Abstract: A method is provided involving an additive manufacturing system. This method includes a step of forming a first fluid conduit using the additive manufacturing system. The method also includes a step of providing a fluid coupling. The fluid coupling includes the first fluid conduit and a second fluid conduit. The first fluid conduit is connected to and fluidly coupled with the second fluid conduit. The first fluid conduit has a first configuration. The second fluid conduit has a second configuration that is different than the first configuration.

Abstract: The present invention is notably directed to method of fabrication of a microfluidic chip, comprising: providing a substrate, a face of which is covered by an electrically insulating layer; obtaining a resist layer covering one or more selected portions of the electrically insulating layer, at least a remaining portion of said electrically insulating layer not being covered by the resist layer; partially etching with a wet etchant a surface of the remaining portion of the electrically insulating layer to create a recess and/or an undercut under the resist layer; depositing the electrically conductive layer on the etched surface, such that the electrically conductive layer reaches the created recess and/or undercut; and removing the resist layer to expose a portion of the electrically insulating layer adjoining a contiguous portion of the electrically conductive layer. The present invention is further directed to microfluidic chips obtainable by such methods.

Abstract: A method for fabricating flexible microfluidic chips with plastic membranes. In particular, the present invention provides a single-step method for microchannel fabrication of microfluidic chips in a fast and cost-efficient manner.

Abstract: Fluidic devices and methods including those that provide storage and/or facilitate fluid handling of reagents are provided. Fluidic devices described herein may include channel segments positioned on two sides of an article, optionally connected by an intervening channel passing through the article. The channel segments may be used to store reagents in the device prior to first use by an end user. The stored reagents may include fluid plugs positioned in linear order so that during use, as fluids flow to a reaction site, they are delivered in a predetermined sequence. The specific geometries of the channel segments and the positions of the channel segments within the fluidic devices described herein may allow fluid reagents to be stored for extended periods of time without mixing, even during routine handling of the devices such as during shipping of the devices, and when the devices are subjected to physical shock or vibration.

Abstract: The present invention provides control methods, control systems, and control software for microfluidic devices that operate by moving discrete micro-droplets through a sequence of determined configurations. Such microfluidic devices are preferably constructed in a hierarchical and modular fashion which is reflected in the preferred structure of the provided methods and systems. In particular, the methods are structured into low-level device component control functions, middle-level actuator control functions, and high-level micro-droplet control functions. Advantageously, a microfluidic device may thereby be instructed to perform an intended reaction or analysis by invoking micro-droplet control function that perform intuitive tasks like measuring, mixing, heating, and so forth. The systems are preferably programmable and capable of accommodating microfluidic devices controlled by low voltages and constructed in standardized configurations.

Abstract: A microfluidic system for analyzing a sample solution includes a division chamber for accommodating an input volume of the sample solution. The division chamber has a plurality of partial volume segments for accommodating a plurality of partial volumes of the sample solution, which partial volumes can be used for detection reactions. The microfluidic system also has a displacing device configured to divide the input volume into the plurality of partial volumes.

Abstract: A microfluidic probe includes a probe head with a processing surface that includes a first aperture and a second aperture. The probe further includes a liquid injection channel, which leads to the first aperture, and a liquid aspiration channel, which extends from the second aperture. The probe also includes a bypass channel, arranged so as to fluidly connect the liquid injection channel to the liquid aspiration channel, as well as a control channel. The latter fluidly connects to the bypass channel, hence forming a junction therewith, so as to define two portions of the bypass channel. These portions includes: a first portion that extends from the junction to the liquid injection channel; and a second portion that extends from that same junction to the liquid aspiration channel. The invention is further directed to methods of operation of a probe as described above, to process a surface.

