Abstract: A transport system includes a sample rack configured to hold a sample and comprising a notch; a rack storage unit in which the sample rack is stored; a transport path arranged to transport the sample rack moved from the rack storage unit; and a regulating member configured to regulate movement of the sample rack from the rack storage unit toward the transport path, wherein the regulating member is provided at a position corresponding to the notch provided in the sample rack, and enters an interior of the sample rack from the notch and abuts an interior wall of the sample rack as the sample rack moves from the rack storage unit toward the transport path.

Abstract: A cell sorter includes a base for holding a cell culture plate containing a fluorescently labeled sample of cells, a fluorescence imager for viewing the cell culture plate, through bottom of the cell culture plate, to capture one or more fluorescence images of the fluorescently labeled sample of cells, and a cell extraction module for extracting a cell selected based on the one or more fluorescence images. The cell extraction module includes a needle for hydraulically removing the selected cell from the cell culture plate, and a motorized translation stage for translating the needle in a z-dimension to reach the selected cell from above. The cell sorter further includes a motorized translation stage for translating one of the needle and the cell culture plate in x- and y-dimensions, relative to the other one of the needle and the cell culture plate, to position the needle over selected first cell.

Abstract: The object of the invention is to provide an automatic analysis apparatus capable of setting a dispensing mechanism for measuring dispensing accuracy and a dispensing volume, and capable of performing dispensing accuracy measurement without absorbance measurement. Regarding a dispensing accuracy, a dispensing mechanism to be measured is designated. Parameters including a dispensing volume and the like are input. A dispensing operation of the input dispensing volume is automatically performed for each designated dispensing mechanism. A reaction vessel contains, for example, a reagent of the input dispensing volume which has been dispensed by the designated dispensing mechanism. By measuring a weight of the reagent in the reaction vessel, or the like, it is possible to measure the dispensing accuracy of the designated dispensing mechanism.

Abstract: Therapeutic extracellular vesicles (EVs) containing high copies of functional nucleic acids and other biomolecules are produced in large quantities by laying donor cells on a surface of a chip, adding various plasmids, other transfection vectors and their combinations to a buffer on the chip, applying a pulsulatic electric field across the cells laid on top of the chip surface and plasmids/vectors buffer solution below the chip surface, and collecting the EVs secreted by the transfected cells. The chip surface has a three-dimensional (3D) nanochannel electroporation (NEP) biochip formed on it, capable of handling large quantities of the donor cells. The buffer is adapted for receiving plasmids and other transfection vectors.

Abstract: A microfluidic chip for focussing a stream of particulate containing fluid comprises a sample microfluidic channel configured to receive the stream of particulate containing fluid, a guidance microfluidic channel having a polygonal cross-sectional area and configured to receive a stream of guidance fluid, and a common microfluidic channel having a polygonal cross sectional area formed by the merging of the sample microfluidic channel and the guidance 10 microfluidic channel at an oblique angle along only part of one or more sides of the guidance microfluidic channel, and a detection zone disposed in the common microfluidic channel having one or more sensors.

Abstract: A microfluidic chip orients and isolates components in a sample fluid mixture by two step focusing, where sheath fluids compress the sample fluid mixture in a sample input channel in one direction, such that the sample fluid mixture becomes a narrower stream bounded by the sheath fluids, and by having the sheath fluids compress the sample fluid mixture in a second direction further downstream, such that the components are compressed and oriented in a selected direction to pass through an interrogation chamber in single file formation for identification and separation by various methods. The isolation mechanism utilizes external, stacked piezoelectric actuator assemblies disposed on a microfluidic chip holder, or piezoelectric actuator assemblies on-chip, so that the actuator assemblies are triggered by an electronic signal to actuate jet chambers on either side of the sample input channel, to jet selected components in the sample input channel into one of the output channels.

Abstract: A transport system includes a sample rack configured to hold a sample and comprising a notch; a rack storage unit in which the sample rack is stored; a transport path arranged to transport the sample rack moved from the rack storage unit; and a regulating member configured to regulate movement of the sample rack from the rack storage unit toward the transport path, wherein the regulating member is provided at a position corresponding to the notch provided in the sample rack, and enters an interior of the sample rack from the notch and abuts an interior wall of the sample rack as the sample rack moves from the rack storage unit toward the transport path.

