Abstract:
A device for time-resolved electron microscopy includes a nozzle and a piezoelectric droplet generator. The nozzle includes a chamber defining an inlet and an outlet, a first channel in fluid communication with the inlet of the chamber, and a second channel in fluid communication with the chamber. The piezoelectric droplet generator is coupled to the first channel and to a sample source. The piezo-electric droplet generator is configured to generate and provide droplets of the sample to the chamber. The second channel is configured to provide a substrate solution to the chamber, and the droplets of the sample and the substrate solution mix in the chamber and form a fluid stream when exiting the outlet for capture on an EM slide for study.
Abstract:
The invention provides methods and devices for preparing frozen vitrified samples for transmission electron microscopy. By reducing the volume of sample from microliter scale to picoliter scale, the requirement for blotting of excess fluid is minimized or eliminated.
Abstract:
A piezoelectric actuated device for acquiring and dispensing fluid samples is described. Fluid samples are acquired or drawn up into the device by dipping the tip into a fluid and applying an alternating current electrical signal to the piezoelectric element. Removing the tip from the fluid and applying another electrical signal causes drops of fluid to be ejected for non-contact dispensing. The device optionally incorporates a second piezoelectric element functioning as a sensor to detect if it is empty, plugged or working properly. An optional heater, temperature sensor and feedback circuitry regulate the temperature of the device.
Abstract:
A high precision, small volume fluid processing system employs open ended capillary tubes to meter, aliquot and mix small volumes of sample fluid and reagents. The system has an automatic mechanism for moving the capillary tubes as well as automated sub-systems for incubating and mixing fluids within the capillary tubes.
Abstract:
A microreactor array platform and method for sealing a reagent in microreactors of an array of microreactors are provided. The microreactor array platform includes an array of microreactors, and a sealing film having a first surface and an opposite second surface, the sealing film configured to movably seal the array of microreactors. The microreactor array platform also includes an injector for delivering a reagent into the array of microreactors via a fluid path between the array and the second surface of the sealing film, and an applicator for directing a sealing liquid against the first surface of the sealing film. The microreactor array platform further includes a system for creating a pressure differential between the reagent in the injector and a space between the array of microreactors and the second surface of the sealing film.
Abstract:
The invention provides methods and devices for preparing frozen vitrified samples for transmission electron microscopy. By reducing the volume of sample from microliter scale to picoliter scale, the requirement for blotting of excess fluid is minimized or eliminated.
Abstract:
A microreactor array system includes an array of microreactors, and a sealing membrane having a first surface and an opposite second surface, the sealing membrane configured to movably seal the array of microreactors. The microreactor array system further includes a reagent gap providing a fluid path between the array of microreactors and the second surface of the sealing membrane when the second surface of the sealing membrane is in spaced relationship with the array of microreactors. The microreactor array system further includes an injector for delivering a reagent into the reagent gap, an applicator for directing a working fluid against the first surface of the sealing membrane, and a detector.
Abstract:
A chamber device for analyzing living cell(s). The chamber device includes a base and a lid that when reversibly pressed closed create a chamber. The base is configured with an optically transparent well to contain at least one cell. The lid has a breadth greater than the base and is configured to contain at least one sensor. The lid is further configured with a lip that when pressed between the lid and the base creates an impermeable seal. The base and the lid are configured so that, when closed and in use, the sensor remains spatially apart from the at least one cell.