Patent Publication Number: US-11040350-B2

Title: Liquid analytical reagent dispensing apparatus and analytical kits and methods of use related thereto

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/363,567, filed Jul. 18, 2016, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference into the present application. 
    
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY FUNDED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     Not Applicable. 
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) relate to a device(s), kit(s), and method(s) for dispensing at least two liquid reagents for use in analyte(s) detection assays. More specifically, the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) relate to a modified apparatus present within a reaction cassette that is capable of dispensing at least two liquid reagents for use in analyte(s) detection assays, as well as kits and methods of use related thereto. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Numerous devices and methods exist for detecting analytes that may be present in a fluid sample. Such devices have been proven to be effective in diagnostic assays that detect the presence and quantity of certain analytes indicative of a patient&#39;s health, including, but not limited to, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), microalbumin and creatinine, and lipid-based analytes, such as cholesterol, triglycerides, and/or high-density lipoproteins. However, these devices, kits, and methods are limited both in the number and form of reagents that can be employed for the detection of such analytes. Such devices, kits, and methods, for instance, may incorporate a defined number of solid reagents (for example, three solid reagents), but are limited in the number of liquid reagents (for example, one liquid reagent) that can be employed in a given assay(s). Accordingly, a need exists for new and improved devices, kits, and methods that allow for multiple solid reagents and multiple liquid reagents to be used to detect the presence and/or quantity of a specific analyte(s) contained within liquid test sample obtained from a patient. Such devices, kits, and methods thereby allow, by way of example and not by way of limitation, for: (1) an increase in the number of analytes that can be detected in a liquid test sample undergoing a given assay; (2) an increase in assay kinetics associated therewith; (3) enhanced stability due to isolation of potentially incompatible reagents; and (4) the order of reagent addition in the respective assay can be controlled. It is to such devices and methods, as well as kits related thereto, that the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) is directed. 
    
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  is detailed perspective views of one embodiment of a liquid analytical reagent dispensing apparatus constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). 
         FIG. 1B  is a detailed perspective view of one embodiment of the opened container (without the flexible cover) of the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). 
         FIG. 2  is a top view of one embodiment of the opened container (without the flexible cover) of the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). 
         FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the opened container as viewed from the perspective of line x as shown in  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 4  is a top view of one embodiment of the opened container constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). 
         FIG. 5  is a top view of an alternative embodiment of the opened container constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). 
         FIG. 6  is a top view of one embodiment of the opened container constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). 
         FIG. 7  is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the opened container as viewed from the perspective of line y as shown in  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 8  is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of an analytical reaction kit constructed in accordance with presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). 
         FIG. 9  is a top view of one embodiment of the analytical reaction kit constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). 
         FIGS. 10A-10F  are top views of one embodiment of the analytical reaction kit being used for the detection of at least one analyte present in a liquid test sample in accordance with the methodologies disclosed and/or claimed herein. 
         FIGS. 11A-11B  are top views of another embodiment of the analytical reaction kit being used for the detection of at least one analyte present in a liquid test sample in accordance with the methodologies disclosed and/or claimed herein. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Before explaining at least one embodiment of the inventive concept(s) in detail by way of exemplary drawings, experimentation, results, and laboratory procedures, it is to be understood that the inventive concept(s) is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings, experimentation and/or results. The inventive concept(s) is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. As such, the language used herein is intended to be given the broadest possible scope and meaning; and the embodiments are meant to be exemplary—not exhaustive. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. 
     Unless otherwise defined herein, scientific and technical terms used in connection with the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) shall have the meanings that are commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, unless otherwise required by context, singular terms shall include pluralities and plural terms shall include the singular. The foregoing techniques and procedures are generally performed according to conventional methods well known in the art and as described in various general and more specific references that are cited and discussed throughout the present specification. The nomenclatures utilized in connection with, and the laboratory procedures and techniques of, analytical chemistry, synthetic organic chemistry, and medicinal and pharmaceutical chemistry described herein are those well-known and commonly used in the art. 
     All patents, published patent applications, and non-patent publications mentioned in the specification are indicative of the level of skill of those skilled in the art to which this presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) pertains. All patents, published patent applications, and non-patent publications referenced in any portion of this application are herein expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual patent or publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. 
     All of the devices, kits, and/or methods disclosed and claimed herein can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the present disclosure. While the compositions and methods of this presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that variations may be applied to the compositions and/or methods and in the steps or in the sequence of steps of the method described herein without departing from the concept, spirit and scope of the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s). All such similar substitutes and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to be within the spirit, scope and concept of the inventive concept(s) as defined by the appended claims. 
     As utilized in accordance with the present disclosure, the following terms, unless otherwise indicated, shall be understood to have the following meanings: 
     The use of the word “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with the term “comprising” in the claims and/or the specification may mean “one,” but it is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more,” “at least one,” and “one or more than one.” The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a compound” may refer to 1 or more, 2 or more, 3 or more, 4 or more or greater numbers of compounds. The term “plurality” refers to “two or more.” The use of the term “or” in the claims is used to mean “and/or” unless explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives only or the alternatives are mutually exclusive, although the disclosure supports a definition that refers to only alternatives and “and/or.” Throughout this application, the term “about” is used to indicate that a value includes the inherent variation of error for the device, the method being employed to determine the value, or the variation that exists among the study subjects. For example but not by way of limitation, when the term “about” is utilized, the designated value may vary by ±20% or ±10%, or ±5%, or ±1%, or ±0.1% from the specified value, as such variations are appropriate to perform the disclosed methods and as understood by persons having ordinary skill in the art. The use of the term “at least one” will be understood to include one as well as any quantity more than one, including but not limited to, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, 100, etc. The term “at least one” may extend up to 100 or 1000 or more, depending on the term to which it is attached; in addition, the quantities of 100/1000 are not to be considered limiting, as higher limits may also produce satisfactory results. In addition, the use of the term “at least one of X, Y and Z” will be understood to include X alone, Y alone, and Z alone, as well as any combination of X, Y and Z. The use of ordinal number terminology (i.e., “first”, “second”, “third”, “fourth”, etc.) is solely for the purpose of differentiating between two or more items and is not meant to imply any sequence or order or importance to one item over another or any order of addition, for example. 
