Abstract: A system and method high throughput sample preparation and analysis using column chromatography. Each port in a plurality of ports has a port input that interfaces with a first fluid source and a port output. A fluidic circuit is coupled to each port output and to a second fluid source, the fluidic circuit for controlling fluid flow from the plurality of ports and the second fluid source. The fluidic circuit is also coupled to a plurality of chromatography columns. An interface to an analyzer receives output from at least one of the plurality of chromatography columns. The plurality of chromatography columns is moved relative to the analyzer via a translation stage, such that sample output from one of the plurality of chromatography columns can be selectively presented to the analyzer.

Abstract: A method for treating objects, in particular cytological or histological specimens, for example in an automatic stainer, the objects being delivered, preferably on object carriers and in object carrier magazines, by means of a transport device to various processing stations, inserted therein, and treated in accordance with a definable treatment program, and the transport device being capable, during the treatment, of moving further objects or object carriers to other processing stations so that a parallel processing or treatment is possible in various processing stations, is characterized by an optimized automatic program sequence according to which identically operating processing stations are defined as backup stations and are correspondingly occupied if a concretely required processing station is occupied.

Abstract: An analytical method and apparatus using principal component analysis of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data for rapid molecular structure/function pattern recognition. The presence of a molecular substructure in an organic compound is determined by comparing principal components calculated from chemical shift values of the substructure in selected compounds with those calculated from the chemical shift values of the organic compound. Alternatively, principal components are calculated from the intensities of NMR signals for a full spectrum, or selected regions thereof, to determine whether an organic compound belongs to or is excluded from a set of structurally related compounds. Also, the presence of a pharmacophore in an organic compound can be determined by comparing the principal components derived from data on a set of compounds known to bind to a particular receptor, or have a common biological effect, with the principal components of the data set of the organic compound.

Abstract: The instant invention involves the use of a combination of preparatory steps in conjunction with mass spectroscopy and time-of-flight detection procedures to maximize the diversity of biopolymers which are verifiable within a particular sample. The cohort of biopolymers verified within such a sample is then viewed with reference to their ability to evidence at least particular disease state; thereby enabling a diagnostician to gain the ability to characterize either the presence or absence of at least one disease state relative to recognition of the presence and/or the absence of the biopolymer.

Abstract: In order to reduce carry-over of sample liquids in an automatic analyzer by a pipeting probe and resulting contamination of sample liquids by immersing the pipeting probe into sample liquids as shallow as possible, said pipeting probe is moving down to a position which is calculated and determined according to the detected height of a container temporarily stopping said probe there, and further moving down said probe to immerse said probe into the liquid in said container.

Abstract: A method for dispensing droplets of a liquid to a microsystem in the form of a disc comprising a target area (TA0I) in its surface, said disc preferably being a microfluidic disc comprising a microchannel structure with an inlet port that is a target area (TA0I). The method is characterized by comprising the steps of: i) providing (1) said disc which has a triggering mark, and (2) a dispenser arrangement comprising: a) a spinner for rotating the disc around its axis, b) a drop dispenser permitting dispensation of droplets to inlet port I, c) a fixed trigger position outside the disc, and d) a controller which is capable of triggering the dispensation of a droplet into (TA0I) as a function of the triggering mark passing the trigger position, ii) placing the disc in the spinner and programming the controller with values for dispensing parameters that will give dispensation of the droplets to TA0I, iii) dispensing the droplets. The invention also comprises the dispenser arrangement as such.

Abstract: A sample solution treating instrument is provided for facilitating rapid and simplified adjustment of the condition of a sample solution proper for analysis with a biosensor before supplying the solution to the biosensor. The sample solution treating instrument includes, for example, a catalyst or an adsorbent which can remove any interfering substance in order to adjust the sample solution for measurement with a biosensor.

