Abstract:
Devices, systems, and methods for detection of an analyte in a sample are disclosed. In some embodiments, an optical sensor can include a metallic layer and a plurality of dielectric pillars extending through the metallic layer. A plurality of regions of concentrated light can be supported in proximity to the ends of the plurality of dielectric pillars when a surface of the metallic layer is illuminated. Concentrated light within one or more of these regions can interact with an analyte molecule, allowing for detection of the analyte.
Abstract:
Methods and devices for sequencing nucleic acids are disclosed herein. Devices are also provided herein for measuring DNA with nano-pores sized to allow DNA to pass through the nano-pore. The capacitance can be measured for the DNA molecule passing through the nano-pore. The capacitance measurements can be correlated to determine the sequence of base pairs passing through the nano-pore to sequence the DNA.
Abstract:
A device and method are described in which the lifetime of a fluorescent species or fluorophores is detected in the absence of any optical filter. Based on the measured fluorescent lifetimes, molecules or compounds attached to a fluorophores such as small organic molecules, polymers, peptides, saccharides and nucleic acids can be identified or assayed.
Abstract:
The present disclosure describes a method for optically powering transducers and related transducers with a photovoltaic collector. An optical fiber power delivery method and a free space power delivery method are also provided. A fabrication process for making an optically powered transducer is further described, together with an implantable transducer system based on optical power delivery.
Abstract:
Novel methods to fabricate biological sensors and electronics are disclosed. A silicon-on-insulator wafer can be employed by etching a pattern of holes in the silicon layer, then a pattern of cavities in the insulating layer, and then sealing the top of the cavities. Further, n or p doped regions and metallic regions can be defined in the processed wafer, thereby enabling integration of biological sensing and electronic capabilities in the same wafer.
Abstract:
A process is described for testing a biomedical property of an internal tissue of a patient. Optical energy emitted by an external source is transferred through a nail of the patient to an instrument device implanted beneath the nail. A portion of the transferred optical energy is converted to electrical power for driving components of the implanted instrument. Using the electrical power, a characteristic of the internal tissue associated with the measurement of the biomedical property is sensed and an optical signal based on the sensed characteristic is transmitted through the nail to an external data reader.
Abstract:
MIR spectroscopy systems comprising hierarchical spectral dispersion that enables fine spectral resolution and high sensitivity spectroscopy are disclosed. Hierarchical spectral dispersion is derived by employing at least two diffractive lens arrays, located on either side of a test sample, each receiving input radiation having an input spectral range and distributing the input radiation into a plurality of output signals, each having a fraction of the spectral range of the input radiation. As a result, the signal multiplication factor of the two arrays is multiplied in a manner that mitigates the propagation of wavelength harmonics through the system. In some embodiments, an emitter array comprising a plurality of spectrally selective emitters provides the input MIR radiation to a spectroscopy system. In some embodiments, spectrally selective detectors are used to detect narrow spectral components in the radiation after they have passed through the test sample.
Abstract:
An implantable diagnostic device in accordance with the present disclosure provides various benefits such as a compact size thereby allowing implanting of the device inside animate objects; low cost due to incorporation of inexpensive detection circuitry and the use of conventional IC fabrication techniques; re-usability by heating thereby allowing multiple diagnostic tests to be performed without discarding the device; and a configuration that allows performing of simultaneous and/or sequential diagnostic tests for detecting one or more similar or dissimilar target molecules concurrently or at different times.
Abstract:
A microlaser system includes an optical source, a microlaser, an actuator switch, and a photovoltaic power source. The microlaser, which includes a control element, is optically pumped by at least a portion of light emitted by the optical source. The actuator switch is configured to be activated by a triggering event. Furthermore, the photovoltaic power source is coupled in a series connection with the actuator switch and the control element, the series connection configured to connect the photovoltaic power source to the control element of the microlaser when the actuator switch is activated by the triggering event.
Abstract:
The present invention provides microfluidic devices and methods for using the same. In particular, microfluidic devices of the present invention are useful in conducting a variety of assays and high throughput screening. Microfluidic devices of the present invention include elastomeric components and comprise a main flow channel; a plurality of branch flow channels; a plurality of control channels; and a plurality of valves. Preferably, each of the valves comprises one of the control channels and an elastomeric segment that is deflectable into or retractable from the main or branch flow channel upon which the valve operates in response to an actuation force applied to the control channel.