US 2008.0003307A1 (19) United States (12) Patent Application Publication (10) Pub. No.: US 2008/0003307 A1 Jung et al. (43) Pub. Date: Jan. 3, 2008

(54) METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ANALYSIS (21) Appl. No.: 11/637,638 OF NUTRACEUTICAL ASSOCATED COMPONENTS (22) Filed: Dec. 11, 2006 (75) Inventors: Edward K.Y. Jung, Bellevue, WA Related U.S. Application Data (US); Eric C. Leuthardt, St. Louis, MO (US); Royce A. (63) Continuation-in-part of application No. 1 1/478,296, Levien, Lexington, MA (US); filed on Jun. 28, 2006. Robert W. Lord, Seattle, WA (US); Mark A. Malamud, Seattle, WA (US); John D. Rinaldo, Publication Classification Bellevue, WA (US); Lowell L. (51) Int. Cl. Wood, Bellevue, WA (US) A636/00 (2006.01) Correspondence Address: Searete LLC (52) U.S. Cl...... 424/725 Suite 110, 1756 - 114th Ave. S.E. Bellevue, WA 98004 (57) ABSTRACT (73) Assignee: Searete LLC, a limited liability The present disclosure relates to methods and systems that corporation of the State of may be used for analysis of nutraceutical associated com Delaware ponents. 100 \ 102 Sample

104 Nutraceutical ASSociated Component

- -- 106 Microfluidic Chip

t -> 108 Detection Unit

116 Signal -->k- - -> 110 Display Unit

- -> 112 Recording Unit

Va- - 114. User interface Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 1 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

FIG. 1

100 \ 1 O 2 Sample

104 Nutraceutical Associated Component

- -> 106 Microfluidic Chip

te - so 108 Detection Unit m - - - - 110 Display Unit

- - --> 112 Recording Unit

V- - --> 114. User Interface

118 User Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 2 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

FIG. 2

200

processing one or more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical associated components

detecting the one or more nutraceutical associated components with one or more detection units

End Patent Application Publica US 2008/0003307 A1

pUE Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 4 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

• Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 5 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

?u?usuen809]

L

ÞUE

|——)-? Kesseounuuuu!| Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 6 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

F.G. 6

600

processing one or more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical associated components

detecting the one or more nutraceutical associated components with one or more detection units

displaying results of the detecting with one or more display units that are operably coupled with the one or more detection units Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 7 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

-->-,--- | || || || || || || || || || Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 8 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

l Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 9 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

FIG. 9

900

N

detecting one or more nutraceutical associated components with one or more detection units

displaying results of the detecting with one or more display units that are operably coupled with the one or more detection units Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 10 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

|——)-?

Kesseounuu, Snyun Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 11 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 12 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

| | | | | | | | | | | r

???|||3u?u?usuenJoºuo, |speußisalou|alou10auoºuoli

GJESD Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 13 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

FIG. 13

(N-1310 processing one or more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for analysis of the one or more nutraceutical associated components

detecting one or more nutraceutical associated components with one or more detection units

displaying results of the detecting with one or more display units that are operably coupled with the one or more detection units

End Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 14 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

| | | | | | |sanblutpot? | | | | |

shqun Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 15 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 16 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

F.G. 16

1600 N

processing one or more samples obtained from an individual with one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical associated components

detecting the one or more nutraceutical associated components with one or more detection units

1630 displaying one or more dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for Supplementation of the individual in response to the detecting Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 17 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

F.G. 17

17OO

one or more detection units configured to detachably connect to one or more microfluidic chips and configured to detect one or more nutraceutical associated components

one or more display units operably associated with the one or more detection units

End Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 18 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

r–

g=

Patent Application US 2008/0003307 A1

–=?|–––––––-?r– Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 21 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

FIG. 21

2100 \

one or more detection units configured to detachably connect to one or more microfluidic chips and configured to detect one or more nutraceutical associated components

one or more display units operably associated with the one or more detection units

(N-2130 one or more microfluidic chips configured for analysis of the one or more nutraceutical associated components

End Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 22 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

|auotuJosuogozzi -->T--- snonu?o,

90zziajou.Joauozozzia?ou?osuo

L Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 23 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

| | | | quouoduos,| | | poloºIIoosusuoduos,|le |soun?uola??polouloowi,

S Patent Application Publication Jan. 3, 2008 Sheet 24 of 24 US 2008/0003307 A1

FIG. 24

2400 N 2410

one or more microfluidic chips configured for processing of a single nutraceutical associated component

2420

one or more detection units configured to detachably connect to the one or more microfluidic chips and configured to detect one or more nutraceutical associated components that include the single nutraceutical associated component

2430

one or more display units operably associated with the one or more detection units that indicate one or more dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for supplementation of an individual associated with the single nutraceutical associated component

End US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

METHODS AND SYSTEMIS FOR ANALYSIS entitled COMPUTATIONAL AND/OR CONTROL SYS OF NUTRACEUTICAL ASSOCATED TEMS AND METHODS RELATED TO NUTRACEUTI COMPONENTS CAL AGENT SELECTION AND DOSING, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. APPLICATIONS as inventors, filed Sep. 18, 2006, which is currently co pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending 0001. The present application is related to and claims the application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date. benefit of the earliest available effective filing date(s) from 0007. The United States Patent Office (USPTO) has pub the following listed application(s) (the “Related Applica lished a notice to the effect that the USPTO's computer tions”) (e.g., claims earliest available priority dates for other programs require that patent applicants reference both a than provisional patent applications or claims benefits under serial number and indicate whether an application is a 35 USC S 119(e) for provisional patent applications, for any continuation or continuation-in-part. Stephen G. Kunin, and all parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, etc. applica Benefit of Prior-Filed Application, USPTO Official Gazette tions of the Related Application(s)). Mar. 18, 2003, available at http://www.uspto.gov/web/of fices/com/sol/og/2003/week 11/patbene.htm. The present RELATED APPLICATIONS Applicant Entity (hereinafter “Applicant”) has provided 0002 For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory above a specific reference to the application(s) from which requirements, the present application constitutes a continu priority is being claimed as recited by statute. Applicant ation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 1 1/478,341, understands that the statute is unambiguous in its specific entitled COMPUTATIONAL AND/OR CONTROL SYS reference language and does not require either a serial TEMS RELATED TO INDIVIDUALIZED NUTRACEU number or any characterization, such as "continuation” or TICAL SELECTION AND PACKAGING, naming Edward “continuation-in-part.” for claiming priority to U.S. patent K. Y. Jung, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. applications. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Applicant Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as understands that the USPTO's computer programs have inventors, filed Jun. 28, 2006, which is currently co-pending, certain data entry requirements, and hence Applicant is or is an application of which a currently co-pending appli designating the present application as a continuation-in-part cation is entitled to the benefit of the filing date. of its parent applications as set forth above, but expressly 0003 For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory points out that such designations are not to be construed in requirements, the present application constitutes a continu any way as any type of commentary and/or admission as to ation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 1 1/478,296, whether or not the present application contains any new entitled COMPUTATIONAL AND/OR CONTROL SYS matter in addition to the matter of its parent application(s). TEMS RELATED TO INDIVIDUALIZED NUTRACEU 0008 All subject matter of the Related Applications and TICAL SELECTION AND PACKAGING, naming Edward of any and all parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, etc. K. Y. Jung, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. applications of the Related Applications is incorporated Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. as herein by reference to the extent such subject matter is not inventors, filed Jun. 28, 2006, which is currently co-pending, inconsistent herewith. or is an application of which a currently co-pending appli cation is entitled to the benefit of the filing date. TECHNICAL FIELD 0004 For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory 0009. The present disclosure relates to methods and sys requirements, the present application constitutes a continu tems that may be used for analysis of nutraceutical associ ation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/515,357, ated components. entitled COMPUTATIONAL AND/OR CONTROL SYS TEMS AND METHODS RELATED TO NUTRACEUTI SUMMARY CAL AGENT SELECTION AND DOSING, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark 0010. In some embodiments one or more methods are A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. provided that include processing one or more samples with as inventors, filed Sep. 1, 2006, which is currently co one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending analysis of one or more nutraceutical associated components application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date. and detecting the one or more nutraceutical associated 0005 For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory components with one or more detection units. In addition to requirements, the present application constitutes a continu the foregoing, other aspects are described in the claims, ation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 1 1/523,766, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure. entitled COMPUTATIONAL AND/OR CONTROL SYS 0011. In some embodiments one or more methods are TEMS AND METHODS RELATED TO NUTRACEUTI provided that include processing one or more samples with CAL AGENT SELECTION AND DOSING, naming one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for Edward K. Y. Jung, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark analysis of one or more nutraceutical associated compo A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., and Lowell L. Wood, Jr. nents, detecting the one or more nutraceutical associated as inventors, filed Sep. 18, 2006, which is currently co components with one or more detection units, and display pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending ing results of the detecting with one or more display units application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date. that are operably coupled with the one or more detection 0006 For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory units. In addition to the foregoing, other aspects are requirements, the present application constitutes a continu described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of ation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 1 1/523,809, the present disclosure. US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

0012. In some embodiments one or more methods are herein-referenced functional aspects; the circuitry and/or provided that include detecting one or more nutraceutical programming can be virtually any combination of hardware, associated components with one or more detection units and software, and/or firmware configured to effect the herein displaying results of the detecting with one or more display referenced functional aspects depending upon the design units that are operably coupled with the one or more choices of the system designer. In addition to the foregoing, detection units. In addition to the foregoing, other aspects other system aspects means are described in the claims, are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part drawings, and/or text forming a part of the present disclo of the present disclosure. SUC. 0013. In some embodiments one or more methods are 0019. In some embodiments, related systems include but provided that include detecting one or more nutraceutical are not limited to circuitry and/or programming for effecting associated components with one or more detection units, the herein-referenced method aspects; the circuitry and/or displaying results of the detecting with one or more display programming can be virtually any combination of hardware, units that are operably coupled with the one or more software, and/or firmware configured to effect the herein detection units, and processing one or more samples with referenced method aspects depending upon the design one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for choices of the system designer. In addition to the foregoing, analysis of the one or more nutraceutical associated com other system aspects are described in the claims, drawings, ponents. In addition to the foregoing, other aspects are and/or text forming a part of the present application. described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of 0020. The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is the present disclosure. not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the 0014. In some embodiments one or more methods are illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described provided that include processing one or more samples above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will obtained from an individual with one or more microfluidic become apparent by reference to the drawings, claims, and chips that are configured for analysis of one or more the following detailed description. nutraceutical associated components, detecting the one or more nutraceutical associated components with one or more BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES detection units, and displaying one or more dosages of one 0021 FIG. 1 illustrates an example system 100 in which or more nutraceutical agents for Supplementation of the embodiments may be implemented. individual in response to the detecting. In addition to the 0022 FIG. 2 illustrates an operational flow representing foregoing, other aspects are described in the claims, draw example operations related to methods and systems for ings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure. analysis of nutraceutical associated components. 0015. In some embodiments one or more systems are 0023 FIG. 3 illustrates alternate embodiments of the provided that include one or more detection units configured example operational flow of FIG. 2. to detachably connect to one or more microfluidic chips and 0024 FIG. 4 illustrates alternate embodiments of the configured to detect one or more nutraceutical associated example operational flow of FIG. 2. components and one or more display units operably asso 0025 FIG. 5 illustrates alternate embodiments of the ciated with the one or more detection units. In addition to the example operational flow of FIG. 2. foregoing, other aspects are described in the claims, draw 0026 FIG. 6 illustrates an operational flow representing ings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure. example operations related to methods and systems for 0016. In some embodiments one or more systems are analysis of nutraceutical associated components. provided that include one or more detection units configured 0027 FIG. 7 illustrates alternate embodiments of the to detachably connect to one or more microfluidic chips and example operational flow of FIG. 6. configured to detect one or more nutraceutical associated 0028 FIG. 8 illustrates alternate embodiments of the components, one or more display units operably associated example operational flow of FIG. 6. with the one or more detection units, and one or more 0029 FIG. 9 illustrates an operational flow representing microfluidic chips configured for analysis of the one or more example operations related to methods and systems for nutraceutical associated components. In addition to the analysis of nutraceutical associated components. foregoing, other aspects are described in the claims, draw 0030 FIG. 10 illustrates alternate embodiments of the ings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure. example operational flow of FIG. 9. 0017. In some embodiments one or more systems are 0031 FIG. 11 illustrates alternate embodiments of the provided that include one or more microfluidic chips con example operational flow of FIG. 9. figured for processing of a single nutraceutical associated 0032 FIG. 12 illustrates alternate embodiments of the component, one or more detection units configured to example operational flow of FIG. 9. detachably connect to the one or more microfluidic chips 0033 FIG. 13 illustrates an operational flow representing and configured to detect one or more nutraceutical associ example operations related to methods and systems for ated components that include the single nutraceutical asso analysis of nutraceutical associated components. ciated component, and one or more display units operably 0034 FIG. 14 illustrates alternate embodiments of the associated with the one or more detection units that indicate example operational flow of FIG. 13. one or more dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for 0035 FIG. 15 illustrates alternate embodiments of the Supplementation of an individual associated with the single example operational flow of FIG. 13. nutraceutical associated component. In addition to the fore 0036 FIG. 16 illustrates an operational flow representing going, other aspects are described in the claims, drawings, example operations related to methods and systems for and text forming a part of the present disclosure. analysis of nutraceutical associated components. 0.018. In some embodiments, means include but are not 0037 FIG. 17 illustrates an example system 1700 in limited to circuitry and/or programming for effecting the which embodiments may be implemented. US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

0038 FIG. 18 illustrates alternate embodiments of the are directly coupled with the one or more detection units system of FIG. 17. 108. In some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 0039 FIG. 19 illustrates alternate embodiments of the may include one or more user interfaces 114 that are system of FIG. 17. remotely coupled with the one or more detection units 108. 0040 FIG. 20 illustrates alternate embodiments of the For example, in some embodiments, a user 118 may interact system of FIG. 17. with the one or more detection units 108 through direct 0041 FIG. 21 illustrates an example system 2100 in physical interaction with the one or more detection units which embodiments may be implemented. 108. In other embodiments, a user 118 may interact with one 0.042 FIG. 22 illustrates alternate embodiments of the or more detection units 108 through remote interaction. In system of FIG. 21. some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may 0043 FIG. 23 illustrates alternate embodiments of the transmit one or more signals 116. In some embodiments, one system of FIG. 21. or more detection units 108 may include one or more display 0044 FIG. 24 illustrates an example system 2400 in units 110. In some embodiments, one or more detection units which embodiments may be implemented. 108 may be directly coupled to one or more display units 110. In some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 DETAILED DESCRIPTION may be remotely coupled to one or more display units 110. In some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may 0045. In the following detailed description, reference is transmit one or more signals 116 that are received by one or made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part more display units 110. In some embodiments, one or more hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify display units 110 may include one or more user interfaces similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The 114. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 illustrative embodiments described in the detailed descrip may include one user interface 114. In some embodiments, tion, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. one or more display units 110 may transmit one or more Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may signals 116. In some embodiments, system 100 may include be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the one or more recording units 112. In some embodiments, one Subject matter presented here. or more recording units 112 may be directly coupled to one 0046 While various aspects and embodiments have been or more detection units 108. In some embodiments, one or disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be more recording units 112 may be directly coupled to one or apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and more display units 110. In some embodiments, one or more embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustra recording units 112 may be directly coupled to one or more tion and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope detection units 108 and one or more display units 110. In and spirit being indicated by the following claims. Some embodiments, one or more recording units 112 may 0047 FIG. 1 illustrates an example system 100 in which include one or more user interfaces 114. In some embodi embodiments may be implemented. In some embodiments, ments, one or more recording units 112 may include one or the system 100 is operable to provide a method that may be more directly coupled user interfaces 114. In some embodi used to analyze one or more nutraceutical associated com ments, one or more recording units 112 may include one or ponents 104. In some embodiments, one or more samples more remotely coupled user interfaces 114. In some embodi 102 may be processed with one or more microfluidic chips ments, one or more recording units 112 may receive one or 106 that are configured to process one or more nutraceutical more signals 116. In some embodiments, one or more associated components 104. In some embodiments, one or recording units 112 may transmit one or more signals 116. more samples 102 associated with an individual may be processed. In some embodiments, one sample 102 associ Sample ated with an individual may be processed. In some embodi ments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be used to 0048 Numerous types of samples 102 may be analyzed process one or more samples 102. In some embodiments, through use of system 100. In some embodiments, one or one microfluidic chip 106 may be used to process one or more samples 102 may be associated with an individual. In more samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more Some embodiments, one or more samples 102 may include microfluidic chips 106 may be used to process one or more a liquid. In some embodiments, one or more samples 102 nutraceutical associated components 104. In some embodi may include a solid. In some embodiments, one or more ments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be used to samples 102 may include a vapor. In some embodiments, process one nutraceutical associated component 104. In one or more samples 102 may include a semi-solid. In some Some embodiments, one or more detection units may be used embodiments, one or more samples 102 may include a gas. to detect one or more nutraceutical associated components Examples of such samples 102 include, but are not limited 104. In some embodiments, one detection unit may be used to, blood, urine, Sweat, tears, excrement, saliva, skin, hair, to detect one or more nutraceutical associated components mucus, or breath, or Substantially any combination thereof. 104. In some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be portable detection units 108. In some embodiments, Microfluidic Chip one or more detection units 108 may be non-portable detection units 108. In some embodiments, one or more 0049 Numerous types of microfluidic chips 106 may be detection units 108 may be hand-held detection units 108. In utilized within system 100. For example, microfluidic chips some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may 106 may be used that utilize a variety of methods to process include one or more user interfaces 114. In some embodi one or more nutraceutical associated components 104. ments, one or more detection units 108 may include one user Examples of such methods include, but are not limited to, interface 114. In some embodiments, one or more detection nucleic acid hybridization based methods, immunological units 108 may include one or more user interfaces 114 that based methods, chromatographic based methods, affinity US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

