Abstract: A system and method employing at least one semiconductor device, or an arrangement of insulating and metal layers, having at least one detecting region which can include, for example, a recess or opening therein, for detecting a charge representative of a component of a polymer, such as a nucleic acid strand proximate to the detecting region, and a method for manufacturing such a semiconductor device. The system and method can thus be used for sequencing individual nucleotides or bases of ribonucleic acid (RNA) or deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). The semiconductor device includes at least two doped regions, such as two n-typed regions implanted in a p-typed semiconductor layer or two p-typed regions implanted in an n-typed semiconductor layer. The detecting region permits a current to pass between the two doped regions in response to the presence of the component of the polymer.

Abstract: A sensor scheme combining nano-photonics and nano-fluidics on a single platform through the use of free-standing photonic crystals is described. By harnessing nano-scale openings, both fluidics and light can be manipulated at sub-wavelength scales. The convective flow is actively steered through the nanohole openings for effective delivery of the analytes to the sensor surface, and refractive index changes are detected in aqueous solutions. Systems and methods using cross-polarization measurements to further improve the detection limit by increasing the signal-to-noise ratio are also described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composite of a porous substrate and one-dimensional nanomaterial, which is manufactured by a hydrothermal method. The method for manufacturing the composite of the present invention is simple and low-cost, and the one-dimensional nanomaterial is homogeneously distributed on the porous substrate with tight binding at the interface. The present invention also relates to a surface-modified composite and a method for preparing the same. The composite of the present invention which is hydrophobically modified at the surface can adsorb organic solvents such as toluene, dichlorobenzene, petroleum ether and the like, and greases such as gasoline, lubricating oil, motor oil, crude oil and the like, with a weight adsorption ratio of >10.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are provided for a lateral two-terminal nanotube device configured to capture and generate energy, to store electrical energy, and to integrate these functions with power management circuitry. The lateral nanotube device can include a substrate, an anodic oxide material disposed on the substrate, and a column disposed in the anodic oxide material extending from one distal end of the anodic oxide material to another end of the anodic oxide material. The lateral nanotube device further can include a first material disposed within the column, and a second material disposed within the column. The first material fills a distal end of the column and gradiently decreases towards another distal end of the column along inner walls of the column. The second material fills the another distal end of the column and gradiently decreases towards the distal end of the column within the first material.

Abstract: A method of creating a trench having a portion of a bulb-shaped cross-section in silicon is disclosed. The method comprises forming at least one trench in silicon and forming a liner in the at least one trench. The liner is removed from a bottom surface of the at least one trench to expose the underlying silicon. A portion of the underlying exposed silicon is removed to form a cavity in the silicon. At least one removal cycle is conducted to remove exposed silicon in the cavity to form a bulb-shaped cross-sectional profile, with each removal cycle comprising subjecting the silicon in the cavity to ozonated water to oxidize the silicon and subjecting the oxidized silicon to a hydrogen fluoride solution to remove the oxidized silicon. A semiconductor device structure comprising the at least one trench comprising a cavity with a bulb-shaped cross-sectional profile is also disclosed.

Abstract: Techniques for characterizing a molecule are described herein. In one example, a portion of the molecule is trapped in a nanopore, a variable voltage is applied across the nanopore until the trapped portion of molecule is moved within the nanopore, and the molecule is characterized based on the electrical stimulus required to affect movement of at least a portion of the trapped portion of the molecule within the nanopore.

Abstract: A technique for nanodevice is provided. A reservoir is filled with an ionic fluid. A membrane separates the reservoir, and the membrane includes electrode layers separated by insulating layers in which the electrode layers have an organic coating. A nanopore is formed through the membrane, and the organic coating on the electrode layers forms transient bonds to a base of a molecule in the nanopore. When a first voltage is applied to the electrode layers a tunneling current is generated by the base in the nanopore, and the tunneling current travels through the transient bonds formed to the base to be measured as a current signature for distinguishing the base.