     As used in this specification and claim(s), the terms “comprising” (and any form of comprising, such as “comprise” and “comprises”), “having” (and any form of having, such as “have” and “has”), “including” (and any form of including, such as “Includes” and “include”) or “containing” (and any form of containing, such as “contains” and “contain”) are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. 
     The term “or combinations thereof” as used herein refers to all permutations and combinations of the listed items preceding the term. For example, “A, B, C, or combinations thereof” is intended to include at least one of: A, B, C, AB, AC, BC, or ABC, and if order is important in a particular context, also BA, CA, CB, CBA, BCA, ACB, BAC, or CAB. Continuing with this example, expressly included are combinations that contain repeats of one or more item or term, such as BB, AAA, AAB, BBC, AAABCCCC, CBBAAA, CABABB, and so forth. The skilled artisan will understand that typically there is no limit on the number of items or terms in any combination, unless otherwise apparent from the context. 
     As used herein, the term “substantially” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance completely occurs or that the subsequently described event or circumstance occurs to a great extent or degree. For example, the term “substantially” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance occurs at least 90% of the time, or at least 95% of the time, or at least 98% of the time. 
     As used herein, the phrase “associated with” includes both direct association of two moieties to one another as well as indirect association of two moieties to one another. Non-limiting examples of associations include covalent binding of one moiety to another moiety either by a direct bond or through a spacer group, non-covalent binding of one moiety to another moiety either directly or by means of specific binding pair members bound to the moieties, incorporation of one moiety into another moiety such as by dissolving one moiety in another moiety or by synthesis, and coating one moiety on another moiety. 
     The term “liquid test sample” as used herein will be understood to include any type of biological fluid sample that may be utilized in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s). Examples of biological samples that may be utilized include, but are not limited to, whole blood or any portion thereof (i.e., plasma or serum), saliva, sputum, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), intestinal fluid, intraperotineal fluid, cystic fluid, sweat, interstitial fluid, tears, mucus, urine, bladder wash, semen, combinations, and the like. The volume of the sample utilized in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) is from about 1 to about 100 microliters. As used herein, the term “volume” as it relates to the liquid test sample utilized in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) means from about 0.1 microliter to about 100 microliters, or from about 1 microliter to about 75 microliters, or from about 2 microliters to about 60 microliters, or less than or equal to about 50 microliters. 
     The term “patient” includes human and veterinary subjects. In certain embodiments, a patient is a mammal. In certain other embodiments, the patient is a human. “Mammal” for purposes of treatment refers to any animal classified as a mammal, including human, domestic and farm animals, nonhuman primates, and zoo, sports, or pet animals, such as dogs, horses, cats, cows, etc. 
     Turning now to particular embodiments, the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) relate to a device(s), kit(s), and method(s) for dispensing at least two liquid reagents for use in analyte(s) detection assays. More specifically, the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) relate to a modified apparatus present within a reaction cassette that is capable of dispensing at least two liquid reagents for use in analyte(s) detection assays, as well as kits and methods of use related thereto. 
     It is contemplated that virtually any reagent used in the fields of biological, chemical, or biochemical analyses and assays could be used in the devices, kits, and methods of the presently claimed and disclosed inventive concept(s). It is contemplated that these reagents may undergo physical and/or chemical changes when bound to an analyte of interest whereby the intensity, nature, frequency, or type of signal generated by the reagent-analyte complex is directly proportional or inversely proportional to the concentration of the analyte existing within the fluid sample. These reagents may contain indicator dyes, metal, enzymes, polymers, antibodies, and electrochemically reactive ingredients and/or chemicals that, when reacting with an analyte(s) of interest, may exhibit change in color. 
     Any method of detecting and measuring the analyte in a fluid sample can be used in the devices, kits, and methods of the presently claimed and inventive concepts. A variety of assays for detecting analytes are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to, chemical assays, enzyme inhibition assays, antibody stains, latex agglutination, latex agglutination inhibition and immunoassays, such as, radioimmunoassays. The term “antibody” herein is used in the broadest sense and refers to, for example, intact monoclonal antibodies, polyclonal antibodies, multi-specific antibodies (e.g., bispecific antibodies), and to antibody fragments that exhibit the desired biological activity (e.g., antigen/analyte-binding). The antibody can be of any type or class (e.g., IgG, IgE, IgM, IgD, and IgA) or sub-class (e.g., IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4, IgA1, and IgA2). 
     While immunoassays (including, but not limited to, sequential analytical chemical and immunoassays) are primarily discussed herein for the detection of at least one analyte of interest present in a liquid test sample, a person having ordinary skill in the art should readily understand that the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) are not strictly limited to immunoassays and may include, by way of example and not by limitation, chemical and chemical-based assays, nucleic acid assays, lipid-based assays, and serology-based assays. Immunoassays, including radioimmunoassays and enzyme-linked immunoassays, are useful methods for use with the presently claimed and disclosed inventive concepts. A variety of immunoassay formats, including, for example, competitive and non-competitive immunoassay formats, antigen/analyte capture assays and two-antibody sandwich assays can be used in the methods of the invention. Enzyme-linked immunosorbant assays (ELISAs) can be used in the presently claimed and disclosed inventive concepts, as well. In the case of an enzyme immunoassay, an enzyme is typically conjugated to a second antibody, generally by means of glutaraldehyde, periodate, hetero-bifunctional crosslinking agents, or biotin-streptavidin complexes. As will be readily recognized, however, a wide variety of different conjugation techniques exist which are readily available for use with the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) to one skilled in the art. 
     Assays, including, but not limited to, immunoassays, nucleic acid capture assays, lipid-based assays, and serology-based assays, can be developed for a multiplexed panel of proteins, peptides, and nucleic acids which may be contained within a liquid test sample, with such proteins and peptides including, for example but not by way of limitation, albumin, microalbumin, cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoproteins, low-density lipoproteins, hemoglobin, myoglobin, α-1-microglobin, immunoglobins, enzymes, proteins, glycoproteins, protease inhibitors, drugs, cytokines, creatinine, and glucose. The device(s), kit(s), and method(s) disclosed and/or claimed herein may be used for the analysis of any fluid sample, including, without limitation, whole blood, plasma, serum, or urine. 
