Abstract: The present invention uses a wireless memory/communication device at least on the one or more sample storage devices, preferably on both the one or more sample storage devices and the sampling holder, optionally the port on the equipment as well. Data such as that relating to the vessel, the location of the port on the vessel, the device, its manufacture date or lot number, the date of the installation, sterilization and/or taking of a sample along with the person who installed the device and/or took the sample can be read and preferably added to the wireless device when a read/write type of device as these events occur through a scanner/reader/writer device (fixed or hand held). The sample storage device in the laboratory can also then be read and recorded to track the sample storage device's life.

Abstract: The present technology relates generally to systems for processing dried blood spots (DBS) using laser cutting approaches to provide for rapid, contamination-free processing and methods of using same.

Abstract: A apparatus for microfluid detection for detecting a sample fluid including a plurality of magnetic particles is provided. The apparatus for microfluid detection includes a microfluidic chip and a magnetic generating module. The microfluidic chip includes a substrate and microfluidic channels, wherein the sample fluid is carried by a carry surface of the substrate. The magnetic generating module is adapted for providing a positioning magnetic field and a surrounding magnetic field. The magnetic module controls to move the sample fluid and change a distribution of the magnetic particles in the sample fluid through the positioning magnetic field and the surrounding magnetic field.

Abstract: A loading apparatus for loading a printed circuit board (PCB) stack including one or more PCB layers and transferring the PCB stack to an inspection probe includes a movable support unit, a guide unit and a cover. The guide unit is provided on the support unit and defines a depression portion in which the PCB stack is mounted. The cover is configured to cover the depression portion of the guide unit when closed, where the cover has multiple protrusions extending from a lower surface, which press the PCB stack into the depression portion when the cover is closed.

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: The invention relates to an apparatus for treating histological samples, in particular for detaching and/or isolating a histological sample that, in particular after an infiltration operation, is adhering to another sample and/or to the inside of a cassette (1), having a sample receiving chamber (2) which is embodied and intended to be filled at least partly with a liquid (3), in particular with liquid paraffin. The apparatus according to the present invention is characterized in that a displacement means (5) is provided that is introducible into the liquid (3), in particular under open- and/or closed-loop control, in order to elevate the fill level height (6) of the liquid (3), and/or that a displacement means (5) is provided whose volume is increasable, in particular under open- and/or closed-loop control, in order to elevate the fill level height.

Abstract: A tube for extracting, diluting and discharging a sample: able to control the amount of discharged diluted solution in the tube, after the sample has been diluted; that improves the hygienic conditions of discharging the sample; that enables introduction of a predetermined amount of a sample in any liquid or solid state; and that is able to transfer a specific amount of a diluted sample into another tube for further processing without any hygienic problems and with no risk of accidents.

Abstract: A portable soil testing apparatus and method including a device to mix a soil sample in a cup with water to create a slurry, immersing a sensor in the slurry to detect a soil property and recording the soil property along with location information. The soil testing apparatus includes a frame, a computer secured within the frame, the computer operatively connected to a touch screen display and a pump. The pump providing water from a tank and into a cup containing a soil sample. A stirring station including a stirring rod and a motor is controlled by the computer and mixes the soil sample and water to create a slurry. A sensor is then immersed in the slurry to detect a desired soil property. The soil property data is then recorded by the computer on a storage medium, transmitted to a user or displayed.

Abstract: A gas processing device such as an aerosol exposure monitor is configured for acquiring chronic data, acute data, or both simultaneously, and may include a pump and a noise dampening device. The noise dampening device may include an elastomeric membrane between an inlet chamber and an outlet chamber. In another aspect, an aerosol exposure monitor may include an impactor, a collection filter, and a nephelometer that includes a sample chamber integrated with an aerosol flow path associated with the impactor and collection filter.

Abstract: A shipping container interrogation apparatus and method that utilizes the tubular frame members of the container to deliver input air to the interior of the container, and to receive sample air from the interior of the container. A detection apparatus may be used to detect an unauthorized material in the sample air that is received from the interior of the container. Sample air from the detection apparatus may be recycled back into the container by use of a tubular frame member of the container. Input air may be delivered to the interior of the container with turbulence and in any desired direction or pattern for better interrogation of the interior of the container.

