Importance

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Abstract

The present invention provides a reagent vial designed for use with automated processing devices. In one aspect, the present reagent vial comprises a container portion configured to contain a volume of liquid reagent, and having an upper end and a lower end. The upper end of the container portion is configured to provide access to the contents of the container portion by a probe, typically of a type used by an automated processing apparatus to withdraw the liquid reagent therein contained. The lower end of the container portion is configured to provide a chamber aligned with the probe access, and having a lesser cross sectional area than the main container portion. The chamber is thus configured to contain a portion of the volume of liquid reagent of the container to provide a means for reducing the residual volume of reagent which can not be withdrawn from the vial by the probe. Other aspect of the invention include an adapter for positioning the reagent vial, and a system employing the reagent vial and the adapter in cooperation.

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First Claim