Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the elimination of microbial contamination from water-based suspensions of solid particles, especially organic and inorganic pigment dispersions, and the colourant formulations containing such suspensions.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for transmitting ultrasonic energy. In one embodiment, the apparatus can include a vessel, such as a conduit, having a first end, a second end, and a vessel axis between the first and second ends. An ultrasonic energy emitter can be positioned toward the first end of the vessel to direct ultrasonic energy into the flowable substance during operation. An ultrasonic energy focuser can be positioned toward the first end of the vessel at least proximate to the ultrasonic energy emitter to focus the ultrasonic energy toward the vessel axis as the ultrasonic energy approaches the second end of the vessel. A reflector can be positioned toward the second end of the vessel to reflect the ultrasonic energy back toward the ult1.asonic energy emitter. A signal reverser can redirect at least part of the ultrasonic energy propagating away from the ultrasonic energy emitter.

Abstract: This invention relates to a rapid and efficient method for carrying out enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for detection of minute quantities of biomolecules such as antigen, antibody etc. This invention particularly relates to microwave mediated immobilization of antigen or antibody on to the activated surface followed by performing subsequent steps of ELISA by controlled microwave irradiation. The invented procedure has dramatically reduced the total time required for ELISA to less than 10 minutes from hours to days. The invented ELISA procedure is rapid, economical, reproducible and simple and can be automated. The invented procedure is useful for carrying out ELISA in clinical diagnostics, molecular biology, agriculture, sericulture, food technology, environmental science, biomedical research and other related fields.

Abstract: The present invention includes a method and system for cleaning, disinfecting, or sterilizing objects, such as medical or dental instruments or devices. The system of the invention includes an energy source, such as a sonicator, adapted and configured to impact the object with energy, such as ultrasonic energy; a liquid transporter adapted and configured to circulate around, through, and/or into the object a wash composition, an antimicrobial composition, a rinse composition, or a plurality of these compositions; and a dryer adapted and configured to dry the object, preferably, in the presence of a sterilant. The method of the invention includes contacting the object with a wash composition and energy, such as ultrasonic energy; treating the object with an antimicrobial composition; rinsing the object with a rinse composition; and drying the object, preferably in the presence of a sterilant.

Abstract: A device suitable for use in the sterilization of a fluid such as a biological fluid or a fraction thereof, containing lymphocytes and/or micro-organisms, comprising a vessel having an inlet and an outlet and a passage which extends non-tortuously therebetween. A heat exchange device with a heat exchange surface is in substantially direct thermal contact with the interior of the passage. A temperature controller maintains the temperature of fluid in the passage below a temperature at which fluid components may form insoluble particles during irradiation. The passage has a wall which is substantially transparent to a lymphocyte and/or micro-organism inactivating radiation. The passage contains a static mixer device for thoroughly mixing the fluid so as to bring the whole of the fluid into an irradiation zone extending along and adjacent the passage walls and into contact with the heat exchange surface.

Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for decontaminating contaminated matter, such as an object or substance, with ultrasonic transient cavitation is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a container for containing a contaminated object, a pressure source for pressurizing the container to a predetermined pressure, a vibration source operably connected to the container, and a cleaning solution comprising a predetermined concentration of a volatile substance. The presence of the volatile substance in the cleaning solution, along with the pressurization and vibration thereof, enhances the effect of ultrasonic transient cavitation and improves decontamination of the contaminated matter.

Abstract: A regional water purifier collects blue green algae continuously by using a water flow produced by the operation of a water flow generator, and continuously and efficiently processes the algae to make it inactive by irradiating ultrasonic waves thereon. Thus, regional water purification is performed efficiently at a far lower cost than the conventional method through the blue green algae processing. The purifier includes a blue green algae processing duct 2, which is disposed under water where blue green algae breed in large quantities, and has an ultrasonic wave transmitter 3 therein for transmitting ultrasonic waves to process the blue green algae with the ultrasonic waves. Both ends of the duct 2 are open, and a water flow generator 4 produces a suction flow for sucking water containing blue green algae into the blue green algae. processing duct 2 from a first end 2a and a discharge flow for discharging the water from the second end 2b.

Abstract: An assay apparatus includes a cell with a working electrode and a sonicating device structurally coupled to the cell for sonication the contents of the cell.

