Abstract: A microfluidic platform comprising one or more chambers connectable through microfluidic channels, and comprising a substrate presenting aptamer sensors detectable through Raman active molecules, and related methods and systems.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus for selectively patterning surfaces using radical species generated with a photocatalyst. The photocatalyst may comprise a photocatalytic semiconductor or a photosensitizer. The radical species are brought into contact with an oxidizable coating disposed on the surface, thereby locally oxidizing and selectively patterning the surface. The photocatalyst is preferably disposed on a delivery device, such as a stamp, mask, or scanning probe, that is brought into close proximity or contact with the coated surface. The photocatalyst is then excited in a manner capable of generating radical species, for example, oxygen-containing radical species, in appropriate media. It is expected that these radical species will be transferred to the coated surface along a substantially shortest distance path, thereby locally oxidizing and patterning the surface.

Abstract: A shape memory polymer comprising a polymer composition which physically forms a network structure wherein the polymer composition has shape-memory behavior and can be formed into a permanent primary shape, re-formed into a stable secondary shape, and controllably actuated to recover the permanent primary shape.

Abstract: A system for removing matter from a conduit. The system includes the steps of passing a transport vehicle and a shape memory polymer material through the conduit, transmitting energy to the shape memory polymer material for moving the shape memory polymer material from a first shape to a second and different shape, and withdrawing the transport vehicle and the shape memory polymer material through the conduit carrying the matter.

Abstract: Contact based rigid pin tool technology is utilized to print one or more indicator chemistries on an optical array or a disposable sheath configured on such arrays. Each indicator chemistry contains predetermined material, such as, light energy absorbing dye(s), optically responsive particles, etc., whose optical characteristics change in response to the target ligand or analyte. By spectrally monitoring such changes using fluorescence and/or absorption spectroscopy, detection and/or quantitation of the target ligand or analyte can be obtained.

Abstract: Systems for closure of a physical anomaly. Closure is accomplished by a closure body with an exterior surface. The exterior surface contacts the opening of the anomaly and closes the anomaly. The closure body has a primary shape for closing the anomaly and a secondary shape for being positioned in the physical anomaly. The closure body preferably comprises a shape memory polymer.