for use with an output device (34), and a blood sample (12) that was drawn from a subject. A microscope system (10) acquires first and second images of the blood sample at respective times. A computer processor (28) determines whether, between acquisitions of the first and second images, there was relative motion between at least one erythrocyte within the sample and at least one entity within the sample, by comparing the first and second images to one another. At least partially in response thereto, the computer processor determines whether the entity is an extra-erythrocytic or an intra-erythrocytic entity, and generates an output on the output device, at least partially in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described including acquiring microscopic images of a blood sample, and identifying deformed red blood cells within the microscopic images. A degree of red blood cell deformity within the sample is determined, at least partially based upon the identified deformed red blood cells. A sample-informative parameter that is indicative of a characteristic of the blood sample as a whole is determined, at least partially based upon the degree of red blood cell deformity within the sample. Other applications are also described.
G06K 9/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture ou la reconnaissance de caractères imprimés ou écrits ou pour la reconnaissance de formes, p.ex. d'empreintes digitales
Apparatus and methods are described including staining a blood sample with one or more stains. A plurality of microscopic images of the stained blood sample are acquired, using a microscope. Staining-quality parameters for respective microscopic images are determined, using a computer processor, the staining-quality parameters being indicative of a quality of the staining within each of the respective microscopic images. An action is performed by the computer processor, based upon the staining-quality parameters of the respective microscopic images. Other applications are also described.
G06K 9/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture ou la reconnaissance de caractères imprimés ou écrits ou pour la reconnaissance de formes, p.ex. d'empreintes digitales
Apparatus and methods for use with a blood sample are described. The blood sample is stained with Hoechst stain and Acridine Orange stain. A plurality of images of the blood sample are acquired. An object is identified as being a white blood cell candidate. A first stained area, which is stained by the Hoechst stain and which is disposed within the white blood cell candidate, is identified. A second stained area, which is stained by the Acridine Orange stain and which is disposed within the white blood cell candidate, is identified. A white blood cell is detected by determining that structural features of the stained areas satisfy predetermined criteria associated with a white blood cell. Other applications are also described.
C12Q 1/68 - Procédés de mesure ou de test faisant intervenir des enzymes, des acides nucléiques ou des micro-organismes; Compositions à cet effet; Procédés pour préparer ces compositions faisant intervenir des acides nucléiques
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a sample that includes a plurality of red blood cells. A series of images associated with a series of depth levels of the sample are acquired, by performing a depth scan of the sample with a microscope. One of the depth levels is identified as being an optimum focal plane for imaging one or more entities within the sample using the microscope, by identifying that a drop in image contrast occurs at the identified depth level. The sample is imaged using the microscope, by focusing the microscope at an investigative depth level that is based on the identified depth level. Other applications are also described.
G02B 7/38 - Systèmes pour la génération automatique de signaux de mise au point utilisant des techniques liées à la netteté de l'image mesurée en différents points de l'axe optique
Apparatus and methods for analyzing a bodily sample are described. A microscope system acquires one or more microscope images of the bodily sample. A computer processor identifies, in the one or more images, at least one element as being a candidate of a given entity. The computer processor extracts, from the one or more images, at least one candidate-informative feature associated with the candidate of the given entity, and at least one sample-informative feature that is indicative of a characteristic of the bodily sample as a whole. The computer processor processes the candidate-informative feature in combination with the sample-informative feature, and generates an output upon the output device, in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
G01N 21/88 - Recherche de la présence de criques, de défauts ou de souillures
G06K 9/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture ou la reconnaissance de caractères imprimés ou écrits ou pour la reconnaissance de formes, p.ex. d'empreintes digitales
65.
System and method for calculating focus variation for a digital microscope
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a digital microscope unit that includes a digital microscope. A biological cell sample disposed within a sample carrier, is received into the digital microscope unit. For at least one imaging field of the biological cell sample, it is determined that, within the imaging field, there is a variation in the focal depth of the biological sample with respect to the microscope. At least one image of the imaging field is captured. A characteristic of the biological sample is determined by analyzing the captured image of the imaging field, the analyzing including, in response to determining that there is a variation in the focal depth of the biological sample with respect to the microscope, accounting for the variation in the focal depth of the biological sample with respect to the microscope. Other applications are also described.
