Abstract: The present invention discloses a biological sample collection kit which can be utilized to collect samples of biological origin for use in any recovery and identification method. The biological sample collection kit comprises a sterile device for collecting a sample, a collection and dispersing device for depositing and holding the sample, a device for transferring the sample, and a container for storing the sample to be tested. There may also be a labeling system for identifying the sample and for diluting the sample. The biological sample collection kit preferably contains an outer bag which holds, in a sterile environment, all of the items used in the testing procedures. Additionally, a container of collection fluid is preferably included in the sample collection kit.

Abstract: A biological evidence collection apparatus provides contact-free drying, storage, identification, and protection against sample switch and contamination of collected biological samples. The apparatus may include the described forensic evidence collection kit which provides a set of tools for the collection and storage of biological evidence. The collection apparatus may also be used as part of a sexual assault evidence collection kit, or a kit for the collection of buccal swabs, and the like.

Abstract: The invention relates to a closure device and a method for performing an assay of a sample using the closure device. The closure device, mountable on the mouth of a test vessel, comprises a body part (1) with an axially passing cylindrical bore. The bore is covered at one end with an openable lid (7). The closure device further includes a plunger (3), slidably mounted in the bore for the formation of a sealed reagent storage chamber (9) in the space remaining between the closed lid and the plunger. The inner wall of the bore (2) is provided with at least one groove (4), whose depth is so deep as not to be within the reach of the outer diameter of the plunger (3). The groove extends from exterior end of the bore, over such a length as to maintain a gas flow communication between said reagent storage chamber (9) and the exterior end of the cylindrical bore when the plunger (3) is in a partially inserted position.

Abstract: A compound of Formula (I) ##STR1## or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein n is an integer between 2 and 6 and R.sub.1 is a methyl group or a group ##STR2## wherein R.sub.2, R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 are independently hydrogen, hydroxy, methoxy, methylsulfonyl, or one of R.sub.2, R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 together with another one of the three substituents forms a --O--CH.sub.2 --O-- bridge. The asterisk marks an asymmetric carbon atom.

Abstract: The test kit includes a substrate and, welded or bonded thereto, a plastic sheet having blisters. One of the blisters is shaped as a siphon. The other blisters act as reaction vessels and also serve to receive and store a reagent. The test kit may contain a test strip in one of the blisters. The test kit is particularly suited for carrying out immunological tests, whereby the siphon markedly facilitates the procedure during the washing step.

Abstract: A biological evidence collection apparatus provides contact-free drying, storage, identification, and protection against sample switch and contamination of collected biological samples. The apparatus may include the described forensic evidence collection kit which provides a set of tools for the collection and storage of biological evidence. The collection apparatus may also be used as part of a sexual assault evidence collection kit, or a kit for the collection of buccal swabs, and the like.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a field kit for the detection of analytes and to a method for using such a field kit. The field kit comprises a tray and lid adhered to the surface of the tray. Reaction-reagent compartments are formed by recesses in the tray when the tray is adhered to the lid. Probe compartments may also be included if desired. In operation, the tray and lid are bent at a score line to open the wells containing the reaction reagents. The lid is bent to form an A-shaped structure so that the kit may be placed in an upright position for use. A portion of the lid is peeled back from the tray to release probes and other, non-liquid components, if present.

Abstract: There are a process for evaluating beforehand a self-tanning composition in reference to different skin types, and a test kit to implement the process. A cosmetic self-tanning medium containing dihydroxyacetone is thinly rubbed on at least one test field, and the resulting tan on the test field is visually evaluated after 5 seconds to 5 minutes. The test field has at least one substance selected from the group of amino acids Gly, Ala, Val, Leu, Ile, Ser, Thr, Cys, Met, Asn, Lys, Asp, Gln, Glu, Phe, Tyr, Trp, His, Pro and the purines adenine, guanine, xanthine and hypoxanthine and mixtures of individual compounds of these chemicals.

Abstract: The invention relates to apparatus for examining a flake of a painting, wall, ceiling or the like, comprising a body and receptacle in the body for receiving the flake, the receptacle having a flat base, and the body including a receptacle for an identification which is offset from the well. The body is transparent, is polished and is cuttable to expose an internal surface of the flake for examination. Thus the characteristics of the flake can be assessed, which is useful in restoration work. The invention may be put up in a kit.

