TECHNOLOGIES FOR CONCURRENCY OF CUCKOO HASHING FLOW LOOKUP

Technologies for supporting concurrency of a flow lookup table at a network device. The flow lookup table includes a plurality of candidate buckets that each includes one or more entries. The network device includes a flow lookup table write module configured to perform a displacement operation of a key/value pair to move the key/value pair from one bucket to another bucket via an atomic instruction and increment a version counter associated with the buckets affected by the displacement operation. The network device additionally includes a flow lookup table read module to check the version counters during a lookup operation on the flow lookup table to determine whether a displacement operation is affecting the presently read value of the buckets. Other embodiments are described herein and claimed.

MULTI-CORE COMMUNICATION ACCELERATION USING HARDWARE QUEUE DEVICE

Apparatus and methods implementing a hardware queue management device for reducing inter-core data transfer overhead by offloading request management and data coherency tasks from the CPU cores. The apparatus include multi-core processors, a shared L3 or last-level cache (“LLC”), and a hardware queue management device to receive, store, and process inter-core data transfer requests. The hardware queue management device further comprises a resource management system to control the rate in which the cores may submit requests to reduce core stalls and dropped requests. Additionally, software instructions are introduced to optimize communication between the cores and the queue management device.

Apparatus and methods for integrated sample preparation, reaction and detection

Cartridges for the isolation of a biological sample and downstream biological assays on the sample are provided, as are methods for using such cartridges. In one embodiment, a nucleic acid sample is isolated from a biological sample and the nucleic acid sample is amplified, for example by the polymerase chain reaction. The cartridges provided herein can also be used for the isolation of non-nucleic acid samples, for example proteins, and to perform downstream reactions on the proteins, for example, binding assays. Instruments for carrying out the downstream biological assays and for detecting the results of the assays are also provided.

ANTI-KIR ANTIBODIES

Provided herein are compositions (e.g., killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR)-targeting agents) that target a subset of T lymphocytes present in disease states (e.g., lupus and other autoimmune diseases) and methods of treating conditions and/or diseases therewith. In particular, anti-KIR antibodies, fragments thereof, or related compositions are provided for the treatment of conditions and/or diseases (e.g., lupus and other autoimmune diseases, atherosclerosis, etc.).

METHOD OF FABRICATING CYLINDRICAL POLYMER MASK

A cylindrical mask may be fabricated using a hollow casting cylinder and a mask cylinder. The casting cylinder has an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the mask cylinder. The casting and mask cylinders are coaxially assembled and a liquid polymer inserted in a space surrounding the mask cylinder between the inner surface of the casting cylinder and the outer surface of the mask cylinder. After curing the liquid polymer, the casting cylinder is removed. A surface of the cured polymer can be patterned. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 1. A method of making a rotatable mask , the method comprising:a) depositing a first polymer precursor liquid on a first surface of a first master mask, wherein the first surface of the first master mask includes a pattern;b) curing the first polymer precursor liquid to create a first cured polymer, wherein the first cured polymer and the first master mask together form a laminate;c) configuring a first end of the laminate to have a strip of the first cured polymer missing and a second end of the laminate to have a strip of the first master mask missing;d) rolling the laminate inside of a first casting component;e) depositing a second polymer precursor liquid in a gap of the rolled laminate that corresponds to the strip of the first cured polymer;f) curing the second polymer precursor liquid to form a second cured polymer, whereby the first cured polymer and the second cured polymer together form a compliant layer for the rotatable mask, whereby the outer surface of the compliant layer includes a pattern that corresponds to the pattern of the first master mask.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:g) removing the ...

Apparatus and methods for integrated sample preparation, reaction and detection

Cartridges for the isolation of a biological sample and downstream biological assays on the sample are provided. In one embodiment, a nucleic acid sample is isolated from a biological sample and the nucleic acid sample is amplified, for example by the polymerase chain reaction. The cartridges provided herein can also be used for the isolation of non-nucleic acid samples, for example proteins, and to perform downstream reactions on the proteins, for example, binding assays. Instruments for carrying out the downstream biological assays and for detecting the results of the assays are also provided.

Socket coupling receptacle

An interchangeable socket for a socket wrench or other tool is disclosed. The socket has a fastener-receiving end, dimensioned to receive and fit a specified fastener. The socket has a post-receiving end dimensioned to receive and fit a square cross-section drive post. The post-receiving end has a square cross-section hollow bounded by four walls intersecting at corners of the hollow. The post-receiving end has guide surfaces that intersect with the four walls and each other. The guide surfaces cooperate with the drive post to rotate and align the drive post with the square cross-section hollow. The guide surfaces are symmetric with respect to the four walls. The guide surfaces are symmetric with respect to the corners of the square cross-section hollow.

Diagnostic cartridges having flexible seals

Disclosed are cartridges and modules that may be utilized in diagnostic systems and methods. The cartridge includes a flexible seal that caps the cartridge. The flexible seal has an opening for a pipette tip, and the flexible seal is configured to create a sealed environment when a pipette tip is positioned in the opening of the flexible seal and when the pipette tip is moved in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis.

Technologies for concurrency of cuckoo hashing flow lookup

Technologies for supporting concurrency of a flow lookup table at a network device. The flow lookup table includes a plurality of candidate buckets that each includes one or more entries. The network device includes a flow lookup table write module configured to perform a displacement operation of a key/value pair to move the key/value pair from one bucket to another bucket via an atomic instruction and increment a version counter associated with the buckets affected by the displacement operation. The network device additionally includes a flow lookup table read module to check the version counters during a lookup operation on the flow lookup table to determine whether a displacement operation is affecting the presently read value of the buckets. Other embodiments are described herein and claimed.

TECHNOLOGIES FOR A DISTRIBUTED HARDWARE QUEUE MANAGER

Technologies for a distributed hardware queue manager include a compute device having a procesor. The processor includes two or more hardware queue managers as well as two or more processor cores. Each processor core can enqueue or dequeue data from the hardware queue manager. Each hardware queue manager can be configured to contain several queue data structures. In some embodiments, the queues are addressed by the processor cores using virtual queue addresses, which are translated into physical queue addresses for accessing the corresponding hardware queue manager. The virtual queues can be moved from one physical queue in one hardware queue manager to a different physical queue in a different physical queue manager without changing the virtual address of the virtual queue. 1. A processor comprising:a plurality of processor cores;a plurality of hardware queue managers; andinterconnect circuitry to connect each hardware queue manager of the plurality of hardware queue managers to each processor core of the plurality of processor cores, enqueue circuitry to store data received from a processor core of the plurality of processor cores in a data queue associated with the respective hardware queue manager in response to an enqueue command generated by the processor core, wherein the enqueue command identifies the respective hardware queue manager, and', 'dequeue circuitry to retrieve the data from the data queue associated with the respective hardware queue manager in response to a dequeue command generated by a processor core of the plurality of processor cores, wherein the dequeue command identifies the respective hardware queue manager., 'wherein each hardware queue manager of the plurality of hardware queue managers comprises2. The processor of claim 1 ,wherein the enqueue command comprises a physical queue address of the respective hardware queue manager,wherein to store the data comprises to add the data to a queue data structure in queue storage circuitry of the ...

Cartridge and system for manipulating samples in liquid droplets

A cartridge manipulates samples in liquid droplets with an electrode array when a working film is placed on the array. The cartridge has a body with lower surface and wells to hold samples, each with a bottom opening to release liquid. A piercable bottom structure seals the bottom openings. A working film below the body has a hydrophobic upper surface. A peripheral spacer connects the working film to the body and forms a gap is between the body and surface. A top piercing system located in at least one of the wells has a piston and a piercing element, the piston being movable in the well and the piercing element piercing the piercable bottom structure for releasing a sample from a well into the gap.

Apparatus and method for integrated sample preparation, reaction and detection

An apparatus includes a housing, a reaction vial and a transfer mechanism. The housing defines a first flow path and a second flow path. The housing has transfer port defining an opening in fluid communication with the second flow path and a volume outside of the housing. The transfer port includes a flow control member to limit flow through the opening. The reaction vial is coupled to the housing and defines a reaction volume, which is in fluid communication with the transfer port via the second flow path. The transfer mechanism is configured to transfer a sample from an isolation chamber of an isolation module to the reaction chamber via at least the first flow path when the transfer mechanism is actuated. The transfer mechanism configured to produce a vacuum in the reaction vial to produce a flow of a sample from the isolation chamber to the reaction volume.

Packet flow classification

Technologies for packet flow classification on a computing device include a hash table including a plurality of hash table buckets in which each hash table bucket maps a plurality of keys to corresponding traffic flows. The computing device performs packet flow classification on received data packets, where the packet flow classification includes a plurality of sequential classification stages and fetch classification operations and non-fetch classification operations are performed in each classification stage. The fetch classification operations include to prefetch a key of a first received data packet based on a set of packet fields of the first received data packet for use during a subsequent classification stage, prefetch a hash table bucket from the hash table based on a key signature of the prefetched key for use during another subsequent classification stage, and prefetch a traffic flow to be applied to the first received data packet based on the prefetched hash table bucket and ...

Three-axis robotic system with linear bearing supports

A three-axis robotic system. On the first and second axes, respective linear bearings have movable carriages, and backbone-free linear bases acting as exclusive support or linear bearing supports. A first motor is mounted to the first linear bearing support and coupled to the first carriage. The second linear bearing support is attached at one end to the first carriage and may be orthogonal to the first linear bearing support. A second motor is mounted to the second linear bearing support and coupled to the second carriage. A third axis member is attached to the second carriage. The third axis member may be orthogonal to the first and second linear bearing supports. A third carriage is slidable on the third axis member. A third motor is mounted to the third axis member and coupled to the third carriage. Each respective motor and carriage may be coupled by a belt or leadscrew.

SOCKET COUPLING RECEPTACLE

An interchangeable socket for a socket wrench or other tool is disclosed. The socket has a fastener-receiving end, dimensioned to receive and fit a specified fastener. The socket has a post-receiving end dimensioned to receive and fit a square cross-section drive post. The post-receiving end has a square cross-section hollow bounded by four walls intersecting at corners of the hollow. The post-receiving end has guide surfaces that intersect with the four walls and each other. The guide surfaces cooperate with the drive post to rotate and align the drive post with the square cross-section hollow. The guide surfaces are symmetric with respect to the four walls. The guide surfaces are symmetric with respect to the corners of the square cross-section hollow. 1. An interchangeable socket for a socket wrench , torque wrench , nut driver , breaker bar or impact driver , comprising: a square cross-section hollow bounded by four walls intersecting at corners of the square cross-section hollow; and', 'guide surfaces that intersect with the four walls and with each other, and cooperate with the drive post to rotate and align the drive post with the square cross-section hollow during insertion of the drive post to the socket, the guide surfaces being symmetric with respect to the four walls and the corners of the square cross-section hollow., 'a socket having a fastener-receiving end dimensioned to receive and fit a specified fastener and a post-receiving end dimensioned to receive and fit a square cross-section drive post, the post-receiving end having2. The interchangeable socket of wherein the guide surfaces include four smoothly rounded concave surfaces that:slope downwards towards the four walls;are each symmetric about a respective one of the corners of the square cross-section hollow; andintersect along respective edges each of which slopes downward towards a respective midpoint of a top edge of a one of the four walls.3. The interchangeable socket of wherein the guide ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR INTEGRATED SAMPLE PREPARATION, REACTION AND DETECTION

An apparatus includes a housing, a reaction vial and a transfer mechanism. The housing defines a first flow path and a second flow path. The housing has transfer port defining an opening in fluid communication with the second flow path and a volume outside of the housing. The transfer port includes a flow control member to limit flow through the opening. The reaction vial is coupled to the housing and defines a reaction volume, which is in fluid communication with the transfer port via the second flow path. The transfer mechanism is configured to transfer a sample from an isolation chamber of an isolation module to the reaction chamber via at least the first flow path when the transfer mechanism is actuated. The transfer mechanism configured to produce a vacuum in the reaction vial to produce a flow of a sample from the isolation chamber to the reaction volume.

Assay device and method of assaying

A device for testing an analyte comprises a pathway allowing passage of analyte from an application zone to a waste zone. The device includes label material that emits or modifies light and which binds to the analyte. Between the application and waste zones there is a capture zone having capture material for binding any analyte traversing the pathway to the pathway. A first optical filter on one surface of the device allows transmission of light emitted or modified by the label and blocks light of at least one other wavelength range. This enables the device to be illuminated from one surface and light emitted or modified by the label to be detected from the opposite surface. The device may include a second filter allowing shorter wavelength light to reach the label. The device may be viewed using an illuminating reader or held up to a light source for viewing.

METHODS OF TRIGGERING ACTIVATION OF ENCAPSULATED SIGNAL-GENERATING SUBSTANCES AND APPARATUS UTILISING ACTIVATED SIGNAL-GENERATING SUBSTANCES

A method of performing a bioassay comprising activating capsules containing a signal precursor that is hydrolysable from a latent form in which substantially no signal is generated to a form in which it is able to generate a detectable signal, said activating comprising treating said capsules with heat and with an acid or a base catalysing solution, the combination of said heat and the pH of the catalysing solution being such as to hydrolyse said precursor to the form in which it is able to generate a detectable signal. 1. A method of controlling the onset of signal generation in a bioassay using capsules containing a signal precursor that is hydrolysable from a latent form in which substantially no signal is generated to a form in which it is able to generate a detectable signal , the method comprising: (a) the pH is too high for the signal precursor to undergo significant acid-catalysed hydrolysis at ambient temperature but at which the signal precursor undergoes significant hydrolysis at elevated temperature;', 'or:', '(b) the pH is too low for the signal precursor to undergo significant base-catalysed hydrolysis at ambient temperature but at which the signal precursor undergoes significant hydrolysis at elevated temperature;, '(i) treating the capsules with a solution whose temperature is such that substantially no hydrolysis of the signal precursor takes place and whose pH is balanced such that eitherand(ii) subsequently heating the capsules in the treatment solution to initiate onset of hydrolysis of the signal precursor to the form in which it is able to generate a detectable signal.2. A method of controlling the onset of signal generation in a bioassay using capsules containing a signal precursor that is hydrolysable from a latent form in which substantially no signal is generated to a form in which it is able to generate a detectable signal , the method comprising: (a) adding a portion of capsules containing the signal precursor to a series of ambient ...

CARTRIDGE AND SYSTEM FOR MANIPULATING SAMPLES IN LIQUID DROPLETS

A cartridge manipulates samples in liquid droplets with an electrode array when a working film is placed on the array. The cartridge has a body with lower surface and wells to hold samples, each with a bottom opening to release liquid. A piercable bottom structure seals the bottom openings. A working film below the body has a hydrophobic upper surface. A peripheral spacer connects the working film to the body and forms a gap is between the body and surface. A top piercing system located in at least one of the wells has a piston and a piercing element, the piston being movable in the well and the piercing element piercing the piercable bottom structure for releasing a sample from a well into the gap. 11101320101201. A cartridge () with a working film () and at least one piercing element () for manipulating samples in liquid droplets with an electrode array () when the working film () of the cartridge () is placed on said electrode array () , wherein the cartridge () comprises:{'b': 2', '2', '2', '3', '4', '5', '6', '6', '5', '72', '73', '5, 'a) a body (,′,″) that comprises an upper surface (), a lower surface (), and a number of wells () configured to hold therein reagents () or samples (′), each well () comprising a top opening (), and a bottom opening () for releasing a liquid from the well ();'}{'b': 8', '73', '5, 'b) a piercable bottom structure () impermeable to liquids and configured to seal at least one of the bottom openings () of the wells ();'}{'b': 10', '4', '2', '2', '2', '10', '11, 'c) a working film () located below the lower surface () of the body (,′,″), the working film () being impermeable to liquids and comprising a hydrophobic upper surface ();'}{'b': 9', '4', '2', '2', '2', '10', '2', '2', '2, 'd) a peripheral spacer () located below the lower surface () of the body (,′,″) and connecting the working film () to the body (,′,″); and'}{'b': 12', '4', '2', '2', '2', '11', '10', '12', '9, 'e) a gap () between the lower surface () of the body (,′,″) ...