based methods, extraction based methods, separation based (i.e., U.S. Patent Application No.: 20040033553; herein methods, isolation based methods, filtration based methods, incorporated by reference). In some embodiments, one or enzyme based methods, isoelectric focusing methods, and more microfluidic chips 106 may be configured for analysis Substantially any combination thereof. of glucose (U.S. Pat. No. 6,295,506; herein incorporated by 0050 Methods to construct microfluidic chips 106 have reference). In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic been described (i.e., U.S. Statutory Invention Registration chips 106 may be configured for analysis of one or more No. H201; U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,454,945; 6,818,435; 6,812,458: polynucleotides (U.S. Pat. No. 6,958.216; herein incorpo 6,794, 196; 6,709,869; 6,582,987; 6,482,306; Jain, Pharma rated by reference). Accordingly, microfluidic chips 106 cogenomics, 4:123-125 (2003); Jarvius, DNA Tools and may be configured for analysis of numerous nutraceutical Microfluidic Systems for Molecular Analysis, Digital Com associated components 104. prehensive Summaries of Uppsala Dissertations from the Faculty of Medicine 161, Uppsala Universitet, ACTA Uni Nutraceutical Associated Component versitatis Upsaliensis Uppsala (2006) ISSN 1651-6206/ 0053 System 100 may be used to analyze numerous ISBN 91-554-6616-8; herein incorporated by reference). In types of nutraceutical associated components 104. Gener some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may ally, a nutraceutical associated component 104 is a bodily include a lancet. Methods to construct lancets are known and component that is affected by the action, presence, absence, have been described (U.S. Patent Application Nos.: and/or deficiency of a nutraceutical agent. For example, the 20020177763 and 20030083685; herein incorporated by amount, activity, availability, and/or concentration of a reference). In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic nutraceutical associated component 104 may be increased or chips may include carbon nanotubes. In some embodiments, decreased in a manner that is dependent upon the presence one or more microfluidic chips may include carbon nano or absence of one or more nutraceutical agents. Nutraceu tubes that are configured to provide for transport. For tical associated components 104 may also include one or example, in Some embodiments, one or more carbon nano more components that are indicative of a need for Supple tubes may be configured to provide for transport of one or mentation and/or reduction. For example, in Some embodi more gases and/or one or more fluids (Holt et al., Science, ments, a nutraceutical associated component 104 may be an 312:1034-1037 (2006) and Sholl and Johnson, Science, enzyme and/or an enzyme activity where high or low levels 312:1003-100 (2006). In some embodiments, one or more of the enzyme and/or enzyme activity indicate a need for microfluidic chips may include one or more carbon nano Supplementation or reduction in the level of one or more tubes that are operably coupled to nucleic acid. For example, nutraceutical agents (i.e., the activity of an enzyme that in Some embodiments, one or more carbon nanotubes may produces a stress hormone may indicate a need for Supple be used to immobilize nucleic acid. In some embodiments, mentation with a stress-reducing vitamin). Numerous types one or more carbon nanotubes may be used to provide for of nutraceutical associated components 104 may be ana detection of one or more nucleic acids (Heller et al., Science, lyzed through use of system 100. Examples of such nutra 3 11:508-511 (2006) and Gao and Kong, Annu. Rev. Mater. ceutical associated components 104 include, but are not Res., 34:123-150 (2004). In some embodiments, one or more limited to, enzymes, hormone, prohormone, hemoglobin, microfluidic chips may include one or more carbon nano polynucleotide, proteins, peptides, antioxidant, minerals, tubes to provide for separation of two or more components Vitamins, and Substantially any combination thereof. In (Chen and Sholl, J. Membrane Science, 269:152-160 (2006). Some embodiments, a nutraceutical associated component Numerous additional methods may be used to construct 104 includes a nutraceutical agent. microfluidic chips 106 that may be used for analysis of one 0054 Nutraceutical agents typically include natural, bio or more nutraceutical associated components 104. active chemical compounds, vitamins, minerals, or any 0051 Microfluidic chips 106 may utilize numerous meth Substance that is a plant, food, an extracted part of a food, ods for analysis of one or more nutraceutical associated that provides medical or health benefits but which generally components 104. For example, in some embodiments, one fall outside regulations controlling pharmaceuticals. In some or more microfluidic chips 106 may utilize chemilumines embodiments, nutraceutical agents may include Substances cent methods (U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,090,545 and 5,093.268: that are regulated as pharmaceuticals when they are formu herein incorporated by reference), plasmon resonance sen lated in certain regulated combinations and/or quantities but sors (U.S. Pat. No. 7,030,989; herein incorporated by ref. that are not regulated as pharmaceuticals when formulated in erence), nuclear magnetic resonance detectors (U.S. Pat. No. combinations and/or quantities that are not regulated. 6,194,900; herein incorporated by reference), gradient Included in this category of Substances may be foods, based assays (U.S. Pat. No. 7,112,444; herein incorporated isolated nutrients, Supplements and herbs. Nutraceuticals are by reference), reporter beads (U.S. Pat. No. 5,747,349; often referred to as phytochemicals or functional foods and herein incorporated by reference), transverse electrophore include dietary Supplements. Numerous nutraceuticals have sis, isoelectric focusing, nucleic acid amplification, and/or been described (i.e., Roberts et al., Nutraceuticals: The diffusion based systems (U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,221,677; 5,972, Complete Encyclopedia of Supplements, Herbs, Vitamins, 710; deMello, Nature, 422:28-29 (2003) herein incorporated and Healing Foods, 1 Edition, Perigee Trade (2001) and by reference). Susan G. Wynn, Emerging Therapies: Using Herbs and 0052 Microfluidic chips 106 may be configured for Nutraceuticals for Small Animals, American Animal Hos analysis of numerous nutraceutical associated components pital Assn. Press (1999); and Handbook of Nutraceuticals 104. For example, in some embodiments, one or more and Functional Foods., edited by Robert E. C. Wildman, microfluidic chips 106 may be configured for analysis of CRC Press (2001)). Examples of nutraceutical agents coenzyme Q10, reduced coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinol-10), include, but are not limited to, Amino Acids, Terpenoids, and/or oxidized coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone-10) in one or Carotenoid Terpenoids (Lycopene, Beta-Carotene, Alpha more samples 102 through use of described assay methods Carotene, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Astaxanthin). Herbal Supple US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008 ments, Homeopathic Supplements, Glandular Supplements, agents. For example, in some embodiments, microbes may Non-Carotenoid Terpeniods (Perillyl Alcohol, Saponins, be genetically modified to produce, or overexpress, one or Terpeneol, Terpene Limonoids), Polyphenolics, Flavonoid more nutraceutical agents. Polyphenolics (Anthocyanins, Catechins, Isoflavones, Hes peretin, Naringin, Rutin, Quercetin, Silymarin, Tangeretin, Detection Unit Tannins), Phenolic Acids (Ellagic Acid, Chlorogenic Acid, 0056. Numerous types of detection units 108 may be used Para-Coumaric Acid, Phytic Acid, Cinnamic Acid). Other within system 100. Accordingly, numerous types of detec Non-Flavonoid Polyphenolics (Curcumin, Resveratrol, Lig tion methods may be used within system 100. Examples of nans), Glucosinolates, Isothiocyanates (Phenethyl Isothio such detection methods include, but are not limited to, colorimetric methods, spectroscopic methods, resonance cyanate, Benzyl Isothiocyanate, Sulforaphane), Indoles (In based methods, or Substantially any combination thereof. In dole-3-Carbinol (I3C). Thiosulfonates, Phytosterols (Beta some embodiments, a detection unit 108 may be stationary. Sitosterol), Anthraquinones (Senna, Barbaloin, Hypericin), For example, in some embodiments, a detection unit 108 Capsaicin, Piperine, Chlorophyll, Betaine, Pectin, Oxalic may be a laboratory instrument. In some embodiments, a Acid, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Allantoin, Androsterondiol. detection unit 108 may be portable. For example, in some Androsterondione, Betaine (Trimethylglycine), Caffeine, embodiments, a detection unit 108 may be a hand-held Calcium pyvurate (Pyruvic Acid), Carnitine, Carnosine, device. Carotene (alpha & beta), Carotenoid (Total for beadlets), Choline, Chlorogenic Acid, Cholic Acid (Ox Bile), Chon User Interface/User droitin Sulfate, Chondroitin Sulfate (Total Mucopolysaccha 0057 Numerous types of users 118 may interact with rides), Cholestin, Chrysin, Coenzyme Q10 (Co-Q10), Con system 100. In some embodiments, a user 118 may be jugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), Corosolic Acid, Creatine, human. In some embodiments, a user 118 may be non Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), Dichlorophen, Dindoly human. In some embodiments, a user 118 may interact with methane (DIM), Dimethyglycine (DMG), Dimercapto Suc one or more detection units 108, one or more display units 110, one or more user interfaces 114, one or more recording cinic Acid (DMSA), Ebselen, Ellagic Acid, Enzymes, Fise units 112, and/or substantially any combination thereof. The tin, Formonetin, Glucaric Acid (Glucarate), Glucosamine user 118 can interact through use of numerous types of user (HCl or Sulfate), Glucosamine (N-Acetyl), Glutathione (Re interfaces 114. For example, one or more users 118 may duced), Hesperidine, Hydroxy-3-Methylbutyric Acid interact through use of numerous interfaces that utilize (HMB), 5-Hydroxytryptophan (L-5-HTP), Indole-3- hardwired methods, such as through use of a keyboard, use Carbinol, Inositol, Isothiocyanates, Linolenic Acid-Gamma of wireless methods, use of the internet, and the like. In some (GLA), Lipoic Acid (alpha), Melatonin, Methylsulfonyl embodiments, a user 118 may be a health-care worker. methane (MSM), Minerals, Naringin, Pancreatin, Para-ami Examples of such health-care workers include, but are not nobenzoic Acid (PABA), Paraben (methyl or propyl), Phe limited to, physicians, nurses, dieticians, pharmacists, and nolics, Phosphatidylcholine (Lecithin), Phosphatidylserine, the like. In some embodiments, users 118 may include those Phospholipids, Phytosterols, Pregersterone, Pregnenolone, persons who work in health-related fields, such as coaches, personal trainers, clerks at food Supplement stores, clerks at Quercetin, Resveratrol, D-Ribose, Rutin, S-adenosylme grocery stores, and the like. thionine (SAM-e), Salicylic Acid, Sulforaphane, Tartaric Acid, Taxifolin, Tetrahydropalmatine. Thephyline, Theobro Signal mine, Tigogenin, Troxerutin, Tryptophan, Tocotrienol (alph, 0058. The system 100 may include one or more signals beta & gamma), Vitamins, Zeaxanthin, Gingo Biloba, Gin 116. Numerous types of signals 116 may be transmitted. ger, Cat's Claw, Hypericum, Aloe Vera, Evening Primrose, Examples of such signals 116 include, but are not limited to, Garlic, Capsicum, Dong Quai, Ginseng, Feverview, hardwired signals 116, wireless signals 116, infrared signals Fenugreek, Echinacea, Green Tea, Marshmallow, Saw Pal 116, optical signals 116, radiofrequency (RF) signals 116, metto, Tea Tree Oil, Payllium, Kava-Kava, Licorice Root, audible signals 116, digital signals 116, analog signals 116. Manonia Aquifolium, Hawthorne, Hohimbr. Tumeric, Witch or Substantially any combination thereof. Hazel, Valerian, Mistletoe, Bilberry, Bee Pollen, Peppermint Oil, Beta-Carotene, Genistein, Lutein, Lycopene, the Display Unit Polyphenols (bioflavonoids), and the like. 0059. The system 100 may include one or more display 0055 Nutraceutical agents may also include microbes units 110. Numerous types of display units 110 may be used (i.e., probiotics). Examples of Such microbes include, but are in association with system 100. Examples of such display units 110 include, but are not limited to, liquid crystal not limited to, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus displays, printers, audible displays, cathode ray displays, plantarum, Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium bifidum, plasma display panels, Braille displays, and the like. In some Bifidobacterium longum, Saccharomyces boulardii, Saccha embodiments, display units 110 may display information in romyces cerevisiae, and the like (i.e., Samuel and Gordon, A numerous languages. Examples of Such languages include, humanized gnotobiotic mouse model of host-archaeal-bac but are not limited to, English, Spanish, German, Japanese, terial mutualism, PNAS, 103(26):10011-10016 (2006)). In Chinese, Italian, and the like. Some embodiments, nutraceutical agents may include non 0060. In some embodiments, one or more display units living microbes. For example, non-living Saccharomyces 110 may be physically coupled to one or more detection cerevisiae may be used as a source of vitamin B12. In some units 108. In some embodiments, one or more display units embodiments, recombinant microbes may be nutraceutical 110 may be remotely coupled to one or more detection units US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

108. For example, in some embodiments, one or more determined that produces a measurable effect, such as a display units 110 may receive one or more signals 116 from physical effect, a psychological effect, a physiological effect, one or more detection units 108 that are remotely positioned and the like. Accordingly, in Some embodiments, a dosage relative to the detection units 108. Accordingly, one or more may be expressed as an amount of a nutraceutical agent that display units 110 may be positioned in one or more locations produces a mental response in an individual. For example, in that are remote from the position where analysis of one or Some embodiments, a dosage may be the amount of a more nutraceutical associated components 104 takes place. nutraceutical agent that produces a sensation of well-being Examples of Such remote locations include, but are not when administered to an individual. In other embodiments, limited to, the offices of physicians, nurses, dieticians, a dosage may be the amount of a nutraceutical agent that pharmacists, coaches, personal trainers, clerks at food elevates the mood of an individual to whom the nutraceu Supplement stores, clerks at grocery stores, and the like. tical is to be administered. Numerous additional criteria may be used to determine the dosage of a nutraceutical for Recording Unit administration to an individual. 0064. In some embodiments, one or more display units 0061 The system 100 may include one or more recording 110 can indicate one or more dosages of one or more units 112. In some embodiments, one or more recording nutraceutical agents and one or more formulations of the one units 112 can communicate with one or more detection units or more nutraceutical agents. For example, in Some embodi 108, one or more display units 110, one or more user ments, one or more display units 110 may indicate a for interfaces 114, and/or substantially any combination thereof. mulation and dosage of chromium. Presently, the most Many types of recording units 112 may be used within widely available chromium Supplements are chromium salts system 100. Examples of such recording devices include Such as chromium polynicotinate, chromium picolinate, and those that utilize a recordable medium that includes, but is various chromium/amino acid chelates. Such formulations not limited to, many types of memory, optical disks, mag help increase the absorption and availability of chromium netic disks, magnetic tape, and the like. when compared to isolated chromium salts such as chro 0062. In some embodiments, one or more recording units mium chloride. The estimated safe and adequate daily 112 may be physically coupled to one or more detection dietary intake of chromium is 50-200 micrograms. Natural units 108. In some embodiments, one or more recording forms of Supplemental chromium, Such as chromium-rich units 112 may be physically coupled to one or more display yeast, may be absorbed somewhat more efficiently than units 110. In some embodiments, one or more recording inorganic forms of chromium, such as chromium chloride, units 112 may be remotely coupled to one or more detection found in some Supplements. One ounce of brewer's yeast units 108 and/or one or more display units 110. For example, provides approximately 100-200 micrograms of chromium. in some embodiments, one or more recording units 112 may Accordingly, in Some embodiments, one or more display receive one or more signals 116 from one or more detection units 110 may indicate a dosage of chromium and a corre units 108 and/or one or more display units 110 that are sponding formulation of the chromium. In another embodi remotely positioned relative to the one or more recording ment, one or more display units 110 may indicate a dosage units 112. Accordingly, one or more recording units 112 may of vitamin A. For vitamin A deficiency syndromes, vitamin be positioned in one or more locations that are remote from A may be orally supplemented at a dosage 122 of 600 the position where analysis of one or more nutraceutical micrograms for children aged 3 years or younger, 900 associated components 104 takes place. Examples of Such micrograms for children aged 4-8 years, 1700 micrograms remote locations include, but are not limited to, the offices for children aged 9-13 years, 2800 micrograms for persons of physicians, nurses, dieticians, pharmacists, coaches, per aged 14-18 years, and 3000 micrograms for all adults. Sonal trainers, clerks at food Supplement stores, clerks at Therapeutic doses for severe diseases include 60,000 micro grocery stores, and the like. grams, which has been shown to reduce child mortality rates by 35-70%. One or more display units 110 may indicate Dosage dosages for numerous types of nutraceutical agents that may 0063 Dosages may be expressed in numerous ways. In be formulated in numerous ways. Some embodiments, a dosage may be expressed as an 0065 FIG. 2 illustrates an operational flow 200 repre absolute quantity (i.e., 500 milligrams of a nutraceutical senting examples of operations that are related to the per agent). In other embodiments, a dosage may be expressed in formance of a method for analysis of one or more nutra accordance with the body weight of an individual (i.e., 10 ceutical associated components 104. In FIG. 2 and in milligram nutraceutical agent per kilogram body weight). In following figures that include various examples of opera Some embodiments, a dosage may be expressed as a range tions used during performance of the method, discussion and of quantities (i.e., 10 milligrams to 100 milligrams of a explanation may be provided with respect to the above nutraceutical agent). In some embodiments, a dosage may be described example of FIG. 1, and/or with respect to other an amount of a nutraceutical agent that produces a desired examples and contexts. However, it should be understood response when administered to a specific individual. For that the operations may be executed in a number of other example, a dosage of melatonin may be the amount of environments and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIG. melatonin that induces sleep in a specific individual. The 1. Also, although the various operations are presented in the dosage of a nutraceutical agent may vary according to sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the numerous considerations that include, but are not limited to, various operations may be performed in other orders than the route of administration, the age of the individual, the size those which are illustrated, or may be performed concur of the individual, the metabolic characteristics of the indi rently. vidual, the condition of the individual, and the like. In some 0066. After a start operation, the operational flow 200 embodiments, the dosage of a nutraceutical agent may be includes a processing operation 210 involving processing US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

one or more samples with one or more microfluidic chips units 110. In some embodiments, one or more detection units that are configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical 108 may be used to transmit one or more signals 116 to one associated components. In some embodiments, one or more or more recording units 112. microfluidic chips 106 that are configured for analysis of one 0068 FIG. 3 illustrates alternative embodiments of the or more nutraceutical associated components 104 may be example operational flow 200 of FIG. 2. FIG. 3 illustrates used to process one or more samples 102. In some embodi example embodiments where the processing operation 210 ments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may accept one may include at least one additional operation. Additional or more samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more operations may include an operation 302, an operation 304. microfluidic chips 106 may accept one or more samples 102 an operation 306, an operation 308, and/or an operation 310. acquired through use of one or more non-invasive tech 0069. At operation 302, the processing operation 210 niques. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic may include accepting the one or more samples. In some chips 106 may accept one or more samples 102 that include embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be at least one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, configured to accept one or more samples 102. For example, excrement, mucus, or Substantially any combination thereof. in some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 may include a needle to accept one or more blood and/or tissue samples In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 102. In some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 may may accept one or more samples 102 that include blood. In include a mouthpiece to accept one or more breath and/or some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may saliva samples 102. In some embodiments, a microfluidic be used to process one or more samples 102 utilizing chip 106 may include a scraper to accept one or more skin polynucleotide interaction, protein interaction, peptide inter and/or tissue samples 102. Accordingly, in some embodi action, antibody interaction, chemical interaction, diffusion, ments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may accept one filtration, chromatography, aptamer interaction, electrical or more samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more conductivity, isoelectric focusing, electrophoresis, immu microfluidic chips 106 may accept one or more samples 102 noassay, competition assay, or Substantially any combina that are collected through use of invasive techniques. Such tion thereof. In some embodiments, one or more microflu techniques include, but are not limited to, drawing blood, idic chips 106 may be used to process one or more samples obtaining mucus, obtaining tissue samples 102, and the like. 102 that include at least one of sweat, tears, urine, breath, In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 skin, hair, saliva, excrement, blood, mucus, or Substantially may accept one or more samples 102 that are collected any combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or through use of non-invasive techniques. Such techniques more microfluidic chips 106 may be used to process one or include, but are not limited to, collecting one or more more samples 102 that include at least one hormone, pro samples 102 that include breath, saliva, hair, Sweat, tears, hormone, polynucleotide, enzyme, protein, vitamin, min and the like. eral, metal, antioxidant, a Substantially any combination 0070. In some embodiments, individuals may collect one thereof. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic or more samples 102 from themselves. Accordingly, in some chips 106 may be used to process two or more samples 102 embodiments, system 100 may be used for point-of-care that are collected at two or more different times. In some analysis by an individual. In some embodiments, one or embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be more samples 102 may be processed by someone other than used to process one or more samples 102 that are configured the individual from whom the one or more samples 102 were for analysis of a single nutraceutical associated component collected. For example, in some embodiments, individuals may collect one or more samples 102 from themselves and 104. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips then send the one or more samples 102 for analysis by a 106 may provide for user interaction. person other than the individual from whom the samples 102 0067. The operational flow 200 includes a detecting were collected. In other embodiments, one or more samples operation 220 involving detecting the one or more nutra 102 may be collected from an individual and analyzed by a ceutical associated components with one or more detection person other than the individual. For example, a physician, units. In some embodiments, one or more detection units nurse, coach, nutritionist, personal trainer, or the like may 108 may be used to detect one or more nutraceutical collect one or more samples 102 from an individual and then associated components 104. In some embodiments, one or analyze the one or more samples 102 through use of system more detection units 108 may be used to detect one or more 1OO. nutraceutical associated components 104 with at least one 0071. At operation 304, the processing operation 210 technique that includes spectroscopy, electrochemical detec may include accepting the one or more samples acquired tion, polynucleotide detection, fluorescence resonance through use of one or more non-invasive techniques. In energy transfer, electron transfer, enzyme assay, electrical some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may conductivity, isoelectric focusing, chromatography, immu be configured to accept one or more samples 102 that were noprecipitation, immunoseparation, aptamer binding, filtra collected through use of non-invasive techniques. Such tion, electrophoresis, immunoassay, or Substantially any techniques include, but are not limited to, collecting one or combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or more more samples 102 from an individual that include breath, detection units 108 may be used to detect one or more saliva, hair, Sweat, tears, excrement, and the like. For nutraceutical associated components 104 that are associated example, in some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 with two or more samples 102 that were collected at two or may include a mouthpiece to accept breath and/or saliva more different times. In some embodiments, one or more samples 102. In some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 detection units 108 may provide for user interaction. In some may include a capillary tube to accept fluid samples 102. embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be used Such as Sweat, tears, urine, saliva, and the like. In some to transmit one or more signals 116 to one or more display embodiments, individuals may collect one or more samples US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