Abstract: Acoustic coaxing induced microcavitation (ACIM) for controlling the onset, evolution, and/or intensity of microcavitation events in a liquid or fluid medium to perform nanometer or micrometer particle detection in ultrapure liquids, sub-micron particle removal for precision cleaning of semiconductor wafers, deinking of paper or pulp, thin film removal from substrates, depainting substrates or panels, destructive and nondestructive measuring and testing of thin films, sculpting or erosion of surfaces, or control or acceleration of liquid-based chemical reactions. Instead of using a pair of sinusoidally excited, acoustically focused transducers operating at different fundamental resonance frequencies, ACIM events are instead generated using a single transducer and a waveform generator, e.g.

Abstract: A system, container, and a label for monitoring the use of a container. The label is ideally inserted into the wall of the container. The label preferably includes an indicating ink that incrementally changes color or changes shade when certain external energy sources are applied. The labeled container can be used in a system of monitoring, characterizing, and recording information and traits regarding containers wherein the incremental changes in the indicating ink are measured. The information, such as counting cycles of container use, is preferably machine-readable, as well as human-readable.

Abstract: A sterilization apparatus designed to receive an article requiring sterilization in which the apparatus comprises an aerosol generator operatively coupled to a sterilization chamber. The aerosol generator includes an ultrasonic transducer which is electrically coupled to an ultrasound generator. The sterilization apparatus also includes a tube which passes vertically through an apex of a partition ceiling formed in a nebulization chamber of the aerosol generator. The sterilization chamber includes a sterilization container which houses the article to be sterilized. The container includes an aerosol inlet and an aerosol outlet in communication with an expansion cavity and nebulization cavity of the nebulization chamber via an aerosol inlet conduit and an aerosol outlet conduit respectively. The sterilizing agent is nebulized via the transducer and recirculated through the sterilization chamber.

Abstract: A material comprising a to-be-sterilized material and a sterilization-protecting agent comprising a trisaccharide or higher saccharide having a positive charge(s).

Abstract: An ultrasonic energy source is used to provide a variable force for measuring the binding forces between molecular entities and for sensing the presence of an analyte in a test sample. The device includes a surface that has a first binding member attached thereto and one or more particles that have a second binding member attached thereto. A reaction vessel is provided for exposing the surface to the particles whereby, if the first binding member has a binding affinity for the second binding member, a complex is formed between individual first binding members and individual second binding members and the particles thereby become immobilized with respect to the surface. The ultrasonic energy source is positioned for applying a variable ultrasonic force onto the surface, and the position of the particles is monitored as the intensity of the ultrasonic force is varied.

Abstract: Methods of fixing and processing tissue and samples on a membrane by using ultrasound radiation as a part of the method are presented. Ultrasound of a frequency in the range of 0.1-50 MHz is used and the sample or tissue receives 0.1-200 W/cm2 of ultrasound intensity. The use of ultrasound allows much shorter times in the methods. Also presented are apparati comprising transducers of one or of multiple heads for producing the ultrasound radiation and further comprising a central processing unit and optionally comprising one or more sensors. Sensors can include those to measure and monitor ultrasound and temperature. This monitoring system allows one to achieve accurate and optimum tissue fixation and processing without overfixation and tissue damage. The system also allows the performance of antigen-antibody reactions or nucleic acid hybridizations to be completed in a very short time while being highly specific and with a very low or no background.

Abstract: The inventive apparatus is comprised of a means for producing cavitation in a complex reaction mixture to enhance the yield of the selected reaction product, a means for controlling the temperature of the complex reaction mixture, especially during cavitation, and a means for affecting magnetic separation of paramagnetic beads to which the selected reaction product is attached from the complex reaction mixture. In one embodiment, the compound(s) or molecule(s) is synthesized in situ, and isolated using the inventive apparatus. The apparatus finds use in the fields of solid phase organic synthesis, and for isolation and purification of a selected compound(s) or molecule (s), especially where automation is desired.

