Abstract: A workflow for direct qPCR quantification of unprocessed forensic casework samples is disclosed herein. 13 pg of DNA has been detected by direct amplification from a paper substrate. Direct qPCR quantification of unprocessed forensic casework samples and direct STR amplification of unprocessed forensic casework samples collected on the same PE-swab will greatly increase forensic laboratory's efficiency and capability.

Abstract: Methods are provided for differential extraction of DNA from at least two different cell types. Systems for carrying out the differential extraction methods are also provided. A kit is also provided for differential extraction of DNA from at least two different cell types using a multi-compartment container.

Abstract: A method for selectively recovering nucleic acid from a sperm cell in a sample containing cells of at least a sperm cell and an epithelial cell, and a cell suspension medium comprising extracellular impurities, is provided. The method entails introducing a sample into a vessel, sequestering the cells from the remaining sample components, washing the cells with a washing solution either before or after sequestration, removing the impurities-containing cell suspension medium from the vessel while retaining the cells; lysing selectively cells of the first cell type; and isolating the nucleic acid from the lysed cells. Methods for recovering nucleic acid from the second cell type are also provided.

Abstract: Devices, methods, and kits are disclosed for collection, labeling and analysis of samples containing a substance of interest. Such devices and methods are used in forensic, human identification, access and importation control, and other investigative technologies to collect even limited amounts of a substance of interest that may be present on a substrate and to facilitate analysis to identify the substance of interest.

Abstract: In general, the disclosed method can be used to remove contaminating microbes and nucleic acids from microorganisms-derived reagents, apparatus and processes (materials and apparatus) related to PCR (and RT-PCR), including sample prep reagents and materials that are used to isolate, purify and detect nucleic acids.

Abstract: An identity authentication system includes a storage unit, a display character set generation unit, a display unit and a password authentication unit. An identity authentication method includes the following steps: generating the dynamic display character sets; inputting a dynamic input code; and comparing the dynamic input code with the user password. This invention can improve the security of identity authentication and is convenient to use.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and kits are disclosed for collection, labeling and analyzing biological samples containing nucleic acid in conjunction with collecting at least one ridge and valley signature of an individual. Such devices and methods are used in forensic, human identification, access control and screening technologies to rapidly process an individuals identity or determine the identity of an individual.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and kits are disclosed for collection, labeling and analyzing biological samples containing nucleic acid in conjunction with collecting at least one ridge and valley signature of an individual. Such devices and methods are used in forensic, human identification, access control and screening technologies to rapidly process an individual's identity or determine the identity of an individual.

Abstract: A method for selectively recovering nucleic acid from a first cell type in a sample containing cells of at least a first cell type and a second cell type, and a cell suspension medium comprising extracellular impurities, is provided. The method entails combining the sample with particles responsive to a magnetic field in a vessel, the magnetic particles having the ability to sequester the cells from the cell suspension medium upon application of a magnetic field; exposing the vessel to a magnetic field for a time sufficient to cause sequestration of the cells by the particles; removing the impurities-containing cell suspension medium from the vessel while retaining the cells; lysing selectively cells of the first cell type; and isolating the nucleic acid from the lysed cells. Methods for recovering nucleic acid from the second cell type are also provided.

Abstract: In general, the disclosed method can be used to remove contaminating microbes and nucleic acids from microorganisms-derived reagents, apparatus and processes (materials and apparatus) related to PCR (and RT-PCR), including sample prep reagents and materials that are used to isolate, purify and detect nucleic acids.

Abstract: The present teachings relate to the extraction of nucleic acid from solid materials. Provided are useful compositions, methods and kits for obtaining nucleic acids from a solid biological sample or an adhesive material having a biological material adherent or embedded within the adhesive substrate. The extracted nucleic acid can be used in downstream applications such as genotyping, detection, quantification, and identification of the source of the biological material.

