Abstract: An apparatus (and concomitant method) for rapid detection of a plurality of pathogens and/or chemicals, comprising a laser generating laser-induced breakdown spectra from a sample inserted into the apparatus, a receiver recording the spectra, and a data analysis component acquiring the spectra from the receiver and a display and/or data storage component displaying and/or receiving from the data analysis component which pathogens and/or chemicals are present in the sample and/or the likelihood of such presence, wherein the data analysis component comprises: predictive models for the plurality of pathogens and/or chemicals, a queue to order automated analysis by the predictive models in a predetermined order, and statistical analysis models for each of the predictive models to automatically provide likelihoods of presence of the respective pathogens and/or chemicals.

Abstract: A system for disposal of dangerous sharp articles and dangerous liquids, particularly those which represent the waste in certain medical procedures, includes an inner container and closure means and an outer wide mouthed, necked container whose receiving opening is closed against removal of material by a tapered, preferably conical insert which is divided into flaps and alternative covers, one to facilitate separation of syringe needles and thin barrels and the other to lock the outer container closed.