     Referring now to the Figures, and more particularly to  FIG. 1A , shown therein is an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus  10  that dispenses liquid analytical reagents which may be used to detect the presence and/or quantity of analytes of interest that may be present in a liquid test sample. The apparatus  10  comprises a container  11  (more specifically shown in  FIG. 1B ), a flexible cover  13 , a first cavity  24  containing a first liquid reagent  24 A (which, in one embodiment, may be, for example, assay buffer), a second cavity  25  containing a second liquid reagent  25 A, and a third cavity  27  containing a third liquid reagent  27 A. While the figures depict embodiments of the container  11  having three cavities (i.e., the first cavity  24 , the second cavity  25 , and the third cavity  27 ), it should be readily understood to a person having ordinary skill in the art that the container  11  may be comprised of any number of cavities, provided that the minimum number of liquid reagent cavities and liquid reagents disposed therein is at least two. By way of example and not by way of limitation, the container  11  may comprise 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 50 or any number of cavities capable of being manufactured for incorporation in container  11 . For purposes of clarity only and not by way of limitation, the apparatus  10  shown in the Figures shall be described with reference only the first cavity  24 , the second cavity  25 , and the third cavity  27 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1A  and as further described herein, the flexible cover  13  is removably affixed to the container  11  to seal the container  11 , the first cavity  24 , the second cavity  25 , and the third cavity  27  thereby sealing in and preventing the discharge of the first liquid reagent  24 A, the second liquid reagent  25 A, and the third liquid reagent  27 A from the container  11 . The flexible cover  13 , when the container  11  is oriented in a substantially vertical position, can be removed by a user to allow the gravitational dispensing of the first liquid reagent  24 A from the first cavity  24 , but, while a second cavity opening  26  and a third cavity opening  28  are opened by the selective removal of the flexible cover  13 , the second liquid reagent  25 A and the third liquid reagent  27 A remain un-dispensed from the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27 , respectively. The container  11  is preferably fabricated as a molded component formed of a rigid plastic material (so as to avoid deformation of the container  11  upon removal of the flexible cover  13  therefrom by a user), including, for example, high-density polyethylene; however, the container  11  may be constructed of any material capable of accomplishing the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). The flexible cover  13  may be, by way of example only, constructed of a vapor and liquid impermeable material, including, for example, a plastic laminate material or aluminum foil material. In one embodiment, the flexible cover  13  is affixed to the container  11  by a heat-activated peelable adhesive that leaves substantially no residue on the container  11  when the flexible cover  13  is removed by a user. In one embodiment, the flexible cover  13  may be constructed and configured to comprise a pull tab portion  13 A, which can be grasped and pulled by a user to remove the flexible cover  13  from the container  11 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1B , shown therein is an exemplary embodiment of the container  11  in which the flexible cover  13  has been removed from the container  11  and in which the first liquid reagent  24 A, second liquid reagent  25 A, and third liquid reagent  27 A are not present. As shown in  FIG. 1B , the container  11  comprises a first end  12 , a second end  14 , a first side  16 , a second side  18 , a top side  20 , a bottom side  22 , and a flange  23  extending around the open top of the first cavity  24 . The container  11  may also comprise at least one first support  30  and at least one second support  32  such that when the container  11  is oriented in a substantially vertical position, the at least one first support  30  and the at least one second support  32  may engage and abut a surface so as to stabilize the orientation of the container  11  in the substantially vertical position. In one embodiment, the at least one first support  30  is shorter in length than the at least one second support  32  such that the container  11 , when positioned in a substantially vertical position, is positioned at an angle to facilitate the dispensing and/or directional flow of at least the first liquid reagent  24 A. The container  11  may also be shaped in such a configuration so as to include an apex  34 , although it should be understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art that the container  11  can be configured and shaped in any manner that accomplishes the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). When apex  34  is present, apex  34  facilitates the directional flow of liquid reagent(s) dispensed from the first cavity  24 , the second cavity  25 , and/or the third cavity  27  of the container  11 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1B and 2 , the container  11 , by way of example and not by limitation, includes the second cavity opening  26  and the third cavity opening  28 . While the second cavity opening  26  and the third cavity opening  28  are shown in the Figures as being located on the top side  20  of the container  11  near the second end  14  and on opposing sides of the first cavity  24 , it should be understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art that the second cavity opening  26  and the third cavity opening  28  can be located on any portion of the container  11  that accomplishes the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). The second cavity opening  26 , in accordance with the presently disclosed and/or claimed method(s), allows for the selective dispensing of the second liquid reagent  25 A from the second cavity  25  of the container  11 . Likewise, the third opening  28  allows for the selective dispensing of the third liquid reagent  27 A from the third cavity  27  of the container  11 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 3-7 , in one embodiment, the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  are, by way of example, formed on the bottom side  22  of the container  11 . However, it should be understood to a person having ordinary skill in the art that the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  may be formed on any portion of the container  11  capable of accomplishing the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s), including, without limitation, on the top portion  20 , the first side  16 , and/or the second side  18  of container  11 . In one embodiment, the second cavity  25  and third cavity  27  are substantially cylindrical in shape with a closed end located longitudinally opposite from the second cavity opening  26  and the third cavity opening  28 , respectively. However, it should be readily understood to a person having ordinary skill in the art that while the second cavity  25  and third cavity  27  are shown in the Figures as being substantially cylindrical in shape, the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  may be of any shape capable of retaining and selectively dispensing the second liquid reagent  25 A and the third liquid reagent  27 A, respectively, including, but not limited to triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, or any other shape capable of accomplishing the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). In addition, while the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  are shown in the Figures as being the same shape, it should be understood to a person having ordinary skill in the art that the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  may be different in shape. 