G06K 9/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture ou la reconnaissance de caractères imprimés ou écrits ou pour la reconnaissance de formes, p.ex. d'empreintes digitales
Apparatus and methods are described for determining a property of a biological sample. A sample carrier (22) includes one or more sample chambers (40) that define at least a first region (42) and a second region (44), the height of the one or more sample chambers varying between the first and second regions in a predefined manner. A computer processor (28) receives data relating to a first optical measurement that is performed upon a portion of the sample that is disposed within the first region, receives data relating to a second optical measurement that is performed upon a portion of the sample that is disposed within the second region, and determines the property of the sample by using a relationship between the first optical measurement, the second optical measurement, and the predefined variation in height between the regions. Other applications are also described.
G01N 33/50 - Analyse chimique de matériau biologique, p.ex. de sang ou d'urine; Test par des méthodes faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques par ligands; Test immunologique
G01N 21/31 - Couleur; Propriétés spectrales, c. à d. comparaison de l'effet du matériau sur la lumière pour plusieurs longueurs d'ondes ou plusieurs bandes de longueurs d'ondes différentes en recherchant l'effet relatif du matériau pour les longueurs d'ondes caractéristiques d'éléments ou de molécules spécifiques, p.ex. spectrométrie d'absorption atomique
Apparatus and methods are described including a sample carrier (22) configured to carry a portion of a bodily sample, at least a portion of the sample carrier being configured to fluoresce, at least under certain conditions. An optical measurement device (24) performs optical measurements upon the portion of the bodily sample that is housed within the sample carrier (22), and at least partially photobleaches an area within the portion of the sample carrier (22) by causing the area to fluoresce. By detecting that the area within the portion of the sample carrier (22) has been photobleached, an output is generated indicating that at least a portion of the sample carrier (22) is contaminated or that optical measurements cannot be performed on the portion of the sample carrier (22), or the optical measurement device (24) is prevented from performing optical measurements upon a sample portion housed within the given portion of the sample carrier (22).
G01N 35/00 - Analyse automatique non limitée à des procédés ou à des matériaux spécifiés dans un seul des groupes ; Manipulation de matériaux à cet effet
Apparatus and methods are described including a sample carrier (22) configured to cany a portion of a bodily sample, at least a portion of the sample carrier being configured to fluoresce, at least under certain conditions. An optical measurement device (24) performs optical measurements upon the portion of the bodily sample that is housed within the sample carrier (22), and at least partially photobleaches art area within the portion of the sample carrier (22) by causing the area to fluoresce. By detecting that the area within the portion of the sample carrier (22) has been photobleached, an output is generated indicating that at least a portion of the sample carrier (22) is contaminated or that optical measurements cannot be performed on the portion of the sample carrier (22), or the optical measurement device (24) is prevented from performing optical measurements upon a sample portion housed within the given portion of the sample carrier (22).
G01N 35/00 - Analyse automatique non limitée à des procédés ou à des matériaux spécifiés dans un seul des groupes ; Manipulation de matériaux à cet effet
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a blood sample (48, 50), including measuring hemoglobin concentration within at least a portion (48) of the blood sample, by performing a first measurement on the blood sample. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin in the blood sample (48, 50) is measured, by performing a second measurement on the blood sample (48, 50). A parameter of the blood sample is determined, based on a relationship between the concentration of hemoglobin and the mean corpuscular hemoglobin. Other applications are also described.
G01N 33/49 - Analyse physique de matériau biologique de matériau biologique liquide de sang
G01N 33/50 - Analyse chimique de matériau biologique, p.ex. de sang ou d'urine; Test par des méthodes faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques par ligands; Test immunologique
G01N 33/72 - Analyse chimique de matériau biologique, p.ex. de sang ou d'urine; Test par des méthodes faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques par ligands; Test immunologique faisant intervenir les pigments du sang, p.ex. l'hémoglobine, la bilirubine
G01N 15/05 - Recherche de la sédimentation des suspensions de particules dans du sang
G01N 15/06 - Recherche de la concentration des suspensions de particules
G01N 33/569 - Tests immunologiques; Tests faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques; Matériaux à cet effet pour micro-organismes, p.ex. protozoaires, bactéries, virus
G01N 15/00 - Recherche de caractéristiques de particules; Recherche de la perméabilité, du volume des pores ou de l'aire superficielle effective de matériaux poreux
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a cell sample. For each of one or more imaging fields of the cell sample, a depth scan of the cell sample is performed using a microscope. One of the depth levels is identified as being an optimum focal plane for imaging one or more entities within the sample using the microscope, at least partially in response to detecting that the depth level corresponds to a drop in image contrast relative to image contrast at other depth levels. Based upon the depth level identified as being the optimum focal plane for each of the one or more imaging fields of the cell sample, a scanning depth interval over which to perform a depth scan of the cell sample at a further imaging field is defined. Other applications are also described.
