Laser-based optical switches and logic

Optical switches and logic devices comprising microstructure-doped nanocavity lasers are described. These switches and logic devices have gain and thus can be cascaded and integrated in a network or system such as for example on a chip. Exemplary switching elements switch the intensity, wavelength, or direction of the output. Exemplary logic devices include AND, OR, NAND, NOR, NOT, and XOR gates as well as flip-flops. Microfluidic sorting and delivery as well as optical tweezing and trapping may be employ to select and position a light emitter in an nanooptical cavity to form the nanolaser.

Nitride semiconductor device and a process of manufacturing the same

The luminous efficiency of a nitride semiconductor device comprising a gallium nitride-based semiconductor layer formed on a dissimilar substrate is improved. An n-type layer formed on the substrate with a buffer layer interposed between them comprises a portion of recess-and-projection shape in section as viewed in the longitudinal direction. Active layers are formed on at least two side faces of the projection with the recess located between them. A p-type layer is formed within the recess. An insulating layer is formed on the top face of the projection, and on the bottom face of the recess. The n-type layer is provided with an n-electrode while the p-type layer is provided with a p-electrode contact layer. As viewed from the p-type layer formed within the recess in the gallium nitride-based semiconductor layer, the active layer and the n-type layer are located in an opposite relation to each other. As viewed from the side face of the recess, the active layer and the p-type layer are ...

Method for fabricating a tapered optical coupling into a slab waveguide

A three dimensional adiabatic taper provides a funnel for light to be coupled into high index material. The taper is formed by shadow deposition or sputtering from polysilicon, which can be used to match the refractive index of waveguiding material to which the taper is optically coupled. When designed with the correct shape and adequate smoothness, such tapers form efficient waveguide couplers. Once the light has been coupled through the adiabatic coupler into an index guide on a wafer or chip, an integral design of the transition between the index guide and photonic crystal ensures low loss coupling with a minimum of diffraction and back reflection.

Method for adhering a microfluidic chip to a substrate

A method for adhering two layers of materials is described. An additional layer of material deposited on one of the layers is used. The additional layer of material is perforated and undercut by etching away one of the layers thereby generating anchor shaped holes. The other layer is then deposited on the additional layer filling the anchor shaped holes therefore, providing adhesion.

PHOTONIC CRYSTAL CAVITIES AND RELATED DEVICES AND METHODS

Photonic crystal cavities and related devices and methods are described. The described cavities can be used as lasers, photovoltaic sources, and single photon sources. The cavities can be both optically and electrically pumped. A fabrication process of the cavities is also described.

Nanopillar field-effect and junction transistors with functionalized gate and base electrodes

Systems and methods for molecular sensing are described. Molecular sensors are described which are based on field-effect or bipolar junction transistors. These transistors have a nanopillar with a functionalized layer contacted to either the base or the gate electrode. The functional layer can bind molecules, which causes an electrical signal in the sensor.

Thermal management techniques, apparatus and methods for use in microfluidic devices

A heating/cooling device for a microfluidic apparatus having a thermal insulating substrate. The device includes heating/cooling chamber for heating and/or cooling a sample disposed in the chamber; a waste heat channel for carrying away waste heat and/or waste cooling; and at least one Peltier junction having first and second opposing faces, the first face thereof facing towards said heating/cooling chamber and being in thermal communication therewith for providing either heat or cooling to the chamber in response to a flow of electrical current through the at least one Peltier junction, the second face thereof facing towards said waste heat channel and being in thermal communication therewith for either receiving heat from or dumping heat to the channel in response to a flow of electrical current through the Peltier junction.

High throughput multi-antigen microfluidic fluorescence immunoassays

The development of a high-throughput multi-antigen microfluidic fluorescence immunoassay system is illustrated in a 100-chamber PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) chip which performs up to 5 tests for each of 10 samples. Specificity of detection is demonstrated and calibration curves produced for C-Reactive Protein (CRP), Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), ferritin, and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF). The measurements show sensitivity at and below levels that are significant in current clinical laboratory practice (with SIN>8 at as low as 10 pM antigen concentration). The chip uses 100 nL per sample for all four tests and provides an improved instrument for use in scientific research and “point-of-care” testing in medicine.

Mid-infrared hyperspectral spectroscopy systems and methods therefor

MIR spectroscopy systems comprising hierarchical spectral dispersion that enables fine spectral resolution and high sensitivity spectroscopy are disclosed. Hierarchical spectral dispersion is derived by employing at least two diffractive lens arrays, located on either side of a test sample, each receiving input radiation having an input spectral range and distributing the input radiation into a plurality of output signals, each having a fraction of the spectral range of the input radiation. As a result, the signal multiplication factor of the two arrays is multiplied in a manner that mitigates the propagation of wavelength harmonics through the system. In some embodiments, an emitter array comprising a plurality of spectrally selective emitters provides the input MIR radiation to a spectroscopy system. In some embodiments, spectrally selective detectors are used to detect narrow spectral components in the radiation after they have passed through the test sample.

Methods for fabrication of high aspect ratio micropillars and nanopillars

Methods for fabrication of high aspect ratio micropillars and nanopillars are described. Use of alumina as an etch mask for the fabrication methods is also described. The resulting micropillars and nanopillars are analyzed and a characterization of the etch mask is provided.

Near field scanning microscope probe and method for fabricating same

A near-field scanning microscopy probe and a method for doing the same. A metal plasmon or dielectric waveguide is connected to a deformable material and coupled to a dielectric waveguide on a chip. The probe pops up out of the plane of the chip. The probe can be easily integrated with standard on-chip optical components.

Optical switches and logic and methods of implementation

Optical switches and logic devices comprising microstructure-doped nanocavity lasers are described. These switches and logic devices have gain and thus can be cascaded and integrated in a network or system such as for example on a chip. Exemplary switching elements switch the intensity, wavelength, or direction of the output. Exemplary logic devices include AND, OR, NAND, NOR, NOT, and XOR gates as well as flip-flops. Microfluidic sorting and delivery as well as optical tweezing and trapping may be employ to select and position a light emitter in an nanooptical cavity to form the nanolaser.

Methods for controlling positions of the guided modes of the photonic crystal waveguides

The invention is directed to different methods for controlling the positions of the guided modes of the photonic crystal waveguides. Methods based on both rearrangement of the holes and changing the size of the holes are presented. We have observed and explained the appearance of acceptor-type modes and the donor-type waveguides. The ability to tune frequencies of the guided modes within a frequency bandgap is necessary in order to achieve efficient guiding of light within a waveguide (reduced lateral and vertical waveguide losses) as well as to match frequencies of eigen modes of different photonic crystal based devices in order to have good coupling between them.

Parylene coated microfluidic components and methods for fabrication thereof

A method for fabricating parylene coated microfluidic valves is disclosed. A three-dimensional mold made of a first wax is formed. A sacrificial material made of a second wax is provided as a temporary support and then dissolved. A parylene coating is deposited onto the mold. A component material is poured onto the mold and cured, and the first wax is melted away. Further, a method for parylene coating of two-dimensional microfluidic components comprises: forming a lithographic mold of a microfluidic component, the mold made of a photoresist material; coating the lithographic mold with parylene; and removing the lithographic mold.

Fabrication of optical devices based on two dimensional photonic crystal structures and apparatus made thereby

A broad class of devices, both active and passive, such as waveguides, microcavities, filters, resonators, lasers, switches, modulators, etc. can be fabricated using the disclosed method. The method is one in which nanocavities in semiconductor membranes can be fabricated, which method is an advantage regardless of the type of device which is ultimately being fabricated therefrom. The method of the invention is illustrated in the case of a photonic crystals waveguide as being made in a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) material. However, the method is not limited to this type of material and can be used in other equivalent material structures such as AlGaAs, InGaAsP, or the like. The semiconductor membranes which are fabricated incorporate two dimensional photonic crystals for confinement of light in the lateral or in-plane direction and total internal reflection for the confinement in vertical direction.

TREATMENT OF TOENAIL FUNGUS

Aspects of the invention disclosed herein relate to devices that provide heat and/or ultraviolet light to fingernails or toenails that are afflicted by onychomycosis, as well as methods for treating onychomycosis by application of heat and/or ultraviolet light. The devices of the present invention may be used in connection with systemic and/or topical anti-fungal agents to treat onychomycosis.

Methods for fabricating self-aligning semicondutor heterostructures using silicon nanowires

Methods for fabricating self-aligned heterostructures and semiconductor arrangements using silicon nanowires are described.

MEMS elements with integrated porous membranes and method of making the same

The invention is a method of introducing porous membranes into MEMS elements by supporting the membranes by frames to form an heterostructure. This is achieved by attaching to a structured or porous substrate one or more monolithically fabricated frames and membranes. Having membranes disposed on frames enables them to be batch processed and facilitates separation, handling and mounting within MEMS or nanofluidic systems. Applications include, but are not limited to, filters for gases or liquids, electron transmissive windows and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) accessible arrays of nanotest tubes containing liquid phases and other sample states. The invention includes the apparatus made by the method.

Methods for quantitative target detection and related devices and systems

Described herein are methods for quantitative target detection in a sample through use of microbeads and related devices and systems.

PARTICULATE NANOSORTING STACK

Methods and devices for isolating and sorting nanoparticles are disclosed herein. Nanopores of a desired size can be formed in silicon dioxide membranes and used as filters to separate nanoparticles. Devices are also provided herein for sorting nanoparticles with multiple filters having various sized nanopores. 1. A filter comprising two or more nanopores , wherein each of the nanopores has a diameter of about 5 nm or less.2. The filter of claim 1 , wherein each of the nanopores has a diameter of about 2 nm or less.3. The filter of claim 1 , wherein the two or more nanopores are formed in a silicon dioxide layer.4. The filter of claim 1 , wherein the filter comprises ten or more nanopores.5. The filter of claim 1 , wherein the filter comprises 1000 or more nanopores.6. The filter of claim 1 , wherein the two or more nanopores comprise a first array.7. The filter of claim 1 , additionally comprising a second array of nanopores claim 1 , wherein each of the nanopores in the second array has a different diameter from the nanopores in the first array.8. The filter of claim 6 , wherein the nanopores of the array are about 50 nm center to center from adjacent nanopores.9. A device for sorting particles claim 6 , said device comprising:a first filter comprising two or more nanopores each having a first diameter;a second filter comprising two or more nanopores each having a second diameter, wherein the first diameter is different than the second diameter, and wherein the first diameter or the second diameter is about 5 nm or less.10. The device of claim 9 , wherein the first filter and the second filter are separated by a spacer layer.11. The device of claim 10 , wherein the spacer layer comprises an elastomer.12. The device of claim 10 , wherein the spacer layer comprises a hole and a channel claim 10 , wherein the hole is arranged such that fluid passing through the nanopores of the first filter passes through hole and contacts the second filter.13. The device of claim 12 ...

Microfabricated elastomeric valve and pump systems

Microfabricated elastomeric valve and pump systems

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.

Cuvette Having High Optical Transmissivity and Method of Forming

The present disclosure is directed toward optical elements, such as sample cuvettes, lenses, prisms, and the like, whose transmissivity is increased by the addition of a geometric anti-reflection layer disposed on at least one surface of the optical element, where the geometric anti-reflection layer includes a plurality of geometric features that collectively reduce the reflectivity of the interface between the surface and another medium. As a result, more of an optical signal incident on the surface passes through the interface. In some embodiments, every surface through which an optical signal passes includes a geometric anti-reflection layer. Due to the increased transmissivity of the optical element, in some embodiments, the use of low-cost, high-refractive-index materials, such as conventional silicon, is enabled.

Method and apparatus for nanomagnetic manipulation and sensing

The invention combines (A) capabilities in fabrication, characterization, and manipulation of single domain magnetic nanostructures, with (B) the use of binding chemistry of biological molecules to modify the magnetic nanostructures into magnetic sensors and magnetically controllable nanoprobes. A biological characterization scheme is realized by combining nanomanipulation and observation of small magnetic structures in fluids. By coating nanomagnets with biological molecules, ultra-small, highly sensitive and robust biomagnetic devices are defined, and molecular electronics and spin electronics are combined. When these nano-sensors are integrated into microfluidic channels, highly efficient single-molecule detection chips for rapid diagnosis and analysis of biological agents are constructed.

Fluorescence detector, filter device and related methods

Microfluidic assay detectors and microfluidic assay detection methods are disclosed. A microfluidic chip is coupled to a light emitting device, emission filters and excitation filters. Excited fluorescent light is detected by a camera and a lens. The correspondent reading allows parallel detection of features such as antigens and biomarkers. A microfluidic filter and related methods are also disclosed. The filter can be used with on-chip fluid filtration such as whole blood filtration for microfluidic blood analysis. The filter is able to filter the necessary volume of fluid and in particular blood in an acceptable time frame.

Utilizing an integrated plasmon detector to measure a metal deposit roughness on a semiconductor surface

A method for monitoring the surface roughness of a metal, comprises impinging a laser beam onto the surface of a metal layer to induce the formation of a plasmon therein, and monitoring a current of decay electrons emitted by the plasmon.

Particulate nanosorting stack

Methods and devices for isolating and sorting nanoparticles are disclosed herein. Nanopores of a desired size can be formed in silicon dioxide membranes and used as filters to separate nanoparticles. Devices are also provided herein for sorting nanoparticles with multiple filters having various sized nanopores.

Systems and methods for optically powering transducers and related transducers

The present disclosure describes an optically powered transducer with a photovoltaic collector. An optical fiber power delivery method and system and a free space power delivery method are also provided. A fabrication process for making an optically powered transducer is further described, together with an implantable transducer system based on optical power delivery.

Method of making a microfabricated elastomeric valve

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.

On-chip phase microscope/beam profiler based on differential interference contrast and/or surface plasmon assisted interference

A differential interference contrast (DIC) determination device and method utilizes an illumination source, a layer having a pair of two apertures that receive illumination from the illumination source, and a photodetector to receive Young's interference from the illumination passing through the pair of two apertures. In addition, a surface wave assisted optofluidic microscope and method utilize an illumination source, a fluid channel having a layer with at least one aperture as a surface, and a photodetector that receives a signal based on the illumination passing through the aperture. The layer is corrugated (e.g., via fabrication) and parameters of the corrugation optimize the signal received on the photodetector.

INTEGRATED PASSIVE IRON SHIMS IN SILICON

A magnetic apparatus having at least one magnetic shim situated between faces of two permanent magnets. The magnetic shim helps to make the magnetic field that is accessible between the two permanent magnets a more uniform field. The magnetic shim is constructed on a thinned semiconductor wafer, such as silicon, by photolithographically defining locations on the wafer where magnetic material, such as iron or iron-nickel materials, are deposited. The shim can additional have photolihographically defined coil regions, in which conductive material such as copper can be deposited. Current contacts are provided to allow currents to be passed through the coil regions. Protective layers can be deposited to protect the deposited metals from mechanical or environmental damage.

Integrated plasmon and dielectric waveguides

A metal waveguide is coupled to a dielectric waveguide to obtain transmission of light in a plasmon mode along an edge of the metal waveguide. Efficient, broadband light transmission is obtained, achieving a low insertion loss, using standard processing tools. An efficient integrated optical circuit is obtained.

MECHANICAL LYSIS ARRANGEMENTS AND METHODS

Methods and arrangements to lyse a biological sample are described. The arrangements comprise a lysis tube containing the sample, one or more electromagnets generating a magnetic field, and one or more permanent magnets inside the lysis tube. The permanent magnets move and lyse the sample when a magnetic field is generated by the electromagnets.

CHEMICAL SENSING AND/OR MEASURING DEVICES AND METHODS

Methods for fabricating silicon nanowire chemical sensing devices, devices thus obtained, and methods for utilizing devices for sensing and measuring chemical concentration of selected species in a fluid are described. Devices may comprise a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) structure.

Wireless automated animal monitoring system

A smart cage includes radiofrequency transceivers and tags attached to laboratory animals. The tags include sensors to detect monitorable conditions of the laboratory animals. The sensors include working electrodes, counter electrodes, reference electrodes, and potentiostats. The top surface of the electrodes is coated with ionophores or enzymes which detect the monitorable conditions of the laboratory animals.

Using a polaron interaction zone as an interface to integrate a plasmon layer and a semiconductor detector

An integrated plasmon detector includes a top layer of material adapted to generate a plasmon when excited by a beam of light incident onto a surface of the top layer, an interface layer joined to the top layer opposite from the surface of the top layer and adapted to slow polarons emitted by the plasmon to thermal electrons, and a collector layer joined to the interface layer opposite from the top layer and adapted to collect the thermal electrons from the interface layer.

MICROFABRICATED ELASTOMERIC VALVE AND PUMP SYSTEMS

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.

Microfabricated elastomeric valve and pump systems

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.

PDMS MICROFLUIDIC COMPONENTS AND METHODS OF OPERATION OF THE SAME

Component microfluidic devices which are integrated with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic chips, include designs for an electrical and optical pressure gauge, valve, electrostatic and magnetic pumps, alternating or mixing pumps, a solenoid, a magnetometer, a magnetically actuated reversible filter and valve, and a hydrolysis valve. These devices enhance and miniaturize microfluidic control, thereby expanding the available capabilities and allowing complete system miniaturization for handheld diagnostic apparatuses.

Nano-pillar transistor fabrication and use

A field effect nano-pillar transistor has a pillar shaped gate element incorporating a biomimitec portion that provides various advantages over prior art devices. The small size of the nano-pillar transistor allows for advantageous insertion into cellular membranes, and the biomimitec character of the gate element operates as an advantageous interface for sensing small amplitude voltages such as transmembrane cell potentials. The nano-pillar transistor can be used in various embodiments to stimulate cells, to measure cell response, or to perform a combination of both actions.

Chemical sensing and/or measuring devices and methods

Methods for fabricating silicon nanowire chemical sensing devices, devices thus obtained, and methods for utilizing devices for sensing and measuring chemical concentration of selected species in a fluid are described. Devices may comprise a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) structure.

THERMAL CYCLING SYSTEM

This invention provides a system for performing PCR, and real time PCR in particular with great speed and specificity. The system employs a heat block containing a liquid composition to rapidly transfer heat to and from reaction vessels. The system makes use of the reflective properties of the liquid metal to reflect signal from the PCR into the vessel and out the top. In this way, the signal can be measured by an optical assembly in real time without removing the vessels from the heat block.

Testing Device

The invention provides, in different aspects, a system, sample preparation device, sample processing cartridge, kit, methods of use, business methods, and computer program product.

SILICON SURFACE STATE DETECTORS AND DETECTOR ARRAYS

Photodetection devices and methods are described. The photodetection devices comprise semiconductor tapered pillars.

Surface plasmon enhanced light emitting diode and method of operation for the same

The emission properties of light-emitting diodes are enhanced by coupling to surface plasmons. The semiconductor emitter layer of the light-emitting diode is thinner than lambd/2 and is sandwiched between two metal films. A periodic pattern is defined in the top semitransparent metal layer by lithography with the result that it efficiently couples out the light emitted from the semiconductor and simultaneously enhances the spontaneous emission rate. Extraction efficiencies of up to 35% and Purcell factors of up to 4.5 are obtainable. Photoluminescence intensities of up to 46 times higher in fabricated structures compared to unprocessed wafers are obtained. The increased light emission is due to an increase in the efficiency and an increase in the pumping intensity resulting from trapping of pump photons within the microcavity.

Sample preparation devices and systems

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

Fabrication of three-dimensional high surface area electrodes

A method for fabricating three dimensional high surface electrodes is described. The methods including the steps: designing the pillars; selecting a material for the formation of the pillars; patterning the material; transferring the pattern to form the pillars; insulating the pillars and providing a metal layer for increased conductivity. Alternative methods for fabrication of the electrodes and fabrication of the electrodes using CMOS are also described.

Low power, chemically amplified, electrically removable barrier

An implantable device contains a drug or biosensing compound, protected from the external environment within a human body by several barriers which are broken upon activation of the device through electrothermal, chemical, and mechanical processes. The device allows accurate and repeated dosing within a human body, thus reducing the number of implantation procedures required. This device extends the lifetime of a biosensor, reducing the number of implantation procedures required.

Mechanical lysis arrangements and methods

Methods and arrangements to lyse a biological sample are described. The arrangements comprise a lysis tube containing the sample, one or more electromagnets generating a magnetic field, and one or more permanent magnets inside the lysis tube. The permanent magnets move and lyse the sample when a magnetic field is generated by the electromagnets.

Microfluidic fluid separator and related methods

A microfluidic fluid separator for separating target components of a fluid by filtration is described. Methods for separating target components of a fluid by filtration and methods for processing blood on a large scale with the microfluidic fluid separator are provided.

Strip loaded waveguide integrated with electronics components

A strip loaded waveguide comprises a slab and a strip, wherein the strip is separated from the slab. Nevertheless, a guiding region is provided for propagating an optical mode and this guiding region extends both within the strip and the slab. A layer of material having an index of refraction lower than that of the strip and the slab may be disposed between and separate the strip and the slab. In one embodiment, the slab comprises a crystalline silicon, the strip comprises polysilicon or crystalline silicon, and the layer of material therebetween comprises silicon dioxide. Such waveguides may be formed on the same substrate with transistors. These waveguides may also be electrically biased to alter the index of refraction and/or absorption of the waveguide.

Microfabricated elastomeric valve and pump systems

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.

Laser-based optical switches and logic

Optical switches and logic devices comprising microstructure-doped nanocavity lasers are described. These switches and logic devices have gain and thus can be cascaded and integrated in a network or system such as for example on a chip. Exemplary switching elements switch the intensity, wavelength, or direction of the output. Exemplary logic devices include AND, OR, NAND, NOR, NOT, and XOR gates as well as flip-flops. Microfluidic sorting and delivery as well as optical tweezing and trapping may be employed to select and position a light emitter in a nanooptical cavity to form the nanolaser.