     As shown more specifically in  FIGS. 4-5 , in one embodiment, the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  are positioned on opposing sides of the first cavity  24  extending longitudinally from the second end  14  to the first end  12  of the container  11 , with the second cavity opening  26  being positioned near the first side  16  of the container  11  and the third cavity opening  28  being positioned near the second side  18  of the container  11 . In one embodiment, the second cavity opening  26  and the third cavity opening  28  are located on the top side  20  of the container  11  near the second end  14  while the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  are formed on the bottom side  22  of the container  11  and extend longitudinally from the second end  14  to the first end  12  of the container  11 . In one embodiment, the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  are configured to be parallel along a longitudinal axis extending from the second end  14  to the first end  12  of the container  11 . In another embodiment, the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  are configured at an angle along a longitudinal axis extending from the second end  14  to the first end  12  of the container  11 . In this embodiment, the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  are located on the bottom side  22  of the container on opposite sides of the first cavity  24  (with the second cavity  25  being located near the first side  16  of the container  11  and the third cavity being located near the second side  18  of the container  11 ). Further, in this embodiment, the second cavity  25  and third cavity  27  angle away from a longitudinal axis extending from the second end  14  to the first end  12  of the container  11 . While certain embodiment of the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  are shown in the Figures as being substantially parallel and/or angled with respect to a longitudinal axis extending from the second end  14  to the first end  12  of the container  11 , it is readily understood to a person having ordinary skill in the art that the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  can be positioned in any orientation that accomplishes the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). Additionally, for the embodiment in which the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  are angled with respect to the longitudinal axis, the angles related thereto can be of any degree in order to accomplish the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s), including, by way of example and not by way limitation, 1°, 2°, 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, 45°, 50°, 55°, 60°, 65°, 70°, and 75°. In addition, the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  may each be coated with either a hydrophilic or hydrophobic composition (not shown) to decrease or increase, respectively, the ease in which the second liquid reagent  25 A is dispensed from the second cavity  25  or the third liquid reagent  27 A is dispensed from third cavity  27 . In one embodiment, the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  are oriented such that when the container  11  is rotated about a substantially horizontal axis, the second liquid reagent  25 A disposed within the second cavity  25  and the third liquid reagent  27 A disposed within the third cavity  27  are simultaneously dispensed into the reaction chamber  56  of the reaction cassette  41  (discussed below and illustrated in  FIGS. 8-10 ) via the second cavity opening  26  and the third cavity opening  28 , respectively. In an additional embodiment, the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  are oriented such that when the container  11  is rotated about a substantially horizontal axis, the second liquid reagent  25 A disposed within the second cavity  25  and the third liquid reagent  27 A disposed within the third cavity  27  are sequentially and controllably dispensed into the reaction chamber  56  of the reaction cassette  41  (discussed below) via the second cavity opening  26  and the third cavity opening  28 , respectively. In this latter embodiment, the sequential and controlled addition of the second liquid reagent  25 A and the third liquid reagent  27 A may be facilitated, for example, by the angled configuration of the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  with respect to the longitudinal axis as described herein and/or the coating of the inner portions of the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27  with a hydrophilic (i.e., decreases the flow of the liquid reagent(s)) and/or hydrophobic (i.e., increases the flow of the liquid reagent(s)) composition(s). 
     Referring now to  FIG. 8 , shown therein is one embodiment of an analytical research kit  40 . The analytical research kit  40  comprises the apparatus  10 , a reaction cassette  41 , and a capillary  62 , used for obtaining a liquid reaction sample from a patient and introducing such sample into the reaction cassette  41 . 
     The apparatus  10  is constructed in accordance with the previous description provided and in accordance with the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). 
     The reaction cassette  41  comprises a body  42  formed by the top perimeter side  43 , a bottom perimeter side  44 , a first perimeter side  46 , a second perimeter side  48 , and a bottom portion  50 . The reaction cassette  41  further comprises a top portion  52  that is used to seal the body  42  of the reaction cassette  41  after the apparatus  10  containing the liquid analytical reagents has been incorporated into the reaction cassette  41  as described and/or claimed herein. Such seal can be accomplished via any method commonly known in the art, including, without limitation, adhesive(s), glue, sonic welding, laser welding, and/or any permanent fastener(s). 
     In one embodiment, the body  42  of the reaction cassette  41  is constructed such that the body is formed via the connection of the top perimeter side  43 , the bottom perimeter side  44 , the first perimeter side  46 , and the second perimeter side  48  to the bottom portion  50 . Such connection can be via any method commonly known in the art, including, without limitation, adhesive(s), glue, sonic welding, laser welding, and/or any permanent fastener(s). In another embodiment, the body  42  can be constructed such that the top perimeter side  43 , the bottom perimeter side  44 , the first perimeter side  46 , the second perimeter side  48 , and the bottom portion  50  is one contiguous piece, for instance, by way of example only, one contiguous piece of plastic. 
     The reaction cassette  41  has a substantially horizontal axis of rotation. While the external dimensions of the reaction cassette  41  are not critical, the reaction cassette  41  typically has a height and width of about 3 centimeters to about 15 centimeters and a thickness of about 0.25 centimeters to about 2 centimeters. In one embodiment, the dimensions of the reaction cassette  41  are a height and width of about 6 centimeters and a thickness of about 1 centimeter. 