G02B 7/38 - Systèmes pour la génération automatique de signaux de mise au point utilisant des techniques liées à la netteté de l'image mesurée en différents points de l'axe optique
A digital microscopy method, comprising: obtaining data representative of a series of images of at least a portion of a cell sample, the images being captured by performing a depth scan using a digital microscope, the series of images being associated with a series of depth levels of the cell sample, wherein the portion encompasses a mapping field, and the mapping field comprises a plurality of focus analysis regions; and calculating, using the images, a focus configuration for at least two of the focus analysis regions within the mapping field, giving rise to data indicative of focus variations within the mapping field.
G06K 9/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture ou la reconnaissance de caractères imprimés ou écrits ou pour la reconnaissance de formes, p.ex. d'empreintes digitales
Apparatus and methods are described including introducing a cell suspension comprising red blood cells into a carrier that is a closed cavity that includes a base surface, via an inlet defined by the carrier. The cells in the cell suspension are allowed to settle on the base surface of the carrier to form a monolayer of cells on the base surface of the carrier. At least one microscope image of at least a portion of the monolayer of cells is acquired. Other applications are also described.
C12Q 1/04 - Détermination de la présence ou du type de micro-organisme; Emploi de milieux sélectifs pour tester des antibiotiques ou des bactéricides; Compositions à cet effet contenant un indicateur chimique
G02B 21/36 - Microscopes aménagés pour la photographie ou la projection
G01N 33/49 - Analyse physique de matériau biologique de matériau biologique liquide de sang
G01N 1/28 - Préparation d'échantillons pour l'analyse
G01N 1/38 - Dilution, dispersion ou mélange des échantillons
G01N 15/14 - Recherche par des moyens électro-optiques
G01N 15/00 - Recherche de caractéristiques de particules; Recherche de la perméabilité, du volume des pores ou de l'aire superficielle effective de matériaux poreux
73.
Methods and apparatus for detecting an entity in a bodily sample
Apparatus and methods are described including a microscope system (11) configured to acquire one or more microscope images of a bodily sample, an output device (34), and at least one computer processor (28). The computer processor identifies, in the one or more images, at least one element as being a pathogen candidate, and extracts, from the one or more images, at least one candidate-informative feature associated with the pathogen candidate. The compute processor extracts, from the one or more images, at least one sample-informative feature that is indicative of contextual information related to the bodily sample. The computer processor classifies a likelihood of the bodily sample being infected with a pathogenic infection, by processing the candidate-informative feature in combination with the sample-informative feature, and generates an output upon the output device, in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
G01N 21/88 - Recherche de la présence de criques, de défauts ou de souillures
G06K 9/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture ou la reconnaissance de caractères imprimés ou écrits ou pour la reconnaissance de formes, p.ex. d'empreintes digitales
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a blood sample (48, 50), including measuring hemoglobin concentration within at least a portion (48) of the blood sample, by performing a first measurement on the blood sample. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin in the blood sample (48, 50) is measured, by performing a second measurement on the blood sample (48, 50). A parameter of the blood sample is determined, based on a relationship between the concentration of hemoglobin and the mean corpuscular hemoglobin. Other applications are also described.