Abstract: The invention refers to a method for cleaning and sterilizing instruments within dental care, and incorporating the following partial steps, separately partly known in themselves, a) that the instrument, which is to be cleaned and sterilized is positioned in a treatment chamber, which is closed, b) that the instrument in the treatment chamber is washed with a washing medium, thus that all organic material in the form of internal, as well as any external deposits and coatings are removed, c) that the washing medium is discharged, d) that the instrument is sterilized during a time, which is short as compared to conventional sterilization, e) that the instrument is brought to take up a temperature appropriate for use, and f) that the instrument is lubricated if so needed, whereupon the instrument is ready for removal from treatment chamber for use.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sterilizing water containing pathogen protozoa having shells in a simple manner without negative influencing the environment is disclosed. Ultrasonic waves are applied to drinking water to form fine cavitation bubbles which are used to destroy the shells of pathogenic protozoa. The residual chlorine in the drinking water along with an oxidizing action and effect of the ultrasonic wave, permit not only sterilization but also deodorization and decolorization.

Abstract: A method of cleaning and disinfecting contact lenses, including the steps of a) transmitting a ultrasonic energy field toward a pair of contact lenses being suspended in a solution medium in a cleaning cup, causing a cavitation to be produced to remove dirt from the contact lenses; b) keeping the solution medium to be maintained standing still in for about 3-5 minutes for permitting suspended substance to settle to the bottom of the solution medium; c) using heating means to heat the solution medium to about 90° C. for about 15-20 minutes so as to disinfect bacteria and degrade toxic substance carried on the contact lenses; and d) gradually cooling down the temperature of the solution medium to room temperature.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sterilizing organic or inorganic matter through simultaneous exposure to ultraviolet light energy and ultrasonic wave energy in a non-aqueous environment such as air. The method is suitable for use in a chamber or in a mass production assembly line setting. Purification of air is similarly accomplished using simultaneous exposure to ultraviolet light and ultrasonic energy waves.

Abstract: A sterilization method for organic or inorganic matter which combines exposure to ultraviolet light and ultrasonic waves. The ultrasound waves are applied "dry" in that the object is not immersed into a liquid solution during the exposure cycle. This makes the sterilization method suitable for use in a mass production assembly line setting. Exposure of the object to the ultraviolet light and ultrasound waves can occur simultaneously, sequentially, or in alternating fashion.

Abstract: An ultrasonic energy source is used to provide a variable force for measuring the binding forces between molecular entities and for sensing the presence of an analyte in a test sample. The device includes a surface that has a first binding member attached thereto and one or more particles that have a second binding member attached thereto. A reaction vessel is provided for exposing the surface to the particles whereby, if the first binding member has a binding affinity for the second binding member, a complex is formed between individual first binding members and individual second binding members and the particles thereby become immobilized with respect to the surface. The ultrasonic energy source is positioned for applying a variable ultrasonic force onto the surface, and the position of the particles is monitored as the intensity of the ultrasonic force is varied.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for using ultrasonic energy in conjunction with an ultraviolet water sterilization system. An ultrasonic transducer assembly is placed in or around one end of the sterilization chamber for producing the ultrasonic energy. Ultrasonic vibrations are then applied automatically on a regular and intermittent basis to clean the components within the sterilization chamber and disrupt the chemical and physical action which causes scaling due to dissolved minerals and organic materials in the water. The ultrasonic vibrations cause a preventative cleaning action by the streaming and stirring of the water. Actual cleaning action is also created by cavitation and sweeping actions. The sweeping action is accomplished by frequency modulation which, by creating varying hot and cold spots within the sterilization chamber, allows for a uniform cleaning of a quartz sleeve encasing a UV lamp within the sterilization chamber. Ultrasonic vibrations also create a germicidal action.

Abstract: A computer-controlled ultrasonic cleaning system (10) that is designed to clean various articles ranging from integrated-circuit silicone wafers and hard disk platters to small mechanical components. The system (10) utilizes an electronic system which operates in combination with a computer (12) and software (14) to activate a plurality of crystal transducers (32). The crystal transducers (32), which are located on the lower surface of a cleaning tank (40) convert electrical energy, supplied by the electronic system, to acoustic/mechanical energy with a conversion efficiency near 80 percent. The system software includes a program that automatically calibrates the system and corrects crystal-to-crystal deficiencies to maintain the system (10) in a peak operating condition.

