Abstract: A unitary coiled connector component for use within a 3D bioprinter or cell printer. The unitary coiled connector comprising a metal sleeve, a PEEK insert, and a printer tip, and configured for connection to a valve within the cell printer. The unitary coiled connector being easily removable and replaceable to reduce repair time as well as reduce contamination to the cell printer during repair or replacement of the coiled connector. Also disclosed is an alternative embodiment of a printer block for retaining one or more unitary coiled connectors.

Abstract: Discussed herein are methods and apparatuses for dispensing precise quantities of reagents, wherein air pressure is controlled to pilot a liquid syringe or diaphragm that provides an air to liquid interface. The resultant pressurized liquid is then in series with dispensing element, such as an aerosol dispenser, solenoid valve or piezo dispenser. The pump may be controlled by air pressure to provide an incremental quantity or continuous flow of reagent to the dispenser. The pump and dispenser may be operated in cooperation with one another such that the quantity or flow rate of liquid dispensed by the dispenser can be precisely metered substantially independently of the particular operating parameters of said dispenser to attain a desired flow rate, droplet size or mist quality, droplet frequency or droplet velocity.

Abstract: A stent apparatus and its use is provided comprising a substantially tubular member with an inside surface and an outside surface; and a securing element for securing the tubular member to the exterior of a body lumen. The method for implanting the stent to the exterior of a body lumen comprises providing for an exterior stent, inserting the stent around a desired location on the exterior of the lumen, and providing for controlled expansion of the lumen such that it contacts the stent sufficiently to secure it to the lumen.

Abstract: A support apparatus and its use is provided comprising a substantially support layer with an inside surface and an outside surface; and a securing element for securing the support layer to the exterior of a body lumen. The method for implanting the support to the exterior of a body lumen comprises providing for an exterior support, inserting the stent around a desired location on the exterior of the lumen, and providing for controlled expansion of the lumen such that it contacts the support sufficiently to secure it to the lumen.

Abstract: A closed flow cell having a cavity with a flexible diaphragm at either end of a flow tube. A sample having particles or biological cells suspended in a fluid is placed within either cavity. Movement of the diaphragm forces the fluid to flow through the flow tube back and forth between the two cavities. Detectors are positioned adjacent the flow tube. A light source, typically a laser, illuminates the flow tube. Scattered light from the light source is detected by the detectors. Various properties of the particle are thereby determined.

Abstract: An apparatus for inspecting semiconductor, or other types of, wafers is disclosed. The apparatus uses a robot arm to move wafers from an incoming location to an inspection location, and then to an outgoing location. The robot arm may be supported on a floating platform to prevent mechanical chafing and resulting contamination. The robot arm is constructed to have a free end which moves laterally, but not vertically. The arm may be retractable to reduce wobble when the wafer is being inspected. A wafer in the inspection position is inspected by scanning with an objective lens coupled to an associated optical system. If desired, an automatic discrimination system can be coupled to the optical system to permit discrimination between acceptable and non-acceptable wafers. The objective lens may face upwardly and the wafer downwardly to urge contaminants to fall from the wafer.