Abstract: An electrochemical gas sensor with a stacked arrangement of electrodes and nonwoven layers arranged in parallel, comprising at least one measuring electrode (3) and at least one counterelectrode (5). A porous membrane (8) that is permeable to air is in contact with the stacked arrangement of electrodes and nonwoven layers arranged in parallel at least on one side, at least one layer of a hydrophilic nonwoven (7) is located between the electrodes. The porous membrane (8) that is permeable to air and the hydrophilic nonwoven (7) extend into a separate equalization volume (9), which is filled with electrolyte at least partially and is located at least partially in one plane with the electrodes. The separate equalization volume (9) surrounds the electrode arrangement at least partially in this plane, and the porous membrane (8) that is permeable to air is exposed to ambient pressure at least in partial areas.

Abstract: Electrically charged molecules need to be transported in order to create a DNA sensor. The following measures are undertaken: base metals are introduced into a solution as a positive ion; negatively charged molecules are transported in an opposite direction and are enriched in the vicinity of the measuring electrodes. Binding-specific separation of the charged molecules can be achieved by forming metal layers on the measuring electrodes by depositing metal ions from the solution when a suitable potential is selected. Target DNA can more particularly be introduced into the vicinity of the catcher molecules on the measuring electrodes and non-specifically bound DNA can be removed. According to the associated device, the electrode arrangement may be associated with a sacrificial electrode made of more base metal than the material of the measuring electrodes. The measuring electrodes in particular may be made of noble metal, preferably gold, and the sacrificial electrode may be made of copper.

Abstract: The invention relates generally to methods and apparatus for conducting analyses, particularly microfluidic devices for the detection of target analytes.

Abstract: Sensor arrangement having row and column lines arranged in first and second directions, respectively, sensor arrays arranged in crossover regions of the row and column lines, a detector, and a decoding device. The sensor arrays have a coupling device for electrically coupling respective row and column lines, and a sensor element to influence electric current flow through the coupling device. The detector is electrically coupled to a respective end section of at least a portion of the row and column lines, and detects a respective accumulative current flow from the individual electrical current flows provided by the sensor arrays of the respective lines. The decoding device is coupled to the row and column lines, and evaluates at least a portion of the accumulative electric current flows fed to the decoding device via the row and column lines to determine at which of the sensor elements a sensor signal is present.

Abstract: An electrochemical gas sensor and methods of operating an electrochemical gas sensor are disclosed. In one embodiment, an electrochemical gas sensor comprising a measuring electrode pair configured to measure a gas species and a pumping electrode pair configured to reduce an amount of an interfering species in a sample in the electrochemical gas sensor is operated by obtaining a measurement of the interfering species at a location spatially adjacent to a measuring electrode of the measuring electrode pair, and adjusting one or more of an operation or an output processing of the electrochemical gas sensor based on the measurement of the interfering species.

Abstract: Novel systems for combinatorially screening an array of electrochemical cells are disclosed. The screening aparatus may comprise a system of electrodes and electrolytes common to each of the members of an electrochemical cell array. An electrochemical probe is used to supply a reactive fluid (or reactive species) to only one of the cells in the array at a time. The probe is configured to address each of the cells of the array individually, and to be chemically isolated from all of the other cells of the array. Thus, the cells of the array that are not being addressed by the probe are in a non-active condition. Such a system is capable of combinatorially screening a library of materials, including catalyst, electrode, and electrolyte materials, wherein each of the members of the library defines one of the cells of the array.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are microfluidic devices for assaying at least one analyte specie in a sample comprising at least one analyte concentration area in a microchannel having insulating structures on or in at least one wall of the microchannel which provide a nonuniform electric field in the presence of an electric field provided by off-chip electrodes; and a pair of passivated sensing electrodes for impedance detection in a detection area. Also disclosed are assay methods and methods of making.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to devices and methods for carrying out and/or monitoring biological reactions in response to electrical stimuli. A programmable multiplexed active biologic array includes an array of electrodes coupled to sample-and-hold circuits. The programmable multiplexed active biologic array includes a digital interface that allows external control of the array using an external processor. The circuit may monitor, digitally control, and deliver electrical stimuli to the electrodes individually or in selected groups.

