Abstract: Microfluidic systems and methods are disclosed which are adapted to transport and lyse cellular components of a test sample for analysis. The disclosed microfluidic systems and methods, which employ an electric field to rupture the cell membrane, cause unusually rapid lysis, thereby minimizing continued cellular activity and resulting in greater accuracy of analysis of cell processes.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a high throughput capillary electrophoresis (CE) system, which comprises multiple mobile CE detector modules that are transportable by a programmable fluid-handling arm assembly to fixed samples in microtiter plate wells for analysis. The CE system of the invention is capable of simultaneously automating sample preparation and multiple CE analysis of the sample in a continuous timely process. The CE detector modules of the invention may be equipped with any suitable detection method, such as an ultraviolet (UV) absorbance or a laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) detector.

Abstract: A device for processing a biological sample includes a processing unit having at least one opening to receive a sample vessel and a plurality of processing stations positioned along the opening. The processing stations each have a compression member adapted to compress the sample vessel within the opening and thereby move the sample within the sample vessel among the processing stations. An energy transfer element can be coupled to one or more of the processing stations for transferring thermal energy to the sample at a processing station. The device can be used for PCR processing of nucleic acid samples. A sample vessel of the present invention can be a tubule flow-chamber having a plurality of segments separated by pressure gates. The sample vessel minimizes sample handling by providing a closed tubule in which distinct processing steps can be carried out in each of the segments of the tubule.

Abstract: A method for fabricating a capillary element for electrokinetic transport of materials. The method comprises providing a first capillary element which has a first capillary channel disposed through its length. The capillary channel comprises first and second ends and an outer surface. A continuous layer of an electrically conductive material is applied along a length of the outer surface such that the continuous layer of electrically conductive material extends along the outer surface to a point proximal to, but not up to at least one of the first and second ends. The capillary element is then segmented into at least first and second separate capillary element portions at an intermediate point of the capillary element and the continuous layer.

Abstract: A substrate with a plurality of microchannels is movably deployed with other movable objects that will load sample into the microchannels, stimulate molecular migration, read the results of the migration, remove and replace the substrate, and prepare for a new run. The other objects include a gripper for engaging and moving the substrate, an electrode array of fine wires suitable for fitting into the microchannels for electromigration, and a scanning detector for reading migration results. A sequence of automatic operations is established so that one substrate after another may be moved into position, loaded with sample, stimulated for molecular migration, read with a beam, and then removed and replaced with a fresh substrate.

Abstract: A multi-capillary type electrophoresis analysis apparatus has a sample tray for containing a plurality of samples, wherein part of the sample tray is made from a conductive material. Samples are introduced by applying a high voltage from a high voltage power supply between the sample tray and a coupler in a state in which one-ends of the capillaries are inserted in the samples contained in the sample tray. The apparatus eliminates the necessity of individually inserting electrodes in a plurality of samples contained in the sample tray, thereby making easy works for analysis.

Abstract: Methods for determining total analyte concentrations and amounts, especially in combination with analyte separations are provided. Microfluidic devices are used to separate analyte mixtures and detect the individual analytes. Signal areas are summed for each individual analyte to quantitate the total analyte amount. Separate measurements of the total analyte sample are also used to determine total analyte concentration.

Abstract: An improved microfluidics device and system for sample loading and injection are disclosed. The device includes three main channels—a separation channel, supply channel, and drain channel—for use in loading and injecting a sample from the supply channel. Pairs of peripheral channels connecting the supply channel with upstream and downstream regions of the separation channel, and connecting supply and drain channels to a downstream region of the separation channel promote fluid flow and/or ion in the channel network to effect (i) sample shaping in the separation channel, when an electrokinetic or pneumatic force is applied between the supply and drain channels, and (ii) sample pullback in the supply and drain channels, when an electrokinetic or pneumatic force is applied between opposite ends of the separation channel. The system incorporates the device, electrodes that interact with reservoirs in the device, and a control unit.

Abstract: In a method for controlling sample introduction in microcolumn separation techniques, more particularly in capillary electrophoresis (CRE), where a sample is injected as a sample plug into a sampling device which comprises at least a channel for the electrolyte buffer and a supply and drain channel for the sample. The supply and drain channels discharge into the electrolyte channel at respective supply and drain ports. The distance between the supply port and the drain port geometrically defines a sample volume. The injection of the sample plug into the electrolyte channel is accomplished electrokinetically by applying an electric field across the supply and drain channels for a time at least long enough that the sample component having the lowest electrophoretic mobility is contained within the geometrically defined volume. The supply and drain channels each are inclined to the electrolyte channel. Means are provided for electrokinetically injecting the sample into the sample volume.

