Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for holding and transferring small volume fluid samples are disclosed. Holding vessels, including holding vessels having two or more internal compartments for holding small volume fluid samples, are disclosed. Transfer vessels for receiving small volume fluid samples from such holding vessels are disclosed. Transfer vessels for combining small volume fluid samples from such holding vessels are disclosed. Methods for providing small volume fluid samples for analysis with small loss of sample are disclosed. Methods for providing small volume fluid samples for analysis using automated sample analysis devices and systems, with small loss of sample, are disclosed.

Abstract: A portable carafe has a reservoir (14) for holding a liquid, a hot liquid outlet (18) and a hot liquid flow path (22) connecting the reservoir to the hot liquid outlet. A heater (28) is arranged in the hot liquid flow path so that the heater can heat liquid passing from the reservoir (14) to the hot liquid outlet (18). The heater (28) may be inactive when no liquid is passing through the hot liquid flow path, and may be active only when hot liquid is to be dispensed. The carafe may include a battery (50) for powering the heater. The carafe may include a cold liquid outlet (20) and a cold liquid flow path (34), and may be arranged so that tilting the carafe in one direction causes hot liquid to be dispensed, whereas tilting the carafe in another direction causes cold liquid to be dispensed.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for sample processing. A device may be provided, capable of receiving the sample, and performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing multiple assays. The device may comprise one or more modules that may be capable of performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing the steps using a small volume of sample.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for holding and transferring small volume fluid samples are disclosed. Holding vessels, including holding vessels having two or more internal compartments for holding small volume fluid samples, are disclosed. Transfer vessels for receiving small volume fluid samples from such holding vessels are disclosed. Transfer vessels for combining small volume fluid samples from such holding vessels are disclosed. Methods for providing small volume fluid samples for analysis with small loss of sample are disclosed. Methods for providing small volume fluid samples for analysis using automated sample analysis devices and systems, with small loss of sample, are disclosed.

Abstract: The following invention relates to a device for visual detection of hemolysis in a whole blood sample from a pierceable container, said device comprising at least one visible detection compartment and a transfer passage connected to said visible detection compartment, said device further comprising means for passing through the container to the interior of said container for accessing the whole blood and permitting transfer of a volume of plasma from said sample to said detection compartment via said transfer passage, wherein said device further is arranged with a separation device for separating plasma from blood cells within said whole blood sample before said plasma reaches the detection compartment, said device further being arranged with means providing a capillary action for generating a capillary force urging said volume of plasma to be transferred through the separation device to said detection compartment.

Abstract: Methods and devices for preparing a solid-fibrin web are provided. One method may include drawing blood from a patient, separating plasma from the blood, contacting the plasma with a calcium-coagulation activator and concurrently coagulating and axially centrifuging the plasma to form the solid-fibrin web. The solid-fibrin web may be suitable for regenerating body tissue in a living organism. Devices used in the methods may also be provided.

Abstract: A collection device and a method for collecting a biological sample, particularly whole blood, includes a separating member to separate the whole blood into its components, and at least reagent positioned to selectively interact with a component of the separated sample. The reagent is able to selectively interact with the plasma/serum, and is prevented from contacting or interacting with the whole blood.

Abstract: A separator system operable to use centrifugation to fractionate a multiple component material, such as a suspension including blood, comprises a buoy. The buoy can be carried in a separation container and has a tuned density that is configured to reach an equilibrium position in the multiple component material. A guide surface is carried on a buoy upper surface and is inclined to an accumulation position near a buoy perimeter. The buoy suspension fractionation system can be used in a method of isolating a fraction from a suspension, and in a method for re-suspending particulates for withdrawal.

Abstract: A centrifugal assembly is provided that can be used in common laboratory fixed angle or swinging bucket centrifuges for the separation of material, such as parasitic ova, based on particle density. The centrifugal assembly allows the fluid level to be gently adjusted to form a meniscus without disruption of the buoyant matter, such as ova. The centrifugal assembly also enables a user to easily and hygienically collect and transfer a measured amount of a sample, such as fecal material, and to break apart and mix the sample with a floatation fluid contained in a centrifuge tube.