G01N 33/50 - Analyse chimique de matériau biologique, p.ex. de sang ou d'urine; Test par des méthodes faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques par ligands; Test immunologique
G01N 21/49 - Dispersion, c. à d. réflexion diffuse dans un corps ou dans un fluide
G01N 33/49 - Analyse physique de matériau biologique de matériau biologique liquide de sang
Apparatus and methods are described for determining a property of a biological sample. A sample carrier (22) includes one or more sample chambers (40) that define at least a first region (42) and a second region (44), the height of the one or more sample chambers varying between the first and second regions in a predefined manner. A computer processor (28) receives data relating to a first optical measurement that is performed upon a portion of the sample that is disposed within the first region, receives data relating to a second optical measurement that is performed upon a portion of the sample that is disposed within the second region, and determines the property of the sample by using a relationship between the first optical measurement, the second optical measurement, and the predefined variation in height between the regions. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a blood sample (48, 50), including measuring hemoglobin concentration within at least a portion (48) of the blood sample, by performing a first measurement on the blood sample. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin in the blood sample (48, 50) is measured, by performing a second measurement on the blood sample (48, 50). A parameter of the blood sample is determined, based on a relationship between the concentration of hemoglobin and the mean corpuscular hemoglobin. Other applications are also described.
G01N 33/50 - Analyse chimique de matériau biologique, p.ex. de sang ou d'urine; Test par des méthodes faisant intervenir la formation de liaisons biospécifiques par ligands; Test immunologique
G01N 33/49 - Analyse physique de matériau biologique de matériau biologique liquide de sang
G01N 21/49 - Dispersion, c. à d. réflexion diffuse dans un corps ou dans un fluide
Apparatus and methods are described for use with an output device (34), and a blood sample (12) that was drawn from a subject. A microscope system (10) acquires first and second images of the blood sample at respective times. A computer processor (28) determines whether, between acquisitions of the first and second images, there was relative motion between at least one erythrocyte within the sample and at least one entity within the sample, by comparing the first and second images to one another. At least partially in response thereto, the computer processor determines whether the entity is an extra- erythrocytic or an intra-erythrocytic entity, and generates an output on the output device, at least partially in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described for use with an output device (34), and a blood sample (12) that was drawn from a subject. A microscope system (10) acquires first and second images of the blood sample at respective times. A computer processor (28) determines whether, between acquisitions of the first and second images, there was relative motion between at least one erythrocyte within the sample and at least one entity within the sample, by comparing the first and second images to one another. At least partially in response thereto, the computer processor determines whether the entity is an extra- erythrocytic or an intra-erythrocytic entity, and generates an output on the output device, at least partially in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
G02B 21/36 - Microscopes aménagés pour la photographie ou la projection
G06K 9/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture ou la reconnaissance de caractères imprimés ou écrits ou pour la reconnaissance de formes, p.ex. d'empreintes digitales
G06K 9/46 - Extraction d'éléments ou de caractéristiques de l'image
G01N 15/14 - Recherche par des moyens électro-optiques
88.
METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR DETECTING AN ENTITY IN A BODILY SAMPLE
Apparatus and methods are described including a microscope system (11) configured to acquire one or more microscope images of a bodily sample, an output device (34), and at least one computer processor (28). The computer processor identifies, in the one or more images, at least one element as being a pathogen candidate, and extracts, from the one or more images, at least one candidate-informative feature associated with the pathogen candidate. The compute processor extracts, from the one or more images, at least one sample-informative feature that is indicative of contextual information related to the bodily sample. The computer processor classifies a likelihood of the bodily sample being infected with a pathogenic infection, by processing the candidate-informative feature in combination with the sample- informative feature, and generates an output upon the output device, in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described including a microscope system (11) configured to acquire one or more microscope images of a bodily sample, an output device (34), and at least one computer processor (28). The computer processor identifies, in the one or more images, at least one element as being a pathogen candidate, and extracts, from the one or more images, at least one candidate-informative feature associated with the pathogen candidate. The compute processor extracts, from the one or more images, at least one sample-informative feature that is indicative of contextual information related to the bodily sample. The computer processor classifies a likelihood of the bodily sample being infected with a pathogenic infection, by processing the candidate-informative feature in combination with the sample- informative feature, and generates an output upon the output device, in response thereto. Other applications are also described.
Apparatus and methods are described for use with a digital camera that is configured to acquire images of a bodily sample. Two or more stains are configured to stain the bodily sample. A computer processor drives the digital camera to acquire, for each of a plurality of imaging fields of the bodily sample, two or more digital images, at least one of the images being acquired under brightfield lighting conditions, and at least one of the images being acquired under fluorescent lighting conditions. The computer processor performs image processing on the digital images, by extracting visual classification features from the digital images and analyzing the extracted visual classification features. The computer processor outputs a result of the image processing that includes an indication of one or more entities that are contained within the sample. Other applications are also described.
