Patent Publication Number: US-2019195743-A1

Title: System and method for mounting a specimen on a slide

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/150,910 filed 3 Oct. 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/708,499, filed 19 Sep. 2017, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/632,226, filed 23 Jun. 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/131,993, filed 18 Apr. 2016, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/706,479, filed 7 May 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/574,210, filed 17 Dec. 2014, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,041,922, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/917,219, filed 17 Dec. 2013 and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/034,935, filed 8 Aug. 2014, which are each incorporated in their entirety herein by this reference. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/708,499, filed 19 Sep. 2017, also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/396,299, filed 19 Sep. 2016, which is incorporated in its entirety herein by this reference. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This invention relates generally to the biological research field, and more specifically to a new system and method biological specimen mounting. 
     BACKGROUND 
     It is commonly desirable in biological laboratories to mount tissue sections, or ‘specimens’, to slides for purposes of examining the tissue sections using a microscope, treating the tissue sections with a stain or dye, and for other purposes. Conventional systems and methods for mounting specimens onto slides comprise placing tissue sections in a sufficiently deep water bath, with the specimens floating on the surface of the water. The broad side of a slide is then rested on the rim of the water bath and the slide is angled down into the water bath such that the slide is partially submerged in the water. Subsequently, a small brush or glass capillary tube is used to manipulate a tissue section onto the slide. Typically, the slide is gradually drawn out of the water as additional tissue sections are arranged on the slide. In another variation of a conventional method, tissue is embedded in paraffin wax, sliced with a microtome, and then selected sections of the embedded tissue are manually transferred to a heated water bath. A glass slide treated with adherents is then used to manually scoop the tissue sections out of the hot water bath. Conventional methods of mounting specimens on slides are thus difficult, time-consuming, and labor-intensive. 
     There is thus a need in the biological research field for a new system and method for biological specimen mounting. This invention provides such a new system and method. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
         FIG. 1  depicts a schematic of an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 2  depicts a perspective view of an example embodiment of a variation of a fluid channel of the system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIGS. 3A-3B  depict side and bottom views, respectively, of an example embodiment of a portion of a variation of a fluid channel of the system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIGS. 4A-4B  depict end and top views, respectively, of an example embodiment of a portion of a variation of a fluid channel of the system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 5  depicts a top view of an example embodiment of a portion of a variation of a fluid channel of the system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIGS. 6A-6B  depict top and side views, respectively, of an example embodiment of a portion of a variation of a fluid channel of the system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIGS. 7A-7B  depict top and side views, respectively, of an example embodiment of a portion of a variation of a fluid channel of the system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 8  depicts a schematic of an alternative variation of the system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 9  depicts an example of a sample sectioning module interfacing with a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIGS. 10A-10C  depict variations of a portion of a fluid channel in an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIGS. 11A-11C  depict variations of elements configured to separate adjoining sections in an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 12  depicts an example of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 13A  depicts an example of a portion of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 13B  depicts a portion of an example of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 14  depicts a variation of a junction in a fluid channel, in an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIGS. 15 and 16  depict cross sectional views of variations of a portion of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 17  depicts variations of sidewall configurations in an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 18  depicts a variation of a manifold in an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 19  depicts a variation of a manifold in an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIGS. 20A-20C  depict phases of an example workflow implemented by an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 21  depicts example portions of a substrate and section in an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 22  depicts a schematic of an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 23  depicts a portion of an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIGS. 24A-24C  depict configurations of variations of an injector in an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 25  depicts an additional variation of a wrinkle removal module in an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 26  depicts different configurations of a wrinkle removal module and substrate in an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 27  depicts an additional variation of a wrinkle removal module in an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 28  depicts an additional variation of a wrinkle removal module in an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIGS. 29A-29D  depict phases of an example workflow implemented by an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate and removing wrinkles from the section; 
         FIG. 30  depicts an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 31  depicts alternative examples of elements in an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 32  depicts portions of adjoined sections in an embodiment of a system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 33  depicts an alternative variation of a fluid channel in an embodiment of system for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 34  depicts a flow chart of an embodiment of a method for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 35  depicts variations of a portion of an embodiment of a method for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 36  depicts variations of a portion of an embodiment of a method for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 37  depicts variations of a portion of an embodiment of a method for mounting a section to a substrate; 
         FIG. 38  depicts variations of a portion of an embodiment of a method for mounting a section to a substrate; and 
         FIG. 39  depicts variations of a portion of an embodiment of a method for mounting a section to a substrate. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS 
     The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention is not intended to limit the invention to these embodiments, but rather to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use this invention. 
     1. System 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , an embodiment of a system  100  for coupling a section  101  to a substrate  102  comprises: a fluid channel  110  having a fluid channel inlet  120  that receives the section  101 , processed from a bulk embedded sample by a sample sectioning module  103  positioned proximal the fluid channel inlet  120 , a section-mounting region  130  downstream of the fluid channel inlet, and a fluid channel outlet  140  downstream of the section-mounting region; a reservoir  150  in fluid communication with the fluid channel outlet; and a manifold  160  fluidly coupled to the reservoir, that delivers fluid from the reservoir to the fluid channel inlet, thereby transmitting fluid flow that drives delivery of the section from the fluid channel inlet toward the section-mounting reservoir. In some embodiments, the system  100  can additionally or alternatively include any one or more of: a filter  170 , fluidly configured between the fluid channel outlet and the manifold, that prevents undesired substances from flowing into the fluid channel inlet; a temperature regulating module  180  in contact with fluid from the reservoir, that adjusts a temperature of fluid within the fluid channel; and a substrate actuation module  190  that transmits the substrate into the section-mounting region in a first operation, and delivers the substrate from the section-mounting region, with the section mounted to the substrate, in a second operation. 
     The system  100  functions to automate processing of sections (e.g., histological specimen sections, biological sections, etc.) in a manner that consistently generates high-quality mounted sections, with minimal or no effort from a human technician. As such, the system  100  can significantly reduce labor-intensive aspects of mounting sections to substrates. The system  100  is preferably configured to implement at least a portion of the method  200  described in Section 2 below. 
     In one specific workflow, the system  100  is configured to retrieve a thin tissue section (e.g., generated from a microtome blade), to separate the tissue section from a preceding section, to transport the section to a microscope slide via a fluidic channel, and then to mount the section onto the microscope slide with a substrate actuation module that coordinates movement of the microscope slide in relation to motion of the tissue section within the fluidic channel. In mounting a tissue section onto the microscope slide, the geometry of the fluidic channel is configured to deliver the tissue section toward an interface at which the microscope slide and the surface of fluid within the fluidic channel intersect, center the tissue section onto the microscope slide, and orient the tissue section such that its sides are parallel to long edges of the microscope slide. Mounting, in the specific workflow, is then consummated by causing a line of juncture between the microscope slide and the surface of the fluid within the fluidic channel to recede in a direction opposite to that of flow within the fluid section. In variations of the specific workflow, recession of the line of juncture to facilitate mounting can be accomplished by slowing flow of fluid (e.g., by decreasing a volumetric flow rate of fluid) within the fluidic channel, by providing relative motion between the fluidic channel and the microscope slide in a manner that enhances mounting of the tissue section to the microscope slide, by removing a previously-submerged displacing body from a fluid volume within the fluidic channel (i.e., to lower the fluid level within the fluid channel), and/or by any other suitable mechanism. In the specific workflow, the substrate actuation module can further be configured to modulate motion of the microscope slide to be positioned for placement of multiple sections onto the slide or to be fully retracted to create an unobstructed path to carry discarded sections to a reservoir for filtration and/or recirculation. The system  100  can, however, facilitate any other suitable workflow or method involving any other suitable section and/or imaging substrate. 
     In variations, wherein the system  100  interacts or integrates with a sample sectioning module  103 , the system  100  can be configured to cooperate with the sample sectioning module  103  in order to separate serially connected sections generated by the sample sectioning module  103  for transmission into the fluid channel  110 . In one example of a sample sectioning module  103  comprising a microtome  104 , as shown in  FIG. 9 , a blade  3  (e.g., microtome blade) of the microtome  104  is retained in position by a blade holder having a stage  22  that collects tissue sections during normal operation. The microtome  104  can have an adjustable blade angle and an adjustable stage angle α, as shown in  FIG. 9 , that coordinates with an angle of the blade. The stage  22  of the microtome  104  can thus rotate with an axis of rotation about the tip of the blade  3 , and the system  100  can mate with the stage  22  along an interface (e.g., linear interface) between the blade  3  and the system  100  such that the blade angle can be adjusted without repositioning of the system  100 . Furthermore, this configuration allows for lateral adjustment of the blade  3  within the microtome, without repositioning of the system  100  in relation to the microtome  104 . The system  100  can further be sealed (e.g., hermetically, partially, etc.) against the stage  22  at the fluid channel  110  or manifold  160  (e.g., using a sealing gasket, using mechanical pressure, etc.) in order to minimize fluid leakage at an interface between the stage  22  and the fluidic channel  110 . In one alternative to the specific example, the system  100  can directly interface with the stage  22  or another portion of the blade-holding portions of the microtome  104 . In another alternative to the specific example, the system  100  can include portions that substitute for the stage  22  and couple directly to blade-holding portions of the microtome  104 . The sample sectioning module  103  can, however, include any other suitable elements or be configured relative to the system  100  in any other suitable manner. 
     In the example above, each cut motion of the microtome  104  produces a new section  101 , and the embedding material used for the section  101  preferably has a density lower than that of fluid (e.g., water) flowing through the system  100 , such that the section  100  floats on the surface of the fluid. Preferably, each generated section  101  remains coupled to the blade  3  (e.g., loosely coupled to the blade by way of the embedding medium), and fluid introduced through a manifold  160  into the fluid channel  110  at an angle γ frees a preceding section for transmission through the fluid channel  110  and mounting. Flow at the angle Y frees the preceding section by providing a force that produces tension at a junction between serial sections generated at the microtome  104 . Additionally, in a related example, a portion of fluid flow from the manifold  160  is directed to flow against the stage  22  and in a superior direction towards the blade  3 , which facilitates uniform pulling of sections away from the blade  3  as they are cut by the blade  3 . Furthermore, in the related example, features (i.e., fins) oriented with a direction of fluid flow within the fluid channel  110  at the fluid channel inlet  120  promote laminar flow away from the blade  3 . 
     Additionally or alternatively, separation of a section  101  from the blade  3  can be performed by generating fluid flow beneath a section  101  within the fluid channel  110 , such that a shear force induced at a junction between sections provides separation. Still alternatively, an operator can manually separate a section  101  from the blade  3  (e.g., using forceps). Still alternatively, an elevated floor of the fluid channel inlet  120 , immediately downstream of the manifold  160 , can cause fluid to be drawn away from the blade  3  as it is delivered into the fluid channel  100 . Such a configuration, as shown in  FIGS. 10A and 10B , enables a cushion of water to develop near the blade  3  with high flow rates, and can allow multiple sections to be separated using flow speed modulations that retain a section attached to the blade  3 , while biasing a preceding section away from the blade  3 . Still alternatively, as shown in  FIG. 10C , a concave surface  111  of the fluid channel inlet  120  can provide a “bowl” of fluid that facilitates retention of a section attached to the microtome blade  3 , while openings of the manifold  160  project fluid underneath the section to facilitate separation of adjoining sections (e.g., via constant fluid flow, via actively-controlled fluid pulsers and/or injectors, etc.). Multiple orifice angles, as shown in  FIG. 10C , can provide a force that facilitates flexing of adjoining sections, thereby promoting separation from a shear force induced at a junction between adjoining sections. 
     Still alternatively, a separation device of the system  100  (e.g., a paddle, a chuck, a solenoid plunger, etc.) can use mechanical force to separate adjoined sections. In one example, as shown in  FIG. 11A , fluid flow can modulate motion of a separation device  72   a  in separating adjoined sections and allowing a released section to be transmitted into downstream portions of the fluidic channel  110 . In another example with a paddle  72   b , as shown in  FIG. 11B , as the microtome chuck rises, a band  71  connecting a lever arm on the paddle  72   b  to the chuck can pass above the paddle&#39;s pivot point, causing the paddle to transition to an active configuration. Then, the paddle  72   b  can be configured to revert to an inactive configuration, as shown in  FIG. 11C , when the chuck descends as sections are being sliced from the bulk embedded sample. In yet another example, a solenoid plunger configured proximal the fluid channel inlet  120  can provide a force that separates a section from an adjoining section. 
