Abstract: Methods and compositions are described for single cell resolution, quantitative proteomic analysis using high throughput sequencing.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are described herein for processing polynucleotides in a sealed path environment. The apparatuses include optical sensors to monitor operations and to track material usage for good manufacturing practice.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a fluidic device to detect, capture, and/or remove disease material in a biological fluid. The present invention also relates to methods for the treatment/prevention of sepsis through the use of the claimed device.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a microfluidic device or chip including at least one inlet for introducing at least one object into the device; an oil inlet for introducing an oil that supports droplet formation into the device or a droplet forming substance inlet for introducing a droplet forming substance into the device; a co-encapsulation area or structure where the at least one object is encapsulated by the droplet; a microfluidic tubing or channel for transporting the at least one object to an entrance of the co-encapsulation area or structure; an oil supporting droplet formation microchannel or droplet forming substance microchannel connected to the microfluidic tubing or channel to place a liquid of the microfluidic tubing or channel in direct contact with the oil that supports droplet formation or the droplet forming substance; and a droplet microchannel or tubing for transporting the droplet.

Abstract: Techniques regarding nanofluidic chips with a plurality of inlets and/or outlets in fluid communication with one or more nanoDLD arrays are provided. For example, one or more embodiments described herein can comprise a nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement array between and in fluid communication with a global inlet and a global outlet. The nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement array can further be between and in fluid communication with a local inlet and a local outlet. Also, the nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement array can laterally displace a particle comprised within a sample fluid supplied from the global inlet to a collection region that directs the particle to the local outlet. An advantage of such an apparatus can be the expanded versatility of the nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement array for sample preparation applications involving nanoparticles not accessible to other higher throughput microscale microfluidic technologies.

Abstract: Disclosed is a digital PCR chip with on-chip micro-slot array based on impedance detection and its manufacturing method. The a digital PCR chip with on-chip micro-slot array based on impedance detection includes a micro-slot array, a power management unit, a clock generation module, a digital control logic module, a driver module, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), a backscatter module and a power-on-reset module, where the power management unit generates a standard voltage and current. The clock generation module generates clocks required for the digital module, the ADC, and an excitation for impedance test. The power-on-reset module generates a reset signal for a digital circuit, and the backscatter module completes wireless transmission of an ADC output signal to an upper computer, and the digital control logic completes sequential gating and time-division measurement of micro-slot cells.

Abstract: A perfusion bioreactor and a perfusion device. Each perfusion device has a mesh structure, and an encapsulated organ tissue (EOT) disposed in the mesh structure. The EOT has a body with a thickness defined between a first surface of the body and a second surface of the body. The body has at least one channel extending into the body from one of the first and second surfaces to receive a fluid therein. The at least one channel has a diameter selected to diffuse solutes out of the fluid and into the body. The perfusion devices are arranged one adjacent to another and spaced apart from each other along the length of the bioreactor to receive fluid, and to perfuse the fluid to the EOT of each perfusion device and to the at least one channel therein. A method of processing blood plasma and an artificial liver system are also disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are described for the use of optically driven bubble, convective and displacing fluidic flow to provide motive force in microfluidic devices. Alternative motive modalities are useful to selectively dislodge and displace micro-objects, including biological cells, from a variety of locations within the enclosure of a microfluidic device.

Abstract: Embodiments are described for treating a fluid, e.g., a biological fluid. The embodiments may include systems, apparatuses, and methods. Embodiments may provide for a flow cell, with a plurality of manipulation elements, through which a fluid is flowed. The fluid may be treated (e.g., exposed to energy) as it moves through the flow cell. In embodiments, the flow cell may be used to inactivate pathogens in the fluid.

