Abstract: A manure mixture within an anaerobic digestion tank stratifies to form a liquid effluent layer and a sludge layer. Liquid effluent from the liquid effluent layer is withdrawn from the tank through a height adjustable valve. The height adjustable valve is adapted to automatically adjust the position of its intake end within the liquid effluent layer in response to the level of the sludge layer detected by a sludge meter located within the tank. Liquid effluent withdrawn from the tank is passed through a heat exchange system including at least one heat exchanger. Heat from the heat exchanger is transferred to the liquid effluent to produce heated liquid effluent. The heated liquid effluent is reintroduced back into the digestion tank such that the temperature of the manure mixture within the tank is maintained within a suitable temperature range for anaerobic digestion of the manure mixture.

Abstract: Device for sample processing, particularly sample conditioning as well as for the preparation and/or optionally for implementing a sequential process for an analyte from a biological sample, said device comprising a module for receiving and/or outputting at least one sample vessel or process vessel, a module for transporting a process vessel, a module for sample conditioning and a module for initiating a sequential process for an analyte. The modules are divided into at least two units that each possesses a control system, and which are connected through a first data bus.

Abstract: An optical reader system and method are described herein that can detect a lateral and/or angular misalignment of one or more biosensors so that the biosensors can be properly re-located after being removed from and then reinserted into the optical reader system. In one embodiment, the biosensors are incorporated within the wells of a microplate.

Abstract: A system and methods for enhancing mass production of algae, diatoms or other photosynthetic organism is described. The system and methods are useful in applications such as energy production, fuels, foods, pharmaceuticals, plastics, and CO2 fixation. The system and methods involve the use of a submersed rotating pole(s) on which lights are branched out at strategic intervals in order to appropriately increase contact between photosynthetic water-based organisms and light. Rotation can timed so as to disperse light and/or nutrients when the organism is in a receiving mode. A process flow system is also described which can be scaled for the mass production of photosynthetic based organism. This process system makes use of centralized automatable controls and linear or parallel growth tanks. The system can be used for continuous or batch methods of production of bio-mass whose values such as lipids or carbohydrate can be extracted for the production of fuels or other byproducts.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic treatment system of a leftover food treating device comprising a setting means for receiving an output voltage of a voltage supplying means and setting control signals of the leftover food treating device; a controlling means for receiving input data through the setting means and controlling the operational state of the leftover food treating device; a sensing means for inputting measured data to the controlling means; a driving means for receiving the output signals of the controlling means; a displaying means for displaying the operational states of the setting means, the sensing means, the driving means, and the controlling means; and an alarming means for displaying an alarm setting value through the displaying means and outputting a predetermined alarm sound, in the case of the alarm setting value of a program preset to the controlling means.

Abstract: Disclosed are an apparatus and a method for remotely monitoring and controlling various processes in an incubation/reaction system. Remote control is accomplished via computer network protocol. In a disclosed preferred embodiment, remote observation and control is accomplished via a “web server” program running on a computer attached to or embedded within the body of the system, interfacing with temperature monitoring and control means, digital video camera photomicroscope means, atmospheric monitoring and control means, and other devices for monitoring or affecting contents of the system. The web server sends data to and receives data from any computer running a “web browser” program. Bi-directional communication is possible over secured and unsecured channels and can penetrate firewall software to allow real-time communication between a user and a chamber when each is behind a different firewall.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide bio-reactor circuits for in vitro research applications. One embodiment provides a bio-reactor circuit comprising at least one bio-reactor and a pump fluidically coupled to the at-least-one bio-reactor. The bio-reactor comprises a housing having inlet and outlet ports and first and second chambers. The chambers are separated by a porous membrane with the first chamber providing a flow path for a fluid. The membrane includes a coating having a cell binding affinity for the attachment and proliferation of cells to cover the surface of the membrane. The second chamber provides a volume for maintaining the viability of cells disposed in the chamber. The cells can be selected to produce a biochemical compound. The membrane is configured to allow for diffusion of the compound from the second chamber into the flow path as well as allow for diffusion of gases, nutrients and other biochemical compounds.

Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus for providing heating and cooling of samples in sample vessels having uniform temperature profiles. The apparatus can be used for performing PCR, and real time PCR in particular, with control and uniformity. The system employs a heat block containing a liquid composition to efficiently transfer heat to and from reaction vessels.

