Abstract: A device for the diagnosis of certain gastrointestinal pathogens includes a gelatin pharmaceutical capsule which contains a malleable drag material made of a mixture of beeswax and mineral oil. Embedded in the drag material is a narrow piece of thin sampling cloth with inwardly tapered ends. The free end of the sampling cloth is attached to a string which extends through a perforation in the capsule. The patient holds the free end of the string and swallows the capsule. The sampling cloth and drag material are retrieved for testing after the capsule is digested.

Abstract: This invention relates to a "plungerless" means of drawing blood and for administering liquids via parenteral injection. This means is used in conjunction with a pouch bearing an injection means, to which it is releasably attached. It comprises hinged plates which, when folded, expand the pouch; and which, when straightened, compress it.In a preferred embodiment, the plates fold along a line essentially parallel to the general direction of fluid flow, and extend beyond the distal end of the pouch. The expanded pouch may then be rested on the distal edges of the plates, which form a "diamond" configuration.

Abstract: A device for use in inserting soft and flexible tubular devices into a body passageways, said device characterized by being formed from a flexible base, such as multiple-strand nylon thread and having deposited upon said flexible base a soluble material such as gelatin, said soluble material characterized by being less flexible than said base in its undissolved state.