Abstract: The invention is directed to novel compositions of matter and methods of detecting in situ an immunohistochemical epitope or nucleic acid sequence of interest in a biological sample comprising binding an enzyme-labeled conjugate molecule to the epitope or sequence of interest in the presence of a redox-inactive reductive species and a soluble metal ion, thereby facilitating the reduction of the metal ion to a metal atom at or about the point where the enzyme is anchored. Novel phosphate derivatives of reducing agents are described that when exposed to a phosphatase are activated to their reducing form, thereby reducing metal ions to insoluble metal.

Abstract: A test glass slide for an automated biological reaction apparatus is disclosed. The test slide monitors to operational temperature of the apparatus for maintenance/quality control purposes by means of at least two temperature-sensitive indicators, which change visual states once a predetermined temperature threshold is reached. The thresholds correspond generally to the specified temperature range for the protocol performed by the apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention provides a liquid evaporation inhibitor which is suitable for use in high temperature applications; e.g., above 70.degree. C. The evaporation inhibitor liquid comprises a mixture of an alkane, a non-volatile oil, preferably a vegetable oil and a surfactant. The alkane is present in the mixture in an amount sufficient to provide a density which promotes floating on an aqueous medium and to cover an aqueous medium. The non-volatile oil is present in the mixture in an amount sufficient to inhibit evaporation of the mixture at temperatures above 70.degree. C. The surfactant is present in the mixture in an amount sufficient to maximize the contact surface area between the evaporation inhibitor liquid and the aqueous medium.

Abstract: The present invention provides a liquid evaporation inhibitor which is suitable for use in high temperature applications; e.g., above 70.degree. C. The evaporation inhibitor liquid comprises a mixture of an alkane, a non-volatile oil, preferably a vegetable oil and a surfactant. The alkane is present in the mixture in an amount sufficient to provide a density which promotes floating on an aqueous medium and to cover an aqueous medium. The non-volatile oil is present in the mixture in an amount sufficient to inhibit evaporation of the mixture at temperatures above 70.degree. C. The surfactant is present in the mixture in an amount sufficient to maximize the contact surface area between the evaporation inhibitor liquid and the aqueous medium.