102 from themselves. Accordingly, in Some embodiments, other embodiments, one or more blood samples 102 may be system 100 may be used for point-of-care analysis by an collected from an individual and analyzed by a person other individual. In some embodiments, one or more samples 102 than the individual. For example, a physician, nurse, coach, may be analyzed by someone other than the individual from nutritionist, personal trainer, or the like may collect one or whom the one or more samples 102 were collected. For more blood samples 102 from an individual and then ana example, in some embodiments, individuals may collect one lyze the one or more blood samples 102 through use of or more samples 102 from themselves and then send the one system 100. or more samples 102 for analysis by a person other than the 0075. At operation 310, the processing operation 210 individual from whom the samples 102 were collected. In may include processing the one or more samples with one or other embodiments, one or more samples 102 may be more microfluidic chips that utilize polynucleotide interac collected from an individual and analyzed by a person other tion, protein interaction, peptide interaction, antibody inter than the individual. For example, a physician, nurse, coach, action, chemical interaction, diffusion, filtration, chromatog nutritionist, personal trainer, or the like may collect one or raphy, aptamer interaction, electrical conductivity, more samples 102 from an individual and then analyze the isoelectric focusing, electrophoresis, immunoassay, or com one or more samples 102 through use of system 100. petition assay. In some embodiments, one or more microf 0072 At operation 306, the processing operation 210 luidic chips 106 may process one or more samples 102 with may include accepting the one or more samples that include at least one technique that includes processing the one or at least one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, more samples 102 with one or more microfluidic chips 106 excrement, or mucus. In some embodiments, one or more that utilize polynucleotide interaction, protein interaction, microfluidic chips 106 may accept one or more samples 102 peptide interaction, antibody interaction, chemical interac that include at least one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, tion, diffusion, filtration, chromatography, aptamer interac hair, saliva, excrement, or mucus. In some embodiments, tion, electrical conductivity, isoelectric focusing, electro individuals may collect one or more samples 102 from phoresis, immunoassay, competition assay, or Substantially themselves. Accordingly, in some embodiments, system 100 any combination thereof. may be used for point-of-care analysis by an individual. In 0076. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic Some embodiments, one or more samples 102 may be chips 106 may process one or more samples 102 utilizing analyzed by someone other than the individual from whom polynucleotide interaction (Singh-Zocchi et al., Proc. Natl. the one or more samples 102 were collected. For example, Acad. Sci., 100:7605-7610 (2003) and Wang et al., Anal. in some embodiments, individuals may collect one or more Chem., 75:3941-3945 (2003)). Such polynucleotide interac samples 102 from themselves and then send the one or more tion may occur through hybridization of deoxyribonucleic samples 102 for analysis by a person other than the indi acid, ribonucleic acid, derivatives thereof, or substantially vidual from whom the samples 102 were collected. In other any combination thereof. In some embodiments, polynucle embodiments, one or more samples 102 may be collected otides may be configured as polynucleotide arrays. Methods from an individual and analyzed by a person other than the to construct polynucleotide arrays are known and have been individual. For example, a physician, nurse, coach, nutri used to construct various polynucleotide arrays (Affymetrix, tionist, personal trainer, or the like may collect one or more Santa Clara, Calif.). samples 102 from an individual and then analyze the one or 0077. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic more samples 102 through use of system 100. chips 106 may be configured to process one or more samples 0073. At operation 308, the processing operation 210 102 through use of competition assays. In some embodi may include accepting the one or more samples that include ments, a competition assay may utilize a reaction mixture blood. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic that may include a first fluorescently labeled component that chips 106 may be configured to accept one or more blood binds to a second fluorescently labeled component. The samples 102. For example, in Some embodiments, a microf presence of one or more unlabeled nutraceutical associated luidic chip 106 may include a needle that may be used to components 104 in the reaction mixture decreases the penetrate tissue to accept a blood sample 102. In some amount of labeled first component and labeled second embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 may include a capil component that bind to each other and thereby reduces lary tube that may be used to accept blood for analysis. Such fluorescence resonance energy transfer. Accordingly, detect a capillary tube may be used to accept blood for analysis ing the level of fluorescence resonance energy transfer by a without having to pierce the skin or other tissue of an detection unit 108 allows the amount of a nutraceutical individual. For example, Such a capillary tube may be used associated component 104 in a sample 102 to be determined. to accept a blood sample 102 for analysis by inserting the Numerous other configurations may be prepared that utilize capillary tube into a blood sample 102 resulting from a fluorescence resonance energy transfer by one or more finger Stick with a lancet. detection units 108. In some embodiments, fluorescence 0074. In some embodiments, individuals may collect one quenching may be used within a competition assay. In some or more blood samples 102 from themselves. Accordingly, embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be in some embodiments, system 100 may be used for point configured for competition assays where a sample 102 being of-care analysis by an individual. In some embodiments, one tested for one or more nutraceutical associated components or more blood samples 102 may be processed by someone 104 is mixed with a reaction mixture that includes one or other than the individual from whom the one or more more labeled components that are being tested. The mixed samples 102 were collected. For example, in some embodi reaction mixture is then passed over a field and/or array to ments, individuals may collect one or more blood samples which moieties that bind to the one or more nutraceutical 102 from themselves and then send the one or more blood associated components 104 and labeled components are samples 102 for processing by a person other than the immobilized. The one or more unlabeled nutraceutical asso individual from whom the samples 102 were collected. In ciated components 104 in the sample 102 will compete with US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

the one or more labeled components in the reaction mixture but are not limited to, gel filtration chromatography, ion for binding and will thereby decrease the amount of label exchange chromatography, affinity chromatography, and the bound within the field and/or array. Accordingly, the amount like. of one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 0082 In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic being tested for in the sample 102 may be indicated by a chips 106 may be configured to utilize filtration to process decrease in bound label. In some embodiments, such microf one or more nutraceutical associated components 104. For luidic chips 106 may include a control field and/or array. In example, one or more nutraceutical associated components some embodiments, such microfluidic chips 106 may be 104 may be processed based on their ability and/or inability calibrated prior to application of the sample 102 and there to pass through a filter. Such filters may separate nutraceu fore not include a control field and/or array. In some tical associated components 104 based on numerous prop embodiments, such fields and/or arrays may include poly erties. Examples of Such properties include, but are not nucleotides, proteins, peptides, nucleic acid aptamers, pep limited to, molecular weight, charge, hydrophobicity, hydro tide aptamers, antibodies, chemicals, chromatographic philicity, and the like. In some embodiments, one or more media, and other materials that may be used to separate one microfluidic chips 106 may be configured to use an H-filter or more nutraceutical associated components 104 from one to separate one or more nutraceutical associated components or more samples 102. Accordingly, fields and/or arrays may 104. Such H-filters have been described (U.S. Pat. Nos. include numerous types of moieties that may be used to 6,221,677; 6,695,147; 6,541,213; herein incorporated by detect numerous types of nutraceutical associated compo reference). nents 104. In some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 may be configured to process one or more samples 102 for 0083. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic one type of nutraceutical associated component 104. In chips 106 may be configured to utilize electrophoresis to some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 may be config process one or more nutraceutical associated components ured to process one or more samples 102 for one or more 104. Such methods are known in the art (Molecular Cloning: types of nutraceutical associated components 104. A Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory 0078. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic Press: 3rd edition (Jan. 15, 2001)). chips 106 may be configured to process one or more samples 0084. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic 102 through use of protein interaction. In some embodi chips 106 may be configured to utilize immunoassay to ments, such interaction may occur through binding interac process one or more nutraceutical associated components tion. In some embodiments, such interaction may include 104. Such methods are known in the art (Molecular Cloning: enzymatic activity. For example, a microfluidic chip 106 A Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory may include one or more enzymes that catalyze a reaction Press: 3rd edition (Jan. 15, 2001)). Combinations of numer that includes nutraceutical associated components 104 as a ous methods may be used to process one or more nutraceu Substrate or as a product. In some embodiments, a nutra tical associated components 104. ceutical associated component 104 may be assayed based on 0085 FIG. 4 illustrates alternative embodiments of the the ability to stimulate an enzyme. In some embodiments, a example operational flow 200 of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 illustrates nutraceutical associated component 104 may be assayed example embodiments where the processing operation 210 based on the ability to inhibit an enzyme. In some embodi may include at least one additional operation. Additional ments, such enzyme assays may be calorimetric assays. operations may include an operation 402, an operation 404. Accordingly, numerous types of enzyme assays may be an operation 406, an operation 408, and/or an operation 410. adapted for detection of one or more nutraceutical associated I0086. At operation 402, the processing operation 210 components 104. may include processing the one or more samples that include 0079. One or more microfluidic chips 106 may be con at least one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, figured to utilize electrical conductivity to assay one or more excrement, blood, or mucus. One or more microfluidic chips nutraceutical associated components 104. Briefly, in some 106 may be used to process one or more samples 102 that embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may include at least one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, include electrodes that may be directly coupled to a proces saliva, excrement, blood, mucus, or Substantially any com Sor so that the processor may determine the electrical bination thereof. In some embodiments, one or more conductivity between electrodes of a particular sensor (U.S. samples 102 may be processed through use of extraction Pat. Nos. 6,958.216 and 7,022,288; herein incorporated by methods to provide for detection of one or more nutraceu reference). tical associated components 104. For example, in some 0080. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic embodiments, nucleic acid may be extracted from a sample chips 106 may be configured to utilize isoelectric focusing 102. In other embodiments, one or more enzymes may be to process one or more nutraceutical associated components extracted from one or more samples 102. In some embodi 104 (i.e., U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,074,583; 7,046,357; 6,852,206; ments, one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 6,849,396; and 7,074,311; herein incorporated by refer may be solvent extracted from one or more samples 102. ence). Briefly, isoelectric focusing may be used to charac Numerous methods may be used to process one or more terize nutraceutical associated components 104. Such as samples 102. proteins, based on differences in their isoelectric points. The I0087. At operation 404, the processing operation 210 nutraceutical associated components 104 may then be sepa may include processing the one or more samples that include rated according to their position within a pH gradient. at least one hormone, prohormone, polynucleotide, enzyme, 0081) Numerous chromatographic methods may be used protein, vitamin, mineral, metal, or antioxidant. In some to process one or more nutraceutical associated components embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be 104. Examples of Such chromatographic methods include, used to process one or more samples 102 that include at least US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

one hormone, prohormone, polynucleotide, enzyme, pro to determine dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for tein, vitamin, mineral, metal, antioxidant, or Substantially administration to an individual or group of individuals. In any combination thereof. some embodiments, system 100 may be used to determine 0088. Examples of hormones that may be processed one or more metabolic responses to one or more nutraceu through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, tical agents by an individual or group of individuals. but are not limited to, testosterone (free and/or bound), 0097. At operation 408, the processing operation 210 estrogen, androgens, estradiol, progesterone, melatonin, may include processing the one or more samples with one or serotonin, follicle stimulating hormone, dehydroepiandros more microfluidic chips that are configured for analysis of a terone (DHEA), 5-HTP cortisol, thyroid stimulating hor single nutraceutical associated component. In some embodi mone, human chorionic gonadotropin, prohormones thereof, ments, a microfluidic chip 106 may be configured for or Substantially any combination thereof. analysis of a single nutraceutical associated component 104. 0089. Examples of polynucleotides that may be pro For example, in some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 cessed through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be configured for analysis of testosterone in at least one include, but are not limited to, those that encode hormones, sample 102. In some embodiments, such a microfluidic chip enzymes involved in oxidative pathways, enzymes involved 106 may be configured for analysis of free versus bound in metabolic pathways, and the like. testosterone. In some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 0090. Examples of enzymes that may be processed may be configured for analysis of estrogen in at least one through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, sample 102. Accordingly, microfluidic chips 106 may be but are not limited to, enzymes involved in oxidative path configured for analysis of numerous types of nutraceutical ways, enzymes involved in metabolic pathways, or Substan associated components 104. tially any combination thereof. 0098. At operation 410, the processing operation 210 0091 Examples of proteins that may be processed may include providing for user interaction. In some embodi through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, ments, a microfluidic chip 106 may provide for user inter but are not limited to, proteins linked to urinary tract action. For example, in Some embodiments, a microfluidic infection, prostate specific antigen, microalbumin, hemoglo chip 106 may include a receiver that receives signals 116 bin, or Substantially any combination thereof. that are transmitted in response to a user interface 114. Such 0092. Examples of vitamins that may be processed signals 116 may direct the microfluidic chip 106 to act in through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, accordance with commands input by a user 118. In some but are not limited to, Vitamin A, B vitamins, C Vitamins, embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 may include one or Vitamin D, E vitamins, vitamin K, or Substantially any more user interfaces 114 that provide for direct interaction combination thereof. with a user 118. Examples of such user interfaces 114 0093 Examples of minerals that may be processed include, but are not limited to, ports for accepting samples through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, 102, ports for accepting reagents, electrical connections, but are not limited to, calcium, chromium, cobalt, copper, couplings, and the like. In some embodiments, electrical iodine, magnesium, manganese, selenium, strontium, Sulfur, connections may be configured for accepting various Zinc, or Substantially any combination thereof. devices that may be used for numerous purposes, such as to 0094. Examples of metals that may be processed through control or monitor a microfluidic chip 106. In some embodi use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, but are ments, couplings may be configured for attachment to not limited to, aluminum, antimony, arsenic, bismuth, cad Syringes, pumps, sample loops, needles, and the like. mium, lead, mercury, nickel, tin, or Substantially any com 0099 FIG. 5 illustrates alternative embodiments of the bination thereof. example operational flow 200 of FIG. 2. FIG. 5 illustrates 0095 Examples of antioxidants that may be processed example embodiments where the detecting operation 220 through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, may include at least one additional operation. Additional but are not limited to, vitamin A, vitamin C. vitamin E, alpha operations may include an operation 502, an operation 504, lipoic acid, coenzyme Q-10, or Substantially any combina an operation 506, an operation 508, and/or an operation 510. tion thereof. 0100. At operation 502, the detecting operation 220 may 0096. At operation 406, the processing operation 210 include detecting the one or more nutraceutical associated may include processing two or more samples that are components with at least one technique that includes spec collected at two or more different times. In some embodi troscopy, electrochemical detection, polynucleotide detec ments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be used to tion, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, electron trans process two or more samples 102 that are collected at two or fer, enzyme assay, electrical conductivity, isoelectric more different times. For example, a first sample 102 may be focusing, chromatography, immunoprecipitation, immun processed that was collected at a first time and a second oSeparation, aptamer binding, filtration, electrophoresis, or sample 102 may be processed that was collected at a second immunoassay. In some embodiments, one or more detection time. Numerous samples 102 and time points may be units 108 may detect one or more nutraceutical associated processed through use of microfluidic chips 106. Accord components 104 with at least one technique that includes ingly, in Some embodiments, the presence or absence of one spectroscopy, electrochemical detection, polynucleotide or more nutraceutical associated components 104 at two or detection, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, electron more times may be determined. In some embodiments, an transfer, enzyme assay, electrical conductivity, isoelectric increase or decrease in a nutraceutical associated component focusing, chromatography, immunoprecipitation, immun 104 in a time relevant manner may be determined. Such an oSeparation, aptamer binding, filtration, electrophoresis, or increase or decrease in a nutraceutical associated component immunoassay. Numerous spectroscopy based methods may 104 may be determined through detection of concentration, be used by one or more detection units 108. Examples of activity, and the like. Accordingly, system 100 may be used Such spectroscopic methods include, but are not limited to, US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008 mass spectroscopy, atomic absorption spectroscopy, nuclear affinity chromatography, and the like. In some embodiments, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, fluorescence spectros immunoseparation may be used to detect one or more copy, light absorbance, light transmittance, infrared spec nutraceutical associated components 104. Briefly, one or troscopy, raman spectroscopy, electron spin resonance, plas more nutraceutical associated components 104 may be mon resonance spectroscopy, ultraviolet light spectroscopy, detected upon binding to an antibody or an antibody frag visible light spectroscopy, and the like. Electrochemical ment. In some embodiments, aptamer binding may be used detection may be utilized by one or more detection units 108 to detect one or more nutraceutical associated components in some embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, 104. Briefly, one or more nutraceutical associated compo one or more detection units 108 may detect conductivity, nents 104 may be detected upon binding to an aptamer. electromotive force, oxidation potential, reduction potential, Numerous types of aptamers may be utilized to detect redox current, and the like (i.e., Xiao et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. nutraceutical associated components 104. Examples of Sci., 103:16677-16680 (2006) and Fan et al., Proc. Natl. aptamers include, but are not limited to, peptide aptamers Acad. Sci., 100:9134-9137 (2003)). In some embodiments, and polynucleotide aptamers. In some embodiments, filtra one or more microfluidic chips 106 may detect polynucle tion may be used to detect one or more nutraceutical otide binding (Singh-Zocchi et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., associated components 104. For example, one or more 100:7605-7610 (2003) and Wang et al., Anal. Chem. nutraceutical associated components 104 may be detected 75:3941-3945 (2003)). Such polynucleotide binding may based on their ability and/or inability to pass through a filter. occur through hybridization of deoxyribonucleic acid, ribo Such filters may separate nutraceutical associated compo nucleic acid, and derivatives thereof. In some embodiments, nents 104 based on numerous properties. Examples of Such one or more detection units 108 may detect fluorescent properties include, but are not limited to, molecular weight, resonance energy transfer. For example, one or more microf charge, hydrophobicity, hydrophilicity, and the like. In some luidic chips 106 may be configured for analysis of one or embodiments, electrophoresis may be used to detect one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 through use more nutraceutical associated components 104. Such meth of competition assays. Such competition assays may utilize ods are known in the art (Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory a reaction mixture that may include a first fluorescently Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press; 3rd edition labeled component that binds to a second fluorescently (Jan. 15, 2001)). In some embodiments, immunoassay may labeled component. The presence of unlabeled component in be used to detect one or more nutraceutical associated the reaction mixture decreases the amount of labeled first components 104. Such methods are known in the art (Mo component and labeled second component that bind to each lecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor other and thereby reduces fluorescence resonance energy Laboratory Press; 3rd edition (Jan. 15, 2001)). Combina transfer. Accordingly, detecting the level of fluorescence tions of numerous methods may be used to detect one or resonance energy transfer by a detection unit 108 allows the more nutraceutical associated components 104. For amount of a component in a sample 102 to be determined. example, in some embodiments, electrophoresis may be Numerous other configurations may be prepared that utilize combined with colorimetric methods. fluorescence resonance energy transfer by one or more 0101. At operation 504, the detecting operation 220 may detection units 108. Electron transfer may be utilized by one include detecting the one or more nutraceutical associated or more detection units 108 (Fan et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. components at two or more different times. In some embodi Sci., 100:9134-9137 (2003)). One or more detection units ments, one or more detection units 108 may be used to detect 108 may detect numerous types of enzyme assays. For one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 at two example, in some embodiments, such enzyme assays may be or more different times. In some embodiments, two or more colorimetric assays. In some embodiments, one or more samples 102 that include one or more nutraceutical associ nutraceutical associated components 104 that stimulate or ated components 104 may be collected from an individual at inhibit the activity of an enzyme may be detected. Accord two or more different times and analyzed. Accordingly, ingly, numerous types of enzyme assays may be adapted for changes in the one or more nutraceutical associated com detection of one or more nutraceutical associated compo ponents 104 may be followed relative to time. Such changes nents 104. Electrical conductivity may be detected by one or include, but are not limited to, changes in activity, concen more detection units 108. Briefly, in some embodiments, tration, and the like. In some embodiments, such changes electrodes may be directly coupled to a processor so that the may occur in response to an event. For example, in some processor may determine the electrical conductivity between embodiments, one or more nutraceutical associated compo electrodes of a particular sensor (U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,958.216 nents 104 may change in response to administration of one and 7,022.288; herein incorporated by reference). In some or more nutraceutical agents to an individual. In some embodiments, isoelectric focusing may be used to detect one embodiments, a nutraceutical associated component 104 is a or more nutraceutical associated components 104 (i.e., U.S. nutraceutical agent. Accordingly, in Some embodiments, Pat. Nos. 7,074,583; 7,046,357; 6,852,206; 6,849,396; and system 100 may be used to determine the concentration of 7,074.311; herein incorporated by reference). Briefly, iso one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 fol electric focusing may be used to characterize nutraceutical lowing administration of one or more nutraceutical agents to associated components 104. Such as proteins, based on an individual. In some embodiments, system 100 may be differences in their isoelectric points. The nutraceutical used to determine the concentration of one or more nutra associated components 104 may then be detected according ceutical associated components 104 following an event or to their position within a pH gradient. Numerous chromato stimulus to which an individual is exposed. For example, the graphic methods may be used to detect one or more nutra concentration and/or activity of one or more nutraceutical ceutical associated components 104. Examples of Such agents may be determined during and/or following exercise, chromatographic methods include, but are not limited to, gel food intake, pharmaceutical intake, or ingestion of other filtration chromatography, ion-exchange chromatography, Substances by an individual. Accordingly, in Some embodi US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