Abstract: The invention concerns a micro-muscle designed to be immersed in a biological liquid, comprising a deformable chamber whereof one portion at least consists of a semipermeable membrane, said chamber containing a solution capable of osmotic activity. The solution is preferably activated by a product to be injected into the biological liquid.

Abstract: A thermal cycling instrument for PCR and other reactions performed on multiple samples with temperature changes between sequential stages in the reaction procedure is supplied with a thermal block to provide rapid changes and close control over the temperature in each sample vessel and a pressure plate incorporated into a motorized lid that detects anomalies in the reaction vessels or in their positioning over the thermal block, and automatically adjusts the plate position to achieve an even force distribution over the sample vessels.

Abstract: The micro refinery first detects the weight of the sugar added to the fermentation tank and then calculates the water needed for fermentation. The feed stock is then inserted into the fermentation tank and the system adds the corresponding volume of water. The control system monitors the weight of the batch and maintains the temperature within a fermentation temperature range so the batch is converted into ethanol. In another mode of operation, discarded alcoholic beverages can be placed in the fermentation tank and processed by the micro refinery to extract the ethanol. The fermented liquid is heated and the ethanol vapors travel through a distillation tube to a membrane separation unit that separates water from the ethanol. The distillation tube has an alignment system that orients the distillation tube vertically automatically. The ethanol from the membrane separation unit is then stored in a storage container prior to use in a vehicle.

Abstract: A device for rapid concentration and detection of live cells in fluids includes a filter to capture a cell sample. The filter includes a first physical barrier with apertures of a first size and a second physical barrier with apertures of a second size smaller than the first size to isolate the cell sample on the filter. Growth detection circuitry associated with the filter electrically measures a cell growth rate associated with the cell sample in less than 2 days. The growth detection circuitry includes a mechanical filter for concentration of cells. The filter and growth detection circuitry are integrally formed within the device, which is sealed.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting a pathogen in a sample is provided, the system capable of measuring the volume of a sample in a container through the use of various measurement technologies, thereby ensuring that a user is aware of volumes not meeting specification and/or allowing correction of results to account for the out-of-specification sample.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a reactor, including, a plurality of reaction regions, a plurality of heating elements, each arranged in each of the reaction regions, and cooling elements that cool other regions than reaction regions which are heated by the heating elements, wherein the heating element including a heater and a temperature detecting element and having a detection section configured to detect temperature from the temperature detecting element and a temperature control section configured to control the heater's temperature according to the detected temperature information.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a reactor including, a plurality of reaction regions, and a plurality of heaters, each arranged in each of the reaction regions, wherein the heater including a semiconductor heat generating element and a semiconductor temperature detecting element and being capable of independent temperature control, and the temperature detecting element having a heat conduction region of metal thin film in its surrounding region.

Abstract: A method of supporting a diagnosis of a risk of cancer recurrence is disclosed. The method provides a new determining value a recurrence risk score (RRS) which is calculated based on expression levels and activity values of two cyclin dependent kinases (CDKs). The risk of cancer recurrence is judged by comparing the RRS with a predetermined threshold level for RRS.

Abstract: A time varying electromagnetic force sleeve wherein the time varying electromagnetic force sleeve comprises a time varying electromagnetic force source operatively connected to an electrically conductive coil that can removably receive a culture container. The present invention also relates to a method for cell expansion comprising providing a time varying electromagnetic force sleeve that is introduced to a culture container and that in use delivers a time varying electromagnetic force to cells contained within the culture container for cell expansion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and processes for controlling fermentation. Two proportional feedback control loops are implemented in a cascade. One control loop is used to maintain the pH by adjusting the dissolved oxygen-stat setpoint. The other control loop is used to maintain the dissolved oxygen by regulating the nutrient feed rate using the newly adjusted dissolved oxygen-set point.

