Abstract: A system and method for forming encoded microparticles is described. One embodiment includes an encoded microparticle, the microparticle comprising a plurality of segments aligned along an axis, wherein the plurality of segments define a code for the microparticle; and an outer cuboid encapsulating the plurality of segments, wherein the plurality of segments are detectable through the outer cuboid.

Abstract: Microparticles including spatially coded microparticles, systems for imaging and methods of detecting such microparticles as well as using the same in bioassays are provided.

Abstract: An encoded microparticle having a spatial code is provided; and a set of encoded microparticles possessing subsets each provided with a distinguishable spatial code, wherein the codes comply with a pre-determined coding scheme. Presented are also methods of using the encoded microparticles in various biological assays, such as various multiplex assays and visualizing them by creating a digital image of the encoded microparticles and determining whether false positives are present. Further are provided methods of manufacture of the encoded microparticles which employ ferromagnetic nanoparticles applied using spin-on-glass techniques.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for forming a plurality of encoded microparticles with a printing process to define a code for identifying the microparticles. In some embodiments the printing process includes printing steps performed with photolithography.

Abstract: A system and method for forming encoded microparticles is described. One embodiment includes a method for forming a microparticle, the method comprising providing a pattern, wherein the pattern defines a code element, printing the pattern on a substrate to form a first code element within a microparticle region, printing the pattern on the substrate to form at least one successive code element, such that the first code element and the at least one successive code element are within the same microparticle region, wherein a code is formed by the first code element and any successive code elements.

Abstract: An encoded microparticle carrying a spatial code is provided; and a set of encoded microparticles are provided with distinguishable spatial codes, wherein the codes comply with a pre-determined coding scheme. Presented are also methods of using the encoded microparticles in various biological assays, such as various multiplex quantitative PCR (real-time PCR) and multiplex chromosomal immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays.

Abstract: An encoded microparticle having a spatial code is provided; and a set of encoded microparticles possessing subsets each provided with a distinguishable spatial code, wherein the codes comply with a pre-determined coding scheme. Presented are also methods of using the encoded microparticles in various biological assays, such as various multiplex assays and visualizing them by creating a digital image of the encoded microparticles and determining whether false positives are present. Further are provided methods of manufacture of the encoded microparticles which employ ferromagnetic nanoparticles applied using spin-on-glass techniques.

Abstract: Presented are encoded microparticles, methods of use in biological assays, and flexible, modular instrument systems for conducting a variety of biological assays using the encoded microparticles. The systems include various instrumentation components which are exchangeable and offer a single flexible platform on which a large number of different types of experiments and assays may be conducted including, for example, microarray analysis, encoded microparticle single and multiplex detection, tissue dissection and isolation, and other genetic analysis techniques.

Abstract: A system and method for encoded microparticles is described. One embodiment includes an encoded microparticle comprising a plurality of segments, wherein the plurality of segments form a spatial code; contrast coating on at least one segment of the plurality of segments, wherein the contrast coating further encodes the microparticle; an outer surface, wherein the outer surface encloses the spatial code and contrast coating, and wherein the spatial code and contrast coating are detectable through the outer surface.

Abstract: Novel processes are disclosed for forming an array of polymers by functionalizing the surface of particles by methods that include covalently attaching a functionalized silicon compound. Substrates such as microparticles having functionalized silicon compounds attached thereto are produced by introducing at least one carboxyl group directly by silanating a carboxylated silane compound to the surface of a microparticle. In a further aspect of the invention, the silane compound is a dipodal carboxylated silane.

Abstract: A system and method for encoded microparticles is described. One embodiment includes an encoded microparticle comprising a plurality of segments, wherein the plurality of segments form a spatial code; contrast coating on at least one segment of the plurality of segments, wherein the contrast coating further encodes the microparticle; an outer surface, wherein the outer surface encloses the spatial code and contrast coating, and wherein the spatial code and contrast coating are detectable through the outer surface.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for forming a plurality of encoded microparticles with a printing process to define a code for identifying the microparticles. In some embodiments the printing process includes printing steps performed with photolithography.

Abstract: Microparticles including spatially coded microparticles, systems for imaging and methods of detecting such microparticles as well as using the same in bioassays are provided.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for forming a micromechanical device. The method includes providing a sacrificial layer on a substrate, providing a first structural layer on the sacrificial layer and removing a portion of the first structural layer in an area intended for a hinge. Then, a second structural layer is provided over the first layer and in the removed area for the hinge. The second layer is preferably deposited directly on the sacrificial layer in this area. Last, a metal layer is deposited and the various layers are patterned to define a micromechanical device having one portion (e.g. a mirror plate) more stiff than another portion (e.g. hinge). Because a portion of the reinforcing layer is removed, there is no overetching into the hinge material. Also, because the metal layer is provided last, materials can be provided at higher temperatures, and the method can be performed in accordance with CMOS foundry rules and thus can be performed in a CMOS foundry.