Abstract: The apparatus for liquid sterilization by high-pressure dynamic cavitation includes a fluid passage through which the continuous flow of liquid passes, wherein the fluid passage is defined by a closed cylindrical chamber having a side wall and first and second opposing ends. The chamber has an inlet and an outlet through which the continuous flow of liquid enters and exits the chamber, the inlet being tangential to the chamber axis and adjacent to the first end to provide tangential flow within the chamber and to cause the liquid flow to be deflected at the first and second opposing ends two or more times for increasing sterilization time of the liquid before exiting the outlet axially disposed on the second end. One or more projections protruding from the interior side wall of the chamber create a high-pressure drop in the flow behind the one or more projections and thereby create high-pressure dynamic cavitation for effective sterilization.

Abstract: A system for reducing biological organisms in a liquid effluent to no-viable organic molecules that includes: a stunning chamber (38) that applies a voltage potential across biological organisms to break cell membranes and disable the defense mechanisms of viral organisms to ultraviolet radiation; a cavitation chamber (86) to physically destroy any remaining membranes of biologicals in the effluent that may play host to viral organisms or allow such to hide therein, the action of the stunning and cavitation chambers releasing interferons; and a molecularly implanted stimulated emitter (MISE) chamber (108) in which high levels of ultraviolet radiation and electromagnetic energy are applied to virions and spores that remain at frequencies that are readily absorbed and operate to dissociate any viable DNA and RNA strands remaining, to thereby cause "death". The resulting effluent is pulsed through the stunning, cavitation, and MISE chambers to gain maximum effect thereof.

Abstract: A water purification process comprises applying electrical energy to water to be treated in a treatment chamber having a cathode and an anode opposing each other and deactivates or destroys microorganisms in the water. Water in the vicinity of the anode is caused to flow away from the anode by subjecting the water and/or the anode to vibration. The water purification apparatus includes a treatment chamber (2) having a cathode (9) and an anode (3) opposing each other. Electrical energy is applied to microorganisms contained in the water. The anode and/or the water in the vicinity of the anode is vibrated and debris inside and outside the chamber is removed (17).

Abstract: An extracorporeal blood processing system is disclosed which includes a variety of novel components and which may be operated in accordance with a variety of novel methodologies. For instance, the system includes a graphical operator interface which directs the operator through various aspects of the apheresis procedure. Moreover, the system also includes a variety of features relating to loading a blood processing vessel into a blood processing channel and removing the same after completion of the procedure. Furthermore, the system also includes a variety of features relating to utilizing a blood priming of at least portions of the apheresis system in preparation for the procedure. In addition, the system includes a variety of features enhancing the performance of the apheresis system, including the interrelationship between the blood processing vessel and the blood processing vessel and the utilization of high packing factors for the procedure.

Abstract: This specification discloses an invention directed to an ultrasonic cleaning apparatus for cleaning a cleaning target. The ultrasonic cleaning apparatus includes a liquid discharge nozzle having a discharge port to discharge a liquid therethrough, an ultrasonic vibrator for applying ultrasonic vibrations to the liquid which is to be supplied to the nozzle, and a cleaning member which is mounted on the discharge port of the nozzle, vibrates while holding therein the liquid discharged through the discharge port, and comes into contact with the cleaning target with a predetermined area, thereby scrub-cleaning the surface of the cleaning target.

Abstract: A system for assaying a fluid sample for one or more types of analytes, which employs at least one class of finely divided polystyrene spheroidal particles, each class being limited to a predetermined specific narrow range of particle diameters, the particles of each such class being coated with a specific reactant unique for that class. After the coated particles are mixed with the sample to specifically react to form conjugates of the particles and any of the analyte present, the mixture is irradiated with bursts of ultrasound swept over a range of frequencies resonant to the expected conjugate sizes. The presence of the conjugates and therefore the analyte is detected directly by measuring any selective absorption or scattering of waves of frequencies to which the conjugates are resonant.

Abstract: An improved method for treating liquid foodstuffs to prolong their shelf life wherein the liquid is exposed to intense agitation, preferably through sonication, to disrupt cell walls and membranes of any microorganisms present in the liquid. The liquid is either simultaneously or subsequently exposed to an electrical field. The intense agitation disrupts the cell walls and membranes of the microorganisms so that an electrical current can be introduced through any openings formed in the cell walls and membranes and through their intracellular matrices to kill the microorganisms. It is preferable to expose the liquids to torsional forces so that any microorganisms will be rotating through the stationary electrical field. As a result any openings in the cell walls and membranes of the microorganisms will at some point become aligned with the electrical field so that current can be introduced within the cells to destroy the microorganisms.

