Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus that uses shadow images of cells to continuously measure cell activity at a high processing rate in order to provide cell activity and cell number results. According to one embodiment of the present invention, instead of a highly experienced examiner or technician using a microscope, ELISA reader, etc. having to collect various cell activity measurements and cell numbers, the collection of said information can be automated so as to reduce cost and largely reduce errors in measurements through the development of computer software coupled with hardware using low cost and compact optoelectronic components and simple image processing techniques.

Abstract: A receptacle having a plurality of interconnected chambers arranged to permit multiple process steps or processes to be performed independently or simultaneously. The receptacles are manufactured to separate liquid from dried reagents and to maintain the stability of the dried reagents. An immiscible liquid, such as an oil, is included to control loading of process materials, facilitate mixing and reconstitution of dried reagents, limit evaporation, control heating of reaction materials, concentrate solid support materials to prevent clogging of fluid connections, provide minimum volumes for fluid transfers, and to prevent process materials from sticking to chamber surfaces. The receptacles can be adapted for use in systems having a processing instrument that includes an actuator system for selectively moving fluid substances between chambers and a detector. The actuator system can be arranged to concentrate an analyte present in a sample.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus for efficiently providing accurate temperature control of a microtiter cold plate and precise alignment of the microtiter cold plate with a microtiter plate.

Abstract: A specimen analyzing method and a specimen analyzing apparatus capable of measuring interference substances before analyzing a specimen. The method comprises a step for sucking the specimen stored in a specimen container (150) and sampling it in a first container (153), a step for optically measuring the specimen in the first container, a step for sampling the specimen in a second container (154) and preparing a specimen for measurement by mixing the specimen with a reagent in the second container, and a step for analyzing the specimen for measurement according to the results of the optical measurement of the specimen.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a sealing device for closing an introduction aperture, the sealing device comprising a fixed support and a shutter mounted movably in translation relative to the support between an extended position and a final retracted position, wherein the sealing device is in a final retracted configuration and wherein the shutter closes introduction aperture. The device includes locking means for preventing any movement of the shutter when it is in the final retracted position. The sealing device further comprises an intermediate retracted configuration, wherein the shutter is at least partly retracted. The sealing device also comprises motion guiding means for guiding the movement of the shutter and designed so that the extension of the shutter is required to move the shutter from the intermediate retracted position to the final retracted position.

Abstract: A sample analysis apparatus configured to automatically press a start button upon installation of a sample tube is provided. The sample analysis apparatus includes: a body of the sample analysis apparatus; a door housing which may be provided in an opened state or a closed state, and configured to be coupled to the body of the sample analysis apparatus by a hinge; a tube accommodating unit included in the door housing and configured to accommodate the sample tube; a start button included in the body of the sample analysis apparatus and configured to start analysis of the sample; and an operating member positioned at a first position which is distant from the start button the sample tube is not installed in the tube accommodating unit, and a second position which is configured to operate the start button when a sample tube is installed and the door housing is closed.

Abstract: A kit comprising a carrier and vessels arranged on the carrier, wherein different reagents are contained in different vessels, the vessels are arranged with an openable closing device on top of the carrier, the carrier has a footprint on the bottom side for being placed on a base, and the carrier has bottom positioning means for being positioned on at least one workplace of an automated laboratory system for microtiter plates according to the SBS standard.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for the collection of biological samples. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a device comprises a collection medium having top and bottom surfaces and a predetermined size and shape, the top surface comprising a position marker and at least one binding site operable to bind a biological sample, a protective facing substantially impermeable to the biological sample, the protective facing coupled to the top surface of the collection medium and having a size and shape substantially similar to the predetermined size and shape of the collection medium. The protective facing being sized and shaped to define a first void positioned to allow for the transfer of the biological sample through the protective facing and onto the at least one binding site of the collection medium, and a second void positioned to expose the position marker for alignment of the collection medium.

Abstract: Provided is a biomaterial detecting device for confirming or detecting a biomaterial reaction, and more particularly to a biomaterial detecting device, which is formed in a stick type to thereby be immersed in a tube containing a biomaterial solution to be tested; has an upper portion with a cap structure to thereby induce reaction with a biomaterial, and thus facilitate confirmation and detection of the biomaterial; and is formed in a cap structure to thereby prevent evaporation of a sample and infiltration of an external material at the time of a biomaterial reaction in the tube, and thus improve reliability in analysis.

