Abstract: The invention relates to a microscope for microscopic examination of a sample comprising a microscope housing enclosing an illumination optics, a microscope stage and an imaging optics, an integrated sample chamber located within the microscope housing and formed by a separated housing section within the microscope housing. The housing section has a lid which provides direct access to the microscope stage for placing the sample in the sample chamber. The housing section has an interface for connection of an external incubation environment conditioning unit to the sample chamber. The interface is configured to provide a connection between the external incubation environment conditioning unit and the sample chamber, such that the environmental conditions in the sample chamber can be controlled when the external incubation environment conditioning unit is connected to the interface.

Abstract: A testing system (10) for an infectious disease, such as Covod-19, has a specimen collector (11) with a housing (12) receiving a specimen of bodily fluids discharged from a cough of a test subject through a specimen inlet (15). After specimen collection, the specimen inlet (15) is closed, and the collector (11) is brough to a mating electronic testing device (13). A seal (55) is removed to expose a transparent specimen tray (43) upon which the specimen has fallen and installed into a collector receptacle (14). A microscope (15) is focused on the specimen, Photographs of the specimen are taken through a microscope (15) and then compared to photographs of specimens known to have indications of infection (26). Based on the comparison, a test result and level of confidence is obtained. The collector (11) is then removed from the testing device (13), and discarded.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods of providing a nanosensor chip for detecting and/or quantifying target molecules in a solution. Said nanosensor chip comprises a pore comprising a plurality of nanopores. Said plurality of nanopores is functionalized with immobilized probe molecules for detecting the target molecules. The solution is directed to the nanochip to permit binding of said target molecules. Changes an aggregate current in response to target molecules in the liquid sample binding to the probe molecules are measured to detect and/or quantify said target molecules in said solution.

Abstract: Exemplary systems are for imaging of samples, for example using an array of micro optical elements. In some embodiments, an optical chip including an array of micro optical elements moves relative to an imaging window and a detector in order to scan over a sample to produce an image. A focal plane can reside within a sample or on its surface during imaging. In some embodiments, detecting optics are used to detect back-emitted light collected by an array of micro optical elements that is generated by an illumination beam impinging on a sample. In some embodiments, an imaging system has a large field of view and a large optical chip such that an entire surface of a sample can be imaged quickly. In some embodiments, a sample is accessible by a user during imaging due to the sample being exposed.

Abstract: A system for facilitating automated handling using laser ablation system is described that includes a sample generation system. In an embodiment, the sample generation system can include a sample chamber with a sample chamber body, a transmission window and a sealing member coupled to the sample chamber body, an inlet conduit extending through the sample chamber body and intersecting a sidewall of the interior space, and an outlet conduit extending through the sample chamber body and intersecting at least one of the sidewall of the interior or a lower surface of the sample chamber body; a placement system including a frame, and an actuator assembly coupled to the frame, where the actuator assembly is configured to place the sample adjacent to the sample chamber for laser ablation; and a laser configured to produce a laser beam that is propagated along a beam path to irradiate the sample.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to devices, systems, and methods for modeling ocular translaminar pressure gradients ex vivo. A first fluid pressure level can be applied to a first side of a wall of donor eye cup (e.g., a posterior human eye cup) to simulate intracranial pressure (ICP), for example around the optical nerve head (ONH), and a second fluid pressure level can be applied to a second side of the wall of the donor eye cup to simulate intraocular pressure (IOP). These devices, systems, and methods are unique in that they allow ex vivo modeling of dynamic changes in translaminar pressure gradients.

Abstract: A sample processing assembly for treatment of a sample on a substrate includes a mounting surface for the substrate and a closure body configured to releasably retain a cover member. The closure body is movable between an open position and a substantially closed position. When a substrate is placed in the assembly and the closure body is in the substantially closed position while retaining a cover member, a reaction chamber is formed for processing a sample. A cover member for use with the sample processing assembly is also provided.

