Patent Publication Number: US-2022214372-A1

Title: Consumable components in fluidic sample dispensing systems and methods

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/830,294 which was filed on Apr. 5, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference and relied upon. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates to consumable components in systems, devices, and methods for dispensing a predetermined amount of fluidic sample. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Cytology techniques have developed to be minimally invasive and have revolutionized the practice of medicine. The ability to quickly obtain high quality samples with little discomfort has generally made such procedures more acceptable. More recently, sample collection techniques are adopting the use of consumable components that are designed to improve laboratory practices whilst ultimately delivering better patient care. Using consumable components reduces cross-contamination and improves reliability. 
     SUMMARY 
     Consumable components in systems, devices, and methods for dispensing substantially the same amount of fluidic sample to each of a plurality of targets are disclosed. In one example embodiment, a sample dispenser for dispensing substantially a same volume of liquid-based sample material to a plurality of targets, the dispenser comprising a first tubular structure having a first inner volume and a first inner perimeter, wherein (i) a first opening of the first tubular structure is disposed between a first gas nozzle and a first target, wherein the first gas nozzle is configured to expel gas towards the first target, and (ii) the first perimeter is selected such that capillary action can be induced to fill the first tubular structure with the liquid-based sample material via a second opening of the first tubular structure, and a second tubular structure having a second inner volume and a second inner perimeter, wherein (i) a first opening of the second tubular structure is disposed between a second gas nozzle and a second target, wherein the second gas nozzle is configured to expel gas towards the second target, (ii) the second perimeter is selected such that capillary action can be induced to fill the second tubular structure with the liquid-based sample material via a second opening of the second tubular structure, and wherein the first inner volume and the second inner volume are substantially the same, and the second opening of the first tubular structure is proximate to the second opening of the second tubular structure. 
     In another example embodiment, a system for sample analysis, comprising a first gas nozzle configured to expel gas towards a first target, a second gas nozzle configured to expel gas towards a second target, a target holder arranged to hold the first and second targets, and a sample dispenser for dispensing substantially the same volume of liquid-based sample material to the plurality of targets, the dispenser comprising a first tubular structure having a first inner volume and a first inner perimeter, wherein (i) a first opening of the first tubular structure is disposed between the first gas nozzle and the first target, and (ii) the first perimeter is selected such that capillary action can be induced to fill the first tubular structure with the liquid-based sample material via a second opening of the first tubular structure, and a second tubular structure having a second inner volume and a second inner perimeter, wherein (i) a first opening of the second tubular structure is disposed between the second gas nozzle and the second target, (ii) the second perimeter is selected such that capillary action can be induced to fill the second tubular structure with the liquid-based sample material via a second opening of the second tubular structure, and wherein the first inner volume and the second inner volume are substantially the same, and the second opening of the first tubular structure is proximate to the second opening of the second tubular structure. 
     In yet another example embodiment, an apparatus for dispensing a fluidic sample, comprising an inlet port to input a sample material, and a first sample nozzle and a second sample nozzle fluidically coupled to the inlet port to expel the sample material, wherein a tubular junction fluidically couples the inlet port to a first tubular fluid path that terminates in the first sample nozzle and to a second tubular fluid path that terminates in the second sample nozzle, wherein a cross-sectional area of the tubular junction is less than an average cross-sectional area of the first tubular fluid path and the second tubular fluid path, and wherein the cross-sectional area of the tubular junction is selected to draw the sample material from the inlet port into the tubular junction via capillary action. 
     In yet another example embodiment, a hood for improving deposition of a sample material on a target in a sample analysis system, the hood comprising a body comprising a top panel, a front panel, a left panel, a right panel and a back panel, wherein the top panel comprises a first opening configured to receive the sample material, a lower panel, positioned adjacent to the back panel, that is parallel to the top panel and perpendicular to the back panel, wherein the lower panel comprises a second opening to receive a stain or dye subsequent to the deposition of the sample material on the target, and a bottom rim that supports the body and the lower panel, wherein the bottom rim is configured to adhere to the target prior to the deposition. 
     The above and other aspects and their implementations are described in greater detail in the drawings, the descriptions, and the claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  illustrates an example of a sample analysis system. 
         FIG. 1B  illustrates another example of a sample analysis system. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an example of the sample dispenser of  FIG. 1A . 
         FIG. 3  illustrates another example of the sample dispenser of  FIG. 1A . 
         FIG. 4  illustrates yet another example of the sample dispenser of  FIG. 1A . 
         FIGS. 5A and 5B  illustrate an example of a sample dispenser. 
         FIGS. 6A and 6B  illustrate another example of a sample dispenser. 
         FIGS. 7A and 7B  illustrate yet another example of a sample dispenser. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates an example of spraying a sample using the sample dispenser shown in  FIGS. 6A and 6B . 
         FIG. 9A  illustrates an example of an inlet port on a sample dispenser. 
         FIG. 9B  illustrates the geometry of the inlet port of  FIG. 9A . 
         FIG. 10A  illustrate another example of an inlet port on a sample disperser. 
         FIG. 10B  illustrates the geometry of the inlet port of  FIG. 10A . 
         FIG. 11  illustrates an example of the tubular structure connecting the inlet port and the sample nozzle of a sample dispenser. 
         FIG. 12  illustrates another example of the tubular structure connecting the inlet port and the sample nozzle of a sample dispenser. 
         FIGS. 13A and 13B  illustrates an example of a hood that improves the efficacy of a sample analysis system. 
         FIGS. 14A and 14B  illustrate an example of a sealing mechanism of the hood of  FIGS. 13A and 13B . 
         FIG. 15A  illustrates an example of the relative positions of a sample dispenser and a hood in relation to a portion of a sample analysis system. 
