Abstract: The subject invention provides novel and efficacious systems and methods for particle, chemical, and/or biocompound sensing. In one embodiment, the system of the invention comprises a sensing device that includes a membrane containing at least one nanochannel that spans all or substantially all of the thickness of the membrane. The nanochannel(s) of the invention can be functionalized to enhance target analyte detection and quantification. In one embodiment, the nanochannel is conically shaped and includes a molecular recognition agent for a target analyte. In certain operations, the sensing systems of the invention quantitatively and qualitatively detect biochemical/biomedical species and biomacromolecules, such as proteins, DNA, cells, spores and viruses, with a high degree of sensitivity and specificity.

Abstract: Methods of sterilizing dermal fillers and injectable collagen material have been developed which reduce the level of active biological contaminants or pathogens without adversely affecting the material, i.e., wherein the dermal fillers and injectable collagen material retain their same properties before and after its terminal sterilization. In one embodiment the method for sterilizing the dermal filler or injectable collagen material that is sensitive to radiation contains the steps of protecting the filler or material from radiation, and irradiating the filler or material with a suitable dose of radiation for a time and at a rate effective to sterilize the filler or injectable material. In a preferred embodiment the method for sterilizing the dermal filler or injectable collagen material that is sensitive to radiation includes the steps of a) freezing the filler or material at a temperature below its freezing temperature, which is generally below 0° C.