Abstract: A method of forming a porous composite material in which substantially all of the pores within the composite material are small having a diameter of about 5 nm or less and with a narrow PSD is provided.

Abstract: Frost-free surfaces and methods for manufacturing such surfaces are described. The frost-free surfaces reduce ice build-up, prevent vapor condensation and reduce adhesion force between ice and a solid substrate. The surfaces can be on parts used in devices where superhydrophobic properties may be obtained post or during device manufacturing. The superhydrophobic properties are the result of aluminum oxide clusters made on such surfaces.

Abstract: A technique for a nanodevice is provided that includes a reservoir filled with a conductive fluid and a membrane separating the reservoir. The membrane includes an electrode layer having a tunneling junction formed therein. A nanopore is formed through the membrane, and the nanopore is formed through other layers of the membrane such that the nanopore is aligned with the tunneling junction of the electrode layer. When a voltage is applied to the electrode layer, a tunneling current is generated by a base in the tunneling junction to be measured as a signature for distinguishing the base. When an organic coating is formed on an inside surface of the tunneling junction, transient bonds are formed between the electrode layer and the base.

Abstract: A water filter assembly and water filter element are provided. The water filter element has water permeable barriers through which water is to be passed in use in order to purify same. The permeable barrier comprises a nanofibre layer defining nanopores which may be carried by a permeable support layer. The water filter element, in one form, includes an enclosure housing at least one of granular activated carbon, at least one appropriate ion exchange resin and at least one appropriate adsorbent. The nanofibers preferably have antimicrobial properties inherent thereto or provided by a biocidal agent trapped within the nanofibres or a layer thereof, or both. The water filter assembly has a perforated holder that operatively snugly receives the water filter element in a flow path through the water filter assembly. Preferably, the perforated holder has a screw threaded socket for attaching it to a container.

Abstract: An analysis instrument comprises plural modules connected together over a data network, each module comprising an analysis apparatus operable to perform biochemical analysis of a sample. Each module comprises a control unit that controls the operation of the analysis apparatus. The control units are addressable to select an arbitrary number of modules to operate as a cluster for performing a common biochemical analysis. The control units communicate over the data network, repeatedly during the performance of the common biochemical analysis, to determine the operation of the analysis apparatus of each module required to meet the global performance targets, on the basis of measures of performance derived from the output data produced by the modules. The arrangement of the instrument as modules interacting in this manner provides a scalable analysis instrument.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for conversion of a target nucleic acid molecule according to a predetermined nucleotide code into a converted nucleic acid molecule. The converted nucleic acid molecule has utility for determining the nucleotide sequence of the target nucleic acid molecule, for example, using a nanopore.

Abstract: The invention includes a process for recovering the liquids used in pretreatment of biomass for production of bio-fuels and other biomass based products. Liquid recovery and purifications minimizes waste production and enhances process profitability.

Abstract: A method of bonding a metal to a substrate is disclosed herein. The method involves forming a nano-brush on a surface of the substrate, where the nano-brush includes a plurality of nano-wires extending above the substrate surface. In a molten state, the metal is introduced onto the substrate surface, and the metal surrounds the nano-wires. Upon cooling, the metal surrounding the nano-wires solidifies, and during the solidifying, at least a mechanical interlock is formed between the metal and the substrate.

Abstract: An apparatus for single-sided bilayer formation includes a first fluid chamber including a sidewall and a second fluid chamber extending through the sidewall. A barrier wall, having at least a portion defining a hydrophobicity or hydrophilicity surface property, separates the first and second fluid chambers and includes a nanopore therein across which a planar lipid bilayer (PLB) is formed. In use, an electrolyte is added to the first and second fluid chambers and a lipid/organic solvent mixture is added to the first fluid chamber to form a lipid/organic solvent layer. The electrolyte level within the first fluid chamber is adjusted such that the lipid layer is raised above the barrier wall and a PLB is formed through single-sided spontaneous formation from the first fluid chamber across the nanopore.

