Specimen Cavity Or Chamber Patents (Class 359/398)
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Patent number: 8625195Abstract: An objective-type dark-field illumination device for a microfluidic channel is provided and includes an optical stop having a pair of symmetric curved slits used to adjust the optical path and inner numerical aperture of a dark-field light source generated by the device. The dark-field illumination can focus on a smaller spot to illuminate a sample in the microfluidic channel by matching a pin-hole combined with a transmitter objective lens. The optical path and smaller spot is advantageous to solve the problem of a traditional dark-field illumination that may generate background light noise scattered from inner walls of the microfluidic channel to lower the image contrast. Therefore, the signal or image resolution of capturing the scattered light and/or emitted fluorescent light emitted from the sample in the microfluidic channel can be enhanced. Meanwhile, the device can simultaneously excite and detect multiple fluorescent samples with different excited wavelengths in the microfluidic channel.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2010Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: National Sun Yat-Sen UniversityInventors: Che-hsin Lin, Shi-wei Lin, Jui-hung Hsu, Chih-han Chang
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Patent number: 8512974Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of molecular diagnostics, and in particular to diagnostics based on a liquid crystal assay format. In particular, the present invention provided improved substrates and methods of using liquid crystal assays for analyzing cell invasion.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2012Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Platypus Technologies, LLCInventors: Christopher Murphy, Barbara Israel, Nicholas Abbott
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Publication number: 20130201553Abstract: A microscope slide module for processing samples captured in gasketed compartments of slide assemblies which include gasket slides. The microscope slide module includes a baseplate having a number of recesses for holding the gasket slides in fixed position, a coverplate which attaches to the baseplate, such that slide assemblies including gasket slides are captured and slightly compressed between the baseplate and the coverplate. Fasteners attach the coverplate to the baseplate, and the baseplate and coverplate each include apertures which align with the gasketed compartments of the gasket slides. Also disclosed are a system and a method for processing laboratory samples.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2013Publication date: August 8, 2013Applicant: SCIGENE CORPORATIONInventor: SciGene Corporation
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Publication number: 20130182318Abstract: A cassette for retaining a specimen of surgically exposed tissue from a patient in an orientation that facilitates optical sectioning of the tissue by a confocal microscopic or other optical imaging microscope. The cassette includes a base member having a rigid optically transparent window upon which a tissue specimen is situated, a pliable membrane locatable over a substantial portion of the base member including the window, and an upper member, having an aperture therethrough, which can cover the base member to provide an enclosed cavity between the membrane and the window sealing the tissue specimen therein. The edges of the tissue specimen may be positioned planar against the window and retained in that position by bonds formed between the membrane and window at multiple points or locations around the tissue specimen. The specimen retained in the cavity is imagible a microscope through the window of the base member.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2012Publication date: July 18, 2013Inventors: Jay M. Eastman, William J. Fox, Roger J. Greenwald, Kevin P. Roesser, James M. Zavislan
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Patent number: 8482854Abstract: The invention is directed to a sample holder for a microscope. The sample holder comprises a sample chamber which is filled with an immersion liquid and in which a sample is located. The sample chamber has an upper opening. It further comprises means for translating the sample relative to a detection objective of the microscope, and means for rotating the sample around an axis of rotation extending in a substantially horizontal plane which encloses an angle other than zero degrees with the optical axis of the detection objective. In a sample holder of this kind, the sample is embedded in a transparent embedding medium having at least partially a greater solidity than the immersion liquid. Further, the sample chamber has means for horizontally supporting the embedded sample against the effect of gravity.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2008Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Assignee: Carl Zeiss Microscopy GmbHInventors: Helmut Lippert, Benno Radt, Christopher Power, Christian Dietrich
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Publication number: 20130170026Abstract: A curved surface is placed tangent to a slide and displaces a sample liquid from the point or line of contact outward. Imaging indicates a region where fluorescence is observed, and the location of the fluorescence indicates the molecular size. The radius of curvature of the lens is known, the distance from the (center) point of contact of the observed fluorescence is measured with a microscope and the distance of the lens surface to the slide's surface can then be calculated. This distance represents the size of the molecule or ensemble of molecules emitting. Similarly, absorbance, etc. could be measured with a light source below the slide.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2011Publication date: July 4, 2013Inventors: Adam E. Cohen, Sabrina R. Leslie
