Abstract: The present invention relates to methods that enable improved accuracy for quantitative particle counting in a flowing liquid stream. The methods of the present invention utilize the real-time measurement of flow rates and flow rate control through feedback mechanisms to improve quantification, and this improved quantification translates to more accurate particle counting. In certain embodiments, particles being counted are biological particles in a liquid sample, such as viruses.

Abstract: This invention describes a method of using controlled fluidic forces to improve the performance of a biochemical binding assay where a target molecule is captured by specific molecular recognition onto a substrate surface with an affinity coating, and then labeled with a detectable micrometer-scale particle using a second specific molecular recognition reaction with the target. By using specific ranges of label sizes and laminar flow conditions, controlled fluidic forces can be applied to the label particles in order to selectively remove molecules bound to a surface according to their binding strength, and thereby increase the ratio of specifically bound labels to more weakly attached non-specifically bound labels. This method can be used with a wide variety of label types and associated detection methods, improving the sensitivity and selectivity of a broad range of binding assays.

Abstract: The present invention, in one aspect, provides methods and systems for controlling slugs using temperature dependent fluorescent dyes. In some embodiments, the present invention uses one or more techniques to enhance the visibility of slugs, enhance a system's ability to differentiate between slugs, and enhance a system's ability to identify the positions of slugs.

Abstract: A centrifugal microfluidic device includes a substrate configured for rotation about an axis, the substrate having a start chamber disposed therein, the start chamber configured to hold a liquid. The device includes an output chamber disposed in the substrate and located radially outward of the start chamber. A fluid transfer channel connects the start chamber to the output chamber. A ventilation channel connects the output chamber to the start chamber, the ventilation channel connecting at one end to a radially inward portion of the start chamber and at an opposing end to a junction point on the output chamber. A vent hole is provided in the substrate that is operatively connected to the output chamber. The location of the junction between the ventilation channel and the output chamber is located radially outward with respect to the level of fluid in the start chamber so as to prevent cross-contamination.

Abstract: A device for automatically cultivating cells in parallel in cell culture vessels, in particular microtiter (MT) plates (2), having a housing (23) in which are disposed an observation unit (3) comprising at least one microscope (7) and at least one camera (6), a receptacle device (4) for receiving the cell culture vessels, and a fluid distribution unit (5) for automatically filling and/or emptying the cell culture vessels, in particular the wells (17) of microtiter (MT) plates (2), with fluid, wherein the climatic conditions in the device, in particular the gas composition and temperature, can be controlled in a closed loop at least in the region of the cell culture vessels, wherein a climate chamber (21) is provided in the housing, in which a desired temperature and/or a particular gas composition can be adjusted automatically, and in which the receptacle device (4); having the cell culture vessels (2) is at least partially integrated.

Abstract: Microfluidic methods and devices for heterogeneous binding and agglutination assays are disclosed, with improvements relating to mixing and to reagent and sample manipulation in systems designed for safe handling of clinical test samples.

Abstract: An apparatus 100 for cultivating bacteria, comprising a conduit 101 having an upstream and a downstream section and the downstream section of the conduit 101 comprising first Venturi eductor means 111 with at least two inlet ports 117, 118 wherein one of said inlet ports 117 is in fluid communication with a supply of nutrient and another one of said inlet ports 118 is in fluid communication with a supply of bacteria such that, in use, nutrient and bacteria are drawn into said Venturi eductor means 111 by a fluid passing along said conduit 101 and said Venturi eductor means 111.

Abstract: A disposable cartridge for use in assaying an analyte in an automated water quality monitoring analyzer comprising: (a) a platform; (b) array of containers for separately containing at least one reagent, a buffer and a so freeze dried preparation of luminescent bacteria, said containers being mounted on said platform; (c) reaction chamber mounted on said platform and configured for being moved between said containers, such that said reagent, said buffer and said freeze dried preparation of luminescent bacteria are conveyed to said reaction chamber in a predetermined sequence such that light detectable by said analyzer is emitted; (d) fluid transferring means for fluid transfer and mixing between said containers, reaction chamber, and analyzer; (e) conveying means for moving said cartridge to predetermined positions within said automated water quality monitoring analyzer for enabling analysis of said analyte.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and devices for rapid parallel molecular affinity assays performed in a microfluidic environment. The invention exploits hydrodynamic addressing to provide simultaneous performance of multiple assays in parallel using a minimal sample volume flowing through a single channel.

