СПОСОБ КУЛЬТИВИРОВАНИЯ ОДИНОЧНОЙ В-КЛЕТКИ

Группа изобретений относится к биотехнологии, а именно к способу получения В-клеток, секретирующих антиген-специфические антитела. Для получения B-клеток проводят следующие этапы: получение B-клеток из крови кролика; мечение IgG+-B-клеток и/или CD138+-B-клеток; инкубацию B-клеток при температуре 37°C в течение одного часа в среде для совместного культивирования перед размещением меченых B-клеток в виде одиночных клеток с последующим совместным культивированием с фидерными клетками в среде для совместного культивирования; выбор B-клетки, пролиферирующей на этом этапе; получение B-клетки. Способ также может включать этап центрифугирования размещенных по отдельности В-клеток перед совместным культивированием. Фидерными клетками являются мышиные клетки EL-4 B5, а фидерная смесь содержит интерлейкин-1-бета, фактор некроза опухоли альфа, клетки золотистого стафилококка штамма Cowan, BAFF, интерлейкин-2, и/или интерлейкин-10, и/или интерлейкин-6, и/или интерлейкин-4. Для получения антител берут ...

ПОПУЛЯЦИИ СПЕРМАТОЗОИДОВ, НЕСУЩИХ Х-ХРОМОСОМУ И НЕСУЩИХ У-ХРОМОСОМУ, С ВЫСОКОЙ СТЕПЕНЬЮ ОЧИСТКИ

... 1. Способ разделения клеток спермы, несущих Х-хромосому, и клеток спермы, несущих Y-хромосому, содержащий следующие этапы: а. отбор клеток спермы от самца определенного вида млекопитающих; b. определение характеристики, дифференцирующей половые признаки указанных клеток спермы; с. дифференцирование клеток спермы с учетом указанной характеристики дифференцирования половых признаков; d. разделение дифференцированных клеток спермы на популяции, несущие Х-хромосому, и популяции, несущие Y-хромосому; и е. получение популяций клеток спермы, несущих X-хромосому и несущих Y-хромосому, со степенью чистоты выше, чем 90% для каждой. 2. Способ разделения клеток спермы, несущих Х-хромосому, и клеток спермы, несущих Y-хромосому, по п.1, отличающийся тем, что этап дифференцирования клеток с учетом характеристики дифференцирования половых признаков, содержит оценку количества ДНК в ядрах клеток спермы. 3. Способ разделения клеток спермы, несущих Х-хромосому, и клеток спермы, несущих Y-хромосому, по п.1 ...

МАт-НАПРАВЛЯЕМЫЕ ХИМЕРНЫЕ АНТИГЕННЫЕ РЕЦЕПТОРНЫЕ СИСТЕМЫ ДЛЯ СОРТИРОВКИ/ИСТОЩЕНИЯ СКОНСТРУИРОВАННЫХ ИММУННЫХ КЛЕТОК

СКОНСТРУИРОВАННЫЕ ИММУННЫЕ КЛЕТКИ С НОКАУТОМ РЕЦЕПТОРА Т-КЛЕТОК, СНАБЖЕННЫЕ ХИМЕРНЫМИ АНТИГЕННЫМИ РЕЦЕПТОРАМИ, СВЯЗЫВАЮЩИМИСЯ С CD123, ДЛЯ ЛЕЧЕНИЯ РЕЦЕДИВИРУЮЩЕГО/УСТОЙЧИВОГО ОСТРОГО МИЕЛОИДНОГО ЛЕЙКОЗА ИЛИ НОВООБРАЗОВАНИЯ ИЗ БЛАСТНЫХ ПЛАЗМОЦИТОИДНЫХ ДЕНДРИТНЫХ КЛЕТОК

DIE TRENNUNG LEBENDER SÄUGETIERZELLEN DURCH HOCH GESCHWINDIGKEITS-DURCHFLUSSCYTOMETRIE

ERFAHREN

Gerät und Verfahren zur Trennung oder Messung von zu untersuchenden Teilchen in einer Flüssigkeitsprobe

Method of monitoring precise location at which fluid stream breaks up into droplets

Device monitors a fluid stream or jet in the region where it disintegrates into individual droplets. The point of sepn. (AP) is imaged (VID), and its location is determined from computerised (PC) image analysis. The determined location is then compared with a given limiting position for disintegration. Depending on whether this value is met, exceeded or undershot, further action may be initiated automatically. Also claimed is a computerised monitoring unit used to monitor the break point of the fluid jet, in a cell sorter.

Untersuchungsverfahren für biologische Zellen und zugehörige Untersuchungseinrichtung

Untersuchungsverfahren für Partikel (48, 49), insbesondere für biologische Partikel (48; 49), mit den folgenden Schritten: - Einbringung der zu untersuchenden Partikel (48, 49) in einen Trägerstrom eines mikrofluidischen Systems, so dass die Partikel in dem Trägerstrom suspendiert sind, - Durchführung mindestens einer ersten Untersuchung der sich mit dem Trägerstrom bewegenden suspendierten Partikel (48, 49), - Selektion mindestens eines suspendierten Partikels (48, 49) in Abhängigkeit von dem Ergebnis der ersten Untersuchung, - Abbremsen des selektierten suspendierten Partikels (48, 49), - Durchführung mindestens einer zweiten Untersuchung des selektierten suspendierten Partikels (48, 49) im abgebremsten Zustand.

Apparatus and method for preparing a biological sample

... 1,101,063. Sorting biological cells photoelectrically. INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION. Oct. 17, 1966 [Nov. 17, 1965], No. 46235/66. Heading G1A. Biological cells having a particular characteristic are separated from a sample of cells by passing them along a narrow passageway which allows only one cell to pass at a time detecting which cells have the characteristic and diverting the detected cells to a collecting station. Cells from a cervical smear to be tested for cancer are fed along a capillary tube 3 and tested using the system disclosed in Specification 1, 080, 084. Normally a valve 14 is open and a suction pump draws the sample into chamber 12. When a cancerous cell is detected, valve 14 is closed and 15 is opened to draw the cell into the capillary tube 11. The cancerous cells collect on a slide 20 for examination by a cytologist. The detecting system can give signals indicative of different types of blood cells such as leukocytes, red cells and lymphocytes and these ...

Device and method for investigating analytes in liquid suspension or solution

A device, e.g. a fluorescence activated cell sorter (FACS), for investigating analytes in a liquid suspension or solution comprises analyte handling means 78 including an analyte channel 70 for carrying analytes in a liquid suspension or solution through the device, a light receiving waveguide 21 for receiving light from a light supplying means 45 to illuminate the analytes in an interrogation region of the analyte channel, an analyte output region 74 with optionally an analyte sorting means 72 upstream therefrom and light guiding means 26, 27 for directing light emerging from the analytes in the interrogation region to a light directing and optical detection means 19, 30, 30' for detecting properties of the analytes. The analyte channel 70 and at least one of the waveguides 26 and 27 are integrated on the same planar substrate 20, which may be a silica, silica-on-silicon or silicon-on-insulator substrate. Independent claims are included for the sorting means, light supplying means, light ...

Corpuscle sorter

... 1,103,190. Electrostatic separators. UNITED STATES ATOMIC ENERGY COMMISSION. 1, Feb., 1966 [4, June, 1965], No. 4344/ 66. Heading B2J. [Also in Division G1] In an. apparatus for sorting particles suspended in a liquid, a jet of the liquid is broken into a regular train of droplets by accoustic pulses and a sensor 29 measures a selected characteristic of each particle that passes it and causes an electrostatic charging collar 37 to charge each droplet in accordance with the measured characteristic of any particle it may contain. Electrostatic deflecting plates 39, 41 then direct each droplet into an appropriate collecting vessel or onto an appropriate portion of a moving strip of blotting paper. The selected characteristic may be size, radioactivity, fluorescence, luminescence, electrical conductivity, or light transmissibility. or reflectivity. The particle concentration should be such that about one in seven droplets will contain a particle and the collar 37 should charge one or more droplets ...

GRANULE INSPECTION APPARATUS

Particle sorting in a tailored landscape

Optical sorting

Apparatus and method for sorting particles by gas actuation

An apparatus for sorting particles comprises a nozzle or the like for producing a stream of particles, such as cells, in a liquid flow. The particles are analyzed as they are flowing to detect different parameters thereof. A hollow inner tube and a concentrically arranged hollow outer tube are located downstream of the analyzing area. Gas bubbles are generated in the inner tube to prevent particles from flowing therein and to deflect particles into the annular space between the inner and outer tubes. Gas bubble generation is coordinated with the particle analysis to selectively deflect particles having the different parameters into the annular space, whereby the deflected particles are sorted for collection. A method of sorting particles, such as cells, substantially in accordance with the above-described apparatus is another aspect of the present invention.

PRESERVATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF PARTICLES ANALYZED BY FLOW-THROUGH APPARATUS

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR DELECTIVELY SEPARATING SMALL PARTICLES SUSPENDED IN A LIQUID

An apparatus for and method of sorting objects using reflectance spectroscopy

An apparatus for and method of sorting objects using reflectance spectroscopy

An apparatus for and method of sorting objects using reflectance spectroscopy

An apparatus for and method of sorting objects using reflectance spectroscopy

LIGHT-ADJUSTED, ELECTRICALKINETIC COMPOSITION OF PARTICLES AT SURFACES

SIMULTANEOUS MULTIPLE ANALYSIS OF CLINICAL SAMPLES

DURCHFLUSSZYTOMETERPROBENBEHANDLUNGSVERFAHREN

DEVICE AND PROCEDURE FOR THE INVESTIGATION OF ANALYTEN IN LIQUID SUSPENSION OR SOLUTION

PROCEDURE FOR MANUFACTURING INSPECTION SAMPLES OF PARTICLES SUCH AS MICROORGANISMS AND CELLS

VOLUME DURCHFLUSSZYTOMETRIE ONE AND CELL ASSORTMENT

PROCEDURE AND DEVICE FOR THE ASSORTMENT OF MICROSCOPIC PARTICLES.

EQUIPMENT FOR THE ISOLATION OF SMALL POLYMER BALLS OF A SUSPENSION OF SUCH BALLS

USE OF SYNTHETIC POLYMER PARTICLES AS STANDARDS AND KALIBRATOREN IN THE DRUCHFLUSSZYTOMETRIE

IMPROVED LIGHT SCATTERING CAUSES UTILIZATION AXIAL PATTERN ANALYSIS AND SORTER FOR MANY CELL ORGANISMS

METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND APPARATUS FOR PERFORMING FLOW CYTOMETRY

Abstract An apparatus for detecting an analyte in a sample includes an illumination source for generating electromagnetic energy to illuminate the sample at an interrogation region, a concave collector element having an optical axis, and a focal point, the interrogation region being coincident with the focal point of the concave collector element, a closed flow cell having a flow path defined between a sample inlet and a sample outlet, the flow path passing through the interrogation region and a sorting region disposed downstream of the interrogation region. The portion of the flow path passing through the interrogation region is coaxially aligned with the optical axis of the concave collector element. The apparatus further includes the sample comprising or suspected of comprising the analyte and flowing in the flow path, wherein the analyte generates a detectable signal in response to illumination. The apparatus also includes a detector for detecting the detectable signal.

Integrated herd management system utilizing isolated populations of X-chromosome bearing and Y-chromosome bearing spermatozoa

METHOD FOR SORTING AND RECOVERING FINE PARTICLE AND APPARATUS FOR RECOVERY

Method and apparatus for sorting particles

An apparatus for and method of sorting objects using reflectance spectroscopy

Fractional cell sorter

MICROFLUIDIC SYSTEM INCLUDING A BUBBLE VALVE FOR REGULATING FLUID THROUGH A MICROCHANNEL

Anti-CLL1 specific single-chain Chimeric Antigen Receptors (scCARs) for cancer immunotherapy

The present invention relates to Chimeric Antigen Receptors (CAR) that are recombinant chimeric proteins able to redirect immune cell specificity and reactivity toward CLL1 positive cells. The engineered immune cells endowed with such CARs are particularly suited for immunotherapy for treating cancer, in particular leukemia.

Compositions and methods for improving the quality of processed sperm

The present invention relates to compositions and methods for the handling of processed sperm including samples that are freshly collected, those transported as fresh samples, samples that are frozen and thawed, those sorted into one or more subpopulations, and those that are otherwise processed or handled that impose trauma on the cell. Trauma can reduce the motility, fertility, viability and overall integrity of the sperm and reduce the ability to fertilize, produce an embryo and a healthy offspring. The present invention relates to novel compounds that can be added to the sperm cell sample to reduce the traumatic effects of physical stress during mild as well as extensive sperm cell processing, methods of using the compounds in standard sperm processing procedures, the end products made from these methods including sperm and embryos, as well as methods of using those end products in assisted reproductive biology techniques in animals.

A method for characterizing polymer molecules or the like

Tim protein-bound carrier, methods for obtaining, removing and detecting extracellular membrane vesicles and viruses using said carrier, and kit including said carrier

The present invention addresses the problem of providing a carrier and method for simply and efficiently obtaining or removing extracellular membrane 5 vesicles or viruses present in a sample with high purity while keeping the vesicles or viruses intact, or detecting such vesicles or viruses with high sensitivity. The present invention relates to: "1. a carrier (Tim carrier) with which a protein (Tim protein) selected from T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain containing molecule-4 (Tim-4) protein, Tim-3 protein, and Tim-1 protein, is 10 bound; 2. a method for obtaining extracellular membrane vesicles or viruses in a sample; 3. a method for removing extracellular membrane vesicles or viruses in a sample; 4. a method for detecting extracellular membrane vesicles or viruses in a sample; 5. a kit for capturing extracellular membrane vesicles or viruses, wherein the kit includes the Tim carrier; and 6. a kit for capturing 15 extracellular membrane vesicles or viruses, wherein the kit includes ...

Array cytometry

A microfabricated device and method for multiplexed electrokinetic focusing of fluid streams and a transport cytometry method using same

Miniaturized fluid flow switch

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SCREENING CELLS OR FORMED BODIES WITH POPULATIONS EXPRESSING SELECTED CHARACTERISTICS UTILIZING AT LEAST ONE SENSING PARAMETER

System and method for rapid analysis of cells using spectral cytometry

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MULTIDIMENSIONAL CHARACTERIZATION OF OBJECTS IN REAL TIME

ARRAY CYTOMETRY

A method and apparatus for the manipulation of colloidal particulates and biomolecules at the interface between an insulating electrode such as silicon oxide and an electrolyte solution. Light-controlled elektrokinetic assembly of particles near surfaces relies on the combination of three functional elements: the AC electric field-induced assembly of planar aggregates; the patterning of the electrolyte/silicon oxide/silicon interface to exert spatial control over the assembly process; and the real-time control of the assembly process via external illumination. The present invention provides a set of fundamental operations enabling interactive control over the creation and placement of planar arrays of several types of particles and biomolecules and the manipulation of array shape and size. The present invention enables sample preparation and handling for diagnostic assays and biochemical analysis in an array format, and the functional integration of these operations. In addition, the present ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR ANALYSIS AND SORTING OF PARTICLES SUCH AS POLYMER BEADS

The present invention relates to an apparatus for analysing beads and particles, such as polymer beads used e.g. for solid phase synthesis. The apparatus in one embodiment comprises a rotatable, circular disc comprising a plurality of through-going, inlets, wherein an individual bead from a composition comprising different beads can be fixed to the disc at the end- position of a through-going inlet by applying a pressure drop over said disc comprising said through-going inlets. The pressure drop results in beads being sucked (i.e detachably fixed) onto the disc on top of the through-going inlets. When the disc is rotated the beads are transferred from the position where they initially became attached to the disc to fixed positions wherein suitable devices for measuring and/or analyzing and/or sorting the beads can be operated in order to e.g. measure and/or analyse and/or sort at least one bead of a plurality of beads. More specifically, the invention relates to an apparatus for measuring ...

OPTICAL SORTING

A method for sorting particles, in particular cells A and B. The method uses a single channel with only one input and only one output. A particle mix A and B in a fluid is introduced into the channel and particles within the channel are sorted.

DROPLET GENERATION

... 22 Perfectly spherical, smooth and uniform microcapsules, which may contain living cells, are produced having a diameter less than 700 .mu.m by employing an electrostatic droplet generator. A droplet is suspended from a pointed source, such as a needle, and is charged with high static voltage. A collecting vessel or ring device is charged with opposing polarity and attracts the droplet. When a voltage potential threshold is passed, the droplet moves from the source to the collecting vessel. The voltage pulse height, pulse frequency and length, and extrusion rate of the droplet are adjustable so that predetermined sizes of droplets may be repeatedly generated and collected.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SORTING PARTICLES

A sorting method is disclosed in which particles suspended in a fluid are conducted in a closed duct and pass a measurement location in which particles to be selected trigger a signal by a sensing device. At a downstream fork, a pressure wave generated in response to the signal diverts the stream containing the particles from one branch to the other. An apparatus for carrying out this method is disclosed and includes a supply duct for the particle stream, a measurement duct, a measurement position in the measurement duct, a fork downstream of the measurement duct leading to a sorting branch duct and waste branch duct, and a pressure wave generator which is disposed in one of the ducts leading away from the fork.

AN APPARATUS FOR AND METHOD OF SORTING OBJECTS USING REFLECTANCE SPECTROSCOPY

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR SORTING CELLS USING AN OPTICAL SWITCH IN A MICROFLUIDIC CHANNEL NETWORK

Apparatus and Methods are provided for a microfabricated fluorescence activated cell sorter based on an optical switch for rapid, active control of cell routing through a microfluidic channel network. This sorter enables low- stress, highly efficient sorting of populations of small numbers of cells (i.e., 1000 - 100,000 cells). The invention includes packaging of the microfluidic channel network in a self-contained plastic cartridge that enables microfluidic channel network to macro-scale instrument interconnect, in a sterile, disposable format.

SINGLE DROP SEPARATOR

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATING AND UTILIZING LINEAR MOVING OPTICAL GRADIENTS

Apparatus and methods are provided for interacting light with particles, including but not limited to biological matter such as cells, in unique and highly useful ways. Optophoresis consists of subjecting particles to various optical forces, especially optical gradient forces, and more particularly moving optical gradient forces, so as to obtain useful results. In one implementation, a population of particles, comprising two or more differing particles, e.g., red blood cells and white blood cells, are illuminated by a line of light which is moved slowly relative to the particle population. The particles are moved with the line until the population is aligned. Next, the line of particles is subject to relative motion of light relative to the particles, such as by rapidly moving the line of illumination relative to the physical position of the particles. By moving the line away from the particles at a rate great enough that certain particles remain behind, effective separation, characterization ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ISOLATING AND ANALYZING CELLS

A system and method for isolating and analyzing single cells, wherein the system includes: an array of wells defined at a substrate, each well including an open surface and a well cavity configured to capture cells in one of a single-cell format and single-cluster format, and a fluid delivery module including a fluid reservoir superior to the array of wells through which fluid flow is controlled along a fluid path in a direction parallel to the broad face of the substrate; and wherein the method includes: distributing a population of cells and a population of non-cell particles across the array of wells through the fluid reservoir to increase capture efficiency of individual cell-particle pairs within the array of wells, and processing the captured cell-particle pairs at the set of wells.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MICROFLUIDIC PARTICLE ORIENTATION AND/OR SORTING

MICROFLUIDIC METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR THE ISOLATION OF PARTICLES

A microfluidic method and system (1) for the recovery of particles (2); while a sample is fed along a plurality of channels (7), some particles (2) of a given type are trapped at the segments (16) of the channels (7); keeping a fluid flow flowing along the channels (7) further particles (3) of different type are moved away and unloaded through an outlet (6); at this point, a movement device (26), for example provided with a dielectrophoresis system, directly exerts a force on each particle (2) of given type and selectively conveys it to a collection area (25).