Abstract: A method and control system computing platform for a dialysis machine that uses Symmetric Multi-Processing (SMP) architecture. The SMP architecture tightly couples multiple (e.g., 2) independent processors by sharing memory between the processors. A single shared memory is used by both processors in order to facilitate communication between the processors and reduce cost by eliminating the expense of redundant memory. In this way, the two, or in general “N” processors, increase processor throughput by allowing the execution of N processes in parallel while without requiring extra memory and without having a single point of failure in the computer. In the event of a bus failure on the circuit card, the computer is reset using distributed hardware watchdogs. The watchdog reset signal is also sent to the hardware components of the dialysis machine in order to place the system in a safe.

Abstract: An automatic analysis apparatus containing a plurality of measurement channels used to measure reaction occurred in a reaction container into which both a reagent and a sample are entered, is arranged by employing: a data processing unit for producing calibration information, first quality control information, and second quality control information; the calibration information every measurement channel being produced based upon calibration data obtained by measuring a calibration sample, the first quality control information related to a quality for each of the measurement channels being produced based upon measurement data acquired by measuring a quality controlling sample by the respective measurement channels, and also the second quality control information related to an entire quality of the plural measurement channels being produced based upon the measurement data; and a display unit for simultaneously displaying the calibration information, the first quality control information, and the second quality c

Abstract: A method and system for automated immunochemistry or chemistry analysis are provided. The method and system provide a sample aliquoting section, a reagent pipetting section having a plurality of independent reagent pipetting stations, each operating on a cycle of a first period of time, and an incubate and wash and read section operating on a cycle of a second period of time to match the throughput of the system, where the quotient of the first period of time divided by the second period of time is a whole number, and the number of the independent reagent pipetting stations being equal to the whole number. The respective cycles of the independent reagent pipetting stations are staggered apart by the second time period, such that at least one of the multiple independent pipetting stations is available for working with the incubate and wash and read section at each operating cycle of the second period of time.

Abstract: A system and method high throughput sample preparation and analysis using column chromatography. Each port in a plurality of ports has a port input that interfaces with a first fluid source and a port output. A fluidic circuit is coupled to each port output and to a second fluid source, the fluidic circuit for controlling fluid flow from the plurality of ports and the second fluid source. The fluidic circuit is also coupled to a plurality of chromatography columns. An interface to an analyzer receives output from at least one of the plurality of chromatography columns. The plurality of chromatography columns is moved relative to the analyzer via a translation stage, such that sample output from one of the plurality of chromatography columns can be selectively presented to the analyzer.

Abstract: An automated immunoassay analyzer, or assay system, provides for frequent testing of control samples to verify that before and after a series of tests of patients' samples, the operation of the test equipment is accurate, thereby ensuring that the results of the series of patient tests are accurate. Operating the immunoassay analyzer in this manner will delay reporting clinical test results until the results are confirmed as accurate. This operation can be performed automatically by a random access immunoassay analyzer.

Abstract: In a first exemplary embodiment, the present invention relates to an apparatus for performing an assay comprising a micro-system platform, a CD-ROM device and an information processor, where the CD-ROM device under control of the information processor is capable of reading and writing data to the micro-system platform. The micro-system platform comprises a first section for storing data in a continuous circular data band, which is disposed in an inner portion of the micro-system platform, and a second section including at least one assay, which is formed in an outer portion of the micro-system platform. During operation, the CD-ROM device retrieves and stores data related to the performance of the assay in the circular data band. The information processor is operative for controlling the CD-ROM device in accordance with the data retrieved from the circular data band, and for analyzing the results of the assay.

Abstract: Devices and methods for controlling and monitoring the progress and properties of multiple reactions are disclosed. The method and apparatus are especially useful for synthesizing, screening, and characterizing combinatorial libraries, but also offer significant advantages over conventional experimental reactors as well. The apparatus generally includes multiple vessels for containing reaction mixtures, and systems for controlling the stirring rate and temperature of individual reaction mixtures or groups of reaction mixtures. In addition, the apparatus may include provisions for independently controlling pressure in each vessel, and a system for injecting liquids into the vessels at a pressure different than ambient pressure. In situ monitoring of individual reaction mixtures provides feedback for process controllers, and also provides data for determining reaction rates, product yields, and various properties of the reaction products, including viscosity and molecular weight.

