Abstract: The invention involves methods and apparata for manipulating micro-/nanoobjects. A holder exerts a weak attractive force on the micro-/nanoobject (by, for example, suction from negative fluid pressure, electrostatic attraction, magnetic attraction, etc.). A vibrator coupled to the holder generates orbital motion in the holder in at least one plane. As long as the attractive force is not too high, the orbital motion of the holder will cause rotation of the micro-/nanoobject, with the attractive force of the holder maintaining the micro-/nanoobject adjacent the holder during such rotation. Once the micro-/nanoobject has been rotated to a desired orientation, the attractive force of the holder on the micro-/nanoobject can be increased to such a level that the micro-/nanoobject will be firmly fixed to the holder.

Abstract: This present invention covers novel means, devices and instruments for production of a tissue array block that is further sectioned into duplicates of tissue arrays. An integral microscope is incorporated into the instant instrument for viewing and examining a stained reference slide and selecting donor tissue core region(s) from the reference slide. The said reference slide is held in a reference slide station that is operatively linked and indexed with a station or platform holding a source donor tissue block, which is further indexed and precisely positioned with reference to the donor punch needle for punching the donor tissue core(s). A recipient block indexed to the donor block punch is placed under the donor punch station and donor tissue cores are delivered into pre-existing hole(s) by a stylet to construct the tissue array block. The instant instrument comprises a donor punch station, optionally a second recipient punch station, with each operable independently or removable.

Abstract: An apparatus for microinjection of samples into amphibian oocytes, comprising a tray for holding a plurality of the amphibian oocytes, an injection needle for injecting a sample into the said amphibian oocytes, a driving means for moving a relative position between the said tray and the said injection needle and a controlling means for controlling the said movement by imputing a depth of the said injection needle for the said tray or the said amphibian oocytes in the injection of the sample, and injecting the sample into the said amphibian oocytes at the said depth. According to the present invention, the sample can be injected into the amphibian oocyte with constant depth.precisely and quality of oocyte or a positional site of needle injection can be recorded as the information.

Abstract: A device for handling PCR microcards, each having an array of sample chambers closed by a transparent material on one side thereof, in relation to a PCR instrument, the device including a carrier having an apertured region with an array of holes corresponding in number and relative location with the array of sample chambers in each of the microcards, and a provision for retaining a microcard on the carrier so that the transparent material faces the apertured region with the reagent sample chambers aligned, respectively, with the holes in the apertured region, and so that the side of the microcard opposite the transparent material is unobstructed at least throughout the array of sample chambers. The device cooperates with the PCR instrument to ensure accurate positioning of the carrier and the microcard retained thereon for real time PCR processing.

Abstract: Disclosed is a biopolymer (DNA) detector capable of performing overall analysis including an unreacted sample without needing any complex work such as washing or the like. A DNA probe 66 is fixed to an electrode plate 22, and the electrode plate 22 is displaced by applying a DC voltage between electrode plates 22 and 23. Thus, sample DNA 63 to be detected can be separated. It becomes possible to obtain a clearer result by performing analysis based on a ratio of an entire reaction system.

Abstract: A device particularly suited for constructing frozen tissue microarrays. The device comprises: a cooling chamber for receiving at least one frozen material and for maintaining the frozen material in a frozen condition; the cooling chamber moveable in an x and y direction relative to a horizontal surface; at least one coring needle comprising a cutting surface and a lumen for receiving a core of frozen material cut by the cutting surface; and at least one coring needle positioning element, for positioning the at least one coring needle over said frozen material for cutting said frozen material. Frozen tissue microarray blocks and methods of generating these are also provided.

Abstract: An automated cell management system which can be programmed to perform and control various operations of the essential phases of cell culturing, of cell culture manipulation, and of cell culture evaluation. The automated cell management system comprises a housing, a storage array for accommodating a plurality of cell culture devices, a loading station, a means for harvesting one or more components from a cell culture device, and one or more processing stations. The automated cell management system may further comprise mechanism for tracking each cell culture device, a plurality of reservoirs, a centrifuge, a microprocessor, one or more evaluation stations, one or more means for sterilization, and a combination thereof.

Abstract: A random access microbiological analyzer for performing AST and ID tests on samples using on-board inventories of different AST test arrays and different ID test rotors within separate AST and ID incubation and analysis chambers.

Abstract: A device for handling PCR microcards, each having an array of sample chambers closed by a transparent material on one side thereof, in relation to a PCR instrument, the device including a carrier having an apertured region with an array of holes corresponding in number and relative location with the array of sample chambers in each of the microcards, and a provision for retaining a microcard on the carrier so that the transparent material faces the apertured region with the reagent sample chambers aligned, respectively, with the holes in the apertured region, and so that the side of the microcard opposite the transparent material is unobstructed at least throughout the array of sample chambers. The device cooperates with the PCR instrument to ensure accurate positioning of the carrier and the microcard retained thereon for real time PCR processing.