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Publication number: 20130143165Abstract: A micro-mirror well. In one embodiment the micro-mirror well includes a plurality of planar mirrors arranged around an axis of symmetry and inclined to form a pyramid well, where each of the plurality of planar mirrors is capable of reflecting light emitting from an object of interest placed inside the pyramid well.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 27, 2012Publication date: June 6, 2013Applicant: VANDERBILT UNIVERSITYInventor: Vanderbilt University
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Publication number: 20130002848Abstract: A stage adaptor for imaging a biological specimen is described. The adaptor having a housing; a vented chamber contained within the housing; and a removable lid for covering the vented chamber. A depression is provided on the removable lid for receiving an objective from a microscope. An aperture is also provided at the apex of the depression for viewing inside the vented chamber. Also described is an integrated stage adaptor and imaging system as well as a method for imaging the biological specimen using the stage adaptor.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2011Publication date: January 3, 2013Applicant: INNOVASCREEN IncInventors: Andries Zijlstra, John Lewis
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Patent number: 8338167Abstract: A pressure controllable incubation system is provided for constantly maintaining a concentration of carbon dioxide while keeping a pressure chamber, in which living organisms to be cultured are placed, at a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure. The pressure controllable incubation system comprise a cylinder that stores air containing high-concentration carbon dioxide to be injected into a pressure chamber and supplies the air into the pressure chamber, and a heat controller that constantly maintains temperature in the pressure chamber. The pressure controllable incubation system constantly maintains culture conditions such as pressure, temperature, and concentration of carbon dioxide which the user wants for a long time, so that it can be effectively applied to the culture of various living organisms.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2007Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: Korea University Industrial & Academic Collaboration FoundationInventors: Eunil Lee, Sangnam Oh
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Patent number: 8339704Abstract: A micro-mirror well. In one embodiment the micro-mirror well includes a plurality of planar mirrors arranged around an axis of symmetry and inclined to form a pyramid well, where each of the plurality of planar mirrors is capable of reflecting light emitting from an object of interest placed inside the pyramid well.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2011Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: Vanderbilt UniversityInventors: Kevin T. Seale, Ronald S. Reiserer, John P. Wikswo, Sandra Rosenthal, Jeffrey Chamberlain, Charles Wright, Dmitry Markov, Chris Janetopoulos
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Patent number: 8274735Abstract: The present invention facilitates improvements in laser ablation of solid samples to be analyzed by an external inductively coupled plasma (ICP) emission spectrometer, ICP/mass-spectrometer (ICP-MS), or flowing afterglow (FAG) mass spectrometer (FAG-MS) for elemental analysis (ICP and ICP-MS) or molecular analysis (FAG-MS). A novel invention mirror-with-hole beam combiner eliminates chromatic aberration in the invention sample view and allows rad-hardening the laser ablation invention for use in a radiation hot cell for analysis of high activity nuclear waste. Many other novel invention rad-hardening attributes facilitate a comprehensive rad-hardened laser ablation system (the world's first).Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2008Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Inventors: Robert C. Fry, Steven K. Hughes, Madeline J. Arnold, Michael R. Dyas
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Patent number: 8268614Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of assays of cell movement. In particular, the present invention provides methods for assaying cell movement where inserts are used to confine cells to a defined area in a well of a multiwell plate and movement from the defined area is assayed.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2004Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: Platypus Technologies, LLCInventors: Christopher Murphy, Barbara Israel, Nicholas Abbot
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Patent number: 8259170Abstract: A stage assembly, an imaging system that uses the stage assembly, and methods for using the stage assembly in a high content screening system. The stage assembly includes a stage having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface and an opening extending between the top and bottom surfaces to receive a specimen plate. The stage assembly also includes a calibration sample bay formed in the stage. A calibration sample can also be secured within the calibration sample bay.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2009Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Cellomics, Inc.Inventors: Richard C. Salisbury, Dirk John VandenBerg, III, Kim Anthony Ippolito