Abstract: The invention is a method of performing electrophoresis that increases sample throughput and increases the efficiency and speed of the analysis of polynucleotides by electrophoresis. The method is performed by loading and running multiple sequential samples on each capillary gel without flushing or replacing the gel between samples.

Abstract: Fluid introduction is facilitated through the use of a port which extends entirely through a microfluidic substrate. Capillary forces can be used to retain the fluid within the port, and a series of samples or other fluids may be introduced through a single port by sequentially blowing the fluid out through the substrate and replacing the removed fluid with an alternate fluid, or by displacing the fluid in part with additional fluid. In another aspect, microfluidic substrates have channels which varying in cross-sectional dimension so that capillary action spreads a fluid only within a limited portion of the channel network. In yet another aspect, the introduction ports may include a multiplicity of very small channels leading from the port to a fluid channel, so as to filter out particles or other contaminants which might otherwise block the channel at the junction between the channel and the introduction port.

Abstract: In a method for controlling sample introduction in microcolumn separation techniques, more particularly in capillary electrophoresis (CE), where a sample is injected as a sample plug into a sampling device which comprises at least a channel for the electrolyte buffer and a supply and drain channel for the sample. The supply and drain channels discharge into the electrolyte channel at respective supply and drain ports. The distance between the supply port and the drain port geometrically defines a sample volume. The injection of the sample plug into the electrolyte channel is accomplished electrokinetically by applying an electric field across the supply and drain channels for a time at least long enough that the sample component having the lowest electrophoretic mobility is contained within the geometrically defined volume. The supply and drain channels each are inclined to the electrolyte channel. Means are provided for electrokinetically injecting the sample into the sample volume.

Abstract: In a method for controlling sample introduction in microcolumn separation techniques, more particularly in capillary electrophoresis (CE), where a sample is injected as a sample plug into a sampling device which comprises at least a channel for the electrolyte buffer and a supply and drain channel for the sample. The supply and drain channels discharge into the electolyte channel at respective supply and drain ports. The distance between the supply port and the drain port geometrically defines a sample volume. The injection of the sample plug into the electrolyte channel is accomplished electrokinetically by applying an electric field across the supply and drain channels for a time at least long enough that the sample component having the lowest electrophoretic mobility is contained within the geometrically defined volume. The supply and drain channels each are inclined to the electrolyte channel. Means are provided for electrokinetically injecting the sample into the sample volume.

Abstract: A method of injecting a sample into an electrophoresis capillary, in which method the capillary (1) is plunged into the sample and an electric field is applied between the ends of the capillary (1) to cause the sample to migrate into the capillary (1), the method being characterized in that the sample is previously introduced into a part (3) presenting a channel (4) of dimensions perpendicular to the direction in which said channel (4) extends that are smaller than about four times the outside diameter of the capillary (1), and in that in order to plunge the capillary (1) into the sample, said capillary (1) is introduced into said channel (4).

Abstract: With a method of controlling the flow in a flow system where a liquid flow contains a particle concentration, the liquid flow is surrounded by a carrier liquid. The liquid flow and carrier liquid are led into a central channel in which there is provided an observation area (4) where measurements of the liquid flow are effected. The result of the measurements are used to lead the liquid flow into one of several channels, in that control liquids are introduced into the liquid flow before this reaches the channels, the control liquids being derived from a capillary pump structure which pumps on the basis of an electro-kinetic effect, e.g. an electro-osmotic effect. In a preferred embodiment, the pump structure consists of two capillary structures, to each of which an electrical field can be applied. Depending on the strength of the field, the amount of control liquid will be able to be controlled so that the liquid flow with the particle concentration can be led to one of two channels.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of performing one- and two-dimensional electrophoresis with or without gel in an automated way. The two dimensional electrophoresis can be performed either separately or continuously. Both electrokinetic and hydrodynamic forces can be used to facilitate sample transfer from the first to the second dimension. The samples can be detected on-line by using common detectors like UV-Vis, laser induced fluorescence (LIF), and mass spectrometry (MS).

