Abstract: An apparatus for sanitarily and easily collecting urine or other liquid specimens for testing, including a collection vessel having a handle portion and a cover. The relatively long, narrow dimensions of the collection vessel assure maneuverability. The handle also assists maneuverability, as well as facilitating sanitary collection of the specimen. The easy-to-use cover further ensures that the specimen remains free from contamination after collection, yet the user of the apparatus can readily and sanitarily seal the vessel.

Abstract: A device and method are disclosed for amplifying and detecting nucleic acid material. The device and method use a label and signalling material responsive to the label to produce a detectable signal. A surprising result of the method and device is that at least one of the wash steps heretofore required has been eliminated without substantially adversely affecting the results.

Abstract: A combination thermal shipping and/or storage container and leak-resistant bag for potentially infectious biological specimens. Two molded plastic sections press together to form a closed compartment. A slow-warming or slow-cooling composition within each section surrounds the compartment to hold the specimens in the bag within a desired temperature range for a relatively long period. A portion of the bag extends from the closed container sections for exposing any labeling imprinted on the bag. A separate pouch in the bag, accessible from outside the container, is provided for holding any documentation which is to accompany the specimens.

Abstract: An apparatus for the manufacture of radiopharmaceuticals includes a lead chamber (6) and a loading device (5) on which a chemical system is mounted in the form of a disposable kit (5). The apparatus includes a first suspension device (9) which functions to move the loading device in a radiation-safe manner between a loading position externally of the lead chamber and a working position within the lead chamber. A second suspension device is provided for releasing a consumed disposable kit from the loading device, such as to enable the consumed kit to fall down into a bottom section (8) of the lead chamber, this bottom section serving as a waste chamber.

Abstract: Improvements to the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), a process for in vitro enzymatic amplification of specific nucleic acid sequences, can be achieved by changing the way that PCR reagents are mixed and the enzymatic reaction is started and by the replacement of mineral oil, commonly used as a vapor barrier to minimize solvent evaporation, by a grease or wax. The use of such mixtures allows for the delay of reagent mixing until the first heating step of a PCR amplification, thereby reducing the enzymatic generation of nonspecific products which occurs when a complete mixture of PCR reagents, with or without test sample, stands at room temperature or below. These mixtures increase the shelf-life of PCR reagents and increase protection of the laboratory environment against contamination by PCR product.

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 a 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 an bellows-like sidewall flexure, and when the funnel is removed, each is closed by a closure that includes another bellows-like 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.

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: An insulated specimen shipping container is disclosed having a base and a cover fitting thereon. The base includes a compartment for receiving a cold pack and several sockets for receiving specimens. A portion of the interior wall separating the cold pack from the specimens has openings, facilitating thermal communication between the specimens and cold pack.

Abstract: A package assembly has an outer container, an inner container and an inner positioning member. The inner positioning member cooperates with the outer container and the inner container to maintain the alignment of identification indicia disposed on the outer surface of the inner container so that it is visible through an aperture in the outer container.

Abstract: A specimen collection kit particularly for collection and transport of urine specimens. The kit includes a first pouch sealed about its periphery and encapsulating a collection container therewithin. A second pouch is provided, also with a peripheral seal, and encapsulating one or more test vials for specimen testing. The second pouch also includes a resealable seal proximate one edge such that the second pouch can be resealed after opening of the peripheral seal on that edge. The pouches are united along one edge of each pouch, and a perforation is provided at that juncture to permit severing of the two pouches.

Abstract: A kit for collecting specimens that includes a trocar member 20 which is partially housed, at its ends, by jacket members 30 and 40 and rubber band 50 wrapped around jacket members 30 and 40. The first alternate embodiment includes trocar 30' which has a porous lateral wall or the lateral wall includes small apertures so that the moisture can escape thereby permitting a user to do an occult blood test. The second alternate embodiment corresponds to trocar 30" that includes larger apertures around its lateral wall. The second alternate embodiment is intended to be used in hystopathological procedures. A mixer member is coaxially mounted within either jacket member 30 or 40. A reagent is preferably stored in the other jacket not having the mixer member.

