Liquid containers including primary and secondary caps

Abstract

Liquid containers are provided. The subject liquid containers include a tube having an opening for receiving a liquid, a primary cap configured to cover the opening of the tube and having a nozzle for dispensing the liquid, a first hinge connecting the primary cap to the tube, a secondary cap configured to seal the nozzle of the primary cap, and a second hinge connecting the primary cap to the secondary cap. Methods of using the liquid containers and kits including the same are also provided.

Description

[0001] LIQUID CONTAINERS INCLUDING PRIMARY AND SECONDARY CAPS

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 613,640, filed December 21 , 2023, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety

[0004] INTRODUCTION

[0005] An area of ongoing research and development is in improving containers for biological samples. Analysis of a biological sample often involves determining the presence of a target analyte in the sample. The target analyte, if present, is isolated from the sample and analyzed using downstream applications. In some methods of analysis, small volumes of liquid (e.g., blood) are collected in appropriately sized containers for testing. This may be particularly useful for obtaining blood samples from pediatric patients, or in cases where only small volumes (e.g., less than 500 pl) of blood are required. Blood collection in such containers often includes using a lancet to puncture the skin (generally on a finger) of a subject, allowing a small drop of blood to form on the skin location, and touching the edge of the container to the blood drop, allowing said drop to fill the container.

[0006] SUMMARY

[0007] The present inventors have realized that mistakes can be made when using or handling many conventional containers. Any advancement that resulted in improvements in the ability to properly use or handle biological sample containers would be desirable to reduce the probability of mistakes, accidents, or erroneous test results on the biological samples in the containers. Embodiments of the liquid containers, methods, and kits of the invention satisfy this desire.

[0008] Aspects of the invention include liquid containers. The subject liquid containers include a tube comprising an opening for receiving a liquid, a primary cap configured to cover the opening of the tube and comprising a nozzle for dispensing the liquid, a first hinge connecting the primary cap to the tube, a secondary cap configured to seal the nozzle of the primary cap, and a second hinge connecting the primary cap to the secondary cap. In some cases, the opening comprises a raised lip. The primary cap may, in certain instances, include an interior funnel. In embodiments, liquid containers include a flange surrounding the opening of the tube. In some such embodiments, the flange comprises a perimeter having a straight edge, such as where the flange is hexagonal. In certain versions, the tube is comprised of a squeezable material (e.g., LDPE, PP). In some such versions, the tube comprises a wall thickness ranging from 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm. The tube may in some cases be a tapered tube or a necked tube. The primary cap may, in embodiments, be configured to cover the opening of the tube via a snap fit. Additionally or alternatively, the primary cap may be configured to cover the opening of the tube via an interference fit. In select implementations, the first hinge is integrated with the tube. Alternatively, the first hinge may include an annular strap surrounding the opening of the tube. Tubes according to certain embodiments include a coating (e.g., EDTA) on an inner surface. In some cases, the tube has a fill line for receiving a certain volume of liquid.

[0009] Aspects of the invention also include methods. The subject methods include introducing a liquid into a liquid container of the invention, such as those described above and herein. In certain cases, methods include covering the opening of the tube with the primary cap. In some such cases, methods include dispensing the liquid from the tube via the nozzle. Methods according to some embodiments also include sealing the nozzle of the primary cap with the secondary cap. In some such embodiments, method include mixing the liquid (e.g., by inversion). In certain embodiments, the liquid is a blood sample.

[0010] Aspects of the invention additionally include kits. The subject kits include one or more liquid containers of the invention, such as those described above and herein. In some cases, kits include a plurality of liquid containers (e.g., ranging from 2 to 50 liquid containers). Kits according to some embodiments include one or more lancets.

[0011] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0012] The invention may be best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Included in the drawings are the following figures:

[0013] FIG. 1 A-1B depict a tapered tube according to certain embodiments. FIG. 2A-2B depict a necked tube according to certain embodiments. FIG. 3A-3B depict a primary cap according to certain embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 4 depicts a liquid container having a primary cap connected to a first hinge integrated with the tube according to certain embodiments. FIG. 5 depicts a liquid container having a primary cap connected to a first hinge comprising an annular strap surrounding the opening of the tube according to certain embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 6 depicts the sealing of the opening of the tube with the primary cap according to certain embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 7 depicts a secondary cap according to certain embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 8A-8C depict a liquid container according to certain embodiments of the invention.

[0018] FIG. 9A-9B depict a liquid container having primary and secondary caps that are disconnected to the tube (FIG. 9A) and connected to the tube (FIG. 9B) according to certain embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 10 presents a flowchart for a method of using a liquid container according to certain embodiments.

[0020] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Liquid containers are provided. The subject liquid containers include a tube having an opening for receiving a liquid, a primary cap configured to cover the opening of the tube and having a nozzle for dispensing the liquid, a first hinge connecting the primary cap to the tube, a secondary cap configured to seal the nozzle of the primary cap, and a second hinge connecting the primary cap to the secondary cap. Methods of using the liquid containers and kits including the same are also provided.

[0022] Before the present invention is described in greater detail, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular embodiments described, as such may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the present invention will be limited only by the appended claims.

[0023] Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range, is encompassed within the invention. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges and are also encompassed within the invention, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the invention.

[0024] Certain ranges are presented herein with numerical values being preceded by the term "about." The term "about" is used herein to provide literal support for the exact number that it precedes, as well as a number that is near to or approximately the number that the term precedes. In determining whether a number is near to or approximately a specifically recited number, the near or approximating unrecited number may be a number which, in the context in which it is presented, provides the substantial equivalent of the specifically recited number.

[0025] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, representative illustrative methods and materials are now described.

[0026] All publications and patents cited in this specification are herein incorporated by reference as if each individual publication or patent were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference and are incorporated herein by reference to disclose and describe the methods and / or materials in connection with which the publications are cited. The citation of any publication is for its disclosure prior to the filing date and should not be construed as an admission that the present invention is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior invention. Further, the dates of publication provided may be different from the actual publication dates which may need to be independently confirmed.

[0027] It is noted that, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, "an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude any optional element. As such, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely,” “only” and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements, or use of a “negative” limitation.

