Abstract: An arrangement of separation device is provided such that after centrifugation, for example, the heavy materials at the bottom of the separation container may be directly removed from the bottom without first having to decant or otherwise remove the lighter fraction at the upper end of the container. The arrangement may include, for example, a conventional tube-type container modified to have an opening in the bottom. A specially configured plug or stopper is utilized in combination with the container bottom opening to seal the opening closed, which plug is configured to complete the bottom end of the container and to provide an access septum for needle penetration in the bottom of the container. The arrangement of the plug prevents displacement thereof, once it is properly positioned, and includes specifically, a locking detent to prevent the plug from being displaced inwardly upon insertion of a needle into the plug.

Abstract: A device is provided for blind subculturing in place of a standard petri dish, which device eliminates the need for a separate needle and syringe. The device includes a culture media in combination with an absorbent fiber disc adjacent the culture media for absorbing inoculum and maintaining it adjacent the media gel. In addition, a mounted needle is included in the device for penetrating the septum of a standard culture bottle, for withdrawing the inoculum. Means are provided for readily removing the culture media from the device momentarily for inspection, with the means including a cooperating closure assembly on the device utilizing a conventional petri plate as the top and/or bottom cap or closure.