Abstract: A method of detecting an analyte in a fluid includes the step of positioning a sensor probe in the fluid. The sensor probe includes a sensing element which absorbs in the infrared region of the spectrum in response to the analyte. The change is then detected with a detection system.

Abstract: A burette (10, 110, 200) suitable for delivery of a reagent into a target solution (50) employs diffusion for delivering the reagent. The reagent is in the form of a solution, which is combined with a matrix material (22), such as a gel or porous ceramic. A membrane (32) covers a delivery outlet (20) to the burette. In one embodiment, the delivery outlet comprises a plurality of fine bores (36), each one filled with or covered by a membrane (38). Stirring of the burette or target solution is achieved with a stirring means (104, 106). A heating or cooling means (80) heats a tip (16) of the burette.

Abstract: A sensor probe suited for implanting into the skin of a person includes a sensor body which may be formed from a polymer which includes 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA). A sensing system is supported by the body. The sensing system exhibits a detectable change when the probe is exposed to the analyte in the fluid. The sensing system may include an enzyme capable of catalyzing a reaction of the analyte to form a reaction product and a dye system which absorbs in the infrared region of the spectrum in response to the reaction product.

Abstract: A system for manipulation of a cell (100) includes a platform (33) which defines a surface (50) having a site (60) at which the cell has a higher probability of attachment in a period of time than on an adjacent area (52) of the surface. First and second syringes (10, 12) are selectively actuated to deliver a liquid to first and second tubes 26, 28, respectively. Outlets (29, 29?) of the first and second tubes are positioned so as to deliver the liquid to a liquid medium on the platform, thereby creating generally orthogonal fluid flows through the liquid to/from a region of interest (35). Cells located in the liquid medium at the region of interest move at a speed which is much lower than that of the liquid at the tube outlets and along the tube axis, allowing the cell to be manipulated to the site by manual or automated actuation of the syringes.

Abstract: In vivo or in vitro monitoring of chemical and biochemical species (e.g., pH, or glucose levels) in the interstitial fluid of patients or in a sample of a fluid to be analyzed is provided by a probe (10, 70, 210, 270). For in vivo monitoring, the probe is readily inserted by a minimally invasive method. Optical or electrochemical sensing methods are employed to detect a physical or chemical change, such as pH, color, electrical potential, electric current, or the like, which is indicative of the concentration of the species or chemical property to be detected. Visual observation by the patient may be sufficient to monitor certain biochemicals (e.g., glucose) with this approach. A CAP membrane allows high enzyme loadings, and thus enables use of microminiature probes, and/or diagnosis of low levels of the analyte(s), with sufficient signal-to-noise ratio and low background current.

Abstract: A burette (10, 110, 200) suitable for delivery of a reagent into a target solution (50) employs diffusion for delivering the reagent. The reagent is in the form of a solution, which is combined with a matrix material (22), such as a gel or porous ceramic. A membrane (32) covers a delivery outlet (20) to the burette. In one embodiment, the delivery outlet comprises a plurality of fine bores (36), each one filled with or covered by a membrane (38). Stirring of the burette or target solution is achieved with a stirring means (104, 106). A heating or cooling means (80) heats a tip (16) of the burette.