Abstract: A biological material detection apparatus which detects a charged biological material such as a gene or protein contained in a sample liquid is disclosed. A biological material detection element includes a substrate, at least one first electrode formed on the substrate, and a plurality of second electrodes which are arrayed at predetermined intervals around the first electrode on the substrate along the circumferential direction and to which ligands that react with predetermined biological materials are respectively immobilized. A sample liquid is introduced toward the first electrode on the substrate. The introduced sample liquid is moved radially toward the second electrodes by electrical control.

Abstract: Chemical sensors for detecting the activity of a molecule or analyte of interest is provided. The chemical sensors comprise and array or plurality of sensors that are capable of interacting with a molecule of interest, wherein the interaction provides a response fingerprint. The fingerprint can be associated with a library of similar molecules of interest to determine the molecule's activity and diffusion coefficient.

Abstract: A method for analyzing a papermaking process is disclosed in which several electrochemical quantities are measured from at least one liquid flow and fingerprints according to good process situations are determined. The electrochemical measurements are carried out independently of each other using at least three electrode series, each including at least three electrodes. In addition, at least one odor measurement is used from the gases that are emitted from the liquid flow into the gas space over the free liquid surface.

Abstract: Ion-selective electrode sensor systems, and methods of fabricating such systems, may be utilized to analyze microfluidic sample volumes, i.e., sample volumes on the order of 1 to 1000 microliters.

Abstract: Electrochemical test strips and methods for their use in the detection of an analyte in a physiological sample are provided. The subject test strips have a plurality of reaction zones defined by opposing metal electrodes separated by a thin spacer layer. The reagent compositions present in each reaction zone may be the same or different. In addition, each reaction zone may have a separate fluid ingress channel, or two or more of the reaction zones may have fluid ingress channels that merge into a single channel. The subject electrochemical test strips find application in the detection of a wide variety of analytes, and are particularly suited for use the detection of glucose.

Abstract: The use of impedance measurements to detect the presence of pathogens attached to antibody-coated beads. In a fluidic device antibodies are immobilized on a surface of a patterned interdigitated electrode. Pathogens in a sample fluid streaming past the electrode attach to the immobilized antibodies, which produces a change in impedance between two adjacent electrodes, which impedance change is measured and used to detect the presence of a pathogen. To amplify the signal, beads coated with antibodies are introduced and the beads would stick to the pathogen causing a greater change in impedance between the two adjacent electrodes.

Abstract: Chemical sensors for detecting the activity of a molecule or analyte of interest is provided. The chemical sensors comprise and array or plurality of sensors that are capable of interacting with a molecule of interest, wherein the interaction provides a response fingerprint. The fingerprint can be associated with a library of similar molecules of interest to determine the molecule's activity and diffusion coefficient.

Abstract: A high throughput screening device for combinatorial chemistry, comprising a membrane electrode assembly, an array of sensor electrodes and one or more common electrodes, wherein a total cross-sectional area of the one or more common electrodes is greater than a sum of the cross-sectional areas of the sensor electrodes is disclosed. This device obtains performance data from each and every array electrode simultaneously and does not require the movement of any electrode during data acquisition. Some application among many possible applications of the device of this invention is in the development and evaluation of catalysts (anode and cathode catalysts) for fuel cells and electrolysis systems.