Abstract: A microfluidic platform and method are provided. The microfluidic platform includes a base having an outer surface and a plurality of wells formed in the outer surface thereof for receiving fluid therein. The plurality of wells are in fluid communication with each other. A lid includes a plurality of channels having corresponding inputs and outputs. The lid is moveable between a first position wherein the lid is disengaged from the base and a second position wherein the inputs of each channel communicate with corresponding wells in the base. The fluid in each well is drawn into corresponding channels through the inputs thereof by capillary action.

Abstract: A system for sampling a sample material includes a probe which can have an outer probe housing with an open end. A liquid supply conduit within the housing has an outlet positioned to deliver liquid to the open end of the housing. The liquid supply conduit can be connectable to a liquid supply for delivering liquid at a first volumetric flow rate to the open end of the housing. A liquid exhaust conduit within the housing is provided for removing liquid from the open end of the housing. A liquid exhaust system can be provided for removing liquid from the liquid exhaust conduit at a second volumetric flow rate. A droplet dispenser can dispense drops of a sample or a sample-containing solvent into the open end of the housing. A sensor and a processor can be provided to monitor and maintain a liquid dome present at the open end.

Abstract: A liquid chromatography monitoring system comprises a computer or electronic controller comprising computer-readable instructions operable to: (a) draw a fluid into a syringe pump; (b) configure a valve so as to fluidically couple the pump to either a fluidic pathway through a fluidic system or to a plug that prevents fluid flow; (c) cause the syringe pump to progressively compress the fluid therein or expel the fluid to the fluidic pathway, while measuring a pressure of the fluid; (d) determine a profile of the variation of the measured pressure; (e) compare the determined profile to an expected profile that depends upon the fluid; and (f) provide a notification of a sub-optimal operating condition or malfunction if the determined profile varies from the expected profile by greater than a predetermined tolerance.

Abstract: A combined cycle power plant includes a gas turbine, a steam turbine and a heat recovery steam generator. The heat recovery steam generator is arranged to receive exhaust gas from the gas turbine for reheating condensate from the steam turbine and generating steam for the steam turbine. And the heat recovery steam generator includes at least one drum evaporator configured to receive a first part of the condensate; a pump configured to receive a second part of the condensate and increase the second part of the condensate to an elevated pressure; and a high-pressure assembly configured to receive the condensate from the pump and operate the condensate from the pump at a subcritical up to a supercritical pressure range.

Abstract: An automatic analyzer which is capable of detecting a dispensing abnormality with a high degree of accuracy without causing the decrease in the determination performance or the increase in the calculation amount caused by the configuration balance of the reference database is implemented. A dispensing nozzle of a sample dispensing mechanism 50 is immersed in a dispensing target contained in a specimen container 11 and sucks the dispensing target, and internal pressure of the dispensing nozzle of the sample dispensing mechanism 50 of ejecting the sucked dispensing target to a reaction container 41 is detected through a pressure sensor 54. A plurality of feature quantities are extracted from a waveform of the detected pressure, and a determination result is output through a linear combination formula using an optimal coefficient for a determination function that receives a plurality of feature quantities and outputs one value.

Abstract: To provide a technology for increasing the speed of sample imaging using a microscope. The present technology provides a flow channel structure including an imaging flow channel in which a fluid containing imaging targets flows in the same direction as the optical axis of an objective lens. The present technology also provides an imaging member including the flow channel structure. The present technology also provides an imaging method that includes imaging an imaging target in an imaging flow channel in which a fluid containing the imaging target flows in the same direction as the optical axis of an objective lens. The present technology also provides an imaging target analysis device and an imaging target analysis system that include the imaging member.

Abstract: The present application provides devices, systems and methods for detecting the presence and/or length of an analyte. More specifically, the present application is directed to a structure and system that includes a micro-capacitive sensor array for detecting the presence of an analyte in a sample and determining the length and/or composition of an analyte, such as a nucleic acid, as well as methods for using the same.