Abstract: A tissue cassette holder including a rectangular open-top tray having a pair of locking side rails affixed to the upper portion of the longitudinal sides thereof, the rails having a raised elastomeric protuberance projecting inwardly from the center thereof and spaced sufficiently apart to permit a conventional tissue cassette to snap firmly therebetween. Preferably, the trays are configured to permit removably locking a plurality thereof into superposed and/or side-by-side relationship, and further to positively lock a plurality of cassettes within each such tray for liquid processing and to break such cassettes loose after the tray and cassettes are wax-dipped preparatory to slicing the tissue therein for microanalysis.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for immediate diagnosis of exudative vaginal yeast infections, using a sample of vaginal discharge, dying the yeast present in the discharge with a fluorescent dye specifically sensitive to yeast, and subjecting the dye to ultraviolet radiation to determine the level of visible fluorescence, with the level of fluorescence indicating the presence or absence of the high number of yeast associated with a vaginal infection.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for testing the susceptibility of a mammal to inflammatory diseases which comprises the steps of:administering to a mammal a compound selected from the group consisting of Type 1 mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, opiate antagonists, estrogen antagonists or mixed estrogen agonists/antagonists, progesterone agonists; or a combination of an estrogen antagonist with one or a combination of a Type I glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, a Type II glucocorticoid agonist or a progesterone agonist which is effective in stimulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis; andmeasuring the level of at least one hormone secreted by the hypothalamus, pituitary or adrenal glands of said mammal.The present invention is also directed to methods of treating inflammatory diseases.

Abstract: Agents which modulate or affect the intracellular trafficking and processing of proteins in the mammalian cell can be utilized to affect the trafficking and processing of APP, thereby inhibiting production of Alzheimer type amyloidosis. Particularly useful agents are chloroquine and its related derivatives such as primaquine.

Abstract: The present invention discloses cationic lipids useful for making lipid aggregates for delivery of macromolecules and other compounds into cells. They are especially useful for the DNA-dependent transformation of cells. Also disclosed are lipids useful both for the delivery of macromolecules and also useful as intermediates for making other such lipids.

Abstract: A method for preparing a coordination complex of an isonitrile ligand and a radioisotope of Tc, Ru, Co, Pt, Re, Os, Ir, W, Re, Cr, Mo, Mn, Ni, Rh, Nb and Ta from a non-radioactive metal adduct of the isonitrite.

Abstract: The device comprises a housing (12) containing a support (13) from which the sterile objects (11) hang, said objects being placed in rows of holes, a movable selector (14) arranged to allow at least one object to be reached, and an arrangement for sealing said housing. A sealing plate (19) is mounted between the selector (14) and the support (13) and is provided with a central opening (20) and a radial slot (21) designed to cooperate with the holes (22) in the selector (14). The device can be connected to a vacuum pump via the hollow shaft (16) when the sealing plug (26) is removed.

Abstract: A high-precision liquid reagent delivery system is provided for convenient and efficient gravity flow delivery of substantially the entire volume of reagent contained within a sealed formed tray. The delivery system comprises a formed tray defining a curved cavity for holding a predetermined amount of liquid, and a substantially planar ledge surface defined around the cavity opening. The surfaces of the cavity are non-porous, uniform and smoothly converging to a point of liquid discharge at an intersection of the cavity and the ledge surface. The ledge surface further defines an apex extending longitudinally from the point of liquid discharge and defines a guide path for the delivery of liquid contained within the tray. The system also includes a flexible cover removably affixed to the ledge surface of the tray for forming a sealed chamber between the cavity and the affixed cover for containment of liquid.

Abstract: A reagent strip (10) and lance (6) are integrated to form a blood sampler and component tester (2). The reagent strip (10) is adapted for application against the skin of a patient and carries a reagent that indicates the concentration of a blood component in a blood sample placed in contact therewith. The lance (6), which is used to pierce the skin of a patient, is coupled to the reagent strip (10) through a resilient dome (4) which translates the lance between an extended position (where the lance through a guide member (20) extends beyond the reagent strip to puncture the skin of a patient) and a retracted position.

Abstract: Inbred Lewis (LEW/N) female rats develop an arthritis in response to Group A streptococcal cell wall peptidoglycanpolysaccharide (SCW) which mimics human rheumatoid arthritis. Histocompatible Fischer (F344/N) rats, on the other hand, do not develop arthritis in response to the same SCW stimulus. To evaluate this difference in inflammatory reactivity between the two strains, the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and its ability to modulate the development of the inflammatory response was studied. It has been found that, in contrast to F344/N rats, LEW/N rats had markedly impaired plasma ACTH and corticosterone responses to SCW, recombinant human Interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1 alpha), the serotonin agonist, quipazine, and synthetic rat corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). In addition, LEW/N rats compared to F344/N rats had smaller adrenal glands and larger thymuses. Treatment of LEW/N rats with replacement doses of dexamethasone decreased the severity of their SCW-induced arthritis.