Abstract: The invention concerns an analyzer, typically for analyzing body fluids, which has one or several exchangeable cassettes (consumables) that contain operating liquids, operating materials and/or consumables and can be inserted into corresponding holders of the analyzer, wherein the analyzer has a system for exchanging ambient air which has a filter unit on the inlet side of the analyzer to filter the ambient air that needs to be exchanged. The filter unit is integrated into at least one of the exchangeable cassettes in order to minimize the amount of maintenance for the analyzer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of a container, made of an inorganic additive containing plastic material, for reducing physical/chemical interaction between the container and an oil, fat and/or wax containing formulation contained therein.

Abstract: A micro vial assembly for performing microwave-assisted chemical reactions on small reaction mixture volumes is disclosed, wherein a reaction vessel (10) is sealed through a diaphragm (30) that is capped over an open end of the reaction vessel. The reaction vessel mouths in an end plane of a sleeve (20) surrounding the reaction vessel, the diaphragm being clamped for sealing the open end of the vessel by means of a cap (40) which is secured to the sleeve. The sleeve provides a radial extension of the reaction vessel in order to bridge the radial distance between a wall of the reaction vessel and other components in a system for performing microwave-assisted chemical reactions.

Abstract: A specimen analyzing method and a specimen analyzing apparatus capable of measuring interference substances before analyzing a specimen. The method comprises a step for sucking the specimen stored in a specimen container (150) and sampling it in a first container (153), a step for optically measuring the specimen in the first container, a step for sampling the specimen in a second container (154) and preparing a specimen for measurement by mixing the specimen with a reagent in the second container, and a step for analyzing the specimen for measurement according to the results of the optical measurement of the specimen.

Abstract: A stirring container in which liquid is contained is used in an analyzer for measuring a property of the liquid. The stirring container includes a recessed portion in which the liquid is held so that a meniscus is formed; and a sound wave generating unit disposed outside of a wall portion forming the recessed portion, and generates surface sound waves for stirring the liquid. The wall portion is configured so that a rising of the meniscus is lower than a rising of the meniscus formed by the liquid held in an assumed container whose cross section in a direction orthogonal to a depth direction of the recessed portion is the same as that of a circumscribed rectangle. The circumscribed rectangle is circumscribed about a portion, made of a same material as a part of the wall portion where the meniscus is formed, where the meniscus is formed in the relevant direction.

Abstract: A test tube insert includes a flange having a width greater than a width of a mouth of a larger test tube into which the insert is to be inserted. The flange defines a first central opening. An annulus extends integrally downward from the flange. The annulus includes a fenestrated wall and a floor defining a second central opening. A small test tube body, smaller than the larger test tube, extends integrally downward from the floor of the annulus with the second central opening forming a mouth of the small test tube body. The test tube insert is disposed in the mouth of the larger test tube. Fluid is transferred through the central opening and the fluid fills the small test tube body of the test tube insert and flows through the fenestrated wall once the small test tube body is full into the larger test tube.

Abstract: A cup assembly for holding a sample to be analyzed spectrochemically, includes a tubular longitudinal member which is disposed symmetrical about a central axis. The tubular member extends longitudinally between a first end and a second end. An indented peripheral flange is defined at the second end. The indented flange has an inverted L shaped cross-section. An annular collar extends longitudinally between a first end and a second end. An internal peripheral flange is defined at the first end. The internal flange has an inverted L shaped cross-section complementing the indented flange of the tubular member. When a substantially thin film is interposed between the second end of the tubular member and the first end of the annular collar, the film is retained between the sample cell body and the collar between the indented flange and the internal flange. The cup may have a funnel shaped sample retaining chamber.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of loading reagent in a specimen handling device is disclosed, where the apparatus includes a deck with a plurality of positions defined thereon and each of the positions visually marked by a distinct one of a first set of icons. Each of a plurality of trays is removably securable to a selected one of the positions on the deck and includes the distinct one of the first set of icons visually marking the selected one of the positions. Reagent receptacles on each of the plurality of trays are visually marked by a distinct one of a second set of icons, and a kit is provided with a plurality of containers with selected reagents therein, each of the containers being visually marked by the distinct one of the second set of icons visually marking the receptacle into which that reagent is to be poured. The fluids including specimen samples and reagents are moved between tubes during processing without directly passing over tubes which the reagents could contaminate.

Abstract: A delivery apparatus for selectively delivering one or more liquid reagents into a reaction or test chamber (2), especially of an assay apparatus, the apparatus comprising: one or more respective storage chambers (5,6) for containing the one or more liquid reagents and arranged generally above the reaction or test chamber (2); and a plunger element (4) arranged and operable for insertion into the mouth of a selected storage chamber so as to displace a selected reagent from therewithin into the reaction or test chamber (2) generally therebelow by gravitational liquid overflow from the mouth of the chamber. The apparatus may conveniently be provided as a discrete delivery unit, with the storage chambers (5,6) prefilled with the selected reagents.