DISPOSABLE CARTRIDGE FOR MICROFLUIDICS SYSTEM

A disposable cartridge had body, bottom layer with first hydrophobic surface, top layer with a second hydrophobic surface, and gap between. The bottom layer is a flexible film sealingly attached at its circumference to the top layer. No spacer is between the layers. The top layer has loading sites for transferring processing liquids into the gap. In use, the bottom layer is a working film for manipulating samples in liquid droplets and is placed on an electrode array of a digital microfluidics system having base unit with cartridge accommodation site and electrode array at the site. The electrode array is supported by a bottom substrate that extends in a first plane and has individual electrodes. The system also includes a central control unit for controlling selection of the electrodes and for providing these electrodes with individual voltage pulses for manipulating liquid droplets within the gap by electrowetting. 12. A disposable cartridge () comprising:{'b': 47', '21', '21', '19, '(a) a body () with at least one compartment () configured to hold therein processing liquids, reagents or samples, at least one of said compartments () comprising a through hole () for delivering at least some of its content;'}{'b': 3', '17', '23', '9', '1', '3', '2', '9, '(b) a bottom layer () with a first hydrophobic surface (′) that is impermeable to liquids and that is configured as a working film for manipulating samples in liquid droplets () thereon utilizing an electrode array () of a digital microfluidics system () when the bottom layer () of the disposable cartridge () is placed over said electrode array ();'}{'b': 4', '17', '48', '47', '2, '(c) a top layer () with a second hydrophobic surface (″) that is impermeable to liquids and that is attached to a lower surface () of the body () of the disposable cartridge (); and'}{'b': 6', '17', '3', '17', '4, '(d) a gap () that is located between the first hydrophobic surface (′) of the bottom layer () and the second hydrophobic ...

Apparatus and Methods for Integrated Sample PReparation, Reaction and Detection

Cartridges for the isolation of a biological sample and downstream biological assays on the sample are provided, as are methods for using such cartridges. In one embodiment, a nucleic acid sample is isolated from a biological sample and the nucleic acid sample is amplified, for example by the polymerase chain reaction. The cartridges provided herein can also be used for the isolation of non-nucleic acid samples, for example proteins, and to perform downstream reactions on the proteins, for example, binding assays. Instruments for carrying out the downstream biological assays and for detecting the results of the assays are also provided.

METHODS AND APPARATUS TO MANAGE MARKETING FORECASTING ACTIVITY

Methods and apparatus are disclosed to manage marketing forecasting activity. An example method includes identifying a first likelihood of missing the sales target based on a first alerting methodology, identifying a second likelihood of missing the sales target based on a second alerting methodology, issuing a first alert if at least one of the first or the second likelihoods is greater than a threshold after a first future date, and issuing a second alert if the first and the second likelihoods are greater than the threshold after a second future date. 1. A method to issue a sales target alert , comprising:identifying, with a processor, a first likelihood of missing a sales target based on a first alerting methodology when a first forecasting duration of the sales target is less than a first amount of time;identifying, with the processor, a second likelihood of missing the sales target based on a second alerting methodology when a second forecasting duration of the sales target is greater than the first amount of time;issuing a first alert if at least one of the first or the second likelihoods is greater than a likelihood threshold value after a first future date; andissuing a second alert if the first and the second likelihoods are greater than the likelihood threshold value after a second future date.2. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein the second future date is later than the first future date.3. A method as defined in claim 1 , further comprising invoking at least one of the first or the second alerting methodology based on an ability to reduce error.4. A method as defined in claim 3 , wherein one of the at least one of the first or the second alerting methodology is invoked based on the ability to reduce error for a forecasting duration.5. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first or the second alerting methodologies comprises a probability value assessment.6. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first ...

METHODS AND APPARATUS TO MANAGE MARKETING FORECASTING ACTIVITY

Methods and apparatus are disclosed to manage marketing forecasting activity. An example method includes retrieving client driver control data and corresponding market triggers, generating a client baseline profile associated with the client based on the client driver control data and a corresponding market trigger, calculating a first probability of not taking action when action prevents a missed marketing objective, calculating a second probability of taking action when action causes superfluous spending to meet a marketing objective, and generating the alert based on a comparison between the product of the first probability and a cost of the missed marketing objective and the product of the second probability and a cost of the superfluous spending. 1. A method to generate an alert , comprising:retrieving client driver control data and corresponding market triggers;generating a client baseline profile associated with the client based on the client driver control data and a corresponding market trigger;calculating a first probability of not taking action when action prevents a missed marketing objective;calculating a second probability of taking action when action causes superfluous spending to meet a marketing objective; andgenerating the alert based on a comparison between the product of the first probability and a cost of the missed marketing objective and the product of the second probability and a cost of the superfluous spending.2. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein the corresponding trigger occurs prior to an instance of driver control by the client.3. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein the corresponding trigger occurs after an instance of driver control by the client.4. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein the action comprises at least one of an advertising campaign or a temporary price reduction.5. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein the client driver control data comprises an instance of client-control over at least one of price claim ...

EPIGENETICS IN AUTOIMMUNITY

Provided herein are compositions and methods for the diagnosis, monitoring, treatment, and/or prevention of autoimmune disease (e.g., lupus) based on a causal connection with various epigenetic markers (e.g., chromosome demethylation, overexpression of lupus markers, nitration of PKCδ in response to oxidative stress, etc.). 1. A method of diagnosing lupus , assessing a subject's risk for developing lupus , and/or determining lupus disease activity in a subject comprising detecting one or more epigenetic markers of lupus.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein detecting one or more epigenetic markers of lupus comprise oxidation-related modifications of PKCδ in the subject.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the oxidation-related modifications comprise nitration of PKCδ.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein detecting oxidation-related modifications of PKCδ comprises determining the level of oxidation-related modifications of PKCδ in the subject.5. The method of claim 3 , wherein detecting oxidation-related modifications of PKCδ further comprises comparing the level of oxidation-related modifications of PKCδ to a control or threshold level that is indicative of lupus claim 3 , a risk of developing lupus claim 3 , and/or active lupus in the subject.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more epigenetic markers of lupus comprises X-chromosome demethylation.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more epigenetic markers of lupus comprises overexpression of one or more of CD40LG claim 1 , CXCR3 claim 1 , OUT claim 1 , miR-98 claim 1 , let-7f-2 claim 1 , miR 188 3p claim 1 , miR-421 claim 1 , and miR-503.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein detecting one or more epigenetic markers of lupus comprises in vitro analysis.9. The method of claim 1 , wherein detecting one or more epigenetic markers of lupus comprises antibody detection.10. A method of monitoring treatment of lupus comprising:(a) detecting one or more epigenetic markers of lupus in a subject;(b) administering a ...

SYSTEM, METHOD, AND APPARATUS FOR AUTOMATED INCUBATION

System, apparatus, and method for cycling the temperature of at least one receptacle holder that is adapted for use in an automated instrument capable of performing nucleic acid-based amplification tests. Also provided are methods for conducting automated, random-access incubation processes using the same. 1. An apparatus comprising:one or more receptacle holder(s), each comprised of a heat-conducting material and including:a plurality of receptacle wells, each receptacle well being configured to receive a receptacle therein;a plurality of through-holes, each through-hole extending from an inner surface of one of the receptacle wells to an outer surface of the receptacle holder;a plurality of optical fibers, each optical fiber having first and second ends, wherein the first end is in optical communication with one of the receptacle wells, and the second end is in optical communication with at least one of an excitation signal source and an emission signal detector, the first end of each optical fiber being disposed outside, within, or extending through, a corresponding through-hole in each receptacle well, and wherein the first end of each optical fiber is moveable within one of the through-holes relative to the surface of the receptacle well; andone or more thermal elements positioned proximal to the receptacle holder for altering a temperature or temperatures of the receptacle holder.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a cover movable between an opened position and a closed position relative to the receptacle holder claim 1 , wherein one or more receptacles disposed within one or more of the receptacle wells are seated or secured into the receptacle well by the cover when the cover is moved into the closed position claim 1 ,wherein the first end of each optical fiber moves within its corresponding through-hole when (1) the cover is moved to the closed and/or opened position, or (2) a receptacle is present in the receptacle well and the cover is moved ...

METHOD FOR APPLYING THERMAL ENERGY TO A RECEPTACLE AND DETECTING AN EMISSION SIGNAL FROM THE RECEPTACLE

Receptacles containing a reaction mixture are transported to receptacle wells of a thermally conductive receptacle holder, and the temperature of the holder is cycled with a thermoelectric device situated between a support and a first side of the holder while a first force is applied onto a second side of the holder. Optical communication between each well and an excitation signal source and an emission signal detector is established to determine whether an emission signal is emitted from any of the receptacles during temperature cycling as an indication of the presence of a target nucleic acid. The thermoelectric device may be situated between an upright portion of the support and the first side of the holder. A second force may be applied onto a top end of each receptacle in the holder by a cover moveable with respect to the receptacles between an open position and a closed position. 1. A method for performing a nucleic acid amplification reaction , the method comprising the automated steps of:(a) transporting multiple receptacles to each of a plurality of corresponding receptacle wells of a thermally conductive receptacle holder, each of the receptacles containing a reaction mixture, wherein the receptacle wells are aligned in a single row;(b) cycling the temperature of the receptacle holder with a thermoelectric device situated between a support and a first side of the receptacle holder;(c) exerting a first force onto a second side of the receptacle holder during the cycling step, the first and second sides being on opposite sides of the receptacle holder;(d) establishing optical communication between each of the receptacle wells and an excitation signal source and an emission signal detector during step (b); and(e) determining whether an emission signal is emitted from any of the receptacles during step (d) as an indication of the presence of a target nucleic acid.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein each of the receptacles is closed with a cap prior to step (a) ...

APPARATUS FOR APPLYING THERMAL ENERGY TO A RECEPTACLE AND DETECTING AN EMISSION SIGNAL FROM THE RECEPTACLE

An apparatus for performing nucleic acid amplification reactions includes a thermally-conductive receptacle holder with multiple receptacle wells. Each well has a through-hole extending from an inner surface of the well to an outer surface of the holder. A cover is rotatable between an open position and a closed position relative to the holder and is configured to exert a force onto any receptacles in the wells when the cover is in the closed position. The apparatus includes multiple optical fibers, and each of the optical fibers provides optical communication between one of the wells and an excitation signal source and/or an emission signal detector. A thermal element is positioned between a thermally-conductive support and the receptacle holder. 1. An apparatus for performing nucleic acid amplification reactions , the apparatus comprising:a thermally-conductive receptacle holder comprising a plurality of receptacle wells, each of the receptacle wells being configured to receive a receptacle, and each of the receptacle wells having a through-hole extending from an inner surface of the receptacle well to an outer surface of the receptacle holder;a cover rotatable between an open position and a closed position relative to the receptacle holder, wherein the cover does not obstruct access to the receptacle wells when the cover is in the open position, wherein the cover blocks access to the receptacle wells when the cover is in the closed position, and wherein the cover is configured to exert a force onto each of any receptacles in the receptacle wells when the cover is in the closed position; anda plurality of optical fibers, each of the optical fibers providing optical communication between one of the receptacle wells and at least one of an excitation signal source and an emission signal detector, wherein a first end of each of the optical fibers is disposed outside, within, or extends through the through-hole of a corresponding one of the receptacle wells, and ...

Laser Capture Microdissection (LCM) Extraction Device and Device Carrier, and Method for Post-LCM Fluid Processing

The present invention generally discloses an extraction system that provides a locale for fluid processing and extraction on a post-microcapture transfer film. The extraction system includes a transfer film carrier and an extraction device forming a reservoir. The extraction system selectively excludes regions of the transfer film from the reservoir to advantageously reduce contamination due to matter adhered to the transfer film by non-specific transfer. 192-. (canceled)93. A method for extracting biomolecules from a portion of cells from a cell sample on a carrier , wherein the cell sample includes a plurality of cells , the method comprising:providing a carrier comprising a substrate surface, a stand-off portion, and a sidewall projecting away from the substrate surface;contacting the stand-off portion of the carrier to a substrate, wherein the stand-off portion is configured to maintain a distance between the substrate and a transfer film, wherein a cell sample is included on the substrate;transferring a portion of cells selected for analysis from the cell sample included on the substrate to the transfer film, wherein the transfer film is included on the carrier; a carrier-receiving portion comprising an inner surface configured to contact the sidewall of the carrier during use, wherein the carrier-receiving portion is configured to secure the carrier to the extraction device in a compression-fit engagement with the sidewall to produce a force normal to the sidewall that is sufficient to retain the carrier during use, and wherein the carrier-receiving portion further includes a landing portion having a landing surface, the landing surface defining an inner opening, and', 'a conduit interconnected to the carrier-receiving portion, the conduit extending between a first opening on the carrier-receiving portion and a second opening at a second end, wherein the carrier-receiving portion is adapted to receive the carrier and to form a reservoir by the carrier ...

DIAGNOSTIC CARTRIDGES HAVING FLEXIBLE SEALS

Disclosed are cartridges and modules that may be utilized in diagnostic systems and methods. The cartridge includes a flexible seal that caps the cartridge. The flexible seal has an opening for a pipette tip, and the flexible seal is configured to create a sealed environment when a pipette tip is positioned in the opening of the flexible seal and when the pipette tip is moved in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis. 120-. (canceled)21. A cartridge for processing a sample , the cartridge comprising:(a) a base;(b) a plurality of wells disposed in the base;(c) a frame located on top of the base;(d) a flexible seal disposed in the frame and having plurality of openings; and(e) a pipette tip comprising a microbial filter positioned in each of the plurality of opening of the flexible seal, wherein the flexible seal permits the movement of the pipette tips in an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis;wherein the base, the frame, the flexible seal, and the pipette tips define a space encompassing the plurality of wells that is a sealed environment.22. The cartridge of claim 21 , wherein the plurality of wells comprises at least one PCR tube.23. The cartridge of claim 22 , wherein the plurality of wells comprises at least four PCR tubes.24. The cartridge of claim 21 , further comprising a sample well port fluidly connected to a first well of the plurality of wells disposed in the base claim 21 , and a sample well cap removably covering the sample well port.25. The cartridge of claim 21 , wherein the flexible seal comprises a thermoplastic elastomer.26. The cartridge of claim 25 , wherein the thermoplastic elastomer is selected from the group consisting of styrenic block copolymers claim 25 , polyolefin blends claim 25 , elastomeric alloys claim 25 , thermoplastic polyurethanes claim 25 , thermoplastic copolyester claim 25 , and thermoplastic polyamides.27. The cartridge of claim 21 , wherein the flexible seal comprises silicone.28. The cartridge of claim 21 , wherein the flexible seal ...

METHODS AND APPARATUS TO IDENTIFY NON-NAMED COMPETITORS

Methods, apparatus, systems and articles of manufacture are disclosed to identify non-named competitors. An example method includes identifying, with a processor, a target item to evaluate in connection with historical market activity data, and improving model evaluation efficiency by optimizing, with the processor, erroneous selection of competitive products by: identifying a rest-of-category (ROC) subset of items in the historical market activity data that exclude a same manufacturer as the target item, identifying a rest-of-manufacturer (ROM) subset of items in the historical market activity data that are associated with the same manufacturer as the target item and exclude a same brand as the target item, and identifying a rest-of-brand (ROB) subset of items in the historical market activity data that are associated with the same brand as the target item and exclude the target item. 1. A computer-implemented method to improve evaluation efficiency of a model , comprising:identifying, with a processor, a target item to evaluate in connection with historical market activity data; and identifying a rest-of-category (ROC) subset of items in the historical market activity data that exclude a same manufacturer as the target item;', 'identifying a rest-of-manufacturer (ROM) subset of items in the historical market activity data that are associated with the same manufacturer as the target item and exclude a same brand as the target item; and', 'identifying a rest-of-brand (ROB) subset of items in the historical market activity data that are associated with the same brand as the target item and exclude the target item., 'improving model evaluation efficiency by optimizing, with the processor, erroneous selection of competitive products by2. The computer-implemented method as defined in claim 1 , wherein the ROC subset claim 1 , the ROM subset and the ROB subset encapsulate all competitive items of a category associated with the target item.3. The computer-implemented ...

