Abstract: A specimen rack and a specimen carrier system includes a luminous body disposed on a vicinity of a specimen container loading slot to notify, to an operator, information concerning an analyzing situation and condition of the specimen contained in the specimen container held by the specimen rack.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for holding and/or treating a sample material. A sample material may be positioned in a vessel between top and bottom flexible films where the flexible films are connected together by a substantially rigid support structure that surrounds the sample material. A crushing force may be applied to the sample material via the top and bottom flexible films, e.g., to pulverize the sample at cryogenic temperatures. A sample holder may have two vessels, one arranged for applying a crushing force to a first sample and another for holding a sample for other processing, such as a histology analysis.

Abstract: A simplified sample preparation on a sample support for ionization with laser desorption (MALDI or LDCI, for example) includes depositing an analyte material onto a deposition site, providing a sample site which is intended as the substrate for a matrix crystal layer at a distance from the deposition site, and establishing a liquid communication between the deposition site and the sample site. A device for the preparation of samples for ionization with matrix-assisted laser desorption, and a sample support for use with the inventive method are also disclosed.

Abstract: A sample preparing device has a sample stage that supports a sample and undergoes rotation about a first rotation axis to bring a preselected direction of the sample piece into coincidence with an intersection line between a first plane formed by a surface of the sample piece and a second plane. A manipulator holds sample piece of the sample and undergoes rotation about a second rotation axis independently of the sample stage to rotate the sample piece to a preselected position in the state in which the preselected direction of the sample piece coincides with the intersection line. The manipulator is disposed relative to the sample stage so that an angle between the second rotation axis and the surface of the sample is in the range of 0° to 45°.

Abstract: One or more embodiments of the invention are directed to sample tubes comprising a cylindrical elongate tube having a gripping section with at least one discontinuity extending radially about the outside surface of the elongate tube. Methods of making sample tubes and their use in sample handlers are also described.

Abstract: An apparatus for storing at least one specimen slide and at least one cassette comprising a sample that is embedded in a sample block and that is to be processed, a microtome comprising this apparatus, and a method for handling multiple cassettes and multiple specimen slides are described. A cassette magazine receives at least one cassette having at least one sample block. A slide magazine receives at least one specimen slide. At least one connecting element for connecting the cassette magazine and the slide magazine mechanically with each other is provided. This allows handling at least one cassette and at least one specimen slide together in a simple and efficient manner.

Abstract: [Objective] To provide a wafer carrier measuring jig which can measure a slot height of a wafer carrier placed on a load port and which can determine whether or not an arbitrary slot is horizontal, a collision preventing jig, and a collision preventing method using the collision preventing jig.

Abstract: An in situ optical specimen holder is disclosed which may be utilized for imaging and analysis during dynamic experimentation. This holder assembly includes a set of focusing and reflection optics along with an environmental cell. Electromagnetic radiation can be used to optically excite the specimen in the presence or absence of fluid. A highly reflective mirror may be used to focus the radiation on to the specimen without the presence of any heating components within the cell. The spot size of the irradiation at the specimen surface can be varied, thus exciting only a specific region on the specimen. The window type cell provides a variable fluid path length ranging from the specimen thickness to 500 ?m. The holder has the provision to continuously circulate fluids over the specimen. The pressure within the cell can be regulated by controlling the flow rate of the fluids and the speed of the pumps.

Abstract: A pressurizable sample system includes a microplate having a planar plate surface and several sample wells. Each sample well has a flange positioned circumferentially around an outer surface of the sample well and against the planar plate surface. The sample system further includes a capping plate with a planar cap surface and several caps projecting from the planar cap surface. Each cap has a geometrical configuration in complementary correspondence with the configuration of the sample well.

Abstract: It is an object of this invention to provide a sample integration cassette, a spotting device and a sample integration device which enhance a sample integration density and reduce the size of a sample assembly and a probe. The sample integration cassette has the sample assembly and the sample support carrier so arranged therein that the sample support can be fed from the sample support carrier onto the sample assembly at a predetermined angle to the sample assembly at all times. The cassette is formed so as to be connectable with a drive unit that applies a drive force to the sample assembly and the sample support carrier interlockingly and synchronously. The spotting device has a delivery member mounting table which is vertically moved over the sample support carrier to apply samples to the sample support from the delivery member.