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATED DETECTION AND MONITORING OF DYSPLASIA AND ADMINISTRATION OF CHEMOPREVENTION

A method for automated detection, monitoring and treatment of dysplasia by analyzing 3D reconstructed images of cells obtained from a specimen includes a biological specimen classifier that classifies cells from the sputum specimen as normal or abnormal. If abnormal cells are detected, then the abnormal cells are further classified as pre-cancerous or cancerous. Pre-cancerous cells are further sub-classified as being of glandular origin or squamous origin (dysplastic cells). This information would be used to define patient therapy so that if the cells are classified as dysplastic, then a cancer chemoprevention pharmaceutical like iloprost is administered to the subject over a predetermined time period to achieve a therapeutic dosage, and if only malignant cells were found or malignant and pre-cancerous cells were found, then next steps would involve patient triage to biopsy and surgery and possibly use of a cancer chemoprevention pharmaceutical.

CELL SORTING USING A HIGH THROUGHPUT FLUORESCENCE FLOW CYTOMETER

In one aspect, a method of sorting cells in a flow cytometry system is disclosed, which includes illuminating a cell with radiation having at least two optical frequencies shifted from one another by a radiofrequency to elicit fluorescent radiation from the cell, detecting the fluorescent radiation to generate temporal fluorescence data, and processing the temporal fluorescence data to arrive at a sorting decision regarding the cell without generating an image (i.e., a pixel-by-pixel image) of the cell based on the fluorescence data. In other words, while the fluorescence data can contain image data that would allow generating a pixel-by-pixel fluorescence intensity map, the method arrives at the sorting decision without generating such a map. In some cases, the sorting decision can be made with a latency less than about 100 microseconds. In some embodiments, the above method of sorting cells can have a sub-cellular resolution, e.g., the sorting decision can be based on characteristics ...

DOSIMETERS INCLUDING LENSLESS IMAGING SYSTEMS

A MICROFABRICATED DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MULTIPLEXED ELECTROKINETIC FOCUSING OF FLUID STREAMS AND A TRANSPORT CYTOMETRY METHOD USING SAME

One embodiment of the present invention provides a microchip (10) adapted for the simultaneous spatial confinement of electrokinetically driven fluidic material streams on the microchip. The microchip includes a focusing chamber (22) formed in the surface of the microchip and in fluid communication with two sample channels (28, 30) and three focusing channels (32, 40, 42). The embodiment further includes electromotive means operatively connected to the sources of the sample fluids (14, 18) and the sources of focusing fluid (12, 16, 20) for electrokinetically driving the respective streams of the sample and focusing fluids such that the focusing fluid streams spatially confine the first and second sample streams within the focusing chamber. Another embodiment of the present invention provides a cytometry method for analyzing microscopic particles in a fluid medium on a microchip by utilizing the focusing function of the microchip. In this process the width of the fluid stream is narrowed ...

FRACTIONATION OF PARTICLES

A fractionation system comprising means for forming a three dimensional optical lattice that is operable to separate particles that have different physical characteristics. Preferably, the wells of the optical lattice are interlinked. For example, the wells may be linked in such a manner as to provide deflection greater than or equal to 15 degrees.

MICROCHIP AND METHOD OF CELL SORTING

... [PROBLEMS] To provide a microchip for cell sampling whereby desired cells can be quickly and accurately sampled from a large number of cells with the combined use of the advantages of a system using optical tweezers and anoth er system using microchannels. [MEANS FOR SOLVING PROBLEMS] A microchip for cell sampling which is provided, on a single baseboard, with: a cell feeding channel for feeding a cell-containing liquid and flowing the same; and a ce ll sampling channel for sampling a portion of the cells passing through the cell feeding channel; wherein the cell feeding channel and the cell sampling channel have each a liquid feeder port connected to a liquid feeder mechani sm at one end and a liquid discharge port connected to a drainage mechanism at the other end and intersect with each other at the midway thereof. ...

HOLOGRAPHIC DEVICE AND OBJECT SORTING SYSTEM

A device for extracting at least one object characteristic of an object (106) is presented, the device comprising: a light sensor (101) for recording a hologram of an object and a processing unit (102) coupled to the light sensor and configured for extracting at least one object characteristic from the hologram; wherein the processing unit is configured for extracting the at least one object characteristic from a section of the hologram without reconstructing an image representation of the object. Further, a device (200) for sorting an object (106), a method for identifying an object and a method for sorting objects is presented.

APPARATUS, METHODS AND PROCESSES FOR SORTING PARTICLES AND FOR PROVIDING SEX-SORTED ANIMAL SPERM

A process for evaluating a set of conditions for staining a population of cells for sorting, the population comprising a first type and a second type of cell, the process comprising: (a) staining a fraction of the population of cells with a fluorescent dye under a set of staining conditions; (b) exposing the stained cells to electromagnetic radiation as the stained cells are passed through an interrogation location of a flow cytometer at a rate, R; (c) determining a fluorescence emission characteristic of the exposed cells; (d) using the determined fluorescence characteristic to classify the exposed cells into two or more sub-populations of cells, one of the sub-populations being an enriched sub-population of the first cell type; (e) determining a coefficient of variation for the fluorescence emission characteristic of the cells of the enriched sub-population to provide an indication of sorting efficiency for the staining conditions; and (f) determining whether to modify any staining condition ...

CLL1-SPECIFIC MULTI-CHAIN CHIMERIC ANTIGEN RECEPTOR

The present invention relates to a new generation of chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) referred to as multi-chain CARs, which are made specific to the antigen CLL1. Such CARs aim to redirect immune cell specificity and reactivity toward malignant cells expressing the tumor antigen CLL1. The alpha, beta and gamma polypeptides composing these CARs are designed to assemble in juxtamembrane position, which forms flexible architecture closer to natural receptors, that confers optimal signal transduction. The invention encompasses the polynucleotides, vectors encoding said multi-chain CAR and the isolated cells expressing them at their surface, in particularly for their use in immunotherapy. The invention opens the way to efficient adoptive immunotherapy strategies for treating cancer, especially leukemia.

FLOW CYTOMETRY APPARATUS AND METHODS

A particle analyzer, comprising a source of a substantially nondiffracting light beam; a flow path configured to produce in a flowcell a ribbon-like core stream having a cross-sectional aspect ratio of at least 4 and a largest cross-sectional dimension of at least 50 micrometers; the flowcell being configured to expose a segment of the core stream to the light beam; a detector configured to receive a signal resulting from an interaction of a particle in the core stream with the light beam; a first sorting actuator connected with the flowcell, downstream of the exposed segment of core stream; a plurality of sorting channels in fluid connection with the flow path and downstream of the first actuator; the actuator having multiple actuation states, each state configured to direct at least one part of the core stream to a corresponding channel; a second sorting actuator connected with the flowcell, opposite the first actuator, and operable in coordination with the first actuator.

IMPROVED FLOW CYTOMETER NOZZLE AND FLOW CYTOMETER SAMPLE HANDLING METHODS

A method of flow cytometry sample processing, comprising the steps of establishing a sheath fluid; injecting a sample into said sheath fluid at an injection point; subjecting said sample to a first axial motion surface in a nozzle; transitioning to a second axial motion surface in said nozzle; subjecting said sample to said second axial motion surface in said nozzle wherein said first and said second axial motion surfaces transition with a maximal acceleration differentiation; coordinating said maximal acceleration differentiation so as to not exceed the practical capabilities of said sample over its length; affirmatively limiting said maximal acceleration differentiation so as to not exceed the practical capabilities of said sample over its length; exiting said sample from said nozzle; analyzing said sample.

FLUID STREAM IMAGING APPARATUS

A fluid stream imaging apparatus having either optics for manipulating the aspect ratio or sensing elements configured for manipulating the aspect ratio of an image of the fluid stream. This application may also relate to a system for acquiring images of a portion of a fluid stream at high speeds for image processing to measure and predict droplet delays for individual forming particles.

ISOLATED MONOCYTE POPULATIONS AND RELATED THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

The invention provides methods of using isolated monocyte populations to treat subjects suffering from various ocular vascular disease or ocular degenerative disorders. The present invention also provides novel methods for isolating substantially pure monocyte populations. The methods involve extracting a blood sample or a bone marrow sample from a subject, debulking red blood cells from the sample, and then separating remaining red blood cells and other cell types in the sample from monocytes. Instead of using any selection or labeling agents, the red blood cells and other cell types are separated from monocytes based on their size, granularity or density. The isolated monocytes can be further activated in vitro or ex vivo prior to being administered to a subject. Isolated cell populations containing substantially pure CD14+/CD33+ monocytes are also provided in the invention.

METHODS FOR HANDLING BIOLOGICAL DRUGS CONTAINING LIVING CELLS

The present invention includes methods for handling live cell compositions in non- nutritive buffer. The cells in the compositions maintain their identity and functional characteristics after being stored in non-nutrititive media up to about 72 hours. The storage method enables the cells to be manufactured at a processing facility and shipped to a point of care site. The invention also includes compositions that have been stored in non-nutritive buffer at storage temperatures while maintaining the functional characteristics.

HUMAN MULTIPOTENT EMBRYONIC STEM CELL-LIKE PROGENITOR CELLS

The invention provides a plurality of embryonic stem cell-like progenitor cells, which are isolated from a human tissue by a systemic screening of human mesenchymal stromal stem/progenitor cells and a cell sorting by a cell antigen selected from the group consisting of CD34, CD117, CD133, CD201, GloboH and combination thereof, and cultured in a medium supplemented with at least one or more steroids and one or more growth factors. The cells of the invention express CD34 and exhibit sphere-like clonogenicity in early passages and express multipotent embryonic stem cells (ESCs) like characteristics.

NOZZLE ASSEMBLY FOR A FLOW CYTOMETER SYSTEM AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE

A method of manufacturing a nozzle assembly may include the step of over molding a nozzle housing, or a portion of a nozzle housing, onto at least one nozzle component, such as an injection tube. Nozzle assemblies and flow cytometers incorporating nozzle assemblies may include any combination of straight smooth injection tubes, improved features for securing a nozzle assembly, improved features for debubbling a nozzle assembly, and aggressive orienting geometries. A method of sorting cells may include the step of magnetically coupling a nozzle assembly with a flow cytometer.

A METHOD FOR CHARACTERIZING POLYMER MOLECULES OR THE LIKE

A method for observation and determination of the size of individual molecul es and determination of the weight distribution of a poly disperse sample comprising: placing a molecule in a medium; subjecting the molecule to an external force, causing conformational/positional changes; and measuring these change s. Preferred ways to measure conformational/positional changes include: (1) determining the rate of relaxation of a deformable molecule after termination of the external force, (2) determining the reorientation rate of a molecule when the direction of the external force is changed, (3) determining the rotation rate of a molecule, (4) measuring the length of a molecule, particularly when it is partially stretched, or (5) measuring the diameter of the molecule. Measurements involve the use of a light microscope connected to an image processor or a microscope combined with a spectroscopi c device.

FETAL CELL RECOVERY METHOD

... 2059554 9114768 PCTABS00007 The present invention provides a method for selectively recovering fetal cells from a maternal blood sample. The method is performed on a blood sample from a pregnant woman having different first and second cell surface antigens expressed by a first allele of a polymorphic genetic locus and a second allele of a polymorphic genetic locus. The method separates maternal and fetal cells based on differential reactivities of the cells to antibodies specific for polymorphic cell surface antigens, particularly the HLA antigens. In particular, the fetal and maternal cells are separated based on the non-reactivity of the fetal cells to an antibody specific for a cell surface antigen encoded by a non-transmitted maternal allele. The method can be performed using solid phase-affixed antibody and recovering non-bound cells or using fluorescent labeled antibody and recovering unlabeled cells by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. In a preferred embodiment, the cells are ...

Anordnung zur Aussonderung von bestimmten Partikeln aus einem flüssigen Medium sowie Verfahren zu deren Betrieb

Trennvorrichtung für suspendierte Partikeln

Appareil pour identifier diverses particules microstructurées à l'intérieur d'un fluide

Apparatus for analysis and sorting of particles

The particle-analyser apparatus for measurements of particles in a stream comprises a flow unit (16) having a pair of channels (18, 20) connected by a particle-detection aperture (22) interposed between them, through which aperture the particles pass. A nozzle (24) is mounted near the downstream end of the downstream channel (20), and means (32) are provided for introducing a sleeve of liquid into the downstream end of the downstream channel (20) in order to surround and hydrodynamically focus the stream of particles when it passes through the downstream channel (20) from the detection aperture (22) towards the nozzle (24). ...

METHOD OF ANALYZING AND SORTING OF PARTICLES SUSPENDED IN A LIQUID AND APPARATUS FOR CARRYING OUT SAID METHOD.

DEVICE FOR COUNTING, CLASSIFYING AND SORTING IN A FLOWING LIQUID SUSPENDED PARTICLES AND USE OF THIS DEVICE.

ИЗОЛИРОВАННЫЕ ПОПУЛЯЦИИ МОНОЦИТОВ И СВЯЗАННЫЕ С НИМИ ТЕРАПЕВТИЧЕСКИЕ ПРИМЕНЕНИЯ

Согласно настоящему изобретению предложены способы применения изолированных популяций моноцитов для лечения субъектов, страдающих от различных сосудистых заболеваний глаз или дегенеративных расстройств глаз. Согласно настоящему изобретению также предложены новые способы выделения, по существу, чистых популяций моноцитов. Указанные способы включают получение образца крови или образца костного мозга от субъекта, уменьшение количества красных кровяных клеток в указанном образце, а затем отделение оставшихся в образце красных кровяных клеток и других типов клеток от моноцитов. Вместо применения каких-либо селективных или вводящих метку агентов красные кровяные клетки и другие типы клеток отделяют от моноцитов на основании их размера, гранулярности или плотности. Изолированные моноциты можно дополнительно активировать in vitro или ex vivo перед введением субъекту. Согласно настоящему изобретению также предложены изолированные популяции клеток, содержащие, по существу, чистые моноциты CD14+/CD33 ...

DEVICE FOR DIFFERENTIATION OF ASSYMETRIC PARTICLES

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SORTING CELLS

NOZZLE FOR IN-LINE TsITOMETRA WITH HIGH EFFECTIVE SORTING OF CELLS

FLOW CYTOMETRY NOZZLE FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY CELL SORTING

Sex-Specific Insemination of Mammals with Low Number of Sperm Cells

Small object sorting system and method

An automated object sorting system (10) is provided. In various embodiments, the automated object sorting system (10) includes an automated object extraction assembly (12) and an automated object collection assembly (18). The automated object extraction assembly (12) extracts one or more objects from an object sorting tray (32) based on one or more attributes and/or traits of interest. The automated collection assembly (18) selectively deposits the extracted objects in selected collection receptacles (61) according to the particular attributes and/or traits of each respective object.

Method, compositions and systems for microfluidic analysis

Microchip and particle analyzing apparatus

APPAREIL ET PROCEDE POUR LE TRI DE PARTICULES PAR AGITATION DE GAZ

L'INVENTION CONCERNE UN APPAREIL POUR LE TRI DE PARTICULES. IL COMPORTE UN INJECTEUR21 POUR CREER UN FLUX DE PARTICULES, PAR EXEMPLE DES CELLULES, DANS UN LIQUIDE EN MOUVEMENT. UN TUBE INTERIEUR40 ET UN TUBE EXTERIEUR41 CONCENTRIQUES SONT SITUES EN AVAL DE LA ZONE D'ANALYSE. DES BULLES DE GAZ SONT PRODUITES DANS LE TUBE INTERIEUR POUR EMPECHER LES PARTICULES D'Y PENETRER ET POUR DETOURNER LES PARTICULES VERS L'ESPACE ANNULAIRE ENTRE LES TUBES. LA PRODUCTION DE BULLES DE GAZ EST COORDONNEE AVEC L'ANALYSE DES PARTICULES POUR DETOURNER SELECTIVEMENT LES PARTICULES AYANT DES CARACTERISTIQUES DIFFERENTES VERS L'ESPACE ANNULAIRE, OU LES PARTICULES DETOURNEES SONT TRIEES EN VUE DE LEUR RECUPERATION. APPLICATION AU TRI DES PARTICULES, PAR EXEMPLE DES CELLULES, ETC...

DEVICE AND PROCESS Of MICROSCOPIC ANALYSIS MULTIPARAMETRIQUE Of ELEMENTS

Mechanical sorting of living cells - using photoelectric classification to control high speed, continuous sepn. based on physiological structure

MICROFLUOROMETRE HAS CIRCULATION

FLUIDIC SEPARATION DEVICE

La présente invention concerne un dispositif de séparation fluidique comportant : - au moins un microcanal (2) s'étendant suivant un axe longitudinal (X), le microcanal ayant une section transversale présentant une largeur mesurée suivant un premier axe transversal et une épaisseur mesurée suivant un deuxième axe transversal (Z) perpendiculaire au premier, la largeur étant supérieure à l'épaisseur, le microcanal comportant, suivant le deuxième axe transversal, des parois inférieure (3) et supérieure (4), - au moins des première (7), deuxième (8) et troisième (9) entrées en communication fluidique avec le microcanal (2), la deuxième entrée (8) étant disposée, suivant le deuxième axe transversal (Z), entre les première (7) et troisième (9) entrées, - au moins des première (10) et deuxième (11) parois de séparation transversales, séparant les première et deuxième entrées, respectivement les deuxième et troisième entrées, les première et deuxième parois de séparation (10 ; 11) étant agencées ...

Method and apparatus for multi-parameter data analysis

In one aspect, the present invention relates to a method 200 for identifying one or more phenotypes from a multi-parameter data set. The method 200 comprises measuring 202 correlation between pairs of parameters within the multi-parameter data set, modifying 204 correlated parameter values within a predetermined multi-parameter data analysis set to form an analysis parameter set, and analysing 206 the multi-parameter data set using the analysis parameter set to identify one or more phenotypes from the multi-parameter data set. Various embodiments of the present invention may, for example, be used in an automated high-content screening (HCS) apparatus 100 for biological cellular analysis.

Apparatus for high-throughput suspension measurements

A high-throughput optical suspension characterization instrument is disclosed, which can include hydraulically separate and at least partially transparent sample containers. A selection mechanism is operative to selectively direct light from a light source ( 12 ) through different ones of the sample containers along an optical axis, and an off-axis scattering detector ( 38,24 ) is responsive to scattered light from the light source after it has interacted with a sample. Phase analysis light scattering is used to determine the electrophoretic mobility and zeta potential of samples. A second instrument is disclosed, wherein all sample containers are illuminated simultaneously. Transmitted light is collected by a camera. The electrophoretic mobility and hydrodynamic size of the samples may be determined.

Minimally invasive cytometry system with qcl inspection of single cells for cancer detection

This disclosure concerns a minimally invasive cytometry system including a handling system that presents single cells to at least one QCL laser source. The QCL laser source is configured to deliver light to a cell within the cells in order to induce vibrational bond absorption in one or more analytes within the cell. The cytometry system also includes a detection facility that detects the mid-infrared wavelength light transmitted by the cell and identifies the cell as either cancerous or non-cancerous.

Imaging and evaluating embryos, oocytes, and stem cells

Methods, compositions and kits for determining the developmental potential of one or more embryos or pluripotent cells and/or the presence of chromosomal abnormalities in one or more embryos or pluripotent cells are provided. These methods, compositions and kits find use in identifying embryos and oocytes in vitro that are most useful in treating infertility in humans.

Convex Lens-Induced Confinement for Measuring Distributions of Molecular Size

A curved surface is placed tangent to a slide and displaces a sample liquid from the point or line of contact outward. Imaging indicates a region where fluorescence is observed, and the location of the fluorescence indicates the molecular size. The radius of curvature of the lens is known, the distance from the (center) point of contact of the observed fluorescence is measured with a microscope and the distance of the lens surface to the slide's surface can then be calculated. This distance represents the size of the molecule or ensemble of molecules emitting. Similarly, absorbance, etc. could be measured with a light source below the slide.

Cell processing apparatus, sample preparation apparatus, and cell analyzer

A cell processing apparatus includes a storage container that contains liquid L including a biological sample; a filter that prevents a first cell C 1 in the biological sample from passing and allows a second cell C 2 having a smaller diameter than that of the first cell C 1 to pass; and a filtration cylinder for separating, in the storage container and via the filter, the liquid L into a first liquid L 1 mainly including the first cell C 1 and a second liquid L 2 mainly including the second cell C 2 . A measurement target cell filtered by the filter among other cells can be easily collected.