Abstract: A portable ring-type fluorescence optical system for observing microfluidic channel and an operating method thereof are disclosed. The portable ring-type fluorescence optical system includes a photographic chip, a first polarizer, an objective lens, a ring-type fluorescent light source, a biological sample on a microfluidic chip, a second polarizer and a bottom illumination light source arranged in order from top to bottom. The ring-type fluorescent light source is used to generate a ring-type fluorescent light to the biological sample on the microfluidic chip. The objective lens is used to magnify a fluorescent image of the biological sample on the microfluidic chip to focus on the photographic chip. The first polarizer disposed under the photographic chip and the second polarizer disposed under the biological sample form a non-zero angle to each other to block reflected lights that the biological sample reflects the lights emitted by the bottom illumination light source.

Abstract: A device and a method of using the device for improving sensitivity, speed, and easy-to-use of a colorimetric assay of a liquid sample are provided. The device includes a first plate and a second plate, spacers, and a textured surface. The two plates each have a sample contact surface and are movable relative to each other into an open configuration or a closed configuration. The sample is deposited on one or both plates in the open configuration. Thereafter, the closed configuration is formed where the plates compress at least part of the deposited sample into a continuous layer. The textured surface is disposed on the sample contact surface of the second plate and has a textured structure that scatters light, from which an optical signal such as a colorimetric or fluorescent signal can be obtained for analyzing the sample.

Abstract: An adapter is useful with a sample holder of a microscope. The adapter has at least one support region for reproducibly orienting the adapter in a mounted state in a sample holder support. The adapter also has a first coupling point for detachable connection to a coupling structure of a sample holder on one side, and a second coupling point for detachable connection to a coupling structure of a sample manipulator on a side of the adapter opposite to the first coupling point. The adapter is useful with the sample holder, a sample chamber, a microscope and a method for arranging a sample in a detection beam path of a microscope.

Abstract: Any one or both of an optical system with a structured lighting pattern and a structured detecting system having a plurality of regions with different optical characteristics are used. In addition, optical signals from an object to be observed through one or a small number of pixel detectors are detected while changing relative positions between the object to be observed and any one of the optical system and the detecting system, time series signal information of the optical signals are obtained, and an image associated with an object to be observed from the time series signal information is reconstructed.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to containers for cell and tissue culturing with multiple compartments in fluid communication with each other to provide a common culture environment in each of the compartments while maintaining physical separation of cells and tissue therein. The invention further relates to culture containers providing a sterile culture environment with detachably coupleable lids and open access to each compartment within a container.

Abstract: A two-volume cryoablation cell apparatus and an ablation method thereof for LA-ICP-MS analysis of a fluid inclusion are provided. The two-volume cryoablation cell apparatus includes an ablation cell base having a square metal substrate and a metal abutment disposed on the metal substrate and shaped as a hollow cylinder; a cryogenic component including a cryogenic stage disposed on an axis of the metal abutment and configured to hold a sample; a small-volume ablation cell positioned above the cryogenic stage and in contact with an upper surface of the sample during use, wherein the small-volume ablation cell is of a hollow cylindrical shape with a transparent closed upper portion and an open lower portion; and an ablation cell cover body capable of being buckled on an upper opening of the metal abutment during use and configured to seal the sample within the metal abutment.

Abstract: A base assembly includes an imaging sensor having a sensor surface to receive a sample, and a platform connected to the base assembly. The base assembly includes (a) an aperture configured to receive a lid surface of a lid in a position to define an imaging space between the sensor surface and the lid surface and (b) a movement portion movable toward and away from the base assembly. The platform and the base assembly are configured to limit contact between the sample and the base assembly other than at the sensor surface.

Abstract: The present invention is related to the field of bio/chemical sampling, sensing, assays and applications. Particularly, the present invention is related to how to make the sampling/sensing/assay become simple to use, fast to results, highly sensitive, easy to use, using tiny sample volume (e.g. 0.5 uL or less), operated by a person without any professionals, reading by mobile-phone, or low cost, or a combination of them.