Abstract: A microfluidic array supporting a lipid bilayer assembly on which membrane proteins can be assembled is described. The array is formed from a hydrophilic polymeric substrate or metal substrate comprising a planar surface with a plurality of individual spherical depressions formed therein. Each of the depressions are configured to have a diameter greater than 1 ?m and containing an aqueous solution. Across each of the depressions is provided a lipid layer. Each of the plurality of individual depressions comprise arcuate side walls extending downwardly into the substrate from the planar surface.

Abstract: A pipetting apparatus for aspirating and dispensing liquids having a pipetting unit with an interchangeable vessel that receives a liquid to be transferred, a holder for the pipetting unit, a positioning device for the pipetting unit, a micrometering unit, and an electronic control device. The micrometering unit is embodied separately from the pipetting unit and has a separate electronic control unit. The pipetting unit has a coupling device and the micrometering unit has a counterpart coupling device that matches the coupling device for the purpose of coupling. Coupling device and/or counterpart coupling device is/are switchable. The holder or the micrometering unit has a contact device with at least one electrical contact element and the micrometering unit or the holder has a counterpart contact device, matching the contact device, with at least one counterpart electrical contact element for making electrical contact with the contact element.

Abstract: A microfluidic exosome profiling platform integrating exosome isolation and targeted proteomic analysis is disclosed. This platform is capable of quantitative exosomal biomarker profiling directly from plasma samples with markedly enhanced sensitivity and specificity. Identification of distinct subpopulation of patient-derived exosomes is demonstrated by probing surface proteins and multiparameter analyzes of intravesicular biomarkers in the selected subpopulation. The expression of IGF-1R and its phosphorylation level in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patient plasma is assessed as a non-invasive alternative to the conventional biopsy and immunohistochemistry. Detection of ovarian cancer also is assessed. The microfluidic chip, which may be fabricated of a glass substrate and a layer of poly(dimethylsiloxane), includes a serpentine microchannel to mix a fluid and a microchamber for the collection and detection of exosomes.

Abstract: A microfluidic device can include a base an outer surface of which forms one or more enclosures for containing a fluidic medium. The base can include an array of individually controllable transistor structures each of which can comprise both a lateral transistor and a vertical transistor. The transistor structures can be light activated, and the lateral and vertical transistors can thus be photo transistors. Each transistor structure can be activated to create a temporary electrical connection from a region of the outer surface of the base (and thus fluidic medium in the enclosure) to a common electrical conductor. The temporary electrical connection can induce a localized electrokinetic force generally at the region, which can be sufficiently strong to move a nearby micro-object in the enclosure.

Abstract: Sample application systems can include an extraction mechanism to remove a sample from sample containers, a sample vessel disposed on a deployment mechanism, where the deployment mechanism is arranged to move the sample vessel to receive a sample, an extraction mechanism washing station to wash the extraction mechanism, a sample applicator to remove a portion of the sample in the sample vessel and apply it onto a sample carrier, where the deployment mechanism can move the sample vessel to a sample application position, a sample vessel washing station to wash the sample vessel, where the deployment mechanism can move the sample vessel to the sample vessel washing station, a sample applicator washing station to wash the sample applicator after the sample has been dispensed onto the sample carrier, and a fluid control system to control flow of a fluid provided to the extraction mechanism and the sample applicator.

Abstract: A microfluidic system includes an electro-wetting on dielectric (EWOD) device and a control system that controls actuation voltages applied to the element array of the EWOD device to perform manipulation operations as to fluid droplets. The control system applies a sequence of actuation voltages to a portion of the array elements associated with a droplet to maintain the droplet in a desired droplet state corresponding to a predetermined droplet property. The sequence of actuation voltages includes an actuation-on period in which the portion of the array elements associated with the droplet is actuated and an actuation-off period in which the portion of the array elements associated with the droplet is not actuated, and the actuation-off period is non-zero. The control system may apply a sequence of actuation voltages comprising a predetermined duty cycle, and/or the actuation voltages may be applied in accordance with a sensor based intervention.