Abstract: Systems and methods for cell electroporation and molecular delivery using an intelligent, feedback controlled, microscale electroporation system for transfecting single cells.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods for detecting neuronal oscillation in the spinal cord of a subject. The methods can be utilized to determine that the subject has a disease or disorder of the spinal cord. The methods are useful for treating or reducing the likelihood of pain in a subject by detecting neuronal oscillation in the spinal cord and, e.g., administering a therapeutic agent to the subject. The electrode (LFP) methods disclosed herein may also be utilized to screen for a therapeutic agent that decreases neuronal oscillation in the spinal cord using a non-human animal subject.

Abstract: Provided herein are definitive screening techniques for qualitatively and quantitatively detecting analytes in biological specimens.

Abstract: A method for utilizing the inner energy of an aquifer fluid includes geothermal thermal water mixed with gas and optionally crude oil in a closed cycle to obtain an environmentally-neutral, carbon-dioxide-free utilization of the aquifer fluid and an environmentally-friendly supply of electric and thermal energy. An aquifer fluid is removed from an aquifer by means of a removal device, gas is separated by degassing the aquifer fluid in a gas-separation device, optionally crude oil is separated if necessary, the heat energy of the thermal water is utilized in at least one system for utilizing the thermal energy, the extracted gas and the optionally separated crude oil is com busted in at least one combustion device and the inner energy of the gas is utilized by operating a generator, the CO2 being removed from the waste gas and recycled into the aquifer.

Abstract: Disclosed is a sampler that obtains fluid samples with a probe and washes the probe during the act of withdrawing the probe from a sample container. In addition, detection of a collision of the probe and/or the wash station with another object can be quickly detected using sensors that determine if a collision situation exists.

Abstract: Compositions, kits and methods of using the kits and compositions to determine the alkalinity of an analyte solution are described. The kit can include a lyophilized titrant.

Abstract: Systems and methods of use for continuous analyte measurement of a host's vascular system are provided. In some embodiments, a continuous glucose measurement system includes a vascular access device, a sensor and sensor electronics, the system being configured for insertion into communication with a host's circulatory system.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices and methods for focusing components in a fluid sample are described herein. The microfluidic device has at least one flow focusing channel where the components are focused or re-oriented by the geometry of the channel. From an upstream end of the flow focusing channel to a downstream end of the flow focusing channel, at least a portion of the flow focusing channel has a reduction in height and at least a portion of the flow focusing channel narrows in width, thereby geometrically constricting the flow focusing channel. The devices and methods can be utilized in sex-sorting of sperm cells to improve performance and increase eligibility.

Abstract: The application relates to an electrode for use in the electrochemical detection of target species, and in particular for the detection of insulin. The application enables insulin to be detected with high selectivity and with a detection limit in the picomolar range or lower. The electrodes of the invention can easily be reused and are ideally suited for use in point-of-care diagnostics. In a preferred embodiment, the electrode comprises an antibody modified, polyethylene glycol (PEG) monolayer assembled on a gold surface. In a second embodiment, the electrode comprises a chemisorbed zwitterionic carboxybetaine polymer obtained by photopolymerisation of carboxybetaine methacrylate (CBMA). This allows the use of non-Faradaic analysis to determine the insulin concentration even in undiluted blood serum.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for putting material into a cell to be modified. More particularly, the present invention is directed to a device formed within one solid material and comprises, a first passage on which the cell passes; a second passage on which the material passes and connected to the first passage at a position randomly selected between both ends of the first passage; and an apparatus which applies pressure difference or electric potential difference on the first passage and the second passage, and is also directed to a process for making the device.

Abstract: Technology is provided for a fluid transmissometer manifold. The transmissometer manifold includes a manifold body having an upwardly extending bubble diverter passageway with an upper end portion and a lower end portion. A flow restrictor is connected to the upper end portion and an inlet passageway is connected to the diverter passageway between the flow restrictor and the lower end portion. An upwardly extending optical chamber is connected to the lower end portion. At least a portion of a fluid entering the inlet passageway flows downward into the optical chamber and any bubbles contained in the fluid travel upward through the bubble diverter passageway. A light source can be positioned at a first end of the optical chamber and a detector positioned at a second end of the optical chamber opposite the light source and operative to detect light emitted from the light source.