Abstract: Portable devices and related methods for collecting and storing atmospheric samples for subsequent chemical analysis are provided. A sample cartridge according to one implementation includes self-sealing inlet and outlet ports configured to close automatically when not in use, and a sample retention portion between the inlet and outlet ports that is adapted to trap an atmospheric sample. The sample cartridge may also include a memory device for recording data regarding the sample. Another embodiment provides a portable sampler configured to removably secure a self-sealing sample cartridge. A portable sampling device may also be used with an analytical instrument. The analytical instrument may analyze the sample and read the data recorded on the sample cartridge's memory.

Abstract: A sample vial cap typically including a top portion made of plastic material and including an aperture and a septum about the aperture. A wall depends downward from the top. A ferromagnetic substance is included in the plastic material of at least the top portion.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a specimen holder for a grip used in materials, or similar testing. The user can position a specimen or testing sample within the open jaw, and then remove his or her hands to a safe location before activating the grip to grip the specimen.

Abstract: An improved cryogenic specimen holder for imaging and analysis facilitates imaging at very high tilt angles with a large field of view. A retractable specimen holder tip protects the specimen during transport. An optimized Dewar design is positioned at a fixed, tilted angle with respect to the axis of the holder, providing a means of continuously cooling the specimen irrespective of the high tilt angle and the amount of liquid nitrogen present in the vessel. The Dewar neck design reduces the entrapment of nitrogen gas bubbles and its shape prevents the spilling of liquid nitrogen at high tilt angles. The specimen holder has a retractable tip that completely encapsulates the specimen within a shielded environment internal to the specimen holder body. The cooling and specimen transfer mechanisms reduce thermal drift and the detrimental effects of vibrations generated by both the evaporation of liquid nitrogen present in the Dewar as well as other environmental effects.

Abstract: A mechanical holder that provides for a confined sampling region for extraction and removal of chemical substances contained in a dried blood spot or other spot of sample is described herein.

Abstract: An analysis instrument for processing a microfluidic device, having sample storage means, a microfluidic device holder, sample loading means for loading sample into a microfluidic device disposed in the holder, processing means for enabling a reaction in a microfluidic device, and detection means for detecting and/or measuring the reaction is disclosed. The microfluidic device holder is adapted to hold the microfluidic device including a tape in position for processing and/or detection. A microfluidic processing device is also disclosed which includes a reaction chamber, and a sample loading chamber into which a sample is injectable. The reaction chamber is operatively connected to the sample loading chamber. A cover extends across at least part of the sample loading chamber. The cover and the reaction chamber include pierceable material and are separated by an overspill cavity configured to accept any overspill of an injected sample.

Abstract: A method and sample holding assembly are described for use in the preparation of samples for analysis. In known techniques, following concentration of a sample using an evaporator, the concentrated solution is manually transferred to a smaller vial compatible with analysis apparatus using a pipette. This leads to loss of the sample and risks cross-contamination. Using the present method, a sample is concentrated directly into the vial. The method comprises the steps of collecting a sample in a concentration tube which is open at one end and closed at the other, the closed end being selectively openable. A vial is coupled to the open end, the tube is inverted, the closed end is opened, and then solvent is evaporated from the sample via the opened end until the concentrated sample is confined to the vial. A sample holding assembly for use in the present method is also described.

Abstract: A specimen collection and transport kit comprising an external housing member for receiving a tray. A tray comprising a plurality of compartments for receiving a plurality of specimen handling tools and at least one opening configured to receive a specimen container in an upright position during use. Methods for handling a biological specimen including arranging a specimen container in an upright orientation within a tray and transferring a portion of the specimen between one or more receptacles. The methods may be used, for example, to collect and transport urine for urinalysis to diagnose a sexually transmitted disease.