[0028] As will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this disclosure, each of the individual embodiments described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features which may be readily separated from or combined with the features of any of the other several embodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention. Any recited method can be carried out in the order of events recited or in any other order which is logically possible. While the system and method has or will be described for the sake of grammatical fluidity with functional explanations, it is to be expressly understood that the claims, unless expressly formulated under 35 U.S.C. §1 12, are not to be construed as necessarily limited in any way by the construction of "means" or "steps" limitations, but are to be accorded the full scope of the meaning and equivalents of the definition provided by the claims under the judicial doctrine of equivalents, and in the case where the claims are expressly formulated under 35 U.S.C. §112 are to be accorded full statutory equivalents under 35 U.S.C. §112.

[0029] LIQUID CONTAINERS

[0030] As discussed above, aspects of the invention include liquid containers. In some cases, liquid containers of the invention are configured to enhance sample liquid collection and storage, e.g., by increasing sample fluid retention and decreasing sample fluid contamination at the point of collection. For example, relative to conventional liquid containers and depending on skill of use, liquid containers of the invention may be configured to reduce the amount of sample liquid that is procured (e.g., blood obtained via lancet finger prick), but not captured in the liquid container following procurement, such as by 5% or more, 10% or more, 20% or more, 30% or more, 40% or more, 50% or more, 60% or more, 70% or more, 80% or more, 90% or more and including by 100%. Liquid containers according to embodiments of the invention may also be configured to increase ease of use, e.g., during sample procurement and storage.

[0031] Liquid containers of the invention include a tube comprising an opening for receiving a liquid. Tubes of interest are comprised of an elongate structure having the opening at one end and a closed end at the other. When the opening is covered / sealed (e.g., via a combination of primary and / or secondary caps, as discussed below), such may be sufficient to create an enclosed, air-tight, internal environment within the tube. The cross-sectional shape of the tube may vary, where cross-sectional shapes of interest include, but are not limited to rectilinear cross-sectional shapes, e.g., squares, rectangles, trapezoids, triangles, hexagons, etc., curvilinear cross-sectional shapes, e.g., circles, ovals, as well as irregular shapes, e.g., a parabolic bottom portion coupled to a planar top portion. In some embodiments, the tube has a circular cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, the tube has an oval cross-sectional shape. The cross- sectional shape of the tube, or the size of the cross-sectional shape, may be the same along the length of the tube or vary along the length of the tube. For example, in some cases, the tube is a tapered tube. In such cases, the cross-sectional diameter of the tube gradually decreases from the opening to the closed end. In other cases, the tube is a necked tube. In such cases, the opening of the tube has a comparatively larger cross-sectional diameter relative to the remainder of the tube, creating a “neck” in the tube. Dimensions of the tube may vary, as desired. In some cases, tubes having a height ranging from 5 mm to 300 mm, such as 10 mm to 200 mm, such as 15 mm to 100 mm, such as 20 mm to 50 mm, such as 25 mm to 45 mm, and including 30 mm to 40 mm. In some instances, tubes have a height of 20 mm or greater, such as 25 mm or greater, such as 30 mm or greater, and including 35 mm or greater. The internal diameter of the opening of the tube may likewise vary, and in some cases may range from 5 mm to 100 mm, such as 6 mm to 50 mm, such as 7 mm to 20 mm, and including 8 mm to 10 mm. In select instances, the internal diameter of the opening is 10 mm. The internal diameter of the tube moving from the opening to the closed end may vary depending on tube shape (e.g., necked tube, tapered tube), and in some cases can range from 1 mm to 10 mm, such as 2 mm to 9 mm, such as 3 mm to 8 mm, and including 4 mm to 7 mm.

[0032] The material with which the tube is constructed may vary, as desired. In certain instances, tubes are comprised of a polymeric material, such as a plastic material. In some instances, the tubes are comprised of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and the like, or combinations thereof. In some cases, tubes are comprised of PE. In some such cases, tubes are comprised of low density polyethylene (LDPE). Additionally or alternatively, tubes may be comprised of PP. In some embodiments, the tube is comprised of a squeezable material. In such embodiments, the tube has a shape and thickness sufficient for the sides of the tube to pinch or collapse inwards, e.g., if a user squeezes the sides of the tube. Tube thicknesses according to these embodiments may range from, e.g., 0.1 mm to 1 mm, such as 0.15 mm to 0.8 mm, such as 0.2 mm to 0.6 mm, and including 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0033] In some embodiments, the opening of the tube comprises a raised lip. In such embodiments, at least a portion of a rim of the tube defining the opening is raised relative to another portion of the rim. The raised lip may be employed to, for example, aid in the collection of liquid into the container, such as by “scraping” liquid from a surface from which it is procured. The raised lip may be sufficient to reduce the amount of blood that is procured but not captured, e.g., by ensuring that more blood reached the interior of the tube during collection. The extent to which the lip is raised relative to the remainder of the opening may vary. In some instances, the raised lip extends past the opening by a distance ranging from 0.5 mm to 10 mm, such as 1 mm to 7 mm, such as 1 .5 mm to 5 mm, and including 2 mm to 3 mm.

[0034] Tubes of the invention may, in some versions, include one or more visual aids configured to facilitate liquid collection. For example, the tube may include a fill line for receiving a certain volume of the liquid. In other words, the fill line conveys that, if the tube were filled with liquid to said fill line, the tube would be known to include a volume of the liquid associated with said fill line. Fill lines may be used to indicate any suitable volume. Volumes of interest may range in some cases from 25 pl to 1000 pl, such as 50 pl to 800 pl, such as 75 pl to 600 pl, such as 100 pl to 500 pl, such as 125 pl to 300 pl, such as 150 pl to 250 pl, and including 275 pl to 225 pl. In some cases, tubes include a fill line indicating a volume of 200 pl. In certain instances, tubes include a plurality of fill lines configured to indicate a plurality of volumes. Depending on the volume to be indicated and the shape of the tube, location of the fill line relative to the length of the tube may vary. For example, in some cases, the distance separating the closed end of the tube and the fill line may range from 5 mm to 20 mm, including 8 mm to 12 mm.

