Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus and methods for depositing materials on a substrate, and for performing other selected functions, such as material destruction and removal, temperature control, imaging, detection, therapy and positional and locational control. In various embodiments, the apparatus and methods are suitable for use in a tabletop setting, in vitro or in vivo.

Abstract: Detection of a rarely occurring event within one or more biological samples includes (a) processing each biological sample to provide a gellable liquid solution comprising concentrated biological sample and a flourochrome designed to associate with a rarely occurring event within the concentrated biological sample; (b) depositing the solution in a layer on a surface of a slide; and (c) scanning the solution on the slide with energy adapted to cause fluorescence of the flourochrome to detect potential instances of the rarely occurring event within the concentrated biological sample in the solution.

Abstract: An optimal configuration for at least one antenna and/or at least one frequency selective surface is generated. A configuration of elements is generated by selecting a simple configuration of at least one element and applying a genetic algorithm to the simple configuration to generate a configuration optimized for various characteristics. A stochastic process may be used to randomly select an arrangement of elements as the simple antenna configuration and to select elements that connect the randomly selected elements to produce a stochastic configuration to which the genetic algorithm is then applied. Alternatively, an iterated or semi-iterated process may be applied to the simple antenna configuration to produce a fractal or a semi-fractal configuration, respectively, to which the genetic algorithm is then applied. Also, the elements may be optimized independently.

Abstract: A micro-helix antenna. The antenna comprises a helically-shaped conductive element disposed on a dielectric core. The diameter of the helix formed by the conductive element is very small relative to the wavelength of the antenna, preferably no more than about 1/100th of the wavelength. Having such a small diameter, this micro-helix antenna can be further compressed into two- and three-dimensional shapes, such as spirals, helices and meandering or stochastic patterns. The micro-helix antenna can be created by pressing a fine wire into a helical shape. Alternately, the helical conductor can be formed by a laser ablation process or laying down the helical shape using a direct-write process.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus and methods for depositing materials on a substrate, and for performing other selected functions, such as material destruction and removal, temperature control, imaging, detection, therapy and positional and locational control. In various embodiments, the apparatus and methods are suitable for use in a tabletop setting, in vitro or in vivo.

Abstract: Sample preparation apparatus and method includes a wafer stage platform with an optical microscope and integrated pattern recognition to automatically address specific locations on the wafer sample of interest. A laser attaches to the optical microscope to mill a set pattern around the area of interest. A precision micro-manipulator engages the sample support structure, extracts the structure, and places the structure in a TEM holder or holder tip. The holder or holder tip can then be placed inside a FIB for final thinning, followed by direct transfer into the TEM.

Abstract: Concentration of a solute in a solution is determined. Light from a light source is received at a chamber containing the solute and the solution. The light is transmitted along an optical path length of the chamber, through the solute and the solution, and output from the chamber. The light output from the chamber is detected by a detector. The optical path length of the chamber is selected to optimize sensitivity of the detector. The concentration of the solute in the solution is determined based on the light received by the detector.

Abstract: Paste compositions for forming ceramic composites can include at least one solvent; at least one optional binder; at least one low-temperature frit glass; and a plurality of one or more functional particles; wherein the paste is capable of forming a composite upon low-temperature processing or laser processing.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing a low temperature 0-3 composite material, comprising the steps of providing a mixture, wherein the mixture comprises a liquid phase and a particulate phase and wherein the liquid phase comprises a reactive metal alkoxide; depositing the mixture on to a plastic substrate; and consolidating the mixture to provide a 0-3 composite material, wherein the 0-3 composite material is suitable for use as an electronic component.

Abstract: A compact integrated biosensor has an integrated light source and integrated optical detectors made with gratings, dielectric coating, or prism for specific wavelength selection to define signatures that identify elements, biohazardous materials, environmentally hazardous materials, biological substance or any chemical substance on the sample holders. A micropump draws gas, ambient fluids and samples to the sample holders. Electrical signals are provided from the optical detectors on output lines to the microprocessor. A device connected to the microprocessor compares characteristic responses to actual signal parameters. An output indicates the presence (or absence) of particular biological, chemical or environmentally hazardous material. A battery, fuel cell or solar cell operated power supply provides electrical energy to the integrated light source and optical detectors.