Abstract: A fermenter for biogas plants, including a submersible motor-driven stirrer that can be vertically adjusted by means of a motor. During operation of the biogas plant, the fermenter is filled, to a level, with substrate that is to be fermented, and the agitator blades of the submersible motor-driven stirrer are fully immersed in the substrate. According to the invention, a level gauge is provided, by means of which the level of the substrate is detected and a corresponding level measuring signal is generated as an actual level signal. Furthermore, a control device is provided, to which the level measuring signal is fed and which controls the vertically adjusting motor for the submersible motor-driven stirrer in such a way when a lower level is detected that the stirrer is lowered and the agitator blades continue to be fully immersed in the substrate.

Abstract: A biomass generator useful for continuously growing and withdrawing bacteria to be used in a desired beneficial application, the generator having a bacteria growth chamber; water and nutrient inlet ports; upper and lower outlet ports; a recirculating pump withdrawing and reintroducing fluid to establish a vortex in the growth chamber while controlling foaming and pump cavitation; a low pressure air inlet line discharging air inside the growth chamber above the vortex; a fluid discharge line receiving bacteria-containing fluid from the upper outlet port of the growth chamber; a flush line discharging wash water into the fluid discharge line; and an electrical controller cooperating with solenoid-operated valves and a feeder mechanism to periodically introduce water and nutrients into the chamber, thereby simultaneously causing bacteria-containing fluid to be discharged from the growth chamber through the upper outlet port. A method for growing bacteria using the subject apparatus is also disclosed.

Abstract: According to various embodiments, a biofuel production system includes a plurality of parallel-operated fermenters, a cooling tower water system configured to supply cooling water to the plurality of parallel-operated fermenters, a chiller water system configured to supply chiller water to the plurality of parallel-operated fermenters, and a cooling system coupled to the plurality of parallel-operated fermenters, the cooling tower water system, and the chiller water system. The cooling system controls the flow rates of the cooling water and the chiller water to the plurality of parallel-operated fermenters based upon temperatures of fermentation products of the fermenters.

Abstract: A microfluidic device for processing a fluid, the microfluidic device having an inlet for receiving the fluid, functional sections for processing the fluid, a flow-path extending from the inlet into at least some of the functional sections, CMOS circuitry for operative control of the functional sections, and, a conductivity sensor with a first terminal and a second terminal spaced apart along the flow-path, and a first electrode and a second electrode positioned between the first terminal and the second terminal and spaced apart along the flow-path, wherein, the CMOS circuitry is configured to generate a current between the first terminal and the second terminal, and measure a voltage across the first electrode and the second electrode such that conductivity of the fluid in the flow-path is derived from the current and the measured voltage.

Abstract: A test module for lysing cells in a fluid, the test module having an outer casing with receptacle for receiving a sample that is a fluid containing cells, a lysis section in fluid communication with the receptacle for holding the fluid during lysis of the cells, and, a lysis heater for heating the fluid in the lysis section to lyse cells, wherein, the test module is configured for drawing the fluid from the receptacle to the lysis section by capillary action.

Abstract: A lab-on-a-chip (LOC) device for pathogen detection and genetic analysis of a biological sample, the LOC device having an inlet for receiving the sample, a supporting substrate, a plurality of reagent reservoirs, a lysis section for lysing pathogens and leukocytes in the sample to release the genetic material therein, the lysis section being in fluid communication with one of the reagent reservoirs containing a lysis reagent for lysing the pathogens and leukocytes in the lysis section, an incubation section downstream of the lysis section, the incubation section being in fluid communication with one of the reagent reservoirs containing enzymes for enzymatic reaction with the genetic material, a first nucleic acid amplification section downstream of the incubation section for amplifying first nucleic acid sequences in the genetic material, and, a second nucleic acid amplification section downstream of the first nucleic acid amplification section for amplifying second nucleic acid sequences in the amplicon from

Abstract: A microfluidic device having a sample inlet for receiving a sample of biological material having nucleic acid sequences, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) section with a PCR microchannel for thermally cycling a PCR mixture of the sample, polymerase, dNTP's and buffer solution to amplify the nucleic acid sequences, the PCR microchannel defining a flow-path for the sample such that flow of the sample along the PCR microchannel is driven by capillary action, wherein, the PCR mixture has a volume less than 400 nanoliters.