MICROFABRICATED ELASTOMERIC VALVE AND PUMP SYSTEMS

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.

Multi-valve microfluidic devices and methods

Multi-valve autoregulatory microfluidic devices and methods are described. The described devices and methods offer improved performance and new means of tuning autoregulatory effects in microfluidic devices.

Compact electrically and optically pumped multi-wavelength nanocavity laser, modulator and detector arrays and method of making the same

A compact, electrically and optically pumped multi-wavelength nanocavity laser, modulator and detector array uses lithography to define the precise spectral response of each element. High fields are applied within optical nanocavities to take advantage of photonic crystals filled with nonlinear materials. These nonlinearities and high fields are used to define tunable nanocavity lasers, detectors, routers, gates and spectrometers for wavelength and time division multiplexing applications. Similarly, nanofabricated optical waveguides can be used for efficient coupling of light between devices. The lithographic control over the wavelength and polarization supported within photonic crystal cavities is used to construct compact nanophotonic laser and detector arrays, and all-optical gates and routers. The photonic crystal couples light emitted by one cavity, and uses it to optically pump another with negligible diffraction losses. The emission wavelength of light from these photonic crystal ...

FRET-based analytes detection and related methods and systems

FRET-based analytes detection and related methods and systems are described where a pair of FRET labeled primers and/or oligonucleotides are used that are specific for target sequences located at a distance up to four time the Förster distance of the FRET chromophores presented on the FRET labeled primers and/or oligonucleotides one with respect to the other in one or more polynucleotide analyte; in particular the pair of FRET labeled primers and/or oligonucleotides is combined with a sample and subjected to one or more polynucleotide amplification reactions before measuring FRET signals from at least one FRET chromophore.

SIGNAL ENCODING AND DECODING IN MULTIPLEXED BIOCHEMICAL ASSAYS

This disclosure provides methods, systems, compositions, and kits for the multiplexed detection of a plurality of analytes in a sample. In some examples, this disclosure provides methods, systems, compositions, and kits wherein multiple analytes may be detected in a single sample volume by acquiring a cumulative measurement or measurements of at least one quantifiable component of a signal. In some cases, additional components of a signal, or additional signals (or components thereof) are also quantified. Each signal or component of a signal may be used to construct a coding scheme which can then be used to determine the presence or absence of any analyte. 1. A method of unambiguously detecting any unique combination of presence or absence of at least five polynucleotide analytes in a plurality of droplets , the method comprising:(a) providing a sample comprising, or potentially comprising, at least one of said at least five polynucleotide analytes;(b) forming a mixture of said sample and at least five hybridization probes, each comprising one or more fluorophores selected from at most four fluorophores;(c) partitioning said mixture into said plurality of droplets;(d) exciting said fluorophores to generate one or more signals if one or more of said at least five polynucleotide analytes is present in said plurality of droplets, wherein said one or more signals comprise at least one signal generated by excitement of said one or more fluorophores; and(e) measuring said one or more signals to generate a cumulative measurement, wherein said cumulative measurement corresponds to the presence of a unique combination of presence or absence of said at least five polynucleotide analytes in said sample, thereby detecting the presence or absence of said at least five polynucleotide analytes, in any unique combination of presence or absence;wherein the method does not require any step of immobilization of said at least five polynucleotide analytes or mass spectrometry.2. The ...

MICROFABRICATED ELASTOMERIC VALVE AND PUMP SYSTEMS

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.

Dry etching and mirror deposition processes for silicone elastomer

According to the invention semiconductor processing procedures can be applied to silicone elastomeric materials. The surface tension of the elastomeric material is changed by depositing a thin layer of silicon, silicon nitride, silicon dioxide or a combination thereof onto the elastomer's exposed surface. In the illustrated embodiment it is shown that it is possible to deposit a thin layer of silicon dioxide onto the elastomer's exposed surface through re*active sputter deposition of silicon dioxide within an argon-oxygen plasma. In another plasma fabrication procedure, the elastomer material is directionally etched using a standard RF plasma etching system and a dry chemical oxygen-Freon removal procedure, which procedure volatilizes all of the components of the polydimethylsilicone (PDMS) or GE's RTV elastomer material.

In situ chemical sensing electrode reconditioning

A cycle of positive and negative voltage pulses applied to an electrode sensor removes passivation of an electrode surface. The conditioned sensors have improved sensitivity to concentrations for analytes of interest. The electrode surfaces can also be passivated on purpose to reduce sensitivity. The voltages applied are varied according to the solution present.

Method for fabrication of a molecular filter and apparatus formed by the same

The invention is a method for fabricating molecular filters which can separate objects approximately 1-5 nm in range, where the filtration size is controlled by using thin films of materials and technologies to form a filtration channel or pore in a middle thin film layer in a multilayered structure. Lithography is used to define two offset arrays of blind holes into the opposing sides of a multi-layer membrane. The blind holes extend across a thin central filtration layer. A selective etch is used to attack the filtration layer to form a communicating channel between the two holes. The only connection between one side of the filter and the other is through the channel in the filter layer, whose thickness, d, determines the largest size object which can traverse the filter.

MICROFLUIDIC DEVICES AND RELATED METHODS AND SYSTEMS

In a fluidic device with a storage compartment communication is allowed between the storage compartment and other portions of the device. The communication is controlled through a valve arrangement and a membrane covering the compartment. The valve arrangement can be provided through a sealing clamp with clamp fingers. The clamp fingers control communication between the storage compartment and remaining portions of the fluidic device.

Near field scanning microscope probe and method for fabricating same

A near-field scanning microscopy probe and a method for doing the same. A metal plasmon or dielectric waveguide is connected to a deformable material and coupled to a dielectric waveguide on a chip. The probe pops up out of the plane of the chip. The probe can be easily integrated with standard on-chip optical components.

Signal encoding and decoding in multiplexed biochemical assays

This disclosure provides methods, systems, compositions, and kits for the multiplexed detection of a plurality of analytes in a sample. In some examples, this disclosure provides methods, systems, compositions, and kits wherein multiple analytes may be detected in a single sample volume by acquiring a cumulative measurement or measurements of at least one quantifiable component of a signal. In some cases, additional components of a signal, or additional signals (or components thereof) are also quantified. Each signal or component of a signal may be used to construct a coding scheme which can then be used to determine the presence or absence of any analyte.

Mid-Infrared Hyperspectral Spectroscopy Systems and Methods Therefor

MIR spectroscopy systems comprising hierarchical spectral dispersion that enables fine spectral resolution and high sensitivity spectroscopy are disclosed. Hierarchical spectral dispersion is derived by employing at least two diffractive lens arrays, located on either side of a test sample, each receiving input radiation having an input spectral range and distributing the input radiation into a plurality of output signals, each having a fraction of the spectral range of the input radiation. As a result, the signal multiplication factor of the two arrays is multiplied in a manner that mitigates the propagation of wavelength harmonics through the system. In some embodiments, an emitter array comprising a plurality of spectrally selective emitters provides the input MIR radiation to a spectroscopy system. In some embodiments, spectrally selective detectors are used to detect narrow spectral components in the radiation after they have passed through the test sample.

Strip loaded waveguide with low-index transition layer

A strip loaded waveguide comprises a slab and a strip, wherein the strip is separated from the slab. Nevertheless, a guiding region is provided for propagating an optical mode and this guiding region extends both within the strip and the slab. A layer of material having an index of refraction lower than that of the strip and the slab may be disposed between and separate the strip and the slab. In one embodiment, the slab comprises a crystalline silicon, the strip comprises polysilicon or crystalline silicon, and the layer of material therebetween comprises silicon dioxide. Such waveguides may be formed on the same substrate with transistors. These waveguides may also be electrically biased to alter the index of refraction and/or absorption of the waveguide.

Single photon absorption all-optical modulator in silicon

A single-photon absorption all-optical modulator, systems employing the same, and methods of making and using the same. An illustrative example is provided based on silicon semiconductor technology that employs rectangular waveguides. In some embodiments, it is observed that the waveguides operate with an absorption density of less than 1017 cm1s1mW1 to provide a single-photon absorption operation mode.

Microfluidic-based artificial muscles and method of formation

Artificial muscles comprising a body of dielectric elastomer, wherein the body contains a pair of microfluidic networks are presented. Each microfluidic network includes a plurality of channels fluidically coupled via a manifold. The channels of the microfluidic networks are interdigitated and filled with conductive fluid such that each set of adjacent channels functions as the electrodes of an electroactive polymer (EAP) actuator. By using the manifolds as compliant wiring to energize the electrodes, artificial muscles in accordance with the present disclosure mitigate some or all of the reliability problems associated with prior-art artificial muscles.

MICROFABRICATED ELASTOMERIC VALVE AND PUMP SYSTEMS

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.

Microfabricated elastomeric valve and pump systems

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.

Signal encoding and decoding in multiplexed biochemical assays

This disclosure provides methods, systems, compositions, and kits for the multiplexed detection of a plurality of analytes in a sample. In some examples, this disclosure provides methods, systems, compositions, and kits wherein multiple analytes may be detected in a single sample volume by acquiring a cumulative measurement or measurements of at least one quantifiable component of a signal. In some cases, additional components of a signal, or additional signals (or components thereof) are also quantified. Each signal or component of a signal may be used to construct a coding scheme which can then be used to determine the presence or absence of any analyte.

Integrated Optical Modulator

Systems and methods for manipulating light with high index contrast waveguides clad with crystalline substances having that exhibit large nonlinear electro-optic constants χ2 and χ3. Waveguides fabricated on SOI wafers and clad with crystalline materials such as barium titanate are described. Embodiments of waveguides having slots, electrical contacts, and input waveguide couplers are discussed. Waveguides having closed loop structures (such as rings and ovals) as well as linear or serpentine waveguides, are described. Optical signal processing methods, such as optical rectification and optical modulation, are disclosed.

TOMOGRAPHIC IMAGING WITH A STRIPE-LIKE SHAPED SENSOR

Tomographic imaging using an imaging sensor that has a stripe-like shape is disclosed where a stripe sensor is mechanically scanned over a sample at different angles. For a single stripe detector imaging, linear motion and angular rotation are required. Single stripe sensor imaging may be performed using an elongated inductive coil detector. By utilizing an array of parallel stripe sensors that can be individually addressed, two-dimensional imaging can be performed with rotation only, eliminating the requirement for linear motion, e.g. with parallel coils array. Imaging with a stripe-type sensor of particular width and thickness (where width is much larger than thickness) is resolution limited only by the thickness (smaller parameter) of the sensor. Multiple sensor families can be produced where this imaging technique may be beneficial such as magneto-resistive, inductive, SQUID, and Hall effect sensors, and particularly in the field of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Coupled segmented waveguide structures

Segmented waveguides electrically coupled to a resonator and methods for electrically coupling waveguides to a resonator are disclosed. The resonator can be a split ring resonator. The disclosed structures can be useful to fabricate waveguide devices included, for example, in sensors and optical elements.

ON-CHIP PHASE MICROSCOPE/BEAM PROFILER BASED ON DIFFERENTIAL INTERFERENCE CONTRAST AND/OR SURFACE PLASMON ASSISTED INTERFERENCE

A differential interference contrast (DIC) determination device and method utilizes an illumination source, a layer having a pair of two apertures that receive illumination from the illumination source, and a photodetector to receive Young's interference from the illumination passing through the pair of two apertures. In addition, a surface wave assisted optofluidic microscope and method utilize an illumination source, a fluid channel having a layer with at least one aperture as a surface, and a photodetector that receives a signal based on the illumination passing through the aperture. The layer is corrugated (e.g., via fabrication) and parameters of the corrugation optimize the signal received on the photodetector.

Apparatus for detecting target molecules and related methods

An apparatus for analysis of a sample and in particular of a biological sample. The apparatus contains a microfluidic chip with dies, adapted to be selectively activated or deactivated by presence of target molecules in the biological sample. The apparatus further contains a light source to emit light for illumination of the microfluidic chip and an optical filter to allow passage of the light from the dies once activated or deactivated by the presence of the target molecules. A method for pressurizing a microfluidic chip is also disclosed, where a chamber is provided, the chamber is connected with the microfluidic chip and pressure is applied to the chamber.

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR CONDUCTING ASSAYS AND HIGH THROUGHPUT SCREENING

The present invention provides microfluidic devices and methods for using the same. In particular, microfluidic devices of the present invention are useful in conducting a variety of assays and high throughput screening. Microfluidic devices of the present invention include elastomeric components and comprise a main flow channel; a plurality of branch flow channels; a plurality of control channels; and a plurality of valves. Preferably, each of the valves comprises one of the control channels and an elastomeric segment that is deflectable into or retractable from the main or branch flow channel upon which the valve operates in response to an actuation force applied to the control channel.

Methods for quantitative target detection and related devices and systems

Described herein is a method for detection of a target in a sample and related devices and systems.

CURRENT AND POWER SENSOR FOR MULTI-WIRE CABLES

The present disclosure is directed toward systems and methods for measuring electric current in a multi-wire cable, as well as the apparent and real power associated with an electrical load connected to the cable. A probe comprising an array of small form-factor, high-speed magnetometers is operatively coupled with the cable such that the magnetometers partially surround the cable. Each magnetometer detects the composite magnetic field at its location, and this plurality of measurements is used to generate a magnetic-field map. The contributions of the current flow in each wire are identified by deconvolving the magnetic-field map, enabling their locations to be determined and monitoring of the current and power flow. A sensor included in the probe is used to determine the phase of the applied voltage. The phase difference between the voltage and current is then used to determine the real power dissipation of the load.

Apparatus and methods for conducting assays and high throughput screening

The present invention provides microfluidic devices and methods for using the same. In particular, microfluidic devices of the present invention are useful in conducting a variety of assays and high throughput screening. Microfluidic devices of the present invention include elastomeric components and comprise a main flow channel; a plurality of branch flow channels; a plurality of control channels; and a plurality of valves. Preferably, each of the valves comprises one of the control channels and an elastomeric segment that is deflectable into or retractable from the main or branch flow channel upon which the valve operates in response to an actuation force applied to the control channel.

Electrically pumped low-threshold ultra-small photonic crystal lasers

The invention is a photonic crystal laser including a photonic crystal slab laser cavity including InGaP/InGaAlP crystalline layers, the InGaP/InGaAlP crystalline layers having a relaxed strain at one or more etched surfaces and a higher strain at a plurality of quantum wells and at a distance from the one or more etched surfaces. The photonic crystal laser also includes electrical pads configured to receive an electrical signal the electrical pads attached to the photonic crystal slab laser cavity via an insulating layer, the photonic crystal laser configured to emit a laser light in response to the electrical signal. In another aspect, the invention features a photonic crystal detector including a photonic crystal slab cavity including InGaP/InGaAlP crystalline layers. In yet another aspect, the invention features a process to fabricate a photonic crystal laser cavity.

Microfabricated elastomeric valve and pump systems

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.

Nanopillar field-effect and junction transistors with functionalized gate and base electrodes

Systems and methods for molecular sensing are described. Molecular sensors are described which are based on field-effect or bipolar junction transistors. These transistors have a nanopillar with a functionalized layer contacted to either the base or the gate electrode. The functional layer can bind molecules, which causes an electrical signal in the sensor.

ENHANCING THE OPTICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF A GEMSTONE

Various embodiments described herein comprise a gemstone or other piece of jewelry, which incorporates one or more diffractive optical elements to enhance the fire displayed by the gemstone. In certain embodiments, the diffractive optical element comprises a diffraction grating etched on one or more facets of the gemstone. 162-. (canceled)63. A gemstone comprising:a body comprising diamond, said body having a crown portion and a pavilion portion; anda first diffractive optical element disposed on or in said pavilion portion of said body, said first diffractive optical element comprising a plurality of diffractive features spaced with respect to each other to diffract visible light.64. The gemstone of claim 63 , wherein said first diffractive optical element is disposed on or in a first facet of said pavilion portion of said body along the optical path of a ray of visible light which enters the crown portion of said body claim 63 , and further comprising:a second diffractive optical element disposed on or in a second facet of said pavilion portion of said body along said optical path of said ray of visible light through said body,wherein said first diffractive optical element separates said ray of visible light into a plurality of angularly separated diffractive orders, andwherein said second diffractive optical element does not substantially reduce the angular separation between said plurality of angularly separated diffractive orders.65. The gemstone of claim 63 , wherein said first diffractive optical element is disposed on or in a first facet of said pavilion portion of said body along the optical path of a ray of visible light through said body claim 63 , and further comprising:a second diffractive optical element disposed on or in a second facet of said body along said optical path of said ray of visible light through said body,wherein said first diffractive optical element couples said ray of visible light into one or more diffractive orders, andwherein said ...

Microfabricated elastomeric valve and pump systems

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.

Verification plans to merging design verification metrics

A method and apparatus for producing a verification of digital circuits are provided. In an exemplary embodiment on the invention, a plurality of verification scopes of an integrated circuit design as defined as part of a verification plan. A plurality of verification runs are executed within two or more verification scopes defined by the verification plan. At least two verification runs are selected to merge verification results together. Like named scenarios are merged together for each verification scope to generate merged verification results that are then stored into a merge database. A verification report is generated for the integrated circuit design from the merged verification results. A merge point may be specified so like named subtrees and subgroups may be merged across different verification scopes of selected verification runs. The merge point may combine check and coverage results obtained during simulation with check and coverage results obtained during formal verification ...

Microfluidic separation device and method of making same

A device and method for making a microfluidic separation device. A microfluidic separation device could include a microfluidic column having an inlet, the microfluidic column being configured to hold a first fluid and the microfluidic column including a porous portion, and an outlet attached to the microfluidic column, the outlet being configured to output a second fluid. The method may include providing a microfluidic column having an inlet, configuring the microfluidic column to hold a first fluid, forming a porous portion in the microfluidic column, and attaching an outlet to the microfluidic column.

Optical switching and logic systems and methods

Optical switches and logic devices comprising microstructure-doped nanocavity lasers are described. These switches and logic devices have gain and thus can be cascaded and integrated in a network or system such as for example on a chip. Exemplary switching elements switch the intensity, wavelength, or direction of the output. Exemplary logic devices include AND, OR, NAND, NOR, NOT, and XOR gates as well as flip-flops. Microfluidic sorting and delivery as well as optical tweezing and trapping may be employ to select and position a light emitter in an nanooptical cavity to form the nanolaser.

Resonantly enhanced grating coupler

An apparatus and method for increasing efficiency of grating couplers are disclosed. The apparatus through the use of a defect or a reflective element allows coupling of light around a normal or nearly normal angle with a high efficiency. The method disclosed teaches how to increase the efficiency of a grating coupler through the use of a defect or a mirror. The apparatus and method can be of particular utility in the context of optical clocking implemented with a III-V chip flip-chip bonded on a CMOS chip.

Chemical sensing and/or measuring devices and methods

Methods for fabricating silicon nanowire chemical sensing devices, devices thus obtained, and methods for utilizing devices for sensing and measuring chemical concentration of selected species in a fluid are described. Devices may comprise a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) structure.

Surface wave assisted structures and systems

A surface wave assisted system having an aperture layer with a surface and an aperture, and a plurality of grooves around the aperture. The plurality of grooves is configured to generate an optical transfer function at the aperture by inducing a surface wave for interfering with transmission of light of a range of spatial frequency.

Nitride semiconductor device and a process of manufacturing the same

The luminous efficiency of a nitride semiconductor device comprising a gallium nitride-based semiconductor layer formed on a dissimilar substrate is improved. An n-type layer formed on the substrate with a buffer layer interposed between them comprises a portion of recess-and-projection shape in section as viewed in the longitudinal direction. Active layers are formed on at least two side faces of the projection with the recess located between them. A p-type layer is formed within the recess. An insulating layer is formed on the top face of the projection, and on the bottom face of the recess. The n-type layer is provided with an n-electrode while the p-type layer is provided with a p-electrode contact layer. As viewed from the p-type layer formed within the recess in the gallium nitride-based semiconductor layer, the active layer and the n-type layer are located in an opposite relation to each other. As viewed from the side face of the recess, the active layer and the p-type layer are ...

Methods for forming semiconductor lenses on substrates

A lens is formed out of semiconductor material. The semiconductor produces light which is coupled to the lens. The lens focuses the light and also minimizes refractive reflection. The lens is formed by a graded aluminum alloy, which is oxidized in a lateral direction. The oxidation changes the effective shape of the device according to the grading.

Silicon waveguide photodetector and related method

A photodetector device, comprises an optical input, a nanoscale silicon waveguide and an electrical output. The waveguide is a high-contrast waveguide, with a refractive index contrast with the outside environment of more that 10%. The optical mode distribution across the waveguide has a peak intensity in correspondence of surface states of the nanoscale silicon waveguide. A related method is also disclosed.

Microfabricated elastomeric valve and pump systems

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.

Metal-enzyme sandwich layers

Measurement of target analytes is carried out with an enzyme-based sensor. The enzyme hydrogel is protected by a porous layer of a metallic material. The size of the pores is small enough to prevent degradation of the enzyme layer caused by the immune system of an organism, but large enough to allow transfer of molecules that participate in the electrochemical reaction allowing the enzyme to detect the target analytes.

Devices and methods for sequencing nucleic acids

Methods and devices for sequencing nucleic acids are disclosed herein. Devices are also provided herein for measuring DNA with nano-pores sized to allow DNA to pass through the nano-pore. The capacitance can be measured for the DNA molecule passing through the nano-pore. The capacitance measurements can be correlated to determine the sequence of base pairs passing through the nano-pore to sequence the DNA.

III-V photonic crystal microlaser bonded on silicon-on-insulator

Novel methods and systems for miniaturized lasers are described. A photonic crystal is bonded to a silicon-on-insulator wafer. The photonic crystal includes air-holes and can include a waveguide which couples the laser output to a silicon waveguide.

METHODS FOR QUANTITATIVE TARGET DETECTION AND RELATED DEVICES AND SYSTEMS

Described herein is a method for detection of a target in a sample and related devices and systems.

