DE102006016326B4 - Apparatus and method for rapid measurement of a microbiological condition of a sample - Google Patents

Abstract

Method (100; 250) for determining a microbiological condition of a sample (282), comprising the following steps: transferring (110; 280) biological material (284) from the sample to a carrier (276); Positioning (120; 288) the carrier with respect to a sample chamber (270; 414) with two electrodes (264; 266; 420; 422) such that the biological material is arranged in the sample chamber; Setting (130; 292) a predetermined temperature in the sample chamber and performing (140; 294) an electrochemical measurement using the at least two electrodes, the carrier remaining positioned in or on the sample chamber while the electrochemical measurement is being performed; wherein the transfer (110) of the biological material (284) from the sample (282) to the carrier (276) comprises contacting the sample (282) with an adhesive strip (276) or fleece serving as a carrier, and wherein the positioning (120 ) of the carrier in the sample chamber (270; 414) positioning the adhesive strip (276) or the fleece ...

Description

The present invention generally relates to a method for determining a microbiological condition of a sample and a sample container for determining a microbiological condition of a sample, and more particularly to an apparatus and method for rapidly measuring the microbiological condition of substances.

A microbiological state of substances is of central importance in many areas, such as the pharmaceutical and food industries. Microbiological contamination usually means a reduction in quality and / or health risks.

When dealing with sensitive material, it is often crucial to get an overview as quickly as possible of how heavily contaminated or contaminated this material or these materials are. Conventional methods for determining germ counts are too lengthy, especially in the field of incoming inspection in the food industry. Therefore, methods for rapid measurement of a microbiological status or condition of sample materials are an important supplement to the incoming control.

Various methods for monitoring bacterial growth are known in the art. For example, the article "Monitoring of bacteria growth using a wireless, remote query resonant-circuit sensor: application to environmental sensing" by KG Ong describes how to monitor bacterial growth using a wireless remote sensor with a resonant circuit: application to environmental sensing u. a. published in the Elsevier Journal of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, No. 16, 2001, pages 305 to 312, a new technique for the in vivo measurement of complex permittivity spectra of a solution with a biological culture. A sensor consisting of a depressed resonant circuit with an inductance and a capacitance is accordingly placed in the solution with the culture. The impedance spectrum of the sensor is then measured using a remote loop antenna. The complex permittivity spectrum of the culture is then calculated from the measured impedance spectrum. According to a constitution, the solution is continuously stirred with the culture and maintained at a constant temperature during the time of measurement by a water bath. The surface of the sensor is further protected by a sprayed coating.

Incidentally, a more detailed description of said measuring arrangement can be found in the publication "Remote query resonant-circuit sensor for monitoring of bacterial growth: application to food quality control" by K. G. Ong et al. a., published in the MDPI journal "Sensors" (ISSN 1424-8220), No. 2, 2002, pages 219-232.

Furthermore, SY-LAB sells a system under the name "BacTrac 4300" for the microbiological monitoring of samples. Measuring cells that are pre-filled both as reusable and autoclavable glass measuring cells and as disposable measuring cells for self-filling or ready-to-use with medium are contacted at the underside of the measuring cell by four steel electrodes. Said microbiological analyzer also includes a thermostat and electronics for the automatic control and measurement value formation of each measuring station and incubator.

Using the above measurement system, biological material is removed from a sample using a sampling device, then detached from the sample sampling device in a vessel and typically dissolved in a liquid. The liquid is then filled into the measuring cell.

In other words, the sample must be introduced in liquid or dissolved form into the measuring cell, wherein optionally further a nutrient solution is added.

It should be noted, however, that the corresponding method is complicated and brings a high risk of unwanted contamination and thus a wrong analysis result especially in untrained personnel.

The DE 1 292 785 A describes an arrangement for detecting bacterial or bacterial groups in liquids or on surfaces. The assembly consists of a sheet impregnated with nutrients and optionally test substances or strips of absorbent material, for example of paper, for sampling with an easily separable handle. The arrangement is arranged in a sealed, resealable after opening sheath. The impregnated wet strip is covered at least on one side with a peelable thin bacteria-proof foil projecting beyond the strip on all sides.

The GB 1 376 956 A describes a device for taking a liquid sample and cultivating microorganisms present therein. The device comprises a hollow elongate member having transparent walls defining a passage extending the full length of the component. The device further comprises an at least substantially uniform thickness Layer, wherein the nutrient material covers an inner surface of the passageway.

The EP 0 952 210 A1 describes a cassette and a method for analyzing air. The cassette comprises a body having a grid and a circumferential wall oriented transversely to and surrounding the grid. The cassette comprises a layer of gelatinous growth medium and a flexible fluid-tight film. The surface of the gelatinous growth medium layer, which is bounded by the tensioned film at the time of manufacture, is exposed to air flow, so that microorganisms present in the air settle out of the surface.

The German standard DIN 10113-3 describes the determination of a surface germ content on furnishings and commodities in the food industry. The above standard deals with a semi-quantitative method with nutrient-level sampling devices. The cited standard describes nutrient-level sampling devices. Furthermore, the said standard describes a Abklatschvorgang for inoculation of the sampling devices, a incubation of the nutrient-coated sampling devices and an evaluation by counting colonies grown on the nutrient medium.

The German standard DIN 10115 describes the fundamentals of the detection and determination of microorganisms in food by means of impedance methods. The above standard describes both a direct impedance measurement and an indirect impedance measurement. In a direct impedance measurement, a suspension is used as sample liquid, which is filled into the measuring cell for the direct impedance measurement. The suspension consists of a liquid or semi-solid nutrient medium and a liquid or homogenized sample or a corresponding germ suspension or a further dilution thereof. In contrast, an indirect impedance measurement uses a reaction solution.

The DE 27 47 033 A1 describes a method and apparatus for detecting bacterial activity. In the process, bacteria are transferred to a nutrient medium by a vaccination process. The culture is maintained at a substantially constant temperature. Further, an ohmic component of the electrical impedance of the culture is monitored for a time sufficient to cause a detectable change in the ohmic component as a result of the metabolism of the bacteria. The process is carried out so that the value obtained is influenced by the temperature coefficient of the ohmic component to the extent that is equivalent to a change in the temperature by not more than +/- 0.01 K. Said document further describes a test tube, wherein two platinum electrodes are arranged so that they protrude parallel to each other in the test tube. The platinum electrodes extend transversely to the axis of the test tube and are fused into the wall of the test tube. The platinum electrodes are arranged so that between the platinum electrodes a Flussigkeitsmenge of about 50 ml is present.

The US Pat. No. 4,072,578 A describes a multi-chamber module for receiving separate samples of culture media.

It is thus the object of the present invention to provide a more efficient and easily applicable concept for determining a microbiological state of a sample.