Abstract: A gas sensor for sensing NOx having electrochemical cells wherein dielectric material surrounds electrolytes except where electrodes are attached. Thereby, the exhaust gas is effectively prevented from contacting the electrolytes of the sensor's electrochemical cells. With the use of this technique, signal cross talk is minimized while enhancing NOx sensing sensitivity. Further, the total number electrodes needed are reduced which allows for more complex sensors structures.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a filtration-detection device for detecting or quantifying an analyte in a test sample including a filtration device having a first binding material immobilized thereto, wherein the first binding material is capable of binding to a portion of the analyte, and a detection assembly positioned relative to the filtration device to detect or quantify analyte bound to the first binding material. The present invention also relates to methods of using the filtration-detection device.

Abstract: A modular, in particular multidimensional system for the reagent-free, continuous detection of a substance is disclosed. The system is characterized by the presence of at least two measurements modules of preferably different types. The modules are robust and designed for a long-time operation. They have an exchangeable or replaceable selective layer structure. The system may also include appropriate modules for amperometry and optical sensors.

Abstract: Arrangement and method for detecting the end of life of an aqueous bath utilized in semiconductor processing, the bath containing water, an amount of hydrogen peroxide and an amount of a predetermined chemical species, which is either an acid or a base, in accordance with the following steps: adding a predetermined additional amount of the hydrogen peroxide and/or the predetermined chemical species at predetermined time intervals, measuring at least one parameter of the aqueous bath, thereby obtaining a measured parameter value, the at least one parameter being selected from a set of parameters including bath pH and bath conductivity; reading a predicted value of said at least one parameter from a memory storing a curve of predicted values of said at least one parameter as a function of time, said curve depending on said predetermined additional amount of said hydrogen peroxide and/or said predetermined chemical species, and depending on said predetermined time intervals; establishing the end of life of said

Abstract: A composite gas sensor comprises a pump cell, a NOx sensor cell and an oxygen sensor cell. The NOx sensor cell is connected to a first ammeter and a constant power source to measure the NOx concentration of a sample gas. The pump cell is connected to a second ammeter and a variable power source to measure an air-fuel ratio of the sample gas. The oxygen sensor cell is connected to a voltmeter. A controller adjusts the variable power source to produce a constant value from the voltmeter.

Abstract: The invention is a sensor for the presence of bio-specific (e.g., immunological) molecules. It is aimed to giving an alternative, highly advanced method for performing different tests for the presence of immuno-specific molecules in liquid environments such as body liquids, biological cultures, environmental samples, etc. Gold patterns are photolithoghraphyically fabricated onto glass substrates to form addressable electrodes of micron size. The sensor is assembled when colloidal particles from suspension are deposited dielectrophoretically in the microscopic gaps between the electrodes. The surfaces of these particles carry immuno-active binding sites that collect the target molecules. The sensor readout is accomplished by secondary tagging of the target molecules with colloidal gold and its enhancement by silver nucleation, which leads to short-circuiting of the electrodes. The device allows extreme miniaturization and direct electric readout.

Abstract: A potentiostatic analyzer for active halogens in conducting solutions that contain also the corresponding halide comprises, in combination: a) a concentration-to-current transducer, which is an electrolytic cell; b) means for providing a controlled flow of the solution being analyzed through the cell; and c) a potentiostatic transmitter for controlling the electrodes of the electrolytic cell.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method of forming a metal layer by thermal evaporation or RF reactive sputtering in order to fabricate a light shielding layer for an ion sensitive field effect transistor. The multi-layered construction of the ion sensitive field effect transistor with a metal thin film as a light shielding layer is SnO2/metal/SiO2 or SnO2/metal/Si3N4/SiO2, and is able to lower the effect of light successfully.

Abstract: Sensor cartridges include a fluid constituent-selective sensor membrane in direct sealing contact with a face of a flow-through sample cell in surrounding relationship to a sensor port. The sensor membrane has sufficiently large surface area so as to entirely cover the sensor port and establish an annular region in surrounding relationship thereto. It is this annular region which is in direct contact with a corresponding region of the sample cell face so as to provide self-sealing capabilities. The sensor cartridge most preferably includes a flow-through sample cell having a zig-zag or serpentine flow channel so as to provide a series of sensor ports on both of the opposed cell faces. The faces of the sample cell are most preferably provided with recessed regions which define a series of land surfaces each of which surrounds a respective one of the sensor ports.

