Abstract: Described are devices and methods for forming one or more nanomembranes including electroactive nanomembranes within a nanowell or nanotube, or combinations thereof, in a support material. Nanopores/nanochannels can be formed by the electroactive nanomembrane within corresponding nanowells. The electroactive nanomembrane is capable of controllably altering a dimension, a composition, and/or a variety of properties in response to electrical stimuli. Various embodiments also include devices/systems and methods for using the nanomembrane-containing devices for molecular separation, purification, sensing, etc.

Abstract: A method and system for preconcentrating analytes at a microvalve in a microfluidic device is disclosed. The system includes a sample channel loaded with a sample solution. The sample channel includes a semi-permeable membrane microvalve. An electric potential is applied at or across the microvalve to preconcentrate the sample solution when the microvalve is closed.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a microfluidic sensor device includes microfluidic sensor mounted on and electrically connected a micro lead frame substrate. The microfluidic sensor is molded to form a package body. The package body includes a molded panel portion and, in some embodiments, a mask portion having one or more open channels, sealed channels, and/or a sealed chamber exposing an active surface of the microfluidic sensor. The molded panel portions and mask portions are configured to allow a material to dynamically or statically contact the microfluidic sensor for analysis.

Abstract: A device for electro membrane extraction has a syringe holder adapted to hold a syringe having an acceptor solution, and a sample vial holder adapted to hold a sample vial having a vial cap, where the vial cap includes an inside funnel to be equipped with a prewetted hollow fiber membrane having a tube like shape sealed at the end opposite the funnel and forming a lumen, and steering guides for at least two electrodes, a first electrode to be immersed in a donor solution placed in the sample vial, a second electrode to be immersed, through the funnel in the vial cap, into the lumen of the hollow fiber membrane, and a positioning device for sliding the first electrode in and out of the donor solution in the sample vial and for sliding the second electrode in and out of the lumen of the hollow fiber membrane.

Abstract: Embodiments of microfluidic hubs and systems are described that may be used to connect fluidic modules. A space between surfaces may be set by fixtures described herein. In some examples a fixture may set substrate-to-substrate spacing based on a distance between registration surfaces on which the respective substrates rest. Fluidic interfaces are described, including examples where fluid conduits (e.g. capillaries) extend into the fixture to the space between surfaces. Droplets of fluid may be introduced to and/or removed from microfluidic hubs described herein, and fluid actuators may be used to move droplets within the space between surfaces. Continuous flow modules may be integrated with the hubs in some examples.

Abstract: This disclosure provides an integrated and automated sample-to-answer system that, starting from a sample comprising biological material, generates a genetic profile in less than two hours. In certain embodiments, the biological material is DNA and the genetic profile involves determining alleles at one or a plurality of loci (e.g., genetic loci) of a subject, for example, an STR (short tandem repeat) profile, for example as used in the CODIS system. The system can perform several operations, including (a) extraction and isolation of nucleic acid; (b) amplification of nucleotide sequences at selected loci (e.g., genetic loci); and (c) detection and analysis of amplification product. These operations can be carried out in a system that comprises several integrated modules, including an analyte preparation module; a detection and analysis module and a control module.

Abstract: A microfluidic device comprising: a substrate having a microfluidic channel, an electrically conductive feature comprising an electrically conductive layer arranged on a primer layer and positioned with reference to the microfluidic channel, wherein the primer layer comprises: (i) an organic polymer selected from the group consisting of: (a) a homopolymer or copolymer including a vinyl lactam repeating unit, (b) a cellulose ether; (c) polyvinyl alcohol; and (d) unmodified or modified gelatin; and (ii) a porous particulate material, the organic polymer being dispersed in the porous particulate material, is provided. Methods for manufacturing the microfluidic devices and their use in a number of applications are also provided.