Abstract: A hydrodynamic injector for substantially concurrently loading fluid samples to be analyzed into multiple capillary tubes of a capillary electrophoresis system. The injector includes an enclosure defining a pressure chamber for holding multiple receptacles, each containing a fluid sample, and apertures in the enclosure for passing capillary tubes into a position inside the pressure chamber and in fluid communication with the samples in respective receptacles. Electrodes on the enclosure extend into the pressure chamber for reception in the receptacles. The pressure chamber is pressurized with gas to substantially concurrently force the fluid samples from respective receptacles into the capillary tubes in preparation for a capillary electrophoresis operation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for screening separation media for performance in capillary electrophoresis. In one aspect the invention comprises concurrently loading a plurality of capillaries from one corresponding end of each with a respective plurality of separation media, adding a sample to each capillary, advancing the samples through the capillaries under an applied electric field, measuring a property of the samples or components thereof as they advance through the capillaries, and using the measured properties to identify one or more preferred sets of separation media. At least one of the steps of loading or advancing are carried out simultaneously over the plurality of capillaries.

Abstract: Capillary columns (102) pass through and are inserted in a rubber plate (14), held and fixed by elastic force of rubber, and two-dimensionally arranged on a sample injection side. It fixes the capillary columns (102) arranged on a plane in close contact by holding the same with a holder plate (6a) from below and with a rubber plate (16) from above on a detection side. In order to press the capillary columns (102) against the holder plate 6a and fix the same with the rubber plate (16), a holder plate (6b) fixing the rubber plate (16) to the holder plate (6a) on both sides of the arrangement of the capillary columns (102) is provided.

Abstract: A substrate with a plurality of microchannels is movably deployed with other movable objects that will load sample into the microchannels, stimulate molecular migration, read the results of the migration, remove and replace the substrate, and prepare for a new run. The other objects include a gripper for engaging and moving the substrate, an electrode array of fine wires suitable for fitting into the microchannels for electromigration, and a scanning detector for reading migration results. A sequence of automatic operations is established so that one substrate after another may be moved into position, loaded with sample, stimulated for molecular migration, read with a beam, and then removed and replaced with a fresh substrate.

Abstract: A method is provided for joining a microchip device to a capillary tube. The microchip device has a capillary channel opening onto an edge surface of the device. A short hole is drilled into the edge surface, aligned with the capillary channel. The drilling is done with a flat bottom, preferably by a two-step drilling process. Then, the end of the capillary can be inserted into the hole so that its end is substantially flush with the flat bottom of the hole, thereby eliminating dead volume. Testing has shown that this connection provides very little band broadening of samples transported through the capillary channel into the capillary tube. The tip of the capillary tube can be tapered, so that it is suitable for use as an electrospray source for a mass spectrometer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel, small-scale, electrophoretic separation system based on photodefined polymers and electrode-defined sample injection. Diffusion and displacement coefficients may be modified by varying the gel concentration, the intensity of the incident UV radiation and the temperature at which the gel is run. The device is an major advance over current technology since it provides for a significant reduction in size of the micro-electrophoresis apparatus and a significant cost savings.

Abstract: Errors upon analysis caused by, fluctuation in electrophoresis time among plural capillaries in a multi-capillary electrophoresis apparatus is reduced. The multi-capillary electrophoresis apparatus contains a multi-capillary array that has an isolation medium filled therein for isolating a sample, has a sample injecting end on one end thereof, and has, at a position remote from the sample injecting end, a detector part for acquiring information depending on the sample, a voltage applying part for applying a voltage to an electrification path containing the sample injecting end and the detector part, a thermostat oven containing all or a part of the multi-capillary array except for the sample injecting end, a buffer container containing a buffer solution, in which the sample injecting end is immersed, and a temperature controlling part for controlling a temperature of the buffer solution.

Abstract: A hydrodynamic injector for substantially concurrently loading fluid samples to be analyzed into multiple capillary tubes of a capillary electrophoresis system. The injector includes an enclosure defining a pressure chamber for holding multiple receptacles, each containing a fluid sample, and apertures in the enclosure for passing capillary tubes into a position inside the pressure chamber and in fluid communication with the samples in respective receptacles. Electrodes on the enclosure extend into the pressure chamber for reception in the receptacles. The pressure chamber is pressurized with gas to substantially concurrently force the fluid samples from respective receptacles into the capillary tubes in preparation for a capillary electrophoresis operation.

