Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for analyzing particles in a solution including a unit configured to place a flow cell having a flow path for flowing a sample solution containing the particles; a unit configured to illuminate the sample solution flowing through the flow path of the flow cell; a photodetector that detects a scattered light and/or fluorescence generated from the particles in the sample solution; and a unit configured to analyze the particles based on their signal intensities detected by the photodetector, wherein the flow cell has the flow path formed in a substrate, a reflection plane is formed on the side surface of the flow path, the reflection plane leads the lights generated in the flow path of the flow cell and advancing in the substrate in-plane direction to a specified region of the surface of the flow cell, and the photodetector detects the light exiting from the specified region to the outside.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus and methodology to carry out biochemical testing on a centrifugal platform using flow splitting technique. In conventional biochemical testing, reagents need to be loaded individually into each reservoir. By using the flow splitting technique in this invention, one reagent only need to be loaded once, then, it can be evenly distributed into each reaction chambers in single or multiple layers format. The invention greatly reduces the required manpower when large numbers of assays are integrated on one platform. Because of the invention, many medical examinations can be performed efficiently, thus reduce the waste of manpower, time and cost.

Abstract: An attachment unit for attachment of a reaction container including a channel filled with a reaction solution and a liquid having a specific gravity different from that of the reaction solution and being immiscible with the reaction solution, the reaction solution moving close to opposed inner walls, a first heating unit that heats a first region of the channel and a second heating unit that heats a second region of the channel when the reaction container is attached to the attachment unit, a drive mechanism that switches arrangement of the attachment unit, the first heating unit, and the second heating unit between a first arrangement and a second arrangement in which a lowermost position of the channel is located within a first region and a second region, respectively, and a control unit that controls the drive mechanism, the first heating unit, and the second heating unit are provided.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting harmful substances within a consumable sample comprising: receiving a consumable sample at a first chamber of a test container; transforming the consumable sample into a homogenized sample upon processing of the consumable sample; delivering the homogenized sample to a second chamber of the test container, wherein the second chamber is configured to receive the homogenized sample comprises an outlet port; mixing the homogenized sample with a process reagent within the second chamber, thereby producing a dispersion; transmitting a volume of the dispersion to an analysis chamber, of the test container, configured to position a detection substrate proximal the port of the second chamber and comprising a detection window that enables detection of presence of the allergen; and detecting presence of the allergen within the consumable sample by way of an optical sensor configured to detect signals indicative of the allergen through the detection window.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a biochip with a piezoelectric element for ultrasonic standing wave generation. The biochip comprises an upper module, a lower module, and a chemical sensor. The piezoelectric element is integrated within the upper module of the biochip. The piezoelectric element can generate ultrasonic standing waves (USW) in the reaction chamber of the biochip by manipulating the operation frequency so the particles being detected can effectively move toward the QCM sensing surface. Hence, the biochip significantly increases the sensitivity and reduces the time required to reach equilibrium when undergoing USW excitation. The biochip of the present invention can be broadly applied to the bio-detection in medical and pharmaceutical fields.

Abstract: The present invention relates to microfluidic devices and methods for manipulating and analyzing fluid samples. The disclosed microfluidic devices utilize a plurality of microfluidic channels, inlets, valves, filter, pumps, liquid barriers and other elements arranged in various configurations to manipulate the flow of a fluid sample in order to prepare such sample for analysis.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fast flow device, for detecting an analyte in a sample, comprising a grooved sample pad for collecting the sample, a test strip coupled to the sample pad, and a housing enclosing and allowing visualization of the test strip. The sample pad can include markings for determining the amount of sample collected. The device can also preferably include a vented flexible collar connecting the housing to a run fluid container, which vented flexible collar fits over the sample pad and forms an air-tight seal between the housing and the run fluid container. The device achieves fast flow because the venting equalizes internal pressure of the housing and run fluid container and because of the grooving on the sample pad. Further, the device can include a second sample pad/test strip combination for detection of a second analyte. Also disclosed are methods for detecting an analyte in a sample using the device.

Abstract: A biosensor is provided including a detection device and a flow cell mounted to the detection device. The detection device has a detector surface with a plurality of reaction sites. The detection device also includes a filter layer that is configured to at least one of (a) filter unwanted excitation light signals; (b) direct emission signals from a designated reaction site toward one or more associated light detectors that are configured to detect the emission signals from the designated reaction site; or (c) block or prevent detection of crosstalk emission signals from adjacent reaction sites.

