Low resource processor using surface tension valves for extracting, concentrating, and detecting whole cells

A method of detecting a human whole cell in at least one sample comprising:

• (a) providing a device comprising a plurality of sequential chambers connected by tubing, each of said sequential chambers comprising a fluid and separated by gas-based surface tension valves;
• (b) introducing into a first chamber of the plurality of sequential chambers said sample and a particle comprising a surface reactant, wherein said surface reactant binds to the at least one human whole cell said particle, wherein said particle is 0.1 micrometers to 4 mm in diameter;
• (c) transporting the particle bound to said at least one human whole cell from said first chamber of the plurality of sequential chambers into at least a second chamber of the plurality of sequential chambers through said tubing connecting said first and second chambers of the plurality of sequential chambers;
• and
• (d) detecting the presence of said at least one human whole cell in said second or a subsequent chamber.