Abstract: An injection needle cartridge for a sample injector for injecting a sample fluid into a mobile phase in a fluidic path of a fluid separation system between a mobile phase drive and a separation unit, the injection needle cartridge comprising an injection needle configured for aspirating the sample fluid from a fluid container when the injection needle has been moved to the fluid container, and for injecting aspirated sample fluid into the fluidic path when the injection needle is sealingly accommodated in a needle seat, and a sealing force generator configured for applying a sealing force to the injection needle for sealingly accommodating the injection needle in the needle seat, wherein the injection needle cartridge is configured for being substitutably mountable on a handling robot of the sample injector for handling the injection needle cartridge between the fluid container and the needle seat.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are provided for transporting fluid to a sample such as a sheet of material. The apparatuses and methods may employ a variety of interfaces that facilitate controlled fluid transportation from a lumen for absorption by the sample.

Abstract: A probe for use in determining the amount of a first gas component in a combustion gas containing the first gas component and a second gas component which is obtainable from the first gas component by reduction or oxidation, the probe comprising: a first component probe for taking a first sample of the gas and converting the first gas component present in the first sample to the second gas component, the first component probe including a first passage for conveying the first sample, the wall of the first passage in contact with the first sample being made of a material that converts the first gas component to the second gas component; and a second component probe for taking a second sample of the gas, the second component probe including a second passage for conveying the second sample.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring a temperature of a material includes a body unit disposed on an exit side of a heating furnace; a temperature measuring unit installed on the body unit and constructed to measure a temperature of a material which is extracted from the heating furnace; a foreign substance removing unit installed on the body unit and constructed to inject a fluid toward the material so as to remove foreign substances adhered to the material; and a moving unit installed on the body unit and constructed to move the temperature measuring unit.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for treating histological samples, in particular for detaching and/or isolating a histological sample that, in particular after an infiltration operation, is adhering to another sample and/or to the inside of a cassette (1), having a sample receiving chamber (2) which is embodied and intended to be filled at least partly with a liquid (3), in particular with liquid paraffin. The apparatus according to the present invention is characterized in that an apparatus is provided that is introducible into the liquid (3), in particular under open- and/or closed-loop control, in order to elevate the fill level height (6) of the liquid (3), and/or that an apparatus is provided whose volume is increasable, in particular under open- and/or closed-loop control, in order to elevate the fill level height.

Abstract: A liquid aspirating and dispensing apparatus and method of using the apparatus. Among other elements, the apparatus includes a liquid handling device having one or more channel members, each of which has a removable liquid holding tip attached, and a signal transmitting device. A signal transmitted from the signal transmitting device may be used in a variety of ways to yield information regarding the performance of the apparatus. This information may be provided via direct detection of the signal by an operator of the apparatus. Alternatively, the signal may be detected by a programmable signal detecting device, interpreted by the apparatus, and then displayed in a form that is understandable to the operator. Furthermore, the liquid holding tip may be modified to enable different forms of signal transmission.

Abstract: A method for detecting hydrocarbons is described. The method includes performing a remote sensing survey of a survey location to identify a target location. Then, an underwater vehicle (UV) is deployed into a body of water and directed to the target location. The UV collects measurement data within the body of water at the target location, which is then analyzed to determine whether hydrocarbons are present at the target location.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for detaching and/or isolating a histological sample that is adhering to another sample and/or to the inside of a cassette, for example as a result of solidification of an embedding medium within a cassette. The sample is immobilized in a sample receiving chamber above a first fill level of a liquid that is suitable for counteracting the adhesion; and that the fill level of the liquid is then elevated at least until said level reaches the sample. An apparatus according to the present invention that can be used for carrying out the method comprises a sample receiving chamber and an adjusting chamber, the adjusting chamber being connected to the sample receiving chamber in such a way that a change in the fill level height of the liquid in the sample receiving chamber is producible by changing the pressure existing in the adjusting chamber.