Particle separation

An example system includes an input channel having a first end and a second end to receive particles through the first end, a separation chamber, at least two output channels, and an integrated pump to facilitate flow through the separation chamber. The separation chamber is in fluid communication with the second end of the input channel. The separation chamber has a passive separation structure, the passive separation structure including an array of columns spaced apart to facilitate separation of particles in a flow based on a size of the particles. Each output channel is in fluid communication with the separation chamber to receive separated particles. The integrated pump is positioned within at least one of the input channel or one of the at least two output channels.

Microparticle separation method, microparticle separation program, microparticle separation system

A method of extracting microparticles by detecting target microparticles for extraction in a main flow path which communicates with a pressure chamber, generating for each of the detected target microparticles a change in a negative pressure in the pressure chamber communicating with the main flow path to separate and extract each of the detected target microparticles flowing in the main flow path into the pressure chamber, wherein generating the change of the negative pressure to extract the detected target microparticles comprises generating a negative change in pressure by a different amount in accordance with a separation between the detected target microparticles.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CHARACTERIZING PARTICLES USING AN ANGULAR DETECTION IN A FLOW CYTOMETER

The invention relates to a method and system for characterizing particles using a flow cytometer comprising detecting radiated light from the particles using two or more detectors positioned to allow for the detection in two or more angular directions and generating a waveform, as a digital representation for the detected radiated light for each of said angulation direction. The waveforms are transformed using one or more basis functions to obtain one or more coefficients characterizing the waveform. The one or more coefficients characterizing the waveform preferably correspond to properties of the particle(s), thereby enabling analysis of physical properties of the particles (such as size, shape, refractive index) or biological properties of the particles (such as cell type, cell cycle state or localization or distribution of molecules within the cell and/or on the cell surface). In preferred embodiments the method and system are used for a label-free sorting of particles, in particular biological cells. 1. A method for characterizing particles using a flow cytometer comprising:a. passing of one or more particles in a fluid stream through a light beam of the flow cytometer,{'b': '3', 'b. detecting radiated light as one or more particles pass through the light beam using two or more detectors positioned to allow for the detection of the radiated light () in two or more angular directions,'}c. generating for each of the angular directions a waveform which is a digital representation of the detected radiated light for said angular direction, andd. transforming each waveform using one or more basis functions and obtaining one or more coefficients characterizing the waveform.2. Method according to claim 1 , wherein the detected radiated light is a forward scatter signal claim 1 , a side scatter signal and/or a fluorescence light and the two or more detectors are positioned to allow for detection of a forward scatter signal claim 1 , a side scatter signal and/or a ...

mAb-DRIVEN CHIMERIC ANTIGEN RECEPTOR SYSTEMS FOR SORTING/DEPLETING ENGINEERED IMMUNE CELLS

A polypeptide encoding a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) comprising at least one extracellular binding domain that comprises a scFv formed by at least a VH chain and a VL chain specific to an antigen, wherein said extracellular binding domain comprises at least one mAb-specific epitope. 1. A polypeptide encoding a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) comprising at least one extracellular binding domain that comprises a scFv formed by at least a VH chain and a VL chain specific to an antigen , wherein said extracellular binding domain comprises at least one mAb-specific epitope.2. The polypeptide according to claim 1 , wherein said mAb-specific epitope is located between the VH and VL chains.3. The polypeptide according to claim 1 , wherein said VH and VL chains claim 1 , and mAb specific-epitope are bound together by at least one linker and to the transmembrane domain of said CAR by a hinge.4. The polypeptide according to claim 3 , wherein the mAb-specific epitope is joined to the VH and VL chains by two linkers.5. The polypeptide according to claim 1 , wherein the mAb-specific epitope is an epitope to be bound by an epitope-specific mAb for in vitro cell sorting and/or in vivo cell depletion of T cells expressing a CAR comprising such epitope.6. The polypeptide according to claim 1 , wherein the polypeptide comprises one extracellular binding domain claim 1 , wherein said extracellular binding domain further comprises a hinge claim 1 , and said polypeptide further comprisesa transmembrane domain, and,an intracellular domain.7. The polypeptide according to claim 1 , wherein the extracellular binding domain comprises 1 claim 1 , 2 claim 1 , 3 claim 1 , 4 claim 1 , 5 claim 1 , 6 claim 1 , 7 claim 1 , 8 claim 1 , 9 or 10 mAb-specific epitopes.8. The polypeptide according to claim 1 , wherein the extracellular binding domain comprises 1 claim 1 , 2 claim 1 , 3 or claim 1 , 4 mAb-specific epitopes.9. The polypeptide according to claim 1 , wherein the extracellular binding ...

PURIFICATION OF GERM STEM CELLS BY TARGETING MRP9

Provided herein are methods and compositions for the purification and detection of germ stem cells (e.g., oogonial stem cells) based on expression of MRP9. 1. A method for purifying a germ stem cell (GSC) , the method comprising:(a) contacting a sample comprising the GSC with an anti-MRP9 antibody that specifically binds to MRP9 and that does not specifically bind to DDX4;(b) incubating the sample under conditions such that the anti-MRP9 antibody forms a complex with an MRP9 protein expressed on the surface of the GSC; and(c) separating the GSC from other material present in the sample.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the GSC is a oogonial stem cell (OSC).3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the sample is an ovarian tissue sample.4. The method of claim 3 , further comprising the step of obtaining the ovarian tissue sample from a subject.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the GSC is a spermatogonial stem cell (SSC).6. The method of any one of to claim 1 , wherein the GSC is a human GSC.7. The method of any one of to claim 1 , wherein the anti-MRP9 antibody is monoclonal.8. The method of any one of to claim 1 , wherein the anti-MRP9 antibody is polyclonal.9. The method of any one of to claim 1 , wherein the anti-MRP9 antibody specifically binds to an extracellular region of MRP9.10. The method of any one of to claim 1 , wherein the anti-MRP9 antibody does not specifically bind to an epitope having a sequence of APNPVDD.11. The method of any one of to claim 1 , wherein the anti-MRP9 antibody specifically binds to an extracellular region of MRP9 having a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs 5-20.12. The method of any one of to claim 1 , wherein the anti-MRP9 antibody specifically bind to an extracellular region of MRP9 having a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs 6-12.13. The method of any one of to claim 1 , wherein the GSC is separated from other material present in the sample in step (c) by fluorescent activated cell sorting ...

Compositions and methods for screening t cells with antigens for specific populations

Compositions and methods for isolating patient-derived antigen-specific T cells include an antigen complex having a polynucleotide barcoded nanoparticle sorting agent complexed with a peptide-loaded streptavidin major histocompatability complex (MHC) tetramer, the barcoding technology allowing for high fidelity screening of a library of the antigen complexes to readily isolate and identify antigen-specific T cells.

METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR ASCERTAINING THE SIZE OF PARTICLES

A method of ascertaining the size of small particles is disclosed. The method includes the steps of: a) intersecting at least two light beams at an intersection volume; b) sensing at each of a plurality of sensing positions angularly displaced from one another light scattered by a particle substantially in the intersection volume, and producing respective output signals indicative of the sensed light; c) ascertaining the phase difference between one of the signals and each other of the signals to give a measured indication of the variation of phase difference with angular displacement; and d) comparing the measured indication with at least one known indication of the variation of phase difference with angle for a known particle size and thereby determining the size of the particle substantially in the intersection volume. 1. A method of ascertaining the size of small particles , the method including the steps of:a) intersecting at least two light beams at an intersection volume;b) sensing at each of a plurality of sensing positions angularly displaced from one another light scattered by a particle substantially in the intersection volume, and producing respective output signals indicative of the sensed light;c) ascertaining the phase difference between one of the signals and each other of the signals to give a measured indication of the variation of phase difference with angular displacement; andd) comparing the measured indication with at least one known indication of the variation of phase difference with angle for a known particle size and thereby determining the size of the particle substantially in the intersection volume.2. A method according to claim 1 , wherein the measured indication of the variation of phase difference with angular displacement includes an indication of the angular position of transitions between local maxima and minima of the phase difference.3. A method according to claim 2 , wherein the measured indication includes information ...

FLUIDIC FLOW CYTOMETRY DEVICES AND PARTICLE SENSING BASED ON SIGNAL-ENCODING

Microfluidic devices, systems and techniques in connection with particle sorting in liquid, including cytometry devices and techniques and applications in chemical or biological testing and diagnostic measurements. 1. A particle sorter for sorting particles in a fluid , comprising:a structure having an input channel connected at an actuation area to a plurality of output channels, wherein the particles in the fluid flow through the input channel to the actuation area, and each particle travels from the actuation area to one of the plurality of output channels, anda piezoelectric actuator for causing a flow disturbance in the actuation area in response to a control signal, wherein the flow disturbance operates to direct a particle along a trajectory to one of the plurality of output channels which is different than the output channel to which the particle would travel without the flow disturbance.2. The particle sorter of claim 1 , wherein the structure includes at least one of a polymer substrate claim 1 , a polydimethylsiloxine (PDMS) substrate claim 1 , or a glass substrate.3. The particle sorter of claim 2 , wherein the piezoelectric actuator is permanently bonded via UV ozone treatment to the PDMS substrate.4. The particle sorter of claim 1 , wherein the piezoelectric actuator is integrated with the structure.5. The particle sorter of claim 1 , further comprising a driver for generating the control signal.6. The particle sorter of claim 1 , wherein the control signal is a voltage signal having a controlled magnitude and frequency.7. The particle sorter of claim 1 , wherein the detection unit comprises a bank of filters for detecting a signal from the particle.8. The particle sorter of claim 1 , wherein the piezoelectric actuator includes a contact layer for coupling the piezoelectric actuator to the structure claim 1 , and further includes a piezoelectric layer for generating a signal to cause the flow disturbance in response to the control signal.9. The ...

PERSONAL AIR QUALITY MONITORING SYSTEM

An airborne, gas, or liquid particle sensor with multiple particle sensor blocks in a single particle counter. Each sensor would sample a portion of the incoming airstream, or possibly a separate airstream. The various counters could be used separately or in concert. 1. A personal particle counter apparatus , comprising:a power source in a device housing;an air intake and outlet fluidly connected to at least one chamber in the device housing;at least one light source that passes through the at least one chamber;at least one photo-detector within the at least one chamber, the at least one photo-detector configured to detect airborne particulates passing through the beam in air traversing from the air intake to the outlet;at least one amplifier in communication with the at least one photo-detector, the at least one amplifier configured to convert signals from the at least one photo-detector into amplified electrical pulses;at least one threshold comparator configured to process the amplified electrical pulses from the at least one amplifier and produces at least one output based on any pulse above a threshold pulse height that is a peak voltage of the amplified electrical pulse, the threshold associated with at least one particulate size channel;at least one microcontroller configured to process the at least one output from the at least one threshold comparator related to the at least one particulate size channel to count particles that pass through the chamber;and at least one output mechanism or storage device configured to communicate with with the at least one microcontroller to perform, at least one of, store and communicate the collected information.2. The personal particle counter apparatus of wherein the apparatus further comprises:an air flow device within the device housing.3. The personal particle counter apparatus of wherein the airflow device further comprises:a fan or blower configured to draw or push air through a beam of light in the chamber.4. The ...

Method and apparatus to collect, fractionate, and classify airborne particles within specified volumetric regions

A searching procedure based on the detection and separation by specific multiangle scattered light properties of a small set of particles sought from a sample containing far greater concentrations of irrelevant particles is presented whereby all the particulate content of a volumetric fraction of the air of a targeted facility is captured and the particles of potential importance are separated therefrom. The unique size ranges, multiangle light scattering characteristics, and physical properties associated with specific particulates sought (such as bacteria or spores from spore-forming bacteria or asbestos particles, for example), once extracted from the total populations collected, are then processed for further study/classification/actions, as required. For the case of airborne bacteria, such processes could be expected to reduce the incidence of hospital acquired infections, by providing an early warning of their presence and capturing specific exemplars thereof for future analyses. Similarly, the early detection of a bioterrorist attack in progress or the presence of dangerous airborne contaminants, such as asbestos fibers, will have long serving benefits. 120-. (canceled)21: A method to search for , isolate , find , and retrieve vanishingly small populations of a specific class of airborne particles that may be present in a selected region of air containing far greater populations of unimportant particles of varying size and composition , comprising the steps ofa. Defining the specific class of airborne particles sought;b. Collecting all particles present within said selected region of air into a liquid of relatively small volume;c. Fractionating said collected liquid-borne particles by size or other means;d. Classifying and/or identifying said fractionated and collected particles from multiangle measurement of light scattered therefrom;e. Isolating for further study, analysis and/or identification the specific fractions of said collected particles among the ...

FLUID PUMPING AND TEMPERATURE REGULATION

Fluid may be pumped within a microfluidic channel across a cell/particle sensor using a microscopic resistor. The microscopic resistor may be selectively actuated so as to heat the fluid within the microfluidic channel to a temperature below a nucleation energy of the fluid so as to regulate a temperature of the fluid for at least when the cell/particle sensor is sensing the fluid. 1. An apparatus comprising:a microfluidic channel to receive a fluid;an analyte sensor within the microfluidic channel;a microscopic resistor in the microfluidic channel; and actuate the microscopic resistor to a fluid pumping state in which fluid adjacent the microscopic resistor is heated to a temperature above a nucleation energy of the fluid to pump the fluid across the cell/particle sensor; and', 'selectively actuate the microscopic resistor to a temperature regulating state in which fluid adjacent the microscopic resistor is heated to a temperature below the nucleation energy of the fluid, wherein the controller is to selectively actuate the microscopic resistor to the temperature regulating state to regulate a temperature of the fluid for at least when the analyte sensor is sensing the fluid., 'a controller to2. The apparatus of further comprising a temperature sensor to output temperature signals indicative of a temperature of the fluid claim 2 , wherein the controller is to selectively actuate the microscopic resistor to the temperature regulating state based upon the temperature signals.3. The apparatus of comprising:a cassette containing a microfluidic diagnostic chip, the microfluidic diagnostic chip comprising the microfluidic channel, the temperature sensor and the microscopic resistor; anda portable electronic device containing the controller, wherein the cassette is releasably connectable to the portable electronic device.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the controller is to selectively actuate the microscopic resistor so as to apply different amounts of heat when in ...

Sequencing of nucleic acids via barcoding in discrete entities

Microfluidic methods for barcoding nucleic acid target molecules to be analyzed, e.g., via nucleic acid sequencing techniques, are provided. Also provided are microfluidic, droplet-based methods of preparing nucleic acid barcodes for use in various barcoding applications. The methods described herein facilitate high-throughput sequencing of nucleic acid target molecules as well as single cell and single virus genomic, transcriptomic, and/or proteomic analysis/profiling. Systems and devices for practicing the subject methods are also provided.

Complex particle measurement apparatus

A complex particle measurement apparatus comprising a first light source that irradiates a first storage cell; a photodetector that detects intensity of light; a second light source that irradiates a second storage cell; an imaging unit that images a particle group; an image data output unit that outputs image data; a supporter that supports the first storage cell and the second storage cell; and a communication pipe that connects the first storage cell and the second storage cell to pass a sample solution, wherein the first storage cell and the second storage cell have bottom surfaces located at positions different from each other, and the communication pipe is laid such that a channel from the first storage cell to the second storage cell has an incline of not less than 0 or not more than 0.

METHOD FOR DETECTING PARTICLES OR AEROSOL IN A FLOWING FLUID, COMPUTER PROGRAM, AS WELL AS ELECTRICAL MEMORY MEDIUM

A method for detecting particles or aerosol in a flowing fluid, using the principle of laser-induced incandescence. The method includes the following steps: a. focusing a laser light originating from a laser in a spot; b. conducting a fluid which includes particles or aerosol through the spot; c. detecting a thermal radiation originating from the spot with the aid of a detector; and d. evaluating a variable which is provided by the detector and characterizes the detected thermal radiation within time intervals, the duration of the time intervals being dependent on a velocity of the fluid. 114-. (canceled)15. A method for detecting particles or aerosol in a flowing fluid , using laser-induced incandescence , the method comprising the following steps:a. focusing a laser light originating from a laser in a spot;b. conducting the fluid which includes particles or aerosol through the spot;c. detecting a thermal radiation originating from the spot using a detector; andd. evaluating a variable which is provided by the detector and characterizes the detected thermal radiation within time intervals, a duration of the time intervals being dependent on a velocity of the fluid.16. The method as recited in claim 15 , wherein at least several of the time intervals overlap.17. The method as recited in claim 16 , wherein the duration of the time intervals is greater than an expected full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the variable characterizing the thermal radiation.18. The method as recited in claim 17 , wherein the duration of the time intervals is 1 to 2 times the expected FWHM.19. The method as recited in claim 18 , wherein the duration of the time intervals is 1.5 times the expected FWHM.20. The method as recited in claim 16 , wherein an overlapping time period of the time intervals corresponds to at least half the duration of the time interval.21. The method as recited in claim 16 , wherein a particle is considered to be detected when the variable characterizing the thermal ...

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DETERMINING CHARACTERISTIC PROPERTIES OF A TRANSPARENT PARTICLE

The invention relates to a method for determining the size d of a transparent particle, according to which method the particle is illuminated with light from a light source, a radiation detector measures a time-resolved intensity profile of light of the light source scattered by the particle, a reflection peak () and a refraction peak are determined in the intensity profile and the size d of the particle is determined based on a time difference between the reflection peak () and the refraction peak. The method according to the invention is characterized in that the time-resolved intensity profile is measured at a definable scattering angle θs, a first second-order refraction peak () and a second second-order refraction peak () having a mode different from that of the first refraction peak () being determined, a characteristic variable γ being determined as the ratio of a first time difference Δtbetween the reflection peak () and the first refraction peak () and of a second time difference Δtbetween the reflection peak () and the second refraction peak (), and the size of only those particles being determined for which the characteristic variable γ corresponds to a definable value. 1. A method for determining characteristic properties of a transparent particle , wherein the particle is illuminated with light from a light source , wherein a time-resolved intensity profile of light from the light source that is scattered at the particle is measured by a radiation detector at a predefinable scattering angle θ , wherein characteristic scattered light peaks are determined in the intensity profile , and wherein a size of the particle is determined based on a time difference between two scattered light peaks ,wherein a first time difference is determined between a first pair of scattered light peaks and a second time difference is determined between a second pair of scattered light peaks, a characteristic variable is determined from the ratio of the first time difference ...

Flow Cytometry Apparatus and Methods

A particle analyzer, comprising a source of a substantially nondiffracting light beam; a flow path configured to produce in a flowcell a ribbon-like core stream having a cross-sectional aspect ratio of at least 4 and a largest cross-sectional dimension of at least 50 micrometers; the flowcell being configured to expose a segment of the core stream to the light beam; a detector configured to receive a signal resulting from an interaction of a particle in the core stream with the light beam; a first sorting actuator connected with the flowcell, downstream of the exposed segment of core stream; a plurality of sorting channels in fluid connection with the flow path and downstream of the first actuator; the actuator having multiple actuation states, each state configured to direct at least one part of the core stream to a corresponding channel; a second sorting actuator connected with the flowcell, opposite the first actuator, and operable in coordination with the first actuator. 1. A particle analyzer , comprising:a source of a non-Gaussian, substantially nondiffracting light beam;a flow path configured to produce a ribbon-like core stream in a flowcell, said core stream having a cross-sectional aspect ratio of at least 4 and a largest cross-sectional dimension of at least 50 micrometers;said flowcell being configured to expose a segment of said core stream to said light beam; anda detector configured to detect a signal from said core stream, the signal resulting from an interaction of a particle in said core stream with said light beam.2. The particle analyzer of claim 1 , further comprising:a first sorting actuator connected with said flowcell and downstream of said segment of said core stream exposed to said light beam; anda plurality of sorting channels in fluid connection with said flow path and downstream of said first sorting actuator;said first sorting actuator having multiple actuation states, each actuation state configured to direct at least one part of said ...