ments, system 100 may be used to monitor nutraceutical that are configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 that are affected by an individu associated components. In some embodiments, one or more als metabolism. microfluidic chips 106 that are configured for analysis of one 0102 At operation 506, the detecting operation 220 may or more nutraceutical associated components 104 may be include providing for user interaction. In some embodi used to process one or more samples 102. In some embodi ments, one or more detection units 108 may provide for user ments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may accept one interaction. In some embodiments, one or more detection or more samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more units 108 may include one or more user interfaces 114. A microfluidic chips 106 may accept one or more samples 102 detection unit 108 may include numerous types of user acquired through use of one or more non-invasive tech interfaces 114. Examples of such user interfaces 114 include, niques. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic but are not limited to, user interfaces 114 that utilize chips 106 may accept one or more samples 102 that include hardwired methods, such as keyboards, touch screens, per at least one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, Sonal digital assistant interfaces, telephone interfaces, elec excrement, mucus, or Substantially any combination thereof. tronic writing pads, voice recognition interfaces, and the In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 like. User interfaces 114 may also include, but are not may accept one or more samples 102 that include blood. In limited to, user interfaces 114 that utilize numerous wireless some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may methods, Such as use of the internet, mobile telephones, be used to process one or more samples 102 utilizing personal digital assistants, and the like. In some embodi polynucleotide interaction, protein interaction, peptide inter ments, user interaction may include input of parameters action, antibody interaction, chemical interaction, diffusion, associated with an individual. Examples of Such parameters filtration, chromatography, aptamer interaction, electrical include, but are not limited to, one or more individuals conductivity, isoelectric focusing, electrophoresis, immu height, weight, age, fat percentage, physical fitness level. noassay, competition assay, or Substantially any combina known allergies, activities, schedule, pharmaceutical inges tion thereof. In some embodiments, one or more microflu tion, nutraceutical ingestion, food ingestion, alcohol con idic chips 106 may be used to process one or more samples Sumption, and the like. 102 that include at least one of sweat, tears, urine, breath, 0103) At operation 508, the detecting operation 220 may skin, hair, saliva, excrement, blood, mucus, or Substantially include transmitting one or more signals to one or more any combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or display units. In some embodiments, one or more detection more microfluidic chips 106 may be used to process one or units 108 may transmit one or more signals 116 to one or more samples 102 that include at least one hormone, pro more display units 110. Examples of such signals 116 hormone, polynucleotide, enzyme, protein, vitamin, min include, but are not limited to, hardwired signals 116, eral, metal, antioxidant, a Substantially any combination wireless signals 116, infrared signals 116, optical signals thereof. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic 116, radiofrequency (RF) signals 116, audible signals 116, chips 106 may be used to process two or more samples 102 digital signals 116, analog signals 116, or Substantially any that are collected at two or more different times. In some combination thereof. embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be 0104. At operation 510, the detecting operation 220 may used to process one or more samples 102 that are configured include transmitting one or more signals to one or more for analysis of a single nutraceutical associated component recording units. In some embodiments, one or more detec 104. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips tion units 108 may transmit one or more signals 116 to one 106 may provide for user interaction. or more recording units 112. Examples of Such signals 116 0107 The operational flow 600 includes a detecting include, but are not limited to, hardwired signals 116, operation 620 involving detecting the one or more nutra wireless signals 116, infrared signals 116, optical signals ceutical associated components with one or more detection 116, radiofrequency (RF) signals 116, audible signals 116, units. In some embodiments, one or more detection units digital signals 116, analog signals 116, or Substantially any 108 may be used to detect one or more nutraceutical combination thereof. associated components 104. In some embodiments, one or 0105 FIG. 6 illustrates an operational flow 600 repre more detection units 108 may be used to detect one or more senting examples of operations that are related to the per nutraceutical associated components 104 with at least one formance of a method for analysis of one or more nutra technique that includes spectroscopy, electrochemical detec ceutical associated components 104. In FIG. 6 and in tion, polynucleotide detection, fluorescence resonance following figures that include various examples of opera energy transfer, electron transfer, enzyme assay, electrical tions used during performance of the method, discussion and conductivity, isoelectric focusing, chromatography, immu explanation may be provided with respect to the above noprecipitation, immunoseparation, aptamer binding, filtra described example of FIG. 1, and/or with respect to other tion, electrophoresis, immunoassay, or Substantially any examples and contexts. However, it should be understood combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or more that the operations may be executed in a number of other detection units 108 may be used to detect one or more environments and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIG. nutraceutical associated components 104 that are associated 1. Also, although the various operations are presented in the with two or more samples 102 that were collected at two or sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the more different times. In some embodiments, one or more various operations may be performed in other orders than detection units 108 may provide for user interaction. In some those which are illustrated, or may be performed concur embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be used rently. to transmit one or more signals 116 to one or more display 0106. After a start operation, the operational flow 600 units 110. In some embodiments, one or more detection units includes a processing operation 610 involving processing 108 may be used to transmit one or more signals 116 to one one or more samples with one or more microfluidic chips or more recording units 112. US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

0108. The operational flow 600 includes a displaying absent within one or more samples 102. For example, in operation 630 involving displaying results of the detecting some embodiments, system 100 may be used to determine if with one or more display units that are operably coupled one or more nutraceutical associated components 104. Such with the one or more detection units. In some embodiments, as one or more nutraceutical agents, are present or absent one or more display units 110 may be used to display the from one or more food Supplements, foods, bodily samples results of the detecting. In some embodiments, one or more 102, and the like. display units 110 may be used to display results in human 0113. At operation 708, the displaying operation 630 may readable format. In some embodiments, one or more display include displaying one or more concentrations of the one or units 110 may be used to display results in machine-readable more nutraceutical associated components. In some embodi format. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 ments, one or more display units 110 may display one or may be used to display if one or more nutraceutical asso more concentrations of one or more nutraceutical associated ciated components are present or absent within one or more components 104 that are present or absent within one or samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more display more samples 102. Concentrations of one or more nutraceu units 110 may be used to display one or more concentrations tical associated components 104 may be displayed in numer of one or more nutraceutical associated components 104. In ous formats. For example, in some embodiments, concen Some embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be tration may be expressed in quantity terms that include, but used to receive one or more signals 116 from one or more are not limited to, grams, milligrams, nanograms, and the detection units 108. In some embodiments, one or more like. In some embodiments, concentrations may be display units 110 may be used to display one or more expressed in quantity per volume of sample 102. For concentrations of one or more nutraceutical associated com example, in Some embodiments, concentration may be ponents 104 associated with two or more samples 102 that expressed as molarity, molality, grams per liter, milligrams were collected at two or more different times. In some per liter, milligrams per deciliter, and the like. embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be used to 0114. At operation 710, the displaying operation 630 may display one or more messages indicating one or more include receiving one or more signals from the one or more dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for Supplemen detection units. In some embodiments, one or more display tation of an individual. In some embodiments, one or more units 110 may receive one or more signals 116 from one or display units 110 may provide for user interaction. In some more detection units 108. Examples of such signals 116 embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be used to include, but are not limited to, hardwired signals 116, transmit one or more signals 116 to one or more display units wireless signals 116, infrared signals 116, optical signals 110. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 116, radiofrequency (RF) signals 116, audible signals 116, may be used to transmit one or more signals 116 to one or digital signals 116, analog signals 116, or Substantially any more recording units 112. combination thereof. 0109 FIG. 7 illustrates alternative embodiments of the 0115 FIG. 8 illustrates alternative embodiments of the example operational flow 600 of FIG. 6. FIG. 7 illustrates example operational flow 600 of FIG. 6. FIG. 8 illustrates example embodiments where the displaying operation 630 example embodiments where the displaying operation 630 may include at least one additional operation. Additional may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include an operation 702, an operation 704, operations may include an operation 802, an operation 804, an operation 706, an operation 708, and/or an operation 710. an operation 806, an operation 808, and/or an operation 810. 0110. At operation 702, the displaying operation 630 may 0116. At operation 802, the displaying operation 630 may include displaying the results in human-readable format. In include displaying one or more concentrations of the one or Some embodiments, one or more display units 110 may more nutraceutical associated components at two or more display one or more results in human-readable format. different times. In some embodiments, one or more display Examples of human-readable formats include, but are not units 110 may display one or more concentrations of one or limited to, written language, Verbal communications, Braille more nutraceutical associated components 104 at two or output, pictographic output, graphical output, colorographic more different times. In some embodiments, one or more output, and the like. display units 110 may display one or more concentrations of 0111. At operation 704, the displaying operation 630 may one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 include displaying the results in machine-readable format. In present within two or more samples 102 that were collected Some embodiments, one or more display units 110 may at two or more different times. In some embodiments, one or display one or more results in machine-readable format. more display units 110 may display two or more concen Examples of machine-readable formats include, but are not trations of one or more nutraceutical associated components limited to, electrical signals 116, bar codes, graphical pat 104 in graphical form. For example, in Some embodiments, terns, punch cards, encoding on a computer-readable concentrations may be displayed as a bar graph, a line graph, medium, magnetic encoding, digital coding, optical coding, a pie chart, and the like. Accordingly, in Some embodiments, and the like. a user 118 may plot two or more concentrations of one or 0112 At operation 706, the displaying operation 630 may more nutraceutical associated components 104. Numerous include displaying if the one or more nutraceutical associ plot formats may be used. Examples of Such formats ated components are present or absent within the one or include, but are not limited to, concentration versus time more samples. In some embodiments, one or more display from ingestion of one or more nutraceutical agents, concen units 110 may display if one or more nutraceutical associ tration versus time from an event. Such as exercise, sleep, ated components 104 that are present or absent within one or injury, and the like. Accordingly, in some embodiments, more samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more system 100 may be used to predict the concentration of one display units 110 may display the identity of one or more or more nutraceutical agents within a sample 102 obtained nutraceutical associated components 104 that are present or from an individual at one or more times. For example, in US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

Some embodiments, an individual can predict the concen recording units. In some embodiments, one or more display tration of one or more nutraceutical associated components units 110 may transmit one or more signals 116 to one or 104 in blood samples 102 obtained from an individual more recording units 112. In some embodiments, one or following ingestion of one or more nutraceutical agents. more display units 110 may transmit one or more signals 116 0117. At operation 804, the displaying operation 630 may to one or more recording units 112. Examples of such signals include displaying one or more messages indicating one or 116 include, but are not limited to, hardwired signals 116, more dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for wireless signals 116, infrared signals 116, optical signals Supplementation of an individual. In some embodiments, 116, radiofrequency (RF) signals 116, audible signals 116, one or more display units 110 may display one or more digital signals 116, analog signals 116, or Substantially any messages indicating one or more dosages of one or more combination thereof. nutraceutical agents for Supplementation of an individual. In I0121 FIG. 9 illustrates an operational flow 900 repre some embodiments, system 100 may be used to determine senting examples of operations that are related to the per one or more concentrations of one or more nutraceutical formance of a method for analysis of one or more nutra associated components 104 included within one or more ceutical associated components 104. In FIG. 9 and in samples 102 obtained from an individual and then display following figures that include various examples of opera one or more concentrations of one or more nutraceutical tions used during performance of the method, discussion and agents for Supplementation of the individual. For example, explanation may be provided with respect to the above in some embodiments, the concentration of calcium may be described example of FIG. 1, and/or with respect to other determined to be low in a sample 102 obtained from an examples and contexts. However, it should be understood individual and the display unit 110 may indicate a dosage of that the operations may be executed in a number of other a calcium Supplement for administration to the individual. environments and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIG. Accordingly, one or more display units 110 may display one 1. Also, although the various operations are presented in the or more dosages of numerous types of nutraceutical agents sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the for administration to one or more individuals. various operations may be performed in other orders than 0118. At operation 806, the displaying operation 630 may those which are illustrated, or may be performed concur include providing for user interaction. In some embodi rently. ments, one or more display units 110 may provide for user 0.122 The operational flow 900 includes a detecting interaction. In some embodiments, one or more display units operation 910 involving detecting one or more nutraceutical 110 may include one or more user interfaces 114. A display associated components with one or more detection units. In unit 110 may include numerous types of user interfaces 114. some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be Examples of such user interfaces 114 include, but are not used to detect one or more nutraceutical associated compo limited to, user interfaces 114 that utilize hardwired meth nents 104. In some embodiments, one or more detection ods, Such as keyboards, touch screens, personal digital units 108 may be used to detect one or more nutraceutical assistant interfaces, telephone interfaces, electronic writing associated components 104 with at least one technique that pads, Voice recognition interfaces, and the like. User inter includes spectroscopy, electrochemical detection, poly faces 114 may also include, but are not limited to, user nucleotide detection, fluorescence resonance energy trans interfaces 114 that utilize numerous wireless methods, such fer, electron transfer, enzyme assay, electrical conductivity, as use of the internet, mobile telephones, personal digital isoelectric focusing, chromatography, immunoprecipitation, assistants, and the like. In some embodiments, user interac immunoseparation, aptamer binding, filtration, electro tion may include input of parameters associated with an phoresis, immunoassay, or Substantially any combination individual. Examples of such parameters include, but are not thereof. In some embodiments, one or more detection units limited to, one or more individuals height, weight, age, fat 108 may be used to detect one or more nutraceutical percentage, physical fitness level, known allergies, activi associated components 104 that are associated with two or ties, schedule, pharmaceutical ingestion, nutraceutical more samples 102 that were collected at two or more ingestion, food ingestion, alcohol consumption, and the like. different times. In some embodiments, one or more detection 0119. At operation 808, the displaying operation 630 may units 108 may provide for user interaction. In some embodi include transmitting one or more signals to the one or more ments, one or more detection units 108 may be used to display units. In some embodiments, one or more display transmit one or more signals 116 to one or more display units units 110 may transmit one or more signals 116 to one or 110. In some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 more display units 110. Examples of such signals 116 may be used to transmit one or more signals 116 to one or include, but are not limited to, hardwired signals 116, more recording units 112. wireless signals 116, infrared signals 116, optical signals I0123. The operational flow 900 includes a displaying 116, radiofrequency (RF) signals 116, audible signals 116, operation 920 involving displaying results of the detecting digital signals 116, analog signals 116, or Substantially any with one or more display units that are operably coupled combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or more with the one or more detection units. In some embodiments, display units 110 may transmit one or more signals 116 to one or more display units 110 may be used to display the one or more remote display units 110. For example, in some results of the detecting. In some embodiments, one or more embodiments, one or more display units 110 may transmit display units 110 may be used to display results in human one or more signals 116 to one or more remote display units readable format. In some embodiments, one or more display 110 that are located in the office of a physician, nurse, units 110 may be used to display results in machine-readable dietician, pharmacist, coach, personal trainer, clerk at a food format. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 Supplement store, clerk at a grocery store, and the like. may be used to display if one or more nutraceutical asso 0120 At operation 810, the displaying operation 630 may ciated components are present or absent within one or more include transmitting one or more signals to one or more samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more display US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

units 110 may be used to display one or more concentrations one or more detection units 108 may detect fluorescent of one or more nutraceutical associated components 104. In resonance energy transfer. For example, one or more microf Some embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be luidic chips 106 may be configured for analysis of one or used to receive one or more signals 116 from one or more more nutraceutical associated components 104 through use detection units 108. In some embodiments, one or more of competition assays. Such competition assays may utilize display units 110 may be used to display one or more a reaction mixture that may include a first fluorescently concentrations of one or more nutraceutical associated com labeled component that binds to a second fluorescently ponents 104 associated with two or more samples 102 that labeled component. The presence of unlabeled component in were collected at two or more different times. In some the reaction mixture decreases the amount of labeled first embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be used to component and labeled second component that bind to each display one or more messages indicating one or more other and thereby reduces fluorescence resonance energy dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for Supplemen transfer. Accordingly, detecting the level of fluorescence tation of an individual. In some embodiments, one or more resonance energy transfer by a detection unit 108 allows the display units 110 may provide for user interaction. In some amount of a component in a sample 102 to be determined. embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be used to Numerous other configurations may be prepared that utilize transmit one or more signals 116 to one or more display units fluorescence resonance energy transfer by one or more 110. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 detection units 108. Electron transfer may be utilized by one may be used to transmit one or more signals 116 to one or or more detection units 108 (Fan et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. more recording units 112. Sci., 100:9134-9137 (2003)). One or more detection units 012.4 FIG. 10 illustrates alternative embodiments of the 108 may detect numerous types of enzyme assays. For example operational flow 900 of FIG. 9. FIG. 10 illustrates example, in Some embodiments, such enzyme assays may be example embodiments where the detecting operation 910 colorimetric assays. In some embodiments, one or more may include at least one additional operation. Additional nutraceutical associated components 104 that stimulate or operations may include an operation 1002, an operation inhibit the activity of an enzyme may be detected. Accord 1004, an operation 1006, an operation 1008, and/or an ingly, numerous types of enzyme assays may be adapted for operation 1010. detection of one or more nutraceutical associated compo 0.125. At operation 1002, the detecting operation 910 may nents 104. Electrical conductivity may be detected by one or include detecting the one or more nutraceutical associated more detection units 108. Briefly, in some embodiments, components with at least one technique that includes spec electrodes may be directly coupled to a processor so that the troscopy, electrochemical detection, polynucleotide detec processor may determine the electrical conductivity between tion, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, electron trans electrodes of a particular sensor (U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,958.216 fer, enzyme assay, electrical conductivity, isoelectric and 7,022,288; herein incorporated by reference). In some focusing, chromatography, immunoprecipitation, immun embodiments, isoelectric focusing may be used to detect one oSeparation, aptamer binding, filtration, electrophoresis, or or more nutraceutical associated components 104 (i.e., U.S. immunoassay. In some embodiments, one or more detection Pat. Nos. 7,074,583; 7,046,357; 6,852,206; 6,849,396; and units 108 may detect one or more nutraceutical associated 7,074.311; herein incorporated by reference). Briefly, iso components 104 with at least one technique that includes electric focusing may be used to characterize nutraceutical spectroscopy, electrochemical detection, polynucleotide associated components 104. Such as proteins, based on detection, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, electron differences in their isoelectric points. The nutraceutical transfer, enzyme assay, electrical conductivity, isoelectric associated components 104 may then be detected according focusing, chromatography, immunoprecipitation, immun to their position within a pH gradient. Numerous chromato oSeparation, aptamer binding, filtration, electrophoresis, or graphic methods may be used to detect one or more nutra immunoassay. Numerous spectroscopy based methods may ceutical associated components 104. Examples of Such be used by one or more detection units 108. Examples of chromatographic methods include, but are not limited to, gel Such spectroscopic methods include, but are not limited to, filtration chromatography, ion-exchange chromatography, mass spectroscopy, atomic absorption spectroscopy, nuclear affinity chromatography, and the like. In some embodiments, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, fluorescence spectros immunoseparation may be used to detect one or more copy, light absorbance, light transmittance, infrared spec nutraceutical associated components 104. Briefly, one or troscopy, raman spectroscopy, electron spin resonance, plas more nutraceutical associated components 104 may be mon resonance spectroscopy, ultraviolet light spectroscopy, detected upon binding to an antibody or an antibody frag visible light spectroscopy, and the like. Electrochemical ment. In some embodiments, aptamer binding may be used detection may be utilized by one or more detection units 108 to detect one or more nutraceutical associated components in some embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, 104. Briefly, one or more nutraceutical associated compo one or more detection units 108 may detect conductivity, nents 104 may be detected upon binding to an aptamer. electromotive force, oxidation potential, reduction potential, Numerous types of aptamers may be utilized to detect redox current, and the like (i.e., Xiao et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. nutraceutical associated components 104. Examples of Sci., 103:16677-16680 (2006) and Fan et al., Proc. Natl. aptamers include, but are not limited to, peptide aptamers Acad. Sci., 100:9134-9137 (2003)). In some embodiments, and polynucleotide aptamers. In some embodiments, filtra one or more microfluidic chips 106 may detect polynucle tion may be used to detect one or more nutraceutical otide binding (Singh-Zocchi et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., associated components 104. For example, one or more 100:7605-7610 (2003) and Wang et al., Anal. Chem. nutraceutical associated components 104 may be detected 75:3941-3945 (2003)). Such polynucleotide binding may based on their ability and/or inability to pass through a filter. occur through hybridization of deoxyribonucleic acid, ribo Such filters may separate nutraceutical associated compo nucleic acid, and derivatives thereof. In some embodiments, nents 104 based on numerous properties. Examples of Such US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008 properties include, but are not limited to, molecular weight, associated with an individual. Examples of Such parameters charge, hydrophobicity, hydrophilicity, and the like. In some include, but are not limited to, one or more individuals embodiments, electrophoresis may be used to detect one or height, weight, age, fat percentage, physical fitness level. more nutraceutical associated components 104. Such meth known allergies, activities, schedule, pharmaceutical inges ods are known in the art (Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory tion, nutraceutical ingestion, food ingestion, alcohol con Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press; 3rd edition Sumption, and the like. (Jan. 15, 2001)). In some embodiments, immunoassay may I0128. At operation 1008, the detecting operation 910 may be used to detect one or more nutraceutical associated include transmitting one or more signals to the one or more components 104. Such methods are known in the art (Mo lecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor display units. In some embodiments, one or more detection Laboratory Press; 3rd edition (Jan. 15, 2001)). Combina units 108 may transmit one or more signals 116 to one or tions of numerous methods may be used to detect one or more display units 110. Examples of such signals 116 more nutraceutical associated components 104. For include, but are not limited to, hardwired signals 116, example, in some embodiments, electrophoresis may be wireless signals 116, infrared signals 116, optical signals combined with colorimetric methods. 116, radiofrequency (RF) signals 116, audible signals 116, 0126. At operation 1004, the detecting operation 910 may digital signals 116, analog signals 116, or Substantially any include detecting the one or more nutraceutical associated combination thereof. components at two or more different times. In some embodi I0129. At operation 1010, the detecting operation 910 may ments, one or more detection units 108 may be used to detect include transmitting one or more signals to one or more one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 at two recording units. In some embodiments, one or more detec or more different times. In some embodiments, two or more tion units 108 may transmit one or more signals 116 to one samples 102 that include one or more nutraceutical associ or more recording units 112. Examples of Such signals 116 ated components 104 may be collected from an individual at include, but are not limited to, hardwired signals 116, two or more different times and analyzed. Accordingly, wireless signals 116, infrared signals 116, optical signals changes in the one or more nutraceutical associated com 116, radiofrequency (RF) signals 116, audible signals 116, ponents 104 may be followed relative to time. Such changes digital signals 116, analog signals 116, or Substantially any include, but are not limited to, changes in activity, concen combination thereof. tration, and the like. In some embodiments, such changes may occur in response to an event. For example, in some 0.130 FIG. 11 illustrates alternative embodiments of the embodiments, one or more nutraceutical associated compo example operational flow 900 of FIG. 9. FIG. 11 illustrates nents 104 may change in response to administration of one example embodiments where the displaying operation 920 or more nutraceutical agents to an individual. In some may include at least one additional operation. Additional embodiments, a nutraceutical associated component 104 is a operations may include an operation 1102, an operation nutraceutical agent. Accordingly, in Some embodiments, 1104, an operation 1106, an operation 1108, and/or an system 100 may be used to determine the concentration of operation 1110. one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 fol I0131. At operation 1102, the displaying operation 920 lowing administration of one or more nutraceutical agents to may include displaying the results in human-readable for an individual. In some embodiments, system 100 may be mat. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 used to determine the concentration of one or more nutra may display one or more results in human-readable format. ceutical associated components 104 following an event or Examples of human-readable formats include, but are not stimulus to which an individual is exposed. For example, the limited to, written language, Verbal communications, Braille concentration and/or activity of one or more nutraceutical output, pictographic output, graphical output, colorographic agents may be determined during and/or following exercise, output, and the like. food intake, pharmaceutical intake, or ingestion of other 0.132. At operation 1104, the displaying operation 920 Substances by an individual. Accordingly, in Some embodi may include displaying the results in machine-readable ments, system 100 may be used to monitor nutraceutical format. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 associated components 104 that are affected by an individu may display one or more results in machine-readable format. als metabolism. Examples of machine-readable formats include, but are not 0127. At operation 1006, the detecting operation 910 may limited to, electrical signals 116, bar codes, graphical pat include providing for user interaction. In some embodi terns, punch cards, encoding on a computer-readable ments, one or more detection units 108 may provide for user medium, magnetic encoding, digital coding, optical coding, interaction. In some embodiments, one or more detection and the like. units 108 may include one or more user interfaces 114. A I0133. At operation 1106, the displaying operation 920 detection unit 108 may include numerous types of user may include displaying if the one or more nutraceutical interfaces 114. Examples of such user interfaces 114 include, associated components are present or absent within one or but are not limited to, user interfaces 114 that utilize more samples. In some embodiments, one or more display hardwired methods, such as keyboards, touch screens, per units 110 may display if one or more nutraceutical associ Sonal digital assistant interfaces, telephone interfaces, elec ated components 104 are present or absent within one or tronic writing pads, voice recognition interfaces, and the more samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more like. User interfaces 114 may also include, but are not display units 110 may display the identity of one or more limited to, user interfaces 114 that utilize numerous wireless nutraceutical associated components 104 are present or methods, Such as use of the internet, mobile telephones, absent within one or more samples 102. For example, in personal digital assistants, and the like. In some embodi some embodiments, system 100 may be used to determine if ments, user interaction may include input of parameters one or more nutraceutical associated components 104. Such US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

