A multispectral-sensor-based colorimetric reader for biological assays.

Tests that depend on changes in color are commonly used in biosensing. Here, we report on a colorimetric reader for such applications. The device is simple to construct and operate, making it ideal for research laboratories with limited resources or skilled personnel.

Augmentation of C17.2 Neural Stem Cell Differentiation via Uptake of Low Concentrations of ssDNA-Wrapped Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes.

Nanostructured biomaterials are extensively explored in clinical imaging and in gene/drug delivery applications. However, limited studies are performed that examine the influence that nanomaterials may have on cell behavior over long time scales at nonlethal concentrations. This study is designed to investigate whether carbon nanotubes are able to augment cell behavior at low concentrations.

Micro-Raman spectroscopy as an enabling tool for long-term intracellular studies of nanomaterials at nanomolar concentration levels.

Given the importance of nanomaterials for medicine, health and biological sciences, a method for reliable intra-cellular tracking of nanocarbon materials at ultra-low concentrations was investigated. Namely, hyperspectral imaging of DNA-functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes inside neural stem cells was demonstrated, over several mitosis cycles, also in a 3D z-stacking mode.

Compact inline optical electron polarimeter.

A compact optical electron polarimeter using a helium target is described. It offers a maximum fluorescence detection efficiency of ~20 Hz/nA, which is an order of magnitude higher than that of earlier designs. With an argon target, this device is expected to have a polarimetric figure-of-merit of 270 Hz/nA.

The secreted protease factor CPAF is responsible for degrading pro-apoptotic BH3-only proteins in Chlamydia trachomatis-infected cells.

Chlamydia trachomatis has evolved a profound anti-apoptotic activity that may aid in chlamydial evasion of host defense. The C. trachomatis anti-apoptotic activity has been correlated with blockade of mitochondrial cytochrome c release, inhibition of Bax and Bak activation, and degradation of BH3-only proteins.