Abstract: A holder for medical specimen slides is made of a single sheet of corrugated cardboard cut and folded to make a tray portion and a cover portion hinged to each other for holding one or more slides therebetween. The holder features a tab integral with the cover which is pressed into a cutout in the tray portion to secure the holder in closed condition without need for external fasteners such as adhesive tape.

Abstract: This invention relates to radiotherapeutic reagents and peptides, radiodiagnostic reagents and peptides, and methods for producing labeled radiodiagnostic and radiotherapeutic agents. Specifically, the invention relates to vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor binding peptides, derivatives and analogues of vasoactive intestinal peptide, and embodiments of such peptides radiolabeled with a radioisotope, as well as methods and kits for making, radiolabeling and using such peptides for radiodiagnostic and radiotherapeutic purposes. The invention specifically relates to vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor binding peptide derivatives and analogues of vasoactive intestinal peptide radiolabeled with technetium-99m and uses thereof as scintigraphic imaging agents. The invention also specifically relates to vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor binding peptide derivatives and analogues of vasoactive intestinal peptide radiolabeled with cytotoxic radioisotopes such as rhenium-186 (.sup.186 Re) and rhenium-188 (.

Abstract: The invention relates to radio-pharmaceutical compositions that include an inclusion complex of a cyclodextrin and a radio-halogenated fatty acid.These complexes include a cyclodextrin such as .beta.-cyclodextrin, .gamma.-cyclodextrin and their derivatives, and a radio-halogenated fatty acid, in particular a fatty acid labelled with radioactive iodine such as 16-iodo 3-methyl hexadecanoic acid suitable for the examination of the myocardium by scintigraphy.The cyclodextrin allows the fatty acid to dissolve in aqueous solution without any addition of human blood albumin, while further improving the biodistribution of the fatty acid and its stability to heat.

Abstract: A one piece, injection molded single piece, well container suitable for reagents for use in a clinical instrument such as a protein analyzer, normally molded from a high density polyethylene or other recyclable plastic. The container is one or more wells, uses standard caps, and is readily adapted to automatic filling equipment. The molded, single piece reagent cartridge is used in a clinical instrument, the reagent cartridge comprised of a plurality of storage wells located in a line in fixed relationship. The reagent cartridge has a guide at one end which is engageable with a means on the receiving means on an analyzer to restrain the cartridge from radial or lateral movement. Each of the wells has side walls and a closed bottom, and the side walls have an upper terminal position including an access opening.

Abstract: The present invention disclose to non-radioactive vitamin D compounds of formula (1) and methods to assay for the presence of vitamin D, vitamin D analogs and their metabolites which may be present in milk, blood or other biological fluids. The assay methods employed in this invention may be enzyme linked immununoassays (ELISAs) (with biotin containing compounds) and fluorimetric and chemiluminometric assays (with fluorescein or chemiluminiscence containing compounds).

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of diagnosing CF comprising: stimulating sweat production via .beta.-adrenergic pathway, by increasing cAMP production; collecting sweat into a sweat collection device; determining the sweat rate as a function of the weight of the sweat collected; correlating the sweat rate with the functional state of CFTR and/or presence or absence of CF. The invention also relates to methods of screening compounds for treatment of cystic fibrosis.

Abstract: A gas sensor 1 has a catheter 3 to which a gas sensor body 4 and a signal guide member 5 for guiding a detection signal of the gas sensor body 4 are attached. The other end of the signal guide member 5 is connected to a connector 6. The gas sensor 1 is airtightly received in the reception body in the state where a connection terminal of the connector 6 is exposed to the outside. The reception body 2 is filled with a mixed gas containing a gas to be measured by a predetermined concentration. At the time of calibration, the connection terminal of the connector 6 is connected to a measurement amplifier while the reception body 2 is not opened and calibration is performed, and at the time of measurement, the reception body 2 is opened and the gas sensor 1 is taken out to perform ordinary measurement.

Abstract: A single compartment, non-wedged shaped reagent cartridge for use in an automated clinical chemistry analyzer. The cartridge comprises a hollow relatively narrow reagent compartment formed by an axially elongated, bottom, an axially elongated top, a front end portion and a rear end portion extending vertically between the bottom and top and connecting to opposing right and left sidewalls for completing the reagent compartment. A shoulder engaging flange extends from the top for supporting the cartridge on a shoulder in a cartridge receiving carousel of an automated clinical analyzer including transfer probes for insertion into at least one opening in the top of the cartridge for fluid transfer into the clinical analyzer.