Abstract: A sampling plate (1) for use in measuring a property of a fluid sample comprising a sample zone comprising at least two discrete testing zones (5, 6) for receiving different respective volumes of the fluid sample. Each testing zone presents a zone volume defined by a respective zone area and a different respective zone height being a dimension transverse to the zone area (A).

Abstract: A technique relates to a fluidic cell configured to hold a nanofluidic chip. A first plate is configured to hold the nanofluidic chip. A second plate is configured to fit on top of the first plate, such that the nanofluidic chip is held in place. The second plate has at least one first port and at least one second port. The second plate has an entrance hole configured to communicate with an inlet hole of the nanofluidic chip. The second port is angled above the first port, such that the first port and second port intersect to form a junction. The second port is formed to have a line-of-sight to the entrance hole, such that the second port is configured to receive input for extracting air trapped at a vicinity of the entrance hole.

Abstract: A gas phase nanowire growth apparatus including a reaction chamber, a first input and a second input. The first input is located concentrically within the second input and the first and second input are configured such that a second input fluid delivered from the second input provides a sheath between a first fluid delivered from the first input and a wall of the reaction chamber. An aerosol of catalyst particles may be used to grow the nanowires.

Abstract: The present invention is notably directed to method of fabrication of a microfluidic chip (1), comprising: providing (S1-S7) a substrate (10), a face (F) of which is covered by an electrically insulating layer (30); obtaining (S8) a resist layer (40) covering one or more selected portions (P1) of the electrically insulating layer (30), at least a remaining portion (P2) of said electrically insulating layer (30) not being covered by the resist layer; partially etching (S9) with a wet etchant (E) a surface of the remaining portion (P2) of the electrically insulating layer (30) to create a recess (40r) and/or an undercut (40u) under the resist layer (40); depositing (S10) the electrically conductive layer (50) on the etched surface (35), such that the electrically conductive layer reaches the created recess (40r) and/or undercut (40u); and removing (S11) the resist layer (40) to expose a portion (P1) of the electrically insulating layer adjoining a contiguous portion (P2) of the electrically conductive layer (50

Abstract: A micro-fluidic device includes a plurality of heating elements on a substrate for heating the substrate. They define a plurality of temperature regions having distinct temperatures on the substrate. A flow feature layer is formed above the substrate to define a channel extending across the substrate through each temperature region. As fluid is repeatedly pumped within the channel, it flows from one temperature region to a next temperature region to undergo thermal cycling. Fluid wells reside in the flow feature layer under a cover and connect to the channel whereby fluid can dwell for diagnostic applications.

Abstract: An instrument and method for accelerating the solid phase synthesis of peptides are disclosed. The method includes the steps of deprotecting a protected first amino acid linked to a solid phase resin by admixing the protected linked acid with a deprotecting solution in a microwave transparent vessel while irradiating the admixed acid and solution with microwaves, activating a second amino acid, coupling the second amino acid to the first acid while irradiating the composition in the same vessel with microwaves, and cleaving the linked peptide from the solid phase resin by admixing the linked peptide with a cleaving composition in the same vessel while irradiating the composition with microwaves.

Abstract: A reusable coating for a nanopore structure is disclosed herein. A nanopore structure includes a substrate comprising a nanochannel and a monolayer of a chemical compound disposed onto at least a portion of a surface of the nanochannel. The chemical compound forms a reversible bond with at least one analyte binding compound introduced into the nanochannel. Methods for making and using the reusable coating are also disclosed.

Abstract: A reusable coating for a nanopore structure is disclosed herein. A nanopore structure includes a substrate comprising a nanochannel and a monolayer of a chemical compound disposed onto at least a portion of a surface of the nanochannel. The chemical compound forms a reversible bond with at least one analyte binding compound introduced into the nanochannel. Methods for making and using the reusable coating are also disclosed.

