Abstract: An optical measurement system for determining transmitted radiation and scattered radiation in a liquid sample contained in a capillary tube and subject to measurement radiation, is provided with a first detector picking up transmitted radiation, which is positioned close to or on the axis of the beam of measurement radiation. There is further provided a second detector for picking up scattered radiation, which is positioned at a distance from the first detector in the direction of the capillary axis. The two detectors lie on different sides of a plane which contains the capillary axis and is normal to the axis of the measurement radiation.

Abstract: A control or calibration standard for use with instruments for the optical measurement of the hemoglobin content in blood samples, features scattering particles or beads dispersed in aqueous electrolyte solution. To prevent sedimentation of the beads during storage, they have a mean diameter of <0.6 &mgr;m, preferably about 0.3 &mgr;m, and a volume concentration of <1%, preferably <0.3%. To prevent long term agglomeration, a non-ionic surfactant with an added antioxidant can be included in the formulation.

Abstract: A method, a sensor and apparatus for detecting biological activities in a specimen, for example in a blood sample, are provided in which a sealable container is sealed with a culture medium therein into which the sample is introduced, metabolic processes are enhanced in the presence of microorganisms in the sample and changes taking place in the concentrations of the substances. Such processes are detected and monitored with an excitation and detection assembly assigned to concentration sensors, in the form of optodes which are optically coupled to the excitation and detection assembly and to thereby to an evaluation unit for determining concentration changes of the substances over time as indications of the presence of microorganisms.

Abstract: A method, a sensor and apparatus for detecting biological activities in a specimen, for example in a blood sample, are provided in which a sealable container is sealed with a culture medium therein into which the sample is introduced, metabolic processes are enhanced in the presence of microorganisms in the sample and changes taking place in the concentrations of the substances such to such processes are detected and monitored with an excitation and detection assembly assigned to concentration sensors, herein the form of optodes which are optically coupled to the excitation and detection assembly and thereby to an evaluation unit for determining concentration changes of the substances over time as indications of the presence of microorganisms.