Abstract: A filter has a first filter layer made of TiO.sub.2 of Ti.sub.4 O.sub.7 particles deposited on a second filter layer by stainless steel particles. The first layer has a smaller pore size than the second layer. The construction of the filter, the relative thicknesses of the layers and the resistances thereof to movement therethrough of electrolytically generated gas located between the two layers when the filter is permeated with liquid are such that the gas reaches the upstream side of the filter before the downstream side. In one embodiment stainless steel particles are sintered and rolled with a textured roller before ceramic particles are applied and rolled. An intermediate layer of metal particle peaks and ceramic filled troughs is thus provided which has high tortuosity. The resistance to flow at the metal/ceramic interface can be increased by electrodeposition of metal there.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the quantity of a substance in a solution. An exemplary embodiment of the method includes the step of introducing a first sample of the solution into a cavity in which a working electrode is located. A constant potential is applied between the working electrode and a reference electrode in electrical contact with the first sample until such time as the current through the working electrode has decayed to a minimum. The applied constant potential is maintained as the first sample of the solution is replaced by a second sample of the solution in a manner such that the cavity remains filled with solution during the replacement procedure. The applied constant potential is maintained until such time as the current through the working electrode has again decayed to a minimum, and the total amount of the charge passing through the working electrode subsequent to the introduction of the second sample into the cavity is determined.

Abstract: A field effect transistor (10) for chemical sensing by measuring a change in a surface potential of a gate electrode (48) due to exposure to a fluid has a semiconductor substrate (12) with a trench (18,20). The trench has a first sidewall (30) and a second sidewall (32) disposed opposite the first sidewall to provide a fluid gap (50) for the fluid to be sensed. The gate electrode is disposed overlying the first sidewall of the trench, and a source region (54) and a drain region (56) are disposed in the second sidewall of the trench. A channel region (52) is disposed between the source and drain regions, and the gate electrode is disposed opposite the first channel region across the fluid gap. A heater (26) for regulating the temperature of the gate electrode is disposed in the first sidewall of the trench.

Abstract: An efficient method for the microfabrication of electronic devices which have been adapted for the analyses of biologically significant analyte species is described. The techniques of the present invention allow for close control over the dimensional features of the various components and layers established on a suitable substrate. Such control extends to those parts of the devices which incorporate the biological components which enable these devices to function as biological sensors. The materials and methods disclosed herein thus provide an effective means for the mass production of uniform wholly microfabricated biosensors. Various embodiments of the devices themselves are described herein which are especially suited for real time analyses of biological samples in a clinical setting. In particular, the present invention describes assays which can be performed using certain ligand/ligand receptor-based biosensor embodiments.

Abstract: An efficient method for the microfabrication of electronic devices which have been adapted for the analyses of biologically significant analyte species is described. The techniques of the present invention allow for close control over he dimensional features of the various components and layers established on a suitable substrate. Such control extends to those parts of the devices which incorporate the biological components which enable these devices to function as biological sensors. The materials and methods disclosed herein thus provide an effective means for the mass production of uniform wholly microfabricated biosensors. Various embodiments of the devices themselves are described herein which are especially suited for real time analyses of biological samples in a clinical setting. In particular, the present invention describes assays which can be performed using certain ligand/ligand receptor-based biosensor embodiments.

Abstract: A gas sensor, suitable for use under non-steady state conditions, has a gas-sensitive resistor with pairs of electrodes which either have different spacings between the electrodes of a pair, or comprise a pair at the active surface and further pairs buried in the resistor at different distances from the active surface. The sensor can be used in place of a sensor array, and is coupled to a processor for processing the resistance signals to detect and/or measure at least one target gas. The sensor is self-diagnostic, and factors such as relative humidity and ambient oxygen, that can otherwise affect the readings, can be compensated for without the aid of additional sensors for that purpose.