Abstract: Apparatus, system, and method are provided for cutting a linear charged polymer inside a nanopore. A first voltage is applied to create an electric field in a first direction. A second voltage is applied to create an electric field in a second direction, and the first direction is opposite to the second direction. When the electric field in the first direction and the electric field in the second direction are applied to a linear charged polymer inside a nanopore, the linear charged polymer is cut at a location with predetermined accuracy.

Abstract: A titanium/titanium alloy-and-resin composite includes a titanium/titanium alloy substrate, a nano-porous oxide film formed on the substrate, and resin compositions coupled to the surface of the nano-porous oxide film. The nano-porous oxide film has nano pores and includes at least two layers of different three dimensional meshed structures. The resin compositions contain crystalline thermoplastic synthetic resins. A method for making the titanium/titanium alloy-and-resin composite is also described.

Abstract: A titanium/titanium alloy-and-resin composite includes a titanium/titanium alloy substrate, a nano-porous oxide film formed on the substrate, and resin compositions coupled to the surface of the nano-porous oxide film. The nano-porous oxide film has nano pores. The resin compositions contain crystalline thermoplastic synthetic resins. A method for making the titanium/titanium alloy-and-resin composite is also described.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for nucleic acid sequencing include template constructs that comprise double stranded portions in a partially or completely contiguous constructs, to provide for redundant sequence determination through one or both of sequencing sense and antisense strands, and iteratively sequencing the entire construct multiple times. Additional sequence components are also optionally included within such template constructs. Methods are also provided for the use and preparation of these constructs as well as sequencing compositions for their application.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a membrane comprising a porous polymer body with a plurality of channels extending through the polymer body, a method of producing the same and a water treatment system comprising the membrane.

Abstract: A filter includes a membrane having a plurality of nanochannels formed therein. A first surface charge material is deposited on an end portion of the nanochannels. The first surface charge material includes a surface charge to electrostatically influence ions in an electrolytic solution such that the nanochannels reflect ions back into the electrolytic solution while passing a fluid of the electrolytic solution. Methods for making and using the filter are also provided.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a method of detecting specific DNA sequences and the application of this method in the detection of pathogens, viruses, drug-resistant pathogens, genomic variations associated with disease/disorder susceptibility etc. based on specific signature sequences unique to the pathogens, viruses, drug-resistant pathogens or genomic variations. The method can also be used to distinguish a pool of same-sized dsDNA on the basis of sequence differences. The method uses non-optically labeled bis-PNA and/or gamma-PNA probes to tag specific target sequences for identification by solid-state nanopores.

Abstract: The present invention describes methods for the production and selecting of single chain (single-stranded) fluorescence resonance energy transfer (“FRET”) DNA or RNA aptamers containing fluorophores (F) and quenchers (Q) at various loci within their structures, such that when its specific matching analyte is bound and the FRET-aptamers are excited by specific wavelengths of light, the fluorescence intensity of the system is modulated (increased or decreased) in proportion to the amount of analyte added. F and Q are covalently linked to nucleotide triphosphates (NTPs), which are incorporated by various nucleic acid polymerases such as Taq polymerase during the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and then selected by affinity chromatographic, size-exclusion or molecular sieving, and fluorescence techniques. Further separation of related FRET-aptamers can be achieved by ion-pair reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or other types of chromatography.

Abstract: A filter includes a membrane having a plurality of nanochannels formed therein. A first surface charge material is deposited on an end portion of the nanochannels. The first surface charge material includes a surface charge to electrostatically influence ions in an electrolytic solution such that the nanochannels reflect ions back into the electrolytic solution while passing a fluid of the electrolytic solution. Methods for making and using the filter are also provided.