Abstract: A sampler improves sampling and moisture measurements by reducing the introduction of fines, providing a more representative grain sample, and improving the ability to make consistent moisture measurements. The sampler has a body positioned to receive grain from a grain flow path. A primary auger positioned within the body has a shaft and a fin configured to lift and propel a portion of the grain up to and through a sampling opening. A sensor assembly operatively connected to the body and in communication with the sampling opening is configured to receive the portion of grain indicate the moisture content of the portion of grain.

Abstract: An improved immersible oxygen probe for molten metals has a gas permeable body including an immersion end and a support end adapted for being supported by a lance. An oxygen cell and a thermocouple are supported in the immersion end of the body. An unobstructed gas flow passageway is provided through the gas permeable bodies and through the probe body from the immersion end to the support/connector end whereby gases released from the molten metal and sensor body during immersion readily pass through the probe and can escape from within the probe. Thus rapid analysis of the molten metal with improved accuracy within a few seconds after immersion is achieved.

Abstract: A device and method for contamination-free transfer of samples is described. The device comprises an elongated member having an internal cavity and pressure-sensitive region. The internal cavity is in communication with at least a first open end of the elongated member. The pressure-sensitive region is disposed at a first distance from the first open end thereby forming a sampling portion of the device. The portion between the pressure-sensitive region and the second end forms a handling portion of the device. The pressure-sensitive region provides a stress concentration that increases the sensitivity to pressure. The device is used by contacting a sample with the first open end thereby causing sample to be received into the internal cavity of the sampling portion. The device is then inserted into a receiving container for use in the desired chemical analysis instrument.

Abstract: A method for detecting hepcidin. Having a sample liquid in contact with a nanochip having a specific surface coating structure of silicon oxide, so that hepcidin is enriched with specificity; eluting the nanochip with an eluent; by performing mass spectrometric detection on the elution product, determining the hepcidin content in the elution product. The enrichment method substantially enhances the sensitivity and accuracy of mass spectrometric detection. A kit for detecting hepcidin comprising a sample diluent and a nanochip, the sample diluent comprising water, trifluoroacetic acid, and acetonitrile.

Abstract: The invention is directed to method for positioning and aligning a preferably biological sample in the detection area of the objective of a microscope arrangement. According to the invention, the method mentioned above has the following method steps: a sample is introduced into a transparent medium, preferably agarose gel, which is initially liquid; the medium is changed from the liquid state to the solid state, wherein the sample is fixated within the medium, but the transparency of the medium is retained; the solidified medium is positioned in the microscope arrangement in such a way that the sample enclosed therein is situated in the detection area of the objective. Further, a device is proposed for positioning and aligning a preferably biological sample in the detection area of the objective of a microscope arrangement.

Abstract: Processing a liquid sample (204) having an analyte (206) by reducing a pressure in a container (200) including the liquid sample to less than atmospheric pressure and maintaining a reduced pressure in the container. Reducing the pressure in the container (200) and optionally agitating the liquid sample increases an amount of vapor-phase analyte (206) above the liquid sample. In some cases, a concentration of the vapor-phase analyte is further increased, for example, with a chemical trap (502). The vapor-phase analyte can be provided to a chemical analyzer (302).

Abstract: There is provided herein a dryer polymer substance including a hetero-phase polymer composition including two or more polymers wherein at least one of the two or more polymers include sulfonic groups, wherein the substance is adapted to pervaporate a fluid. The fluid may include water, water vapor or both. There is also provided herein a process for the preparation of a dryer polymer substance adapted to pervaporate a fluid (such as water, water vapor or both) the process includes mixing two or more polymers, wherein at least one of the two or more polymers may include groups which are adapted to be sulfonated, to produce a hetero-phase polymer composition and processing the polymer blend into a desired form.