Abstract: A tissue culture microscope apparatus includes a culture unit that includes a chamber in which a specimen is put, and maintains the chamber at a predetermined temperature to culture the specimen; an observation unit that forms an observation image of the specimen put in the chamber; and a liquid supply unit that stores a liquid in a protrusion portion penetrating into a wall of the chamber and protruding to an inside of the chamber, matches a temperature of the liquid with the temperature of the chamber, and injects the liquid from the protrusion portion to the specimen.

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: Pressure equalizing device comprising a fluid container for attachment to a receptacle such as a vial to permit pressure equalization between the fluid container and the receptacle. The pressure equalizing device comprises a flow channel that is arranged to provide fluid communication into or out of the fluid container when the pressure equalizing device is attached to the receptacle. The pressure equalizing device also comprises a fluid inlet that contains a one-way valve that permits fluid to flow into the fluid container via said fluid inlet and that prevents fluid from flowing out of the fluid container via said fluid inlet and filter-receiving means that are arranged to permit fluid flowing into or out of the fluid container to be filtered when the filter-receiving means comprises a filter.

Abstract: The present invention provides new and useful features and mechanisms for the localization and transport of biopsy specimens. The invention having a specimen board, an absorbent material in operative engagement and in coplanar alignment with the specimen board, a compression sheet, radio opaque indicia located within the specimen board, and a flexible connection between the compression sheet and the specimen board, and an attachment device which provides for removable engagement of the specimen board and compression sheet. The apparatus further provides for a clear visualization window and operating instructions. The absorbent material is capable of adjustable movement between a first and second position, providing orthogonal positioning relative to the specimen board. As a result, the apparatus may be used to create three dimensional radiographic images allowing tissue analysis resulting in orthogonal views while maintaining original positional reference points.

Abstract: An apparatus for processing an analyte includes a first receptacle having a first aperture, the first aperture having a first configuration; and a second receptacle having a second aperture, the second aperture having a second configuration. The first configuration and the second configuration are complementary, such that the first and second apertures engage each other at a sealing surface, whereby analyte solution within the first receptacle passes into the second receptacle substantially without leaking at the engaged first and second apertures. A method for processing an analyte comprises engaging the first and second receptacles at the sealing surface; putting a first batch of analyte solution into the first receptacle, processing the analyte solution; transferring the processed analyte solution into the second receptacle, and disengaging the second receptacle from the first receptacle.

Abstract: An adaptor is provided to facilitate delivery of a fluid specimen from a syringe to a point-of-care testing cartridge. The adaptor includes a mounting sleeve for snapped engagement over a portion of the testing cartridge, including the entry port to the testing cartridge. The adaptor further includes a Luer fitting unitarily formed with the mounting sleeve. The Luer fitting has an inlet end configured for mating with the syringe and an outlet end configured for alignment with the entry port of the testing cartridge. The adaptor can be snapped onto the testing cartridge. The Luer tip of the syringe then can be mated with the Luer fitting of the adaptor for safe and convenient delivery of the specimen through the adaptor and into the testing cartridge.

Abstract: A sample lab for retaining a sample during spectrophorometric analysis includes a base plate, a sample well, and a cover plate. The sample tab may also include one, or more than one overflow opening for draining excess sample, and an overflow channel to retain the excess sample.

Abstract: A device for carrying out a test for the detection of particles in urine, especially for carrying out a test to determine the susceptibility of a test subject for kidney stones, whereby urine from the test subject is taken and collected and then the detection test is carried out, whereby the urine after a stand time is poured out of the test vessel, whereby the residue of test particles may be present in the test vessel is detected subsequently by the addition of a detection reagent, especially a dye reagent for optical detection, especially for a self test by a test subject, for example, at home. The device having a collecting vessel in which the urine is directly collected from the test subject and which also simultaneously forms the test vessel. The test vessel is column shaped and tapered toward its bottom and upwardly transitions into an overflow region.

Abstract: A method for hemoglobin determination is described which includes the steps of introducing a sample of undiluted whole blood by capillary action into a disposable microcuvette having at least one cavity for receiving the sample. The cavity includes a dry essentially non-hygroscopic hemolysing agent, which is dissolved by the blood, hemolyses the red blood cells and releases the haemoglobin contained in the blood cells. A first absorption measurement at a wavelength range 490-520 nm is then performed directly on the sample in the microcuvette, and a second absorption measurement is performed to compensate for background interference.