         FIG. 15B  illustrates the hood connected to the sample analysis system. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Biological tissue samples are collected from patients for microscopic and molecular diagnostic analysis for clinical, diagnostic and research applications. These samples are collected in a variety of laboratory, medical clinic and other health-care or medical research settings. For example, cells/tissue can be collected from a patient using a collection device, such as a brush, swab or cutting tool for biopsies and placed into liquid in a sample container. When ready to prepare microscopic slides for screening and/or diagnosis, the sample liquid is drawn by vacuum through a filter. A microscope slide is pressed against the filter to transfer cells onto the slide for viewing and analysis. Alternatively, the sample liquid may be transferred from the sample vial to a glass slide via a pipettor or other suction-type devices. Other, non-liquid-based approaches for viewing cells under microscope include directly smearing cells or tissues onto the surface of the slide with the collection device. 
     In certain situations, it may be desirable to prepare a plurality of slides in substantially the same manner. For example, by preparing two or more slides in the same manner, a user can repeat an analysis or a test to improve reliability of the result. In another example, one of the prepared slides can be used as a control slide. In yet another example, the slides can be processed at different times after undergoing the same process or different processes. In yet another example, one of the slides can undergo a conventional histological staining while the other slide can undergo a molecular staining process. In yet another example, one of the slides can be reviewed on-site to quickly ascertain the adequacy of the samples while the other slide can be processed in the laboratory for a detailed cytological analysis of the specimen. Preparing a plurality of slides, using any of the above described methods, typically uses consumable components to reduce cross-contamination and improve reliability. 
     In various embodiments, consumable components for systems, devices, and methods that are capable of automatically and concurrently depositing substantially the same amount of fluidic sample to each of a plurality of targets, such as slides, are described. The consumable components include a specimen input port (SIP), which enables the fluidic sample to be deposited on the target, and a hood, which contains the sample to be deposited within the target area and eliminates the unintended dispersion of the aerosolized sample. 
     Examples of a Sample Analysis System 
       FIG. 1A  illustrates an example of a sample analysis system  100 . As shown therein, sample analysis system  100  includes a target holder  110  that holds two targets  106  and  108  in place. In  FIG. 1A , for example, target holder  110  includes recessed areas that prevent targets  106  and  108  from moving laterally once placed inside the areas. A target may be, for example, a glass slide, a coverslip, a plastic substrate, charged cytological slide, coated cytological slide. In some embodiments, sample holder  110  may hold two or more different types of targets. Sample analysis system  100  includes a plurality of gas nozzles  102  and  104 . These gas nozzles are connected to one or more pressurized gas sources, such that, when the nozzles are activated, gas is expelled from the nozzles towards targets  106  and  108 . The gas may be, for example, compressed air, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, helium, argon, etc. 
     Additionally, sample analysis system  100  includes a sample dispenser  120  (also referred to as the specimen input port or SIP). Sample dispenser  120  includes sample reservoir  122  (also referred to as an inlet port or well) and at least two fluid paths  124  and  126 , which terminate in sample nozzles  134  and  136 , respectively. As shown in  FIG. 1A , sample reservoir  122  is fluidically coupled to both sample nozzles  134  and  136  via fluid paths  124  and  126 , respectively. 
     Furthermore, sample analysis system  100  includes a sample dispenser holder  112 . Sample dispenser holder  112  is arranged to hold sample dispenser  120  such that the sample nozzles  134  and  136  are positioned between gas nozzles  102  and  104  and targets  106  and  108 , respectively. In particular, the sample nozzles  134  and  136  are positioned to be in a path of the gas expelled by gas nozzles  102  and  104 , respectively. In some embodiments, sample dispenser  120  may be fixed to sample analysis system  100  by sample dispenser holder  112 . In other embodiments, sample dispenser  120  may be removable from sample analysis system  100 , and sample dispenser holder  112  may passively and/or actively align sample dispenser  120  with respect to gas nozzles  102 / 104  and/or targets  106 / 108  after sample dispenser  120  is inserted into sample analysis system  100 . The sample dispenser  120  is typically a consumable component that is disposed after being used once (or a predetermined number of times). 
     In operation, a user may deliver a fluidic sample to sample reservoir  122  of sample dispenser  120 . For example, a user may use a syringe to collect and expel the collected fluidic sample inside sample reservoir  122 . In another example, sample analysis system  100  may automatically deliver the fluidic sample to sample reservoir  122  (e.g., after detecting the presence of a sample dispenser  120 ). In yet another example, a user may deliver the fluidic sample to another part of sample analysis system  100  such that it is routed to the sample reservoir  122 . 
     After the fluidic sample is delivered to sample reservoir  122 , for example by way of capillary action, the fluidic sample is transported to the sample nozzles  134  and  136 . In some embodiments, sample dispenser  120  is configured such that the fluidic sample does not flow through fluid paths  124  and  126  unless the gas nozzles  102  and  104 , respectively, are activated. 
     After the fluidic sample is delivered to sample reservoir  122 , gas nozzles  102  and  104  may be activated by the user (and/or automatically by sample analysis system  100 ). The gas from the nozzles causes the fluidic sample to become aerosolized and deposited on surfaces of targets  106  and  108 . In some embodiments, sample dispenser  120  can be configured such that a predetermined amount of the fluidic sample is expelled from each sample nozzle  134  and  136  when gas nozzles  102  and  104 , respectively, are activated. Advantageously, this enables sample analysis system  100  to consistently deposit a predetermined amount of fluidic sample to each target. In some embodiments, sample dispenser  120  may be configured such that substantially the same amount of the fluidic sample is expelled from each sample nozzle  134 / 136  when gas nozzles  102 / 104  are activated. This enables sample analysis system  100  to consistently deposit the same, predetermined amount of fluidic sample to each target. In some embodiments, the amount of fluidic sample expelled from each sample nozzle may be, at least in part, based on the activation duration of the gas nozzles and/or gas pressure at the nozzles. 