Abstract: A sample tube (1) is provided with a top opening (2) that is surrounded by side walls (3) which merge into a bottom (4), the bottom (4) of the sample tube (1) comprising an essentially flat downside (5) that is arranged farther to the top opening (2), wherein the sample tube comprises an identification portion (6) located at the bottom side of the sample tube (1). The sample tube (1) according to the present invention is characterized in that the identification portion (6) is composed of an opaque material (7) with a first color and a transparent cover layer (8), wherein the transparent cover layer (8) comprises a laser sensitive filler that, upon irradiation with a laser marking beam, turns an irradiated area (9) of the transparent cover layer (8) into an opaque area with a second color that is contrasting from the first color.

Abstract: A sample holder apparatus and method for reducing the energy of charged particles entering an annular-acceptance analyzer includes use of an electrically isolated sample support member having a sample receiving surface configured to receive a sample and electrically connect the sample to the sample support member (e.g., wherein the sample support member is configured for application of a retarding bias potential). A grounded sample aperture member defining an aperture relative to the sample support member but electrically isolated therefrom is provided such that the aperture is proximate the sample receiving surface to expose at least a portion of a surface of a sample received thereon to be analyzed (e.g., wherein applying a retarding bias potential to the sample support member produces an electrical retarding field about the aperture that reduces the energy of emitted particles from a sample before they enter an annular-acceptance analyzer).

Abstract: The invention relates to a test glass changing system (10) for selectively coating and optically measuring a test glass (24, 24?) in a coating chamber (1) of a vacuum coating installation (3). In the coating chamber, a movable turntable (2) is used to guide substrates (7) on a path through a stream of a coating material. The test glass changing system (10) comprises a test glass holder (8, 8?) with a test glass plate (26) for holding the test glass (24, 24?), and a cover (28, 28?) for selectively covering the test glass plate (26). The test glass changing system (10) also comprises a rotary apparatus (34) for rotating the test glass plate (26) about an axis (51) which is oriented approximately parallel to the axis of rotation (5) of the turntable (2). The test glass holder (8, 8?) can be positioned on the turntable (2) and removed from the coating chamber (1) in the form of a unit.

Abstract: A sample cup for retaining a sample material to be subjected to an x-ray spectrochemical analysis. The sample cup comprises a cell body of a cylindrical configuration having an open top end and an open bottom end and defining a hollow between the two open ends, the open top end having an outer wall and an inner wall encircling the open top end. The outer wall and the inner wall extend axially and are positioned in concentric relationship with one another and form an internal reservoir space therebetween.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention are directed to a sample vial comprising a container configured to receive a sample, the container having a top portion and a cap configured to mate with the top portion of the container, the cap having a magnetic component. In some embodiments the sample vial is configured for storage of a biological sample in an ultralow temperature environment. In other embodiments, a sample vial is provided comprising a cylindrical body, having a first and second end, the first and second ends having a narrow aperture extending through the cylindrical body, wherein the cylindrical body has a long length relative to a diameter of the narrow aperture and a magnetic component. Further aspects are directed to retrieval of sample vials using the magnetic component, and fabrication of magnetic components for use with various sample vials. A magnetic retrieval rod can be used to couple the magnetic component.

Abstract: An apparatus for vitrifying a biological specimen includes a cap member, a tubular plunger, and a specimen chamber. The cap member includes a stem portion integrally formed with a receiving portion. The receiving portion has a disc-like shape and includes an outer surface. The outer surface includes a first skirt member comprised of a heat-sealable material. The first skirt member is attached along a circumferential portion of the outer surface. The specimen chamber has an open first end portion, a closed second end portion, and a cavity extending between the first and second end portions. The cavity is defined by oppositely disposed inner and outer surfaces. The specimen chamber further includes a second skirt member comprised of heat-sealable material. The second skirt member is attached along a circumferential portion of the outer surface.

Abstract: A specimen holder is offered which can reduce the amount of chemical sprayed over a specimen consisting of cultured cells. The specimen holder has an open specimen-holding surface. At least a part of the specimen-holding surface is formed by a film and a tapering portion formed around the film. The specimen can be cultured on the specimen-holding surface of the film. The presence of the tapering portion can reduce the amount of used reagent. The specimen can be irradiated via the film with a primary beam for observation or inspection of the specimen. Consequently, the specimen, such as cells, can be well observed or inspected in vivo while the specimen is being cultured. Especially, if an electron beam is used as the primary beam, the specimen can be well observed or inspected in vivo by SEM (scanning electron microscopy).