     Once a section  101  has been separated in any of the above variations and examples, a shallower depth  25  within the fluid channel  110 , as described in further detail below, can allow the section  101  to accelerate toward downstream portions of the fluid channel  110 . In any of the above examples, having a section  101  adhere to the blade  3  for a brief period of time prior to separation by fluid transmission allows an operator to observe its quality and intervene in the sample processing process, if necessary. Floating a section  101  atop fluid in the fluid channel  110 , with coupling of the section  101  to the blade  3  can further function to reduce the presence of any wrinkling in the section  101 . Additionally or alternatively, in any of the examples, 
     1.1 System—Fluid Channel 
     The fluid channel  110  includes a fluid channel inlet  120  that receives the section  101 , processed from a bulk embedded sample by a sample sectioning module  103  positioned proximal the fluid channel inlet  120 , a section mounting region  130  downstream of the fluid channel inlet, and a fluid channel outlet  140  downstream of the section mounting region. The fluid channel  110  functions to receive the section  101  from a sample sectioning module  103 , and to deliver the section over a layer of flowing fluid that drives the section for mounting at a downstream position. The fluid channel  110  preferably defines a primarily straight flow path; a straight flow path (e.g., without a rotation around a bend or corner) can encourage consistent section orientation on the slide (e.g., avoiding rotation of the section during transport along the flow path). However, in some variations, the fluid channel  110  can define a curved flow path, a sinuous flow path, a tortuous flow path, or any other suitable flow path. In variations of the fluid channel  110  defining a curved flow path, techniques can be employed to manipulate section orientation (e.g., rotate the section in a controlled manner, prevent rotation, etc.) as the section flows along the flow path, as described in more detail below. 
     Preferably, the fluid channel  110  is wider than a maximum width of the section in order to facilitate smooth transmission of the section into the fluid channel  110  (e.g., to prevent jamming) during delivery along the fluid channel  110 . However, the fluid channel can alternatively have any other suitable width relative to a width of the section. Furthermore, the width and/or depth of the fluid channel  110  can be constant or variable, in order to produce desired flow behavior through portions of the fluid channel  110 . As such, constricted portions of the fluid channel  110  can produce higher velocities of fluid flow than less constricted portions of the fluid channel  110 , given a volumetric flow rate of fluid through the fluid channel  110 . In some variations, the fluid channel  110  can have at least one declined portion relative to a horizontal plane in order to passively facilitate fluid flow. In some variations, the fluid channel  110  can additionally or alternatively comprise portions that are flat or inclined relative to a horizontal plane. Portions of the channel that are wetted during operation are preferably matte-finished (e.g., exhibiting surface roughness, un-glossed) to encourage wetting; however, some wetted portions can additionally or alternatively be glossy-finished to discourage wetting. In some variations, the entire wetted surface of the fluid channel is matte-finished excepting an interior region proximal the exit region of the fluid channel, adjacent to the section mounting region, to encourage centering of the section on a slide at the section mounting region (i.e., by de-wetting surfaces adjacent to the side walls of the channel to create a centering action due to the meniscus of the fluid flow in the section mounting region). 
     The fluid channel inlet  120  is preferably configured proximal to an output region of the sample sectioning module  103 , in order to facilitate initial positioning of the section, from the sample sectioning module  103 , within the fluid channel inlet  120 . In specific examples, as shown in  FIGS. 9 and 12 , the fluid channel inlet  120  is configured proximal to a blade  3  (e.g., a stationary blade) of a microtome, wherein interaction between a bulk embedded sample (i.e., a biological sample embedded in wax) and the blade generates the section and delivers the section toward the fluid channel inlet  120 . In the specific example, the bulk embedded sample is configured to couple to an actuator that moves the bulk embedded sample relative to the stationary blade to generate sections; however, variations of the specific example can involve any other suitable relative motion between a bulk embedded sample and a cutting instrument to generate sections. As such, the system  100  can be configured to couple directly to or to be positioned adjacent to an output region of a sample sectioning module  103 ; however, the system  100  can additionally or alternatively be configured such that a user or other entity can transfer a section generated from any suitable sectioning device to the fluid channel inlet  120  for histological mounting. 
     The fluid channel inlet  120  preferably has a width substantially larger than that of a section  101  generated from a bulk embedded sample, in order to prevent wrinkling or any other form of damage to the section  101  upon transmission into the fluid channel inlet  120 . In variations, the fluid channel inlet  120  can have a width that is from 115% to 300% of the width of a section  101  generated by the sample sectioning module  103 . However, the width of the fluid channel inlet  120  can alternatively be any other suitable size in relation to a width of a sample generated at the sample sectioning module  103 . Furthermore, the width of the fluid channel  110  can be modulated from the fluid channel inlet  120 , to the section-mounting region  130 , to the fluid channel outlet  140 , in order to facilitate focusing and/or accurate positioning of a section  101  onto a substrate  102  at the section-mounting region  130 ; however, the width of the fluid channel  110  can alternatively be substantially constant across two or more of the fluid channel inlet  120 , the section-mounting region  130 , and the fluid channel outlet  140 . 
     In some variations, the fluid channel inlet  120  can comprise a junction  125  at an upstream portion of the fluid channel inlet  120 , as shown in  FIG. 13A , such that the junction  125  diverts a direction of fluid flow into the fluid channel  100 . As such, the junction  125  can function to provide a more compact and non-interfering interface between the fluid channel  110  and the sample sectioning module  103 . In one example, the junction is a 90° junction that allows a section transmitted into the fluid channel  110  to be diverted by an angle of approximately 90° between the sample sectioning module  103  and the fluid channel inlet  120 . Such a configuration facilitates positioning of the system  100  to interface with the sample sectioning module  103  in a first configuration (e.g., a coupled configuration), and facilitates removal of the system  100  from interfacing with the sample sectioning module  103  in a second configuration (e.g., a decoupled configuration). However, in alternative variations of the example, an angle of rotation between the fluid channel inlet  120  and the sample sectioning module  103 , provided by the junction  125  and defined in  FIG. 13A  as θ, can alternatively range from 45° to 315°, or can have any other suitable angle depending upon morphological parameters of the fluid channel  110  and/or the sample sectioning module  103 . 
     In some variations, the junction  125  can define a region with a raised floor  126 , in relation to a manifold  160 , as described in further detail below. The raised floor  126  functions to provide concentration of fluid flow into the fluid channel inlet  120 , which allows acceleration of a section  101  floating atop and/or carried by fluid within the region of the junction  125  having a raised floor  126 . As such, the raised floor  126  can provide an inlet reservoir that provides desired initial motion characteristics (e.g., velocity, acceleration, flow path, etc.) of a section  101  entering the fluid channel  110 . Additionally or alternatively, the junction  125  can define a region that enables concentration of fluid flow into the fluid channel inlet  120  by defining a constricted cross-sectional area, perpendicular to a direction of fluid flow in the fluid channel inlet  120 , in any other suitable manner. For instance, a width and/or depth of a region of the junction  125  can be decreased within the junction  125 , relative to other portions of the fluidic channel  110 , thereby concentrating fluid flow into the fluid channel inlet  120  and accelerating motion of a section  101  within the junction  125  for a given volumetric flow rate in the junction. In related variations, a curved region of the junction  125  of the fluid channel inlet  120  (e.g., the raised floor region  126 ) can include a set of tracks  26 , a specific example of which is shown in  FIG. 13B , wherein the set of tracks divide the curved region of the junction  125  into a set of regions with varying fluid heights. The set of tracks  26  thus allow fluid travelling along the outside of the curved region of the junction  125  (e.g., fluid travelling the greatest distance) to move faster, thereby fluidically rotating a section  101  as it rounds the curved region of the junction  125 . This preserves an orientation of the section  101  (e.g., in relation to an orientation from the bulk embedded sample) and prevents jamming of sections within the system  100 . 
     In some variations, an output region of the fluid channel inlet  120  (e.g., defined at an output region of the junction  125 ) can include a lip  127  (e.g., an elevated lip) protruding from a base surface of the fluid channel inlet  120 /junction  125 , that directs fluid, with a section  101 , into portions of the fluid channel  110  downstream of the fluid channel inlet  120 . The lip  127  can thus provide desired initial motion characteristics (e.g., velocity, acceleration, flow path, etc.) of a section  101  entering portions of fluid channel  110  downstream of the lip  127 , such that sections travelling within the fluid channel  110  travel in a predictable and/or repeatable manner. The fluid channel inlet  120  and/or junction  125  can, however, include any other suitable features that provide predictable flow behavior (e.g., substantially constant streamlines) that drives motion of sections within the fluid channel  110 . 
     The fluid channel inlet  120  can include a baffle, arranged in the flow path of both primary fluid flow (e.g., bulk fluid flow, recirculated fluid flow, etc.) and de-wrinkling fluid flow (e.g., heated fluid flow). The baffle functions to trap any bubbles that have formed in the fluid flow before they enter the fluid channel  110 , to avoid bubbles, other buoyant flow disturbances, and/or other undesired flow structures from interfering with section travel along the fluid channel  110 . The baffle is preferably arranged substantially perpendicular to the flow direction of the fluid flow, and partially submerged in the flow from a direction above the free surface of the fluid flow, such that disturbances and/or flow structures (e.g., bubbles, eddies, etc.) are trapped behind the baffle until the disturbances naturally dissipate (e.g., pop) while disturbance-free water passes beneath the baffle into the fluid channel  110 . In an alternative variation, the baffle is arranged at an oblique angle relative to the flow direction, such that buoyant disturbances are trapped by the baffle and travel along the baffle towards the channel wall (e.g., to be extinguished thereupon, guided into recirculation, shunted to a reservoir, etc.). However, the baffle can be otherwise suitably arranged. 
     In some variations, the fluid channel  110  includes a hinge  111   a  between the fluid channel inlet and the fluid channel outlet, as shown by example in  FIGS. 2, 3A-3B, 4A-4B, and 5 . The hinge functions to enable a portion of the fluid channel to articulate (e.g., vertically articulate) relative to the remainder of the system. The hinge can also function to enable the height and angle of the fluid channel to be adjusted to match the height of a microtome without adjusting the height of the section mounting region and/or a section mounting module. The hinge can also function to enable the articulated portion of the fluid channel to be pivoted away from the sample sectioning module, in order to perform maintenance tasks (e.g., changing the microtome blade, reloading the chuck with a new bulk sample, etc.). 
     The section-mounting region  130  of the fluid channel  110  is preferably a region of the fluid channel  110  arranged between the fluid channel inlet  120  and the fluid channel outlet  140 , such that a section  101  transmitted into the fluid channel  110  by way of the sample sectioning module  103  is configured to be mounted to a substrate  102  at a region of the fluid channel  110  downstream of the fluid channel inlet  120  and upstream of the fluid channel outlet  140 . Preferably, the section-mounting region  130  has a depth that can accommodate passage of an imaging substrate under a section (e.g., by way of the substrate actuation module  190 ) within the section-mounting region  130 , without disturbance (e.g., wrinkling, damage) of the section. In an example, as shown in  FIG. 15 , the section-mounting region  130  comprises a section-mounting reservoir  132  that is substantially deeper than the depth of the fluid channel inlet  120  and that allows a substrate to be submerged to a sufficient depth below a section  101  that has been delivered into the section-mounting region  130 . However, the section-mounting region  130  can alternatively be configured in any other suitable manner. 
     The section mounting region  130  of the fluid channel  110  preferably includes a lip  131   a , as shown by example in  FIGS. 2 and 7A . The lip functions to create a seal against a slide in configurations wherein the slide is positioned in the section mounting region in order to receive a section. The lip preferably defines a smooth (e.g., glossy) surface to facilitate the formation of the seal against the slide, but can alternatively define any suitable surface finish (e.g., matte, ridged, diamond pattern, etc.). The seal between the slide and the lip can function to direct fluid flow through one or more gaps  132   a  (examples of which are shown in  FIGS. 2 and 7B ) and thereby maintain forward momentum of the fluid flow, such that a section to be mounted is carried by the flow entirely toward the slide (e.g., preferably avoiding premature stagnation of the section motion toward the slide). The section mounting region preferably defines two gaps upon sealing of the lip with a slide, but can additionally or alternatively form any suitable number of gaps. The gaps are each preferably approximately two millimeters tall by eight millimeters long, but can additionally or alternatively have any suitable area and/or shape (e.g., one square millimeter each, differing sizes and/or shapes, square aspect ratios, rectangular aspect ratios, etc.). 