Abstract: The subject of the present invention is a microfluidic circuit in which are defined microchannels able to contain fluids and including at least one device for forming drops of a solution, guiding the drops to a storage zone in which one of the drops can be brought into contact with a drop of another solution, the walls of the microchannel portion forming the first drop-formation device diverging so as to cause drops of the first solution to detach under the effect of the surface tension of the first solution; the first guide include wall portions of the microchannels that diverge so as to cause the drops to move along under the effect of the surface tension of the first solution.

Abstract: A method of preparing reagents includes inserting a cartridge into an instrument. The cartridge includes a plurality of reagent enclosures disposed in a cavity of the cartridge and exposing a port to an exterior of the cartridge. Each reagent enclosure includes a reagent container including a reagent and an internal cavity defining a compressible volume, an opening defined through the reagent container to the internal cavity. The method further includes connecting a plurality of fluid ports to the openings of the plurality of reagent enclosures; applying a solution through the fluid ports to at least partially fill the plurality of reagent enclosures; and cycling a pressure of the cavity, whereby for each of the reagent enclosures, during increasing pressure, the solution enters the internal cavity of the reagent container, combines with the reagent, and compresses the compressible volume, and during decreasing pressure, the compressible volume decreases and the reagent is ejected through the opening.

Abstract: A method for configuring a fluid control unit including the provision of a processing device with information on the fluid control unit, the moving device and fluid control valves, the determination of possible basic states of the moving device for the fluid control valves and/or of possible movement sequences, and the selection of a basic state and/or of a movement sequence by a user, the transmission, of a respective configuration file to the fluid control unit including open- and/or closed-loop control parameters for the selection of the fluid control valves, the use of the open- and/or closed-loop control parameters from the configuration file in the fluid control unit for selecting the fluid control valves for setting the selected basic state and/or for carrying out the selected movement sequence.

Abstract: Fluidic devices and methods including those that provide storage and/or facilitate fluid handling of reagents are provided. Fluidic devices described herein may include channel segments positioned on two sides of an article, optionally connected by an intervening channel passing through the article. The channel segments may be used to store reagents in the device prior to first use by an end user. The stored reagents may include fluid plugs positioned in linear order so that during use, as fluids flow to a reaction site, they are delivered in a predetermined sequence. The specific geometries of the channel segments and the positions of the channel segments within the fluidic devices described herein may allow fluid reagents to be stored for extended periods of time without mixing, even during routine handling of the devices such as during shipping of the devices, and when the devices are subjected to physical shock or vibration.

Abstract: Provided is a fluid analysis cartridge configured to analyze a fluid specimen, a fluid analysis sheet forming the same and a method of manufacturing the fluid analysis cartridge. The fluid analysis sheet includes at least one cut out part configured to form an intermediate layer of an inspection substrate, the cut out part including a flow passage structure including an inlet part in which a fluid is introduced and an inspection part in which the fluid is introduced to react with a reagent; and wherein the cut out part is further configured to include a first end adjacent to the inspection part and a second end adjacent to the inlet part, and wherein a minimum distance between the first end and the flow passage structure is at least 1 mm.

Abstract: There is provided a microparticle sorting method including a procedure of collecting a microparticle in a fluid that flows through a main channel in a branch channel that is in communication with the main channel by generating a negative pressure in the branch channel. In the procedure, a flow of a fluid is formed that flows toward a side of the main channel from a side of the branch channel at a communication opening between the main channel and the branch channel.

Abstract: The present disclosure sets forth incorporating microfluidic chips interfaces for use with digital microfluidic processes. Methods and devices according to the present disclosure utilize compact, integrated platforms that interface with a chip upstream and downstream of the reaction, as well as between intermediate reaction steps if needed. In some embodiments these interfaces are automated, including automation of a multiple reagent process. Various reagent delivery systems and methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: An assay device includes: a liquid sample receiving zone; a capture zone in fluid communication with the sample receiving zone having capture elements bound thereto, the capture zone having a substrate and projections which extend substantially vertically from the substrate, the projections having a rhombus-shaped cross-section and the projections arranged on the substrate with the corners of the projections facing upstream in a direction toward the sample receiving zone. The projections have a height, cross-section and a distance between one another that defines a capillary space between the projections capable of generating capillary flow parallel to the substrate surface; and a sink in fluid communication with the capture zone having a capacity to receive liquid sample flowing from the capture zone. The sample receiving zone, the capture zone and the sink define a fluid flow path. Preferably, the rhombus-shaped cross-section is a square or a diamond.