Abstract: An improved double handhold to prevent urine-test cheating. The device restrictively engages each of a subject's hands so that neither is free to insert a false specimen into a container. The container is housed in one of the two hollow, single-handhold units that assemble end-to-end to form the double handhold and enclose the container. Before separating the two units for access to the container, the subject grasps each handhold and does not let go until after voiding and reassembling the device. Each handhold unit has contact sensors to detect one hand's engagement. An assembly sensor on each unit detects its separation from the other unit. A signal on each unit indicates any breach of hand restriction that occurs while the units are separate. The subject, therefore, can not secretly use a hand to insert a false specimen. Previous handhold apparatus used a latch system to require hand engagement to separate and reassemble the units.

Abstract: The invention relates to a disinfection or sterilisation method. The material to be disinfected is introduced in a receptacle and the receptacle is sealed. Subsequently, the sealed receptacle is heated under a water vapour and/or radical pressure. The water vapour pressure and/or radical pressure is obtained during the heating by evaporating the water and the radicals absorbed and/or formed in a natural way at the surface of the material.

Abstract: An improved double handhold to prevent urine-test cheating. The device restrictively engages each of a subject's hands so that neither is free to insert a false specimen into a container. The container is housed in one of the two hollow, single-handhold units that assemble end-to-end to form the double handhold and enclose the container. Before separating the two units for access to the container, the subject grasps each handhold and does not let go until after voiding and reassembling the device. Each handhold unit has contact sensors to detect one hand's engagement. An assembly sensor on each unit detects its separation from the other unit. A signal on each unit indicates any breach of hand restriction that occurs while the units are separate. The subject, therefore, can not secretly use a hand to insert a false specimen.

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

Abstract: A sample carrier comprises a structural array and a plurality of sample nodes. Each of the plurality of sample nodes is removably attached to the structural array at a respective attachment point, and is operative to carry a discrete sample which may be biological, including proteins, polynucleotides, and DNA, or non-biological. Embodiments are disclosed wherein the sample carrier comprises a plurality of structural arrays, which may be supported in a predetermined spatial relationship relative to a respective sample container, such as a respective well of a multi-well plate. A system and method of transferring specimens to sample carriers include contacting the plurality of sample nodes to the specimen. Various alternatives are disclosed wherein the specimen is solid, gaseous, and liquid in form.

Abstract: A vial-based system and method for handling and processing specimens of particulate matter-containing liquid directly in the vial. A processing assembly, which includes a stirrer and a particulate matter separation chamber, is releasably coupled to the inside of the vial cover. The processing assembly remains with the cover when the vial is opened to insert a specimen therein. Application of a particular external force to the closed vial detaches the processing assembly from the cover so that it remains in the vial, for access by automated or manual laboratory equipment, when the cover is subsequently removed.

Abstract: Counting compartment having an inlet and an outlet, and including a bottom plate and a top plate which are held at a distance from each other by material particles which have the same size and are situated at a distance from one another. The particles are surrounded by and embedded in a solid connecting layer formed by an adhesive. The connecting layer extends all around and up to the free end of the outlet of the counting compartment. A fluent mixture of an adhesive mixed with electrostatically charged particles is used to form the counting compartment, the largest size of the material particles determining the depth of the counting compartment. The counting compartment is particularly suitable for counting cells in biological materials such as sperm and blood samples.

Abstract: A diagnostic system for diagnostic testing having a carrier including at least one well, and a specimen-handling tool disposed about at least a portion of the well.

Abstract: A container assembly provides for the collection, transporting, and dispensing of a fluid specimen. The container assembly includes a cup-shaped container having an open end for collecting the fluid specimen. A lid is attachable to the container to close the open end thereof. The lid includes a receptacle for providing communication with the collected fluid specimen through the cover and for permitting extraction of a sample therefrom. A self-sealing closure member is supported by the lid in the receptacle and seals the receptacle preventing fluid leakage. The extraction device may be used to extract a sample of the fluid specimen. The extraction device is insertable into the receptacle to permit such extraction. Upon removal of the extraction device, the self-sealing closure reseals the container and prevents fluid leakage into the receptacle.

Abstract: The invention describes a process for preparing a microtiter-microarray device that includes a bottomless microtiter plate attached to the first side of one or more substrates with microarrays of materials attached thereto. The microtiter plate and the one or more substrates are attached through one or more gaskets. Preferably, the microtiter plate is attached to one face of the one or more gaskets by an irreversible water-tight seal, and the first side of the one or more substrates is attached to the opposite face of the one or more gaskets by a reversible, water-tight seal.

