Abstract: An apparatus for grasping an object includes a base having a cylindrical wall, a circular plate attached to the base, and a screw configured to move a second section with respect to a first section of a circular plate. The circular plate includes the first section having a first face and the second section moveable with respect to the first section and having a second face opposite the first face. The first face and the second face each have at least one recess aligned to create at least one opening for grasping the object when the first face and the second face are brought into proximity with each other. Also disclosed is a method for grasping an object using the disclosed apparatus.

Abstract: The saliva collection kit includes a housing, a plunger, and a gum-like hydrogel that can be removably disposed in the housing. The housing is defined by a cylindrical barrel, which receives the plunger at one end and is connected to a hub at an opposing end. The hub includes an open free end and a cotton filter disposed within the hub. The gum-like hydrogel can be chewed to collect saliva in the mouth and disposed in the barrel after chewing. The hydrogel can then be compressed with the plunger to release purified saliva from the hydrogel into the hub. As the purified saliva flows through the hub, the cotton filter can further purify the saliva to provide a filtered saliva.