Patent ID: 7001774

Claim:
A method of testing samples, the method comprising the steps: inserting a volume-adjusting insert into a sample vessel comprising a bottom opening for communication of a sample fluid, the volume-adjusting insert comprising a top and a bottom defining an axial direction, a septum seal in an upper portion of the insert, a reduced-diameter portion having a close fit with an outside diameter of a penetrating sample deposit/extraction device element and a conical guide disposed between the septum seal and the reduced diameter portion, and a seal surface on an outer surface of the insert for sealing an inside seal surface of the sample vessel, the reduced-diameter portions defining a fluid path with a bottom portion of the vessel defining below the seal surface; positioning a penetrating sample deposit/extraction element above the insert; inserting the penetrating sample deposit/extraction element through the septum seal, the conical guide, and into the reduced diameter portion to a depth sufficient to provide axial alignment of the insert and the sample deposit/extraction element; and transferring a the sample fluid between the sample deposit/extraction element and the bottom opening.