Abstract: A sonic transducer shroud is shaped to present an inclined surface to rising bubbles and other matter during water treatment. Attached to the face of the sonic transducer, the shroud prevents the bubbles and other matter from being trapped on the transducer measurement surface and subsequently interfering with echo reception. The shroud has acoustic properties that are matched to the water such that the shroud is substantially acoustically transparent.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning and sterilizing all parts of a dental apparatus head exposed to contamination in a practical and economical way includes a cleaning chamber, which may be either a separate unit or an integral part of an apparatus head which receives dental instruments connected by hoses to the head. In one embodiment, the chambers are formed within the head and is closed by a flexible cover so that a cleaning fluid can be introduced into the chamber to clean the exterior surfaces and then disinfectants can be sprayed on the exterior surfaces and pass through internal conduits of the hoses and instruments. In another embodiment, the chamber is separate and receives the entire apparatus head and/or support brackets and is closable so that the head and/or support brackets can be thoroughly cleaned on the external surfaces and then subsequently disinfected with the internal surfaces being disinfected.

Abstract: For the testing and cleaning of instruments (20) with continuous channels (25) for minimal invasive surgery or minimal invasive examination of body cavities, use is made of a testing and cleaning tray (10) for the instruments (20), which testing and cleaning tray (10) has flushing channels (30; 31), and of a holder arrangement (41) which receives this tray (10) and has attachments for each flushing channel (30). A fluid source (47) is connected via a distributor (56) to valves (57) and to the attachments of the holder arrangement (41). Using a throughput testing device (46; 55), the channels (25) of the instruments (20) are tested for penetrability individually or in groups one after another by means of fluid from the fluid source (47) being conveyed to the channels (25).

Abstract: Methods for sterilizing an instrument contaminated with biological matter are disclosed. The apparatus generally includes a container for containing a room temperature antimicrobial solution and a lid that can seal the container such that a gas is trapped within the container and above the antimicrobial solution. The apparatus provides a pressure, independent of heat, within the sealed container to greater than one atmosphere. Vibration is also provided to vibrate the container, and its contents, such that biological matter on the instruments is removed and all microbes on the instrument are exposed to the antimicrobial solution. The pressure drives and forces the antimicrobial solution into the cracks and crevices of the instrument and also into the outer membrane of the microbe, which can be first softened or attenuated by the vibrations.

Abstract: A unit for removal and prevention of scale deposits in a preexisting fluid containing system and destruction of microbes. The invention utilizes a.c. and d.c. superimposed electrical fields in combination with a sonic or ultrasonic transducer for supplying electrical and mechanical energy into a colloidal or particulate-containing solution. An impure fluid stream of reduced conductivity is passed between a cylindrical insulated electrode, having a first end and a second end, which electrode is axially centered within an insulated cylindrical electrode and housing. The configuration of the electrodes form a sealed cylindrical treatment chamber, having a inlet and an outlet for a fluid stream, and provide an electric field of a.c. waveforms superimposed on d.c. waveforms, comprising a resultant ripple voltage waveform. The ripple voltage is obtained by rectifying and filtering a standard and commercially available a.c. voltage.

Abstract: A method of degassing utilizing a degassing faucet having a first portion which includes a liquid inlet with a first cross-sectional area and a liquid outlet with a second cross-sectional area smaller than the first cross-sectional area, the liquid outlet being disposed adjacent a conduit portion having a cross-sectional area larger than the second cross-sectional area and the degassing faucet having a second portion with an impact surface.

Abstract: Sonoluminescence is an off-equilibrium phenomenon in which the energy of a resonant sound wave in a liquid is highly concentrated so as to generate flashes of light. The conversion of sound to light represents an energy amplification of eleven orders of magnitude. The flashes which occur once per cycle of the audible or ultrasonic sound fields can be comprised of over one million photons and last for less 100 picoseconds. The emission displays a clocklike synchronicity; the jitter in time between consecutive flashes is less than fifty picoseconds. The emission is blue to the eye and has a broadband spectrum increasing from 700 nanometers to 200 nanometers. The peak power is about 100 milliWatts. The initial stage of the energy focusing is effected by the nonlinear oscillations of a gas bubble trapped in the liquid. For sufficiently high drive pressures an imploding shock wave is launched into the gas by the collapsing bubble.