[0035] Tubes according to some embodiments also include a flange. The flange may surround the tube at a location proximate to the opening, and may be used to, e.g., provide a stop or a rest for a cap used to seal the opening (e.g., primary cap, discussed in greater detail below). In some cases, the flange is separated from the opening by a distance ranging from 1 mm to 10 mm, such as 2 mm to 7 mm, such as 3 mm to 6 mm, and including 4 mm to 5 mm. The flange may extend orthogonally with respect to the sides of the tube. In some instances, the flange extends by a distance ranging from 0.25 mm to 5 mm, including 0.5 mm to 2 mm. In additional cases, the tube may be configured such that the liquid container of the invention may stably rest on a surface. By “stably rest”, it is meant that once the tube is positioned on a substantially planar and level surface, the tube will not move (e.g., roll) absent the application of an external force. In some such cases, the flange comprises a perimeter having at least one straight edge. When a liquid container of the invention is placed on its side such that a straight edge of the flange contacts the substantially planar and level surface, the liquid container can be said to be stably resting on said surface. The shape of the flange may vary. In some cases, the flange comprises one straight edge, and the remainder of the flange is curvilinear. In other cases, the flange may be triangular, square or rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, or octagonal. In certain versions, the flange is hexagonal. In embodiments where the flange is configured for the liquid container to stably rest on a surface, the flange extend orthogonally with respect to the sides of the tube by a greater distance, such as a distance ranging from 2 mm to 10 mm, such as 3 mm to 8 mm, such as 4 mm to 6 mm.

[0036] In some embodiments, tubes of the invention include a coating on an inner surface. The coating may, in certain cases, improve hemocompatibility of the liquid container. In some embodiments, the coating in an anticoagulant coating. Coatings of interest may include, but are not limited to, heparin coatings, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) coatings, citrate coatings, warfarin coatings, and the like, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the coating is comprised of EDTA.

[0037] FIG. 1 A-1 B depict a tapered tube according to certain embodiments. T ube 100 is shown having tapered walls, and has opening 101 at one end. Fill line 102 is used for filling tube 100 with a particular volume of liquid. Flange 104 serves as a stop / rest for a cap (e.g., primary cap; not shown) when such is used to cover opening 101 . In the view of tube 100 presented in FIG. 1 B, raised lip 103 is visible. Raised lip 103 may be used to assist in liquid (e.g., blood) collection into tube 100. FIG. 2A-2B depicts a necked tube according to certain embodiments. Shown in FIG. 2A-2B are tube 200, opening 201 , fill line 202, raised lip 203, and flange 204. These elements are configured in the same manner as described above with respect to FIG. 1 A-1 B, with the exception that tube 200 has a necked configuration.

[0038] Liquid containers of the invention additionally include a primary cap configured to cover the opening of the tube. By “cover”, it is meant connect to the opening and thereby substantially enclose the interior of tube. In some cases, the liquid container is configured such that the primary cap releasably connects to the opening, i.e. , the primary cap may easily be removed after it has been connected. In other cases, the liquid container is not configured for releasable connection of the primary cap, i.e., the primary cap is not easily disconnected from the opening without destroying the liquid container. The mechanism by which the primary cap connects to and thereby covers the opening of the tube may vary, as desired. Mechanisms of interest include, but are not limited to, interference fit (also referred to as “pressed fit”) and snap fit. As is understood in the art, interference fit involves two components held together by friction, and snap fit involves interlocking components. In some embodiments, the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via interference fit. In select cases, the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via snap fit. In some such cases, the snap fit is selected from an annular snap fit, cantilever snap fit, and a torsional snap fit. In further cases, the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via both interference fit and snap fit.

[0039] Primary caps of the invention include a nozzle for dispensing the liquid. After liquid has been introduced to the liquid container, it may in certain instances be desirable to dispense some amount of the liquid, e.g., to employ said liquid in an assay (e.g., lateral flow assay). Accordingly, the liquid container having a primary cap covering the opening of the tube may in some cases function substantially like a dropper. In some instances, a user may squeeze the sides of the tube, thereby causing a droplet of liquid to emit from the nozzle, which may then be employed in any desirable application (e.g., assay). Dimensions of the nozzle may vary. In some cases, the nozzle has an internal diameter ranging from 1 mm to 5 mm, such as 1 .2 mm to 4 mm, such as 1 .3 mm to 3 mm, such as 1 .4 mm to 2.8, such as 1 .5 mm to 2.7 mm, such as 1 .6 mm to 2.5 mm, such as 1 .7 mm to 2.4 mm, and including 1 .8 mm to 2.2 mm. In some cases, the nozzles have an internal diameter of 1 .5 or more, such as 1 .6 or more, such as 1 .7 or more and including 1 .8 or more. The length of the nozzle may range from, e.g., 3 mm to 25 mm, such as 5 mm to 20 mm, such as 6 mm to 15 mm, such as 7 mm to 13 mm, such as 8 mm to 11 mm, and including 9 mm to 10 mm.

[0040] In some embodiments, primary caps include a funnel. The funnel gradually tapers down the inner diameter of the liquid container from the inner diameter of the tube opening to the inner diameter of the nozzle. In some embodiments, the funnel is interior to the primary cap. In such embodiments, the funnel is contained within the base of the primary cap. In other embodiments, the primary cap comprises an exterior funnel. In such embodiments, the funnel serves as a transition between the base of the primary cap and the nozzle of the primary cap. Nozzles of the invention may result in a dead volume (i.e. , volume of liquid that remains within the primary cap) of 20 pl or less, such as 15 pl or less, and including 10 pl or less. Primary caps of the invention may be constructed from any suitable material, including but not limited to polycarbonates, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethanes, polyethers, polyamides, polyimides, among other polymeric plastic materials.

[0041] Liquid containers of the invention additionally include a first hinge connecting the primary cap to the tube. The hinge may be any suitable element for tethering the tube to the primary cap having sufficient flexibility or degrees of freedom to permit the movement of the primary cap from a first position at which the primary cap is located at a nonzero distance from the opening of the tube, and a second position at which the primary cap is covering the opening of the tube. In some instances, the hinge is a flexible plastic hinge comprised of one or more strips of plastic. Any suitable flexible plastic may be employed, including but not limited to those described above. The first hinge may connect to the primary cap and tube in any convenient manner. In some cases, the first hinge is integrated with the tube. In other words, the hinge and tube are thoroughly combined so as to form one unit. In some cases, the hinge and tube are manufactured together as a single unit (e.g., using injection molding). In other cases, the hinge and tube are connected to one another by an adhesive. In alternative embodiments, the first hinge comprises an annular strap surrounding the opening of the tube. In some instances, the annular strap is a ring of plastic having a small enough diameter to fit securely around the width of the tube.

[0042] FIG. 3A-3B depict different views of a primary cap 300 according to certain embodiments. As shown in FIG. 3A, primary cap 300 includes nozzle 301 and hinge 302 connected to annular ring 305 which may be used to secure hinge 203 to a tube (not shown). FIG. 3B presents an interior view of primary cap 300 in which interior funnel 303 is visible. Also shown are interference and snap fit mechanisms 304 for connecting primary cap 300 to a tube (not shown).