     The base surface of the section mounting region  130  can include any suitable morphology, such as ribs (e.g., ridges extending between the side walls of the section mounting region), steps, and any other suitable feature. The morphology of the base surface is preferably defined by the base surface itself (e.g., as a contiguous piece), but can additionally or alternatively be formed by the attachment of any suitable layers and/or components. 
     Preferably, the section-mounting region  130  is fluidly coupled to the fluid channel inlet  120  by a chute  135 , as shown in  FIG. 13A , that functions to transport sections from the fluid channel inlet  120  to the section-mounting region  130  in a predictable and repeatable manner. The chute  135  also functions to provide desired motion characteristics (e.g., velocity, acceleration, flow path, etc.) of a section  101  upon delivery into the section-mounting region  130 , such that sequential sections travelling to the section-mounting region  130  reach the section-mounting region  130  in a consistent and desired manner. In one variation, the chute  135  can be oriented with a constant slope, defined in  FIG. 13A  as β, that provides downhill flow for acceleration of a section  101  from the fluid channel inlet  120  to the section-mounting region  130 , as facilitated passively by gravitational force. Furthermore, in variations, the chute  135  can have an adjustable angle, such that the value of β can be adjusted (e.g., using an actuator coupled to the chute  135  or another portion of the fluidic channel  110 ). In specific examples, β has a value from 5-15°, and in variations of the specific examples, β can have a value from 0-60° to provide desired flow characteristics within the chute  135 . 
     In some variations, the section mounting region  130  is connected to the chute  135  by a sliding interlock. The sliding interlock functions to enable the adjustment of the overall length of the fluid channel between the sample sectioning module and the section mounting region. The sliding interlock can have any suitable adjustability range; for example, the sliding interlock can have a travel of 0-1 cm, a travel of 0-10 cm, and any other suitable travel. In a specific example, the sliding interlock enables the length of the fluid channel to be adjusted by about one centimeter, in order to match the position of the sample sectioning module (e.g., a microtome) without moving the section mounting region. In another specific example, the sliding interlock enables the length of the fluid channel to be adjusted by about three centimeters, in order to match the position of the section mounting region without moving the sample sectioning module. However, the sliding interlock can be otherwise suitably configured. 
     Alternatively, the chute  135  can have a varying slope along the length of the chute  135 , from an upstream portion to a downstream portion of the chute  135 , such that a profile of the chute  135  in an elevation view has a non-linear (e.g., curved) morphology. In one example, an upstream portion of the chute  135  has a steep slope (e.g., greater than 60°) relative to a horizontal plane, and the slope of the chute transitions to a substantially flat slope (e.g., less than 2°) in coupling to the section-mounting region  130 . 
     The chute  135  preferably facilitates focusing and accurate positioning of a section  101  at the section-mounting region, by having a width dimension that is reduced (e.g., gradually reduced) from the fluid channel inlet  120  to the section-mounting region  130 . In variations, the width of a downstream portion of the chute  135 , proximal the section-mounting region  130 , has a dimension that is from 105% to 125% of the width of a section  101  generated by the sample sectioning module  103 , such that the width of the downstream portion of the chute is substantially reduced relative to the width of the fluid channel inlet  120 . However, the width of the chute  135  can alternatively be any other suitable size in relation to a width of a sample generated at the sample sectioning module  103 . Additionally or alternatively, accurate positioning of a section traveling along the chute  135  can be facilitated by generating one or more well-defined streamlines of fluid flow, using channel morphologies that provide hydrodynamic focusing. In one example, the chute  135  can define a curved path that enables hydrodynamic focusing of a section  101  to a well-defined position at the section-mounting region  130 . In the example, the curved path can have a set of undulations that focus the section  101  from a not-well-defined position to a well-defined position in a consistent manner. Alternatively, a sonic steering module positioned at any portion of the fluid channel  110  can facilitate accurate positioning of a section. Still alternatively, accurate positioning of a section  101  at the section-mounting region  130  can be facilitated, by way of the chute  135 , in any other suitable manner. 
     The chute preferably includes a set of ribs  135   a  (e.g., ridges) formed at the base surface of the chute, arranged along the length of the chute. The set of ribs functions to prevent fluid flowing in the chute from coalescing into a stream and/or from de-wetting portions of the base surface of the chute. The set of ribs can also function to store fluid (e.g., as a reservoir) at portions of the base surface of the chute to improve wetting of the base surface. The set of ribs can also function to prevent sections from becoming stuck (e.g., at dry regions of the base surface of the chute). The set of ribs are preferably chevron-shaped (e.g., V-shaped), as shown in  FIGS. 2, 4B, and 5 , and have an orientation of the chevron peak (e.g., point of the V) along the direction of fluid flow in the channel (e.g., a virtual line connecting the points of each chevron-shaped rib preferably lies on or near the centerline of the fluid flow path along the chute). The chevron shape can function to direct fluid toward the center of the chute (e.g., at the location of the chevron peak within the channel) and thereby enhancing centering of the sections during travel along the fluid flow path. However, each rib of the set of ribs can be straight (e.g., perpendicular to the side walls of the chute), curved, sinusoidal, angled (e.g., arranged at an unbroken angle between the side walls of the chute), or have any other suitable shape. The ribs preferably extend partially upwards from the base of the chute to a height less than the depth of the chute, but can define any other suitable height relative to the channel depth. The set of ribs is preferably submerged beneath the surface of the fluid during system operation (e.g., while sections are flowing along the fluid flow through the chute); submergence of the set of ribs is preferably enabled by the channel geometry and rib geometry (e.g., the relative height of the ribs from the base surface of the channel), but can additionally or alternatively be enabled by modulation of the fluid flow height in the channel (e.g., via control of fluid flow by a controller). 
     In an alternative variation, the base surface can include a layer of fluid-capturing material (e.g., a sponge material) that functions to retain fluid adjacent to the base surface and thereby enhance wetting (e.g., substantially uniform wetting) of the base surface. In a further alternative variation, the base surface can include a layer of fluid capturing material and define a set of ribs substantially as described above. However, in additional or alternative variations, the base surface can include any other suitable material and/or morphology for enhancing surface wetting. 
     In some variations, the section-mounting region  130  can include a base surface having a geometric feature  131 , as shown such that the geometric feature  131  is submerged below a fluid line of fluid within the fluid channel  110 , and provides flow characteristics that facilitate mounting of a section  101  to a substrate  102  at the section-mounting region  130 . In one such variation, the geometric feature  131  comprises a contoured surface  133  configured to align a section  101  passing over the geometric feature  131 , by way of fluid flow into the section-mounting region  130 , toward a desired position. In aligning the section  101 , the contoured surface produces a force vector that biases the section  101  against a substrate  102  within the section-mounting region  130  and aligns the section  101  such that its sides are substantially parallel with long edges of the substrate  102 . Alternatively, the section-mounting region  130  may omit a geometric feature  131  at a base surface, while still enabling mounting of a section  101  to a substrate  102  at the section-mounting region. 
     The fluid channel outlet  140  is preferably configured downstream of the section-mounting region  130 , in order to provide an outlet for flow from the fluid channel  110 . The fluid channel outlet  140  is preferably also configured to facilitate retrieval and/or filtration of undesired sections from the fluid channel  110 . As such, in some variations, the fluid channel outlet  140  can be configured to couple to a filtration and recirculation module that allows fluid and undesired sections from the fluid channel  110  to be filtered of the undesired elements, while allowing recirculation of fluid throughout the system (e.g., by way of the reservoir  150 ). However, the fluid channel outlet  140  can alternatively be configured in any other suitable manner. 
     In one variation, an example of which is shown in  FIGS. 2 and 6A-6B , the fluid channel outlet  140  includes a fluid retention pocket  141   a  and an outlet surface defining a front edge  142   a  and a lip  143   a . The fluid retention pocket functions to store fluid (e.g., as a reservoir) to ensure wetting of the fluid channel outlet and thereby avoid clogging the fluid channel with discarded sections. The front edge of the outlet surface is preferably arranged diagonally relative to the longitudinal axis of the fluid channel, as shown in  FIGS. 2 and 6A-6B , such that the momentum of the fluid flow spreads the fluid across the front edge and can thereby support the full width of a section. The lip is preferably rounded, and can function to maintain attachment of the fluid flow to the outlet surface to ensure smooth transition of the section over the lip. 
     In another variation, an example of which is shown in  FIGS. 13A, 15 , and  16 , the fluid channel outlet  140  comprises a curved spout  142  that allows fluid passing through the section-mounting region  130  to pass into a reservoir  150  that recirculates fluid back into the fluid channel  110 . Alternatively, the fluid channel outlet  140  can have any other suitable morphology that allows fluid from the section-mounting region  130  to pass through the fluid channel outlet  140  and into the reservoir  150  for recirculation. For instance, the fluid channel outlet  140  can include one or more of: a non-curved spout, a funnel-shaped feature, a manifold, and any other suitable fluid guiding feature that allows fluid to be efficiently delivered into the reservoir  150  (e.g., without leakage, without loss). The fluid channel outlet  140  is preferably configured to receive fluid passing through the section-mounting region  130  and to deliver fluid into the reservoir  150  whether or not a substrate  102  is present within the section-mounting region  120 ; however, the fluid channel outlet  140  can alternatively be substantially obstructed when a substrate  102  is present within the section-mounting region  130 . The fluid channel outlet  140  is preferably elevated relative to the reservoir  150 , such that fluid from the fluid channel outlet  140  is passively delivered into the reservoir  150  as facilitated by gravity; however, the fluid channel outlet  140  can alternatively be configured relative to the reservoir in any other suitable orientation, wherein a driving element (e.g., pump) facilitates fluid flow from the fluid channel outlet  140  and into the reservoir  150 . 
     In a specific example of the fluid channel  110 ′, as shown in  FIGS. 14, 20B, and 21 , the fluid channel inlet  120 ′ includes a junction  125 ′ having a region with a raised floor  126 ′, in relation to a manifold  160 , that enables acceleration of a section  101  floating atop and/or carried by fluid within the fluid channel inlet  120 ′. In the specific example, a curved region of the junction  125 , at the raised floor region  126 , includes a set of tracks  26 , wherein the set of tracks divide the curved region of the junction  125  into a set of regions with varying fluid heights, as shown in  FIG. 13B . The set of tracks  26  in the specific example allow fluid travelling along the outside of the curved region of the junction  125  (e.g., fluid travelling the greatest distance) to move faster, thereby fluidically rotating a section  101  as it rounds the curved region of the junction  125 . In the specific example, the fluid channel inlet  120 ′ also includes an elevated lip  127 ′ protruding from a base surface of the fluid channel inlet  125 ′, that directs fluid, with a section  101 , into portions of the fluid channel  110  downstream of the fluid channel inlet  120 . In the specific example, the fluid channel  110  is substantially straight between the output region of the fluid channel inlet  120 ′ and the fluid channel outlet  140 , but rotated by 90° at the junction  125 ′, in order to provide a more compact and non-interfering interface with the sample sectioning module  103 . 
     In the specific example of the fluid channel  110 ′, the fluid channel  110  includes a chute  135 ′ fluidly coupled between the fluid channel inlet  120 ′ and the section-mounting region  130 ′, wherein the chute  135 ′ is configured to slope in a declined manner from the elevated lip  127 ′ of the fluid channel inlet  120 ; toward the section-mounting region  130 ′. As such, the chute  135 ′ provides downhill flow for acceleration of the section with fluid in the fluid channel  110 ′. The slope of the declined portion is defined in  FIG. 9  as β and is defined as being from 5-15° in the specific example, and the section-mounting region  130 ′ is substantially flat relative to a horizontal plane, such that the slope β of the fluid channel  110  transitions from being declined upstream of the section-mounting region  130 ′ to being flat, relative to a horizontal plane, at the section-mounting region  130 ′. 