Abstract: A method for assessing a corrosion inhibitor in a coolant, comprises providing a test kit comprising a first chamber containing an acid buffer and a solvent immiscible therein and a second chamber containing an indicator, the second chamber being in fluid communication with the first chamber and being configured such that retraction of the second chamber draws fluid into the first chamber and advancement forces fluid into the second chamber; drawing a coolant sample into the first chamber; contacting the coolant sample with the acid buffer and solvent in the first chamber and extracting the corrosion inhibitor into the solvent; allowing the solvent and buffer to separate in the first chamber; forcing a portion of the separated solvent into the second chamber; contacting the separated solvent with the indicator in the second chamber, and obtaining a visual indication of the presence of corrosion inhibitor in the coolant sample.

Abstract: The invention related to a method of making a dried reagent preparation, comprising the steps of: providing an aqueous solution of at least one buffered biological reagent; mixing a glass forming filler material with the buffered reagent solution to form a mixture wherein the concentration of the filler material is sufficient to facilitate formation of a glassy, porous composition; dispensing the mixture in the form of substantially uniform droplets into wells of a multi-well container, wherein a single droplet is dispensed into each well; drying the droplets in the container to form the reagent preparation. The reagent preparation is water soluble and has a Tg sufficient for room temperature stability.

Abstract: The invention discloses a blood analyzing device (100) comprising a holder (110) arranged for carrying a container (10) having a cuvette (20) containing a blood sample (30). The container (10) is positioned in the holder (110) so that a longitudinal axis (60) of the cuvette (20) is angled relative a horizontal axis (70). A light source (120) provides light (40) into the sample (30) and a detector (130) detects the output light (50) from a sub-portion of the blood sample (30). Kinetic information indicative of the change in hemoglobin concentration in a measuring volume (32, 34) is determined by a Hb processor (145) from the detected output light (50). An ESR processor (140) determines the erythrocyte sedimentation rate of the sample (30) based on the kinetic information.

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: Devices and system for preparing samples are described. Such devices can comprise fluidic chambers, reservoirs, and movable structures for controlling the movement of samples. The device can also comprise functional elements for performing specific operations.

Abstract: The present invention includes but is not limited to a specimen collection device that includes a chamber capable of collecting a specimen, a specimen passage slot, a reservoir, a reservoir seal, and a test device. A sample or specimen added to the chamber flows through the specimen passage slot into the reservoir. Flow into the reservoir may be limited by the reservoir seal. The test device positioned within the reservoir detects the presence or concentration of an analyte within the sample or specimen.

Abstract: Systems and methods for processing and analyzing samples are disclosed. The system may process samples, such as biological fluids, using assay cartridges which can be processed at different processing locations. In some cases, the system can be used for PCR processing. The different processing locations may include a preparation location where samples can be prepared and an analysis location where samples can be analyzed. To assist with the preparation of samples, the system may also include a number of processing stations which may include processing lanes. During the analysis of samples, in some cases, thermal cycler modules and an appropriate optical detection system can be used to detect the presence or absence of certain nucleic acid sequences in the samples. The system can be used to accurately and rapidly process samples.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved diagnostic test strip system comprising one or more of the following safety features: (a) a test strip housing having a sample port of sufficient size to allow placement of a patient's finger or thumb therein, (b) a cover for the test strip housing, and (c) a lock to lock the test strip housing to the cover.

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods and devices for reducing interference from heterophile antibodies in an analyte immunoassay. In one embodiment, the invention is to a method comprising the steps of (a) amending a biological sample such as a whole blood sample with non-human IgM or fragments thereof by dissolving into said sample a dry reagent to yield a non-human IgM concentration of at least about 20 ?g/mL or equivalent fragment concentration; and (b) performing an electrochemical immunoassay on the amended sample to determine the concentration of said analyte in said sample. Preferably, the sample is amended with IgG or fragments thereof in addition to the IgM of fragments thereof.