Abstract: A fuel cell sensor (10) comprises a main body (11) in which are mounted working electrodes (12), counter electrodes (13) and respective contacts (14 to 17). The working electrodes (12) are mounted facing each other to define a sample space between them. The electrodes (12) are electrically interconnected in parallel as are the two counter electrodes (13). This arrangement makes it possible to provide a very large working electrode surface area for a small volume sample space (22).

Abstract: A biomedical sensor (20) is formed on a semiconductor substrate (22). Insulated dielectric layers (23, 24) are formed on the face and backside of the semiconductor substrate (22). Metal leads (26, 28) contact the substrate (22) through openings in the dielectric layer (23). The leads (26, 28) are also each connected to a set of interleaved longitudinal contact fingers (27, 29). A pair of contacts (30, 32) are formed on the opposite side of the substrate (22) from the contact figures (27, 29). A conductive biologic sample is placed over the interleaf fingers (27, 29), electrical measurements can be made through backside contacts (30, 32) so resistance measurements can be taken.

Abstract: An ion concentration measuring apparatus for measuring the concentration of a measuring ion in a sample solution containing the measuring ion and an interfering ion having the same ionic charge number as that of the measuring ion. This apparatus comprises a first ion-selective electrode for generating a potential in response to the measuring ion, and a second ion-selective electrode in response to the interfering ion. The first ion-selective electrode is brought about in contact with a first, second and third standard solutions, each containing known concentrations of ions. A selectivity coefficient of the ion-selective electrode is calculated on the basis of the output potential of the first ion-selective electrode. The first and second ion-selective electrodes are brought about in contact with the sample solution.

Abstract: An electrochemical detection cell (320), which is usable either for potentiometric or electrolytic conductivity detection, has a capillary (305), which controls electrolyte flow. A gas stream containing detectable substances is input through a non-wettable plastic capillary (306). A reaction zone (310) through which both gas and liquid flow is internally wettable. Reference electrode (309) and either electrode (311) or (312) may be used for potentiometric detection. Sensor electrodes (311) and (312), both in the reaction zone, are used for conductivity detection. The electrolyte is fed through the capillary (305) gravimetrically from a reservoir, and the gas stream is supplied by a pyrolysis furnace. The mechanism of ionization in the gas phase ionization detector (GPELCD) is described.

Abstract: A electrochemical immunosensor system is provided which uses electrical signals to measure binding events. The system includes an immunosensor having a sensing electrode in contact with a fluid containing an analyte concentration. A quantity of antibodies or other binding agent is adsorbed on or otherwise affixed to the electrode surface such that a portion of the antibodies of the binding agent binds a portion of the analyte to form complexes on the electrode surface. Signal generating means develop an electrical signal at the sensing electrode such that a response current is produced through the sensing electrode. The response current has measurable signal characteristics which are dependent upon the number of complexes formed, and therefore the analyte concentration within the fluid.

Abstract: An efficient method for the microfabrication of electronic devices which have been adapted for the analyses of biologically significant analyte species is described. The techniques of the present invention allow for close control over the dimensional features of the various components and layers established on a suitable substrate. Such control extends to those parts of the devices which incorporate the biological components which enable these devices to function as biological sensors. The materials and methods disclosed herein thus provide an effective means for the mass production of uniform wholly microfabricated biosensors. Various embodiments of the devices themselves are described herein which are especially suited for real time analyses of biological samples in a clinical setting. In particular, the present invention describes assays which can be performed using certain ligand/ligand receptor-based biosensor embodiments.

