Abstract: Disclosed herein are microcantilevers having structural shapes that are less sensitive to turbulence and drift effects yet provide greater deflections due to analyte concentration. The structural shapes include a C-shaped microcantilever, an E-shaped microcantilever, an L-shaped microcantilever, a double microcantilever, a slit microcantilever, a tapered microcantilever, and a triangular microcantilever. The microcantilevers may be piezoresistive microcantilevers. Also disclosed are microsensors, microfludic devices, and biochips that comprise the microcantilevers as well as methods of using the microcantilevers to detect analytes in a fluid sample.

Abstract: An electrochemical test device for determining the presence or concentration of an analyte in an aqueous fluid sample comprises a substrate comprising a non-conductive material; a working electrode comprising a conductive film formed at least with carbon nanotubes, the working electrode having a first electrode area, a first lead and a first contact pad; a counter electrode comprising a conductive film formed at least with carbon nanotubes; a reagent capable of reacting with the analyte to produce a measurable change in potential which can be correlated to the presence or concentration of the analyte in the fluid sample, the reagent overlaying at least a portion of the first electrode area of the working electrode; and a reference electrode comprising a conductive coating formed at least with carbon nanotubes, the reference electrode having a third electrode area at least a portion of which is overlaid with a reference material.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel microfluidic devices and methods that are useful for performing high-throughput screening assays. In particular, the devices and methods of the invention are useful in screening large numbers of different compounds for their effects on a variety of chemical, and preferably, biochemical systems.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved synthetic polymer hydrogel permeation layers for use on active electronic matrix devices for biological assays. The present invention includes methods for forming a permeation layer on an array of microelectrodes including the steps of attaching a linker to the surface of the array by treating the surface with a linker by vapor deposition and providing a polymerization solution that includes at least one monomer having a polymerizable moiety, a modified streptavidin, a surfactant or porogen, and a cross-linking agent. The surface of the array is then contacted with the polymerization solution and the polymerization solution is then polymerized on the surface of the array to form a permeation layer that is attached o the surface of the array through the linker.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to devices and methods for carrying out and/or monitoring biological reactions in response to electrical stimuli. A programmable multiplexed active biologic array includes an array of electrodes coupled to sample-and-hold circuits. The programmable multiplexed active biologic array includes a digital interface that allows external control of the array using an external processor. The circuit may monitor, digitally control, and deliver electrical stimuli to the electrodes individually or in selected groups.

Abstract: A multi-gas sensor device for the detection of dissolved hydrocarbon gases in oil-filled electrical equipment. The device comprising a semiconductor substrate, one or more catalytic metal gate-electrodes deposited on the surface of the semiconductor substrate operable for sensing various gases, and an ohmic contact deposited on the surface of the semiconductor substrate. The semiconductor substrate comprises one of GaN, SiC, AlN, lnN, AlGaN, InGaN and AlInGaN. A method for sensing gas in an oil-filled reservoir of electrical equipment, comprising providing a sensor device, immersing the sensor device in the oil-filled reservoir, allowing the gases emitted from the oil to interact with the one or more catalytic metal gate-electrodes, altering the gas as it contacts the catalytic metal gate-electrodes and altering the sensitivity of the sensor.

Abstract: Electrodes and configurations for electrochemical bioreactor systems that can use electrical energy as a source of reducing power in fermentation or enzymatic reactions and that can use electron mediators and a biocatalyst, such as cells or enzymes, to produce electricity are disclosed. Example electrodes in the system may comprise: (1) neutral red covalently bound to graphite felt (FIG. 1); (2) a carboxylated cellulose bound to the graphite fell, neutral red bound to the carboxylated cellulose, NAD+ to the graphite fell, and an oxidoreductase (e.g., fumarate reductase) bound to the graphite fell; or (3) a metal ion electron mediator bound to graphite. Various biocatalysts, such as an oxidoreductase, cells of Actinobacillus succinogenes, cells of Escherichia coli, and sewage sludge, are suitable for use in the electrochemical bioreactor system.

Abstract: Modular fluidic microchips, systems integrating such microchips, and associated preparative and analytical methods are presented.