APPARATUS FOR APPLYING THERMAL ENERGY TO A RECEPTACLE AND DETECTING AN EMISSION SIGNAL FROM THE RECEPTACLE

An apparatus for performing nucleic acid amplification reactions includes a thermally-conductive receptacle holder with front and back surfaces. The front surface includes a row of receptacle wells, and an outer surface of each well has a frustoconical shape, an inner surface of each well receives a receptacle, and each well has a through-hole extending between the inner and outer surfaces thereof. One or more thermal elements in contact with the back surface of the holder alter a temperature(s) of the holder. The apparatus includes multiple optical fibers, and each optical fiber provides optical communication between one of the wells and an excitation signal source and/or an emission signal detector. A first end of each optical fiber is disposed outside, within, or extends through the through-hole of a corresponding well, and a second end of each optical fiber is in optical communication with the excitation signal source and/or the emission signal detector. 1. An apparatus for performing nucleic acid amplification reactions , comprising:a thermally-conductive receptacle holder having a front surface and a back surface, the front surface comprising a row of receptacle wells, wherein an outer surface of each of the receptacle wells has a frustoconical shape, wherein an inner surface of each of the receptacle wells is defined to receive a receptacle, and wherein each of the receptacle wells has a through-hole extending between the inner and outer surfaces thereof;one or more thermal elements for altering a temperature(s) of the receptacle holder, the one or more thermal element being in contact with the back surface of the receptacle holder; anda plurality of optical fibers, each of the optical fibers providing optical communication between one of the receptacle wells and at least one of an excitation signal source and an emission signal detector, wherein a first end of each of the optical fibers is disposed outside, within, or extends through the through-hole of a ...

INTERLOCKING CAP AND VIAL

A cap that is securable to a vial includes a plug configured for insertion into an open end of the vial. An upper portion of the cap defines a probe recess with an open top end and configured to receive a distal end of a probe of a pipettor inserted into the open top end, to frictionally secure the cap to an end of the probe. The cap includes a radially-oriented annular surface with one or more locking members depending from a periphery of the annular surface. The locking members are spaced from the plug and each locking member includes a radial locking groove and a radial locking ridge beneath the radial locking groove. A lip of the vial snaps into the radial locking groove above the radial locking ridge to secure the cap to the vial when the plug is inserted into the open end of the vial. 1. A cap securable to a vial having an open end , the cap comprising:a lower portion including a plug configured to be inserted into the open end of the vial;an upper portion having a probe recess with an open end, wherein the probe recess is configured to receive a probe of a pipettor inserted into the open end to removably secure the cap to the probe;a radially-oriented annular surface; andone or more locking members extending longitudinally from the outer periphery of the annular surface in a direction away from the upper portion and disposed radially outwardly from the plug of the lower portion of the cap, wherein the one or more locking members define a radial locking groove and a radial locking ridge disposed distally from the radial locking groove and wherein the radial locking groove is configured to receive a lip of the vial to secure the cap to the vial when the plug of the lower portion is inserted into the open end of the vial.2. The cap of claim 1 , wherein the probe recess has a closed bottom.3. The cap of claim 1 , wherein the plug has a hollow portion formed therein claim 1 , the hollow portion defining an inner surface within the plug.4. The cap of claim 1 , ...

System and method for conducting an assay

A system for performing a nucleic acid amplification assay comprises a thermally-conductive receptacle holder with one or more receptacle wells, each conforming to an outer surface of a lower portion of a vial. A through-hole extends from an inner surface of each well to an outer surface of the holder. A thermal element is positioned proximal to the holder for altering a temperature of the holder. A signal detection module is configured to generate an excitation signal directed through the through-hole of the well and detect an optical emission from a fluid contained in the vial supported by the well. At least one well supports a capped vial containing a reagent for a nucleic acid amplification assay and including an opaque cap sealing an open end of the vial. The lower portion of the vial is contained within a well, and the cap is situated above a top surface of the holder.

DUAL TIP ARRAY DISPENSING HEAD

An automated multi-function processing head for a laboratory work station having a table for supporting microtiter plates, other fluid receptacles, a movable arm, and a dual tip dispensing head affixed for reciprocal movement along the arm. The workstation combines into a single programmable system the capabilities for automation of a wide range of bioanalytical procedures including sample pipetting, serial dilution, reagent additions, mixing, reaction timing and washing of reaction vessels. The work station is adapted to transfer, dispense and aspirate liquid from one location to another automatically in accordance with user programmed instructions. Fluid is dispensed and aspirated using a dual tip dispensing head having two sets of tip couplers actuated by one drive system. The two sets of tip couplers allow the use of different sizes of pipette tips and tips at different pitches or distances between the centerlines. Integral to the dual tip dispensing head are two arrays of tip couplers that are used to pick up disposable pipette tips, which are automatically picked up by the head and ejected by a tip ejector mechanism. One motor coupled to an actuator is used to control the multiple functions including; tip coupling, fluid aspiration, fluid dispensing, and tip ejection for both arrays of pipette channels. The work station is designed for interactive connection with a remote computer. 1. An automated tool for sample transfer comprising:a dispense head;a first set of tip couplers of a first tip coupler size, said first set of tip couplers mounted on said dispense head and configured to aspirate and dispense samples;a second set of tip couplers of a second tip coupler size, said second set of tip couplers mounted on said dispense head parallel to said first set of tip couplers and configured to aspirate and dispense samples;a single drive system configured to actuate both said first set of tip couplers and said second set of tip couplers allowing each of said first ...

Multi-channel pipette tools

A tool which may be picked up by a dispense head and coupled to a pipette tip coupler. The pipette tip coupler can manipulate gripping arms of the tool using the tip ejection members. A microplate can be transported by this took, the tool parked at a parking location, and the pipette tip coupler used for other uses, such as aspirating or dispensing liquid when pipette tip is coupled onto the pipette tip coupler.

MULTI-FUNCTION DISPENSE HEAD

A multi-function dispense head operable by a single motor comprises a pipette housing having carriage driven pipette rods and carriage driven pistons and a wash/ejector head movable by the pistons. The carriage is attached to the pipette rods and vertically moves the rods through the pipette housing as needed for various pipette functions. The pistons are pushed into movement by the carriage and, in a lower position, into contact with a lower ledge along a bottom portion of the movable head forcing the lower ledge downwardly to eject pipette tips. The pistons also move the wash/ejector head when the movable head performs a wash function. 1. A multi-function dispense head , comprising:a pipette housing having a plurality of vertically extending pipette rod passages through the housing and pipette rods, each pipette rod disposed in one vertically extending passage and extending past a lower surface of the housing, the pipette rods removably connected to pipette tips, and a pair of ledge contactable pistons movably disposed within a pair of piston openings in the pipette housing;a movable head having a lower ledge along a bottom portion of the movable head, the lower ledge disposed beneath the lower surface of the pipette housing and having openings through which pipette rods pass in vertical alignment with the pipette passages, each opening having a diameter slightly smaller than a diameter of an upper portion of a pipette tip, the movable head vertically movable relative to the pipette housing; anda vertically movable motor driven carriage, the carriage operable to push the ledge contactable pistons through the piston openings from an upper position out of contact with the lower ledge to a lower position in contact with the lower ledge, thereby moving the movable head downwardly and urging the lower ledge against pipette tips to eject pipette tips.2. The multi-function dispense head of wherein the vertically movable motor driven carriage is attached to the pipette ...

METHOD FOR APPLYING THERMAL ENERGY TO A RECEPTACLE AND DETECTING AN EMISSION SIGNAL FROM THE RECEPTACLE

Multiple receptacles containing a reaction mixture are transported to corresponding receptacle wells of a thermally-conductive receptacle holder in thermal communication with a support that is in thermal communication with a heat sink. The heat sink is pre-heated to a temperature above ambient temperature, and the temperature of the receptacle holder is cycled. Optical communication is established between each of the receptacle wells and an excitation signal source and an emission signal detector during cycling, and whether an emission signal is emitted from any of the receptacles is determined as an indication of the presence of a target nucleic acid. 1. A method for determining the presence of a target nucleic acid in a sample , the method comprising the automated steps of:(a) transporting multiple receptacles to each of a plurality of corresponding receptacle wells of a thermally-conductive receptacle holder, each of the receptacles containing a reaction mixture, wherein the receptacle holder is in thermal communication with a support, and wherein the support is in thermal communication with a heat sink;(b) pre-heating the heat sink to a temperature above ambient temperature;(c) after step (b), cycling the temperature of the receptacle holder;(d) establishing optical communication between each of the receptacle wells and an excitation signal source and an emission signal detector during step (c); and(e) determining whether an emission signal is emitted from any of the receptacles during step (d) as an indication of the presence of a target nucleic acid.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the support is disposed on the heat sink.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein a base of the support is disposed on the heat sink.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the receptacle holder is affixed to the support.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the receptacle holder is affixed to an upright portion of the support claim 4 , and wherein a thermal element is situated between the ...

Devices and Methods for Biological Assay Sample Preparation and Delivery

Devices and methods for preparing and delivering biological assay samples are provided herein. Components of such devices include a sample receiving module within which a biological assay sample can be prepared and a cap, which when operatively coupled with the sample receiving module, pressurizes the module. These devices can be employed for subsequently delivering a biological assay sample. 1. A biological assay sample preparation device , the device comprising:a. a sample receiving module comprising an outer body forming a first chamber, an inner body forming a second chamber, a preparation solution, and a first attachment element; andb. a cap removably coupleable to the sample receiving module and comprising:i. a pressurizing component; andii. a second attachment element operatively coupleable with the first attachment element,wherein the pressurizing component extends into and pressurizes the sample receiving module upon operative coupling of the first attachment element to the second attachment elementwherein the outer body comprises a piercing member, wherein the inner body comprises a breakable seal and is movable within the outer body, andwherein operatively coupling the first attachment element to the second attachment element comprises moving the inner body within the outer body to break the breakable seal and place the first and second chambers in fluidic communication.2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the fluid container is adapted to receive one or more portions of a sample.3. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the preparation solution is a nucleic acid amplification preparation solution.4. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the cap comprises a receptacle configured to receive an end of the sample receiving module therein when the cap is coupled to the sample receiving module.5. The device according to claim 4 , wherein the pressurizing component is disposed within the receptacle or integral with the cap.6. (canceled)7. The ...

TECHNOLOGIES FOR PROVIDING EFFICIENT DETECTION OF IDLE POLL LOOPS

Technologies for providing efficient detection of idle poll loops include a compute device. The compute device has a compute engine that includes a plurality of cores and a memory. The compute engine is to determine a ratio of unsuccessful operations to successful operations over a predefined time period of a core of the plurality cores that is assigned to continually poll, within the predefined time period, a memory address for a change in status and determine whether the determined ratio satisfies a reference ratio of unsuccessful operations to successful operations. The reference ratio is indicative of a change in the operation of the assigned core. The compute engine is further to selectively increase or decrease a power usage of the assigned core as a function of whether the determined ratio satisfies the reference ratio. Other embodiments are also described and claimed. 1. A compute device comprising:a compute engine that includes a plurality of cores and a memory;wherein the compute engine is to:determine a ratio of unsuccessful operations to successful operations over a predefined time period of a core of the plurality cores, wherein the core is assigned to continually poll, within the predefined time period, a memory address for a change in status;determine whether the determined ratio satisfies a reference ratio of unsuccessful operations to successful operations, wherein the reference ratio is indicative of a change in the operation of the assigned core; andselectively increase or decrease a power usage of the assigned core as a function of whether the determined ratio satisfies the reference ratio.2. The compute device of claim 1 , further comprising:a network interface controller associated with a queue in the memory; andwherein to determine a ratio of unsuccessful operations to successful operations comprises determine a ratio of unsuccessful operations to successful operations over a predefined time period of a core of the plurality cores that is ...

TECHNOLOGIES FOR MOVING WORKLOADS BETWEEN HARDWARE QUEUE MANAGERS

Technologies for moving workloads between hardware queue managers include a compute device. The compute device includes a set of hardware queue managers. Each hardware queue manager is to manage one or more queues of queue elements and each queue element is indicative of a data set to be operated on by a thread. The compute device also includes circuitry to execute a workload with a first hardware queue manager of the set of hardware queue managers, determine whether a workload migration condition is present, determine whether a second hardware queue manager of the set of hardware queue managers has sufficient capacity to manage a set of queues associated with the workload, move, in response to a determination that the second hardware queue manager does have sufficient capacity, the workload to the second hardware queue manager, and reduce, after the move of the workload to the second hardware queue manager, a power usage of the first hardware queue manager. 1. A compute device comprising:a plurality of hardware queue managers, wherein each hardware queue manager is to manage one or more queues of queue elements and wherein each queue element is indicative of a data set to be operated on by a thread; andcircuitry to: (i) execute a workload with a first hardware queue manager of the plurality of hardware queue managers, (ii) determine whether a workload migration condition is present, (iii) determine whether a second hardware queue manager of the plurality of hardware queue managers has sufficient capacity to manage a set of queues associated with the workload, (iv) move, in response to a determination that the second hardware queue manager does have sufficient capacity, the workload to the second hardware queue manager, and (v) reduce, after the move of the workload to the second hardware queue manager, a power usage of the first hardware queue manager.2. The compute device of claim 1 , wherein to reduce the power usage of the first hardware queue manager comprises ...

TECHNOLOGIES FOR DEMOTING CACHE LINES TO SHARED CACHE

Technologies for demoting cache lines to a shared cache include a compute device with at least one processor having multiple cores, a cache memory with a core-local cache and a shared cache, and a cache line demote device. A processor core of a processor of the compute device is configured to retrieve at least a portion of data of a received network packet and move the data into one or more core-local cache lines of the core-local cache. The processor core is further configured to perform a processing operation on the data and transmit a cache line demotion command to the cache line demote device subsequent to having completed the processing operation. The cache line demote device is configured to perform a cache line demotion operation to demote the data from the core-local cache lines to shared cache lines of the shared cache. Other embodiments are described herein. 1. A compute device for demoting cache lines to a shared cache , the compute device comprising:one or more processors, wherein each of the one or more processors includes a plurality of processor cores;a cache memory, wherein the cache memory includes a core-local cache and a shared cache, wherein the core-local cache includes a plurality of core-local cache lines, and wherein the shared cache includes a plurality of shared cache lines;a cache line demote device; anda host fabric interface (HFI) to receive a network packet, retrieve at least a portion of data of the received network packet, wherein to retrieve the data comprises to move the data into one or more core-local cache lines of the plurality of core-local cache lines;', 'perform one or more processing operations on the data; and', 'transmit, subsequent to having completed the one or more processing operations on the data, a cache line demotion command to the cache line demote device, and, 'wherein a processor core of a processor of the one or more processors is towherein the cache line demote device is to perform, in response to having ...

Network function virtualization architecture with device isolation

A network system includes a central processing unit and a peripheral device in electrical communication with the central processing unit. The peripheral device has at least one power input and a data input. The network system also includes an out of band controller in electrical communication with the central processing unit, the peripheral device, and an external management interface. Responsive to an identified threat, the out of band controller is configured to disable the at least one power input and the data input to the peripheral device, where the disablement indicates to the central processing unit that a hot plug event has occurred with respect to the peripheral device. The out of band controller is also configured to enable auxiliary power to the peripheral device such that the out of band controller remains in communication with the peripheral device during remediation of the identified threat.