Abstract: A combination clinical specimen collection kit and shipping means, including packaging components, is provided, which is uniquely adapted and acceptable for shipment and delivery through regular first-class mailing-delivery systems, for both domestic and overseas purposes. The kit includes two vials and a rectangular cushion block having two cylindrical recesses for receiving the vials.

Abstract: A positioning system for a sample testing machine incudes a base pan and a set of independent drive systems for sliding a sample tray across the base pan. Each of the drive systems incudes a paddle that engages a side of the sample tray. The paddle is slideably mounted to a shaft with a collar that slides over the shaft. A motor and drive belt is provided to move the collar along the shaft, causing the paddle to engage the side of the sample tray and slide the sample tray across the base pan. Track sections are provided in the base pan to prevent the sample tray from rotating as the paddle slides the sample tray across the base pan.

Abstract: A method for delivering liquids is disclosed wherein a quantity of the liquid is provided within a cell within a cassette. The cassette is received within a sleeve having an open end. A flap at the open end of the sleeve extends inwardly through the open end between the sleeve and cassette to abut a lip on the cassette and hold the cassette therein. Impingement of the flap pushes the flap away from the lip to allow the cassette to move out of the sleeve. A label mounted within the sleeve rotates between a viewable position where it is visible through a window in the sleeve and a retracted position away from the window. Extraction and reinsertion of the cassette into the sleeve moves the label from the viewable to the non-viewable position.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a field kit for the detection of analytes and to a method for using such a field kit. The field kit comprises a tray and lid adhered to the surface of the tray. Reaction-reagent compartments are formed by recesses in the tray when the tray is adhered to the lid. Probe compartments may also be included if desired. In operation, the tray and lid are bent at a score line to open the wells containing the reaction reagents. The lid is bent to form an A-shaped structure so that the kit may be placed in an upright position for use. A portion of the lid is peeled back from the tray to release probes and other, non-liquid components, if present.

Abstract: A method of transporting cells in culture commences with the provisions of a multiwell plastic plate, wherein at least one well contains a sample of cells. A sheet of sterile adhesive film is applied to the top of the plate with sufficient pressure to seal the sample of cells into the well. The sterile adhesive film and the multiwell plate are covered with a plate cover, with a flexible plastic pad being optionally inserted between the sheet of sterile adhesive film and the plate cover. This method can be practiced with a kit containing these components in a unitized package.

Abstract: A package for containing both longer and shorter components and being transformable into a secondary package for carrying the shorter components. The package includes a unitary, tubular base carton having first and second ends and a first length extending between the first and second ends. A tear line is formed in the base carton between the first ends and defines a tubular sub-carton and a remainder portion. The sub-carton has a second length extending between the first end of the base carton and the tear line. The second length is less than the first length. A tray is slidably disposed in the sub-carton. The tray has first and second ends and a third length extending between the first and second ends of the tray. The third length is less than the first length of the base carton.

Abstract: A fluid collecting and separating vessel comprising side walls forming a lateral enclosure, a bottom member attached to the lower perimeter of the side walls and including a pair of spaced apart fluid discharge openings and a pair of attached funnels, each having a hollow substantially cone shaped upper portion surrounding one of the openings and a walled drainage tube depending from the point of the cone, where the base of the cone is a closed plane figure congruent with one half of the lower perimeter of the side walls.

Abstract: A flexible cuvette comprising enclosed chambers and passageways for filling and/or passing liquid thereinto or therethrough, the chambers and passageways being formed by plastic sheets blocked together prior to use to eliminate air bubbles, by an amount sufficient to require at least 0.8 g/cm of lineal width peel-apart force.

Abstract: A container for use in storing specimens such as dried insects, pressed plants, documents, fabric, art work, and other archival material is sealed off from the ambient atmosphere by placing sealing cement between the sides, top and bottom of the container. In this manner the specimens are kept in an environment which is protected from ambient factors such as air and other gasses, dust, humidity, ultraviolet, and other factors including the common acid degassing of wood construction storage systems which would tend to deteriorate such specimens. A window is provided to enable viewing of the specimens in the container, this window being fabricated of an ultraviolet blocking material. While the interior of the container is effectively sealed around the window, a simple latching (and unlatching) device is provided for retaining the window in position such that the window can be readily lifted off the container in replacing specimens or installing new specimens in the container.