Abstract: A transmission type color calibration chart includes a transparent substrate and a color bar group formed on the transparent substrate, wherein the color bar group is constituted by color bars of a plurality of colors containing at least a first color and a second color arranged in a pattern in no particular order, coordinate points of the first color are within a region encompassed by the four points (0.351, 0.649), (0.547, 0.453), (0.380, 0.506) and (0.433, 0.464) on an xy chromaticity diagram, coordinate points of the second color are within a region encompassed by the four points (0.125, 0.489), (0.112, 0.229), (0.270, 0.407) and (0.224, 0.242) on an xy chromaticity diagram, and the transmission spectrum of the first color's color bar and the transmission spectrum of the second color's color bar have peak tops that are respectively separated.

Abstract: Disclosed are multi-well plate inserts that can be used to separate solid debris, including paper punch containing a blood sample, from a liquid containing target biological molecules, such as nucleic acid molecules and proteins. Also provided are methods of using the insert, for example as part of a method that analyzes target biological molecules.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the methods, devices, and systems that make bio/chemical sensing (including, not limited to, immunoassay, nucleic assay, electrolyte analysis, etc.) faster, more sensitive, less steps, easy to perform, smaller amount of samples required, less or reduced (or no) needs for professional assistance, and/or lower cost, than many current sensing methods and devices. The present invention also allow a test performed by a smartphone.

Abstract: Among other things, certain embodiments of the present disclosure are related to devices and methods of performing biological and chemical assays, such as but not limited to pH measurement of bio/chemical samples.

Abstract: Provided is a culture medium including fibers aligned in one direction, and a method for producing the same. The culture medium includes: a substrate; a frame body that includes a first surface, a second surface opposite therefrom, and one or more through holes extending from the first surface through the second surface, and that is mounted to the substrate such that the first surface is opposed thereto; a plurality of aligned fibers interposed between the substrate and the first surface; and a bonding portion that bonds the substrate, the plurality of aligned fibers, and the frame body, wherein at least a part of the plurality of aligned fibers is exposed from a first opening that is formed in the first surface by the through hole.

Abstract: The present invention is related to the field of bio/chemical sampling, sensing, assays and applications. Particularly, the present invention is related to how to make the sampling/sensing/assay become simple to use, fast to results, highly sensitive, easy to use, using tiny sample volume (e.g. 0.5 uL or less), operated by a person without any professionals, reading by mobile-phone, or low cost, or a combination of them.

Abstract: A sample processing assembly for treatment of a sample on a substrate includes a mounting surface for the substrate and a closure body configured to releasably retain a cover member. The closure body is movable between an open position and a substantially closed position. When a substrate is placed in the assembly and the closure body is in the substantially closed position while retaining a cover member, a reaction chamber is formed for processing a sample. A cover member for use with the sample processing assembly is also provided.

Abstract: An optical measurement cell including first and second translucent members, which sandwich an internal space storing test liquid, are configured so that light incident on the first translucent member passes through the internal space and is emitted from the second translucent member. The cell includes a first holding member that holds down the circumference of a light transmission area on an outward surface of the first translucent member; a second holding member that holds down the circumference of a light transmission area on an outward surface of the second translucent member; and seal members that are respectively interposed between the first translucent and holding members and between the second translucent and holding members. In addition, areas excluding parts of surfaces of the respective translucent members are coated with coated films, and the end parts of the coated films are positioned on light transmission area sides of the seal members.

Abstract: The present invention is related to the field of bio/chemical sampling, sensing, assays and applications. Particularly, the present invention is related to how to make the sampling/sensing/assay become simple to use, fast to results, highly sensitive, easy to use, using tiny sample volume (e.g. 0.5 uL or less), operated by a person without any professionals, reading by mobile-phone, or low cost, or a combination of them.

Abstract: A system is provided having a guide member with features, such as grid and axes, which spatially correlate to tissue with a lesion adjacent the guide member, and a template device upon the tissue aligned with the features having a first aperture over the guide member, and a second aperture over the tissue with the lesion. A microscope captures one or more images of the tissue via the second aperture at one or more locations each spatially correlated with a location selected or being mapped along the guide member in the first aperture. Prior to imaging and template device placement, marks are recorded along the guide member when, as part of a tracing sheet, it is positioned in a folded state over the lesion. When returned to an unfolded state, the guide member once removed from the tracing guide sheet is positioned for use with the template device and microscope.