Abstract: A device for passing a biopolymer molecule includes a nanochannel formed between a surface relief structure, a patterned layer forming sidewalls of the nanochannel and a sealing layer formed over the patterned layer to encapsulate the nanochannel. The surface relief structure includes a three-dimensionally rounded surface that reduces a channel dimension of the nanochannel at a portion of nanochannel and gradually increases the dimension along the nanochannel toward an opening position, which is configured to receive a biopolymer.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for reducing or preventing droplet pinning as the droplet is transported across a boundary between a ground electrode region and a non-ground electrode region on a droplet actuator. The invention also provides a method for reducing or preventing droplet super-movement as the droplet is transported across a boundary between a ground electrode region and a non-ground electrode region on a droplet actuator.

Abstract: A separation module operates to fractionate or separate an analyte into fractions according to pI, i.e., pI bands, utilizing capillary isoelectric focusing (“CIEF”) within a first microchannel. The fractions are stacked to form plugs, the number of which is determined by a number of parallel second microchannels integrally connected to the first microchannel, into which the fractions are directed according to the buffer characteristics found in each of the individual microchannels. Within the microchannels the plugs are separated into proteins according to a different chemical property, i.e., “m/z,” utilizing capillary electrophoresis (“CE”).

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to microfluidic devices and methods for fabricating the devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to microfluidic devices having encapsulated fluidic tubing and encapsulated electrodes, microfluidic devices having encapsulated fluidic tubing, encapsulated capillary loops and encapsulated electrodes, and methods of fabricating devices having encapsulated fluidic tubing, encapsulated capillary loops and encapsulated electrodes resulting in reduced dead volume interconnects between the fluidic tubing and capillary loops and associated microchannels and aligned fluidic tubing openings, capillary loop openings, electrodes and other device features.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to methods and apparatus for manipulation of charged molecules in solution. More particularly, the invention provides nanofluidic CCD arrays that are capable of manipulate one or a group of molecules on an individual bases such that they undergo controlled physical and/or chemical movements and/or transformations.

Abstract: A nanodevice includes a nanochannel disposed through a dielectric material. A first electrode is disposed on a first side of the nanochannel, is formed within the dielectric material and has a surface exposed within the nanochannel. A second electrode is disposed on a second side of the nanochannel, is formed within the dielectric material and has a surface exposed within the nanochannel opposite the first electrode. A power circuit is connected between the first and second electrodes to create a potential difference between the first and second electrodes such that portions of a molecule can be identified by a change in electrical properties across the first and second electrodes as the molecule passes.

Abstract: Embodiments of an electrophoresis device and methods for using the same in analyte separation applications are provided. Certain embodiments of the present disclosure include microfluidic devices having a single electrophoretic separation channel containing a separation medium. Systems according to embodiments of the present disclosure are configured to monitor analyte fronts moving through the electrophoretic separation channel in order to detect differentially migrating analytes, i.e., the systems are configured for moving boundary electrophoresis (MBE).

Abstract: Devices and methods for detecting a target molecule are provided herein. The methods entail contacting a sample with a polymer scaffold, the polymer comprising at least one association site configured to associate with the target molecule. The sample is brought into contact with the polymer to determine whether the target molecule is present in the sample under conditions allowing the target molecule, if present, to associate with the polymer scaffold. The methods further involve loading the polymer into a device comprising a pore or channel that connects two volumes, configuring the device to pass the polymer through the pore or channel from one volume to the other volume, and determining, with a sensor configured to detect objects passing through the pore or channel, whether the target molecule is associated with the association site, and thereby detecting the presence or absence of the target molecule in the sample.

Abstract: A coated pigment that includes polymer encapsulations which act as a pigment dispersant and film forming agent, coating systems that include the coated pigment and methods for producing the coated pigment and the coating system are described. The polymer encapsulations of the coated pigments allow the coated pigments that are included in the coating system to be dispersed without the addition of any other dispersants and/or resins. Thus, the disclosed coated pigments simplify the process of making coating systems. The disclosed coated pigments also extend the shelf-life of the coating systems, and provide a final coating with enhanced pigment orientation and aesthetics.