Abstract: A method of analysing a sample includes providing a first part of the sample and a second part of the sample. A first analysis is conducted on the first part of the sample and the results of the first analysis are considered. A second analysis is conducted on the second part of the sample, the second analysis being conducted according to a procedure using a value for each of one or more characteristics of the procedure. The consideration of the results of the first analysis is used to determine whether the value for one or more of the characteristics of the procedure is changed to a different value. The second analysis is started before the results of the first analysis are obtained.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a temperature control device, and has an object to accurately control temperatures of microorganisms or cells when for example applied to culture and so on of the microorganisms or cells, for example. The temperature control device includes a plurality of cell parts (2) holding microorganisms or cells, a heater (1), and a cooling unit (7). The heater (1) is provided around the cell parts (2) to heat the cell parts (2). The cooling unit (7) includes a cooling fan (71), a cooling fin (72), an aluminum conduction block (73), a Peltier element (74), a radiating fin (75), and a radiating fan (76). Air (701) is supplied to the cooling fin (72) via the cooling fan (71). The air (701) is cooled in the cooling fin (72) because heat is moved from the air (701) to the cooling (72). Air (702) having been cooled is sent to the cell parts (2) to cool the cell parts (2). Temperatures inside the cell parts are controlled by controlling operations of the heater (1) and the cooling unit (7).

Abstract: A device and method for automating the handling and testing of microbiological specimens are provided. A portable specimen collection vehicle (SCV) is provided which comprises a protective housing, a specimen chamber for receiving a biospecimen sample, a plurality of culturing chambers each for receiving a portion of the biospecimen sample and each containing a different culture medium, a system of fluid ducts connecting the specimen chamber to each of the culturing chambers, and an actuator that facilitates flow of portions of the biospecimen sample from the specimen chamber through the system of fluid ducts and into each of the culturing chambers, wherein biological organisms in the biospecimen begin to grow in one or more of the culturing chambers and cultured portions of the biospecimen sample can be withdrawn selectively from the apparatus.

Abstract: An optical image-driven light induced dielectrophoresis (DEP) apparatus and method are described which provide for the manipulation of particles or cells with a diameter on the order of 100 ?m or less. The apparatus is referred to as optoelectric tweezers (OET) and provides a number of advantages over conventional optical tweezers, in particular the ability to perform operations in parallel and over a large area without damage to living cells. The OET device generally comprises a planar liquid-filled structure having one or more portions which are photoconductive to convert incoming light to a change in the electric field pattern. The light patterns are dynamically generated to provide a number of manipulation structures that can manipulate single particles and cells or groups of particles/cells. The OET preferably includes a microscopic imaging means to provide feedback for the optical manipulation, such as detecting position and characteristics wherein the light patterns are modulated accordingly.

Abstract: A device and method for detecting anthrax or other pathogens are disclosed. Individual self-contained monitoring devices of a monitoring system can be portable or stationary (e.g. installed in air ducts or plumbing of buildings) and can be part of a network of devices. Monitoring devices may be used for the detection of a variety of airborne or surface pathogens, including but not limited to anthrax, smallpox, and Salmonella. Bioamplification-coupled proteomics assays provide rapid and reliable detection of pathogens, with self-checking capabilities reducing or eliminating false positives and false negatives. Sample preservation capability allows pathogen samples to be preserved after detection for further testing. The device of the invention can be remotely operated by minimally trained technicians or security personnel.

Abstract: Devices, systems, methods and kits for the collection, stimulation, stabilization and analysis of biological samples, including blood samples, are disclosed. An embodiment of the invention includes a container having a side wall, a bottom wall and a closure member defining an internal compartment having arranged therein a partition defining and fluidly separating first and second chambers in the internal compartment, the first chamber positioned in association with the closure member to receive the biological sample; in which at least one wall is constructed of an elastically deformable material; in which the first chamber contains at least one stimulating agent; in which the second chamber contains at least one stabilizing agent; and in which the first and second chambers can be placed in fluid communication by a user without opening or otherwise compromising the fluid integrity of the internal compartment.

Abstract: A thermal cycler for automatic performance of the polymerase chain reaction is provided. The thermal cycler comprises a heater control that provides close temperature control of the reaction.

Abstract: Illumination systems, devices, and methods for cultivating biomasses. A bioreactor system is operable for growing photosynthetic organisms. The bioreactor system includes a bioreactor and an illumination system. The illumination system includes one more optical waveguides configured to light at least some of a plurality of photosynthetic organisms retained in the bioreactor. In some embodiments, the one or more optical waveguides include a plurality of structures configured to direct light energy from a solar energy collector, and a plurality of artificial light sources, along the interior of the waveguide. In some embodiments, the one more optical waveguides include a plurality of light-diffusing structures configured to guide at least a portion of the light from the solar energy collector and a plurality of artificial light sources directed along the interior of the waveguide, to the exterior of the waveguide.