Abstract: A device for handling PCR microcards, each having an array of sample chambers closed by a transparent material on one side thereof, in relation to a PCR instrument, the device including a carrier having an apertured region with an array of holes corresponding in number and relative location with the array of sample chambers in each of the microcards, and a provision for retaining a microcard on the carrier so that the transparent material faces the apertured region with the reagent sample chambers aligned, respectively, with the holes in the apertured region, and so that the side of the microcard opposite the transparent material is unobstructed at least throughout the array of sample chambers. The device cooperates with the PCR instrument to ensure accurate positioning of the carrier and the microcard retained thereon for real time PCR processing.

Abstract: A plant micropropagation apparatus (100) and process is provided in which a support platform (110) for vessels (12) containing a liquid growth media are periodically pivoted which brings about an intermittent immersion of the plant tissue/growth substrate in the growth media. The motion of the support platform (110) may optionally be used to engage a piston operated dispenser (14) for supplying aseptic media to the sealed vessel (12). The intermittent immersion also provides for an improved method of separating viable embryos from culture materials using a separation matrix in conjunction with the intermittent wave motion of the plant media when suspended in a liquid culture.

Abstract: Arrays of biological tissue can be created by removing cores from regions of interest in a series of donor blocks of embedded tissues. The cores removed are placed in a regular array in a recipient block. This is typically done with two different punches, one for obtaining the cores of interest and the other for creating the receiving holes in the recipient block. The present invention comprises such a system including a single z axis, with a mechanism for automatically changing two or more punches in and out of a holder on the z axis.

Abstract: Apparatus for delivering a plurality of different biological materials onto discrete locations on a receiving surface, as for example to fabricate an array of different biological material, includes a plurality of orifices in an orifice member, at least six delivery chambers each in fluid conducting relationship with at least one of the orifices, a plurality of reservoirs each in fluid communication with at least one of the delivery chambers, means associated with each orifice for propelling fluid through the associated orifice from the delivery chamber that is in fluid conducting relationship with the orifice, and a vent for commonly venting at least two of the reservoirs. In some embodiments the chambers and reservoirs are loaded with fluids containing selected biomolecules by drawing the selected fluids into the chambers through the orifices; in other embodiments the fluids are introduced into the reservoirs.

Abstract: When the reaction process is commences, the roller 12 is rotated at a specified number of revolutions so as to supply new sheet 11 between the heating plate 13 and the sheet retainer 15. Then, the fixing device 24 is lowered toward the heat cycler 24, the sheet 11 contacts the opening of the reaction container 23 arranged on the reaction container support block 22, and then the heating plate 13 pushes down the sheet 11 to let the sheet closely contact the opening of the reaction container 23. After the reaction of the reaction solution in the reaction container 23 is complete, the sheet retainer 15 retains the sheet 11, and then is lifted together with the fixing device 24 to separate the sheet 11 from the opening of the reaction container 23. Then, the roller 12 is rotated by a specified number of revolutions so that the used sheet 11 is taken up onto the roller 12 and new sheet 11 is supplied.

Abstract: A method is provided which comprises: performing a plurality of fermentations, each fermentation in a different sample vessel; and performing a further processing step on the plurality of fermented samples where the sample is retained in the same sample vessel as the fermentation during the processing step.

Abstract: A method for carrying out sequential reactions, e.g., sequential biochemical reactions, and a rotary thermocycling apparatus especially adapted for conducting such reactions, for example, polymerase chain reactions, are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a plurality of stations, e.g., four stations, for receiving biochemical samples in flat-bottomed containers. Heating means are provided to independently control the temperature of each station, transport means are provided to move the containers from one station to another in a predetermined sequence, and at least one station has a spray unit to spray liquid reagents into a container at that station. The method includes sequentially cycling a sample through predetermined temperature changes and spraying the sample with at least one reagent.

Abstract: A method for carrying out sequential reactions, e.g., sequential biochemical reactions, and a rotary thermocycling apparatus especially adapted for conducting such reactions, for example, polymerase chain reactions, are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a plurality of stations, e.g., four stations, for receiving biochemical samples in flat-bottomed containers. Heating means are provided to independently control the temperature of each station, transport means are provided to move the containers from one station to another in a predetermined sequence, and at least one station has a spray unit to spray liquid reagents into a container at that station. The method includes sequentially cycling a sample through predetermined temperature changes and spraying the sample with at least one reagent.