Forming nanometer-sized patterns by electron microscopy

A method for forming nanometer-sized patterns and pores in a membrane is described. The method comprises incorporating a reactive material onto the membrane, the reactive material being a material capable of lowering an amount of energy required for forming a pore and/or pattern by irradiating the membrane material with an electron beam, thus leading to a faster pore and/or pattern formation.

CHEMICALLY-ETCHED NANOSTRUCTURES AND RELATED DEVICES

A method of etching active quantum nanostructures provides the step of laterally etching of an intermediate active quantum nanostructure layer interposed between cladding layers. The lateral etching can be carried out on at least one side of the intermediate active quantum nanostructure layer selectively, with respect to the cladding layers to define at least one lateral recess or spacing in the intermediate active quantum nanostructure layer and respective lateral protrusions of cladding layers protruding with respect to the intermediate active quantum nanostructure layer. This method can be applied to create devices including active quantum nanostructures such as, for example, three-dimensional photonic crystals, a photonic crystal double-slab and a photonic crystal laser. 1. A method of etching active quantum nanostructures , the method comprising:providing a wafer structure including a first cladding layer and a second cladding layer, the wafer structure further comprising an intermediate active quantum nanostructure layer interposed between the first cladding layer and the second cladding layer; andlaterally etching the intermediate active quantum nanostructure layer on at least one side of the intermediate active quantum nanostructure layer selectively with respect to the first cladding layer and second cladding layer to define at least one lateral recess in the intermediate active quantum nanostructure layer and respective lateral protrusions of the first cladding layer and the second cladding layer protruding with respect to the intermediate active quantum nanostructure layer.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the laterally etching is laterally wet chemically etching.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the intermediate active quantum nanostructure layer is laterally etched on all sides to define a single central zone of the intermediate active quantum nanostructure layer.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the wafer structure includes an array of air-holes ...

APPARATUS FOR THERMAL CYCLING

This invention provides a system for performing PCR, and real time PCR in particular, with great speed and specificity. The system employs a heat block containing a liquid composition to rapidly transfer heat to and from reaction vessels. The system makes use of the reflective properties of the liquid metal to reflect signal from the PCR into the vessel and out the top. In this way, the signal can be measured by an optical assembly in real time without removing the vessels from the heat block. 1. A thermal cycler apparatus comprising:a heat sink;a heating component in thermal contact with the heat sink;a closed barrier sealing in a liquid composition, the closed barrier having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface having a plurality of wells configured to receive a plurality of sample vessels, and wherein the bottom surface is in thermal contact with the heating component; anda control assembly in communication with the heating component, the control assembly configured to cycle the temperature of samples in the plurality of sample vessels for nucleic acid amplification.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the bottom surface comprises a metal base plate.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a sample plate including the plurality of sample vessels claim 1 , each of the plurality of sample vessels having an open end claim 1 , and the sample plate configured to be removably inserted into the plurality of wells.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein at least one sample vessel comprises a reflective surface.5. The apparatus of claim 3 , further comprising a cap plate configured to cover the open ends of the plurality of sample vessels.6. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the cap plate comprises a plurality of extrusions removably inserted into the open ends of the sample vessels.7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the plurality of extrusions comprise a light guide.8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the liquid composition has a heat transfer ...

Apparatus for detecting target molecules and related methods

An apparatus for analysis of a sample and in particular of a biological sample. The apparatus contains a microfluidic chip with dies, adapted to be selectively activated or deactivated by presence of target molecules in the biological sample. The apparatus further contains a light source to emit light for illumination of the microfluidic chip and an optical filter to allow passage of the light from the dies once activated or deactivated by the presence of the target molecules. A method for pressurizing a microfluidic chip is also disclosed, where a chamber is provided, the chamber is connected with the microfluidic chip and pressure is applied to the chamber.

Surface Wave Assisted Structures and Systems

A surface wave assisted system having an aperture layer with a surface and an aperture, and a plurality of grooves around the aperture. The plurality of grooves is configured to generate an optical transfer function at the aperture by inducing a surface wave for interfering with transmission of light of a range of spatial frequency. 1. A surface wave assisted system comprising:an aperture layer having a surface and an aperture; anda plurality of grooves around the aperture, the plurality of grooves configured to generate an optical transfer function at the aperture by inducing a surface wave for interfering with transmission of light of a range of spatial frequency.2. The surface wave assisted system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of grooves is defined in the surface of the aperture layer.3. The surface wave assisted system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of grooves is defined in a transparent layer separate from the aperture layer.4. The surface wave assisted system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of grooves comprises an innermost groove and an outermost groove claim 1 , and wherein the optical transfer function is associated with a distance between the innermost groove and the outermost groove.5. The surface wave assisted system of claim 1 , wherein the optical transfer function is a notch filter.6. The surface wave assisted system of claim 1 , wherein the optical transfer function is a highpass filter.7. The surface wave assisted structure of claim 1 , wherein the optical transfer function is a lowpass filter.8. The surface wave assisted system of claim 1 , further comprising a light detector layer configured to receive light though the aperture.9. The surface wave assisted system of claim 8 , wherein the detector layer is further configured to detect a wavefront based on a high gradient of transmission at normal incidence associated with the optical transfer function.10. The surface wave assisted system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of grooves has ...

WDM Router

The present invention provides a mixed analog and digital chip-scale reconfigurable WDM network. The network suitably includes a router that enables rapidly configurable wavelength selective routers of fiber optic data. The router suitably incorporates photonic wavelength selective optical add/drop filters and multiplexers. 147-. (canceled)48. A WDM router comprising a chip , the chip including a programmable wavelength filter resonator for changing paths of different wavelength channels of light , and a device for cross-connecting selected wavelength to selected outputs , the resonator including at least one of dynamically programmable wavelength filter photonic crystal resonator components and dynamically programmable wavelength filter ring resonator components.49. The WDM router of claim 48 , wherein the resonator includes tunable wavelength filter ring resonator components.50. The WDM router of claim 49 , wherein the wavelength filter ring resonator components are wavelength tunable by changing the resonator's index to change effective cavity length.51. The WDM router of claim 49 , wherein the wavelength filter ring resonator components are EO voltage index tunable.52. The WDM router of claim 49 , wherein the wavelength filter ring resonator components are Q-tunable by altering optical loss within the resonator.53. The WDM router of claim 52 , wherein the wavelength filter resonator components include a Q-tunable optically active layer on top of a passive ring waveguide.54. The WDM router of claim 48 , wherein the resonator includes tunable wavelength filter photonic crystal resonator components.55. The WDM router of claim 54 , wherein the resonator components include a tunable wavelength filter photonic crystal; wherein the photonic crystal includes defects made of electro-optic polymers; and wherein index of refraction of a defect is changed by subjecting the electro-optical polymer to an electrical voltage claim 54 , whereby the wavelength filter resonator is ...

Microfabricated elastomeric valve and pump systems

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.

OPTICAL RESONATOR DIAGNOSTIC DEVICE AND METHODS OF USE

An implantable diagnostic device in accordance with the present disclosure provides various benefits such as a compact size thereby allowing implanting of the device inside animate objects; low cost due to incorporation of inexpensive detection circuitry and the use of conventional IC fabrication techniques; re-usability by heating thereby allowing multiple diagnostic tests to be performed without discarding the device; and a configuration that allows performing of simultaneous and/or sequential diagnostic tests for detecting one or more similar or dissimilar target molecules concurrently or at different times. 1. A diagnostic device fabricated in silicon , the diagnostic device comprising:a first optical resonator comprising a capture agent located at a binding site;an optical waveguide configured for propagating a laser beam and for coupling a first portion of the propagated laser beam into the first optical resonator; anda first detector configured for detecting a) a first resonant wavelength generated by the first optical resonator when no binding reaction is present at the binding site, and b) a second resonant wavelength generated by the first optical resonator upon undergoing a change in refractive index when a binding reaction is present at the first binding site.2. The diagnostic device of claim 1 , wherein detecting the first resonant wavelength comprises detecting a first current in the detector claim 1 , and detecting the second resonant wavelength comprises detecting a change in the first current.3. The diagnostic device of claim 2 , wherein the optical waveguide is a linear optical waveguide and the first optical resonator is a linear nanobeam resonator comprising one or more holes in the linear optical waveguide.4. The diagnostic device of claim 3 , wherein the diagnostic device is packaged for placement inside an animate object claim 3 , the placement comprising placing the diagnostic device in a blood stream or in tissue close to the bloodstream of ...

Apparatus and Methods for Conducting Assays and High Throughput Screening

The present invention provides microfluidic devices and methods for using the same. In particular, microfluidic devices of the present invention are useful in conducting a variety of assays and high throughput screening. Microfluidic devices of the present invention include elastomeric components and comprise a main flow channel; a plurality of branch flow channels; a plurality of control channels; and a plurality of valves. Preferably, each of the valves comprises one of the control channels and an elastomeric segment that is deflectable into or retractable from the main or branch flow channel upon which the valve operates in response to an actuation force applied to the control channel. 1. A microfluidic device for conducting cellular assays , comprising:a main flow channel;an input adapted to receive a first solution and in fluid communication with the main flow channel, whereby solution introduced into the input can flow into the main flow channel;a plurality of control channels;a plurality of chambers positioned along the main flow channel and in fluid communication therewith, such that solution flowing through the main flow channel can be stored in the chambers;a plurality of branch flow channels, wherein each branch flow channel is in fluid communication with a branch inlet, each branch inlet adapted to receive a second solution and in fluid communication with one of the chambers, different branch flow channels being in fluid communication with different chambers;a plurality of storage valves, wherein a pair of storage valves are operatively disposed with respect to each of the branch flow channels, and wherein each of the storage valves comprises an elastomeric segment that separates one of the branch flow channels and one of the control channels and that is deflectable into or retractable from the flow channel upon which the valve operates in response to an actuation force applied to the control channel, the storage valves of a pair being disposed with ...

BIO-DIAGNOSTIC TESTING SYSTEM AND METHODS

An implantable diagnostic device in accordance with the present disclosure includes a probe assembly that can be implemented in a variety of ways. A few example implementations include: a needle inside which is located a bio-sensor chip (the needle being insertable into a human being); a compact package containing the bio-sensor chip (the compact package configured for placement inside a catheter); or a silicon-based bio-sensor package configured for insertion into a vein. 1. A bio-diagnostic system comprising:a probe assembly configured for insertion into an animate object, the probe assembly comprising:an optical waveguide configured for propagating a light beam; andan optical resonator incorporating a capture agent placed upon a binding site that is exposed to a fluid, the optical resonator configured to receive at least a portion of the propagated light beam and generate therefrom, a first resonant wavelength when no binding reaction is present at the binding site, and a second resonant wavelength when a binding reaction is present at the first binding site, the binding reaction modifying a refractive index of the optical resonator.2. The bio-diagnostic system of claim 1 , wherein the probe assembly is at least one of: a) a needle comprising a first bio-sensor chip that includes the optical waveguide and the first optical resonator claim 1 , b) a catheter comprising a second bio-sensor chip that includes the optical waveguide and the first optical resonator claim 1 , or c) a third bio-sensor chip configured for insertion into the vein claim 1 , the third bio-sensor chip comprising the optical waveguide and the first optical resonator.3. The bio-diagnostic system of claim 2 , wherein at least one of the needle or the catheter is a part of an intravenous (IV) apparatus.4. The bio-diagnostic system of claim 2 , wherein the needle has a sub-mm diameter.5. The bio-diagnostic system of claim 4 , wherein the fluid is one of: blood claim 4 , lymphatic fluid claim 4 , ...

SAMPLE PREPARATION DEVICES AND SYSTEMS

Devices and system for preparing samples are described. Such devices can comprise fluidic chambers, reservoirs, and movable structures for controlling the movement of samples. The device can also comprise functional elements for performing specific operations. 1. A device for performing fluidic operations , comprising:a fluidic chamber having a plurality of pairs of ports, a first port of each pair being located on a first side of the fluidic chamber and a second port of each pair being located on a second side of the fluidic chamber, each second port being opposite a respective first port;a plurality of reservoirs adapted to be fluidly connected with the fluidic chamber at each of the plurality of pairs of ports, the plurality of reservoirs configured to flow fluid from a reservoir on the first side of the fluidic chamber to a reservoir on the second side of the fluidic chamber, or vice versa; anda structure slidably moveable within the fluidic chamber, the structure having one or more openings adapted to be aligned through sliding of the structure with at least one pair of ports to allow fluidic connection between one or more reservoirs on the first side and respective one or more reservoirs on the second side, the one or more openings being alignable with a desired pair of ports through said sliding.2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein at least one of the one or more openings comprises a functional element claim 1 , whereby the functional element is located in a flow path of the fluid when the fluid flows through the fluidic chamber.3. The device according to claim 2 , wherein movement of the functional element through sliding of the slidably moveable structure is synchronous with movement of the opening comprising the functional element.4. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the structure is slidably moveable in an axial direction of the device.5. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the structure is slidably moveable in a radial direction of ...

FILTERLESS TIME-DOMAIN DETECTION OF ONE OR MORE FLUOROPHORES

A device and method are described in which the lifetime of a fluorescent species or fluorophores is detected in the absence of any optical filter. Based on the measured fluorescent lifetimes, molecules or compounds attached to a fluorophores such as small organic molecules, polymers, peptides, saccharides and nucleic acids can be identified or assayed. 1. A detection circuit for fluorescent species , comprisinga fluorescent chemical species excitation arrangement;a filterless fluorescent chemical species detection arrangement;a control circuit configured to independently enable or disable the fluorescent species excitation arrangement and the fluorescent species detection arrangement; anda signal processing circuit, operatively connected with the fluorescent chemical species detection arrangement and configured to generate time varying characteristics as a function of the output of the fluorescent species detection arrangement, the time varying characteristics being indicative of the fluorescent species.2. The detection circuit of claim 1 , wherein the control circuit is configured to:disable the filterless fluorescent chemical species detection arrangement while enabling the fluorescent chemical species excitation arrangement; andenable the filterless fluorescent species detection arrangement while disabling the filterless fluorescent species excitation arrangement,thus allowing controlled excitation and controlled detection of the fluorescent chemical species.3. The detection circuit of claim 2 , wherein the controlled excitation and the controlled detection are performed at a resolution better than the fluorescent lifetime of the fluorescent chemical species.4. The detection circuit of claim 2 , wherein the fluorescent chemical species excitation arrangement comprises a light emitting device (LED) configured to emit light at a wavelength in correspondence of an excitation wavelength of the fluorescent chemical species claim 2 , and the filterless fluorescent ...

WIRELESS VOLTAGE SENSING DEVICE

A voltage sensing apparatus on a semiconductor substrate, including one or more inputs comprising metal contacts, an output comprising a laser transmitter, circuitry electrically connecting and interfacing the inputs to the output; and a power module. A method of fabricating the apparatus is also described. 1. A voltage sensing apparatus , comprising:a semiconductor substrate;one or more inputs, comprising metal contacts, on the substrate;an output, comprising a laser transmitter, on the substrate;circuitry, on the substrate, electrically connecting and interfacing the inputs to the output; anda power module on the substrate and electrically connected to the circuitry.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein:the metal contacts are on one or more probe areas defined on the substrate, andthe circuitry, the probe areas, the power module, and the laser transmitter are within a surface area of the substrate of 4000 micrometers by 1000 micrometers or less and within a height of 200 micrometers or less.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein:(i) the metal contacts produce one or more voltage waveforms in response to one or more stimuli external to the substrate,(ii) the circuitry converts the voltage waveforms into one or more signals,(iii) the circuitry modulates the laser transmitter's output with the signals, and(iv) the laser transmitter's output comprises electromagnetic radiation that transmits the signals off the semiconductor substrate and the apparatus.4. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the circuitry comprises:(i) voltage to current converter circuit that converts one or more voltage waveforms into one or more current waveforms, the voltage waveforms produced by the metal contacts in response to one or more stimuli external to the substrate,(ii) a modulator circuit that modulates the current waveforms to form one or more modulated waveforms;(iii) a mixer circuit that heterodynes the modulated waveforms to form one or more heterodyned waveforms; and(iv) a laser ...

PC BOARD-BASED POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION SYSTEMS, METHODS AND MATERIALS

An apparatus for performing a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a PCR chamber for performing a Polymerase Chain Reaction and a printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device. The PCR chamber is a fluidic chamber and is located in, or is part of, the printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device. A method for manufacturing an apparatus for performing the Polymerase Chain Reaction and a method for performing the Polymerase Chain Reaction are further disclosed. 1. An apparatus for performing a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) , the apparatus comprisinga PCR chamber for performing a Polymerase Chain Reaction anda printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device,wherein the PCR chamber is a fluidic chamber and is located in, or is part of, the printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the size of the PCR chamber is in a microliter range.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the PCR chamber is connected to PCR fluidic ports.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the apparatus includes a multilayer flex-on-rigid backing arrangement comprising flex layers.5. The apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the PCR chamber is contained within the flex layers.6. The apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the flex layers are made of Kapton compatible with the PCR.7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein a basement is located beneath the PCR chamber claim 1 , wherein the basement contains electronic circuit board traces.8. The apparatus of claim 1 , further containing a heater for heating the PCR chamber.9. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the heater for heating the PCR chamber is a coil trace located beneath the PCR chamber for heating reactants of the PCR.10. The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein the basement is a FR-4 based construction.11. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein a cooler for cooling the PCR chamber is a structurally separated device with respect from the heater.12. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the cooler is a fan.13. The ...

HEMOMOSAIC: HIGH-THROUGHPUT TECHNIQUE FOR RARE CELL DETECTION IN LIQUID SAMPLES BY MASSIVELY MULTIPLEXED PCR IN A PHOTOLITHOGRAPHIC MATRIX

Described microfluidic technology focused on: 1) direct integration of microfluidic devices with solidified liquid tissue samples, 2) subordination of architectural and operational principles of microfluidic devices specific tissue structure and needs and/or 3) on-chip sample acquisition integrated with the detection measurement within the same device. In contrast to conventional methods of off-chip sample prep and subsequent insertion into a detection device, new applications are possible on solidified liquid or solid tissue samples, such as in situ PCR. 1. An apparatus , comprising:a support;a cellular material mounted upon the support; anda photomask comprising at least one non-blocking region and at least one blocking region, wherein the photomask is placed over the cellular material such that each of the at least one blocking region is positioned to correspond to a region of interest of the cellular material.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the support comprises a glass slide claim 1 , a quartz slide or a transparent polymer slide.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the at least one blocking region comprises a metal.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the at least one blocking region comprises a polarizer.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the at least one blocking region is capable of limiting photon exposure.6. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the photons are derived from one or more of X-ray claim 5 , UV claim 5 , two-photon claim 5 , or multi-photon illumination light.7. The apparatus of wherein the at least one non-blocking region is configured to allow passage of photons.8. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a chambered microfluidic device comprising photosensitive material located above the cellular material claim 1 , and wherein the photosensitive material comprises a plurality of access wells corresponding to a plurality of respective areas of interest of the cellular material.9. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the plurality ...

METHODS OF MODULATING MICROLASERS AT ULTRALOW POWER LEVELS, AND SYSTEMS THEREOF

A microlaser system includes an optical source, a microlaser, an actuator switch, and a photovoltaic power source. The microlaser, which includes a control element, is optically pumped by at least a portion of light emitted by the optical source. The actuator switch is configured to be activated by a triggering event. Furthermore, the photovoltaic power source is coupled in a series connection with the actuator switch and the control element, the series connection configured to connect the photovoltaic power source to the control element of the microlaser when the actuator switch is activated by the triggering event. 1. A microlaser system comprising:an optical source;a microlaser that is optically pumped by at least a portion of light emitted by the optical source, the microlaser comprising a control element;an actuator switch configured to be activated by a triggering event; anda photovoltaic power source coupled in a series connection with the actuator switch and the control element, the series connection configured to connect the photovoltaic power source to the control element of the microlaser when the actuator switch is activated by the triggering event.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least a portion of light comprises a train of pulses that wirelessly power the microlaser.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein at least one of a pulse width or a duty cycle of the train of pulses is selected on the basis of a thermal threshold of operation of the microlaser.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the microlaser is configured to receive a first portion of light emitted by the optical source and the photovoltaic power source is configured to receive a second portion of light emitted by the optical source.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the photovoltaic power source is operative to converting the second portion of light into electrical power claim 4 , and wherein the microlaser is operative to use the first portion of light to enter a lasing state without ...

Microfluidic fluid separator and related methods

A microfluidic fluid separator for separating target components of a fluid by filtration is described. Methods for separating target components of a fluid by filtration and methods for processing blood on a large scale with the microfluidic fluid separator are provided.