Abstract: A process for forming a porous nanoscale membrane is described. The process involves applying a nanoscale film to one side of a substrate, where the nanoscale film includes a semiconductor material; masking an opposite side of the substrate; etching the substrate, beginning from the masked opposite side of the substrate and continuing until a passage is formed through the substrate, thereby exposing the film on both sides thereof to form a membrane; and then simultaneously forming a plurality of randomly spaced pores in the membrane. The resulting porous nanoscale membranes, characterized by substantially smooth surfaces, high pore densities, and high aspect ratio dimensions, can be used in filtration devices, microfluidic devices, fuel cell membranes, and as electron microscopy substrates.

Abstract: Plasma deposited microporous analyte detection layers, method of forming analyte detection layers, and analyte sensors including the same are disclosed. An analyte sensor includes a substrate and a microporous amorphous random covalent network layer. The microporous amorphous random covalent network layer includes silicon, carbon, hydrogen and oxygen with a mean pore size in a range from 0.5 to 10 nanometers and an optical thickness in a range from 0.2 to 2 micrometers.

Abstract: A process and catalyst for the hydro-oxidation of an olefin having three or more carbon atoms, such as propylene, to form an olefin oxide, such as propylene oxide. The process involves contacting the olefin with oxygen in the presence of hydrogen and a hydro-oxidation catalyst under reaction conditions; the catalyst comprising gold nanoparticles deposited on a nanoporous titanium-containing support, prepared by depositing a gold-ligand cluster complex onto the support to form a catalyst precursor, and then heating and/or chemically treating the catalyst precursor to form the hydro-oxidation catalyst composition. The hydro-oxidation catalyst exhibits stabilized catalyst activity, enhanced lifetime, and improved hydrogen efficiency.

Abstract: According to example embodiments, a separation membrane includes a graphene on at least one surface of a polymer support. The graphene may include a plurality of grains defined by grain boundaries.

Abstract: Provided are devices and methods for polymer analysis, in which labeled polymers are translocated along nanochannels that have illuminated detection regions within. As a labeled polymer translocates along the nanochannel and the labels pass over the illuminated detection regions, the labels become detectable (e.g., where different labels fluoresce in response to different wavelengths present at different illumination regions), and the user generates a spatial map of the location of the various labels along the length of the polymer. The location of the labels is then correlated to one or more structural characteristics of the polymer.

Abstract: A method for preparation of highly porous and preferentially-oriented {100} platinum on a substrate by electrodeposition in a deposition bath, comprising using a deposition potential Edep lower than ERHE+150 mV and an acidified platinum salt solution having a Pt salt concentration less than 5.0 mmole L?1 or, in presence of hydrogen, comprising limiting the concentration of Pt salts in the electrolyte to less than 5.0 mmole L?1 and controlling the temperature of the electrolyte. Preferentially-oriented {100} platinum nanowires and thin films, comprising Pt{100} in a range between about 20 and about 60% and having a roughness factor of at least 50 are produced.

Abstract: There is provided a substantially bare, self-supported single-layer graphene membrane including a nanopore extending through a thickness of the graphene membrane from a first to a second membrane surface opposite the first graphene membrane surface. A connection from the first graphene membrane surface to a first reservoir provides, at the first graphene membrane surface, a species in an ionic solution to the nanopore, and a connection from the second graphene membrane surface to a second reservoir is provided to collect the species and ionic solution after translocation of the species and ionic solution through the nanopore from the first graphene membrane surface to the second graphene membrane surface. An electrical circuit is connected on opposite sides of the nanopore to measure flow of ionic current through the nanopore in the graphene membrane.

Abstract: An apparatus for investigating a molecule comprising a channel provided in a substrate, a metallic moiety capable of plasmon resonance which is associated with the channel in a position suitable for the electromagnetic field produced by the metallic moiety to interact with a molecule passing therethrough, means to induce a molecule to pass through the channel, means to induce surface plasmon resonance in the metallic moiety; and means to detect interaction between the electromagnetic field produced by the metallic moiety and a molecule passing through the channel. Methods of investigating molecules are also provided.

