Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to a fluorescence reader for assessing a fluorescence intensity of one or more substance samples. The fluorescence reader may comprise a sample support structure for accepting sample wells containing corresponding samples therein, an illumination structure positioned below the sample support structure and configured to illuminate one or more samples positioned within the sample wells, and an imaging structure positioned above the sample support structure and configured to detect a fluorescence emitted by the one or more samples. The illumination structure may comprise one or more reflective perimeter walls, together with the support structure, defining an enclosed illumination cavity, and one or more light sources positioned within the enclosed illumination cavity and configured to emit light causing the one or more samples to fluoresce.

Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to a fluorescence reader for assessing a fluorescence intensity of one or more substance samples. The fluorescence reader may comprise a sample support structure for accepting sample wells containing corresponding samples therein, an illumination structure positioned below the sample support structure and configured to illuminate one or more samples positioned within the sample wells, and an imaging structure positioned above the sample support structure and configured to detect a fluorescence emitted by the one or more samples. The illumination structure may comprise one or more reflective perimeter walls, together with the support structure, defining an enclosed illumination cavity, and one or more light sources positioned within the enclosed illumination cavity and configured to emit light causing the one or more samples to fluoresce.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are provided for carrying out multiple simultaneous transfers of fluid. The method and apparatus are particularly directed toward immunoassays wherein immunologically active compounds, such as antigens and haptens, are detected through their associated antibodies. The device relies on the ability to transfer fluids, such as biological samples and reagents, between a reservoir and an associated receptacle. By providing a receptacle having a port at its lower end and which is otherwise hermetically sealed, such fluid transfer can be effected by immersing the port beneath the surface of the fluid in the reservoir and manipulating the pressure on the remaining surface area outside the port. The transfer of biological fluids at positive pressure provides enhanced fluids flow characteristics, particularly reduction or elimination of the tendency of these fluids to froth or bubble.

Abstract: An inner and outer cylindrical cathode are concentrically positioned about a vertical center axis. Vertical anode electrodes extend parallel to the center axis and are symmetrically arranged around the inter-cylinder space between the cathodes. The ends of the anode wires are supported by a pair of insulator rings mounted near the top and bottom of the cathode cylinders. A collection voltage applied to each anode wire for establishing an inward radial E field to the inner cathode cylinder and an outward radial E field to the outer cathode cylinder. The anode-cathode assembly is mounted within a housing containing a conversion gas. A radioactive sample is inserted into the inner cathode which functions as a tubular, deep well radiation window between the sample environment and the conversion gas environment.