Abstract: A stage apparatus includes a first stage, a second stage movable in a first direction relative to the first stage, a sensor which reads a scale moving in the first direction together with the second stage and a sensor base which is formed from a material having a smaller thermal expansion coefficient than the first stage and fixes the sensor to the first stage. The sensor base is fixed to the first stage at two fixing positions located near a second axis having a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and passing through a specific position and sandwiching the specific position, and is fixed to the first stage at a fixing position located near a first axis having the first direction and passing through the specific position and the arrangement position of the sensor so as to be movable in the first direction.

Abstract: The present invention is related to the field of bio/chemical sampling, sensing, assays and applications. Particularly, the present invention is related to how to make the sampling/sensing/assay become simple to use, fast to results, highly sensitive, easy to use, using tiny sample volume (e.g. 0.5 uL or less), operated by a person without any professionals, reading by mobile-phone, or low cost, or a combination of them.

Abstract: A reflecting microscope module cooperating with an image capturing module includes a housing, a lens and a sample adhesive substance. The housing has a sample inspecting surface located on one side of the housing opposite to the image capturing module. The lens is disposed in the housing and the sample adhesive substance is detachably disposed on a bottom of the housing. The sample adhesive substance adjacently connected to the sample inspecting surface includes a substrate and a glue layer. The glue layer is integrally combined with the substrate to form one piece. A reflecting microscope device is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an implantable access device and a method for preparing the device. According to the invention the device comprises a shape memory base structure with a biological substructure suitable for cell adhesion, cell engraftment and proliferation for use in transferring and transporting fluid mixtures (blood, suspensions, drug formulations, emulsions, cell suspensions) in/into/out of a human or animal body.

Abstract: This invention pertains to the general field of microbiology, and more specifically to transfer, inoculation and/or streaking of micro-organisms, e.g. for the purpose of obtaining individual colonies. Provided is a method for transferring a microbial sample from a first carrier to a second carrier, comprising the steps of: a) contacting at least one ferromagnetic particle with at least part of the sample associated with the first carrier, wherein the particle is a composite bead having a surface roughness (Ra) in the range of 0.1 to 25 ?m, a diameter between 2 to 88 mm and a density below 7 g/cm3, and b) applying a magnetic field gradient to allow for magnetically controlled motion of said particle to said second carrier, such that at least part of the sample is streaked onto the second carrier. Also provided is an apparatus for inoculating petri dishes with the sample according to the method and also inoculating slides and/or tubes with a portion of the sample.

Abstract: A liquid filling aid that is placed on a plate-shaped member and defines a reaction chamber to be filled with a liquid, the aid includes a main body, a storage section that is formed in the main body and stores the liquid, a reaction section that is a recess formed at a bottom of the main body, a communication aperture for fluid communication between the storage section and the reaction section, and an air vent for communication between the reaction section and outside air, wherein the reaction section and an upper surface of the plate-shaped member define the reaction chamber and a liquid filling method including a step of placing the liquid filling aid on the plate-shaped member, and a step of discharging the liquid in an amount equal to or larger than the volume of the reaction chamber for supply to the storage section.

Abstract: An apparatus for enumerating one or more specific elements within a biologic fluid sample is provided. The apparatus includes a first planar member that is transparent, and a second planar member. The members are separated from one another by a substantially uniform height, and the height is sized relative to the specific elements within the sample such that the specific elements non-uniformly distribute within the sample upon introduction into the chamber.