Abstract: The present invention is drawn to a method of measuring glycated hemoglobin, which can comprise steps of establishing multiple age-specific groups of red blood cells, and measuring HbA1c levels of at least one of said groups. In another embodiment, a system for measuring glycated hemoglobin can comprise a separating device configured to separate red blood cells into multiple age-specific groups, and a measuring device configured to measure HbA1c levels of at least one of said groups.

Abstract: The present invention provides a centrifugal separation-use device capable of maintaining a centrifugal separation-use container in a clean state easily at low cost even when centrifugal separation treatment is carried out using a centrifugal separator in an unclean field. A centrifugal separation-use device 1 for collecting a target component by subjecting a solution containing multiple components to centrifugal separation treatment comprises an inner container 10 having a cylindrical section 12 for accommodating the solution and a plug 14 for hermetically sealing the cylindrical section and configured so as to accommodate the solution in a hermetically sealed state, and an outer container 20 having a support section 22 for removably accommodating the cylindrical section and a delivery section 24 for exposing part of the inner container so that the inner container can be removed, and configured so as to accommodate the inner container in a hermetically sealed state.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are apparatus and methods for isolating a fraction of interest from a physiological fluid sample. A sample holder for isolating a fraction of interest from a physiological fluid sample includes a flexible compartment and a rigid exoskeleton that supports the flexible compartment. The flexible compartment may have at least one reservoir with a height to volume ratio of about 0.1 cm/mL to about 5 cm/mL. An automated device for extracting a fraction of interest from the sample includes a sample holder with a flexible compartment supported by a rigid exoskeleton, a support for the sample holder connected to one or more fluid extraction devices, and a motor for moving the extraction device relative to the sample holder. The automated device may include an optical sensor and may include a clamp for clamping the flexible compartment.

Abstract: A method and apparatus can separate and concentrate a selected component from a multi-component material. The multi-component material may include a whole sample such as adipose tissue, whole blood, or the like. The apparatus generally includes a moveable piston positioned within a separation container and a withdrawal tube that is operable to interact with a distal end of the collection container past the piston. Material can be withdrawn through the withdrawal tube.

Abstract: A system for filtering spent grains from unfermented beer is disclosed. The system has a pot assembly having a stock pot wall, lid, drain tube and outlet valve. A louvered false bottom is positioned in the pot assembly and forms an opening between the false bottom and the stock pot wall. The louvered false bottom has a plurality of raised louvers spaced over the false bottom. Each of the louvers has a top surface, a bottom surface, a leg and a slot. The slot can be made larger or smaller according to the grain crush size.

Abstract: A method and apparatus can separate and concentrate a selected component from a multi-component material. The multi-component material may include a whole sample such as adipose tissue, whole blood, or the like. The apparatus generally includes a moveable piston positioned within a separation container and a withdrawal tube that is operable to interact with a distal end of the collection container past the piston. Material can be withdrawn through the withdrawal tube.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for separating and concentrating a selected component from a multi-component material. The multi-component material may include a whole sample such as adipose tissue, whole blood, or the like. The apparatus generally includes a moveable piston positioned within a separation container and a withdrawal tube that is operable to interact with a distal end of the collection container past the piston. Material can be withdrawn through the withdrawal tube.

Abstract: A rotor is provided for the centrifugal separation of a composite fluid, such as animal or human blood, into components. An inner surface of the rotor includes at least one hydrophobic area having a first surface energy sufficiently low to provide a flow path for a lower density fluid component to flow to the bottom of a central collection chamber after centrifugal separation. A method of separating a composite fluid into components using such a rotor is also provided. Additionally, a method of manufacturing such a rotor is provided.