METHODS FOR HIGH THROUGHPUT RECEPTOR:LIGAND IDENTIFICATION

Methods and systems for high-throughput identification of receptor:ligand interactions are provided. 1106.-. (canceled)107. A system comprising:a) a first plurality of suspension-adapted cells, each of which first plurality of cells expresses a first heterologous polypeptide fused to a first fluorescent polypeptide; and i) a second plurality of suspension-adapted cells, each of which second plurality of cells expresses a second heterologous polypeptide fused to a second fluorescent polypeptide, wherein the second heterologous polypeptide is a ligand or a co-receptor for the first heterologous polypeptide, and wherein the second fluorescent polypeptide is distinguishable from the first fluorescent polypeptide;', 'ii) a microbead comprising a second polypeptide that is a ligand or a co-receptor for the first heterologous polypeptide linked to the microbead via a polypeptide linker, wherein the polypeptide linker comprises a detectable label moiety; or', 'iii) an immunoglobulin (Ig) Fc fused to a second polypeptide that is a ligand or a co-receptor for the first heterologous polypeptide, wherein the Ig Fc comprises a detectable label moiety., 'b) a challenge component, wherein the challenge component comprises108. The system of claim 107 , wherein the first plurality of cells is immobilized on a surface.109. The system of claim 108 , wherein the first plurality of cells is immobilized on a surface in a spatially restricted manner.110. The system of claim 107 , wherein the first plurality of cells is suspended in a liquid medium.111. The system of claim 107 , wherein the first heterologous polypeptide is a polypeptide that mediates cell-cell interactions claim 107 , an immunoglobulin superfamily polypeptide claim 107 , a TNF superfamily polypeptide claim 107 , a TNR receptor superfamily polypeptide claim 107 , a G-protein coupled receptor claim 107 , a growth factor receptor claim 107 , a nectin claim 107 , an interleukin receptor claim 107 , an ion channel claim 107 , ...

OPTICAL PARTICLE SORTER

A process for optically sorting a plurality of particles includes: providing a particle receiver; producing particles; receiving the particles by the particle receiver; receiving a light by the particle receiver; producing a standing wave optical interference pattern in an optical interference site of the particle receiver from the light; subjecting the particles to an optical gradient force from the standing wave optical interference pattern; deflecting the particles into a plurality of deflected paths to form the sorted particles from the particles; and propagating the sorted particles from the optical interference site through the deflected paths to optically sort the particles 1. An optical particle sorter comprising: a particle entrance that receives a plurality of particles;', 'an optical entrance that receives light and that is geometrically disposed at a non-parallel angle with respect to the particle entrance;', 'a sorted particle exit opposing the particle entrance and that communicates sorted particles from an optical interference site; and', 'the optical interference site interposed between the particle entrance and the sorted particle exit;, 'a particle receiver comprising produces a first light; and', 'produces a standing wave optical interference pattern in the optical interference site of the particle receiver; and, 'a first light source in optical communication with the particle receiver and that provides the particles; and', {'b': '24', 'communicates the particles to the particle receiver at an acute angle with respect to the standing wave optical interference pattern ,'}], 'a particle source in fluid communication with the particle receiver and thatwherein the optical particle sorter sorts the particles into a plurality of sorted particles that exit the particle receiver at the sorted particle exit, andthe sorted particles propagate in a plurality of deflected paths relative to a path of propagation of the particles at the particle entrance, the ...

METHODS FOR QUANTITATIVE ASSESSMENT OF MUSCLE FIBERS IN MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

The disclosure concerns a method for assessing muscular dystrophy-linked protein expression in muscle fibers using digital image analysis of tissue. The method relates to assessing disease severity in individuals with muscular dystrophy. Muscle tissue samples are obtained from patients submitted for evaluation and processed to produce tissue sections mounted on glass slides which have been stained for a muscular dystrophy-linked protein. Digital images of the stained tissue sections are generated and analyzed by applying an algorithm process implemented by a computer to the images. The algorithm process extracts the morphometric and staining features of the muscular dystrophy-linked protein staining in the tissue, and parameters relating to these features are used to score the disease status for each patient submitted for evaluation. The score of disease status is ultimately used to infer disease severity, monitor the efficacy of a therapeutic approach, or select patients as candidates for a therapeutic approach. 1. A method comprising:capturing at least one digital image of at least one stained muscle tissue section;extracting at least one image analysis feature from each muscle fiber in the at least one digital image, wherein the at least one image analysis feature is selected from the group consisting of staining features and morphometric features;combining at least one staining and morphometric feature to derive a score of disease status; andinterpreting the score of disease status to draw inferences associated with the severity of disease.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one tissue section is stained for at least one muscular marker selected from the group consisting of a muscular dystrophy-linked protein and a muscle fiber membrane biomarker.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the muscular dystrophy-linked protein is a protein product of a gene that when mutated claim 2 , or otherwise disrupted claim 2 , gives rise to at least one muscular ...

Automated real-time particle characterization and three-dimensional velocimetry with holographic video microscopy

An in-line holographic microscope can be used to analyze on a frame-by-frame basis a video stream to track individual colloidal particles' three-dimensional motions. The system and method can provide real time nanometer resolution, and simultaneously measure particle sizes and refractive indexes. Through a combination of applying a combination of Lorenz-Mie analysis with selected hardware and software methods, this analysis can be carried out in near real time. An efficient particle identification methodology automates initial position estimation with sufficient accuracy to enable unattended holographic tracking and characterization.

Air bubble measurement device and air bubble measurement method

An air bubble measurement device is a device that measures the air bubbles moving in the liquid. The air bubble measurement device includes a measurement chamber that holds a liquid. The measurement chamber includes an introduction port to introduce the air bubbles in the liquid from a lower side and a transparent inclined surface that faces obliquely downward and is disposed at a position to which the air bubbles present inside the liquid move up. The transparent inclined surface includes a hydrophilic membrane. The hydrophilic membrane has a contact angle with water of 20 degrees or less. This structural arrangement allows for reducing an attachment of the air bubbles on the transparent inclined surface even when the air bubbles become small. This allows for reducing stay of the air bubbles on the transparent inclined surface and allows for accurately measuring the states of the air bubbles (that is, the size and quantity of the air bubbles).

OPTICAL MEASUREMENT APPARATUS, AND OPTICAL MEASUREMENT METHOD

An optical measurement apparatus includes a main body base, an optical base movably combined with the main body base, a measurement optical system fixed to the optical base, and an optical base moving mechanism which moves the optical base relative to the main body base. The optical base moving mechanism moves the optical base relative to the main body base between an internal measurement position and an external measurement position. A measurement object position of the measurement optical system coincides with an internal measurement object position within the main body base. The measurement object position of the measurement optical system coincides with an external measurement object position outside the main body base. 1. An optical measurement apparatus comprising:a main body base;an optical base movably combined with the main body base;a measurement optical system fixed to the optical base; andan optical base moving mechanism which moves the optical base relative to the main body base between an internal measurement position defined such that a measurement object position of the measurement optical system coincides with an internal measurement object position within the main body base and an external measurement position defined such that the measurement object position of the measurement optical system coincides with an external measurement object position outside the main body base.2. The optical measurement apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a sample stage which is supported by the main body base and retains a sample holder to hold a sample claim 1 , wherein the internal measurement object position corresponds to a position of the sample held by the sample holder.3. The optical measurement apparatus according to claim 2 , further comprising a sample stage moving mechanism which moves the sample stage relative to the main body base between a measurement stage position defined such that the sample held by the sample holder is located at the ...

FLOW CHANNEL UNIT AND MICROPARTICLE ANALYSIS DEVICE

The present technology is directed to providing a new technology to form a stable flow inside a flow channel. The present technology provides a flow channel unit including a flow rate fluctuation suppressing unit, in which a cross-sectional area of at least part of a downstream flow channel of the flow rate fluctuation suppressing unit is smaller than a cross-sectional area of a remaining part of the flow channel. Furthermore, the present technology also provides a microparticle analysis device including the flow channel unit that includes the flow rate fluctuation suppressing unit, in which the cross-sectional area of at least part of a downstream flow channel of the flow rate fluctuation suppressing unit is smaller than the cross-sectional area of a remaining part of the flow channel. 1. A flow channel unit comprisinga flow rate fluctuation suppressing unit,wherein a cross-sectional area of at least part of a downstream flow channel of the flow rate fluctuation suppressing unit is smaller than a cross-sectional area of a remaining part of the flow channel.2. The flow channel unit according to claim 1 , wherein a cross-sectional area of at least part of an upstream flow channel of the flow rate fluctuation suppressing unit is smaller than a cross-sectional area of a remaining part of the flow channel.3. The flow channel unit according to claim 1 , further comprising a pump on an upstream side of the flow rate fluctuation suppressing unit.4. The flow channel unit according to claim 1 , wherein the flow rate fluctuation suppressing unit includes a gas and suppresses flow rate fluctuation by compression or expansion of the gas.5. The flow channel unit according to claim 1 , wherein the cross-sectional area of the at least part of the flow channel in the downstream flow channel is 1/10 times or less the cross-sectional area of the remaining part of the flow channel in the downstream flow channel.6. The flow channel unit according to claim 1 , wherein a cross-section of ...

Methods for high throughput receptor:ligand identification

Methods and systems for high-throughput Identification of receptor: ligand interactions are provided. Throughout this application various publications are referred to in parentheses. Full citations for these references may be found at the end of the specification. The disclosures of these publications, and all patents, patent application publications and books referred to herein, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety into the subject application to more fully describe the art to which the subject invention pertains.

CELL SORTING DEVICES

In one example in accordance with the present disclosure, a cell sorting device is described. The cell sorting device includes a microfluidic channel to serially transport individual cells from a volume of cells along a flow path. A sensor disposed in the microfluidic channel distinguishes between a cell to be analyzed and waste fluid. The cell sorting device includes at least two fluid transport devices disposed within the microfluidic channel. The at least two fluid transport devices include a cell ejector to, responsive to detection of a cell to be analyzed, eject the cell to be analyzed from the cell sorting device and a waste transport device to direct the waste fluid to a waste reservoir. 1. A cell sorting device , comprising:a microfluidic channel to serially transport individual cells from a volume of cells along a flow path;a sensor disposed in the microfluidic channel to distinguish between a cell to be analyzed and waste fluid; and an ejector to, responsive to detection of a cell to be analyzed, eject the cell to be analyzed from the cell sorting device; and', 'a waste transport device to direct the waste fluid to a waste reservoir., 'at least two fluid transport devices disposed within the microfluidic channel, the at least two fluid transport devices comprising2. The cell sorting device of claim 1 , wherein the waste transport device comprises at least one waste ejector to eject claim 1 , through a waste orifice claim 1 , the waste fluid from the cell sorting device.3. The cell sorting device of claim 2 , wherein the waste ejector operates independently of the sensor.4. The cell sorting device of claim 2 , wherein responsive to detection of a cell to be analyzed claim 2 , the waste ejector is deactivated.5. The cell sorting device of claim 2 , wherein the at least one waste ejector comprises multiple waste ejectors.6. The cell sorting device of claim 1 , wherein the waste transport device is an integrated pump disposed in the microfluidic channel to ...

Light-controlled electrokinetic assembly of particles near surfaces

A method and apparatus for the manipulation of colloidal particulates and biomolecules at the interface between an insulating electrode such as silicon oxide and an electrolyte solution. Light-controlled electrokinetic assembly of particles near surfaces relies on the combination of three functional elements: the AC electric field-induced assembly of planar aggregates; the patterning of the electrolyte/silicon oxide/silicon interface to exert spatial control over the assembly process; and the real-time control of the assembly process via external illumination. The present invention provides a set of fundamental operations enabling interactive control over the creation and placement of planar arrays of several types of particles and biomolecules and the manipulation of array shape and size. The present invention enables sample preparation and handling for diagnostic assays and biochemical analysis in an array format, and the functional integration of these operations. In addition, the present invention provides a procedure for the creation of material surfaces with desired properties and for the fabrication of surface-mounted optical components.

MICROPARTICLE MEASURING APPARATUS AND MICROPARTICLE MEASURING METHOD

To provide a technology of maintaining light detection accuracy at a high level irrespective of individual variations in flow rate of microparticles flowing through a flow channel. The present technology provides a microparticle measuring apparatus including: a plurality of light detection sections configured to detect, at different positions, optical information emitted from microparticles flowing through a flow channel; and a detection timing control section configured to control a detection timing of each light detection section, on the basis of a trigger signal detected at a first reference channel provided in a first light detection section, and an optical signal detected at a second reference channel provided in a second light detection section that detects optical information emitted from the microparticles, at a position different from a position of the first light detection section. 1. A microparticle measuring apparatus comprising:a plurality of light detection sections configured to detect, at different positions, optical information emitted from microparticles flowing through a flow channel; anda detection timing control section configured to control a detection timing of each light detection section, on a basis of a trigger signal detected at a first reference channel provided in a first light detection section, and an optical signal detected at a second reference channel provided in a second light detection section that detects optical information emitted from the microparticles, at a position different from a position of the first light detection section.2. The microparticle measuring apparatus according to claim 1 , whereinthe detection timing control section controls the detection timing of each light detection section in real time.3. The microparticle measuring apparatus according to claim 1 , whereinthe detection timing control section controls a detection process period of the second light detection section.4. The microparticle measuring ...

PARTICLE SEPARATING AND MEASURING DEVICE, AND PARTICLE SEPARATING AND MEASURING APPARATUS

A particle separating and measuring device of the present disclosure includes: a first flow path device including a post-separation flow outlet through which a first fluid containing specific particles to be separated flows out; and a second flow path device on which the first flow path device is placed and including a first flow inlet through which the first fluid flows in, the first flow path device in which the post-separation flow outlet is arranged in a lower surface is placed on the second flow path device in which the first flow inlet is arranged in an upper surface of a first region, the post-separation flow outlet and the first flow inlet are connected so as to face each other, and a size of an opening of the first flow inlet is larger than a size of an opening of the post-separation flow outlet. 1. A particle separating and measuring device comprising:a first flow path device having a plate-like shape and including a pre-separation flow inlet through which a fluid flows in that contains specific particles to be separated, a main flow path connected to the pre-separation flow inlet, a plurality of branch flow paths each connected to the main flow path, and a post-separation flow outlet through which a first fluid flows out that contains the specific particles that have been separated; anda second flow path device having a plate-like shape and having a first region on which the first flow path device is placed, and a second region that serves as a measurement region for the specific particles, the second flow path device including a first flow inlet through which the first fluid flows in, a second flow inlet through which a second fluid not containing the specific particles flows in, a first flow path connected to the first flow inlet and through which the first fluid passes, and a second flow path connected to the second flow inlet and through which the second fluid passes, wherein the first flow path and the second flow path are arranged in the second ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SORTING PARTICLES

A method and apparatus for sorting particles moving through a closed channel system of capillary size comprises a bubble valve for selectively generating a pressure pulse to separate a particle having a predetermined characteristic from a stream of particles. The particle sorting system may further include a buffer for absorbing the pressure pulse. The particle sorting system may include a plurality of closely coupled sorting modules which are combined to further increase the sorting rate. The particle sorting system may comprise a multi-stage sorting device for serially sorting streams of particles, in order to decrease the error rate. 1. A microfluidic system for sorting particles , the microfluidic system comprising:a first microfluidic flow channel formed in a particle processing component substrate having an upstream inlet configured to introduce a fluidic stream having a plurality of particles into the first microfluidic flow channel and downstream outlets configured to output portions of the fluidic stream of particles;a detection region located downstream of the inlet, the detection region configured to allow a particle having a predetermined characteristic to be sensed, the sensed particle being one of the plurality of particles in the fluidic stream; anda switching device located downstream of the detection region, the switching device operatively coupled to the first microfluidic flow channel to deliver a transient pressure pulse in a direction substantially perpendicular to a flow direction of the fluidic stream of particles,wherein the transient pressure pulse displaces and separates a selected single sensed particle from the fluidic stream of particles,wherein the selected particle is displaced and separated from the fluidic stream of particles in a switching region,wherein the fluidic stream of unselected particles flows into a first downstream outlet configured to output a first portion of the fluidic stream of particles,wherein the selected particle ...

PARTICLE DETECTION DEVICE

A particle detection device includes a scattered light detector detecting an intensity of light scattered by a particle irradiated with a laser, an incandescent light detector detecting an intensity of incandescent light from the particle being irradiated with the laser, and a signal processor including: a first peak hold circuit holding a peak in the intensity of the light scattered by the particle; a second peak hold circuit holding a peak in the intensity of the incandescent light from the particle; and a threshold value comparison circuit comparing the peak in the first peak hold circuit to a threshold and, when the peak in the first peak hold circuit exceeds the threshold, outputs a reset signal to the second peak hold circuit immediately thereafter so the peak previously in the second peak hold circuit is reset immediately after the peak in the first peak hold circuit exceeds the threshold. 1. A particle detection device , comprising:a scattered light detector that detects an intensity of light scattered by a particle as a result of being irradiated with a laser beam;an incandescent light detector that detects an intensity of incandescent light generated by said particle as a result of being irradiated with said laser beam; and a first peak hold circuit that holds a peak value in the intensity of the light scattered by said particle detected by the scattered light detector;', 'a second peak hold circuit that holds a peak value in the intensity of the incandescent light generated by said particle detected by the incandescent light detector; and', 'a threshold value comparison circuit that compares the peak value held by the first peak hold circuit to a prescribed threshold value and, when the peak value held by the first peak hold circuit exceeds the prescribed threshold value, outputs a reset signal to the second peak hold circuit immediately thereafter so that the peak value previously held by the second peak hold circuit is reset immediately after the peak ...

EARLY WARNING OF CHANGES IN HEALTH AND ROBUSTNESS USING NARROWLY FORWARD SCATTERED LIGHT TO TRACK EASE OF MORPHOLOGICAL CHANGES OF BLOOD CELLS

Early warning of changing health and robustness is given by tracking of ease of morphological changes in blood cells obtained by comparing intensities in a first scattered light intensity angular distribution and intensities in a second scattered light intensity angular distribution, with the light being scattered by blood cells into very narrowly forward scattered light intensity angular range. 1. A method of tracking morphological changes in a suspension of blood cells taken from a blood sample , the suspension of blood cells having a cells per volume concentration , the method comprising:directing light having an incident light central axis at an ensemble of blood cell suspension;determining a first scattered light intensity angular distribution;applying a challenge agent to the suspension of blood cells to morphologically change blood cells in the suspension of blood cells, wherein application of the challenge agent produces a challenge agent and blood suspension mixture;directing light having the incident light central axis at an ensemble of suspended blood cells within the challenge agent and blood sample mixture;determining a second scattered light intensity angular distribution; andcalculating a tracking value based on the first scattered light intensity angular distribution and the second scattered light intensity angular distribution.2. The method of further comprising claim 1 , before directing light at the ensemble of suspended blood cells from the sample of blood cells claim 1 ,obtaining a first blood cell suspension from the sample of blood cells.3. The method of further comprising claim 2 , before applying the challenge agent claim 2 ,obtaining an additional blood cell suspension from the sample of blood cells, the additional blood cell suspension being the sample of blood cells to which the challenge agent is applied.4. The method of wherein the tracking value is obtained by the equation{'br': None, 'i': T=Σ|F', '−S, 'sub': i', 'i, '|,'}{'sub': 'i', ...

METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR SORTING TARGET PARTICLES

This disclosure provides methods and apparatuses for sorting target particles. In various embodiments, the disclosure provides a cassette for sorting target particles, methods for sorting target particles, methods of loading a microchannel for maintaining sample material viability, methods of quantifying sample material, and an optical apparatus for laser scanning and particle sorting. 1165.-. (canceled)166. A method of sorting cells , comprising screening cellular material to identify cells with a desired phenotype , wherein the cellular material is screened at a rate of 50 ,000 cells per second or greater.167. The method of claim 166 , wherein the cellular material is screened at a rate 500 claim 166 ,000 cells per second or greater.168. The method of claim 166 , wherein the cellular material is screened at a rate of 1 claim 166 ,000 claim 166 ,000 cells per second or greater.169. The method of claim 166 , wherein the method further comprises extracting said cells of a desired phenotype from said cellular material at a rate of 100 claim 166 ,000 cells per second or greater.170. The method of claim 169 , wherein said cells of a desired phenotype are extracted at a rate of 300 claim 169 ,000 cells per second or greater.171. The method of claim 166 , wherein said cellular material is screened in an array with through-holes.172. The method of claim 171 , wherein said cells of aid desired phenotype are extracted from said array.173. The method of claim 172 , wherein said extracting comprises releasing said cells of said desired phenotype using electromagnetic radiation.174. The method of claim 173 , wherein each through-hole of said array comprises from 0 to about 5 cells and at least 30% of the through-holes of the array comprise at least one cell.175. The method of claim 166 , wherein the cellular material is obtained from a human subject and/or comprises less than 5% of HSCs and HSPCs.176. The method of claim 169 , wherein greater than 95% of the extracted cells are ...

Particle sorting apparatus

A particle sorting apparatus a channel that includes a trunk channel formed along a specific upper surface and deflection electrode pairs that sort a non-target minute particle and a target minute particle respectively in a direction substantially perpendicular to the specific upper surface and a direction along the specific upper surface by dielectrophoresis.

EARLY POST-TRANSFECTION ISOLATION OF CELLS (EPIC) FOR BIOLOGICS PRODUCTION

Provided herein are methods for selecting a population of cells expressing a target polypeptide. In some aspects, the disclosure provides methods for sorting and selecting populations of transfected host cells based on their early expression of a selectable polypeptide. In certain embodiments, the sorting is performed using fluorescence-activated cell sorting or magnetic-activated cell sorting based on the selectable polypeptide. Such selection methods can be further utilized to generate clonal populations of producer cells, e.g. for large-scale manufacturing of a target polypeptide of interest. 130-. (canceled)31. A method of producing a population of producer cells expressing a target polypeptide , the method comprising:(a) transfecting host cells with one or more vectors that encode one or more mRNAs, wherein the one or more mRNAs encode a selectable polypeptide and the target polypeptide;(b) isolating from the transfected host cells, within 2 to 15 days of transfection, a sub-population of early-expressing transfected host cells which express the selectable polypeptide; and(c) expanding the sub-population of transfected host cells, thereby producing a population of producer cells expressing the target polypeptide.32. The method of claim 31 , wherein steps (b) and (c) are each performed in drug-selection-free medium.33. The method of claim 31 , further comprising isolating the target polypeptide from the population of producer cells.34. The method of claim 31 , further comprising isolating one or more single transfected host cells from the expanded sub-population and culturing the one or more single transfected host cells to produce clonal populations of the one or more single transfected host cells.35. The method of claim 34 , wherein at least one of the clonal populations of the one or more single transfected host cells yields a 2- to 30-fold improvement in production of the target polypeptide compared to that of a stable pool of transfected but uncloned host ...

Microfluidic system for high-throughput, droplet-based single molecule analysis with low reagent consumption

A microfluidic device for a confocal fluorescence detection system has an input channel defined by a body of the microfluidic device, a sample concentration section defined by the body of the microfluidic device and in fluid connection with the input channel, a mixing section defined by the body of the microfluidic device and in fluid connection with the concentration section, and a detection region that is at least partially transparent to illumination light of the confocal fluorescence detection system and at least partially transparent to fluorescent light when emitted from a sample under observation as the sample flows through the detection region.

APPARATUS FOR CHARACTERIZING BIOLOGICAL OBJECTS

In order to quantitatively characterize biological objects, for example individual cells, a stimulus is applied to a biological object () in a contactless fashion. A measurement and a further measurement are performed on the biological object () in order to ascertain a response of the biological object () to the stimulus, wherein the measurement and the further measurement comprise detecting Raman scattering on and/or in the biological object () and/or capturing data using digital holographic microinterferometry (DHMI). The biological object () is characterized according to a result of the measurement and is sorted if needed. The stimulus can be applied by means of a laser beam that creates optical tweezers or an optical trap, by means of ultrasonic waves or an electric or magnetic radio frequency field. 1. An apparatus for characterizing a biological object , comprisinga device for holding a biological object in a position where a stimulus can be applied to the biological object; wherein the measurement device is configured for data acquisition by a detection of Raman scattering on the biological object;', 'wherein the measurement device is further configured for ascertaining the response of the biological object to the stimulus, said measurement device performing a measurement comprising a detection of the Raman scattering before application of the stimulus, and performing a further measurement comprising a further detection of the Raman scattering after or during application of the stimulus; and, 'a measurement device for performing a measurement on the biological object to ascertain a response of the biological object to the stimulus;'}an evaluation logic configured to compare results of the measurement performed before application of the stimulus and results of the further measurement performed after or during application of the stimulus, and to characterize the biological object as a function of a comparison of the results of the measurement and of the further ...

Portable device for detecting and measuring particles entrained in the air

A portable ambient air quality monitor having an enclosure to enclose and protect the monitor from an ambient environment and an airflow intake for controllably allowing ambient air to enter the monitor. A photodiode is disposed at a location downstream from a fan. The airflow from the fan is laminarized by a mesh or baffle to allow a thin stream of air to flow over the photodiode. A sensing region is defined by an intersection of an airflow sampling path and an optical path. The sensing region is also disposed above the photodiode. The airflow sampling path is configured to receive laminar airflow from the airflow intake and for directing the laminar airflow into the sensing region. A light beam is generated from a laser to reflect the light beam for reducing the required area of the sensing region to detect and measure the particles floating in the ambient air.

Method and system to evaluate embryos

A system to evaluate an embryo is provided. The system includes a measurement chamber having a bottom end. The measurement chamber is configured to receive an embryo such that the embryo descends towards the bottom end, and a culture medium is disposed within the measurement chamber. At least one sensor is configured to assess the embryo descending towards the bottom end and output a data signal representative of at least one characteristic of the embryo descending through at least a portion of the measurement chamber. A processor receives the data signal from the at least one sensor and determines one or more embryo properties based on the at least one characteristic.

GENE ANALYSIS METHOD

Provided is a highly reliable gene analysis method using a flow cytometry method. The gene analysis method includes a staining step of staining cells, a sorting step of obtaining first information derived from cells in a sample solution by using a flow cytometry method, analyzing the first information according to predetermined extraction conditions, and sorting target cells into a container having arrays of a plurality of wells based on the analyzed results, an amplification step of amplifying DNA of the cells sorted into the container, an analysis step of performing gene analysis on the amplified DNA, and a condition determination step of redetermining the extraction conditions based on at least a piece of information between second information obtained in the amplification step and third information obtained in the analysis step. 1. A gene analysis method comprising:a staining step of staining cells;a sorting step of obtaining first information derived from cells in a sample solution by using a flow cytometry method, analyzing the first information according to predetermined extraction conditions, and sorting target cells into a container having arrays of a plurality of wells based on the analyzed results;an amplification step of amplifying DNA of the cells sorted into the container;an analysis step of performing gene analysis on the amplified DNA; anda condition determination step of redetermining the extraction conditions based on at least a piece of information between second information obtained in the amplification step and third information obtained in the analysis step.2. The gene analysis method according to claim 1 ,wherein the staining of cells is immunostaining by an antigen-antibody reaction.3. The gene analysis method according to claim 2 ,wherein the first information is at least a piece of information among fluorescence emission, forward-scattered light, and side-scattered light resulting from the immunostaining.4. The gene analysis method ...

NOZZLE AND METHOD FOR FLOW CYTOMETRY

The invention relates to a nozzle for flow cytometry, the housing of which is tapering towards an outlet and in which a feed tube is arranged for a core flow liquid, the outlet opening of which is arranged at a distance from the outlet of the housing. The outlet of the housing forms the outlet of the nozzle. The housing of the nozzle extends from its outlet, which is arranged at its first end to its opposite second end, and has an inlet for a sheath flow liquid connected with the internal volume. The nozzle is characterized in that in the housing a leading element that promotes the alignment of particles extends from both sides of the feed tube. 1. A method for producing a liquid flow having a particle-containing core flow surrounded by a sheath flow by introducing a particle-containing core flow liquid into an inlet opening for core flow liquid and introducing a sheath flow liquid into an inlet opening for sheath flow liquid of a nozzle , wherein the sheath flow is generated by a leading element that extends along a longitudinal axis to a larger degree along a first dimension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis up to a distance to the inner wall of a housing it extends in a second dimension that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and to the first dimension , wherein the leading element extends from a first end , which lies in the plane of the first end of a feed tube or is offset by a distance from the first end of the feed tube , up to its second end , which is arranged at a distance from the second end of the nozzle.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the particles have a cross-section claim 1 , which is smaller in a first dimension that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing of the nozzle than in a second dimension that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and to the first dimension.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein at least one property of the particles contained in the core flow is detected in the liquid ...

Method and apparatus for determining particle characteristics utilizing a plurality of beam splitting functions and correction of scattered light

Apparatus and methods for determining information about at least one particle by measuring light scattered from the particles. Scattered light is combined with light from a light source to produce an optical interference signal utilizing a plurality of beam splitting functions. Scattered light signals are corrected for signal components which are not derived from particle scatter.

CELL SORTING APPARATUS, CELL SORTING CHIP AND CELL SORTING METHOD

A cell sorting apparatus includes a flow channel through which fluid including cells flows, an electric-field application section capable of applying an electric field having a gradient in a direction different from the flowing direction of the fluid at a first position on the flow channel in accordance with a cell sorting signal requesting an operation to sort the cells, and a flow splitting section configured to split the cells changing their flowing directions due to a dielectrophoretic force caused by application of the electric field at a second position on the downstream side of the first position on the flow channel. 1. A cell sorting apparatus comprising:a flow channel including a first end and a second end opposite to the first end;an electric-field application section configured to provide an electric field on the flow channel; anda flow splitting section including a plurality of channel branches connected to the second end of the flow channel,wherein the electric-field application section includes a plurality of electrode pairs, and the electric field is provided by each of the plurality of the electrode pairs or by each of electrode-pair groups in response to signals supplied to the plurality of electrode pairs or the electrode-pair groups, which each include at least two of the plurality of electrode pairs.2. The cell sorting apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein at least one of the plurality of electrode pairs includes a first electrode and a second electrode claim 1 , and the first electrode includes a first electrode pointer protruding in a direction toward the second electrode.3. The cell sorting apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein a first gap exists between the first electrode pointer and the second electrode claim 2 , and the first gap is adjacent to the first end of the flow channel claim 2 , wherein a second gap exists between a second electrode pointer and the second electrode claim 2 , and the second gap is adjacent to the second end ...

PERSONAL AIR QUALITY MONITORING SYSTEM

An airborne, gas, or liquid particle sensor with multiple particle sensor blocks in a single particle counter. Each sensor would sample a portion of the incoming airstream, or possibly a separate airstream. The various counters could be used separately or in concert. 1. A personal particle counter apparatus , comprising:a power source in a device housing, the device housing having a form factor enabling the device housing to be worn during operation by a user;an air intake and outlet fluidly connected to a chamber in the device housing wherein an airstream passes through the chamber;a light source that emits a beam of light that passes through the airstream passing through the chamber;a light detector that detects light that passes through the airstream in the chamber, the light detector configured to detect airborne particles passing through the beam of light in airstream traversing from the air intake to the outlet;an analog circuit connected to the light detector, the analog circuit including at least one amplifier in communication with the light detector, the at least one amplifier configured to convert signals from the light detector into amplified electrical pulses;a microcontroller configured to count particles from the user's local environment that are detected passing through the chamber wherein microcontroller processes a plurality of different particle size channels to generate particle count data for each particle size channel;an integrated display on the device housing configured to display real-time information related to the particle count data; anda power management circuit connected to the power source that regulates power to the light source, the light detector, the microcontroller and the display.2. The personal particle counter apparatus of wherein the integrated display is an LCD display.3. The personal particle counter apparatus of wherein the integrated display is configured to display a current air quality status of the user's local ...

TUNABLE LIDAR FOR SIMULTANEOUS RANGING AND ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING

In one embodiment, a method includes emitting, by an automotive vehicle, one or more light beams from a LiDAR system toward an environment surrounding the automotive vehicle, receiving one or more return light beams at the LiDAR system of the automotive vehicle, detecting one or more objects located in the environment surrounding the automotive vehicle based on the return light beams, and simultaneously measuring one or more air characteristics of the environment surrounding the automotive vehicle. The simultaneous detecting of the one or more objects and measuring of the one or more air characteristics may be performed by the LiDAR system. The method may further include sending, by the automotive vehicle, location information to a server associated with vehicle navigation, and sending information of the detected objects and measured air characteristics to the server associated with vehicle navigation, the server configured to update a vehicle-navigation map based on the information. 1. A method comprising:emitting, by an automotive vehicle, one or more light beams from a LiDAR system toward an environment surrounding the automotive vehicle;receiving one or more return light beams at the LiDAR system of the automotive vehicle;detecting one or more objects located in the environment surrounding the automotive vehicle based on the return light beams; andsimultaneously measuring one or more air characteristics of the environment surrounding the automotive vehicle.2. The method of claim 2 , wherein the simultaneous detecting of the one or more objects and measuring of the one or more air characteristics is performed by the LiDAR system.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more air characteristics measured comprises characteristics of one or more trace gases or characteristics of one or more aerosol particles in the air surrounding the automotive vehicle.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the measuring of the characteristics of the trace gases comprises ...

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR HIGH-THROUGHPUT SOLUTION EXCHANGE FOR CELL AND PARTICLE SUSPENSIONS

A method of exchanging fluids with suspended particles includes providing a microfluidic device with a first inlet channel operatively coupled to a source of particles and a second inlet channel operatively coupled to an exchange fluid. A transfer channel is connected at a proximal end to the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel. First and second outlet channels are connected to a distal end of the transfer channel. The source of particles is flowed at a first flow rate into the first inlet channel while the exchange fluid is flowed at a second flow rate into the second inlet channel wherein the ratio of the second flow rate to the first flow rate is at least 1.5. Particles are collected in one of the first and second outlet channels while fluid substantially free of particles is collected in the other of the first and second outlet channels. 133-. (canceled)34. A method of migrating particles suspended in a fluid comprising:providing a microfluidic device comprising a first inlet channel operatively coupled to a fluid having particles suspended therein; a second inlet channel operatively coupled to a buffer solution; a transfer channel having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the transfer channel connected to the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel; and first and second outlet channels connected to a distal end of the transfer channel;flowing the fluid containing the particles at a first flow rate into the first inlet channel;{'sub': eq', 'eq', 'eq, 'flowing the buffer solution at a second flow rate into the second inlet channel wherein the ratio of the second flow rate to the first flow rate is at least 1.5, wherein the particles migrate toward an equilibrium position (X) located within the transfer channel, the equilibrium position (X) contained within the buffer solution, wherein inertial lift forces in the transfer channel direct the particles toward the equilibrium position (X);'}collecting the particles that have ...

Lens-free imaging system and method for detecting particles in sample deposited on image sensor

A lens-free imaging system for detecting particles in a sample deposited on image sensor includes a fluidic chamber for holding a sample and an image sensor for imaging the sample, wherein the image sensor has a light receiving surface and a plurality of photosensitive pixels disposed underneath the light receiving surface, and wherein the fluidic chamber formed at least in part by the light receiving surface. A method for detecting particles of interest in a sample deposited on an image sensor, through lens-free imaging using the image sensor, includes (ii) generating an image of the sample, deposited on a light receiving surface of the image sensor, by illuminating the sample, and (ii) detecting the particles of interest in the image.

METHODS, SYSTEMS AND APPARATUS FOR SORTING AND PROCESSING ANALYTES

A method of configuring an optical system to reduce variations in measured properties of an analyte includes selecting a number of beams into which radiation from a source of radiation is to be split, wherein, upon irradiating the analyte from a plurality of directions by the number of beams, a variation of a resulting measurement of the analyte is at or below a threshold. The method further includes aligning the source of radiation and a plurality of optical elements optically coupled to the source of radiation such that the selected number of beams irradiate the analyte upon emission of radiation by the source of radiation. 1. A method of configuring an optical system to reduce variations in measured properties of an analyte , the method comprising:selecting a number of beams into which radiation from a source of radiation is to be split, wherein, upon irradiating the analyte from a plurality of directions by the number of beams, a variation of a resulting measurement of the analyte is at or below a threshold;aligning the source of radiation and a plurality of optical elements optically coupled to the source of radiation such that the selected number of beams irradiate the analyte upon emission of radiation by the source of radiation.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising determining a saturation of the analyte as a function of one or more non-spatial properties of the radiation emitted by the source of radiation.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein selecting the number of beams includes selecting the number of beams based on the determined saturation of the analyte as a function of the one or more non-spatial properties.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein selecting the number of beams includes selecting the number of beams based on the determined saturation of the analyte as a function of the one or more spatial properties and based on an anisotropy of the analyte.5. The method of claim 2 , wherein determining the saturation of the analyte includes: ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SORTING PARTICLES

A multi-channel system for classifying particles in a mixture of particles according to one or more characteristics including a common source of electromagnetic radiation for producing a beam of electromagnetic radiation and a beam splitter for producing multiple beams of electromagnetic radiation for directing multiple beams of electromagnetic radiation to each interrogation location associated with each flow channel of the multi-channel system. 1. An apparatus for use with a continuous stream of fluid having a flow axis that is broken into droplets at a break-off location by a transducer , comprising:a light source positioned on one side of the stream of fluid to illuminate the stream of fluid;a photoarray positioned on the other side of the stream of fluid along an axis substantially parallel to the flow axis of the stream of fluid, wherein the photoarray is positioned to detect light from the light source that passes through the stream of fluid and provides an output signal corresponding to detected light;a control for receiving the output signal and providing a location signal corresponding to the break-off location of the stream of fluid.2. The apparatus as claimed in further comprising a display that indicates the break-off location.3. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the transducer applies a force to the stream of fluid for creating and varying the break-off location and wherein the location signal from the control is provided to the transducer to vary the operation of the transducer as a function of the break-off location.4. The apparatus as claimed in claim 3 , wherein an amplitude of the force applied to the stream of fluid is varied as a function of the break-off location.5. The apparatus as claimed in further comprising a look up table for specifying variations of the amplitude of the force applied to the stream of fluid as a function of the break-off location.6. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the photoarray comprises a ...

Methods for Measuring Properties of Rock Pieces

Provided herein is a method for measuring the size distribution and/or hardness of free falling rock pieces. The method comprises projecting at least one laser line on the falling rock pieces by a laser device; capturing images of the falling rock pieces at an angle from the at least one laser line by at least one camera; and obtaining size distribution data of the falling rock pieces based on data obtained from a topographical map generated from the captured images. Certain embodiments further comprise: obtaining at least one of the volume and area of individual rock pieces from the topographical map; conducting a data analysis on at least one of the volume and area measurements of the rock pieces to reduce at least one of sampling and measurement errors; determining the size distribution of the falling rock pieces based on the data analysis and, optionally, evaluating a rock hardness index for the rock. Further provided is a method comprising: producing two topographical maps of the pieces from captured images; and obtaining the volume of pieces from 1. A method for measuring the size distribution of falling rock pieces comprising:(a) projecting at least one laser line on the falling rock pieces by a laser device;(b) capturing images of the falling rock pieces at an angle from the at least one laser line by at least one camera; and(c) obtaining size distribution data of the falling rock pieces based on data obtained from a topographical map generated from captured images resulting from step (b).2. The method of claim 1 , wherein step (c) comprises:(i) producing a topographical map of the falling rock pieces from the images captured in step (b);(ii) obtaining at least one of the volume and area of individual rock pieces from the topographical map;(iii) conducting a data analysis on at least one of the volume and area measurements of the rock pieces to reduce at least one of sampling and measurement errors; and(iv) obtaining size distribution data of the falling ...