     In the specific example of the fluid channel  110 , the channel width is initially substantially wider than (e.g., 115-300%) the width of a section  101  generated at the sample sectioning module  103 , but this width is then reduced, proximal to the section-mounting region  130 ′, to a width that is marginally wider (e.g., 105-125%) than the width of the section  101  by sidewall contours of the fluid channel, in order to enable more accurate positioning of the section within the section-mounting region  130 . In the specific example of the fluid channel, the section-mounting region  130  comprises a receiving area including a contoured surface  133  at a base surface of the receiving area that is configured provide a biasing force that aligns the section toward a desired position at a substrate  102  within the section-mounting region  130 . Variations of the specific example of the fluid channel  110  can, however, be configured in any other suitable manner and comprise any other suitable fluidic elements that enable accurate and repeatable positioning of sections at one or more substrates within the section-mounting region  130 . Adjustable sidewall profiles, for instance, and as shown in  FIG. 17 , can be used to alter an amount of flow restriction about a substrate  102  to control fluid level heights, control fluid level modulation rates, accommodate samples of varying size, and/or adjust lateral positioning of a section  101  at a substrate  102 . 
     1.2 System—Reservoir, Manifold, and Filter 
     As noted above, the reservoir  150  is in fluid communication with the fluid channel outlet  140 , and functions to provide a bath of fluid that can be delivered into the fluid channel  110  by way of the fluid channel inlet  120 . The reservoir is preferably configured to receive fluid (e.g., filtered fluid) from the fluid channel outlet  140  for recirculation into the system, in order to enable reuse of a substantially fixed volume of fluid flowing throughout the system  100 . As such, the system  100  preferably includes a single reservoir that allows for fluid recirculation, wherein the single reservoir can be refilled, if needed (e.g., due to fluid loss in evaporation, etc.). However, variations of the system  100  can alternatively include any suitable number of reservoirs (e.g., a reservoir for fluid delivery into the fluid channel inlet  120  and a waste reservoir configured to receive waste fluid from the fluid channel outlet  140 ) that enable fluid flow into the fluid channel inlet  120  and fluid flow out of the fluid channel outlet  140 . 
     The reservoir  150  preferably contains a volume of fluid that has desired properties in facilitating transmission of a section  101  along the fluid channel  110 , and mounting of the section  101  onto a substrate  102  at the section-mounting region  130 . In variations, the fluid can be characterized as one or more of: low-viscosity (e.g., less than 1×10 −3  Pa*s), volatile at temperatures for histological section processing (e.g., volatile at room temperature, volatile within a sample drying environment), non-interacting with histological process reagents (e.g., histological stains, etc.) to prevent generation of specimen artifacts, non-damaging to a biological specimen of a sample, neutral pH, and inexpensive. Preferably, the fluid circulating through the system  100 , by way of the reservoir  150 , comprises water; however, alternative variations of the fluid can comprise any other suitable fluid for histological section processing. In some variations, an additive can be introduced and/or neutralized to modify surface tension of the fluid to promote better transport of a section  101  through the fluidic channel, and/or to promote enhanced interactions with a substrate  102 . In one such example, a hydrophilic additive can be introduced with fluid from the reservoir to promote improved transport of a section  101  through the fluidic channel  110 . 
     The manifold  160  is fluidly coupled to the reservoir  150 , and functions to delivers fluid from the reservoir  150  to the fluid channel inlet  120 , thereby transmitting fluid flow that drives delivery of the section from the fluid channel inlet  110  toward the section-mounting region  130 . The manifold is configured to provide a flow path between the reservoir  150  and the fluid channel inlet  120 , thereby enabling separation of a section  101  from an adjoining section produced by the sample sectioning module  103 , facilitating delivery of the section  101  from the fluid channel inlet  120 , and transmitting the section toward the section-mounting region  130  of the fluid channel  110 . Preferably, fluid from the reservoir  150  is pumped through one or more tubes  159  into the manifold  160 , as shown in  FIG. 13A , wherein the manifold  160  is configured to divide the flow into a set of openings  162  into the fluid channel inlet  120 . As such, the manifold  160  is preferably configured to generate laminar flow at the fluid channel inlet  120 ; however, the manifold  160  can alternatively be configured to generate any other suitable type of flow (e.g., turbulent flow) at the fluid channel inlet  120 . 
     In one variation, as shown in  FIG. 18 , the manifold  160  has at least two inlet tubes  159  into the manifold  160  that provide a uniform (e.g., symmetric) distribution of flow across the openings  162  of the manifold  160  with negligible flow resistance. In this variation, the inlet tubes  159  are oriented in an opposing manner at opposite sides  158  of the manifold, wherein the opposite sides  158  are substantially parallel with sidewalls defining a longitudinal axis of fluid flow through the fluid channel  110 . In this variation, the set of openings  162  can be arranged in one or more of: a linear manner that defines a plane of fluid flow substantially parallel to that of a base surface of the fluid channel  110 ; a linear manner that defines a plane of fluid flow substantially non-parallel to that of a base surface of the fluid channel  110 ; a non-linear manner (e.g., curved manner defining a concave surface of fluid flow, curved manner defining a convex surface of fluid flow, staggered manner, etc.); and in any other suitable manner. In another variation, the manifold  160  can have an elongated opening  163  and/or an orifice pattern with a suitably apodized density, which can function to provide laminar flow into the fluid channel inlet  120  and distribute it more evenly across the opening(s)  162 , thereby eliminating the need for a second inlet tube  159  into the manifold. In another variation, the openings of the set of openings can be integrated into a single tube at varying angles in order to facilitate manipulation (e.g., separation) of the tissue sections. In yet another variation, as shown in  FIG. 19 , the manifold  160  can comprise a cavity  164  inferior to a surface with openings  162 , wherein fluid from the reservoir  150  is delivered into the cavity  164 , thereby allowing distribution of the set of openings  162  of the manifold across a surface (e.g., a planar surface parallel to a base surface of the fluid channel  110 ) in a 2D or 3D configuration, rather than in a linear configuration. In yet another variation, the manifold  160  can be configured to deliver fluid from the reservoir  150  to one or both of the sidewalls of the fluid channel  100 , to produce flow in a direction non-parallel to a longitudinal axis of the fluid channel  110 . However, the manifold  160  can be configured to deliver fluid from the reservoir  150  and into the fluid channel inlet  120  using any other suitable 1D, 2D, or 3D configuration of openings  162 , or in any other suitable manner. 
     The manifold  160  is preferably in fluid communication with a pump  167  coupled between the reservoir  150  and the manifold, as shown in  FIG. 1 , wherein modulation of behavior of the pump  167  is governed by a controller  168 . The pump  167  can be configured to provide positive pressure and/or negative pressure in driving fluid between the reservoir  150  and the manifold  160 . As such, in one mode, forward flow generated by the pump  167  can facilitate forward movement of a section  101  through any portion of the fluid channel  110 , and in another mode, reverse flow generated by the pump  167  can facilitate reverse movement of a section  101  through any portion of the fluid channel  110 . In variations, the forward flow generated by the pump can be modulated to actively detach each section from the blade of the microtome subsequent to cutting of the section from the bulk sample (e.g., due to hydrodynamic forces on the section from the pump-driven forward flow controlled by the controller). The forward flow can be modulated in any suitable manner by the controller (e.g., based on the sectioning rate of the sample sectioning module, a predetermined frequency, a predetermined pattern, a sensor-based frequency, etc.) or by any other suitable component (e.g., a mechanical flow modulator, impeller, reciprocating flap, etc.). Furthermore, forward and/or reverse flow can be adjustable to provide desired flow parameters (e.g., velocities, etc.) for processing of a single section or multiple sections in sequence. Modulation of flow (e.g., with a brief period of elevated flow rate) can additionally or alternatively be used to provide a biasing force that delivers a section  101  toward a substrate  102  for mounting. 
     In one variation, the pump  167  is a positive displacement pump, and in an example of this variation, the pump  167  is a peristaltic pump. In other examples, the pump  167  can include any one or more of: a gear pump, a screw pump, a piston pump, a progressing cavity pump, a roots-type pump, a plunger pump, a diaphragm pump, a rope pump, an impeller pump, and any other suitable type of pump. Furthermore, the system  100  can include more than one pump  167  configured at desired positions relative to the fluidic channel  110 , the reservoir  150 , and the manifold  160 . The pump  167  preferably has a known flow rate to pump speed ratio, such that control of the speed of the pump  167  corresponds to a control of the flow rate of the fluid within the fluid channel  110 . Furthermore, the pump  167  is preferably configured within the system  100  such that the system  100  is relatively easy to assemble, light to haul, quick to control, and easy to clean. 
     The controller  168  is preferably configured to respond to inputs provided by an operator of the system  100 , in modulating flow parameters of fluid within the system  100 . In one variation, the controller  168  can be configured to access a lookup table that facilitates correlation of an input from an operator of the system  100  to a desired flow parameter (e.g., flow rate) of the fluid within the fluid channel  110 . The lookup table preferably includes data based on one or more of: historical behavior of the system  100 , historical runs of other units of the system  100 , empirical data conducted and developed by the manufacturer or developer of the system  100 , and any other suitable data. The stored information preferably includes the type of fluid circulating throughout the system, characteristics (e.g., dimensions, embedding medium, etc.) of sections generated by a sample-sectioning module  103  in communication with the system  100 , number of sections being processed by the system  100  at a given time, potential errors in performance by the system  100 , and any other suitable information. The controller can also be further adapted to access the lookup table via a computer processing network. 
     In another variation, the controller  168  can include a storage device with accessible memory. A user interface at which an operator provides inputs for control of the system  100 , along with the accessible memory of the storage device, can thus permit the operator to access stored information about runs of the system  100  and the system configuration and settings that were utilized during those runs. The stored information can include one or more of: the type of fluid circulating throughout the system, characteristics (e.g., dimensions, embedding medium, etc.) of sections generated by a sample-sectioning module  103  in communication with the system  100 , number of sections being processed by the system  100  at a given time, a history of errors in performance by the system  100 , and any other suitable information. This stored information can be accessed by the operator and retrieved by the controller  168  and/or systems. The operator can then, by interfacing with the controller  168 , automatically set up the flow parameters for the system  100 , by utilizing those previous sample run settings. Furthermore, once a run of the system  100  has been completed, an operator can save the controller settings and use the saved information for future runs for processing similar sections or specimens. 
     Flow modulation within the system  100  can, however, be additionally or alternatively enabled by using one or more valves that adjust flow (e.g., redirect flow, stop flow, open flow, etc.) to different reservoirs (e.g., a buffer reservoir) within or relative to the fluid channel  100 . Additionally or alternatively, a gate can be used to temporarily block passage of flow upstream of the section-mounting region  130 , thereby creating a desired drop in fluid level at the section-mounting region  130 , independent of a speed of operation of the pump  167 . The gate can also function to prevent a section from drifting back in an upstream direction. In operation, if pump speed remains unaltered, a fluid level on an upstream side of the gate will temporarily rise until the gate is removed from an obstructing position. Automation of action of the valve(s) and/or gate(s) can be facilitated by the controller  168  described above, or any other suitable element. Flow modulation in accordance with the above can be used, in variations, to actively detach cut sections from the blade of the microtome and initiate section transport to the section mounting region along the fluid flow through the fluid channel. However, flow modulation can be otherwise suitably used for any suitable purpose. 
     As noted above, in some embodiments, the system  100  can additionally or alternatively include a filter  170 , fluidly configured between the fluid channel outlet  140  and the manifold  160 , as shown in  FIG. 1 , that functions to prevent undesired substances from flowing into the fluid channel inlet  120 . The filter  170  preferably has a physical membrane that prevents substances having a governing dimension above a threshold size (e.g., defined by pores in the membrane); however, any other suitable mechanism can facilitate filtration of undesired substances from the fluid channel  110 . In one variation, the filter  170  can be configured immediately downstream of the fluid channel outlet  140 , in order to prevent undesired substances from entering the reservoir  150 . Additionally or alternatively, the system  100  can include a filter  170  configured within the reservoir, but upstream of the pump  167 , in order to prevent undesired substances from affecting proper function of the pump  167  and/or reaching the manifold  160  during recirculation of fluid into the fluid channel  110 . Additionally or alternatively, the filter  170  can be configured at any other suitable portion of a fluid loop defined across the manifold  160 , the fluid channel  110 , and the reservoir  150 . The filter  170  is preferably configured to be a replaceable element of the system  110  in order to promote ease of maintenance; however, the filter  170  can alternatively be configured in any other suitable manner. Variations of the system  100  can include a single filter, or can alternatively include multiple filters configured to provide redundancy in removing undesired substances from the fluid loop of the system  100 . 