Abstract: A pocket tube device (10) provides a support for retaining and protecting a probe-type thermometer (30) and a device for adjustment or calibration thereof. The device includes a central bore (14) adapted to closely receive and protect a tube or probe (52) of the thermometer, and abuts at one end the transverse indicator case (32) of the thermometer. The device preferably includes an external shirt-pocket clip (20) at one end and a cross-bore (26) at the other end adapted to receive the probe of the thermometer when the latter is placed therein for adjustment purposes. Wrench flats (60) extend adjacent the cross-bore and form an external socket on the device for receivable engagement with an adjustment member (58) on the underside of the indicator case. The pocket tube device serves to provide a leveraged adjustment between relatively rotatable portions of the thermometer case and thus between a pointer indicator (84) and indicia on a dial plate (48).

Abstract: A sterile packaging system for a pipetter sheath is disclosed. The packaging system comprises two inner thermoplastic strips sandwiched between two outer paper covers. The inner strips and outer covers are connected along a tear seal formed by an electromagnetic heat sealer. The tear seal is generally in the shape of a pipetter. To remove the sheath from the package and place it onto a pipetter, one of the outer covers is removed, the pipetter placed into the partially exposed sheath, and the remaining cover removed thereby leaving the sheath on the pipetter.

Abstract: A sample container segment assembly for use in an automated, continuous, and random access analytical system is disclosed. The assembly includes a sample container which is received by a sample container segment, and the sample container segment is received on a carousel of the automated analytical instrument. The test sample container includes an upper skirt and a body having a reservoir for receipt of the test sample. The segment includes a base, a frame, and a handle. The frame has a shelf for which the upper skirt of the test sample container rests on, and has openings for receipt of the body of the sample container. The carousel has a carousel trough for receipt of the base of the sample container segment, and has a plurality of alignment pins disposed in the carousel trough. The base of the sample container segment has a circular slot and an elongated slot for receiving the alignment pins and positioning the sample container segment relative to the carousel.

Abstract: A package for containing two automatic toilet bowl cleaners, one containing a bleaching cleaner and the other containing a detergent cleaner and a fragrance or dye susceptible to degradation by the bleaching agent, has separate pouches to separate the solids. The pouches open in concert to allow simultaneous dispensing of the solids. In operation, the water in the toilet cistern and bowl is cleaned both by the detergent and the bleaching agent, and the fragrance or dye is not affected by the bleaching agent.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the preparation of an organ-specific substance labeled with technetium-99m, in which an organ-specific substance, or an organ-specific substance which has been pretreated or coupled to a complexing agent for technetium-99m, is mixed with ?99m!-pertechnetate and a complex-stabilized reducing agent.

Abstract: The system has several test elements, each of which is individually sealed to be impermeable to water vapor. The system storing test elements facilitates removal of test elements and protects the test elements contained in it against effects from the outside.

Abstract: The present invention provides a container for the transportation and storage of grain testing equipment. The storage container encloses the grain testing equipment and comprises: a box, a first plurality of spaced apart raised projections to hold a grain moisture meter in place on the bottom of the box, a second plurality of spaced apart raised projections to hold a grain scale in place on the bottom of the box, a third plurality of spaced raised projections to hold a grain moisture meter load cell in place on the bottom of the box, and a raised elongate projection for holding grain moisture charts in place between the raised elongate projection and the rear wall. The container includes handles in the end walls for easy lifting and carrying.

Abstract: The invention relates to radiolabeled imaging of a mammalian body. The invention in particular provides for reagents labeled with technetium-99m for such imaging. The invention provides peptides which bind technetium-99m and which can be targeted to specific sites within a mammalian body.

Abstract: A 65 KD heat shock protein, proteins cross-reactive therewith, or antibodies thereto can be used for detecting in humans the existence of, a tendency to develop, or the initiation of a process leading to insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Antibodies to hsp65 can be used to detect the hsp65 molecule in blood or urine. The hsp65 molecule of any species, or any other substance immunologically cross-reactive therewith, when administered with a tolerogenic carrier, can be used for the prevention or treatment of IDDM prior to development of clinical symptoms thereof.