Abstract: The invention relates to a composite structure of a sample carrier 20 and a sample holder 30 for use in a TEM, for example. The sample carrier is hereby separately embodied from the sample holder. Although such compositions are already known, the known compositions are very fragile constructions. The sample carrier according to the invention can be formed from a strip of metal, and is a simple and cheap element. Using resilient force, it clamps onto or into the sample holder. The portion of the sample holder to which the sample carrier couples also has a simple form. The sample carrier can couple to the sample holder in vacuum using a coupling tool.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a sample receiving device for releasably storing a substance. The sample receiving device includes a lid having a reservoir for retaining the substance, and a pierceable barrier sealing the substance within the reservoir; and b) a funnel for receiving a sample and configured for closure by the lid. The funnel is configured for releasable attachment to a sample receptacle such that a sample can be provided to the funnel and travel through the channel in the funnel into the sample receptacle. Further, the funnel includes one or more cutting ribs for cutting the pierceable barrier such that upon cutting of the pierceable barrier the substance is released from the reservoir, flows through the channel in the funnel and into the sample receptacle to be mixed with the sample. The present invention also provides a kit for collecting and storing biomolecules.

Abstract: A diagnostic tape cassette especially for blood sugar tests comprises a test tape which is provided with a plurality of test fields for analysing body fluid, and a housing for receiving the test tape. The housing may have at least one housing part formed from a metal support and moulded-on plastic with integrated functional elements.

Abstract: A sample chamber of plastics has at least one receiving area for receiving a liquid, and includes an oleophobic layer in a predetermined surface area. The sample chamber includes a base plate and a cover plate firmly connected thereto. The oleophobic layer is disposed on a side of the base plate and the cover plate facing away from the receiving areas, and/or the sample chamber consists of a plastic body and the oleophobic layer is disposed on a side of the plastic body facing away from the receiving areas.

Abstract: An electrically passive device and method for in-situ acoustic emission, and/or releasing, sampling and/or measuring of a fluid or various material(s) is provided. The device may provide a robust timing mechanism to release, sample and/or perform measurements on a predefined schedule, and, in various embodiments, emits an acoustic signal sequence(s) that may be used for triangulation of the device position within, for example, a hydrocarbon reservoir or a living body.

Abstract: Provided a microdevice capable of performing analysis quickly and at a high level of sensitivity even when a minute amount of sample solution is used. The microdevice is equipped with a rotation board, a reaction field provided on the rotation board, and an introduction portion for introducing a solution into the reaction field. The microdevice is characterized in that the following angle is always 45 to 90°: an angle of a part of a wall surface of the reaction field where the centrifugal force has the greatest effect with respect to the direction of the centrifugal force generated when the rotation board is rotated.

Abstract: One or more embodiments of the invention are directed to sample tubes comprising a cylindrical elongate tube having a gripping section with at least one discontinuity extending radially about the outside surface of the elongate tube. Methods of making sample tubes and their use in sample handlers are also described.

Abstract: A cup assembly for holding a sample to be analyzed spectrochemically, including a sample cell having a generally cylindrical wall longitudinally extending between a first end and a second end thereof and a sleeve having a generally cylindrical wall longitudinally extending between a first end and a second end thereof, and a plurality of projections longitudinally extending from the first end of the sleeve wall. When a substantially planar film is interposed between the sample cell and the sleeve, and the first end of the sample cell is inserted into the first end of the sleeve, the film is retained between the sample cell and the annular sleeve; and the longitudinal projections are positioned to perforate the film when the film is pulled against the longitudinal projections.

Abstract: The present invention is a biomedical assay device holder and a method for using the biomedical assay device holder. The biomedical assay device holder is used with a biomedical assay device, mounts in an assay device connector assembly and comprises a base and a changeable recess. The base mounts in the assay device connector assembly. The recess is varied to accommodate different biomedical assay devices and is formed in the assay device connector assembly of an opto-electronic assay device to convert a chromatographic or fluorescent result of the biomedical assay device to a numeral result.

