Abstract: The present invention provides a cartridge for analyzing a fluid sample. The cartridge provides for the efficient separation of cells or viruses in the sample from the remaining sample fluid, lysis of the cells or viruses to release the analyte (e.g., nucleic acid) therefrom, and optionally chemical reaction and/or detection of the analyte. The cartridge is useful in a variety of diagnostic, life science research, environmental, or forensic applications for determining the presence or absence of one or more analytes in a sample.

Abstract: A cartridge for conducting a chemical reaction includes a body having at least one flow path formed therein. The cartridge also includes a reaction vessel extending from the body for holding a reaction mixture for chemical reaction and optical detection. The vessel comprises a rigid frame defining the side walls of a reaction chamber. The frame includes at least one channel connecting the flow path to the chamber. The vessel also includes flexible films or sheets attached to opposite sides of the rigid frame to form opposing major walls of the chamber. In addition, at least two of the side walls are optically transmissive and angularly offset from each to permit real-time optical detection of analyte in the reaction chamber.

Abstract: A cartridge for conducting a chemical reaction includes a body having at least one flow path formed therein. The cartridge also includes a reaction vessel extending from the body for holding a reaction mixture for chemical reaction and optical detection. The vessel comprises a rigid frame defining the side walls of a reaction chamber. The frame includes at least one channel connecting the flow path to the chamber. The vessel also includes flexible films or sheets attached to opposite sides of the rigid frame to form opposing major walls of the chamber. In addition, at least two of the side walls are optically transmissive and angularly offset from each to permit real-time optical detection of analyte in the reaction chamber.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cartridge for analyzing a fluid sample. The cartridge provides for the efficient separation of cells or viruses in the sample from the remaining sample fluid, lysis of the cells or viruses to release the analyte (e.g., nucleic acid) therefrom, and optionally chemical reaction and/or detection of the analyte. The cartridge is useful in a variety of diagnostic, life science research, environmental, or forensic applications for determining the presence or absence of one or more analytes in a sample.

Abstract: An in-line point of use filter includes a restrictor flow valve and pressure gauge port integral therewith. The filter includes an internal threaded spindle which rigidly retains a coalescing filter in place. As a result of the compact spindle and filter arrangement, the entire filter assembly fits under a suction feed paint sprayer and allows the combined sprayer and filter unit to stand without toppling. The threaded spindle threads coaxially with a valve body and conducts compressed air therethrough. The compressed air passes from the threaded spindle directly into the filter media and transversely therethrough, and then from the filter media on to the external filter housing and longitudinally therewith into a small chamber carrying the pressure gauge port, the small chamber which is coupled directly into the sprayer body air inlet.

Abstract: An electromechanical sensor is provided which comprises an n-type semiconductor region which defines a flexible member surrounded by a thicker base portion; at least one piezoresistor formed in the semiconductor region; an n+ region formed in the thicker base portion; a first insulative layer which overlays the piezoresistor and which extends at least from the piezoresistor to the first n+ doped region; a guard layer which overlays at least a portion of the first insulative layer such that the guard layer overlays the piezoresistor and extends at least from the piezoresistor to a point adjacent to the n+ region; and a first bias contact which electrically interconnects the n+ region and the guard layer.