Abstract: A method of immersion sterilization of medical and dental instruments and an organic cold chemical sterilant capable of killing a challenge of target microorganisms including bacterial spores wherein the method of immersion sterilization comprises the steps of immersion of the instruments in a first organic solution to solubilize the protein of the microorganisms, immersion in an aqueous solution to unprotonate the solubilized proteins and exposing the bioburden on the instruments to ultrasonic agitation to remove organic material from the instruments and immersion in a second organic solution to cross-link the binding sites of the unprotonated proteins thereby denaturing the proteins to corrupt and penetrate the bacterial walls to kill the endospores and other microorganisms; and wherein the organic cold chemical sterilant comprises a monohydric alcohol, a polyhydric alcohol, a dialdehyde, a surface active agent and water in proportion by weight to denature the proteins to corrupt and penetrate the bacterial

Abstract: A method for sterilizing a continuous flow of wastewater containing bacteria includes applying high frequency sound waves to the continuous flow of wastewater to cause cavitation in the wastewater.

Abstract: By providing an ultrasonic irradiation apparatus for generating acoustic cavitation efficiently, it is intended to realize an ultrasonic therapeutic apparatus for generating the action of cavitation on a living body suitable for medical treatment of malignant tumors and medical treatment of thrombi and calculi, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus for generating cavitation for emphasizing an ultrasonic echo image such as a blood flow and utilizing the reflection capability of the cavitation, an ultrasonic chemical reaction accelerating apparatus, an ultrasonic cleaning apparatus or an ultrasonic sterilizing apparatus. Irradiation focus/code signals for defining irradiated acoustic fields of a fundamental wave and a second harmonic wave as well as focus positions/acoustic pressure distribution forms of the respective waves are applied from an irradiation unit main control circuit to drive phase generating circuits.

Abstract: A cavitation chamber is driven by a hydraulic driving system in which acoustic pulses are generated by repeated water hammers. In the driving system a liquid is pumped through a conduit. The flow of liquid through the conduit is periodically interrupted by a valve. A water hammer is created each time the valve closes. Acoustic pulses produced by the water hammer propagate directly into a cavitation chamber where they are reflected back and forth by acoustically reflective plates. The cavitation chamber may be applied to degas liquids, mix chemicals or slurries, or promote sono-chemical reactions. The design generates acoustic pulses efficiently. The acoustic pulses are coupled to the cavitation chamber with minimal losses. The apparatus is rugged and inexpensive when compared to systems which incorporate electromechanical transducers.

Abstract: A process and device are disclosed for detoxicating and decontaminating produce, in particular cereals and other seeds used as foodstuffs and/or fodder. The produce or cereals are subjected to an ultrasonic treatment in an aqueous medium. It has been discovered that such a treatment surprisingly causes effective decontamination or detoxication of the contaminated produce, without affecting the appearance, taste, nutritive value of the decontaminated produce, above all cereal produce.

Abstract: The water remediation and purification method includes a cavitation nozzle which is operated with a throat size and pressure drop to incur cavitation in the water. The explosive and implosive bubble growth and collapse produces free radicals which interact with contaminants in the water to oxidize the contaminants. The cavitation process is enhanced by (1) a variable throat nozzle, (2) recycling the product back through the nozzle for further oxidation, and (3) programmable control feedback. Subsequent ultraviolet radiation from high energy lamps, ion exchange and/or degassifying treatment can be employed to produce water quality within acceptable levels.

Abstract: A multiple stage anti-microbial apparatus and methods are disclosed, which provide capacity to process a handpiece between patients including soaking, de-overburdening via use of ultrasonic energy, treating with exposing to anti-microbial heat, accommodating coordinated though separate autoclaving, and accommodating contiguously packaging in a heat shrunk sheath after multiple anti-microbial treatment to prevent later contamination through the air. The distal portion of the heat shrunk sheath is initially removed along weakened paths to expose the operative head of the handpiece, accommodating grasping of the handpiece handle through the remainder of the sheath during use of the handpiece on the patient. After such use, the remainder of the sheath is removed along a weakened path and discarded.The anti-microbial apparatus comprises a portable casing with one or more exterior lids or covers. An ultrasonic basin provides a bath for soaking, liquid anti-microbial activity and removal of debris.

