Abstract: The disclosed technology relates to pipette tips, systems thereof, and methods of their use. In one embodiment, a pipette (100) includes a tip (101) with a defined opening (102) for a biological and/or chemical sample, and a securing structure (103) extending from the end of the tip (101) and in communication with the opening (102), the securing structure (103) having at least one mechanical securing member (104) that is configured to secure the biological and/or chemical sample at the tip (101).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for isolating and recovering a biomolecule from a test sample. The device includes a support and at least one peelable layer deposited on at least a portion of the support. The peelable layer includes a substrate having a target component immobilized on the substrate. The device is effective for isolating and recovering a biomolecule having affinity to the target component. The present invention also relates to systems and methods of using the device. The present invention also relates to a biomolecule elution strip and related methods.

Abstract: The present invention provides a liquid sampling, storage, transfer and delivery device comprising housing containing a porous nib. The porous nib in the device contacts the sample, collects the sample, stores the sample, transports the sample inside its porous matrix and releases the sample from the porous matrix upon demand.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of a microporous organogel for the capture of fluids by adsorption and/or for the controlled release of fluids after solubilization. The fluids are, in particular, air or water pollutants or volatile substances. The invention also relates to the use of a microporous organogel in a process for analyzing the captured fluids. The invention also relates to any fluid sensor by moulding of a microporous organa gel.

Abstract: A device, system and method for sampling sample material for an analyte including a receiving swab, wherein at least a portion of the receiving swab is compressible; a sensor for sensing the analyte; and a casing, wherein the casing at least partially encloses the receiving swab and the sensor and allows for a transfer of sample material received by the receiving swab to the sensor along a transfer path inside of the casing. The compressible portion of the receiving swab is located inside the casing, wherein by compressing the compressible portion, the transfer path is closable towards the outside of the device.

Abstract: A sample acquisition device includes a capillary array configured to draw in a sample and retain the sample by capillary action. The capillary array may be coupled to an elongated member, such as a stem or a hollow tube, which defines a longitudinal axis extending in a first direction. In some embodiments, the capillary array defines a major sample acquisition surface that extends in a second direction different than the first direction. A ratio of the major sample acquisition surface area to maximum volume retained by the capillary array may be selected to minimize physical binding between the capillary array and sample. In some embodiments, the device may include a feedback mechanism to indicate the relative pressure applied to a sample source with the sample acquisition device. In addition, in some embodiments, the sample acquisition device may include a suction source to help draw the sample into the capillary array.

Abstract: The present invention concerns the use of a microporous organogel for trapping fluids by adsorption and/ for the controlled release of fluids after solubilisation. The fluids are particularly air or water polluting agents or volatile substances. The invention also concerns the use of a microporous organogel in a method for analysing the trapped fluids. The invention also concerns any fluid trap obtained by moulding a microporous organogel.

Abstract: An applicator instrument for applying dental compounds includes an instrument head. The instrument head has a support structure with a plurality of elastic projections formed on the support structure. The projections have less stiffness than the support structure with respect to a height extent and enclose a receiving space for the dental compound. Additionally, the projections have a planar configuration and are arranged substantially parallel to one another with respect to a width extent. The diameter of the instrument head is equal to or less than 3 mm. Using this applicator instrument, it is easier to apply dental compound in dosed amounts and to spread the dental compound across a surface to be treated.

Abstract: A sample collection device suitable for low-volume extraction includes a substantially tubular collection vessel having a closed end, an open end, and one or more sidewalls defining a vessel chamber having a vessel volume. The device further includes a swab for sample collection. The swab formed with a substantially closed-celled polymer foam head and the swab is configured for insertion into the collection vessel.

Abstract: A tip comprising, at its lower end, a capillary channel (1), the length of which is greater than the thickness of the wall of the tip lower end and the cross-sectional area of which is so small that when the end of the tip is pushed into the liquid, the capillary channel is filled with liquid, and the tip comprises an air opening (3) above the capillary channel.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method regarding the monitoring of a fluid parameter are disclosed. More particularly, it relates to apparatus, systems, and methods of efficiently and economically monitoring the quality of a fluid, such as food treating media. An improved portable testing device may be in the form of a cartridge that is usable with a separate testing apparatus used to measure a parameter of the fluid carried on the sensing device. Included is a system and method that include a portable handheld device having a sensing device and a filter for protecting the sensing device from the fluid to be tested.

Abstract: A quantitative sampling device comprises a sampling part and a case; the sampling part further has a sampling loop with a predetermined size for sampling a fixed amount of an liquid sample; and the case includes a buffer solution with a predetermined volume, the sampling part is adapted for slidable communication within the case, and the liquid sample may mix with the buffer solution after the sampling part propelled in to get a diluted solution.