G01N 15/14 - Recherche par des moyens électro-optiques
G01N 15/10 - Recherche de particules individuelles
G01N 15/00 - Recherche de caractéristiques de particules; Recherche de la perméabilité, du volume des pores ou de l'aire superficielle effective de matériaux poreux
91.
Digital microscopy systems, methods and computer program products
Methods, systems and computer program products relating to digital microscopy are disclosed. A digital microscopy method may comprise capturing a plurality of overlapping images of a sample, wherein the capturing of at least one of the plurality of images is performed while the sample and a focal plane are in relative motion along an optical axis at a speed greater than zero; and processing the plurality of images using a reference criterion to determine a reference relative arrangement of the focal plane and the sample along the optical axis.
G02B 7/38 - Systèmes pour la génération automatique de signaux de mise au point utilisant des techniques liées à la netteté de l'image mesurée en différents points de l'axe optique
G02B 21/26 - Platines; Moyens de réglage pour celles-ci
Provided is a method for imaging a blood sample and a kit and system for executing the method. The method includes introducing a cell suspension including red blood cells onto a base surface of a carrier having a vertical height (H) being greater than or equal to a vertical depth (h) of the cell suspension when on the base carrier, the cell suspension including a cell concentration (C) being determined by a defined function; allowing the cells in the cell suspension to settle on the base surface of the carrier to form a monolayer of cells thereon; and acquiring at least one microscope image of at least a portion of the monolayer of cells; wherein the at least one microscope image is obtained by a microscope set to Depth Of Field that is not more than 20% of the vertical height of the cell suspension settled on the base surface.
C12Q 1/04 - Détermination de la présence ou du type de micro-organisme; Emploi de milieux sélectifs pour tester des antibiotiques ou des bactéricides; Compositions à cet effet contenant un indicateur chimique
G02B 21/36 - Microscopes aménagés pour la photographie ou la projection
G01N 33/49 - Analyse physique de matériau biologique de matériau biologique liquide de sang
G01N 1/28 - Préparation d'échantillons pour l'analyse
G01N 1/38 - Dilution, dispersion ou mélange des échantillons
G01N 15/14 - Recherche par des moyens électro-optiques
G01N 15/00 - Recherche de caractéristiques de particules; Recherche de la perméabilité, du volume des pores ou de l'aire superficielle effective de matériaux poreux
93.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CALCULATING FOCUS VARIATION FOR A DIGITAL MICROSCOPE
A digital microscopy method, comprising: obtaining data representative of a series of images of at least a portion of a cell sample, the images being captured by performing a depth scan using a digital microscope, the series of images being associated with a series of depth levels of the cell sample, wherein the portion encompasses a mapping field, and the mapping field comprises a plurality of focus analysis regions; and calculating, using the images, a focus configuration for at least two of the focus analysis regions within the mapping field, giving rise to data indicative of focus variations within the mapping field.
Provided is a method for imaging a blood sample and a kit and system for executing the method. The method includes introducing a cell suspension including red blood cells onto a base surface of a carrier having a vertical height (H) being greater than or equal to a vertical depth (h) of the cell suspension when on the base carrier, the cell suspension including a cell concentration (C) being determined by a defined function; allowing the cells in the cell suspension to settle on the base surface of the carrier to form a monolayer of cells thereon; and acquiring at least one microscope image of at least a portion of the monolayer of cells; wherein the at least one microscope image is obtained by a microscope set to Depth Of Field that is not more than 20% of the vertical height of the cell suspension settled on the base surface.
G02B 21/36 - Microscopes aménagés pour la photographie ou la projection
G01N 33/49 - Analyse physique de matériau biologique de matériau biologique liquide de sang
G01N 1/28 - Préparation d'échantillons pour l'analyse
G01N 1/38 - Dilution, dispersion ou mélange des échantillons
G01N 15/14 - Recherche par des moyens électro-optiques
G01N 15/00 - Recherche de caractéristiques de particules; Recherche de la perméabilité, du volume des pores ou de l'aire superficielle effective de matériaux poreux
95.