as one or more nutraceutical agents, are present or absent 104 in blood samples 102 obtained from an individual from one or more food Supplements, foods, bodily samples following ingestion of one or more nutraceutical agents. 102, and the like. 0.138. At operation 1204, the displaying operation 920 0134. At operation 1108, the displaying operation 920 may include displaying one or more messages indicating one may include displaying one or more concentrations of the or more dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for one or more nutraceutical associated components. In some Supplementation of an individual. In some embodiments, embodiments, one or more display units 110 may display one or more display units 110 may display one or more one or more concentrations of one or more nutraceutical messages indicating one or more dosages of one or more associated components 104 that are present or absent within nutraceutical agents for Supplementation of an individual. In one or more samples 102. Concentrations of one or more some embodiments, system 100 may be used to determine nutraceutical associated components 104 may be displayed one or more concentrations of one or more nutraceutical in numerous formats. For example, in some embodiments, associated components 104 included within one or more concentration may be expressed in quantity terms that samples 102 obtained from an individual and then display include, but are not limited to, grams, milligrams, nano one or more concentrations of one or more nutraceutical grams, and the like. In some embodiments, concentrations agents for Supplementation of the individual. For example, may be expressed in quantity per volume of sample 102. For in some embodiments, the concentration of calcium may be example, in Some embodiments, concentration may be determined to be low in a sample 102 obtained from an expressed as molarity, molality, grams per liter, milligrams individual and the display unit 110 may indicate a dosage of per liter, milligrams per deciliter, and the like. a calcium Supplement for administration to the individual. 0135. At operation 1110, the displaying operation 920 Accordingly, one or more display units 110 may display one may include receiving one or more signals from the one or or more dosages of numerous types of nutraceutical agents more detection units. In some embodiments, one or more for administration to one or more individuals. display units 110 may receive one or more signals 116 from 0.139. At operation 1206, the displaying operation 920 one or more detection units 108. Examples of such signals may include providing for user interaction. In some embodi 116 include, but are not limited to, hardwired signals 116, ments, one or more display units 110 may provide for user wireless signals 116, infrared signals 116, optical signals interaction. In some embodiments, one or more display units 116, radiofrequency (RF) signals 116, audible signals 116, 110 may include one or more user interfaces 114. A display digital signals 116, analog signals 116, or Substantially any unit 110 may include numerous types of user interfaces combination thereof. 1114. Examples of such user interfaces 114 include, but are 0136 FIG. 12 illustrates alternative embodiments of the not limited to, user interfaces 114 that utilize hardwired example operational flow 900 of FIG. 9. FIG. 12 illustrates methods, such as keyboards, touch screens, personal digital example embodiments where the displaying operation 920 assistant interfaces, telephone interfaces, electronic writing may include at least one additional operation. Additional pads, Voice recognition interfaces, and the like. User inter operations may include an operation 1202, an operation faces 114 may also include, but are not limited to, user 1204, an operation 1206, an operation 1208, and/or an interfaces 114 that utilize numerous wireless methods, such operation 1210. as use of the internet, mobile telephones, personal digital 0.137. At operation 1202, the displaying operation 920 assistants, and the like. In some embodiments, user interac may include displaying one or more concentrations of the tion may include input of parameters associated with an one or more nutraceutical associated components at two or individual. Examples of such parameters include, but are not more different times. In some embodiments, one or more limited to, one or more individuals height, weight, age, fat display units 110 may display one or more concentrations of percentage, physical fitness level, known allergies, activi one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 at two ties, schedule, pharmaceutical ingestion, nutraceutical or more different times. In some embodiments, one or more ingestion, food ingestion, alcohol consumption, and the like. display units 110 may display one or more concentrations of 0140. At operation 1208, the displaying operation 920 one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 may include transmitting one or more signals to the one or present within two or more samples 102 that were collected more display units. In some embodiments, one or more at two or more different times. In some embodiments, one or display units 110 may transmit one or more signals 116 to more display units 110 may display two or more concen one or more display units 110. Examples of such signals 116 trations of one or more nutraceutical associated components include, but are not limited to, hardwired signals 116, 104 in graphical form. For example, in Some embodiments, wireless signals 116, infrared signals 116, optical signals concentrations may be displayed as a bar graph, a line graph, 116, radiofrequency (RF) signals 116, audible signals 116, a pie chart, and the like. Accordingly, in Some embodiments, digital signals 116, analog signals 116, or Substantially any a user 118 may plot two or more concentrations of one or combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or more more nutraceutical associated components 104. Numerous display units 110 may transmit one or more signals 116 to plot formats may be used. Examples of Such formats one or more remote display units 110. For example, in some include, but are not limited to, concentration versus time embodiments, one or more display units 110 may transmit from ingestion of one or more nutraceutical agents, concen one or more signals 116 to one or more remote display units tration versus time from an event. Such as exercise, sleep, 110 that are located in the office of a physician, nurse, injury, and the like. Accordingly, in some embodiments, dietician, pharmacist, coach, personal trainer, clerk at a food system 100 may be used to predict the concentration of one Supplement store, clerk at a grocery store, and the like. or more nutraceutical agents within a sample 102 obtained 0.141. At operation 1210, the displaying operation 920 from an individual at one or more times. For example, in may include transmitting one or more signals to one or more Some embodiments, an individual can predict the concen recording units. In some embodiments, one or more display tration of one or more nutraceutical associated components units 110 may transmit one or more signals 116 to one or US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

more recording units 112. In some embodiments, one or 104. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips more display units 110 may transmit one or more signals 116 106 may provide for user interaction. to one or more recording units 112. Examples of such signals 0144. The operational flow 1300 includes a detecting 116 include, but are not limited to, hardwired signals 116, operation 1320 involving detecting one or more nutraceuti wireless signals 116, infrared signals 116, optical signals cal associated components with one or more detection units. 116, radiofrequency (RF) signals 116, audible signals 116, In some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may digital signals 116, analog signals 116, or Substantially any be used to detect one or more nutraceutical associated combination thereof. components 104. In some embodiments, one or more detec 0142 FIG. 13 illustrates an operational flow 1300 repre tion units 108 may be used to detect one or more nutraceu senting examples of operations that are related to the per tical associated components 104 with at least one technique formance of a method for analysis of one or more nutra that includes spectroscopy, electrochemical detection, poly ceutical associated components 104. In FIG. 13 and in nucleotide detection, fluorescence resonance energy trans following figures that include various examples of opera fer, electron transfer, enzyme assay, electrical conductivity, tions used during performance of the method, discussion and explanation may be provided with respect to the above isoelectric focusing, chromatography, immunoprecipitation, described example of FIG. 1, and/or with respect to other immunoseparation, aptamer binding, filtration, electro examples and contexts. However, it should be understood phoresis, immunoassay, or Substantially any combination that the operations may be executed in a number of other thereof. In some embodiments, one or more detection units environments and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIG. 108 may be used to detect one or more nutraceutical 1. Also, although the various operations are presented in the associated components 104 that are associated with two or sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the more samples 102 that were collected at two or more various operations may be performed in other orders than different times. In some embodiments, one or more detection those which are illustrated, or may be performed concur units 108 may provide for user interaction. In some embodi rently. ments, one or more detection units 108 may be used to 0143. The operational flow 1300 includes a processing transmit one or more signals 116 to one or more display units operation 1310 involving processing one or more samples 110. In some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 with one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for may be used to transmit one or more signals 116 to one or analysis of the one or more nutraceutical associated com more recording units 1112. ponents. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic (0145 The operational flow 1300 includes a displaying chips 106 that are configured for analysis of one or more operation 1330 involving displaying results of the detecting nutraceutical associated components 104 may be used to with one or more display units that are operably coupled process one or more samples 102. In some embodiments, with the one or more detection units. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may accept one or more one or more display units 110 may be used to display the samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more microflu results of the detecting. In some embodiments, one or more idic chips 106 may accept one or more samples 102 acquired display units 110 may be used to display results in human through use of one or more non-invasive techniques. In readable format. In some embodiments, one or more display some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may units 110 may be used to display results in machine-readable accept one or more samples 102 that include at least one of format. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, excrement, may be used to display if one or more nutraceutical asso mucus, or Substantially any combination thereof. In some ciated components are present or absent within one or more embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more display accept one or more samples 102 that include blood. In some units 110 may be used to display one or more concentrations embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be of one or more nutraceutical associated components 104. In used to process one or more samples 102 utilizing poly Some embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be nucleotide interaction, protein interaction, peptide interac used to receive one or more signals 116 from one or more tion, antibody interaction, chemical interaction, diffusion, detection units 108. In some embodiments, one or more filtration, chromatography, aptamer interaction, electrical display units 110 may be used to display one or more conductivity, isoelectric focusing, electrophoresis, immu concentrations of one or more nutraceutical associated com noassay, competition assay, or Substantially any combina ponents 104 associated with two or more samples 102 that tion thereof. In some embodiments, one or more microflu were collected at two or more different times. In some idic chips 106 may be used to process one or more samples embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be used to 102 that include at least one of sweat, tears, urine, breath, display one or more messages indicating one or more skin, hair, saliva, excrement, blood, mucus, or Substantially dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for Supplemen any combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or tation of an individual. In some embodiments, one or more more microfluidic chips 106 may be used to process one or display units 110 may provide for user interaction. In some more samples 102 that include at least one hormone, pro embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be used to hormone, polynucleotide, enzyme, protein, vitamin, min transmit one or more signals 116 to one or more display units eral, metal, antioxidant, or Substantially any combination 110. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 thereof. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic may be used to transmit one or more signals 116 to one or chips 106 may be used to process two or more samples 102 more recording units 112. that are collected at two or more different times. In some 0146 FIG. 14 illustrates alternative embodiments of the embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be example operational flow 1300 of FIG. 13. FIG. 14 illus used to process one or more samples 102 that are configured trates example embodiments where the processing operation for analysis of a single nutraceutical associated component 1310 may include at least one additional operation. Addi US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

tional operations may include an operation 1402, an opera or more samples 102 from themselves and then send the one tion 1404, an operation 1406, an operation 1408, and/or an or more samples 102 for analysis by a person other than the operation 1410. individual from whom the samples 102 were collected. In 0147 At operation 1402, the processing operation 1310 other embodiments, one or more samples 102 may be may include accepting the one or more samples. In some collected from an individual and analyzed by a person other embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be than the individual. For example, a physician, nurse, coach, configured to accept one or more samples 102. For example, nutritionist, personal trainer, or the like may collect one or in some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 may include more samples 102 from an individual and then analyze the a needle to accept one or more blood and/or tissue samples one or more samples 102 through use of system 100. 102. In some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 may include a mouthpiece to accept one or more breath and/or 0150. At operation 1406, the processing operation 1310 saliva samples 102. In some embodiments, a microfluidic may include accepting the one or more samples that include chip 106 may include a scraper to accept one or more skin at least one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, and/or tissue samples 102. Accordingly, in some embodi excrement, or mucus. In some embodiments, one or more ments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may accept one microfluidic chips 106 may accept one or more samples 102 or more samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more that include at least one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, microfluidic chips 106 may accept one or more samples 102 hair, saliva, excrement, or mucus. In some embodiments, that are collected through use of invasive techniques. Such individuals may collect one or more samples 102 from techniques include, but are not limited to, drawing blood, themselves. Accordingly, in some embodiments, system 100 obtaining mucus, obtaining tissue samples 102, and the like. may be used for point-of-care analysis by an individual. In In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 Some embodiments, one or more samples 102 may be may accept one or more samples 102 that are collected analyzed by someone other than the individual from whom through use of non-invasive techniques. Such techniques the one or more samples 102 were collected. For example, include, but are not limited to, collecting one or more in Some embodiments, individuals may collect one or more samples 102 that include breath, saliva, hair, Sweat, tears, samples 102 from themselves and then send the one or more and the like. samples 102 for analysis by a person other than the indi 0148. In some embodiments, individuals may collect one vidual from whom the samples 102 were collected. In other or more samples 102 from themselves. Accordingly, in some embodiments, one or more samples 102 may be collected embodiments, system 100 may be used for point-of-care from an individual and analyzed by a person other than the analysis by an individual. In some embodiments, one or individual. For example, a physician, nurse, coach, nutri more samples 102 may be processed by someone other than tionist, personal trainer, or the like may collect one or more the individual from whom the one or more samples 102 were samples 102 from an individual and then analyze the one or collected. For example, in some embodiments, individuals more samples 102 through use of system 100. may collect one or more samples 102 from themselves and then send the one or more samples 102 for analysis by a 0151. At operation 1408, the processing operation 1310 person other than the individual from whom the samples 102 may include accepting the one or more samples that include were collected. In other embodiments, one or more samples blood. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic 102 may be collected from an individual and analyzed by a chips 106 may be configured to accept one or more blood person other than the individual. For example, a physician, samples 102. For example, in Some embodiments, a microf nurse, coach, nutritionist, personal trainer, or the like may luidic chip 106 may include a needle that may be used to collect one or more samples 102 from an individual and then penetrate tissue to accept a blood sample 102. In some analyze the one or more samples 102 through use of system embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 may include a capil 1OO. lary tube that may be used to accept blood for analysis. Such 0149. At operation 1404, the processing operation 1310 a capillary tube may be used to accept blood for analysis may include accepting the one or more samples acquired without having to pierce the skin or other tissue of an through use of one or more non-invasive techniques. In individual. For example, Such a capillary tube may be used some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may to accept a blood sample 102 for analysis by inserting the be configured to accept one or more samples 102 that were capillary tube into a blood sample 102 resulting from a collected through use of non-invasive techniques. Such finger Stick with a lancet. techniques include, but are not limited to, collecting one or 0152. In some embodiments, individuals may collect one more samples 102 from an individual that include breath, or more blood samples 102 from themselves. Accordingly, saliva, hair, Sweat, tears, excrement, and the like. For in some embodiments, system 100 may be used for point example, in some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 of-care analysis by an individual. In some embodiments, one may include a mouthpiece to accept breath and/or saliva or more blood samples 102 may be processed by someone samples 102. In some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 other than the individual from whom the one or more may include a capillary tube to accept fluid samples 102. samples 102 were collected. For example, in some embodi Such as Sweat, tears, urine, saliva, and the like. In some ments, individuals may collect one or more blood samples embodiments, individuals may collect one or more samples 102 from themselves and then send the one or more blood 102 from themselves. Accordingly, in Some embodiments, samples 102 for processing by a person other than the system 100 may be used for point-of-care analysis by an individual from whom the samples 102 were collected. In individual. In some embodiments, one or more samples 102 other embodiments, one or more blood samples 102 may be may be analyzed by someone other than the individual from collected from an individual and analyzed by a person other whom the one or more samples 102 were collected. For than the individual. For example, a physician, nurse, coach, example, in some embodiments, individuals may collect one nutritionist, personal trainer, or the like may collect one or US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008 20 more blood samples 102 from an individual and then ana being tested for in the sample 102 may be indicated by a lyze the one or more blood samples 102 through use of decrease in bound label. In some embodiments, such microf system 100. luidic chips 106 may include a control field and/or array. In 0153. At operation 1410, the processing operation 1310 some embodiments, such microfluidic chips 106 may be may include processing the one or more samples with one or calibrated prior to application of the sample 102 and there more microfluidic chips that utilize polynucleotide interac fore not include a control field and/or array. In some tion, protein interaction, peptide interaction, antibody inter embodiments, such fields and/or arrays may include poly action, chemical interaction, diffusion, filtration, chromatog nucleotides, proteins, peptides, nucleic acid aptamers, pep raphy, aptamer interaction, electrical conductivity, tide aptamers, antibodies, chemicals, chromatographic isoelectric focusing, electrophoresis, immunoassay, or com media, and other materials that may be used to separate one petition assay. In some embodiments, one or more microf or more nutraceutical associated components 104 from one luidic chips 106 may process one or more samples 102 with or more samples 102. Accordingly, fields and/or arrays may at least one technique that includes processing the one or include numerous types of moieties that may be used to more samples 102 with one or more microfluidic chips 106 detect numerous types of nutraceutical associated compo that utilize polynucleotide interaction, protein interaction, nents 104. In some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 peptide interaction, antibody interaction, chemical interac may be configured to process one or more samples 102 for tion, diffusion, filtration, chromatography, aptamer interac one type of nutraceutical associated component 104. In tion, electrical conductivity, isoelectric focusing, electro some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 may be config phoresis, immunoassay, competition assay, or Substantially ured to process one or more samples 102 for one or more any combination thereof. types of nutraceutical associated components 104. 0154. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic 0156. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may process one or more samples 102 utilizing chips 106 may be configured to process one or more samples polynucleotide interaction (Singh-Zocchi et al., Proc. Natl. 102 through use of protein interaction. In some embodi Acad. Sci., 100:7605-7610 (2003) and Wang et al., Anal. ments, such interaction may occur through binding interac Chem., 75:3941-3945 (2003)). Such polynucleotide interac tion. In some embodiments, such interaction may include tion may occur through hybridization of deoxyribonucleic enzymatic activity. For example, a microfluidic chip 106 acid, ribonucleic acid, derivatives thereof, or substantially may include one or more enzymes that catalyze a reaction any combination thereof. In some embodiments, polynucle that includes nutraceutical associated components 104 as a otides may be configured as polynucleotide arrays. Methods Substrate or as a product. In some embodiments, a nutra to construct polynucleotide arrays are known and have been ceutical associated component 104 may be assayed based on used to construct various polynucleotide arrays (Affymetrix, the ability to stimulate an enzyme. In some embodiments, a Santa Clara, Calif.). nutraceutical associated component 104 may be assayed O155 In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic based on the ability to inhibit an enzyme. In some embodi chips 106 may be configured to process one or more samples ments, such enzyme assays may be colorimetric assays. 102 through use of competition assays. In some embodi Accordingly, numerous types of enzyme assays may be ments, a competition assay may utilize a reaction mixture adapted for detection of one or more nutraceutical associated that may include a first fluorescently labeled component that components 104. binds to a second fluorescently labeled component. The 0157. One or more microfluidic chips 106 may be con presence of one or more unlabeled nutraceutical associated figured to utilize electrical conductivity to assay one or more components 104 in the reaction mixture decreases the nutraceutical associated components 104. Briefly, in some amount of labeled first component and labeled second embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may component that bind to each other and thereby reduces include electrodes that may be directly coupled to a proces fluorescence resonance energy transfer. Accordingly, detect sor So that the processor may determine the electrical ing the level of fluorescence resonance energy transfer by a conductivity between electrodes of a particular sensor (U.S. detection unit 108 allows the amount of a nutraceutical Pat. Nos. 6,958.216 and 7,022,288; herein incorporated by associated component 104 in a sample 102 to be determined. reference). Numerous other configurations may be prepared that utilize 0158. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic fluorescence resonance energy transfer by one or more chips 106 may be configured to utilize isoelectric focusing detection units 108. In some embodiments, fluorescence to process one or more nutraceutical associated components quenching may be used within a competition assay. In some 104 (i.e., U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,074,583; 7,046,357; 6,852,206; embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be 6,849,396; and 7,074,311; herein incorporated by refer configured for competition assays where a sample 102 being ence). Briefly, isoelectric focusing may be used to charac tested for one or more nutraceutical associated components terize nutraceutical associated components 104. Such as 104 is mixed with a reaction mixture that includes one or proteins, based on differences in their isoelectric points. The more labeled components that are being tested. The mixed nutraceutical associated components 104 may then be sepa reaction mixture is then passed over a field and/or array to rated according to their position within a pH gradient. which moieties that bind to the one or more nutraceutical 0159. Numerous chromatographic methods may be used associated components 104 and labeled components are to process one or more nutraceutical associated components immobilized. The one or more unlabeled nutraceutical asso 104. Examples of Such chromatographic methods include, ciated components 104 in the sample 102 will compete with but are not limited to, gel filtration chromatography, ion the one or more labeled components in the reaction mixture exchange chromatography, affinity chromatography, and the for binding and will thereby decrease the amount of label like. bound within the field and/or array. Accordingly, the amount (0160. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic of one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 chips 106 may be configured to utilize filtration to process US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