SIGNAL ENCODING AND DECODING IN MULTIPLEXED BIOCHEMICAL ASSAYS

This disclosure provides methods, systems, compositions, and kits for the multiplexed detection of a plurality of analytes in a sample. In some examples, this disclosure provides methods, systems, compositions, and kits wherein multiple analytes may be detected in a single sample volume by acquiring a cumulative measurement or measurements of at least one quantifiable component of a signal. In some cases, additional components of a signal, or additional signals (or components thereof) are also quantified. Each signal or component of a signal may be used to construct a coding scheme which can then be used to determine the presence or absence of any analyte. 1. An assay that is capable of unambiguously detecting the presence or absence of each of at least seven (7) analytes , in any combination of presence or absence , in a single sample volume without immobilization , separation , mass spectrometry , or melting curve analysis.2. The assay of claim 1 , wherein each of said analytes is encoded as a value of one component of a signal.3. (canceled)4. The assay of claim 2 , wherein each of said analytes is encoded as at least one first value in a first component of said signal and at least one second value in a second component of said signal claim 2 , and wherein said assay is capable of unambiguously detecting the presence or absence of M analytes claim 2 , in any combination of presence or absence claim 2 , where M=C*log(F+1) claim 2 , where C is the number of said second values used to encode said analytes and F is the maximum cumulative value of said first component of said signal claim 2 , for any second value claim 2 , when all of said analytes are present.5. The assay of claim 4 , wherein each of said analytes is encoded as a first value in a first component of said signal and a plurality of second values in a second component of said signal wherein said assay is capable of unambiguously detecting the presence or absence of M analytes claim 4 , in any combination ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SEQUENCING NUCLEIC ACIDS

Methods and devices for sequencing nucleic acids are disclosed herein. Devices are also provided herein for measuring DNA with nano-pores sized to allow DNA to pass through the nano-pore. The capacitance can be measured for the DNA molecule passing through the nano-pore. The capacitance measurements can be correlated to determine the sequence of base pairs passing through the nano-pore to sequence the DNA. 1. A method for sequencing a nucleic acid , comprising:providing a nucleic acid to be sequenced;passing the nucleic acid to be sequenced through a nano-pore on a substrate, the nano-pore having a diameter of less than about 5 nm; andthe nano-pore measuring the capacitance across the pore as the nucleic acid passes through the nano-pore using one or more capacitors.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising correlating the capacitance measurements to known capacitance values for specific nucleic acids.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the nano-pore has a diameter of less than about 2 nm.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the nucleic acid is DNA.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the DNA comprises one of RNA claim 4 , single stranded DNA claim 4 , or double stranded DNA.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the nano-pore is sized to fit about 5 or less nucleotides within the volume of the nano-pore.7. The method of claim 4 , wherein after the capacitance is measured the DNA in the pore shifts by one nucleotide and the capacitance is measured again.8. The method of claim 4 , further comprising providing alternate current to move the DNA forwards and backwards through the nano-pore.9. The method of claim 1 , wherein an electric filed is provided to pull the nucleic acid through the pore.10. The method of claim 4 , further comprising using an enzyme to control the DNA passing through the pore.11. The method of claim 1 , wherein an enzyme is used to cleave portions of the nucleic acid.12. The method of claim 1 , wherein the substrate has one or more electrodes on a top ...

IMPLANTABLE VASCULAR SYSTEM BIOSENSOR WITH GROWN CAPILLARY BEDS AND USES THEREOF

An implantable biocompatible biosensor is described herein. The biosensor includes a chip layer including a plurality of holes fabricated vertically there through, a power source, one or more sensors on the chip layer and coupled to the power source and a hydrogel matrix including one or more angiogenesis stimulating factors in contact with the chip layer. The stimulating factors stimulate growth of organic material through the plurality of holes when the biosensor is implanted in a subject. 1. An implantable biocompatible biosensor comprising:a chip layer including a plurality of holes fabricated vertically there through;a power source;one or more sensors on the chip layer and coupled to the power source; anda hydrogel matrix including one or more angiogenesis stimulating factors in contact with the chip layer, the stimulating factors causing growth of organic material through the plurality of holes when the biosensor is implanted in a subject.2. The biosensor of claim 1 , further comprising a transmitter in communication with the sensor claim 1 , the sensor emitting a signal representative of a sensed characteristic of the grown organic material claim 1 , the transmitter converting the signal from the sensor into a digital signal representative of a sensed characteristic.3. The biosensor of claim 1 , wherein the power source is a photovoltaic cell.4. The biosensor of claim 1 , wherein the sensor includes a photo diode and a laser diode emitting light through the grown organic material to the photo diode.5. The biosensor of claim 4 , wherein the laser diode is any one or more of double heterostructure lasers claim 4 , quantum well lasers claim 4 , quantum cascade lasers claim 4 , separate confinement heterostructure lasers claim 4 , distributed feedback lasers claim 4 , vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs) claim 4 , vertical external cavity surface emitting lasers (VECSELs) or external-cavity diode lasers.6. The biosensor of claim 1 , wherein each of ...

SINGLE-LAYER PCB MICROFLUIDICS

A printed circuit board structure is coated with an encapsulant within which microfluidic channels have been formed. The microfluidic channels are formed by soldering fluidic connections to metal traces on a surface of the printed circuit board structure prior to encapsulation. The metal traces are removed by etching after encapsulation to form microchannels within the encapsulant. 19.-. (canceled)10. A method for forming a microfluidic structure comprising:depositing one or more outer layer traces on a surface of a substrate;attaching one or more fluidic connections at selected locations on or near the one or more outer layer traces;encapsulating the substrate and the one or more outer layer traces with an encapsulant;after encapsulating the substrate, providing etchant to the one or more outer layer traces through at least one of the one or more fluidic connections;etching material comprising the one or more outer layer traces with the etchant; andremoving the material comprising the one or more outer layer traces through at least one of the one or more fluidic connections,whereby removal of the material comprising the one or more outer layer traces results in the formation of one or more outer layer microfluidic channels within the encapsulant at the surface of the substrate.11. The method according to claim 10 , further comprising:forming one or more inner layer traces within the substrate;providing one or more vias from the one or more inner layer traces to the surface of the substrate;attaching one or more inner layer fluidic connections to at least one of the one or more vias;after encapsulating the substrate, providing etchant to the one or more inner layer traces through at least one of the one or more inner layer fluidic connections;etching material comprising the one or more inner layer traces with the etchant; andremoving the material comprising the one or more inner layer traces through at least one of the one or more inner layer fluidic connections, ...

NANOPILLAR FIELD-EFFECT AND JUNCTION TRANSISTORS WITH FUNCTIONALIZED GATE AND BASE ELECTRODES

Systems and methods for molecular sensing are described. Molecular sensors are described which are based on field-effect or bipolar junction transistors. These transistors have a nanopillar with a functionalized layer contacted to either the base or the gate electrode. The functional layer can bind molecules, which causes an electrical signal in the sensor. 1. A structure for sensing molecules , the structure comprising:a semiconductor substrate;a source region in the semiconductor substrate, the source region comprising a first doped semiconductor region;a drain region in the semiconductor substrate, the drain region comprising a second doped semiconductor region;a source electrode, contacted to the source region;a drain electrode, contacted to the drain region;an insulating layer, covering at least in part the source electrode, and/or the drain electrode, and/or the source region, and/or the drain region, and/or the semiconductor substrate;an oxide layer, covering a substrate region between the source region and the drain region;a nanopillar gate region, contacting the oxide layer; anda functionalized layer on top of the nanopillar.2. The structure of claim 1 , wherein the shape of the nanopillar gate region comprises a cylindrical shape claim 1 , a rectangular shape claim 1 , or a tapered shape.3. The structure of claim 1 , wherein the functionalized layer comprises two layers claim 1 , or a matrix layer containing nanoparticles.4. The structure of claim 1 , wherein the nanopillar gate region is contacted through a top layer from a material chosen among silicon claim 1 , silicon oxide claim 1 , sapphire claim 1 , aluminum claim 1 , copper claim 1 , rhodium claim 1 , gallium claim 1 , palladium claim 1 , platinum claim 1 , iridium claim 1 , Ag—AgCl claim 1 , gold claim 1 , and Pt—PtRu.5. The structure of claim 1 , wherein the nanopillar gate region can be used to directly facilitate electrochemical reactions on its surface.6. The structure of claim 1 , wherein the ...

OPTICAL TECHNIQUE FOR CHEMICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS

Structures and methods are described for optical detection of physical, chemical and/or biological samples. An optical detection structure may include a LED source, multiple filters and single or multiple sample areas. A detector may be used to record a fluorescence signal. The sample area may allow the introduction of removable cartridges. 1. A system for optical detection comprising:a light source having a first side and a second side;a first optical filter having a first side and a second side, the first side of the first optical filter being substantially close to the second side of the light source;a collimation and/or guidance optics having a first side and a second side, the first side of the collimation and/or guidance optics being substantially close to the second side of the first optical filter;a second optical filter having a first side and a second side, the first side of the second optical filter being substantially close to the second side of the collimation and/or guidance optics;an optics to control stray light having a first side and a second side, the first side of the optics to control stray light being substantially close to the second side of the second optical filter;one or more absorbing layers attached to the second side of the optics to control stray light, wherein the one or more absorbing layers being partially covering the second side of the optics to control stray light, thus allowing the light from the light source to pass through;a chamber containing a sample to be illuminated, the chamber being contained in a cartridge comprising a reflector attached to a first side of the cartridge and a reflective layer attached to bottom of the cartridge, wherein the light emitted by the sample are reflected back to the sample by the reflective layer and guided by the reflector towards a second side of the cartridge; anda detector having a first side and a second side, the first side of the detector being substantially close to the second side of ...

MULTIPLEXING AND QUANTIFICATION IN PCR WITH REDUCED HARDWARE AND REQUIREMENTS

Methods and algorithms for a multiplexed single detection channel amplification process and quantification of generated amplicons is presented. Various mathematical approaches for quantifying and verifying the amplicons in a reaction are presented. Usage of such methods and approaches allow upgrading of existing single and multiple channel instruments for further multiplexing capabilities. 1. A method comprising:detecting a plurality of different amplicons generated during a multiplexed amplification reaction, using a single channel detector generating a sum amplitude signal in correspondence of the plurality of different amplicons;quantifying the plurality of detected different amplicons, andverifying the plurality of detected different amplicons,wherein the quantifying and the verifying comprise using mathematical analysis of the generated sum amplitude signal.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sum amplitude signal is in correspondence of a sum of amplitude signals of each different amplicon of the plurality of different amplicons.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the detecting is based on emitted wavelengths from sequence specific probes and/or sequence specific primers.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the detecting is based on emitted wavelengths from fluorescent DNA binding dyes.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the mathematical analysis is performed on a portion of the sum amplitude signal.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the portion comprises slopes regions of the sum amplitude signal.7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the mathematical analysis of the slopes regions comprises analysis of the slopes variations.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the analysis of the slopes variations is used to detect a threshold cycle of an amplicon of the plurality of different amplicons.9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the slopes are dependent on different primer concentrations used for different amplicons of the plurality of different amplicons.10. The method of ...

Methods of fabrication of cartridges for biological analysis

Methods to fabricate reaction cartridges for biological sample preparation and analysis are disclosed. A cartridge may have a reaction chamber and openings to allow fluids to enter the chamber. The cartridge may also have handles to facilitate its use. Such cartridges may be used for polymerase chain reaction.

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR BIOLOGICAL SAMPLE PREPARATION

Methods and devices for biological sample preparation and analysis are disclosed. A device may have a linear or circular arrangement of containers, with a connecting structure such as a bar or disk. Fluidics channels between containers allow the performance of different techniques for sample preparation, such as lysing, washing and elution. Different functional elements, such as grinders or mixers, may be attached to the containers. 1. A device comprising: [ [ i) a top opening, wherein the top opening has a sealing element which can slide inside the container while substantially maintaining a seal;', 'ii) a central part; and', 'iii) a bottom opening;, 'a) a first plurality of containers, each container of the first plurality of containers having, i) a first port configured for air venting;', 'ii) a second port configured for fluid insertion; and', 'iii) a sealing cap for each port;, 'b) at least two ports in at least one container of the first plurality of containers, the at least two ports comprising'}], 'I) the top structure comprises'}, i) a top opening;', 'ii) a central part; and', 'iii) a bottom opening, wherein the bottom opening has a sealing element; and, 'a) a second plurality of containers, each container of the second plurality of containers having'}, 'II) the bottom structure comprises'}, a) at least one fluidics channel;', 'b) a supporting element which can slide, rotate or move within a plane, thereby establishing a fluidics connection, through the at least one fluidics channel, between the bottom opening of at least one container of the first plurality of containers and the top opening of at least one container of the second plurality of containers, while substantially sealing other bottom openings of the first plurality of containers and other top openings of the second plurality of containers., 'III) the connecting structure comprises'}], 'a top structure, a bottom structure, and a connecting structure, wherein the connecting structure connects the ...

PEN-SHAPED DEVICE FOR BIOLOGICAL SAMPLE PREPARATION AND ANALYSIS

Methods and devices for biological sample preparation and analysis are disclosed. A device may have a circular arrangement of containers, with a connecting structure such as a disk. Fluidics channels between containers allow the performance of different techniques for sample preparation, such as lysing, washing and elution. The device may be pen-shaped and have a sample drawing needle connected to the containers. 1. A device comprising: [ [ i) a first opening, wherein the first opening has a sealing element which can slide inside the container while substantially maintaining a seal;', 'ii) a central part;', 'iii) a second opening;, 'a) a first plurality of containers, each container of the first plurality of containers having, i) a first port configured for air venting;', 'ii) a second port configured for fluid insertion;', 'iii) a sealing cap for each port;, 'b) at least two ports in at least one container of the first plurality of containers, the at least two ports comprising], 'the first structure comprises'}, i) a first opening;', 'ii) a central part;', 'iii) a second opening, wherein the second opening has a sealing element;, 'the second structure comprises a second plurality of containers, each container of the second plurality of containers having, a) at least one fluidics channel;', 'b) a supporting element which can slide, rotate or move within a plane, thereby establishing a fluidics connection, through the at least one fluidics channel, between the second opening of at least one container of the first plurality of containers and the first opening of at least one container of the second plurality of containers, while substantially sealing other second openings of the first plurality of containers and other first openings of the second plurality of containers;, 'the connecting structure comprises'}, a) a flat or dome-like top portion;', 'b) a substantially cylindrical central portion, substantially containing the first structure, the second structure and ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR BIOLOGICAL SAMPLE-TO-ANSWER AND ANALYSIS

Methods and devices for biological sample preparation and analysis are disclosed. A device may have a linear or circular arrangement of containers, with a connecting structure such as a bar or disk. Fluidics channels between containers allow the performance of different techniques for sample preparation, such as lysing, washing and elution. Different functional elements, such as grinders or mixers, may be attached to the containers. The device may have a reaction cartridge with a reaction chamber to perform techniques such as polymerase chain reaction. 1. A cartridge comprising:a first part, wherein the first part is transparent to electromagnetic waves of a desired wavelength range and has an inner surface defining a first surface of at least one reaction chamber;a central part, attached to the first part, wherein the central part has an inner surface defining sidewalls of the at least one reaction chamber; anda metal back plate, attached to the central part, wherein the metal back plate has an inner surface defining a second surface of the at least one reaction chamber, a transparent top layer configured to act as a waveguide and focus or direct electromagnetic waves onto the at least one reaction chamber;', 'at least one prism, attached to a side of the transparent top layer and configured to focus or direct electromagnetic waves onto the transparent top layer;', 'at least one handle;', 'at least one opening in the transparent top layer; and', 'at least one fluidics channel connecting the at least one opening to the at least one reaction chamber., 'wherein the first part comprises2. The cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the at least one opening comprises an insertion port and a venting port.3. The cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the metal back plate is made of aluminum and the first and central parts are made of polymeric material claim 1 , and wherein the cartridge further comprises an adhesive layer between the central part and the metal back plate.4. The cartridge ...

NANO-PILLAR TRANSISTOR FABRICATION AND USE

A field effect nano-pillar transistor has a pillar shaped gate element incorporating a biomimitec portion that provides various advantages over prior art devices. The small size of the nano-pillar transistor allows for advantageous insertion into cellular membranes, and the biomimitec character of the gate element operates as an advantageous interface for sensing small amplitude voltages such as transmembrane cell potentials. The nano-pillar transistor can be used in various embodiments to stimulate cells, to measure cell response, or to perform a combination of both actions. 1. A method of fabricating a nano-pillar transistor , comprising:providing a polymer coating upon a silicon substrate;using electron beam lithography to fabricate a mask pattern in the polymer coating;depositing an alumina film upon the mask pattern;creating a hard-etch mask by using a solvent to remove a portion of the alumina film and a portion of the polymer coating;using the hard-etch mask for executing a first etching procedure to create a plurality of nano-pillars;executing a second etching procedure for reducing a diameter of each of the plurality of nano-pillars, wherein the plurality of nano-pillars having the reduced diameter constitutes a plurality of gates of an array of nano-pillar transistors;using an ion beam procedure to introduce dopants for fabricating each of a source region and a drain region adjacent to each of the plurality of gates;applying electron beam annealing of the dopants;using one of an ion milling procedure or a reactive ion etching procedure to remove deposited alumina film from a top portion of each of the plurality of gates;applying metallization upon each of the plurality of gates and upon each of the source region and the drain region adjacent to each of the plurality of gates; anddepositing alternating metal stacks between each of the metallized plurality of gates, wherein the alternating metal stacks mimic a hydrophilic-hydrophobic-hydrophilic structure of ...

SENSOR PROBE FOR BIO-SENSING AND CHEMICAL-SENSING APPLICATIONS

The basic structure and functionality of a probe as disclosed herein allows for flexibly incorporating into the probe, various sensing elements for various sensing applications. Two example applications among these various sensing applications include bio-sensing and chemical-sensing applications. For bio-sensing applications the probe, which is fabricated upon a silicon substrate, includes a bio-sensing element such as a nano-pillar transistor, and for chemical-sensing applications the probe includes a sensing element that has a functionalized contact area whereby the sensing element generates a voltage when exposed to one or more chemicals of interest. 1. A probe comprising:a substrate that includes a major portion configured for placement of one or more processing components, and a first protruding portion extending from the major portion; anda first sensor array mounted upon a distal end of the first protruding portion, the first sensor array comprising at least one sensing element having a functionalized contact area adapted for detecting at least one of an extracellular field potential or an ionic field potential.2. The probe of claim 1 , wherein the substrate has a sandwich structure comprising one or more layers of silicon dioxide claim 1 , and the ionic field potential is generated as a part of a chemical reaction.3. The probe of claim 2 , wherein the functionalized contact area is adapted for detecting the ionic field potential claim 2 , and the at least one sensing element is an unpowered passive element.4. The probe of claim 1 , wherein the functionalized contact area is a biomimetic contact area incorporating at least one metal that mimics at least a portion of a cellular membrane.5. The probe of claim 4 , wherein the at least one metal comprises a platinum-gold-platinum combination that mimics a hydrophilic-hydrophobic-hydrophilic structure of the portion of the cellular membrane.6. The probe of claim 4 , wherein the at least one sensing element ...

Ultrafast thermal cycler

This disclosure provides thermal cyclers, systems, and methods of thermally cycling a sample.

THERMALLY CONTROLLED CHAMBER WITH OPTICAL ACCESS FOR HIGH-PERFORMANCE PCR

Novel methods and systems for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are disclosed. A PCR device has a bottom heater layer, a central reacting layer, and a top heater layer. The central reacting layer has a PCR reacting chamber connected with fluidics channels. Photoluminescence of a DNA solution in the PCR reactive chamber is carried out through the transparent top layers. 1. A device comprising:a bottom heater layer, wherein the bottom heater layer comprises a bottom substrate layer, a first adhesive layer, heater elements, a top substrate layer, and fluidics channels;a central reacting layer, wherein the central reacting layer comprises a fluidics chamber connected to the fluidics channels; anda top heater layer, the top heater layer comprising a transparent insulating layer, a transparent conducting layer, a digitated conducting layer, and a top protective layer, wherein the transparent insulating layer is connected to the central reacting layer;wherein the bottom heater layer is bonded to the central reacting layer with a second adhesive layer, and the central reacting layer is bonded to the top heater layer with a third adhesive layer.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the first adhesive layer is made of an acrylate glue claim 1 , the heater elements are made of copper claim 1 , and the top substrate layer is a polyimide film.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the central reacting layer comprises layers made of one of the following materials: polyimide claim 1 , cyclic oleofin copolymer claim 1 , polyethylene claim 1 , a co-polymer or silicon dioxide.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the transparent insulating layer is made of thermally stabilized polyethylene terephthalate claim 1 , polyethylene naphthalate claim 1 , aluminum oxide claim 1 , silicon nitride claim 1 , silicon dioxide or silicon.5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the transparent conducting layer is made of indium tin oxide claim 1 , graphene claim 1 , polyethylene dioxythiphene claim 1 , polyethylene ...

METHODS AND DEVICES FOR SAMPLE LYSIS

Disclosed herein are methods and systems for use in preparing a sample. The methods and systems may be used for lysing one or more structures in a sample (e.g., cells, viral particles, etc.). The methods and compositions may comprise a microfluidic chip or use thereof. The microfluidic chips disclosed herein may comprise (a) a substrate comprising a chamber, wherein at least one mechanical element may be located within the chamber; (b) a thermal element in contact with the chamber; and (c) at least one aperture within the surface of the substrate, wherein the aperture may be configured to insulate the chamber. 1. A microfluidic chip comprising:a. a chamber, wherein at least one stir bar is located within the chamber;b. a thermal device in thermal contact with the chamber; andc. at least one insulative groove within the surface of the chip, which is configured to insulate the chamber.2. A microfluidic chip comprising:a. a chamber, wherein a plurality of granular particles is located within the chamber;b. a thermal device in thermal contact with the chamber; andc. at least one insulative groove within the surface of the chip, which is configured to insulate the chamber.3. The microfluidic chip of or , wherein the thermal device is a heater.4. The microfluidic chip of or , wherein the thermal device is a cooler.5. The microfluidic chip of or , wherein the at least one insulative groove is nine insulative grooves.6. The microfluidic chip of or , wherein the at least one insulative groove is a plurality of grooves positioned around the chamber.7. The microfluidic chip of or , wherein the at least one insulative groove is filled with an insulative material.8. The microfluidic chip of claim 1 , wherein the stir bar is composed of magnetic material.9. The microfluidic chip of or claim 1 , wherein the microfluidic chip is coupled to an external magnetic field.10. The microfluidic chip of claim 2 , wherein the granular particles are beads.11. The microfluidic chip of claim 10 ...