Abstract: A single-use cartridge C contains a dose of a concentrated decontaminant for providing a decontaminant solution upon mixing with water. The cartridge is inserted into the well (16) of a decontamination system (A). Fresh water and then the decontaminant solution are recirculated through the well during a decontamination cycle. The cartridge includes a porous region (42), through which the decontaminant solution flows. Impregnated in the porous region is a chemical indicator (44), such as crystal violet, which gradually changes color on exposure to the decontaminant. The indicator provides a semi-quantitative indication of the integrated level of the decontaminant in the solution over time for determining whether an acceptable level of the decontaminant was present for decontamination. A preferred embodiment of the cartridge C includes nested inner and outer water-penetrable cups (50,150,70,170) for holding first and second reagents. The two cups are sealed together adjacent upper open ends (56,92,156,192).

Abstract: Cyanide-free reagents for the determination of hemoglobin and leukocytes present in a blood sample comprise an aqueous solutions of at least one quaternary ammonium salt, preferably selected from the group of alkyltrimethylammonium salts, alkyldimethylbenzylammonium salts or alkylpyridium salts consisting of tetradecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (TTAB), dodecyltrimethyl ammonium chloride, cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide, hexadecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide and benzalkonium chlorides, and hydroxylamine salts, especially hydrochloride, sulfate and phosphates and other acid salts. The method involves mixing the reagent with a diluent-diluted blood sample, presenting it to an absorbance spectrophotometer and measuring the resulting optical density as an indicator of hemoglobin concentration. This cyanide-free reagent could be used solely for hemoglobin determinations, or, it can also be used in leukocyte counting and sizing using hematology instrumentation.

Abstract: Computer programs and computer-implemented methods are disclosed for extracting and analyzing combinatorial chemical data from images. The invention receives a stream of data, identifies a plurality of regions of interest and determines a series of values for one or more regions of interest. The library includes a plurality of members. The data stream includes a series of images of the library. Each region of interest corresponds to a location in each of the images and to a location in the library. The series of values for each region includes a value for each of the images. Particular embodiments have the following features. The invention calculates a figure of merit for a library member from each series of values. The stream of data comprises a series of images generated at a frequency of greater than about 1, 6, 12 or 30 frames per second. The series of images is captured from a beginning of a combinatorial experiment to an end of a commercial experiment.

Abstract: A pH measurement system automatically measures the pH of samples in purge and trap sample concentrators, autosamplers or other sample delivery devices. The pH measurement system includes a pH sensor that is positioned in a pH sample reservoir. The pH sample reservoir may be automatically filled with sample from a sparge vessel, calibrated using liquid having known pH, or rinsed. A controller enables and disables the valves and pump to transmit the liquid to the pH sample reservoir.

Abstract: Computer programs and computer-implemented methods for monitoring the progress and properties of parallel chemical reactions. The invention repeatedly receives a measured value or values associated with the contents of each of a plurality of reactor vessels and displays the measured over the course of a combinatorial chemical reaction. Reaction parameters associated with individual reactor vessels are changed in response to the value measured during the reaction. Reaction parameters include temperature, pressure, stirring speed. The reaction occurring in one or more reactor vessels is quenched in response to values measured during the reaction. The measured values are used to calculate experimental results including temperature change, pressure change, percent conversion of starting material, and viscosity. The measured values and experimental results are displayed. In another aspect, the invention features a method for controlling a combinatorial chemical reactor.

Abstract: A multi-analyzer system where at least two automatic clinical analyzers are linked together by a bi-directional sample rack shuttle, both analyzers initially capable of performing a slightly different menu of assays. The bi-directional incoming and outgoing sample rack transport system of a first one of the two analyzers is automatically converted into a one-way incoming sample rack transport system adapted and the incoming sample tube transport system of a second of the two analyzers is automatically converted into a one-way outgoing transport system adapted to dispose of all sample racks having sample tubes with samples finally tested by either analyzer. In the event that one of the two analyzers experiences an operating failure, the analyzer system may automatically revert to a single analyzer system employing only the operational analyzer.