Abstract: An isotopic tracer composition and methods of making and using same for radiological evaluation of body functions and diseases in a subject and for radiological therapy. The isotopic tracer composition comprises a protein carrier agent such as fibrinogen, antibodies, enzymes or portions thereof, bound to a radioisotope which has been reduced to a lower oxidation state by stannous phosphate at a pH of greater than 7. Some suitable radioisotopes are isotopes of technetium, rhenium and ruthenium.

Abstract: A device or kit having inlet means for introducing within the kit a first reagent, includes a substrate and at least a second reagent in the form of microcapsules adapted to release, according to a predetermined release profile, the second reagent after the first reagent has been introduced into the kit. The device allows to carry out at least two and optionally more transformations of the physical and/or chemical properties of the substrate by means of a single step procedure by the operator consisting of the introduction of the first reagent.The invention particularly relates to the preparation of stable injectable preparations of radiopharmaceuticals.

Abstract: An assembly for collecting and transporting fluid biological samples such as blood including an impact resistant outer container having a soft foam cushioning pad disposed across the bottom and top thereof, a protective wrap of plastic bubble packaging material surrounding a pair of blood sampling tubes and a multi-sample syringe assembly disposed between the cushioning pads, a sealable evidence bag, tamper evidencing tapes, an instruction manual, a non-alcoholic swab, and an liquid absorbent packet contained therein. The outer container and its contents are initially enclosed and sealed in a tamper evidencing wrapper. The assembly may be subjected to extraordinarily rough handling with the contents of the blood sampling tubes remaining intact.

Abstract: A device for performing a procedure comprising, a first tray, a second tray positioned adjacent a side the first tray, and a flexible splash shield extending from a location adjacent the juncture of the first and second trays and being movable between a first position substantially covering the first tray and a second position substantially covering the second tray.

Abstract: A sterility indicator of the type used in hospitals and laboratories. The device uses a cylindrical ampule holder with an ampule containing nutrient media and spore strip disposed therein. One or more gas pervious, liquid impervious tortuous paths lie between the interior and exterior of the ampule holder. Fracturing of the ampule is by the combination of a rotation and rotation prevention means with respect to the cylindrical axis.

Abstract: A method of fabricating chemical lighting devices, comprising coextensive inner and outer tubes, wherein the inner tube contains multiple, segregated oxalate components, is described. Upon activation the device generates a distinct multi-color array of light.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a foldable carton for conveniently displaying the chemical reagents and for conveniently dispensing the chemically impregnated devices for use in performing diagnostic tests and provided in a diagnostic test kit format. The foldable carton of the present invention has two openings. The first opening, the cover panel, has a rack capable of containing thereon, from 1-4 containers of chemical reagents. Because the cover panel is secured to the front of the carton, when the cover panel is fully opened, so as to overlay the front wall of the carton, the chemical reagents contained thereon are forwardly displayed. Preferably, the inside face of the cover panel also contains an instruction panel for refreshing the recollection of those already familiar with the test procedure. The lower end of the front wall is provided with a dispensing flap that opens to permit the sequential withdrawal of a chemically impregnated test device that is slideably stacked within the carton.

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: A myocardial imaging agent for use in humans comprising a Tc(III) complex ligated in a planar position by a tetradentate ligand having incorporated therein four hard atotms and two furanone rings and in the axial positions by phosphines containing dioxanyl or ether moieties. The agent exhibits improved biodistribution, improved labeling and extremely rapid blood clearance following administration to a human. The agent has high myocardial uptake accompanied with exceptionally rapid hepatobilary clearance and extensive renal clearance to give sufficiently high heart/liver and heart/lung ratio that provide nearly ideal myocardial images in humans. A kit for producing the myocardial imaging agent is provided.

Abstract: A disposable hygienic support for cleaning and drying reactive diagnostic strips, these strips exhibiting a reacting surface portion in contact with which a fraction of biological material to be analyzed is placed. The support comprises a substantially rigid covering (1) and an element of absorbent material (3) fixed therein. The element is accessible from at least two opposite ends of the covering to permit the insertion of the strip, in such a manner that its reactive portion is on the outside, and the removal of the latter by passing the absorbent element through after a predetermined time of reaction between the reactive portion and the biological liquid. The invention provides a very useful article for handling diagnostic strips in safety conditions.

