Abstract: In a method, apparatus and computer program product for acquiring data from a sample, a sample or at least an initial portion thereof is transferred into an analytical instrument and the analytical instrument acquires data from the sample. While the analytical instrument is acquiring data, one or more properties of the sample are measured or the status of the system or instrumentation is considered. A determination is made as to whether the sample of the associated system or instrumentation meets one or more decision criteria (273) based on the one or more properties measured or on the status information obtained. A valve assembly (60) is_also provided that is adjustable to at least three modes operation, a sample injection/needle rinse mode, a sample loop load/instrument flush mode, and a sample loop flush/instrument flush mode.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method for managing contract bidding of chemical synthesis on a communications or computer network. The system processes requests for proposals for synthesis of a chemical structure, weights synthesis factors supplied by a customer, and identifies potential suppliers. The system distributes the requests for proposals and solicits bids on each request for proposals, and then identifies appropriate, qualified suppliers for the synthesis.