     1.3 System—Substrate Actuation Module 
     The system  100  can additionally or alternatively include a substrate actuation module  190  that transmits the substrate into the section-mounting region in a first operation, and delivers the substrate from the section-mounting region, with the section mounted to the substrate, in a second operation. The substrate actuation module  190  is configured to couple to an imaging substrate  102 , and functions to move the substrate relative to the section-mounting region  130  of the fluid channel  110  to facilitate placement of a section  101  onto the substrate  102  in an accurate and repeatable manner. 
     As shown in  FIG. 13A , the substrate actuation module  190  can comprise a gripper  191  configured to couple to at least one surface  106  of a substrate  102  (e.g., glass slide), without obstructing mounting of a section  101  to the substrate, by any one or more of: friction, adhesion, compressive force, vacuum, and any other suitable mechanism, in a manner that is consistent across all imaging substrates utilized by the system  100 . Furthermore, the substrate actuation module  190  preferably comprises an actuator  192  configured to induce motion of the gripper  191  and/or the imaging substrate along a path relative to a section at the section-mounting region  130  of the fluid channel. In one variation, the actuator  192  is a linear actuator configured to transmit the imaging substrate along a linear and sloping path into a reservoir of fluid defined at the section-mounting region  130  (e.g., immediately downstream of a section at the section-mounting region  130 ), as described above; however, the actuator  192  can alternatively be configured to transmit the substrate  102  along any other suitable path that facilitates mounting of the section  101  onto the substrate  102 . The path along with the actuator  192  transmits the substrate  102  can be constrained by a rail  193 , as shown in  FIG. 20A  or can alternatively be constrained or unconstrained in any other suitable manner. 
     Preferably, actuation in the substrate actuation module  190  is configured to coordinate with flow, from the fluid channel inlet  120 , to the section-mounting region  130  and out of the fluid channel outlet  140 . As such, the substrate actuation module  190  is preferably configured to cooperate with or be co-governed by the controller  168  of the pump  167 , in synchronizing flow of fluid through the system  100  and mounting of sections  101  to substrates  102  by way of the substrate actuation module  190 . In some variations, a flow rate into the fluid channel  110  can be reduced or halted by the controller  168  of the pump  167  to stabilize a position of the section  101  at the section-mounting region  130  prior to mounting; however, flow can be adjusted in any other suitable manner and with any suitable sequence that facilitates mounting of the section  101  to a substrate  102 . 
     In an example operation of the substrate actuation module  190 , as shown in  FIGS. 20A-20C , the substrate actuation module  190  coordinates with flow into the fluid channel  110  as governed by the controller  168  of the pump  167 . In a first phase of the example operation, as shown in  FIG. 20A , a section  101   b  has been transported to the section-mounting region  130 , as driven by fluid flow into the fluid channel  110  by the pump  167 . In the first phase of the example operation, flow is provided into the fluid channel  110  to bring the section  101  toward the section-mounting region  130 , with a substrate  102  partially submerged within the section-mounting region  130  by the substrate actuation module  190 . In the phase portion of the example operation, as shown in  FIG. 20A , a section  101   a  has already been mounted to the substrate  102 , and an additional section  101   b  is in position, at the section-mounting region  130 , to be mounted to the substrate  102 . In the state shown in  FIG. 20A  with regions of the substrate  102  and section  101  defined in  FIG. 21 , the fluid level  27  in the fluid channel  110  is lower downstream of the substrate  102  than it is upstream of the substrate  102 , and the base surface  15  and sidewall  14  geometries of the fluid channel  110  at the section-mounting region  130  are configured to constrain the section  101   b  to a desired lateral substrate position  31 . The sidewalls  14  of the fluid channel  110 , as shown in  FIG. 17 , then widen around the substrate  102  at the section-mounting region  130  such that substantially all of the flowing fluid transports the section to the position of the substrate (e.g., the slide) prior to exiting past the sides of the substrate, without flowing past the section during transport (e.g., prematurely leaving the flow field proximal the section). In the example operation, the sidewalls  14  are sufficiently close to the substrate  105  sides to provide enough constriction, such that a drop in the fluid level  27  across the substrate  102  occurs during mounting of the section  101   b  to the substrate  102 . In the first phase of the example operation, shown in  FIGS. 20A and 21 , the depth that the substrate  102  is submerged in the section-mounting region  130  establishes a line of juncture  30  between fluid in the section-mounting region  130  and the top of the substrate  102 , and therefore a vertical position  29  of the section  101   b  being mounted to the substrate  102 . 
     In a second phase of the example operation, as shown in  FIG. 20B , reducing the flow rate of fluid in the fluid channel  110  causes the section  101   b  to be secured to the substrate  102 . An edge  108  of the section  101   b  that is in contact with the substrate  102  is the first portion of the section  101   b  to be mounted to the slide, and as the fluid level equilibrates within the section-mounting region  130 , more of the section  101   b  is mounted to the substrate  102 . In the second portion of the example operation, the entire section  101   b  is mounted onto the substrate  102  prior to mechanical retraction of the substrate from the section-mounting region  130  by the substrate actuation module  190 ; however, variations of the example operation can include any other suitable workflow that does not involve mounting of an entire section  101   b  prior to retraction of the substrate  102  from the section-mounting region  130 . For instance, only a portion of the section  101   b  can be laid onto a substrate  102  by flow modulation in the fluid channel  110 , and mechanical retraction of the substrate  102  from the section-mounting region  130  by the substrate actuation module  190  consummates mounting of the section  101   b  to the substrate by way of substrate withdrawal and an adhesion force produced by fluid between the section  101   b  and the substrate  102 . Alternatively, mechanical retraction of the substrate  102  from the section-mounting region  130  can cause application of the section  101   b  to the substrate  102  substantially without modulation of a flow rate within the fluid channel  110  by the controller  168  of the pump  167 . Additionally or alternatively, modulation (e.g., lessening) of an angle of a substrate  102  within the section-mounting region  130 , by the substrate actuation module  190 , can be used to apply a section  101   b  onto a substrate. 
     In a third portion of the example operation, as shown in  FIG. 20C , retraction of the substrate  102  from the section-mounting region  130  provides a flow path (e.g., an unobstructed path) that allows undesired substances  28  (e.g., debris and discarded sections) to be removed by flowing out of the fluid channel outlet  140 , and optionally, through a filter  170 . 
     1.4 System—Temperature Regulation and Wrinkle Removal Module 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the system  100  can additionally or alternatively include a temperature regulating module  180  in contact with fluid from the reservoir, that adjusts a temperature of fluid within the fluid channel. As such, in facilitating mounting of sections at substrates, fluid from the reservoir  150  or portions of the fluid channel  110  can be transmitted at a desired temperature throughout the system. The desired temperature is preferably contained within a range of temperatures having a higher limiting temperature and a lower limiting temperature. The higher limiting temperature is preferably configured such that an embedding medium (e.g., paraffin wax) surrounding a specimen of a section  101  does not completely melt, and the lower limiting temperature is preferably configured such that the section  101  does not contract in a manner that could cause wrinkling or other damage of the section  101 . 
     In one variation, the temperature-regulating module  180  can be in communication with reservoir  150  in a manner that provides regulation of the temperature of fluid within the reservoir  150 , as it is transmitted from the reservoir  150  into the fluid channel inlet  120 . As such, temperature of the fluid at the reservoir  150  can be adjusted prior to delivery into the fluid channel  110 . Additionally or alternatively, the temperature-regulating module  180  can be in communication with any arbitrary position in the flow path of the fluid channel  110  to create a localized temperature profile at a desired portion of the fluid channel  110 , without requiring regulation of the entire volume of fluid in the reservoir  150 . In yet another alternative variation, the temperature-regulating element may induce indirect (e.g., non-contact) temperature variation of a section  101  at any point along flow through the fluid channel  4  (e.g., by air convection or radiant/infrared heating) without requiring direct thermal conduction between fluid in the fluid channel  110  or fluid at the reservoir  150 , and a temperature-regulating module  180 . The reservoir  150  and/or the fluid channel  110  can, however, be configured in any other suitable manner. 
     The system  100  can additionally or alternatively include a wrinkle-removal module  50 , as shown in  FIGS. 8 and 22 , that functions to reduce or eliminate any wrinkling of sections prior to or during mounting to a substrate  102 . The wrinkle-removal module  50  can be configured proximal to the section-mounting region  130  of the fluid channel  110 , and functions to affect a local fluid parameter near a section in the section-mounting region  130 , such that the section  101  is substantially void of wrinkles prior to, during, and/or after coupling of the section  101  to a substrate  102 . The fluid affected by the wrinkle removal module preferably enters the system through an inlet (e.g., manifold) upstream of the sample sectioning module (e.g., through a side wall of the fluid channel inlet) and flows down the chute towards the section mounting region; however, the fluid can enter the flow path at any suitable location. The fluid is preferably heated by the wrinkle removal module  50  such that the fluid spreads as a thin layer at the top of the total fluid stream due to the lower density of the heated fluid versus the non-heated fluid, beneath the wax section, causing the section to warm, soften and flatten (e.g., to remove wrinkles). The wrinkle-removal module  50  preferably modulates a local fluid temperature within the section-mounting region  130 , in coordination with delivery of the section  101  from the fluid channel inlet  120  to the section-mounting region  130 , as facilitated by the controller  168  of the pump  167 . As such, in a first variation, an example of which is shown in  FIG. 23 , the wrinkle-removal module  50  can include an injector  51  configured to inject a volume of fluid (e.g., from the reservoir, from another fluid source) into the fluid channel  110  proximal the section-mounting region  130 , wherein fluid from the injector  51  is at a temperature configured to increase fluidity of the section (e.g., a wax section) within the section-mounting region  130 . In this variation, the temperature of the fluid from the injector  51  is preferably elevated relative to a global fluid temperature within the fluid channel, to provide a local fluid temperature (e.g., to 40-60° C.) that increases fluidity of the section without complete dissociation or melting of the section. However, fluid can alternatively be provided from the injector  51  at any other suitable temperature that facilitates wrinkle removal in a section. In this variation, the system  100  can include a switch (e.g., 3-way switch) configured to switch between a first configuration in which fluid at a lower temperature from the reservoir  150  is circulated into the fluid channel  110  by way of the fluid channel inlet  120 , and a second configuration in which fluid at an elevated temperature (e.g., as passed through a heating apparatus upstream of the injector  51 ) is circulated into the fluid channel  110  by way of the injector  51 . Additionally or alternatively, a flow rate used to deliver fluid at an elevated temperature from the injector  51  can be higher, lower, or substantially equal to a flow rate used to deliver fluid at a lower temperature into the fluid channel inlet  120 . 
     In a first example of the first variation, the injector  51 ′ can be positioned superior to and upstream of the section-mounting region  130 , as shown in  FIG. 24A , in order to inject high-temperature fluid into the fluid channel  110  upstream of the section-mounting region  110 , such that the high-temperature fluid flows under a section within the section mounting region  130  to remove any wrinkles in the section, prior to mounting of the section  101  to a substrate  102 . In a second example of the first variation, as shown in  FIG. 24B , the injector  51 ″ can be positioned downstream of the section-mounting region  130  and configured to inject high-temperature fluid upstream into the section-mounting region  130 , in order to remove any wrinkles in a section within the section-mounting region  130 . In a third example of the first variation, as shown in  FIG. 24C , the injector  51 ′″ can be positioned directly inferior to a section  101  within the section-mounting region  130  (e.g., at a base surface of the fluid channel  110 , within a reservoir into which the imaging substrate is directed for mounting of the section), such that high-temperature fluid is injected in an inferior-to-superior direction, toward the section  101 , to remove any wrinkles. In one variation of the third example, the fluid channel  110  can include a reservoir proximal the section-mounting region  130 , at which the section is held stationary and exposed to fluid at an elevated temperature, from the injector  51 , prior to mounting of the section to the imaging substrate. In another variation of the third example, a substrate  102  can be positioned (e.g., at an angle, perpendicularly) with an edge against the base surface of the fluid channel  110  proximal the section-mounting region  130  to create a dam, fluid at an elevated temperature can be delivered toward the imaging substrate from the injector  51  and trapped by the dam formed by the imaging substrate, and a section  101  positioned upstream of the dam can thus be positioned over a volume of fluid at an elevated temperature to undergo de-wrinkling. Then, the substrate can be positioned away from the base surface of the fluid channel  4 , thereby breaking the dam and allowing the section to be mounted to the imaging substrate, free of wrinkles, as the fluid level in the fluid channel  110  drops. 
