Abstract: An aqueous composition for stabilizing nucleic acid contained in a biological sample at ambient temperature is provided. The aqueous composition comprises: (i) a denaturing agent selected from sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) or a guanidinium salt; (ii) aurintricarboxylic acid (ATA); and (iii) at least one of a chelating agent and a buffering agent; wherein the composition has a pH of 4.9 or less. A method of stabilizing nucleic acid contained in a biological sample at ambient temperature is also provided, wherein the method comprises the steps of: a) obtaining a biological sample; b) contacting the biological sample with the above-noted aqueous composition to form a mixture; c) homogenizing the mixture of (b) to form a homogeneous mixture; and d)storing the homogeneous mixture at ambient temperature.

Abstract: The present application provides a sample receiving device comprising a vial, a receptacle in communication with the vial for receiving the sample, and a cap comprising a pusher, the pusher for engaging with the sample in the receptacle. The receptacle comprises a disrupting means for disrupting the sample when the pusher engages with the sample in the receptacle and expels the disrupted sample into the vial. Typically, the device can be used for collecting fecal samples. A method of preserving a biomolecule in the device using a biomolecule preserving composition is also provided.

Abstract: A sample collection tool comprises a collection end configured for collecting a sample. Optionally, the sample is collected from within a body cavity of an animal without causing significant discomfort or injury to the animal. A first handle portion has a first end connected to the collection end and a second end. A second handle portion is connected to the second end of the first handle portion by a breakable connection. The second end of the first handle portion has at least one winglet. The at least one winglet is compliant in a preferential direction. The breakable connection is ruptured at least in part when the at least one winglet is forced in the preferential direction.

Abstract: A closure for a container has a closure body having a first cylindrical portion and a second cylindrical portion opposite the first portion. The closure also has a connector disposed in at least one of the first and second portions. The connector is adapted to connect one of a sample collection device and an applicator to the closure. A containing apparatus including the closure, a container, and optionally one of a sample collection device and an applicator is also disclosed. A method of using the containing apparatus is also disclosed.

Abstract: A sample collection tool comprises a collection end configured for collecting a sample. Optionally, the sample is collected from within a body cavity of an animal without causing significant discomfort or injury to the animal. A first handle portion has a first end connected to the collection end and a second end. A second handle portion is connected to the second end of the first handle portion by a breakable connection. The second end of the first handle portion has at least one winglet. The at least one winglet is compliant in a preferential direction. The breakable connection is ruptured at least in part when the at least one winglet is forced in the preferential direction.