one or more nutraceutical associated components 104. For estrogen, androgens, estradiol, progesterone, melatonin, example, one or more nutraceutical associated components serotonin, follicle stimulating hormone, dehydroepiandros 104 may be processed based on their ability and/or inability terone (DHEA), 5-HTP cortisol, thyroid stimulating hor to pass through a filter. Such filters may separate nutraceu mone, human chorionic gonadotropin, prohormones thereof, tical associated components 104 based on numerous prop or Substantially any combination thereof. erties. Examples of Such properties include, but are not 0.167 Examples of polynucleotides that may be pro limited to, molecular weight, charge, hydrophobicity, hydro cessed through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 philicity, and the like. In some embodiments, one or more include, but are not limited to, those that encode hormones, microfluidic chips 106 may be configured to use an H-filter enzymes involved in oxidative pathways, enzymes involved to separate one or more nutraceutical associated components in metabolic pathways, and the like. 104. Such H-filters have been described (U.S. Pat. Nos. 0168 Examples of enzymes that may be processed 6,221,677; 6,695,147; 6,541,213; herein incorporated by through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, reference). but are not limited to, enzymes involved in oxidative path 0161. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic ways, enzymes involved in metabolic pathways, or Substan chips 106 may be configured to utilize electrophoresis to tially any combination thereof. process one or more nutraceutical associated components 0169. Examples of proteins that may be processed 104. Such methods are known in the art (Molecular Cloning: through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, A Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory but are not limited to, proteins linked to urinary tract Press: 3rd edition (Jan. 15, 2001)). infection, prostate specific antigen, microalbumin, hemoglo 0162. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be configured to utilize immunoassay to bin, or Substantially any combination thereof. process one or more nutraceutical associated components 0170 Examples of vitamins that may be processed 104. Such methods are known in the art (Molecular Cloning: through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, A Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory but are not limited to, vitamin A, B vitamins, C Vitamins, Press; 3rd edition (Jan. 15, 2001)). Combinations of numer Vitamin D, E vitamins, vitamin K, or Substantially any ous methods may be used to process one or more nutraceu combination thereof. tical associated components 104. 0171 Examples of minerals that may be processed (0163 FIG. 15 illustrates alternative embodiments of the through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, example operational flow 1300 of FIG. 13. FIG. 15 illus but are not limited to, calcium, chromium, cobalt, copper, trates example embodiments where the processing operation iodine, magnesium, manganese, selenium, strontium, Sulfur, 1310 may include at least one additional operation. Addi Zinc, or Substantially any combination thereof. tional operations may include an operation 1502, an opera 0172 Examples of metals that may be processed through tion 1504, an operation 1506, an operation 1508, and/or an use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, but are operation 1510. not limited to, aluminum, antimony, arsenic, bismuth, cad 0164. At operation 1502, the processing operation 1310 mium, lead, mercury, nickel, tin, or Substantially any com may include processing the one or more samples that include bination thereof. at least one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, 0173 Examples of antioxidants that may be processed excrement, blood, or mucus. One or more microfluidic chips through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, 106 may be used to process one or more samples 102 that but are not limited to, vitamin A, vitamin C. vitamin E, alpha include at least one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, lipoic acid, coenzyme Q-10, or Substantially any combina saliva, excrement, blood, mucus, or Substantially any com tion thereof. bination thereof. In some embodiments, one or more 0.174. At operation 1506, the processing operation 1310 samples 102 may be processed through use of extraction may include processing two or more samples that are methods to provide for detection of one or more nutraceu collected at two or more different times. In some embodi tical associated components 104. For example, in some ments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be used to embodiments, nucleic acid may be extracted from a sample process two or more samples 102 that are collected at two or 102. In other embodiments, one or more enzymes may be more different times. For example, a first sample 102 may be extracted from one or more samples 102. In some embodi processed that was collected at a first time and a second ments, one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 sample 102 may be processed that was collected at a second may be solvent extracted from one or more samples 102. time. Numerous samples 102 and time points may be Numerous methods may be used to process one or more processed through use of microfluidic chips 106. Accord samples 102. ingly, in Some embodiments, the presence or absence of one 0.165 At operation 1504, the processing operation 1310 or more nutraceutical associated components 104 at two or may include processing the one or more samples that include more times may be determined. In some embodiments, an at least one hormone, prohormone, polynucleotide, enzyme, increase or decrease in a nutraceutical associated component protein, vitamin, mineral, metal, or antioxidant. In some 104 in a time relevant manner may be determined. Such an embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be increase or decrease in a nutraceutical associated component used to process one or more samples 102 that include at least 104 may be determined through detection of concentration, one hormone, prohormone, polynucleotide, enzyme, pro activity, and the like. Accordingly, system 100 may be used tein, vitamin, mineral, metal, antioxidant, or Substantially to determine dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for any combination thereof. administration to an individual or group of individuals. In 0166 Examples of hormones that may be processed some embodiments, system 100 may be used to determine through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, one or more metabolic responses to one or more nutraceu but are not limited to, testosterone (free and/or bound), tical agents by an individual or group of individuals. US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008 22

(0175. At operation 1508, the processing operation 1310 samples 102 that include at least one of Sweat, tears, urine, may include processing the one or more samples with one or breath, skin, hair, saliva, excrement, mucus, or Substantially more microfluidic chips that are configured for analysis of a any combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or single nutraceutical associated component. In some embodi more microfluidic chips 106 may accept one or more ments, a microfluidic chip 106 may be configured for samples 102 that include blood. In some embodiments, one analysis of a single nutraceutical associated component 104. or more microfluidic chips 106 may be used to process one For example, in some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 or more samples 102 utilizing polynucleotide interaction, may be configured for analysis of testosterone in at least one protein interaction, peptide interaction, antibody interaction, sample 102. In some embodiments, such a microfluidic chip chemical interaction, diffusion, filtration, chromatography, 106 may be configured for analysis of free versus bound aptamer interaction, electrical conductivity, isoelectric testosterone. In some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 focusing, electrophoresis, immunoassay, competition assay, may be configured for analysis of estrogen in at least one or Substantially any combination thereof. In some embodi sample 102. Accordingly, microfluidic chips 106 may be ments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be used to configured for analysis of numerous types of nutraceutical process one or more samples 102 that include at least one of associated components 104. Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, excrement, 0176). At operation 1510, the processing operation 1310 blood, mucus, or Substantially any combination thereof. In may include providing for user interaction. In some embodi some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may ments, a microfluidic chip 106 may provide for user inter be used to process one or more samples 102 that include at action. For example, in Some embodiments, a microfluidic least one hormone, prohormone, polynucleotide, enzyme, chip 106 may include a receiver that receives signals 116 protein, Vitamin, mineral, metal, antioxidant, or Substantially that are transmitted in response to a user interface 114. Such any combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or signals 116 may direct the microfluidic chip 106 to act in more microfluidic chips 106 may be used to process two or accordance with commands input by a user 118. In some more samples 102 that are collected at two or more different embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 may include one or times. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips more user interfaces 114 that provide for direct interaction 106 may be used to process one or more samples 102 that are with a user 118. Examples of such user interfaces 114 configured for analysis of a single nutraceutical associated include, but are not limited to, ports for accepting samples component 104. In some embodiments, one or more microf 102, ports for accepting reagents, electrical connections, luidic chips 106 may provide for user interaction. couplings, and the like. In some embodiments, electrical (0179. After a start operation, the operational flow 1600 connections may be configured for accepting various includes a detecting operation 1620 involving detecting the devices that may be used for numerous purposes, such as to one or more nutraceutical associated components with one control or monitor a microfluidic chip 106. In some embodi or more detection units. In some embodiments, one or more ments, couplings may be configured for attachment to detection units 108 may be used to detect one or more Syringes, pumps, sample loops, needles, and the like. nutraceutical associated components 104. In some embodi (0177 FIG. 16 illustrates an operational flow 1600 repre ments, one or more detection units 108 may be used to detect senting examples of operations that are related to the per one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 with formance of a method for analysis of one or more nutra at least one technique that includes spectroscopy, electro ceutical associated components 104. In FIG. 16 and in chemical detection, polynucleotide detection, fluorescence following figures that include various examples of opera resonance energy transfer, electron transfer, enzyme assay, tions used during performance of the method, discussion and electrical conductivity, isoelectric focusing, chromatogra explanation may be provided with respect to the above phy, immunoprecipitation, immunoseparation, aptamer described example of FIG. 1, and/or with respect to other binding, filtration, electrophoresis, immunoassay, or Sub examples and contexts. However, it should be understood stantially any combination thereof. In some embodiments, that the operations may be executed in a number of other one or more detection units 108 may be used to detect one environments and contexts, and/or modified versions of FIG. or more nutraceutical associated components 104 that are 1. Also, although the various operations are presented in the associated with two or more samples 102 that were collected sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the at two or more different times. In some embodiments, one or various operations may be performed in other orders than more detection units 108 may provide for user interaction. In those which are illustrated, or may be performed concur some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be rently. used to transmit one or more signals 116 to one or more 0.178 After a start operation, the operational flow 1600 display units 110. In some embodiments, one or more includes a processing operation 1610 involving processing detection units 108 may be used to transmit one or more one or more samples obtained from an individual with one signals 116 to one or more recording units 112. or more microfluidic chips that are configured for analysis of 0180. After a start operation, the operational flow 1600 one or more nutraceutical associated components. In some includes a displaying operation 1630 involving displaying embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 that are one or more dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical asso Supplementation of the individual in response to the detect ciated components 104 may be used to process one or more ing. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more microflu may be used to display one or more dosages of one or more idic chips 106 may accept one or more samples 102. In some nutraceutical agents for Supplementation of the individual in embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may response to the detecting. In some embodiments, one or accept one or more samples 102 acquired through use of one more display units 110 may be used to display results in or more non-invasive techniques. In some embodiments, one human-readable format. In some embodiments, one or more or more microfluidic chips 106 may accept one or more display units 110 may be used to display results in machine US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

readable format. In some embodiments, one or more display 0183. The system 1700 includes module 1720 that units 110 may be used to display if one or more nutraceutical includes one or more display units operably associated with associated components are present or absent within one or the one or more detection units. In some embodiments, one more samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more or more display units 110 may be configured to operably display units 110 may be used to display one or more associate with one or more detection units 108. In some concentrations of one or more nutraceutical associated com embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be con ponents 104. In some embodiments, one or more display figured to display information in human-readable format. In units 110 may be used to receive one or more signals 116 Some embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be from one or more detection units 108. In some embodi configured to display information in machine-readable for mat. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 ments, one or more display units 110 may be used to display may be configured to display if one or more nutraceutical one or more concentrations of one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 are present or absent in one or associated components 104 associated with two or more more samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more samples 102 that were collected at two or more different display units 110 may be configured to display one or more times. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 concentrations of the one or more nutraceutical associated may be used to display one or more messages indicating one components 104. In some embodiments, one or more display or more dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for units 110 may be configured to receive one or more signals Supplementation of an individual. In some embodiments, 116 from one or more detection units 108. In some embodi one or more display units 110 may provide for user inter ments, one or more display units 110 may be configured to action. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 display one or more concentrations of the one or more may be used to transmit one or more signals 116 to one or nutraceutical associated components 104 associated with more display units 110. In some embodiments, one or more two or more samples 102 that were collected at two or more display units 110 may be used to transmit one or more different times. In some embodiments, one or more display signals 116 to one or more recording units 112. units 110 may be configured to display one or more mes 0181 FIG. 17 illustrates a system 1700 representing sages indicating one or more dosages of one or more examples of modules that may be used to perform a method nutraceutical agents to Supplement an individual with whom for analysis of one or more nutraceutical associated com the one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 are ponents 104. In FIG. 17, discussion and explanation may be associated. In some embodiments, one or more display units provided with respect to the above-described example of 110 may include one or more user interfaces 114. In some FIG. 1, and/or with respect to other examples and contexts. embodiments, one or more display units 110 may include However, it should be understood that the operations may be one or more recording units 112. executed in a number of other environments and contexts, 0.184 FIG. 18 illustrates alternative embodiments of the and/or modified versions of FIG. 1. Also, although the system of FIG. 17. FIG. 18 illustrates additional example various modules are presented in the sequence(s) illustrated, embodiments of module 1710. Additional embodiments may it should be understood that the various modules may be include embodiment 1802, embodiment 1804, embodiment configured in numerous orientations. 1806, embodiment 1808, and/or embodiment 1810. 0182. The system 1700 includes module 1710 that 0185. At embodiment 1802, module 1710 may include includes one or more detection units configured to detach one or more detection units that are configured to detect the ably connect to one or more microfluidic chips and config one or more nutraceutical associated components with at ured to detect one or more nutraceutical associated compo least one technique that includes spectroscopy, electro nents. In some embodiments, one or more detection units chemical detection, polynucleotide detection, fluorescence 108 may be configured to detachably connect to one or more resonance energy transfer, electron transfer, enzyme assay, microfluidic chips 106 and configured to detect one or more electrical conductivity, isoelectric focusing, chromatogra nutraceutical associated components 104. In some embodi phy, immunoprecipitation, immunoseparation, aptamer ments, one or more detection units 108 may be configured binding, filtration, electrophoresis, or immunoassay. In some to detect one or more nutraceutical associated components embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be 104 with at least one technique that includes spectroscopy, configured to detect one or more nutraceutical associated electrochemical detection, polynucleotide detection, fluo components 104 with at least one technique that includes rescence resonance energy transfer, electron transfer, spectroscopy, electrochemical detection, polynucleotide enzyme assay, electrical conductivity, isoelectric focusing, detection, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, electron chromatography, immunoprecipitation, immunoseparation, transfer, enzyme assay, electrical conductivity, isoelectric aptamer binding, filtration, electrophoresis, immunoassay, focusing, chromatography, immunoprecipitation, immun or Substantially any combination thereof. In some embodi oSeparation, aptamer binding, filtration, electrophoresis, or ments, one or more detection units 108 may be configured immunoassay. to detect one or more nutraceutical associated components 0186. In some embodiments, one or more detection units 104 associated with two or more samples 102 that were 108 may be configured to utilize numerous spectroscopic collected at two or more different times. In some embodi based methods. Examples of Such spectroscopic methods ments, one or more detection units 108 may include one or include, but are not limited to, mass spectroscopy, atomic more user interfaces 114. In some embodiments, one or absorption spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spec more detection units 108 may be configured to transmit one troscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, light absorbance, light or more signals 116 to one or more display units 110. In transmittance, infrared spectroscopy, raman spectroscopy, some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be electron spin resonance, plasmon resonance spectroscopy, configured to transmit one or more signals 116 to one or ultraviolet light spectroscopy, visible light spectroscopy, and more recording units 112. the like. US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008 24