TECHNIQUES FOR DYNAMIC DATABASE ACCESS MODES

Techniques and apparatus for dynamic data access mode processes are described. In one embodiment, for example, an apparatus may a processor, at least one memory coupled to the processor, the at least one memory comprising an indication of a database and instructions, the instructions, when executed by the processor, to cause the processor to determine a database utilization value for a database, perform a comparison of the database utilization value to at least one utilization threshold, and set an active data access mode to one of a low-utilization data access mode or a high-utilization data access mode based on the comparison. Other embodiments are described. 1. An apparatus , comprising:a processor; and determine a database utilization value for a database,', 'perform a comparison of the database utilization value to at least one utilization threshold, and', 'set an active data access mode to one of a low-utilization data access mode or a high-utilization data access mode based on the comparison., 'at least one memory coupled to the processor, the at least one memory comprising an indication of a database and instructions, the instructions, when executed by the processor, to cause the processor to2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the database comprises a hash table.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the database utilization value comprises one of a hit position or a percentage of use of the database.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the low-utilization data access mode comprises one of a scalar data access mode or a vertical vectorization data access mode.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the high-utilization data access mode comprises a horizontal vectorization data access mode.6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the at least one utilization threshold comprises a low-utilization threshold and a high-utilization threshold.7. The apparatus of claim 6 , the logic to set the active data access mode to the low-utilization data access mode responsive ...

Multi-core communication acceleration using hardware queue device

Apparatus and methods implementing a hardware queue management device for reducing inter-core data transfer overhead by offloading request management and data coherency tasks from the CPU cores. The apparatus include multi-core processors, a shared L3 or last-level cache (“LLC”), and a hardware queue management device to receive, store, and process inter-core data transfer requests. The hardware queue management device further comprises a resource management system to control the rate in which the cores may submit requests to reduce core stalls and dropped requests. Additionally, software instructions are introduced to optimize communication between the cores and the queue management device.

TECHNOLOGIES FOR REORDERING NETWORK PACKETS ON EGRESS

Technologies for reordering network packets on egress include a network interface controller (NIC) configured to associate a received network packet with a descriptor, generate a sequence identifier for the received network packet, and insert the generated sequence identifier into the associated descriptor. The NIC is further configured to determine whether the received network packet is to be transmitted from a compute device associated with the NIC to another compute device and insert, in response to a determination that the received network packet is to be transmitted to the another compute device, the descriptor into a transmission queue of descriptors. Additionally, the NIC is configured to transmit the network packet based on position of the descriptor in the transmission queue of descriptors based on the generated sequence identifier. Other embodiments are described herein. 1. A network interface controller (NIC) for reordering network packets on egress , the NIC comprising: associate a network packet, received by the NIC, with a descriptor,', 'generate a sequence identifier for the received network packet, and', 'insert the generated sequence identifier into the associated descriptor,, 'network traffic ingress management circuitry to determine whether the received network packet is to be transmitted from a compute device associated with the NIC to another compute device,', 'insert, in response to a determination that the received network packet is to be transmitted to the another compute device, the descriptor into a transmission queue of descriptors, and', 'transmit the network packet based on position of the descriptor in the transmission queue of descriptors based on the generated sequence identifier., 'network traffic egress management circuitry to2. The network interface controller of claim 1 , wherein the network traffic ingress management circuitry is further to identify a flow associated with the received network packet claim 1 , wherein to generate ...

TECHNOLOGIES FOR USING A HARDWARE QUEUE MANAGER AS A VIRTUAL GUEST TO HOST NETWORKING INTERFACE

Technologies for using a hardware queue manager as a virtual guest to host networking interface include a compute node configured to receive a pointer corresponding to each of one or more available receive buffers from a guest processor core of at least one processor of the compute node that has been allocated to a virtual guest managed by the compute node. The compute node is further configured to enqueue the received pointer of each of the one or more available receive buffers into an available buffer queue and facilitate access to the available receive buffers to at least a portion of a plurality of virtual switch processor cores. Each of the virtual switch processor cores comprises another processor core of the plurality of processor cores that has been allocated to a virtual switch of the compute node. Other embodiments are described herein. 1. A compute node for using a hardware queue manager as a virtual guest to host networking interface , the compute node comprising: receive a pointer corresponding to each of one or more available receive buffers from a guest processor core of a plurality of guest processor cores, wherein the guest processor core comprises a processor core of a plurality of processor cores of at least one processor of the compute node that has been allocated to a virtual guest managed by the compute node;', 'enqueue the received pointer of each of the one or more available receive buffers into an available buffer queue; and', 'facilitate access to the available receive buffers to at least a portion of a plurality of virtual switch processor cores, wherein each of the virtual switch processor cores comprises another processor core of the plurality of processor cores that has been allocated to a virtual switch of the compute node., 'hardware queue management circuitry to2. The compute node of claim 1 , wherein the hardware queue management circuitry is further to:receive a network packet from a virtual switch processor core of the plurality ...

TECHNOLOGIES FOR BUFFERING RECEIVED NETWORK PACKET DATA

Technologies for buffering received network packet data include a compute device with a network interface controller (NIC) configured to determine a packet size of a network packet received by the NIC and identify a preferred buffer size between a small buffer and a large buffer. The NIC is further configured to select, from the descriptor, a buffer pointer based on the preferred buffer size, wherein the buffer pointer comprises one of a small buffer pointer corresponding to a first physical address in memory allocated to the small buffer or a large buffer pointer corresponding to a second physical address in memory allocated to the large buffer. Additionally, the NIC is configured to store at least a portion of the network packet in the memory based on the selected buffer pointer. Other embodiments are described herein. 1. A compute device for buffering received network packet data , the compute device comprising:a compute engine;a memory; and determine a packet size of a network packet received by the NIC;', 'identify, from a descriptor associated with the network packet and based on the determined packet size of the network packet, a preferred buffer size between (a) a small buffer having a small amount of the memory allocated thereto and (b) a large buffer having a larger amount of the memory, relative to the small buffer, allocated thereto;', 'select, from the descriptor, a buffer pointer based on the preferred buffer size, wherein the buffer pointer comprises one of (a) a small buffer pointer to the small buffer or (b) a large buffer pointer to the large buffer, wherein the small buffer pointer corresponds to a first physical address in the memory corresponding to the small buffer, and wherein the large buffer pointer corresponds to a second physical address in the memory corresponding to the large buffer; and', 'store at least a portion of the network packet in the memory based on the selected buffer pointer., 'a network interface controller (NIC) to2. The ...

METHODS, SYSTEMS, ARTICLES OF MANUFACTURE AND APPARATUS TO PRIVATIZE CONSUMER DATA

Methods, systems, articles of manufacture and apparatus to privatize consumer data are disclosed. A disclosed example apparatus includes a consumer data acquirer to collect original data corresponding to (a) confidential information associated with consumers and (b) behavior information associated with the consumers, and a data obfuscator. The data obfuscator is to determine a degree to which the original data is to be obfuscated and a type of obfuscation to be applied to the original data based on the original data, generate obfuscation adjustments of the original data based on the degree and the type, and generate an obfuscation model based on the obfuscation adjustments. 1. An apparatus comprising:at least one memory;instructions in the apparatus; and obfuscate, with a first degree of obfuscation, original data to define first obfuscated data, the original data corresponding to (a) confidential information associated with consumers and (b) behavior information associated with the consumers;', 'determine a degree to which the confidential information can be determined from the first obfuscated data,', 'in response to the degree to which the confidential information can be determined from the first obfuscated data exceeding a threshold, generate an obfuscation model based on a second degree of obfuscation that is greater than the first degree of obfuscation. and', 'in response to the degree to which the confidential information can be determined from the first obfuscated data not exceeding the threshold, generate the obfuscation model based on the first degree of obfuscation., 'processor circuitry to execute the instructions to2. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein the processor circuitry is to verify that a similarity index value between (a) first calculated data that is associated with the original data and (b) second calculated data that is associated with at least one of the first obfuscated data or second obfuscated data corresponding to the second ...

Apparatus for applying thermal energy to a receptacle and detecting an emission signal from the receptacle

An apparatus for performing nucleic acid amplification reactions includes a thermally-conductive receptacle holder that includes multiple receptacle wells. Each well can receive a receptacle and has a through-hole extending from an inner surface of the well to an outer surface of the holder. The apparatus includes multiple optical fibers, and each optical fiber has a first end in optical communication with an associated well and a second end in optical communication with an excitation signal source and/or an emission signal detector. The first end of each optical fiber is moveable with respect to the through-hole. A cover is movable between an open position and a closed position relative to the receptacle holder, and the first end of each optical fiber moves with respect to the through-hole of the associated well as the cover moves to the open or closed position or when the cover moves into or out of contact with any receptacles within the wells.

DIAGNOSTIC CARTRIDGES HAVING FLEXIBLE SEALS

Disclosed arc cartridges and modules that may be utilized in diagnostic systems and methods. The cartridge includes a flexible seal that caps the cartridge. The flexible seal has an opening for a pipette tip, and the flexible seal is configured to create a sealed environment when a pipette tip is positioned in the opening of the flexible seal and when the pipette tip is moved in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis. 120-. (canceled)21. A cartridge for processing a sample , the cartridge comprising: the middle frame is located between the base and the top frame;', 'the flexible seal is located within the middle frame;', 'the top frame is located on top of the flexible seal;', a sample well;', 'a plurality of reagent wells;', 'a plurality of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) wells;', 'a perforable seal covering and sealing the reagent wells and the PCR wells;', 'a hybridization chamber; and', 'an analysis chamber; and, 'the base comprises, 'the middle frame comprises a sample well port configured to introduce a sample into the sample well., 'a base, a middle frame, a top frame; and a flexible seal wherein22. The cartridge of further comprising a hybridization chamber cover located between the hybridization chamber and the middle frame.23. The cartridge of further comprising a sample well cap covering the sample well port.24. The cartridge of wherein the perforable seal is a foil seal.25. The cartridge of wherein the flexible seal comprises a plurality of openings.26. The cartridge of further comprising a plurality of pipette tips; wherein each pipette tip is positioned in an opening in the flexible seal.27. The cartridge of wherein the flexible seal permits movement of the plurality of pipette tips along an x-axis claim 26 , y-axis claim 26 , and z-axis.28. The cartridge of wherein the plurality of pipette tips are permanently installed and fastened to the flexible seal.29. The cartridge of wherein the plurality of pipette tips each comprise a microbial filter.30. The ...

SYSTEMS FOR ALLERGEN DETECTION

The present invention is drawn to devices and systems for allergen detection in a sample. The allergen detection system includes a sampler, a disposable analysis cartridge and a detection device with an optimized optical system. In some embodiments, the allergen detection utilizes aptamer nucleic acid molecules as detection agents. In some embodiments, the nucleic acids are conjugated to magnetic beads or solid surfaces such as glasses, microwells and microchips. 1. (canceled)2. (canceled)3. (canceled)4. (canceled)5. A detection system for detecting the presence or absence of an allergen in a food sample , comprising(a) a food corer for collecting the food sample suspected of containing said allergen;(b) a disposable test cup configured for processing the food sample and contacting detection agents with said allergen presented in the food sample, the test cup comprising a port for inserting the food corer; and(c) a detection device configured for operating the allergen detection testing and measuring signals from the binding interaction between the detection agents and said allergen and visualizing the detection result, the device having a mate plane for docketing the test cup,wherein the detection device comprises an optical system for measuring said signals that includes excitation and emission optics, scatter optics and/or absorption optics.6. (canceled)7. The detection system of claim 5 , wherein the food corer claim 5 , from the distal end to the proximal end claim 5 , comprises a plunger claim 5 , a skirt and a corer claim 5 , wherein the proximal end of the corer includes a cutting edge for cutting the test sample.8. (canceled)9. (canceled)11. The detection system of claim 10 , wherein the cup body (ii) comprises a plurality of chambers claim 10 , each of which is functionally connected and a fluid can flow from one chamber to another claim 10 , wherein the cup body comprises at least(1) a homogenization chamber, wherein the test sample is homogenized and ...

VIRTUAL SWITCH SCALING FOR NETWORKING APPLICATIONS

Examples include a method of switching a packet by a virtual switch by receiving a system call to transmit a packet from a first application running in a first container on a first core, determining a destination for the packet, obtaining a buffer in an application memory space of the destination, copying the packet to the destination application memory space, and writing an entry for the packet to a queue assigned to the destination, the destination queue being in a queue manager. The packet may then be obtained by an entity at the destination. 1. A method comprising:receiving a system call to transmit a packet from a first application running in a first container on a first core;determining a destination for the packet;obtaining a buffer in an application memory space of the destination;copying the packet to the destination application memory space; andwriting an entry for the packet to a queue assigned to the destination, the destination queue being in a queue manager.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein when the destination indicates internal input/output (I/O) claim 1 , comprising the queue manager writing entries to the destination queue.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the first application runs in the first container in the first core in user mode claim 2 , and the determining claim 2 , obtaining claim 2 , copying claim 2 , and writing are processed by a virtual switch running on the first core in kernel mode.4. The method of claim 3 , comprising determining the destination by using a switching table in the virtual switch.5. The method of claim 3 , comprising reading the entry in the destination queue to obtain the packet by a second application running in a second container on a second core claim 3 , the destination application memory space being associated with the second container.6. The method of claim 5 , comprising when the destination cannot be determined claim 5 , attempting to determine the destination by a control and I/O module running on a third ...

INTERLOCKING CAP AND VIAL

A receptacle cap includes a probe recess configured to receive a probe inserted therein to thereby frictionally secure the receptacle cap to the probe, and a closed lower end of the receptacle is insertable into an open end of a reaction receptacle to close the reaction receptacle. The receptacle cap and the reaction receptacle include interlocking features for securing the receptacle cap to the reaction receptacle. 1. A combination comprising:a reaction receptacle having an open end and a locking detent projecting radially inwardly; anda receptacle cap securable to the reaction receptacle, wherein the receptacle cap comprises:a closed distal end including a convex end surface, wherein the closed distal end is configured to be inserted into the open end of the reaction receptacle;an upper portion having a probe recess with an open end, wherein the probe recess is configured to receive a probe of a pipettor inserted through the open end to removably secure the receptacle cap to the probe; anda locking ridge projecting radially outwardly,wherein the locking detent of the reaction receptacle is configured to engage the locking ridge of the receptacle cap when the closed distal end of the receptacle cap is inserted into the open end of the reaction receptacle to secure the receptacle cap to the reaction receptacle.2. The combination of claim 1 , wherein the closed distal end has a peripheral chamfer.3. The combination of claim 1 , wherein the receptacle cap further comprises an annular collar projecting radially outwardly and disposed above the locking ridge.4. The combination of claim 3 , wherein the annular collar bears against a top edge of the reaction receptacle when the closed distal end of the receptacle cap is inserted into the open end of the reaction receptacle.5. The combination of claim 1 , wherein the locking detent of the receptacle cap comprises diametrically-opposed tabs extending radially inwardly from a peripheral wall surrounding the open end.6. The ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR INTEGRATED SAMPLE PREPARATION, REACTION AND DETECTION

Cartridges for the isolation of a biological sample and downstream biological assays on the sample are provided, as are methods for using such cartridges. In one embodiment, a nucleic acid sample is isolated from a biological sample and the nucleic acid sample is amplified, for example by the polymerase chain reaction. The cartridges provided herein can also be used for the isolation of non-nucleic acid samples, for example proteins, and to perform downstream reactions on the proteins, for example, binding assays. Instruments for carrying out the downstream biological assays and for detecting the results of the assays are also provided. 127-. (canceled)28. An apparatus , comprising:(a) a heater assembly comprising a receiving block coupled to a first heating module, wherein the receiving block comprises a reaction volume, a first lumen and a second lumen; and a slide assembly comprising a slide block slidably mounted on a slide rail;', 'a first optical member and a second optical member;', the first optical member is in optical communication with the excitation module and the reaction volume via the first lumen; and', 'the second optical member is in optical communication with the reaction volume and the detection module via the second lumen., 'a plurality of excitation modules and a plurality of detection modules coupled to the slide block, wherein the slide assembly is configured to sequentially move each of the plurality of excitation modules relative to the first optical member and to sequentially move each of the plurality of detection modules relative to the second optical member, wherein], '(b) an optics assembly coupled to the heater assembly, the optics assembly comprising29. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein at least one excitation module of the plurality of excitation modules comprises a laser.30. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein at least one excitation module of the plurality of excitation modules comprises one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). ...