MULTI-VALVE MICROFLUIDIC DEVICES AND METHODS

Multi-valve autoregulatory microfluidic devices and methods are described. The described devices and methods offer improved performance and new means of tuning autoregulatory effects in microfluidic devices. 1. A method of controlling a microfluidic device throughput comprising:providing an origin of a fluid;providing a sink of the fluid;providing a flow channel containing the fluid; the flow channel coupling the origin and the sink;applying a pressure difference between the origin and the sink; andconstricting the flow channel at a plurality of points on the flow channel by applying forces to the plurality of the points on the flow channel, whereinthe forces are dependent on a throughput of the fluid.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising providing a plurality of valves communicated to the flow channel wherein the forces applied to the plurality of the points on the flow channel are generated by creating pressure differentials across the plurality of valves.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising varying a controllable width of each of the plurality of the valves to control the forces applied to the plurality of the points on the flow channel.4. The method of claim 2 , further comprising providing a detour channel connecting the flow channel to the plurality of valves.5. The method of claim 4 , further comprising providing a multi-layer chip and a plurality of vias whereinthe flow channel and the detour channel are located in a same layer;the plurality of valves are located in an adjacent layer; andthe detour channel is connected to the plurality of valves through the plurality of vias.6. The method of claim 4 , further comprising providing a multi-layer chip claim 4 , a detour split and a via whereinthe detour channel and the plurality of valves are located in the same layer;the flow channel is located in an adjacent layer;the detour split connects the flow channel to the detour channel through the via; andthe detour channel is connected to the ...

OPTICAL SENSOR FOR ANALYTE DETECTION

Devices, systems, and methods for detection of an analyte in a sample are disclosed. In some embodiments, an optical sensor can include a metallic layer and a plurality of dielectric pillars extending through the metallic layer. A plurality of regions of concentrated light can be supported in proximity to the ends of the plurality of dielectric pillars when a surface of the metallic layer is illuminated. Concentrated light within one or more of these regions can interact with an analyte molecule, allowing for detection of the analyte. 1. A device for detecting an analyte within a sample , the device comprising:a metallic layer; anda plurality of dielectric pillars extending through the metallic layer,wherein a plurality of regions of concentrated light are supported in proximity to the ends of the plurality of dielectric pillars when a surface of the metallic layer is illuminated.2. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a dielectric layer having a top surface and a bottom surface claim 1 , wherein the metallic layer is formed on the top surface of the dielectric layer claim 1 , and wherein the plurality of regions of concentrated light are supported in proximity to the ends of the plurality of dielectric pillars when the bottom surface of the metallic layer is illuminated.3. The device of claim 2 , further comprising a window formed on the bottom surface of the dielectric layer below the plurality of dielectric pillars.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of regions of concentrated light comprise spatially-separated voxels above each of the plurality of dielectric pillars to which the light is substantially confined.5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the electric field strength of the light decays exponentially with height above the plurality of dielectric pillars.6. The device of claim 1 , wherein one or more of the plurality of dielectric pillars has a circular cross-section.7. The device of claim 1 , wherein one or more of the plurality of ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CELL LYSIS AND SAMPLE PREPARATION THROUGH CENTRIFUGATION

Methods and devices for molecular analysis are disclosed, based on centrifugation. A centrifuge device comprises strips of centrifuge tubes and elements to create a magnetic field. The magnetic shear forces applied to beads inside a solution with biological molecules permit the performance of different analytic techniques, such as lysis and sample preparation for PCR. 1. A centrifuge device comprising:a rotating head;at least one centrifuge tube;at least one slot in the rotating head, configured to accept the at least one centrifuge tube; andat least one field element in the rotating head, wherein the at least one field element is configured to generate a magnetic field.2. The centrifuge device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one centrifuge tube has a filter configured to allow disposal of waste products claim 1 , while retaining desired products.3. The centrifuge device of claim 2 , wherein the desired products comprise chemically- and/or biologically-functionalized beads claim 2 , and magnetic beads claim 2 , wherein the functionalized beads are configured to attach to desired cells.4. The centrifuge device of claim 3 , wherein the functionalized beads and the magnetic beads are configured to selectively and/or blindly capture the desired cells.5. The centrifuge device of claim 3 , wherein the desired cells comprise nucleic acid within walls and/or membranes of the desired cells.6. The centrifuge device of claim 5 , wherein the desired cells are for lysis or polymerase chain reaction.7. The centrifuge device of claim 2 , further comprising at least one receptacle attached to a bottom end of the at least one centrifuge tube claim 2 , wherein the at least one receptacle is for storing the waste products.8. The centrifuge device of claim 1 , further comprising at least one receptacle attached to a bottom end of the at least one centrifuge tube.9. The centrifuge device of claim 8 , wherein the at least one receptacle is for storing eluted nucleic acid products.10. ...

MICROFABRICATED ELASTOMERIC VALVE AND PUMP SYSTEMS

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate. 1. (canceled)2. The method of using a microfluidic device , comprising:flowing a sample into a looped channel of the microfluidic device;pumping the sample around the loop channel with a peristaltic action, wherein the peristaltic action comprises sequential activation of a series of individually addressable valves arranged along the looped channel.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the series of individually addressable valves comprise three valves.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein each of the three valves is an intersection of an individually addressable control line over the looped channel.5. The method of claim 2 , wherein the microfluidic device is an elastomeric device.6. The method of claim 2 , wherein the pumping passes the sample over a DNA array. This nonprovisional patent application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/188,664 filed Feb. 24, 2014, which is a continuation of Ser. No. 11/932,263 filed Oct. 31, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,656,958, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/685,654 filed Mar. 13, 2007, now U.S. Pat. ...

Chromophore-based medical system for detecting genetic variations in analytes

Medical systems for detecting a genetic variation in a polynucleotide analyte in a sample. A fluorophore is attached to a first primer, a quencher is attached to a second primer, and the first primer and the second primer are specific for the polynucleotide analyte. The primers are configured to amplify the polynucleotide analyte having the genetic variation and a corresponding polynucleotide analyte lacking the generic variation. There is a detectable difference between a change in signal generated by the fluorophore and quencher, and measured by a sensor of the medical system, when using the first and second primers to amplify the polynucleotide analyte with the genetic variation, and a change in signal generated by the fluorophore and quencher, and measured by the sensor of the medical system, when using the first and second primers to amplify the corresponding polynucleotide analyte lacking the genetic variation.

SIGNAL ENCODING AND DECODING IN MULTIPLEXED BIOCHEMICAL ASSAYS

This disclosure provides methods, systems, compositions, and kits for the multiplexed detection of a plurality of analytes in a sample. In some examples, this disclosure provides methods, systems, compositions, and kits wherein multiple analytes may be detected in a single sample volume by acquiring a cumulative measurement or measurements of at least one quantifiable component of a signal. In some cases, additional components of a signal, or additional signals (or components thereof) are also quantified. Each signal or component of a signal may be used to construct a coding scheme which can then be used to determine the presence or absence of any analyte. 121.-. (canceled)22. A method of unambiguously detecting any unique combination of presence or absence of a plurality of analytes corresponding with a plurality of respiratory viral pathogens , the method comprising:(a) providing a sample from a subject comprising, or potentially comprising, said plurality of analytes,(b) forming a mixture of said sample and hybridization probes, wherein at least one of said hybridization probes is configured to bind to at least one of said plurality of analytes corresponding with a respiratory viral pathogen, and wherein said hybridization probes further comprises at least one fluorophore and at most four fluorophores;(c) exciting said at least one fluorophore to generate one or more signals if one or more of said plurality of analytes is present, wherein said one or more signals comprise at least one signal generated by excitement of said one or more fluorophores;(d) measuring said one or more signals to generate a cumulative intensity measurement, wherein said cumulative intensity measurement corresponds to the presence of a unique combination of presence or absence of said plurality analytes in said sample; and(e) determining whether said at least one of said plurality of analytes corresponding with said respiratory viral pathogen is present, in any unique combination of ...

APPARATUS FOR FILTRATION AND DESALINATION AND METHOD THEREFOR

A free-pass-through fluid-purification system is disclosed, wherein the system includes a pore-matrix membrane subtended between a pair of chambers of a manifold. The membrane includes a large open-fraction porous matrix that allows liquid to pass freely through; however, suspended matter having a physical cross-section larger than the size of the pores are blocked. In some embodiments, the cross-sections of the pores are made to be a small fraction of the cross-section of the suspended materials. In some embodiments, electrodes are included on the top and bottom surfaces of the membrane to enable deionization of the fluid.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR WIRELESS TRANSDUCERS THROUGH INTEGRATED ON-CHIP ANTENNA

Novel methods and systems for wireless sensors are described. The systems can comprise an energy-harvesting unit, a transducer, and electronic control circuit, and an antenna. All elements can be integrated monolithically in a single system. 1. A system comprising:an energy-harvesting unit configured to provide power to the system from electromagnetic radiation;a transducer, configured to detect measureable quantities;an electronic circuit; andan antenna;wherein the electronic circuit is configured to encode the measureable quantities and transmit them to the antenna, the antenna is configured to transmit the encoded measureable quantities, and wherein the energy-harvesting unit, the transducer, the electronic circuit and the antenna are monolithically integrated in the system.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the energy-harvesting unit is an induction coil powered by radio-frequency radiation.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the energy-harvesting unit is a photovoltaic unit powered by optical radiation.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the optical radiation is conveyed through an optical fiber.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the transducer has functionalized electrodes to detect biological or chemical quantities.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the electronic circuit comprises a voltage-controlled oscillator.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the antenna operates in the frequency range of 1 to 100 GHz.8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the antenna is configured to operate in a frequency range which can be transmitted through material surrounding the system.9. The system of claim 8 , wherein the frequency range is an absorption gap of the material surrounding the system.10. The system of claim 8 , wherein the material is human biological tissue.11. The system of claim 1 , wherein the antenna radiation pattern is configured to transmit signals through a desired pattern.12. The system of claim 11 , wherein the system is inside a human biological tissue and ...

CANARY ON A CHIP: EMBEDDED SENSORS WITH BIO-CHEMICAL INTERFACES

Wireless electrochemical measurements methods using minimally invasive micro-sensors that monitor response of cells to specific analytes are described. Micro-actuators integrated on a same chip as the micro-sensors are used to provide closed loop in-vivo local therapy on demand. An in-vivo bio-electronic system that can monitor the health of cell colonies and accordingly dispense corresponding therapeutic drugs is also described. 1. A method for in-vivo measuring of metabolic health of cells , the method comprising:providing a miniaturized wireless implantable device configured to sense a chemistry of interest;selecting a cell culture or colonies specific to an analyte of interest;confining the cell cultures or colonies, and the miniaturized wireless implantable device in a semi-permeable cell containment barrier;implanting the semi-permeable cell containment barrier into a living body comprising the analyte of interest;based on the implanting, subjecting the cell cultures or colonies to the analyte of interest;based on the subjecting, obtaining a metabolic reaction of the cell cultures or colonies with the analyte;based on the obtaining, releasing the chemistry of interest; andbased on the releasing, sensing the chemistry of interest via sensors of the miniaturized wireless implantable device, thereby measuring metabolic health of cells of the cell cultures or colonies.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the semi-permeable cell containment barrier is one of: a) and organic pouch claim 1 , and b) parylene.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the cell cultures or colonies are specifically selected for sensing one or more of: a) genomic markers like micro-RNAs and circulating DNAs claim 1 , and b) exosomes and cytokine molecules in blood claim 1 , interstitial fluid claim 1 , urine or saliva.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the miniaturized implantable device is further configured for delivery of a payload via one or more integrated ...

SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR WIRELESS DRUG DELIVERY ON COMMAND

A fully integrated small size implantable sensing device is described, which can include a sensor and an electronic circuit to interface with the sensor and communicate with an external device. Various fabrication methods for the sensing device are described, including provision of wells, created using same fabrication technology as the electronic circuit, to contain electrodes of the sensor and corresponding functionalization chemicals. Such implantable sensing device can be used for a variety of electrochemical measuring applications within a living body as well as actuation by injecting a current into the living body. 1. A method for fabricating a miniaturized implantable device:fabricating an electronic system by monolithically integrating the electronic system on a first face of a substrate, the electronic system comprising an energy storage element adapted to be charged through a wireless communication link;fabricating a coil by monolithically integrating the coil on the first face of the substrate, the coil being configured to provide the wireless communication link; andfixating at least one hermetic package, containing a liquid payload, on the first surface of the substrate, a portion of the hermetic package being positioned above the coil,wherein the energy storage element is configured to provide energy to rupture a seal of the hermetic package, thereby dispensing the liquid payload.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the rupture of the seal is provided by applying heat to the seal.3. The method according to claim 2 , wherein the heat is provided by injecting current in the coil claim 2 , the current provided by the energy storage element.4. The method according the claim 1 , wherein the rupture of the seal is provided by applying internal pressure to the hermetic package.5. The method according to claim 4 , wherein the internal pressure is provided by gases released through an electrochemical dissociation reaction of an electrolyte solution ...

SAMPLE PREPARATION DEVICES AND SYSTEMS

Devices and system for preparing samples are described. Such devices can comprise fluidic chambers, reservoirs, and movable structures for controlling the movement of samples. The device can also comprise functional elements for performing specific operations. 19.-. (canceled)10. A device for performing fluidic operations , comprising:an adapter comprising at least one pair of ports;a plurality of reservoirs fluidly connectable with the at least one pair of ports, the plurality of reservoirs configured to flow fluid from at least a first reservoir to at least a second reservoir; anda first structure associated with the adapter and displaceable with respect to the adapter, the first structure comprising a first channel arrangement configured to fluidly connect the at least first reservoir with the at least second reservoir, the first channel arrangement being alignable with a desired pair of ports through displacement of the first structure.11. The device according to claim 10 , wherein the first channel arrangement comprises a functional element claim 10 , whereby the functional element is located in a flow path of a fluid when the fluid flows through the first channel arrangement.12. The device according to claim 10 , wherein the displaceable first structure is rotatable in a radial direction of the device.13. The device according to claim 11 , wherein movement of the functional element through displacement of the first structure is synchronous with movement of the first channel arrangement comprising the functional element.14. The device according to claim 10 , wherein the first channel arrangement is one or more channels.15. The device according to claim 10 , wherein each reservoir of the plurality of reservoirs comprises a fluidic pressuring mechanism adapted facilitate movement of the fluid from the first reservoir to the second reservoir claim 10 , and vice versa.16. The device according to claim 15 , wherein the pressuring mechanism is selected from the group ...

SILICON PHOTONIC CRYSTAL NANOBEAM CAVITY WITHOUT SURFACE CLADDING AND INTEGRATED WITH MICRO-HEATER FOR SENSING APPLICATIONS

A silicon photonic crystal nanobeam cavity device is described, including a heater that can set a desired temperature on the cavity device in order to control its resonant wavelength. The device has no cladding, which is advantageous for sensing. Biosensing applications with temperature control can be carried out with the nanobeam cavity device. 1. A device comprising:a photonic crystal nanobeam cavity;a microheater configured to heat the photonic crystal nanobeam cavity; andat least two electrodes electrically connected to the microheater and configured to provide current to the microheater.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the photonic crystal nanobeam cavity comprises a plurality of cylindrical holes centered along its longitudinal axis.3. The device of claim 2 , further comprising a waveguide optically coupled to the photonic crystal nanobeam cavity.4. The device of claim 3 , wherein the photonic crystal nanobeam cavity is silicon.5. The device of claim 4 , further comprising a silicon pad thermally connecting the microheater to the photonic crystal nanobeam cavity.6. The device of claim 5 , wherein the silicon pad comprises:a central region adjacent to the microheater; andtwo silicon tapered pads, each silicon tapered pad at each end of the photonic crystal nanobeam cavity.7. The device of claim 6 , wherein the microheater is NiCr.8. The device of claim 7 , wherein the photonic crystal nanobeam cavity claim 7 , the waveguide claim 7 , and the silicon pad are coplanar layers on a silicon dioxide substrate.9. The device of claim 8 , wherein the microheater is a layer on top of the central region of the silicon pad.10. The device of claim 9 , wherein the photonic crystal nanobeam cavity has a height of 220 nm and the cylindrical holes have a periodicity of 425 nm and a diameter of 236 nm.11. The device of claim 10 , wherein the cylindrical holes are nine or eleven.12. The device of claim 11 , wherein the photonic crystal nanobeam cavity has an extinction ratio of ...

Chromophore-based characterization and detection methods

This disclosure provides methods, compositions and kits for the detection of a plurality of analytes in a sample. In some examples, this disclosure provides methods, compositions, and kits for detecting analytes, genetic variations, monitoring reaction process, and monitoring analyte-analyte interactions by measuring signals. In some examples, the presence of signals or changes in signals may be used to construct signal profiles which can be used to detect analytes.

OPTICAL RESONATOR DIAGNOSTIC DEVICE AND METHODS OF USE

An implantable diagnostic device in accordance with the present disclosure provides various benefits such as a compact size thereby allowing implanting of the device inside animate objects; low cost due to incorporation of inexpensive detection circuitry and the use of conventional IC fabrication techniques; re-usability by heating thereby allowing multiple diagnostic tests to be performed without discarding the device; and a configuration that allows performing of simultaneous and/or sequential diagnostic tests for detecting one or more similar or dissimilar target molecules concurrently or at different times. 1. A method of using a diagnostic device , comprising:propagating a laser beam through an optical waveguide of the diagnostic device;coupling a first portion of the laser beam into a first optical resonator located in the diagnostic device, the first optical resonator comprising an immunoassay site;detecting a first current in a first optical detector coupled to the first optical resonator, the first current indicative of a first resonant frequency generated by the first optical resonator in response to the coupling of the first portion of the laser beam into the first optical resonator; anddetecting a second current in the first optical detector, the second current indicative of an immunoassay binding occurring at the immunoassay site, the immunoassay binding characterized by a change in refractive index in the first optical resonator and a corresponding change in the first resonant frequency.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:prior to propagating the laser beam through the optical waveguide of the diagnostic device, incubating the first optical resonator with a target protein in a buffer solution at room temperature for a first period of time;washing the first optical resonator with the buffer solution; anddrying the first optical resonator.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the buffer solution is a phosphate buffered saline (PBS) solution claim ...

FABRICATION AND SELF-ALIGNED LOCAL FUNCTIONALIZATION OF NANOCUPS AND VARIOUS PLASMONIC NANOSTRUCTURES ON FLEXIBLE SUBSTRATES FOR IMPLANTABLE AND SENSING APPLICATIONS

Methods for fabricating flexible substrate nanostructured devices are disclosed. The nanostructures comprise nano-pillars and metallic bulbs or nano-apertures. The nanostructures can be functionalized to detect biological entities. The flexible substrates can be rolled into cylindrical tubes for detection of fluidic samples. 1. A structure comprising:a flexible substrate; anda plurality of metallic nanocups on the flexible substrate, each metallic nanocup comprising a concave surface forming a cavity external to the flexible substrate, and a convex surface internal to the flexible substrate.2. The structure of claim 1 , further comprising a metallic layer covering a surface of the flexible substrate in between the metallic nanocups.3. The structure of claim 1 , further comprising a functionalization layer on the concave surface of the metallic nanocups.4. The structure of claim 1 , wherein the metallic nanocups are Au.5. The structure of claim 1 , wherein the flexible substrate is polydimethylsiloxane.6. The structure of claim 1 , wherein the flexible substrate is transparent to optical waves.7. The structure of claim 1 , wherein a lateral diameter of the concave surface of the metallic nanocups is less than 500 nm.8. The structure of claim 1 , wherein a depth of the concave surface of the metallic nanocups is less than 500 nm.9. The structure of claim 1 , wherein the flexible substrate is rolled to form a cylinder having the plurality of metallic nanocups on an internal surface of the cylinder.10. The structure of claim 9 , wherein a first portion of the plurality of metallic nanocups is facing a second portion of the plurality of metallic nanocups.11. The structure of claim 10 , wherein the cylinder is configured to allow a fluid flow within the cylinder.12. The structure of claim 11 , wherein the cylinder is configured to act as a waveguide for optical waves within the cylinder.13. A structure comprising:a flexible substrate; anda plurality of nanopillars on the ...

METHODS FOR FABRICATING HIGH ASPECT RATIO PROBES AND DEFORMING HIGH ASPECT RATIO NANOPILLARS AND MICROPILLARS

Methods for fabricating of high aspect ratio probes and deforming micropillars and nanopillars are described. Use of polymers in deforming nanopillars and micropillars is also described. 111-. (canceled)12. A method for deforming pillars comprising:providing a plurality of pillars partially submerged in a resist; andcontracting the resist in areas surrounding the plurality of pillars to deform the plurality of pillars.13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the layer of resist is made of Poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA).14. The method of claim 13 , wherein the resist is contracted using an electron-beam having an electron dose claim 13 , a quantity of which is chosen to turn the PMMA into a negative tone resist.15. The method of claim 14 , wherein a force exerted by the PMMA to the plurality of nanopillars is tuned by varying an electron-beam exposure claim 14 , heating claim 14 , or selective resist removal.16. A method for capturing small-scale objects comprising:providing a plurality of small-scale objects surrounded by a plurality of pillars partially submerged in a resist;contracting the resist to bend the plurality of pillars inward to squeeze the plurality of small-scale objects and thereby forcing the plurality of small-scale objects through top of the plurality of pillars.17. The method of claim 16 , wherein the small-scale objects have spherical shapes with diameters of 50 nm or more.1824-. (canceled) The present application claims priority to U.S. Prov. App. No. 61/208,528 filed on Feb. 25, 2009, and U.S. Prov. App. No. 61/164,289 filed on Mar. 27, 2009, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The present application is also related to U.S. Pat. App. No. (Attorney Docket No. P508-US) for ‘Methods for fabricating high aspect ratio micropillars and nanopillars’ filed on even date herewith, the disclosure of which is also incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.The U.S. Government has certain rights in this invention ...