Abstract: Measurement of arsenic in an aqueous solution is provided. The pH of the aqueous solution is adjusted to a pH of about 7.0 or higher. The pH adjusted aqueous solution is then analyzed using anodic stripping voltammetry to obtain an indication of a quantity of arsenic in the solution. In one aspect, the pH is adjusted using a phosphate buffer.

Abstract: A gas detector with a compensated electrochemical sensor exhibits altered sensitivity in response to decreasing sensitivity relative to both gas exposure and non-gas exposure. A sensitivity adjustment can be established in response thereto.

Abstract: Polymer nanofibers, such as polyaniline nanofibers, with uniform diameters less than 500 nm can be made in bulk quantities through a facile aqueous and organic interfacial polymerization method at ambient conditions. The nanofibers have lengths varying from 500 nm to 10 ?m and form interconnected networks in a thin film. Thin film nanofiber sensors can be made of the polyaniline nanofibers having superior performance in both sensitivity and time response to a variety of gas vapors including, acids, bases, redox active vapors, alcohols and volatile organic chemicals.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a glucose sensing device for implantation within subcutaneous tissue of an animal body. In one embodiment, the glucose sensing device includes a first chamber containing first magnetic particles and a hydrocolloid solution (for example, ConA-dextran hydrocolloid) wherein the first magnetic particles are dispersed in the hydrocolloid solution. In operation, glucose within the animal may enter and exit the first chamber and the hydrocolloid solution changes in response to the presence or concentration of glucose within the first chamber. The sensing device also includes a reference chamber containing second magnetic particles and a reference solution wherein the second magnetic particles are dispersed in the reference solution. The reference solution (for example, oil or alcohol compounds) includes a known or fixed viscosity. The reference solution may also be a hydrocolloid solution (for example, ConA-dextran hydrocolloid).

Abstract: A measuring device for process technology, useful in measuring- and/or cleaning- and/or calibration-installations in the field of process automation for measuring pH-values and/or redox potentials and/or other process parameters, and an operating method therefor. The measuring device includes at least one central unit having at least one central computer, wherein, in the central computer a management system is provided for the dynamic management of input components (I) and/or output components (O) and/or functional components (F) and/or service components (D) and/or management components (V) and/or interface components (IX) and/or other system components.

Abstract: Disclosed is a sensor for sensing the presence of an analyte component without relying on redox mediators. This sensor includes (a) a plurality of conductive polymer strands each having at least a first end and a second end and each aligned in a substantially common orientation; (b) a plurality of molecular recognition headgroups having an affinity for the analyte component and being attached to the first ends of the conductive polymer strands; and (c) an electrode substrate attached to the conductive polymer strands at the second ends. The electrode substrate is capable of reporting to an electronic circuit reception of mobile charge carriers (electrons or holes) from the conductive polymer strands. The electrode substrate may be a photovoltaic diode.

Abstract: The present invention is a gas detector and method for using the gas detector for detecting and identifying volatile organic and/or volatile inorganic substances present in unknown vapors in an environment. The gas detector comprises a sensing means and a detecting means for detecting electrical capacitance variance of the sensing means and for further identifying the volatile organic and volatile inorganic substances. The sensing means comprises at least one sensing unit and a sensing material allocated therein the sensing unit. The sensing material is an ionic liquid which is exposed to the environment and is capable of dissolving a quantity of said volatile substance upon exposure thereto. The sensing means constitutes an electrochemical capacitor and the detecting means is in electrical communication with the sensing means.

Abstract: Devices with electrokinetic elements are disclosed as well as their method of microfabrication for use in micro-scale analysis, mixture separation and reaction. The devices consist of solid hydrophilic-matrix films that have been microfabricated into a variety of micro-scale structures. These structures include hydrophilic-matrix conductors for electrokinetic species transport and separation. They also include hydrophilic-matrix cladding containing chemical species adjacent to either an open conduit or a hydrophilic matrix conductor. Also described are other integrated microstructures consisting of hydrophilic-matrix materials such as micro-reaction zones for retaining chemical species for on-chip chemical reactions and integrated detection structures for on-chip species detection. In general, a hydrophilic matrix on a substrate functions as a conductor that is covered by an electrically insulating, preferably water permeable material.