Abstract: A receptacle having a plurality of interconnected chambers arranged to permit multiple process steps or processes to be performed independently or simultaneously. The receptacles are manufactured to separate liquid from dried reagents and to maintain the stability of the dried reagents. An immiscible liquid, such as an oil, is included to control loading of process materials, facilitate mixing and reconstitution of dried reagents, limit evaporation, control heating of reaction materials, concentrate solid support materials to prevent clogging of fluid connections, provide minimum volumes for fluid transfers, and to prevent process materials from sticking to chamber surfaces. The receptacles can be adapted for use in systems having a processing instrument that includes an actuator system for selectively moving fluid substances between chambers and a detector. The actuator system can be arranged to concentrate an analyte present in a sample.

Abstract: An embedded block is capable of being humidified in a short time without influencing a surface temperature of the embedded block as much as possible. An embedded block humidifier for humidifying an embedded block having a biological specimen embedded in an embedding agent is provided which includes a vapor generating mechanism for generating vapor heated at a predetermined temperature and a guiding mechanism for guiding the vapor to the embedded block so that the generated vapor contacts with a surface of the embedded block set at a predetermined standby position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cytometric system that can include a first station capable of selectively sorting a nucleic acid sequence-containing biological material from a biological sample, and a second station where nucleic acid of the sorted nucleic acid sequence-containing biological material, can undergo a nucleic acid amplification reaction. The system can include a conduit system adapted to facilitate transfer of a sorted biological material or processed biological material from one region or station, to another. All of the stations can be controlled by a central control system. Methods of sorting a biological material from a biological sample, and methods of amplifying nucleic acid of a sorted nucleic acid sequence-containing material, are also provided.

Abstract: A food testing device for testing for the presence of harmful contaminants in a food sample, includes a vessel adapted for holding a liquefied food sample, a liquefier operatively associated with the vessel for converting an unliquefied food sample into a liquefied food sample, at least one test assay dispensable from the device, wherein the test assay includes at least one assay reagent having an affinity for at least one harmful contaminant, and capable of both detecting the presence of the harmful contaminant in the liquefied food sample, and producing a visual cue upon recognition of the harmful contaminant; and a radiation detector disposed proximately to the vessel for indicating the presence of ionizing radiation in the food sample at amounts exceeding normal background levels to detect the presence of a radioactive agent as the harmful contaminant.

Abstract: A bioreactor includes a sensor linked to a model free adaptive controller or optimizer. The sensor can provide a real time measurement of a quantity that correlates with final product titer or other desired product quality attribute.

Abstract: An incubator 1 for cell culture, or biological or chemical samples is provided, the incubator having disposed therein a humidity sensor 28 and a humidifier 2 having an atomiser including a spray nozzle 21. A compressed air supply line 25 and a liquid supply line 26 are connected to the spray nozzle. A control system 30 allows the required humidity level to be set, and is connected to the humidity sensor 28 to receive a signal indicative of the humidity within the incubator, and is also connected to the humidifier 2 to operate the humidifier to maintain the humidity within the incubator at the set level.

Abstract: An incubator including a temperature-controlled room adjusted to a predetermined environment condition for culturing a sample of an incubation container at inside of the temperature-controlled room, the incubator including a shifting mechanism for moving a position of the incubation container at inside of the temperature-controlled room by a motor, a temperature adjusting section for adjusting a temperature at inside of the temperature-controlled room, an operating information generating section for generating operating information with regard to a position of operating and a time period of operating the motor prior to operating the motor, an estimated variation outputting section for outputting an estimation variation of a temperature state by operating the motor based on the operating information, and a controlling section for controlling the temperature adjusting section to cancel a temperature change of an amount of the estimated variation in synchronism with operating the motor.

Abstract: A method for analysis, control, and manipulation for improvement of the chemical reaction rate of a protein-mediated reaction is provided. Enzymes, which typically comprise protein molecules, are very efficient catalysts that enhance chemical reaction rates by many orders of magnitude. Enzymes are widely used for a number of functions in chemical, biochemical, pharmaceutical, and other purposes. The method identifies key protein vibration modes that control the chemical reaction rate of the protein-mediated reaction, providing identification of the factors that enable the enzymes to achieve the high rate of reaction enhancement. By controlling these factors, the function of enzymes may be modulated, i.e., the activity can either be increased for faster enzyme reaction or it can be decreased when a slower enzyme is desired.