Abstract: A sample tray assembly includes a first tray. The first tray defines a first slot and is disposed on a generally horizontally-oriented plane. The sample tray assembly also includes a second tray adjacent to the first tray. The second tray is configured for translational movement substantially parallel to the generally horizontally-oriented plane of the first tray between a retracted position and an extended position. The second tray defines a second slot. The second slot and the first slot are substantially aligned when the second tray is in the retracted position. The sample tray additionally includes a base member supporting the first tray. The second tray is slidably coupled with the base member.

Abstract: A method for operating a cryostorage device (100), especially for biological samples, is described which comprises a sample carrier (10) to receive at least one sample (11) and a data storage (20), wherein data are inductively transmitted from the data storage device (20) into a wireless transmission channel (40) and/or conversely using a resonant circuit (30) connected to the data storage device (20).

Abstract: This invention describes an ion mobility spectrometer system for chemical detection in the field. The system allows: a high throughput operation, an interface to new ionization methods, and an interface to a mass spectrometer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for conducting the identification and quantification of micro-organisms, e.g., bacteria in biological samples. More particularly, the invention relates to a system comprising a cooling, heating and fan arrangement for maintaining a predetermined optimum temperature of the samples during testing; a visual, circumferential and axial alignment system for aligning the samples within the carousel; a transfer system for transferring the samples from the carousel to the centrifuge; a balancing system of minimizing the rotational vibrations of the centrifuge; a safety system and anti-tipping design for the sample containing system; liquid dispensing arms for dispensing the buffered saline solution; and discharge ports for discharging and disposing of the liquid removed from the samples to a location external of the system.

Abstract: A sample holder, such as a microscope slide, is provided in the form of a card-shaped substrate or plate, preferably for use in an analytical reader. The sample holder comprises at least one hole, preferably a plurality of holes, for receiving a sample to be analyzed. The at least one hole extends completely through the substrate and is sized such that the sample is held within the at least one hole by means of the surface tension of the sample against the force of gravity. Optionally the substrate comprises a first upper substrate and a second lower substrate that together embed a porous membrane. As a further option the sample holder comprises a first cover attached to the top side of the first upper substrate and/or a second cover attached to the bottom side of the second lower substrate.

Abstract: A calibration device according to embodiments of the disclosure is capable of being used with a non-invasive sensor. Certain embodiments of the calibration device simulate a human pulse by varying the volume of blood being measured by the optical sensor. Further, embodiments of the calibration device allow the generation of calibration curves or data for measured parameters over larger ranges of measured values compared to patient-based calibration.

Abstract: A gas sample cylinder outlet valve having a flow restricting element associated therewith. The preferred embodiment of the flow restricting element comprises an orifice constructed of a low thermal conduction material such as a plastic. Preferably the outlet valve Cv characteristic is large relative to the orifice Cv characteristic resulting in essentially all of the gas pressure drop taking place across said orifice and therefore essentially all of the J-T effect cooling taking place at said orifice. Due to the low thermal conductivity construction of said orifice an insignificant amount of cooling takes place upstream of the valve mechanism. Test have shown that the integral orifice outlet valve having a large Cv characteristic is more efficient then the typical sample cylinder outlet valve and extension tube and/or flow restrictor combination.

Abstract: An apparatus for dispersing a sample of particulate material, includes a carrier (31;35;37;38;39) having a sample-bearing surface on which to place the sample, and a housing (10;44;48) for forming a dispersion chamber (17), at least when closed off at a base (46;51). The carrier is arranged such that the sample-bearing surface is removed from contact with the sample upon application of a sufficient pressure differential across the carrier between the sample-bearing surface and an opposite side of the carrier. The housing (10;44;48) has an inlet (26) at least partially facing the base (46;51). The apparatus includes an apparatus (15;16) for passing a volume of fluid past the carrier (31;35;37;38;39) through the inlet (26) by subjecting the carrier (31;35;37;38;39) to a pulsed positive pressure differential relative to the dispersion chamber (17).