Abstract: A method for measuring the amount of fluid contained in a reaction vessel in a clinical analyzer includes the steps of adding a first aliquot of fluid to the reaction vessel and measuring the quantity of fluid contained therein. A second aliquot of fluid is then added to the reaction vessel and the quantity of fluid contained therein is also measured. Measurement of the two fluid quantities can occur with or without removal of the first aliquot in between measurements. In obtaining the two quantity measurements and comparing them against a standard, the effects of well geometry can be minimized. Preferably, a delta or ratio measurement is obtained between the first and second liquid volume measurements which can be compared against a standard so as to normalize apparent volume losses or gains due to reaction well dimensional variation. This approach enhances the analytical capability to detect true fluid delivery errors.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the orientation of a gas analyzer. Because condensation can build-up in a filter of the gas analyzer, it needs to be purged from the analyzer so that accurate readings can be made. By having a orientation device built-in, the analyzer can be purged at the desired orientation so that, as much water, can be purged, as possible, to the designated outlet.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for identifying a test compound that binds to a target species. The method includes: incubating at least one test mixture under isothermal denaturing conditions, each test mixture comprising at least one test compound, and at least one target species, wherein the isothermal denaturing conditions are effective to cause at least a portion of the target species to denature to a measurable extent; detecting a denaturation signal of each target species in the presence of the at least one test compound by a change in the diffusion properties of the target molecule using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy; and comparing the denaturation signal of each target species in the presence of at least one test compound with a denaturation signal of the same target species in the absence of the at least one test compound under the same isothermal denaturing conditions.

Abstract: A method for determining the quantity of phenol extracted into an aqueous solution of an alkali metal hydroxide uses a measurement of the pH of the solution, from which the equivalents of phenol relative to alkali metal hydroxide in solution is determined. A method for optimizing the use of an aqueous solution of an alkali metal hydroxide in a phenol recovery process uses pH measured to regulate the feed rate of the aqueous solution.

Abstract: The invention relates to a state-variable feedback control system for monitoring and optimally controlling the operation of a microfluidic aspirate dispense-system. A steady state operating pressure is determined from the fluid, flow and/or operational characteristics of the system. Measurements from one or more pressure sensors are part of the control strategy to derive information for active feedback control and/or to achieve the desired operating pressure. Advantageously, the control system adds to the versatility of the aspirate-dispense system, for example, by permitting rapid dispensing of drops of different size. The control system also desirably facilitates efficient, repeatable and accurate performance and reduces wastage of valuable reagents or fluid.

Abstract: The present invention quickly resolves troubles in an analyzer and performs effective external quality control management. An analyzer (2) and a control device (1) are connected by a network (3). Error data and sample data taken from assay of a quality control substance are transmitted from the control device (1) to the analyzer (2). The analyzer (2) is made to be remotely operable from the control device (1) and when troubles arise repair from the control device (1) is possible. The control device (1) tallies sample data, and provides the tally results to a Web page. The analyzer (2) accesses the Web page using a WWW browser, and can perform external quality control in real time.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for automatically staining or treating multiple tissue samples mounted on microscope slides are provided. Individualized slide temperature control is accomplished by the heating system according to the present invention that has thermal platforms radially mounted to the carousel for heating the slides and sensing the temperature of each. The heating system also permits automated de-waxing if necessary.

Abstract: A method for handling specific sample solutions for calibration and quality control by an automatic analytical apparatus in which a sample rack to hold calibrator bottles for required analysis items is set on a rack supply unit by an operator. Identification information of all calibrator bottles on the rack is read out, and data on corresponding calibrator samples are also stored. The operator enters analysis items to be measured, and a measuring channel to be used for calibration. Comparison is made between the planned number of requested calibrations and the number of permissible services to determine whether or not calibrator solution is sufficient. If it is determined to be insufficient, the required number of bottles are displayed according to the difference between the number of permissible services and the number of requests, thereby allowing the operator to add the required number of calibrator bottles.