Abstract: A microfluidic device having a supporting substrate, a sample inlet for receiving a sample of biological material having nucleic acid sequences, a microsystems technology (MST) layer having a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) section for amplifying the nucleic acid sequences, the PCR section having at least one heater for thermally cycling the nucleic acid sequences through a denaturation phase, an annealing phase and a primer extension phase, and, CMOS circuitry between the MST layer and the supporting substrate, the CMOS circuitry being connected to the at least one heater for operative control of the at least one heater during the thermal cycling.

Abstract: A microfluidic device having a supporting substrate, a sample inlet for receiving a sample of biological material having nucleic acid sequences, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) section for amplifying the nucleic acid sequences, the PCR section having a PCR chamber, and, a heater element for heating the nucleic acid sequences within the PCR chamber, wherein, the PCR chamber is between the heater element and the supporting substrate.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of automating the production of ethanol in an economical method yet maximizing the conversion of grains into ethanol in an even greater conversion efficiency with a greatly improved feed value byproduct.

Abstract: A sample analysis system includes a reagent preparation unit and a measurement unit. The reagent preparation unit has: a state detector which detects at least one of a state of the reagent preparation unit and a state of the reagent preparation; and a transmission unit which transmits the detected state information to a computer arranged outside the reagent preparation unit. The computer displays the received state information on a display.

Abstract: The fluidic system of the preferred embodiment includes a sheath pump to pump sheath fluid from a sheath container into an interrogation zone and a waste pump to pump waste fluid from the interrogation zone into a waste container. The sheath pump and/or the waste pump draw sample fluid from a sample container into the interrogation zone. The fluidic system also includes a controller to adjust the flow rate of the sample fluid from the sample container into the interrogation zone. The fluidic system is preferably incorporated into a flow cytometer with a flow cell that includes the interrogation zone.

Abstract: The present invention provides an automated analyzer system for performing chemical, biochemical or biological assays using changes/no changes in diffraction of light by the presence/absence of analytes which may or may not be present in a sample binding to their analyte specific receptors laid out in a preselected pattern in a disposable sensor. The analyzer is a modular, bench-top instrument that compactly integrates subsystems for sample dispensing, liquid handling, and optical generation of laser light beams and detectors for detecting for diffracted light. An internal processor is included for automating the instrument, and a user interface to provide communication with the operator.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for treating the blood of slaughtered animals, the system comprising: a storage tank for collecting and storing the blood of animals slaughtered in a slaughter plant; a blood treatment tank in which the animal blood is received and stored from the blood storage tank and into which a liquid microbial agent for treating blood is introduced so that microorganisms of the liquid microbial agent are allowed to react at a temperature of 25˜35° C. for 8-12 hours, thereby separating the animal blood into an amino acid solution and a waste blood sludge; a blood-treating agent supply unit for supplying the liquid microbial agent to the blood treatment tank; a water supply unit for supplying water to the blood treatment tank; a filtering means for filtering the amino acid solution discharged from the blood treatment tank to remove impurities; a heater for maintaining the blood treatment tank at a temperature of 25˜35° C.

Abstract: Described here is an automated robotic device that isolates circulating tumor cells (CTCs) or other biological structures with extremely high purity. The device uses powerful magnetic rods covered in removable plastic sleeves. These rods sweep through blood samples, capturing, e.g., cancer cells labeled with antibodies linked to magnetically responsive particles such as superparamagnetic beads. Upon completion of the capturing protocol, the magnetic rods undergo several rounds of washing, thereby removing all contaminating blood cells. The captured target cells are released into a final capture solution by removing the magnetic rods from the sleeves. Additionally, cells captured by this device show no reduced viability when cultured after capture. Cells are captured in a state suitable for genetic analysis. Also disclosed are methods for single cell analysis. Being robotic allows the device to be operated with high throughput.

Abstract: A method for controlling cell expansion comprising conducting a fluid containing cellular matter into a cellular growth area; providing oxygenated fluid to said cellular growth area to maintain conditions conducive for cell growth in said cellular growth area; monitoring inflow and outflow conditions; determining rates of change (first derivative) for selected conditions and calculating cell numbers therefrom; determining a rate of change of a rate of change (second derivative) for the selected conditions and calculating a predicted process time; and terminating the growth process when adequate cell numbers have been produced and an apparatus for performing the method.