Abstract: Sample application systems can include an extraction mechanism to remove a sample from sample containers, a sample vessel disposed on a deployment mechanism, where the deployment mechanism is arranged to move the sample vessel to receive a sample, an extraction mechanism washing station to wash the extraction mechanism, a sample applicator to remove a portion of the sample in the sample vessel and apply it onto a sample carrier, where the deployment mechanism can move the sample vessel to a sample application position, a sample vessel washing station to wash the sample vessel, where the deployment mechanism can move the sample vessel to the sample vessel washing station, a sample applicator washing station to wash the sample applicator after the sample has been dispensed onto the sample carrier, and a fluid control system to control flow of a fluid provided to the extraction mechanism and the sample applicator.

Abstract: A sample testing cartridge is usable to perform a variety of tests on a visco-elastic sample, such hemostasis testing on a whole blood or blood component sample. The cartridge includes a sample processing portion that is in fluid communication with a sample retention structure. A suspension, such as a beam, arm, cantilever or similar structure supports or suspends the sample retention portion relative to the sample processing portion in a unitary structure. In this manner, the sample retention portion may be placed into dynamic excitation responsive to excitation of the cartridge and correspondingly dynamic, resonant excitation of the sample contained within the sample retention portion, while the sample processing portion remains fixed. Observation of the excited sample yields data indicative of hemostasis. The data may correspond to hemostasis parameters such as time to initial clot formation, rate of clot formation, maximum clot strength and degree of clot lysis.

Abstract: Systems for sterile separation of magnetically labeled sample components and methods for using the same are provided. Embodiments of the systems include a magnetic separation device and a pliant sample container, where a portion of the pliant sample container is operatively coupled under pressure to the magnetic separation device. Also provided are methods of using the systems, as well as pliant sample containers configured for use with the subject systems and methods.

Abstract: A specimen holder is used for an optical microscope, comprising: a specimen support that supports a specimen to enable the specimen to tilt relative to the optical axis of the optical microscope; an adjustment plate that has an observation surface for making observations using the optical microscope; and an adjustment plate support that supports the adjustment plate, so that the angle formed by the optical axis and the observation surface is larger than the angle formed by the optical axis and a specimen surface of the specimen.

Abstract: An integrated device for a sample collection and transfer is provided. The integrated device comprises a capillary channel disposed between a first layer and a second layer, wherein the first layer comprises a hydrophilic layer comprising a fluid inlet for receiving a sample fluid to the capillary channel, wherein the capillary channel comprises an inner surface and an outer surface and an outlet for driving out the sample fluid. The device further comprises an interface assembly comprising: a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, and a flow path. The interface assembly is disposed on the outer surface of the capillary, at a determining position relative to the outlet, such that the capillary is in contact with the third layer of the interface assembly and the outlet is in contact with the flow path of the interface assembly for driving out the sample fluid from the integrated device.

Abstract: A microfluidic device having a substrate with an array of curvilinear cavities. The substrate of the microfluidic device is preferably fabricated of a polymer such as polydimethylsiloxane. The microfluidic device is manufactured using a gas expansion molding technique.

Abstract: A method and chip for fusing droplets in a chip comprising (i) providing a first set of droplets which are partially or not stabilized by surfactant, (ii) providing a second set of droplets which are stabilized by surfactant, (iii) contacting each droplet of the first set with single or multiple droplets of the second set in a pairing module and (iv) fusing droplets of the first set with droplets of the second set through a droplet fusion module in which the droplets experience at least one acceleration and/or deceleration and/or reorientation and/or rearrangement in space and time.