Abstract: Substituted azetidinone hypocholesterolemic agents of the formula ##STR1## or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein: Ar.sup.1 is R.sup.3 -substituted aryl;Ar.sup.2 is R.sup.4 -substituted aryl;Ar.sup.3 is R.sup.5 -substituted aryl;Y and Z are independently --CH.sub.2 --, --CH(lower alkyl)-- or --C(dilower alkyl)--;A is --O--, --S--, --S(O)-- or --S(O).sub.2 --;R.sup.1 is --OR.sup.6, --O(CO)R.sup.6, --O(CO)OR.sup.9 or --O(CO)NR.sup.6 R.sup.7 ; R.sup.2 is hydrogen, lower alkyl or aryl; or R.sup.1 and R.sub.2 together are .dbd.O;q is 1, 2 or 3; p is 0, 1,2, 3 or 4;R.sup.5 is 1-3 substitutes independently selected from --OR.sup.6, --O(CO)R.sup.6, --O(CO)OR.sup.9, --O(CH.sub.2).sub.1-5 OR.sup.9, --O(CO)NR.sup.6 R.sup.7, --NR.sup.6 R.sup.7, --NR.sup.6 (CO)R.sup.7, --NR.sup.6 (CO)OR.sup.9, --NR.sup.6 (CO)NR.sup.7 R.sup.8, --NR.sup.6 SO.sub.2 -lower alkyl, --NR.sup.6 SO.sub.2 -aryl, --CONR.sup.6 R.sup.7, --COR.sup.6, --SO.sub.2 NR.sup.6 R.sup.7, S(O).sub.0-2 -alkyl, S(O).sub.0-2 -aryl, --O(CH.sub.2).

Abstract: A personal, miniaturized, multipurpose test kit for performing a plurality of chemical tests and procedures, which include interchangeable multifunctional elements connecting adapted for arrangement of multiple test configurations including a portable container, at least one component body element adapted for providing a reactor reservoir, at least one access cap, a coupling device for coupling multiple components, fasteners typically pop in-pop out fastening devices all constructed of impact proof, damage resistant material, adapted to perform experiments using small amounts of solvents and samples while preserving the accuracy precision and manual control, wherein a plurality of test modules may be rapidly selectively set up to conduct a plurality of procedures and tests including pressure-volume, titration, precipitation, density, electro-chemistry, (galvanic or voltaic), chromatography, viscosity, diffusion wherein liquid or gas, molecular weights, melting points, boiling points, thermodynamics, solid gas

Abstract: Apparatus and method for determining the percentage of free fatty acids in cooking fats and oils. A kit for this analysis includes a test cylinder calibrated for (a) volume of test sample, (b) volume of acid-base indicator solution, and (c) a set of lines marked to be read directly as the percentage of free fatty acids in the sample.

Abstract: A mailer for medical specimen slides is made of a sheet of relatively stiff material cut, scored and folded to make a base and a cover each having a double thickness of the sheet material and joined along a hinge line. One thickness in the base is cut to define a slide holding well for holding a specimen slide, and one thickness in the cover is cut to define a clearance recess overlying the holding well in a closed condition of the mailer to avoid contact between the cover and a specimen bearing portion of the specimen slide. Preferably the cover is also cut to define a window opening positioned for exposing to view an end portion of the holding well corresponding to a frosted end portion of the specimen slide in the well.

Abstract: A human gene has been discovered which is genetically altered in human tumor cells. The genetic alteration is gene amplification and leads to a corresponding increase in gene products. Detecting that the gene, designated hMDM2, has become amplified or detecting increased expression of gene products is diagnostic of tumorigenesis. Human MDM2 protein binds to human p53 and allows the cell to escape from p53-regulated growth.

Abstract: A liquid vessel provides a means of assuring uncontaminated, multiple specimens of a liquid. Two containers are connected side-by-side by a retainer which accepts an optional detachable funnel assembly that directs liquid into each container. The retainer includes both a flexible serpentine connector loosely connecting collar portions of the retainer fitted to each container and a rigid portion fixing the spacing of the containers. Each container includes a sidewall flexure, and when the funnel is removed, each is closed by a closure that includes another sidewall flexure, a nozzle facing away from and basally open to the floor of the container, and a stiff basal projection extending to the floor of the container. Coupling members on the floor underside of the containers enable coupling of the floors of the two containers after the rigid portion of the retainer is severed. Pushing the closure of one of the containers reduces intra-chamber pressure in that container.

Abstract: A specimen carrier is designed for transporting specimen tubes throughout an automatic laboratory conveyance system. The specimen carrier includes a generally rectilinear carrier body with a forward face having an identification zone delimited thereon. An identification code is marked in the identification zone so as to permit mechanical sensing and identification of the carrier on a conveyor system. A plurality of holes of various diameters and depths are provided in the top surface of the carrier to receive specimen tubes of various types. The deepest holes are located centrally, so that the carrier is stable while retaining specimens therein. A groove is formed in the top surface of the carrier body which extends between the specimen tube holes, so as to communicate any fluid spilling from a test tube to the other empty holes in the specimen carrier, thereby retaining the fluid within the body of the carrier.