Abstract: Methods of forming a chip with fluidic channels include forming (e.g., milling) at least one nanofunnel with a wide end and a narrow end into a planar substrate, the nanofunnel having a length, with width and depth dimensions that both vary over its length and forming (e.g., milling) at least one nanochannel into the planar substrate at an interface adjacent the narrow end of the nanofunnel.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and devices for separating particles according to size. More specifically, the present invention relates to a microfluidic method and device for the separation of particles according to size using an array comprising a network of gaps, wherein the field flux from each gap divides unequally into subsequent gaps. In one embodiment, the array comprises an ordered array of obstacles in a microfluidic channel, in which the obstacle array is asymmetric with respect to the direction of an applied field.

Abstract: A device for generating an adjustable adhesion force on a wet substrate is described. The device has a main body with an adhesion surface which, in use, arranges itself facing the substrate, at such adhesion surface the main body having a plurality of channels generating a capillary return for water present on the substrate. A delivery and/or reservoir system for silicone oil, providing the latter at the adhesion surface, so that silicone oil arranges itself interposed between the surface itself and the water on the substrate. A static electric field generating system generates a static electric field at the adhesion surface. Such electric field modifies the wettability of silicone oil with respect to the adhesion surface.

Abstract: A digital microfluidics system for manipulating samples in liquid droplets within a gap between a first hydrophobic surface of a bottom layer and a second hydrophobic surface of at least one disposable cartridge. Disposable cartridges comprise a body and/or a rigid cover plate. The bottom layer of each disposable cartridge is a flexible film that is sealingly attached to the body or plate. The cartridge has no spacer between the first and second hydrophobic surfaces. When using these cartridges, the bottom layers configured as a working film for manipulating samples in liquid droplets thereon, is placed on an electrode array of a digital microfluidics system. The array has individual electrodes. The digital microfluidics system also comprises a central control unit for controlling the selection of the individual electrodes of the electrode array and for providing these electrodes with individual voltage pulses for manipulating liquid droplets by electrowetting.

Abstract: An example micro-fluidic device includes a micro-fluidic channel having an inner surface and a plurality of pillars positioned along the inner surface. The device further includes a plurality of power supplies connected to the pillars. Another example micro-fluidic device includes a micro-fluidic channel having an inner surface and a plurality of pillars positioned along the inner surface. The device further includes a power supply. The pillars are grouped into at least two groups of pillars, each group of pillars including at least two pillars, and all pillars of at least one group of pillars are connected to the power supply. In another example, a sensing system for detecting bioparticles includes a micro-fluidic device, wherein a surface of each pillar comprises functionalized plasmonic nanoparticles or functionalized SERS nanoparticles, a radiation source for radiating the micro-fluidic device, and a detector for detecting SERS signals or surface plasmon resonance.

Abstract: An electrophoresis apparatus that applies voltage from electrodes that are provided in a capillary flow channel and causes component separation by performing electrophoresis on a specimen that is injected into the capillary flow channel comprises: a physical quantity acquisition unit and a physical quantity determination unit. The physical quantity acquisition unit, with migration solution and specimen injected inside the capillary flow channel, acquires an electrical quantity that occurs in the capillary flow channel at a specified time when voltage is being applied to the electrodes. The physical quantity determination unit determines whether or not the electrical quantity that the physical acquisition unit acquires is within a specified range.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices and methods for using the same are provided. Embodiments include microfluidic devices that have a first separation region configured to separate a sample along a first directional axis based on a first property, and a second separation region in fluid communication with the first separation region and configured to separate the sample along a second directional axis based on a second property. Also provided are methods of using the devices as well as systems and kits that include the devices. The devices, systems and methods find use in a variety of different applications, including diagnostic and validation assays.

Abstract: The present invention relates to droplet-based particle sorting. According to one embodiment, a droplet microactuator is provided and includes: (a) a suspension of particles; and (b) electrodes arranged for conducting droplet operations using droplets comprising particles. A method of transporting a particle is also provided, wherein the method includes providing a droplet comprising the particle and transporting the droplet on a droplet microactuator.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for high efficiency electronic sequencing of nucleic acids and molecular detection. In an example embodiment of the instant disclosure, the NanoNeedle may be utilized to detect a change in impedance resulting from the modulation of the counter ion concentration or Debye length associated with a biomolecule of interest, such as DNA or protein, for an application of interest, such as DNA sequencing, DNA hybridization, or protein detection.

