Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for the remote control of cell function based on the use of a magnetic field to excite paramagnetic nanoparticles targeted to specific cell types. The cell type of interest expresses an ion channel wherein excitation of the paramagnetic nanoparticles results in a physical change that is transduced into a cellular response. Such cellular responses may include, for example, increases in gene expression resulting in production of one or more physiologically active proteins. The expression of such proteins can be used to treat a variety of different inherited or acquired diseases or disorders in a subject.

Abstract: A gas injection subsystem for use in an inspection system serves to inspect a sample by use of charged particles. At least one gas duct of the gas injection subsystem guides a gas flow from a gas reservoir to a sample inspection region. The gas duct has in the vicinity of the sample inspection region a diameter which is less than 5 mm. At least one flow control valve of the gas injection subsystem controls the gas flow through the gas duct. The valve is switchable between an open valve state in which a nominal gas flow through the gas duct is enabled and a closed valve state in which the gas duct is closed to inhibit a gas flow through the gas duct. The valve is designed such that a switching time between the open and the closed state is 100 ms at most. A gas injection subsystem results which facilitates a reproducible gas injection to the sample inspection region.

Abstract: A signal detection system for use in detecting a patient medical parameter includes a photo-detector device and an amplifier having an input terminal and an output terminal. A transformer has a primary winding coupled to the photo-detector device and a secondary winding coupled to the input terminal of the amplifier.

Abstract: Embodiments provide an apparatus and method permitting the handling of a semiconductor wafer while maintaining the vacuum applied to the relevant wafer handling equipment continuously in an actuated state. These embodiments provide more gentle wafer handling with reduced contamination risk. One embodiment provides a passive end effector. Another embodiment provides a holder, for an object such as a semiconductor wafer, that utilizes Bernoulli-type forces to retain the object against the holder.