0187. In some embodiments, one or more detection units ceutical associated components 104 may then be detected 108 may be configured to utilize electrochemical detection. according to their position within a pH gradient. For example, in Some embodiments, one or more detection 0.194. In some embodiments, one or more detection units units 108 may be configured to detect conductivity, electro 108 may be configured to utilize numerous chromatographic motive force, oxidation potential, reduction potential, redox methods to detect one or more nutraceutical associated current, and the like (i.e., Xiao et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., components 104. Examples of Such chromatographic meth 103:16677-16680 (2006) and Fan et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. ods include, but are not limited to, gel filtration chromatog Sci., 100:9134-9137 (2003)). raphy, ion-exchange chromatography, affinity chromatogra 0188 In some embodiments, one or more detection units phy, and the like. 108 may be configured to detect polynucleotide binding 0.195. In some embodiments, one or more detection units (Singh-Zocchi et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 100:7605-7610 108 may be configured to utilize immunoseparation to detect (2003) and Wang et al., Anal. Chem., 75:3941-3945 (2003)). one or more nutraceutical associated components 104. Such polynucleotide binding may occur through hybridiza Briefly, one or more nutraceutical associated components tion of deoxyribonucleic acid, ribonucleic acid, and deriva 104 may be detected upon binding to an antibody or an tives thereof. antibody fragment. 0196. In some embodiments, one or more detection units 0189 In some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be configured to utilize aptamer binding to detect 108 may be configured to detect fluorescent resonance one or more nutraceutical associated components 104. energy transfer. For example, one or more detection units Briefly, one or more nutraceutical associated components 108 may be configured for analysis of one or more nutra 104 may be detected upon binding to an aptamer. Numerous ceutical associated components 104 through use of compe types of aptamers may be utilized to detect nutraceutical tition assays. Such competition assays may utilize a reaction associated components 104. Examples of aptamers include, mixture that may include a first fluorescently labeled com but are not limited to, peptide aptamers and polynucleotide ponent that binds to a second fluorescently labeled compo aptamers. nent. The presence of unlabeled component in the reaction 0.197 In some embodiments, one or more detection units mixture decreases the amount of labeled first component and 108 may be configured to utilize filtration to detect one or labeled second component that bind to each other and more nutraceutical associated components 104. For thereby reduces fluorescence resonance energy transfer. example, one or more nutraceutical associated components Accordingly, detecting the level of fluorescence resonance 104 may be detected based on their ability and/or inability energy transfer by a detection unit 108 allows the amount of to pass through a filter. Such filters may separate nutraceu a component in a sample 102 to be determined. One or more tical associated components 104 based on numerous prop detection units 108 may be prepared having numerous erties. Examples of Such properties include, but are not configurations that utilize fluorescence resonance energy limited to, molecular weight, charge, hydrophobicity, hydro transfer. philicity, and the like. 0190. In some embodiments, one or more detection units 0.198. In some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be configured to utilize electron transfer to detect 108 may be configured to utilize electrophoresis to detect one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 (Fan one or more nutraceutical associated components 104. Such et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 100:9134-9137 (2003)). methods are known in the art (Molecular Cloning: A Labo 0191) One or more detection units 108 may be configured ratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press; 3rd to utilize numerous types of enzyme assays to detect one or edition (Jan. 15, 2001)). more nutraceutical associated components 104. For (0199. In some embodiments, one or more detection units example, in some embodiments, such enzyme assays may be 108 may be configured to utilize one or more immunoassays calorimetric assays. In some embodiments, one or more to detect one or more nutraceutical associated components nutraceutical associated components 104 that stimulate or 104. Such methods are known in the art (Molecular Cloning: inhibit the activity of an enzyme may be detected. Accord A Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory ingly, numerous types of enzyme assays may be adapted for Press: 3rd edition (Jan. 15, 2001)). In some embodiments, detection of one or more nutraceutical associated compo one or more detection units 108 may be configured to utilize nents 104. combinations of numerous methods to detect one or more 0192 In some embodiments, one or more detection units nutraceutical associated components 104. 108 may be configured to utilize electrical conductivity to (0200. At embodiment 1804, module 1710 may include detect one or more nutraceutical associated components 104. one or more detection units that are configured to detect the Briefly, in some embodiments, electrodes may be directly one or more nutraceutical associated components at two or coupled to a processor so that the processor may determine more different times. In some embodiments, one or more the electrical conductivity between electrodes of a particular detection units 108 may be configured to detect one or more sensor (U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,958.216 and 7,022,288; herein nutraceutical associated components 104 at two or more incorporated by reference). different times. In some embodiments, two or more samples 0193 In some embodiments, one or more detection units 102 that include one or more nutraceutical associated com 108 may be configured to utilize isoelectric focusing to ponents 104 may be collected from an individual at two or detect one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 more different times and analyzed. Accordingly, changes in (i.e., U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,074,583; 7.046,357; 6,852,206; 6,849, the one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 396; and 7,074.311; herein incorporated by reference). may be followed relative to time. Such changes include, but Briefly, isoelectric focusing may be used to characterize are not limited to, changes in activity, concentration, and the nutraceutical associated components 104. Such as proteins, like. In some embodiments, such changes may occur in based on differences in their isoelectric points. The nutra response to an event. For example, in some embodiments, US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 may embodiments of module 1720. Additional embodiments may change in response to administration of one or more nutra include embodiment 1902, embodiment 1904, embodiment ceutical agents to an individual. In some embodiments, a 1906, embodiment 1908, and/or embodiment 1910. nutraceutical associated component 104 is a nutraceutical agent. Accordingly, in some embodiments, one or more (0205 At embodiment 1902, module 1720 may include detection units 108 may be configured to determine the one or more display units that display information in human concentration of one or more nutraceutical associated com readable format. In some embodiments, one or more display ponents 104 following administration of one or more nutra units 110 may be configured to display one or more results ceutical agents to an individual. In some embodiments, one in human-readable format. Examples of human-readable or more detection units 108 may be configured to determine formats include, but are not limited to, written language, the concentration of one or more nutraceutical associated Verbal communications, Braille output, pictographic output, components 104 following an event or stimulus to which an graphical output, colorographic output, and the like. individual is exposed. For example, the concentration and/or (0206. At embodiment 1904, module 1720 may include activity of one or more nutraceutical agents may be deter one or more display units that display information in mined during and/or following exercise, food intake, phar machine-readable format. In some embodiments, one or maceutical intake, or ingestion of other Substances by an more display units 110 may be configured to display one or individual. Accordingly, in Some embodiments, one or more more results in machine-readable format. Examples of detection units 108 may be configured to monitor nutraceu machine-readable formats include, but are not limited to, tical associated components 104 that are affected by an electrical signals 116, bar codes, graphical patterns, punch individual's metabolism. cards, encoding on a computer-readable medium, magnetic 0201 At embodiment 1806, module 1710 may include encoding, digital coding, optical coding, and the like. one or more user interfaces. In some embodiments, one or 0207. At embodiment 1906, module 1720 may include more detection units 108 may be configured to include one one or more display units that display if the one or more or more user interfaces 114. A detection unit 108 may nutraceutical associated components are present or absent in include numerous types of user interfaces 114. Examples of one or more samples. In some embodiments, one or more such user interfaces 114 include, but are not limited to, user display units 110 may be configured to display if one or interfaces 114 that utilize hardwired methods, such as key more nutraceutical associated components 104 are present or boards, touch screens, personal digital assistant interfaces, absent within one or more samples 102. In some embodi telephone interfaces, electronic writing pads, voice recog ments, one or more display units 110 may be configured to nition interfaces, and the like. User interfaces 114 may also display the identity of one or more nutraceutical associated include, but are not limited to, user interfaces 114 that utilize components 104 that are present or absent within one or numerous wireless methods. Such as use of the internet, more samples 102. For example, in Some embodiments, one mobile telephones, personal digital assistants, and the like. or more display units 110 may be configured to display if In some embodiments, user interaction may include input of one or more nutraceutical associated components 104. Such parameters associated with an individual. Examples of Such as one or more nutraceutical agents, are present or absent parameters include, but are not limited to, one or more from one or more food Supplements, foods, bodily samples individuals height, weight, age, fat percentage, physical 102, and the like. fitness level, known allergies, activities, schedule, pharma (0208. At embodiment 1908, module 1720 may include ceutical ingestion, nutraceutical ingestion, food ingestion, one or more display units that display one or more concen alcohol consumption, and the like. trations of the one or more nutraceutical associated compo (0202 At embodiment 1808, module 1710 may include nents. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 one or more detection units that are configured to transmit may be configured to display one or more concentrations of one or more signals to the one or more display units. In some one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 that embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be are present or absent within one or more samples 102. configured to transmit one or more signals 116 to one or Concentrations of one or more nutraceutical associated more display units 110. Examples of such signals 116 components 104 may be displayed in numerous formats. For include, but are not limited to, hardwired signals 116, example, in Some embodiments, concentration may be wireless signals 116, infrared signals 116, optical signals expressed in quantity terms that include, but are not limited 116, radiofrequency (RF) signals 116, audible signals 116, to, grams, milligrams, nanograms, and the like. In some digital signals 116, analog signals 116, or Substantially any embodiments, concentrations may be expressed in quantity combination thereof. per volume of sample 102. For example, in some embodi 0203 At embodiment 1810, module 1710 may include ments, concentration may be expressed as molarity, molal one or more detection units that are configured to transmit ity, grams per liter, milligrams per liter, milligrams per one or more signals to one or more recording units. In some deciliter, and the like. embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be (0209. At embodiment 1910, module 1720 may include configured to transmit one or more signals 116 to one or one or more display units that receive one or more signals more recording units 112. Examples of Such signals 116 from the one or more detection units. In some embodiments, include, but are not limited to, hardwired signals 116, one or more display units 110 may be configured to receive wireless signals 116, infrared signals 116, optical signals one or more signals 116 from one or more detection units 116, radiofrequency (RF) signals 116, audible signals 116, 108. Examples of such signals 116 include, but are not digital signals 116, analog signals 116, or Substantially any limited to, hardwired signals 116, wireless signals 116, combination thereof. infrared signals 116, optical signals 116, radiofrequency 0204 FIG. 19 illustrates alternative embodiments of the (RF) signals 116, audible signals 116, digital signals 116, system of FIG. 17. FIG. 19 illustrates additional example analog signals 116, or Substantially any combination thereof. US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008 26

0210 FIG. 20 illustrates alternative embodiments of the interaction. In some embodiments, one or more display units system of FIG. 17. FIG. 20 illustrates additional example 110 may include one or more user interfaces 114. A display embodiments of module 1720. Additional embodiments may unit 110 may include numerous types of user interfaces 114. include embodiment 2002, embodiment 2004, embodiment Examples of such user interfaces 114 include, but are not 2006, and/or embodiment 2008. limited to, user interfaces 114 that utilize hardwired meth 0211. At embodiment 2002, module 1720 may include ods, such as keyboards, touch screens, personal digital one or more display units that display one or more concen assistant interfaces, telephone interfaces, electronic Writing trations of the one or more nutraceutical associated compo pads, voice recognition interfaces, and the like. User inter nents at two or more different times. In some embodiments, faces 114 may also include, but are not limited to, user one or more display units 110 may be configured to display interfaces 114 that utilize numerous wireless methods, such one or more concentrations of one or more nutraceutical as use of the internet, mobile telephones, personal digital associated components 104 at two or more different times. assistants, and the like. In some embodiments, user interac In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be tion may include input of parameters associated with an configured to display one or more concentrations of one or individual. Examples of such parameters include, but are not more nutraceutical associated components 104 present limited to, one or more individual’s height, weight, age, fat within two or more samples 102 that were collected at two percentage, physical fitness level, known allergies, activi or more different times. In some embodiments, one or more ties, schedule, pharmaceutical ingestion, nutraceutical display units 110 may be configured to display two or more ingestion, food ingestion, alcohol consumption, and the like. concentrations of one or more nutraceutical associated com 0214) At embodiment 2008, module 1720 may include ponents 104 in graphical form. For example, in some one or more recording units. In some embodiments, one or embodiments, concentrations may be displayed as a bar more display units 110 may be configured to include one or graph, a line graph, a pie chart, and the like. Accordingly, in more recording units 112. some embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be 0215 FIG. 21 illustrates a system 2100 representing configured to plot two or more concentrations of one or more examples of modules that may be used to perform a method nutraceutical associated components 104. Numerous plot for analysis of one or more nutraceutical associated com formats may be used. Examples of such formats include, but ponents 104. In FIG. 21, discussion and explanation may be are not limited to, concentration versus time from ingestion provided with respect to the above-described example of of one or more nutraceutical agents, concentration versus FIG. 1, and/or with respect to other examples and contexts. time from an event, such as exercise, sleep, injury, and the However, it should be understood that the operations may be like. Accordingly, in some embodiments, one or more dis executed in a number of other environments and contexts, play units 110 may be configured to display one or more and/or modified versions of FIG. 1. Also, although the concentrations of one or more nutraceutical agents within a various modules are presented in the sequence(s) illustrated, sample 102 obtained from an individual at one or more it should be understood that the various modules may be times. For example, in some embodiments, one or more configured in numerous orientations. display units 110 may display the concentration of one or 0216) The system 2100 includes module 2110 that more nutraceutical associated components 104 in blood includes one or more detection units configured to detach samples 102 obtained from an individual following inges ably connect to one or more microfluidic chips and config tion of one or more nutraceutical agents. ured to detect one or more nutraceutical associated compo 0212. At embodiment 2004, module 1720 may include nents. In some embodiments, one or more detection units one or more display units that display one or more messages 108 may be configured to detachably connect to one or more indicating one or more dosages of one or more nutraceutical microfluidic chips 106 and configured to detect one or more agents to supplement an individual with whom the one or nutraceutical associated components 104. In some embodi more nutraceutical associated components are associated. In ments, one or more detection units 108 may be configured some embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be to detect one or more nutraceutical associated components configured to display one or more messages indicating one 104 with at least one technique that includes spectroscopy, or more dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for electrochemical detection, polynucleotide detection, fluo supplementation of an individual. In some embodiments, rescence resonance energy transfer, electron transfer, one or more display units 110 may be configured to display enzyme assay, electrical conductivity, isoelectric focusing. one or more concentrations of one or more nutraceutical chromatography, immunoprecipitation, immunoseparation, associated components 104 included within one or more aptamer binding, filtration, electrophoresis, immunoassay, samples 102 obtained from an individual and then display or substantially any combination thereof. In some embodi one or more concentrations of one or more nutraceutical ments, one or more detection units 108 may be configured agents for supplementation of the individual. For example, to detect one or more nutraceutical associated components in some embodiments, the concentration of calcium may be 104 associated with two or more samples 102 that were determined to be low in a sample 102 obtained from an collected at two or more different times. In some embodi individual and the display unit 110 may be configured to ments, one or more detection units 108 may include one or indicate a dosage of a calcium supplement for administration more user interfaces 1114. In some embodiments, one or to the individual. Accordingly, one or more display units 110 more detection units 108 may be configured to transmit one may be configured to display one or more dosages of or more signals 116 to one or more display units 110. In numerous types of nutraceutical agents for administration to some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be one or more individuals. configured to transmit one or more signals 116 to one or 0213. At embodiment 2006, module 1720 may include more recording units 112. one or more user interfaces. In some embodiments, one or 0217. The system 2100 includes module 2120 that more display units 110 may be configured to provide for user includes one or more display units operably associated with US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008 27 the one or more detection units. In some embodiments, one include embodiment 2202, embodiment 2204, embodiment or more display units 110 may be configured to operably 2206, and/or embodiment 2208. associate with one or more detection units 108. In some 0220. At embodiment 2202, module 2130 may include embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be con one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for figured to display information in human-readable format. In accepting one or more samples. In some embodiments, one Some embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be or more microfluidic chips 106 may be configured to accept configured to display information in machine-readable for one or more samples 102. For example, in some embodi mat. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 ments, a microfluidic chip 106 may include a needle to may be configured to display if one or more nutraceutical accept one or more blood and/or tissue samples 102 from an associated components 104 are present or absent in one or individual. In some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 more samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more may include a mouthpiece to accept one or more breath display units 110 may be configured to display one or more and/or saliva samples 102 from an individual. In some concentrations of the one or more nutraceutical associated embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 may include a scraper to accept one or more skin and/or tissue samples 102 from components 104. In some embodiments, one or more display an individual. Accordingly, in Some embodiments, one or units 110 may be configured to receive one or more signals more microfluidic chips 106 may be configured to accept 116 from one or more detection units 108. In some embodi one or more samples 102. In some embodiments, one or ments, one or more display units 110 may be configured to more microfluidic chips 106 may be configured to accept display one or more concentrations of the one or more one or more samples 102 that are collected through use of nutraceutical associated components 104 associated with invasive techniques. Such techniques include, but are not two or more samples 102 that were collected at two or more limited to, drawing blood, obtaining mucus, obtaining tissue different times. In some embodiments, one or more display samples 102, and the like. In some embodiments, one or units 110 may be configured to display one or more mes more microfluidic chips 106 may be configured to accept sages indicating one or more dosages of one or more one or more samples 102 that are collected through use of nutraceutical agents to Supplement an individual with whom non-invasive techniques. Such techniques include, but are the one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 are not limited to, collecting one or more samples 102 that associated. In some embodiments, one or more display units include breath, Saliva, hair, Sweat, tears, and the like. 110 may include one or more user interfaces 114. In some 0221. At embodiment 2204, module 2130 may include embodiments, one or more display units 110 may include one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for one or more recording units 112. accepting one or more samples that include blood. In some 0218. The system 2100 may optionally include module embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be 2130 that includes one or more microfluidic chips config configured to accept one or more blood samples 102. For ured for analysis of the one or more nutraceutical associated example, in some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 components. In some embodiments, one or more microflu may include a needle that may be used to penetrate tissue to idic chips 106 may be configured for analysis of one or more accept a blood sample 102. In some embodiments, a microf nutraceutical associated components 104. In some embodi luidic chip 106 may include a capillary tube that may be ments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be config used to accept blood for analysis. Such a capillary tube may ured for accepting one or more samples 102. In some be used to accept blood for analysis without having to pierce embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be the skin or other tissue of an individual. For example, such configured for accepting one or more samples 102 that a capillary tube may be used to accept a blood sample 102 include blood. In some embodiments, one or more microf for analysis by inserting the capillary tube into a blood luidic chips 106 may be configured for accepting one or sample 102 resulting from a finger Stick with a lancet. more samples 102 that include at least one of Sweat, tears, 0222. At embodiment 2206, module 2130 may include urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, excrement, mucus, or Sub one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for stantially any combination thereof. In some embodiments, accepting one or more samples that include at least one of one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be configured for Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, excrement, or analysis of one or more samples 102 that include at least one mucus. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic of blood, Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, chips 106 may be configured to accept one or more samples excrement, mucus, or Substantially any combination thereof. 102 that include at least one of sweat, tears, urine, breath, In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 skin, hair, saliva, excrement, or mucus. In some embodi may be configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical ments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be config associated components 104 that include at least one hor ured to allow individuals to collect one or more samples 102 mone, prohormone, polynucleotide, enzyme, protein, Vita from themselves. Accordingly, in Some embodiments, a min, mineral, metal, antioxidants, or Substantially any com microfluidic chip 106 may be used for point-of-care analysis bination thereof. In some embodiments, one or more by an individual. In some embodiments, one or more microf microfluidic chips 106 may be configured for analysis of one luidic chips 106 may be configured to allow one or more or more nutraceutical associated components 104 associated samples 102 to be analyzed by someone other than the with two or more samples 102 that were collected at two or individual from whom the one or more samples 102 were more different times. In some embodiments, one or more collected. For example, in Some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be configured for analysis of a microfluidic chips 106 may be configured so that individuals single nutraceutical associated component 104. may collect one or more samples 102 from themselves and 0219 FIG. 22 illustrates alternative embodiments of the then send the one or more samples 102 for analysis by a system of FIG. 21. FIG. 22 illustrates additional example person other than the individual from whom the samples 102 embodiments of module 2130. Additional embodiments may were collected. In other embodiments, one or more microf US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008 28 luidic chips 106 may be configured so that one or more 0230. Examples of vitamins that may be processed samples 102 may be collected from an individual and through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, analyzed by a person other than the individual. For example, but are not limited to, vitamin A, B vitamins, C Vitamins, a physician, nurse, coach, nutritionist, personal trainer, or Vitamin D, E vitamins, vitamin K, or Substantially any the like may collect one or more samples 102 from an combination thereof. individual and then analyze the one or more samples 102. 0231. Examples of minerals that may be processed 0223) At embodiment 2208, module 2130 may include through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for but are not limited to, calcium, chromium, cobalt, copper, analysis of one or more samples that include at least one of iodine, magnesium, manganese, selenium, strontium, Sulfur, blood, Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, excre Zinc, or Substantially any combination thereof. ment, or mucus. One or more microfluidic chips 106 may be 0232 Examples of metals that may be processed through configured for analysis of one or more samples 102 that use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, but are include at least one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, not limited to, aluminum, antimony, arsenic, bismuth, cad saliva, excrement, blood, mucus, or Substantially any com mium, lead, mercury, nickel, tin, or Substantially any com bination thereof. In some embodiments, one or more samples 102 may be processed through use of extraction bination thereof. methods to provide for detection of one or more nutraceu 0233 Examples of antioxidants that may be processed tical associated components 104. For example, in some through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, embodiments, nucleic acid may be extracted from a sample but are not limited to, vitamin A, vitamin C. vitamin E, alpha 102. In other embodiments, one or more enzymes may be lipoic acid, coenzyme Q-10, or Substantially any combina extracted from one or more samples 102. In some embodi tion thereof. ments, one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 0234. At embodiment 2304, module 2130 may include may be solvent extracted from one or more samples 102. one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for Numerous methods may be used to process one or more analysis of the one or more nutraceutical associated com samples 102. ponents collected at two or more different times. In some 0224 FIG. 23 illustrates alternative embodiments of the embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be system of FIG. 21. FIG. 23 illustrates additional example configured for analysis of two or more samples 102 that are embodiments of module 2130. Additional embodiments may collected at two or more different times. For example, a first include embodiment 2302, embodiment 2304, and/or sample 102 may be analyzed that was collected at a first time embodiment 2306. and a second sample 102 may be analyzed that was collected at a second time. Numerous samples 102 and time points 0225. At embodiment 2302, module 2130 may include may be analyzed through use of microfluidic chips 106. one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for Accordingly, in Some embodiments, the presence or absence analysis of the one or more nutraceutical associated com of one or more nutraceutical associated components 104 at ponents that include at least one hormone, prohormone, two or more times may be determined. In some embodi polynucleotide, enzyme, protein, Vitamin, mineral, metal, or ments, an increase or decrease in a nutraceutical associated antioxidant. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic component 104 in a time relevant manner may be deter chips 106 may be configured for analysis of one or more mined. Such an increase or decrease in a nutraceutical nutraceutical associated components 104 that include at least associated component 104 may be determined through one hormone, prohormone, polynucleotide, enzyme, pro detection of concentration, activity, and the like. tein, vitamin, mineral, metal, or antioxidant. 0235. At embodiment 2306, module 2130 may include 0226 Examples of hormones that may be processed one or more microfluidic chips that are configured for through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, analysis of a single nutraceutical associated component. In but are not limited to, testosterone (free and/or bound), some embodiments, a microfluidic chip 106 may be config estrogen, androgens, estradiol, progesterone, melatonin, ured for analysis of a single nutraceutical associated com serotonin, follicle stimulating hormone, dehydroepiandros ponent 104. For example, in Some embodiments, a microf terone (DHEA), 5-HTP cortisol, thyroid stimulating hor luidic chip 106 may be configured for analysis of mone, human chorionic gonadotropin, prohormones thereof, testosterone in at least one sample 102. In some embodi or Substantially any combination thereof. ments, such a microfluidic chip 106 may be configured for 0227 Examples of polynucleotides that may be pro analysis of free versus bound testosterone. In some embodi cessed through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 ments, a microfluidic chip 106 may be configured for include, but are not limited to, those that encode hormones, analysis of estrogen in at least one sample 102. Accordingly, enzymes involved in oxidative pathways, enzymes involved microfluidic chips 106 may be configured for analysis of in metabolic pathways, and the like. numerous types of nutraceutical associated components 104. 0228. Examples of enzymes that may be processed 0236 FIG. 24 illustrates a system 2400 representing through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, examples of modules that may be used to perform a method but are not limited to, enzymes involved in oxidative path for analysis of one or more nutraceutical associated com ways, enzymes involved in metabolic pathways, or Substan ponents 104. In FIG. 24, discussion and explanation may be tially any combination thereof. provided with respect to the above-described example of 0229. Examples of proteins that may be processed FIG. 1, and/or with respect to other examples and contexts. through use of one or more microfluidic chips 106 include, However, it should be understood that the operations may be but are not limited to, proteins linked to urinary tract executed in a number of other environments and contexts, infection, prostate specific antigen, microalbumin, hemoglo and/or modified versions of FIG. 1. Also, although the bin, or Substantially any combination thereof. various modules are presented in the sequence(s) illustrated, US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008 29 it should be understood that the various modules may be tical associated component. In some embodiments, one or configured in numerous orientations. more display units 110 may be configured to operably 0237. The system 2400 includes module 2410 that associate with one or more detection units 108 that indicate includes one or more microfluidic chips configured for one or more dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for processing of a single nutraceutical associated component. Supplementation of an individual associated with the single In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 nutraceutical associated component 104. In some embodi may be configured for processing of a single nutraceutical ments, one or more display units 110 may be configured to associated component 104. In some embodiments, one or display information in human-readable format. In some more microfluidic chips 106 may be configured for accept embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be con ing one or more samples 102. In some embodiments, one or figured to display information in machine-readable format. more microfluidic chips 106 may be configured for accept In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 may be ing one or more samples 102 that include blood. In some configured to display if one or more nutraceutical associated embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be components 104 are present or absent in one or more configured for accepting one or more samples 102 that samples 102. In some embodiments, one or more display include at least one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, units 110 may be configured to display one or more con saliva, excrement, mucus, or Substantially any combination centrations of the one or more nutraceutical associated thereof. In some embodiments, one or more microfluidic components 104. In some embodiments, one or more display chips 106 may be configured for analysis of one or more units 110 may be configured to receive one or more signals samples 102 that include at least one of blood, sweat, tears, 116 from one or more detection units 108. In some embodi urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, excrement, mucus, or Sub ments, one or more display units 110 may be configured to stantially any combination thereof. In some embodiments, display one or more concentrations of one or more nutra one or more microfluidic chips 106 may be configured for ceutical associated components 104 associated with two or analysis of a single nutraceutical associated component 104 more samples 102 that were collected at two or more that may include a hormone, prohormone, polynucleotide, different times. In some embodiments, one or more display enzyme, protein, vitamin, mineral, metal, or antioxidant. In units 110 may be configured to display one or more mes some embodiments, one or more microfluidic chips 106 may sages indicating one or more dosages of one or more be configured for analysis of a single nutraceutical associ nutraceutical agents to Supplement an individual with whom ated component 104 associated with two or more samples the single nutraceutical associated component 104 is asso 102 that were collected at two or more different times. ciated. In some embodiments, one or more display units 110 0238. The system 2400 includes module 2420 that may include one or more user interfaces 114. In some includes one or more detection units configured to detach embodiments, one or more display units 110 may include ably connect to the one or more microfluidic chips and one or more recording units 1112. configured to detect one or more nutraceutical associated 0240. With respect to the use of substantially any plural components that include the single nutraceutical associated and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can component. In some embodiments, one or more detection translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the units 108 may be configured to detachably connect to one or singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or more microfluidic chips 106 and configured to detect one or application. The various singular/plural permutations are not more nutraceutical associated components 104 that include expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity. While particular the single nutraceutical associated component 104. In some aspects of the present subject matter described herein have embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be been shown and described, it will be apparent to those configured to detect one or more nutraceutical associated skilled in the art that, based upon the teachings herein, components 104 with at least one technique that includes changes and modifications may be made without departing spectroscopy, electrochemical detection, polynucleotide from the subject matter described herein and its broader detection, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, electron aspects and, therefore, the appended claims are to encom transfer, enzyme assay, electrical conductivity, isoelectric pass within their scope all such changes and modifications as focusing, chromatography, immunoprecipitation, immun are within the true spirit and scope of the subject matter oSeparation, aptamer binding, filtration, electrophoresis, described herein. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the immunoassay, or Substantially any combination thereof. In invention is defined by the appended claims. It will be some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms configured to detect one or more nutraceutical associated used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., components 104 associated with two or more samples 102 bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as that were collected at two or more different times. In some “open' terms (e.g., the term “including should be inter embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may include preted as “including but not limited to, the term “having one or more user interfaces 114. In some embodiments, one should be interpreted as “having at least, the term or more detection units 108 may be configured to transmit “includes should be interpreted as “includes but is not one or more signals 116 to one or more display units 110. In limited to.” etc.). It will be further understood by those some embodiments, one or more detection units 108 may be within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim configured to transmit one or more signals 116 to one or recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited more recording units 112. in the claim, and in the absence of Such recitation no such 0239. The system 2400 includes module 2430 that intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, includes one or more display units operably associated with the following appended claims may contain usage of the the one or more detection units that indicate one or more introductory phrases “at least one' and “one or more' to dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for Supplemen introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such tation of an individual associated with the single nutraceu phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduc US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008 30 tion of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an will recognize that optical aspects of implementations will limits any particular claim containing Such introduced claim typically employ optically-oriented hardware, software, and/ recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, or firmware. even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases 0241 The foregoing detailed description has set forth “one or more' or “at least one' and indefinite articles such various embodiments of the devices and/or processes via the as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an should typically be use of block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples. Insofar interpreted to mean “at least one' or “one or more'); the as such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples contain same holds true for the use of definite articles used to one or more functions and/or operations, it will be under introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific stood by those within the art that each function and/or number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly operation within Such block diagrams, flowcharts, or recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such examples can be implemented, individually and/or collec recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the tively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations.” virtually any combination thereof. In one embodiment, without other modifiers, typically means at least two reci several portions of the subject matter described herein may tations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those be implemented via Application Specific Integrated Circuits instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of (ASICs), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), digital A, B, and C, etc. is used, in general Such a construction is signal processors (DSPs), or other integrated formats. How intended in the sense one having skill in the art would ever, those skilled in the art will recognize that some aspects understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least of the embodiments disclosed herein, in whole or in part, can one of A, B, and C would include but not be limited to be equivalently implemented in integrated circuits, as one or systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B more computer programs running on one or more computers together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention computer systems), as one or more programs running on one analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc. is used, in or more processors (e.g., as one or more programs running general Such a construction is intended in the sense one on one or more microprocessors), as firmware, or as virtu having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., ally any combination thereof, and that designing the cir “a system having at least one of A, B, or C would include cuitry and/or writing the code for the software and/or but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C firmware would be well within the skill of one of skill in the alone, A and B together, A and C together, Band C together, art in light of this disclosure. In addition, those skilled in the and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further under art will appreciate that the mechanisms of the subject matter stood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive described herein are capable of being distributed as a word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative program product in a variety of forms, and that an illustra terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, tive embodiment of the subject matter described herein should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of applies regardless of the particular type of signal bearing including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. medium used to actually carry out the distribution. For example, the phrase “A or B will be understood to Examples of a signal bearing medium include, but are not include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.” Those limited to, the following: a recordable type medium such as having skill in the art will recognize that the state of the art a floppy disk, a hard disk drive, a Compact Disc (CD), a has progressed to the point where there is little distinction Digital Video Disk (DVD), a digital tape, a computer left between hardware and software implementations of memory, etc.; and a transmission type medium Such as a aspects of systems; the use of hardware or Software is digital and/or an analog communication medium (e.g., a generally (but not always, in that in certain contexts the fiber optic cable, a waveguide, a wired communications link, choice between hardware and Software can become signifi a wireless communication link, etc.). cant) a design choice representing cost vs. efficiency 0242. In a general sense, those skilled in the art will tradeoffs. Those having skill in the art will appreciate that recognize that the various embodiments described herein there are various vehicles by which processes and/or sys can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by tems and/or other technologies described herein can be various types of electromechanical systems having a wide effected (e.g., hardware, Software, and/or firmware), and that range of electrical components such as hardware, Software, the preferred vehicle will vary with the context in which the firmware, or virtually any combination thereof; and a wide processes and/or systems and/or other technologies are range of components that may impart mechanical force or deployed. For example, if an implementer determines that motion Such as rigid bodies, spring or torsional bodies, speed and accuracy are paramount, the implementer may opt hydraulics, and electro-magnetically actuated devices, or for a mainly hardware and/or firmware vehicle: alterna virtually any combination thereof. Consequently, as used tively, if flexibility is paramount, the implementer may opt herein “electro-mechanical system’ includes, but is not for a mainly Software implementation; or, yet again alter limited to, electrical circuitry operably coupled with a trans natively, the implementer may opt for some combination of ducer (e.g., an actuator, a motor, a piezoelectric crystal, etc.), hardware, software, and/or firmware. Hence, there are sev electrical circuitry having at least one discrete electrical eral possible vehicles by which the processes and/or devices circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one integrated and/or other technologies described herein may be effected, circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one application none of which is inherently superior to the other in that any specific integrated circuit, electrical circuitry forming a vehicle to be utilized is a choice dependent upon the context general purpose computing device configured by a computer in which the vehicle will be deployed and the specific program (e.g., a general purpose computer configured by a concerns (e.g., speed, flexibility, or predictability) of the computer program which at least partially carries out pro implementer, any of which may vary. Those skilled in the art cesses and/or devices described herein, or a microprocessor US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

