Abstract:
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to improved methods and devices for analyzing a cell, aggregated cells, or a solid tumor. Such methods and devices are, for example, useful in the field of pathology and can provide improved cell processing and analytical results.
Abstract:
A system for automatically testing a sample aliquot retained in temporary storage in environmentally controlled conditions on an automated clinical analyzer for a period of time without requiring operator intervention.
Abstract:
A microfluidic system has an electroosmotic flow (EOF) pumping means for propelling fluids through a series of microchannels and selection valves. Pump channels are configured in groups which may be fabricated singl or in multiple groups onto a substrate. A buble-free electric connection joint provides for eh applicaiton of voltages across pump channels whiel simultaneously blocking the passage of fluids through the joint. Bubble-free electrodes are also provided to prevetn electroysis and bubble formation in or close to the microfluidic channels. the selection volves providefor routing funcitons within the microfluidic system and can also be configured to route fludis outsie the system. A rate monitoring system is provided for determining and compensating for system flow rates. In one application the microfluidic system may be configured to operate as a small volume pipettor or other fluid transport or analysis device. A pipettor washing device is provided to faciliate complete and accurate delivery of the target fluid, and a method for completely transferring small fluid volumes to dry surfaces is also provided. A micro-dialysis jacket is additionally provided for the pipettor system to permit desalting, pH adjustment, concentration adjustment, and other functions.
Abstract:
The invention relates to a test unit for the discovery and/or identification of stable formulations, containing the following components: at least one agent which is poorly soluble or insoluble in a dispersion medium, at least one formulation adjunct, a dispersion medium and optionally at least one solvent, whereby said test unit comprises a robot for accessing a matrix of positions on a substrate, with at least one robotic arm, characterised in that a mixing chamber is integrated in the robotic arm. The invention further relates to a method for the generation of an array containing n formulations, each in a known position of m positions on a substrate, whereby n and m are each a natural number greater than or equal to 2 and m is greater than or equal to n, an array containing n formulations and the use of said array for identification and/or discovery of stable formulations and the test unit for the production of said array.
Abstract:
A pathology distribution system (10) is provided for automated sample containers (14, 15) distribution. The system (10) comprises a loading station (500) for loading samples in primary containers (14) of different types, a sample handling station (16) for receiving the containers (14) and identifying the container types and samples therein, and a container distribution station (38) for distributing the containers in areas or racks in the distribution station (38) marked for analysing processes prescribed for the samples therein. The handling station (16) includes an image analyser (22) for imaging the shape and colour of the cap (34) on a container (14) and/or other characteristic parts of the container (14) for identifying the type of the container (14), and the sample in the container (14) for determining the level and the volume of the sample available for aspiration if required. It also has a bar code reader (20) for identifying the sample in the container (14). If aspiration is required the container (14) is sent to a decapping and recapping apparatus (100) for decapping and then is subject to an aspiration process by a sample aspiration and dispensing means (86). Secondary tubes (15) for receiving dispensed samples are delivered to the means (86) by way of container hoppers (40) after being labelled with information corresponding to that associated with the primary containers (14). Pipette tips (28) for the aspiration process are delivered automatically from a pipette hopper (24). Dispensed or defective tips (28) are automatically ejected. The secondary containers (15) are heat sealed with laminate caps (44) before being delivered to the distribution station (38).
Abstract:
An apparatus and method for automatically aliquotting liquids, such as blood serum, is described. The invention provides a completely automatic, clean, self-contained system for collecting and aliquotting liquids and simultaneously cleaning the aliquotting system. The system includes a serum loading station, a sensing station, an indexing table for advancing test tubes to a collection station, an aliquotting station and a wash station.
Abstract:
A method and automated apparatus for locating and selecting a colony of microorganisms on a culture dish and subjecting the obtained sample to a plurality of downstream tests including a test to identify the microorganism and a test to identify the susceptibility of the microorganism to antibiotics. The method includes the automated steps of locating and selecting a colony of microorganisms on a culture dish; obtaining a sample of the selected colony of microorganisms; preparing a suspension of a sample of microorganisms automatically by submerging the pick tool with the sample in a suspension, after which the pick tool is vibrated in at least the vertical direction to release the sample from the pick tool in the suspension. The turbidity of the suspension is monitored to ensure that the concentration of microorganism in suspension is sufficient so that the suspension is used a source for sample for both identification and antibiotic susceptibility of the microorganisms in the sample. The apparatus and system optionally provides for downstream processing of samples prepared for antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST). Such apparatus includes further processing after inoculation of an AST panel for the AST test. Such further processing includes capping and transferring inoculated panels to AST instrument.
Abstract:
An assay device (100) includes a support (110), test elements (121, 122) arranged thereover, and a diverter (630) defining a common sample addition area of the device. The diverter (630) conducts respective portions of a fluidic sample from the area to each of the test elements (121, 122).