This object is achieved by a method for determining a microbiological state of a sample according to claim 1 or 2 and by a sample container according to claim 8

The present invention provides a method for determining a microbiological state of a sample, according to which in a first step biological (or microbiological) material is transferred from the sample to a carrier. Subsequently, the carrier is positioned with respect to a sample chamber having at least two electrodes, such that the biological material is arranged in the sample chamber. Subsequently, a predetermined temperature is set in the sample chamber, and an electrochemical measurement is performed using the at least two electrodes, wherein the carrier remains positioned in or on the sample chamber during the performance of the electrochemical measurement.

It is the core idea of the present invention that it is advantageous to introduce the carrier on which the biological material is taken from the sample directly into the sample chamber provided with at least two electrodes and to leave it in the sample chamber during the performance of the electrochemical measurement. It has been shown that the presence of the carrier in the sample chamber, the electrochemical measurement is only slightly affected, or that the influence of the carrier can be calculated from the measurement. Thus, according to the gist of the present invention, it is no longer necessary to detach the microbiological material in a separate step from the carrier, which in the method according to the invention requires an effort to carry out the determination of the microbiological state in comparison to conventional methods is significantly reduced. This leads to a significant saving of time and thus of costs.

Furthermore, the direct introduction of the carrier into the sample chamber provided with electrodes avoids the risk of contamination, which results from the carrier being usually detached from the microbiological material in conventional methods.

In addition, the cost of cleaning the equipment used and disposal of waste products is reduced. In an ideal case, only the carrier and the sample chamber come into contact with the biological material of the sample, while other tools or vessels are not used or come into contact with the biological material. Thus, after completion of the measurements, either only cleaning of the sample chamber is required, or the sample chamber, including the carrier still in the sample chamber after completion of the measurement, may be discarded if the sample chamber is designed as a disposable device.

It should also be noted that the method according to the invention can be carried out quickly and cost-effectively on site because of its simplicity, since apart from the carrier, only the sample chamber is still required. On the other hand, it is not necessary to deal with chemicals, which makes it possible to measure at any location. Incidentally, all waste materials are trapped in the sample chamber after completion of the measurement, which in turn facilitates portable use because only the sample chamber needs to be transported to a disposal site or cleaning facility.

Thus, even non-experts, for example in the field of food control, a simple measurement is possible.

Furthermore, the method according to the invention has the advantage that the carrier ideally comes into contact only with the sample chamber (and possibly additionally with a device with which the carrier is introduced into the sample chamber), so that the highest possible degree of stability is ensured.

In a comparative example, taking the biological material from the sample onto the carrier comprises contacting the sample with a gel strip serving as a carrier. The gel strip preferably, but not necessarily, carries a nutrient that promotes growth of microorganisms. The positioning of the carrier in the sample chamber thus includes placing the gel strip in the sample chamber. It has in fact been shown that a gel strip can be used particularly advantageously as a carrier for a sample. A gel strip takes over in a particularly advantageous manner, the biological material and can be simultaneously mixed with a substance or consist of a substance that promotes the growth of microorganisms.

Furthermore, it should be noted that a gel strip can be introduced into the sample chamber in a particularly advantageous manner, since a gel strip, once inserted, adheres to a boundary or wall of the sample chamber. Thus, a gel strip has much more favorable properties than, for example, a liquid in which the biological material is dissolved. In contrast to a liquid, a gel strip does not threaten to escape from the sample chamber as long as the sample chamber is not closed. On the other hand, this danger exists both with conventional known solid carriers (which can be blown out of the sample chamber, for example, by a draft) and with liquids introduced into the sample chamber (which can escape, for example, when the sample chamber is jarring). Thus, the method according to the invention in conjunction with a gel strip is particularly well suited for the mobile carrying out of the chemical analysis, even in areas which are exposed to unfavorable environmental influences (such as vibrations, draft, and the like).

In a further comparative example, it is preferred that the insertion of the gel strip into the sample chamber takes place such that the gel strip touches at least two electrodes. Thus, it is ensured only by the insertion of the gel strip that the contact with the electrodes. Another action (for example in the form of a supply of a liquid) is thus no longer necessary. Incidentally, it can be ensured by said measure that, for example, exactly that surface of the gel strip is in contact with the electrodes with which the biological material was removed from the sample in a previous step. Thus, just that part of the gel strip where the highest concentration of biological material occurs is closest to the electrodes, which results in a significant improvement in sensitivity over conventional arrangements.

In another comparative example, it is further preferred that the gel strip is packaged in a sterile package prior to use. The method according to the invention thus comprises opening the sterile packaging before contacting the sample with the ghost tire. This ensures that the ghost tire is in a sterile condition until the package is opened.

In a preferred embodiment, transferring the biological material from the sample to the carrier comprises contacting the sample with a carrier adhesive tape. Positioning the carrier in the sample chamber thus includes positioning the adhesive strip in the sample chamber. Namely, it has been shown that an adhesive strip is also particularly well suited for removing biological material from a sample, and that an analysis can be carried out in a particularly advantageous manner by the adhesive strip is introduced directly into the sample chamber and there during the taking place Measurement remains.

In another preferred embodiment, the adhesive strip is attached (eg, glued) to a lid for closing the sample chamber such that the adhesive strip is positioned within the sample chamber after closing the sample chamber with the lid. The inventive method comprises in this embodiment, a closing of the sample chamber with the lid, so that the Adhasionsstreifen is positioned after sealing within the sample chamber. Thus, the inventive method can be further simplified. Performing the measurement requires only contacting the sample with the adhesive strip already attached to the lid and closing the sample chamber with the lid. When performing the two steps mentioned is thus automatically or without further action ensures that the sample chamber is closed and that, moreover, the adhesive strip is located within the sample chamber. Thus, the method according to the invention represents a considerable reduction in work, since separate work steps of closing the sample chamber or introducing the adhesive strip into the sample chamber are done in one work step.

The lid of the sample chamber can also be designed so that the surface of the adhesive strip is pressed by the closure of the lid directly to the electrodes, which then, for example, a particularly good contact between the adhesive with the adhesion strip recorded biological material and the electrodes, resulting in a compared to known methods improved sensitivity of the measurement results.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method according to the invention further comprises introducing a nutrient solution into the sample chamber.

In one embodiment, the introduction of the nutrient solution may include pumping the nutrient solution from a storage chamber into the sample chamber. Said step can be carried out particularly advantageously if both the sample chamber and the storage chamber are part of an integrated device, so that a separate step of making connections is not required.

In a preferred embodiment, pumping the nutrient solution from the storage chamber into the sample chamber comprises applying a force to a resilient portion of the storage chamber such that the volume of the storage chamber is reduced, and so that the nutrient solution is fluidly connected to at least one of the nutrient solution Valve flows from the storage chamber into the sample chamber. Thus, by merely purely manual action, the nutrient solution can be pumped into the sample chamber. A direct contact with the nutrient solution is not required, but the nutrient solution is enclosed in the storage chamber before pumping and enclosed in the sample chamber after pumping.

