Abstract: A container assembly with improved mixing dynamics for mixing substances in preparation for injection by an injection device or for the dispersion of additives in the collection and analysis of biological samples is disclosed. In one configuration, the container assembly includes a first mixing element protruding into an interior of a container. With the container rotated about its longitudinal axis, the first mixing element forms at least one vortex which effectuates mixing of a first substance provided within the container interior and a second substance provided within the container interior.

Abstract: A container assembly with improved mixing dynamics for mixing substances in preparation for injection by an injection device or for the dispersion of additives in the collection and analysis of biological samples is disclosed. In one configuration, the container assembly includes a first mixing element protruding into an interior of a container. With the container rotated about its longitudinal axis, the first mixing element forms at least one vortex which effectuates mixing of a first substance provided within the container interior and a second substance provided within the container interior.

Abstract: A microfluidic platform for investigating cell-based interactions with a chip base is made of a suitable plastics material with the appropriate optical properties. The chip base has a plurality of ports in fluid communication with a microfluidic channel for containing a culture medium in which cells are held. A gas permeable laminate is bonded to a bottom surface of the chip base. Each port has an internal inlet, connecting the port with the microfluidic channel, and a trough for containing a small reservoir of culture medium fluid adjacent to the inlet. When in use, culture medium can be aspirated from the microfluidic channel via the trough rather than directly via the internal inlet.

Abstract: A microfluidic platform for investigating cell-based interactions with a chip base is made of a suitable plastics material with the appropriate optical properties. The chip base has a plurality of ports in fluid communication with a microfluidic channel for containing a culture medium in which cells are held. A gas permeable laminate is bonded to a bottom surface of the chip base. Each port has an internal inlet, connecting the port with the microfluidic channel, and a trough for containing a small reservoir of culture medium fluid adjacent to the inlet. When in use, culture medium can be aspirated from the microfluidic channel via the trough rather than directly via the internal inlet.

Abstract: A fluid collection assembly (10) and method for use thereof is provided including a fluid collection cartridge (20) having a tubular member (21) with a plunger assembly slidably inserted. The plunger assembly includes a stopper (32) and a plunger rod (31). The stopper and plunger rod are removably interlocked together which enables the plunger rod to exert a force in a distal direction on the stopper and to be removed from the stopper upon the application of a proximal force thereto. The fluid collection assembly is particular useful in the collection of arterial blood. In use, the assembly is primed with a liquid anticoagulant, the plunger rod is removed, and a blood sample is collected with the arterial pressure causing the stopper to travel in a proximal direction along the cartridge.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to surface functionalization of polymeric fibers. Surface biofunctionalization is achieved by covalent conjugation of biofunctional igands and/or cell growth factors that are crucial for cell attachment, proliferation and functions. Biofunctional fibers could be fabricated into three-dimensional scaffolds. Polymer fibers described here comprise of biocompatible polymers that are either biodegradable ornon-biodegradable. This patent also describes a series of new biodegradable polyphosphoramidates for the processing of biodegradable fibers. Scaffolds made of non-biodegradable functional fibers could be used for in vitro cell culture (for example, ex vivo cell expansion), while biodegradable functional fibers could be fabricated into tissue engineering scaffolds.