Abstract: A method for performing protein patterning is provided. In particular, the method comprises generating a photoresist pattern on a wafer using photolithography; dicing the photoresist patterned wafer into wafer chips; and performing lift-off protein patterning on the photoresist patterned wafer chips. This manufacturing technique scales up the photolithography stage of the lift-off fabrication workflow to generate high quantities of shelf-stable photoresist patterned glass substrates, which can be used to incorporate a protein pattern onto the surface of a hydrogel.

Abstract: Disclosed are improved micro-electrochemical sensor structures that uses cyclic voltammetry (CV) to perform electrochemical measurements on gaseous volatile organic compounds (VOC). The improved sensor structures include a Ag reference electrode layer and an adhesion SU-8 layer. Operationally, the oxidation of the Ag layer provides a reference potential that is used to determine the redox reactions occurring on the surface of Pt electrodes exposed to a flow of gaseous VOC. Experimentally, our improved sensor was used to detect methane dissolved in N2. The results show clear and reproducible oxidation signals that were attributed to the presence of methane in the gas flow. The position of this signal for methane was compared to CO, and was found to be clearly separated from it, proving the speciation capabilities of the sensor. In addition, our experiments showed that it is possible to use the current value to quantify the detected molecule in the gas flow.

Abstract: Disclosed are improved methods and structures for electrochemical sensors that may advantageously sense/detect chemical species including pollutants and/or energetics in a gaseous phase. Sensors according to the present disclosure may advantageously be fabricated using large scale microfabrication techniques and materials.

Abstract: A micromechanical device capable of providing out-of-plane motion and force generation in response to an in-plane strain applied to the device is provided. Embodiments of the present invention comprise one or more islands that are operatively coupled with one or more hinges. The hinges are operative for inducing rotation of the islands when a lateral strain is applied to the structure. In some embodiments, the hinges are also electrically conductive such that they enable electrical communication between the one or more islands and devices external to the structure. Some embodiments of the present invention are particularly well suited for use in biological applications. Some devices in accordance with the present invention are fabricated using conventional planar processes, such as flex-circuit fabrication techniques.

Abstract: Systems for assaying human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) are provided. Aspects of the systems include a traction force microscopy substrate, such as a traction force microscopy hydrogel (TFM-hydrogel), having an adhesion protein domain on a surface thereof; a video imager configured to obtain video data from an hiPSC-CM present on the adhesion protein domain; and a processing module configured to receive the video data and derive a parameter of the hiPSC-CM therefrom. Also provided are methods of using the systems.

Abstract: Disclosed are improved methods and structures for electrochemical sensors that may advantageously sense/detect chemical species including pollutants and/or energetics in a gaseous phase. Sensors according to the present disclosure may advantageously be fabricated using large scale microfabrication techniques and materials.

Abstract: A micromechanical device capable of providing out-of-plane motion and force generation in response to an in-plane strain applied to the device is provided. Embodiments of the present invention comprise one or more islands that are operatively coupled with one or more hinges. The hinges are operative for inducing rotation of the islands when a lateral strain is applied to the structure. In some embodiments, the hinges are also electrically conductive such that they enable electrical communication between the one or more islands and devices external to the structure. Some embodiments of the present invention are particularly well suited for use in biological applications. Some devices in accordance with the present invention are fabricated using conventional planar processes, such as flex-circuit fabrication techniques.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention include cell culture systems that include a cell culture plate operatively coupled to a plenum device. The plenum device includes a base component, one or more wall components configured to define a bounded volume, and one or more strain platens that are configured to support the cell culture plate when the cell culture plate is operatively coupled to the plenum device. In some instances, the plenum device includes a pressure modulator configured to provide a substantially uniform pressure in the bounded volume upon application of an external pressure source via an internal side opening in a wall component. Aspects of the invention further include system components and kits thereof, as well as methods of using the systems, e.g., in cell culture applications, which may include, e.g., candidate agent screening applications.

Abstract: An electrically actuated liquid dispenser, an electrically addressable liquid dispenser and an electronic device are described.