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Patent number: 8213081Abstract: The invention relates to an objective replacement device for a microscope, wherein the sample is located in a sample chamber and surrounded by an immersion medium within the sample chamber, means for positioning and aligning the sample relative to the focus of an objective being present, wherein the detection beam path is aligned horizontally, which is to say perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity. For an objective replacement device for a microscope of the type described above, according to the invention a device is provided for exchanging the objective, at the focus of which the sample is positioned and aligned, with at least another objective, the position and alignment of the sample within the sample chamber remaining the same.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2008Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Carl Zeiss MicroImaging GmbHInventors: Helmut Lippert, Benno Radt, Christian Dietrich, Christopher Power
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Patent number: 8213080Abstract: An inspection apparatus for a biological sample is herein disclosed, wherein a sample, entering a communicating space via a first opening, is sucked upward to a test area by capillarity and then sucked downward to a second opening by a siphonic action; then the sample becomes still as a result of the communicating tube principle. Hence, the present invention provides sufficient amount of biological sample for the test area and also simplifies the inspection process.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2008Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Shanghai Microtek Technology Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kuang-Yuan Lin
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Patent number: 8149506Abstract: A cassette for retaining a specimen of surgically exposed tissue from a patient in an orientation that facilitates optical sectioning of the tissue by a confocal microscopic or other optical imaging microscope. The cassette includes a base member having an optically transparent window upon which a tissue specimen is situated, a membrane locatable over a substantial portion of the base member including the window, and an upper member which can cover the base member to provide an enclosed cavity between the membrane and the window sealing the tissue specimen therein. The edges of the tissue specimen may then be positioned planar against the window and retained in that position by bonds formed between the membrane and window around the tissue specimen. The cassette may be part of a confocal imaging system to produce microscopic images of sections of the tissue specimen useful for Mohs surgery.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2002Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Lucii, Inc.Inventors: Jay M. Eastman, William J. Fox, Roger J. Greenwald, Kevin P. Roesser, James M. Zavislan
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Patent number: 8139105Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for optically scanning a sample. The basic structure of the device comprises at least one adjustment unit and at least one scanning device. The sample is displaced in relation to the scanning device by means of the adjustment unit impinged upon by a control system, or vice versa. According to the invention, adjustment values for the mechanical compensation of play are incorporated, filed in the control system and taken into consideration during adjustment.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2005Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Olympus Soft Imaging Solutions GmbHInventor: Jürgen Tümpner
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Patent number: 8062882Abstract: A bottom wall of a Petri dish used for capturing a cell is provided with a first through hole and a second through hole. A grove that connects the first through hole and the second through hole is formed on an outer surface of bottom wall. The first through hole, the second through hole, and the grove is covered with a transparent plate member. A plate used for capturing the cell is arranged in the Petri dish above the first through hole. An aspiration tube is connected to the second through hole from inside the Petri dish.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2005Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventors: Satoru Sakai, Moritoshi Ando
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Patent number: 7974003Abstract: A micro-mirror well. In one embodiment the micro-mirror well includes a plurality of planar mirrors arranged around an axis of symmetry and inclined to form a pyramid well, where each of the plurality of planar mirrors is capable of reflecting light emitting from an object of interest placed inside the pyramid well.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2007Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: Vanderbilt UniversityInventors: Kevin Truett Seale, Ronald S. Reiserer, P. Wikswo John
