Abstract: The present invention concerns a method and apparatus for automatic processing a biological sample on a carrier, perhaps robotically, by applying predetermined amounts of reagents in a predetermined sequence according to a processing protocol, the processing including pre-treatment steps, under the control of an adaptive processing control system using a sample process parameter input that may be independent and an independent process parameter memory that does not interrupt process operation when being used, such that samples may be added or removed without interrupting the processing of other samples. Also included is an image capture function for sample and reagent identification and process monitoring, as well as temperature regulation and environmental control functions.

Abstract: A container, composition and method for preserving treatment solutions, in which the composition includes weak and strong preservatives. The dispensing container includes media within a dispensing tip which media removes or alters the strong preservative, while allowing the weak preservative to inhibit microbial growth in the tip media. The dispensing container is especially useful in delivering to the ocular environment ophthalmic solutions which are essentially free of strong preservative which may cause patient discomfort. A dispensing container including a pH-preserved pilocarpine solution is disclosed in one embodiment.