Abstract: The microfluidic board comprises a plurality of matrix units, wherein each matrix unit is a stacked arrangement comprising a driving portion comprising an actuator, a pump portion in contact with the driving portion and comprising a pump, a channel portion in contact with the pump portion and comprising one or more channels, and a chamber portion in contact with the channel portion and comprising a chamber, wherein the one or more channels are configured to direct fluid between the pump and the chamber, and wherein the actuator is configured to generate a force to drive the pump upon receiving of an input energy.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a microfluidic device comprising a set of micro-structured electrodes. The electrodes are made of a fusible alloy such as Field's Metal and are patterned on a layer of PDMS. The molten fusible alloy is poured over the patterned PDMA layer and a suction force is applied to ensure uniformity of flow of the molten metal. A second layer comprising a flow channel orthogonal to the direction of the micro-structured electrodes is disposed under the first layer to form the microfluidic device. The device shows enhanced sensitivity to RBC detection at high frequencies that are also bio-compatible (above 2 MHz). Multiple layers of the micro-structures electrodes can be sandwiched between layers of flow channels to provide a 3D microfluidic device.

Abstract: A microfluidic system for fluid transport is provided. The microfluidic system includes a microfluidic device. The microfluidic device includes an inlet body including an inlet. The microfluidic device includes a base supporting the inlet body. The base includes a channel in fluid communication with the inlet. The base includes one or more sensors formed on a surface of the channel, or one or more sensors formed in one or more wells formed in the surface of the channel. The channel is configured to facilitate flow of the fluid. The fluid includes a plurality of beads. The fluid includes a plurality of suspended cells. The inlet is configured to receive the fluid at an inlet port. The inlet is configured to output the fluid through an opening in fluid communication with the channel. The inlet is configured to provide substantially uniform flow of the fluid across a substantial portion of a horizontal dimension of the channel. The device is configured to compensate for edge effects otherwise present therein.

Abstract: A method of sample preparation for streamlined multi-step assays is provided. The method includes the step of providing a microfluidic device including a reservoir defined by a surface configured to repel an aqueous solution. A dried reagent is provided on a portion of the surface and the reservoir is filled with an oil. A first droplet formed from the aqueous solution is positioned on the dried reagent so to pick-up and re-dissolve the dried reagent therein so as to expose the portion of the surface. In addition, a second droplet of an aqueous solution may be deposited on a hydrophilic spot patterned on the surface. A magnetic force may be configured to interact magnetically with the paramagnetic beads within the first droplet to move the droplet through the oil in the reservoir or to move the paramagnetic beads from the first droplet, through the oil, into the second droplet.

Abstract: In biosciences and related fields, it can be useful to study cells in isolation so that cells having unique and desirable properties can be identified within a heterogenous mixture of cells. Processes and methods disclosed herein provide for encapsulating cells within a microfluidic device and assaying the encapsulated cells. Encapsulation can, among other benefits, facilitate analyses of cells that generate secretions of interest which would otherwise rapidly diffuse away or mix with the secretions of other cells.

Abstract: Disclosed is a well insert for cell culture, including: a membrane support having an upper end and a lower end, the upper end being adapted to engage a well of a microplate so as to suspend the well insert therein; and a permeable membrane for supporting a tissue culture, the permeable membrane being attached at the lower end of the membrane support and sealed thereto, the permeable membrane being of brittle material. The membrane support is overmolded or fastened on to the permeable membrane so as be sealed thereto.

Abstract: A microfluidic device is useful for modelling drug transmission across the vasculature and vascular barriers. The device includes a frame, a fluid-permeable lumen configured to carry a fluid through the frame in a first direction, a first chamber surrounding the lumen, and a second chamber surrounding the first fluid-permeable chamber. At least one surface of the first chamber is configured for deposition of a first population of endothelial cells. An outer surface of the second chamber is configured for deposition a second population of cells. The second chamber is configured to carry a fluid through the frame in a second direction. The fluid-permeable lumen is configured to allow the fluid to permeate through a wall of the lumen into the first chamber, and the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other.

Abstract: The present invention is in the field of microfluidic devices produced with silicon technology wherein at least one 3D microenvironment is present, a method of producing said device using silicon based technology, and a use of said device in various applications, typically a biological cell experiment, such as a cell or organ on a chip experiment, and use o the device as a microreactor.