     In some embodiments, after the fluidic sample is delivered to sample reservoir  122 , sample analysis system  100  may deliver into sample reservoir  122  some fluid (or buffer solution) for expanding the sample volume. Such fluid may include, for example, a combination of at least one of: distilled water, saline solution, different concentrations of ethanol, buffer solution, isotonic solution, etc. 
     In  FIG. 1A , sample analysis system  100  includes a target holder that holds two targets, sample dispenser  120  with two sample nozzles and two gas nozzles. In some embodiments, sample analysis system  100  may include additional target holder(s) and/or a target holder that holds more than two targets. In these embodiments, sample dispenser  120  may include additional sample nozzles (and a corresponding number of additional gas nozzles) such that the number of sample nozzles match the number of samples that can be held by system analysis system  100 . 
     In some embodiments, each target may receive sample dispensed from two or more sample nozzles. In these embodiments, each target may have two or more patches of samples dispensed onto its surface. 
       FIG. 1B  illustrates another example of a sample analysis system  100 , in which the sample dispenser holder  112  is integrated into the sample analysis system and to ensure the correct alignment and efficacy of the air nozzles with regard to the sample nozzles (e.g., air nozzle  104  and sample nozzle  136 , respectively). 
     Examples of a Consumable Specimen Input Port (SIP) 
       FIGS. 2-12  illustrates various embodiments and features of a specimen input port (SIP) or sample dispenser (e.g., sample dispenser  120  in  FIGS. 1A and 1B ). Although shown and described as different embodiments, the features described in any embodiment are not restricted to that specific embodiment, but may be combined with the sample dispenser described in another embodiment. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates an example of sample dispenser  120  and gas nozzles  102  and  104  of  FIG. 1A . As shown in  FIG. 2 , sample dispenser  220  includes a first tubular structure  224  (e.g., fluid path  124  in  FIG. 1A ) that terminates in a first sample nozzle  234 , a second tubular structure  226  (e.g., fluid path  126  in  FIG. 1A ) that terminates in a second sample nozzle  236 , and a sample reservoir  222  (e.g., inlet port  122  in  FIGS. 1A and 1B ). Sample dispenser  220  further includes a first restrictor (also a tubular structure)  225 , that fluidically couples tubular structure  224  to sample reservoir  222 . Correspondingly, sample dispenser  220  includes a second restrictor  227  (also a tubular structure) that fluidically couples tubular structure  226  to sample reservoir  222 . 
     In some embodiments, a cross-sectional area of tubular structure  224  is greater than a cross-sectional area of restrictor  225 , and a cross-sectional area of tubular structure  226  is greater than a cross-sectional area of restrictor  227 . In some embodiments, tubular structures  224 / 226  and restrictors  226 / 227  may have at least one of the following cross-sectional shapes: circle, oval, rectangular, and polygon. In some embodiments, sample reservoir  222  may have a volume between 5 μL (microliters) to 150 μL. In some embodiments, sample reservoir  222  may have a volume less than 2 milliliters. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , tubular structure  224 , tubular structure  226 , restrictor  225 , and restrictor  227  are shown to have the same cross-sectional shape and area throughout their lengths. In some embodiments, however, at least one of tubular structure  224 , tubular structure  226 , restrictor  225 , and restrictor  227  may have a cross-section that varies over its length (e.g., as described in the example shown in  FIG. 12 ). In these embodiments, an average cross-sectional area of tubular structure  224  would be greater than an average cross-sectional area of restrictor  225 , and an average cross-sectional area of tubular structure  226  is greater than an average cross-sectional area of restrictor  227 . 
     In some embodiments, restrictors  225  and  227  may each be about 0.1 mm to about 2 mm long, and for example, in increments of 0.1 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the tubular structures  224  and  226  may about 1 mm to about 2 mm, and for example, in increments of 0.1 mm. In some embodiments, a cross-section of restrictors  225  and  227  may be a circle having a diameter of about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm, and for example, in increments of 0.1 mm. In some embodiments, a cross-section of restrictors  225  and  227  may be a circle with a diameter smaller than 0.8 mm. In some embodiments, tubular structures  224  and  226  may each be about 10 mm long. In some embodiments, cross-sections of tubular structures  224  and  226  may be a circle with a 0.8 mm diameter. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the tubular structures  224  and  226  terminate in sample nozzles  234  and  236 , respectively, that protrude from sample dispenser  220 . The protrusion of the sample nozzles allows the gas nozzles to be in close proximity to the exterior openings of tubular structures  224  and  226 . Furthermore, the protrusion allows a smooth airflow to be applied directly to the sample in the airstream, rather than the air being disturbed by other surfaces. Thus, the location and stability of the air nozzle relative to the tube outlets impacts the spray pattern produced, and, the nozzles may be positioned such that the air is able to flow directly past the end of the tube undisturbed. In some embodiments, the length of the protrusion may be about 1 mm. In some embodiments, the length of the sample nozzle may be between 0.1 mm and 1 mm, and for example, in increments of 0.1 mm. In some embodiments the length of the sample nozzle may be between 1 mm and 10 mm, and for example, in increments of 1 mm. 
     In some embodiments, inner surfaces of tubular structure  224 , tubular structure  226 , restrictor  225 , and/or restrictor  227  may be coated with (and/or made of) hydrophobic material(s), hydrophilic material(s), and/or a material with known hydrophilic/hydrophobic properties. For example, the material can be Teflon or similar to limit the resistance of the fluid flowing through the inner tube. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , sample reservoir  222  may have a conical (or pyramidical) shape and connect to restrictors  225  and  227  at the reservoir&#39;s narrow, conical-end. In other embodiments, sample reservoir  222  may have a prismatic or a cylindrical shape. In these embodiments, sample reservoir  222  may connect to restrictors  225  and  227  via a hole on the prismatic or cylindrically shaped sample reservoir  222 . 