     The body  42  of the reaction cassette  41  further comprises a first inner wall  58  and a second inner wall  59 , wherein the first inner wall  58  and the second inner wall  59  extend downward from the top perimeter side  43  and are positioned opposite of one another and substantially perpendicular to the top perimeter side  43  and the bottom perimeter side  44 . The first perimeter side  46 , together with the second perimeter side  48 , the bottom portion  50 , and the top portion  52  form a reaction chamber  56 , a portion of which is U-shaped and formed by a third inner wall  61  which extends between and substantially perpendicular to the second inner wall  59  and the second perimeter side  48 . Once the body  42  of the reaction cassette  41  has been sealed by the top portion  52  following the incorporation of apparatus  10  into the reaction cassette  41 , an inlet  54  is thereby formed between the first perimeter side  46  and the first inner wall  58 , the inlet  54  being substantially parallel to the first perimeter side  46  and the first inner wall  58  and extending from top perimeter side  43  downward toward the bottom perimeter side  44  of the reaction cassette  41 . The inlet  54  is capable of securely receiving the capillary  62  such that the liquid test sample (not shown) is introduced from the capillary  62  into the reaction chamber  56  of the reaction cassette  41 . While a capillary  62  is shown in the Figures as introducing the liquid test sample (not shown) into the reaction chamber  56  of the reaction cassette  41 , it should be readily understood to a person having ordinary skill in the art that the liquid test sample (not shown) can be introduced into the reaction cassette  41  via any device capable of introducing a liquid a test sample, including, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a pipette(s). In addition, the inlet  54  can be stoppered, plugged, or otherwise closed subsequent to the introduction of the liquid test sample into the reaction cassette  41  so as to prevent liquid loss during the course of the methodologies described herein, including, but not limited to, assays, including immunoassays. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , shown therein is one embodiment of the analytical reaction kit  40  which comprises the apparatus  10  which has been incorporated into the reaction cassette  41  and the capillary  62  which has been securely received into the inlet  54  of the reaction cassette  41 . As shown in the  FIG. 9 , the apparatus  10  remains closed and sealed by the flexible cover  13  thereby sealing in the first liquid reagent  24 A within the first cavity  24 , the second liquid reagent  25 A within the second cavity  25 , and the third liquid reagent  27 A within the third cavity  27 . In one embodiment, the container  11  is affixed within the reaction cassette  41  whereby the container  11  is positioned so as to secure between the first inner wall  58  and the second inner wall  59 , such that the first side  16  of the container  11  is oriented substantially parallel to the first inner wall  58  of the reaction cassette  41  and the second side  18  of the container  11  is oriented substantially parallel to the second inner wall  59 , wherein the at least one first support  30  (not shown) and the at least one second support  32  (not shown) abut and/or are affixed to the bottom portion  50  of the reaction cassette  41 . The first perimeter side  46 , together with the second perimeter side  48 , the bottom portion  50 , and the top portion  52  form a reaction chamber  56 , a portion of which is U-shaped and formed by a third inner wall  61  which extends between and substantially perpendicular to the second inner wall  59  and the second perimeter side  48 . The reaction chamber  56  is in liquid communication with the inlet  54 , thereby allowing a liquid test sample (not shown) to be introduced via the capillary  62  into the reaction chamber  56  of the reaction cassette  41 . 
     In one embodiment and as shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , positioned along the reaction chamber  56  is a sample read window  64 , a first solid reagent zone  65 , a second solid reagent zone  66 , and a third solid reagent zone  68 . While shown in the Figures as comprising three individual solid reagent zones, it should be understood to a person having ordinary skill in the art, that any number of solid reagent zones may be used (or may be totally absent from reaction cassette  41 ) and positioned at any location(s) along the reaction chamber  56  in order to accomplish the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s). The sample read window  64  can be, by way of example only and not by way of limitation, a transparent cuvette window or an optical window which permits the accurate measurement of detectable signals in the area of the sample read window  64 . In one embodiment, the first solid reagent zone  65  is substantially located at a corner of the reaction cassette  41  formed from the perpendicular intersection of the first perimeter side  46  and the bottom perimeter side  44  wherein the first solid reagent zone  65  is formed on the top portion  52  of the reaction cassette  41 . In one embodiment, the second solid reagent zone  66  and the third solid reagent zone  68  are substantially located at a corner of the reaction cassette  41  formed from the perpendicular intersection of the second perimeter side  48  and the third inner wall  61  wherein the second solid reagent zone  66  is formed on the top portion  52  of the reaction cassette  41  and the third solid reagent zone  68  is formed on the bottom portion  50  of the reaction cassette  41 . When present, the solid reagent zones  65 ,  66 , and  68  are incorporated with solid analytical reagents for performing a particular analytical assay procedure. The solid analytical reagents are, in one embodiment, present in the solid reagent zones in a substantially dry, water soluble, suspendable or dissolvable form, and can be incorporated along the reaction chamber  56  according to methods known in the art, such as, for example, by noncovalent binding techniques, absorptive techniques, and the like, in the desired order in which they are to be sequentially contacted with a liquid test sample. In one embodiment, the solid reagent zones  65 ,  66 , and  68 , when present, are defined in the form of substantially flat, raised portions or mesa-shaped nodes on the surface of the selected area of the reaction chamber  56 , in which the raised upper surface of each node is from about 0.005 inches to about 0.02 inches elevated above a surface of the reaction chamber  56 . 
     In accordance with the above, in one embodiment, the reaction cassette  41  may comprise three liquid reagents (which are present and selectively contained within the first cavity  24 , the second cavity  26 , and the third cavity  27  of the container  11 , respectively) and three solid reagents for accomplishing the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s), including, without limitation, assays, including immunoassays. In one embodiment, the first solid reagent zone  65  comprises an oxidant (such as, for example, ferricyanide), while the second solid reagent zone  66  and the third solid reagent zone  68  comprise an agglutinator and an antibody-latex (for instance, by way of example only, a glycated hemoglobin A1c antibody), respectively. However, it should be readily understood to a person having ordinary skill in the art, that any compound, composition, and/or molecule can be used on the solid reagent zones in order to accomplish the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s), including, without limitation, detection of at least one analyte(s) of interest present in a liquid test sample. In addition, it should be understood to a person having ordinary skill in the art that the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s) can be accomplished in the absence of any or all of the first solid reagent zone  65 , the second solid reagent zone  66 , and the third solid reagent zone  68 . In such an instance, the first liquid reagent  24 A, the second liquid reagent  25 A, and/or the third liquid reagent  26 A are capable of detecting at least one analyte(s) present in a liquid test sample in the absence of one or all of the solid reagent zones  65 ,  66 , and/or  68 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 10A-10F , shown therein is one embodiment of an analytical research kit  40  constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s) being used in a method of the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s) to detect at least one analyte(s) of interest present in a liquid test sample. While  FIGS. 10A-10D  show a first solid reagent zone  65 , a second solid reagent zone  66 , and a third solid reagent zone  68 , as described above, the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s) can be accomplished via use of the first liquid reagent  24 A, the second liquid reagent  25 A, and the third liquid reagent  27 A. Accordingly, the methodology(-ies) described in these Figures is with reference only to the liquid reagents  24 A,  25 A, and  27 A; however, it should be understood to a person having reasonable skill in the art that presently disclosed and/or claimed methodology(-ies) may be accomplished via a combination of any number of solid reagents (present on solid reagent zones) and liquid reagents. The analytical research kit  40  is shown in various rotational positions to further illustrate the gravitational flow and mixing of the liquid test sample (not shown), the first liquid reagent  24 A, the second liquid reagent  25 A, and the third liquid reagent  27 A along the reaction chamber  56  as the analytical research kit  40  is rotated about the substantially horizontal axis. The solid arrows shown outside of the analytical research kit  40  indicate the direction of rotation of the analytical research kit  40  about the horizontal axis. 