Abstract: A microfluidic detection system for micrometer-sized entities, such as biological cells, includes a detector component incorporating a plate with a plurality of opening, the plate separating two chambers, one in communication with a fluid source containing target cells bound to magnetic beads. The openings are sized to always permit passage of the magnetic beads therethrough into a lower one of the chambers and are further sized to always prevent passage of the target cells from the upper one of the chambers. The detector component further includes a magnet positioned to pull unbound magnetic beads through the openings and to capture target cells bound to magnetic beads on the surface of the plate. The microfluidic detection system includes a pump flowing the fluid through the detector component at high flow rates of milliliters per minute for high throughput detection of target cells.

Abstract: A fluidic chip comprising: a sealing layer having an upper surface and a lower surface; and a formed part comprising a generally planar body having a lower surface sealed with the upper surface of the sealing layer, the generally planar body having a number of through holes and a number of wells in fluid communication with the number of through holes, wherein together with the upper surface of the sealing layer, the number of through holes and the number of wells respectively define a number of fluid inlets and a number of fluid chambers in fluid connection with each other in the fluidic chip.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for isolating fetal cells from a maternal blood supply in order to perform non-invasive prenatal testing. In one example, a system for non-invasive prenatal testing includes a substrate coated with a cell-capturing surface, the cell-capturing surface including an array of pillar-like structures, each pillar-like structure including a plurality of intersecting arms.

Abstract: A driving method for a digital microfluidic chip, the digital microfluidic chip including a first electrode and a second electrode that are adjacent, the driving method including: applying a first driving signal to the first electrode and a second driving signal to the second electrode, wherein an applying period of the first driving signal and an applying period of the second driving signal are mutually staggered, and a total time length of the applying period of the first driving signal is less than a total time length of the applying period of the second driving signal.

Abstract: A microfluidic circuit includes a detection capacitor, having a first terminal and a second terminal that are spaced apart from one another to thereby form a space therebetween. The circuit is configured to detect a droplet present in the space by detecting a change of a capacitance value of the detection capacitor caused by a change of a dielectric constant between the first terminal and the second terminal, and to drive a formation of an electrical field formed using at least one of the first terminal and the second terminal of the detection capacitor to thereby drive the droplet to move in the electrical field.

Abstract: The present application provides stable, carbene-functionalized composite materials, and methods and uses thereof. These carbene-functionalized composite materials comprise a material having a metal surface, and a carbene monolayer that is uniform, contaminant-free (metal oxide, etc), and more stable than thiol-functionalized monolayers. Uses of such carbene-functionalized composite materials include semi-conducting materials, microelectronic devices, drug delivery or sensing applications.

Abstract: A microfluidic apparatus may include, in an example, a substrate, at least one silicon die embedded into the substrate, and a planarization layer layered over, at least, a portion of the substrate that interfaces with the silicon die to prevent a fluid from contacting an edge of the silicon die.

Abstract: Methods of mitigating lipoprotein interference in in vitro diagnostic assays for target hydrophobic analytes are disclosed, as well as compositions, kits, and devices useful in said methods. A pretreatment reagent is utilized that includes at least one enzyme that digests lipoprotein.

Abstract: A tubular structure for producing droplets and a method of using the tubular structure to produce droplets are provided. The tubular structure includes microchannel structures, and is used for droplet generation, droplet collection, nucleic acid amplification and/or in situ droplet detection, etc.

Abstract: Micro-fluidic chip comprises substrate and plurality of driving circuits on substrate, each of plurality of driving circuits comprising: driving electrode comprising first electrode plate and second electrode plate made of different materials on substrate, first electrode plate being electrically coupled to second electrode plate; and detecting sub-circuit comprising first signal terminal electrically coupled to first electrode plate and second signal terminal electrically coupled to second electrode plate, wherein micro-fluidic chip further comprises: voltage supply sub-circuit configured to supply driving voltage to first signal terminal to control droplet to move toward driving circuit during droplet driving stage, and configured to supply constant voltage to first signal terminal, during temperature detecting stage, and wherein detecting sub-circuit is configured to measure voltage difference between first signal terminal and second signal terminal, and obtain temperature of droplet on second electrode pl

Abstract: Sample partitioning devices and methods of making and using the same are described. A sample partitioning device includes a first film having an array of discrete stems each extending from a first major surface thereof, and a second film having an array of discrete wells formed into a second major surface thereof. The stems of the first film and the wells of the second film are mated with each other. The mated stems and wells are separable from each other, and during the removal of the stems from the wells, one or more voids are created inside the wells to suction an aqueous test sample into the wells.