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Publication number: 20110157693Abstract: In one embodiment, an apparatus is provided for testing for the presence of analytes in a sample. The apparatus comprises a source of light directed at the bottom surface of a substrate to achieve total internal reflection and to generate an evanescent field. An array of capture elements is immobilized on the top surface of the substrate. The bottom surface of the substrate is configured as a sawtooth (in cross section), the “teeth” aligned with the rows or the columns in the array. The outer faces of the sawtooth “prisms” are non-parallel to the substrate top surface, and specific requirements are imposed on the prism light-entrance face, and the substrate thickness and refractive index.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2009Publication date: June 30, 2011Applicant: Maven Technologies, LLCInventors: Shane C. Dultz, David Ralin
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Patent number: 7919308Abstract: Assay chambers that include a form-in-place gasket between a substrate and a cover, and methods of forming such assay chambers, are described. The assay chambers may further be associated with an analysis site for analyzing a sample solution contained within the assay chamber.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2002Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Arthur Schleifer
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Patent number: 7910355Abstract: A culture observation apparatus, which is used for observing a cultured cell while culturing the cell, includes a culture device that cultures the cultured cell, and a microscope used for observing the cultured cell. The culture device includes a first space that is controlled to an environment suitable for culture of the cell, and a second space that is controlled to a lower humidity condition in comparison with the first space. The microscope includes an objective optical unit including an objective lens; the objective optical unit having at least one portion located in the second space, and another portion extending into the first space through an opening formed in a partition wall that separates the first space and the second space, with a gap between the objective optical unit and the partition wall being sealed by a sealing member, and the objective lens includes a plurality of lens groups, with mutual spaces among the lens groups vented to the second space.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2005Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: Olympus CorporationInventors: Atsuhiro Tsuchiya, Ryuichi Hirano, Hideaki Endo, Kenichi Koyama, Kazuhiro Hasegawa, Akitsugu Kagayama, Katsuyoshi Yamaguchi
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Patent number: 7885000Abstract: An apparatus for imaging cells including a culture chamber, in which a cultivation sub-structure is placed, imaging optics, and actuators for providing the relative movement of the cultivation substructure and the imaging optics in such a way that the imaging optics is used to image different sites in the substructure. The cultivation substructure is isolated as a subchamber of its own that is separate from the culture chamber, and imaging is carried out by moving the imaging optics and the subchamber in relation to each other.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2005Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Chip-Man Technologies OyInventors: Juha Korpinen, Jussi Tarvainen
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Publication number: 20100326862Abstract: A slide cover for enclosing a region comprising an active region on a slide is provided. A slide cover and a slide are also provided. A slide cover for enclosing a region comprising an active region on a slide, where the slide is placed in a clamshell slide holder is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2009Publication date: December 30, 2010Inventors: Peter G. Webb, Alan Schenck, Robert E. Woodworth, Emily Marine Leproust, Eric Lin, Jeffrey M. McMillan
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Publication number: 20100284016Abstract: The present invention provides optical systems and methods for determining a characteristic of a cell, such as cell type, cellular response to a biochemical event, biological state and the like. The methods typically involve using interferometry to observe membrane properties in a cell and then use this information to determine one or more characteristics of a cell. The methods of the invention are useful for applications such as drug screening as well as diagnostic techniques.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2009Publication date: November 11, 2010Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIAInventors: Michael A. Teitell, James K. Gimzewski, Jason C. Reed
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Patent number: 7765868Abstract: A climate chamber, which is in particular suitable for chemical and/or biological samples, comprises a climate compartment defined by a housing. Inside the climate compartment an analysis device, such as a microscope, is at least partially arranged. Further, the housing comprises an inlet opening for supplying a conditioning medium flow. For preventing condensation at condensate-sensitive components the medium flow is directed such that it at least partially flows against the analysis device and/or the sample carrier.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2004Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Evotec Technologies GmbHInventors: Matthias Pirsch, Stefan Hummel