     It is to be understood that  FIGS. 10A-10F  are for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the number, nature, or manner of incorporation of analytical reagents (solid and/or liquid) into the analytical research kit  40 , or the sequence or direction of rotation of the analytical research kit  40 . For example, and as described hereinabove, although three solid assay reagent zones  65 ,  66 , and  68  and three liquid reagents  24 A,  25 A, and  27 A are shown, other assay procedures, including, but not limited to immunoassays procedures, and, more specifically, immunoturbidimetric assay procedures, can also be performed in the analytical research kit  40  in which the number of analytical reagents (solid and/or liquid) may vary depending on the particular assay requirements. In addition, the analytical research kit  40  may include less than the required number of analytical reagents (solid and/or liquid) for performing an analytical assay procedure where one or more reaction mixtures thereof can first be performed outside of the analytical research kit  40  and then introduced into the analytical research kit  40  to complete the assay. 
     An illustrative, non-limiting method of using the analytical research kit  40  depicted in  FIGS. 8-9  will now be described as shown in  FIGS. 10A-10F . As shown in these Figures, the flexible cover  13  has been removed, thereby allowing the gravitational dispensing and flow of the first liquid reagent  24 A from the first cavity  24 , while the second liquid reagent  25 A and the third liquid reagent  27 A remain disposed within the second cavity  25  and the third cavity, respectively. However, it should be understood to a person having ordinary skill in the art that the flexible cover  13  is present upon insertion of the reaction cassette  41  into the suitable instrument, apparatus, or system and is selectively removed at the appropriate time (as described below) by a user during the conducting of the assay test. As discussed herein, the various rotation and oscillation movements of the analytical research kit  40  can be performed manually, but in most cases will be performed by a suitable instrument, apparatus, or system, including, without limitation, the DCA Vantage® Analyzer commercially available from Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics, Inc. Additionally, while the presently disclosed methodology(-ies) as shown in  FIGS. 10A-10F  depict the sequential addition of liquid reagents, it should be understood to a person having reasonable skill in the art that, in an alternative embodiment, the analytical reaction kit  40  can be rotated such that all of the liquid reagents or selected liquid reagents are simultaneously dispensed into the reaction chamber  56 . Similarly, in additional embodiments of the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s), the container  11  can be constructed in a manner such that the second liquid reagent  25 A and the third liquid reagent  27 A are simultaneously released into the reaction chamber  56  with the first liquid reagent  24 A upon the removal of the flexible cover  13  from the container  11 . In another embodiment, as depicted in  FIGS. 11A and 11B , the second liquid reagent  25 A may be released simultaneously with the first liquid reagent  24 A into the reaction chamber  56  upon the removal of the flexible cover  13 , while the third liquid reagent  27 A remains in the third cavity  27  for later release. The mixture of the first liquid reagent  24 A and the second liquid reagent  25 A can then be utilized to carry out the various assay methodology(-ies) described and/or claimed by the presently disclosed inventive concept(s). Likewise, in another embodiment of the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s), the third liquid reagent  27 A is released simultaneously with the first liquid reagent  24 A into the reaction chamber  56  upon the removal of the flexible cover  13 , while the second liquid reagent  25 A remains in the second cavity  25  for later release. The mixture of the first liquid reagent  24 A and the third liquid reagent  27 A can then be utilized to carry out the various assay methodology(-ies) described and/or claimed by the presently disclosed inventive concept(s). 
     In one embodiment, the first step is to provide the reaction cassette  41  into a holder mechanism of the above-referenced instrument, apparatus, or system such that a second corner  74  of the reaction cassette  41 , which is formed by the substantial perpendicular intersection of the second perimeter side  48  and the bottom perimeter side  44 , is positioned in a downward orientation. Following insertion of the reaction cassette  41  into the suitable instrument, apparatus, or system, a liquid test sample (not shown) is drawn into the capillary  62  and the capillary  62  containing the liquid test sample is inserted into inlet  54  whereby the liquid test sample contained in the capillary  62  is proximally located near a first corner  72  of the reaction cassette  41 . Upon insertion of the capillary  62  into the inlet  54  of the reaction cassette  41 , the capillary  62  seals the inlet  54  of the reaction cassette  41 , thereby forming the analytical reaction kit  40 . The portion of the capillary  62  near the first corner  72  is preferably configured as shown such that when the capillary  62  is positioned as described above, the portion of the capillary  62  containing the liquid test sample is capable of being efficiently contacted by a liquid in the reaction chamber  56 , such as the first liquid reagent  24 A, the second liquid reagent  25 A, and/or the third liquid reagent  27 A which may be introduced into the reaction chamber  56  from the first cavity  24 , the second cavity  25 , and/or the third cavity  27 , respectively. 
     As shown in  FIG. 10A , the first liquid reagent  24 A contained within the first cavity  24  is introduced into the reaction chamber  56  by pulling the pull tab portion  13 A of the flexible cover  13  (not shown) in a direction away from the analytical research kit  40  (as shown by the solid arrow in  FIG. 9 ). The first liquid reagent  24 A (which, for example, may be a non-reactive buffer solution) is freely dispensed and flows by gravity along the path shown by the broken arrow in  FIG. 10A  into the second corner  74  of the reaction chamber  56 . A blank absorbance reading can be taken through the sample read window  64  at the starting position with the second corner  74  oriented downward. 