Abstract: A method and device for collecting immunoglobulins and other analytes from the oral cavity for immunological and other testing. The device is a treated absorbent pad used to collect a specimen having a high concentration of immunoglobulins or other analytes. The specimen can be subjected to a basic immunological testing technique which can be used as a tool for screening a patient for diseases. A test kit is also provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for cleansing a used autombobile anti-freeze solution. The method and apparatus include pre-filtering a used solution with a particulate filter selected to filter contaminant sized greater than a predetermined minimum size. An ultrafiltration membrane filter is provided. The ultrafiltration filter has a semi-permeable membrane separating a concentrate portion from a permeate portion. The pre-filtered solution is passed to the concentrate portion and the permeate portion is connected to a storage tank. Additives are provided for replenishing filtered constituents.

Abstract: A novel 3-sulfatoglucuronic acid-containing compound is produced. A method for antibody removal from a liquid sample, and a method of treatment for antibody-related disorders is disclosed, along with a diagnostic kit.

Abstract: A reagent cartridge for use in an automated clinical analyzer, the reagent cartridge including a plurality of storage compartments each including wall members. The reagent cartridge includes connecting members formed integrally with the storage compartments for holding the storage compartments in a fixed relationship with respect to each other and separating the wall members from each other to thus prevent reagent migration between adjacent reagent compartments. Each of the storage compartments includes an access opening and a neck formed about the opening, the neck including a collar that is spaced a predetermined distance from a bottom wall of the associated storage compartment, the predetermined distance adapted to accommodate an automatically controlled reagent transfer probe.

Abstract: Gas-generating or absorbing activity of microorganisms is detected by providing a vessel in which the microorganisms are incubated, the vessel having a cap with a membrane indicator therein. The membrane has a deformed region which is inflated to indicate the existence of a change in pressure within the vessel as compared with ambient pressure. Automatic monitoring of the inflated portion is disclosed.

Abstract: A specimen kit for collection, preservation and dispatch of smear specimens collected on a glass slide makes use of a single sheet of package material having short fold-over panels at opposite end edges and long fold-over overlapping panels at the side edges, in this way to form a relatively long flat package. Transversely extending lines of perforations make possible separating the long flat package into one relatively shorter reusable package with opposite end panels and a throw away sheet. One of the end panels of the shorter reusable package has a specially formed retainer for securing a transparent specimen slide in place. The panel is additionally provided with a window through which is revealed information pertaining to the specimen on the slide.

Abstract: A useful brain perfusion imaging agent comprises ##STR1## wherein R completes a four or five member ring. The agent is stable in vitro permitting its use up to six to eight hours after preparation.

Abstract: The present invention is concerned with collecting immunoglobulins from the oral cavity for immunological testing. A rinse is used to collect a specimen having a high concentration of immunoglobulins. The specimen can be subjected to a basic immunological testing technique which can be used as a tool for screening a patient for diseases. A test kit is also provided for.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of preparing a chlorinated, brominated, radiobrominated, iodinated and/or radio-iodinated aromatic or heteroaromatic compound, in which the (hetero)aromatic nucleus optionally comprises one or more additional substituents, by reacting the corresponding halogenated or diazonium-substituted compound in the presence of a water-soluble acid and of copper ions as a catalyst with a likewise water-soluble chloride, bromide radiobromide, iodide or radio-iodide, in which the reaction is carried out in the presence of one or more reduction agents, which are stable in acid medium, in a quantity exceeding the quantity of catalyst. The invention also relates to a composition suitable for diagnostic examination and to a kit for the preparation thereof. The invention further relates to a method and an equipment for the preparation of said composition.

Abstract: A system to record the color, size and location of skin blemishes on the skin using an objective standard is provided. The system includes a color scale containing colors and shades of colors sufficient to portray a skin blemish; a blemish-size gauge for measuring the size of the blemish; a distance scale for measuring the distance of the blemish from reference points; and a body map of the skin surface of the entire human body with reference points for recording the location of the blemish. Each color in the color scale and size in the size gauge is given an individual designation for easy reference. The color scale and the measuring devices may be combined in one multi-functional tool and with a folded chart for easy storage in a folder to protect the colors from changes due to exposure to light.