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Patent number: 7767440Abstract: Cover of a hybridization chamber with a peripheral frame with filling and ventilation holes extending from the upper face to the lower face of the frame, a peripheral shoulder outside the filling and ventilation holes on the lower face of the frame, a cover wall arranged within the frame, flush with its lower face and downwardly offset relative to its upper face and which substantially consists of at least one resilient plastics material.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2004Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Eppendorf AGInventors: Martin Seippel, Sandrine Hamels, Christopher VanHuffel
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Publication number: 20100178650Abstract: The present invention relates to a capillary-based cell and tissue acquisition system that integrates the capillary approach with a microscope manipulator to collect and sort cells of interest. Cells of interest are determined by using a laser beam focus to identify the initial contact between the capillary and the cells.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2007Publication date: July 15, 2010Inventors: Stanislav L. Karsten, Anatol Bragin
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Publication number: 20100177381Abstract: The invention relates to a sample holding system for a microscope, comprising a sample chamber which has an upper opening and is filled with an immersion liquid, and in which a sample embedded in a transparent embedding compound is placed in a holder. The sample holding system also comprises means for the translatory movement of the sample in relation to a detection objective of the microscope, and means for rotating the sample about an essentially vertical rotational axis in a plane forming an angle different from zero with the optical axis of the detection objective. The means for rotating the sample in such a sample holding system comprise a rotational drive provided with a magnetic coupling or a belt drive and/or toothed wheel rotational drive arranged above the sample chamber, said drives transmitting the rotational movement to the holder, or the rotational movement is generated directly by the movement of the entire sample chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2008Publication date: July 15, 2010Inventors: Helmut Lippert, Christopher Power, Christian Dietrich, Benno Radt
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Patent number: 7718423Abstract: An incubator capable of observing an observed specimen in a dish 220 by a microscope while culturing the specimen, wherein light is radiated from a capacitor(C), passed through a hole 273 in a top plate 271, a hole 275a in a upper side plate 275 and a hole 277a in a lower side plate 277, and let into an objective lens (T), and the specimen put in the dish 220 is observed by the microscope, whereby the change of the specimen with elapse of time can be continuously observed or recorded on a videotape while culturing the observed specimen in the dish 220.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2003Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignee: Tokai Hit Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hideharu Tsuchiya
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Patent number: 7718124Abstract: A transparent plastic slide has a recessed chamber which receives a transparent plastic cover. The cover has a fluid inlet opening which overlies a recessed center well in the slide. The well has a sloping ramp which extends to a viewing platform which has a surface which is closely spaced from the underside of the cover to define a constant thickness viewing cavity surrounding the well. An overflow channel surrounds the viewing platform. A vent hole extends through the cover above the overflow channel. The sample is introduced into the center well through the fluid inlet opening. The fluid flows into the viewing cavities by capillary action, and is free to overflow the viewing cavities and be received within the overflow channel, thus reducing boundary effects. An inlet port may be provided above the viewing platform to permit substances to be added to a sample while it is under observation.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2005Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignee: Minitube of America, Inc.Inventor: Ludwig O Simmet
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Publication number: 20100103512Abstract: An inspection block is disclosed for use in inspection of biological matter in a container unit which has a chamber with transparent walls, the inspection block having a transverse docking passage for receiving and positioning a container unit, an observation chamber extending transversely relative to the docking passage and in communication therewith such that the biological matter located inside the container unit may be microscopically inspected through the chamber walls, transparent liquid for immersing at least part of the container unit so as to define a chamber wall/liquid optical interface for microscopic inspection therethrough. The inspection block may be made of steel, aluminum or plastic. In the latter case, the plastic inspection block may have closed cavities for containing insulating blocks and/or one or more downwardly opening air pockets retaining heat given off by a warmed work bench and/or warmed microscope stage on which the inspection block is supported during inspection.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 27, 2008Publication date: April 29, 2010Applicant: BIOXCELL INC.Inventors: CLAUDE RANOUX, JOHN E. WALSH, JAMES A. LUDOVICZ