     As shown in  FIG. 10B , the analytical research kit  40  may then be rotated in a counter-clockwise direction (as shown by solid directional arrow A) and oscillated (as shown by solid arrow B) whereby the first liquid reagent  24 A is transported by gravity along the reaction chamber  56  (shown by the broken arrow in  FIG. 10B ) from the second corner  74  and brought into contact with the first corner  72  and the portion of the capillary  62  containing the liquid test sample (not shown). As shown therein, the second liquid reagent  25 A and the third liquid reagent  27 A remain disposed within the second cavity  25  and the third cavity  27 , respectively; at this step (and oscillation associated therewith and described below), the degree of rotation of the analytical research kit is sufficient to transport the first liquid reagent  24 A from the second corner  74  to the first corner  72 , it is insufficient to release either the second liquid reagent  25 A or the third liquid reagent  27 A into the reaction chamber  56 . It is to be understood that, in accordance with the presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s) the turbulence caused by the first liquid reagent  24 A impacting the first corner  72  during oscillation of the analytical research kit  40  results in the removal of the liquid test sample from the capillary  62  to form a first reaction mixture  76 . In addition, in the presence of the first solid reagent zone  65 , the oscillation allows for the solubilization of the solid analytical reagent present on the first solid reagent zone  65  by the first liquid reagent  24 A. The analytical research kit  40  can be maintained in a stationary position for a predetermined amount of time to allow the at least one analyte(s) present in the first reaction mixture  76  to sufficiently interact and/or associate with the first liquid reagent and/or the solid analytical reagent (when the first solid reagent zone  65  is present in the analytical research kit  40 ). 
     Where the first reaction mixture  76  provides a first detectable response or measureable characteristic which is required or desired to be measured according to a particular assay protocol, as shown in  FIG. 10C , the analytical research kit  40  is rotated (the angle of which is not great enough to dispense the second liquid reagent  25 A and/or the third liquid reagent  27 A) in a clockwise direction (as shown by the solid directional arrow C) such that the first reaction mixture  76  is transported by gravity to the sample read window  64  in the second corner  74 , and the analytical research kit  40  is maintained in a stationary position. Any such first detectable response provided by the first reaction mixture  76  can then be measured, and the remaining assay steps, if necessary, can be carried out subsequent thereto. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, the first detectable response may be a total hemoglobin measurement where the liquid test sample is whole blood, for example, such as when performing an assay for the percent of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in a whole blood sample. In the case of a lipid-based assay, the first detectable response may be total cholesterol measurement where the liquid test sample is blood serum, for example, when performing an assay for the calculation of the percent of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol present in a blood serum sample. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 10D , once the first detectable response is detected and measured in the second corner  74 , the analytical research kit  40  may then be rotated in a counter-clockwise direction (as shown by solid directional arrow D) such that the first reaction mixture  76  is transported via gravity from the second corner  74  to the first corner  72  of the reaction chamber  56 . The counter-clockwise rotation is to an angle sufficient to dispense the second liquid reagent  25 A from the second cavity  25  via the second cavity opening  26  (such angle not being sufficient to dispense the third liquid reagent  27 A from the third cavity  27 ). The second liquid reagent  25 A and the first reaction mixture  76  may then be mixed, for example, via agitation and/or oscillation (as shown by arrow E), thereby forming a second reaction mixture  78 . Additionally, the analytical research kit  40  can be maintained in a stationary position for a predetermined period of time, as described above. 
     As shown in  FIG. 10E , the analytical research kit may then be rotated clockwise (as shown by solid directional arrow F) such that the second reaction mixture  78  is transported via gravity from the first corner  72  to the sample read window  64  in the second corner  74 , provided that, in one embodiment, the angle of this rotation is not sufficient to dispense the third liquid reagent  27 A from the third cavity  27 . Any such second detectable response provided by the second reaction mixture  78  can then be measured, and the remaining assay steps, if necessary, can be carried out subsequent thereto. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, the second detectable response may be a glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) measurement where the liquid test sample is whole blood, for example, such as when performing an assay for the percent of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in a whole blood sample. In the case of a lipid-based assay, the second detectable response may be a high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol measurement where the liquid test sample is blood serum, for example, when performing an assay for the calculation of the percent of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol present in a blood serum sample. 
     As shown in  FIG. 10F , once the second detectable response is detected and measured in the second corner  74 , the analytical research kit  40  may then rotated in a clockwise direction (as shown by solid directional arrow G) such that the third liquid reagent  27 A is dispensed from the third cavity  27  via the third cavity opening  28 . The third liquid reagent  27 A and the second reaction mixture  78  may then be mixed, for example, via agitation and/or oscillation (as shown by arrow G), thereby forming a third reaction mixture  80 . Additionally, the analytical research kit  40  can be maintained in a stationary position for a predetermined period of time, as described above. As the third reaction mixture  80  is already over the sample read window  64  in the second corner  74 , no additional rotation of the analytical research kit  40  is required to obtain an additional measurement. Any such third detectable response provided by the third reaction mixture  80  can then be measured, and the remaining assay steps, if necessary, can be carried out subsequent thereto. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, the third detectable response may be a triglycerides measurement where the liquid test sample is blood serum, for example, such as when performing an assay for the calculation of the percent of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol present in a blood serum sample. 
     Non-Limiting Examples of the Inventive Concept(s) 
     A liquid analytical reagent dispensing apparatus, the apparatus comprising: 
     a container having a first end, a second end, a first side, a second side, a bottom side, a top side, a first cavity being open at the top side of the container, a flange extending around the open top of the first cavity, and a second cavity being open near the second end of the container; a first liquid reagent disposed within the first cavity; a second liquid reagent disposed within the second cavity; and a flexible cover removably affixed to the flange of the container to seal the first liquid reagent in the first cavity, the second liquid reagent in the second cavity, and to permit the first liquid reagent to flow from the first cavity, while the second liquid reagent is contained in the second cavity upon removal of the flexible cover from the flange and with the first end of the container positioned substantially vertically beneath the second end of the container. 
     The apparatus, wherein the apparatus further comprises a third cavity being open near the second end of the container, further wherein a third liquid reagent is disposed within the third cavity. 
     The apparatus, wherein the second cavity and the third cavity are positioned on opposing sides of the first cavity. 
     The apparatus, wherein the container has a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end, and wherein each of the second cavity and the third cavity is elongated and parallel to the longitudinal axis. 