Abstract: There is provided a microchip including a flow channel, an ejection portion, and a cutout portion. The flow channel is configured to convey a fluid therein. The ejection portion includes an opening directed toward an end face of a substrate layer, and the ejection portion is configured to eject the fluid flowing through the flow channel to outside. The substrate layer is laminated to each other. The cutout portion is formed between the opening of the ejection portion and the end face of the substrate layer. The cutout portion has a larger diameter than that of the opening.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a sensor module includes a sensor probe that has at least two arms coupled together at a central location with each of the at least two arms extending radially outwardly away from the central location. Each of the at least two arms includes one of a plurality of openings and an elongate opening extending radially along the arm. The at least two arms define fluid flow channels therein. The sensor module also includes at least one extractor coupled to the probe. The at least one extractor includes a fluid flow channel that is communicable in fluid receiving communication with fluid flowing through the fluid flow channel of at least one of the at least two arms. Further, the sensor module includes at least one sensor that is communicable in fluid sensing communication with fluid flowing through the at least one extractor.

Abstract: An inlet apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus may include a first conduit for sampling, and a second and third conduit for directing flow throughout the inlet apparatus. Flow may be induced in two opposite directions through the second conduit, which affect the flow of gas through the first conduit for sampling. The various conduits of the apparatus may be connected to a device for inducing flow in different directions. The duration of the flow in a particular direction affects the amount of sample gas that enters a detection device.

Abstract: An inlet apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus may include a first conduit for sampling, and a second and third conduit for directing flow throughout the inlet apparatus. Flow may be induced in two opposite directions through the second conduit, which affect the flow of gas through the first conduit for sampling. The various conduits of the apparatus may be connected to a device for inducing flow in different directions. The duration of the flow in a particular direction affects the amount of sample gas that enters a detection device.

Abstract: A passive sampling apparatus and method for measuring the cumulative mass of a selected gas being transported through a known cross-sectional area, for example, a soil surface, during a chosen period of time, using absorbent material, are described. Two quantities of absorbent material are disposed in a hollow container, such as a pipe section, and spaced apart such that they may be readily separated for analysis. The absorbent material closest to the soil captures the gas leaving the soil. Under reversed flow conditions, for example when the ambient air enters the ground because of fluctuations in atmospheric pressure, the upper absorbent material captures the component of interest entering the apparatus, thereby preventing this gas from entering the lower material and disturbing the measurement. The apparatus can therefore sequester the component of interest without being affected by the direction of gas transport.

Abstract: Instruments, devices and methods of analysis are provided which fully integrate a significant number of process steps in a continuous operation. Accurate positioning and full contact between components is also provided by the relative movement the designs allow. An effect interface between a low cost disposable cartridge or device and the instrument to process it is also detailed.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to polymer devices impregnated with semiochemical attractants for termites. The materials for delivering the semiochemicals are preferably cellulose-free. Devices of the subject invention are placed in soil and provide a slow-release and permeation of the semiochemicals into the adjacent soil so that termites tunneling in the vicinity are directed toward the chemical sources. Because the semiochemicals are impregnated in the polymer, the device also protects the semiochemicals so that they do not degrade rapidly under field conditions. In a preferred embodiment, the subject invention comprises a durable station housing, preferably with a removable bait, wherein the body of the station housing itself is impregnated with a semiochemical attractant.

Abstract: One or more techniques and/or systems are described herein for handling an examination surface for radiology or other operations. That is, an examination surface support structure can be integrally coupled with a support component of a radiology apparatus so that an examination surface and an object optionally placed thereon are supported during an operation. An examination surface transport component can be docked with an examination surface docking component that is operably coupled with the examination surface support structure so that the examination surface can be exchanged between the transport component and the radiology apparatus. An examination surface transit component that is operably coupled with the examination surface support structure can engage the examination surface in order to move the examination surface into and out of an operation region of the apparatus, such as during a scanning or dosage operation.

Abstract: A collaborative robotized system comprises: a mobile platform furnished with running device, with an electric motor propulsion assembly, and with a longitudinal mechanical linkage assembly comprising an articulation; an electrical power source; manual control device of the system; remote control device of the system; a computer assembly of at least one computer; hardware-incorporating device suitable for integrating sensors and effectors, and software-incorporating device suitable for integrating software elements; and management device for managing integrated sensorimotor behaviors, suitable for arbitrating implementations of several sensorimotor behaviors in parallel.