Abstract: An inexpensive, reliable sampling kit made up of a foldable sheet (12) defining a substrate, a die cut opening (30), (32) in the substrate, a transparent cover (34), (36) for the opening (30), (32) and adhered to the sheet on one side thereof, and an adhesive area (40) on the sheet (12) adjacent the opening (30), (32) and containing a layer of pressure sensitive adhesive (52). A removable release liner (60) covers the layer of adhesive (52) and a line of weakening (20), (22) is located in the sheet (12) and extends through the adhesive area (40) in the general direction of the opening (30), (32). The material to be sampled may be adhered to the adhesive area (40) after removal of the release liner (60) so as to extend over the opening (30), (32) and the sheet (12) folded upon itself on the line of weakening (20), (22) and held folded upon itself by the adhesive (52).

Abstract: A blood sample/fluid system includes a pair of tubes formed of identically shaped concentric cylinders, each closed at one end and open at the other end and having different diameters enabling the reduced diameter tube to be positioned in the enlarged diameter tube. A locking ring is positioned around the outer surface of the reduced diameter tube to provide a spacer and seal for the enlarged diameter tube. An identifying label is positioned on the outer surface of the enlarged diameter tube for providing identity for both tubes when the tubes are engaged and for the enlarged diameter tube when the reduced diameter tube is removed from the enlarged diameter tube.

Abstract: A container assembly for collecting amorphous specimens that includes a tube member, enclosed by a plastic bag and both these housed by two jacket members. Each jacket member has one porous plug inside. The jackets are urged together by a rubber band and the tube member is firmly sandwiched between the plug members. One of the jackets is longer than the other so that the former can be used as a test tube.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for adjusting the pH of water in an aquarium. A measured sample of the aquarium's water is combined with a chemical indicator. The pH of the aquarium is then determined. If the pH is too low, drops of basic fluid having a known pH are added to the sample until the desired pH has been achieved. The number of drops of base added is then converted to an amount of a secondary base, based on the volume of water in the aquarium. This quantity of secondary base is then added to the aquarium and the pH is thereby adjusted to the desired level. Similarly, if the pH of the aquarium needs to be lowered, drops of acid are added to the sample and the number of drops of acid required to bring the sample to the correct pH is converted to a quantity of a secondary acid to be added to the aquarium to the lower the pH to the desired level.

Abstract: The invention is within the field of packaging and storing of test elements that are usually sensitive towards atmospheric humidity or water vapor. The invention concerns a system for the storage of test elements for the analysis of sample liquids in which two or more test elements are present in a storage container which can be sealed water-vapor tight and contains a desiccant inside.

Abstract: A biological indicator is disclosed for determining the efficacy of a sterilization cycle using hydrogen peroxide vapor at subatmospheric conditions. The biological indicator includes a vial formed of a substance which resists retention of residual sterilant while also maintaining vial clarity. Also disclosed is an improved cap design which facilitates activation of the biological indicator after the sterilization cycle is complete.

Abstract: A buffered composition containing a nonionic or anionic surfactant, and a certain amount of a hydroxamic acid (or salt thereof) or an acyl hydrazine can be used as a wash composition in specific binding assays. Such assays include the use of a peroxidase labeled specific binding reactant to form a detectable peroxidase-labeled specific binding complex. The buffered composition and labeled reactant can be supplied in a diagnostic test kit. The hydroxamic acid or acyl hydrazine can be represented by the structure(I):R--CO--NH--R'wherein R is aryl or 6 to 10 carbon atoms in the aromatic nucleus, alkyl of 1 to 7 carbon atoms, cycloalkyl of 5 to 10 carbon atoms in the ring, or heterocyclyl of 5 to 10 atoms in the ring, at least one of which is an oxygen, nitrogen or sulfur atom, and R' is hydroxy or amino.

Abstract: A tray for packaging a medical specimen collection kit including a specimen vial containing a preservative fluid, an impermeable envelope containing a sterilizing fluid, and specimen collection implements. The tray has a first cavity for accomodating the vial horizontally, a second cavity sized for securely holding the vial in an upright position on the tray while the vial is uncapped during specimen collection, and a third cavity for containing the specimen collection implements. The first cavity may be formed in the bottom of a shallow recess for holding the envelope over the horizontally positioned vial.