Abstract: Sample processing devices that include transmissive layers and control layers to reduce or eliminate cross-talk between process chambers in the processing device are disclosed. The transmissive layers may transmit significant portions of signal light and/or interrogation light while the control layers block significant portions of signal light and/or interrogation light. Methods of manufacturing processing devices that include transmissive layers and control layers are also disclosed. The methods may involve continuous forming processes including co-extrusion of materials to form the transmissive layer and control layer in a processing device, followed by formation of the process chambers in the control layer. Alternatively, the methods may involve extrusion of materials for the control layer, followed by formation of process chambers in the control layer.

Abstract: Sample processing devices including process chambers having bypass slots and methods of using the same are disclosed. The bypass slots are formed in the sidewalls of the process chambers and are in fluid communication with distribution channels used to deliver fluid sample materials to the process chambers.

Abstract: Modular sample processing apparatus kits that can provide a user with the flexibility to customize a disk-based assay in view of a variety of factors are disclosed. The sample processing apparatus kits of the present invention include one or more process modules that can be retained within openings in a frame. The frame and process modules of the sample processing apparatus kits are preferably adapted for use in sample processing systems that compress the apparatus. The process modules may contain different reagents to perform different tests on the same sample materials or a variety of sample materials. As a result, a single sample processing apparatus can be used to perform a variety of different tests and may include a quality control module capable of providing feedback to the user as to the accuracy of the processes run using the sample processing apparatus. Methods of using the sample processing apparatus that include deforming the process modules and frame are also disclosed.

Abstract: Sample processing devices with variable valve structures and methods of using the same are disclosed. The valve structures allow for removal of selected portions of the sample material located within the process chamber. Removal of the selected portions is achieved by forming an opening in a valve septum at a desired location. The valve septums may be large enough to allow for adjustment of the location of the opening based on the characteristics of the sample material in the process chamber. If the sample processing device is rotated after the opening is formed, the selected portion of the material located closer to the axis of rotation exits the process chamber through the opening. The remainder of the sample material cannot exit through the opening because it is located farther from the axis of rotation than the opening.

Abstract: Web constructions with severed elongate strands located on at least one surface are described. The severed elongate strands are attached to one or both major surfaces of a web and may be arranged in rows and columns. The elongate strands may be formed by extruding continuous strands onto a web construction, followed by selective attachment of the strands to the web at intervals. After attachment, the elongate strands may be severed at locations between the points of attachment. The severed elongate strands may be used as fastening elements on a web backing. When used as fastening elements, the webs may be used in, e.g., garments (gowns diapers, training pants, etc.), bedding, etc. Other uses may also be envisioned for the webs with severed elongate strands, e.g., personal care products (skin debridement articles, etc.), abrasive articles, polishing articles, filters constructions (where, e.g., the severed elongate strands serve as filtering elements and/or spacers), etc.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved dispenser suitable for quickly and easily setting up and dispensing multi-part tissue sealants or other multi-part compositions requiring separation of the components until just prior to application on the tissue surface. The invention may further include an applicator having a handle and a blade attached to a first end of the handle. The invention may also include a dispensing tip having a blade attached to the distal end of the dispensing tip.

Abstract: Systems and methods for manufacturing composite webs including a substrate with one or more discrete polymeric regions located thereon are disclosed. The discrete polymeric regions are deposited by transferring molten thermoplastic composition from depressions on a transfer roll to a substrate. Each of the discrete polymeric regions is further formed to include multiple structures formed thereon. Those structures may include, for example, stems (capped or otherwise), hooks (as part of a hook and loop fastening system), pyramids, etc.

Abstract: A system and method for the remote administration of respirator fit tests are disclosed, along with a system and method for administering qualitative respirator fit tests to two or more test subjects simultaneously. Remote administration of respirator fit tests involves the testing of test subjects located at one facility by a test administrator located at a different facility. The two facilities may be located, for example, in the same city, in different countries, etc. As a result, a single test administrator may, for example, be able to administrate fit tests with test subjects located in a variety of facilities in one day without traveling. Qualitative respirator fit testing systems and methods of the invention include multiple test stations and an aerosol generator system in fluid communication with each of the test stations.

