Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, devices and systems for associating consumable data with an assay consumable used in a biological assay. Provided are assay systems and associated consumables, wherein the assay system adjusts one or more steps of an assay protocol based on consumable data specific for that consumable. Various types of consumable data are described, as well as methods of using such data in the conduct of an assay by an assay system. The present invention also relates to consumables (e.g., kits and reagent containers), software, data deployable bundles, computer-readable media, loading carts, instruments, systems, and methods, for performing automated biological assays.

Abstract: An earplug comprises a generally cylindrical plug of compressible resilient elastomeric foam having a diameter in relaxed condition slightly larger than the outer canal of a human ear and an envelope of thin plastic material which encases the plug and has a portion extending lengthwise beyond the end of the plug. The envelope is twistable to compress and thereby reduce the size of the plug to facilitate insertion of the plug into the outer ear canal. The envelope also provides a convenient means of extracting the plug. The envelope may be open to the atmosphere--while retaining the plug--so that air can be squeezed out of the plug and envelope or it may be sealed and evacuated so as to provide lower than atmospheric pressure inside the envelope.