Abstract: Non-limiting exemplary embodiment(s) of apparatus(es) and method(s) are described for the conveyance of fluid media and entrained materials between two or more locations, each possessing a different cross-sectional area. Equidistant pathways incorporated into uniquely designed conduits enable this transference to occur with minimal band spreading and separation resolution loss due to undesirable flow patterns that arise from end effects. The design enables the conduits to be employed with locations of almost any description including process channels, surfaces, or even open volume of any size and used for almost any purpose. The conduits and/or associated locations may be empty of any contents or filled with gelatinous, porous, granular, or particulated material. The design of non-limiting exemplary embodiment(s) of apparatus(es) and method(s) may be easily adapted or configured as necessary.

Abstract: An in vitro sensor for point-of-care detection of at least one analyte or reaction product includes an inert, impermeable substrate, a sensing system, and a reference system. The substrate includes a first transparent surface oppositely disposed from a second surface and first and second cavities. Each of the first and second cavities defines an opening at the second surface. The sensing system is disposed in at least a portion of the first cavity and includes an analyte-detection optode membrane, an analyte-permeable membrane, and a plurality of non-transparent microbeads associated with at least one of the analyte-detection optode membrane and the analyte-permeable membrane. The analyte-permeable membrane is layered upon the analyte-detection optode membrane and covers the opening of the first cavity. The reference system is disposed in at least a portion of the second cavity.

Abstract: Multiplexed microarrays, multiplexed microarray cassettes, and methods for fabricating multiplexed microarrays are disclosed. In some embodiments, the multiplexed microarrays include a substrate, a chamber layer, and at least one channel layer. The topmost channel layer forms a port layer and may be compressible. The multiplexed microarrays may also include a compressible or non-compressible cover or sealing film. The multiplexed microarray cassette includes a base and may also include a cover. The base of the multiplexed microarray cassette includes a plurality of tracks to receive corresponding multiplexed microarrays.

Abstract: A microvalve assembly (10) includes an elongate valve body (14) having opposed first and second major surfaces, the first major surface defining a valve recess (34) and the second major surface defining first and second fluid ports (20,22). Both the fluid input port and the fluid output port extend in fluid communication with the valve recess. A gasket (12) is freely positioned within the valve recess so as to extend in overlying registry with either or both of fluid ports. A valve cover (16) is bonded to the valve body and includes a first planar surface positioned in overlying registry with the valve recess so as to enclose the gasket therein. The valve cover is deflectable into the valve recess so as to cause the gasket to seal at least one of the fluid ports.

Abstract: In a detection method for detecting the quantity of a target material, a labeled binding material in the amount corresponding to the quantity of the target material contained in a liquid specimen is bonded to the top of a sensor portion; and a signal based on light emitted from a label in an evanescent field or an enhanced optical field produced on a surface of the sensor portion when the sensor portion is irradiated with excitation light is detected. After the labeled binding material is bonded to the immobilization layer, the signal is detected while the fluid over the sensor portion is controlled to flow at a constant flow rate at which bonds between the labeled binding material and the immobilization layer are not broken and the above signal can be detected with a greater magnitude than when the liquid specimen exists over the sensor portion at rest.

Abstract: A device, particularly a microfluidic system, is proposed, in which two cavities are arranged spatially close to one another and are sealed off from one another by a common cover. A fluidic connection can be produced between the cavities by movement of a pin-shaped body towards the cover. In this way it is possible to release a reagent in controlled manner without having to put it under pressure.

Abstract: A cartridge for conducting a chemical reaction includes a body having at least one flow path formed therein. The cartridge also includes a reaction vessel extending from the body for holding a reaction mixture for chemical reaction and optical detection. The vessel comprises a rigid frame defining the side walls of a reaction chamber. The frame includes at least one channel connecting the flow path to the chamber. The vessel also includes flexible films or sheets attached to opposite sides of the rigid frame to form opposing major walls of the chamber. In addition, at least two of the side walls are optically transmissive and angularly offset from each to permit real-time optical detection of analyte in the reaction chamber.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for assaying a sample to quantitatively determine the percentage of glycated hemoglobin in the sample.

Abstract: The present teachings provide a device including a memory. According to various embodiments, the memory is readable, writable, and rewritable. The present teachings further provide processing stations, e.g., for carrying out electrophoresis, per, genetic analysis, sample preparation, and/or sample cleanup, etc., that are capable of reading from and/or writing/rewriting to such memory.