CELL CAPTURE SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE

A cell capture system including an array, an inlet manifold, and an outlet manifold. The array includes a plurality of parallel pores, each pore including a chamber and a pore channel, an inlet channel fluidly connected to the chambers of the pores; an outlet channel fluidly connected to the pore channels of the pores. The inlet manifold is fluidly connected to the inlet channel, and the outlet channel is fluidly connected to the outlet channel. A cell removal tool is also disclosed, wherein the cell removal tool is configured to remove a captured cell from a pore chamber. 1. A method comprising:providing a fluidic network comprising an inlet channel at an upstream end, one or more outlet channels at a downstream end, and a set of structures in fluid communication with the inlet channel and the one or more outlet channels, wherein flow from the inlet channel is configured to reach at least one of the one or more outlet channels only by way of the set of structures;receiving a fluid sample comprising a set of viable target cells into the fluidic network at a flow rate for maintenance of cell viability;capturing and partitioning the set of target cells in single-cell format, by way of the set of structures, wherein capturing and partitioning comprises isolating a target cell of the set of target cells in single-cell format with an isolation material within at least a portion of the fluidic network; andtransmitting material associated with the set of target cells from the fluidic network.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising receiving a set of microparticles into the fluidic network.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein capturing and partitioning comprises co-capturing the set of viable target cells with the set of microparticles within the fluidic network in an arrayed distribution.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein capturing and partitioning comprises isolating each of the set of complexes in single-complex format within the fluidic network with the isolation ...

Oil dispersant effectiveness monitoring

A process is provided for the determination of oil dispersant effectiveness. A submersible dispersant sensing platform is passed across a body of water. The platform has a plurality of sensors including a multichannel fluorometer and a particle size analyser, and each sensor produces an output data stream. The body of water is continuously analysed at a predetermined depth profile below the surface of the body of water. Hydrodynamic and environmental condition data is collected proximate in time and location to the output data from the dispersant sensing platform. The environmental condition data includes one or more of ambient temperature, body or water temperature, salinity of the body of water, wind speed, location, mixing energy of the body of water and derivatives thereof. Oil and dispersant data is provided which includes characteristics of the dispersant and of oil samples prior to the application of the dispersant. The output data stream, the hydrodynamic and environmental condition data, and the oil and dispersant data is processed to generate an indicator of the state of dispersion of the oil and of the oil dispersant efficiency under the hydrodynamic and environmental conditions the oil is exposed to. A system for the determination of oil dispersant efficacy is also provided.

ON-CHIP MICROFLUIDIC PROCESSING OF PARTICLES

A microfluidic device comprises: a channel extending from a plurality of inlets to a plurality of outlets, wherein the channel is bounded by a first wall and a second wall opposite from the first wall; and an array of obstacles disposed within the channel configured to deflect particles in a sample comprising the particles toward the second wall when the particles are flowed from the inlets to the outlets. The particles are inputted into at least one of the plurality of inlets and are deflected through a series of parallel flow streams flowing from the plurality of inlets to the plurality of outlets while being deflected toward the second wall, wherein streams in the parallel flows comprise a reagent. Microfluidic devices and methods greatly improve cell quality, streamline workflows, and lower costs. Applications include research and clinical diagnostics in cancer, infectious disease, and inflammatory disease, among other disease areas. 1. A device comprising:(a) a channel extending from a plurality of inlets to a plurality of outlets, wherein the channel is bounded by a first wall and a second wall opposite from the first wall; and(b) an array of obstacles disposed within the channel configured to deflect particles in a sample comprising the particles toward the second wall when the particles are flowed from the inlets to the outlets,wherein the device is configured such that the particles are inputted into at least one of the plurality of inlets and are deflected through a series of parallel flow streams flowing from the plurality of inlets to the plurality of outlets while being deflected toward the second wall, wherein at least four flow streams in the series of parallel flow streams comprise a reagent.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the device is microfluidic.3. The device of or claim 1 , wherein the particles are cells.4. The device of claim 3 , wherein the cells are leukocytes or a subtype of leukocytes.5. The device of claim 3 , wherein the cells are ...

Micro-Optical Cavity with Fluidic Transport Chip for Bioparticle Analysis

This invention provides new methods and apparatus for rapidly analyzing single bioparticles to assess their material condition and health status. The methods are enabled by a resonant cavity to measure optical properties related to the bioparticle size and refractive index. Refractive index measurements are useful for determining material properties and biomolecular composition of the bioparticle. These properties and composition are dependent on the health state of the bioparticle. Thus, measured optical properties can be used to differentiate normal (healthy) and abnormal (diseased) states of bioparticles derived from cells or tissues. The methods are illustrated with data obtained from a resonator with a gain medium. The invention also provides new methods for multiple measurements in a single device, analyzing and manipulating bioparticles that are much smaller than the wavelength of light, and provides a microfluidic transport chip to enable rapid single bioparticle analysis of large populations of bioparticles. 1. (canceled)2. The cavity of wherein said reflective surfaces are structures comprising at least one structure selected from the group consisting of layers claim 39 , waveguides claim 39 , photonic lattices claim 39 , periodic bandgap materials claim 39 , and fibers claim 39 , and said structures comprise at least one material selected from the group of dielectrics claim 39 , metals claim 39 , glasses claim 39 , plastics claim 39 , semiconductors claim 39 , and polymers and said structures comprise at least one geometrical form selected from the group of planar claim 39 , box-like claim 39 , rod claim 39 , cylindrical claim 39 , ring claim 39 , and spherical.3. The cavity of wherein said cavity comprises an intracavity fluid grate with at least one channel for flow of fluids.4. The cavity of wherein said reflective surfaces comprise parallel planar high reflectors facing each other.5. The cavity of wherein at least one approximate dimension of said ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETECTION AND MEASUREMENT OF PARTICLES WITH A WIDE DYNAMIC RANGE OF MEASUREMENT

Light from a light source is directed at a flow path of particles of a flow cytometer. The directed light results in a light pattern having a plurality of lobes. A first signal is detected exceeding a first threshold. A second signal exceeding a second threshold is detected, wherein the second threshold is greater than the first threshold. Based on detecting the second trigger after detecting the first trigger, is determined that the first and second signals were created by a relatively large particle. 1. A method for particle detection comprising:directing a light source at a flow path of relatively small and large particles of a flow cytometer, wherein the directed light results in a light pattern having a plurality of lobes;detecting a first signal exceeding a first threshold;detecting a second signal exceeding a second threshold, wherein the second threshold is greater than the first threshold; andbased on detecting the second trigger after detecting the first trigger, determining that first and second signals were created by a relatively large particle.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first threshold is set according to an energy emission level of a relatively small particle.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the second threshold is set according to an energy emission level of a relatively large particle.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising determining that the second signal was received at a predetermined time after the first signal according to particle travel speed between adjacent lobes of the plurality of lobes.5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising resetting one or more integrators configured to process a relatively small particle to process the relatively large particle.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the relatively large particles are up to 1000 times larger than the relatively small particles.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first and second signals are detected by an analog logic system.8. A particle detection system ...

PARTICLE SORTING APPARATUS, PARTICLE SORTING METHOD, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM STORING PROGRAM

The present disclosure provides a particle sorting apparatus, a particle sorting method, and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing program that enable sorting object particles to be sorted with high precision, even when the sorting object particles are large. In the particle sorting apparatus, a charging unit that applies charges to at least a part of liquid droplets ejected from an orifice to generate a fluid stream and a charging control unit that adjusts a charge application end time in the charging unit according to sizes of particles included in the liquid droplets are provided. 1. A particle sorting apparatus , comprising:a charging unit configured to apply charges to at least a portion of a plurality of liquid droplets ejected from an orifice; and wherein the mode is selected from one of a first mode or a second mode, based on a size of particles included in the plurality of liquid droplets, and', 'wherein at least one of the charge application end time or a charge application duration of the first mode is different from the second mode., 'a charging control unit configured to adjust a charge application end time for the application of the charges, based on a mode of the particle sorting apparatus,'}2. The particle sorting apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first mode is a normal mode and the second mode is a large diameter particle mode.3. The particle sorting apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the charging control unit is further configured to change a start time for the application of the charges based on sizes of the plurality of particles.4. The particle sorting apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the charging control unit is further configured to change the charge application duration based on sizes of the plurality of particles.5. The particle sorting apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the orifice is present in an exchangeable microchip, andwherein the charging unit includes a charging electrode to contact ...

METHOD FOR PURIFYING PARTICLES, METHOD FOR DISPENSING A SINGLE PARTICLE, METHOD FOR ANALYZING CELL CLUSTER, AND APPARATUS USING THE SAME

One object of the present invention is to provide a method or apparatus for purifying target particles from high-concentration particles in a short time. The above problem can be solved by a method for purifying target particles, characterized in that the method comprises a step of sorting the target particles from a high concentration of non-target particles, wherein the sorting step is repeated for three times or more.

PREPARATION OF NUCLEATED RBC (NRBC) ANALOGS FOR USE AS REFERENCE HEMATOLOGY CONTROLS IN AUTOMATED HEMATOLOGY ANALYZERS

The subject invention pertains to compositions of novel analogs of red blood cells that are distinguishable from white blood cells in a hematological instrument and processes for manufacturing such analogs. The processes for creating the compositions comprise washing, shrinking, and fixing cells at temperatures at or below room temperature. 1. A process for manufacture of red blood cells which are distinguishable from white blood cells for use as a reference control in a blood cell analyzer , the process comprising the steps of:a) shrinking and washing red blood cells of a non-human vertebrate by application of a salt solution to extract cellular fluid from the red blood cells; andb) applying a quantity of a fixing agent to the red blood cells from step (a), said salt solution comprising a denaturing agent.2. The process of claim 1 , wherein the blood cell analyzer uses optical measurements to distinguish cell types.3. The process of claim 1 , wherein the non-human vertebrate is a chicken.4. The process of claim 1 , wherein the red blood cells are nucleated red blood cells.5. The process of claim 1 , wherein the salt solution comprises a salt and a naphthol or a derivative thereof as the denaturing agent.6. The process of claim 5 , wherein the denaturing agent is α-naphthol.7. The process of claim 5 , wherein the denaturing agent concentration is about 0.1 g/L to about 100 g/L claim 5 , about 1 g/L to about 10 g/L claim 5 , or about 2.5 g/L to about 7.5 g/L or about 4.5 g/L.8. The process of claim 5 , wherein the salt concentration is about 0.1 g/L to about 100 g/L claim 5 , about 1 g/L to about 10 g/L claim 5 , or about 2.5 g/L to about 7.5 g/L.9. The process of claim 1 , wherein the fixing agent is glutaraldehyde.10. The process of claim 1 , wherein the fixing agent concentration is about 0.01% to about 10% claim 1 , about 0.1% to about 1% claim 1 , or about 0.24% to about 0.48%.11. The process of claim 1 , wherein step (a) further comprises cooling the cells to a ...

Flow Cytometry Apparatus and Methods

A particle analyzer, comprising a source of a substantially nondiffracting light beam; a flow path configured to produce in a flowcell a ribbon-like core stream having a specific cross-sectional aspect ratio; the flowcell being configured to expose a segment of the core stream to the light beam; a detector configured to receive a signal resulting from an interaction of a particle in the core stream with the light beam; a first sorting actuator connected with the flowcell, downstream of the exposed segment of core stream; a plurality of sorting channels in fluid connection with the flow path and downstream of the first actuator; the actuator having multiple actuation states, each state configured to direct at least one part of the core stream to a corresponding channel; a second sorting actuator connected with the flowcell, opposite the first actuator, and operable in coordination with the first actuator.

FORWARD SCATTERED LIGHT DETECTION SYSTEM, FLOW CYTOMETER AND METHOD FOR MEASURING CELL DIAMETER

A forward scattered light detection system, a flow cytometer and a method for measuring a cell diameter are provided. The forward scattered light detection system includes: a laser configured to emit light rays; a light focusing assembly configured to focus the light ray to a light spot; a first lens configured to convert the light spot to parallel light rays, wherein a center of the light spot is located on a main optical axis of the first lens; a blocking assembly configured to transmit a light ray propagating along and near the main optical axis through the blocking assembly and block most of the light ray propagating in directions other than the main optical axis; and a first detector configured to detect an intensity of the light ray transmitted from the blocking assembly to the first detector. 1. A forward scattered light detection system , applied to a flow cytometer , comprising:a laser, configured to emit light rays;a light focusing assembly, configured to focus the light rays as a light spot;a first lens, configured to convert the light spot to parallel light rays, wherein a center of the light spot is located on a main optical axis of the first lens;a blocking assembly, configured to transmit a light ray propagating along and near the main optical axis through the blocking assembly and block most of the light rays propagating in directions other than the main optical axis; anda first detector, configured to detect an intensity of the light ray transmitted from the blocking assembly to the first detector,wherein a fluidics system of the flow cytometer is between the light focusing assembly and the first lens, and the main optical axis is perpendicular to and intersected with a flow direction of a cell suspension in the fluidics system.2. The forward scattered light detection system according to claim 1 , wherein the blocking assembly is further configured to:enable the intensity of the light ray detected by the first detector to be in a first light ...

DEVICE FOR RAPID DETECTION OF TUBERCULOSIS-LIPOARABINOMANNAN (TB-LAM) WITH ENHANCED SENSITIVITY

A device for rapid detection of a tuberculosis lipoarabinomannan (TB-LAM) is provided. The device includes a pre-concentrator unit for concentrating the TB-LAM comprising: an ion-exchange medium comprising one or more ligands configured to capture the TB-LAM from the source biological sample, wherein the captured-TB-LAM is eluted from the ion-exchange medium as an eluate comprising a concentrated form of TB-LAM; a cassette; a lateral flow assay unit disposed in the cassette; and an integration unit attached to the pre-concentrator unit and the cassette. The integration unit is configured to operatively couple and de-couple the pre-concentrator unit and the cassette. The pre-concentrator unit and the lateral flow assay unit disposed in the cassette are in a fluidic communication in a coupled form. The device for rapid detection of TB-LAM further comprises a dilutor unit. 1. A method comprising the steps of: [ 'an ion-exchange medium comprising one or more ligands configured to capture the TB-LAM from the source biological sample, wherein the captured-TB-LAM is eluted from the ion-exchange medium as an eluate comprising a concentrated form of the TB-LAM;', 'a pre-concentrator unit for concentrating tuberculosis lipoarabinomannan (TB-LAM) comprising, 'a cassette;', 'a lateral flow assay unit disposed in the cassette; and', 'an integration unit attached to the pre-concentrator unit and the cassette at a pivot point,', 'wherein the integration unit comprises a clamp to hold the pre-concentrator unit, wherein the integration unit is coupled to a lever that is adjacent to the clamp, and wherein the cassette is configured to transition from an uncoupled position to a coupled position via rotation of the integration unit about the pivot point relative to the pre-concentrator unit, wherein the pre-concentrator unit and the lateral flow assay unit disposed in the cassette are in a fluidic communication in the coupled position; and, 'introducing a source biological sample to a ...

Airborne Particle Counting Method and Device

The present invention discloses an airborne particle counting method which makes the laser beam and the fluid flow passage vertically intersected to generate scattered light. The resulting scattered light is collected by two scattered light collecting plates to two spatial directions simultaneously. The resulting electrical signals generated by these two plates are respectively amplified by different subsequent signal amplification circuits, with different amplification factors. Statistical analysis is performed on each amplified electrical signal and amplitude distribution to measure the peak topography of electrical signals of different intensity. The numbers of particles of different sizes are obtained through calculation. The present invention has simple structure and low cost, and can provide more comprehensive signal collection of the scattered light, being beneficial to realize the comprehensive statistics of airborne particles of different sizes, to improve the accuracy of the statistics of airborne particles of various sizes, and to eliminate the influence of airborne particle form and shape on counting. The present invention also provides an airborne particle counting device. 1. An airborne particle counting method , characterized in that it makes the laser beam and the fluid flow passage vertically intersected to generate scattered light; the resulting scattered light is collected by two scattered light collecting plates to two spatial directions simultaneously; the resulting electrical signals generated by these two plates are respectively amplified by different subsequent signal amplification circuits , with different amplification factors; statistical analysis is performed on each amplified electrical signal and amplitude distribution to measure the peak topography of electrical signals of different intensity; the numbers of particles of different sizes are obtained through calculation.2. An airborne particle counting method in claim 1 , characterized ...

PARTICLE DETECTION SYSTEMS

Particle detection systems are disclosed. The particle detection system may include a conduit configured to receive particles removed from a component, and at least one sensor positioned adjacent the conduit. The at least one sensor may be configured to detect a particle characteristic for the particles in the conduit removed from the component. The particle detection system may also include a particle analysis system in communication with the at least one sensor. The particle analysis system may be configured to analyze the particle characteristic for the particles in the conduit to determine if the component is substantially free of particles. 1. A particle detection system comprising:a conduit configured to receive particles removed from a component;at least one sensor positioned adjacent the conduit, the at least one sensor configured to detect a particle characteristic for the particles in the conduit removed from the component; and 'analyze the particle characteristic for the particles in the conduit to determine if the component is substantially free of particles.', 'a particle analysis system in communication with the at least one sensor, the particle analysis system configured to2. The particle detection system of claim 1 , wherein the particle characteristic for the particles in the conduit comprises at least one of:a quantity of the particles in the conduit;a mass of the particles in the conduit;a size of the particles in the conduit; anda volume of the particles in the conduit.3. The particle detection system of claim 1 , wherein the particle analysis system is further configured to:compare a desired particle characteristic threshold with the analyzed particle characteristic for the particles to determine if the analyzed particle characteristic exceeds the desired particle characteristic threshold.4. The particle detection system of claim 1 , wherein the particle analysis system is further configured to continuously analyze the particle characteristic of ...

Flow cytometry method for evaluating biological material for unassociated virus-size particles of influenza virus viral type

A method for evaluating a biological material for unassociated virus-size particles having a particular epitope uses a fluorescent antibody stain specific for binding with the epitope and a fluid sample with the virus-size particles and fluorescent antibody stain is subjected to flow cytometry with identification of fluorescent emission detection events indicative of passage through a flow cell of a flow cytometer of unassociated labeled particles of virus size including such a virus-size particle and fluorescent anti body stain.

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR HIGH-THROUGHPUT SOLUTION EXCHANGE FOR CELL AND PARTICLE SUSPENSIONS

A method of exchanging fluids with suspended particles includes providing a microfluidic device with a first inlet channel operatively coupled to a source of particles and a second inlet channel operatively coupled to an exchange fluid. A transfer channel is connected at a proximal end to the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel. First and second outlet channels are connected to a distal end of the transfer channel. The source of particles is flowed at a first flow rate into the first inlet channel while the exchange fluid is flowed at a second flow rate into the second inlet channel wherein the ratio of the second flow rate to the first flow rate is at least 1.5. Particles are collected in one of the first and second outlet channels while fluid substantially free of particles is collected in the other of the first and second outlet channels. 133-. (canceled)34. A microfluidic system for solution exchange comprising:a first inlet channel operatively coupled to a source of particles suspended in a fluid;a second inlet channel operatively coupled to an exchange fluid;a linear and longitudinally symmetrical transfer channel having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the transfer channel connected to the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel;a plurality of outlet channels connected to a distal end of the transfer channel; and;{'sub': 'eq', 'a first pump configured to pump the source of particles suspended in a fluid at a first flow rate and a second pump configured to pump the exchange fluid at a second flow rate, wherein the ratio of the second flow rate to the first flow rate is at least 1.5 and wherein the exchange fluid occupies more than half of the transfer channel and wherein inertial lift forces in the transfer channel direct the particles from the source of particles to an equilibrium position (X) located within a center of the transfer channel and within the exchange fluid.'}35. The microfluidic system of claim 34 , ...

