Abstract: Invention performs an assay to determine presence or quantity of specific analyte in fluid sample. Representative device has two separate flow paths established sequentially in device with a single user activation step. First flow path delivers sample, and conjugate soluble binding reagents to solid phase. If analyte is present, an analyte:conjugate complex is formed and immobilized. Sample volume delivered by first path determined by absorbent capacity of solid phase, and not by amount of sample added to device. User need not measure sample volume. Sample/conjugate mixture is prevented from entering second flow path because capillary and surface energy of second flow path prevent it from being wetted by this mixture. Second flow path allows wash reagent to remove unbound conjugate and sample from solid phase to the absorbant, and optionally deliver detection reagents.

Abstract: A self-contained incubator for growth of microorganism kit and methods for use of such a kit are provided. The kit and methods may detect the presence of microorganisms and may utilie a microorganism growth and indicator medium provided in a sample container along with a heat source, preferably generating heat through chemical means, and optionally heat shields, allowing for on-site testing of a microorganism present in a sample. The sample container may also include a removable vessel cap that includes a barrier separating the sample from a material capable of disinfecting the sample, thereby preventing contact of the sample and the material for a desired time period. The vessel cap may also be used independently in other applications.

Abstract: This invention encompasses methods and apparatus for collecting blood samples. It has been discovered that p-aminobenzoyldiethylaminoethanol (procaine) is unexpectedly potent in stabilizing blood samples against platelet release reactions. Methods and apparatus of this invention are particularly useful for collecting blood samples for subsequent platelet factor 4 determination.

Abstract: The present invention encompasses a stabilized platelet factor 4 immunoassay standard comprising an aqueous solution containing 10 to 100 ng/ml of platelet factor 4, carrier protein, and an effective stabilizing amount of heparin, as well as .sup.125 I labeled platelet factor 4 reagent stabilized in the same manner. These reagents are useful for testing blood plasma for activation of the coagulation system.