Abstract: Provided herein is technology relating to depositing and/or placing a macromolecule at a desired site for an assay and particularly, but not exclusively, to methods and systems for placing or guiding a macromolecule such as a protein, a nucleic acid, or a protein:nucleic acid complex to an assay site, such as near a nanopore, a nanowell, or a zero mode waveguide.

Abstract: Provided is a device comprising a channel through and defined by a plurality of layers surrounding the channel, the channel connecting a first and a second chambers separated by the plurality of layers, wherein the plurality of layers comprise a first layer, a second layer; and a conductive middle layer disposed between the first and second layers, wherein the channel comprises (a) a first region defined by the first layer, denoted as an inlet, that is about 0.5 nm to about 100 nm in diameter and (b) a second region defined by the second layer, denoted as an outlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet are about 10 nm to about 1000 nm apart from each other, and wherein the first and second chambers and the middle layer are connected to a power supply. Also provided are methods of preparing and using the device, in particular for nucleic acid sequencing.

Abstract: A nanopore device includes a multi-layer structure comprising a surface defining an aperture extending through the multi-layer structure, wherein at least the surface comprising a minimal diameter comprises a monosilane functionalized silicon dioxide having a silicon-oxygen-silicon bond, the monosilane functionalized silicon dioxide having the following structure: wherein n is an integer from 1 to 12; R2 and R3 are each independently a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, an isopropyl group, a butyl group, or a tert-butyl group; and R4 is a chloride, a carboxylic acid group, an amine group, an amide group, a thiol group, an alcohol group, an acyl chloride group, an acyl bromide group, an acyl iodide group, an alkene group, an alkyne group, or a polyether group. Also disclosed are methods for making, wetting, and operating the nanopore device.

Abstract: A nanosensor for detecting molecule characteristics includes a membrane having an opening configured to permit a charged molecule to pass but to block a protein molecule attached to a ligand connecting to the charged molecule, the opening being filled with an electrolytic solution. An electric field generator is configured to generate an electric field relative to the opening to drive the charged molecule through the opening. A sensor circuit is coupled to the electric field generator to sense current changes due to charged molecules passing into the opening. The current changes are employed to trigger a bias field increase to cause separation between the ligand and the protein to infer an interaction strength.

Abstract: A nanosensor for detecting molecule characteristics includes a membrane having an opening configured to permit a charged molecule to pass but to block a protein molecule attached to a ligand connecting to the charged molecule, the opening being filled with an electrolytic solution. An electric field generator is configured to generate an electric field relative to the opening to drive the charged molecule through the opening. A sensor circuit is coupled to the electric field generator to sense current changes due to charged molecules passing into the opening. The current changes are employed to trigger a bias field increase to cause separation between the ligand and the protein to infer an interaction strength.

Abstract: Flow step focusing isolates and concentrates a molecule of interest by flowing a liquid comprising a molecule of interest through a main channel having an inlet and an outlet with application of a first pressure at the inlet; applying a voltage along the channel during the flowing, wherein the voltage is configured to have a polarity such that it drives the molecule of interest in a direction opposite the flow of the liquid; controlling the first pressure and/or the voltage in a manner so as to trap and concentrate the molecule of interest in a region of the main channel; and removing the concentrated molecule of interest from the channel by recovering a portion of the liquid from a side channel diverging from the main channel, wherein the side channel is maintained at a pressure lower than the first pressure. Also disclosed is an apparatus for such.

Abstract: A method of determining water quality of a water sample, comprising exposing the water sample to a test cell system; generating at least one profile of ensuing changes in activities of transcription factors in said test cell system in response to said exposing; and determining from the generated at least one profile the water quality of the water sample. Computer systems and kits for carrying out the water quality determination of water specimens are also described, in which water quality can be readily and accurately determined by transcription factor activity analysis.