INSTRUMENTS FOR BIOLOGICAL SAMPLE PREPARATION DEVICES

Methods and devices for biological sample preparation and analysis are disclosed. A device may have a linear or circular arrangement of containers, with a connecting structure such as a bar or disk. Fluidics channels between containers allow the performance of different techniques for sample preparation, such as lysing, washing and elution. Different functional elements, such as grinders or mixers, may be attached to the containers. 1. An instrument comprising:a recess;a supporting element, configured to attach to a sample preparation device to secure the sample preparation device in the recess inside the instrument;at least one motorized actuator, configured to attach to plungers of the sample preparation device;a controlling interface, configured to accept input from a user and operate the at least one motorized actuator based on the input from the user; anda housing structure, containing the recess, the supporting element, the at least one motorized actuator, and the controlling interface.2. The instrument of claim 1 , wherein the supporting element is for containers in the sample preparation device arranged in a linear pattern.3. The instrument of claim 1 , wherein the supporting element is for containers in the sample preparation device arranged in a circular pattern.4. The instrument of claim 3 , wherein the at least one motorized actuator comprises:a motor, the motor comprising a rotating rod having a rotating axis;a fixed plate attached to the rotating axis; anda linear actuator having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is attached to the fixed plate, and the second end is attached to a rod, the rod having an axis parallel to the rotating axis of the motor, and wherein the rod is configured to operate the plungers.5. The instrument of claim 4 , wherein the sample preparation device has a top structure with a first plurality of plungers and a bottom structure with a second plurality of plungers claim 4 , and the instrument comprises a plunger ...

INSTRUMENTS FOR BIOLOGICAL SAMPLE-TO-ANSWER DEVICES

Methods and devices for biological sample preparation and analysis are disclosed. A device may have a linear or circular arrangement of containers, with a connecting structure such as a bar or disk. Fluidics channels between containers allow the performance of different techniques for sample preparation, such as lysing, washing and elution. Different functional elements, such as grinders or mixers, may be attached to the containers. 2. The instrument of claim 1 , wherein the motorized element is a bistable solenoid.3. The instrument of claim 1 , wherein the at least one light source is an LED.4. The instrument of claim 1 , further comprising:at least one motorized actuator inside the housing structure, configured to attach to plungers of the sample-to-answer device,and wherein the printed circuit board is further configured to operate the at least one motorized actuator, based on the input from the user.5. The instrument of claim 4 , wherein the sample-to-answer device housing element is for containers in the sample-to-answer device arranged in a linear pattern.6. The instrument of claim 4 , wherein the sample-to-answer device housing element is for containers in the sample-to-answer device arranged in a circular pattern.7. The instrument of claim 4 , wherein the at least one motorized actuator comprises:a motor, the motor comprising a rotating rod having a rotating axis;a fixed plate attached to the rotating axis; anda linear actuator having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is attached to the fixed plate, and the second end is attached to a rod, the rod having an axis parallel to the rotating axis of the motor, and wherein the rod is configured to operate the plungers.8. The instrument of claim 7 , wherein the sample-to-answer device has a top structure with a first plurality of plungers and a bottom structure with a second plurality of plungers claim 7 , and the instrument comprises a plunger for each of the first and second plurality of ...

MULTIPLEXING AND QUANTIFICATION IN PCR WITH REDUCED HARDWARE AND REQUIREMENTS

Methods and algorithms for a multiplexed single detection channel amplification process and quantification of generated amplicons is presented. Various mathematical approaches for quantifying and verifying the amplicons in a reaction are presented. Usage of such methods and approaches allow upgrading of existing single and multiple channel instruments for further multiplexing capabilities. 1. A processor-based hardware analyzer for analyzing a multiplexed amplification reaction , wherein the processor-based hardware analyzer is configured to quantify and verify the multiplexed amplification reaction based on a provided digital representation of a sum amplitude signal in correspondence of a plurality of different amplicons of the multiplexed amplification reaction.2. The processor-based analyzer of claim 1 , wherein the quantification and verification is performed using mathematical analysis of the digital representation of the sum amplitude signal claim 1 , the mathematical analysis being implemented in software and/or firmware code and executed on the processor-based analyzer.3. The processor-based analyzer of claim 2 , wherein the mathematical analysis further comprises signal processing techniques adapted to separate an amplitude curve of an amplicon of the plurality of different amplicons from the digital representation of the sum amplitude signal claim 2 , and adapted to derive a value of a threshold cycle of the amplicon based on the amplitude curve.4. The processor-based analyzer according to claim 1 , wherein the processor-based analyzer is further configured to derive a relative amplitude of an amplicon of the plurality of different amplicons based on a provided sum melt curve.5. An apparatus for performing a multiplexed amplification reaction claim 1 , the apparatus comprising:a single channel detector configured to detect a sum amplitude signal in correspondence of a plurality of different amplicons of the multiplexed amplification reaction and generate a ...

SIGNAL ENCODING AND DECODING IN MULTIPLEXED BIOCHEMICAL ASSAYS

This disclosure provides methods, systems, compositions, and kits for the multiplexed detection of a plurality of analytes in a sample. In some examples, this disclosure provides methods, systems, compositions, and kits wherein multiple analytes may be detected in a single sample volume by acquiring a cumulative measurement or measurements of at least one quantifiable component of a signal. In some cases, additional components of a signal, or additional signals (or components thereof) are also quantified. Each signal or component of a signal may be used to construct a coding scheme which can then be used to determine the presence or absence of any analyte. 1. An assay that is capable of unambiguously detecting the presence or absence of each of at least seven (7) analytes , in any combination of presence or absence , in a single sample volume without immobilization of said analytes , physical separation of said analytes , melting curve analysis , or mass spectrometry.2. The assay of claim 1 , wherein each of said analytes is encoded as a value of one component of a signal.3. (canceled)4. The assay of claim 2 , wherein each of said analytes is encoded as at least one first value in a first component of said signal and at least one second value in a second component of said signal.5. The assay of claim 2 , wherein each of said analytes is encoded as a first value in a first component of said signal at each of a plurality of second values in a second component of said signal.68-. (canceled)9. The assay of claim 4 , wherein said first value is an intensity or range of intensities and said second value is a wavelength or range of wavelengths.1012-. (canceled)13. The assay of claim 2 , wherein said signal is an electromagnetic signal.1416-. (canceled)17. The assay of claim 1 , wherein said detecting is performed with reagents comprising hybridization probes.18. The assay of claim 1 , wherein said analytes said detecting is performed with a plurality of hybridization ...

Metal-enzyme sandwich layers

Measurement of target analytes is carried out with an enzyme-based sensor. The enzyme hydrogel is protected by a porous layer of a metallic material. The size of the pores is small enough to prevent degradation of the enzyme layer caused by the immune system of an organism, but large enough to allow transfer of molecules that participate in the electrochemical reaction allowing the enzyme to detect the target analytes.

FULLY WIRELESS CONTINUOUSLY WEARABLE SENSOR FOR MEASUREMENT OF EYE FLUID

Novel methods and systems for monitoring the health of an eye are disclosed. For example, a resonant circuit may be fabricated on a contact lens and this circuit may be coupled to a second circuit having the same resonant current frequency. A change in a property of the eye fluid contacted by the sensor in the contact lens is communicated to an external device and a remedying action is suggested to the wearer. 1. A resonant sensor comprising:a first resonant circuit, comprising at least one first resistor, at least one first capacitor and at least one first inductor, wherein the first resonant circuit is configured so that an eye fluid in contact with the resonant sensor will electrically connect at least two points in the first resonant circuit, and a change in at least one property of the eye fluid will effect a change in a resonant behavior of the first resonant circuit.2. The resonant sensor of claim 1 , wherein a shape of the at least one first capacitor claim 1 , of the at least one first resistor claim 1 , and/or the at least one first inductor is configured so as to give a desired value of a resonant current frequency.3. The resonant sensor of claim 1 , wherein the at least one first resistor claim 1 , at least one first capacitor and at least one first inductor are metal traces on a wearable contact lens.4. The resonant sensor of claim 3 , wherein a shape claim 3 , length and overlap of the metal traces is configured so as to give a desired value for a resonant current frequency of the first resonant circuit.5. A system comprising the resonant sensor of claim 1 , further comprising:a second resonant circuit, comprising at least one second resistor, at least one second capacitor and at least one second inductor, wherein the at least one second inductor is configured to be electromagnetically coupled to the at least one first inductor, and wherein the first and second resonant circuits have a same resonant current frequency; anda reader configured to ...

METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR NUCLEIC ACID PURIFICATION

An apparatus for purifying nucleic acid can include a disposable cartridge having a layered configuration, and a disposable syringe for coupling to the disposable cartridge such that a fluid can be delivered to or withdrawn fluid from the disposable cartridge using the syringe. At least one layer of the disposable cartridge can include a cut-out for forming a functional unit of the disposable cartridge, and at least one layer of the disposable cartridge can be joined to an adjacent layer of the disposable cartridge by an adhesive material layer. The functional unit can include a fluid channel between an access port on the first surface of the disposable cartridge and the fluid pouch. The apparatus can include a disposable silica-containing material for binding with the nucleic acid. The apparatus can include a heating element and a temperature sensor for heating the disposable silica-containing material. 1. A nucleic acid purification kit comprising:a fluid pouch attached to a first surface of a disposable cartridge, the fluid pouch including a first reagent;a disposable cartridge having a layered configuration, at least one layer of the disposable cartridge including a cut-out for forming a functional unit of the disposable cartridge,wherein the at least one layer is joined to an adjacent layer of the disposable cartridge by an adhesive material layer and the functional unit comprises a fluid channel between an access port on the first surface of the disposable cartridge and the fluid pouch; anda disposable silica-containing compartment for capturing the nucleic acid, wherein the disposable silica-containing compartment has a distal opening and a proximal opening, the distal opening of the disposable silica-containing compartment being configured to couple to the access port.2. The purification kit of claim 1 , further comprising a disposable syringe for coupling to the proximal opening of the disposable silica-containing compartment claim 1 , the disposable ...

MINIMALLY INVASIVE WIRELESS SENSING DEVICES AND METHODS

A sensing device allows detection of biological quantities in ways that are minimally invasive. Micrometer or nanometer sized needles allow sensing of bodily fluids in a minimally invasive method. The device comprises electronics and power harvesting. Antennas or coils allow communication and power harvesting from an external device, which can be attached to smartphones to allow operation of a camera and camera light for biosensing. 1. A device comprising:a substrate;a container on a top surface of the substrate; anda plurality of needles on a bottom surface of the substrate, the plurality of needle connected to the container and configured to allow a fluid flow between needle tips and the container.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the substrate comprises an adhesive and is configured to attach to skin.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein each needle of the plurality of needles has a diameter less than 100 micrometer.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein each needle of the plurality of needles has a diameter less than 100 nanometer.5. The device of claim 1 , further comprising at least one sensor on the substrate claim 1 , the at least one sensor configured to analyze the fluid in the container claim 1 , and wherein the fluid flow is from the needle tips to the container.6. The device of claim 1 , wherein the container contains a drug and the fluid flow is from the container to the needle tips.7. The device of claim 1 , wherein the container comprises a plurality of subcontainers claim 1 , each subcontainer containing a drug different from other subcontainers.8. The device of claim 1 , further comprising an actuation module configured to actuate the fluid flow.9. The device of claim 5 , further comprising an antenna or coil on the substrate claim 5 , the antenna or coil configured to allow communication between the at least one sensor and an external reader device.10. The device of claim 9 , wherein the antenna or coil is further configured to receive power from the ...

NANOPILLAR FIELD-EFFECT AND JUNCTION TRANSISTORS

Methods for fabrication of nanopillar field effect transistors are described. These transistors can have high height-to-width aspect ratios and be CMOS compatible. Silicon nitride may be used as a masking material. These transistors have a variety of applications, for example they can be used for molecular sensing if the nanopillar has a functionalized layer contacted to the gate electrode. The functional layer can bind molecules, causing an electrical signal in the transistor. 1. A method for fabricating a nanopillar field effect transistor , the method comprising:providing a semiconductor substrate;depositing a first masking material on the semiconductor substrate;defining a masking pattern on the first masking material;removing selected regions of the first masking material, based on the masking pattern, thereby exposing selected regions of the semiconductor substrate, based on the masking pattern;depositing a second masking material on the first masking material and on the semiconductor substrate;removing the first masking material and unwanted regions of the second masking material, based on the masking pattern;etching an array of nanopillars in the semiconductor substrate, based on the masking pattern;depositing silicon nitride on the semiconductor substrate and on the array of nanopillars;depositing a third masking material on the semiconductor substrate, wherein the height of the third masking material is lower than the height of the array of nanopillars, thereby covering the silicon nitride deposited on the semiconductor substrate but not covering the silicon nitride deposited on the array of nanopillars;etching the silicon nitride deposited on the array of nanopillars;removing the third masking material;oxidizing the array of nanopillars, thereby obtaining a gate oxide layer between the semiconductor substrate and a bottom side of the array of nanopillars;defining at least one source region and at least one drain region, by doping the semiconductor ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR NUCLEIC ACID EXTRACTION CAPTURE AND CONCENTRATION USING ELECTRIC FIELDS AND CENTRIFUGATION

Methods and devices for molecular analysis are disclosed, based on centrifugation. A centrifuge device has centrifuge tubes and elements to create electric fields. The shear forces applied to the cells inside a solution with biological molecules permit the performance of different analytic techniques, such as lysis and sample preparation for PCR. 1. A centrifuge device comprising:a rotating head;at least one centrifuge tube;at least one slot in the rotating head, configured to accept the at least one centrifuge tube; andat least one field element in the rotating head, wherein the at least one field element is configured to generate an electric field.2. The centrifuge device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one centrifuge tube has a filter configured to allow disposal of waste products claim 1 , while retaining desired products.3. The centrifuge device of claim 2 , wherein the desired products comprise nucleic acids.4. The centrifuge device of claim 2 , further comprising at least one receptacle attached to a bottom end of the at least one centrifuge tube claim 2 , wherein the at least one receptacle is for storing the waste products.5. The centrifuge device of claim 4 , wherein the at least one receptacle is for storing eluted nucleic acid products.6. The centrifuge device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one field element is a pair of electrodes.7. The centrifuge device of claim 6 , wherein the electric field direction is substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the at least one centrifuge tube.8. The centrifuge device of claim 1 , wherein the electric field comprises two perpendicular components claim 1 , the two perpendicular components lying in a plane perpendicular to an axial direction of the at least one centrifuge tube.9. The centrifuge device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one field element is fixed relative to the rotating head claim 1 , and the at least one slot is configured to move through the magnetic field upon movement of the ...

LOW POWER, CHEMICALLY AMPLIFIED, ELECTRICALLY REMOVABLE BARRIER

An implantable device contains a drug or biosensing compound, protected from the external environment within a human body by several barriers which are broken upon activation of the device through electrothermal, chemical, and mechanical processes. The device allows accurate and repeated dosing within a human body, thus reducing the number of implantation procedures required. This device extends the lifetime of a biosensor, reducing the number of implantation procedures required. 1. A device comprising:a container having an opening;a plurality of barriers closing the opening;a chemical compound or biological material within the container,wherein:the device is configured to be implantable within a human body or other organism, andthe plurality of barriers are configured to electrochemically or electrothermally unseal, upon application of an electric potential or current to at least one barrier of the plurality of barriers, thereby allowing interaction between the chemical compound or biological material and the human body or other organism.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the chemical compound or biological material is selected from the group consisting of: a drug claim 1 , and a biosensing material.3. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a reference electrode on an external surface of the device claim 1 , thereby being in contact with the human body or other organism upon implantation of the device claim 1 , wherein the reference electrode is electrically connected to the first barrier through a control circuit claim 1 , wherein:the plurality of barriers comprises a first barrier, and the first barrier is not reactive to the human body or other organism and is configured to electrochemically unseal when the electric potential is applied to the first barrier.4. The device of claim 3 , further comprising a counter electrode on an external surface of the device claim 3 , thereby being in contact with the human body or other organism upon implantation of the ...

Multiplexed surface enhanced raman sensors for early disease detection and in-situ bacterial monitoring

Methods and systems for nanopillar sensors are described. Nanopillars can be defined on a substrate, and metal deposited on the nanopillars. A thermal treatment can reflow the metal on the nanopillars forming metallic bulbs on the top end of the nanopillars. These structures can have enhanced optical detection when functionalized with biological agents, or can detect gases, particles and liquids through interaction with the metal layer on the nanopillars.

SURFACE ENHANCED RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY DETECTION OF GASES, PARTICLES AND LIQUIDS THROUGH NANOPILLAR STRUCTURES

Methods and systems for nanopillar sensors are described. Nanopillars can be defined on a substrate, and metal deposited on the nanopillars. A thermal treatment can reflow the metal on the nanopillars forming metallic bulbs on the top end of the nanopillars. These structures can have enhanced optical detection when functionalized with biological agents, or can detect gases, particles and liquids through interaction with the metal layer on the nanopillars. 1. A method to detect gases , liquids or particles , the method comprising: a substrate,', 'at least one recessed region on the substrate,', 'nanopillars defined in the at least one recessed region,', 'metallic bulbs on a top end of the nanopillars;, 'providing a sensor, the sensor comprising'}inserting the sensor in an environment; andilluminating, by a laser, the metallic bulbs on the top end of the nanopillars, thereby detecting presence or absence of a target gas, liquid or particle.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sensor further comprises a functionalizing agent on the metallic bulbs on the top end of the nanopillars.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sensor further comprises a polymer layer on a top surface of the at least one recessed region in between the nanopillars.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein a distance between the metallic bulbs is between 5 and 50 nanometers.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the substrate comprises mesas having a height higher than the at least one recessed region on the substrate claim 1 , and a height of the nanopillars is equal or less than the height of the mesas.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one recessed region is an array of recessed regions.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein a distance between the metallic bulbs allows electrical insulation between the metallic bulbs.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the substrate is silicon claim 1 , the nanopillars are silicon dioxide and the metallic layer is gold.9. The method of claim 1 , further ...

PC BOARD FLUIDIC DEVICES

PC board fluidic devices for performing a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) are disclosed. The devices comprise a printed circuit board and a PCR chamber. The PCR chamber is a fluidic chamber and is located in, or is part of, the PC board. The PC board can include a coil trace heating element with a temperature sensor and controller. 1. A printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device , the printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device including a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) chamber for performing a PCR.2. The printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device of claim 1 , wherein the printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device includes a multilayer flex-on-rigid backing arrangement comprising flex layers.3. The printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device of claim 2 , wherein the PCR chamber is contained within the flex layers.4. The printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device of claim 3 , wherein the flex layers are made of Kapton compatible with the PCR.5. The printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device of claim 2 , wherein a FR-4 based construction is located beneath the flex layers claim 2 , the FR-4 based construction containing electronic circuit board traces and a heater for heating the PCR chamber.6. The printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device of claim 5 , wherein the heater comprises a trace coil.7. The printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device of claim 6 , wherein the trace coil comprises copper.8. The printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device of claim 5 , wherein the electronic circuit board traces comprise a PCR temperature controller configured to control the heater.9. The printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device of claim 8 , further comprising a temperature sensing device connected to the temperature controller and associated with the PCR chamber such that the sensing device measures the temperature of the PCR chamber.10. The printed circuit board (PCB) fluidic device of claim 8 , wherein the heater comprises a trace coil and the temperature sensing device ...

Radiation Detector and Method Therefor

MIR spectroscopy systems comprising hierarchical spectral dispersion that enables fine spectral resolution and high sensitivity spectroscopy are disclosed. Hierarchical spectral dispersion is derived by employing at least two diffractive lens arrays, located on either side of a test sample, each receiving input radiation having an input spectral range and distributing the input radiation into a plurality of output signals, each having a fraction of the spectral range of the input radiation. As a result, the signal multiplication factor of the two arrays is multiplied in a manner that mitigates the propagation of wavelength harmonics through the system. In some embodiments, an emitter array comprising a plurality of spectrally selective emitters provides the input MIR radiation to a spectroscopy system. In some embodiments, spectrally selective detectors are used to detect narrow spectral components in the radiation after they have passed through the test sample. 130-. (canceled)31. An apparatus comprising a first detector operative for providing a photoconductive response in response to receipt of a first radiation signal , wherein the first detector includes a first detector pixel comprising:a first layer that comprises a first material that is substantially transparent for the first radiation signal; anda first arrangement of features located in a first region of the first layer, the first arrangement of features being dimensioned and arranged to excite surface states that generate charge carriers in response to at least a portion of the first radiation signal.32. The apparatus of wherein the first material is float-zone silicon.33. The apparatus of wherein the first radiation signal includes wavelengths that span a first spectral range claim 31 , and wherein the first arrangement of features defines a first photonic crystal that gives rise to spectral selectivity for a first wavelength component within the first spectral range for the first detector pixel.34. The ...

COMPACT TUNABLE PHOTONIC CRYSTAL NANOBEAM CAVITY WITH LOW POWER CONSUMPTION

Methods and devices for a tunable photonic crystal nanobeam cavity are disclosed. Such nanobeam cavity has high Q-factor and can be integrated with a microheater. The resonant wavelength of the cavity can be tuned to attain a high modulation depth with low power consumption. 1. A device comprising:a substrate;a nanobeam cavity element on the substrate, wherein the nanobeam cavity element comprises a row of periodically spaced holes;a waveguide element on the substrate;a spacing element, separating the waveguide element from the nanobeam cavity element;a spacing layer, covering the nanobeam cavity element, the waveguide element, and the spacing element; anda heater element on the spacing layer.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the row of periodically spaced holes has a tapered pattern.3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the tapered pattern comprises:a beginning region, wherein the holes have substantially the same diameter;a beginning middle region, wherein the holes have a decreasing diameter;an ending middle region, wherein the holes have an increasing diameter; andan ending region, wherein the holes have substantially the same diameter,wherein the diameter of the holes in the beginning and ending regions is substantially the same.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the substrate comprises a silicon layer and a silicon dioxide layer.5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the nanobeam cavity element and the waveguide element are made of silicon.6. The device of claim 5 , wherein the spacing element and spacing layers are made of silicon dioxide.7. The device of claim 1 , wherein the heater element is made of Nichrome.8. The device of claim 1 , wherein width and thickness of the nanobeam cavity element claim 1 , diameter and number of the holes claim 1 , distance between the holes claim 1 , width and thickness of the waveguide element claim 1 , and width and thickness of the spacing element are selected in order for the device to have high reflectivity and/or a high Q- ...