[0043] FIG. 4 depicts a liquid container 400 having a primary cap 405 connected to a first hinge 404 integrated with the tube 401 according to certain embodiments. As shown in FIG. 4, tube 401 includes opening 403, and raised lip 402 extending from opening 403. In addition, primary cap 405 includes nozzle 406 for dispensing fluid. First hinge 404 is shown as keeping primary cap 405 at a nonzero distance from opening 403 while primary cap 405 is not covering opening 403.

[0044] FIG. 5 depicts a liquid container 500 having a primary cap 505 connected to a first hinge 504 comprising an annular strap 507 surrounding the opening of tube 501 according to certain embodiments. FIG. 5 shows a version in which primary cap 505 having nozzle 506 is covering the opening of tube 501 instead of being held at a distance. Annular strap 507 fits securely around the width of tube 501 , thereby preventing detachment of hinge 506 from tube 501 .

[0045] FIG. 6 depicts the sealing of the opening of the tube with primary cap 600 according to certain embodiments. As shown in FIG. 6, primary cap 600 includes nozzle 601 and interior funnel 607. Also shown is annular strap 605 fitting securely around tube 608 and preventing detachment of a hinge (not shown) from tube 608. FIG. 6 also depicts snap fit elements 602 and interference fit 603 for connecting primary cap 600 to tube 608. Tube 608 includes flange 604 configured to serve as a stop / rest for primary cap 600. Liquid containers of the invention also include a secondary cap configured to seal the nozzle of the primary cap. Secondary caps may be sufficient to generate an air-tight seal of the liquid container relative to the ambient environment. This seal may prevent liquid from inadvertently exiting the liquid container, or matter from the environment (e.g., air) from entering the tube. The secondary cap may be engaged, e.g., when it is desirable to mix or store liquid within the tube. The mechanism by which the secondary seals the nozzle of the primary cap may vary, as desired. Mechanisms of interest include, but are not limited to, interference fit and snap fit. In some embodiments, the secondary cap is configured to seal the nozzle via interference fit. In select cases, the secondary cap is configured to seal the nozzle via snap fit. In some such cases, the snap fit is selected from an annular snap fit, cantilever snap fit, and a torsional snap fit. The secondary cap may be comprised of any suitable polymeric (e.g., plastic) material, including but not limited to those discussed above.

[0046] The subject liquid containers also include a second hinge connecting the primary cap to the secondary cap. The hinge may be any suitable element for tethering the primary cap to the secondary cap having sufficient flexibility or degrees of freedom to permit the movement of the secondary cap from a first position at which the secondary cap is located at a nonzero distance from the nozzle of the primary cap, and a second position at which the secondary cap is sealing the nozzle of the primary cap. In some instances, the hinge is a flexible plastic hinge comprised of one or more strips of plastic. Any suitable flexible plastic may be employed, including but not limited to those described above. The second hinge may connect to the secondary cap and primary cap in any convenient manner. In some cases, the first hinge is integrated with the primary and / or secondary cap. In other words, the hinge and cap(s) are thoroughly combined so as to form one unit. In some cases, the hinge and the primary and / or secondary caps are manufactured together as a single unit (e.g., using injection molding). In other cases, the hinge and primary and / or secondary caps are connected to one another by an adhesive.

[0047] FIG. 7 depicts a secondary cap 700 according to certain embodiments. As shown in FIG. 7, secondary cap 700 is configured for interference fit with the nozzle of the primary cap (not shown).

[0048] FIG. 8A-8C present different views of liquid container 800 according to certain embodiments of the invention. FIG. 8A shows a side profile view of liquid container 800 in which primary cap 805 is disconnected from opening 803 of tube 801 , and secondary cap 808 is disconnected from nozzle 806 of primary cap 805. In order to seal nozzle 806 using secondary cap 808, second hinge 807 can be flexed as secondary cap 808 moves along the path denoted by an arrow to connect with nozzle 806 of primary cap 805. Similarly, in order to cover opening 803 with primary cap 805, a first hinge (not visible in FIG. 8A) connected to flange 809 may be flexed as primary cap 805 moves along the path defined by an arrow to connect with opening 803. Flange 809 may serve as a stop / rest for primary cap 805, and also includes a straight-edged perimeter that may be used to stably rest liquid container 800 on a surface. FIG. 8B presents a top- down view of liquid container 800 in which first hinge 804 connecting flange 809 of tube 801 to primary cap 805 is visible. FIG. 8C provides an alternate view of liquid container 800.

[0049] FIG. 9A-9B depict a liquid container 900 having primary and secondary caps that are disconnected to the tube (FIG. 9A) and connected to the tube (FIG. 9B) according to certain embodiments. As shown in FIG. 9A, liquid container 900 includes tube 901 , opening 902, opening 903, first hinge 904, primary cap 905, nozzle 906, second hinge 907, secondary cap 908, and flange 909. These elements are arranged as described above with respect to FIG. 8A-8C. FIG. 9B shows a version of liquid container 900 in which secondary cap 908 seals nozzle 906, and primary cap 905 covers opening 903.

[0050] METHODS

[0051] As discussed above, aspects of the invention also include methods. Methods of interest include introducing a liquid into a liquid container of the invention. While any liquid may be employed in the subject containers, liquids in some embodiments may be sample liquids. As used herein, “sample”, “test sample”, “biological sample” refer to fluid sample containing or suspected of containing an analyte of interest. The sample may be derived from any suitable source. In some cases, the sample may comprise a liquid, fluent particulate solid, or fluid suspension of solid particles. In some cases, the sample may be processed. For example, the sample may be separated or purified from its source; however, in certain embodiments, an unprocessed sample containing the analyte may be assayed directly. The source of the analyte molecule may be synthetic (e.g., produced in a laboratory), the environment (e.g., air, soil, fluid samples e.g., water supplies, etc.), an animal, e.g., a mammal, a plant, or any combination thereof. In a particular example, the source of an analyte is a human bodily substance (e.g., bodily fluid, blood, serum, plasma, urine, saliva, sweat, sputum, semen, mucus, lacrimal fluid, lymph fluid, amniotic fluid, interstitial fluid, lung lavage, cerebrospinal fluid, feces, tissue, organ, or the like). Tissues may include, but are not limited to skeletal muscle tissue, liver tissue, lung tissue, kidney tissue, myocardial tissue, brain tissue, bone marrow, cervix tissue, skin, etc. The sample may be a liquid sample or a liquid extract of a solid sample. In certain cases, the source of the sample may be an organ or tissue, such as a biopsy sample, which may be solubilized by tissue disintegration / cell lysis.