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Publication number: 20100067104Abstract: The invention is directed to a sample holder for a microscope. The sample holder comprises a sample chamber which is filled with an immersion liquid and in which a sample is located. The sample chamber has an upper opening. It further comprises means for translating the sample relative to a detection objective of the microscope, and means for rotating the sample around an axis of rotation extending in a substantially horizontal plane which encloses an angle other than zero degrees with the optical axis of the detection objective. In a sample holder of this kind, the sample is embedded in a transparent embedding medium having at least partially a greater solidity than the immersion liquid. Further, the sample chamber has means for horizontally supporting the embedded sample against the effect of gravity.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2008Publication date: March 18, 2010Inventors: Helmut Lippert, Radt Benno, Christoper Power, Christian Dietrich
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Publication number: 20100067105Abstract: A meniscus reducing member for use in a vessel for containing a liquid including a surface feature overlying at least a portion of an interior surface of the vessel. The surface feature includes at least two surfaces for contacting the liquid that cooperate to reduce a width of a meniscus formed at an interface between the liquid and the surface feature by physically altering a contact angle between the liquid and the surface feature.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2009Publication date: March 18, 2010Inventors: Oliver Egeler, Steven M. Woodside
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Patent number: 7678568Abstract: The invention provides an incubator 1 wherein stackers 3 having a plurality of microplate accommodating portions are arranged in a chamber 11, and a microplate transport device 5 is arranged for transporting a microplate 31 within the chamber 11 and moving the microplate 31 into or out of a desired microplate accommodating portion. A camera 7 is provided on a position opposed to a microplate accommodating portion of an uppermost stage in the stacker 3. The camera 7 faces said microplate accommodating portion, whereby a sample on the microplate 31 can be photographed.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2006Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiroshi Yamamoto, Yasuhiko Yokoi, Mikio Houjou, Daisuke Etou, Ayako Michida, Akihiko Yamada, Akira Sakaguchi, Masaki Harada, Hiroki Busujima, Yuichi Tamaoki
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Patent number: 7663101Abstract: A device, method and system for preparing and storing samples for microscopic analysis is disclosed. The device provides a reservoir that can be attached to a displacement pipette thereby filling the reservoir with reagents desired for preparing the samples for microscopic analysis. In some embodiments, the specimen may be contained on a transmission electron microscope (TEM) grid. In other embodiments, the sample may be a light microscope (LM) specimen or a scanning electron microscope (SEM) specimen. In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a method of preparing samples for microscopic examination including a device for preparing TEM grids with, a device for preparing TEM, SEM or LM specimens with and a device for storing both grids and specimens in. In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a system for tracking the preparation, analysis and histological evaluation of multiple samples while also providing for their long term storage.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2007Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Assignee: Microscopy InnovationsInventor: Steven L. Goodman
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Publication number: 20100002293Abstract: A cover for a substrate including: a body defining a cavity, for positioning over the substrate to form a reaction chamber; and a projection extending from the body to define a fluid reservoir, when the cover is fitted to the substrate, the fluid reservoir being in fluid communication with the cavity.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2009Publication date: January 7, 2010Applicant: Vision Biosystems LimitedInventors: Andrew MCLELLAN, George Goris, Chester Henderson, Jonathan McKinlay
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Patent number: 7628536Abstract: A microscope apparatus includes: a microscope unit; a chamber, arranged next to the microscope unit, that houses a specimen to be observed by the microscope unit; a humidifier, connected to the chamber, that humidifies the interior of the chamber; a chamber temperature sensor that measures a temperature within the chamber; a microscope temperature sensor that measures a temperature of the microscope unit; and a determination device that determines whether or not observation by microscope is possible based on outputs of the chamber temperature sensor and the microscope temperature sensor.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2008Date of Patent: December 8, 2009Assignee: Nikon CorporationInventor: Izumi Umemura