configured by a computer program which at least partially 0243 Although a user 118 is shown/described herein as carries out processes and/or devices described herein), elec a single illustrated figure, those skilled in the art will trical circuitry forming a memory device (e.g., forms of appreciate that a user 118 may be representative of a human random access memory), electrical circuitry forming a com user 118, a robotic user 118 (e.g., computational entity), munications device (e.g., a modem, communications Switch, and/or Substantially any combination thereof (e.g., a user or optical-electrical equipment), and any non-electrical ana 118 may be assisted by one or more robotic agents). In log thereto, such as optical or other analogs. Those skilled in addition, a user 118 as set forth herein, although shown as a the art will also appreciate that examples of electro-me single entity may in fact be composed of two or more entities. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, in chanical systems include, but are not limited to, a variety of general, the same may be said of “sender and/or other consumer electronics systems, as well as other systems such entity-oriented terms as such terms are used herein. The as motorized transport systems, factory automation systems, herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates differ security systems, and communication/computing systems. ent components contained within, or connected with, differ Those skilled in the art will recognize that electromechanical ent other components. It is to be understood that Such as used herein is not necessarily limited to a system that has depicted architectures are merely exemplary, and that in fact both electrical and mechanical actuation except as context many other architectures can be implemented which achieve may dictate otherwise. In a general sense, those skilled in the the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrange art will recognize that the various aspects described herein ment of components to achieve the same functionality is which can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, effectively “associated such that the desired functionality is by a wide range of hardware, Software, firmware, or any achieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to combination thereof can be viewed as being composed of achieve a particular functionality can be seen as “associated various types of "electrical circuitry.” Consequently, as used with each other such that the desired functionality is herein “electrical circuitry’ includes, but is not limited to, achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial com electrical circuitry having at least one discrete electrical ponents. Likewise, any two components so associated can circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one integrated also be viewed as being “operably connected, or “operably circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one application coupled, to each other to achieve the desired functionality, specific integrated circuit, electrical circuitry forming a and any two components capable of being so associated can general purpose computing device configured by a computer also be viewed as being “operably couplable', to each other program (e.g., a general purpose computer configured by a to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operably couplable include, but are not limited to, physically computer program which at least partially carries out pro mateable and/or physically interacting components and/or cesses and/or devices described herein, or a microprocessor wirelessly interactable and/or wirelessly interacting compo configured by a computer program which at least partially nents and/or logically interacting and/or logically inter carries out processes and/or devices described herein), elec actable components. trical circuitry forming a memory device (e.g., forms of 0244 All publications, patents and patent applications random access memory), and/or electrical circuitry forming cited herein are incorporated herein by reference. The fore a communications device (e.g., a modem, communications going specification has been described in relation to certain Switch, or optical-electrical equipment). Those having skill embodiments thereof, and many details have been set forth in the art will recognize that the subject matter described for purposes of illustration, however, it will be apparent to herein may be implemented in an analog or digital fashion those skilled in the art that the invention is susceptible to or some combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will additional embodiments and that certain of the details recognize that it is common within the art to implement described herein may be varied considerably without depart devices and/or processes and/or systems in the fashion(s) set ing from the basic principles of the invention. forth herein, and thereafter use engineering and/or business practices to integrate Such implemented devices and/or 1. A method comprising: processes and/or systems into more comprehensive devices processing one or more samples with one or more microf and/or processes and/or systems. That is, at least a portion of luidic chips that are configured for analysis of one or the devices and/or processes and/or systems described more nutraceutical associated components; and herein can be integrated into other devices and/or processes detecting the one or more nutraceutical associated com and/or systems via a reasonable amount of experimentation. ponents with one or more detection units. Those having skill in the art will recognize that examples of 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the processing one or Such other devices and/or processes and/or systems might more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are include—as appropriate to context and application—all or configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical asso part of devices and/or processes and/or systems of (a) an air ciated components comprises: conveyance (e.g., an airplane, rocket, hovercraft, helicopter, accepting the one or more samples. etc.), (b) a ground conveyance (e.g., a car, truck, locomotive, 3. (canceled) tank, armored personnel carrier, etc.), (c) a building (e.g., a 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the processing one or home, warehouse, office, etc.), (d) an appliance (e.g., a more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are refrigerator, a washing machine, a dryer, etc.), (e) a com configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical asso munications system (e.g., a networked system, a telephone ciated components comprises: system, a voice-over IP system, etc.), (f) a business entity accepting the one or more samples that include at least (e.g., an Internet Service Provider (ISP) entity such as one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, Comcast Cable, Quest, Southwestern Bell, etc), or (g) a excrement, or mucus. wired/wireless services entity such as Sprint, Cingular, Nex 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the processing one or tel, etc.), etc. more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008 32 configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical asso 20. (canceled) ciated components comprises: 21. The method of claim 17, wherein the displaying accepting the one or more samples that include blood. results of the detecting with one or more display units that 6. (canceled) are operably coupled with the one or more detection units 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the processing one or comprises: more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are displaying one or more concentrations of the one or more configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical asso nutraceutical associated components. ciated components comprises: 22. The method of claim 17, wherein the displaying processing the one or more samples that include at least results of the detecting with one or more display units that one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, are operably coupled with the one or more detection units excrement, blood, or mucus. comprises: 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the processing one or receiving one or more signals from the one or more more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are detection units. configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical asso 23. The method of claim 17, wherein the displaying ciated components comprises: results of the detecting with one or more display units that processing the one or more samples that include at least are operably coupled with the one or more detection units one hormone, prohormone, polynucleotide, enzyme, comprises: protein, vitamin, mineral, metal, or antioxidant. displaying one or more concentrations of the one or more 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the processing one or nutraceutical associated components at two or more more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are different times. configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical asso 24. The method of claim 17, wherein the displaying ciated components comprises: results of the detecting with one or more display units that processing two or more samples that are collected at two are operably coupled with the one or more detection units or more different times. comprises: 10. (canceled) displaying one or more messages indicating one or more 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the processing one or dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for Supple more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are mentation of an individual. configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical asso 25. The method of claim 17, wherein the displaying ciated components comprises: results of the detecting with one or more display units that providing for user interaction. are operably coupled with the one or more detection units 12. (canceled) comprises: 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the detecting the one providing for user interaction. or more nutraceutical associated components with one or 26. The method of claim 17, wherein the displaying more detection units comprises: results of the detecting with one or more display units that detecting the one or more nutraceutical associated com are operably coupled with the one or more detection units ponents at two or more different times. comprises: 14. The method of claim 1, wherein the detecting the one transmitting one or more signals to the one or more or more nutraceutical associated components with one or display units. more detection units comprises: 27. The method of claim 17, wherein the displaying providing for user interaction. results of the detecting with one or more display units that 15. The method of claim 1, wherein the detecting the one are operably coupled with the one or more detection units or more nutraceutical associated components with one or comprises: more detection units comprises: transmitting one or more signals to one or more recording transmitting one or more signals to one or more display units. units. 16. The method of claim 1, wherein the detecting the one 28. A method comprising: or more nutraceutical associated components with one or detecting one or more nutraceutical associated compo more detection units comprises: nents with one or more detection units; and transmitting one or more signals to one or more recording displaying results of the detecting with one or more units. display units that are operably coupled with the one or 17. The method of claim 1, further comprising: more detection units. displaying results of the detecting with one or more 29. (canceled) display units that are operably coupled with the one or 30. The method of claim 28, wherein the detecting one or more detection units. more nutraceutical associated components with one or more 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the displaying detection units comprises: results of the detecting with one or more display units that detecting the one or more nutraceutical associated com are operably coupled with the one or more detection units ponents at two or more different times. comprises: 31. The method of claim 28, wherein the detecting one or displaying the results in human-readable format. more nutraceutical associated components with one or more 19. The method of claim 17, wherein the displaying detection units comprises: results of the detecting with one or more display units that providing for user interaction. are operably coupled with the one or more detection units 32. The method of claim 28, wherein the detecting one or comprises: more nutraceutical associated components with one or more displaying the results in machine-readable format. detection units comprises: US 2008/0003307 A1 Jan. 3, 2008

transmitting one or more signals to the one or more 43. The method of claim 28, wherein the displaying display units. results of the detecting with one or more display units that 33. The method of claim 28, wherein the detecting one or are operably coupled with the one or more detection units more nutraceutical associated components with one or more comprises: detection units comprises: transmitting one or more signals to one or more recording transmitting one or more signals to one or more recording units. units. 44. The method of claim 28, further comprising: 34. The method of claim 28, wherein the displaying processing one or more samples with one or more microf results of the detecting with one or more display units that luidic chips that are configured for analysis of the one are operably coupled with the one or more detection units or more nutraceutical associated components. comprises: 45. The method of claim 44, wherein the processing one displaying the results in human-readable format. or more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are 35. The method of claim 28, wherein the displaying configured for analysis of the one or more nutraceutical results of the detecting with one or more display units that associated components comprises: are operably coupled with the one or more detection units accepting the one or more samples. comprises: 46. (canceled) displaying the results in machine-readable format. 47. The method of claim 44, wherein the processing one 36. (canceled) or more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are 37. The method of claim 28, wherein the displaying configured for analysis of the one or more nutraceutical results of the detecting with one or more display units that associated components comprises: are operably coupled with the one or more detection units accepting the one or more samples that include at least comprises: one of Sweat, tears, urine, breath, skin, hair, saliva, displaying one or more concentrations of the one or more excrement, or mucus. nutraceutical associated components. 48. The method of claim 44, wherein the processing one 38. The method of claim 28, wherein the displaying or more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are results of the detecting with one or more display units that configured for analysis of the one or more nutraceutical are operably coupled with the one or more detection units comprises: associated components comprises: receiving one or more signals from the one or more accepting the one or more samples that include blood. detection units. 49.-51. (canceled) 39. The method of claim 28, wherein the displaying 52. The method of claim 44, wherein the processing one results of the detecting with one or more display units that or more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are are operably coupled with the one or more detection units configured for analysis of the one or more nutraceutical comprises: associated components comprises: displaying one or more concentrations of the one or more processing two or more samples that are collected at two nutraceutical associated components at two or more or more different times. different times. 53. (canceled) 40. The method of claim 28, wherein the displaying 54. The method of claim 44, wherein the processing one results of the detecting with one or more display units that or more samples with one or more microfluidic chips that are are operably coupled with the one or more detection units configured for analysis of the one or more nutraceutical comprises: associated components comprises: displaying one or more messages indicating one or more providing for user interaction. dosages of one or more nutraceutical agents for Supple 55. A method comprising: mentation of an individual. processing one or more samples obtained from an indi 41. The method of claim 28, wherein the displaying vidual with one or more microfluidic chips that are results of the detecting with one or more display units that configured for analysis of one or more nutraceutical are operably coupled with the one or more detection units associated components; comprises: detecting the one or more nutraceutical associated com providing for user interaction. ponents with one or more detection units; and 42. The method of claim 28, wherein the displaying displaying one or more dosages of one or more nutraceu results of the detecting with one or more display units that tical agents for Supplementation of the individual in are operably coupled with the one or more detection units response to the detecting. comprises: 56.-79. (canceled) transmitting one or more signals to the one or more display units.