Abstract: Methods of fabricating porous silicon by electrochemical etching and subsequent coating with a passivating agent process are provided. The coated porous silicon can be used to make anodes and batteries. It is capable of alloying with large amounts of lithium ions, has a capacity of at least 1000 mAh/g and retains this ability through at least 60 charge/discharge cycles. A particular pSi formulation provides very high capacity (3000 mAh/g) for at least 60 cycles, which is 80% of theoretical value of silicon. The Coulombic efficiency after the third cycle is between 95-99%. The very best capacity exceeds 3400 mAh/g and the very best cycle life exceeds 240 cycles, and the capacity and cycle life can be varied as needed for the application.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus are provided for deodorizing and disinfecting air and droplets from urinal, toilet bowl, and other receivers and holders of urine and fecal matter. The apparatus comprises a housing (1) having an air inlet (2) and air outlet (3), wherein the housing (1) encloses a droplet removal chamber (4) for removing droplets from airflow; a deodorization and disinfection chamber (5) for removing air contaminants in the airflow; and an delivery unit (6) for airflow generation. Being actively drawn into the apparatus, air contaminants such as odor, bacteria and virus are removed without discharge of contaminated air and causing secondary pollution. The apparatus and method provide odorless and comfortable environment and avoid disease transmission in both public and domestic toilets.

Abstract: Assay methods for preparing a biomolecule analyte includes hybridizing a sequence specific oligonucleotide probe to a biomolecule template and reacting the resulting analyte with a binding moiety.

Abstract: A method of analyzing genetic markers includes binding a set of probes to a segment of single stranded nucleic acids. The segment of single stranded nucleic acids includes a repeat region formed of at least two of a repeat unit. The repeat unit can include at least two nucleic acids. The set of probes includes a first probe complementary to the repeat unit. The method can further include directing the segment through a nanopore device and measuring a signal through the nanopore device. The signal can be indicative of the number of repeat units.

Abstract: A nanopore capture system may include a material configured to pass through a nanopore device in a controlled manner based upon its interaction with the nanopore device. The system may also include a capture mechanism connected to one end of the material. The capture mechanism may be configured to catch a particular type of molecule while ignoring other types of molecules. The system may also include a controller to manipulate and/or detect the particular type of molecule.

Abstract: A nanodevice includes a reservoir filled with conductive fluid and a membrane separating the reservoir. A nanopore is formed through the membrane having electrode layers separated by insulating layers. A certain electrode layer has a first type of organic coating and a pair of electrode layers has a second type. The first type of organic coating forms a motion control transient bond to a molecule in the nanopore for motion control, and the second type forms first and second transient bonds to different bonding sites of a base of the molecule. When a voltage is applied to the pair of electrode layers a tunneling current is generated by the base in the nanopore, and the tunneling current travels via the first and second transient bonds formed to be measured as a current signature for distinguishing the base. The motion control transient bond is stronger than first and second transient bonds.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for producing a three-dimensional product having a nanoporous surface in which the pore density, pore size or pore size distribution can be easily and readily controlled. The invention combines two techniques: a method for producing a three-dimensional product in which a yarn is knitted or woven to finish into an arbitrary three-dimensional shape, and a method for transforming a surface consisting of a material in which nanoparticles are dispersed in a matrix to a nanoporous surface by immersing the surface in a liquid which dissolves the nanoparticles but does not dissolve the matrix.

Abstract: A functionalized nanofluidic channel and method for functionalization that provides control over the ionic environment and geometry of the nanofluidic channel with the immobilization of biomolecules on the inner surface of the channel and use of high ionic concentration solutions. In one embodiment, the surface charge of the nanochannel is controlled with the immobilization of a protein such as streptavidin in the nanochannel. In another embodiment, the biomolecules are receptors and changes in nanochannel conductance indicates ligand binding events. The functionalized nanofluidic channel can be easily adapted for use with microchannel arrays.