     In operation, a user may deliver collected fluidic sample to sample reservoir  222 . For example, a user may use a syringe to collect and expel the collected fluidic sample inside sample reservoir  222 . After the fluidic sample is delivered to sample reservoir  222 , capillary action occurs and transports the fluidic sample to edges of restrictors  225  and  227 , but the fluidic sample does not flow into tubular structures  224  and  226 . 
     The relatively small cross-sectional areas of restrictors  225  and  227  increase the amount of force required to transport fluid through them. Therefore, restrictors  225  and  227  may counteract at least some of the force acting on the fluidic sample by the gravity. Without restrictors  225  and  227 , the gravity may cause the fluidic sample to pass through the tubular structures  224  and  226  and become expelled from sample dispenser  220  as the fluidic sample is being delivered to sample reservoir  222 . With restrictors  225  and  227 , however, the fluidic sample is transported to edges of restrictors  225  and  227  but does not flow into tubular structures  224  and  225  and out of sample nozzles  234  and  236 , respectively (unless gas nozzles  202  and  204  are respectively activated). 
     In some embodiments, before, during, or after the fluidic sample is delivered to sample reservoir  222  and the fluidic sample is transported to edges of restrictors  225  and  227  by way of capillary action, gas nozzles  202  and  204  may be activated by the user (and/or automatically by the sample analysis system). The gas from the nozzles causes the fluidic sample to first enter the tubular structures  224  and  226  then exit, via sample nozzles  234  and  236 , into the gas stream to become aerosolized towards the targets until the fluidic sample inside tubular structures  224  and  226  is depleted. In particular, the gas from the nozzles may apply negative pressure at the sample nozzles  234  and  236  to cause the fluidic sample to become expelled from tubular structures  224  and  226 . 
     Subsequently, the expelled fluidic sample is aerosolized by the gas nozzles onto surfaces of the targets (e.g., slides). In some embodiments, the gas nozzles may be activated for about 0.1 sec to 0.5 sec, and for example, in increments of 0.1 sec, with positive pressure up to 200 kPa pressure per nozzle. In some embodiments, the gas nozzles may be activated with a pressure ranging from 10 kPa to 190 kPa. In some embodiments, the gas nozzles may have 1 mm opening diameter. In some embodiments, the gas nozzles may have an opening diameter between 0.2 mm and 2.0 mm, and for example, in increments of 0.1 mm. 
     Advantageously, the amount of fluidic sample deposited on the surfaces of the targets is based on the duration and pressure of the gas applied to the sample nozzles  234  and  236 . 
     Furthermore, the relative volumes of tubular structures  224  and  226  and/or restrictors  225  and  227  may affect the relative rates of sample deposition. Accordingly, if a system requires deposition of substantially the same amount of sample, restrictors  225 / 227  and tubular structures  224 / 226  may be designed to be symmetric about the inlet port  222 . Accordingly, in some embodiments, the volume of the deposited sample on a target may depend on gas pressure, duration of nozzle activation, and dimensions of the tubular structures. 
     In the example shown in  FIG. 2 , tubular structures  224  and  226 , and restrictors  225  and  227 , are shown to be straight. In some embodiments, at least a portion of tubular structure  224 , tubular structure  226 , restrictor  225 , and/or restrictor  227  may be curved towards and/or away from the sample nozzles  234  and  236 , respectively. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates another example of a sample dispenser. Sample dispenser  320  is similar to sample dispenser  220  of  FIG. 2  except that the first and second tubular structures  324  and  326  in  FIG. 3  are at an obtuse or acute angle (theta) with respect to each other. In these embodiments, spray patterns from the nozzles may be preferable for some applications. In some embodiments, the angle theta in  FIG. 3  may range between 180° and 30°. In some embodiments, the angle theta in  FIG. 3  may be zero degrees such that both first and second tubular structures  324  and  326  are oriented towards substantially the same direction (i.e., towards the targets) and/or parallel. Additionally, or alternatively, first and second tubular structures  324  and  326  may be angled with respect to a plane perpendicular to the target. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates yet another example of sample dispenser. Sample dispenser  420  is similar to sample dispenser  120  of  FIG. 1A  except that sample dispenser  420  includes air nozzle interfaces  422  and  424  to interface with air nozzles  402  and  404  of a sample analysis system. Air nozzle interfaces  422  and  424  are positionally and angularly fixed with respect to tubular structures  424  and  426 , respectively. For example, air nozzle interfaces  422  and  424  and tubular structures  424  and  426  may be parts of the same rigid structure (not shown in  FIG. 4 ). 
     Advantageously, air nozzle interfaces  422  and  424  that are positionally and angularly fixed with respect to tubular structures  424  and  426  may reduce deposition variations arising from misalignment between air nozzles  402  and  404  and tubular structures  424  and  426 , respectively. For example, air nozzle interfaces  422  and  424  guide the gas expelled by air nozzles  402  and  404  to intersect with the sample nozzles  434  and  436  precisely at the predetermined position and angle. Misalignment between air nozzles  402  and  404  and tubular structures  424  and  426  may arise from, for example, imprecise manufacturing of sample dispenser holder (e.g., sample dispenser holder  112  in  FIGS. 1A and 1B ) and/or the sample dispenser (e.g.,  120 ,  220 ,  320  or  420 ). In some instances, the misalignment can also arise from incorrect location and/or positioning of the nozzles relative to the sample dispenser holder. 
     In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 4 , air nozzle interfaces  422  and/or  424  may have wider openings (e.g., by having conical- or pyramid-like openings) at an end facing the air nozzles than the samples nozzles  434  and  436 . Advantageously, the wider openings may allow the air nozzle interfaces  422 / 424  to compensate for greater misalignments between air nozzles  402 / 404  and sample dispenser  420 . 
