Abstract: An acoustic absorbing filler, the acoustic absorbing filler comprising agglomerates comprising a first phase comprising a plurality of porous particulates and a second phase comprising a binder; wherein the acoustic absorbing filler has a median sieved particle size of from 100 micrometer to 700 micrometers and a specific surface area of from 50 m2/g to 900 m2/g; wherein the acoustic absorbing filler has a normal incidence acoustic absorption of no less than 0.20 alpha at 400 Hz.

Abstract: A kit comprises: (i) one or a plurality of collection containers, each comprising a cap and, attached to the cap, an applicator, wherein the applicator is configured to fit within the collection container when closed by the cap; (ii) an aqueous fluid comprising a nucleic acid preservative; and (iii) solid particles adapted for lysing cells, such as bacteria, by bead beating. Upon receipt in a facility, the contains are placed onto a bead beating instrument without aliquoting samples from the collection container into another in bead beating container, or adding solid particles for bead beating.