Abstract: Provided is a microchip including: an inlet part to which a liquid is injected; a plurality of analysis areas to which the liquid is supplied from the inlet part; and a flow channel which is formed to supply the liquid to the plurality of analysis areas at the same time.

Abstract: The disclosure teaches a method for the analysis of a sample by electrophoresis, making use of a binding partner for a target compound or group of target compounds which may be present in the sample. The disclosure further teaches a kit for use in an electrophoretic analysis, to a modified antibody or fragment thereof, and to specific uses of the kit or modified antibody or fragment thereof.

Abstract: Devices for detecting a particle in a fluid sample are provided. The device includes a segmented microfluidic conduit configured to carry a flow of a fluid sample, where the conduit includes one or more nodes and two or more sections, and a node is positioned between adjacent sections of the conduit. The device also includes a detector configured to detect a change in current through the conduit. Also provided are methods of using the devices as well as systems and kits that include the devices. The devices, systems and methods find use in a variety of different applications, including diagnostic assays.

Abstract: A method is provided of controlling the functionality of a substrate containing at least one nanopore. The method includes the steps of: introducing to the substrate a solution containing a molecular construct having a body formation which defines an aperture and a tail formation extending from the body formation; applying a potential difference across the substrate to thread the tail formation through the nanopore thereby docking the molecular construct to the substrate with the aperture aligned with the nanopore such that the sleeve formation lines the nanopore; and expelling the molecular construct from the substrate by varying the potential difference. A DNA construct for docking to a substrate having a nanopore is also provided, the construct having a body formation which defines an aperture, and a tail formation extending from the body formation for threading through the nanopore to dock the construct to the substrate with the aperture and nanopore in alignment.

Abstract: The invention provides an electrophoresis cassette, methods for making the electrophoresis cassette, and method of fractionating analytes from a sample based upon electrophoretic mobility in a single application of the sample to an electrophoretic system.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device and methods of use thereof for desalting a solution. The methods, inter-alia, make use of a device comprising microchannels, which are linked to conduits, whereby induction of an electric field in the conduit results in the formation of a space charge layer within the microchannel. The space charge layer provides an energy barrier for salt ions and generates an ion depletion zone proximal to the linkage region between the microchannel and the conduit. The method thus enables the removal of salt ions from the region proximal to the conduit and their accumulation in a region distant from the conduit, within the microchannel.

Abstract: The invention provides dry compositions for preparing and loading a sample on a gel for electrophoretic separation. The dry compositions preferably include a tracking dye and a sedimenting agent selected from a five-carbon polyol (e.g., ribitol, arabitol, or xylitol),iso-erythritol, maltitol, and saccharine. Methods for making and using, as well as kits comprising the disclosed compositions, are also provided.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for concentrating particles (e.g., bacteria, viruses, cells, and nucleic acids) suspended in a liquid. Electric-field-induced forces urge the particles towards a first electrode immersed in the liquid. When the particles are in close proximity to (e.g., in contact with) the first electrode, the electrode is withdrawn from the liquid and capillary forces formed between the withdrawing electrode and the surface of the liquid immobilize the particles on the electrode. Upon withdrawal of the electrode from the liquid, the portion of the electrode previously immersed in the liquid has particles immobilized on its surface.

Abstract: An apparatus (1) for the measurement of a concentration of a charged species in a sample (10) is disclosed. The sample (10) comprises a plurality of types of charged species and at least one insoluble component. The apparatus (1) comprises a first circuit with a voltage control device (54) connectable to two first electrodes (30, 30?) arranged along a channel (12) holding the sample (10) and a second circuit with a conductivity detection device (55) connectable to two second electrodes (5, 5?) arranged in the channel (12). The first circuit and the second circuit are dc and ac electrically isolated from each other.