Abstract: A separator that uses centrifugation to fractionate a suspension such as blood comprises a separation container and a buoy. The buoy is carried in the separation container and has a tuned density that is configured to reach an equilibrium position in a suspension. The guide surface is carried on the buoy upper surface and is inclined to an accumulation position near a buoy perimeter. The buoy suspension fractionation system can be used in a method of isolating a fraction from a suspension, and in a method for re-suspending particulates for withdrawal.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for separating and concentrating a selected component from a multi-component material. The multi-component material may include a whole sample such as adipose tissue, whole blood, or the like. The apparatus generally includes a moveable piston positioned within a separation container and a withdrawal tube that is operable to interact with a distal end of the collection container past the piston. Material can be withdrawn through the withdrawal tube.

Abstract: Apparatus for storing water, especially purified water, for use in a beverage dispenser is provided with a microbiological agent to kill or deter microbiological growth and maintain the quality of the water. The agent is provided in a physical form to promote contact with the water and may be renewable to maintain effectiveness of the agent over a period of time. In one arrangement, the agent is contained in a cartridge 92 arranged in a re-circulation loop 89 through which the water in a reservoir 80 is passed and returned to the reservoir 80. The cartridge 92 and/or a carrier for the agent within the cartridge 92 may be replaceable to renew the agent. The agent may also be provided within the reservoir 80 and various arrangements for this are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and devices for preparing a solid-fibrin web are provided. One method may include drawing blood from a patient, separating plasma from the blood, contacting the plasma with a calcium-coagulation activator and concurrently coagulating and axially centrifuging the plasma to form the solid-fibrin web. The solid-fibrin web may be suitable for regenerating body tissue in a living organism. Devices used in the methods may also be provided.

Abstract: A newborn transfusion cell washing device generally comprising a disposable, graduated test tube shaped container having a cap with an inlet port, an injection/sampling port, a suction port, and a vent. The container is capable of being inserted into a conventional clinical centrifuge. The device requires a relatively small volume to operate, 25 ml or less per procedure, and can be performed easily by any hospital blood bank technologist without any special skills. Washed RBCs can be provided to the patient in a timely manner, without the need for “fresh blood.” Any in-dated RBCs can be washed to remove excessive potassium and other toxins. The main RBC aliquot can be saved and repeatedly sampled until the unit is expired or exhausted. This provides a cost savings to the hospital and more importantly, minimizes the recipient's donor exposure.

Abstract: An organ preservation container includes a gas impermeable housing for containing an organ. At least two liquids having different densities and forming a liquid-liquid interface are also contained in the housing. A closure for hermetically sealing the housing is provided. A structure is provided within the housing for engaging the organ and for maintaining a portion of the organ at the liquid-liquid interface such that the organ will be maintained partially in both of the liquids. A method for preserving the organ is also described.

Abstract: A disposable solid waste detainment plumbing trap. The trap has a container for collecting water and solid waste discharged from a sink through a line threadably connected to an inlet of the container, and for discharging water through an outlet threadably connected to a waste line. It has a lid which seals the container, and a valve for venting either air or water from the container, to relieve the pressure of air trapped in the container. Using this disposable trap, solid waste from a sink can be quickly and easily collected and disposed of without spilling of or contact with water or the solid waste.

Abstract: The invention provides a system for preparing an autologous solid-fibrin web suitable for regenerating tissue in a living organism. The system includes a sealed primary container containing a separation medium and a low-density high-viscosity liquid. The separation medium separates red blood cells from plasma when the container contains blood and is centrifuged, and the primary container has a first pressure. The system further includes a sealed secondary container containing a calcium-coagulation activator. The secondary container has a second pressure that is less than the first pressure. The system also comprises a transfer device including a cannula having a first end and a second end. The first and second ends puncture the sealed primary and secondary containers in order to provide fluid communication between the first and second containers. The low-density high-viscosity liquid of the primary container blocks flow through the cannula upon entering therein.

Abstract: A separation procedure for separating a selected desired or undesired population from a biological sample utilizing relatively heavy, dense particles and gravity sedimentation. The particles have one or more reactants bound thereto which are specific to and will bind with the selected population. The particles preferably are mixed with the sample by repeatedly causing the particles to settle through a substantial portion of the sample to bind to the selected population. The particles with the bound selected population then are allowed to preferentially settle in the sample and the supernatant including an enriched population is separated from the particles with the selected population bound thereto. The enriched populations in the biological sample supernatant can be further enriched by multiple removal steps.