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Patent number: 7630129Abstract: An examination apparatus that has a simple structure and that is capable of determining the condition inside the apparatus and improving the ease of use of the apparatus when a specimen is changed is provided. The examination apparatus includes a stage on which a specimen is disposed; an optical system configured to form an enlarged or reduced image of the specimen; a cover configured to cover the stage and the optical system; an opening and closing member provided as part of the cover; a detection unit configured to detect whether the opening and closing member is in a closed state or an open state; and a stage driving unit configured to move the state. Only when the detection unit detects that the opening and closing member is open, the stage is moved by the stage driving unit to the outside of the cover through an opening covered by the opening and closing member.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2006Date of Patent: December 8, 2009Assignee: Olympus CorporationInventors: Hideyuki Kawanabe, Chika Nakajima
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Patent number: 7619829Abstract: An immersion objective lens includes a front lens, a lens frame which supports the front lens, and a liquid preventive frame which is attached around the lens frame. The liquid preventive frame includes a liquid bulb holding wall which holds a liquid supplied onto the front lens. A distal end of the liquid bulb holding wall is located more inner in the front lens in a direction parallel to a center axis of the front lens than a distal end face of the front lens.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2006Date of Patent: November 17, 2009Assignee: Olympus CorporationInventors: Kenya Okazaki, Mitsuo Harada
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Patent number: 7588890Abstract: The present invention provides a non-destructive macromolecules extraction (NDME) device for extracting high quantity of biological molecules (including, but not limited to, proteins, DNA, and/or RNA) from tissue specimens (including, but not limited to, fresh or fixed tissue sections, homogenized tissues, and cell cultures), while preserving the morphology and antigenicity of the tissue. The device contains a base, a slide cover, and a thermal control device. The tissue specimen is placed onto the base. The slide cover is mounted to the base to form a space where an extraction solution can be added. The device optionally contains a chamber cover over the slide cover. The chamber cover and the slide cover forms a reaction chamber where a steam is infused to maintain the humidity of the tissue. The extraction solution contains a detergent. The present invention also provides a method for extracting the same.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2005Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Inventor: Wei-Sing Chu
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Patent number: 7583436Abstract: A sample carrier (30) for microscopy, in particular for confocal microscopy, and a method for producing the sample carrier (30), are disclosed. The sample carrier (30) has a first coverslip (32) and a second coverslip (33). The second coverslip (33) carries an mirror (29) which is equipped in such a way that it surrounds a sample region (34). Also provided is a frame (35) that retains the first and the second coverslip (32 and 33). The coverslips located in the frame (35) form a cavity (38), that cavity (38) being filled with a medium which has approximately the same refractive index as the first and the second coverslip (32 and 33).Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2003Date of Patent: September 1, 2009Assignee: Leica Microsystems CMS GmbHInventor: Reiner Rygiel
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Patent number: 7554725Abstract: The invention relates to a microscope, in which a layer of the sample is illuminated by a thin strip of light (11) and the sample is viewed (5) perpendicular to the plane of the strip of light. The depth of the strip of light (11) thus essentially determines the depth of focus of the system. To record the image, the object (4) is displaced through the strip of light (11), which remains fixed in relation to the detector (8), and fluorescent and/or diffused light is captured by a planar detector. Objects (4) that absorb or diffuse a large amount of light are viewed from several spatial directions. The three-dimensional images, which are captured from each direction can be combined retrospectively to form one image, in which the data is weighted according to its resolution. The resolution of the combined image is then dominated by the lateral resolution of the individual images.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2003Date of Patent: June 30, 2009Assignee: Europaeisches Laboratorium fuer Molekularbiologie (EMBL)Inventors: Ernst H. K. Stelzer, Sebastian Enders, Jan Huisken, Steffen Lindek, James H. Swoger
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Publication number: 20090147355Abstract: A stage for supporting a specimen slide and for calibrating a microscope includes a base and a calibration component integral with the base. The calibration component includes at least one calibration element for positional calibration and at least one calibration element for optical calibration. Calibration of the microscope can be performed without the need for independent calibration slides. The calibration component may be a glass calibration component or may be defined by a calibration element formed or etched through the base.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2007Publication date: June 11, 2009Inventor: Robert Jennings