Abstract: A collection and testing cup for fluid characterization is disclosed. The cup has a lid assembly with a tamper evident closure; a cylinder that extends into the fluid in the collection cup, also with a tamper evident closure; a piston with a conduit and one-way valve through which a portion of the fluid can be forced into an isolation chamber separate from the main collection cup for testing. The lid assembly cylinder is configured with an aperture or passage near the bottom of the cylinder to allow a small portion of fluid to enter the lower portion of the cylinder from the collection cup chamber and a piston with a central conduit and valve initially positioned near the top of the cylinder adjacent to the lid.

Abstract: A test device adapted to test a concentration of an analyte in a fluid has a pickup area having a first volume for receiving the fluid. In fluid communication with the pickup area is a read area having a second volume, which is less than the first volume. Since the second volume is less than the first volume, fluid from the pickup area will flow into the read area only after the pickup area is full. The read area also contains a reagent that is adapted to indicate the concentration of the analyte in the fluid.

Abstract: A method is provided for stabilizing a low-concentration standard reference gas. The stabilizing method includes the steps of treating an inner wall surface of a container with high-purity water for causing the inner wall surface to adsorb the high-purity water, and charging the container with the standard reference gas.

Abstract: A holding device for particulate material samples features a carrier block for a holding a capillary or a loop holder that has a free mounting end for a particular sample, whereby the carrier block includes at least one integral gas channel with an opening end that is directed at the mounting end of the holding capillary or a loop holder.

Abstract: A self-contained double handhold that is a complete device for preventing a subject's hands from putting a false specimen into a container. Previous hand-restricting apparatus was too cumbersome and unwieldy to be used. The present device is practical. It is about the size and shape of a tall water tumbler. The double handhold consists of two independently operable, hollow units, each of which restricts one hand. The units telescope part way together to secure the container inside and must be separated to allow access to it. Locking the units together requires only one latch, but the device uses two latches, each controlled by a different one of the two units. Thus, both hands must be engaged at the same time to open the two latches, separate the units, expose the container, and reassemble the two units. The container is housed in the lumen of one unit, which is held naturally in the hand. When the units are separated, access to the container is almost as direct and convenient as with a free container.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cuvette (4) used for spectrophotometrical analyses, in which electromagnetic energy is passed through a liquid sample (8) contained therein. The object of the invention is to make the passage of the electromagnetic energy through the cuvette (4) and the liquid sample (8) independent of the material of the cuvette (4). This is done by providing the cuvette (4) with openings (14, 16; 22, 24) aligned to permit the electromagnetic energy to pass therethrough. The opening (14; 22, 24) in the or each side (12; 18, 20) making contact with the liquid sample (8) contained in the cuvette (4) is adapted to keep the liquid sample (8) within the cuvette (4) by means of its surface tension.

Abstract: The device includes a housing having a main body including an analysis chamber with at least one chemical reagent composition contained therein and a vessel portion for receiving and capturing a fluid specimen taken from a beverage. The device is structured to transfer the captured fluid specimen from the vessel portion to the analysis chamber wherein the chemical reagent composition, when exposed to the fluid specimen, performs a visible presumptive color assay to determine whether undesirable substances, such as fulnitrazepam, sodium gamma hydroxybutyric acid or caffeine, are contained in the beverage. One or more windows are provided on the housing for viewing the results of the visible presumptive color assay. The fluid specimen and one or more chemical reagent compositions remain contained within the analysis chamber to prevent contamination of the beverage as well as tampering with the captured fluid specimen.

Abstract: The present invention describes a multiple sample container for use in a method and apparatus for detecting microorganisms in a culture container. The container includes a block having a plurality of through holes for dividing the sample into a plurality of partial samples. Each partial sample has its own head space and its own sensor. The spacial array of partial samples is read out by a CCD camera and split into partial sample to generate a spacial array that results in a substantial reduction in the time to detection.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device and a method of use for that device for the automated preparation of nucleic acid from a biological sample. The device relates to a cassette in which all chemical manipulations occur, which includes a storage/transfer strip where the prepared nucleic acid is deposited and stored without contamination. Moreover, the waste of the preparation protocol is contained in the cassette, which, upon the separation of the filled storage/transfer strip is completely sealed off from the environment. In a preferred embodiment, the inventive device can prepare nucleic acid preparations from up to 24 different biological samples at a time.