Abstract: A system for reducing biological organisms in a liquid effluent to non-viable organic molecules that includes: a stunning chamber that applies a voltage potential across biological organisms to break cell membranes and disable the defense mechanisms of vital organisms to ultraviolet radiation; a cavitation chamber to physically destroy any remaining membranes of biologicals in the effluent that may play host to vital organisms or allow such to hide therein, the action of the stunning and cavitation chambers releasing interferons; and a molecularly implanted stimulated emitter (MISE) chamber in which high levels of ultraviolet radiation are applied to virions and spores that remain at frequencies that are readily absorbed and operate to disassociate any viable DNA and RNA strands remaining, to thereby cause "death". Prior to the stunning chamber, preferably the effluent has any large solids therein, settled, floated or filtered out.

Abstract: A method and apparatus maintains a level of sterilization during medical procedures operative upon a bacteriologically contaminated workpiece. A bacteriologically impermeable sheath is placed around the workpiece for maintaining bacteriological separation between the workpiece and medical equipment activating the medical procedure. In the preferred embodiment, the sheath lines a beaker in which dental implants, the workpieces, are placed when being cleaned using ultrasound. The sheath is cost effective enough to be disposed of after each use.

Abstract: Compositions, devices, and methods are disclosed for achieving rapid sterilization. A device for reducing surface tension in liquids is also disclosed. Both cationic and anionic surfactants are simultaneously present and used with a germicide to accelerate sterilization at room temperatures. One device includes a tablet, absorbent body, or other carrier which carries both an anionic surfactant and a cationic surfactant. Another device includes a hermetically sealable envelope which contains an anionic surfactant and a cationic surfactant, preferably with a germicide which impregnates an absorbent liner. The composition includes a germicide, an anionic surfactant, and a cationic surfactant. Glutaraldehyde solutions are the preferred germicides; sulfosuccinic acid, ester with ethoxylated lauryl alcohol, disodium salt is a preferred anionic surfactant; and, a quaternary ammonium salt is the preferred cationic surfactant. A sterilization method is performed by exposing an object to the disclosed compositions.

Abstract: A cassette for holding instruments, such as medical and dental instruments, through cleaning, sterilization, storage and use cycles, comprises a tray member having a bottom wall and a pair of opposite side walls, at least two clamping members fixed to the bottom wall extending transversely between the side walls, and at least one clip member releasably securable to the tray side walls for overlying and clamping the instruments against the clamping members so as to remain exposed. A method for using the instrument cassette comprises placing the cassette containing the instruments in an ultrasonic cleaning device, preferably after hand-scrubbing the instruments which have been arranged and secured within the cassette, and then sterilizing the instruments in the cassette.

Abstract: A multiple stage anti-microbial apparatus and methods are disclosed, which provide capacity to process a handpiece between patients including soaking, de-overburdening via use of ultrasonic energy, treating with exposing to anti-microbial heat, accommodating coordinated though separate autoclaving, and accommodating contiguously packaging in a heat shrunk sheath after multiple anti-microbial treatment to prevent later contamination through the air. The distal portion of the heat shrunk sheath is initially removed along weakened paths to expose the operative head of the handpiece, accommodating grasping of the handpiece handle through the remainder of the sheath during use of the handpiece on the patient. After such use, the remainder of the sheath is removed along a weakened path and discarded.The anti-microbial apparatus comprises a portable casing with one or more exterior lids or covers. An ultrasonic basin provides a bath for soaking, liquid anti-microbial activity and removal of debris.

Abstract: In a process for cleaning and/or disinfecting and/or maintaining medical or dental instruments, in a washing container filled with liquid, particularly water, the at least one tool holder being washed internally and externally and additionally having ultrasound applied thereto, in the case of a hollow or sleeve-shaped instrument, particularly tool holder, the cavity of the instrument, in particular the cavity or cavities of the tool holder accommodating the mechanical drive elements, is drained and ultrasound is then applied to the tool holder.