Abstract: An analytical device according to the present invention comprises a liquid accommodating chamber 9 for accommodating a sample solution of a quantity required for analyzing; a volume measuring chamber 10 connected to the liquid accommodating chamber 9 with a connecting path 13 and disposed in the exterior of the liquid accommodating chamber 9 in a radial direction; an overflowing chamber 11 connected to the volume measuring chamber 10 for accommodating an excessive quantity of the sample solution; and a measuring cell 12 for transferring and measuring the sample solution measured in the volume measuring chamber 10; wherein an overflowing port 14 of the volume measuring chamber 10 is connected to a flow-in port 16 of the overflowing chamber 11 by a capillary path 17.

Abstract: A filtration based biological specimen collection and transfer device is provided. The filtration and transfer device comprises a tubular body with two axial ends, an annular flange disposed at one of the axial ends, and a biological specimen filter affixed to the outer surface of the annular flange. Preferably, the annular flange has disposed on its outer surface an annular ridge having a uniform height and forming a planar rim upon which the filter sits. Optionally, the annular flange comprises two mounting portions and the filter is bonded to each of those mounting portions. A method of collecting microscopic biological particles carried in a fluid is provided using the filtration and transfer device and a method of manufacturing the filtration and transfer device are also provided. A filtration based biological specimen collection and transfer system using the filtration and transfer device and a kit for use with filtration based biological specimen collection and transfer systems are also provided.

Abstract: Multi-layer coated materials and methods of making them are disclosed. In a specific embodiment, a porous polymeric substrate is pre-activated and immersed in a polyelectrolyte solution to form a first layer having an electric charge and at least one functional group. The coated material is next immersed in a second solution of a material having an electric charge opposite of that of the first layer to provide a bi-layer coating. This process can be repeated to form multi-layer coatings on porous substrates.

Abstract: A device for storage and transportation of forensic and/or biological material, comprising a sealable container and a material holder for holding the material, which holder can be placed in the container, wherein the container is provided with at least one ventilating hole and with sealing means that shut off the interior of the container from the environment.

Abstract: Disclosed are various preferred embodiments for dynamic transfer of information from a test sensor to an analyte medical test device. Exemplary embodiments include various containers, systems and methods.

Abstract: A fluid collection and testing device includes a collection vial having a bottom and an open top along with an expresser sized for insertion into the vial open end. The expresser includes a ribbed base enabling fluid to pass therethrough and a support member holds the expresser within the collection vial with the ribbed base in a spaced apart relationship with the vial bottom. A fluid collector includes an absorbent member capturing a fluid and the absorbent member is sized for insertion into the expresser and is compressible against the ribbed base for releasing captured fluid through the ribbed base and into the vial bottom. A catch mechanism is provided for latching the fluid collector to the expresser after insertion into the expresser for enabling simultaneous removal of the expresser and the fluid collector from the collection vial.

Abstract: An apparatus for acquiring and holding minimum size liquid samples with predetermined pathlength and methods using the same.

Abstract: A two-pin liquid handling system for crystallizing biomolecules comprises a pair of interacting pins for holding a droplet of liquid therebetween. Each pin includes a tip spaced predetermined distance from the other pin to define a sample acquisition region. The two-pin liquid handling system includes a temperature and humidity control element for controlling the temperature of the sample acquisition region to cause transpiration of water to and from a droplet of biomolecule solution to promote crystallization of the biomolecule.

Abstract: The current invention provides a device, and a method for using the device, for ensuring that a capillary or wicking fill device is fully filled. In particular this invention is directed to, but not limited to, use with capillary or wicking action filled electrochemical sensors suitable for use in analyzing blood or interstitial fluids.

Abstract: The present invention is a device for conveniently collecting and storing liquid samples, as well as applying an aliquot of the sample to a test device, such as a lateral flow immunoassay. The present invention comprises an absorbent swab and a dropper container containing an expression means for expressing the collected sample from the swab. After the collected sample has been expressed into the reservoir of the device, the device is capped. The device can be inverted over a test device, the sides of the reservoir squeezed and an aliquot of the sample applied, in a drop-wise manner, to the sample application well of the test device. The present invention is particularly useful for collecting viscous samples, such as saliva or oral fluid, in a drug of abuse testing setting.

Abstract: Multi-layer coated materials and methods of making them are disclosed. In a specific embodiment, a porous polymeric substrate is pre-activated and immersed in a polyelectrolyte solution to form a first layer having an electric charge and at least one functional group. The coated material is next immersed in a second solution of a material having an electric charge opposite of that of the first layer to provide a bi-layer coating. This process can be repeated to form multi-layer coatings on porous substrates.