Abstract: A sample-taking unit having a sampling unit and a hold-down device which is movable relative thereto in a parallel manner, said sample-taking unit including a self-holding mechanism which, as a result of a self-locking effect, automatically fixes the hold-down device in a lowered fixing position against an upward movement until the self-locking effect is removed again as a result of the self-holding mechanism being acted upon with a detaching force, preferably as a result of contact between the sampling unit and a clamping element of the self-holding mechanism.

Abstract: The invention is directed to multi-fluidic cartridges for sample analysis and to methods of using said cartridges. In one embodiment, the cartridge comprises: (a) a first conduit beginning at a sample entry port for receiving a fluid sample and in fluid communication with one or more sensors; (b) a plurality of rupturable fluidic pouches, each containing a different fluid and in fluid communication with a respective delivery conduit configured for delivering a respective fluid to said first conduit; and (c) at least one pneumatic pump configured to move said fluid sample to said one or more sensors and for transporting at least one of said different fluids to said first conduit.

Abstract: A device for remote management of patients suffering from heart failure and hypertension can measure one or more biomarker. The device aids in monitoring the efficacy and safety of treatment in such patients.

Abstract: The present invention, provides a flow cytometry apparatus for the detection of particles from a plurality of samples comprising: means for moving a plurality of samples comprising particles from a plurality of respective source wells into a fluid flow stream; means for introducing a separation gas between each of the plurality of samples in the fluid flow stream; and means for selectively analyzing each of the plurality of samples for the particles. The present invention also provides a flow cytometry method employing such an apparatus.

Abstract: In flow cytometry, particles (2) can be distinguished between populations (8) by combining n-dimensional parameter data, which may be derived from signal data from a particle, to mathematically achieve numerical results representative of an alteration (48). An alteration may include a rotational alteration, a scaled alteration, or perhaps even a translational alteration. Alterations may enhance separation of data points which may provide real-time classification (49) of signal data corresponding to individual particles into one of at least two populations.

Abstract: Method for validating the accuracy of automated analyzers by performing an improved dual dye ratio method procedure that uses at least first and second dye solutions in combination with gravimetric measurement of selected test solutions.

Abstract: A modular flow injection analysis system has a sample connection, a reagent inflow and a media discharge. The analysis system is formed of a plurality of functional modules stacked one on top of the other. These functional modules include a metering module including a metering channel having an inlet and an outlet, a mixing module including a mixing channel having an inlet and an outlet, an analysis module including a media chamber connected to the outlet of the mixing channel, and a media control module. The modules are connected by aligned media channels. These media channels replace the conventional tube connections. They are connected automatically when the modules are fitted together.

Abstract: Provided herein are improved cell sorter systems and methods. Such systems and methods provide a self-stabilizing sorter jet to automate calibration, and address the issue of drift in cell sorting systems. The systems and methods presented make it possible to determine and set the charge delay interval automatically with circuitry in the cell sorter. These circuits can set, monitor, and adjust the time delay continuously, allowing for a completely automatic, autonomous, turn-key, self-stabilizing sorter jet.

Abstract: The invention relates to bead incubating and washing on a droplet actuator. Methods for incubating magnetically responsive beads that are labeled with primary antibody, a sample (i.e., analyte), and secondary reporter antibodies on a magnet, on and off a magnet, and completely off a magnet are provided. Also provided are methods for washing magnetically responsive beads using shape-assisted merging of droplets. Also provided are methods for shape-mediated splitting, transporting, and dispensing of a sample droplet that contains magnetically responsive beads. The apparatuses and methods of the invention provide for rapid time to result and optimum detection of an analyte in an immunoassay.

Abstract: According to the microchemical chip of the present invention, the sample introducing port 11 is formed as a hole penetrating a face and a back of the first substrate 10, the sample flow path 21 is formed as a slit penetrating a face and a back of the second substrate 20, the sample discharging port 31 is formed as a hole penetrating a face and a back of the third substrate 30, the second substrate 20 is disposed between the first substrate 10 and the third substrate 30, the sample introducing port 11 and the sample discharging port 31 are in communication with each other through the sample flow path 21, and one of ends of the sample flow path 21 is an opening port, and thus, a square hollow groove including an angle having one piece of about 100 microns can be produced as the sample flow path 21.