Abstract: Microfluidic structures and methods for manipulating fluids and reactions are provided. Such structures and methods may involve positioning fluid samples, e.g., in the form of droplets, in a carrier fluid (e.g., an oil, which may be immiscible with the fluid sample) in predetermined regions in a microfluidic network. In some embodiments, positioning of the droplets can take place in the order in which they are introduced into the microfluidic network (e.g., sequentially) without significant physical contact between the droplets. Because of the little or no contact between the droplets, there may be little or no coalescence between the droplets. Accordingly, in some such embodiments, surfactants are not required in either the fluid sample or the carrier fluid to prevent coalescence of the droplets. Structures and methods described herein also enable droplets to be removed sequentially from the predetermined regions.

Abstract: Provided herein are devices and methods for generating microfluidic gradients, including an array of unique microfluidic gradients within an array of microchannels. Fluids within conduits are mixed in an intersection region to generate a mixed flow stream in a source reservoir channel that provides a gradient that varies with axial distance from the intersection region. Microchannels having an inlet connected to the source reservoir channel are configured to provide a microfluidic gradient in the microchannel. An outlet end of the microchannel is connected to a sink reservoir channel. By varying the ratio of fluid flow rates from the fluid conduits, the microchannel gradients are tuned. In this manner, a large number of unique gradients or array of microfluidic gradients is provided, wherein the gradient can be any number of physical or chemical parameters, including concentrations and physical fluid properties.

Abstract: A processing system for micro processing. The processing system comprises a laser configured to generate a laser beam for performing laser processing within a preparation chamber. The processing system further comprises a transmission window, configured such that the laser beam enters into the preparation chamber through the transmission window. The processing system further comprises a fastening flange for fixing the transmission window relative to the preparation chamber, and a laser shield configured to provide, in a first arrangement of the laser shield, glare protection from a passage of the laser beam from a laser beam housing to the preparation chamber. The laser shield is movably mounted for movement between the first arrangement and a second arrangement of the laser shield, wherein in the second arrangement, at least one of the transmission window and the fastening flange is separable from the processing system.

Abstract: Fluidic connectors, methods, and devices for performing analyses (e.g., immunoassays) in microfluidic systems are provided. In some embodiments, a fluidic connector having a fluid path is used to connect two independent channels formed in a substrate so as to allow fluid communication between the two independent channels. One or both of the independent channels may be pre-filled with reagents (e.g., antibody solutions, washing buffers and amplification reagents), which can be used to perform the analysis. These reagents may be stored in the channels of the substrate for long periods amounts of time (e.g., 1 year) prior to use.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices are described that include a rigid base layer, and an elastomeric layer on the base layer. The elastomeric layer may include at least part of a fluid channel for transporting a liquid reagent, and a vent channel that accepts gas diffusing through the elastomeric layer from the flow channel and vents it out of the elastomeric layer. The devices may also include a mixing chamber fluidly connected to the fluid channel, and a control channel overlapping with a deflectable membrane that defines a portion of the flow channel, where the control channel may be operable to change a rate at which the liquid reagent flows through the fluid channel. The devices may further include a rigid plastic layer on the elastomeric layer.

Abstract: An interface device for bio-chip at least comprises an interface unit, said interface unit consisting of instrument interface layer, fluid channel layer and sample interface layer. The instrument interface layer has at least one instrument interface. The fluid channel layer has one hollow-out fluid channel. The sample interface layer has at least one sample interface, and both ends of said fluid channel connect to the sample interface and the instrument interface respectively. The interface device separates sample solutions from the instrument interface by gas or liquid in the fluid channel, thus to avoid direct contacts between sample solutions and instrument interface which will cause pollution, and omitting cleaning processes after using instruments. With simple structure, easy operation and low cost, it applies to chemistry field, biology field and medical analysis field.