Abstract: A method for sampling reaction products includes delivering a reactant through a sampling probe to contact a substance deposited on a substrate and reacting the reactant to form a reaction product. At least a portion of the reaction product is withdrawn through the sampling probe and analyzed. The sampling probe is contacted with the substrate during at least a portion of the delivering, reacting and withdrawing steps.

Abstract: A sampling probe for delivering a reactant to a substance deposited on a substrate to form a reaction product and for transporting the reaction product to a product analyzer for analysis. The probe includes a tip positionable over the substance on the substrate. The probe has a recess in the tip sized and shaped for receiving at least a portion of the reaction product. The probe has a product sampling passage extending from the recess adapted for connection to the product analyzer for transporting the portion of the reaction product to the product analyzer. Further, a reactant delivery passage extends to an outlet at the recess for delivering reactant to the substance on the substrate to form the reaction product.

Abstract: A spotting pin 10 capable of spotting equal amounts of a solution in a sequential manner comprises a first member 11 having a solution holding portion 13 formed at the tip thereof for holding a predetermined amount of solution, and a second member 12 having a solution supply portion 14 for holding the solution by a capillary action, the second member adapted to slide along the first member. As the solution supply portion 14 is brought into contact with the solution holding portion 13, the solution enters the solution holding portion 13 from the solution supply portion 14 by a capillary action. As the solution supply portion 14 and the solution holding portion 13 are separated from each other, a predetermined amount of the solution can be carried in the solution holding portion 13. Then, as the solution holding portion 13 is brought into contact with a water-absorbing support 21, a spot 22 of a predetermined amount of the solution can be formed thereon.

Abstract: The current invention provides a device, and a method for using the device, for ensuring that a capillary or wicking fill device is fully filled. In particular this invention is directed to, but not limited to, use with capillary or wicking action filled electrochemical sensors suitable for use in analyzing blood or interstitial fluids.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for extracting a representative sample of water, oil and sediment from a container. The apparatus is a container closure having a tube extending therethrough, such that fluids can be extracted from any closed container through the tube when closed by the closure. The tube has a first end and a second end. The first end is open to the flow of fluids and the second end is closed. Several radial inlet ports are position at spaced intervals along the tube between the closure and the second end of the tube. Fluids from the container enter the tube at several levels through different ones of the inlet ports, thereby providing a more representative sample.

Abstract: The current invention provides a device, and a method for using the device, for ensuring that a capillary or wicking fill device is fully filled. In particular this invention is directed to, but not limited to, use with capillary or wicking action filled electrochemical sensors suitable for use in analyzing blood or interstitial fluids.

Abstract: Liquids are transferred from a plurality of wells or depots having openings arranged in a selected format to one or more receptacles, by displacing liquid contained in each well so that a convex meniscus swells from the opening, and contacting the receptacle with the swollen meniscus to draw a portion of the liquid into the receptacle. According to the invention, the liquid transfer is effected directly from the depot to the corresponding receptacle without contact between depots and receptacles, and without interposition of any transfer device between depots and receptacles.

Abstract: A device for transferring small drops of liquid from one or more liquid holders to one or more liquid destinations is disclosed. The device includes a support member and a plurality of fluid transfer members extending from the support member. Each fluid transfer member includes a flexible liquid transfer end.

Abstract: The current invention provides a device, and a method for using the device, for ensuring that a capillary or wicking fill device is fully filled. In particular this invention is directed to, but not limited to, use with capillary or wicking action filled electrochemical sensors suitable for use in analyzing blood or interstitial fluids.

Abstract: Rapid characterization and screening of polymer samples to determine average molecular weight, molecular weight distribution and other properties is disclosed. Rapid flow characterization systems and methods, including liquid chromatography and flow-injection analysis systems and methods are preferably employed. High throughput, automated sampling systems and methods, high-temperature characterization systems and methods, and rapid, indirect calibration compositions and methods are also disclosed, where the polymer sample, solvent, liquid chromatograph column and/or mobile phase eluant is heated to temperatures of at least 75 degrees Celsius during the sample injection or elution process. The described methods, systems, and devices have primary applications in combinatorial polymer research and in industrial process control.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method whereby a fluid sample is brought (1) at constant pressure Pe and temperature maintaining the heavy fractions, in particular asphaltenes, in dissolved state and/or in stable colloidal state, at the intake (4) of a capillary passage with high pressure drop. Said sample is forced to flow through the capillary conduit, at an increasing flow rate. The method consists in measuring (11) the fluid pressure Ps and the fluid flow rate D (12) at the outlet (5) of the capillary conduit and in representing the variation curve of the quantity &Dgr;P=Pe−Ps or the quantity D as a function of the other quantity or as a function of time. The deposit pressure, characteristic of the threshold of deposit of heavy fractions, is defined as the value of pressure Ps, which corresponds to a change of the slope in the variation curve of the quantity &Dgr;P or the quantity D.