Abstract: The troublesomeness during the setting of a plurality of capillaries is eliminated by composing pairs of electrodes, which are electrically connected to the common electrode, and capillaries. By bringing electrodes installed in the vicinity of each capillary disposed at the pitch of wells on the side of sample plate (within the area of the wells) into electrical contact with a common electrode, the capillaries and electrodes are made integral in construction. When a voltage is applied to the electrophoretic instrument via a common electrode portion, the voltage is applied to the electrodes for each capillary. This enables an inexpensive microtiter plate, etc. to be used and a multiple of capillaries to be simultaneously inserted, attached and detached.

Abstract: The present invention is a separation-detection device, which comprises high-voltage power supply, capillary chromatographic column and detection equipment. In addition, the present invention employs high-pressure pump. The device can apply pressure forward, backward or bi-directionally on the capillary column and rinse the column forward or backward with the high-pressure pump. Thus not only avoid bubble formation and current breakdown in column but also guarantee the high efficiency. It can run in several modes by changing different chromatographic columns.

Abstract: An electrophoresis chip is formed of a pair of transparent base plates. A sample introduction flow path and a separation flow path crossing each other are formed on a surface of one of the base plates, and the other base plate is provided with a separation buffer waste, a separation buffer reservoir, a loading buffer reservoir, and a loading buffer waste, which are formed as through holes at positions corresponding to ends of the flow paths. Further, a sample reservoir for injecting a sample therein is formed as a through hole on the sample introduction flow path at a position different from that of the loading buffer reservoir. Electrodes are disposed at the separation buffer waste, the separation buffer reservoir, the loading buffer reservoir, and the loading buffer waste. The electrode is not disposed at the sample reservoir.

Abstract: A channel (140) is divised into portions (142, 144). The sidewalls of each channel portion (142, 144) have surface charges of opposite polarity. The two channel portions (142, 144) are physically connected together by a salt bridge (133), such as a glass frit or gel layer. The salt bridge (133) separates the fluids in channel (140) from an ionic fluid reservoir (135). To impart electroosmotic and electrophoretic forces along the channel (140) between parts A and B, respectively. Additionally, a third electrode (137) is placed in the reservoir (135).

Abstract: An input port geometry, with injector-concentrator electrodes, for planar microchannel array for electrophoresis. This input port geometry enables efficient extraction and injection of the DNA sample from a single input port. The geometry, which utilizes injector-concentrator electrodes, allows simultaneous concentration, in different channels, of the sample into a longitudinally narrow strip just before releasing it for a run with enhanced injection spatial resolution, and time resolution. Optional multiple electrodes, at a different bias than the concentrator electrodes, may be used to discriminate against sample impurity ions. Electrode passivation can be utilized to prevent electrolysis. An additional electrode in or on the input hole can better define the initial loading. The injector-concentrator electrodes are positioned so that they cross the drift channel in a narrow strip at the bond plane between the top and bottom plates of the instrument and are located close to the inlet hole.

Abstract: Methods and devices are described for concentration and cleanup of samples containing bio-molecule analytes (e.g., polynucleotides, such as DNA, RNA, PNA). Various embodiments provide for pH-mediated sample concentration and cleanup of nucleic acid samples with channel devices (e.g., cross-T format, microchannel devices).

Abstract: The present invention provides for techniques for transporting materials using electrokinetic forces through the channels of a microfluidic system. The subject materials are transported in regions of high ionic concentration, next to spacer material regions of high ionic concentration, which are separated by spacer material regions of low ionic concentration. Such arrangements allow the materials to remain localized for the transport transit time to avoid mixing of the materials. Using these techniques, an electropipettor which is compatible with the microfluidic system is created so that materials can be easily introduced into the microfluidic system. The present invention also compensates for electrophoretic bias as materials are transported through the channels of the microfluidic system by splitting a channel into portions with positive and negative surface charges and a third electrode between the two portions, or by diffusion of the electrophoresing materials after transport along a channel.

Abstract: The present invention provides capillary an electrophoresis system and method for multiple simultaneous analysis of a sample. The system and method of the invention allow the ends of a plurality of capillaries to simultaneously contact a single body of electrophoresis sample contained in a compartment of a container, such as a sample contained in a well of a micro-titer tray.

