Abstract: The present invention discloses means and methods for reducing or eliminating pain during testing analyte levels of bodily fluids, including glucose, comprising a chip configured for both (i) to process electrical pulses obtained from a communicable analyzing strip, and (ii) to communicate the processed digital data. Pain reduction mechanisms accommodated by the device may include a finger clamping mechanism and/or an ergonomically contoured elastic finger-pad. The invention also discloses means and methods for body piercing, by an integrated diagnostic device comprising a lancet reversibly movable in parallel with a longitudinal axis from a first retract position, to a fully extended third position within the dermis and above and outside the venuole plexus, via a second position, located within the stratum cornea, and then back, to a final retracted fourth position; wherein the velocity of said lancet in its way from said first to said second position is relatively slow.

Abstract: An ionic material that contains a crosslinked polydimethylsiloxane network and an ionic liquid and, optionally, a lithium salt. Also disclosed are a methods of preparing the above-described ionic material, as well as a battery and a capacitor each including the ionic material as an electrolyte.

Abstract: An ionic material that contains a crosslinked polydimethylsiloxane network and an ionic liquid and, optionally, a lithium salt. Also disclosed are a methods of preparing the above-described ionic material, as well as a battery and a capacitor each including the ionic material as an electrolyte.