Abstract: An improved immersible oxygen probe for molten metals has a gas permeable body including an immersion end and a support end adapted for being supported by a lance. An oxygen cell and a thermocouple are supported in the immersion end of the body. An unobstructed gas flow passageway is provided through the gas permeable bodies and through the probe body from the immersion end to the support/connector end whereby gases released from the molten metal and sensor body during immersion readily pass through the probe and can escape from within the probe. Thus rapid analysis of the molten metal with improved accuracy within a few seconds after immersion is achieved. The probe contains a sample mold at least partially positioned in an unconfined portion of the permeable body.

Abstract: The invention relates to different designs of a microelectronic device comprising an array of heating elements (HE) with local driving units (CU2) and optionally with an array of sensor elements (SE) adjacent to a sample chamber (SC). By applying appropriate currents to the heating elements (HE), the sample chamber can be heated according to a desired temperature profile. The local driving units comprise means for compensating variations of their individual characteristics.

Abstract: Novel rapid, efficient sample collection systems, devices and methods are disclosed which remove and capture particles, and especially biological particles from surfaces into a liquid sample. The devices were developed primarily for obtaining samples of biological contamination from environmental surfaces. Biological particles, as described here, include bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms, and other particles of biological origin including nucleic acids, proteins, and toxins.

Abstract: An apparatus for carrying well samplers including a tubular carrier housing, a crossover sub connected to the housing, and a pair of adjacent single phase samplers set off from the tool centerline axis thereby providing an offset interspatial through-bore region to support wireline operations. The pair of single phase samplers are removably disposed between upper and lower positioning inserts. The inserts have recessed sampler seats and through-bores that align with the interspatial through-bore region. A conduit fluidly connects one pair of recessed seats to the tool exterior so as to port annulus pressure to the pressure-activated triggering mechanisms of the samplers. A rupture disk housing is removably connected to the triggering conduit from an exterior recess in the crossover sub. The other positioning insert includes a clamping mechanism to removably secure the samplers within the carrier. Multiple assemblies of crossover subs and carrier housing can be connected in tandem.

Abstract: Novel rapid, efficient sample collection systems, devices and methods are disclosed which remove and capture particles, and especially potential bioterrorism particles from surfaces into a liquid sample. The devices were developed primarily for obtaining samples of biological contamination from environmental surfaces. Biological particles, as described here, include bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms, and other particles of biological origin including nucleic acids, proteins, and toxins.

Abstract: A process for treating samples of biological, microbiological and/or chemical material, comprising at least a step of arranging a plurality of samples of biological, microbiological and/or chemical material on a corresponding plurality of housing seats (4) of a transportable support body (3) of a support device (2), further comprising a step of projecting (3) onto the support body (3) at least a light signal (18), during the step of arranging the plurality of material samples, at the effective position or housing seat or seats (4) wherein each sample of material is arranged, such as to guide the positioning or to indicate the positioning visibly.

Abstract: A method and system for locating subsurface ore bodies. Samples of near surface soil are collected over a predetermined geographical area. The samples are analysed to discover any chemical anomalies in the dust particles as a way of identifying possible subcropping mineralization. A tine (22) and collection tube (24) engage into subsurface soil and samples are drawn up the tube into a dust collection module (12). Sub 5 micron particles are captured on an electrostatically charged tape (40). Consecutive samples are indexed on the tape e.g. with a barcode. Collected dust samples are ablated by a laser ablation cell (72) and the ablated sample analysed by a mass spectrometer for presence of ions indicating presence of a resource body, such as a body of ore, minerals or hydrocarbons.

Abstract: A position control method for controlling a position of a movable portion, includes: performing control of allowing the movable portion to approach a predetermined position by moving the movable portion; and performing control of moving the movable portion to the predetermined position by moving the movable portion and detecting a relative position of the movable portion with respect to the predetermined position by using an imaging unit.