Abstract: A sample handling system in a multi-channel capillary electrophoresis apparatus is disclosed. The sample handling system includes a work surface for supporting a plurality of samples located at a plurality of work surface coordinates and a sample loading assembly comprising a plurality of loading wells. At least one of the loading wells includes a capillary fixedly positioned therein. The system further includes a programmable sample transfer device for automatically transferring a sample from a work surface coordinate to a loading well. The invention further includes methods for using the sample handling system.

Abstract: The apparatus and method of the present invention disclose a system in which multiple injections may be made into a capillary array. The injections are spaced in time with each injection followed by an interval of electrophoresis. Once all samples are loaded into the capillaries, continuous electrophoresis and detection is used to separate and detect target compounds within the sample. The interval between injections is matched to the target compound migration rate to be sufficient to allow the target compounds to be detectably separated when the compounds reach the detector.

Abstract: The DNA sample preparation apparatus of the present invention comprises a base plate having a plurality of first grooves for fixing two or more kinds of DNA samples or primers to the inner surfaces of the grooves, respectively, a second groove communicating with the plurality of the first grooves, wherein a reaction solution is introduced into the first grooves to be reacted with the two or more kinds of said DNA samples or primers independently at the same time.

Abstract: The invention relates to capillary electrophoretic methods for detecting ligands or hit compounds that can bind to a selected target at or above a selected binding strength. The method allows one to rank various ligands based on their relative affinity, i.e., the relative stability of the target/ligand complex during capillary electrophoresis under selected conditions. The method also enables selective detection of strong-to-moderate binding hit compounds, even in the presence of high concentrations of weaker, competitive hit compounds.

Abstract: An electrode plate of a sample plate is set on the body of an electrophoretic apparatus, while a plug is inserted into a migration high voltage line connection hole and connected to a high-tension distribution cable. Each well of a base plate is inserted into a through hole of a well guide and further press-fit and engaged into a cavity of an electrode plate, for fixing the base plate to the electrode plate. Thereafter a sample is introduced into each well of the base plate and an end of a capillary column is dipped into each well for applying a migration voltage and electrophoretically injecting the sample into the capillary column.

Abstract: A fluid interface port in a microfluidic system and a method of forming the fluid interface port is provided. The fluid interface port comprises an opening formed in the side wall of a microchannel sized and dimensioned to form a virtual wall when the microchannel is filled with a first liquid. The fluid interface port is utilized to fill the microchannel with a first liquid, to introduce a second liquid into the first liquid and to eject fluid from the microchannel.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a microdevice for separating the components of a fluid sample. A cover plate is arranged over the first surface of a substrate, and, in combination with a microchannel formed in the first surface, defines a separation conduit for separating the components of the fluid sample. A sample inlet port in fluid communication with the conduit allows a fluid sample introduced from a sample source to be conveyed in a defined sample flow path such that the sample fluid travels, in order, through the sample inlet port, the separation conduit and a sample outlet port. The microdevice also includes an integrated introducing means for controllably introducing a volume of the fluid sample from a sample source into the sample inlet port and through the separation conduit. A method for separating the components of a fluid sample using the microdevice is also provided.

Abstract: A fluid interface port in a microfluidic system and a method of forming the fluid interface port is provided. The fluid interface port comprises an opening formed in the side wall of a microchannel sized and dimensioned to form a virtual wall when the microchannel is filled with a first liquid. The fluid interface port is utilized to fill the microchannel with a first liquid, to introduce a second liquid into the first liquid and to eject fluid from the microchannel.

Abstract: A fluid interface port in a microfluidic system and a method of forming the fluid interface port is provided. The fluid interface port comprises an opening formed in the side wall of a microchannel sized and dimensioned to form a virtual wall when the microchannel is filled with a first liquid. The fluid interface port is utilized to fill the microchannel with a first liquid, to introduce a second liquid into the first liquid and to eject fluid from the microchannel.

Abstract: A fluid interface port in a separation device for separating a sample into different components is provided. The separation device includes an array of separation channels and the fluid interface port comprises an opening formed in the side wall of a separation channel sized and dimensioned to form a virtual wall when the separation channel is filled with a separation medium. The fluid interface port is utilized to introduce a liquid sample into the separation medium. The fluid interface ports formed in the array of separation channels are organized into one or more sample injectors. A cathode reservoir is multiplexed with one or more separation channels. To complete an electrical path, an anode reservoir which is common to some or all separation channels is also provided.

