Abstract: The subject matter disclosed in this specification pertains to a method for detecting cells with elastic cell membranes. A plurality of cells are fixed to an impedimetric transducer and osmotic stress is applied. Those cells with elastic membranes, including cancer cells, undergo a volume change which is detected by the impedimetric transducer.

Abstract: Disclosed in this specification is a method for aligning nanostructures. A substrate is coated with a liquid solution comprising particles. Before the solution is cured, circularly-polarized light is applied to the substrate to induce a magnetic field in the particles. A low strength magnetic field is then applied. The induced magnetic field of the particles aligns with the applied magnetic field. The solution is permitted to cure while simultaneously exposed to both the circularly-polarized light and the applied magnetic field. The resulting composite retains the particle alignment.

Abstract: Disclosed in this specification is a method for coating a substrate to prevent dewetting. A suspension of nanoparticles is deposited onto the substrate to produce a nanoparticle layer. The nanoparticle layer is then coated with a monomer. The monomer polymerizes on the nanoparticle layer to produce a polymeric layer.

Abstract: The subject matter disclosed in this specification pertains to the transfer of compounds of interest into a target biological cell. Specifically, discrete particles that are surrounded in three dimensions with phospholipid bilayers are provided wherein the compound of interest (e.g.) a protein are free to laterally move within the bilayer. The particles may be embedded within a hydrogel matrix. In some embodiments, stem cells are co-cultured in the hydrogel matrix to facilitate the absorption of the compound of interest.

Abstract: Disclosed in this specification is a high capacity compact gel documentation system for documenting different types of electrophoresis gels or other translucent objects using ultraviolet light. The system includes a base with a scanning surface having a transparent bottom surface. A light source is connected to a conveying mechanism, disposed below the transparent bottom surface, to move the light source over the length of the transparent bottom surface. An image capture device receives a reflected image and provides it to a microprocessor. Moreover, separate interchangeable filters allow for documentation of UV and white light gel captures, alleviating the need for separate transilluminators and hoods with filters and cameras.