       FIGS. 5A and 5B  illustrate yet another example of a sample dispenser. The sample dispenser  520  shown in  FIGS. 5A and 5B  is similar to sample dispenser  120  in  FIG. 1B . The inlet port  522  is fluidically coupled to the sample nozzles  534  and  536  via the fluid paths  524  and  526 , respectively. As shown in  FIG. 5B , the sample dispenser  520  further includes an indentation on an opposite end of the sample dispenser from the inlet port and sample nozzles, which enables the user to securely grip the sample dispenser in order to correctly place it in the sample analysis system (not shown in  FIGS. 5A and 5B ). 
     In some embodiments, the indentation includes a cover (not shown in  FIGS. 5A and 5B ) to protect the finger of the user or technician who typically grips the SIP with one hand and uses, for example, the needle from a fine-needle aspiration process to deposit the sample material into the inlet port  522 . 
     In some embodiments, the sample nozzles  534  and  536  of the sample dispenser  520  are positioned such that the aerosolized sample exits in opposite directions to then be deposited on the target (e.g., a slide, not shown in  FIGS. 5A and 5B ). The inlet port  522  may be configured to be a narrow opening, as shown in  FIGS. 5A and 5B , and the sample nozzles  534  and  536  may be configured to deposit a sample in a circular shape on the target in a monolayer. That is, the sample nozzles may be configured to ensure that overlapping sample cells are minimized, and preferably eliminated, when the sample if deposited on the target. 
     In some embodiments, the inlet port  522  may include a notch (not explicitly shown in  FIGS. 5A and 5B ) that enables a buffer solution to be passively added to the specimen material. Adding the buffer solution advantageously enables the sample material to be uniformly distributed on the target. In an example, the buffer solution is phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), which is a water-based salt solution containing disodium hydrogen phosphate, sodium chloride and, in some formulations, potassium chloride and potassium dihydrogen phosphate. 
     In some embodiments, the buffer solution can be selected as one or more of the following: TAPS ([tris(hydroxymethyl)methylamino]propanesulfonic acid), Bicine (2-(bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino)acetic acid), Tris (tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane) or (2-amino-2-(hydroxymethyl)propane-1,3-diol), Tricine (N-[tris(hydroxymethyl)methyl]glycine), TAPSO (3-[N-tris(hydroxymethyl)methylamino]-2-hydroxypropanesulfonic acid), HEPES (4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic acid), TES (2-[[1,3-dihydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)propan-2-yl]amino]ethanesulfonic acid), MOPS (3-(N-morpholino)propanesulfonic acid), PIPES (piperazine-N, N′-bis(2-ethanesulfonic acid)), Cacodylate (dimethylarsenic acid), and MES (2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid). 
     In some embodiments, the buffer solution and the specimen material may be actively mixed when being delivered to the inlet port  522 . In an example, a micro-scale fan may be installed adjacent to the inlet port to actively mix the specimen material and the buffer solution. In another example, acoustic or ultrasonic mixing may be used to perform the active mixing. In yet another example, flow pulsation can be used to perform the active mixing. In yet another example, the buffer solution may be added to the inlet port with increased pressure to perform the mixing operation. 
       FIGS. 6A and 6B  show yet another embodiment of the sample dispenser. The sample dispenser  620  is similar to the specimen input port (SIP) shown in  FIG. 5 , but the sample nozzles  634  and  636  are configured to be parallel to each other. Both the SIPs shown in  FIGS. 5A / 5 B and  6 A/ 6 B are configured to expel the sample material in a forward direction (with respect to the placement of the SIP in the sample analysis system) when the gas nozzles are activated. However, this configuration of the sample nozzles, as shown in  FIGS. 6A and 6B , results in an oval-shaped deposition footprint on the target (which will be further described in the context of  FIG. 8 ), as compared to round deposition footprint on the target that is produced by the SIP shown in  FIG. 5 . 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 6A and 6B , the inlet port  622  is fluidically coupled to the sample nozzles  634  and  636  by fluid paths that are embedded within the SIP  620 . In an example, the embedded fluid paths may be straight. In another example, the embedded fluid paths may be curved to minimize the fluid paths and the distance traversed by the sample material between the inlet port  622  and the sample nozzles  634  and  636 . 
       FIGS. 7A and 7B  show yet another embodiment of the SIP. The specimen input port  720  is similar to the sample dispenser  620  shown in  FIG. 6 , except that the sample nozzles  734  and  736  are configured to expel the sample material in a backward direction (with respect to the placement of the SIP in the sample analysis system) when the gas nozzles are activated. Similar to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 6A and 6B , the parallel sample nozzles result in an oval-shaped deposition footprint on the target upon the activation of the gas nozzles. 
     Embodiments of the disclosed technology concurrently use multiple sample nozzles (e.g., sample nozzles  534 / 536 ,  634 / 636  and  734 / 736  in  FIGS. 5-7 ), which advantageously enable consistent deposits to be made on multiple targets. In an example, using the SIP shown in  FIGS. 5A and 5B  (which includes sample nozzles facing opposite directions that deposit a circular footprint on the target) results in 50% to 70% of the cells being deposited on the slide, whereas using the configuration in  FIG. 6A / 6 B or  7 A/ 7 B, which include parallel nozzles that are configured to deposit an oval-shaped footprint on the target, increases the amount of cells deposited on the target to increase to 80% to 95%, thereby reducing cell loss. 