Abstract: A chemical sensor includes a diode or a transistor fabricated in diamond. A diamond-based diode chemical sensor includes a first diamond layer of first conductivity type and a second diamond or non-diamond layer of second conductivity type. A relatively highly doped region is formed in the first diamond layer, adjacent an electrical contact to reduce the frequency dependance of the sensor's capacitance/voltage characteristic. A diamond-based transistor sensor includes a controlling electrode such as a gate which is configured to allow a chemical external to the transistor to alter the characteristics of the transistor. Relatively highly doped regions are formed adjacent the transistor's controlling electrodes, such as the source and drain. A heater is thermally coupled to the sensor for heating the sensor to a predetermined operating temperature. A temperature monitor is also coupled to the sensor for monitoring the sensor temperature.

Abstract: A salt bridge for a flow cell which includes a porous bridge element between fluid flow in the flow cell and in an internal reference fluid flow. The bridge element is surrounded by a body with a bore into which different tubes are located about the porous element. A cylindrical anchoring tube adjacent one end of the body is screw threaded into an aperture in the wall of the flow cell so that self-alignment of the salt bridge in the flow cell is effected. The salt bridge provides a conductivity path between the two flow paths without introducing another potential.

Abstract: An apparatus for electrochemically determining the partial oxygen pressure pO.sub.2 in a liquid measuring medium includes a measuring sensor having a working electrode and a counter-electrode. The electrodes are manufactured in thin-film technology and are arranged on a substrate in a measuring channel, to which the measuring medium and a rinse medium can be supplied in alternation. The measuring channel connects a device which controls the flow rate of the measuring medium to a lumen of a double lumen catheter. The rinse medium is suppliable to a second lumen of the double lumen catheter with reversible flow direction. Both lumens have a common orifice which can be introduced into the measuring medium. So-called poisoning of the electrodes in this arrangement is suppressed because the electrodes are flooded in alternation by the measuring medium in a measuring phase and by the rinse medium in a regeneration phase.

Abstract: An automatic chemistry analyzer includes a flow cell mounted so that flow through the cell and tubing connected to the cell is visible from the front of the housing. The electrolytes to the cell are removably plugged into the cell from their rear. The probe aspirating sample fluid into an injection cell is simultaneously washed by diluent and the diluent mixes with the fluid sample. Waste fluid from the flow cell is fed to a basin which then feeds under gravity to a waste drain. A ratio pump is formed by selected syringes which are band driven to deliver accurately prerequisite volumes of reagents to the flow cell. The solution ground to the system is on the inlet line for sample adjacent the entrance to the flow cell of fluid thereby minimizing electronic noise. Only two motive means are necessary, one to effect horizontal and rotational movement of the sample tray, and a second to effect vertical motion of a crane mounted probe operative between sample cups and an injection cell.

Abstract: An automatic chemistry analyzer includes a flow cell mounted so that flow through the cell and tubing connected to the cell is visible from the front of the housing. The electrolytes to the cell are removably plugged into the cell from their rear. The probe aspirating sample fluid into an injection cell is simultaneously washed by diluent and the diluent mixes with the fluid sample. Waste fluid from the flow cell is fed to a basin which then feeds under gravity to a waste drain. A ratio pump is formed by selected syringes which are band driven to deliver accurately prerequisite volumes of reagents to the flow cell. The solution ground to the system is on the inlet line for sample adjacent the entrance to the flow cell of fluid thereby minimizing electronic noise. Only two motive means are necessary, one to effect horizontal and rotational movement of the sample tray, and a second to effect vertical motion of a crane mounted probe operative between sample cups and an injection cell.

Abstract: One of the fundamental limitations of voltammetric detectors in flow analysis is the problem of passivation or contamination of the working electrode. The present invention proposes a voltammetric detector based on the wall-jet principle which incorporates the concept of a replaceable working electrode. The voltammetric detector represents a significant improvement over existing detectors which are fully enclosed or sealed devices precluding easy replacement of the working electrode.The design of the present invention provides a detector where the top is fully open and where the solution volume is maintained by the outlet positioning. The other feature of the proposed detector is an optimised geometry that provides well defined wall-jet flow characteristics which is not provided in existing detectors.