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Patent number: 7544953Abstract: A device, method and system for preparing and storing samples for microscopic analysis is disclosed. The device provides a reservoir that can be attached to a displacement pipette thereby filling the reservoir with reagents desired for preparing the samples for microscopic analysis. In some embodiments, the specimen may be contained on a transmission electron microscope (TEM) grid. In other embodiments, the sample may be a light microscope (LM) specimen or a scanning electron microscope (SEM) specimen. In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a method of preparing samples for microscopic examination including a device for preparing TEM grids with, a device for preparing TEM, SEM or LM specimens with and a device for storing both grids and specimens in. In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a system for tracking the preparation, analysis and histological evaluation of multiple samples while also providing for their long term storage.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2007Date of Patent: June 9, 2009Assignee: Microscopy Innovations, LLCInventor: Steven L. Goodman
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Patent number: 7537913Abstract: A high-throughput, anchorage-independent assay is described, which screens compounds for inhibition of cancer cell growth. The assay utilizes a three-dimensional matrix or semi-solid media transfected with the subject compound, and enables live colony growth determination and imaging.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2006Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: Falcon Genomics, Inc.Inventor: Rula Abbud-Antaki
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Patent number: 7495827Abstract: A test tube (72, 72?) defines a test tube axis (75) and contains or supports an associated sample in an annular sampling region (12). At least two alignment bearings (80, 81, 81?, 82, 83, 110, 140, 142, 181, 182, 183, 184, 211, 212) engage the test tube at opposite sides of the annular sampling region along the test tube axis. At least one bias bearing (86, 86?, 87, 140, 142, 204) is radially spaced apart from the at least two alignment bearings and presses the test tube against the at least two alignment bearings to align a portion of the annular sampling region respective to the at least two alignment bearings. A motor (112) engages the test tube to selectively rotate the test tube.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2006Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Assignee: Battelle Memorial InstituteInventors: Steve Grimes, Thomas D. Haubert, Eric R. Navin
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Publication number: 20090015913Abstract: A fixed focus microscope objective lens designed for high magnification viewing of homogenous specimens. The fixed focus microscope objective comprises a last surface 16 which serves as a specimen mount and enables the device to operate in focus without the need for focus adjustors in the microscope system. The user can observe specimens by simply placing a sample of the specimen on the fixed focus objective lens surface 16. There is no need for preparing a microscope slide, focusing, or positioning the specimen. By eliminating focus and stage adjustors the microscope becomes both simpler to operate and less expensive to manufacture. A fixed focus microscope objective lens can be used by novice microscopists to obtain high quality images at high magnification for nominal cost, and can convert a common video camera into a high quality video microscope.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2008Publication date: January 15, 2009Inventors: NICHOLAS E BRATT, CHACE H FADLOVICH, DAVID W RUSH
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Patent number: 7471444Abstract: An Interferometric Modulator (IMod) is a microelectromechanical device for modulating light using interference. The colors of these devices may be determined in a spatial fashion, and their inherent color shift may be compensated for using several optical compensation mechanisms. Brightness, addressing, and driving of IMods may be accomplished in a variety of ways with appropriate packaging, and peripheral electronics which can be attached and/or fabricated using one of many techniques. The devices may be used in both embedded and directly perceived applications, the latter providing multiple viewing modes as well as a multitude of product concepts ranging in size from microscopic to architectural in scope.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2005Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: IDC, LLCInventor: Mark W. Miles
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Publication number: 20080252967Abstract: An image can be prevented from becoming unclear over time during long-term observation. The invention provides a microscope apparatus including a specimen container for containing a specimen; an objective lens disposed opposite the specimen container for collecting light from the specimen in the specimen container; an immersion-liquid supplying unit for supplying immersion liquid to a space between the objective lens and the specimen container; and an immersion-liquid removing unit for removing the immersion liquid from the space between the objective lens and the specimen container. The immersion-liquid removing unit includes a nozzle for ejecting compressed air to the space between the objective lens and the specimen container.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2008Publication date: October 16, 2008Applicant: Olympus CorporationInventors: Masaharu Tomioka, Akinori Araya, Toshiyuki Hattori, Yasunari Matsukawa, Tatsuo Nakata