Abstract: A biological material detection apparatus which detects a charged biological material such as a gene or protein contained in a sample liquid is disclosed. A biological material detection element includes a substrate, at least one first electrode formed on the substrate, and a plurality of second electrodes which are arrayed at predetermined intervals around the first electrode on the substrate along the circumferential direction and to which ligands that react with predetermined biological materials are respectively immobilized. A sample liquid is introduced toward the first electrode on the substrate. The introduced sample liquid is moved radially toward the second electrodes by electrical control.

Abstract: In order to be capable of a chemical reaction, analysis or the like wherein a small amount of samples is used, a reactor comprises a flat plate-like first substrate the inside of which is provided with a heating means; and a flat plate-like second substrate, which is placed on the top of the above-described first substrate, and on a surface thereof to be placed on the top of the above-described first substrate a flow channel having a predetermined contour has been defined.

Abstract: The invention is a redox control and monitoring platform that is to be used in conduction with another detection scheme. The platform includes a portion of an electrochemical control. The electrochemical control can be operated to control and measure the redox environment of a sample. The electrochemical control can be provided in a multiplicity of test regions to allow high throughput analysis of a multiplicity of samples. The present method and system allows the determination of the effect of the change in redox environment on the binding or other activity of the species in the sample that is directly affected by the redox environment.

Abstract: A measuring probe for potentiometric measurements has a housing (2) formed of an electrically insulating material that encloses at least one hollow space (8, 10) containing a half-cell element defining a first electrode. At least one additional electrode (12) is provided on a portion (4) of the housing adapted for immersion in a measuring solution (6) and is connected to a contact terminal (K3) that is arranged outside of the immersible portion (4). Each additional electrode (12) is defined by an electrically conductive coating (14) applied to the outside of the housing (2).

Abstract: Devices for dispensing test strips and methods of using the same are provided. The subject devices are characterized by having a base and a cover, where the cover includes a test strip selecting element. The subject devices may also be characterized by having a test strip holding means, which may include a cover with resiliently deformable walls and/or a gravity controlled test strip holding mechanism. In the subject methods, a test strip container with at least one test strip is provided and placed into a position that causes at least one test strip contained in the base to move into the cover so that a single test strip is selected for use. The subject methods may also include positioning the device in a particular orientation that causes a selected test strip to be held in a fixed position. The subject invention also includes kits which include the subject devices.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of determining a potential at a surface of a sample in a polar liquid, for example, across an electrical double layer, includes the step of immersing the sample in a polar solution to form a potential gradient at the surface. A tip of a scanning probe microscope probe is then positioned in the solution generally adjacent the surface. During operation, the method includes measuring a potential of the probe. Relative scanning movement between the sample and the probe may be provided, and, in one mode of operation, a feedback signal is generated based on the measured potential. In that case, the tip may be moved generally orthogonal to the surface in response to the feedback signal to maintain a generally constant separation therebetween. The polar solution may have an associated ionic concentration, and the ionic concentration can be modified to tune the operation of the SEPM.

Abstract: Chemical sensors for detecting the activity of a molecule or analyte of interest is provided. The chemical sensors comprise and array or plurality of sensors that are capable of interacting with a molecule of interest, wherein the interaction provides a response fingerprint. The fingerprint can be associated with a library of similar molecules of interest to determine the molecule's activity and diffusion coefficient.

Abstract: Microcavities and micropores that are microscopic (<1 mm) in width and depth and contain any number of individually-addressable electrodes, separated by insulators, along the walls of each cavity. The conducting materials, and the insulator materials can be deposited alternately onto a starting substrate, which is typically an oxidized silicon wafer or polyimide film, but may be any substrate that shows good adhesion to the materials layered on it. The cavities are etched through these layers, perpendicular to the plane of the substrate, exposing the layers at their edges. Pores may be carved entirely through the device.

Abstract: This invention relates to a strip for analyzing a sample. The strip includes two insulating layers, a spacer layer, and a conducting circuit. The spacer layer is disposed between the two insulating layers, and configured to define, together with the two insulating layers, an adsorption port, a sample chamber, a capillary for delivering a sample from the adsorption port to the sample chamber through the capillary, and a vent for facilitating delivery of the sample into the sample chamber. The conducting circuit, also disposed between the two insulating layers, includes a working electrode, a counter electrode, conducting wires, and connectors. A test agent, reactive to an analyte in a sample, is in association with the electrodes.

Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for detecting biopolymers (DNA) capable of total analysis including non-reacted samples without complicated operations such as washing. A DNA probe is fixed to one of electrodes and direct current voltage is placed between the electrodes, so that it becomes possible to separate complementary strand sample DNA and non-complementary strand sample DNA. By analyzing from a ratio in the whole reaction system, it is possible to obtain clearer results. Further, by using electrophoresis by gel together, it is possible to separate reacted samples and non-reacted samples to perform measurements therefor in the same reaction field.

Abstract: An electrochemical sensor with a capillary channel is formed by placing a sacrificial insert on a sensor base and applying casting material. After the casting material is cured, the sacrificial is removed leaving a capillary channel in the sensor. The insert may be removed by a tool including a clamp for clamping and holding the insert stationary and a sliding block to which the sensor is secured.

Abstract: A variety of elastomeric-based microfluidic devices and methods for using and manufacturing such devices are provided. Certain of the devices have arrays of reaction sites to facilitate high throughput analyses. Some devices also include reaction sites located at the end of blind channels at which reagents have been previously deposited during manufacture. The reagents become suspended once sample is introduced into the reaction site. The devices can be utilized with a variety of heating devices and thus can be used in a variety of analyses requiring temperature control, including thermocycling applications such as nucleic acid amplification reactions, genotyping and gene expression analyses.

Abstract: An electrochemical test device is provided for determining the presence or concentration of an analyte in an aqueous fluid sample. The electrochemical test device includes a working electrode and a counter electrode made of an amorphous semiconductor material. The working electrode is overlaid with a reagent capable of reacting with an analyte to produce a measurable change in potential which can be correlated to the concentration of the analyte in the fluid sample. The test device optionally contains a reference electrode made of an amorphous semiconductor material having a reference material on the reference electrode. The test device electrodes can be constructed on a flexible film substrate, such as a polymeric film or a metal foil coated with a non-conductive coating.

Abstract: A disposable electrochemical sensor strip is provided. The sensor strip includes an isolating sheet having at least a through hole, at least a conductive raw material mounted in the through hole, a metal film covered on the conductive raw material to form an electrode which comprises an electrode working surface for processing an electrode action, and an electrode connecting surface, at least a printed conductive film mounted on the isolating sheet and having a connecting terminal for being electrically connected to the electrode connecting surface, and a signal output terminal for outputting a measured signal produced by the electrode action.

Abstract: In one embodiment a method for sensing specific molecules is provided. The method comprises forming a nanoelement structure and forming two spaced apart electrodes in contact with the nanoelement structure, wherein at least one of the electrodes is capable of functioning as a sensing element to sense the specific molecules.

Abstract: An analyzing instrument (2) according to the present invention includes a capillary (6), a sample liquid inlet (42), and a liquid introduction controller for a controlled pattern of introduction of the sample liquid into the capillary. The capillary (6) preferably includes a common passage (60) and a plurality of individual passages (61–63) connecting to the common passage. In this arrangement, the liquid introduction controller selects for each of the individual passages (61–63) whether or not the sample liquid is introduced therein. The liquid introduction controller includes, for example, one or more through-holes (51–53) each communicating with e.g. the individual passages (61–63). The liquid introduction controller preferably selects for each of the individual passages (61–63) whether or not the sample liquid is introduced therein, by a selection whether or not the corresponding one of the through-holes (61–63) is opened or closed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sensor adapted for electrical connection to a power source having an electrical contact means (3). The sensor has a first insulating substrate (1) carrying a first electrode (2) and a second insulating substrate (7) carrying a second electrode (6). The electrodes are disposed to face each other in spaced apart relationship, sandwiching a spacer (4) therebetween. A first cut-out portion extends through the first insulating substrate (1) and a spacer (4) to expose a first contact area (23) on the second insulating substrate (7). This permits the electrical contact means (31) to effect electrical connection with the first contact (23) which in turn is in electrically conductive connection with the second electrode (6). A similar contact arrangement may be disposed on the opposite side of the sensor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the manipulation of colloidal particulates and biomolecules at the interface between an insulating electrode such as silicon oxide and an electrolyte solution. Light-controlled electrokinetic assembly of particles near surfaces relies on the combination of three functional elements: the AC electric field-induced assembly of planar aggregates; the patterning of the electrolyte/silicon oxide/silicon interface to exert spatial control over the assembly process; and the real-time control of the assembly process via external illumination. The present invention provides a set of fundamental operations enabling interactive control over the creation and placement of planar arrays of several types of particles and biomolecules and the manipulation of array shape and size. The present invention enables sample preparation and handling for diagnostic assays and biochemical analysis in an array format, and the functional integration of these operations.