DIGITAL MICROSCOPY SYSTEMS, METHODS AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS
Methods, systems and computer program products relating to digital microscopy are disclosed. A digital microscopy method may comprise capturing a plurality of overlapping images of a sample, wherein the capturing of at least one of the plurality of images is performed while the sample and a focal plane are in relative motion along an optical axis at a speed greater than zero; and processing the plurality of images using a reference criterion to determine a reference relative arrangement of the focal plane and the sample along the optical axis.
G02B 7/36 - Systèmes pour la génération automatique de signaux de mise au point utilisant des techniques liées à la netteté de l'image
G06K 9/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture ou la reconnaissance de caractères imprimés ou écrits ou pour la reconnaissance de formes, p.ex. d'empreintes digitales
96.
Methods and systems for detecting a pathogen in a biological sample
Disclosed herein, inter alia, is method, kit and systems for detecting a pathogen infection in a bodily sample, the method comprising (i) staining said bodily sample with two or more dyes, comprising at least one dye predominantly staining DNA to thereby provide differential staining between DNA and at least one other cellular component being different from DNA; (ii) identifying at least a first stained area comprising the DNA, if exists in the sample, and at least one other stained area comprising the other cellular component; (iii) extracting structural features for the first stained area and the at least one other stained area, said structural features comprise at least one of (i) size of at least one of the first stained area and one other stained area and (ii) location of said first stained area and said at least one other stained area one with respect to the other; and (iv) determining the presence of a suspected pathogen in the bodily sample if a first stained area was identified and said structural features conform to structural features predetermined as characterizing the suspected pathogen.
C12Q 1/68 - Procédés de mesure ou de test faisant intervenir des enzymes, des acides nucléiques ou des micro-organismes; Compositions à cet effet; Procédés pour préparer ces compositions faisant intervenir des acides nucléiques
The present disclosure provides a method for imaging a blood sample and a kit and system for executing the method. The method comprises introducing a cell suspension comprising red blood cells onto a base surface of a carrier having a vertical height (H) being greater than or equal to a vertical depth (h) of said cell suspension when on said base carrier, the cell suspension comprising a cell concentration (C) being determined by a defined function; allowing the cells in the cell suspension to settle (without applying any force thereon) on said base surface of the carrier to form on the base surface of the carrier a monolayer of cells; and acquiring at least one microscope image of at least a portion of the monolayer of cells; wherein said at least one microscope image is obtained by a microscope set to Depth Of Field (DOF) that is not more than 20% of the vertical height of the cell suspension when settled on said base surface.
G01N 1/28 - Préparation d'échantillons pour l'analyse
G01N 1/38 - Dilution, dispersion ou mélange des échantillons
G01N 15/14 - Recherche par des moyens électro-optiques
G01N 15/00 - Recherche de caractéristiques de particules; Recherche de la perméabilité, du volume des pores ou de l'aire superficielle effective de matériaux poreux
The present disclosure provides a method of determining a reference depth level within a cell sample. The method comprises obtaining data representative of a series of images captured by performing a depth scan of the cell sample using a digital microscope, the series of images being associated with a series of depth levels of the cell sample; processing said data for detecting at least one depth level corresponding to a drop in image contrast; and identifying the detected depth level as the reference depth level.
G02B 21/36 - Microscopes aménagés pour la photographie ou la projection
G02B 21/16 - Microscopes adaptés pour éclairage ultraviolet
G02B 7/38 - Systèmes pour la génération automatique de signaux de mise au point utilisant des techniques liées à la netteté de l'image mesurée en différents points de l'axe optique
The present disclosure provides a method of determining a reference depth level within a cell sample. The method comprises obtaining data representative of a series of images captured by performing a depth scan of the cell sample using a digital microscope, the series of images being associated with a series of depth levels of the cell sample; processing said data for detecting at least one depth level corresponding to a drop in image contrast; and identifying the detected depth level as the reference depth level.
The invention discloses an apparatus and method for automatic detection of pathogens within a sample. The apparatus and method are especially useful for high-throughput and/or low-cost detection of parasites with minimal need for trained personnel. The invention entails automated microscopic data acquisition, and performing image processing of images captured from a sample using classification algorithms. Visual classification features of structures are extracted from the image and compared to visual classification features associated with known pathogens. A determination is reached whether a pathogen is present in the sample; and if present, the pathogen may be identified to a pathogen species. Diagnosis is rapid and does not require medically trained personnel.