Abstract: The embodiments disclosed relate to determination of an item of interest in a sample. One embodiment relates to a structure which comprises a process path. The process path comprises a process lane including a process step performance lane where a process step is performed, and a process step avoidance lane where the process step is avoided. A first prime mover is operatively connected with the process path for moving a container holding the sample along the process path. A first pipetting system is operatively associated with the process path for introducing the sample to the container. A second pipetting system is operatively associated with the process path for introducing a reagent to the container. A device is operatively connected with the process path and is selectively engagable with the container for mixing the sample and the reagent in the container.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for monitoring the presence of an analyte in a closed vial wherein a sample contained within the closed vial is conveyed to an analyzer. The analyzer determines a value of a spectral property dependent on analyte concentration at a position within a headspace formed above the sample within the vial. An indicator is used to compare the measured value of the spectral property with a predetermined limit criteria to determine the presence or absence of the analyte. Vials wherein the presence of the analyte is detected are indicated as product vials whereas vials wherein the absence of the analyte is detected are indicated as rejected vials. The rejected vials are conveyed by a transferrer to a rejected vial station. A first portion of the product vials are conveyed by a sampler to a sample collection station. A second portion of the product vials are conveyed to a labeler.

Abstract: A sample archive method and system implement a plurality of sample carriers configured to support a plurality of sample nodes in a predetermined spatial relationship, sample storage devices for selectively placing the plurality of sample carriers in an archive, and sample node removal apparatus for locating and removing selected ones of the plurality of sample nodes. Alternative embodiments are disclosed wherein the sample node removal apparatus comprises a laser and a mechanical clipping tool, which may be manually operated or automated. An optical component may be operative to detect the location of selected sample carriers in the archive, selected ones of the plurality of sample nodes, or both. A positioning component may position the sample node removal apparatus responsive to signals transmitted by the optical component. Various apparatus and methods of archiving samples and preparing the same for analysis are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for preparing a profiling sample is provided. The system comprises a profiling sample, a plurality of vessels, a plate defining a plurality of receptacles corresponding to, and configured to receive, the plurality of vessels, a dispensing unit for dispensing the profiling sample, and a weighing device. The plurality of receptacles are arranged according to a coordinate system. The dispensing unit has a robotic device in communication therewith, wherein the robotic device is configured to operably engage the plate so as to dispense a portion of the profiling sample into a selected vessel. The weighing device has a robotic device in communication therewith, wherein the robotic device is capable of operably engaging the selected vessel, removing the vessel from the corresponding receptacle and into operable engagement with the weighing device to perform a tare measurement of the vessel, and then replacing the vessel in the corresponding receptacle.

Abstract: A clinical analyzer where incoming samples are partitioned into groups in accord with the length of time required for the assay to be completed or in accord with the pattern of reagent addition(s) taken with length of time required for the assay to be completed. Medium length time assays are completed, removed from a reaction carousel and replaced by shorter length time assays during a single operational cycle in which longer length assays are also completed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for handling flowing liquids for analytical purposes such as for introduction of liquid samples in atomic spectroscopy and carrying out a continuous flow digestion process at high temperture and pressure. The appaartus comprises a high-pressure pump for conveying a liquid from a reservoir into a tube having an elongate cavity connected to the high-pressure pump outlet. A heating device is arranged so as to heat the liquid in the cavity to a predetermined temperature and a restrictor is arranged downstream of the cavity at the opposite end of the tube. The restrictor is dimensioned relative to the conveying capacity of the high-pressure pump so that liquid in the cavity is maintained at a pressure which is higher than the saturated vapor pressure of the liquid at the predetermined temperture such that no vapor forms within the cavity.

Abstract: One method and apparatus for analyzing clotting characteristics of a blood sample includes the use of a non-linear equation having coefficients capable of being related to the underlying clotting processes. The non-linear equation is curve fit to a waveform of a clotting sample to provide values for the coefficients of the non-linear function. Once the coefficients are obtained, an inference engine may be used to evaluate the non-linear relationship between the coefficients and factor concentrations within the blood sample. Advantageously, the waveform of the actual sample may be detrended to extract a residual oscillatory component to aid in the determination of initial coefficients for simplifying the curve fit operation. The non-linear equation may additionally be used for providing simulated clotting waveforms for testing clot analysis instruments. A residual oscillatory component may advantageously be extracted from the clotting signal.