Abstract: A microstructured electrode coupled with an analytical method designed to simulate the actual conditions on the wafer and to measure critical parameters such as mass transfer of the active plating components, deposition rates of the copper in the plating bath solutions, and/or additive concentration is disclosed. Thus, an offline method for process control is provided. Additionally, the electrode and method can be incorporated into a copper interconnect bath tool or copper interconnect bath distribution system for online control of the process chemistry. The microstructured electrode design consists of a patterned electrode surface that simulates the dimensions of the interconnects and vias. The analytical method can be any type of method that allows diffusion or kinetic information to be obtained, such as electrochemical impedance, electrochemical noise, and other voltammetric or galvanostatic methods.

Abstract: A structural system for accurately reproducible in situ x-ray studies of operating rechargeable electrochemical battery cell electrode components comprises an hermetically sealed cell component enclosure incorporating an x-ray transmissive window member of beryllium or the like. A research embodiment of the system comprises means for rapidly and consistently interchanging electrode compositions for operative comparison and evaluation, while a laminated cell system embodiment enables accurate testing of electrode components in commercial configurations such as unitary polymeric Li-ion battery cells.

Abstract: An electrochemical test device is provided for determining the presence or concentration of an analyte in an aqueous fluid sample. The electrochemical test device includes a working electrode and a counter electrode made of an amorphous semiconductor material. The working electrode is overlaid with a reagent capable of reacting with an analyte to produce a measurable change in potential which can be correlated to the concentration of the analyte in the fluid sample. The test device optionally contains a reference electrode made of an amorphous semiconductor material having a reference material on the reference electrode. The test device electrodes can be constructed on a flexible film substrate, such as a polymeric film or a metal foil coated with a non-conductive coating.

Abstract: Materials and methods are provided for producing patterned multi-array, multi-specific surfaces for use in diagnostics. The invention provides for electrochemiluminescence methods for detecting or measuring an analyte of interest. It also provides for novel electrodes for ECL assays. Materials and methods are provided for the chemical and/or physical control of conducting domains and reagent deposition for use multiply specific testing procedures.

Abstract: An assay apparatus includes a cell with a working electrode and a sonicating device structurally coupled to the cell for sonication the contents of the cell.

Abstract: A method for detecting the presence of target molecules bound to a working electrode in a first location. The first location is coated with a detection solution containing labeling molecules that include a first charge-separation moiety attached to a first molecule that binds to the target molecule. The first charge-separation moiety includes a material that generates hole-electron pairs in response to being illuminated by light in a first band of wavelengths. After removing any unbound labeling, the working electrode is immersed in a solution containing a compound that is oxidized by the generated holes. The first location is then selectively illuminated with light in the first band; and the change in the current and/or potential is measured between the working electrode and a reference electrode in contact with the solution. The first charge-separation moiety is preferably constructed from particles of a semiconducting material such as TiO2.

Abstract: An automated system for continual transdermal extraction of analytes present in a biological system is provided. The system can be used for detecting and/or measuring the concentration of the analyte using an electrochemical biosensor detection means. The system optionally uses reverse iontophoresis to carry out the continual transdermal extraction of the analytes.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the manipulation of colloidal particulates and biomolecules at the interface between an insulating electrode such as silicon oxide and an electrolyte solution. Light-controlled electrokinetic assembly of particles near surfaces relies on the combination of three functional elements: the AC electric field-induced assembly of planar aggregates; the patterning of the electrolyte/silicon oxide/silicon interface to exert spatial control over the assembly process; and the real-time control of the assembly process via external illumination. The present invention provides a set of fundamental operations enabling interactive control over the creation and placement of planar arrays of several types of particles and biomolecules and the manipulation of array shape and size. The present invention enables sample preparation and handling for diagnostic assays and biochemical analysis in an array format, and the functional integration of these operations.