WELL SEALS IN PIPETTE WORKSTATIONS

A pipette workstation of the type dispensing fluids into a microtiter plate with well closure structures that are thimble-shaped members with ridges that form a seal. The closure structures have a beveled nose lower end for self-centering entry into a well with a lower peripheral ridge acting as a first seal. An intermediate peripheral ridge contacts the wall of the well and forms a second seal barrier. An upper peripheral ridge has a diameter that barely enters the well for wedge action stoppage of entry of closure member into the well and further sealing the well. A pipette head with a nozzle array attaches to an array of seals and inserts the seals into wells. The pipette head uses a vacuum force to remove the seals. 1. In a pipette workstation of the type having a pipette loading reagents or samples into a microtiter plate , the improvement comprising:a well closure structure comprising a thimble-shaped ridged structure with a closed downhole nose end smaller than a well diameter with a lower peripheral ridge that contacts walls of the well and an upper peripheral ridge having a diameter having a wedge fit into the well beyond a small diameter, the structure having a closed bottom and a open top, with the open top sized to accommodate a pipette nozzle.2. The apparatus of further comprising an intermediate ridge spaced from the lower and upper ridges and having a ridge diameter less than the upper ridge and not less than the lower ridge.3. The apparatus of wherein the downhole nose of the lower ridge is beveled.4. The apparatus of wherein the pipette workstation comprises a multi-channel pipette.5. The apparatus of wherein the pipette workstation comprises an 8-channel pipette.6. The apparatus of wherein the microtiter plate is a multi-well plate.7. The apparatus of wherein the microtiter plate is a 96-well plate.8. The apparatus of wherein each well closure structure is made of a yieldable material.9. The apparatus of wherein each well closure structure is made ...

Methods, systems, articles of manufacture and apparatus to privatize consumer data

Methods, systems, articles of manufacture and apparatus to privatize consumer data are disclosed. A disclosed example apparatus includes a consumer data acquirer to collect original data corresponding to (a) confidential information associated with consumers and (b) behavior information associated with the consumers, and a data obfuscator. The data obfuscator is to determine a degree to which the original data is to be obfuscated and a type of obfuscation to be applied to the original data based on the original data, generate obfuscation adjustments of the original data based on the degree and the type, and generate an obfuscation model based on the obfuscation adjustments.

PERFORMING ANTIMICROBIAL SUSCEPTIBILITY TESTING AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

In some aspects, automated rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing systems for performing a multi-assay testing sequence can include an automated incubation assembly having a nest assembly adapted to house at least one test panel having a plurality of wells for receiving a sample comprising microorganisms originating from a clinical sample, the incubation assembly facilitating incubation of one or more test panels in order to undergo the multi-assay testing sequence; a robotic handling assembly configured to accept one or more incoming test panels and move them to and from the incubation assembly for incubation between each assay of the multi-assay testing sequence; an automated liquid handling assembly configured to exchange one or more fluids in the plurality of wells of the test panels; and an optical assembly for interrogation and readout of each assay of the multi-assay testing sequence being performed in the plurality of wells. 1. An automated rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing system for performing a multi-assay testing sequence , the system comprising: 'one or more agitation systems configured to generate a repeated motion of the nest assemblies;', 'one or more automated incubation assemblies comprising a nest assembly adapted to: i) house at least one test panel having a plurality of wells for receiving a sample comprising microorganisms originating from a clinical sample, and ii) facilitate incubation of one or more test panels in order to undergo the multi-assay testing sequence, the incubation assembly comprisinga sample separation assembly configured to separate microorganisms from a remainder of the sample within the wells of test panel, the sample separation assembly comprising a centrifugation system that forms a pellet of the microorganisms within the wells of the test panels;a robotic handling assembly configured to accept one or more incoming test panels and move them between at least one of the one or more automated incubation ...

Devices and Methods for Biological Assay Sample Preparation and Delivery

Devices and methods for preparing and delivering biological assay samples are provided herein. Components of such devices include a sample receiving module within which a biological assay sample can be prepared and a cap, which when operatively coupled with the sample receiving module, pressurizes the module. These devices can be employed for subsequently delivering a biological assay sample. 1. A biological assay sample preparation device , the device comprising:a. a sample receiving module comprising a fluid container, a preparation solution, and a first attachment element; and i. a pressurizing component; and', 'ii. a second attachment element operatively coupleable with the first attachment element,, 'b. a cap removably coupleable to the sample receiving module and comprisingwherein the pressurizing component extends into and pressurizes the sample receiving module upon operative coupling of the first attachment element to the second attachment element.2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the fluid container is adapted to receive one or more portions of a sample collector.3. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the preparation solution is a nucleic acid amplification preparation solution.4. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the cap comprises a receptacle configured to receive an end of the sample receiving module therein when the cap is coupled to the sample receiving module.5. The device according to claim 4 , wherein the pressurizing component is disposed within the receptacle.6. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the pressurizing element is integral with the cap.7. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the device is a hand-held device.8. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the fluid container has a volume of 50 cmor less.9. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the sample collector comprises a swab.10. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the first attachment element comprises a thread and the second attachment ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR INTEGRATED SAMPLE PREPARATION, REACTION AND DETECTION

An apparatus includes a housing, a reaction vial and a transfer mechanism. The housing defines a first flow path and a second flow path. The housing has transfer port defining an opening in fluid communication with the second flow path and a volume outside of the housing. The transfer port includes a flow control member to limit flow through the opening. The reaction vial is coupled to the housing and defines a reaction volume, which is in fluid communication with the transfer port via the second flow path. The transfer mechanism is configured to transfer a sample from an isolation chamber of an isolation module to the reaction chamber via at least the first flow path when the transfer mechanism is actuated. The transfer mechanism configured to produce a vacuum in the reaction vial to produce a flow of a sample from the isolation chamber to the reaction volume.

METHODS OF TRIGGERING ACTIVATION OF ENCAPSULATED SIGNAL-GENERATING SUBSTANCES AND APPARATUS UTILISING ACTIVATED SIGNAL-GENERATING SUBSTANCES

Methods are disclosed for performing a bioassay, comprising activating capsules containing a signal precursor that is hydrolysable from a latent form in which substantially no signal is generated to a form in which it is able to generate a detectable signal, said activating comprising treating said capsules with heat and with an acid or a base catalysing solution, the combination of said heat and the pH of the catalysing solution being such as to hydrolyse said precursor to the form in which it is able to generate a detectable signal. 115-. (canceled)16. A method of performing a bioassay comprising activating capsules containing a signal precursor that is hydrolysable from a latent form in which substantially no signal is generated to a form in which it is able to generate a detectable signal , said activating comprising treating said capsules with heat and with an acid or a base catalysing solution , the combination of said heat and the pH of the catalysing solution being such as to hydrolyse said precursor to the form in which it is able to generate a detectable signal.17. The method according to wherein said activating further comprises exposing said capsules to excitation radiation.18. Apparatus for detecting a signal output from a bioassay device that uses capsules having on their outer surface affinity molecules for specific recognition of and binding to any target molecules in a sample to be assayed to enable formation of target-capsule complexes claim 16 , the capsules containing a signal precursor that is hydrolysable from a latent form in which substantially no signal is generated to a form in which it is able to generate a detectable signal claim 16 , the apparatus comprising:a light source for illuminating a reaction zone where the capsules are activatable by treating said capsules with heat and with an acid- or a base-catalysing solution, the combination of said heat and the pH of the catalysing solution being such as to hydrolyse said precursor to the ...

PACKET SEQUENCE BATCH PROCESSING

An apparatus, including: a hardware platform; logic to execute on the hardware platform, the logic configured to: receive a batch including first plurality of packets; identify a common attribute of the batch; perform batch processing on the batch according to the common attribute; generate a hint for the batch, the hint comprising information about the batch to facilitate processing of the batch; and forward the batch to a host platform network interface with the hint. 1. An apparatus , comprising:a hardware platform; receive a batch comprising a first plurality of packets;', 'identify a common attribute of the batch;', 'perform batch processing on the batch according to the common attribute;', 'generate a hint for the batch, the hint comprising information about the batch to facilitate processing of the batch; and', 'forward the batch to a host platform network interface with the hint., 'logic to execute on the hardware platform, the logic configured to2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the common attribute is a common destination.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the common destination is a common media access control (MAC) address.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein batch processing comprises identifying a common service flow of the batch claim 3 , wherein identifying the common service flow is based at least in part on a (source claim 3 , destination claim 3 , protocol) tuple.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein batch processing comprises identifying n packets of a common size s claim 1 , wherein the hint comprises an instruction to allocate an n×s memory block.6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the common attribute comprises packets belonging to a common virtual local area network (VLAN) claim 1 , and wherein the hint comprises a single lookup for the batch.7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the common attribute comprises packets all having a common priority.8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first plurality of packets is a subgroup of a ...

PACKET FLOW CLASSIFICATION

Technologies for packet flow classification on a computing device include a hash table including a plurality of hash table buckets in which each hash table bucket maps a plurality of keys to corresponding traffic flows. The computing device performs packet flow classification on received data packets, where the packet flow classification includes a plurality of sequential classification stages and fetch classification operations and non-fetch classification operations are performed in each classification stage. The fetch classification operations include to prefetch a key of a first received data packet based on a set of packet fields of the first received data packet for use during a subsequent classification stage, prefetch a hash table bucket from the hash table based on a key signature of the prefetched key for use during another subsequent classification stage, and prefetch a traffic flow to be applied to the first received data packet based on the prefetched hash table bucket and the prefetched key. The computing device handles processing of received data packets such that a fetch classification operation is performed by the flow classification module on the first received data packet while a non-fetch classification operation is performed by the flow classification module on a second received data packet. 125-. (canceled)26. A computing device for packet flow classification , the computing device comprising:a memory to store a hash table including a plurality of hash table buckets, each hash table bucket mapping a plurality of keys to corresponding traffic flows;circuitry to (i) perform packet flow classification on received data packets, the packet flow classification comprising a plurality of sequential classification stages, wherein fetch classification operations and non-fetch classification operations are performed in each classification stage, and wherein the fetch classification operations include to prefetch a key of a first received data packet based ...

LAZY INCREMENT FOR HIGH FREQUENCY COUNTERS

A computing apparatus, including: a processor; a pointer to a counter memory location; and a lazy increment counter engine to: receive a stimulus to update the counter; and lazy increment the counter including issuing a weakly-ordered increment directive to the pointer. 1. A computing apparatus , comprising:a processor;a pointer to a counter memory location; and receive a stimulus to update the counter; and', 'lazy increment the counter comprising issuing a weakly-ordered increment directive to the pointer., 'a lazy increment counter engine to2. The computing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the counter memory location is mapped to a counter buffer of a counter device.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the weakly-ordered increment directive is a cache bypass write directive.4. The computing apparatus of claim 3 , further comprising a write combining buffer (WCB).5. The computing apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the write directive is a write combining (WC) directive via the WCB.6. The computing apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the write directive is a uncacheable (UC) write.7. The computing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the write directive is to write a 64-bit counter payload to the counter memory location.8. The computing apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the counter payload comprises a 56-bit counter value and an 8-bit operation type.9. The computing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein lazy incrementing the counter comprises issuing a fast doorbell write operation.10. The computing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein lazy incrementing the counter comprises write combining with fencing.11. The computing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein lazy incrementing the counter comprises a local writeback counter with write combining.12. One or more tangible claim 1 , non-transitory storage mediums including logic for providing a lazy increment counter engine to:receive a stimulus to update the counter; andlazy increment the counter comprising issuing a weakly-ordered increment directive to the ...

MACHINE VISE SIDE STOP DEVICE

A side stop device used to locate and relocate the left to right, or X direction, position of work material held by a machine vise is disclosed. The side stop device comprises an X direction shaft which fastens the side stop device to the vise, a rear block, a front block, and a Y direction shaft. The X direction shaft and Y direction shaft are fastened to the rear block. The Y direction shaft is fastened to the front block which clamps a small X shaft. The position of the small X shaft is used to locate the work material in the X direction. 1. A side stop device to locate the position of work material held by a vise comprising:an X direction shaft comprising fastening bolts wherein said fastening bolts are used to fasten the side stop device to the vise;a rear block, wherein the rear block is attachable to the X direction shaft;a Y direction shaft, wherein the Y direction shaft is attachable to the rear block;at least one front block, wherein each front block is attachable to the Y direction shaft, and;at least one small X shaft, wherein each small X shaft is attachable to each front block.2. The side stop device of claim 1 , wherein the X direction shaft comprises two fastening bolts.3. The side stop device of claim 2 , wherein the X direction shaft is positioned in a clamp section of the rear block and said rear block is fastened to the X direction shaft by a clamping screw claim 2 , and wherein untightening of said screw allows the rear block to be moved and fastened to another position on the X direction shaft claim 2 , to be rotated around the X direction shaft or to be removed from the X direction shaft.4. The side stop device of claim 3 , wherein the Y direction shaft is positioned in an opening in the rear block and fastened to said block by a clamping screw claim 3 , and wherein untightening of said screw allows the Y direction shaft to be moved and fastened to the rear block in another position on the Y direction shaft or to be removed from the rear block ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETECTION OF CELLS USING ENGINEERED TRANSDUCTION PARTICLES

Systems and methods for detecting and/or identifying target cells (e.g., bacteria) using engineered transduction particles are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes mixing a quantity of transduction particles within a sample. The transduction particles are associated with a target cell. The transduction particles are non-replicative, and are engineered to include a nucleic acid molecule formulated to cause the target cell to produce a series of reporter molecules. The sample and the transduction particles are maintained to express the series of the reporter molecules when target cell is present in the sample. A signal associated with a quantity of the reporter molecules is received. In some embodiments, a magnitude of the signal is independent from a quantity of the transduction particle above a predetermined quantity. 1. An apparatus , comprising:a housing defining a channel configured to receive a sample container, the housing defining a detection volume configured to place the channel in communication with a detector, the housing including a first seal surface and a second seal surface, a first portion of the sample container and the first seal surface configured to isolate the detection volume from a volume outside of the housing when a second portion of the sample container is disposed within the detection volume; anda shutter having a portion movably disposed within the housing between a first shutter position and a second shutter position, a seal surface of the shutter and the second seal surface configured to isolate the detection volume from the channel of the housing when shutter is in the first shutter position, the channel of the housing being in communication with the detection volume when the shutter is in the second shutter position.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first seal surface includes a gasket.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the shutter is in the first shutter position when the second end portion of the sample ...