Abstract: A transmitted-light microscope for imaging well-shaped, liquid-containing sample vessels, wherein the transmitted-light microscope has an illumination beam path for illuminating the sample vessel with an illumination beam bundle, from above, along an optical axis, wherein the illumination beam path has an illuminating element aligned to the optical axis, which element irradiates the illumination beam bundle onto the sample vessel, an imaging beam path for imaging the sample vessel from below along the optical axis and a pipette access channel for introducing a reagent into the sample vessel, wherein the illuminating element is annular and has an opening on the optical axis through which opening runs the pipette access channel.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for correcting the color of microscope images for different illuminants. The system includes a microscope having at least one image setting value selector with a plurality of pre-set positions, and an optical train having a distal end and a proximal end and being configured to convey illumination. The optical train is further configured to allow introduction of a calibration slide into the optical train of the microscope at a plurality of possible positions, each position being a conjugate plane of the sample plane, when the sample is in focus. The calibration slide incorporates an integral transmission filter array of known transmission values.

Abstract: A bioreactor chamber assembly comprising a cap and a base capable of being coupled together axially to define an internal chamber. The cap and base comprise interengaging formations that are coupled together by a twist-lock rotation of the base and cap to provide a fluid tight seal between the base and cap via respective sealing surfaces.

Abstract: A tissue specimen stage is provided having a window with surface curvature upon which an excised tissue specimen is locatable, a carriage having a tissue specimen receptacle to which the window is mounted, and a platform supporting the carriage and presenting the window to the objective lens of an optical sectioning microscope. The carriage is mounted to the platform for movement along two rotational axes so that the carriage's movement follows the curvature of all or part of the window while maintaining the same optical geometry of the window with respect to the objective lens. The window has surface curvature adapted to at least approximate the shape or curvature of the non-histologically prepared tissue specimen to be placed thereupon.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a reactor cell assembly that utilizes a novel design and that is wholly or partially manufactured from Aluminum, such that reactions involving Hydrogen, for example, including solid-gas reactions and thermal decomposition reactions, are not affected by any degree of Hydrogen outgassing. This reactor cell assembly can be utilized in a wide range of optical and laser spectroscopy applications, as well as optical microscopy applications, including high-temperature and high-pressure applications. The result is that the elucidation of the role of Hydrogen in the reactions studied can be achieved. Various window assemblies can be utilized, such that high temperatures and high pressures can be accommodated and the signals obtained can be optimized.

Abstract: A device for forming an immersion film between a front lens of a microscope objective and a preparation on an inverted microscope. The device includes a protection device for preventing fluid leakage from the immersion film region, and an apparatus for supplying the immersion fluid (auto-immersion) to the immersion film region. The protection device is arranged statically in the main part of the microscope stand and the means for supplying immersion fluid to the immersion film region is connected to the protection device by means of an Aquastop system.

Abstract: A stereomicroscope includes a base and a vessel which is disposed on the base. The vessel includes a transparent body and a light emitting unit. The transparent body has a bottom and a sidewall. The bottom and the sidewall define an opening. The sidewall extends from a side of the bottom. The opening of the transparent body places a specimen. The light emitting unit is fixed in the sidewall of the transparent body for emitting light. The light emitted from the light emitting unit illuminates the specimen, and is substantially parallel to the bottom of the transparent body.

Abstract: A stage assembly, an imaging system that uses the stage assembly, and methods for using the stage assembly in a high content screening system. The stage assembly includes a stage having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface and an opening extending between the top and bottom surfaces to receive a specimen plate. The stage assembly also includes a calibration sample bay formed in the stage. A calibration sample can also be secured within the calibration sample bay.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding cells. The apparatus comprises a mechanism for incubating cells having a dynamically controlled environment in which the cells are grown, which are maintained in a desired condition and in which cells can be examined while the environment is dynamically controlled and maintained in the desired condition. The apparatus also comprises a mechanism for determining the state of the cells. The determining mechanism is in communication with the incubating mechanism. The present invention pertains to a method for holding cells. The method comprises the steps of incubating the cells in a dynamically controlled environment which is maintained in a desired condition and in which the cells can be examined while the environment is dynamically controlled and maintained in the desired condition. Additionally, there is the step of determining the state of the cells.

Abstract: Optical systems and apparatuses configured for enabling substantially simultaneous observation of a plurality of points in an array from a common reference point. Without the optical systems and apparatuses disclosed herein, less than all of the plurality of points can be observed substantially simultaneously from the common reference point.

