Abstract: A method and system for accessing a remote destination via a telecommunications network is described. The invention begins dialing the standard local dial-up sequence and automatically interrupts the dial string to prompt for parameters which are entered to access an intermediate communication site. The user is prompted to enter a series of remote access parameters. Connection to a U.S. based local server is made, and the invention automatically releases the dial string and inserts the remaining destination parameters to complete the connection to the remote destination.

Abstract: An aqueous alcohol buffer solution for substantially ambient, in vitro preservation of mammalian cells for a selected duration. The solution generally contains a water-miscible alcohol in an amount sufficient to fix the sample cells without coagulation, an anti-clumping agent, and a buffer agent to maintain the solution at a pH within a range of four to seven.

Abstract: An apparatus and method provide automated collection and transfer of particles from a liquid suspension to a glass slide for visual examination. A solution which contains particles, for example cells, is drawn through a filter element so that particles too large to pass through the filter element collect against a first surface of the filter element. A transfer fluid, such as alcohol, is applied from a second surface of the filter element to the first surface, to transfer cells from the filter element to a glass slide positioned adjacent the filter element. An alternative transfer mechanism applies a selected pneumatic signal to the filter element for transferring collected cells to the viewing slide. The apparatus includes a device for dispersing the liquid suspension of particles prior to the collection process and particles collect against the filter element with a spatial distribution advantageous for visual examination. The transfer operation maintains this spatial distribution.

Abstract: An apparatus and method provide automated collection and transfer of particles from a liquid suspension to a glass slide for visual examination. A solution which contains particles, for example cells, is drawn through a filter element so that particles too large to pass through the filter element collect against a first surface of the filter element. A transfer fluid, such as alcohol, is applied from a second surface of the filter element to the first surface, to transfer cells from the filter element to a glass slide positioned adjacent the filter element. An alternative transfer mechanism applies a selected pneumatic signal to the filter element for transferring collected cells to the viewing slide. The apparatus includes a device for dispersing the liquid suspension of particles prior to the collection process and particles collect against the filter element with a spatial distribution advantageous for visual examination. The transfer operation maintains this spatial distribution.