Abstract: A flow cytometer and a fluid system are provided. The fluid system comprises a flow cell, a sample providing unit, a waste container, a sheath container, a negative pressure source, a quantitative unit and a sample flow monitoring unit, the negative pressure source, the waste container and the flow cell are connected, a negative pressure source, which provides a negative pressure relative to the sample providing unit for the flow cell so that the sample providing unit causes the sample to flow into the flow cell under the negative pressure, a sample flow monitoring unit monitors a flow of the sample fluid transported from the sample providing unit to the flow cell and outputs a feedback signal reflecting flow changes of the sample fluid in real-time; wherein the controller receives the feedback signal and controls the quantitative unit to adjust a flow of the sheath fluid according to the feedback signal.

Abstract: A method and device for generating an ongoing consistent velocity within a pipeline flow in order to achieve fluid homogeneity prior to oil water measurement. A recirculation flow loop withdraws flow from a first point in a pipeline, accelerates that flow with a pump, and reinjects the outflow from the pump through turbulence inducing outlets at a second point in the pipeline upstream of the first flow withdrawal point. The increased turbulence and mixing of the fluid flowing in the pipeline enhances the homogeneity of the oil/water suspension. The more homogeneous fluid recirculating in the flow loop passes through a measurement probe of an oil/water detector, thus increasing the accuracy of the oil/water measurement of the fluid.

Abstract: A device having: a laminar flow channel for liquids; two or more electrodes; a confining fluid inlet; a sample inlet; and a meter for measuring the impedance of any fluid between the electrodes. The device may have one or more specific binding sites, or it may have sheathing and unsheathing fluid transporting structures. A method of: providing the device; flowing a confining fluid and a conductive liquid that may contain cells or particles through the channel as described herein; and measuring the impedance between the electrodes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to bead incubating and washing on a droplet actuator. Methods for incubating magnetically responsive beads that are labeled with primary antibody, a sample (i.e., analyte), and secondary reporter antibodies on a magnet, on and off a magnet, and completely off a magnet are provided. Also provided are methods for washing magnetically responsive beads using shape-assisted merging of droplets. Also provided are methods for shape-mediated splitting, transporting, and dispensing of a sample droplet that contains magnetically responsive beads. The apparatuses and methods of the invention provide for rapid time to result and optimum detection of an analyte in an immunoassay.

Abstract: The present invention provides a hybrid digital and channel microfluidic device in the form of an integrated structure in which a droplet may be transported by a digital microfluidic array and transferred to a microfluidic channel. In one aspect of the invention, a hybrid device comprises a first substrate having a digital microfluidic array capable of transporting a droplet to a transfer location, and a second substrate having a microfluidic channel. The first and second substrates are affixed to form a hybrid device in which an opening in the microfluidic channel is positioned adjacent to the transfer location, so that a droplet transported to the transfer location contacts the channel opening and may enter the channel. The invention also provides methods of performing separations using a hybrid digital and channel microfluidic device and methods of assembling a hybrid digital microfluidic device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for detecting the presence and/or the reaction of a biomolecule by monitoring changes of electrical property accurately according to the biological, biochemical or chemical reaction of the biomolecule, and a biochip provided for this purpose.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided, for selective destruction or temporary disruption of nerves and/or conduction pathways in a mammalian body for the treatment of pain and other disorders. Apparatus comprises catheters having electrodes for targeting and affecting nerve tissue at a cellular level to reversible and irreversible nerve portion and incapacitation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a microfluidic device for promoting crystallization of target molecules, such as proteins. The device comprises a solid structure with a top face and an opposite bottom face and with a least one liquid channel. The liquid channel comprises a target molecule solution inlet and at least two precipitant inlets. The target molecule solution inlet is in liquid communication with each of the precipitant inlets through the liquid channel. The liquid channel comprises a branching channel section adjacent to the target molecule solution inlet, crystallization channel sections adjacent to the respective precipitant inlets and flow break channel sections arranged between the branching channel section and each of the crystallization channel sections.

