Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for an immunoassay technique that uses amperometric measurements to rapidly analyze different pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, toxins, and parasites and chemical compounds using a disposable element. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, at least one conductive immunosorbent is used to provide support for antibody immobilization and placed on the top of the working electrode; it could also be used by itself as a working electrode. This immunosorbent or powder can be fabricated of conductive material or nonconductive material over which a conductive material is coated. A membrane cover of the working electrode forms a fluidic chamber having a pore size that is suited to the particular application to insure no contact between the working electrode and counter or silver electrode. The immunoassay can be automated using microprocessor control to reduce the amount of human intervention.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for an immunoassay technique that uses amperometric measurements to rapidly analyze different pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, toxins, and parasites and chemical compounds using a disposable element. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, at least one conductive immunosorbent is used to provide support for antibody immobilization and placed on the top of the working electrode; it could also be used by itself as a working electrode. This immunosorbent or powder can be fabricated of conductive material or nonconductive material over which a conductive material is coated. A membrane cover of the working electrode forms a fluidic chamber having a pore size that is suited to the particular application to insure no contact between the working electrode and counter or silver electrode. The immunoassay can be automated using microprocessor control to reduce the amount of human intervention.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for an immunoassay technique that uses amperometric measurements to rapidly analyze different pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, toxins, and parasites. A conductive membrane is used to provide support for antibody immobilization and serve as a working electrode. The proposed technique is adaptable for use with different materials so as to form a membrane having a pore size that is suited to the particular application. A compact and simple disposable element can be used. The immunoassay can be automated using microprocessor control so as to reduce the amount of human intervention in sample analysis.

Abstract: A method of containing and remediating contaminants within the soil includes the step of placing a gel barrier into the soil for containing the contaminants. The gel barrier and the soil contained therein define the containment zone. Microorganisms capable of remediating the contaminants in the soil are added to the containment zone. The gel barrier is produced by preparing an aqueous solution of a gel precursor, injecting the aqueous solution into the soil at a desired location, and crosslinking in situ the gel precursor to form the gel barrier at the desired location.

Abstract: Concentrations of non-ionic species in aqueous media are measured as a function of potentiometric or polarographic response, employing a membrane electrode selective for the non-ionic species being measured. The electrode comprises a conductive substrate and a membrane formed as a layer on the conductive substrate and adapted for interfacing with the aqueous medium. The membrane is composed of a polymeric matrix having dispersed or dissolved therein an anion exchange material and a water-insoluble salt of the non-ionic species being measured. The electrode is particularly suitable for use as an implantable glucose sensor for continuous in vivo monitoring of glucose concentration in the blood or interstitial fluid.