Abstract: The present invention relates to microfluidic devices and methods for manipulating and analyzing fluid samples. The disclosed microfluidic devices utilize a plurality of microfluidic channels, inlets, valves, filter, pumps, liquid barriers and other elements arranged in various configurations to manipulate the flow of a fluid sample in order to prepare such sample for analysis.

Abstract: A protective cap 2 is engaged with a latch 10 of a diluent container 5 so as to fix the diluent container 5 at a liquid holding position of a diluent container containing section 11. The engagement is released when the protective cap 2 is set to an open position against the engagement so as to expose an inlet 13. When the protective cap 2 is shifted from the open position to a closed position, the protective cap 2 pushes the diluent container 5 into a liquid discharge position. Thus, it is possible to preserve a diluent for a long period of time and to easily open the diluent container 5 without having to complicate the structure of an analysis apparatus.

Abstract: A portable detection system for allergic diseases includes a filtration-based inspection module and a reader module. The filtration-based inspection module includes an FPW sensor and a liquid sample filtration apparatus, wherein the liquid sample filtration apparatus includes an injection opening, a passage module, a filtering membrane and a gathering aperture. The injection opening is in communication with the gathering aperture. The FPW sensor comprises a frame body, a carrier and a sensing chip having an accommodating slot in communication with the gathering aperture. The carrier comprises a plurality of conductive terminals, and the conductive terminals are electrically connected with the sensing chip. The reader module comprises a connection slot capable of being inserted by the conductive terminals of the carrier.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for packaging of an optical sensing fiber is disclosed. The apparatus includes a substrate with a plurality of openings, and each opening is configured for holding an optical sensing assembly. The assembly is positioned in the opening with a tip of the assembly extending through the opening to be suspended from the substrate. In addition, openings are arranged so the assembly positioned therein avoids contacting another assembly positioned therein. The apparatus can include a support member for supporting the substrate and positioning the substrate so the tip of the assembly suspended from the opening in the substrate contacts solution in one of a plurality of wells in a container adjacent to the substrate. The assembly can be configured for preparing of the optical assembly for assay. An agitation assembly for agitating the container to create flow of the solution in the container wells over an optical sensing assembly is also disclosed.

Abstract: Assay modules, preferably assay cartridges, are described as are reader apparatuses which may be used to control aspects of module operation. The modules preferably comprise a detection chamber with integrated electrodes that may be used for carrying out electrode induced luminescence measurements. Methods are described for immobilizing assay reagents in a controlled fashion on these electrodes and other surfaces. Assay modules and cartridges are also described that have a detection chamber, preferably having integrated electrodes, and other fluidic components which may include sample chambers, waste chambers, conduits, vents, bubble traps, reagent chambers, dry reagent pill zones and the like. In certain preferred embodiments, these modules are adapted to receive and analyze a sample collected on an applicator stick.

Abstract: A droplet actuator comprising: (a) a base substrate comprising electrodes configured for conducting droplet operations on a droplet operations surface thereof; (b) a droplet comprising one or more beads situated on the droplet operations surface; (c) a barrier arranged in relation to the droplet and the electrodes such that a droplet may be transported away from the beads using one or more droplet operations mediated by one or more of the electrodes while transport of the beads is restrained by a barrier. Related methods and kits are also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a test element for detecting at least one analyte in a sample, in particular for detecting at least one metabolite in a bodily fluid. The test element comprises at least one test field with a test field surface. The test field comprises at least one detection reagent that is adapted to undergo a detectable reaction in the presence of the analyte. The test element further comprises at least one distribution element that has at least one distribution surface facing the test field surface. Between the distribution surface and the test field surface is at least one capillary gap, wherein the capillary gap is adapted to allow a layer of the sample with a layer thickness of no more than 50 ?m to form within the capillary gap.

Abstract: In some aspects, an analyte sensor is provided for detecting an analyte concentration level in a bio-fluid sample. The analyte sensor has a base with first and second ends, a concave recess in the first end, a second end receiving surface, and a sidewall extending between the ends. An electrode may be provided on the receiving surface with an electrochemically-active region coupled to the electrode. A conductor in electrical contact with the electrode may extend along the sidewall and may be adapted to be in electrical contact with a first contact of an analyte meter. Manufacturing methods and systems utilizing and dispensing the analyte sensors are provided, as are numerous other aspects.