     In some embodiments, the sample dispenser may be configured to deposit unequal amounts of the sample material on the first target as compared to the second target. In an example, this may be achieved by using unequal gas pressures at the two gas nozzles. In another example, this may be achieved by having the first gas nozzle or the first sample nozzle be of a different size or shape compared to the second gas nozzle or second sample nozzle, respectively. In yet another example, a different material coating may be used on the first fluid path as compared to the second fluid path. In yet another example, the diameter or length of the first fluid path may be different from that of the second fluid path. In yet another example, a blocker material may be used to enable a larger amount of sample material is deposited on one target as compared to the other target. 
     In some embodiments, the sample material may be added to the inlet port (e.g.,  522 ,  622  or  722  in  FIGS. 5-7 , respectively) using the hollow needle that is used for fine-needle aspiration (FNA), and which contains the cells that have just been collected from the patient, and are ready to distributed on targets (e.g., slides) for examination and/or investigation. In other embodiments, the sample material may be pre-mixed with a buffer solution and the mixed fluidic sample may be added to the inlet port for distribution on the targets. 
     In some embodiments, the sample dispensers (or portions of the sample dispensers that are in contact with the sample materials) may be molded using materials with low surface energy. If a material has high surface energy, a liquid will spread over the surface of the material, whereas using a material with a low surface energy ensures that the liquid will bead up. The latter advantageously ensures that more of the sample material (or when appropriate, a mixture of the sample material and a buffer solution) will be expelled through the sample nozzles instead of remaining in the fluid paths or the inlet port. In an example, the material used to make be selected from the table shown below (which also provides the surface energy in milli-Newtons per meter (mN/m)). 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Materials (and surface energy) for SIP molding  
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                   
                 Surface energy  
               
               
                   
                 Material  
                 (mN/m) 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Acrylic (poly(methyl methacrylate), PMMA)  
                 38  
               
               
                   
                 Polystyrene (PS)  
                 34  
               
               
                   
                 Styrene acrylonitrile (SAN)  
                 40  
               
               
                   
                 Polycarbonate (PC)  
                 46  
               
               
                   
                 Cyclic olefin copolymer (COC)  
                 30 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     In some embodiments, the SIP shown in  FIGS. 5-7  can further include the air nozzles. That is, the consumable SIP can include both the sample and air nozzles, which can be optimally aligned during manufacture to ensure that the gas expelled from the air nozzle (which can be connected to a pressure source that is part of the sample analysis system) results in the expulsion of all the sample material from the fluid paths through the sample nozzles. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates an example of spraying a sample using the sample dispenser shown in  FIGS. 6A and 6B . As shown in  FIG. 8 , the sampler dispenser  820  includes the inlet port  822  is fluidically coupled to sample nozzles  834  and  836  via curved fluid paths  824  and  826 , respectively, that are embedded within the structure of the sample dispenser. As described earlier, the parallel configuration of the sample nozzles results in an oval-shaped deposition footprint on the target (e.g., the slides  806  and  808  in  FIG. 8 ). This configuration achieves a lower level of cell loss by depositing up to 70-80% of the cells on the target. 
       FIG. 9A  illustrates an example of an inlet port on a sample dispenser, and  FIG. 9B  illustrates the geometry of the inlet port of  FIG. 9A .  FIG. 10A  illustrates another example of an inlet port on a sample disperser, and  FIG. 10B  illustrates the geometry of the inlet port of  FIG. 10A . As shown in therein, inlet port  922  in  FIG. 9B  is configured to be shallow and wide (with a large angle between the walls of the inlet port), whereas inlet port  1022  in  FIG. 10B  is configured to be deep and narrow (with a small angle between the walls of the inlet port). The geometry of the inlet port may be configured to maximize the drawing of the specimen (or sample material) into the fluid paths and subsequently to be expelled from the sample nozzles when the gas nozzles of the sample analysis system and activated. 
     In some embodiments, the inlet port can be configured to hold 5 μL to 150 μL. In an example, 2-10 μL of a sample and 20 μL of a buffer solution can be deposited into the inlet port. In some embodiments, the inlet port can include a “max-fill line” that prevents any overflow as long as the volume of the sample (or volume of sample and buffer solution) does not rise above this level. In some embodiments, the inlet port can include a needle guide that simplifies the use of the FNA needle for deposition of the sample into the sample dispenser. 
       FIG. 11  illustrates an example of the cross-section of the tubular structure (or fluid path) that connects the inlet port and the sample nozzles of a sample dispenser. As described above in the context of  FIG. 2 , the restrictors  1125  and  1127  are of a smaller cross-section than the fluid paths  1124  and  1126 , which allows the sample material that is placed into the inlet port  1122  to flow to the edge of the restrictors via capillary action, but not enter the fluid paths until the gas nozzles  1102  and  1004  have been activated. 
     The fluid paths  1124  and  1126 , as shown in  FIG. 11 , are uniformly cylindrical from their start at the restrictors ( 1125  and  1127 ) to their respective sample nozzles  1134  and  1136 . That is, the cross-sectional area of the fluid paths does not vary over their length. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates another example of the cross-section of the tubular structure (or fluid path) that connects the inlet port and the sample nozzles of a sample dispenser. As shown in  FIG. 12 , the fluid paths  1224  and  1226  are not uniformly cylindrical, but include an initial flare followed by a taper before the samples nozzles  1234  and  1236  are reached. Thus, the cross-sectional area of the fluid path varies along its length, but the average cross-sectional area of the fluid paths  1224  and  1226  are greater than the cross-sectional area of the restrictors  1225  and  1227  to ensure that the fluidic sample only enters and is expelled from the fluid paths when the gas nozzles are activated and create a negative pressure at the sample nozzles. The varying cross-sectional area of the fluid path shown in  FIG. 12  advantageously enables the tooling of the device with reduced complexity. 