     In a fourth example of the first variation, the injector  51  can be configured to deliver high-temperature fluid from sidewalls of the fluid channel  110  proximal section-mounting region  130 , in order to remove any wrinkles in a section within the section-mounting region. In a fifth example of the first variation, the injector  51  can be configured to deliver fluid at an elevated temperature through the same manifold  160  used to deliver fluid from the reservoir  150  into the fluid channel inlet  150 , in order to provide fluid at a suitable temperature for de-wrinkling of a section. In one variation of the fifth example, the entire volume of fluid from the reservoir  150  can be elevated to a desired temperature for de-wrinkling of a section, and delivered through the manifold  160 , by the injector, such that all fluid flowing within the fluid channel  110  is elevated to the desired temperature. In any of the above examples of the first variation, the section  101  can be held stationary by the substrate  102  or any other suitable object as fluid from the injector  51  flows under the section. Furthermore, a length of time over which the section  101  sits atop fluid at an elevated temperature can be adjusted according to requirements of a sample-type (e.g., tissue type) of the section, for instance, by adjusting flow rates of fluid into the fluid channel  110  and/or adjusting a position of the section by way of the substrate actuation module  190 . Variations of the injector  51  of the first variation can, however, be configured in any other suitable manner or implement combinations of any of the above examples/variations. 
     In an alternative variation, the injector  51  can be configured to deliver high-temperature fluid to the fluid channel proximal to the fluid inlet. In this alternative variation, the section can be de-wrinkled by the high-temperature fluid after the section is cut, either prior to or after the section is released from the blade and/or the preceding section. 
     In a second variation of the wrinkle-removal module  50  involving local temperature adjustment, the wrinkle-removal module  50  can additionally or alternatively include a heating module  52  configured to provide convective and/or radiant heat transfer toward a section at the section-mounting region  130 . As shown in  FIG. 25 , the heating module  52  can be configured to transmit heat toward one or more surfaces of the section  101 , from a direction superior to and/or inferior to the section  101 . Furthermore, the heating module  52  can be configured to deliver heat toward the section prior to, during, and/or after contact between the section and a surface of a substrate  102 . As such, the heating module  52  can be configured to transmit heat toward the section  101  by locally heating fluid within the section-mounting region  130  and/or by transmitting heat through air toward a surface of the section  101  at the section-mounting region  130 , with or without a substrate  102  present. In a first example of the second variation, the heating module  52  can comprise a heating element positioned at a base surface of the section-mounting region  130  and inferior to a section at the section-mounting region  130 , such that the heating element locally heats fluid (e.g., by convective heat transfer) at an inferior surface of the section, thereby facilitating wrinkle removal. In a second example of the second variation, the heating module  52  can comprise heating elements spanning sidewalls of the fluid channel  110  proximal to (e.g., upstream of, adjacent to, downstream of, etc.) the section-mounting region  130 , such that the heating elements locally heat fluid (e.g., by convective heat transfer) from lateral directions to facilitate wrinkle removal. In a third example of the second variation, the heating module  52  can comprise a heating element positioned superior to a section at the section-mounting region  130 , configured to provide radiant and/or convective heat transfer through air toward the section at the section-mounting region  130 . In one variation of the third example, heated air from the heating module  52  can be delivered toward a substrate  102  with the section  101 , in order to heat the section  101  and residual fluid between the section and the imaging substrate to provide a de-wrinkling mechanism. Variations of the heating module  52  of the second variation can, however, be configured in any other suitable manner or implement combinations of any of the above examples/variations. Furthermore, delivery of heat from the heating module  52  to the section can be performed multiple directions simultaneously, and/or in any other suitable sequence of directions. 
     In any of the above examples and variations, the injector  51 /heating module  52  can be configured cyclically or non-cyclically vary temperatures proximal to a section within the section-mounting region  130 , in order to induce thermal expansion and contraction of the section  101 . In these variations, repeated expansion and/or contraction of the section can allow removal of any wrinkles that would remain after a single instance of heating of the section. Furthermore, in any of the above examples and variations, the injector  51 /heating module  52  can be configured to move (e.g., by coupling to an actuator) relative to a section  101  (e.g., by moving the injector/heating module, by moving an imaging substrate or the section relative to the injector/heating module) at the section-mounting region  130 , such that heat can be provided consistently to sections at the section-mounting region  130  in a dynamic manner. Moving and/or adjusting an angle of a substrate  102  with the section  101  relative to a heating module  52  can, for instance, facilitate wicking of fluid from the substrate  102  and facilitate drying of a section  101  during de-wrinkling, as shown in  FIG. 26 . Heating by the wrinkle-removal module  50  can furthermore be performed continuously as a stream of sections flow into the section-mounting region, or intermittently, for each section that flows in the section-mounting region. 
     In alternative variations, the wrinkle-removal module  50  can adjust local fluid behavior (e.g., flow behavior, viscosity behavior, etc.) proximal to a section within the section-mounting region  130 , in order to facilitate wrinkle removal within a section for mounting. In one alternative variation, the wrinkle-removal module  50  can generate uniformly or non-uniformly diverting flows proximal to (e.g., directly inferior to) a section at the section-mounting region  130  that provide forces that expand the section. In examples of this variation, the diverting flows can include two or more flow paths directed outward from a point proximal to a center point of a section  101  at the section-mounting region  130 . In another alternative variation, the wrinkle-removal module  50  can include an injector configured to transmit a fluid, different from fluid flowing from the fluid channel inlet  120  to the fluid channel outlet  140 , that provides an expanding force (e.g., based upon differences in density, based upon differences in viscosity, etc.) at a surface of a section  101  at the section-mounting region  130 . In another alternative variation, as shown in  FIG. 27 , the wrinkle-removal module  50  can include a vibration module  53  configured to generate vibration waves proximal to a section at the section-mounting region  130 , in order to facilitate wrinkle removal. In examples of this variation, the vibration module  53  can be configured to generate vibrations mechanically and/or acoustically, and can be configured to generate standing and/or non-standing waves. Variations of the wrinkle-removal module  50  can, however, comprise any other suitable elements configured to facilitate wrinkle removal by any other suitable mechanism. 
     In still alternative variations, the wrinkle removal module  50  can be configured to transfer heat to the substrate  102 , in order to increase the temperature of the substrate  102  to remove wrinkles in a section  101  that contacts the heated substrate  102 . As such, the wrinkle removal module  50  can comprise a heating element (e.g., heating plate, array of heating chips, etc.) configured to contact at least one surface of the substrate  102  and/or radiate heat toward the substrate  102 , as shown in  FIG. 28 , prior to or during mounting of the section  101  to the substrate  102  in order to remove wrinkles in the section  101 . In specific examples, the heating element can be integrated with the substrate actuation module  190  that is configured to manipulate motion of the substrate  102 , or can be configured to contact the substrate  102  in any other suitable manner. In alternative variations, the wrinkle removal module  50  can be configured to transfer energy to the substrate and/or section via alternative means, such as microwave radiation (e.g., at 2.45 GHz), optical radiation, infrared radiation, and/or any other suitable energy transfer mechanism. 
     Furthermore, the wrinkle-removal module  50  can be configured to coordinate with flow, from the fluid channel inlet  120 , to the section-mounting region  130 , as facilitated by the controller  168  of the pump  167  coupled to the manifold  160 . In some variations, a flow rate into the fluid channel  110  can be reduced or halted to stabilize a position of the section at the section-mounting region  130 , thereby facilitating wrinkle removal within the section  101 . Flow within the fluid channel  110  can, however, be configured in any other suitable manner in coordination with the wrinkle-removal module  50 . 
     In one example operation, involving coordination between flow governed by the controller  168  of the pump  167 , the wrinkle-removal module  50 , and the substrate actuation module  190 , the substrate actuation module  190  can be configured to transmit a substrate  102  to a desired fluid depth  29 , as shown in  FIG. 29A , within the section-mounting region  130  of the fluid channel  110 . Then, a section  101  can be transmitted toward the section-mounting region  130  from the fluid channel inlet  110  after separation from a blade  3  of a microtome  104  of a sample-sectioning module  103 , as shown in  FIG. 29B , and the wrinkle-removal module  50  can inject a volume of high-temperature fluid toward the section  101  to remove wrinkles, as shown in  FIG. 29C . Flow from the fluid channel inlet  120  can then be increased to facilitate delivery of the section  101  onto the substrate  102  as the substrate  102  is retracted from the section-mounting region  130  by the substrate actuation module  190 , as shown in  FIG. 29D . In variations involving mounting of multiple sections onto a single substrate  102 , the above example can be repeated multiple times, with the substrate  102  delivered into the section-mounting region  130  of the fluid channel  110  at successively decreasing depths for each section  101  mounted to the substrate  102 . Variations of the example can, however, involve any other suitable workflow. 
     1.5 System—Additional Elements and Alternative Configurations 
     Variations of the system  100  can alternatively omit any of the above described elements in order to provide simplified variations of the system  100 . For instance, one variation of the system  100  can include a reservoir  150  comprising fluid and configured to receive a section  101  at a surface of fluid in the reservoir  150 ; and a wrinkle removal module  50  configured proximal to the section within the reservoir. In this simplified variation, the wrinkle removal module  50  can facilitate expansion of the section using one or more mechanisms as described above, and a human technician or other entity can mount the expanded section onto an imaging substrate manually or automatically. Variations of the above embodiments can further include any other suitable elements configured to facilitate mounting of a section onto an imaging substrate. For instance, a variation of the system  100  can include a tracking module configured to track a position of a section, and to facilitate wrinkle-removal within the section at any desired position in coordination with the tracking module. The system  100  can, however, omit and/or incorporate any other suitable element(s), or have alternative configurations, some of which are described below. 
     In one variation of the system  100 , one or more sensors  75  can be placed along the fluid channel  110  to enable detection of sections  101  as they pass, as shown in  FIG. 30 . The sensors can operate using any one or more of: infrared emitter-detector pairs, capacitive sensing, light contrast detection, image processing, and any other suitable mechanism to detect the presence, type, shape, and/or condition of a section  101  being transmitted through the fluid channel  110 . Such sensors can function to facilitate appropriate timing of flow modulation for placement of a section  101  onto a substrate  102 , as governed by a controller  168  of a pump  167  of the system  100 . Such sensors can also function to facilitate appropriate timing of actuation of the ribbon handling module of the system (e.g., a fluid pulser, fluid injectors, etc.) to actively detach cut sample sections from the blade (e.g., after cutting from the bulk sample). Such sensors can additionally or alternatively enable detection of the presence or absence of fluid in the fluid channel  110 , a velocity of a section  101  as it is transmitted within the fluid channel  110 , physical parameters of (e.g., dimensions of, damage to, etc.) a section  101  within the fluid channel  110 , and any other suitable parameters. Such sensors can additionally or alternatively detect the outcome of various system behaviors, such as detachment (e.g., cutting) of a section from the bulk sample (e.g., sectioning), detaching the cut section from the blade, mounting of the section (e.g., mounting quality, uniformity, orientation, etc.), section quality itself post-sectioning (e.g., air bubbles on or beneath the section, tears, folding, missing pieces of the section, presence or absence of tissue in the section, etc.). Such sensors can additionally or alternatively be used for subsequent, automated and/or manual, decision-making processes to adjust system performance, enable sorting of section, enable labeling or tagging of substrates with relevant information, and/or flagging conditions requiring operator intervention. The sensors can be mounted at an underside surface of the fluid channel  110  and configured to detect overhead passing sections (e.g., by way of transparent windows through the base surface of the fluid channel  110 ), or can additionally or alternatively be mounted above the fluid channel  110  and configured to detect sections passing below. 