Abstract: A use composition monitor determines the concentration of peracid and/or peroxide in a use composition using a kinetic assay procedure. A sample mixture containing a sample of the use composition, a diluent and at least one reagent is prepared and analyzed using, for example, an optical detector. A reduced-turbulence optical detector can be used to improve collected response data. A reduced-turbulence optical detector can include a cell body disposed about a length of transparent tubing. The cell body positions one or more emitter/receiver pairs about the transparent tubing. Thus, tube junctions are eliminated and sample flow within the tube is substantially turbulence free.

Abstract: The present invention relates to microfluidic devices and methods for manipulating and analyzing fluid samples. The disclosed microfluidic devices utilize a plurality of microfluidic channels, inlets, valves, filter, pumps, liquid barriers and other elements arranged in various configurations to manipulate the flow of a fluid sample in order to prepare such sample for analysis.

Abstract: Analytical cartridges, systems and methods of processing a sample for analysis using capillary flows. Vertical gradient sample filtration provides filtrate to an incubation chamber for a time controlled by a flow modulator at the outlet of the incubation chamber. The flow modulator can include a serpentine capillary flow path without side walls. Incubated filtrate can flow from the incubation chamber to a detection channel after a predetermined time. The detection chamber can include one or more analytical regions in a porous substrate for detection of two or more analytes on the same cartridge from the same sample.

Abstract: This passive one-way valve is used in a connection portion between first and second flow channels, and includes: an inlet portion into which a fluid from the first flow channel flows; an elastic portion for blocking the inlet portion; a rigid portion for supporting the elastic portion from a side opposite to the inlet portion across the elastic portion; a gap portion formed around the rigid portion; and an outlet portion which is in communication with the gap portion for letting the fluid flow out into the second flow channel. Furthermore, the inlet portion is hermetically sealed by the elastic portion being pressed against the inlet portion side by the rigid portion. According to this passive one-way valve, it is possible to provide a simple and inexpensive passive one-way valve without requiring special equipment such as a vacuum pump and pressurized air, and to provide a microfluidic device using the same.

Abstract: A fluid specimen testing device having a removable lid which carries at least one testing strip behind a transparent top viewing window. Testing is initiated by tilting the device into a stable sideways orientation to allow the specimen to contact the sampling pad portion of the strip. The device is adapted to provide stability in the upright, tilted and inverted orientations. A roll-inhibiting feature also acts as an indicator for proper roll positioning in the tilted configuration. The strips are also oriented in the lid so that they are substantially vertical when the device is in the tilted position thereby enhancing a condition for proper capillarity. The strip is carried close to the upper surface which allows it to be copied on a flat glass copier providing for more objective recordation of the test results.

Abstract: A medical device, such as a vascular access device, is disclosed for providing access to a medical fluid flow path for the introduction or withdrawal of medical fluids to and from the flow path. The access device includes an indicator for providing a visual indication when the access device has been exposed to an antiseptic agent. The indicator includes a substrate and a microporous layer disposed on the substrate. The microporous layer is made from a polymer material having an index of refraction from about 1.25 to about 1.6 and is configured to change from a substantially opaque state to a substantially transparent state upon exposure to an antiseptic solution. The microporous layer resumes the substantially opaque state after a period of time.

Abstract: Solid matter in a cavity is used to produce a solution of at least one solid matter in a solvent. The solid matter which is soluble in the solvent in initially covered and/or surrounded in the cavity by a medium which is insoluble in a solvent, such that dissolving of the solid matter is prevented. Subsequently the solvent is guided to the cavity and the medium which is insoluble in the solvent is treated in such a manner that contact is made between the solvent and the soluble solid matter, enabling the solid matter to dissolve in the solvent. Solutions including two or more solid matter can be produced in an advantageous manner.

Abstract: The present invention is to present a reagent preparing apparatus for preparing a reagent for processing a sample, by using a first liquid and a second liquid, comprising: a storage unit for storing liquid; and a constant amount liquid quantifying unit comprising a constant amount holding instrument which is used in common to hold a constant amount of the first liquid and to hold a constant amount of the second liquid, the constant amount liquid quantifying unit performing an operation of transferring the constant amount of the first liquid to the storage unit and performing an operation of transferring the constant amount of the second liquid to the storing unit.