Abstract: A culture apparatus for microscopic viewing enables effective microscopic viewing at high magnification of samples such as cells suspended in a culture solution while the samples are maintained at a uniform temperature. The apparatus is used to microscopically view a sample placed on a microscope stage, and is provided with a housing unit that houses the vessel containing a culture solution and the sample; a lid that closes the aperture on the upper surface side of the housing unit; a transparent sheet top heater provided in the portion of the lid that corresponds to the viewing area; and a temperature detecting means where a thin wire detection unit penetrates into the interiors of the housing unit and a well plate to directly measure the temperature of the culture solution. Based on the temperature information, a controller controls the temperature of the transparent sheet top heater using a feedback method.

Abstract: A microscope system includes an accommodation unit, a stage, an optical system, an image pickup unit, a movement mechanism, a control unit, an image processing unit, and a display unit. The accommodation unit is capable of accommodating a plurality of specimens. On the stage, each of the specimens loaded from the accommodation unit is placed. The optical system includes a lens for spherical aberration correction. The image pickup unit is capable of capturing a partial image of each of the specimens placed on the stage, via the optical system. The movement mechanism moves the lens for spherical aberration correction along an optical axis. The control unit controls movement of the lens for spherical aberration correction by the movement mechanism and correct spherical aberration. The image processing unit combines the partial images captured by the image pickup unit and generate a composite image. The display unit displays the generated composite image.

Abstract: A microscope measurement system including: an optical microscope including a microscope body and an objective connected to the microscope body; a chamber including a support mechanism holding an object to be examined therein, the chamber including an opening inserting the objective into the chamber such that the objective is located essentially within the chamber and the microscope body is located essentially outside of the chamber; a sealing mechanism that provides an essentially gas-tight connection between the optical microscope and the chamber such that the chamber is sealed.

Abstract: A meniscus reducing member for use in a vessel for containing a liquid including a surface feature overlying at least a portion of an interior surface of the vessel. The surface feature includes at least two surfaces for contacting the liquid that cooperate to reduce a width of a meniscus formed at an interface between the liquid and the surface feature by physically altering a contact angle between the liquid and the surface feature.

Abstract: A microscope apparatus is disclosed. The microscope apparatus comprises a microscope module and an image capture device. The microscope module comprises a housing, a lens element, a sampling assembly, and a light guide element. The lens element is mounted on the housing. The sampling assembly is accommodated in the housing. The light guide element is mounted in the sampling assembly. The sampling assembly is configured to sample a specimen and comprises a cover body and a base body received in the cover body. The cover body has a first top plate and a first anchoring structure connected to the top plate. The base body has a second opt plate and a second anchoring structure connected to the second top plate. The second top plate faces the first top plate to define a holding space for the specimen.

Abstract: A spinning cell device is described for fast and convenient standardization and analysis of constituents and isotopes in solid samples by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma (LA-ICP) spectrometry. The method and apparatus for performing the method require the sample under test and a standard to be spun during ablation allowing the quasi-simultaneous ablation of both materials. The aerosols resulting from the ablation of sample and standard are mixed in the ablation cell allowing quantification of the ablated metals by the method of standard addition or isotope dilution. The relative proportion of standard verses sample ablated can be changed by altering the trajectory of the laser beam. The ablated aerosol is swept into an inductively coupled plasma by a carrier gas and analyzed by mass spectrometry.

Abstract: An filter, apparatus and method for preparing microscope slides is presented. After filtration of the specimen is performed, the filter containing the filtrand is configured to be microscopically examined. The filter may either be affixed to a microscope slide or, in an embodiment, the filter may be incorporated into a microscope slide.

Abstract: A sample holding system for a microscope, including a sample chamber which has an upper opening and is filled with an immersion liquid, and in which a sample embedded in a transparent embedding compound is placed in a holder. Translatory movement of the sample in relation to a detection objective of the microscope, and rotating the sample about an essentially vertical rotational axis in a plane forming an angle different from zero with the optical axis of the detection objective is included. Rotating the sample includes a rotational drive provided with a magnetic coupling or a belt drive and/or toothed wheel rotational drive arranged above the sample chamber.