     To automate management of substrates for rapid exchange of substrates with mounted sections and empty substrates, a rail  193  of the substrate actuation module  190  can be mounted on a pivoting element  197 , as shown in  FIG. 31 . As such, the substrate actuation module  190 , with a gripper  191  mounted to a rail  193  can form a robotic arm that can be used for retrieving and replacing mounted substrates, for submerging substrates at the section-mounting region  130  during section placement, and for retraction to different positions for placement of multiple sections. To facilitate automated retrieval and replacement, the substrate actuation module  193  can interface with a substrate rack  98  (e.g., rack of imaging slides) having a set of slots (e.g., parallel slots, radially oriented slots, etc.) configured to hold substrates for retrieval and replacement. Substrate manipulation by the system  100  can, however, be automated in any other suitable manner. 
     The system  100  can include a ribbon handling module that functions to separate adjoined sections from one another at a section-section junction. The ribbon handling module preferably includes a fluid pulser that can inject fluid into a localized region of the flow, causing adjoining sections to separate from one another (e.g., in cases wherein a ribbon is formed by multiple sections exiting the sample sectioning module conjoined together). The fluid pulser preferably generates a flow that breaks apart connective material conjoining two adjacent sections upon activation (e.g., by the controller), but can additionally or alternatively actively force nearby sections to move apart, whether or not they are connected by physical material (e.g., in cases where adjacent sections are overlapping, abutting, etc.), under the action of fluid injection. The fluid pulser preferably includes a fluid injector that delivers the pulse of fluid into the fluid flow path. The fluid pulser can include a single fluid injector or multiple fluid injectors. In a first variation, the fluid pulser includes an array of fluid injectors positioned at a single side of the fluid channel proximal to the sample sectioning module, as shown by example in  FIG. 4B . In a second variation, the fluid pulser includes a single fluid injector positioned at the bottom of the fluid channel proximal to the sample sectioning module, directed upwards such that fluid pulses can be locally directed between sections shortly after sectioning from the bulk sample (e.g., by a microtome). In a third variation, the fluid pulser includes two fluid injectors positioned at the sides of the fluid channel, configured to inject fluid pulses perpendicular to the overall fluid flow direction along the fluid flow channel. However, the fluid pulser of the ribbon handling module can include any suitable number of fluid injectors, arranged in any other suitable manner. 
     The ribbon handling module is preferably configured to receive control inputs from the controller, in response to identification of ribbon formation (e.g., via an optical sensor arranged above the fluid flow channel), and to separate conjoined sections in response to the control inputs from the controller. In a specific example, the controller monitors the sectioning rate (e.g., cutting rate) of the sample sectioning module, and controls the ribbon handling module to detach sections from a ribbon formed during cutting (e.g., via pulsing the fluid through the fluid injectors using the fluid pulser) based on the sectioning rate. In another specific example, the ribbon controller detects a size of each section, and controls the ribbon handling module in response to the size of a section exceeding a threshold size (e.g., a global threshold, a threshold associated with the specific section in a database and retrieved by the controller, etc.). However, the controller can additionally or alternatively control the ribbon handling module in any suitable manner, based on any suitable inputs (e.g., sensor inputs, manual inputs, user inputs, etc.). 
     In another variation of the ribbon handling module, the system  100  can include elements that apply a treatment to the top or bottom of an embedded tissue section to create dissimilar materials at a section-section junction, thereby reducing the tendency of sections to wrinkle or form ribbons during processing. As shown in  FIG. 32 , the embedding medium  90  can comprise wax, and treatment  92  can comprise a quick-setting enamel applied to bottoms of sections  101  to prevent formation of ribbons or wrinkling. 
     In some variations, the microtome  104  can include an automatic cut setting mechanism that functions to adjust the parameters of the process of sectioning (e.g., cutting) from the bulk sample. The automatic cut setting mechanism is preferably controlled by a controller of the system  100 , but can additionally or alternatively be user-adjustable (e.g., via a manual knob). The controller preferably provides control inputs to the automatic cut setting mechanism in response to sensor measurements related to parameters of cut sections (e.g., thickness, regularity, damage, wrinkling, etc.), and the automatic cut setting mechanism preferably adjusts the cutting parameters of the microtome in response to the control inputs (e.g., thickness, cutting speed, etc.). 
     In some variations, the microtome  104  of a sample sectioning module  103  interfacing with the system  100  can comprise a temperature-regulated chuck  33 , as shown in  FIG. 31 , that functions to maintain a bulk embedded sample at a desired temperature for sectioning. Maintaining the bulk sample at a desired temperature can include cooling (e.g., chilling) the bulk sample, heating the bulk sample, cycling the temperature of the bulk sample, maintaining a temperature set point, or any other suitable thermal regulation of the bulk sample. The temperature-regulated chuck  33  can also allow for consistent production of high-quality sections even if the bulk embedded sample is left within the chuck  33  for extended periods, such as when serial sectioning. 
     In some variations, the system  100  can include a chamber that retains the bulk sample (e.g., adjacent to the chuck), which can include a cartridge or any other suitable retention volume, that is also temperature-regulated. For example, the chamber can function as a low temperature oven that maintains the entirety of the bulk sample at a predetermined temperature (e.g., via a PID-controlled feedback loop). However, the temperature-controlled chamber for retaining the bulk sample can be otherwise suitably configured. 
     In some variations, the system  100  can include a hydration module, which can include an atomizer  198  or other element, as shown in  FIG. 31 , configured to spray fluid over a sample to hydrate the bulk sample while it is being sectioned by the sample sectioning module  103 . The atomizer  198  can thus prevent the need for an operator to periodically remove, hydrate, and replace a sample during sectioning of specific types of tissues that are susceptible to dehydration and flaking during sectioning. Additionally or alternatively, the system  100  can include a permeable material (e.g., sponge, fabric, etc.), saturated with a hydrating fluid and configured to contact the bulk sample (e.g., by providing relative motion between the bulk sample and the permeable material), in order to prevent drying of the bulk sample. Hydration of the bulk sample to improve sample processing can, however, be performed in any other suitable manner. 
     The hydration module (e.g., including the atomizer) can additionally or alternatively be configured to apply a chemical treatment to the sample. Chemical treatments can include stains, ethanol and/or other alcohols, lubricants (e.g., fatty alcohols, panthenol, dimethicone, etc.), decalcifiers, moisturizers (e.g., humectants), reconstructors (e.g., containing hydrolyzed protein), acidifiers, acidity regulators, polymers (e.g., cationic polyelectrolyte polymers, heat-absorbing polymers, etc.), silicones (e.g., dimethicone, cyclomethicone), oils (e.g., essential fatty acids, aliphatic fatty acid chains, unsaturated fatty acid chains), surfactants (e.g., cationic surfactants, anionic surfactants), sequestrants, antistatic agents, preservatives, sunscreen (e.g., benzophenone-4, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, etc.) and any other suitable chemicals for treating the bulk sample to aid sectioning by the sectioning module  103  and/or treating the section itself after sectioning. 
     In some variations, the hydration module can include a temperature regulation mechanism that functions to control the temperature of the hydration module itself and/or fluid supplied by the hydration module to the sample. For example, the temperature regulation mechanism of the hydration module can cool and/or heat a chemical treatment via a dual heating/refrigeration coil wrapped around a reservoir of an atomizer of the hydration module. However, the temperature regulation mechanism can include any other suitable temperature regulating elements and/or components. 
     In some variations, the system  100  can include a laser-etching device that functions to label substrates as they are mounted with sections, thus further reducing a need for operator intervention in substrate labeling. The laser-etching device can further function to reduce a possibility of mismatching substrate-mounted sections with their corresponding source embedded samples. The laser-etching device can be integrated with an informational technology (IT) system of a laboratory or clinic where the system  100  is in use. 
     In some variations, the system  100  can include a level (e.g., a bubble level) that functions to confirm that the section mounting region is level (e.g., relative to the flow through the channel) during system setup. The level is preferably integrated into the fluid channel (e.g., proximal to the section mounting region), but can alternatively be removably coupled to the system at another position, integrated into another system component, or otherwise suitably coupled to the system  100 . The level can be used to visually confirm that the arrangement 
     In some variations, the system  100  can include an anti-static ionizing device that functions to ensure that each section  101  is electrostatically neutral at certain phases of processing. The anti-static ionizing device can minimize risk of electrostatic attraction or repelling of a cut section  101  toward a sidewall or other portion of the fluid channel  110  in a manner that could hinder mounting of the section to a substrate. 
     In some variations, the system  100  can include a kinetic sensor coupled to a blade  3  and/or sample mounting chuck of the sample sectioning module  103  that functions to sense acceleration, vibration, and/or any other kind of feedback that could be used to automatically adjust cutting motion of the sample sectioning module  103 . The kinetic sensor can thus function to reduce operator interaction and improve automation in the system  100 . The kinetic sensor can be a component of or otherwise suitably coupled to the automatic cut setting mechanism, but can additionally or alternatively be uncoupled therefrom. 
     In some variations, the system  100  can include a cartridge coupled to the sample mounting chuck. The cartridge functions to retain a plurality of bulk samples (e.g., paraffin blocks having an embedded sample in each block) and to provide a bulk sample to the sample sectioning module for sectioning via the system  100 . In a specific example, the cartridge is arranged above the chuck to facilitate gravity-feeding of bulk samples into the sample sectioning module. In another example, the cartridge includes a motorized plunger configured to continuously feed a plurality of bulk samples (e.g., conjoined together, adjacent to one another but non-contiguous, etc.) into the sample sectioning module, in conjunction with sectioning by the microtome (e.g., at the same feed rate that material is removed from the bulk sample by the microtome). 
     In one alternative configuration, sections can be transmitted to a substrate from a path that is perpendicular to that described in the embodiments and variations above, which allows for a condensed fluid path. In another alternative configuration, as shown in  FIG. 33 , a linear flow boost (i.e., a burst of fluid flow) can be used to introduce flow around a submerged substrate  102  at the section-mounting region  130  to produce consistent section placement upon a substrate  102 . 
     The system  100  can, however, include any other suitable elements configured to facilitate mounting of one or more sections onto a substrate. Furthermore, as a person skilled in the art will recognize from the previous detailed description and from the figures and claims, modifications and changes can be made to the system  100  without departing from the scope of the system  100 . 
     2. Method 
     As shown in  FIG. 34 , an embodiment of a method  100  for coupling a section to a substrate comprises: providing a fluid channel having a fluid channel inlet, a section-mounting region downstream of the fluid channel inlet, and a fluid channel outlet downstream of the section-mounting region S 210 ; at the fluid channel inlet, receiving the section, processed by a sample sectioning module positioned proximal the fluid channel inlet S 220 ; delivering the section from the fluid channel inlet toward the section-mounting region upon transmission of fluid flow into the fluid channel inlet, wherein transmission of fluid flow into the fluid channel inlet is governed by a controller S 230 ; at a substrate actuation module, transmitting the substrate into the section-mounting region to receive the section, in a first operation, in coordination with the controller S 240 ; and at the substrate actuation module, delivering the substrate, with the section mounted to the substrate, from the section-mounting region in a second operation, in coordination with the controller S 250 . In some embodiments, the method  200  can include any one or more of: transmitting fluid flow through the fluid channel outlet to be recycled into the fluid channel inlet, by way of a reservoir in fluid communication with the fluid channel inlet and outlet S 260 ; and at a wrinkle-removal module proximal to the section-mounting region, transmitting heat toward the section, thereby mitigating wrinkling of the section at the substrate S 270 . 
     The method  200  functions to automate processing of sections (e.g., histological specimen sections, biological sections, etc.) in a manner that consistently generates high-quality mounted sections, with minimal or no effort from a human technician. As such, the method  200  can significantly reduce labor-intensive aspects of mounting sections to substrates. The method  200  is preferably implemented by at least a portion of the system  100  described in Section 1 above; however, the method  200  can additionally or alternatively be implemented using any other suitable system(s). 
     Block S 210  recites: providing a fluid channel having a fluid channel inlet, a section-mounting region downstream of the fluid channel inlet, and a fluid channel outlet downstream of the section-mounting region. Block S 210  functions to provide a fluid conveyer that can be used to drive a section for mounting at a substrate. Block S 210  is preferably implemented using an embodiment of the system  100  described above, and more specifically, using embodiments, variations, and/or examples of the fluid channel  110 , fluid channel inlet  120 , section-mounting region  130 , and fluid channel outlet  140  described above; however, Block S 210  can alternatively be implemented using any other suitable system  100  that provides a fluid path, with control of fluid flow parameters for automatically mounting histological sections to one or more substrates. 
