Abstract: A read/write storage device is attached to a cytological filter used to collect cells from a container having a solution carrying a cytological specimen in the solution. Data including a flow rate of a first fluid (e.g., air) through the filter is stored in the data storage device, and may be retrieved as needed to determine a corresponding baseline rate at which a vacuum level decays as a cell-free solution is sampled. Once a baseline flow rate of a solution through the filter is established, cells of the specimen can be collected by the filter. As cells are collected, filter coverage determinations can be made by comparing the measured rate of vacuum decay as cells are collected relative to the baseline rate of vacuum decay determined from the data read from the filter storage device.

Abstract: Hematocrit level of a blood sample is measured by flowing the sample along a liquid flow path and using electrodes in the flow path to obtain electrical signals representative of the sample's electrical conductivity and of the concentration of an ion species in the path, either before or after the sample measurement. Electrical signals are obtained for standardizing solution conductivity and ion species concentration. A tentative sample hematocrit value is derived from the sample and standardizing conductivity signals. Then the tentative hematocrit value is corrected with reference to the sample and standardizing ion concentration signals and to the known standardizing solution ion concentration value. A control solution of the ion species at known concentration is used for evaluating the hematocrit detection apparatus; the solution also includes an ion activity enhancing agent.