Abstract: An automatic chemistry analyzer includes a flow cell mounted so that flow through the cell and tubing connected to the cell is visible from the front of the housing. The electrolytes to the cell are removably plugged into the cell from their rear. The probe aspirating sample flud into an injection cell is simultaneously washed by diluent and the diluent mixes with the fluid sample. Waste fluid from the flow cell is fed to a basin which then feeds under gravity to a waste drain. A ratio pump is formed by selected syringes which are band driven to deliver accurately prerequisite volumes of reagents to the flow cell. The solution ground to the system is on the inlet line for sample adjacent the entrance to the flow cell of fluid thereby minimizing electronic noise. Only two motive means are necessary, one to effect horizontal and rotational movement of the sample tray, and a second to effect vertical motion of a crane mounted probe operative between sample cups and an injection cell.

Abstract: A salt bridge for a flow cell which includes a porous bridge element between fluid flow in the flow cell and in an internal reference fluid flow. The bridge element is surrounded by a body with a bore into which different tubes are located about the porous element. A cylindrical anchoring tube adjacent one end of the body is screw threaded into an aperture in the wall of the flow cell so that self-alignment of the salt bridge in the flow cell is effected. The salt bridge provides a conductivity path between the two flow paths without introducing another potential.

Abstract: A linear array electrode is provided for use in a flowcell detector. The electrode includes an electrically conductive material grooved to form array elements. The conductive material is embedded in an electrically insulating embedment such that a surface of each array element is exposed. The electrode includes means for connecting the electrically conductive material to a source of electric potential.

Abstract: The electromotive force of a standard liquid for correction is measured. Both before and after this measurement, the electromotive force of a reference liquid is measured at least once. A calibration curve is prepared based on the resultant data. The calibration curve is used to convert the electromotive force difference between a test liquid (the ion concentration of which is to be measured) and the reference liquid. Both before and after the measurement of the electromotive force of the test liquid, the electromotive force of the reference liquid is measured at least once. By so doing, the electromotive force difference between the test liquid and the reference liquid is obtained. The ion concentration of the test liquid can be detected accurately by plotting the electromotive force difference against the calibration curve.

Abstract: A flow cell comprises an examining liquid flow passage, a comparison liquid flow passage communicated with the examining liquid flow passage, plural ion selective electrode openings communicated with the examining liquid flow passage, and a comparison electrode opening communicated with the comparison liquid flow passage. The examining liquid flow passage is provided with linear inlet and outlet parts which are communicated at their one ends with each of the ion selective electrode openings, and curved parts each of which connects the linear outlet part which is communicated with the ion selective electrode opening to the linear inlet part which is communicated with the next ion selective electrode opening.

Abstract: In order to improve a one-way measuring element, which may be inserted into an analyzer for analyzing gaseous or liquid samples and which comprises a measuring channel with a measuring zone and one or more sensors located therein, the proposal is put forward that the one-way measuring element be provided with a sensor part whose measuring channel has seals on both ends, and with a sample-taking part, and that a coupling element be placed at the inlet end of the measuring channel for direct coupling of the sample-taking part containing the gaseous or liquid sample, and that the measuring channel be filled with a calibrating and storage medium prior to the measuring process, and that the calibrating and storage medium contained in the measuring channel be displaced by the sample flowing in after the sample-taking part has been coupled to the sensor part. The one-way measuring elements obtained in this way are characterized by great simplicity of design and ease of handling.

Abstract: A disposable cartridge for use in a clinical sensing arrangement interfaces electrically with a host instrument capable of responding to electrical signals generated by detector devices incorporated in the cartridge upon exposure to calibrant fluids and/or clinical fluids under examination. The cartridge includes a passage linking a reservoir of calibrant fluid to the detector devices and further linking the device to a closed container for fluid which has been conveyed past the devices. A fluid under test can be introducted into the cartridge through the passage wall at a location disposed between the reservoir and the detector devices.