Thus, contamination of the nutrient solution is effectively prevented, and for the purpose of pumping, only a mechanical force exerted by, for example, a human finger or other tool is required.

In a further embodiment of the invention, pumping the nutrient solution from the storage chamber into the sample chamber comprises exerting a force on an elastic or deformable region of the sample chamber or lid of the sample chamber such that a volume of the sample chamber decreases and so that an in the fluid contained in the sealed sample chamber exits the sample chamber. In the aforementioned embodiment, the pump further comprises relieving the elastic region of the sample chamber or lid of the sample chamber such that the volume of the sample chamber increases, and so that the nutrient solution flows from the reservoir chamber into the sample chamber through a fluidic connection with at least one valve , Thus, a suction of the nutrient solution can be achieved through the sample chamber. This is particularly advantageous because in the said case, only the lid of the sample chamber (which is necessarily designed to be opened to allow introduction of the carrier into the sample chamber), but not a lid of the pantry, must be particularly elastic. This is advantageous because typically the lid of the sample chamber is produced in a separate process, so that only in this separate process (not in a production of the entire analysis device), for example, a particularly elastic material must be used.

As a comparative example, a gel strip for determining a microbiological state of a sample is described herein, wherein the gel strip is packaged in a sterile manner, and wherein the gel strip contains at least one nutrient which promotes growth of microorganisms. It has been recognized that it is particularly of the present invention. It has been recognized that it is particularly advantageous to use a sterile packaged gel strip to transfer biological material from a sample to a sample chamber. The gel strip serves as a carrier for the microbiological material and at the same time contains a nutrient which promotes the growth of microorganisms. Thus, the microbiological material can be removed from the sample such that the microbiological material comes into contact only with the gel strip.

The gel strip is also suitable for introduction into a sample chamber, wherein due to the consistency of the gel strip advantageous handling is possible. In contrast to methods in which the microbiological material removed from the sample is dissolved in a liquid, no further containers or method steps are required for handling a gel strip. Namely, by using a gel strip containing a nutrient, a single step of taking the biological material onto the gel strip replaces the conventionally separate steps of transferring the biological material to a carrier and adding a nutrient solution.

Furthermore, using a gel strip allows a particularly comfortable handling when performing a microbiological analysis, as already stated above. In addition, a gel strip is very well suited to be brought into electrical contact directly with contacts or electrodes in a sample chamber. For example, using a gel strip, the portion of the surface of the gel strip may be brought into contact with the electrodes with which the sample has been contacted such that there is a maximum concentration of biological material at the electrodes.

In a further comparative example, the sterile package of the gel strip comprises means for opening the sterile package, the sterile package being adapted to allow opening or partial removal of the sterile package such that after opening or partially removing the package the gel strip is still contained in the sterile package or in a remaining portion of the sterile package. Further, the package is designed so that a surface of the gel strip may contact a sample after opening the sterile package, and further that a handling portion of the gel strip continues to be covered by the sterile package even after opening or partially removing the sterile package is.

In other words, the package of the gel strip is designed so that after opening the package or partially removing the sterile package, the gel strip is still held in the sterile package so that the sterile package does not completely detach from the gel strip. Furthermore, a portion of the gel strip is exposed after opening the package or after partially removing the package so that the exposed portion of the gel strip may contact the sample to transfer biological or microbiological material from the sample to the gel strip. A non-exposed part of the gel strip is also suitable for handling the gel strip, for example for manual handling of the gel strip or for handling with a tool (such as a tweezers, forceps or other gripping device). In other words, the sterile package (eg, a foil), for example, using a predetermined breaking point or similar mechanism allowing only partial removal or opening of the package, also allows the opened gel strip to be sterilized with a non-sterile gripping device without contaminating or contaminating the gel strip itself by germs on the non-sterile tool or on the non-sterile human hand.

The present invention further provides a sample container for determining a microbiological condition of a sample. The sample container comprises an electrode-carrier component with at least two electrodes and a lid which is designed to allow the sample container to be closed and to cooperate with the electrode-carrier component in such a way that a closed sample chamber is formed in the sample container. An adhesive strip is attached to the lid such that the adhesive strip is positioned within the sample chamber when the sample chamber is closed by the lid.

Namely, according to another aspect of the present invention, it has been recognized that microbiological analysis can be performed particularly efficiently when an adhesive sheet is attached to a lid of a sample chamber such that the adhesive sheet or tape is positioned within the sample chamber when the sample chamber closed by the lid. Said device makes it possible to introduce the microbiological material into the sample chamber with a few steps and to close it at the same time.

When carrying out a microbiological analysis using the sample container according to the invention, only the adhesive film already attached to the carrier is to be brought into contact with the sample so that microbiological material is transferred from the sample to the adhesive film. Subsequently, the lid is placed on the electrode-carrier component, whereby already both the sample chamber is closed and the microbiological material is introduced into the sample chamber. Thus, the sample container according to the invention enables a particularly efficient performance of a microbiological analysis.

According to a further embodiment, a further element for sample reception (for example a cover of the sample chamber) may contain a nonwoven for liquid absorption instead of the adhesion film, which receives a contaminated liquid. The further procedure is analogous to the adhesive film.

In a further preferred embodiment, the adhesive film is replaced by a microfilter. The lid carrying the microfilter is fitted with a resealable opening, e.g. B. supplemented by a suitable sealing film. The microfilter can thus be used in a gas or liquid flow and collects the microbiological entities contained therein. After a reasonable collection time, the lid is closed and placed on the sample chamber. The method follows as in the other embodiments described above.

In a further preferred embodiment, the sample container further comprises a heating element and a temperature sensor. The electrode carrier component comprises a carrier substrate, wherein the heating element is arranged on a first surface of the carrier substrate, and wherein the temperature sensor and the at least two electrodes are arranged on a second surface of the carrier substrate opposite the first surface of the carrier substrate. The sealable by the lid sample chamber adjacent to the second surface, so that the at least two electrodes are in contact with the sample chamber, and so that the temperature sensor between the sample chamber and the heating element is arranged. Said structure allows a simple cost-effective production of the structure according to the invention.

By applying the heating element and the temperature sensor on different sides of the carrier substrate, so that the temperature sensor between the heating element and the sample chamber is, moreover, a particularly precise control of the temperature in the sample chamber allows, as a heat flow from the heating element to the sample chamber through the temperature sensor extends, wherein the temperature at the surface of the carrier substrate facing the sample chamber reflects the actual temperature in the sample chamber in a very good manner.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, the sample container further comprises a translucent window for optically observing or measuring a content of the sample chamber, whereby electrochemical measurements can be supplemented by means of the electrodes.