Abstract: This invention relates to stable non-aqueous single phase viscous vehicles and to formulations utilizing such vehicles. The formulations comprise at least one beneficial agent uniformly suspended in the vehicle. The formulation is capable of being stored at temperatures ranging from cold to body temperature for long periods of time. The formulations are capable of being uniformly delivered from drug delivery systems at an exit shear rate of between about 1 to 1×10?7 reciprocal second.

Abstract: Hollow particles for use in various types of assay devices are provided. Due to their hollow or voided structure, the particles may exhibit a variety of beneficial properties. For instance, hollow particles are generally lightweight, and thus, relatively inexpensive in comparison to other types of particles. Hollow particles may also form a stable system without requiring refrigeration or rotation. In addition, hollow particles may possess enhanced light diffraction capabilities, which may be particularly beneficial in certain types of assay devices, e.g., diffraction-based assay devices.

Abstract: Advanced islet separation technology incorporates an automated method, automated control methodology, process control interface, and automated apparatus to separate (isolate) and process pancreatic islets in a tissue suspension in physiologic process solution, utilizing microprocessor control and/or microprocessor computer control and software programming (code) to interface and control the process temperature, fluid flow rate, pH, dissolved oxygen concentration, endotoxin concentration, dissolved nitric oxide concentration, nitric oxide synthase activity, proteolytic enzyme activity, and/or pressure of the islet containing physiologic process solution, the extent of islet separation, including real-time data acquisition and recording of process variables.

Abstract: An electrophoresis apparatus is generally disclosed for sequentially analyzing a single sample or multiple samples having one or more analytes in high or low concentrations. The apparatus comprises a relatively large-bore transport capillary which intersects with a plurality of small-bore separation capillaries and includes a valve system. Analyte concentrators, having antibody-specific (or related affinity) chemistries, are stationed at the respective intersections of the transport capillary and separation capillaries to bind one or more analytes of interest. The apparatus allows the performance of two or more dimensions for the optimal separation of analytes. The apparatus may also include a plurality of valves surrounding each of the analyte concentrators to localize each of the concentrators to improve the binding of one or more analytes of interest.

Abstract: A method for operating a fermenter system. In one instances, the method comprises flowing biomass and liquid in opposite directions through a fermenter train comprising a plurality of fermenters, and introducing a nutrient to any of the plurality of fermenters to optimize the production carboxylate products in the fermenter system.

Abstract: The invention provides a microfabricated device for sorting cells based on a desired characteristic, for example, reporter-labeled cells can be sorted by the presence or level of reporter on the cells. The device includes a chip having a substrate into which is microfabricated at least one analysis unit. Each analysis unit includes a main channel, having a sample inlet channel, typically at one end, and a detection region along a portion of its length. Adjacent and downstream from the detection region, the main channel has a discrimination region or branch point leading to at least two branch channels. The analysis unit may further include additional inlet channels, detection points, branch points, and branch channels as desired. A stream containing cells is passed through the detection region, such that on average one cell occupies the detection region at a given time.

Abstract: Condensing devices and methods for providing a concentrated biomolecule condensate to one or more biosensing devices are provided. The concentrated biomolecule condensate is obtained from a fluid sample which potentially contains traces of one or more target biomolecules. The fluid sample is first separated into a filtered liquid and a retentate biomolecule condensate. A novel filtering module is provided for this purpose. The target biomolecules in the retentate biomolecule condensate are further separated from unwanted materials using magnetic beads coated with antibodies of the target biomolecules. The beaded biomolecule condensate obtained thereby is processed to extract constituents of the target biomolecules, thereby obtaining the concentrated biomolecule condensate, which is distributed to a biosensing device.

Abstract: A chemostat is described that includes a growth chamber having a plurality of compartments. Each of the compartments may be fluidly isolated from the rest of the growth chamber by one or more actuatable valves. The chemostat may also include a nutrient supply-line to supply growth medium to the growth chamber, and an output port to remove fluids from the growth chamber. Also, a method of preventing biofilm formation in a growth chamber of a chemostat is described. The method may include the steps of adding a lysis agent to a isolated portion of the growth chamber, and reuniting the isolated portion with the rest of the growth chamber.

Abstract: Stationary bioreactors and mixing vessels fitted with single-use flexible bags utilizing wave hydrodynamic principle are described for use in every type of biological process and products.