     Block S 220  recites: at the fluid channel inlet, receiving the section, processed by a sample sectioning module positioned proximal the fluid channel inlet. Block S 220  functions to initiate sample reception within the fluid channel, such that the sample can be transmitted to downstream portions for manipulation (e.g., positioning, de-wrinkling) and mounting at a substrate. In Block S 220 , the section is preferably received from a bulk embedded sample processed by a sample sectioning module (e.g., comprising a microtome with a blade proximal the fluid channel inlet); however, the section can alternatively be received in Block S 220  in any other suitable manner. In some variations, Block S 220  can include one or more of: retaining an edge of the section by way of coupling the edge of the section to a cutting instrument of the sample sectioning module S 222 ; and releasing the section into the fluid channel inlet upon separating the section from an adjoining section coupled to the cutting instrument of the sample sectioning module S 224 . Block S 224 , as described above, can include any one or more of: introducing fluid through a manifold into the fluid channel (e.g., at an angle γ) to free a preceding section for transmission into the fluid channel inlet S 224   a ; generating fluid flow beneath a section within the fluid channel S 224   b , such that a shear force induced at a junction between sections provides separation; manually separating a section from the blade (e.g., using forceps) S 224   c ; implementing an elevated floor of the fluid channel inlet, immediately downstream of the manifold, to cause fluid to be drawn away from the blade as it is delivered into the fluid channel; using a separation device (e.g., a paddle, a chuck, etc.), as shown in  FIGS. 11A-11C , thereby providing a mechanical force that separates adjoined sections; and using any other suitable method of separating adjoining sections without damaging sections. Block S 220  can, however, include any other suitable steps for transmitting a section that has been cut from a bulk embedded sample into the fluid channel inlet. 
     Block S 230  recites: delivering the section from the fluid channel inlet toward the section-mounting region upon transmission of fluid flow into the fluid channel inlet, wherein transmission of fluid flow into the fluid channel inlet is governed by a controller. Block S 230  functions to drive a section, floating atop fluid within the fluid channel, toward the section-mounting region of the fluid channel upon transmission of fluid through a manifold in fluid communication with the fluid channel inlet. Block S 230  is preferably implemented using embodiments, variations, and/or examples of the fluid channel  110 , the pump  167 , the controller  168 , and the manifold  160  described in Section 1 above; however, Block S 230  can additionally or alternatively be implemented using any other suitable system or element(s). As shown in  FIG. 36 , delivering the section toward the section-mounting region in Block S 230  can thus include any one or more of: providing a progressively narrow fluid path within the fluid channel that enables accurate positioning the section onto a substrate within the section-mounting region S 232 ; providing a descending fluid path within the fluid channel, thereby using gravity to facilitate acceleration of the section, atop a layer of fluid within the fluid channel, toward the section-mounting region S 234 ; retaining a position of the section at the section-mounting region S 236  (e.g., upon modulation of fluid flow parameters); and using any other suitable block that enables accurate placement of a section at a substrate, in a repeatable manner. 
     Block S 240  recites: at a substrate actuation module, transmitting the substrate into the section-mounting region to receive the section, in a first operation, in coordination with the controller. Block S 240  functions to position a substrate at a desired depth and/or with a desired angle relative to a base surface of the fluid channel at the section-mounting region, which allows accurate positioning and mounting of the section to the substrate. Block S 240  is preferably implemented using an embodiment, variation, or example of the substrate actuation module  190 , substrate  102 , and section-mounting region  130  described in Section 1 above; however, Block S 240  can alternatively be implemented using any other suitable system or element(s). In variations, as shown in  FIG. 37 , Block S 240  can include any one or more of: transmitting a gripper of the substrate actuation module, with a substrate coupled to the gripper, along a path defined by a rail, wherein rail defines a sloping path into the section-mounting region and constrains motion of the substrate along the sloping path S 242 ; defining a line of juncture between a portion of the substrate and fluid within the fluid channel at the section-mounting region S 244 ; receiving the section at the line of juncture, thereby initiating mounting of the section to the substrate; modulating a fluid level at the section-mounting region, thereby promoting positioning and/or maintenance of a position of the section relative to the substrate S 246 ; and performing any other suitable action that facilitates initial coupling of the section to the substrate. Block S 240  is thus preferably performed in coordination with modulation of flow parameters within the fluid channel by the controller, such that fluid parameters (e.g., flow velocity, flow acceleration, fluid level, etc.) for promoting accurate and repeatable coupling of a section to the substrate is substantially synchronized with motion of the substrate actuation module and coupled substrate. 
     In a specific example, Block S 240  includes inserting the substrate into a gap between a surface at a downstream end of the fluid channel and a base surface of the section mounting region, and raising the substrate to contact the surface at the downstream end of the fluid channel and form a seal between the substrate and the end of the fluid channel. 
     Block S 250  recites: at the substrate actuation module, delivering the substrate, with the section mounted to the substrate, from the section-mounting region in a second operation, in coordination with the controller. Block S 250  functions to retract a substrate from a position within the section-mounting region, with a section at least partially coupled to the substrate, which allows the section to gradually be fully mounted to the substrate. Block S 250  is preferably implemented using an embodiment, variation, or example of the substrate actuation module  190 , substrate  102 , and section-mounting region  130  described in Section 1 above; however, Block S 250  can alternatively be implemented using any other suitable system or element(s). In variations, as shown in  FIG. 38 , Block S 250  can include any one or more of: retracting a gripper of the substrate actuation module, with a substrate coupled to the gripper, along a path defined by a rail, wherein rail defines a sloping path into the section-mounting region and constrains motion of the substrate along the sloping path S 252 ; modulating a fluid level at the section-mounting region, thereby promoting mounting of the section onto the substrate S 254  by producing an adhesion force between the section and the substrate; and performing any other suitable action that facilitates initial coupling of the section to the substrate. Block S 250  is thus preferably performed in coordination with modulation of flow parameters within the fluid channel by the controller, such that fluid parameters (e.g., flow velocity, flow acceleration, fluid level, etc.) for promoting mounting of a section to the substrate in an accurate and repeatable manner is substantially synchronized with motion of the substrate actuation module and coupled substrate. 
     In a specific example, Block S 250  includes lowering the substrate within a gap between a surface at a downstream end of the fluid channel and a base surface of the section mounting region, and withdrawing the substrate. 
     In some variations, Blocks S 240  and S 250  can be iteratively repeated for mounting of multiple sections to a single substrate, wherein a substrate is delivered to progressively decreasing depths within the section-mounting region to enable reception of multiple sections at desired positions along the substrate. An example workflow of mounting multiple sections to a single substrate is shown in  FIGS. 20A-20C . 
     In some variations, the method  200  can include Block S 260 , which recites: transmitting fluid flow through the fluid channel outlet to be recycled into the fluid channel inlet, by way of a reservoir in fluid communication with the fluid channel inlet and the fluid channel outlet. Block S 260  functions minimize wasting of fluid by the system, by using recirculated fluid to process samples. Block S 260  is preferably implemented using embodiments, variations, and/or examples of the fluid channel outlet  140 , the reservoir  150 , the pump  167 , the controller  168 , the filter  170 , and the manifold  160  described in Section 1 above; however, Block S 260  can alternatively be implemented using any other suitable system or elements. Block S 260  preferably includes providing a flow path from the fluid channel to the reservoir, by way of the fluid channel outlet, and can additionally or alternatively include one or more of: filtering fluid at least at one of the fluid channel outlet, the reservoir, the pump, and the manifold S 262 , thereby removing undesired substances prior to recirculation of fluid through the system; modulating a temperature of fluid at least at one of the reservoir, the manifold, and a portion of the fluid channel S 264 ; introducing an additive for surface tension modulation along with fluid from the reservoir, during recirculation S 266 ; and any other suitable step that facilitates recycling of fluid in the system with minimal operator involvement. 
     In some variations, the method  200  can additionally or alternatively include Block S 270 , which recites: at a wrinkle-removal module proximal to the section-mounting region, transmitting heat toward the section, thereby mitigating wrinkling of the section at the substrate. Block S 270  functions to produce high-quality mounted sections, substantially free of wrinkling, upon transmitting heat to sections within the system  100  at desired stages of processing. Block S 270  is preferably implemented using an embodiment, variation, or example of the wrinkle-removal module  50  described in Section 1 above, whereby transmitting heat toward the section can include any one or more of: injecting fluid with a desired temperature toward a section at the section-mounting region S 272  (e.g., from underneath the section, from above the section, upstream of the section, downstream of the section, from sidewalls surrounding the section, etc); convectively transferring heat toward at least one surface of a section S 274 ; heating a substrate to which a section is mounted or is intended to be mounted S 276 ; and using any other suitable mechanism of heat transfer to de-wrinkle a section. 
     In one variation, as shown in  FIGS. 39 and 29A-29D , Block S 270  can include receiving the section at a fluid channel inlet of a fluid channel S 310 ; delivering the section from the fluid channel inlet toward a section-mounting region of the fluid channel by way of fluid flow from a manifold proximal to the fluid channel inlet S 320 ; delivering an imaging substrate into fluid at the section-mounting region at a first depth S 330  by way of a substrate actuation module; elevating a local temperature of fluid at the section-mounting region in coordination with delivery of the section into the section-mounting region S 340  to produce an expanded section; increasing flow into the section-mounting region, thereby delivering the expanded section toward the imaging substrate S 350 ; and withdrawing the imaging substrate from the section-mounting region by way of the gripper module S 360 , thereby coupling the section to the imaging substrate. 
     However, Block S 270  can alternatively include removing wrinkles from a section prior to, during, or after mounting, using any other suitable apparatus. For instance, Block S 270  can include preventing wrinkling of a section by modulating a viscosity parameter or surface tension parameter of the fluid conveying the section to the section-mounting region, or by using acoustic vibrations to remove wrinkles from a section. 
     The method  200  can, however, include any other suitable blocks or steps configured to facilitate mounting of one or more sections onto a substrate in an automated or semi-automated manner. In one variation, the method  200  can include detecting, at a sensor system, one or more of: a section passing through a portion of the fluid channel, presence or absence of fluid in the fluid channel, a velocity of the section as it is transmitted within the fluid channel, physical parameters of (e.g., dimensions of, damage to, etc.) the section within the fluid channel  110 , and any other suitable parameters. In related variations, the method  100  can include timing flow modulation for placement of the section onto the substrate in response to signals generated by the sensor system. 
     In variations, the method  200  can additionally or alternatively include one or more of: applying a treatment to a portion of a bulk embedded sample used to generate the section, in order to prevent section wrinkling; automatically regulating a temperature of the bulk embedded sample; automatically spraying fluid over a portion of the bulk embedded sample to hydrate the sample while it is being sectioned by a sample sectioning module; with a laser-etching device, automatically labeling substrates as they are mounted with sections; with an imager, reading labelled substrates and correlating the labels with mounted section information (e.g., imprinted on a bulk sample block and stored in a database) to confirm that the mounted section is the correct section to be associated with the labeled substrate; with an anti-static ionizing device, ensuring that the section is at an electrostatically neutral state during processing; based upon signals from a kinetic sensor coupled to the sample-sectioning module, automatically modulating sectioning parameters to improve section quality; and any other suitable step that automates sample processing and/or improves quality of samples. 
     Variations of the system  100  and method  200  include any combination or permutation of the described components and processes. Furthermore, various processes of the preferred method can be embodied and/or implemented at least in part as a machine configured to receive a computer-readable medium, storing computer-readable instructions. The instructions are preferably executed by computer-executable components preferably integrated with a system and one or more portions of the control module  155  and/or a processor. The computer-readable medium can be stored on any suitable computer readable media such as RAMs, ROMs, flash memory, EEPROMs, optical devices (CD or DVD), hard drives, floppy drives, or any suitable device. The computer-executable component is preferably a general or application specific processor, but any suitable dedicated hardware device or hardware/firmware combination device can additionally or alternatively execute the instructions. 
     The FIGURES illustrate the architecture, functionality and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to preferred embodiments, example configurations, and variations thereof. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, step, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block can occur out of the order noted in the FIGURES. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions. 
     As a person skilled in the art will recognize from the previous detailed description and from the figures and claims, modifications and changes can be made to the preferred embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of this invention as defined in the following claims.