Abstract: Various automated and semi-automated beverage preparation systems and methods are shown. The beverage preparation system can include a container assembly configured to receive beverage, such as a milk. The container assembly can be configured to receive a flow of steam, air, or additional gasses and vapors to heat and/or aerate the beverage residing therein. The container assembly can include a temperature sensor configured to monitor the rate of heating, and automatically adjust the heating and aeration parameters accordingly.

Abstract: Purifying target biomolecules, such as nucleic acids or proteins, from a biological source is a time intensive process and is typically performed by a skilled technician or scientist owing to the highly technical nature of the work. Systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein enable the automated bioprocessing and purification of target biomolecules from a biological source. For example, an instrument and disposable cartridge are provided for automatedly isolating and purifying nucleic acids (such as plasmid DNA from a bacterial culture) or for isolating protein from any biological sample. Such an exemplary instrument and cartridge can work in concert to timely release, mix, and move the target biomolecule and various reagents and buffers through a target biomolecule purification process, resulting in a purified target biomolecule with less manual oversight than traditional approaches.

Abstract: Clay tiles having the appearance of antique bricks are manufactured by making a latex casting of the surface of a model antique brick; producing a clay model by pressing an oven-hardening clay into the casting, then stretching it slightly to allow for clay shrinkage when the clay is fired; firing the clay model; pouring a liquid resin layer over the clay model and heat-curing the resin layer so as to form a flexible resin mold; placing the resin mold it in a box with a removable bottom plate, said box configured to a predetermined tile size; applying a release agent to inside surfaces of the box and to the resin mold; sprinkling wood ash or clay powder on to the resin mold; pressing clay into the box and tapping it to fill the box; removing the clay form from the box; peeling off the resin mold from the clay form; and drying and firing the clay form.