[0052] A wide range of volumes of the fluid sample may be used. In a few exemplary embodiments, the sample volume may be about 0.5 nl, about 1 nl, about 3 nl, about 0.01 pl, about 0.1 pl, about 1 pl, about 5 pl, about 10 pl, about 50 pl, about 100 pl, about 1 ml, about 5 ml, about 10 ml, or the like. In some cases, the volume of the fluid sample is between about 0.01 pl and about 10 ml, between about 0.01 pl and about 1 ml, between about 0.01 pl and about 100 pl, between about 0.1 pl and about 10 pl, between about 1 pl and about 500 pl, between about 10 pl and about 300 pl, or between about 150 pl and about 250 pl.

[0053] In certain embodiments, a sample of the present disclosure is whole blood. The whole blood sample consists of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets suspended in a protective yellow liquid known as plasma. In some embodiments, samples for immunoassays and clinical chemistry assays are typically serum or plasma. In some embodiments, the whole blood sample is obtained from a subject. In some embodiments, the subject is a living subject, including an animal and a human. After a sample of whole blood is aspirated from a sample tube, a portion of the sample of whole blood must be removed from the sample of whole blood so that either serum or plasma can be separated from the portion for subsequent use in immunoassay testing or clinical chemistry testing.

[0054] In certain embodiments, a sample of the present disclosure is plasma. As used herein, the term “plasma” refers to the colorless fluid part of blood, lymph, or milk, in which corpuscles or fat globules are suspended. As such, plasma is the blood's liquid component and is made up of water, proteins, waste products, minerals, clotting factors, immunoglobulins, carbon dioxide and hormones. The method for separating plasma from blood is well known in the art. In exemplary embodiments, plasma is produced when whole blood is collected in tubes that are treated with an anticoagulant. The blood does not clot in the plasma tube, thereby the cells are removed by centrifugation. The supernatant, designated plasma is carefully removed from the cell pellet using a Pasteur pipette.

[0055] In certain embodiments, a sample of the present disclosure is serum. As used herein, the term “serum” refers to the watery, clear portion of an animal fluid or plant sap. As used herein, the term “blood serum” refers to an amber-colored, protein-rich liquid that separates out when blood coagulates. In certain embodiments, serum includes, but not limited to, blood serum, serous (or serosal) fluid secreted by the serous glands, and plant sap. The method for separating serum from blood is well known in the art. In exemplary embodiments, the blood serum is collected after whole blood is allowed to clot. The clot is removed by centrifugation, and the resulting supernatant, designated serum, is carefully removed using a Pasteur pipette.

[0056] Methods according to some embodiments may also include procuring the sample liquid. In some cases, sample liquids are obtained using a sample collection device. Sample collections devices may vary based on the type of the sample liquid being procured. Sample collection devices include, but are not limited to, syringes, sterile containers, standard urine collection vessels, standard vacutainer urine collection vessels, sponge stick samplers, microsampling devices, micro-needles, or other minimally invasive pain-free blood collection devices; blood collection tube(s); lancets; capillary blood collection tubes; other single fingertip-prick blood collection devices, buccal swabs, nasal / throat swabs, 16-gauge or other size needle, or the like. In select cases, methods include obtaining a blood sample via a lancet.

[0057] Following the introduction of liquid into the liquid container. Methods may include covering the opening of the tube with the primary cap. Such can include, e.g., engaging the interference fit and / or snap fit mechanisms discussed above. The process of connecting a primary cap to a tube is illustrated in FIG. 8A. Methods may additionally include sealing the nozzle of the primary cap with the secondary cap. Such can also include, e.g., engaging the interference fit and / or snap fit mechanisms discussed above. The process of connecting a secondary cap to a nozzle is also illustrated in FIG. 8A. Methods may additionally include mixing the liquid within the tube. Any suitable mixing protocol may be employed. Protocols that may be used include but are not limited to inversion, vortexing, shaking, rocking, and the like. In certain embodiments, mixing the liquid comprises inverting the liquid container. In some such embodiments, mixing the liquid comprises inverting the liquid container 1 or more times, such as 2 or more times, such as 3 or more times, such as 4 or more times, and including 5 or more times.

[0058] With the primary cap covering the opening of the tube, methods may subsequently include dispensing the liquid from the tube via the nozzle. In embodiments, liquid dispensing includes squeezing the sides of the tube such that droplets of liquid emit from the nozzle in a manner that is substantially similar to a dropper. In some such embodiments, methods include dispensing 1 or more drops of liquid, such as 2 or more drops, such as 3 or more drops, such as 4 or more drops, such as 5 or more drops, such as 6 or more drops, such as 7 or more drops, such as 8 or more drops, such as 9 or more drops, and including 10 or more drops. Drops that are dispensed may vary in size, and in some cases can range from 25 pl to 75 pl, such as 30 pl to 70 pl, such as 35 pl to 65 pl, such as 40 pl to 60 pl and including 45 pl to 55 pl.

[0059] Liquid emitting from the nozzle may be employed in any suitable application. In some cases, methods include dispensing the liquid from the tube via the nozzle for use in an assay. In some cases, assays of the present disclosure can be used to determine the presence or absence of an analyte in a sample or measure the amount of an analyte in a sample to identify or assess a disease or condition. Measurements of an analyte can be used, for example, but not by way of limitation, determine the likelihood of developing a disease or condition; diagnose, identify, or classify a disease or condition; estimate prognosis; determine the extent of a disease or condition; determine appropriate treatment; predict response of a disease or condition to treatment; monitor response of a disease or condition to treatment; determine treatment efficacy; and identify recurrence of a disease or condition.

[0060] In some such cases, the assay used in the disclosed methods is a lateral flow assay. Any lateral flow assay may be employed, either those available currently or those yet to be developed. In some cases, the lateral flow assay is used to detect the presence of an infectious disease, such as but not limited to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis, malaria, dengue fever, zika virus, COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2), syphilis, chagas disease, brucellosis, leptospirosis, and the like. In some cases, the lateral flow assay is used to evaluate cardiac markers, including but not limited to troponin, creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), myoglobin, BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide) and NT-proBNP, and D-dimer. In some cases, the lateral flow assay is used to evaluate cancer biomarkers, including but not limited to prostate-specific antigen (PSA), CA-125, CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen), AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein), and the like. In some cases, the lateral flow assay is used to evaluate hormones, including but not limited to human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), progesterone, testosterone, estradiol, cortisol, insulin, prolactin, and the like.