Abstract: To measure or exert optically-induced forces on at least one particle in the focus of an optical cage, the following steps are taken: a) the focus is positioned in a microelectrode arrangement with a three-dimensional electrical field that has a field gradient which forms an electrical capture area, and the focus is at a distance from the capture are and b) the amplitude of the electrical field, the light power of the light beam forming the optical cage, and/or the distance of the capture area from the focus are varied to detect which varied field property moves the particle from the focus to the capture area or vice versa, or at least to temporarily move the particle into the capture area.

Abstract: Disclosed is a sensor for sensing the presence of an analyte component without relying on redox mediators. This sensor includes (a) a plurality of conductive polymer strands each having at least a first end and a second end and each aligned in a substantially common orientation; (b) a plurality of molecular recognition headgroups having an affinity for the analyte component and being attached to the first ends of the conductive polymer strands; and (c) an electrode substrate attached to the conductive polymer strands at the second ends. The electrode substrate is capable of reporting to an electronic circuit reception of mobile charge carriers (electrons or holes) from the conductive polymer strands. The electrode substrate may be a photovoltaic diode.

Abstract: The present invention relates, in general, to biosensors and, in particular, to bioelectronic sensors comprising a macromolecule immobilized on an electrode surface so that a redox cofactor that is site-specifically attached to the surface of the macromolecule is between the macromolecule and electrode surface ligand-mediated conformational changes alter the geometry of interaction between the redox cofactor and the electrode surface resulting in a change in electronic coupling between the cofactor and electrode.

Abstract: Electrochemical monitoring system and method are provided for online determination of hydrogen peroxide concentration in slurries, e.g., a chemical mechanical polishing slurry. The monitoring system includes an electrochemical cell fluidly coupled to receive a slurry including hydrogen peroxide. The cell includes at least a working electrode made up of tungsten, a reference electrode and a counter electrode. The system further includes a potentiostat electrically coupled to the working electrode to supply a desired potentials in increments to the working electrode and measure current flow between the working electrode and the counter electrode. The amount of passive current established between the working electrode and the counter electrode over a selected time window is indicative of the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the slurry.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved synthetic polymer hydrogel permeation layers for use on active electronic matrix devices for biological assays. The permeation layers have a defined porous character, with mesopores in a size range between about 100 nanometers and about 1000 nanometers, and may also have micropores in the micrometer size range. The mesoporous synthetic hydrogel permeation layers demonstrate improved signal intensity and linearity characteristics as compared to nanoporous synthetic hydrogel permeation layers on active electronic matrix devices. In addition, the present invention also provides synthetic polymer hydrogel permeation layers which contain copolymerized attachment sites for nucleic acid probes or other biomolecules.

Abstract: The electrode test strip is used with an electrochemical sensor for measuring an analyte in an aqueous sample, e.g., glucose in blood. The electrode strip includes an elongated electrode support, a first and second electrode on the support, a slotted dielectric layer, a screen and a slotted cover layer, all disposed atop each and atop the electrodes in the support. The dielectric layer and the cover layer are typically adhesively attached (the adhesive layers further define the slot). The slot is open to the terminal end of the test strip and the cover. The screen, interposed in the slot, has a porosity between 10%-40% to control analyte flow and volume in the slot and over the test area defined by electrode legs. Further refinements include utilizing a surfactant on the screen.

Abstract: This invention relates to an improved method and system for sensing of one or more analytes. A host molecule, which serves as an adapter/carrier, is used to facilitate interaction between the analyte and the sensor element. A detectable signal is produced reflecting the identity and concentration of analyte present.

Abstract: This invention provides approaches to improve the signal to noise ratio (S/N) in electrochemical measurements (e.g. amperometry, voltammetry, etc.). In particular, a method is described wherein the faradaic current is temporally dissociated from the charging current associated with reading the charge of a redox-active species (e.g. a self-assembled monolayer (SAM)). This method, designated herein as open circuit potential amperometry (OCPA), quantitatively reads the charge of the redox species bound to (electrically coupled to) an electrode surface, while discriminating against both charging current(s) and amperometric signal(s) that arise, e.g. from diffusion-based species in solution.