Abstract: A multilayer test strip includes a first layer having an indicator reagent within a porous substrate, a second layer, overlying the first layer, including a reactive reagent, and a third layer, overlying the second layer, including a spreading agent that promotes the spreading of a liquid upon the third layer. Alternatively, the spreading agent may be mixed into the second layer. An inert backing with an aperture therethrough is positioned over these layers, with the substrate remote from the cover layer.

Abstract: A test strip includes a first layer and an overlying differential flow-retarding layer that reduces the fraction of a component of a liquid specimen percolated therethrough. An inert backing, preferably having an aperture therethrough, overlies the flow-retarding layer. For the testing of a blood specimen, the flow-retarding layer is formed of glass fibers that reduce the fraction of red blood cells in the percolate, leaving primarily, but not entirely, plasma in the percolate. The first layer includes chemicals that react with a component of the plasma such as glucose in a measurable reaction, preferably a visually measurable reaction. In using this test strip, the blood specimen is placed into the aperture of the backing and permitted to percolate through the flow-retarding layer such that a fraction of the red blood cells is removed from the percolate.

Abstract: A viability test device wherein the viability of a test composition for the determination of an analyte of interest can be determined by simply wetting the device with ordinary water. The viability device can be prepared in three formats: a control or calibrator device, an internal control device and a self indicating device. Unreacted analyte, or an analog thereof, can be incorporated in a limited defined portion of a dried carrier matrix incorporated with a test composition to provide an internal control test device. When wetted with water, a positive optical response, usually color, indicates the test composition can provide a viable test for the analyte. The internal control test device is particularly advantageously used by diabetics in their own homes where a negative test response could be due to the desired control of the user's condition or due to deterioration of a test composition because of unfavorable storage conditions.

Abstract: A viability test device wherein the viability of a test composition for the determination of an analyte of interest can be determined by simply wetting the device with ordinary water. The viability device can be prepared in three formats: a control or calibrator device, an internal control device and a self indicating device. Unreacted analyte, or an analog thereof, can be incorporated in a limited defined portion of a dried carrier matrix incorporated with a test composition to provide an internal control test device. When wetted with water, a positive optical response, usually color, indicates the test composition can provide a viable test for the analyte. The internal control test device is particularly advantageously used by diabetics in their own homes where a negative test response could be due to the desired control of the user's condition or due to deterioration of a test composition because of unfavorable storage conditions.