[0061] In some embodiments, such as where liquid from the liquid containers is applied in a lateral flow assay, methods also include dispensing a buffer to perform the lateral flow assay. Buffers that may be employed include, e.g., running buffers, sample diluent buffers, blocking buffers, wash buffers, elution buffers, and the like, as well as combinations thereof. Examples of buffers include, but are not limited to, phosphate buffered saline (PBS), tris-buffered saline (TBS), HEPES (4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1- piperazineethanesulfonic acid), borate, HEPES-EDTA, sodium phosphate, and the like. Buffers likewise may be dispensed in drops. The number of drops to be dispensed can depend on the requirements of an individual assay. In some embodiments, methods include dispensing 1 or more drops of buffer, such as 2 or more drops, such as 3 or more drops, such as 4 or more drops, such as 5 or more drops, such as 6 or more drops, such as 7 or more drops, such as 8 or more drops, such as 9 or more drops, and including 10 or more drops.

[0062] FIG. 10 presents a flowchart for a method of using a liquid container according to certain embodiments. A blood sample is procured in step 1001 using a finger prick. In step 1002, the first drop of blood that emits from the finger is wiped away. In step 1003, blood is collected in the liquid container described above. The collection ends when the blood reaches the fill line on the tube. In step 1004, primary and secondary caps of the liquid container are closed, and the blood within the liquid container is mixed via inversion. In step 1005, drops of blood from within the liquid container are dispensed to one or more lateral flow assays. The number of drops dispensed to each assay may vary depending on the requirements of each assay. In certain instances, 1 drop is dispensed for each assay. In step 1006, a buffer is added to each lateral flow assay test strip. In step 1007, a period of time elapses after which the result of the assay may be read (e.g., 20-30 mins).

[0063] KITS

[0064] Aspects of the invention also include kits. Kits of interest include a liquid container of the invention (e.g., described above). In some cases, kits include a plurality of liquid containers. In some such cases, the number of liquid containers in the subject kits ranges from 2 to 1000, such as 2 to 500, such as 2 to 100 and including 2 to 50.

[0065] Kits according to some embodiments may additionally include one or more components for carrying out methods of the invention, such as performing an assay. For example, kits may include syringes, sponge stick samplers, microsampling devices, micro-needles, or other minimally invasive pain-free blood collection devices; blood collection tube(s); lancets; capillary blood collection tubes; other single fingertip-prick blood collection devices, buccal swabs, nasal / throat swabs, 16-gauge or other size needle, or the like. In some cases, kits include one or more lancets. Kits according to some versions also include an antiseptic solution. In such versions, the antiseptic solution may be provided in any acceptable format, for example, in a bottle, in a wipe, etc.. Suitable antiseptics that may be employed include, but are not limited to, isopropyl alcohol, ethanol, betadine, hydrogen peroxide, benzalkonium chloride, and the like. In some embodiments, kits also include components one or more lateral flow assay test strips. Any suitable lateral flow assay test strip may be included, and may be configured to test for any of the analytes described herein, in addition to other analytes. In some embodiments, kits include a plurality of lateral flow assay test strips. In such embodiments, the analyte tested for by each test strip may either be the same or different. Kits according to some embodiments also include one or more buffers, such as those described above.

[0066] In addition to the above components, the subject kits may further include (in some embodiments) instructions for carrying out methods of the invention, e.g., such as methods substantially similar to those presented in FIG. 10. These instructions may be present in the subject kits in a variety of forms, one or more of which may be present in the kit. One form in which these instructions may be present is as printed information on a suitable medium or substrate, e.g., a piece or pieces of paper on which the information is printed, in the packaging of the kit, in a package insert, and the like. Yet another form of these instructions is a computer readable medium, e.g., diskette, compact disk (CD), portable flash drive, and the like, on which the information has been recorded. Yet another form of these instructions that may be present is a website address which may be used via the internet to access the information at a removed site.

[0067] Notwithstanding the appended claims, the present invention may also be defined by the following clauses:

[0068] 1 . A liquid container comprising: a tube comprising an opening for receiving a liquid; a primary cap configured to cover the opening of the tube and comprising a nozzle for dispensing the liquid; a first hinge connecting the primary cap to the tube; a secondary cap configured to seal the nozzle of the primary cap; and a second hinge connecting the primary cap to the secondary cap.

[0069] 2. The liquid container according to clause 1 , wherein the opening comprises a raised lip. 3. The liquid container according to clause 2, wherein the raised lip extends past the opening by a distance ranging from 2 mm to 3 mm.

[0070] 4. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the nozzle comprises an interior funnel.

[0071] 5. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the nozzle has an interior diameter ranging from 1 .8 mm to 2.2 mm.

[0072] 6. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding clauses, further comprising a flange surrounding the opening of the tube.

[0073] 7. The liquid container according to clause 6, wherein the flange comprises a perimeter having a straight edge.

[0074] 8. The liquid container according to clause 7, wherein the flange is hexagonal.

[0075] 9. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the tube is comprised of a squeezable material.

[0076] 10. The liquid container according to clause 9, wherein the tube comprises a wall thickness ranging from 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0077] 11 . The liquid container according to clause 9 or 10, wherein the tube is comprised of low density polyethylene (LDPE).

[0078] 12. The liquid container according to any one of clauses 9 to 11 , wherein the tube is comprised of polypropylene (PP).

[0079] 13. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the tube is a tapered tube.

[0080] 14. The liquid container according to any one of clauses 1 to 12, wherein the tube is a necked tube.

[0081] 15. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via a snap fit.

[0082] 16. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via an interference fit.

[0083] 17. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the first hinge is integrated with the tube.

[0084] 18. The liquid container according to any one of clauses 1 to 17, wherein the first hinge comprises an annular strap surrounding the opening of the tube.

[0085] 19. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding clauses, further comprising a coating on an inner surface of the tube.

[0086] 20. The liquid container according to clause 19, wherein the coating is comprised of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). 21 . The liquid container according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the tube comprises a fill line for receiving a certain volume of the liquid.

[0087] 22. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the opening has an internal diameter ranging from 8 mm to 10 mm.

[0088] 23. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the tube has a height ranging from 30 mm to 40 mm.