Abstract: A device and method for separating heavier and lighter fractions of a fluid sample. The device includes a plurality of constituents comprising a container and a composite element in the container. The composite element is a separator comprising a deformable bellows, a ballast mounted to the lower end of the bellows, and a float is engageable with an upper end of the bellows. A fluid sample is delivered to the container and the device is subjected to centrifugation whereby the centrifugal load causes the ballast to move toward the bottom of the tube and causes an elongation and narrowing of the bellows. The separator then moves down the tube and stabilizes in a position between the separated phases of the fluid sample. Termination of the centrifugal load enables the bellows to return to its original condition in sealing engagement with the walls of the tube.

Abstract: A device used in separating flowing substances and can be placed inside the top of a dispenser. The device separates high viscosity liquid from a low viscosity liquid. The device is comprised of a smooth conical funnel piece inverted into the dispenser containing the substance. The top of the device is flat and the top rim of the device extends horizontal across the dispenser's neck opening. Rim of the device may be adjusted for size by applying pressure at a break point and snap off excess in the flat portion of the device's rim. Device can be separately manufactured or molded with the container as part of the dispenser's top aperture. It can also be molded with the dispensers cover. When the container is inverted, the lighter weight viscosity liquid is retained in the area around the inverted nozzle of the device. The thicker high viscosity liquid can now be discharged from the opening of the dispenser by applying pressure.

Abstract: A device and method for separating heavier and lighter fractions of a fluid sample. The device includes a flexible collapsible inner container disposed within a substantially rigid outer container. A closure seals the open top end of the outer container. A filter assembly is sealingly mounted to the open top end of the inner container. The filter assembly includes a filter that permits lighter fractions to pass therethrough, while substantially blocking the heavier fractions. The filter assembly further includes a filter support having a slit valve registered with the filter. The slit valve opens in response to fluid pressure created by the lighter fractions for permitting the lighter fractions to flow therethrough.

Abstract: A device and method is provided for separating heavier and lighter fractions of a fluid sample. The device includes a plurality of constituents comprising a container and a composite element in the container. The composite element is a separator comprising at least two components and more particularly an elastic portion and a plug member. A fluid sample is delivered to the container and the device is subjected to centrifugation whereby the centrifugal load causes the elastic portion of the separator to deform so that the separator migrates into the fluid sample and stabilizes between the heavier and lighter fractions of the fluid sample. The elastic portion of the separator will resiliently return to its initial configuration upon termination of the centrifugal load such that the elastic portion sealingly engages the container and separates the heavier and lighter fractions of the fluid sample.

Abstract: A device and method is provided for separating heavier and lighter fractions of a fluid sample. The device includes a plurality of constituents comprising a container and a composite element in the container. The composite element is a separator comprising at least two components and more particularly an elastic portion and a plug member. A fluid sample is delivered to the container and the device is subjected to centrifugation whereby the centrifugal load causes the elastic portion of the separator to deform so that the separator migrates into the fluid sample and stabilizes between the heavier and lighter fractions of the fluid sample. The elastic portion of the separator will resiliently return to its initial configuration upon termination of the centrifugal load such that the elastic portion sealingly engages the container and separates the heavier and lighter fractions of the fluid sample.

Abstract: A system for separating nucleated cells from a blood sample includes a charge-flow separator (CFS), which separates blood into fractions according to the surface charge density characteristics coupled with an affinity-filtration separator which either outputs a separated blood fraction to the CFS or receives a separated blood fraction from the CFS. The system permits separation of nucleated fetal red blood cells, erythroid progenitor cells and other nucleated cells found in blood samples.

Abstract: A sample is prepared from blood in a manner which makes it possible to further analyze proteins in the sample, e.g. to detect prions in the sample. Blood is extracted, allowed to clot and subjected to separation processing (e.g. centrifugation) to obtain serum. The serum is treated with a complexing agent which agent binds prions in the sample forming an agent/protein complex which makes it possible to concentrate the complex. Concentration of the complex results in a sample which can be successfully analyzed, e.g. assayed using a range of different types of assay methodologies for detecting prions.