Abstract: A method for selectively recovering nucleic acid from a sperm cell in a sample containing cells of at least a sperm cell and an epithelial cell, and a cell suspension medium comprising extracellular impurities, is provided. The method entails introducing a sample into a vessel, sequestering the cells from the remaining sample components, washing the cells with a washing solution either before or after sequestration, removing the impurities-containing cell suspension medium from the vessel while retaining the cells; lysing selectively cells of the first cell type; and isolating the nucleic acid from the lysed cells. Methods for recovering nucleic acid from the second cell type are also provided.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for separating biological particles are provided.

Abstract: Methods are provided for differential extraction of DNA from at least two different cell types. Systems for carrying out the differential extraction methods are also provided. A kit is also provided for differential extraction of DNA from at least two different cell types using a multi-compartment container.

Abstract: A method for selectively recovering nucleic acid from a first cell type in a sample containing cells of at least a first cell type and a second cell type, and a cell suspension medium comprising extracellular impurities, is provided. The method entails combining the sample with particles responsive to a magnetic field in a vessel, the magnetic particles having the ability to sequester the cells from the cell suspension medium upon application of a magnetic field; exposing the vessel to a magnetic field for a time sufficient to cause sequestration of the cells by the particles; removing the impurities-containing cell suspension medium from the vessel while retaining the cells; lysing selectively cells of the first cell type; and isolating the nucleic acid from the lysed cells. Methods for recovering nucleic acid from the second cell type are also provided.

Abstract: The teaching provides a method for selectively lysing sperm cells in a mixed cell sample, particularly in the field of forensic sciences. Reagents and kits for carrying out the methods are also provided.

Abstract: An exemplary system and method for bonding substrate layers in the presence of chemically active species to form functionalized microfluidic surfaces is disclosed as comprising inter alia a first substrate (100), a second substrate (200), a chemically functional species (120) attached to first substrate (100), and a radiatively absorptive mask material (130) disposed substantially between first substrate (100) and second substrate (200). Mask material (130) is suitably adapted to effectively bond first substrate (100) with second substrate (200) upon exposure of the composite structure to radiation of a predetermined, user-selectable wavelength. Disclosed features and specifications may be variously controlled, adapted or otherwise optionally modified to improve certain device fabrication parameters and/or performance metrics.

Abstract: An exemplary system and method for bonding substrate layers in the presence of chemically active species to form functionalized microfluidic surfaces is disclosed as comprising inter alia a first substrate (100), a second substrate (200), a chemically functional species (120) attached to first substrate (100), and a radiatively absorptive mask material (130) disposed substantially between first substrate (100) and second substrate (200). Mask material (130) is suitably adapted to effectively bond first substrate (100) with second substrate (200) upon exposure of the composite structure to radiation of a predetermined, user-selectable wavelength. Disclosed features and specifications may be variously controlled, adapted or otherwise optionally modified to improve certain device fabrication parameters and/or performance metrics.

Abstract: The present invention provides microfluidic devices that can be used to effect a number of manipulations on a sample to ultimately result in target analyte detection or quantification. The device provides at least one magnetic microchannel that is capable of separating magnetic or magnetically-labeled target analytes from non-magnetic materials. Further, a magnetic microchannel may sort materials according to their magnetic response. Alternatively, magnetic or magnetically-labeled components other than the target analytes can be retained by the magnetic microchannel and are thus removed from the target analytes. Depending on the specificity of the binding ligand, one can either separate a vast population of analytes sharing a common binding motif, or specifically retain a rare target analyte because of its recognition of a specific ligand on the magnetic particle.

Abstract: A wheel suspension system for reducing or eliminating the shock associated with travelling over bumps and dents on a roadway on a wide variety of low speed wheeled transportation equipment. The system includes substantially vertically positioned swing arms connected between the wheel axle and frame of the wheeled transportation equipment. The swing arms cause a bump or a dent on the ground to feel as if travelling over smooth ramps and thereby eliminating the shock normally felt when travelling over the bumps or dents. The system does not utilize shock absorbing springs and is structurally simpler and more stable. Furthermore, the system keeps the gravity center of the frame of the wheeled transportation equipment at a similar level to that with no suspension system and also increases the wheel's ability to overcome large obstacles.