       FIGS. 2-12  describe various embodiments of a SIP or sample dispenser, which is a consumable component of a sample analysis system, and is configured to be discarded after every use (or a predetermined number of uses). The features of the SIP described herein advantageously ensure that a monolayer (with minimally overlapping cells) of the sample material is uniformly and consistently distributed over multiple targets. These features include, but are not limited to, the geometry (e.g., size and depth) of the inlet port, the design of the fluid paths, the shape of the sample nozzle tip and the overall shape of the SIP. 
     Examples of a Consumable Hood 
     Another consumable component of a sample analysis system is a hood, illustrated in  FIGS. 13-14 , which provides a seal with the target (e.g., slides), prevents unintended dispersion and cross-contamination of the aerosolized sample, thereby improving the reliability and efficacy of the sample analysis. 
       FIGS. 13A and 13B  illustrates an example of a hood that improves the efficacy of a sample analysis system. As shown therein, the hood comprises a body  1305  with an upper portion, a middle portion and a lower portion. The upper portion includes a holder  1310  and an aerosol opening  1315 , and the middle portion includes the stain opening  1320 . 
     In some embodiments, the sample nozzle of the SIP can be positioned above the aerosol opening  1315  so that when the gas nozzle of the sample analysis system is activated, the aerosolized sample is deposited on the target with the hood ensuring that the sample is contained and preventing unintended dispersion or cross-contamination of the work space. In some embodiments, one or more stains used in the sample analysis can be added to the sample deposited on the target through the staining opening  1320 . 
     In some embodiments, and as shown in  FIGS. 13A and 13B , the aerosol opening  1315  and the stain opening  1320  are rectangular in shape. In other embodiments, one or both of the aerosol and stain openings may be circular, oval or polygon-shaped. 
     The body  1305  of the hood includes a first notch  1325  that enables the hood to be properly affixed to the sample analysis system. The lower portion of the hood includes a seal  1330 , which affixes to the target and prevents any leakage of the aerosolized sample material that is distributed on the target. The hood further includes a second notch (not shown in  FIGS. 13A and 13B ) below the stain opening  1320 , which (along with notch  1325 ) assists in the hood being properly placed in the sample analysis system. The notches enable the hood (and the target that is sealed by the bottom portion of the hood  1305 ) to properly positioned during the spraying and staining processes of the sample analysis operation. 
       FIGS. 14A and 14B  illustrate an example of a sealing mechanism of the hood of  FIGS. 13A and 13B . As discussed above, the seal  1430  of the hood  1405  prevents the deposited sample from leaking. As shown in  FIGS. 14A and 14B , the seal  1430  includes a clamp  1432  that can be depressed when the hood makes contact with the target (e.g., microscope slides) to ensure that the seal is reliable and more effective than a simple rubber gasket. 
     In some embodiments, the hood may be manufactured from any one of the following materials (or their combinations): acrylic (poly(methyl methacrylate)), cyclic olefin copolymer, polystyrene, styrene acrylonitrile, polycarbonate, or polypropylene. 
       FIG. 15A  illustrates an example of the relative positions of a sample dispenser and a hood in relation to a portion of a sample analysis system. As described above, the SIP  1520  is positioned such that the sample nozzle is directly above the aerosol opening of the hood, thereby enabling the aerosolized sample to be deposited on the target when the gas nozzles of the sample analysis system are activated. As shown in  FIG. 15A , the stain opening is interlocked with a portion (or tab) of the sample analysis system using the notch below the stain opening. 
       FIG. 15B  shows a detailed version of the example interlocking of the hood and the tab of the sample analysis system, wherein the tab includes two indentations ( 1541  and  1542 ) through which one or more needles that contain the stain or dye can be inserted to enable deposition of the stain or dye onto the aerosolized sample that has been sprayed on the target. 
     In some embodiments, the following technical solutions, based on the descriptions provided herein, may be implemented: 
     A1. A sample dispenser for dispensing substantially a same volume of liquid-based sample material to a plurality of targets, the dispenser comprising: a first tubular structure having a first inner volume and a first inner perimeter, wherein: (i) a first opening of the first tubular structure is disposed between a first gas nozzle and a first target, wherein the first gas nozzle is configured to expel gas towards the first target; and (ii) the first perimeter is selected such that capillary action can be induced to fill the first tubular structure with the liquid-based sample material via a second opening of the first tubular structure, and a second tubular structure having a second inner volume and a second inner perimeter, wherein: (i) a first opening of the second tubular structure is disposed between a second gas nozzle and a second target, wherein the second gas nozzle is configured to expel gas towards the second target, (ii) the second perimeter is selected such that capillary action can be induced to fill the second tubular structure with the liquid-based sample material via a second opening of the second tubular structure, and wherein the first inner volume and the second inner volume are substantially the same, and the second opening of the first tubular structure is proximate to the second opening of the second tubular structure. 
     A2. The dispenser of solution A1, wherein the second openings of the first and second tubular structures are mechanically coupled to a common reservoir for receiving the sample material. 
     A3. The dispenser of solution A1, wherein the second openings of the first and second tubular structures are oriented towards substantially the same direction. 
     A4. The dispenser of solution A1, wherein an angle between the first openings of the first and second tubular structures are between 90 and 180 degrees. 
     A5. The dispenser of solution A1, wherein the first gas nozzle and the first opening of the first tubular structure are arranged such that, when the first gas nozzle expels gas, sample material in the first tubular structure is substantially emptied onto the first target. 
     A6. The dispenser of solution A1, wherein the second gas nozzle and the first opening of the second tubular structure are arranged such that, when the second gas nozzle expels gas, sample material in the second tubular structure is substantially emptied on to the second target. 
     A7. The dispenser of solution A1, wherein a cross-sectional shape of the first tubular structure is one of a circle, an oval, and a polygon. 
     A8. The dispenser of solution A1, wherein the first and second tubular structures are parallel to each other. 
