Abstract: A method includes applying ultrasound to a container having a plurality of magnetic particles contacted with a fluid sample having a biological material capable of binding to the magnetic particles, in an amount effective to suspend the magnetic particles in the fluid.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for DNA hybridization is provided. The apparatus and method work in conjunction with a substrate comprising an upper surface having probes. The apparatus may comprise a material which abuts the substrate, with at least a portion of the material being pliable. The material and the substrate form a plurality of chambers, each chamber having a bottom including at least a portion of the upper surface, at least one sidewall, and an opening. The apparatus further comprises a mechanism for closing the openings of the chambers, thereby sealing the chambers.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for DNA hybridization is provided. The apparatus and method work in conjunction with a substrate comprising an upper surface having probes. The apparatus may comprise a material which abuts the substrate, with at least a portion of the material being pliable. The material and the substrate form a plurality of chambers, each chamber having a bottom including at least a portion of the upper surface, at least one sidewall, and an opening. The apparatus further comprises a mechanism for closing the openings of the chambers, thereby sealing the chambers.

Abstract: A method for detecting a target analyte having a first binding site and a second binding site. A substrate is provided having at least a first and a second patterned conductor, the first conductor being separated from the second conductor. The arrangement of the patterned conductors forms at least two substantially non-conducting gaps. The method may also include contacting to the substrate capture probes that bind specifically to the first binding site of the target analyte and providing electrically conductive nanoparticles having bound thereto binding sites that bind specifically to the second binding site of the target analyte. Then, contacting the substrate and the electrically conductive nanoparticles with the target analyte under hybridizing conditions will bind the target analyte to the substrate and to the electrically conductive nanoparticles. The electrically conductive nanoparticles between the conductors can thus be electrically detected.

Abstract: A bearing supports a rotating element. The bearing comprises an inner annular body and an outer annular body about the inner annular body. A bearing surface, which is located between the inner annular body and the outer annular body, supports the outer annular body for rotation about the inner annular body. A cage supports the bearing surface during rotation of the outer annular body about the inner annular body. The cage includes a material that imparts increased flexural modulus that resists deformation during rotation.