Abstract: A luminescence detecting apparatus and method for analyzing luminescent samples is disclosed. Luminescent samples are placed in a plurality of sample wells in a tray, and the tray is placed in a visible-light impervious chamber containing a charge coupled device camera. The samples may be injected in the wells, and the samples may be injected with buffers and reagents, by an injector. In the chamber, light from the luminescent samples pass through a collimator, a Fresnel field lens, a filter, and a camera lens, whereupon a focused image is created by the optics on the charge-coupled device (CCD) camera. The use of a Fresnel field lens, in combination with a collimator and filter, reduces crosstalk between samples below the level attainable by the prior art. Preferred embodiments of the luminescence detecting apparatus and method disclosed include central processing control of all operations, multiple wavelength filter wheel, and robot handling of samples and reagents.

Abstract: A method of and system for object-oriented real-time mechanical control of automated immunochemistry instruments. The mechanical control method and system has an object-oriented attribute which incorporates and implements one or more of the following characteristics: encapsulation of functionality, information hiding, abstraction, concept of nouns and/or verbs or properties and/or methods, inheritance, specialization, and generalization. The mechanical control method and system has a real-time attribute which satisfies the requirement that certain actions of one or more units of the automated immunochemistry instrument must occur at a specific time in order for the instrument to function correctly, wherein the control system responds to inputs and other stimuli and causes various units of the instrument to respond appropriately in a timely manner.

Abstract: An analytical apparatus to monitor fluid systems has at least one extraction module having a raw-sample reservoir connected by input fluid conduit to individual ones of said fluid systems, to extract raw samples for analysis from said fluid systems, one or more modification modules comprising additive materials to modify the extracted raw samples prior to analysis, an analytical device to receive at least a portion of said raw samples in an ordered sequence, and to determine concentration of at least one constituent of said sample portion, fluid-handling apparatus for transferring fluid through the analytical apparatus, and a computerized control and management system to manage operations of component modules and devices, and to report analytical results.

Abstract: An analyzer for performing automated assay testing. The analyzer includes a storage and conveyor system for conveying cuvettes to an incubation or processing conveyor, a storage and selection system for test sample containers, a storage and selection system for reagent containers, sample and reagent aspirating and dispensing probes, a separation system for separating bound from unbound tracer or labeled reagent, a detection system and date collection/processing system. All of the subunits of the machine are controlled by a central processing unit to coordinate the activity of all of the subunits of the analyzer. The analyzer is specifically suited for performing heterogeneous binding assay protocols, particularly immunoassays.

Abstract: Rapid characterization and screening of polymer samples to determine average molecular weight, molecular weight distribution and other properties is disclosed. Rapid flow characterization systems and methods, including liquid chromatography and flow-injection analysis systems and methods are preferably employed. High throughput, automated sampling systems and methods, high-temperature characterization systems and methods, and rapid, indirect calibration compositions and methods are also disclosed. The described methods, systems, and devices have primary applications in combinatorial polymer research and in industrial process control.

Abstract: The invention provides devices for preparing a reaction substrate for use as an assay device, and methods of using these devices. The devices prepare reaction substrates comprising arrays of biosites bound to reaction substrates. The devices have a plurality of bundled capillary tubes that convey capture probes from a storage area for eventual deposition onto a biosite on a reaction substrate.

Abstract: A test method and apparatus for determining the content of carboxylic acid-based corrosion inhibitors in a coolant or heat exchange fluid. The amount of acidic reagent added to the coolant or fluid between two pH equilibrium points is measured to determine the amount of inhibitors. The refractive index can be measured to determine the amount of freezing point depressant.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically analyzing a trace substance capable of automatic analysis of a trace substance in a short time with high accuracy is provided. This apparatus comprises (a) samplers for making samples each containing a desired substance at different sampling points, (b) concentrators for concentrating the substance contained in the samples to thereby produce concentrated samples, (c) a quantitative analyzer for analyzing quantitatively the substance contained in the concentrated samples, and (d) a controller for controlling the samplers, the concentrators and the analyzer to cause automatically operations of the samplers, the concentrators, and the analyzer repeatedly at specific intervals of time. Each of the concentrators receives alternatively the samples from at least two of the samplers. The analyzer receives alternatively the concentrated samples from the concentrators.