Abstract: A new technical means is provided that can be produced and prepared at low cost, and in which the generation of stagnation in the flow of a liquid sample can be suppressed, microbeads can be smoothly and simply injected, filled and transported and the generation of dust can be also suppressed and a new extracting method for nucleic acid using the new technical means is provided. A microchip has a microchannel (3) formed by groove parts (11, 21) provided in connecting surfaces of upper and lower substrates (1, 2). In the microchannel (3), a gap part (31) in which the section of the channel is reduced is provided in a central part upward and downward, rightward and leftward, or upward and downward and rightward and leftward the section thereof, and microbeads are checked.

Abstract: An electrophoresis apparatus is generally disclosed for sequentially analyzing a single sample or multiple samples having one or more analytes in high or low concentrations. The apparatus comprises a relatively large-bore transport capillary which intersects with a plurality of small-bore separation capillaries and includes a valve system. Analyte concentrators, having antibody-specific (or related affinity) chemistries, are stationed at the respective intersections of the transport capillary and separation capillaries to bind one or more analytes of interest. The apparatus allows the performance of two or more dimensions for the optimal separation of analytes. The apparatus may also include a plurality of valves surrounding each of the analyte concentrators to localize each of the concentrators to improve the binding of one or more analytes of interest.

Abstract: Method of enriching specific cells from cellular samples are disclosed, comprising contacting in solution a cellular sample with affinity-tagged ligands (ATLs) each comprising a first ligand linked to an affinity tag, wherein the ligand selectively binds a cellular marker of the rare cells and the affinity tag can be selectively captured by a capture moiety, wherein the affinity tags do not comprise a magnetic particle; and flowing the sample through a microfluidic device comprising the capture moiety to selectively retain ATL-bound cells. Methods for enriching circulating tumor cells, and devices for enriching specific cells from cellular samples are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention is directed to microfluidic devices comprising at least two processing channels, wherein each of the processing channels comprises an inlet, an outlet, and a high-flow-resistant and hydrophilic conduit; a distributing channel, wherein the distributing channel comprises an upstream end and a downstream end, and is in fluid communication with each inlet of the processing channels via the high-flow-resistant and hydrophilic conduit; and a flushing channel, wherein the flushing channel comprises an upstream end and a downstream end, and is in fluid communication with each outlet of the processing channels. The invention also provides methods of using the microfluidic devices.

Abstract: Fine gas bubbles traveling at fast speed are employed to scrub a hard-surface filter for harvesting liquids from suspensions including those consisting of nutrient media and cell culture, on a continuous basis without clogging the filters.

Abstract: A method and kit for assaying a cell sample for the presence of at least a threshold number of cells of a given type are disclosed. The kit includes an assay device having a sample chamber for receiving the cell sample and an elongate collection chamber containing a selected-density and/or viscosity medium and having along its length, a plurality of cell-collection regions, and particles which are capable of specific attachment to cells of the selected cell type, and which are effective, when attached to the cells, to increase the density or magnetic susceptibility of the cells. In operation, particle-bound cells and particles in the cell sample are drawn through the elongate collection chamber under the influence of a gravitational or selected centrifugal or magnetic-field force until the particle-bound cells and particles completely fill successive cell-collection regions in the collection chamber.

Abstract: An organ perfusion apparatus and method monitor, sustain and/or restore viability of organs and preserve organs for storage and/or transport. Other apparatus include an organ transporter, an organ cassette and an organ diagnostic device. The apparatus and methods further include a tube frame removably connected to the cassette and configured to hold a plurality of tubes in a position to be connected to tubes in the portable housing.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for culturing cells in at least one cell culture well. The device includes one or more interconnecting layers having a pattern therein, the pattern including at least one microfluidic channel, at least one cell culture well having an opening at one end and a side wall, the at least one microfluidic channel in fluid communication with the side wall of the at least one cell culture well, and having a maximum channel width substantially less than a maximum width of the at least one cell culture well. The device includes at least one of a controllable valve and a controllable pump in fluid communication with the microfluidic channel, the valve and pump being configured to selectably restrict fluid transport through the microfluidic channel. In some embodiments, the device includes a removable top layer adapted to cover each of the at least one cell culture well.

Abstract: Testing of the foot soldier or other person on the battlefield for bioagent contamination is facilitated by a computer controlled portable testing unit that combines a sink or other receptacle (1), an automated ELISA tester (3), and means to transport fluids (10, 9, 11, 15) stemming from the soldier deposited in the receptacle to the automated ELISA tester in which the analysis is performed. For external contamination detection, operation is initiated by a sensor (25) detecting the presence of a persons hands under a spout (23) and for internal contamination detection operation is initiated by the operation of a momentary operate switch (32). External contamination detection begins by washing the soldier's hands and/or face in receptacle (1), while internal contamination detection begins with the soldier spitting, coughing or sneezing into the receptacle.

