Importance

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Abstract

A system is provided for sample identification and at least one other piece of information, e.g. analyte determination, relevant to a source of a sample, which information is posted to a database. The database can compare the sample identification information with a prior control to see whether the alleged source of the information is correct. The sample identification and the analyte determination are made with the same sample. The identification is achieved by analyzing for invariant markers, such as public antigens and DNA, which have sufficient variety in the population, so as to provide reasonable assurance of the source of the sample. At the same time an analyte may be determined, so that the information is coordinately received. A simple self-contained device may be employed where the sample is divided into two portions and each analyzed separately on separate tracks. For identification, the distribution of bands or spots having the labeled reagent can serve to identify the source of the sample. Conventional assays on solid supports can be used for identifying the analyte. Using simple instrumentation, the tracks can be read and the information transmitted to a central database.

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First Claim