Abstract: This invention discloses a highly efficient method, system and apparatus for nucleic acid analysis, including sequencing (both automated re-sequencing and de-novo sequencing). The system is capable of sequencing DNA sizes ranging from fragments to mammalian size genomes having mouse draft quality at a much reduced cost. The system comprises a massive parallel capillary electrophoretic separation using two-dimensional monolith multi-capillary arrays (2D-MMCA). Sequence identification can be performed using fluorescent or otherwise labeled dideoxynucleotide-terminated DNA extension product generated by gel matrix-, or beads-, or substrate tethered-, or otherwise immobilized colonies of single template molecules.

Abstract: Micropillars are arranged a first row up to an nth row, the micropillars in one row are disposed at the same interval “a” from each other, and each of the rows is disposed in a position shifted by a distance “b” with respect to an immediately preceding upstream row, in a row direction. A liquid that contains particles flows through between the micropillars. A voltage is applied from a power supply to electrodes, thereby generating an electric field in a flow channel. The micropillars are electrical insulating structures, so in regions of narrow intervals between the micropillars, electrical lines of force are dense and strength of the electric field is high, and in regions of wide intervals between the micropillars, electrical lines of force are sparse and the strength of the electric field is low.

Abstract: A microdevice for supporting a flowing nonpolar fluid is disclosed. The microdevice includes a substrate that is at least partially coated by one or more amphiphilic layers. Methods for using the device in biological and chemical assays are also disclosed.

Abstract: Devices for controlling the capture, trapping, and transport of macromolecules include at least one fluidic transport nanochannel that intersects and is in fluid communication with at least one transverse nanochannel with (shallow) regions and/or with integrated transverse electrodes that enable fine control of molecule transport dynamics and facilitates analyses of interest, e.g., molecular identification, length determination, localized (probe) mapping and the like.

Abstract: The present invention relates to filler fluids for droplet operations. According to one embodiment of this aspect, a droplet microactuator including an opaque filler fluid and a transparent droplet thereon is provided. The droplet microactuator may further include a first substrate comprising electrodes configured to effect electrowetting mediated droplet operations on a surface of the first substrate; a second substrate spaced apart from the surface of the first substrate by a distance sufficient to define an interior volume between the first substrate and second substrate; and wherein the droplet and the filler fluid are in the interior volume, and wherein the droplet is surrounded by the filler fluid and arranged with respect to the electrodes in a manner which permits electrowetting mediated droplet operations to be effected on the droplet using the electrodes.

Abstract: A process for fabricating a nanochannel system using a combination of microelectromechanical system (MEMS) microfabrication techniques, atomic force microscopy (AFM) nanolithography, and focused ion beam (FIB). The nanochannel system, fabricated on either a glass or silicon substrate, has channel heights and widths on the order of single to tens of nanometers. The channel length is in the micrometer range. The nanochannel system is equipped with embedded micro and nanoscale electrodes, positioned along the length of the nanochannel for electron tunneling based characterization of nanoscale particles in the channel. Anodic bonding is used to cap off the nanochannel with a cover chip.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an immunoaffinity device for capturing one or more analytes present at high or low concentrations in simple or complex matrices. The device is designed as an integrated modular unit and connected to capillary electrophoresis or liquid chromatography for the isolation, enrichment, separation and identification of polymeric macromolecules, primarily protein biomarkers. The integrated modular unit includes an analyte-concentrator-microreaction device connected to a modified cartridge-cassette.

Abstract: A micro-hydraulic device includes an enclosure. The enclosure includes a substrate having a first surface and a second surface distal to the first surface. The enclosure further includes a chamber defined between the first surface and the second surface. The chamber is defined by a wall substantially from the first surface to the second surface. The enclosure includes a first flexible membrane sealingly connected to the first surface and disposed over the chamber; and a second flexible membrane sealingly connected to the second surface disposed over the chamber distal to the first flexible membrane. The device further includes an internal fluid retained within the enclosure and a rigid electrode fixed within the chamber having an aperture therein. A flexible electrode is disposed on the second flexible membrane opposite the rigid electrode.

Abstract: Provided are device components, devices and methods characterized by a high contrast signal to noise ratio (CNR).