     The apparatus, wherein the container has a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end, and wherein each of the second cavity and the third cavity is elongated and angled relative to the longitudinal axis. 
     The apparatus, wherein the second cavity and the third cavity are positioned on opposing sides of the first cavity, wherein the second cavity angles away from the first cavity from the first end to the second end, and wherein the third cavity angles away from the first cavity from the first end to the second end. 
     The apparatus, wherein the apparatus further comprises at least one first support and at least one second support. The apparatus wherein the at least one first support is shorter than the at least one second support. 
     The apparatus, wherein the first end of the container is angled to form an apex, wherein the apex extends longitudinally from a point of liquid discharge of the first cavity. 
     The apparatus, wherein the first liquid reagent and the second liquid reagent are the same chemical composition. 
     The apparatus, wherein the first liquid reagent and the second liquid reagent are different in chemical composition. 
     The apparatus, wherein the first liquid reagent, the second liquid reagent, and the third liquid reagent are the same chemical composition. 
     The apparatus, wherein the first liquid reagent, the second liquid reagent, and the third liquid reagent are different in chemical composition. 
     An analytical reaction kit, the kit comprising: a reaction cassette, the reaction cassette comprising: a body, the body comprising a top perimeter side, a bottom perimeter side, a first perimeter side, a second perimeter side, a bottom portion, and a top portion thereby forming a reaction cassette chamber; an inlet for introducing a liquid test sample into the reaction cassette chamber; and a reaction chamber in liquid communication with the inlet; a liquid analytical reagent dispensing apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a container having a first end, a second end, a first side, a second side, a bottom side, a top side, a first cavity being open at the top side of the container, a flange extending around the open top of the first cavity, and a second cavity being open near the second end of the container; a first liquid reagent disposed within the first cavity; a second liquid reagent disposed within the second cavity; and a flexible cover removably affixed to the flange of the container to seal the first liquid reagent in the first cavity, the second liquid reagent in the second cavity, and to permit the first liquid reagent to flow from the first cavity, while the second liquid reagent is contained in the second cavity upon removal of the flexible cover from the flange and with the first end of the container positioned substantially vertically beneath the second end of the container; and a capillary, the capillary capable of being partially inserted into the inlet of the reaction cassette to thereby introduce a liquid test sample into the reaction chamber. 
     The kit, wherein the reaction cassette further comprises at least one solid reagent zone positioned along the reaction chamber, the solid reagent zone comprising a solid analytical reagent. 
     The kit, wherein the liquid analytical reagent dispensing apparatus further comprises a third cavity in which a third liquid reagent is disposed. 
     The kit, wherein the first liquid reagent and the second liquid reagent are the same chemical composition. 
     The kit, wherein the first liquid reagent and the second liquid reagent are different in chemical composition. 
     The kit, wherein the first liquid reagent, the second liquid reagent, and the third liquid reagent are the same chemical composition. 
     The kit, wherein the first liquid reagent, the second liquid reagent, and the third liquid reagent are different in chemical composition. 
     A method for performing analytical reactions to determine the presence of an analyte in a liquid test sample, the method comprising the steps of: providing a reaction cassette having a substantially horizontal axis of rotation, the reaction cassette comprising: a body, the body comprising a top perimeter side, a bottom perimeter side, a first perimeter side, a second perimeter side, bottom portion, and a top portion thereby forming a reaction cassette chamber; an inlet for introducing a liquid test sample into the reaction cassette chamber; a reaction channel in liquid communication with the inlet; and a liquid analytical reagent dispensing apparatus incorporated into the reaction cassette, the apparatus comprising: a container having a first end, a second end, a first side, a second side, a bottom side, a top side, a first cavity being open at the top side of the container, a flange extending around the open top of the first cavity, and a second cavity being open near the second end of the container; a first liquid reagent disposed within the first cavity; a second liquid reagent disposed within the second cavity; and a flexible cover removably affixed to the flange of the container to seal the first liquid reagent in the first cavity and the second liquid reagent in the second cavity and to permit the first liquid reagent to flow from the first cavity, while the second liquid reagent is contained in the second cavity upon removal of the flexible cover from the flange and with the first end of the container positioned substantially vertically beneath the second end of the container; introducing the liquid test sample via the inlet of the reaction cassette into the reaction chamber; removing the flexible cover thereby introducing the first liquid reagent from the first cavity into the reaction channel, whereby the first liquid reagent mixes with the liquid test sample to thereby form a first liquid reaction mixture in the reaction channel; measuring a detectable response in the first reaction mixture to determine the presence of at least one analyte present in the first reaction mixture; rotating the reaction cassette about the horizontal axis such that the second liquid reagent is introduced from the second cavity into the reaction channel; oscillating the reaction cassette about such horizontal axis to agitate the first reaction mixture so as to mix the first reaction mixture with the second liquid reagent thereby forming a second reaction mixture; and measuring a detectable response in the second reaction mixture to determine the presence of at least one analyte present in the second reaction mixture. 
     The method, wherein the liquid analytical reagent dispensing apparatus further comprises a third cavity in which a third liquid reagent is disposed. 
     The method, wherein the method comprises a step of rotating the reaction cassette about the horizontal axis such that the third liquid reagent is introduced from the third cavity into the reaction channel. 
     The method, wherein the method comprises a step of oscillating the second reaction mixture with the third liquid reagent to thereby form a third reaction mixture. 
     The method, wherein the method comprises a step of measuring a detectable response in the third reaction mixture to determine the presence of at least one analyte in the third reaction mixture. 
     The method, wherein a concentration of at least one analyte present in the liquid test sample is detected via the measurement. 
     Thus, in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s), there have been provided devices, kits, and methods for dispensing at least two liquid reagents for use in analyte(s) detection assays. As described herein, the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) relate to embodiments of a modified apparatus present within a reaction cassette that is capable of dispensing at least two liquid reagents for use in analyte(s) detection assays, as well as kits and methods of use related thereto. Is created that fully satisfy the objectives and advantages set forth hereinabove. Although the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) has been described in conjunction with the specific drawings, experimentation, results and language set forth hereinabove, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s).