Abstract: Method for handling at least one first microdrop and at least one second microdrop in a microfluidic system including a capillary trap that has a first trapping zone and a second trapping zone, the method including steps consisting of: (i) trapping the first microdrop in the first trapping zone, and (ii) trapping the second microdrop in the second trapping zone, the first and the second trapping zone being arranged such that the first and the second microdrops are in contact with each other, the first and the second trapping zones being adapted such that the trapping forces returned to one of the microdrops are different.

Abstract: There is provided a particle supplementing chip provided with a structure for trapping a particle, and for preventing the trapped particle from being greatly deformed by a suction force. With respect to this point, the present technology provides a particle trapping chip including a first channel, a second channel, a first recess that is open on the first channel side, a second recess that is provided side by side with the first recess, a connecting portion connecting the first recess and the second recess, and a communicating portion allowing the second recess and the second channel to communicate with each other.

Abstract: A perfusion bioreactor and a perfusion device. Each perfusion device has a mesh structure, and an encapsulated organ tissue (EOT) disposed in the mesh structure. The EOT has a body with a thickness defined between a first surface of the body and a second surface of the body. The body has at least one channel extending into the body from one of the first and second surfaces to receive a fluid therein. The at least one channel has a diameter selected to diffuse solutes out of the fluid and into the body. The perfusion devices are arranged one adjacent to another and spaced apart from each other along the length of the bioreactor to receive fluid, and to perfuse the fluid to the EOT of each perfusion device and to the at least one channel therein. A method of processing blood plasma and an artificial liver system are also disclosed.

Abstract: A microfluidic device includes at least one substrate formed of one or more silicon wafers. The substrate includes an inlet for receiving a continuous phase fluid; an inlet for receiving a dispersed phase fluid; and a plurality of channels. The plurality of channels are in fluid communication with both the inlet of the continuous phase fluid and the inlet of the dispersed phase fluid. The substrate further includes a plurality of droplet generators configured to produce microdroplets. Each of the droplet generators are in fluid communication with the plurality of channels. Additionally, the substrate includes one or more outlets for delivery of the microdroplets. The number of the plurality of droplet generators is more than two greater than a number of the one or more outlets for delivery of the microdroplets.

Abstract: A microfluidic device includes an input port for inputting a particle-containing liquidic samples into the device, a retention member, and a pressure actuator. The retention member is in communication with the input port and is configured to spatially separate particles of the particle-containing liquidic sample from a first portion of the liquid of the particle containing fluidic sample. The pressure actuator recombines at least some of the separated particles with a subset of the first portion of the liquid separated from the particles. The device can also include a lysing chamber that receives the particles and liquid from the retention member. The lysing chamber thermally lyses the particles to release contents thereof.

Abstract: A microchip includes a plurality of laminated elastic sheets. Each of the elastic sheets forming a first intermediate layer as an intermediate layer formed with the plurality of elastic sheets have an inadhesive section(s) for forming a first flow path on the first intermediate layer. Each of the elastic sheets for forming a second intermediate layer as an intermediate layer formed with the plurality of elastic sheets have an inadhesive section(s) for forming a second flow path on the second intermediate layer. An elastic sheet(s) interposed between the first and second intermediate layers has a connecting section(s) connecting the first flow path and the second flow path. A flow path width at the connecting section(s) of the first flow path is narrower than a flow path width at the connecting section(s) of the second flow path.

Abstract: A system for testing a treatment agent for a biologic material includes an input for receiving a biologic sample. A plurality of micro-pumps pump a portion of the biologic sample from the first reservoir into a connected module. A first module includes a first plurality of testing pathways for testing a first portion of the biologic sample. A first module connector removeably connects the first module to the distributor module. A second module includes a second plurality of testing pathways for testing a second portion of the biologic sample. The selected pathway applies at least one dosage level of a treatment agent to the second portion of the biologic sample. A second module connector removeably connects the second module to the distributor module, wherein treatment agent and the plurality of dosage levels tested by the system may be selected by selecting the second module associated with the second module connector.