In a further preferred embodiment, the sample container further comprises a storage chamber for receiving a fluid, which is connected to the sample chamber via a fluidic connection with at least one valve. The sample container is further configured to allow pumping of the fluid from the storage chamber into the sample chamber. The named embodiment is particularly advantageous if the supply of a further fluid, for example an additional nutrient solution, is helpful or necessary for carrying out a microbiological analysis.

With the introduction of the fluid into the storage chamber, which is formed in the sample container, all substances required for carrying out the analysis are thus already present in the sample container. The supply of possibly additionally required substances, such as the nutrient solution, thus takes place exclusively within the sample container by means of fluidic connections formed therein. Thereby, the handling of the device according to the invention over conventional devices, in which a manual addition of a nutrient solution is required in a separate vessel, simplified.

In a further preferred embodiment, at least one region of the storage chamber is designed to be elastic, so that a volume of the storage chamber can be reduced by exerting a mechanical force in order to pump the fluid from the storage chamber into the sample chamber. Thus, for the introduction of, for example, a nutrient solution from the storage chamber in the sample chamber only the exercise of a force on the pantry required, which can be done for example manually by exerting pressure on the pantry using a human finger. Instead of the conventional manual pouring or filling of the nutrient solution in the sample chamber thus, for example, a finger pressure is sufficient to introduce appropriate substances in the sample chamber. A contact a user with the substance to be introduced into the sample chamber is thus excluded.

Incidentally, according to the present invention, the filling of the nutrient solution in the sample chamber after closing the same done by the lid, so that the entire system consisting of pantry and sample chamber immediately after introduction of the biological material permanently closed or even permanently hermetically or at least can be largely hermetically sealed, even if additional substances are subsequently added.

A leakage of any substances from the sample chamber out into the storage chamber is further prevented by the valve between the storage chamber and the sample chamber. Thus, the fluid from the storage chamber can be introduced into the sample chamber at any time, without having to open the closed system again. Thereby, the risk of contamination of the contents of the sample chamber can be avoided.

In a preferred embodiment, a region of material that closes the reservoir outwardly is at least 50% thinner than a region of material that closes the sample chamber outwardly. This ensures that an inexperienced user, for example, does not inadvertently reduce the volume of the sample chamber by exerting pressure. Even if a large-area pressure is exerted on the sample container from the outside, which covers both the area of the material which closes the storage chamber to the outside and the area of the material which closes the sample chamber to the outside, the embodiment described nevertheless ensures that that the fluid is pumped from the storage chamber into the sample chamber.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show it:

1 a flowchart of a method according to the invention for determining a microbiological state of a sample according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

2a a flow chart of a method according to the invention for determining a microbiological state of a sample according to a comparative example;

2 B a flow chart of a method according to the invention for determining a microbiological state of a sample according to an embodiment of the present invention;

3a a cross-section through a gel strip with unopened sterile packaging according to a comparative example;

3b a cross section through a gel strip with opened sterile packaging;

3c an oblique image of a gel strip

4a a sectional view of a sample container according to the invention for determining a microbiological state of a sample according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

4b a sectional view of a sample container according to the invention for determining a microbiological state of a sample according to an embodiment of the present invention;

1 shows a flow chart of a method according to the invention for determining a microbiological state of a sample. The method according to 1 is in its entirety with 100 designated. The procedure 100 includes in a first step 110 a transfer of biological material from a sample to a carrier. For example, incorporating biological material from a sample onto a carrier may include contacting the sample with the carrier. In other words, a carrier, which may be, for example, an adhesive film or a gel strip described in more detail below, is brought into contact with a surface of the sample, so that biological material from the sample or the surface of the Sample on the carrier passes. The carrier is thus capable of receiving or retaining the biological material.

In a second subsequent step 120 Furthermore, the carrier is positioned relative to a sample chamber with two electrodes such that the biological material is arranged in the sample chamber. In other words, the carrier is introduced into a sample chamber with two electrodes.

The positioning of the carrier with respect to the sample chamber may optionally include simultaneous closure of the sample chamber by the carrier, such that positioning the carrier relative to the sample chamber simultaneously entails closing the sample chamber. The simultaneous positioning of the carrier and closing the sample chamber results, for example, when the carrier on a lid, which is used to close the Sample chamber is used or which is designed to close the sample chamber is attached.

Optionally, the method according to the invention may also include closing the sample chamber following the positioning of the carrier with respect to the sample chamber.

In a third step 130 Furthermore, a predetermined temperature is set in the sample chamber. The setting of the temperature can be done, for example, using a heating element and a temperature sensor and a temperature controller, wherein preferably the temperature sensor in the sample container in which the sample chamber is integrated. Furthermore, the heating element is preferably also integrated into the sample container.

The procedure 100 further comprises in a fourth step 140 performing an electrochemical measurement using the at least two electrodes in the sample chamber. According to the invention, the carrier remains positioned during the performance of the measurement in the sample chamber or on the sample chamber.

It should also be noted that the third step 130 optionally, may also include regulating the predetermined temperature in the sample chamber, and further comprising the third step 130 setting the predetermined temperature in the sample chamber and the fourth step 140 performing an electrochemical measurement can be performed simultaneously.

Furthermore, it is preferred (but not absolutely necessary) that the electrochemical measurement is carried out repeatedly in order to obtain a temporal course of a measured variable for evaluation in order to be able to determine the microbiological state of the sample.

The process according to the invention can be further refined by, for example, in the first step 110 Furthermore, by taking biological material from the sample onto a gel strip, and then further positioning the gel strip in the sample chamber with two electrodes such that the gel strip contacts the at least two electrodes. The use of the gel strip may further include, for example, opening or partially removing a sterile package of the gel strip, after which the biological material is transferred from the sample to the gel strip.

The opening of the sterile package of the gel strip may, for example, be such that a handling portion of the gel strip is still covered by the sterile package, while a portion of the gel strip serving to transfer the biological material from the sample may be opened by opening the package or package partial removal of the sterile packaging is exposed. The gel strip is then preferably placed in the sample chamber, including the remaining packaging, and the remaining packaging can remain in the sample chamber during the measurement (ie after closing the sample chamber).

In this case, the positioning of the gel strip in the sample chamber may be such that the gel strip contacts the at least two electrodes, whereas the remaining packaging does not contact the electrodes. This can ensure that only the gel strip itself containing the biological material to be analyzed is in contact with the electrodes, whereas the packaging of the gel strip, which may be externally contaminated, does not contact the electrodes. This avoids a falsification of the measurement result due to any contamination on the outside of the packaging.

Further, in another embodiment, when an adhesive strip is secured to the lid of the sample chamber, transferring the biological material from the sample to the carrier and contacting the adhesive strip attached to the carrier by the sample include, for example, handling on an outer portion of the lid (which is not in contact with the sample chamber after the sample chamber has been closed by the lid). Thus, for example, a contamination of the adhesive film can be avoided by the handling.