Abstract: A rotary thermocycling apparatus, especially for biochemical reactions. The apparatus comprises a plurality of and especially at least four stations for receiving biochemical samples in a flat-bottomed container. Each station has a flat heated plate on which the container is placed and means to independently control the heated plate at a pre-determined temperature.

Abstract: An automated analyzer for performing multiple diagnostic assays simultaneously includes multiple stations, or modules, in which discrete aspects of the assay are performed on fluid samples contained in reaction receptacles. The analyzer includes stations for automatically preparing a specimen sample, incubating the sample at prescribed temperatures for prescribed periods, preforming an analyte isolation procedure, and ascertaining the presence of a target analyte. An automated receptacle transporting system moves the reaction receptacles from one station to the next.

Abstract: An automated mechanism for guiding a microelectrode toward an oocyte placed in a perfusion chamber consists of a movable guide tube holding the electrode and a fixed guide collar in fixed relation to the target oocyte. Because the guide tube and guide collar are independently mounted, the alignment of the tip of the microelectrode is effected by its placement within the precisely aligned guide collar, irrespective of any fine misalignment of the guide tube. Accordingly, a change of microelectrode in the guide tube does not affect its final alignment toward the oocyte so long as the calibration of the guide collar is not disturbed, thereby providing a mechanism for maintaining the alignment of different microelectrodes successively mounted in the system without requiring recalibration.

Abstract: A method and device for preparing nanoscale reactions. An automated system utilizes an array of reaction chambers. The ends of the chambers are temporarily sealed with deformable membranes and reactions effected by incubation or temperature cycling. Reaction mixtures may be assembled by using the reaction containers to meter reaction components. After the reaction is finished, the reaction containers may be dispensed onto a substrate and the reaction products analyzed. An automated transfer device may be used for automated transport of the reaction container array or other transportable elements.

Abstract: A diagnostic microbiological testing system and method for microorganism identification (ID) and antimicrobial susceptibility determinations (AST). The system includes multiple-well test panels capable of performing ID and AST testing on the same test panel. Each test panel is inoculated with reagents, broth-suspended organisms, and placed into the instrument system. The instrument system includes a rotating carousel for incubation and indexing, multiple light sources each emitting different wavelength light, precision calorimetric and fluorometric detection, barcode test panel tracking and a control processor for making determinations based on measured test data. One light source includes a plurality of LEDs arranged in a linear array. Each of the LEDs' junction currents are controllable to produce a predetermined illumination profile.

Abstract: Arrays of biological tissue can be created by removing cores from regions of interest in a series of donor blocks of embedded tissues. The cores removed are placed in a regular array in a recipient block. This is typically done with two different punches, one for obtaining the cores of interest and the other for creating the receiving holes in the recipient block. The present invention comprises such a system including two separate z axes, one for each punch. Each punch has its own stylet and the axis of each punch is parallel to the axis of its drive.

Abstract: The synthesis of arrays of DNA probes sequences, polypeptides, and the like is carried out using a patterning process on an active surface of a substrate. An image is projected onto the active surface of the substrate utilizing an image former that includes a light source that provides light to a micromirror device comprising an array of electronically addressable micromirrors, each of which can be selectively tilted between one of at least two positions. Projection optics receives the light reflected from the micromirrors along an optical axis and precisely images the micromirrors onto the active surface of the substrate, which may be used to activate the surface of the substrate. The first level of bases may then be applied to the substrate, followed by development steps, and subsequent exposure of the substrate utilizing a different pattern of micromirrors, with further repeats until the elements of a two dimensional array on the substrate surface have an appropriate base bound thereto.

