DNA-DISK: Automated end-to-end data storage via enzymatic single-nucleotide DNA synthesis and sequencing on digital microfluidics.

In the age of information explosion, the exponential growth of digital data far exceeds the capacity of current mainstream storage media. DNA is emerging as a promising alternative due to its higher storage density, longer retention time, and lower power consumption. To date, commercially mature DNA synthesis and sequencing technologies allow for writing and reading of information on DNA with customization and convenience at the research level. However, under the disconnected and nonspecialized mode, DNA data storage encounters practical challenges, including susceptibility to errors, long storage latency, resource-intensive requirements, and elevated information security risks. Herein, we introduce a platform named DNA-DISK that seamlessly streamlined DNA synthesis, storage, and sequencing on digital microfluidics coupled with a tabletop device for automated end-to-end information storage. The single-nucleotide enzymatic DNA synthesis with biocapping strategy is utilized, offering an ecofriendly and cost-effective approach for data writing. A DNA encapsulation using thermo-responsive agarose is developed for on-chip solidification, not only eliminating data clutter but also preventing DNA degradation. Pyrosequencing is employed for in situ and accurate data reading. As a proof of concept, DNA-DISK successfully stored and retrieved a musical sheet file (228 bits) with lower write-to-read latency (4.4 min of latency per bit) as well as superior automation compared to other platforms, demonstrating its potential to evolve into a DNA Hard Disk Drive in the future.

Design and Application of Portable Centrifuge Inspired by a Hand-Powered Spinning Top.

Traditional centrifuges, extensively employed in biology, chemistry, medicine, and other domains for tasks such as blood separation and pathogen extraction, have certain limitations. Their high cost, substantial size, and reliance on electricity restrict their range of application. Contemporary centrifuges, inspired by everyday items like paper trays and egg beaters, boast characteristics such as ease of operation, independence from electricity, and portability. These features offer unique advantages in specific situations, such as electricity shortages, inadequate infrastructure, and challenging medical conditions. Consequently, we designed a hand-powered portable centrifuge driven by pulling a rope. Our experiments revealed significant performance factors, including load capacity, rope length, and frequency of rope pulling. The results demonstrated that the revolutions per minute (RPM) of a hand-powered portable centrifuge were directly proportional to the length of the rope and the frequency of pulling, up to a certain limit, while inversely proportional to the load. When used for separating and washing polystyrene microspheres, the portable centrifuge's performance equaled that of traditional centrifuges. According to relevant calculations, this centrifuge could be capable of meeting the application of blood separation. Therefore, we believe this portable centrifuge will find meaningful applications in similar areas, particularly in resource-poor settings.

Research progress of electrode shapes in EWOD-based digital microfluidics.

Digital microfluidics (DMF) is an innovative technology used for precise manipulation of liquid droplets. This technology has garnered significant attention in both industrial applications and scientific research due to its unique advantages. Among the key components of DMF, the driving electrode plays a role in facilitating droplet generation, transportation, splitting, merging, and mixing. This comprehensive review aims to present an in-depth understanding of the working principle of DMF particularly focusing on the Electrowetting On Dielectric (EWOD) method. Furthermore, it examines the impact of driving electrodes with varying geometries on droplet manipulation. By analyzing and comparing their characteristics, this review offers valuable insights and a fresh perspective on the design and application of driving electrodes in DMF based on the EWOD approach. Lastly, an assessment of the development trend and potential applications of DMF concludes the review, providing an outlook for future prospects in the field.

A novel spectrofluorometric method for the determination of methiocarb using an amphiphilic p-sulfonatocalix[4]arene.

The characteristics of host-guest complexation between tetrabutyl ether derivatives of p-sulfonatocalix[4]arene (SC4Bu) and methiocarb [3,5-dimethyl-4-(methylthio) phenyl methylcarbamate] were investigated by fluorescence spectrometry. Upon addition of methiocarb, the fluorescence intensity of SC4Bu was quenched regularly and a slight red shift was observed for the maximum emission peak. These results indicated that the SC4Bu-methiocarb complex was formed a 1:1 mole ratio. An association constant of 1.67×10(4) L mol(-1) was calculated by applying a deduced equation. The interaction mechanism of the inclusion complex was discussed. Based on the results, a novel spectrofluorimetric method was described for the determination of methiocarb with a detection limit at 0.05 µg mL(-1). This method is very simple and shows high sensitivity and selectivity. Moreover, the proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of methiocarb in water samples.