The inventive method 100 may further include introducing a nutrient solution from a storage chamber into the sample chamber to promote the growth of microorganisms in the sample chamber. Furthermore, other substances can be introduced which, for example, increase a selectivity of the microbiological analysis with regard to a specific type of microorganism or bacteria. The introduction of the nutrient solution into the sample chamber can take place, for example, by pumping the nutrient solution from the storage chamber into the sample chamber, wherein the pumping takes place in an advantageous simple manner by exerting a pressure on an elastic or deformable region of the storage chamber. Thus, the nutrient solution can flow from the storage chamber into the sample chamber through a fluidic connection with at least one valve.

However, other pumping mechanisms are conceivable. For example, pumping the nutrient solution from the storage chamber into the Sample chamber include exerting a force on an elastic region of the sample chamber, so that a volume of the sample chamber is reduced and a fluid contained in the closed sample chamber before exerting the force exiting the sample chamber. The pumping in this case may further include relieving the elastic region of the sample chamber so that the volume of the sample chamber increases. Thus, the nutrient solution (or other fluid) may flow from the storage chamber into the sample chamber through a fluidic connection with at least one valve to equalize the negative pressure created in the sample chamber.

In summary, it can thus be stated that biological or microbiological material (or else chemical material) in the first step 110 can be detached from a sample in various ways, as will be explained in detail below.

2a shows a flowchart of a method for determining a microbiological state of a sample as a comparative example. The flowchart according to 2a is in its entirety with 200 designated. In other words, 2a shows a schematic of a sampling procedure with a gel strip.

Starting point of the procedure 200 is a sterile gel strip that also contains the nutrients needed for optimal microbial growth. The gel strip 210 is sterile packed, so at least inside a sterile packaging 212 a concentration of germs is sufficiently low. The outside of the sterile packaging 212 is preferably initially germ-free as well, but this is not absolutely necessary for the process according to the invention. The gel strip 210 also preferably contains agar, a universal nutrient medium. The gel strip 210 but may also include another nutrient medium and / or a selective nutrient medium, which is for example tuned to a particular microbiological species. In short: the gel strip is sterile packed.

In a first step 214 the gel strip is opened. In other words, it will either be the sterile packaging 212 of the gel strip is merely opened, or partially removed. Alternatively, the entire sterile packaging could also be used 212 However, this would have the disadvantage that the then completely unpacked gel strips would not be protected from contamination during handling.

The flowchart 200 shows by way of illustration the opened gel strip 210 , wherein the actual gel strip is unchanged, but with an opened package 220 is present. In other words, a surface of the gel strip is exposed at least in a partial area, wherein the exposed surface with 222 is designated.

In a second step 224 the gel strip is put to a test 230 or placed on a test surface or hung up. The gel strip thus absorbs a defined amount of germs which is located on the surface (of the sample) or on the test surface. In other words, the gel strip takes a sample of microflora of the sample or test surface.

In a third step 240 becomes the gel strip 210 then on an electrode 244 placed in a heatable measuring chamber or sample chamber 226 developed.

In other words, the gel strip, after it has been placed on the sample and has received a defined amount of the germs located on the surface, can be introduced into a sample chamber for measurement. For this purpose, for example, only a single sample chamber is necessary.

It should be noted that the electrode 244 in the flowchart 200 is drawn as a single large electrode. The electrode 244 but may also include 2 or more individual electrodes containing the gel strip 210 at different points or in different areas. In particular, the electrode or electrode arrangement 244 be designed so that the individual electrodes with appropriate alignment of the gel strip 210 only the gel strip 210 itself, but not the opened packaging 220 of the gel strip. Thus, a falsification of the measurement by grain contamination from the outside of the opened package 220 be avoided.

2 B shows a flowchart of another inventive method for determining a microbiological state of a sample. The method according to 2 B is in its entirety with 250 designated. The procedure 250 goes from a sample container 260 consisting of 2 parts. An electrode-carrier component 262 (For example, a substrate) carries two electrodes 264 . 266 , and forms together with a lid 268 a closed cavity 270 which represents a sample chamber. The on the electrode-carrier component 262 attached electrodes 264 . 266 are arranged so that they are in contact with the sample chamber 270 stand. The lid 268 is also for example on snap hooks 272 . 274 with the electrode carrier component 262 connected or connectable. On the lid 268 is also an adhesive film 276 attached, z. B. glued.

In a delivery state, the sample chamber 270 for example through the lid 268 be closed, or alternatively, the electrode-carrier component 262 and the lid 268 be delivered separately. Is in the delivery state, the sample chamber 270 through the lid 268 closed, the inventive method comprises in a first step 280 (Optional) opening the sample chamber, so a separation of the lid 268 from the electrode carrier component 262 , Furthermore, the first step includes 280 contacting a sample 282 with the on the lid 268 the adhesion chamber attached adhesive strips 276 , This will remove the adhesive strip 276 biological or microbiological material 284 from the sample 282 or from the surface of the sample 282 on. In other words, the biological material 284 is either by adhesive strips 276 picked up or remains on the surface of the adhesive strip 276 be liable.

A second step 288 then includes closing the sample chamber with the lid so that the adhesive film 276 together with the recorded biological material 284 inside the sample chamber 270 located.

A third step 290 further comprises pumping a nutrient solution into the sample chamber 270 , and a fourth step 292 includes heating the sample chamber to a predetermined temperature. A fifth step 294 further comprises performing an electrochemical measurement utilizing the electrodes 264 . 266 , In other words, the germs or the biological material become 284 from the surface to be tested (for example the surface of the sample 282 ) with the adhesive film 276 removed, it is preferred to one or more reservoirs for chemicals such. B. a nutrient solution and one or more analysis chambers, which are interconnected by channels and / or valves, provide to stimulate a Keimpopulation or biological material for growth.

As shown, the adhesive film for microbes or biological material 284 on a latchable lid 268 located the sample chamber 270 closes. Subsequently (ie, for example, following a closing of the sample chamber 270 through the latchable lid 268 Thus, a nutrient solution is pumped into the sample chamber by pressure on the lid of a chemical chamber or a storage chamber for chemicals (such as a nutrient solution) (or a corresponding storage container) analogous to a balloon pump, as will be shown more below.

Regardless of which of the methods described above is used, that is, regardless of whether the biological material with a gel strip 210 or with an adhesive film 276 from the sample 230 . 282 is removed, the subsequent analysis can be carried out in the same way. The sample chamber 226 . 270 is in both process variants subsequently (after the introduction of the carrier 210 . 276 along with through the carrier 210 . 276 absorbed biological material) heated to, for example, about 37 ° C. A growth curve of biological material (for example, bacteria or microbes) is then followed, for example, with electrochemical measurements. In this case, a time series can also be formed or evaluated. After a time dependent on an original contamination or concentration of biological material, sufficient biological or microbiological material has formed in order to reliably obtain a measurement result and thus to deduce the original contamination or concentration or biological material.