Abstract: The present invention is intended to, in a configuration in which a liquid container for analysis sealed by a sealing member is penetrated by a penetrating member, prevent the sealing member from being unexpectedly broken to leak a liquid for analysis. Also, the present invention has: a container holder part that holds a liquid container for analysis; a penetrating member that penetrates a sealing member of the liquid container for analysis; a first moving mechanism that enables the penetrating member to be moved between a hole making position and a receding position; and a second moving mechanism that enables the penetrating member moved to the hole making position by the first moving mechanism to be moved toward the sealing member to a penetrating position where the penetrating member penetrates the sealing member.

Abstract: Methods and devices for reducing interference from leukocytes in an analyte immunoassay are provided. In one embodiment, a method is provided comprising the steps of amending a biological sample with magnetic sacrificial beads opsonized to leukocytes, binding leukocytes in the sample to the magnetic sacrificial beads, and magnetically retaining the beads out of contact from an immunosensor.

Abstract: A device and method for extending the useful life of a bulk liquid used in an automated clinical analyzer. Air from the atmosphere surrounding the automated clinical analyzer that displaces the bulk liquid consumed from a container is routed through a gas scrubber in order to remove or at least reduce the quantity of at least one contaminant present in that air. The gas scrubber is positioned between the bulk liquid in the container and the atmosphere surrounding the container. The gas scrubber contains a reagent that is capable of reacting with a contaminant in the atmosphere, whereby a required characteristic(s) of the bulk liquid does (do) not change excessively prior to the date that the bulk liquid is consumed. For example, if the contaminant is carbon dioxide, and the required characteristic of the bulk liquid is the level of pH of the bulk liquid, the reagent in the gas scrubber prevents the level of pH of the bulk liquid from changing excessively prior to the date that the bulk liquid is consumed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for single cell trap and position fixing of the trapped cell thereof, and specifically, it induces cell movement from where fluid flows strongly to where the fluid flows weakly, by injecting pressed air to an air channel to modify a thin film of a vibrator, and therefore to induce the fluid flow. Further, the present invention relates to an apparatus which can fix the cell position as well as minimizing the external stimulation to the cells, wherein single cells are trapped in a region wherein the fluid flows are minimized and their positions are fixed using the effect that the fluid flows induced by the vibrators are offset one another because the vibrators are formed symmetrically one another.

Abstract: A filtering apparatus for filtering a fluid includes a filter element for filtering the fluid and an adhesive capillary structure for generating capillary forces. The adhesive capillary structure is attached to the filter element by using an adhesive property of the adhesive capillary structure. The adhesive capillary structure is preferentially made of a double-sided tape, which is adhesive on two sides. The filtering apparatus further includes a filtering location where the filter element is located, and a detection location where a property of the fluid is detectable. The capillary structure is formed such that the filtered fluid is guided from the filtering location to the detection location.

Abstract: A microfluidic device having a flow channel comprising a hydrophobic membrane to improve control of flow and control of processing conditions in the flow channel, and to improve the removal of gas bubbles from the flow channel of the microfluidic device. In addition, the invention enables the process controls of the microfluidic device to know when gas bubbles have been removed, so that the next step in the process can be carried out.

Abstract: Provided are microfluidic designs and methods for rapid generation of monodisperse nanoliter volume droplets of reagent/target (e.g., molecule or cell) mix in emulsion oil. The designs and methods enable high-throughput encapsulation of a single target (e.g., DNA/RNA molecules or cells) in controlled size droplets of reagent mix. According to various embodiments, a microfabricated, 3-valve pump is used to precisely meter the volume of reagent/target mix in each droplet and also to effectively route microparticles such as beads and cells into the device, which are encapsulated within droplets at the intersection of the reagent channel and an oil channel. The pulsatile flow profile of the microfabricated pumps provides active control over droplet generation, thereby enabling droplet formation with oils that are compatible with biological reactions but are otherwise difficult to form emulsions with.

Abstract: Methods and devices for thermal processing of multiple samples at the same time are disclosed. The sample processing devices provide process arrays that include conduits useful in distributing sample materials to a group of process chambers located in fluid communication with the main conduits. The sample processing devices may include one or more of the following features in various combinations: deformable seals, process chambers connected to the main conduit by feeder conduits exiting the main conduit at offset locations, U-shaped loading chambers, and a combination of melt bonded and adhesively bonded areas.