FABRICATION OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL HIGH SURFACE AREA ELECTRODES

A method for fabricating three dimensional high surface electrodes is described. The methods including the steps: designing the pillars; selecting a material for the formation of the pillars; patterning the material; transferring the pattern to form the pillars; insulating the pillars and providing a metal layer for increased conductivity. Alternative methods for fabrication of the electrodes and fabrication of the electrodes using CMOS are also described. 1. A method for fabricating three dimensional high surface electrodes , comprising:designing a plurality of pillars by optimizing one or more characteristics of the pillars, wherein the plurality of pillars corresponds to one or more electrodes dependent on an isolation provided to the plurality of pillars;applying a resist onto a substrate, wherein the substrate is silicon or silicon alloy;patterning the resist, wherein the patterning defines the plurality of pillars to be formed on the substrate;removing selected portions of the substrate via etching corresponding to the pattern of the resist to form the plurality of pillars, the etching forming a pillar with an aspect ratio greater than 5;insulating a first group of pillars of the plurality of pillars from other pillars of the plurality of pillars to form one distinct electrode by forming an insulator layer with complete and uniform coverage over the first group of pillars of the plurality of pillars; anddepositing a 10 nm to 500 nm metal layer on the plurality of pillars to increase the conductivity of a surface of the electrode, wherein the metal layer coverage is complete and uniform over the plurality of pillars.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the thickness of the insulator layer is between 50 nm and 250 nm.3. A method for fabricating three dimensional high surface electrodes from CMOS on a metal that is not silicon claim 1 , comprising:designing a plurality of pillars by optimizing one or more characteristics of the pillars, wherein the ...

CANARY ON A CHIP: EMBEDDED SENSORS WITH BIO-CHEMICAL INTERFACES

Wireless electrochemical measurements methods using minimally invasive micro-sensors that monitor response of cells to specific analytes are described. Micro-actuators integrated on a same chip as the micro-sensors are used to provide closed loop in-vivo local therapy on demand. An in-vivo bio-electronic system that can monitor the health of cell colonies and accordingly dispense corresponding therapeutic drugs is also described. 1. (canceled)2. A wireless body-implantable device comprising:an electromagnetic wireless transmit system; andan electrochemical sensor connected to the electromagnetic wireless transmit system and comprising a functionalized layer comprising cell cultures or cell colonies confined within a semi-permeable cell containment barrier.3. The wireless body-implantable device of claim 2 , further comprising electrodes on the electrochemical sensor and within the functionalized layer.4. The wireless body-implantable device of claim 3 , wherein the electrodes are patterned.5. The wireless body-implantable device of claim 2 , wherein the semi-permeable containment barrier is an organic pouch.6. The wireless body-implantable device of claim 2 , wherein the semi-permeable containment barrier comprises parylene.7. The wireless body-implantable device of claim 2 , wherein the cell cultures or colonies are specifically selected for sensing one or more of: a) genomic markers like micro-RNAs and circulating DNAs claim 2 , and b) exosomes and cytokine molecules in blood claim 2 , interstitial fluid claim 2 , urine or saliva.8. The wireless body-implantable device of claim 2 , further comprising an optical sensor configured to detect fluorescence emitted by fluorescent protein markers reacting in an analyte.9. The wireless body-implantable device of claim 2 , further comprising an electromagnetic wireless receive system.10. The wireless body-implantable device of claim 9 , further comprising a power management system that is configured to receive power for ...

METHOD OF PRODUCING THIN ENZYME-BASED SENSING LAYERS ON PLANAR SENSORS

A sensor implanted in tissues and including a sensing layer is fabricated by mixing the signal transduction enzyme with non-reactive components including buffer salts and fillers, and spin coating the enzyme onto a substrate. The signal transduction enzyme is crosslinked by introducing the coated substrate in a vacuum chamber. In the chamber, a crosslinker evaporates and is deposited onto the enzyme, therefore crosslinking the enzyme. 1. A method comprising:coating a signal transduction enzyme onto a substrate, the signal transduction enzyme being configured to detect a molecular compound; andcrosslinking the signal transduction enzyme by depositing a crosslinker onto the signal transduction enzyme.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein coating the signal transduction enzyme onto the substrate is by spin coating.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising claim 2 , prior to spin coating the signal transduction enzyme onto the substrate: mixing the signal transduction enzyme in a solvent with at least one non-reactive component.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the at least one non-reactive component comprises a filler claim 3 , a buffer salt to regulate pH claim 3 , or both the filler and the buffer salt.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the crosslinking the signal transduction enzyme is by:placing the substrate, coated with the signal transduction enzyme, and the crosslinker in a vacuum chamber; andreducing a pressure within the vacuum chamber, thereby causing the crosslinker to vaporize and deposit onto the signal transduction enzyme.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the spin coated signal transduction enzyme is less than 1 micrometer thick.7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the solvent is water.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the signal transduction enzyme is an oxidase enzyme.9Escherichia coliPenicillium. The method of claim 8 , wherein the signal transduction enzyme is selected from the group consisting of: malate oxidase claim 8 , EC 1.1.3.3 claim 8 , ...

SWITCHABLE LOW VOLTAGE ELECTROCHEMICAL SENSING FOR INTERFERING SPECIES REJECTION

A sensor implanted in tissues and including a sensing enzyme takes an electrical measurement and compares it to reference curves for the voltage current relationship. The sensor determines whether molecular compounds are present which interfere with the detection of the molecule of interest. If interfering species are found, the measurement voltage is set in a low range to reduce errors, while if the interfering species are not found, the measurement voltage is set in a high range to increase the detected signal. 1. A sensor to detect a molecule of interest , the sensor comprising:a substrate;a working electrode on the substrate;a reference electrode on the substrate;a counter electrode on the substrate; andan enzyme layer covering the working electrode, be implanted in biological tissue;', 'apply a plurality of voltages to the working electrode;', 'measure a plurality of currents at the working electrode, each current of the plurality of currents corresponding to a voltage of the plurality of voltages;', 'generate a measurement curve of the plurality of currents plotted against the plurality of voltages;', 'compare the measurement curve to a reference curve, the reference curve corresponding to a measurement of the molecule of interest without interfering species;', select a first current of the plurality of currents corresponding to a first voltage; and', 'calculate a concentration of the molecule of interest based on the first current;, 'if the measurement curve corresponds to the reference curve, select a second current of the plurality of currents corresponding to a second voltage, the second voltage being lower than the first voltage; and', 'calculate a concentration of the molecule of interest based on the second current., 'if the measurement curve does not correspond to the reference curve], 'wherein the sensor is configured to2. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein the working electrode claim 1 , the reference electrode claim 1 , and the counter electrode are ...

SIGNAL ENCODING AND DECODING IN MULTIPLEXED BIOCHEMICAL ASSAYS

This disclosure provides methods, systems, compositions, and kits for the multiplexed detection of a plurality of analytes in a sample. In some examples, this disclosure provides methods, systems, compositions, and kits wherein multiple analytes may be detected in a single sample volume by acquiring a cumulative measurement or measurements of at least one quantifiable component of a signal. In some cases, additional components of a signal, or additional signals (or components thereof) are also quantified. Each signal or component of a signal may be used to construct a coding scheme which can then be used to determine the presence or absence of any analyte. 120-. (canceled)21. An assay that is capable of unambiguously detecting the presence or absence of each of at least M analytes ,wherein each of said M analytes is encoded as a value of one component of a fluorescent signal,wherein said fluorescent signal comprises F wavelength components, andwherein said assay is capable of detecting the presence or absence of each of said at least M analytes, in any combination of presence or absence, in a single sample volume without immobilization, separation, mass spectrometry, or melting curve analysis, based on detection of said F wavelength components, when M is greater than F.22. The assay of claim 21 , wherein each of said at least M analytes is encoded as at least one first value in a first component of said fluorescent signal and at least one second value in a second component of said fluorescent signal.23. The assay of claim 22 , wherein said first value is an intensity or range of intensities.24. The assay of claim 21 , wherein said detecting is performed with reagents comprising hybridization probes.25. The assay of claim 24 , wherein said hybridization probes comprise one or more hybridization probes specific for different analytes and comprising an identical fluorophore or combination of fluorophores.26. The assay of claim 21 , wherein said signal is generated ...

Compact Hyperspectral Mid-Infrared Spectrometer

An infrared spectrometer for operation in the mid-infrared spectral range is presented, where the spectrometer includes a Bragg-mirror-based spectral filter that is operative for providing an interrogation signal whose spectral content is dispersed along a first direction at a filter aperture. The filter aperture is imaged through a sample by a thermal-imaging camera to create a focused image that is based on the interrogation signal and the absorption characteristics of the sample. As a result, embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure can be smaller, less complex, and less expensive than infrared spectrometers known in the prior art. 1100110. A spectrometer () for analyzing a sample () , the spectrometer being configured for operation in the mid-infrared spectral range , and the spectrometer comprising:{'b': 102', '112', '1', '1, 'a source () that provides a source signal () having a first spectral range (SR) that includes a plurality of wavelength signals (λ-λn), wherein each wavelength signal of the plurality thereof is characterized by a different wavelength;'}{'b': 104', '116', '1', '114', '118', '116', '2', '2, 'a spectral filter () that receives the source signal at a first surface (-) and provides at least a portion of the source signal as an interrogation signal () at a filter aperture () included in a second surface (-), wherein the interrogation signal has a second spectral range (SR) that includes the plurality of wavelength signals, the second spectral range being within the mind-infrared spectral range, and wherein the plurality of wavelength signals is dispersed along a first direction at the filter aperture; and'}{'b': 106', '124', '130', '136, 'a camera () that includes a lens () and a plurality of detector elements (), wherein the camera is operative for providing an output signal () based on light incident on the plurality of detector elements;'}{'b': 118', '132, 'wherein the camera and spectral filter are arranged such that the ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR CONDUCTING ASSAYS AND HIGH THROUGHPUT SCREENING

The present invention provides microfluidic devices and methods for using the same. In particular, microfluidic devices of the present invention are useful in conducting a variety of assays and high throughput screening. Microfluidic devices of the present invention include elastomeric components and comprise a main flow channel; a plurality of branch flow channels; a plurality of control channels; and a plurality of valves. Preferably, each of the valves comprises one of the control channels and an elastomeric segment that is deflectable into or retractable from the main or branch flow channel upon which the valve operates in response to an actuation force applied to the control channel. 13.-. (canceled)4. A method of conducting cellular analysis , comprising(a) providing a suspension of cells,(b) labeling at least a portion of the cells with a labelled ligand,(c) introducing the cells into a channel configured and arranged to deliver a plurality of individual cells from the suspension into a mass spectrometer,(d) measuring the label from the plurality of individual cells by mass spectrometry to determine a property of the individual cells.5. The method of wherein the ligand is an antibody.6. The method of wherein the label is a mass label.7. The method of wherein the property is a cell surface protein. This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/026,587, filed Feb. 14, 2011, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/127,720, filed May 27, 2008, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/416,418, filed Oct. 23, 2003, which is a U.S. national phase application of International Patent Application No. PCT/US2001/044869, filed Nov. 16, 2001, which claims priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/249,327, filed Nov. 16, 2000, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/281,946, filed Apr. 6, 2001, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/281,948, filed Apr. 6, 2001, all of ...

Infrared Spectrometer Having Dielectric-Polymer-Based Spectral Filter

An infrared spectrometer for operation in the mid-infrared spectral range is disclosed, where the spectrometer includes a Bragg-mirror-based spectral filter that is operative for providing an output optical signal whose spectral content is spatially dispersed along a first direction, where the Bragg mirrors include low-refractive-index layers comprising a polymer material that is transmissive across the mid-infrared spectral range and is characterized by less than ten absorption peaks with the operating spectral range of the spectrometer.

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR CONDUCTING ASSAYS AND HIGH THROUGHPUT SCREENING

The present invention provides microfluidic devices and methods for using the same. In particular, microfluidic devices of the present invention are useful in conducting a variety of assays and high throughput screening. Microfluidic devices of the present invention include elastomeric components and comprise a main flow channel; a plurality of branch flow channels; a plurality of control channels; and a plurality of valves. Preferably, each of the valves comprises one of the control channels and an elastomeric segment that is deflectable into or retractable from the main or branch flow channel upon which the valve operates in response to an actuation force applied to the control channel. 1. A microfluidic device for conducting cellular assays , comprising:a main flow channel;an input adapted to receive a first solution and in fluid communication with the main flow channel, whereby solution introduced into the input can flow into the main flow channel;a plurality of control channels;a plurality of chambers positioned along the main flow channel and in fluid communication therewith, such that solution flowing through the main flow channel can be stored in the chambers;a plurality of branch flow channels, wherein each branch flow channel is in fluid communication with a branch inlet, each branch inlet adapted to receive a second solution and in fluid communication with one of the chambers, different branch flow channels being in fluid communication with different chambers;a plurality of storage valves, wherein a pair of storage valves are operatively disposed with respect to each of the branch flow channels, and wherein each of the storage valves comprises an elastomeric segment that separates one of the branch flow channels and one of the control channels and that is deflectable into or retractable from the flow channel upon which the valve operates in response to an actuation force applied to the control channel, the storage valves of a pair being disposed with ...

MINIMALLY INVASIVE WIRELESS SENSING DEVICES AND METHODS

A sensing device allows detection of biological quantities in ways that are minimally invasive. Micrometer or nanometer sized needles allow sensing of bodily fluids in a minimally invasive method. The device comprises electronics and power harvesting. Antennas or coils allow communication and power harvesting from an external device, which can be attached to smartphones to allow operation of a camera and camera light for biosensing. 13.-. (canceled)4. A system comprising:a sensing device and a snap-on accessory coupled to the sensing device, the snap-on accessory being configured to filter electromagnetic radiation from the sensing device to an external reader device and vice versa,wherein the sensing device comprisesa containera plurality of needles connected to the container and configured to allow a fluid flow from the needles to the container or vice versa, andat least one sensor configured to analyze fhe fluid in the container.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the external reader device is a smartphone.6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the smartphone comprises an app configured to operate the sensing device and allow communication between the sensing device and the external reader device.7. The system of claim 6 , wherein the sensing device is configured to be implanted in a biological body and the app is further configured to detect a location of the implanted sensing device through the antenna or coil.8. The system of claim 4 , further comprising at least one photovoltaic cell claim 4 , the at least one photovoltaic cell configured to provide power to the at least one sensor.9. The system of claim 4 , wherein the sensing device is configured to be implanted in a biological body.10. The system of claim 4 , wherein the at least one sensor comprises a first sensor and a second sensor claim 4 , the first sensor configured to detect a signal different from the second sensor.11. The system of claim 4 , wherein the container contains a drug and the fluid flow is ...

OPTICAL SENSOR FOR ANALYTE DETECTION

Devices, systems, and methods for detection of an analyte in a sample are disclosed. In some embodiments, an optical sensor can include a metallic layer and a plurality of dielectric pillars extending through the metallic layer. A plurality of regions of concentrated light can be supported in proximity to the ends of the plurality of dielectric pillars when a surface of the metallic layer is illuminated. Concentrated light within one or more of these regions can interact with an analyte molecule, allowing for detection of the analyte. 1. A device for detecting an analyte within a sample , the device comprising:a metallic layer; anda plurality of dielectric pillars extending through the metallic layer,wherein a plurality of regions of concentrated light are supported in proximity to the ends of the plurality of dielectric pillars when a surface of the metallic layer is illuminated.2. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a dielectric layer having a top surface and a bottom surface claim 1 , wherein the metallic layer is formed on the top surface of the dielectric layer claim 1 , and wherein the plurality of regions of concentrated light are supported in proximity to the ends of the plurality of dielectric pillars when the bottom surface of the metallic layer is illuminated.3. The device of claim 2 , further comprising a window formed on the bottom surface of the dielectric layer below the plurality of dielectric pillars.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of regions of concentrated light comprise spatially-separated voxels above each of the plurality of dielectric pillars to which the light is substantially confined.5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the electric field strength of the light decays exponentially with height above the plurality of dielectric pillars.6. The device of claim 1 , wherein one or more of the plurality of dielectric pillars has a circular cross-section.7. The device of claim 1 , wherein one or more of the plurality of ...

MULTIPLEXED SURFACE ENHANCED RAMAN SENSORS FOR EARLY DISEASE DETECTION AND IN-SITU BACTERIAL MONITORING

Methods and systems for nanopillar sensors are described. Nanopillars can be defined on a substrate, and metal deposited on the nanopillars. A thermal treatment can reflow the metal on the nanopillars forming metallic bulbs on the top end of the nanopillars. These structures can have enhanced optical detection when functionalized with biological agents, or can detect gases, particles and liquids through interaction with the metal layer on the nanopillars. 1. (canceled)2. A method to produce a sensor for multiplexed detection , comprising:providing a substrate, the substrate comprising at least one recessed region and nanopillars defined in the at least one recessed region;attaching to said substrate a first plurality of first chemical linkers;providing a second plurality of second chemical linkers, each second chemical linker capable of binding to a first chemical linker;allowing the first and second pluralities of chemical linkers to interact under such conditions and for such a time as to allow binding of some or all of the chemical linkers of the second plurality to some or all of the chemical linkers of the first plurality to generate a third plurality of first and second chemical linkers, each first chemical linker of the third plurality bound to a second chemical linker of the third plurality, and a fourth plurality of first chemical linkers, each first chemical linker of the fourth plurality unbound to a second chemical linker of the fourth plurality; and 'unbounding the second chemical linkers of the third plurality of chemical linkers from the first chemical linkers of the third plurality of chemical linkers to expose the first chemical linkers of the third plurality attached to the substrate in that area.', 'performing at least one functionalization step to produce a sensor for multiplexed detection, each functionalization step comprising the step of3. The method of claim 2 , wherein each functionalization step further comprises the step of:providing a ...

CHROMOPHORE-BASED CHARACTERIZATION AND DETECTION METHODS

This disclosure provides methods, compositions and kits for the detection of a plurality of analytes in a sample. In some examples, this disclosure provides methods, compositions, and kits for detecting analytes, genetic variations, monitoring reaction process, and monitoring analyte-analyte interactions by measuring signals. In some examples, the presence of signals or changes in signals may be used to construct signal profiles which can be used to detect analytes. 1. A method of detecting at least one nucleic acid target in a sample , comprising:a) performing at least one cycle of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with a first nucleic acid target, a first forward (FWD) primer and a first rewind (RWD) primer, wherein a first quencher is ligated to the 5′ end of the first FWD primer, a first fluorophore is ligated to the 5′ end of the first RWD primer, and the first FWD primer and the first RWD primer are specific for the first nucleic acid target; andb) measuring a first fluorescent signal generated by the first fluorophore and quencher after each cycle of the PCR;wherein an attenuation of the first fluorescent signal indicates the presence of the first nucleic acid target.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first nucleic acid target is a DNA target.3. A method of detecting multiple nucleic acid targets of differing lengths comprising:a) contacting the multiple nucleic acid targets with a plurality of forward (FWD) and rewind (RWD) primers, wherein each of the FWD and RWD primers are specific for a single nucleic acid target, the FWD primers comprise a quencher and the RWD primers comprise a fluorophore;b) conducting a polymerase chain reaction (PCR); andc) measuring an endpoint fluorescence of each target, wherein the endpoint fluorescence for each target is different.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the RWD primers comprise the same fluorophore.5. A method of detecting the morphology of a polymer claim 3 , comprising:a) providing a sample containing the ...

FRET-BASED ANALYTES DETECTION AND RELATED METHODS AND SYSTEMS

FRET-based analytes detection and related methods and systems are described where a pair of FRET labeled primers and/or oligonucleotides are used that are specific for target sequences located at a distance up to four time the Förster distance of the FRET chromophores presented on the FRET labeled primers and/or oligonucleotides one with respect to the other in one or more polynucleotide analyte; in particular the pair of FRET labeled primers and/or oligonucleotides is combined with a sample and subjected to one or more polynucleotide amplification reactions before measuring FRET signals from at least one FRET chromophore. 1. A kit to detect at least one polynucleotide analyte in a sample ,the kit comprising at least one primer pair formed by a forward primer attaching a first FRET chromophore and a reverse primer attaching a second FRET chromophore,whereinthe first FRET chromophore and the second FRET chromophore are selected to provide an energy transfer from one to another when located at a Förster distance one with respect to the another thus forming a FRET donor-acceptor chromophore pair;the forward primer has a sequence specific for a first single strand target polynucleotide within the at least one polynucleotide analyte,the reverse primer has a sequence specific for a second single strand target polynucleotide within the at least one polynucleotide analyte,the first single strand target polynucleotide and the second single strand target polynucleotide are located within the at least only polynucleotide analyte so that upon specific binding of the forward primer with the first target polynucleotide and specific binding of the reverse primer with the second target polynucleotide, the first FRET chromophore and the second FRET chromophore are located at a distance up to four time the Förster distance one with respect to the other,and wherein at least one or both the first FRET chromophore and the second FRET chromophore is attached near a 5′ end of at least one ...

