Abstract: An apparatus and method for analyzing an analyte in a body fluid sample using a lancing device (10) having a hollow lancet are disclosed. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the method comprises the acts of lancing the skin of a test subject with the hollow lancet (18) having an interior of the hollow lancet (18) that forms a capillary channel, collecting a body fluid sample from the lanced skin in the capillary channel of the hollow lancet (18), and analyzing the body fluid sample for determining the analyte concentration in the body fluid sample while the collected body fluid sample remains in the lancet (18).

Abstract: A test strip for use of the determination of an analyte in a fluid sample according to one embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. The test strip comprises a base having a top and a bottom, a collection chamber that extends between the top and the bottom of the base, a containing ring that is disposed on the bottom of the base and surrounds the collection chamber, and a capillary channel formed in top of the base that has an inlet fluidly coupled to the collection chamber, a test element disposed within the capillary channel. A lid is attached to the top of the base and covers the collection chamber, the test membrane, and at least a portion of the capillary channel.

Abstract: Fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composites with anisotropic properties are produced by extruding a mixture of very short fibers and a polymer through a die having a surface to volume ratio of at least about 10 in?1.