Abstract: A hollow container defining a sample chamber is formed of at least two parts which fit together and have apertures therein. One of the parts is displaceable relative to the other part between a first relative disposition of the parts in which the apertures are open so as to provide a clear path for air to pass through the container and a second relative disposition of the parts in which the apertures are closed so that there is no path for air to pass through and a volume of air is trapped in the chamber. In one embodiment part is axially moveable relative to the other part. In another embodiment where the parts are tubular, one of the parts is rotatable relative to the other.

Abstract: In the case of a tool (140) for handling a sample, which comprises a fastening device (141) for detachably fastening the tool to a tool holder of a sample handling apparatus, and comprises a sample manipulation device, for example realized as a syringe (150), fastened to the fastening device (141), this tool comprises a holding device, for example in the form of a needle guide (160), which, on the one hand, is fastened to the fastening device (141) so as to be movable in a coupling direction (165) and, on the other hand, can be coupled to and decoupled from the tool holder in the coupling direction (165).

Abstract: The invention relates to the extraction of a frozen hydrated sample for TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope) inspection, such as a vitrified biological sample, from a substrate and the attaching of said sample to a manipulator. Such a hydrated sample should be held at a cryogenic temperature to avoid ice formation. By melting or sublimating a part of the sample material outside the area to be studied in the TEM and freezing the material to the manipulator (10), a bond is formed between sample (1) and manipulator. This makes it possible to transport the sample from the substrate to e.g. a TEM grid. In a preferred embodiment a part (2) of the manipulator (10) is held at a cryogenic temperature, and the melting or sublimation is caused by heating the tip (3) of the manipulator by electric heating of the tip and then cooling the tip of the manipulator to a cryogenic temperature, thereby freezing the sample (1) to the manipulator.

Abstract: A testing arrangement for testing the dielectric strength of liquid insulating media has a test cell comprising an interior space for receiving the insulating medium to be tested and a first test electrode and a second test electrode for generating an electric field in a test volume of the test cell. The test cell is arranged in the interior of a receiving vessel which is filled with an auxiliary insulating medium or in the interior of an evacuated receiving vessel.

Abstract: A vessel including an identification region may be placed in a holder. Through interaction of a positioning feature on the vessel and an orientation feature on the holder, the vessel can be placed into an alignment orientation, e.g., such that the identification region may be reliably read by a reader. The identification region may provides information related to the sample, such as vessel identity, sample volume, processes to be performed on the sample, and so on.

Abstract: A hermetic sample holder for use in performing microanalysis of a sample under a controlled atmosphere environment. The sample holder comprises a sample holder body with a sample cavity to receive the sample and a cover movably mounted to the holder body between an open position to allow access to the cavity and a closed position to seal the cavity. The cover is secured in and released from the closed position at least in part by a pressure differential between the cavity and the ambient atmosphere. The cover may be biased toward the open position. The cover may be pivotally mounted about an axis that is perpendicular to a sealing surface of the cover and/or movable in a direction along the pivot axis. A valve may be provided to allow direct evacuation of the cavity to create a pressure differential. An adjustable clamp may be located in the cavity to secure the sample.

Abstract: A structure for holding sample-containing receptacles includes a cover with holes formed therein through which the receptacles can be accessed with a substance transfer mechanism, such as a robotic pipettor. When the transfer mechanism is inserted into and then withdrawn from a receptacle, a string of viscous material may be suspended from the mechanism. A viscous string removal element adjacent each opening engages the string of viscous material and dislodges the string from the mechanism when the mechanism moves in a prescribed path with respect to the removal element.

Abstract: A structure for holding sample-containing receptacles includes a cover with holes formed therein through which the receptacles can be accessed with a substance transfer mechanism, such as a robotic pipettor. When the transfer mechanism is inserted into and then withdrawn from a receptacle, a string of viscous material may be suspended from the mechanism. A viscous string removal element adjacent each opening engages the string of viscous material and dislodges the string from the mechanism when the mechanism moves in a prescribed path with respect to the removal element.