3a shows as a comparative example a cross section through a gel strip for determining a microbiological state of a sample with unopened sterile packaging. The gel strip gemaß 3a is in its entirety with 300 designated. The gel strip 300 includes a gel material 310 (also referred to as "gel strip itself"), which is packaged in a sterile package 312 located. The gel material 310 is sterile, ie free of germs or bacteria or living biological material. This can be done, for example, by a corresponding heating of the gel material 310 have been achieved in the production. In addition, however, the gel material may also have been exposed to treatment with a chemical, or may have been sterilized by other means such as irradiation.

The gel material 300 further comprises at least one nutrient requiring microbial growth. For example, the gel material 310 contain a universal nutrient medium, for. B. agar. Alternatively or additionally, the gel material 310 but also contain a selective nutrient medium, for example, promotes the growth of certain types of microorganisms or microbes or of certain biological material more than the growth of other biological material.

For sterile packaging 312 The gel strip may be, for example, a plastic wrap, an aluminum foil, a combination of a plastic wrap and an aluminum foil, or other packaging that ensures sterility of the gel material. The packaging 312 can the gel material 310 for example, tight enclose, or there may be a cavity between the gel material 310 and the packaging 312 consist.

Furthermore, the packaging 312 for example, one or more predetermined breaking points 314 . 316 include an opening of the packaging 312 allow in a given way. The predetermined breaking points 314 . 316 For example, they may be designed so that when opened, the sterile packaging 312 . 314 is opened or partially removed, that the gel material 310 even after opening or partially removing the packaging 312 still held in the remaining packaging.

To illustrate, the 3b a cross-section of a gel strip with opened packaging. One after opening or partially removing the packaging 312 remaining packaging 320 encloses the gel material 310 so far that the gel material 310 still in the remaining packaging 320 is held. The areas 324 . 326 of the gel strip 330 or the gel material 310 Incidentally, they continue to be handled by the packaging 320 covered or protected, allowing contamination of the gel material 310 for example, by human fingers 334 . 336 is effectively prevented.

The sterile packaging 312 is further preferably designed so that after opening or partial removal of the sterile packaging 312 an area 340 of the gel strip over the remaining packaging 320 stands out, leaving the protruding area 340 of the gel strip 330 on a sample 350 can be applied or a sample 350 can contact to biological material 352 from the surface of the sample 350 or from the sample 350 even on the gel material 310 or on the surface of the gel material 310 to take over. Due to the corresponding consistency of the gel strip and the packaging according to the invention, it is ensured at the same time that the biological material 352 on the gel material 310 while the handling area can be adopted 324 . 326 of the gel strip 330 through the remaining packaging 320 protected against contamination.

Furthermore, the gel strip described is suitable 300 . 330 especially good for use in conjunction with the method according to the invention 1 ,

3c Incidentally, an oblique image of an opened gel strip 330 ,

4a shows a sectional view of a sample container according to the invention for determining a microbiological state of a sample according to an embodiment of the present invention. The sample container according to 4a is in its entirety with 400 denotes and forms a measuring chip.

The sample container 400 comprises an electrode-carrier component 410 (also referred to as a carrier) and a lid 412 , which can be designed as a once closable lid or as resealable lid. The lid, for example, as already on the basis of 2 B shown, for example, be designed so that a snap connection between the lid 412 and the electrode carrier component 410 can be produced. It should also be noted that the lid 412 and the electrode carrier component 410 are designed so that in a closed state of the lid 412 a closed sample chamber 414 arises, in which, for example, a nutrient solution or a gel can be introduced. On the electrode-carrier component or carrier 410 are at least two electrodes 420 . 422 arranged the the sample chamber 414 to contact. The first electrode 420 is, for example, on the same surface of the electrode-carrier component 410 or the carrier 410 arranged like the second electrode 422 , Furthermore, it is preferred that a temperature sensor or temperature sensor 426 on the same surface of the carrier 410 is arranged like the first electrode 420 and the second electrode 422 , Furthermore, it is advantageous to the temperature sensor 426 between the first electrode 420 and the second electrode 422 to arrange. Thus, for example, both the first electrode 420 as well as the second electrode 422 and the temperature sensor in direct contact with the sample chamber 414 ,

The sample container 400 further preferably comprises a heating resistor 430 which is designed to hold the sample container 400 and thus also the sample chamber 414 or to heat their contents.

The heating element or the heating resistor 430 is preferably on a second surface of the carrier or substrate 410 arranged, the first surface, on the electrodes 420 . 422 and the temperature sensor 426 are arranged opposite. Thus, the temperature sensor 426 between the sample chamber 414 and the heating resistor 430 arranged, whereby an optimal detection of the temperature is made possible.

As will be explained in more detail below, includes the sample container 400 a chemical reservoir 440 in which, for example, a nutrient solution or another for an analysis of the in the sample chamber 414 substance required for the introduction of biological material. The contents of the chemical reservoir 440 (Also referred to as pantry), moreover, in the sample chamber 414 be transferred or pumped, as will be explained in more detail below.

It should also be noted that the sample container 400 can be substantially changed over the embodiment shown, as long as it is ensured that by joining the electrode-carrier component or carrier or lower part 410 , which carries the electrodes, and the lid 412 a closed sample chamber is formed, which is contacted by the electrodes.

Furthermore, on the lid 412 an adhesion film or an adhesion strip may be fastened in such a way that the adhesion strip or the adhesion film becomes after closing the sample chamber 414 through the lid 412 located within the sample chamber. As a result, as with the flowchart of the 2 B explains a particular efficient uptake of biological material into the sample chamber 414 respectively.

4b shows a sectional view of a sample container according to the invention according to another embodiment of the present invention. The sample container according to 4b is in its entirety with 450 designated. Because the sample container 450 according to 4b the sample container 400 according to 4a is very similar, are the same facilities or characteristics in the sample containers 400 . 450 denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be explained again here.

The sample container 450 points opposite to the sample container 400 some additional features that can be used together or in combination, as will be explained below.

For example, the sample chamber 414 of the sample container 450 through a window for visual inspection to allow an optical analysis of the biological material in the sample chamber, even if the sample chamber 414 through the lid 412 is completed. For example, in a preferred embodiment, the lid comprises 412 a window 452 which is optically transparent in either visible light, ultraviolet light or infrared light or in two or more of said ranges. Alternatively, the lid 412 also completely consist of a transparent or translucent material.

Furthermore, the sample container comprises 450 for example, a fluidic connection 454 between the chemical reservoir or the storage chamber 440 and the sample chamber 414 , The fluidic connection 454 For example, it may be formed by a channel that also houses a valve or one-way valve 456 may include. The one-way valve 456 is designed to be a fluid flow only in one direction, for example from the pantry 440 into the sample chamber 414 to enable. Thus, a chemical or nutrient solution from the pantry 440 into the sample chamber 414 be introduced. In the carrier 410 or lid 412 may be included a one-way valve, which by introducing the in the pantry 440 contained liquid can escape the displaced air. This valve should preferably be designed so that it reliably closes again after escape of the gas or air.