Abstract: [Problems] Objects include providing a cover film for testing which can be well fixed to a substrate having a groove and in which a pressure sensitive adhesive does not invade into the groove, providing a testing member comprising the cover film for testing, and providing a method of manufacturing the cover film for testing. [Solution] The cover film for testing (1, 2) comprises a base material (10) and a pressure sensitive adhesive layer (20) laminated on one surface side of the base material (10). The cover film for testing (1, 2) has a region in which the pressure sensitive adhesive layer (20) does not exist in the plan view.

Abstract: A pressure sensor designed to detect a value of ambient pressure of the environment external to the pressure sensor includes: a first substrate having a buried cavity and a membrane suspended over the buried cavity; a second substrate having a recess, hermetically coupled to the first substrate so that the recess defines a sealed cavity the internal pressure value of which provides a pressure-reference value; and a channel formed at least in part in the first substrate and configured to arrange the buried cavity in communication with the environment external to the pressure sensor. The membrane undergoes deflection as a function of a difference of pressure between the pressure-reference value in the sealed cavity and the ambient-pressure value in the buried cavity.

Abstract: An apparatus for directing fluid into and out of a fluidic device includes two or more fluid prime channels connected to a fluid inlet of the fluidic device, a flow control valve for each fluid prime channel to control flow between the fluid prime channel and the fluid inlet, one or more outlet channels connected to a fluid outlet of the fluidic device, and a flow control valve for each outlet channel to control flow between the fluid outlet and the associated outlet channel. An apparatus for delivering fluids to a fluid inlet includes a plate that is rotatable about an axis of rotation and a plurality of fluid compartments disposed on the plate, each compartment having a fluid exit port disposed at a common radial distance from the axis of rotation and positioned to align with the fluid inlet as the plate rotates about the axis of rotation.

Abstract: A thermal convection generating device (1) that generates thermal convection of a liquid by heating or cooling the liquid and applying centrifugal force to the liquid, the thermal convection generating device including: a stage (20) to which a thermal convection generating chip (10) is attachable and detachable, the thermal convection generating chip including a disk-like substrate (11) and a thermal convection pathway (14) formed in a surface of the disk-like substrate that is perpendicular to an axis (AX) of the disk-like substrate, and being configured to rotate about the axis of the disk-like substrate to apply centrifugal force to a liquid in the thermal convection pathway; a heat controller (30) that heats or cools a portion of the thermal convection pathway; a motor (40) that drives the thermal convection generating chip to rotate about the axis; and a controller (50) that controls the heat controller and the motor.

Abstract: A modular analytic system includes a base, at least one fluid sample processing module configured to be removably attached to the base, at least one fluid sample analysis module configured to be removably attached to the base, a fluid actuation module positioned on the base, a fluidic network comprising multiple fluidic channels, in which the fluid actuation module is arranged to control transport of a fluid sample between the at least one sample processing module and the at least one sample analysis module through the fluidic network, and an electronic processor, in which the electronic processor is configured to control operation of the fluid actuation module and receive measurement data from the at least one fluid sample analysis module.

Abstract: A microfluidic device for measuring an amount of an oxidant in a solution is disclosed. The device includes a microfluidic substrate configured to mix a solution sample to be analysed with an indicator dye solution containing an indicator dye under conditions suitable for some of the indicator dye to react with any oxidant in the solution to produce an oxidant measurement solution having a reduced indicator dye concentration that is indicative of the amount of oxidant in the solution, the microfluidic substrate including an optical reading window through which the reduced indicator dye concentration in the oxidant measurement solution can be measured optically.