Abstract: A method for quantitative hemoglobin determination in undiluted, unhemolyzed whole blood is provided which comprises: acquiring a sample of unaltered whole blood into a capillary cuvette, presenting the cuvette to a set-up for an absorption measurement, delaying absorption measurement for a determined period of time, performing a first absorption measurement at a first wavelength in the range 490-520 nm directly on the sample in the cuvette, further conducting a second absorption measurement at a second wavelength different from the first wavelength and at which the absorption is substantially smaller than at the first wavelength, and processing results of the first and second absorption measurements to determine the concentration of hemoglobin in the sample. A system for implementing the method also is provided.

Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for manipulating, e.g., optimizing and controlling, biological systems, e.g., for eliciting a more desired biological response of biological sample, such as a tissue, organ, and/or a cell. In one aspect, systems and methods of the invention operate by efficiently searching through a large parametric space of stimuli and system parameters to manipulate, control, and optimize the response of biological samples sustained in the system, e.g., a bioreactor. In alternative aspects, systems include a device for sustaining cells or tissue samples, one or more actuators for stimulating the samples via biochemical, electromagnetic, thermal, mechanical, and/or optical stimulation, one or more sensors for measuring a biological response signal of the samples resulting from the stimulation of the sample.

Abstract: This invention provides a novel methods and devices for measurement of particle concentration or changes in particle concentration over a wide linear range. The invention comprises one or more radiation sources and one or more detectors contained in a housing which is interfaced to a medium containing particulate matter. The one or more radiation sources are directed into the medium, scattered or transmitted by the particulate matter, and then some portion of the radiation is detected by the one or more detectors. Methods for confining the measurement to a specific volume within the medium are described. Algorithms are provided for combining the signals generated by multiple source-detector pairs in a manner that results in a wide linear range of response to changes in particle concentration. In one embodiment the sensor provides non-invasive measurements of biomass in a bioreactor. In another embodiment an immersible probe design is described, which may be suited for one-time use.

Abstract: A thermalcycler includes a first thermalcycler body section having a first face and a second thermalcycler body section having a second face. A cavity is formed by the first face and the second face. A thermalcycling unit is positioned in the cavity. A heater trace unit is connected to a support section, to the first thermalcycler body section, to the second thermalcycler body section, and to the thermalcycling unit. The first thermalcycler body section and the second thermalcycler body section are positioned together against the support section to enclose the thermalcycling unit and the heater trace unit.

Abstract: Array scanning methods that focus on the far side and devices configured for use in the same are provided. In reading arrays according to the subject methods, an array is placed in a reading position of a scanning device so that the nominal focal plane of the scanning device is present within the array substrate at a predetermined fixed substrate thickness fraction distance from the far-side of the array, and the array is then read by the device. As such, the subject scanner devices of the present invention are configured to hold an array substrate in a reading position of the device in which the device's nominal focal plane is present within the array substrate. The subject methods and devices find use in a variety of different applications, including both genomic and proteomic applications.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and devices for control of an integrated thin-film device with a plurality of microfluidic channels. In one embodiment, the microfluidic device includes a microfluidic chip comprising a first zone having a plurality of microfluidic channels and a second zone having a plurality of microfluidic channels, wherein the microfluidic channels in the first and second zones are in fluid communication. The microfluidic device further comprising a thin-film heater in thermal communication with each of the microfluidic channels in the first and second zones. The microfluidic device also includes a control system configured to independently control the temperature of each of the thin-film heaters using pulse width modulation (PWM) control signals that are optimized for each of the thin-film heaters.

Abstract: A proposition is to accurately evaluate a phototoxic property (cell function) concerning a living cell. To this end, an evaluating method of cell function includes the operations of dyeing a specific site of the living cell with a fluorescent dye, irradiating the living cell with light to measure changes in brightness of resulting fluorescence generated at an adjacent site of the specific site, and evaluating the phototoxic property based on the brightness changes. In the event of functional depression in the specific site, the fluorescent dye cannot be retained therein and is extravasated into the adjacent site through the membrane of the specific site. The present embodiment can measure the extent of this extravasation, making it possible to accurately evaluate the phototoxic property.

