Abstract: A multi-well plate for use in Raman spectroscopy includes a substrate and a metallic layer. The substrate defines a plurality of wells in a top surface thereof. The metallic layer is disposed on a bottom wall of each of the wells in the substrate. The substrate may comprise a material selected from the group consisting of glass and plastic. Each of the wells in the substrate has a diameter of about 0.02 to 10 mm and a depth of about 0.

Abstract: An autofocus Raman spectrometer system includes a laser probe assembly, a microprocessor, adjustable stages and a driving means. The laser probe assembly includes an excitation means, a focusing optics provided to focus an excitation beam from the excitation means onto a sample and generate Raman scattering spectrum, a collection optics for collecting the Raman scattering spectrum, and a spectrographic detector for generating a Raman spectrum based on the Raman scattering intensity received from the collection optics. The microprocessor receives the Raman spectra signal therefrom. The laser probe assembly is situated on the adjustable stage. The driving means is coupled to the microprocessor and configured to drive the stage to move with respect to the sample. The microprocessor generates a command to the driving means for moving a position of the adjustable stage to achieve an optimal optical focus based on signal intensity of the spectra peaks measured by the spectrographic detector.

Abstract: An improved mixing unit and check valve for a fluid pumping system wherein gradient proportioning is performed at high pressure are described. The mixing unit has lining means disposed on the inner surface of the chamber for preventing frictional contact between the steel of the chamber and the surface of the rotor. The lining means is formed of a polymeric material selected for frictional compatibility with the rotor, and avoids formation of undesirable particulates by friction with the rotor surface. The check valve has a poppet comprising a midsection dimensioned to provide forward and rearward surfaces against which fluid flow will exert force, a first arm extending transversely from the midsection first side toward the valve inlet, a second arm extending transversely from the midsection second side toward the valve outlet, and first and second resilient seals respectively annularly disposed about the first and second arms.