Chad Mirkin is developing a new DNA detection method. The Northwestern University professor and director of the school's Institute of NanoTechnology pairs microelectrodes and nanoprobes for detecting Anthrax, small pox, and other biohazards. He asserts that nanotechnology offers better results in all categories of detection, including sensitivity, selectivity, cost, ease of use, and speed. The new detection method eliminates the need to heat the gene chip. Mirkin says that companies in the gene chip technology business currently use a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection. Gene chips are read using a confocal microscope, a complex instrument costing more than $60,000. Mirkin's electrical DNA detection method eliminates the PCR. It also allows testing of thousands of biological targets on a single chip. Various DNA tests are placed on a glass slide, each made up of single strands of synthesized DNA that bind with targeted DNA. The bound strands are placed between a pair of electrodes, one test for each pair. When the slide is placed in a solution containing the target, perfect and partial matches bind to gold probes. The probe accumulations are then amplified using modified photographic developing solution. Each gold nanoparticle becomes covered with silver and grows in size, closing the gap between the electrodes and thus carrying a current. For more information, go to www.northwestern.edu.
By refining topologies and using new fluid technology, Moog's new peak sine drive controller increases available power without increasing controller volume.
Lantronix Inc. has expanded its line of controllers for sensor networks with the release of a rugged controller that improves management of automation systems used in a number of industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, and chemicals.
Inspired by the hooks a parasitic worm uses to penetrate its host's intestines, the Karp Lab has invented a flexible adhesive patch covered with microneedles that adheres well to wet, soft tissues, but doesn't cause damage when removed.
From Dell / Intel® New Paradigms in Design Work Scott Hamilton, vertical market strategist for Dell Precision workstations, 5/2/2013 3
Early in my career, I worked as a draftsman and remember the days of drawing on vellum with numbered pencils and Mylar with plastic lead. This was a fun experience in the sense that I ...
I've been using workstations for more than 10 years and love finding ways to get more performance from my system. With demanding professional applications that require more power each ...
A lasting memory from my first job as an engineer in an auto assembly plant is standing on hard concrete at six in the morning, vending-machine coffee clutched in hand, listening to ...
A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
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