     A9. A system for sample analysis, comprising: a first gas nozzle configured to expel gas towards a first target; a second gas nozzle configured to expel gas towards a second target; a target holder arranged to hold the first and second targets; and a sample dispenser for dispensing substantially the same volume of liquid-based sample material to the plurality of targets, the dispenser comprising: a first tubular structure having a first inner volume and a first inner perimeter, wherein: (i) a first opening of the first tubular structure is disposed between the first gas nozzle and the first target; and (ii) the first perimeter is selected such that capillary action can be induced to fill the first tubular structure with the liquid-based sample material via a second opening of the first tubular structure, and a second tubular structure having a second inner volume and a second inner perimeter, wherein: (i) a first opening of the second tubular structure is disposed between the second gas nozzle and the second target, (ii) the second perimeter is selected such that capillary action can be induced to fill the second tubular structure with the liquid-based sample material via a second opening of the second tubular structure, and wherein the first inner volume and the second inner volume are substantially the same, and the second opening of the first tubular structure is proximate to the second opening of the second tubular structure. 
     A10. The system of solution A9, further comprising a sample dispenser holder arranged to hold the sample dispenser over the plurality of targets. 
     A11. The system of solution A9, wherein the sample dispenser is replaceable. 
     A12. The system of solution A9, wherein the second openings of the first and second tubular structures are mechanically coupled to a common reservoir for receiving the sample material. 
     A13. The system of solution A9, wherein the second openings of the first and second tubular structures are oriented towards substantially the same direction. 
     A14. The system of solution A9, wherein an acute angle between the first openings of the first and second tubular structures are between 90 and 180 degrees. 
     A15. The system of solution A9, wherein the first gas nozzle and the first opening of the first tubular structure are arranged such that, when the first gas nozzle expels gas, sample material in the first tubular structure is substantially emptied onto the first target. 
     A16. The system of solution A9, wherein the second gas nozzle and the first opening of the second tubular structure are arranged such that, when the second gas nozzle expels gas, sample material in the second tubular structure is substantially emptied on to the second target. 
     A17. The system of solution A9, wherein a cross-sectional shape of the first tubular structure is one of a circle, an oval, or a polygon. 
     A18. The system of solution A9, wherein the first and second tubular structures are parallel to each other. 
     In some embodiments, the following technical solutions, based on the descriptions provided herein, may be implemented: 
     B1. An apparatus for dispensing a fluidic sample, comprising: an inlet port to input a sample material; and a first sample nozzle and a second sample nozzle fluidically coupled to the inlet port to expel the sample material, wherein a tubular junction fluidically couples the inlet port to a first tubular fluid path that terminates in the first sample nozzle and to a second tubular fluid path that terminates in the second sample nozzle, wherein a cross-sectional area of the tubular junction is less than an average cross-sectional area of the first tubular fluid path and the second tubular fluid path, and wherein the cross-sectional area of the tubular junction is selected to draw the sample material from the inlet port into the tubular junction via capillary action. 
     B2. The apparatus of solution B1, wherein the first sample nozzle is disposed between a first gas nozzle and a first target, and wherein the first sample nozzle expels the sample material towards the first target upon the first gas nozzle being activated and expelling gas towards the first sample nozzle. 
     B3. The apparatus of solution B1, wherein a depth and a shape of the inlet port is selected to increase a draw of the sample material into the tubular junction. 
     B4. The apparatus of solution B1, wherein the inlet port comprises a notch to enable an addition of a buffer solution to the sample material. 
     B5. The apparatus of solution B4, wherein the buffer solution is actively mixed with the sample material using an active-mixing means. 
     B6. The apparatus of solution B4, wherein the active-mixing means comprises at least one of a flow pulsation process, an acoustic mixing process, an ultrasonic mixing process or a micro-scale fan. 
     B7. The apparatus of any of solutions B4 to B6, wherein the buffer solution is a phosphate-buffered saline solution. 
     B8. The apparatus of solution B1, wherein the first sample nozzle and the second sample nozzle are oriented in the same direction. 
     B9. The apparatus of solution B8, wherein at least a portion of the first tubular fluid path is parallel to at least a portion of the second tubular fluid path. 
     B10. The apparatus of solution B1, wherein a cross-sectional area of the first tubular fluid path is uniform across its length. 
     B11. The apparatus of solution B1, wherein a cross-sectional area of the first tubular fluid path increases from the tubular junction to a mid-point of the first tubular path and decreases from the mid-point to the first sample nozzle. 
     B12. The apparatus of solution B1, further comprising: a grip portion adjacent to the inlet port at an end opposite from the first sample nozzle and the second sample nozzle. 
     B13. The apparatus of solution B12, wherein the grip portion comprises an indentation. 
     B14. A hood for improving deposition of a sample material on a target in a sample analysis system, the hood comprising: a body comprising a top panel, a front panel, a left panel, a right panel and a back panel, wherein the top panel comprises a first opening configured to receive the sample material; a lower panel, positioned adjacent to the back panel, that is parallel to the top panel and perpendicular to the back panel, wherein the lower panel comprises a second opening to receive a stain or dye subsequent to the deposition of the sample material on the target; and a bottom rim that supports the body and the lower panel, wherein the bottom rim is configured to adhere to the target prior to the deposition. 
     B15. The hood of solution B14, wherein the first opening is raised above the top panel, and wherein the top panel extends beyond the front panel. 
     B16. The hood of solution B14, wherein the back panel comprises a notch configured to securely affix the hood to a sample analysis system. 
     B17. The hood of solution B14, wherein the bottom rim comprises a clamp configured to improve a seal between the bottom rim and the target. 
     The components described above are meant to exemplify some types of possibilities. In no way should the aforementioned examples limit the scope of the technology, as they are only embodiments. 
     From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that specific embodiments of the invention have been described herein for purposes of illustration, but that various modifications may be made without deviating from the scope of the invention.