Abstract: Hybrid synthetic grafts and embodiments of systems and methods for producing hybrid vascular grafts that can yield implantable grafts that combine synthetic grafts with living cells. Embodiments of systems can include a pressure/flow loop subsystem having an external flow loop system coupled to a specimen holder, where the pressure/flow loop subsystem is capable of adjusting at least two dynamic conditions in the specimen holder or a diameter of a specimen in the specimen holder. Embodiments of methods can promote engraftment of a hybrid lower limb artery bypass vascular graft following implantation into a mammal's body by placing the hybrid lower limb artery bypass vascular graft in a system embodiment according to the invention prior to implantation of the hybrid lower limb artery bypass vascular graft into the mammal's body.

Abstract: A fast, multiplexed PCR system is described that can rapidly generate amplified nucleic acid products, for example, a full STR profile, from a target nucleic acid. Such systems include, for example, microfluidic biochips and a custom built thermal cycler, which are also described. The resulting STR profiles can satisfy forensic guidelines for signal strength, inter-loci peak height balance, heterozygous peak height ratio, incomplete non-template nucleotide addition, and stutter.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an analytical instrument (1) which includes a flow path (5) for moving a sample containing blood cells, an introduction port (50) for introducing the sample into the flow path (5), a reagent portion (51) arranged in the flow path (5), and an electron detection medium (52) for obtaining information necessary for analyzing an analysis target component contained in the sample in relation with an amount of electrons transferred. The reagent portion (51) contains an electron mediator for supplying an electron taken from the analysis target component in the sample to the electron detection medium (52), and at least part of the reagent portion is positioned adjacent to the introduction port (50).

Abstract: A reaction device including: a plurality of reaction areas; and a plurality of heating parts configured to be each provided for a respective one of the reaction areas, wherein each of the heating parts includes: a heat source; a scan line for selecting the heating part; a data line that transmits heating amount information used for heating to the heat source; a writer that acquires the heating amount information transmitted from the data line; a holder that stores the heating amount information also after the scan line is turned to a non-selected state; and a heat generation controller that controls heat generation of the heat source based on the heating amount information.

Abstract: Described herein are methods for producing chemical products by anaerobically fermenting a particular biomass using anaerobic bacteria. Such chemical products include hydrogen and other gases, acetic acid and other volatile organic acids, solvents, solids, and salts of volatile organic acids.

Abstract: The invention provides an improved cell free amplification method capable of producing large quantities of therapeutic-quality nucleic acids and methods of using the synthesized nucleic acid in research, therapeutic and other applications—The methods combine several different state-of-the-art procedures and coordinate their applications to affordably synthesize nucleic acids for therapeutic purposes. It combines in vitro rolling circle amplification, high fidelity polymerases, high affinity primers, and streamlined template specifically designed for particular applications. For expression purposes, the templates contain an expression cassette including a eukaryotic promoter, the coding sequence for the gene of interest, and a eukaryotic termination sequence.

Abstract: A modular process for organosolv fractionation of lignocellulosic feedstocks into component parts and further processing of said component parts into at least fuel-grade ethanol and four classes of lignin derivatives. The modular process comprises a first processing module configured for physico-chemically digesting lignocellulosic feedstocks with an organic solvent thereby producing a cellulosic solids fraction and a liquid fraction, a second processing module configured for producing at least a fuel-grade ethanol and a first class of novel lignin derivatives from the cellulosic solids fraction, a third processing module configured for separating a second class and a third class of lignin derivatives from the liquid fraction and further processing the liquid fraction to produce a distillate and a stillage, a fourth processing module configured for separating a fourth class of lignin derivatives from the stillage and further processing the stillage to produce a sugar syrup.

Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus, systems and methods for generating a subpopulation of spermatozoa enriched for capacitated spermatozoa, by exposure of a population of spermatozoa to a suitable temperature gradient, and retrieving the enriched subpopulation of spermatozoa for further applications, such as, for diagnosis or fertility treatments.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and methods for preventing condensation on the interior surfaces of sample tubes which are being exposed to temperature cycles, such as during a PCR amplification reaction. In particular, the invention relates to apparatus comprising a sample block comprising a plurality of sample wells for receiving sample tubes and heating elements disposed in the sample wells for heating at least a portion of the sides of sample tubes (e.g., at least the portion which forms the head space after a tube is filled with a PCR reaction mixture). In a preferred aspect, the sample block is part of a thermocycling device for performing PCR and the side-wall heater is used to enhance uniformity and speed of amplification reactions. For example, by decreasing or eliminating condensation, signal strength jumps in a real-time PCR assay can be minimized as can reaction non-homogeneity.