Abstract: An automated system and method for chromosome microdissection involves securing a micro-tool, verifying a micro-tip position and configuration and execution of a predetermined cut pattern of a location identified by an equipment operator. The present method involves preparation of sample material on a slide placed upon a stage of an inverted optical microscope, location of the target sample for dissection, micro-tool calibration and microdissection itself. Micro-tool calibration involves the use of cameras, preferably mounted at an angle from each other, for seeing the micro-tool point, such cameras associated with vision software programs capable of locating the tool point tip at three-dimensional space. Microdissection is performed on an isolated section of chromosome placed within the appropriate three-dimensional stage. The present system and method provides reliability and ease of operation thus making microdissection widely available to laboratories.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for transferring, for instance, a biological material arranged in a given pattern, whereby the biological material is brought into contact with needles placed on the head of a robot and the biological material is transferred to a support, whereby the needles are hard metal needles fitted with a biocompatible coating. The biocompatible coating preferably consists of metal-nitrogen compounds. Preferably, an anticorrosion coating is applied underneath the biocompatible coating. Once the biological material has been arranged in a given pattern, the needles mounted on the robot head are arranged according to the same pattern. Preferably, the pattern corresponds to the pattern of the arrangement of microtitre plate wells. The invention also relates to a robot head fitted with the inventive hard metal needles. Said robot head particularly forms part of a picking and/or a spotting robot.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and applications for use of a stacked, reconfigurable system for electrophoretic transport are provided. In one embodiment, a system having a first chamber including at least a bottom support and an intermediate support, and a second chamber, said second chamber including a bottom support and a top member, the first and second chambers being coupled through a via. Electrophoretic, and optional electro-osmotic and thermal, transport is effected. In another aspect of this invention, three or more chambers are coupled by an electrophoretic buss. The electrophoretic buss includes driving electrodes and is adapted to receive fluid containing materials for transport. The chambers are coupled to the electrophoretic buss and serve as a tap from the buss for delivery of charged materials. In one embodiment, certain functions are performed in different chambers.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for cell purification and ablation is disclosed. The present invention comprises a laser system which directs radiant energy at computer or manually selected individual cells thereby disrupting DNA, RNA and protein structure in those cells. The present invention produces a purified tissue section containing relatively intact DNA, RNA or protein from only the untreated cells. This purified sample is suitable for amplification of material by PCR or other techniques for the analysis of molecular genetic features in the selected cells of interest.

Abstract: A thermal cycling device for use with self-heating microscope slides is provided.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of and an apparatus for cultivating a cell or tissue capable of preventing the cell or tissue from being contaminated and realizing an efficient in vitro culture. The method of and the apparatus for cultivating a cell or tissue comprise installing a culture position (culture chamber) under an environment that is arbitrarily controlled such as an environment mimicking the living body, supplying a culture medium to the cell or tissue while the cell or tissue is held at the culture position, and cultivating the cell or tissue at the culture position that is under the ideal environment, thereby preventing the cell or tissue from being contaminated and realizing an efficient in vitro culture.

Abstract: A rectangular-shaped holder containing sample solution is moved within a temperature adjusting box by a feeder. Then, the holder is moved by another feeder to the direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the holder by a length equal to the width of the single holder. The holders thus sequentially fed within the temperature adjusting box are disposed within the box in a closely contacted state from one another. There are three holders within the temperature adjusting box in advance and four holders are stayed within the box. Rectangular-shaped four heaters are disposed within the temperature adjusting box such that the heating temperature thereof is controlled by a temperature adjusting controller. A compensation heater controlled by a temperature compensating controller compensates for a heat quantity shifted to the holder having been newly housed within the temperature adjusting box from the holders already housed within the temperature adjusting box.

Abstract: An apparatus and related method are disclosed, for receiving, maintaining and growing biological cells ex vivo within a portable cassette, without exposing the cells to the external environment. The portable cassette is used in combination with a processor instrument that facilitates an initial inoculation of the cassette with cells of the kind to be grown and subsequently distributes those cells in a predetermined pattern (e.g., uniformly) throughout a cell growth chamber. Thereafter, the portable cassette is used in combination with an incubator instrument that incubates the cell growth chamber so that the cells are optimally expanded. The same processor instrument then is used to harvest the expanded cells from the portable cassette. Both instruments are configured to condition the portable cassette during stages of the cell growth process, without disturbing the cassette's sterile system.

Abstract: A thermal cycling device comprising a ceramic sample plate, and method of use thereof, is provided. The device is adapted for in situ thermal processing of biological samples on planar substrates, in particular amplification of nucleic acids. The device comprises electrical heating means attached to the ceramic sample plate, and forced air cooling means.

Abstract: Methods of manufacture and devices for performing active biological operations utilize various structures to advantageously collect and provide charged biological materials to an array of microlocations. In one embodiment, a device includes focusing electrodes to aid in the direction and transport of materials from a collection electrode to an array. Preferably, one or more intermediate transportation electrodes are utilized, most preferably of monotonically decreasing size between the collection electrode and the array, so as to reduce current density mismatches. In another aspect, a flow cell is utilized over devices to provide containment of solution containing materials to be analyzed. Preferably, the volume of the flow cell is more advantageously interrogated through use of relatively large collection and return electrodes, such as where the area of those electrodes relative to the footprint of the flowcell is at least 40%.

Abstract: This invention involves a thermal cycler capable of performing amplification of nucleic acids. This thermal cycler provides for the fully automatic positioning of its movable lid, which can be placed in two positions. The lid is also suitable for heating a plurality of reaction vessels and for shielding them from light from the environment. In addition, the thermal cycler also includes a thermal block having a plurality of chambers each of which receives the lower part of a reaction vessel. Finally, the thermal cycler has a lid carrier for moving the lid from the first position to the second position and vice versa.