Abstract: The current invention provides a device, and a method for using the device, for ensuring that a capillary or wicking fill device is fully filled. In particular this invention is directed to, but not limited to, use with capillary or wicking action filled electrochemical sensors suitable for use in analyzing blood or interstitial fluids.

Abstract: A capillary for introduction of whole blood into an analysis device. The capillary has a variable volume along its length, which allows the liquid sample to be drawn into the interior of the cartridge, away from the inlet, reducing the risk of contamination of the sample from the outside.

Abstract: A two-pin liquid sample dispensing system is provided. The two-pin dispensing system comprises a pair of separately movable pins for holding a droplet of liquid therebetween. Each pin includes a tip spaced predetermined distance from the other pin to define a sample acquisition region. The pins acquire and hold a droplet of the liquid sample in the sample acquisition region formed in the space between the tips and apply the droplet to a selected sample handing system. The distance between the tips is variable to accommodate different liquid samples having varying physical properties and to vary the volume of the acquired droplet.

Abstract: Applicator devices for depositing a fluid sample onto a substrate, as well as methods for their use, are provided. The subject devices are elongate in shape and have a first end and a second end. The first end has a planar surface of substantially circular shape with a conical protuberance arising therefrom. The second end may have a means for attaching to an automated movement means. In using the subject devices, the first end is dipped into a fluid sample and then contacted with the surface of a substrate in a manner sufficient to deposit a fluid sample onto the substrate surface. The subject devices and methods find use in a variety of different applications, particularly in the preparation of biopolymeric arrays.

Abstract: Aroma chemicals emitted from an aroma-emitting source are obtained by an apparatus and process for obtaining the chemicals. The apparatus includes the use of one or more capillary tubes which have on their interior surfaces an absorbent material, a suction device for drawing the aroma chemicals through the capillary tubes, and a connecting tube which connects the capillary tubes and the suction device. A system for collecting and analyzing the aroma chemicals emitted from an aroma-emitting source is disclosed which has one or more capillary tubes, a suction device, a connecting tube, a thermal desorber which desorbs the aroma chemicals directly from the capillary tubes, a cryogenic focusing device, and a gas chromatograph/mass spectrometry instrument.

Abstract: A sampler is provided for melts, especially for slag lying on top of molten metals, having a one piece or multi-piece body arranged on a carrier. The body of the sampler has an intake and a sample chamber, wherein the intake has a surface which is at least partially formed by a slag-repellant material.

Abstract: A two-piece handle assembly (10, 10a) including a plunger (12, 12a) and a body (24, 24a) having an axial bore (50, 50a) in which plunger (12, 12a) can move between retracted and extended positions. The upper end (28) of body (24, 24a) includes a pair of opposed longitudinal slots (32) that permit radially outward resilient movement of the upper end (28) to enlarge a bore (52), defined by a neck portion (54) of the body, to permit insertion of plunger (12) into body (24, 24a). A plunger shoulder (44) is designed to engage a body shoulder (55) to limit movement of the plunger in the direction of retraction, and a finger pad (13) is provided to limit movement of the plunger in the direction of extension.

Abstract: A transfer loop has a loop, a stem, and an optional main body member. The loop is connected to the stem and encloses a slit resulting in a discontinuous loop. The slit is positioned either to one side of the loop or at the bottom of the loop and aligned relative to the long central axis of the transfer loop. The transfer loop is adapted to pick up an aliquot of fluid from a first surface and to release the aliquot of fluid downward onto a second surface. Specifically, the aliquot of fluid is directed through the slit and deposited in a non-random manner onto the second surface. More specifically, pressure does not have to be applied to the stem to cause the loop to flatten against the second surface in order to facilitate release of the aliquot of fluid.

Abstract: There is provided a method for collecting sheen samples from open water, the method comprising providing a collection device for sampling sheen; casting the collection device into open water containing sheen; collecting a sheen sample; and retrieving the collection device.

Abstract: The invention concerns a system for the storage and transport of sample material on absorbent material which is characterized in that the system contains no test reagents and it additionally includes a closable container containing a medium that can absorb moisture such as a desiccant in addition to the absorbent material for absorbing a liquid sample. Furthermore the system according to the invention can contain an agent to stabilize the sample material and optionally further auxiliary substances.