PERFORMING ANTIMICROBIAL SUSCEPTIBILITY TESTING AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

In some aspects, automated rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing systems for performing a multi-assay testing sequence can include an automated incubation assembly having a nest assembly adapted to house at least one test panel having a plurality of wells for receiving a sample comprising microorganisms originating from a clinical sample, the incubation assembly facilitating incubation of one or more test panels in order to undergo the multi-assay testing sequence; a robotic handling assembly configured to accept one or more incoming test panels and move them to and from the incubation assembly for incubation between each assay of the multi-assay testing sequence; an automated liquid handling assembly configured to exchange one or more fluids in the plurality of wells of the test panels; and an optical assembly for interrogation and readout of each assay of the multi-assay testing sequence being performed in the plurality of wells. 121-. (canceled)22. A method for performing multi-assay rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing sequences , the method comprising:inoculating a sample comprising a microorganism derived from a clinical sample into a plurality of wells of a test panel, at least a portion of the plurality of wells containing one or more antimicrobials of a plurality of antimicrobials for inoculation of the sample;loading the test panel into an automated rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing system for performing a multi-assay testing sequence; and move the loaded test panel to an incubation assembly comprising a nest assembly adapted to: i) house at least one test panel, and ii) facilitate incubation of one or more test panels in order to undergo the multi-assay testing sequence the incubation assembly comprising: an agitation system configured to generate a repeated motion of the nest assembly;', 'incubate and agitate the inoculated sample in the incubation assembly;', 'at least once, periodically measure an amount of sample growth in a ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETECTION OF CELLS USING ENGINEERED TRANSDUCTION PARTICLES

Systems and methods for detecting and/or identifying target cells (e.g., bacteria) using engineered transduction particles are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes mixing a quantity of transduction particles within a sample. The transduction particles are associated with a target cell. The transduction particles are non-replicative, and are engineered to include a nucleic acid molecule formulated to cause the target cell to produce a series of reporter molecules. The sample and the transduction particles are maintained to express the series of the reporter molecules when target cell is present in the sample. A signal associated with a quantity of the reporter molecules is received. In some embodiments, a magnitude of the signal is independent from a quantity of the transduction particle above a predetermined quantity. 1. A method , comprising:coupling a reagent module to a sample container such that a reaction chamber defined by the sample container is fluidically isolated from an exterior volume, the reaction chamber containing a sample;disposing, after the coupling, at least a distal end portion of the sample container into a detection volume of an instrument;receiving, when the distal end portion of the sample container is in the detection volume, a signal associated with a magnitude of light emission in the detection volume; andactuating, during the receiving, the reagent module to convey a reagent into the reaction chamber of the sample container.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein:the disposing the distal end portion of the sample container includes applying a force on the reagent module such that a portion of the reagent module and a portion of the instrument collectively optically isolate the detection volume, at least a portion of the force being maintained during the receiving.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein:the force is a first force, the first force is applied by an actuator,the actuating the reagent module includes applying, by the ...

HARDWARE QUEUE SCHEDULING FOR MULTI-CORE COMPUTING ENVIRONMENTS

Methods, apparatus, systems, and articles of manufacture are disclosed for hardware queue scheduling for multi-core computing environments. An example apparatus includes a first core and a second core of a processor, and circuitry in a die of the processor, at least one of the first core or the second core included in the die, the at least one of the first core or the second core separate from the circuitry, the circuitry to enqueue an identifier to a queue implemented with the circuitry, the identifier associated with a data packet, assign the identifier in the queue to a first core of the processor, and in response to an execution of an operation on the data packet with the first core, provide the identifier to the second core to cause the second core to distribute the data packet. 1. An apparatus for hardware queue scheduling in a multi-core computing environment , the apparatus comprising:a first core and a second core of a processor; and enqueue an identifier to a queue implemented with the circuitry, the identifier associated with a data packet;', 'assign the identifier in the queue to a first core of the processor; and', 'in response to an execution of an operation on the data packet with the first core, provide the identifier to the second core to cause the second core to distribute the data packet., 'circuitry in a die of the processor, at least one of the first core or the second core included in the die, the at least one of the first core or the second core separate from the circuitry, the circuitry to2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the queue is a first queue claim 1 , and the circuitry is to:determine a priority of the identifier based on the identifier;dequeue the identifier from the first queue to first arbitration logic, the first arbitration logic associated with the priority;provide the identifier from the first arbitration logic to second arbitration logic, the second arbitration logic associated with the first core; andenqueue the identifier ...

DETERMINING TEMPERATURE-VARYING SIGNAL EMISSIONS DURING AUTOMATED, RANDOM-ACCESS THERMAL CYCLING PROCESSES

A first time/temperature data set includes temperatures and time stamps recorded at time intervals during a first thermal cycling process and a time stamp for each time interval, and a second time/temperature data set includes temperatures and time stamps recorded at time intervals during a second thermal cycling process. Signal emissions at different signal detecting positions are sequentially measured at different time intervals to generate first and second time/signal emission data sets for receptacles subject to the first and second thermal cycling processes, respectively. Signal emissions of receptacles subject to the first thermal cycling process are synchronized with specific temperatures of the first thermal cycling process by comparing time stamps of the first time/signal emission data set for each receptacle with the time stamps of the first time/temperature data set that correspond with the specific temperature. Signal emissions of receptacles subject to the second thermal cycling process are synchronized with specific temperatures of the second thermal cycling process by comparing time stamps of the second time/signal emission data set for each receptacle with the time stamps of the second time/temperature data set that correspond with the specific temperature. 1. A method of determining temperature-varying signal emissions during automated , random-access thermal cycling processes , comprising the automated steps of:(a) transferring a first set of one or more receptacles to a first receptacle holder;(b) subjecting the contents of each receptacle of the first set of receptacles to a first thermal cycling process and recording a temperature at regular time intervals during the first thermal cycling process and recording a time stamp for each time interval to generate a first time/temperature data set;(c) transferring a second set of one or more receptacles to a second receptacle holder;(d) subjecting the contents of each receptacle of the second set of ...

SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR DETECTION OF CELLS USING ENGINEERED TRANSDUCTION PARTICLES

Systems and methods for detecting and/or identifying target cells (e.g., bacteria) using engineered transduction particles are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes mixing a quantity of transduction particles within a sample. The transduction particles are associated with a target cell. The transduction particles are non-replicative, and are engineered to include a nucleic acid molecule formulated to cause the target cell to produce a series of reporter molecules. The sample and the transduction particles are maintained to express the series of the reporter molecules when target cell is present in the sample. A signal associated with a quantity of the reporter molecules is received. In some embodiments, a magnitude of the signal is independent from a quantity of the transduction particle above a predetermined quantity. 1. A method , comprising:mixing with a sample a plurality of transduction particles associated with a target cell, the plurality of transduction particles engineered to include a nucleic acid molecule formulated to cause the target cell to produce a plurality of reporter molecules, the plurality of transduction particles formulated to bind to and deliver the nucleic acid molecule into the target cell, the plurality of transduction particles being non-replicative;maintaining the sample and the plurality of transduction particles to express the plurality of reporter molecules when the target cell is present in the sample; andreceiving a signal associated with a quantity of the plurality of reporter molecules.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of transduction particles is particles is derived from a bacteriophage and is engineered to be incapable of lysogenic replication and lytic replication.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of transduction particles includes a viral vector devoid of a wild-type DNA capable of exhibiting wild-type viral functions associated with a virus from which the viral vector is ...

INTEGRATED CONNECTOR/FLEX CABLE

A method and apparatus is disclosed herein for providing a connection between a connector and a flex cable. In one embodiment, the connector scheme comprises: a flex ribbon having first and second sides, the first side being opposite the second site, where the flex ribbon has one or more traces on the first side and a ground plane on at least a portion of the second side; and a connector into which the flex ribbon is inserted to make an electrical connection thereto, where the connector has a metal shell in electrical contact with the ground plane while having contacts in electrical contact with the one or more traces. 1. A connection scheme comprising:a flex ribbon having first and second sides, the first side being opposite the second site, the flex ribbon having one or more traces on the first side and a ground plane on at least a portion of the second side, the flex ribbon further comprising turn-up regions;a connector into which the flex ribbon is inserted to make an electrical connection thereto, the connector having a metal shell in electrical contact with the ground plane via the turn-up regions while having contacts in electrical contact with the one or more traces.2. The connection scheme defined in wherein the flex ribbon further comprises a mechanical stop.3. The connection scheme defined in wherein the flex ribbon further comprises one or more contacts claim 1 , each of the one or more contacts being coupled to a distinct one of the one or more traces claim 1 , and further wherein at least one of the one or more traces has a tapered transition to its corresponding contact.4. The connection scheme defined in wherein the connector further comprises a guide to direct the flex ribbon into the connector.5. The connection scheme defined in wherein the connector further comprises one or more wiping parts to clean the flex ribbon when being inserted into the connector.6. The connection scheme defined in wherein the connector further comprises a signal bridge to ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS

The present disclosure provides systems, devices and methods associates with processing and analyzing samples for molecular diagnostics. The system may process samples using assay cartridges including sample preparation modules and PCR modules. The system may include thermal cycler modules and optics modules to detect the specific nucleic acid sequences in the samples. 1. A sample preparation module for an assay cartridge used in a PCR-based molecular diagnostic device , said sample preparation module comprising an elongated body which comprises a sample loading well of an asymmetric shape where a sample is loaded before nucleic acid is extracted from the sample , wherein the sample loading well comprisesa sample loading well inlet covered by a removable cap, anda sample collecting channel having a sample loading well outlet at its top end and a fluid collecting area at its bottom end,wherein the removable cap has a cap inlet covered by a cap inlet septum having an inlet slit,wherein the sample loading well outlet is covered by a sample loading well outlet septum having an outlet slit, andwherein the fluid collecting area is at a deepest potion of the asymmetric sample loading well.2. The sample preparation module of claim 1 , further comprising a formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) capture insert removable from the sample loading well claim 1 , wherein the removable cap comprises a plunger.34-. (canceled)5. The sample preparation module of claim 1 , wherein the elongated body further comprises a purification well.6. The sample preparation module of claim 5 , wherein the purification well contains magnetic microparticles capable of binding to nucleic acid.7. The sample preparation module of claim 1 , wherein the elongated body further comprises one or more reagent compartments.8. The sample preparation module of claim 1 , wherein the elongated body further comprises a pipette tip holder.9. The sample preparation module of claim 8 , wherein the pipette tip holder ...

Microfluidic Chips and Cartridges and Systems Utilizing Microfluidic Chips and Cartridges

Microfluidic chips and cartridges and systems that include such chips are disclosed. In some embodiments, the chips include a microfluidic channel disposed in a substrate with the channel comprising at least one expansion region. The channel is configured to generate a vortex within the at least one expansion region in response to fluid through the microfluidic channel to trap cells or particles. The substrate in which the channel is formed may be relatively rigid to resist deformation. 1. A microfluidic chip for isolating cells or particles from a fluid , the microfluidic chip comprising:a rigid substrate made of a material selected from poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), cyclic olefin polymer (COP), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), and ultra-violet curable resins; andat least one microfluidic channel disposed in the substrate between an inlet and an outlet and having a length, the microfluidic channel comprising at least one expansion region disposed along the length of the channel, the microfluidic channel being configured to generate a vortex within the at least one expansion region in response to fluid through the microfluidic channel.2. The microfluidic chip as set forth in wherein the material is selected from the group consisting of poly(methyl methacrylate) claim 1 , ultra-violet curable resins claim 1 , cyclic olefin polymer (COP) claim 1 , and cyclic olefin copolymer (COC).3. The microfluidic chip as set forth in claim I wherein the material is ultra-violet curable resins.4. The microfluidic chip as set forth in wherein the material is cyclic olefin polymer (COP) or cyclic olefin copolymer (COC)The microfluidic chip as set forth in wherein the rigid substrate has a Young's modulus of at least about 50 MPa.6. The microfluidic chip as set forth in wherein the channel has a width of from about 20 μm to about 100 μm and a height from about 20 μm to about 200 μm claim 1 , the length of the channel up to the expansion region is from about 500 μm to about 6 mm ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR EXECUTING AN ACTION FOR A USER BASED ON AUDIO INPUT

The method system described herein is configured to identify and execute a next recommended action for a user based on the user's audio input. In an embodiment, the system is configured to receive audio input from the user and convert the audio input into a string. The system may identify an attribute associated with the user. The system may identify a type of action based on the string. The system may query a data repository using the attribute associated with the user to retrieve information associated with the type of action. The system may identify a recommended action for the user based on the information associated with the type of action. The system may then execute the recommended action for the user. 1. A computer-implemented method , comprising:receiving, by the one or more computing devices, an audio file including audio input from a user, telemetry data indicating the user's location, and a user identifier;converting, by the one or more computing devices, the audio input into a string representing a transcription of the audio input; identifying, by the one or more computing devices, a type of action to be executed based on content of the string;querying, by the one or more computing devices, a data repository corresponding to the type of action, using the telemetry data indicating the user's location to retrieve information about an entity related to the type of action;determining, by the one or more computing devices, a recommended action corresponding to the type of action by matching a threshold of elements of previously executed actions associated with the user and elements of the information about the entity, wherein the previously executed actions associated with the user are retrieved using the user identifier; andexecuting, by the one or more computing devices, the recommended action for the user by interfacing with the entity.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising converting claim 1 , by the one or more computing devices claim 1 , the ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETECTION OF CELLS USING ENGINEERED TRANSDUCTION PARTICLES

Systems and methods for detecting and/or identifying target cells (e.g., bacteria) using engineered transduction particles are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes mixing a quantity of transduction particles within a sample. The transduction particles are associated with a target cell. The transduction particles are non-replicative, and are engineered to include a nucleic acid molecule formulated to cause the target cell to produce a series of reporter molecules. The sample and the transduction particles are maintained to express the series of the reporter molecules when target cell is present in the sample. A signal associated with a quantity of the reporter molecules is received. In some embodiments, a magnitude of the signal is independent from a quantity of the transduction particle above a predetermined quantity. 1. A method , comprising:mixing with a sample a plurality of transduction particles associated with a target cell, the plurality of transduction particles engineered to include a nucleic acid molecule formulated to cause the target cell to produce a plurality of reporter molecules, the plurality of transduction particles formulated to bind to and deliver the nucleic acid molecule into the target cell, the plurality of transduction particles being non-replicative;maintaining the sample and the plurality of transduction particles to express the plurality of reporter molecules when the target cell is present in the sample; andreceiving a signal associated with a quantity of the plurality of reporter molecules.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein a magnitude of the signal is independent from a quantity of the plurality of transduction particles above a predetermined quantity.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of transduction particles is engineered to be incapable of lysogenic replication.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of transduction particles is engineered to be incapable of lytic replication.5. The ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETECTION OF CELLS USING ENGINEERED TRANSDUCTION PARTICLES

Systems and methods for detecting and/or identifying target cells (e.g., bacteria) using engineered transduction particles are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes mixing a quantity of transduction particles within a sample. The transduction particles are associated with a target cell. The transduction particles are non-replicative, and are engineered to include a nucleic acid molecule formulated to cause the target cell to produce a series of reporter molecules. The sample and the transduction particles are maintained to express the series of the reporter molecules when target cell is present in the sample. A signal associated with a quantity of the reporter molecules is received. In some embodiments, a magnitude of the signal is independent from a quantity of the transduction particle above a predetermined quantity. 1. An apparatus , comprising:a housing defining a channel configured to receive a sample container, the housing defining a detection volume configured to place the channel in communication with a detector, the housing including a first seal surface and a second seal surface, a first portion of the sample container and the first seal surface configured to isolate the detection volume from a volume outside of the housing when a second portion of the sample container is disposed within the detection volume; anda shutter having a portion movably disposed within the housing between a first shutter position and a second shutter position, a seal surface of the shutter and the second seal surface configured to isolate the detection volume from the channel of the housing when shutter is in the first shutter position, the channel of the housing being in communication with the detection volume when the shutter is in the second shutter position.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first seal surface includes a gasket.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the shutter is in the first shutter position when the second end portion of the sample ...