Abstract: Microneedle arrays, methods of manufacturing microneedles and methods of using microneedle arrays. The microneedles in the microneedle arrays may be in the form of tapered structures that include at least one channel formed in the outside surface of each microneedle. The microneedles may have bases that are elongated in one direction. The channels in microneedles with elongated bases may extend from one of the ends of the elongated bases towards the tips of the microneedles. The channels formed along the sides of the microneedles may optionally be terminated short of the tips of the microneedles. The microneedle arrays may also include conduit structures formed on the surface of the substrate on which the microneedle array is located. The channels in the microneedles may be in fluid communication with the conduit structures. One manner of using microneedle arrays of the present invention is in methods involving the penetration of skin to deliver medicaments or other substances and/or extract blood or tissue.

Abstract: A half-mask respirator is retained on a wearer's head by upper and lower straps and a strap support. The upper and lower straps connect to the strap support at upper and lower strap attachment points on each side of the strap support. The distances between the attachment points on each opposing side of the strap support are fixed when the strap support is located on the wearer's skull and the half-mask respirator is mounted over the wearer's nose and mouth. As a result, the lower strap is supported above the neck of the wearer which eliminates a potential source of discomfort for the wearer.

Abstract: A compression element and a retention assembly using the compression element to retain an article on a flexible substrate are disclosed. Also disclosed is a method of making an assembly including an article retained on a substrate by a compression element. The retention assembly, compression element and method provide replacements for, e.g., mechanical staples. The retention assemblies, compression elements and methods are particularly useful for attaching elastic articles to the surfaces of flexible substrates without piercing the substrate. One example of attaching an elastic article to the surface of a flexible substrate is the attachment of an elastic strap to a respirator.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for calibrating the air flow in a respirator system is provided. The method provides for the establishment of control set points in a true calibration protocol through the simple triggering of the microprocessor of a controller. When the trigger is initiated, the microprocessor engages and provides the logic for the calibration cycle. The calibration cycle proceeds until a second trigger terminates the process and establishes the control set points. The calibration sequence of the method relies only on an initiation and termination trigger that is facilitated by components integral to the apparatus.

Abstract: An improved face mask that is retained by a carriage and harness assembly, thereby allowing the face mask to drop down from the face of the wearer.

Abstract: Combinations of medical adhesive composites, e.g., dressings, and a package in which the medical adhesive composites are attached to a release surface on the bottom sheet of the package are disclosed. The dressings may include a flexible backing and carrier. Methods of manufacturing and using the combination are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of machining a substrate to produce a cube corner element optical array. The method includes steps of directly machining a plurality of groove sets into a directly machinable substrate to form an array having a plurality of geometric structures including cube corner elements, and machining at least two of the groove sets along the same path in the substrate but at different depths of groove to produce a geometric structure side surface having both an optical portion and a non-optical portion.

Abstract: An incise drape suitable for use in surgical procedures. The drape comprises a substantially transparent flexible film that has at least a portion of one major surface coated or covered with a pressure sensitive adhesive, and a two liners removably covering the adhesive. Each liner has a handle spaced from the opposite side edges of the film, and a body portion attached to the handle. The body portion of each liner extends along the adhesive from handle in the direction away from the other liner. The drape is repeatedly folded over from the opposite side edges of the film toward the handles so that the drape may be unfolded and the adhesive exposed by pulling the handles apart.

Abstract: Crimping sleeves, devices and methods of crimping stents onto delivery devices are disclosed. The stent is located within a channel formed by a crimping sleeve including a set of crimping elements located about the channel. The crimping elements are connected by rotatable links such that compressing at least two opposing crimping elements together results in a reduction in the diameter of the channel and crimping of a stent located therein on a delivery device located therein.