Abstract: Whether or not there remains a frameless chemical analysis film in a cartridge in which a plurality of the frameless chemical analysis films are stacked is judged by a film presence detector disposed in a second position different from a position where a film takeout mechanism takes out the frameless chemical analysis films from the cartridge so that the film presence detector does not interfere with the film takeout mechanism.

Abstract: Method and compositions are provided for the determination of telomere length and telomerase activity, as well as the ability to inhibit telomerase activity in the treatment of proliferative diseases. Particularly, primers are elongated under conditions which minimize interference from other genomic sequences, so as to obtain accurate determinations of telomeric length or telomerase activity. In addition, compositions are provided for intracellular inhibition of telomerase activity and means are shown for slowing the loss of telomeric repeats in aging cells.

Abstract: A system and method for positioning a sample, or cargo, with respect to a device in a robotic system is provided. The system includes a macro positioning system for “gross” movement of the sample between stations and a micro positioning system for precisely locating the sample in a predetermined location at a station with respect to a device that will interact with the sample. The macro positioning system provides a positioning mechanism for the general movement of a sample along a pathway between various destinations or stations wherein the sample is “grossly” positioned with respect to the station. Once at the station, the micro positioning subsystem disposed between a sample carrier and the station provides a positioning mechanism for “precisely” positioning the sample in a predetermined location at the station with respect to a device that will interact with, or perform some function on, the sample.

Abstract: A pipetting station having a bottom sensing device is provided in conjunction with one of any known liquid level sensing devices. The bottom sensing device includes a pipetting probe spring mounted to a pipetting arm of the pipetting station. The bottom sensing device also includes a sensor for determining when a pipetting tip of the pipetting probe is in contact with a bottom of a tube. The bottom sensing device permits the pipetting probe to measure an exact volume of fluid in the tube by allowing the pipetting tip to be lowered to the bottom of the tube beyond the sensed fluid level.

Abstract: For use in a sorption analysis system, a method compensating for measuring error due to the time-dependent evaporation of liquid coolant and the resulting change in the level of the coolant and temperature increase around the stem of the sample cell, during a gas sorption analysis of a sample in the sample cell. This error compensation does not inhibit coolant evaporation and is without recourse to mechanical means or other physical contrivances for causing the system to act as if the coolant were not evaporating. This method employs fixed and time-dependent data, including: changing coolant level and sample cell stem temperature changes, both of which can be obtained off-line, cold zone volume changes, and volumes of adsorptive gas transferred into the sample cell, to generate progressive error correction; whereby, system output is being corrected throughout the duration of the sorption analysis.

Abstract: In a biochemical analysis apparatus a frameless dry chemical analysis film having a reagent layer formed on a support sheet is taken out from a cartridge storing therein a plurality of the frameless chemical analysis films, applied with a sample liquid, inserted into an incubator and taken out from the incubator and at least a part of these steps and film transferring steps between these steps is effected with the film held by a suction pad. A change of pressure in the suction pad when it attracts the film under a suction force is measured and the attracting state of the suction pad is judged on the basis of the result of the measurement. The part of the steps which is effected with the film held by the suction pad is controlled on the basis of the judgment.

Abstract: Automated measurement apparatus and methods for automated drug screening procedures are provided. The apparatus is capable of initiating and measuring rapid or transient events, such as cell receptor and/or ion channel activity. In particular, the apparatus is capable of aligning with predetermined positions, one or more samples contained in a multi-well container, initiating the reaction with reagent addition and measuring a resultant attribute for a period of time. The apparatus can substantially continuously measure and record data corresponding to the measured attribute before, during and after initiation of the reaction so that a time course of the rapid or transient event may be determined. After the reaction(s) are complete in one or more wells of the multi-well container, the apparatus can align one or more different wells to be assayed with the predetermined position and repeat the cycle until a predetermined number of wells are assayed.