Abstract: An ion milling apparatus includes an ion irradiation source, a sample holder, a sample stage, a rotation mechanism, and a slide mechanism. The sample holder holds a sample such that the sample protrudes from a shielding plate in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis of an ion beam. The rotation mechanism is disposed such that a rotation center of a rotation shaft is perpendicular to the optical axis of the ion beam and parallel to a direction in which the sample protrudes from the shielding plate. The rotation mechanism supports the sample stage such that the sample stage is rotatable. The slide mechanism supports the sample held by the sample holder such that the sample is movable along the optical axis of the ion beam.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are described for the use of optically driven bubble, convective and displacing fluidic flow to provide motive force in microfluidic devices. Alternative motive modalities are useful to selectively dislodge and displace micro-objects, including biological cells, from a variety of locations within the enclosure of a microfluidic device.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a microfluidic control system and a microfluidic control method using the same. The microfluidic control system includes: a microfluidic chip including a storage chamber for storing a reaction solution and a receiving chamber communicating with the storage chamber; and a microfluidic control device for controlling the reaction solution inside the microfluidic chip, wherein the microfluidic control device includes: a first roller which is in contact with the microfluidic chip and rotates together with the movement of the microfluidic chip; and a pressurizing protrusion formed on the outer peripheral surface of the first roller, wherein the pressurizing protrusion has a shape corresponding to the storage chamber.

Abstract: A microfluidic device for conducting a fluid assay includes an injection-molded (or “molded”) fluidics layer having at least one microfluidic channel configured to allow assay fluids to flow there-along, the channel having channel side walls, a channel bottom, and a channel 3D geometry, and the fluidics layer being made from injection-molded liquid silicone (or PDMS). Having the fluidics layer made from injection molded liquid silicone enables smaller-sized channel features, such as microfluidic valves and pistons, smaller channel dimensions and spacing (providing smaller device footprint, higher device capacity and other benefits), and various geometries for the channels and channel features.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a removable pneumatic connector, comprises a body having a plurality of bores passing through, each bore surrounded by a sealing member on an inner surface of the body. A plurality of gas lines may be placed within a corresponding bore. A vacuum port is disposed on the inner surface of the body, and an outer seal on the inner surface of the body surrounds the sealing members and the vacuum port. A vacuum line may be placed within the vacuum port, and configured to deliver negative pressure to the vacuum port. A vacuum holding area is created in the volume between the outer seal and each of the sealing members when the inner surface of the body is placed against a substrate. When the vacuum line is activated, a vacuum is created within the vacuum holding area, creating a positive seal between the body and the substrate.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods, devices, and systems for efficient loading and retrieval of particles. In some embodiments, a fluidic channel of a flowcell comprises a ceiling, a first sidewall, and a bottom, wherein the contact angle of the ceiling is at least 10 degrees smaller than the contact angle of the first sidewall, and wherein the bottom of the fluidic channel comprises a substrate that comprises a plurality of microwells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a microfluidic system including a temperature controller and a thermoplastic microfluidic chip that enables rapid PCR in a PCR chamber of the microfluidic chip. Thermal control of the PCR chamber is achieved by applying voltage to heater electrodes patterned directly onto one layer of the microfluidic chip. The temperature controller adjusts the voltage applied to the heater electrodes by changing temperature controller parameters selected to minimize duration of each PCR cycle. Furthermore, simple operation of the microfluidic chip is provided through using an integrated passive capillary valve, requiring minimum operator intervention and eliminating the need for fluidic interfacing, pumping, or metering during chip loading.

Abstract: A soft robot device includes at least a first thermoplastic layer and a second thermoplastic layer, wherein at least one layer is comprised of an extensible thermoplastic material; at least one layer is an inextensible layer; and at least one layer comprises a pneumatic network, wherein the pneumatic network is configured to be in fluidic contact with a pressurizing source, wherein the first and second thermoplastic layers are thermally bonded to each other.

Abstract: A micro-fluidic reactor may comprise a photosensitive glass substrate with a plurality of features produced by etching. The features may include micro-channels, micro-lenses, and slots for receiving optical fibers. During operation of the micro-fluidic reactor, the optical fibers may transmit optical signals for measuring characteristics of fluid reagents and reactions taking place. The micro-lenses may focus optical signals from the optical fibers to create an approximately collimated optical path for the optical signals, reducing optical spread and enhancing fiber-to-fiber optical power coupling.