Levitation, holding, and rotation of cells within traps made by high-frequency fields

Biological cells and other particles can be electrically manipulated by means of negative dielectrophoresis within microchambers whose electrode geometry is of the order of the cell size. Very-high-frequency fields (50 MHz and above) and media of increased relative permittivity are especially suitable for the purpose, as shown by experimental data on levitation and rotation. It appears to be possible to move and rotate cells or particles at will using this technology.

[Laser-induced shockwave lithotripsy--in vitro trial and animal experiment studies]

Laser induced shock wave lithotripsy is a new procedure to destroy gallstones. Stones of up to 500 mg are destroyed within 5 min. Severe reactions of the soft tissue cannot be observed in animal studies. No perforations, stenoses or thermic lesions after wound healing were observed. The development of an optomechanical transducer replacing the optical lens system at the end of the transmission guide allows its handling in flexible endoscopes. Clinical use is therefore possible from the technical aspect.