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR EXCHANGING SIGNALS WITH MEDICAL OR PHYSIOLOGICAL INSTRUMENTATION

A process is described for testing a biomedical property of an internal tissue of a patient. Optical energy emitted by an external source is transferred through a nail of the patient to an instrument device implanted beneath the nail. A portion of the transferred optical energy is converted to electrical power for driving components of the implanted instrument. Using the electrical power, a characteristic of the internal tissue associated with the measurement of the biomedical property is sensed and an optical signal based on the sensed characteristic is transmitted through the nail to an external data reader. 1. A method for testing a biomedical property of an internal tissue of a patient , the method comprising:transferring optical energy emitted by an external source through a nail of the patient to an instrument device implanted beneath the nail;converting a portion of the transferred optical energy to electrical power for driving one or more components of the implanted instrument;sensing a characteristic of the internal tissue associated with the measurement of the biomedical property using the electrical power;transmitting an output data signal based on the sensed characteristic through the nail to an external data reader.2. The method as recited in wherein the transferred optical energy comprises claim 1 , at least in part claim 1 , an input data signal.3. The method as recited in wherein one or more of the sensing the tissue characteristic or the transmitting the output signal is performed responsive to the input data signal.4. The method as recited in wherein the internal tissue comprises blood within a capillary beneath the nail.5. The method as recited in wherein the sensed characteristic relates to one or more of a metabolic claim 4 , electrolytic claim 4 , nutritional claim 4 , developmental claim 4 , pharmacological claim 4 , physiological claim 4 , biological claim 4 , experimental claim 4 , or pathological condition of the patient.6. The method as ...

III-V PHOTONIC CRYSTAL MICROLASER BONDED ON SILICON-ON-INSULATOR

Novel methods and systems for miniaturized lasers are described. A photonic crystal is bonded to a silicon-on-insulator wafer. The photonic crystal includes air-holes and can include a waveguide which couples the laser output to a silicon waveguide. 1. A photonic crystal microlaser structure , the structure comprising:a first electrode;a silicon layer, contacting the first electrode;a silicon dioxide layer, contacting the silicon layer;a silicon photonic crystal region, contacting the silicon dioxide layer;a III-V semiconductor photonic crystal region, contacting the silicon photonic crystal region; anda second electrode, contacting the III-V semiconductor photonic crystal region.2. The photonic crystal microlaser structure of claim 1 , wherein the III-V semiconductor photonic crystal region comprises:an n-type layer;a p-type layer;a quantum well layer between the n-type layer and the p-type layer; anda III-V semiconductor substrate, contacting the p-type layer or the n-type layer.3. The photonic crystal microlaser structure of claim 2 , wherein the III-V semiconductor photonic crystal region further comprises barrier layers between the n-type layer and the quantum well layer claim 2 , and between the quantum well layer and the p-type layer.4. The photonic crystal microlaser structure of claim 2 , wherein the n-type layer is an n-InGaAsP layer claim 2 , the quantum well layer is a InGaAsP layer claim 2 , the p-type layer is a p-InGaAsP layer claim 2 , and the III-V semiconductor substrate is a InP substrate.5. The photonic crystal microlaser structure of claim 1 , wherein a portion of the III-V semiconductor photonic crystal region and of the silicon photonic crystal region are shaped in a mesa structure.6. The photonic crystal microlaser structure of claim 5 , wherein the mesa structure is hexagonal.7. The photonic crystal microlaser structure of claim 6 , further comprising:a photonic crystal resonator in a center of the mesa structure;a photonic crystal waveguide ...

MINIATURIZED IMPLANTABLE ELECTROCHEMICAL SENSOR DEVICES

An implantable device having a communication system, a sensor, and a monolithic substrate is described. The monolithic substrate has an integrated sensor circuit configured to process input from the sensor into a form conveyable by the communication system. 1. An implantable device comprising:a communication system;a sensor; anda monolithic substrate comprising an integrated sensor circuit configured to process input from the sensor into a form conveyable by the communication system, and a an integrated power supply configured to receive energy from an external source.2. The implantable device of wherein the sensor is an integrated sensor and the monolithic substrate further comprises the integrated sensor.3. The implantable device of claim 2 , wherein the communication system is located on a first face of the monolithic substrate and the sensor is located on a second face of the monolithic substrate.4. The implantable device of claim 1 , wherein the monolithic substrate has a height less than 200 microns and a length and width of less than 500 microns.5. The implantable device of claim 1 , wherein the communication system comprises a modulator claim 1 , an output driver claim 1 , and a transmission system.6. The implantable device of claim 5 , wherein the modulator comprises a control circuit and a pulse width modulator.7. The implantable device of claim 2 , wherein the sensor comprises at least one working electrode claim 2 , at least one reference electrode claim 2 , and at least one counter electrode.8. The implantable device of claim 2 , wherein the sensor comprises a counter electrode claim 2 , a reference electrode claim 2 , and at least two working electrodes.9. The implantable device of claim 2 , wherein the power supply is a photovoltaic power supply.10. The implantable device of claim 1 , wherein the monolithic substrate is a CMOS die.11. The implantable device of claim 3 , further comprising a hole that passes from the first face of the monolithic ...

FLUIDIC DEVICES AND FABRICATION METHODS FOR MICROFLUIDICS

A fluidic device including a body having a surface and one or more channels located in the body. Recesses are defined on said surface. The one or more channels can have respective boundaries. A layer of adhesive including one or more panel-shaped pieces having a pattern based on the pattern of boundaries of the channels can be formed and applied on the surface of the body. It is further controlled that the layer of adhesive has respective boundaries surrounding the boundaries of the one or more channels. 1. A fluidic device comprising:a body having a surface and one or more channels located in the body and defining one or more recesses on said surface, the one or more channels having respective boundaries; anda layer of adhesive placed on the surface, wherein the layer of adhesive includes one or more panel-shaped pieces having a pattern which is based on the pattern of boundaries of the one or more recesses.2. The fluidic device of claim 1 , wherein the surface is an exposed surface of the body.3. The fluidic device of claim 1 , further comprising a substrate and wherein the surface is bonded to the substrate by means of the layer of adhesive.4. The fluidic device of claim 1 , wherein the body includes protrusions which protrude from the surface and surrounds the one or more channels claim 1 , such protrusions separating the layer of adhesive from the one or more channels.5. The fluidic device of claim 4 , wherein the surface has depressed regions which accommodate the layer of adhesive and define said protrusions claim 4 , said protrusions being able to avoid contact between the layer of adhesive and fluid passing through the one or more channels.6. The fluidic device of claim 1 , wherein a small offset is interposed between boundaries of the one or more channels and boundaries of the layer of adhesive.7. The fluidic device of claim 1 , wherein a plurality of panel-shaped pieces of the layer of adhesive are applied on respective selective zones of the surfaces and ...

IMPLANTABLE MICRO-SENSOR TO QUANTIFY DISSOLVED INERT GAS

Methods and devices including implantable micro-sensors used to detect tissue-dissolved inert gas and to detect microbubble formation to avoid Caisson disease are described. The disclosed methods and devices are based on measuring the refractive index changes in hydrophobic liquids after absorbing an inert gas such as nitrogen. The changes in the refractive index are based on implementing one of an interferometry, optical microcavity resonance shift, a photonic crystal resonance, a beam deflection, a resonance tuning or detuning, an amplitude change, or an intensity change method. 123.-. (canceled)24. A sensor comprising:a capsule filled with a hydrophobic liquid; anda measurement unit connected with the capsule, the measurement unit being configured to detect and quantify a concentration of an inert gas by measuring a physical change of the hydrophobic liquid due to a dissolving of the inert gas in the hydrophobic liquid, the physical change being a change in a refractive index of the hydrophobic liquid,wherein the measurement unit is further configured to measure the change in the refractive index by implementing one of an interferometry, optical microcavity resonance shift, a photonic crystal resonance, a beam deflection, a resonance tuning or detuning, an amplitude change, or an intensity change method.25. The sensor of claim 24 , wherein the hydrophobic liquid comprises one of lipid claim 24 , gel claim 24 , or oil.26. The sensor of claim 24 , wherein the inert gas comprises one of nitrogen claim 24 , helium claim 24 , neon claim 24 , krypton claim 24 , argon claim 24 , or a mixture thereof.27. The sensor of claim 26 , wherein dimensions of the capsule are on a scale of microns claim 26 , tens of microns claim 26 , or hundreds of microns.28. The sensor of claim 27 , wherein the sensor is implantable in animal or human subjects29. A method of detecting and quantifying a concentration of an inert gas dissolved in a hydrophobic liquid claim 27 , comprising: ...

FABRICATION AND SELF-ALIGNED LOCAL FUNCTIONALIZATION OF NANOCUPS AND VARIOUS PLASMONIC NANOSTRUCTURES ON FLEXIBLE SUBSTRATES FOR IMPLANTABLE AND SENSING APPLICATIONS

Methods for fabricating flexible substrate nanostructured devices are disclosed. The nanostructures comprise nano-pillars and metallic bulbs or nano-apertures. The nanostructures can be functionalized to detect biological entities. The flexible substrates can be rolled into cylindrical tubes for detection of fluidic samples. 1. A method comprising:etching a silicon substrate to form silicon nanostructures on top of the silicon substrate;oxidizing the silicon nanostructures to form silicon oxide nanostructures;depositing a metallic layer on the silicon oxide nanostructures;reflowing the metallic layer to form metallic bulbs on a top section of the silicon oxide nanostructures;depositing a continuous flexible substrate on the metallic bulbs and on the silicon oxide nanostructures; andremoving the silicon substrate and the silicon oxide nanostructures.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the nanostructures are pillars.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the metallic layer is Au.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the continuous flexible substrate is polydimethylsiloxane.5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising depositing a sacrificial layer between the silicon oxide nanostructures and the continuous flexible substrate.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the continuous flexible substrate is transparent to optical waves.7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising reshaping the metallic bulbs prior to depositing the continuous flexible substrate.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein reshaping comprises applying a focused ion beam with a different intensity for at least two metallic bulbs.9. The method of claim 7 , wherein reshaping comprises ion milling the metallic bulbs.10. The method of claim 7 , wherein reshaping comprises shadow evaporating at an angle.11. The method of claim 10 , wherein shadow evaporating at an angle comprises shadow evaporating at an angle in successive steps claim 10 , each step being at a different angle.12. The method of claim 1 , further ...

Layered Structures for the Protection of Molecules

A multilayer structure can selectively bind certain molecules, due to reentrant spaces having an appropriate size. The multilayers can be fabricated by alternating layers of two different materials having different etching rate. The layers of the material having a higher etching rate form reentrant spaces which can protect molecules from further chemical interactions. 1. A structure comprising:a substrate;a first plurality of layers of a first material; anda second plurality of layers of a second material different than the first material, wherein the first plurality of layers and the second plurality of layers alternate to form a multilayer vertical structure protruding vertically on top of the substrate and having reentrant spaces.2. The structure of claim 1 , wherein a size of the reentrant spaces is configured to be:larger than a first molecule, thereby allowing the first molecule to enter the reentrant spaces, andsmaller than a second molecule different from the first molecule, thereby preventing the second molecule from entering the reentrant spaces.3. The structure of claim 1 , wherein the first and second materials are individually selected from the group consisting of metals claim 1 , insulators claim 1 , and semiconductors.4. The structure of claim 1 , wherein the first material is platinum and the second material is gold.5. The structure of claim 1 , wherein the first material is platinum and the second material is titanium.6. The structure of claim 1 , wherein an etching rate of the first material is less than the etching rate of the second material.7. The structure of claim 1 , wherein the multilayer structure has a circular claim 1 , elliptical claim 1 , triangular claim 1 , square claim 1 , or rectangular cross-section.8. The structure of claim 1 , further comprising a layer of a third material deposited on a top surface of the multilayer vertical structure.9. The structure of claim 8 , wherein the third material is gold.10. The structure of claim 1 , ...

CHROMOPHORE-BASED CHARACTERIZATION AND DETECTION METHODS

This disclosure provides methods, compositions and kits for the detection of a plurality of analytes in a sample. In some examples, this disclosure provides methods, compositions, and kits for detecting analytes, genetic variations, monitoring reaction process, and monitoring analyte-analyte interactions by measuring signals. In some examples, the presence of signals or changes in signals may be used to construct signal profiles which can be used to detect analytes. 1. A method of detecting at least one genetic variation in a polynucleotide analyte in a sample , comprising:a) combining the sample comprising the polynucleotide analyte with a first primer and a second primer, wherein a fluorophore is attached to the first primer, a quencher is attached to the second primer, the first primer and the second primer are specific for the first polynucleotide analyte and the fluorophore is different from the quencher;b) measuring a first signal generated by the fluorophore and quencher;c) performing at least one polymerization reaction with the first primer and the second primer using the polynucleotide analyte as a template;d) measuring a second signal generated by the fluorophore and quencher;e) comparing the first and second signals to determine a change between the first and second signals; andf) determining the presence or absence of the at least one genetic variation based i) on the change in signal as determined in step e); and ii) by further comparing said change to the change in signal observed for an analyte without the at least one genetic variation.2. A kit for detecting at least one genetic variation in a polynucleotide analyte in a sample , comprising a first primer and a second primer , wherein a fluorophore is attached to the first primer , a quencher is attached to the second primer , the first primer and the second primer are specific for the polynucleotide analyte , at least one of the first primer and the second primer hybridizes to a region of the ...

FRET-BASED ANALYTES DETECTION AND RELATED METHODS AND SYSTEMS

FRET-based analytes detection and related methods and systems are described where a pair of FRET labeled primers and/or oligonucleotides are used that are specific for target sequences located at a distance up to four time the Förster distance of the FRET chromophores presented on the FRET labeled primers and/or oligonucleotides one with respect to the other in one or more polynucleotide analyte; in particular the pair of FRET labeled primers and/or oligonucleotides is combined with a sample and subjected to one or more polynucleotide amplification reactions before measuring FRET signals from at least one FRET chromophore. 1. A kit to detect at least one polynucleotide analyte in a sample , the kit comprisingat least one primer pair formed by a forward primer attaching a first FRET chromophore and a reverse primer attaching a second FRET chromophore,whereinthe first FRET chromophore and the second FRET chromophore are selected to provide an energy transfer from one to another when located at a Förster distance one with respect to the another thus forming a FRET donor-acceptor chromophore pair;the forward primer has a sequence specific for a first single strand target polynucleotide within the at least one polynucleotide analytethe reverse primer has a sequence specific for a second single strand target polynucleotide within the at least one polynucleotide analytethe first single strand target polynucleotide and the second single strand target polynucleotide are located within the at least only polynucleotide analyte so that upon specific binding of the forward primer with the first target polynucleotide and specific binding of the reverse primer with the second target polynucleotide, the first FRET chromophore and the second FRET chromophore are located at a distance up to four time the Förster distance one with respect to the other.2. The kit of claim 1 , wherein each of the first single strand target polynucleotide and the second single strand target ...

Method for producing light-coloured polyisocyanates

The invention relates to a method for producing light-coloured polyisocyanates by phosgenation of mixtures comprising MDA and polycyclic aromatic polyamines that have o-phenylenediamine units incorporated via methylene bridges. The invention further relates to the polyisocyanate mixtures obtainable by this method.

Silicon-on-insulator channels

Novel methods to fabricate biological sensors and electronics are disclosed. A silicon-on-insulator wafer can be employed by etching a pattern of holes in the silicon layer, then a pattern of cavities in the insulating layer, and then sealing the top of the cavities. Further, n or p doped regions and metallic regions can be defined in the processed wafer, thereby enabling integration of biological sensing and electronic capabilities in the same wafer.

Microfabricated Elastomeric Valve and Pump Systems

A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate. 1. A composite structure comprising:a nonelastomer substrate having a surface bearing a first recess;a flexible elastomer membrane overlying the non-elastomer substrate, the membrane able to be actuated into the first recess; anda layer overlying the flexible elastomer membrane.2. The composite structure of wherein the layer comprises an elastomeric material.3. The composite structure of wherein the layer comprises a non-elastomeric material.4. The composite structure of wherein the layer defines a second recess overlying the membrane and crossing-over the first recess claim 1 , such that a variation of a pressure in the channel causes the membrane to be actuated into the first recess.5. The composite structure of wherein the first recess comprises a channel. This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/278,061, filed Oct. 20, 2011, which is a divisional of U.S. patent Ser. No. 12/556,373, filed Sep. 9, 2009, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/552,644, filed Oct. 25, 2006, which is a divisional of U.S. patent ...

Cuvette Having High Optical Transmissivity and Method of Forming

The present disclosure is directed toward a cuvette for holding a test sample during optical interrogation with a light signal. The transmissivity of the cuvette is increased by a geometric anti-reflection layer disposed on at least one surface of the cuvette, where the geometric anti-reflection layer includes a plurality of geometric features that collectively reduce the reflectivity of the interface between the surface and another medium. As a result, more of the interrogation signal passes through the interface. In some embodiments, every surface through which the interrogation signal passes includes a geometric anti-reflection layer. Due to the increased transmissivity of the cuvette, light detected after passing through it can have an improved signal-to-noise ratio and/or the light signal used to interrogate the sample can have lower intensity. In addition, the reduction of the reflectivity of each surface enables the use of low-cost, high-refractive-index materials, such as conventional silicon. 1. An optical element comprising a body having:a first wall having a first surface that defines a first plane and a second surface that defines a second plane, wherein the first surface comprises a first material;a second wall having a third surface that defines a third plane and a fourth surface that defines a fourth plane; anda first plurality of features that collectively define a first geometric anti-reflection layer, each feature extending from a first base at the first plane to a tip;wherein the second surface and third surface define at least a portion of a chamber for holding a test sample;wherein a flat surface comprising the first material is characterized by a first reflectivity for a first light signal; andwherein the first geometric anti-reflection layer and the first surface are collectively characterized by a second reflectivity for the first light signal that is lower than the first reflectivity.2. The optical element of further comprising a second ...

System for Analyzing a Test Sample and Method Therefor

The present disclosure is directed toward a measurement system capable of rapid spectroscopic and calorimetric analysis of the chemical makeup of a test sample. Systems in accordance with the present disclosure include a low-thermal-mass sample holder having a substrate whose surface has been engineered to create a large-area sample-collection surface. The sample holder includes an integrated temperature controller that can rapidly heat or cool the test sample. As a result, the sample holder enables differential scanning calorimetry Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (DSC-FTIR) that can be performed in minutes rather than hours, as required in the prior art. 1104304310312320112. An apparatus that includes a sample holder () having a sample-collection surface () comprising a first planar surface () and a plurality of features () that project from the first planar surface , wherein the plurality of features collectively defines a plurality of voids () configured to locate a test sample ().21. The apparatus of wherein the features of the plurality thereof are separated by an average spacing (s) such that the plurality of features is operative as a filter for particles having a lateral dimension greater than the average spacing.3702. The apparatus of wherein at least one feature of the plurality thereof includes at least one nanostructure ().4110306308. The apparatus of wherein the sample holder further includes a temperature controller () having an element selected from the group consisting of a heater () and a cooler ().5110306308. The apparatus of wherein the sample holder further includes a temperature controller () that includes a heater () and a cooler ().6. The apparatus of further comprising:{'b': 102', '118, 'a radiation source () that is operative for providing an interrogation signal () to the test sample;'}{'b': 106', '120, 'a detector () that is operative for detecting the spectral content of an output signal (), wherein the spectral content is based ...

THREE-DIMENSIONAL HIGH SURFACE AREA ELECTRODES

Three dimensional high surface electrodes are described. The electrodes are fabricated by methods including the steps: designing the pillars; selecting a material for the formation of the pillars; patterning the material; transferring the pattern to form the pillars; insulating the pillars and providing a metal layer for increased conductivity. Alternative methods for fabrication of the electrodes and fabrication of the electrodes using CMOS are also described. 1. A three dimensional high surface electrode comprising at least one pillar between 1 micron and 50 nm tall with a core of silicon or silicon alloy , a complete and uniform layer of insulator between 50 nm and 250 nm , and a complete and uniform layer of conductive metal between 50 nm and 250 nm.2. A three dimensional high surface area electrode comprising at least one pillar between 1 micron and 50 nm tall with a core of a CMOS layer and a complete and uniform layer of conductive metal between 50 nm and 250 nm.3. The three dimensional high surface area electrode of wherein the aspect ratio of the at least one pillar is between 18 and 20.4. The three dimensional high surface area electrode of wherein the aspect ratio of the at least one pillar is between 18 and 20. The present application is a Divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/106,701 filed on Dec. 13, 2013, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional application 61/736,944 filed on Dec. 13, 2012, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.The present disclosure relates to electrodes. More particularly, it relates to three-dimensional high surface area electrodes.One of the many aspects to consider when fabricating an implantable sensor is minimizing the foreign body reaction to the implantable sensor. In particular, an aim would be minimizing the complexity of the process for implanting the sensor and the resultant damage which may occur during the implantation.High surface area electrodes with very small geometrical areas ...

MICROFLUIDIC SEPARATION DEVICE AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME

A device and method for making a microfluidic separation device. A microfluidic separation device could include a microfluidic column having an inlet, the microfluidic column being configured to hold a first fluid and the microfluidic column including a porous portion, and an outlet attached to the microfluidic column, the outlet being configured to output a second fluid. The method may include providing a microfluidic column having an inlet, configuring the microfluidic column to hold a first fluid, forming a porous portion in the microfluidic column, and attaching an outlet to the microfluidic column. 111-. (canceled)12. A method of making a microfluidic separation device , the method comprising:providing a microfluidic column having an inlet;configuring the microfluidic column to hold a first fluid;forming a porous portion in the microfluidic column; andattaching an outlet to the microfluidic column.13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the forming the porous portion further comprises including one of a filter claim 12 , a paper filter; a sodium silicate frit claim 12 , a partially fused material.14. The method of claim 12 , wherein the configuring the microfluidic column to hold the first fluid includes configuring the microfluidic column to process less than a range of 100 nanoliter to 1 milliliter of at least one of the first fluid and a second fluid claim 12 , the second fluid passing through the outlet.15. The method of claim 12 , wherein the providing the microfluidic column further comprises including a silica in the column.16. The method of claim 12 , wherein the providing the microfluidic column includes one of providing an elution column and providing an affinity column.17. The method of further comprising urging the first fluid towards the porous portion.18. The method of claim 12 , wherein the forming the porous portion includes temporarily sealing the microfluidic column claim 12 , and wherein the method further comprises configuring the outlet to ...