Techniques for Coalescing Doorbells in a Request Message

Examples include techniques for coalescing doorbells in a request message. Example techniques include gathering doorbells to access a device. The gathered are combined in a cache line structure and the cache line structure is written to a cache or buffer for a central processing unit in a single write operation. 1. An apparatus comprising:circuitry for a computing platform, the circuitry to include a central processing unit (CPU) cache;doorbell logic for execution by the circuitry to generate a plurality of doorbells targeted to a respective plurality of memory rings or queues for a device on the computing platform communicatively coupled with the circuitry via a link arranged to operate according to a peripheral component interconnect express (PCIe) specification;combine logic for execution by the circuitry to combine the plurality of doorbells in a cache line structure that includes separate information for each doorbell; andwrite logic for execution by the circuitry to write the cache line structure to the CPU cache in a single write operation to cause the plurality of doorbells to be posted to the respective plurality of memory rings or queues.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising:notify logic for execution by the circuitry to cause a write PCIe transaction layer packet (TLP) request message to be generated and sent to the device, the write PCIe TLP request message to include the separate information for each doorbell.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising the separate information for each doorbell to include respective identifier information for each respective memory ring or queue to uniquely identify each respective memory ring and to include a tail pointer to indicate respective address ranges for each respective memory ring or queue having valid requests for the device.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , the single write operation comprises the write logic to write the cache line structure to the CPU cache via use of write combine memory.5. The apparatus of ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETECTION OF CELLS USING ENGINEERED TRANSDUCTION PARTICLES

Systems and methods for detecting and/or identifying target cells (e.g., bacteria) using engineered transduction particles are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes mixing a quantity of transduction particles within a sample. The transduction particles are associated with a target cell. The transduction particles are non-replicative, and are engineered to include a nucleic acid molecule formulated to cause the target cell to produce a series of reporter molecules. The sample and the transduction particles are maintained to express the series of the reporter molecules when target cell is present in the sample. A signal associated with a quantity of the reporter molecules is received. In some embodiments, a magnitude of the signal is independent from a quantity of the transduction particle above a predetermined quantity. 1. A method of detecting the presence of a target cell within a biological sample using an instrument , comprising:mixing a plurality of transduction particles associated with the target cell with the biological sample, the plurality of transduction particles engineered to be non-replicative and to include a nucleic acid molecule formulated to cause the target cell to produce a plurality of reporter molecules, the plurality of transduction particles formulated to bind to and deliver the nucleic acid molecule into the target cell;maintaining, after the mixing, the biological sample and the plurality of transduction particles for a time period to allow the plurality of reporter molecules to be produced within the biological sample when the target cell is present in the biological sample;placing a reaction chamber containing the biological sample in optical communication with a detector of the instrument;conveying, via a delivery member, a reagent into the reaction chamber, the reagent formulated to react with the plurality of reporter molecules to catalyze production of a signal associated with a quantity of the plurality of the ...

Reagent cartridge and methods for detection of cells

An apparatus includes a housing and an actuator. The housing, which defines a reagent volume that can receive a reagent container, can be removably coupled to a reaction chamber. The housing includes a puncturer that defines a transfer pathway in fluid communication with the reagent volume. A delivery portion of the housing defines a delivery pathway between the transfer pathway and the reaction chamber when the housing is coupled to the reaction chamber. The actuator has a plunger portion disposed within the reagent volume. An engagement portion of the actuator can be manipulated to move the plunger portion within the reagent volume to deform the reagent container. The puncturer can pierce a frangible portion of the reagent container to convey a reagent from the reagent container into the reaction chamber via the transfer pathway and/or the delivery pathway.

PROCESSING VECTORIZED GUEST PHYSICAL ADDRESS TRANSLATION INSTRUCTIONS

Examples include a processor including fetch circuitry to fetch a guest physical address translation instruction having a format with fields to specify at least an opcode and locations of a source vector and a destination vector, decode circuitry to decode the fetched guest physical address translation instruction, and execution circuitry to execute the decoded guest physical address translation instruction. Execution of the decoded guest physical address translation instruction includes comparing guest physical addresses of the source vector with base and end addresses of a selected memory region, masking a guest physical address of the source vector if the guest physical address is in the selected memory region, translating the masked guest physical addresses into host addresses, and storing the host addresses into the destination vector. 1. A processor comprising:fetch circuitry to fetch a guest physical address translation instruction having a format with fields to specify at least an opcode and locations of a source vector and a destination vector; compare guest physical addresses of the source vector with base and end addresses of a selected memory region;', 'mask a guest physical address of the source vector if the guest physical address is in the selected memory region;', 'translate the masked guest physical addresses into host addresses; and', 'store the host addresses into the destination vector., 'decode circuitry to decode the fetched guest physical address translation instruction, and execution circuitry, responsive to the decoded guest physical address translation instruction, to2. The processor of claim 1 , comprising loading guest physical addresses into the source vector.3. The processor of claim 1 , wherein the host addresses are host virtual addresses.4. The processor of claim 1 , wherein the host addresses are host physical addresses.5. The processor of claim 1 , comprising repeating translating and storing for each masked guest physical address. ...

MlCRO-SCREENING AND SORTING APPARATUS, PROCESS, AND PRODUCTS

The disclosure provides methods and apparatus for high speed and sterile sorting of heterogeneous populations of cells to isolate homogenous populations. In embodiments, the disclosure provides a micropore array and collection tray situated within a sterile, closed cartridge. 1. A method for sorting a heterogeneous starting population of cells having a plurality of phenotypes , the method comprising:(a) loading a micropore array with a starting population of cells;(b) imaging the micropore array to identify individual pores comprising cells having a phenotype of interest;(c) extracting cells having a phenotype of interest from the individual pores by directing electromagnetic radiation at a radiation absorbing material associated with the pores, and;{'sup': 9', '9, '(d) collecting extracted cells having a phenotype of interest, wherein the scanning, imaging, and extracting steps sort between 2×10and 4×10micropores within 120 minutes.'}2. The method of claim 1 , wherein one or more phenotypic markers in cells of the starting population is detected with binding agents capable of detecting a phenotype or phenotypes of interest.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein a binding agent is an antibody or antibodies.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the micropore array is enclosed in a sorting cartridge comprising a sterile housing.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the housing prevents the starting population of cells or the extracted cells from contacting of a sorting instrument during use.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the starting population of cells is comprised of bone marrow cells claim 1 , peripheral hematopoietic cells claim 1 , differentiated ES cells claim 1 , iPSCs claim 1 , or genetically modified cells.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the extracted cells comprise a population suitable for allogeneic or autologous transplantation into a subject.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the starting population of cells comprises heterogeneous peripheral hematopoietic ...

METHOD FOR SIMULTANEOUSLY PERFORMING A PLURALITY OF DIFFERENT AMPLIFICATION REACTIONS

First and second sets of receptacles containing reagents for first and second amplification reactions, respectively, are placed in first and second receptacle holders, each associated with a thermal element. The receptacles are subjected to different first and second incubation processes resulting in the first and second amplification reactions in each of the first and second sets of receptacles that contain a first or a second target nucleic acid, respectively. The presence or absence of the first or second target nucleic acid, if any, is determined for each receptacle of the first and second sets of receptacles. 1. A method of simultaneously performing a plurality of different amplification reactions , the method comprising performing within an instrument enclosure the steps of:(a) depositing each receptacle of a first set of receptacles into a corresponding receptacle well of a first receptacle holder comprising a heat-conductive material, the first receptacle holder being in thermal communication with at least one associated thermal element, each receptacle well conforming to the dimensions of at least a bottom portion of the corresponding receptacle, thereby maximizing contact between each receptacle well of the first receptacle holder and an outer surface of the corresponding receptacle, and the contents each receptacle of the first set of receptacles including a first set of reagents for performing a first amplification reaction;(b) subjecting each receptacle of the first set of receptacles to a first incubation process in the first receptacle holder, wherein the first incubation process results in the first amplification reaction in each receptacle of the first set of receptacles containing a first target nucleic acid;(c) depositing each receptacle of a second set of receptacles into a corresponding receptacle well of a second receptacle holder comprising a heat-conductive material, wherein at least a portion of the second set of receptacles are deposited ...

REAGENT CARTRIDGE AND METHODS FOR DETECTION OF CELLS

An apparatus includes a housing and an actuator. The housing, which defines a reagent volume that can receive a reagent container, can be removably coupled to a reaction chamber. The housing includes a puncturer that defines a transfer pathway in fluid communication with the reagent volume. A delivery portion of the housing defines a delivery pathway between the transfer pathway and the reaction chamber when the housing is coupled to the reaction chamber. The actuator has a plunger portion disposed within the reagent volume. An engagement portion of the actuator can be manipulated to move the plunger portion within the reagent volume to deform the reagent container. The puncturer can pierce a frangible portion of the reagent container to convey a reagent from the reagent container into the reaction chamber via the transfer pathway and/or the delivery pathway. 1. A method , comprising:disposing a sample into a reaction chamber, the reaction chamber packaged to contain a reagent formulated to mix with the sample to form an assay media;mixing with the sample in the reaction chamber a plurality of transduction particles associated with a cell phenotype, the plurality of transduction particles engineered to include a nucleic acid molecule formulated to cause the cell phenotype to produce a plurality of reporter molecules capable of generating a detectable signal, the reagent formulated to suppress the detectable signal in a portion of the cell phenotype;receiving a first signal associated with the reagent;maintaining, when the first signal indicates the presence of the reagent, the sample and the plurality of transduction particles to express the plurality of reporter molecules when the cell phenotype is present in the sample; andreceiving a second signal associated with a quantity of the plurality of reporter molecules.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the reagent is a dried reagent.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the reagent is adhered to an inner surface of the ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS TO COMMUNICATE FLUIDS AND/OR SUPPORT INTRAOSSEOUS DEVICES

Fluid communication devices and supporting structures may be provided for use with intraosseous devices. Apparatus and methods may also be provided to communicate fluids with an intraosseous device. 1. An apparatus for supporting an intraosseous device disposed at a target site in a patient , the apparatus comprising:an inner collar including a bore extending therethrough, the bore configured to receive a portion of the intraosseous device;an outer collar configured to receive a portion of the inner collar, the inner collar operable to move relative to the outer collar, andthe outer collar operable to extend downward beyond an end of the inner collar to provide stabilization against a patient's skin at the target site.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the inner collar is configured to permit an end portion of the intraosseous device to protrude beyond the inner collar.3. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the inner collar and the outer collar are configured to fix a longitudinal position of the inner collar in relation to the outer collar.4. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the inner collar further comprises a pawl configured to move between a first position and a second position.5. The apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the first position is a retracted position claim 4 , and the second position is a radially expanded position.6. The apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the pawl is configured to flex outward in relation to the inner collar.7. The apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the outer collar further comprises a plurality of grooves.8. The apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the pawl of the inner collar is configured to extend into the plurality grooves of the outer collar.9. The apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the pawl is configured to extend outward and operate as a friction lock with the outer collar.10. The apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the inner collar further comprises a rough ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR INTEGRATED SAMPLE PREPARATION, REACTION AND DETECTION

Cartridges for the isolation of a biological sample and downstream biological assays on the sample are provided, as are methods for using such cartridges. In one embodiment, a nucleic acid sample is isolated from a biological sample and the nucleic acid sample is amplified, for example by the polymerase chain reaction. The cartridges provided herein can also be used for the isolation of non-nucleic acid samples, for example proteins, and to perform downstream reactions on the proteins, for example, binding assays. Instruments for carrying out the downstream biological assays and for detecting the results of the assays are also provided. 127-. (canceled)28. An apparatus , comprising: (i) a lysis chamber,', '(ii) an elution chamber, and', '(iii) a reaction chamber;, '(a) an instrument enclosure configured to contain a cassette, the cassette comprising(b) a heater assembly disposed within the instrument enclosure, the heater assembly comprising a first heater module comprising a first lumen and a second lumen and configured to receive at least a portion of the reaction chamber;(c) an optics assembly disposed within the instrument enclosure, the optics assembly comprising an excitation module, a detection module, a first optical member, and a second optical member, wherein the first optical member is configured to convey electromagnetic energy from the excitation module to the reaction chamber via the first lumen, and wherein the second optical member is configured to convey electromagnetic energy from the reaction chamber to the detection module via the second lumen.29. The apparatus of claim 28 , further comprising a second heater module configured to heat the elution chamber.30. The apparatus of claim 28 , further comprising a positioning assembly coupled to the heater assembly claim 28 , wherein the positioning assembly is configured to move the heater assembly relative to the cassette.31. The apparatus of claim 28 , further comprising an acoustic transducer ...

METHOD FOR MOVING A PROCESSING VIAL BETWEEN LOCATIONS OF AN INSTRUMENT

A method for moving a processing vial between locations of an instrument. The method includes the steps of dispensing a fluid into a processing vial with a disposable pipette tip frictionally fitted onto a probe of a pipettor, stripping the disposable pipette tip from the probe of the pipettor, and then engaging a cap in a frictional fit with the probe of the pipettor. While the cap is engaged in a frictional fit with the probe of the pipettor, coupling the cap to the processing vial to form a cap/vial assembly, where the cap seals the processing vial. The pipettor moves the cap/vial assembly from a first location of an instrument to a second location of the instrument. At the second location of the instrument, the cap/vial assembly is ejected from the probe of the pipettor, thereby depositing the cap/vial assembly at the second location. 1. A method for moving a fluid-containing processing vial between locations of an instrument , the method comprising the automated steps of:(a) dispensing a fluid into a processing vial, the fluid being dispensed with a first disposable pipette tip engaged in a frictional fit with a probe of a pipettor;(b) after step (a), stripping the first pipette tip from the probe of the pipettor;(c) inserting the probe of the pipettor into an open top end of a cap, thereby engaging the cap in a frictional fit;(d) while the cap is engaged by the probe of the pipettor, inserting a closed lower end of the cap into an open top end of the processing vial to thereby form a cap/vial assembly, wherein the cap is coupled to the processing vial and the processing vial is sealed by the cap;(e) with the pipettor, moving the cap/vial assembly from a first location of an instrument, where the cap/vial assembly is formed, to a second location of the instrument; and(f) at the second location of the instrument, ejecting the cap/vial assembly from the probe of the pipettor, thereby depositing the cap/vial assembly at the second location.2. The method of claim 1 ...

Diagnostic cartridges having flexible seals

Disclosed are cartridges and modules that may be utilized in diagnostic systems and methods. The cartridge includes a flexible seal that caps the cartridge. The flexible seal has an opening for a pipette tip, and the flexible seal is configured to create a sealed environment when a pipette tip is positioned in the opening of the flexible seal and when the pipette tip is moved in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis.

APPARATUS FOR HOLDING A RECEPTACLE AND APPLYING THERMAL ENERGY TO THE RECEPTACLE

A thermally conductive receptacle holder includes a plurality of wells that each receive a receptacle. A cross-brace is mounted to a support to exert a force onto an outer surface of a compressive housing such that the compressive housing exerts a force onto the receptacle holder. An optical fiber associated with each well provides optical communication between the receptacle well and an excitation signal source and/or an emission signal detector. 1. An apparatus for performing nucleic acid amplification reactions , the apparatus comprising:a thermally-conductive receptacle holder, the receptacle holder comprising a plurality of receptacle wells disposed in linear alignment with each other, each of the receptacle wells being configured to receive a receptacle, and each of the receptacle wells having a through-hole extending from an inner surface of the receptacle well to an outer surface of the receptacle holder;a thermally-conductive support, the support being a solid member comprising a base portion and an upright portion, wherein the base portion comprises a plurality of through-holes, and wherein each of the through-holes of the base portion is in alignment with a corresponding one of the through-holes of the receptacle holder;a thermal element positioned between a first side of the upright portion of the support and an opposed side surface of the receptacle holder;a compressive housing having a top surface positioned above the receptacle holder, the top surface having a plurality of through-holes, each of the through-holes of the compressive housing being in alignment with a corresponding one of the receptacle wells;a cross-brace mounted to the first side of the upright portion of the support, wherein the cross-brace exerts a force onto an outer surface of a side wall of the compressive housing such that the compressive housing exerts a force onto the receptacle holder; anda plurality of optical fibers, each of the optical fibers providing optical communication ...