Abstract: A semiconductor device includes a trench extending from a surface of a P-base layer to a surface of a P-well layer. The trench has a trench end portion defined in the surface of the P-well layer and in a direction in which the trench extends. The trench has first and second regions. The first region extends from the trench end portion to get into the surface of the P-base layer near a boundary between the P-base layer and the P-well layer. The second region extends in the surface of the P-base layer from an end portion of the first region. A trench width is greater in the first region than in the second region.

Abstract: In a nanochannel thin film in which oxide layers have surfactant micelles therein, the presence of a target substance in a sample solution is detected with a luminescence intensity of a thin film provided by recognition of the target substance with a luminescent recognition reagent in the nanochannels. Upon focusing on a hydrophobic field provided by the presence of the surfactant in pores of a nanometer size, the novel development of a sensor function is enabled.

Abstract: A molecule is separated from a liquid sample containing said molecule and at least one additional molecule having a larger hydrodynamic diameter than the hydrodynamic diameter of the molecule to be separated, by means of a separation device comprising a substrate, at least one circulation channel arranged in said substrate, and at least one nanotube associated with said molecule to be separated and formed on a free surface of the substrate. Separation is achieved by means of the internal channel of a nanotube, such as a carbon nanotube, presenting an effective diameter chosen in predetermined and controlled manner. The effective diameter of the internal channel is chosen such as to be larger than the hydrodynamic diameter of the molecule to be separated and smaller than the hydrodynamic diameter of the additional molecules of larger hydrodynamic diameters.

Abstract: Described herein is a fluid cell for an optical microscopy tool having a solid state membrane having a first side and a second, opposing side; a first fluid chamber comprising a first fluid having a first refractive index located on the first side of the membrane; and, a second fluid chamber comprising a second fluid having a second refractive index located on the second side of the membrane, the second refractive index being different than the first refractive index. Also described herein is a method for imaging a single biomolecule, the method including generating a field of evanescent illumination at a solid state membrane between a first fluid and a second fluid having different refractive indexes; and detecting light emitted by optical detectors linked to the single biomolecules at the solid state membrane.

Abstract: Methods and devices for sequencing nucleic acids are disclosed herein. Devices are also provided herein for measuring DNA with nano-pores sized to allow DNA to pass through the nano-pore. The capacitance can be measured for the DNA molecule passing through the nano-pore. The capacitance measurements can be correlated to determine the sequence of base pairs passing through the nano-pore to sequence the DNA.

Abstract: Systems and methods for analysis of polymers, e.g., polynucleotides, are provided. The systems are capable of analyzing a polymer at a specified rate. One such analysis system includes a structure having a nanopore aperture and a molecular motor, e.g., a polymerase, adjacent the nanopore aperture.

Abstract: Nucleic acid sequencing methods and related products and methods for detection and presentation of the same are disclosed. Methods for sequencing a target nucleic acid comprise providing a daughter strand produced by a template-directed synthesis, the daughter strand comprising a plurality of subunits coupled in a sequence corresponding to a contiguous nucleotide sequence of all or a portion of the target nucleic acid.

Abstract: Electroosmotic (EO) devices are provided which are not subject to mechanical wear and tear and with no moving parts, and having improved flow rates and electrical properties. Atomic layer deposition can be used to prepare three electrical terminal active zeta potential modulated EO devices from porous membranes. First, second, and further thin layers of materials can be formed with the pores. Thus, embedded electrodes can be formed along the length of the pores. The zeta potential in the pores can be modified by use of a voltage potential applied the embedded electrode, thereby achieving active control of surface zeta potential within the pores and active control of flow through the pores.

Abstract: A method for the rapid identification of a target nucleic acid sequence is provided, as well as corresponding devices, products and kits. Such methods are useful for the rapid detection, identification and/or quantification of target nucleic acid sequences associated with, for example, a pathogen.