Abstract: A polyester composition for use in facilitating separation of blood serum or plasma from a cellular portion of blood, the composition containing: (a) a multifunctional acid component comprising: (i) a benzene polycarboxylic acid, and derivatives thereof; and (ii) an aliphatic polycarboxylic acid having from about 16 to about 40 carbon atoms; and (b) a diol component, and wherein the multifunctional acid component and diol component are employed in an equivalent ratio ranging from about 0.8:1.1 to about 1.0:1.3.

Abstract: A solid-sediment retainment plumbing trap devised primarily for a sink from which substantial amounts of solid material are discharged; e.g., eyeglass manufacture and dental plastic grinders. The plumbing trap is connected to the sink, and collects sediment in a bottle having a fill line. When sediment collecting in the bottle reaches the fill line, the bottle is exchanged for a similar bottle, and the plumbing trap is once again in service. Because the bottle is connected to the rest of the trap by threads, bottle exchange is rapid and easy.

Abstract: A cell population or subpopulation enrichment procedure for separating undesired populations or subpopulations from a biological sample utilizing relatively heavy, dense particles and gravity sedimentation. The particles have one or more reactants bound thereto which are specific to and will bind with the selected population or subpopulation to be eliminated from the sample. The particles preferably are mixed with the sample by repeatedly causing the particles to settle through a substantial portion of the sample to bind to the selected population. The particles with the bound selected population to be eliminated then are allowed to preferentially settle in the sample and the supernatant including the enriched population or subpopulation is separated from the particles with the population to be eliminated bound thereto.

Abstract: A device for adapting a liquid container to enable separation and selective dispensation of two or more immiscible liquids of different densities from the container.

Abstract: Test tube particularly suitable for carrying out immunological and immunohaematological analysis having at one end thereof an opening for charging reagents and biological liquids to be analyzed and, at the other end thereof, at least one venting opening and a respective controlled-stop filter.

Abstract: A method for rapid separation of serum or plasma from cells in a whole blood sample uses a cylindrical sample tube having longitudinally-extending internal ribs. A separation gel and the sample are introduced into the tube, and the tube is axially centrifuged so as to form concentric shells of cells, gel, and serum or plasma. After centrifugation is stopped, the serum or plasma collects in the tube by gravity flow and the cells and gel remain affixed to the walls and ribs of the tube.

Abstract: There are described a method of and an apparatus for removing sand from waste water loaded with sand and organic substances which is set forth in circulation in a vertical container (1) in which the organic substance moves upward to an overflow (13), while the sand sinks downward toward a discharge conveyor (3) connected to the container (1) from beneath, and is discharged after a certain settling period. To achieve a substantial separation of the sand and the organic substances, the settled sand is stirred by an agitator, with simultaneous rinsing with fresh water delivered to the container bottom region, and is discharged in an amount, which insures a predetermined minimal height of the settled sand.

Abstract: Described are novel containers adapted to separate and dispense two or more fluids of different densities, and novel methods of selectively separating and dispensing two or more fluids of different densities.

Abstract: An amalgam solids collecting apparatus of the type for collecting an accumulation of a generally separable mixture of liquids and solids, including amalgam solids, and separating the solids from the liquids. The apparatus is connectable to a source of the mixture and is connectable to a vacuum source. The container has an interior area defining a collection portion therein and has an inlet port that communicates with the interior area of the container. The inlet port is couplable to the source of the mixture and the inlet port receives the mixture therethrough. The accumulation of the mixture is contained within the interior area with the headspace above the accumulation. The container has an outlet port with a second aperture therein that communicates with the interior area and that is located above the accumulation. An outflow tube extends through the outflow port, and the outflow tube has a first opening within the container and a second opening exterior of the container.

Abstract: A method and structure for analysis of the size and/or distribution of low-density particles by centrifugal sedimentation in a centrifuge chamber containing a fluid where the particles to be tested are delivered to the bottom of the centrifuge chamber and allowed to float upwards in the higher density fluid within the centrifuge chamber to be analyzed.

