Abstract: Illumination sources are connected to ends of micropipette probes having total internal reflection tips. The total internal reflection produces evanescence at the tips. The evanescence causes fluorescence of dye marked target molecules at tips of the probes. The evanescence is limited to about 100 nm from the tips. The presence of a target molecule at the end of a probe is observed by observing the fluorescence. The limited penetration of the evanescence eliminates noise in the signal and unwanted bleaching of dyes in the cell, so that repeated, multiple and arrays of probes may be applied.

Abstract: A body part is placed on or near a consumer electronic device camera. The camera senses periodic light variations. A program analyses variations in images captured by the digital camera to determine pulse rate or breathing rate.

Abstract: A system and method for automated patch clamp analysis of biological tissue such as cellular membrane. A biological membrane is applied to a porous semiconductor substrate, and laser energy is imparted thereon. Voltage clamped electrodes detect current across the membrane to indicate ion channel activity.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for filtering and mixing light is provided. The apparatus comprises a translational filter, aperture and shutter. A light beam and the translational filter, aperture and shutter are moved relative to each other to precisely control the proportions of filtered, unobstructed and blocked light. A method for precisely controlling the proportions of filtered, unobstructed and blocked light is also provided. Optional accessories include additional translational filters, apertures and shutters, light guides, relay lenses, microscopes, computers, motors for controlling the positions of the components, focusing lenses, and mechanical shutters.

Abstract: A system and method for automated patch clamp analysis of biological tissue such as cellular membrane. A biological membrane is applied to a porous semiconductor substrate, and laser energy is imparted thereon. Voltage clamped electrodes detect current across the membrane to indicate ion channel activity.

Abstract: An illumination system for a microscope, including a light source for generating light to illuminate a sample for microscopic observation, at least one collimating lens for collimating light generated by the light source, and a darkfield condenser for receiving collimated light and directing a hollow cone of light onto the sample under observation. The system optionally includes an adapter for enhancing economy of light transmission from the light source to the specimen, the adapter having a centrally disposed spacer and a plurality of optical fibers surrounding the spacer, to generate a hollow cylinder of light for transmission to the darkfield condenser. The system provides improved resolution and contrast, and is well suited for adaptation to fluorescence microscopy techniques.