Abstract: An assay employing a tracer comprising a ligand having a mercury label wherein mercury label is released from at least one of a bound or free tracer phase and iunteracts with a metal. Analyte is determined by a change in at least one property of the metal caused by such interaction. The invention also relates to a device for such an assay wherein mercury ions released from a free or bound tracer are caused to eventually amalgamate with a metal, and the presence and/or amount of analyte is determined by changes in the metal resulting from the eventual amalgamation which may be measured electrically or by other means. The invention also relates to novel assay instruments, novel lancets, assay sensors, assay sensor packets, instrumentation and combinations of assay components, and related methods.

Abstract: A solid meal gastric emptying kit comprising:(a) a first relatively small tagging container;(b) a first package of freeze-dried meat for tagging with TC.sup.99m Sulfur Colloid;(c) a second relatively large mixing and serving container;(d) a second package containing a napkin, a towelette, and a plastic spoon;(e) an absorbant pad;(f) radioactive material labels; and(g) instructions for preparation.

Abstract: A blood sampling kit having a plurality of glass vials for receiving blood therein; a puncture pin for puncturing the skin of the subject to be tested; an alcohol swab for cleansing the area punctured, and an envelope for returning the specimen to a laboratory. The specimen receiving kit further comprises a quantity of clay like material for sealing the ends of the blood vials after the blood sample has been received therein, so that blood is not lost during transit. The system provides that the test subject would receive the kit containing the above- referenced items to prick one's finger, place blood into the plurality of blood-receiving vials, close off the end of the vials with a quantity of clay plug; return the vials to the kit, reseal the blood it, place the kit in a sealable plastic bag container, note one's name and address on the plastic bag and place the kit in an envelope provided for returning to the laboratory for testing.

Abstract: A reagent cartridge for use in an automated clinical analyzer, the reagent cartridge including a plurality of storage compartments each including wall members. The reagent cartridge includes connecting members formed integrally with the storage compartments for holding the storage compartments in a fixed relationship with respect to each other and separating the wall members from each other to thus prevent reagent migration between adjacent reagent compartments. Each of the storage compartments includes an access opening and a neck formed about the opening, the neck including a collar that is spaced a predetermined distance from a bottom wall of the associated storage compartment, the predetermined distance adapted to accommodate an automatically controlled reagent transfer probe.

Abstract: An extraction rack assembly for liquid/liquid extraction includes a rack member (12) having a plurality of bores (14) for supporting a plurality of tubes in an upright position and a rack cover (24). The rack cover (24) includes arms (30, 32) extending therefrom which lock a sealing surface (38) against the open ends (26) of tubes (16) supported by the rack member (12) while applying a force on the sealing surface (38) of the cover member (24) for perfecting a sealing engagement against the open ends (26) of the tubes (16). The tubes are shaken and centrifuged without being removed from the device.

Abstract: A myocardial imaging agent for humans is a technetium(III) complex ligated in the planar positions by a tetradentate ligand such as (acac).sub.2 en and in the axial positions by an ether containing phosphine ligand such as tris(3-methoxy-1-propyl)-phosphine. The agent exhibits extremely rapid blood clearance after injection into a human and has a sufficiently high heart/liver and heart/lung ratios to provide effecitve myocardial images. A kit for preparing the above myocardial agent is disclosed.

Abstract: Gas-generating activity of microorganisms is detected by providing a vessel in which the microorganisms are incubated, the vessel having a cap with a membrane indicator therein. The membrane has a deformed region which is inflated to indicate the existence of an increase in pressure within the vessel as compared with ambient pressure. Visual or automatic monitoring of the inflated portion is disclosed.

Abstract: A combination clinical specimen collection vial and shipping means, including packaging components, are provided, which are uniquely adapted and acceptable for shipment and delivery through regular first-class mailing-delivery systems, for both domestic and overseas purposes.

Abstract: A thermal-stabilized container (10) for protecting fragile objects stored in the container (10) and maintaining temperature-sensitive material in the objects within a predetermined temperature range for a predetermined period of time. The container (10) includes an outer shell (12), an inner carton (14), and a lid (16). Test tubes (18) having temperature-sensitive cultures (52) stored therein are firmly held within openings (30) in the carton (14). The carton (14) is slidably received within an interior (42) of the outer shell (12). Disposable heat sources (58) are activated and stored within cavities (56) formed in the end walls (36) of the outer shell (12). The tubes (18) are inclined at an angle with respect to the horizontal axis to provide greater surface contact between the cultures (52) and gases (54) in the tubes (18).