Method and Apparatus for Melting Curve Analysis of Nucleic Acids in Microarray Format

A method and apparatus for performing melting curve analyses of nucleic acids on a microarray is described. The present method includes varying the temperature of a fluid on a microarray to dissociate and remove target DNA, scanning the mircoarray for fluorescence, collecting the target DNA removed from the microarray, and reusing the collected target DNA and the microarray. The apparatus of the present disclosure includes a microarray stage, a light source and detector, and a temperature controller, wherein the temperature controller is configured to adjust the temperature of a fluid within a sample chamber on the microarray such that the temperature of the fluid is varied during the analysis such that target DNA is dissociated from the microarray, and wherein the light source is directed to the microarray and the resulting fluorescence is perceived by the detector. 1. An apparatus for conducting a melting curve analysis of nucleic acids on a microarray by exciting a predefined portion of the microarray with a light beam and detecting emissions of fluorescent light comprising: a light source configured to produce the light beam, the light beam comprising electromagnetic radiation having one or more wavelengths,', 'a band pass filter configured to eliminate wavelengths close to the wavelength of fluorescent light emitted from the nucleic acids,', 'a mirror configured to reflect the light beam and to allow the fluorescent light emission to pass through, and', 'an objective lens configured to focus the light beam on a predefined portion of the microarray;, 'an illuminator assembly, including'}an emissions detector configured to sense emissions of fluorescent light from the predefined portion of the microarray; [ [ an opening configured to receive a microarray slide, the opening having a spacer disposed about an inside perimeter,', 'a fluid inlet port, and', 'a fluid outlet port,, 'a frame including'}, 'an optical window attached to the frame,', 'a seal disposed on the ...

CYLINDRICAL POLYMER MASK AND METHOD OF FABRICATION

A cylindrical mask may be fabricated using a hollow casting cylinder and a mask cylinder. The casting cylinder has an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the mask cylinder. The casting and mask cylinders are coaxially assembled and a liquid polymer inserted in a space surrounding the mask cylinder between the inner surface of the casting cylinder and the outer surface of the mask cylinder. After curing the liquid polymer, the casting cylinder is removed. A surface of the cured polymer can be patterned. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 2. A method of making a rotatable mask , the method comprising:a) depositing a first polymer precursor liquid on a first surface of a first master mask, wherein the first surface of the first master mask includes a pattern;b) curing the first polymer precursor liquid to create a first cured polymer, wherein the first cured polymer and the first master mask together form a laminate;c) configuring a first end of the laminate to have a strip of the first cured polymer missing and a second end of the laminate to have a strip of the first master mask missing;d) rolling the laminate inside of a first casting component;e) depositing a second polymer precursor liquid in a gap of the rolled laminate that corresponds to the strip of the first cured polymer;f) curing the second polymer precursor liquid to form a second cured polymer, whereby the first cured polymer and the second cured polymer together form a compliant layer for the rotatable mask, whereby the outer surface of the compliant layer includes a pattern that corresponds to the pattern of the first master mask.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising:g) removing the ...

Apparatus and methods for integrated sample preparation, reaction and detection

Cartridges for the isolation of a biological sample and downstream biological assays on the sample are provided, as are methods for using such cartridges. In one embodiment, a nucleic acid sample is isolated from a biological sample and the nucleic acid sample is amplified, for example by the polymerase chain reaction. The cartridges provided herein can also be used for the isolation of non-nucleic acid samples, for example proteins, and to perform downstream reactions on the proteins, for example, binding assays. Instruments for carrying out the downstream biological assays and for detecting the results of the assays are also provided.

Packet flow classification

Technologies for packet flow classification on a computing device include a hash table including a plurality of hash table buckets in which each hash table bucket maps a plurality of keys to corresponding traffic flows. The computing device performs packet flow classification on received data packets, where the packet flow classification includes a plurality of sequential classification stages and fetch classification operations and non-fetch classification operations are performed in each classification stage. The fetch classification operations include to prefetch a key of a first received data packet based on a set of packet fields of the first received data packet for use during a subsequent classification stage, prefetch a hash table bucket from the hash table based on a key signature of the prefetched key for use during another subsequent classification stage, and prefetch a traffic flow to be applied to the first received data packet based on the prefetched hash table bucket and the prefetched key. The computing device handles processing of received data packets such that a fetch classification operation is performed by the flow classification module on the first received data packet while a non-fetch classification operation is performed by the flow classification module on a second received data packet.

APPARATUS AND METHODS TO COMMUNICATE FLUIDS AND/OR SUPPORT INTRAOSSEOUS DEVICES

Fluid communication devices and supporting structures may be provided for use with intraosseous devices. Apparatus and methods may also be provided to communicate fluids with an intraosseous device. 1. An apparatus for supporting an intraosseous device disposed at a target site in a patient comprising:a supporting structure having an opening formed therethrough;the opening having a configuration and interior dimensions compatible with exterior portions of the intraosseous device;the supporting structure having an extended surface with an adhesive layer disposed thereon;the adhesive layer operable to releasably engage the apparatus to a patient proximate the target site; andthe adhesive layer extending over at least a portion of the extended surface.2. The apparatus of wherein the apparatus further comprises:a backing proximate the adhesive layer; andthe backing covering the adhesive layer prior to installing the apparatus at the target site.3. The apparatus of wherein the backing comprises a release liner.4. The apparatus of wherein the apparatus further comprises the extended surface generally flexible for adapting to contours of a patient's body near the target site.5. The apparatus of wherein the extended surface further comprises a plurality of tabs extending outwardly from the supporting structure.6. The apparatus of wherein the extended surface further comprises at least three tabs extending outwardly from the supporting structure.7. (canceled)8. The apparatus of wherein the supporting structure further comprises:a proximal end configured to be disposed away from the patient;at least one stop located adjacent the proximal end; andthe at least one stop projecting into the opening to restrict longitudinal motion of the intraosseous device through the opening.9. The apparatus of wherein the supporting structure further comprises:a generally hollow, cylindrical portion; andan inner diameter of the cylindrical portion sized to receive a portion of the intraosseous ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS

The present disclosure provides systems, devices and methods associates with processing and analyzing samples for molecular diagnostics. The system may process samples using assay cartridges including sample preparation modules and PCR modules. The system may include thermal cycler modules and optics modules to detect the specific nucleic acid sequences in the samples. 1. A PCR-based molecular diagnostic device for assaying a plurality of PCR wells , said PCR-based molecular diagnostic device comprising an optic module for exciting fluorescent dyes in the PCR wells and detecting fluorescence emitted from the PCR wells , said optic module comprising:an excitation light source;a plurality of excitation optic fibers for directing excitation light to the PCR wells;a fluorescence light detector;a plurality of emission optic fibers for directing fluorescence within the PCR wells to the fluorescence light detector, wherein termini of the emission optic fibers are arranged on a circle on an optic fiber plate;a rotary plate sandwiched between the optic fiber plate and the fluorescence light detector, said rotary plate comprising multiple filters each for a different wavelength, wherein the filters are arranged on a circle matching the circle of the emission optic fibers on the optic fiber plate such that when the rotary plate is rotated the filters are capable of aligning with the termini of the emission optic fibers.2. The PCR-based molecular diagnostic device of claim 1 , wherein the excitation light source is a laser or an LED.3. The PCR-based molecular diagnostic device of claim 2 , wherein the laser is a fixed-wavelength laser or a tunable laser.4. The PCR-based molecular diagnostic device of claim 2 , wherein the LED is a single wavelength LED claim 2 , a multi-wavelength LED or a white LED.5. The PCR-based molecular diagnostic device of claim 1 , wherein the excitation light is passed through a filter before being directed to the PCR wells.6. The PCR-based molecular ...

Systems and methods for molecular diagnostics

The present disclosure provides systems, devices and methods associates with processing and analyzing samples for molecular diagnostics. The system may process samples using assay cartridges including sample preparation modules and PCR modules. The system may include thermal cycler modules and optics modules to detect the specific nucleic acid sequences in the samples.

Laser capture microdissection (lcm) extraction device and device carrier and method for post-lcm fluid processing

The present invention generally discloses an extraction system (10) that provides a locale for fluid processing and extraction on a post-microcapture transfer film (28). The extraction system includes a transfer film carrier (12) and an extraction device (14) forming a reservoir. The extraction system (10) selectively excludes regions (90) of the transfer film (28) from the reservoir to advantageously reduce contamination due to matter adhered to the transfer film by non-specific transfer.

Systems and methods for detection of cells using engineered transduction particles

Systems and methods for detecting and/or identifying target cells (e.g., bacteria) using engineered transduction particles are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes mixing a quantity of transduction particles within a sample. The transduction particles are associated with a target cell. The transduction particles are non-replicative, and are engineered to include a nucleic acid molecule formulated to cause the target cell to produce a series of reporter molecules. The sample and the transduction particles are maintained to express the series of the reporter molecules when target cell is present in the sample. A signal associated with a quantity of the reporter molecules is received. In some embodiments, a magnitude of the signal is independent from a quantity of the transduction particle above a predetermined quantity.

Reagent cartridge and methods for detection of cells

An apparatus includes a housing and an actuator. The housing, which defines a reagent volume that can receive a reagent container, can be removably coupled to a reaction chamber. The housing includes a puncturer that defines a transfer pathway in fluid communication with the reagent volume. A delivery portion of the housing defines a delivery pathway between the transfer pathway and the reaction chamber when the housing is coupled to the reaction chamber. The actuator has a plunger portion disposed within the reagent volume. An engagement portion of the actuator can be manipulated to move the plunger portion within the reagent volume to deform the reagent container. The puncturer can pierce a frangible portion of the reagent container to convey a reagent from the reagent container into the reaction chamber via the transfer pathway and/or the delivery pathway.

Contiguous, branched transmyocardial revascularization (TMR) channel, method and device

Improved methods and devices related to laser-assisted transmyocardial revascularization (TMR), and more particularly, to improved methods and devices for creating branched TMR channels through myocardium in which a single opening is made in an epicardial surface with a plurality of channel branches, having predetermined geometries extending into and through myocardium, depending therefrom. A method of creating branched TMR channels comprises piercing an epicardial surface mechanically or with laser energy, directing laser energy through the opening in a first predetermined angular orientation with respect to the epicardial surface to create a first channel and delivering laser energy in a second predetermined angular orientation to create a second branch. A plurality of branches can thus be created in a single channel structure. A guide block device allows an opening to be made in an epicardial surface mechanically or with laser energy and provides a structure for directing laser energy into myocardium in a plurality of channels depending from the opening. Rotating guide devices and finger held devices with rotating head means include a hand held device with an elongated wand-like handle portion, a rotating head portion and a hollow guide needle means. Preferred embodiments further comprise a laser delivery means advancing mechanism and guide needle rotating means.

System, method and apparatus for automated incubation

System, apparatus, and method for cycling the temperature of at least one receptacle holder that is adapted for use in an automated instrument capable of performing nucleic acid-based amplification tests. Also provided are methods for conducting automated, random-access incubation processes using the same.

Laser capture microdissection (lcm) extraction device and device carrier and method for post-lcm fluid processing

The present invention generally discloses an extraction system (10) that provides a locale for fluid processing and extraction on a post-microcapture transfer film (28). The extraction system includes a transfer film carrier (12) and an extraction device (14) forming a reservoir. The extraction system (10) selectively excludes regions (90) of the transfer film (28) from the reservoir to advantageously reduce contamination due to matter adhered to the transfer film by non-specific transfer.

Apparatus and methods for integrated sample preparation, reaction and detection

Cartridges for the isolation of a biological sample and downstream biological assays on the sample are provided. In one embodiment, a nucleic acid sample is isolated from a biological sample and the nucleic acid sample is amplified, for example by the polymerase chain reaction. The cartridges provided herein can also be used for the isolation of non- nucleic acid samples, for example proteins, and to perform downstream reactions on the proteins, for example, binding assays. Instruments for carrying out the downstream biological assays and for detecting the results of the assays are also provided.

Apparatus and methods for integrated sample preparation, reaction and detection

Pallet unloading and orienting device

A novel device is described for unloading and orienting articles, such as cartons, stacked in tiers on a pallet. The device includes a tiltable pallet receiver which receives a loaded pallet in horizontal position and then tilts the pallet and tiered articles thereon onto their sides with the article tiers forming a series of substantially vertical, adjacent stacks. A means is provided for intermittently advancing the pallet and tiers horizontally in a direction away from the receiver when in a tilted position towards a single tier receiver which receives a single vertical stack of tiered articles from the pallet. The tier receiver is horizontally movable for moving the received stack laterally away from the next adjacent stack and support devices are provided for securely holding the stack in the tier receiver and the next adjacent stack in the pallet during this movement of the tier receiver. Preferably, a curtain means is positioned between the pallet advancing means and the single tier receiver, said curtain means being arranged to move in a plane perpendicular to the direction of travel of the tiers and to move between an open position for transfer of a stack from the pallet to the tier receiver and a closed position adjacent a stack of articles being held in a drop position in the single tier receiver. A release means is provided for dropping a stack of articles being held in the tier receiver onto a delivery chute which delivers the articles in an upright position onto a horizontal table.

Method and apparatus for melting curve analysis of nucleic acids in microarray format

A method and apparatus for performing melting curve analyses of nucleic acids on a microarray is described. The present method includes varying the temperature of a fluid on a microarray to dissociate and remove target DNA, scanning the mircoarray for fluorescence, collecting the target DNA removed from the microarray, and reusing the collected target DNA and the microarray. The apparatus of the present disclosure includes a microarray stage, a light source and detector, and a temperature controller, wherein the temperature controller is configured to adjust the temperature of a fluid within a sample chamber on the microarray such that the temperature of the fluid is varied during the analysis such that target DNA is dissociated from the microarray, and wherein the light source is directed to the microarray and the resulting fluorescence is perceived by the detector.

Optical phase-modulating devices and methods for their operation

A semiconductor-based optical phase-modulating device (200) has first (250, 260) and second (252, 260) pairs of phase-fixing electrodes bracketing a pair (254, 260) of phase-modulating electrodes. The phase-fixing electrodes fix electric fields across end regions of the phase-modulating device to reduce distributed resistance and capacitance of the phase-modulating device, thereby improving the frequency response of the phase-modulating device. The optical phase-modulating device is particularly applicable to use in integrated optic Mach-Zehnder interferometers used for optical signal modulation.

Patient-operated orthopedic distraction device

In the present invention, there is disclosed a patient-operated distraction device for selective periodic distraction of a fractured bone that has been set for retention by an external fixator having an elongate distensible fixator body connected to bone-screw or bone-pin clamps at the respective ends of said fixator body, said device comprising: (a) an elongate distractor body (28) with a first fixator-engageable pin (30; 69) connected to one end of said distractor body (28) and a second fixator-engageable pin (31; 70) connected to the opposite end of said distractor body (28), and (b) means including a manually operable rotary cam (59; 59'; 80) in one of said connections and on an axis transverse to the elongation of said distractor body (28) for imparting a partial-turn cam-driven incremental distracting displacement of said first and second fixator-engageable pins (30. 31; 69, 70) with respect to each other in response to at least a partial rotation of said rotary cam( 59; 59'; 80).

Apparatus and methods for integrated sample preparation, reaction and detection

Abstract - 2014224115 A method comprising: (a) providing a composition comprising nucleic acids bound to magnetic particles in a first chamber of a cassette comprising the first chamber and a reaction chamber; (b) eluting the nucleic acids from the particles in the first chamber to obtain an eluted nucleic acid sample; (c) magnetically attracting the magnetic particles to a cavity of a valve member movably disposed within a valve housing, wherein the valve housing is at least partially disposed between the first chamber and a second chamber and comprises a first opening in fluid communication with the first chamber and a second opening in fluid communication with the second chamber; (d) transferring at least a portion of the eluted nucleic acid sample to the reaction chamber in fluid communication with the first chamber; and (e) amplifying one or more target nucleic acid sequences in the eluted nucleic acid sample by combining the eluted nucleic acid sample and PCR reagents in the reaction chamber under conditions suitable for PCR. In a preferred embodiment, the PCR master mix contains PCR reagents and substantially no MgCl2 is disposed in the reaction chamber, and the nucleic acids are eluted in an elution buffer comprising MgCl2.