Abstract: Methods of sample loading and separation in a microfluidics device are described. The methods provide high resolution and high signal intensity, using, in a preferred embodiment, a simple two-electrode injection scheme with isotachophoretic (ITP) stacking, followed by ZE separation in the same channel.

Abstract: A microfluidic microchip includes a channel structure having a delivery channel connected in a substance conductive manner to a separation channel. Laterally offset discharge channels are at connection points displaced from a connection point between the delivery and separation channels. Between the connection points on the one hand and the connection point on the other are channel sections having concordant channel lengths. By imposing suitable electrical potentials along these channel sections, the filling volumes present in the channel sections are satisfactorily homogenous after a certain period of time to form a representative part of a substance specimen. Substance volume units are formed in these channel sections. The lengths of the volume units are determined exclusively by the lengths of the channel sections. Pulse-shaped substance volume sequences are injected into the separation channel.

Abstract: Fluid introduction is facilitated through the use of a port which extends entirely through a microfluidic substrate. Capillary forces can be used to retain the fluid within the port, and a series of samples or other fluids may be introduced through a single port by sequentially blowing the fluid out through the substrate and replacing the removed fluid with an alternate fluid, or by displacing the fluid in part with additional fluid. In another aspect, microfluidic substrates have channels which varying in cross-sectional dimension so that capillary action spreads a fluid only within a limited portion of the channel network. In yet another aspect, the introduction ports may include a multiplicity of very small channels leading from the port to a fluid channel, so as to filter out particles or other contaminants which might otherwise block the channel at the junction between the channel and the introduction port.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved microchip measurement apparatus 15 comprising an external reservoir 24 connected via an input line 28 and output line 29 to a well 21 disposed on the microchip 20. The reservoir and well are preferable sealed and a pump 26 is connected to the input line so as to enable a continuous flow of liquid from the reservoir to the well. Advantageously, the present invention allows for the volume of liquid in the well to be kept constant, thereby improving the overall measurement accuracy.

Abstract: In a method for controlling sample introduction in microcolumn separation techniques, more particularly in capillary electrophoresis (CE), where a sample is injected as a sample plug into a sampling device which comprises at least a channel for the electrolyte buffer and a supply and drain channel for the sample. The supply and drain channels discharge into the electolyte channel at respective supply and drain ports. The distance between the supply port and the drain port geometrically defines a sample volume. The injection of the sample plug into the electrolyte channel is accomplished electrokinetically by applying an electric field across the supply and drain channels for a time at least long enough that the sample component having the lowest electrophoretic mobility is contained within the geometrically defined volume. The supply and drain channels each are inclined to the electrolyte channel. Means are provided for electrokinetically injecting the sample into the sample volume.

Abstract: Fluid introduction is facilitated through the use of a port which extends entirely through a microfluidic substrate. Capillary forces can be used to retain the fluid within the port, and a series of samples or other fluids may be introduced through a single port by sequentially blowing the fluid out through the substrate and replacing the removed fluid with an alternate fluid, or by displacing the fluid in part with additional fluid. In another aspect, microfluidic substrates have channels which varying in cross-sectional dimension so that capillary action spreads a fluid only within a limited portion of the channel network. In yet another aspect, the introduction ports may include a multiplicity of very small channels leading from the port to a fluid channel, so as to filter out particles or other contaminants which might otherwise block the channel at the junction between the channel and the introduction port.

Abstract: The present invention easies a connection between electrodes of a capillary array device and a connection plate for supplying a high voltage to the electrodes.

Abstract: Non-planar microfluidic devices and methods for transferring fluids between vessels and microfluidic devices are provided. The devices may be contoured to physically contact non-planar vessels, such as pipes, tubes, vials, or syringes to establish fluid communication between a vessel and a microfluidic device. Devices according to the invention may be constructed from flexible, rigid, or combinations of flexible and rigid materials. In certain embodiments, microfluidic devices are composed of sandwiched stencils, and self-adhesive tapes may be used for one or more layers. A microfluidic device may be removably attached to a vessel with a non-permanent adhesive or adhesive layer. Continuously wrapped microfluidic devices fashioned from a single layer, in addition to rewindable microfluidic devices constructed from multiple layers, are provided. A multi-plunger syringe permits a microfluidic device or other reservoir coupled to the vessel to be filled on the draw stroke of the syringe plunger.