CREAM-CHEESE-LIKE FOOD PRODUCT AND PRODUCTION METHOD

The invention relates to a method for producing a cream-cheese-like, preferably vegan, food product with a strength measured at 10° C. by a texture testing machine, in which a round press plunger with a surface area of 1.27 cmand a speed of 2 mm/s is introduced into a sample, said strength coming from a value range between 0.2 N and 7.0 N, preferably between 0.5 N and 2.5 N, a dry mass weight proportion between 6% and 80% and a total fat weight proportion between 0.92% and 30%, comprising the following steps: producing a pumpable mass based on water and nuts and/or seeds, preferably almonds; and obtaining the food product from the pumpable mass. The invention is characterised in that the pumpable mass is produced by mixing a partially de-oiled flour made from the nuts and/or seeds, preferably almond flour, having a fat weight proportion between 5 and 20 wt. %, with the water and fat, in particular in the form of oil. 115-. (canceled)16. A method for producing a cream-cheese-like food product having a firmness corresponding to the maximum force absorption of the force transducer from a value range between 0.2 N and 7.0 N , measured at 10° C. by means of a texture testing machine in which a round press plunger having an area of 1.27 cmis introduced into a sample kept at a temperature of 10° C. for 12 h at a speed of 2 mm/s , a proportion by weight of dry matter between 6% and 60% and a total proportion by weight of fat between 0.92% and 30% , the method comprising the steps ofproducing a pumpable mass based on water and fat, and nuts and/or seeds; 'in an insolubilized state, the obtained food product has a particle size distribution which is characterized by a mean particle diameter ×50.3<100 μm, and by at least one peak, at a particle diameter ×3>10 μm, measured in distilled water by means of a laser diffraction spectrometer,', 'obtaining the food product from the pumpable mass by heating to a temperature from a temperature range between 65° C. and 140° C., and ...

ANALYSIS AND SORTING OF MOTILE CELLS

A method for sorting motile cells includes introducing an initial population of motile cells into an inlet port of a microfluidic channel, the initial population of motile cells having a first average motility; incubating the population of motile cells in the microfluidic channel; and collecting a sorted population of motile cells at an outlet port of the microfluidic channel. The sorted population of motile cells has a second average motility higher than the first average motility. 1. A method for sorting motile cells , comprising:introducing an initial population of motile cells into an inlet port of a microfluidic channel, the initial population of motile cells having a first average motility;incubating the population of motile cells in the microfluidic channel; andcollecting a sorted population of motile cells at an outlet port of the microfluidic channel, the sorted population of motile cells having a second average motility higher than the first average motility.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising orienting the microfluidic channel horizontally or vertically.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein incubating the population of motile cells includes incubating in the absence of flowing media.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein incubating the population of motile cells includes incubating the population of motile cells for a time sufficient to allow a portion of the initial population of motile cells to move along the microfluidic channel claim 1 , e.g. claim 1 , for about 20-60 minutes claim 1 , or about 30 minutes.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the height of the microfluidic channel is less than about 20 times a dimension of the motile cells claim 1 , e.g. claim 1 , about 3 to 10 times the dimension of the motile cells.6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising determining the second average motility claim 1 , including:obtaining a plurality of images, e.g., shadow images, of a collectable population of motile cells in the vicinity of the outlet port ...

DEVICE FOR POSITIONING AN OBJECT IN SPACE

The subject of the invention is a device for positioning an object in space, comprising at least 4 plates, each one able to move with respect to another of said plates which is contiguous with it along one of the 3 axes of space, it being possible for the movement of one plate with respect to another plate to be guided by a tenon/mortise assembly in which said tenon is secured to one of the plates and its mortise is produced in the other plate, the spatial orientation of each of the tenon/mortise assemblies being different from the other 2 and along one of the 3 axes of space. 1. A device for positioning an object in space , comprising at least 4 plates , each one able to move with respect to another of said plates which is contiguous with it along one of 3 axes of space , a tenon/mortise assembly which guides the movement of one plate with respect to another plate in which said tenon is secured to one of the plates and its mortise is produced in the other plate , the spatial orientation of each of the tenon/mortise assemblies being different from the other 2 and along one of the 3 axes of space said device is free of any compensating spring', 'at least one of the tenon/mortise assemblies is in the form of a dovetail;', 'a preload aimed at limiting the movement of one plate with respect to another is applied laterally to one of the edges of the tenon of the tenon/mortise assembly, said preload limiting but not preventing the movement of said plates one relative to another;', 'the movement of at least one plate relative to another plate is brought about by means of at least one micrometer screw able to act at least on one of the two plates that are to be moved one relative to the other, said micrometer screw being secured to one of said two plates, said micrometer screw being fixed in direct mesh with said plate;', 'one plate is locked in the desired position relative to another plate independently for each of the tenon/mortise assemblies., 'wherein'}2. The device ...

High Definition Microdroplet Printer

Methods for delivering discrete entities including, e.g., cells, media or reagents to substrates are provided. In certain aspects, the methods include manipulating and/or analyzing qualities of the entities or biological components thereof. In some embodiments, the methods may be used to create arrays of microenvironments and/or for two and three-dimensional printing of tissues or structures. Systems and devices for practicing the subject methods are also provided. 1. A method of delivering discrete entities to a substrate , the method comprising:flowing a plurality of discrete entities through a microfluidic device in a carrier fluid, wherein the discrete entities are insoluble and/or immiscible in the carrier fluid;directing the carrier fluid and one or more of the plurality of discrete entities through a delivery orifice to the substrate; andaffixing the one or more of the plurality of discrete entities to the substrate.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more of the plurality of discrete entities are affixed to the substrate via a force claim 1 , wherein the force is selected from a gravitational force claim 1 , an electrical force claim 1 , a magnetic force claim 1 , and combinations thereof.3. The method of claim 2 , comprising storing the affixed entity under controlled environmental conditions for a storage period claim 2 , wherein the force is maintained during the storage period.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the controlled environmental conditions comprise a constant temperature and/or pressure.5. The method of any one of - claim 3 , wherein the force is an electrical force.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the electrical force is a dielectrophoretic force.7. The method of any one of - claim 5 , wherein the discrete entities are droplets.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the droplets are affixed to the substrate via wetting.9. The method of claim 7 , wherein the droplets comprise an aqueous fluid claim 7 , which is immiscible with the ...

Amplifying rare cell surface markers

This invention relates generally to a microfluidic device for encapsulation, incubation, and analysis of cell surface markers or secreted molecules from a single cell. 18-. (canceled)9. A system for detecting expression of a specific protein or peptide by individual cells of a population of cells , the system comprising:a fluid control device configured to divide a sample comprising the population of cells into subsamples, such that each subsample contains at most one of the population of cells and each subsample is encompassed a hydrophobic fluid;rolling circle amplification reagents for detection of the presence of the specific protein or peptide; anda device operable to detect the rolling circle amplification reagents in individual subsamples.10. The system of claim 9 , wherein the rolling circle amplification reagents comprise a phi29 DNA polymerase or a circular DNA template or both.11. The system of claim 9 , wherein the rolling circle amplification reagents comprise a biotinylated antibody that binds specifically to the protein or peptide claim 9 , an avidin bridge claim 9 , a biotinylated DNA probe claim 9 , and a circular DNA template capable of hybridizing with the biotinylated DNA probe.12. The system of claim 11 , wherein the rolling circle amplification reagents further comprise a phi29 polymerase and a fluorescently-labeled nucleotide.13. The system of claim 11 , wherein the biotinylated antibody binds specifically to a protein or peptide expressed by a cancer cell claim 11 , a stem cell claim 11 , or an immune cell.14. The system of claim 11 , wherein the biotinylated antibody binds specifically to an epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM).15. The system of claim 9 , further comprising a cell sorting mechanism operable to sort the subsamples based on measurement of an indicator parameter in each subsample.16. The system of claim 15 , wherein the cell sorting mechanism comprises a fluorescence activated cell sorting mechanism.17. The system of claim ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SELECTING CELLULAR STRAINS

A method of sorting cells on a FACS includes providing a culture of cells stained with a dye. The dye is excited using photons at a first wavelength. A fluorescence and emission of the dye is collected at a second wavelength. Droplets of the cells are produced by pumping the cell culture at a first pressure through a nozzle having a nozzle diameter. The droplets are produced at a first frequency. The cells are sorted by a desired property. The desired property can include sorting the cells by size using at least one of a forward scatter area (FSC-A), a forward scatter height (FSC-H), a forwards scatter width (FSC-W), side scatter area (SSC-A), a side scatter height (SSC-H) and a side scatter width (SSC-W) of the fluorescence of the dye to determine a size of the cells. 16-. (canceled)7. A method of dual staining cells for comparing a first culture of control cells and a second culture of experimental cells , comprising:diluting the first culture of control cells to a first concentration;diluting the second culture of experimental cells to a second concentration, the second concentration equal to the first concentration;reducing the temperature of the first culture and the second culture to a first temperature;adding a volume of a first staining solution to one of the first culture and the second culture, the first staining solution including a concentration of a first dye dissolved in a first concentration of DMSO;adding a second volume of water to one of the first culture and the second culture which does not include the first staining solution; the second volume equal to the first volume;incubating each of the first culture and the second culture for a first time;mixing the first culture and the second culture to form a mixed culture;adding a volume of a second staining solution to the mixed culture, the second staining solution including a concentration of a second dye dissolved in a second concentration of DMSO,wherein, greater than 90% of the experimental cells ...

METHOD FOR DETERMINING THE WATER CONTENT IN THE ATMOSPHERE, METHOD FOR DETECTING ICING CONDITIONS AND COMPUTER PROGRAMS

A method for determining the water content in the atmosphere by image processing comprises: determining the number of particles contained in a size range; measuring the mass of particles having a size in the size range from the determined number of particles; determining the number of particles having a size equal to a threshold size; evaluating the number of particles outside of the given size range from the determined number of particles and from the threshold size; estimating the mass of particles outside of the size range from the evaluated number of particles; and determining the water content by addition of the estimated mass and the measured mass. 1. A method for determining the water content in the atmosphere by processing images acquired by an out-of-focus interferometric imaging device , said device being solely able to image water and ice particles having a size lying in a given range of sizes , said method comprising the following steps: for at least one of the images ,a) determining the number of particles lying in the given range of sizes from said at least one of the images;b) measuring the mass of particles having a size lying in the given range of sizes from the number of particles determined;c) estimating the mass of particles having a size outside the given range of sizes, said estimation step comprising the following steps:i) determining the number of particles having a size equal to a threshold size;ii) evaluating the number of particles outside the given range of sizes from the number of particles determined during step i) and from the threshold size; andiii) estimating the mass of the particles outside the given range of sizes (P) from the number of particles evaluated; andd) determining the water content by adding the estimated mass and the measured mass.2. The method for determining the water content in the atmosphere according to claim 1 , in which the number of particles is evaluated during step ii) by linear extrapolation from a ...

Microparticle sorting device, and method and program for sorting microparticles

Provided are a microparticle sorting device, and a method and a program for sorting microparticles capable of stabilizing sorting performance over a prolonged period of time. The microparticle sorting device includes an imaging element and a controller. The imaging element obtains an image of fluid and fluid droplets at a position where the fluid discharged from an orifice which generates a fluid stream is converted into the fluid droplets. The controller controls driving voltage of an oscillation element which gives oscillation to the orifice and/or controls a position of the imaging element based on a state of the fluid in the image and/or a state of a satellite fluid droplet. The satellite fluid droplet does not include microparticles and exists between the position, where the fluid is converted into the fluid droplets, and a fluid droplet, among fluid droplets including the microparticles, which is closest to the position where the fluid is converted into the fluid droplets.

LIDAR INSTRUMENT AND METHOD OF OPERATION

The present invention relates to a Lidar surveying instrument, which is capable of detecting and discriminating laser-induced particle fluorescence of any biological or non-biological atmospheric particles. The present astrobiology sensing instrument can remotely sense and discriminate, in real-time, the bio-indicator aerosol material signatures and environmental interferents that exist in an extraterrestrial environment, such as Mars, in order to expand the search for signatures of extraterrestrial life from the planetary soil to the planetary ground level atmosphere, by performing atmospheric volume scans of hundreds of meters in a radial direction around a planetary vehicle or a spacecraft. The Lidar instrument technology of the present invention employs real-time aerosol particle detection and discrimination based on two physical variables: particle fluorescence and particle size in the bio-discrimination space. 1. A Lidar instrument to detect a biological signature or a non-biological signature in an extraterrestrial environment , comprising:a transceiver having a plurality of lasers operating at 266 nm, 355 nm, and 905 nm wavelengths, and emitting laser beams at an aerosol cloud of particles in the extraterrestrial environment; anda plurality of telescopes coupled to instrument optics using optical fibers, and connected to a plurality of detectors;wherein said laser beams excite said aerosol cloud to induce fluorescence and cause differential-wavelength elastic backscatter which produces data which is measured in real-time by said detectors to determine a type of material from the biological or non-biological signature of each of said particles, and a particle size of each of said particles.2. The Lidar instrument of claim 1 , wherein said detectors are photon-counting modules in both an ultraviolet wavelength range and a near-infrared wavelength range;wherein each said 266 nm laser and said 355 nm laser includes a filter and a photo multiplier tube; ...

Systems and methods for particle analysis

The present disclosure provides systems and methods for sorting a cell. The system may comprise a flow channel configured to transport a cell through the channel. The system may comprise an imaging device configured to capture an image of the cell from a plurality of different angles as the cell is transported through the flow channel. The system may comprise a processor configured to analyze the image using a deep learning algorithm to enable sorting of the cell.

FAST FEATURE IDENTIFICATION FOR HOLOGRAPHIC TRACKING AND CHARACTERIZATION OF COLLOIDAL PARTICLES

A method and system for identification of holographic tracking and identification of features of an object. A holograph is created from scattering off the object, intensity gradients are established for a plurality of pixels in the holograms, the direction of the intensity gradient is determined and those directions analyzed to identify features of the object and enables tracking of the object. Machine learning devices can be trained to estimate particle properties from holographic information. 1. A method of feature identification in holographic tracking and identification for features of an object , comprising the steps of ,inputting a collimated laser beam;scattering the collimated laser beam from the object to generate a scattered beam;recording a hologram characteristic of the interference between the scattering beam and the input beam;determining, using an orientational alignment transform, from the recorded hologram an estimate of a two-dimensional position of the object; anddetermining, using the two-dimensional position of the object and a machine learning algorithm an estimate of an axial position of the object and a size of the object and a refractive index of the object.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:establishing intensity gradients for a plurality of pixels in the hologram;determining direction for the intensity gradients for each of the pixels; andanalyzing the direction of the intensity gradients to identify the presence of features of the object.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein further comprising analyzing the direction of the intensity gradients to estimate the two-dimensional position of the object.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein further comprising:applying the Lorenz-Mie solution to the recorded scattering;determining the estimate of the axial position as well as object size and refractive index from the application of the Lorenz-Mie solution to the recorded scattering.5. The method of claim 2 , wherein determining the object's ...

Live-cell computed tomography

Systems and methods of using the same for functional fluorescence imaging of live cells in suspension with isotropic three dimensional (3D) diffraction-limited spatial resolution are disclosed. The method-live cell computed tomography (LCCT)-in-volves the acquisition of a series of two dimensional (2D) pseudo-projection images from different perspectives of the cell that rotates around an axis that is perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging system. The volumetric image of the cell is then tomographically reconstructed.

Analysis and Sorting of Objects in Flow

A device and method for sorting objects immersed in a flowing medium are disclosed. An example device comprises a holographic imaging unit comprising one or more holographic imaging elements, a fluid handling unit comprising one or more microfluidic channels configured to conduct flowing medium along a corresponding holographic imaging element and at least one microfluidic switch arranged downstream of an imaging region in the microfluidic channel configured to direct objects in the flowing medium into a one of a plurality of outlets. The example device also comprises a processor configured to determine real-time characterizations of holographic diffraction images obtained for the moving objects. The processing unit is further configured to control the at least one microfluidic switch in response to the real-time characterizations. 131-. (canceled)32. A device configured to sort objects immersed in a flowing medium , the device comprising:a holographic imaging unit including one or more holographic imaging elements configured to provide holographic diffraction images;a fluid handling unit including an imaging region and a switch arranged downstream of the imaging region, wherein the fluidic handling unit is configured to conduct the flowing medium along at least one holographic imaging element in the imaging region, and wherein the switch is configured to direct one or more objects in the flowing medium to one or more outlets of a plurality of outlets; and based on at least one holographic diffraction image of the plurality of holographic diffraction images, determine a characterization of the one or more objects that pass through the imaging region; and', 'in response to the characterization, control the switch to direct the one or more objects in the flowing medium to the one or more outlets., 'a processor configured to The invention relates to the field of cell analysis and sorting. More specifically it relates to the field of analysis and sorting of biological ...

METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR SORTING TARGET PARTICLES

This disclosure provides methods and apparatuses for sorting target particles. In various embodiments, the disclosure provides a cassette for sorting target particles, methods for sorting target particles, methods of loading a microchannel for maintaining sample material viability, methods of quantifying sample material, and an optical apparatus for laser scanning and particle sorting. 1183.-. (canceled)184. An apparatus comprising:an excitation light source configured to emit an excitation beam to generate fluorescence light from target particles located in a plurality of channels;a detector configured to receive the fluorescence light;an extraction laser configured to provide an extraction beam to remove the target particles from the plurality of channels;a scanner coupled to the excitation light source and the extraction laser, wherein the scanner is configured to scan the excitation beam and the extraction beam over the plurality of channels; andcircuitry coupled to the detector and the extraction laser, wherein the circuitry is configured to control the extraction laser to selectively remove the target particles from the plurality of channels in response to the detected fluorescence light;wherein the apparatus is configured to scan and remove the target particles from the plurality of channels at a rate within a range from about 5,000 to about 100,000,000 target particles per second.185. The apparatus of claim 184 , wherein the apparatus is configured to scan and remove the target particles from the plurality of channels at a rate within the range from about 25 claim 184 ,000 to about 20 claim 184 ,000 claim 184 ,000 target particles per second.186. The apparatus of claim 184 , wherein the scanner is optically coupled to the excitation light source and the extraction laser to simultaneously scan the excitation beam and the extraction beam over the plurality of channels.187. The apparatus of claim 184 , wherein the scanner claim 184 , the excitation beam claim ...

PARTICLE MANIPULATION SYSTEM WITH MULTISORT VALVE

A particle manipulation system uses a MEMS-based, microfabricated particle manipulation device which has a sample inlet channel, output channels, and a movable member formed on a substrate. The device may be used to separate a target particle from non-target material in a sample stream. In order to improve the sorter speed, accuracy or yield, the particle manipulation system may also include a microfluidic structure which focuses the target particles in a particular portion of the sample inlet channel. The particle manipulation device may have two separate sort output channels, wherein the sort channel used depends on the characteristics of the sort pulse delivered to the micromechanical particle manipulation device. 1. A micromechanical particle manipulation device , formed on a surface of a fabrication substrate , comprising:a microfabricated, movable member formed on the substrate, wherein the movable member moves from a first position to a second position in response to a sort waveform applied sort waveform applied to an actuator, which generates a force to move the movable member, wherein the motion is substantially in a plane parallel to the surface of the substrate,a sample inlet channel formed in the substrate and through which a fluid flows, the fluid including target particles and non-target material, wherein the flow in the sample inlet channel is substantially parallel to the surface;at least three separate output channels including at least two separate sort output channels into which the microfabricated movable member diverts the target particles, and a waste output channel into which the non-target material flows, and wherein the flow in waste output channel is substantially orthogonal to the plane, and wherein the waste output channel is located directly below at least a portion of the microfabricated member over at least a portion of its motion, wherein the target particles are diverted into one of the at least two separate sort output channels ...