Abstract: A separator (10) for separating a heavier liquid from a lighter liquid is disclosed which is intended to operate between a fuel tank (12) and a fuel pump connected to the fuel outlet (24) of the separator (10). The separator includes a float (30) which is light enough to float on the heavier liquid and which is heavy enough to sink in the lighter liquid. The float controls opening and closing of a valve (44, 46) through which heavier liquid is disclosed from the separator. As heavier liquid accumulates, the float lifts to open the valve (44, 46). A plate (34) subjected to a force caused by fuel flowing into the separator through the inlet (16) prevents the float opening the valve whilst the separator is in sub-atmospheric pressure. The plate can be replaced by a diaphragm which is subject on one side to atmospheric pressure and on the other side to the pressure in the separator.

Abstract: A multiple bottle package including a plastic tray including a base wall, an integral peripheral wall extending upwardly from the base wall, and an integral peripheral flange extending radially outwardly from the upper edge of the peripheral. The base wall has a plurality of bottle receiving recesses for receiving the bases of bottles. A plurality of bottles corresponding in number with the number of recesses are placed in the recesses with each bottle having a base received in a recess in the base wall of the plastic tray. Each bottle has a body portion extending upwardly from said base of said bottle, a tapered shoulder portion and a neck portion. The recesses are positioned such that the portions of said body portions of said bottles are in abutting relationship. The peripheral wall of the tray has generally vertical undulations engaging the bottles along the peripheral wall. A canopy overlies and is bonded to the tray.

Abstract: An anticoagulant solution of sodium citrate for use in blood chemistry-related techniques and apparatus is disclosed. The anticoagulant solution should include an effective concentration of sodium citrate sufficient for preventing the coagulation of a sample of blood employed in the technique or added to the apparatus. The sodium citrate-based anticoagulant solution should have a pH ranging from above 6.0 to about 8.5 and a sodium citrate concentration preferably ranging from about 0.05M to about 0.2M.

Abstract: A device for separating inorganic material polluted by organic material from a fluid, especially of sand polluted by organic material in sewage devices, is provided with a circular shaped container (1), which in its upper region has a feed device (19) for the introduction of the fluid into the container (1), with an extractor device (32) for the inorganic material positioned in the lower region (7) of the container (1) and with an extractor device (29) to discharge the organic material and the fluid. A fluidized sand bed (14) is provided in the lower region (7) of the container (1) in order to separate the organic material from the inorganic material. The fluidized sand bed (14) is kept in motion by an upward flow of liquid distributed via a perforated base (8). A by-pass (38) is provided to transfer part of the sand from the fluidized sand bed (14) into the extractor device (32) in the lower region (7) of the container (1).

Abstract: A separation procedure for separating a selected desired or undesired population from a biological sample utilizing relatively heavy, dense particles and gravity sedimentation. The particles have one or more reactants bound thereto which are specific to and will bind with the selected population. The particles preferably are mixed with the sample by repeatedly causing the particles to settle through a substantial portion of the sample to bind to the selected population. The particles with the bound selected population then are allowed to preferentially settle in the sample and the supernatant including the non-selected population is separated from the particles with the selected population bound thereto. The particles can be heated for sterilization and endotoxin removal.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for separating red blood cells by density are described. Older red blood cells are more dense than younger ones. Certain changes in the physiology are recorded in changes in hemoglobin or the red blood cells. By assaying different aged red blood cells, one can determine the historical physiological changes over a period of many weeks. Improved separation of red blood cells is accomplished by using rigid capillary tubes having an inner surface which augments the density equilibrium of red blood cells and/or incrementally increasing the centrifugation forces, as well as by chemically treating red blood cells to improve their deformability.

Abstract: A centrifuge tube and adaptor apparatus is provided which facilitates separation of biological materials and permits easy extraction of a fraction after centrifugation. The tube is a deformable tube with a wide upper chamber and a narrowed lower portion. The tube is supported within the centrifuge rotor or within another container within the centrifuge by a liquid support medium, which surrounds and supports the narrow portion of the tube, and thus prevents the tube from collapsing during high speed centrifugations.