Abstract: A method of singulating embryos is provided. The method includes providing a plurality of embryos (40) within a system (20) and sensing (34) at least one of the plurality of embryos in a fluid. The method also includes dispensing (26) at least one of the plurality of embryos on a surface (28).

Abstract: Disclosed are methods of determining the effectiveness of an asphaltene deposition inhibitor in oilfield applications. Such methods typically comprising the steps of introducing an oil well fluid into a microfluidic/millifluidic system; introducing a mixture of an asphaltene deposition inhibitor and carrier into the microfluidic/millifluidic system; introducing a precipitating agent, typically comprising heptane, into the microfluidic/millifluidic system; and optionally introducing toluene into the microfluidic/millifluidic system; then observing the presence or absence of asphaltene aggregation within the microfluidic/millifluidic system.

Abstract: An analysis method using an analysis apparatus are described herein. By way of an example, the analysis method includes a first step of driving a pressurizing pump and a pressure-reduction pump, and of filling a liquid from a supply piping in an interior of a resistive body through which a sample passes, a second step of discharging, from a discharging piping, some of the liquid filled in the interior of the resistive body, and of securing a space in the interior of the resistive body for filling the sample, a third step of supplying the sample into the space, a fourth step of causing the sample to travel in the interior of the resistive body, and a fifth step of measuring a travel time of the sample in the interior of the resistive body by using the flow rate sensor.

Abstract: A system for preparing a refrigerant sample for analysis including a pressure regulator assembly including a pressure regulator and provisions for heating a refrigerant sample contained within an interior region of the pressure regulator. The pressure regulator defines an inlet through which the refrigerant sample is delivered and an outlet through which the refrigerant sample is expelled. The system also includes a filter assembly having an inlet that is fluidly connected to the outlet of the pressure regulator to receive the vaporized refrigerant sample from the pressure regulator, at least one filter for removing contaminants from the refrigerant sample, and an outlet that is configured to be coupled to a refrigerant analysis system for analyzing a composition of the refrigerant sample.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fecal specimen collector. The fecal specimen collector consisting of a top cover, a bottle body, a specimen output end and a bottom cover, wherein a lower portion of the top cover forms a sampling end which may be inserted into the bottle body through an upper end of the bottle body, the top cover is connected with the upper end of the bottle body, the specimen output end is hermetically coupled with a lower portion of the bottle body, and the bottom cover surrounds the specimen output end and couples to the bottle body, wherein a convex is formed on the inner center of the bottom cover, and is inserted into a specimen output port of the specimen output end. The fecal specimen collector according to the present application has a small and delicate structure which has the advantages of easy operation, convenient portability and pollution free, etc.

Abstract: The invention relates to a laboratory device for handling liquids comprising a unit for handling liquids and an operating and/or display unit, wherein a device module comprises the unit for handling liquids, an operating and/or display module physically separate from the device module completely or partially comprises the operating and/or display unit, and means are provided for wirelessly communicating between the device module and the operating and/or display module.

Abstract: Provided is a microfluidic device. The microfluidic device includes a sample chamber in which a sample is accommodated. The sample chamber includes: an introduction portion including a loading hole through which the sample is loaded; an accommodation portion including a discharge hole; and a neck portion forming a boundary between the introduction portion and the accommodation portion. The neck portion provides a capillary pressure for controlling flow of the sample between the introduction portion and the accommodation portion.

Abstract: There is provided herein a dryer polymer substance including a hetero-phase polymer composition including two or more polymers wherein at least one of the two or more polymers include sulfonic groups, wherein the substance is adapted to pervaporate a fluid. The fluid may include water, water vapor or both. There is also provided herein a process for the preparation of a dryer polymer substance adapted to pervaporate a fluid (such as water, water vapor or both) the process includes mixing two or more polymers, wherein at least one of the two or more polymers may include groups which are adapted to be sulfonated, to produce a hetero-phase polymer composition and processing the polymer blend into a desired form.