It is further preferred that one in the pantry 440 fluid by exerting a pressure on a region of the pantry 440 limited, in the sample chamber 414 can be pumped. For this purpose, for example, the area containing the pantry 440 limited, or a part thereof may be designed thinner or thinner than a region which the sample chamber 414 limited. Alternatively, for example, the area that the pantry 440 limited, or a part thereof may be designed with a higher elasticity than a region containing the sample chamber 414 limited, so that the exercise of a predetermined force F on the boundary of the pantry 440 a greater deformation of the boundary of the pantry 440 causes, as the exercise of force F on the boundary of the sample chamber 414 would cause the sample chamber. This can ensure that when a pressure or a force is exerted on the sample container 450 Reliable in the pantry 440 located fluid in the sample chamber 414 is pumped.

Furthermore, in the embodiment of the present invention, it is preferable that the sample container 450 also an analysis chamber 460 which, for example, via a fluidic connection 462 with a valve or one-way valve 464 with the sample chamber 414 is coupled. The analysis chamber 460 Further, for example, a Mahrzahl of electrodes 466 . 468 and optionally (not shown) also include a temperature sensor. Furthermore, the analysis chamber 460 have a translucent window for optical inspection. Thus, for example, in the sample chamber 414 an increase of the biological material take place, whereupon the biological material through the fluidic connection 462 into the analysis chamber 460 is pumped.

When using an additional analysis chamber, the electrodes can optionally also be used 420 . 422 and / or the translucent window 452 in the sample chamber 414 omitted.

Further, either the sample chamber 414 or the analysis chamber 460 a valve, a septum or other opening, via which, for example, following an increase of the biological material in the sample chamber 414 (by measuring with the electrodes 420 . 422 a sample can be taken for accurate determination of the microbiological species.

Furthermore, using the sample chamber according to the invention 450 Also more complex measuring methods and methods for more accurate determination of microbiological species possible. For example, after a preincubation in the sample chamber 414 a further transport of the substances to be examined in the analysis chamber 460 be provided. Another option is to add chemicals or biologically active substances from the integrated storage containers (eg from the storage chamber) 440 ) for obtaining additional measurement parameters and / or for carrying out more complex electrochemical measurement methods. With a suitable signal evaluation, preferably a multivariate method, it is possible to deduce the type of microbiological species.

With regard to a possible method of analysis, moreover, it should be noted that EP 1 143 240 A1 in which a method for determining characteristics of a sample liquid having a plurality of substances is described.

In general, therefore, it should be noted that a device 400 . 450 for rapid measurement (of a microbiological condition of sample materials) of a sealable or resealable sample chamber, which may be equipped with different ancillary devices, and which may be incorporated, for example, in US Pat 4a and 4b is shown. As additional devices, for example, electrochemical electrodes 420 . 422 may be used, which may be embodied for example as annular or interdigitated structures. Furthermore, the sample container 400 . 450 a heating element or a plurality of heating elements 430 , z. B. in the form of a resistor or heating resistor. In addition, a sample container according to the invention can have one or more temperature sensors 426 include, which may be formed for example by a resistor or a temperature-dependent resistor. In addition, the chambers (eg the sample chamber 414 or an optional analysis chamber 460 ) be provided with a window for optical observation and / or measurement.

As an electrochemical measurement method, cyclic voltammetry and impedance spectroscopy, for example, are provided, which are processed by methods of multivariate signal evaluation.

An adhesion foil for microbes can be placed on a snap-in lid 412 or on the latchable lid 412 be attached, with the latchable lid 412 the sample chamber 414 closes. Subsequently (thus, for example, after closing the latchable lid), in one embodiment, a nutrient solution in the sample chamber 414 by pressure on the lid of the chemical chamber or pantry 440 be pumped analogously to a balloon pump.

The sample container according to the invention 400 . 450 or the device according to the invention can be produced, for example, in the form of a chip card in injection molding technology or reel-to-reel technology (R2R technology). The channels or fluidic connections 454 . 462 can z. B. are produced by hot stamping. The passive one-way valves 464 . 456 are realized, for example, by vertical layer construction. The electrodes 420 . 422 , as well as the associated connection lines, not shown here, are produced for example by thin-film technology or printing technology.

With regard to possible manufacturing processes, the non-prepublished German patent application with the official file number 10 2005 024 322.3-52 reference, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

To carry out the measurement process, the chip card, so the sample container 400 . 450 , introduced into a device that contains the necessary electronics and also optionally optical measuring devices, mechanics, display elements, controls and a power supply. Such a device can also record several cards at the same time.

Furthermore, optionally more of the devices shown 400 . 450 run in parallel on a single chip card. Optionally, alternatively or additionally integrated active valves and / or pumps can be integrated. It is also possible to integrate parts of a required (evaluation) electronics or all the electronics on the chip card. Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, a power supply, operating elements and / or display elements can be integrated on the chip card.

If it should not be possible to carry out the measurement immediately after taking the sample and introducing it into the sample chamber, a non-metrologically controlled growth of the bacteria is to be expected. To be able to calculate back to the original bacterial load, it makes sense to integrate a time-temperature integrator on the chip card. One embodiment of this time temperature integrator is in the non-prepublished German patent specification DE 10 2004 054547 B3 documented. In addition, there are a variety of embodiments with a purely chemical integration element to an electronic device that electronically detects and stores the time temperature curve.

The inventive concept offers significant advantages over the known or current methods in microbiological laboratories. Thus, a simple and inexpensive disposable measuring unit is used. Another advantage is the rapid on-site measurement, the measuring device can be portable. A significant advantage over conventional measuring methods is the considerably simpler approach, which is also non-professionals, for. As in the field of food control, a rapid measurement allowed.

