Abstract: A sensor for sensing pathogens includes a molecularly imprinted polymer membrane applied to a surface of a flexible backing. The molecularly imprinted polymer membrane is capable of selectively binding pathogens such that binding sites will be fluorescent in the absence of pathogens and fluorescence is quenched in the presence of pathogens. Monitoring the fluorescence quenching will provide detection of contamination.

Abstract: An apparatus for reading radially patterned magnetic data from circular objects, such as tokens used by the gaming, transportation, entertainment and other industries. A method of reading the data from such a token.

Abstract: A surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensor system and associated method for accurately measuring mercury gas concentrations. The sensor includes a SAW device that may be a SAW delay-line oscillator or a SAW resonator. The surface of the piezoelectric substrate of the SAW device includes a material suitable for amalgamation with mercury. Mercury in the gaseous environment is captured with the amalgamating material so as to cause a change in the mechanical and electrical properties on the surface of the device, thereby causing a change in the frequency output of the device. The piezoelectric substrate of the SAW device is preferably coupled to a heater to permit control of the temperature at the surface of the device. The piezoelectric substrate temperature may be regulated to produce a substantial equilibrium of mercury amalgamation/desorption kinetics. Under the conditions provided by the invention, the mercury concentration in the gaseous environment can be determined.