Abstract: An integrated fluidic device comprising includes an input chamber that provides an input of a sample fluid, and a first overspill chamber in fluid communication with the input chamber. A metering conduit is in fluid communication with the fluid input chamber and the first overspill chamber. The metering conduit meters a first metered volume of fluid from the sample fluid, and the first overspill chamber receives fluid in excess of the first metered volume of fluid. A second overspill chamber is in fluid communication with the metering conduit. The metering conduit meters a second metered volume of fluid from the first metered volume of fluid, and the second overspill chamber receives fluid from the first metered volume of fluid in excess of the second metered volume of fluid. The second overspill chamber has a fluid actuated closable valve for controlling the metering of the second metered volume of fluid.

Abstract: A sensing device including an inlet port for receiving a fluid, a measurement chamber for sensing the fluid, a fluid channel coupling the inlet port and the measurement chamber for transporting the fluid from the inlet port to the measurement chamber, and a fluid stop unit for stopping and controllably releasing the flow of fluid between the inlet port and the measurement chamber.

Abstract: A micro device includes a substrate and a structure configured to bind to an object or a material, or not to bind to an object or material. The structure has a roughness based on a roughness of the object or material. For example, a microarray includes a substrate and a well positioned in the substrate and configured to bind to a type of bead. The well has a roughness based on a roughness of the type of bead to which the well is configured to bind. The roughness of the well is controlled by controlling a position and number of striations in the side of the well. In another example, a moveable component of a micro device may have a roughness different from a roughness of an adjacent component, to reduce the likelihood of the moveable component sticking to the adjacent component.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices fabricated from paper that has been covalently modified to increase its hydrophobicity, as well as methods of making and using thereof are provided herein. The devices are typically small, portable, flexible, and both easy and inexpensive to fabricate. Microfluidic devices contain a network of microfluidic components, including microfluidic channels, microfluidic chambers, microwells, or combinations thereof, designed to carry, store, mix, react, and/or analyze liquid samples. The microfluidic channels may be open channels, closed channels, or combinations thereof. The microfluidic devices may be used to detect and/or quantify an analyte, such as a small molecules, proteins, lipids polysaccharides, nucleic acids, prokaryotic cells, eukaryotic cells, particles, viruses, metal ions, and combinations thereof.

Abstract: In one aspect, a microfluidic device for multiple reactions is provided, which comprises a reaction channel comprising multiple reaction chambers connected to a closed chamber or an elastic balloon outside of the microfluidic device, wherein a wall of the closed chamber is an elastic membrane; and a control channel comprising an elastic side wall, wherein the intersections between the side wall of the control channel with the reaction channel form multiple pneumatic microvalves. In another aspect, a method for conducting multiple reactions using the microfluidic device is provided, which comprises: a) filling the reaction chambers with a sample; and b) applying pressure to the control channel to expand the elastic side wall of the control channel, wherein the expanded elastic side wall forms a pneumatic microvalve that separates the reaction chambers.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to droplet creation, fusion and sorting, and incubation for droplet-based microfluidic assays. More particularly, the present invention relates to delay-lines, which allow incubation of reactions for precise time periods. More particularly, the present invention relates to delay lines for incubations up to three hours, while reducing back-pressure and dispersion in the incubation time due to the unequal speeds with which droplets pass through the delay line.

Abstract: This technology is a method and apparatus for the semi-continuous measurement of the concentration of constituents of airborne particles which couples a laminar flow, water condensation particle collector to a microfluidic device for assay of particle chemical composition by electrophoresis. The technology has been used for the assay of sulfates, nitrates, chlorides, and organic acids contained in fine and submicrometer atmospheric particles. For these compounds the apparatus and method described is capable of one-minute time resolution at concentrations at the level of micrograms of analyte species per cubic meter of air. Extension to other analytes is possible.

Abstract: The invention provides structures and methods that allow polymers of any length, including nucleic acids, to be stretched into a long, linear conformation for further analysis.