Claims (20)

Procedure ( 100 ; 250 ) for determining a microbiological state of a sample ( 282 ), with the following steps: Apply ( 110 ; 280 ) of biological material ( 284 ) from the sample to a carrier ( 276 ); Positioning ( 120 ; 288 ) of the carrier with respect to a sample chamber ( 270 ; 414 ) with two electrodes ( 264 ; 266 ; 420 ; 422 ) such that the biological material is disposed in the sample chamber; To adjust ( 130 ; 292 ) a predetermined temperature in the sample chamber and performing ( 140 ; 294 ) an electrochemical measurement using the at least two electrodes, wherein the carrier remains positioned in or on the sample chamber during the performance of the electrochemical measurement; wherein the taking over (110) of the biological material ( 284 ) from the sample ( 282 ) on the carrier ( 276 ) contacting the sample ( 282 ) with an adhesive strip serving as carrier ( 276 ) or nonwoven, and wherein the positioning ( 120 ) of the carrier in the sample chamber ( 270 ; 414 ) a positioning of the adhesion strip ( 276 ) or the web in the sample chamber; wherein the adhesion strip ( 276 ) or non-woven such on a lid ( 268 ) for closing the sample chamber ( 270 ; 414 ), that the adhesive strip or web is positioned within the sample chamber after sealing, and wherein the method further comprises closing the sample chamber with the lid such that the adhesive strip or web is positioned within the sample chamber after sealing. Procedure ( 100 ) for determining a microbiological state of a sample, comprising the following steps: Apply ( 110 ) of biological material from the sample to a carrier; Positioning ( 120 ) of the carrier with respect to a sample chamber ( 414 ) with two electrodes ( 420 ; 422 ) such that the biological material is disposed in the sample chamber; To adjust ( 130 ) a predetermined temperature in the sample chamber and performing ( 140 ) an electrochemical measurement using the at least two electrodes, wherein the carrier remains positioned in or on the sample chamber during the performance of the electrochemical measurement; wherein transferring the biological material from the sample to the carrier comprises introducing a microfilter as a carrier into a gas flow or Flussigkeitsstromung; where positioning ( 120 ) of the carrier in the sample chamber ( 414 ) comprises positioning the microfilter in the sample chamber; wherein the microfilter on a lid for closing the sample chamber ( 414 ), and at least partially enclosing an area where the lid has an opening so that the gas flow or liquid flow passing through the opening in the lid flows through the microfilter; and wherein the method further comprises closing the opening in the lid and closing the sample chamber with the lid so that the microfilter is positioned within the sample chamber after closure. Procedure ( 100 ; 250 ) according to one of claims 1 to 2, further comprising introducing a nutrient solution into the sample chamber. Procedure ( 100 ; 250 ) according to claim 3, wherein the introduction of the nutrient solution is a pumping of the nutrient solution from a storage chamber ( 440 ) into the sample chamber ( 414 ). Procedure ( 100 ; 250 ) according to claim 4, wherein the pumping of the nutrient solution from the storage chamber ( 440 ) into the sample chamber ( 414 ) exerting a force (F) on an elastic region of the storage chamber ( 440 ), so that the nutrient solution by a fluidic connection ( 454 ) with at least one valve ( 456 ) flows from the storage chamber into the sample chamber. Procedure ( 100 ; 250 ) according to claim 4, wherein the pumping of the nutrient solution from the storage chamber ( 440 ) into the sample chamber ( 414 ) exerting a force on an elastic region of the sample chamber or a lid ( 412 ) of the sample chamber, so that the volume of the sample chamber is reduced and a in the Exiting fluid exits the sample chamber from the sample chamber; and wherein the pumping further comprises relieving the elastic region so that the volume of the sample chamber is increased and the nutrient solution is fluidly connected ( 454 ) with at least one valve ( 456 ) from the pantry ( 440 ) flows into the sample chamber. Method according to one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising the steps of: Reading a temperature-time integration means to obtain a temperature-time integral between a time before performing the electrochemical measurement and reading the temperature-time integration means; Evaluating the electrochemical measurement to determine an amount or concentration of biological material at a time of performing the electrochemical measurement; and Calculating an amount or concentration of biological material at the time prior to performing the electrochemical measurement using the temperature-time integral. Sample container ( 250 ; 400 ; 450 ) for determining a microbiological state of a sample, comprising: an electrode-carrier component ( 262 ; 410 ) with at least two electrodes ( 264 ; 266 ; 420 ; 422 ); and a latchable lid ( 268 ; 412 ), which is designed to allow the sample container to be sealed and to cooperate with the electrode carrier component in such a way that a closed sample chamber ( 270 ; 414 ) is formed in the sample container, wherein on the latchable lid an adhesive strip ( 276 ) or a non-woven or a microfilter is mounted such that the adhesive strip or the fleece or the microfilter is positioned within the sample chamber when the sample chamber is closed by the lid. Sample container ( 250 ; 400 ; 450 ) according to claim 8, wherein the at least two electrodes ( 264 . 266 ; 420 . 422 ) are designed as annular electrodes. Sample container ( 250 ; 400 ; 450 ) according to claim 8, wherein the at least two electrodes ( 264 . 266 ; 420 . 422 ) are designed as interdigital electrodes. Sample container ( 250 ; 400 ; 450 ) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, further comprising a heating element ( 430 ) and a temperature sensor ( 426 ), wherein the electrode carrier component ( 410 a carrier substrate, wherein the heating element is arranged on a first surface of the carrier substrate, wherein the temperature sensor and the at least two electrodes are arranged on a second surface of the carrier substrate opposite the first surface of the carrier substrate, and 412 ) sealable sample chamber ( 414 ) abuts the second surface such that the at least two electrodes and the temperature sensor are in contact with the sample chamber. Sample container ( 250 ; 400 ; 450 ) according to one of claims 8 to 11, further comprising a translucent window ( 452 ) for an optical observation or measurement of a content of the sample chamber ( 414 ). Sample container ( 250 ; 400 ; 450 ) according to one of claims 8 to 12, further comprising a storage chamber ( 440 ) for receiving a fluid, wherein the storage chamber with the sample chamber ( 414 ) via a fluidic connection (454) with at least one valve ( 456 ), and wherein the sample container is adapted to allow pumping of the fluid from the storage chamber into the sample chamber. Sample container ( 250 ; 400 ; 450 ) according to claim 13, wherein at least a portion of the storage chamber ( 440 ) is designed to be elastic, so that by exerting a mechanical force, a volume of the storage chamber is reduced to the fluid from the storage chamber into the sample chamber ( 414 ) to pump. Sample container ( 250 ; 400 ; 450 ) according to claim 14, in which a material area which holds the storage chamber ( 440 ) terminates at least 50% thinner than a material area containing the sample chamber ( 414 ) closes to the outside. Sample container ( 250 ; 400 ; 450 ) according to claim 14 or 15, which is designed so that a material area, the storage chamber ( 440 ) closes towards the outside, deformed by a predetermined force (F) at least twice as much as a material region containing the sample chamber ( 414 ) closes to the outside. Sample container ( 250 ; 400 ; 450 ) according to one of claims 14 to 16, which is designed such that at least a part of the fluid is separated from the storage chamber by a pressure generated by a human finger ( 440 ) into the sample chamber ( 414 ) can be pumped. Sample container ( 250 ; 400 ; 450 ) according to one of claims 8 to 17, further comprising a one-way valve, which is designed to allow a gas or fluid present in the sample chamber to escape. A sample container according to any one of claims 8 to 18, further comprising a temperature-time integration means. A sample container according to any of claims 8 to 19, wherein the lid has an opening and wherein the microfilter is attached to the lid to at least partially cover the opening so that a fluid flowing through the opening flows through the microfilter.

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