[0089] 24. A method comprising: introducing a liquid into a liquid container comprising: a tube comprising an opening for receiving the liquid; a primary cap configured to cover the opening of the tube and comprising a nozzle for dispensing the liquid; a first hinge connecting the primary cap to the tube; a secondary cap configured to seal the nozzle of the primary cap; and a second hinge connecting the primary cap to the secondary cap.

[0090] 25. The method according to clause 24, further comprising covering the opening of the tube with the primary cap.

[0091] 26. The method according to clause 25, further comprising dispensing the liquid from the tube via the nozzle.

[0092] 27. The method according to clause 25, further comprising sealing the nozzle of the primary cap with the secondary cap.

[0093] 28. The method according to clause 27, further comprising mixing the liquid.

[0094] 29. The method according to clause 28, wherein mixing the liquid comprises inverting the liquid container.

[0095] 30. The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 29, wherein the opening comprises a raised lip.

[0096] 31 . The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 30, wherein the primary cap comprises an interior funnel.

[0097] 32. The method according to any one clauses 24 to 31 , wherein the liquid container further comprises a flange surrounding the opening of the tube.

[0098] 33. The method according to clause 32, wherein the flange comprises a perimeter having a straight edge.

[0099] 34. The method according to clause 33, wherein the flange is hexagonal.

[0100] 35. The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 34, wherein the tube is comprised of a squeezable material. 36. The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 35, wherein the tube is a tapered tube.

[0101] 37. The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 35, wherein the tube is a necked tube.

[0102] 38. The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 37, wherein the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via a snap fit.

[0103] 39. The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 38, wherein the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via an interference fit.

[0104] 40. The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 39, wherein the first hinge is integrated with the tube.

[0105] 41 . The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 40, wherein the first hinge comprises an annular strap surrounding the opening of the tube.

[0106] 42. The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 41 , wherein the liquid container further comprises a coating on an inner surface of the tube.

[0107] 43. The method according to clause 42, wherein the coating is comprised of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA).

[0108] 44. The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 43, wherein the tube comprises a fill line for receiving a certain volume of the liquid.

[0109] 45. The method according to clause 44, wherein the method comprises introducing the liquid into the liquid container until the volume of the liquid reaches the fill line.

[0110] 46. The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 45, wherein the liquid comprises a blood sample.

[0111] 47. A kit comprising: a liquid container comprising: a tube comprising an opening for receiving a liquid; a primary cap configured to cover the opening of the tube and comprising a nozzle for dispensing the liquid; a first hinge connecting the primary cap to the tube; a secondary cap configured to seal the nozzle of the primary cap; and a second hinge connecting the primary cap to the secondary cap.

[0112] 48. The kit according to clause 47, wherein the kit comprises a plurality of liquid containers.

[0113] 49. The kit according to clause 48, wherein the kit comprises a number of liquid containers ranging from 2 to 50.

[0114] 50. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 50, further comprising a lancet. 51 . The kit according to clause 50, further comprising a plurality of lancets.

[0115] 52. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 51 , further comprising an antiseptic solution.

[0116] 53. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 52, wherein the opening comprises a raised lip.

[0117] 54. The kit according to clause 53, wherein the raised lip extends past the opening by a distance ranging from 2 mm to 3 mm.

[0118] 55. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 54, wherein the primary cap comprises an interior funnel.

[0119] 56. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 55, wherein the nozzle has an interior diameter ranging from 1 .8 mm to 2.2 mm.

[0120] 57. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 56, wherein the liquid container further comprises a flange surrounding the opening of the tube.

[0121] 58. The kit according to clause 57, wherein the flange comprises a perimeter having a straight edge.

[0122] 59. The kit according to clause 58, wherein the flange is hexagonal.

[0123] 60. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 59, wherein the tube is comprised of a squeezable material.

[0124] 61 . The kit according to clause 60, wherein the tube comprises a wall thickness ranging from 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0125] 62. The kit according to clause 60 or 61 , wherein the tube is comprised of low density polyethylene (LDPE).

[0126] 63. The kit according to any one of clauses 60 to 62, wherein the tube is comprised of polypropylene (PP).

[0127] 64. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 63, wherein the tube is a tapered tube.

[0128] 65. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 63, wherein the tube is a necked tube.

[0129] 66. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 65, wherein the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via a snap fit.

[0130] 67. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 66, wherein the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via an interference fit.

[0131] 68. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 67, wherein the first hinge is integrated with the tube. 69. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 67, wherein the first hinge comprises an annular strap surrounding the opening of the tube.

[0132] 70. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 69, wherein the liquid container further comprises a coating on an inner surface of the tube.

[0133] 71 . The kit according to clause 70, wherein the coating is comprised of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA).

[0134] 72. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 71 , wherein the tube comprises a fill line for receiving a certain volume of the liquid.

[0135] 73. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 72, wherein the opening has an internal diameter ranging from 8 mm to 10 mm.

[0136] 74. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 73, wherein the tube has a height ranging from 30 mm to 40 mm.

[0137] 75. The kit according to any one of clauses 47 to 74, further comprising a lateral flow assay test strip.

[0138] 76. The kit according to clause 75, further comprising a buffer.

[0139] Although the foregoing invention has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity of understanding, it is readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the teachings of this invention that some changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit or scope of the appended claims.

[0140] Accordingly, the preceding merely illustrates the principles of the invention. It will be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to devise various arrangements which, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the invention and are included within its spirit and scope. Furthermore, all examples and conditional language recited herein are principally intended to aid the reader in understanding the principles of the invention and the concepts contributed by the inventors to furthering the art, and are to be construed as being without limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the invention as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents and equivalents developed in the future, i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims.

[0141] The scope of the present invention, therefore, is not intended to be limited to the exemplary embodiments shown and described herein. Rather, the scope and spirit of present invention is embodied by the appended claims. In the claims, 35 U.S.C. §112(f) or 35 U.S.C. §112(6) is expressly defined as being invoked for a limitation in the claim only when the exact phrase "means for" or the exact phrase "step for" is recited at the beginning of such limitation in the claim; if such exact phrase is not used in a limitation in the claim, then 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f) or 35 U.S.C. §112(6) is not invoked.

Claims

What is claimed is:1 . A liquid container comprising: a tube comprising an opening for receiving a liquid; a primary cap configured to cover the opening of the tube and comprising a nozzle for dispensing the liquid; a first hinge connecting the primary cap to the tube; a secondary cap configured to seal the nozzle of the primary cap; and a second hinge connecting the primary cap to the secondary cap.

2. The liquid container according to Claim 1 , wherein the opening comprises a raised lip.

3. The liquid container according to Claim 2, wherein the raised lip extends past the opening by a distance ranging from 2 mm to 3 mm.

4. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the nozzle comprises an interior funnel.

5. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the nozzle has an interior diameter ranging from 1 .8 mm to 2.2 mm.

6. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a flange surrounding the opening of the tube.

7. The liquid container according to Claim 6, wherein the flange comprises a perimeter having a straight edge.

8. The liquid container according to Claim 7, wherein the flange is hexagonal.

9. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tube is comprised of a squeezable material.

10. The liquid container according to Claim 9, wherein the tube comprises a wall thickness ranging from 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm.1 1 . The liquid container according to Claim 9 or 10, wherein the tube is comprised of low density polyethylene (LDPE).

12. The liquid container according to any one of Claims 9 to 1 1 , wherein the tube is comprised of polypropylene (PP).

13. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tube is a tapered tube.

14. The liquid container according to any one of Claims 1 to 12, wherein the tube is a necked tube.

15. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via a snap fit.

16. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via an interference fit.

17. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first hinge is integrated with the tube.

18. The liquid container according to any one of Claims 1 to 17, wherein the first hinge comprises an annular strap surrounding the opening of the tube.

19. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a coating on an inner surface of the tube.

20. The liquid container according to Claim 19, wherein the coating is comprised of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA).21 . The liquid container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tube comprises a fill line for receiving a certain volume of the liquid.

22. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the opening has an internal diameter ranging from 8 mm to 10 mm.

23. The liquid container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tube has a height ranging from 30 mm to 40 mm.

24. A method comprising: introducing a liquid into a liquid container comprising: a tube comprising an opening for receiving the liquid; a primary cap configured to cover the opening of the tube and comprising a nozzle for dispensing the liquid; a first hinge connecting the primary cap to the tube; a secondary cap configured to seal the nozzle of the primary cap; and a second hinge connecting the primary cap to the secondary cap.

25. The method according to Claim 24, further comprising covering the opening of the tube with the primary cap.

26. The method according to Claim 25, further comprising dispensing the liquid from the tube via the nozzle.

27. The method according to Claim 25, further comprising sealing the nozzle of the primary cap with the secondary cap.

28. The method according to Claim 27, further comprising mixing the liquid.

29. The method according to Claim 28, wherein mixing the liquid comprises inverting the liquid container.

30. The method according to any one of Claims 24 to 29, wherein the opening comprises a raised lip.31 . The method according to any one of Claims 24 to 30, wherein the primary cap comprises an interior funnel.

32. The method according to any one Claims 24 to 31 , wherein the liquid container further comprises a flange surrounding the opening of the tube.

33. The method according to Claim 32, wherein the flange comprises a perimeter having a straight edge.

34. The method according to Claim 33, wherein the flange is hexagonal.

35. The method according to any one of Claims 24 to 34, wherein the tube is comprised of a squeezable material.

36. The method according to any one of Claims 24 to 35, wherein the tube is a tapered tube.

37. The method according to any one of Claims 24 to 35, wherein the tube is a necked tube.

38. The method according to any one of Claims 24 to 37, wherein the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via a snap fit.

39. The method according to any one of Claims 24 to 38, wherein the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via an interference fit.

40. The method according to any one of Claims 24 to 39, wherein the first hinge is integrated with the tube.41 . The method according to any one of Claims 24 to 40, wherein the first hinge comprises an annular strap surrounding the opening of the tube.

42. The method according to any one of Claims 24 to 41 , wherein the liquid container further comprises a coating on an inner surface of the tube.

43. The method according to Claim 42, wherein the coating is comprised of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA).

44. The method according to any one of Claims 24 to 43, wherein the tube comprises a fill line for receiving a certain volume of the liquid.

45. The method according to Claim 44, wherein the method comprises introducing the liquid into the liquid container until the volume of the liquid reaches the fill line.

46. The method according to any one of Claims 24 to 45, wherein the liquid comprises a blood sample.

47. A kit comprising: a liquid container comprising: a tube comprising an opening for receiving a liquid;a primary cap configured to cover the opening of the tube and comprising a nozzle for dispensing the liquid; a first hinge connecting the primary cap to the tube; a secondary cap configured to seal the nozzle of the primary cap; and a second hinge connecting the primary cap to the secondary cap.

48. The kit according to Claim 47, wherein the kit comprises a plurality of liquid containers.

49. The kit according to Claim 48, wherein the kit comprises a number of liquid containers ranging from 2 to 50.

50. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 49, further comprising a lancet.51 . The kit according to Claim 50, further comprising a plurality of lancets.

52. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 51 , further comprising an antiseptic solution.

53. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 52, wherein the opening comprises a raised lip.

54. The kit according to Claim 53, wherein the raised lip extends past the opening by a distance ranging from 2 mm to 3 mm.

55. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 54, wherein the primary cap comprises an interior funnel.

56. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 55, wherein the nozzle has an interior diameter ranging from 1 .8 mm to 2.2 mm.

57. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 56, wherein the liquid container further comprises a flange surrounding the opening of the tube.

58. The kit according to Claim 57, wherein the flange comprises a perimeter having a straight edge.

59. The kit according to Claim 58, wherein the flange is hexagonal.

60. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 59, wherein the tube is comprised of a squeezable material.61 . The kit according to Claim 60, wherein the tube comprises a wall thickness ranging from 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm.

62. The kit according to Claim 60 or 61 , wherein the tube is comprised of low density polyethylene (LDPE).

63. The kit according to any one of Claims 60 to 62, wherein the tube is comprised of polypropylene (PP).

64. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 63, wherein the tube is a tapered tube.

65. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 63, wherein the tube is a necked tube.

66. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 65, wherein the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via a snap fit.

67. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 66, wherein the primary cap is configured to cover the opening of the tube via an interference fit.

68. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 67, wherein the first hinge is integrated with the tube.

69. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 67, wherein the first hinge comprises an annular strap surrounding the opening of the tube.

70. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 69, wherein the liquid container further comprises a coating on an inner surface of the tube.71 . The kit according to Claim 70, wherein the coating is comprised of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA).

72. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 71 , wherein the tube comprises a fill line for receiving a certain volume of the liquid.

73. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 72, wherein the opening has an internal diameter ranging from 8 mm to 10 mm.

74. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 73, wherein the tube has a height ranging from 30 mm to 40 mm.

75. The kit according to any one of Claims 47 to 74, further comprising a lateral flow assay test strip.

76. The kit according to Claim 75, further comprising a buffer.

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