Abstract: The invention features a method for multiplexed analysis of a plurality of target nucleic acid sequences in a sample. The method provides a derivative nucleic acid for each target sequence analyzed and present in the sample.

Abstract: Method and system are disclosed for interactively developing at least one grid pattern, such as a microarray pattern, as well as an array set of such patterns, and a computer-readable storage medium having a program for executing the method given only a few user inputs through the use of a pointing device such as a mouse or trackball on a personal computer or workstation. Each array in the set typically has an identical number of rows and columns of points.

Abstract: Method and system for overlaying at least three microarray images to obtain a multicolor composite image, which is then displayed on a monitor of a computer system. The microarray images are taken from a microarray scanner of a DNA microarray and can be viewed simultaneously through the use of the image overlays where each image is represented by a different color. Each pixel of the composite image is generated by the OR operator applied to all corresponding pixels of the microarray images. Registration of the microarray images can be altered with a keyboard or mouse of the computer system.

Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a non-linear thermal coupling to connect a heat load to a powered cooler, the coupling including: first and second thermal transfer elements, the first transfer thermal transfer element being thermally connected to the heat load and the second thermal transfer element being thermally connected to the powered cooler; the first and second thermal transfer elements being physically separated by a first gap when the first and second thermal transfer elements are at a relatively high temperature, and the first and second thermal transfer elements being in mutual physical contact when the first and second thermal transfer elements are at a relatively low temperature so as to thermally connect the heat load and the powered cooler; and the first and second thermal transfer elements being placed in the mutual physical contact by thermal contraction of a contracting element.

Abstract: Apparatus for transferring liquid from a first microplate having x wells to a second microplate having y wells. A dispense head aspirates fluid from the first microplate and then dispenses fluid into the y wells corresponding to the wells from the first microplate by moving the second microplate in a predetermined sequence. Preferably, dual air cylinders are used to move the microplate and are operatively coupled to first and second motion plates to provide the proper dispensing movement sequence. X may be less than, greater or equal to Y.