METHODS OF FORMING MULTI-COLOR FLUORESCENCE-BASED FLOW CYTOMETRY PANEL

In one embodiment, a method of building an optimized color flow cytometry panel is disclosed using a full spectrum flow cytometer with five excitation lasers and five corresponding detection modules. In another embodiment, a graphical user interface is disclosed generated by a server computer from a fluorochrome database and displayed by a client computer to assist in the selection of a set of fluorochromes for use in an assay to analyze biological samples. The GUI can display spectra graphs to visually show how fluorochromes may overlap and can generate similarity indexes for the paired fluorochrome interference and a complexity index for overall many to many interferences generated by a selected group or set of fluorochromes. 1. A method of building a color flow cytometry panel using a full spectrum laser flow cytometer , the method comprising:selecting thirty (30) or more cell markers for biological cells of interest;identifying fluorochromes to be used in the flow cytometry panel;analyzing full spectrum of each fluorochrome across detectors in the full spectrum laser flow cytometer;comparing spectra of combination of pairs of each of the commercially available fluorochromes by determining a similarity index for each pairing of fluorochromes;selecting thirty (30) or more optimal fluorochromes using the similarity index and a complexity index for each of the fluorochromes;calibrating the lasers and detectors in the flow cytometer;pairing the thirty or more optimal fluorochromes with the thirty (30) or more selected cell markers, according to the brightness of the fluorochrome and the expression density of the cell marker;staining the biological cells of interest with the antibody conjugated fluorochromes, comprising the thirty (30) or more optimal fluorochromes and antibody specific to the thirty (30) or more cell markers, to create a multicolor sample;running the multicolor sample through the full spectrum flow cytometer;receiving data from the detectors of the ...

Method for imaging 1-d nanomaterials

A method for imaging 1-D nanomaterials is provided. The method includes: providing a 1-D nanomaterials sample; immersing the 1-D nanomaterials sample in a liquid; illuminating the 1-D nanomaterials sample by a first incident light and a second incident light to cause resonance Rayleigh scattering, wherein the first incident light and the second incident light are not parallel to each other; and acquiring a resonance Rayleigh scattering image of the 1-D nanomaterials sample with a microscope.

PARTICLE MANIPULATION SYSTEM WITH MULTISORT VALVE

A cell sorting device is disclosed, wherein the device includes a magnetic separation “debulking” stage followed a microfabricated fluid valve. The magnetic separation stage may use a sorting magnet and sort particle using magnetic beads attached to the particles. The device may include at least one fluid channel, wherein the sorting magnet and the particle manipulation device are in fluid communication with one another through at least one fluid channel. A method of sorting cells from a first cell suspension is also disclosed, The method may include a) magnetic labeling of first target cells and removal of the non-target cells by applying magnetic fields to obtain a second cell suspension; b) fluorescence-activated labeling of second target cells present in the second cell suspension and separating the fluorescence-activated second target cells from the not labeled cells to obtain a third cell suspension. 1. A cell sorting system comprising one upstream particle sorting device and at least one downstream particle manipulation device , wherein the particle sorting device is formed on a surface of a fabrication substrate , comprising:a disposable that contains the biological sample and a microfabricated particle sorting device, wherein the particle sorting device sorts target particles into a sort reservoir and non-target material into a waste reservoir;and a cytometer that counts a number of target cells, wherein the disposable is detachably coupled to the cytometer to count the sorted target particles.2. A method for manipulating biological materials , comprising;sorting target particles with a microfabricated particle sorting device, andcounting the sorted particles with a cytometric device, wherein the microfabricated particle sorting device is detachably connected to the ctyometric device by a structure that allows detachable fluid communication between the microfabricated particle sorting device and the cytometric device. This US patent application is a ...

FINE PARTICLE ANALYZING APPARATUS, FINE PARTICLE ANALYZING METHOD, PROGRAM, AND FINE PARTICLE ANALYZING SYSTEM

Provided are a fine particle analyzing apparatus, a fine particle analyzing method, a program, and a fine particle analyzing system, which are capable of easily separating a plurality of types of spectral data on fluorescence emitted from a fine particle. 1. A fine particle analyzing apparatus including a data extracting unit that selectively extracts spectral data , which contain predetermined information , from spectral data on fluorescence emitted from a fine particle.2. The fine particle analyzing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the data extracting unit selectively extracts spectral data indicating the maximum intensity in a wavelength area set beforehand from one or a plurality of types of spectral data indicating intensity of fluorescence emitted from the fine particle for each of a plurality of wavelengths.3. The fine particle analyzing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the data extracting unit removes spectral data indicating the maximum intensity lower than a predetermined intensity from the one or the plurality of types of spectral data.4. The fine particle analyzing apparatus according to claim 2 , comprisinga display adjusting unit that allows display of the one or the plurality of types of spectral data, whereinwhen the spectral data has been extracted by the data extracting unit, the display adjusting unit allows selective display of the extracted spectral data.5. The fine particle analyzing apparatus according to claim 4 , comprisinga data obtaining unit that obtains the one or the plurality of types of spectral data, whereinthe display adjusting unit allows overlapped display of the spectral data obtained by the data obtaining unit.6. The fine particle analyzing apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the display adjusting unit varies display colors of the spectral data in accordance with frequency of overlap between the spectral data.7. The fine particle analyzing apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the display adjusting unit ...

System and Method for Measuring Vibrational Spectra in Living Cells and Tissue Over Time

Disclosed are systems and methods for measuring vibrational spectra of a living cells and tissue that includes a low noise consistent optical source creating a photon beam, a support device, a photon-to-electron converter/detector outputting a streamed analog electrical signal, an analog-to-digital converter, and a digital signal processor with specialized software for measuring and characterizing the signal contained in the photon beam and its subsequent detector's streamed analog converted to digital signal. Motion of the living sample causes modulation to the photon beam as it passes through the living samples by how much of the photon beam is blocked, absorbed or deflected. In addition, specific sub-cellular vibrational features can be segregated utilizing fluorescent markers. 1. A system for measuring vibrational spectra of living tissue , comprising:a photon source configured to output a photon beam;a support device configured to expose living tissue to the photon beam, wherein cellular motion of the living tissue varies an amount of the photon beam that is blocked, absorbed or deflected, thereby directly modulating a remaining portion of the photon beam;a detector configured to detect the modulated portion of the photon beam and produce an analog signal;an analog-to-digital converter configured to receive the analog signal and output a digital representation of the modulated portion of the photon beam; anda digital signal processor configured to:map the digital representation of the modulated photon beam to partials, each partial representing an amplitude specified over a narrow range of time and frequency;chain the partials into events, which are collections of partials localized in time and frequency and having similar topological properties; andcharacterize the events into one or more of vibrational spectra and discrete frequencies of the living tissue over time.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the digital signal processor performs the mapping claim 1 , ...

DEVICE FOR DETERMINING THE PARTICLE SIZE AND/OR THE PARTICLE SHAPE OF A PARTICLE MIXTURE

An apparatus for determining the sizes and/or shapes of particles which are conveyed as a particle flow through a measuring section is disclosed. An illumination device illuminates the particle flow in the measuring section from the rear side. A camera records shadow projections of the particles illuminated by the illumination device from the front side. An analysis unit determines the particle size and/or particle shape via the camera pictures. A projection device is disposed on the front side of the measuring section and positioned at an angle α to the camera in order to project a light line onto the particles of the particle flow in the measuring section. The light line is recorded by the camera, depth information and/or geometric information on the recorded particles being determined from the shape of the light line in the analysis unit. 124-. (canceled)25145447556557. An apparatus for determining the particle sizes and/or the particle shapes of particles (T) of a particle mixture comprising a delivery device () which isolates the particles (T) of the particle mixture and then conveys them as a particle flow through a measuring section (M) , an illumination device () which is disposed on one side—the rear side—of the measuring section (M) and is directed at the measuring section (M) in order to illuminate the particle flow in the measuring section (M) from the rear side , a camera () which is positioned on the front side of the measuring section (M) lying opposite the illumination device () and is directed at the measuring section (M) in order to record shadow projections of the particles (T) illuminated by the illumination device () , and an analysis unit () that determines the particle size and/or particle shape of the recorded particles (T) by means of the camera () pictures , wherein there is assigned to the camera () a projection device () which is disposed on the front side of the measuring section (M) , is directed at the measuring section (M) and is ...

NONDEGENERATE TWO-WAVE MIXING FOR IDENTIFYING AND SEPARATING MACROMOLECULES

A method and apparatus for determining a radius of particles suspended in a medium includes superposing first and second Doppler-shifted optical waves having a variable frequency shift between them in the medium such that there is a gain in energy of the first optical wave with respect to the second optical wave, varying the frequency shift and measuring the gain while varying the frequency shift to determine the value of the frequency shift at which there is a peak in the gain, and determining the radius of the particles based on the value of the frequency shift at which there is a peak in the gain. 1. A method for determining a radius of particles suspended in a medium , comprising:superposing first and second Doppler-shifted optical waves having a variable frequency shift between them in the medium such that there is a gain in energy of the first optical wave with respect to the second optical wave;varying the frequency shift and measuring the gain while varying the frequency shift to determine the value of the frequency shift at which there is a peak in the gain; anddetermining the radius of the particles based on the value of the frequency shift at which there is a peak in the gain.2. The method of wherein the first and second optical waves have low intensities.3. The method of wherein the radius of the particles is a hydrodynamic radius that is inversely related to the value of the frequency shift at which there is a peak in the gain.4. The method of wherein the particles are bioparticles.5. The method of wherein the bioparticles are proteins claim 4 , antibodies claim 4 , DNA strands claim 4 , red blood cells claim 4 , semen claim 4 , or molecular or biological moieties.6. The method of further comprising applying a specific binding reaction to the particles in the medium.7. The method of wherein the phase shift varies from about 10 Hz to 10 MHz.8. The method of further comprising varying the conditions of the medium to analyze a conformation of the particles ...

HIGH CAPACITY MOLECULE DETECTION

The present disclosure relates generally to compositions and methods for high capacity detection of biological samples. Multiple optical labels as well as their combinations, which may include different ratios of the optical labels, can be used to allow detection of a large number of target molecules, cells, or tissues. 1. A biological sample prepared for examination , comprising:a first target molecule bound, directly or indirectly, to a first optical label, anda second target molecule bound, directly or indirectly, to a second optical label,wherein the first target molecule and the second target molecule are optically distinguishable in one or more color channels by virtue of (a) different numbers of optical labels bound to each if the first optical label is the same as the second optical label, or (b) different intensities of similar color between the first optical label and the second optical label.2. The biological sample of claim 1 , wherein the first optical label is the same as the second label claim 1 , and wherein the first target molecule is further bound to a third optical label different from the first and second optical label.3. The biological sample of claim 2 , wherein the first target molecule is bound to a first probe comprising a first number of the first optical label claim 2 , and the third optical label.4. The biological sample of claim 3 , wherein the second target molecule is bound to a second probe comprising a second number of the second optical label claim 3 , the second number being different from the first number.5. The biological sample of claim 4 , wherein the second probe further comprises the third optical label.6. The biological sample of claim 1 , wherein the first optical label and the second optical label have peak emission wavelengths separated by <100 nm claim 1 , <50 nm claim 1 , or <20 nm.7. A biological sample prepared for examination claim 1 , comprising a plurality of distinct target molecules claim 1 , each of which is ...

UNITARY CARTRIDGE FOR PARTICLE PROCESSING

A single disposable cartridge for performing a process on a particle, such as particle sorting, encapsulates all fluid contact surfaces in the cartridge for use with microfluidic particle processing technology. The cartridge interfaces with an operating system for effecting particle processing. The encapsulation of the fluid contact surfaces insures, improves or promotes operator isolation and/or product isolation. The cartridge may employ any suitable technique for processing particles. 1. A particle sorting system comprising: a particle sorting component configured to receive a stream of particles and to individually sort on a particle-by-particle basis the stream of particles into selected particles having a predetermined characteristic and unselected particles not having the predetermined characteristic;', 'a particle source upstream of and in fluid communication with the particle sorting component for providing particles to be sorted to the particle sorting component;', 'a first chamber downstream of and in fluid communication with the particle sorting component for collecting the selected particles;', 'a second chamber downstream of the particle sorting component for collecting unselected particles; and', 'one or more sealing elements configured to completely seal the cartridge during a particle sorting operation so as to prevent liquid transfer to and from the interior of the cartridge., 'a cartridge including2. The particle sorting system of claim 1 , wherein the particle source chamber is configured to provide particles to be sorted to the particle sorting component when an external source of pressure is applied to the particle source chamber.3. The particle sorting system of claim 1 , further comprising:a sealable loading port formed in the cartridge for providing particles to the particle source chamber; andan extraction port formed in the cartridge for removing selected particles from the first chamber.4. The particle sorting system of claim 1 , further ...

OBSERVING DEVICE AND OBSERVING METHOD

An observation apparatus observes an observation object moving in a flow path with a fluid, and includes a light source, a splitting unit, a combining unit, a collimator, a cylindrical lens, an objective lens, a collimator, a cylindrical lens, an objective lens, a modulation unit, an imaging unit, an analysis unit, and the like. The imaging unit includes a plurality of pixels arranged in a direction intersecting with a moving direction of an image of the observation object on a light receiving plane on which the image of the observation object moving in the flow path is formed, and receives combined light output from the combining unit to repeatedly output a detection signal indicating a one-dimensional interference image. The analysis unit generates a two-dimensional image of the observation object on the basis of the detection signal. 1. An observation apparatus for observing an observation object moving in a flow path with a fluid , comprising:a light source configured to output light;an interference optical system configured to split the light into first split light and second split light, reflect or transmit the first split light by the observation object, and combine the first split light and the second split light to output combined light;a modulator configured to temporally change a phase difference between the first split light and the second split light at the combining;an imager including a plurality of pixels arranged in a direction intersecting with a moving direction of an image of the observation object on a light receiving plane on which the image of the observation object is formed, and configured to receive the combined light to repeatedly output a detection signal indicating a one-dimensional interference image; andan analyzer configured to generate a two-dimensional image of the observation object on the basis of the detection signal.2. The observation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the interference optical system includes a focusing ...

MICROPARTICLE SORTING DEVICE, MICROPARTICLE SORTING SYSTEM, DROPLET SORTING DEVICE, DROPLET CONTROL DEVICE, AND DROPLET CONTROL PROGRAM

To provide a droplet forming technology capable of stably sorting a droplet. 1. A microparticle sorting device comprising:a voltage supply unit that supplies a drive voltage to a vibration element that applies a vibration to an orifice that generates a fluid stream;a control unit that controls a driving condition supplied to the vibration element on a basis of a relative relationship between a droplet discharged from the orifice and a satellite droplet present between droplets; anda sorting unit that sorts the droplet containing microparticles on a basis of optical information detected from the microparticles flowing through a flow path.2. The microparticle sorting device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit controls the driving condition using absorption easiness indicating absorption easiness of the satellite droplet by either preceding or subsequent droplet as an index.3. The microparticle sorting device according to claim 2 , wherein the absorption easiness is calculated on a basis of a positional relationship between the satellite droplet and the preceding and subsequent droplets.4. The microparticle sorting device according to claim 2 , wherein the absorption easiness is calculated on a basis of a time from a break-off point of the fluid stream until the satellite droplet is absorbed by either the preceding or subsequent droplet.5. The microparticle sorting device according to claim 2 , wherein the absorption easiness is calculated on a basis of a distance from a break-off point of the fluid stream until the satellite droplet is absorbed by either the preceding or subsequent droplet.6. The microparticle sorting device according to claim 1 , wherein the driving condition is a frequency of the drive voltage.7. The microparticle sorting device according to claim 6 , wherein the driving condition is strength of the drive voltage.8. The microparticle sorting device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit controls the driving condition on a basis ...

Cell analyzer

A cell analyzer includes a flow cell through which a sample containing a cell flows; an imaging unit that captures the cell contained in the sample flowing through the flow cell; a cell image storage unit that stores a cell image captured by the imaging unit; a light source that irradiates the sample flowing through the flow cell with light; a light receiving unit that receives light from the cell irradiated with the light from the light source and outputs a signal corresponding to a light receiving amount; a waveform data storage unit that stores data indicating change in the light receiving amount obtained based on the output signal; a display unit; and a control unit that controls the display unit to display the cell image and a graph representing a waveform of data for the cell in the cell image and/or a marker corresponding to the data.

Common Radiation Path for Acquiring Particle Information by Means of Direct Image Evaluation and Differential Image Analysis

Device for determining information which is indicative for a particle size and/or a particle shape of particles in a sample, wherein the device comprises an electromagnetic radiation source for generating electromagnetic primary radiation, an electromagnetic radiation detector for detecting electromagnetic secondary radiation which is generated by an interaction of the electromagnetic primary radiation with the sample, and a determination unit which is adapted for determining the information which is indicative for the particle size and/or the particle shape based on the detected electromagnetic secondary radiation, wherein the determination unit is adapted for selectively determining the information firstly by means of an identification and a size determination and/or a shape determination of the particles on a detector image which is generated from the electromagnetic secondary radiation, and/or for determining the information secondly from temporal changes of the electromagnetic secondary radiation between detector images which are generated at different detection points in time. 1. Device for determining information which is indicative for a particle size and/or a particle shape of particles in a sample , wherein the device comprises:an electromagnetic radiation source for generating electromagnetic primary radiation;an electromagnetic radiation detector for detecting electromagnetic secondary radiation which is generated by an interaction of the electromagnetic primary radiation with the sample; anda determination unit which is adapted for determining the information which is indicative for the particle size and/or the particle shape based on the detected electromagnetic secondary radiation;wherein the determination unit is adapted forselectively determining the information firstly by means of an identification and a size determination and/or a shape determination of the particles on a detector image which is generated from the electromagnetic secondary ...

IMAGE PROCESSING DEVICE, FINE PARTICLE SORTING DEVICE, AND IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD

Provided are: an image processing device; a fine particle sorting device; and an image processing method, in which electric charge can be easily and accurately applied to a droplet. 1. An image processing device comprising:a control unit configured to set a light source lighting delay time to control a light source, the light source lighting delay time indicating a time from a time point when a fine particle in fluid is detected by a detection unit until a time point when the light source is turned on for the fine particle included in a droplet formed from the fluid;a processing unit configured to identify positional information of the fine particle on the basis of an image of the fine particle acquired in accordance with lighting of the light source during the set light source lighting delay time; anda recording unit configured to record, in a correlated manner, the positional information identified in the processing unit and the light source lighting delay time,wherein the processing unit determines, as a drop delay time, a light source lighting delay time correlated to target positional information that is predetermined positional information, and the drop delay time indicates a time from the time point when the fine particle is detected by the detection unit until the droplet is formed from the fluid containing the fine particle;wherein the processing unit generates a plot diagram on the basis of a plurality of different light source lighting delay times recorded in the recording unit and the positional information recorded in a manner correlated to each of the plurality of different light source lighting delay times, andthe control unit performs control so as to display the plot diagram on a display unit.2. The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the positional information is identified on the basis of an image of a plurality of fine particles including the fine particle acquired during a predetermined time in which the light source lighting ...

FLOW CELL

A flow cell for particle processing such as particle sorting, may be operatively engaged to a particle processing apparatus. The fluid contact surfaces of the flow cell may be fully enclosed. Further, the flow cell may encapsulate all fluid contact surfaces in the particle processing apparatus. The enclosing or encapsulation of the fluid contact surfaces insures, improves or promotes operator isolation and/or product isolation. The flow cell may employ any suitable technique for processing particles. The flow cell may be disposable and suitable for use in droplet sorting. The flow cell may include an operatively sealed sort chamber having a particle stream focusing region, an orifice, an interrogation zone and a sorting region. 1. A droplet sorting method comprising:flowing a stream including particles through a focusing region provided in an operatively sealed sort chamber;introducing the stream through a jet-forming element into an enclosed region provided in the sort chamber;applying excitation light from an excitation source to the stream downstream of the jet-forming element;transforming the stream into a series of droplets; anddeflecting a droplet from the series of droplets in the droplet deflection region based on a charge applied to the droplet.2. The droplet sorting method of claim 1 , wherein transforming the stream into the series of droplets includes using a piezoelectric element to oscillate the sort chamber.3. The droplet sorting method of claim 1 , further comprising: collecting the deflected droplets into one or more collection vessels in a sort stream region.4. The droplet sorting method of wherein transforming the stream into a series of droplets includes vibrating the operatively sealed sort chamber at a controlled frequency using an externally-mounted transducer.5. The droplet sorting method of wherein flowing the stream including particles through the focusing region includes introducing sample fluid from an integrally-constructed sample vessel ...