Abstract: A device for performing polymerase chain reactions using cooling members not used in conventional thermal cyclers. A device for performing polymerase chain reactions may include a sample holder configured to receive a nucleic acid sample, a heating system configured to raise the temperature of the sample, a cooling system configured to lower the temperature of the sample, and a controller configured to operably control the heating system and the cooling system to cycle the device through a desired time-temperature profile. The cooling system may comprise at least one cooling member selected from a synthetic jet ejector array, a vibration-induced droplet atomization system, a vibrating diaphragm system, a piezo fan, a Cold Gun, a microchannel cooling loop, and a Cool Chip.

Abstract: A device for performing biological analysis may include at least one reaction chamber configured to receive at least one sample for biological analysis and a thermal system configured to modulate a temperature of the at least one reaction chamber to cycle a temperature of the at least one biological sample. The thermal system may include a cooling system configured to cool the at least one reaction chamber. The cooling system may include a cooling fluid source positioned distally from the at least one reaction chamber, the cooling fluid source being in flow communication with at least one conduit configured to flow cooling fluid from the cooling fluid source to at least one location in thermal communication with the at least one reaction chamber.

Abstract: Methods and optical systems for scanning of a target sample, including methods and systems using a low mass scan head. The present invention also relates to methods and systems for performing sample assays, and for producing and measuring optical responses and signatures.