Abstract: A sample analyzer prepares a measurement sample from a blood sample or a body fluid sample which differs from the blood sample; measures the prepared measurement sample; obtains characteristic information representing characteristics of the components in the measurement sample; sets either a blood measurement mode for measuring the blood sample, or a body fluid measurement mode for measuring the body fluid sample as an operating mode; and measures the measurement sample prepared from the blood sample by executing operations in the blood measurement mode when the blood measurement mode has been set, and measuring the measurement sample prepared from the body fluid sample by executing operations in the body fluid measurement mode that differs from the operations in the blood measurement mode when the body fluid measurement mode has been set, is disclosed. A computer program product is also disclosed.

Abstract: A chemical analyzer analyzes a sample for a target chemical. The sample and reagent are added to a measurement cell until a detectable change is observed. A reference compound, which does not take part in the reaction between the target chemical and reagent, is added to the reagent. By measuring the concentration of the reference compound, the amount of reagent used may be determined. In one embodiment, a mechanism introduces the sample, adds reagent, mixes, cleans, and flushes the measurement cell, which incorporates a longitudinal chamber having inlets for the sample and reagent and an outlet for measured sample/reagent mixtures. A detector located in or adjacent to the chamber between the inlets and outlet and a piston movable in the chamber carries seals such that movement of a piston sequentially opens the inlets and expels the fluid. The analyzer also includes a device that delivers reagent to a measurement cell.

Abstract: Provided are a multiple immunoassay apparatus on a chip in which a structure comprising multiple microfluidic channels is associated with a tissue sample, which allows immunohistochemical reactions to be conducted therein, to examine various markers specific for certain diseases, and a method for performing multiple immunoassays using the same. The multiple immunoassay apparatus comprises: at least one antibody-introducing unit through which at least one antibody is introduced into the apparatus; at least one reaction unit in which the antibody reacts with a sample in an immunohistochemical pattern; and at least one fluid outlet through which a fluid including the antibody is discharged outside the apparatus.

Abstract: A dispensing assembly comprising a cartridge holder is presented. The cartridge holder can receive a cartridge for dispensing a fluid. The cartridge can comprise a reservoir for receiving the fluid. The reservoir can comprise an outlet. The reservoir can have an adjustable volume for forcing the fluid through the outlet. The cartridge can further comprise a nozzle for dispensing the fluid. The nozzle can be connected to the outlet. The dispensing assembly can further comprise an actuator for actuating the adjustable volume. The dispensing assembly can further comprise an impulse generator for imparting an impulse to the nozzle. The impulse generator can comprise an actor for contacting the nozzle. The dispenser assembly can further comprise a controller for controlling the actor and the impulse generator.

Abstract: A system for managing bulk liquids for an automated clinical analyzer. The system comprises (a) at least one local reservoir for storing a bulk liquid for impending use, (b) at least one container for holding a bulk liquid before the liquid is transferred to a local reservoir, and (c) a controller for monitoring the level of a bulk liquid in a local reservoir. The local reservoir for storing a bulk liquid for impending use can be a trough. The use of troughs for storing a reagent, a diluent, or some other treating agent for impending use enables an aspirating/dispensing device having a plurality of pipettes to aspirate and dispense the reagent, diluent, or other treating agent at a high rate of throughput. The controller can monitor the level of a liquid in (a) a local reservoir for storing a bulk liquid for imminent use and the level of liquid in a (b) container for holding a bulk liquid before the liquid is transferred to a local reservoir.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for analyzing the composition of bodily fluid. The apparatus can include a fluid handling network including a patient end configured to maintain fluid communication with a bodily fluid in a patient and a pump unit in operative engagement with the fluid handling network. The pump unit can have an infusion mode, in which the pump unit is operable to deliver infusion fluid to the patient through the patient end, and a sample draw mode, in which the pump unit is operable to draw a sample of the bodily fluid from the patient through the patient end. The apparatus can include a spectroscopic analyzer positioned to analyze at least a portion of the sample; a processor in communication with or incorporated into the spectroscopic analyzer; and stored program instructions executable by the processor to obtain measurements of two or more properties of the sample.

Abstract: An automatic apparatus is described, which is suitable for the withdrawal of portions of biological material from a parent test tube (1), mobile in a conveyor (6) of a test tube transport plant by means of transport devices (8) of single test tubes, to be loaded in one or more child test tubes (2) countermarked beforehand with suitable identification means and to be sent to different biological material analysis instruments interfaced to said transport plant.