Abstract: The fluidic system of the preferred embodiment includes a sheath pump to pump sheath fluid from a sheath container into an interrogation zone, a sheath volume measurement device to measure the fluid in the sheath container, a waste pump to pump the sheath fluid and a sample fluid as waste fluid from the interrogation zone into a waste container, and a waste volume measurement device to measure the fluid in the waste container. The system also includes a controller connected to the sheath pump, the waste pump, and the volume measurement devices. The sheath pump and/or the waste pump draw sample fluid from a sample container into the interrogation zone, which functions to provide a location for the fluidic system and an optical system of the flow cytometer to cooperatively facilitate the analysis of the sample fluid.

Abstract: A high-throughput system for processing biological material that comprises: a tray that supports a functionally-closed fluid path subsystem comprising, a vessel for containing and enabling the biological material to separate into two or more distinct submaterials; one or more receptacles to receive one or more of the submaterials from the vessel; a filtration device; a conduit through which one or more submaterials are transported between at least the vessel and the filtration device; and a first engagement structure; a processing unit comprising, a pumping device for moving one or more of the submaterials between at least the vessel and the filtration device via the conduit; a second engagement structure corresponding to the first engagement structure; a locking mechanism for at least temporarily holding the tray in a fixed position relative to the processing unit; a control device that automatically starts and stops the pumping device in response to one or more commands.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for an aseptic fluidic interface between bioprocess systems is provided. The apparatus includes an inlet valve, adapted for automatic control, that is coupled to a biofluid source site. A sampling conduit extends from the inlet valve to an outlet valve. The outlet valve is adapted for automatic control and is coupled to a biofluid process site. A trap is at the sampling conduit. A waste valve, adapted for automatic control, is located at a waste conduit extending from the sampling conduit to a waste site. Also included is a wash fluid source that is coupled to at least one of the inlet or outlet valves. In the method, the sample is automatically directed to the biofluid process site by opening the outlet valve, and closing the waste valve. Also included is isolating the biofluid sites by closing the inlet and outlet valves, and opening the waste valve to drain biofluid from the trap to the waste site.

Abstract: A device and method is disclosed for improving the detection of a ligand by a receptor by concentrating microbes by removing particulates from fluid-borne samples and/or causing selective aggregation of concentrated microbes. The device may be configured as a multipath valve capable purifying/concentrating a sample in one orientation and delivering the concentrated sample in another orientation. In one embodiment, the device includes a body that defines a plurality of chambers and pathways and supports a pathogen capture unit that houses a receptor that exhibits specificity for a ligand. In another embodiment, the capture unit houses a plurality of antibody coated generally spherical particles capable of binding to a ligand.

Abstract: A flow cytometry system and method for sorting a mixture of particles with a fluid delivery system delivering a fluid containing particles, a flow cytometry apparatus for receiving the fluid, forming the fluid into a stream and using flow cytometry to classify the particles according to certain characteristics; a sorting system for sorting the particles according to the classification and according to a sorting strategy to provide at least one population containing desired particles and; a control responsive to information received from the flow cytometry apparatus for controlling the sorting system to vary its sorting strategy or for controlling the fluid delivery system to vary the rate at which fluid is delivered as a function at least one of purity and quantity of the particles.

Abstract: The therapeutic effect of a final product is improved while guaranteeing sterility. Provided is a cell separation apparatus comprising a decomposition treatment unit for producing a cell suspension by digesting living body tissue to release living body-derived cells from the living body tissue; a cell concentrating unit for generating a cell-concentrated solution by concentrating the cell suspension by centrifugation; and a efficiency-increasing mechanism for increasing the efficiency of the living body-derived cells contained in the cell-concentrated solution.

Abstract: Disclosed is a mesoscale bioreactor platform including two or more liquid reservoirs in fluid communication with a culture chamber which chamber is in fluid communication with an exit. The platform allows the chamber to be perfused with a flow of liquid from one or more of the liquid reservoirs. The integrated reservoirs for liquids remove the need for external supplies of liquid to the culture chamber during cell culture experiments requiring perfusion of liquids. Moreover, with two or more reservoir it is possible to supply the culture chamber with different types of liquids.