Abstract: A substrate including a conversion catalyst for removing a volatile organic compound from ambient air. The substrate includes at least one porous wall. The conversion catalyst is within the pores of the at least one substrate porous wall.

Abstract: A method of preparing a bone graft of compressed dehydrated decalcified trabecular bone may include compressing the bone while hydrated from a first form to a second form such that the bone in the second form is compressed relative to the first form. The bone may be dried while compressed. When dry, the bone substantially retains the second form and does not revert to the first form when the compression is removed.

Abstract: Methods and devices for gas sterilization are described, in which products are sterilized using a sterilization gas. Process gases are mixed in a mixer without movable parts before being introduced into the sterilization chamber in order to obtain a homogenous gas mixture. A device for the gas sterilization of products comprises a mixer without movable parts and a sterilization chamber. The sterilization chamber has at least one inlet opening and at least one outlet opening. The mixer is arranged such that it is connected via a first line, which leads into a first opening in the mixer without movable parts, with the at least one outlet opening of the sterilization chamber and is connected via a second line, which leads into a second opening in the mixer without movable parts, with the at least one inlet opening of the sterilization chamber. A third gas supplying line leads into a third opening in the mixer.

Abstract: Biogenic sulfide production is synergistically inhibited by treating sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) with a biocide and a metabolic inhibitor. The biocide directly kills a first portion of the SRB. The metabolic inhibitor inhibits sulfate-reducing growth of a second portion of the SRB without directly killing the second portion of the SRB. The treatment of SRB with both a biocide and a metabolic inhibitor provides effective biogenic sulfide inhibition at significantly lower concentrations than would be required if the biocide or metabolic inhibitor was used alone.

Abstract: A disinfectant system for intracavity ultrasound probes in disclosed generally including a housing, a disinfectant chamber positioned in the housing and receiving at least one ultrasound probe, a container for containing a disinfectant solution fluidly coupled to the disinfectant chamber, at least one pump for supplying the disinfection solution from the container to the disinfection chamber and from the disinfection chamber to the container, and a controller for automated operation of the disinfectant system, wherein the disinfectant solution is a multi-use disinfectant solution. A method for disinfecting intracavity ultrasound probes is also disclosed generally including placing at least one ultrasound probe into a disinfectant chamber, supplying a disinfectant solution from a container to the disinfectant chamber via a pump, and returning the solution to the container via the pump, wherein the steps of supplying and returning the disinfectant solution are controlled by a controller.

Abstract: Chlorine dioxide generation systems and methods are disclosed. One or more reactants, such as sodium hypochlorite, may be electrolytically generated on-site for delivery to a reaction column. Low concentration reactants may be used to generate chlorine dioxide as part of a mixed oxy-chloro product stream containing free available chlorine. In at least one embodiment, an optical analyzer may be positioned along a reactant feed line to measure a concentration of reactant supplied to a reaction column. A controller may adjust a flow rate of the reactant in response to information provided by the optical analyzer. The controller may also perform pH control within the system. In some embodiments, the chlorine dioxide generator may be incorporated in an all-liquid water disinfection system.

Abstract: This invention relates to a stabilized aqueous glutaraldehyde solution including 0.005% to 45% m/v, suitably 10% to 45% m/v solution of glutaraldehyde, an alcohol ethoxylate non-ionic surfactant, a buffer and a sufficient amount of a pH modifier to bring the pH of the solution to 6.0 to 8.5. The glutaraldehyde and the alcohol ethoxylate non-ionic surfactant are chemically bound together, suitably by complexing. These stable solutions can be stored for a period of at least six months without the glutaraldehyde polymerizing or the pH dropping below 5.0.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for sterilizing an article inside a sealed container by placing a polyoxymethylene melt formable co-polymer fiber that has been irradiated between about 1 and 200 kGy and then heated at from about 20° C. to about 90° C. for a selected period of time.

Abstract: Bioprosthetic tissues are treated by immersing or otherwise contacting fixed, unfixed or partially fixed tissue with a glutaraldehyde solution that has previously been heat-treated or pH adjusted prior to its contact with the tissue. The prior heat treating or pH adjustment of the glutaraldehyde solution causes its free aldehyde concentration to decrease by about 25% or more, preferably by as much as 50%, and allows a “stabilized” glutaraldehyde solution to be obtained at the desired concentration and pH for an optimal fixation of the tissue at high or low temperature. This treatment results in a decrease in the tissue's propensity to calcify after being implanted within the body of a human or animal patient.

Abstract: Apparatus are provided which include a specimen vessel holding at least one biological sample. A histological agent is in the specimen vessel so as to come into contact with the tissue sample. A microwave susceptor is provided in, near, or integral to the specimen vessel.

Abstract: Method of disinfecting floors by injecting hot, wet compressed air into the floor, this air being produced by a generator, whether on board or not, consisting of two cylinders of different diameters, one (1) of large diameter into which the atmospheric air is drawn and then compressed in a chamber (11) to a pressure and temperature sufficient to allow almost instantaneous vaporization of a dose of liquid and the other (6), facing the chamber, of smaller diameter in which the charge of humidified compressed air will be partly expanded so as to bring it back to the chosen pressure and temperature for use in order to inject it into the floor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for sterilizing an article inside a sealed container by placing a polyoxymethylene melt formable co-polymer that has been irradiated between about 1 and 200 kGy and then heated at from about 20° C. to about 90° C. for a selected period of time.

Abstract: A disinfectant system for intracavity ultrasound probes in disclosed generally including a housing, a disinfectant chamber positioned in the housing and receiving at least one ultrasound probe, a container for containing a disinfectant solution fluidly coupled to the disinfectant chamber, at least one pump for supplying the disinfection solution from the container to the disinfection chamber and from the disinfection chamber to the container, and a controller for automated operation of the disinfectant system, wherein the disinfectant solution is a multi-use disinfectant solution. A method for disinfecting intracavity ultrasound probes is also disclosed generally including placing at least one ultrasound probe into a disinfectant chamber, supplying a disinfectant solution from a container to the disinfectant chamber via a pump, and returning the solution to the container via the pump, wherein the steps of supplying and returning the disinfectant solution are controlled by a controller.

Abstract: A method which enhances a disinfection process by using a catalyst which increases in effective surface area during the process. Also disclosed are contact lens disinfecting systems which are designed to maintain a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide solution for a longer period of time before increasing the overall surface area of catalyst exposed to the hydrogen peroxide solution. The devices utilize pressure from expanding oxygen generated within the system through use of a small catalyst, or through exposure of only a small portion of a large catalyst, to control deployment of the large catalyst for completing disproportionation of the hydrogen peroxide.

Abstract: A method which enhances a disinfection process by using a catalyst which increases in effective surface area during the process. Also disclosed are contact lens disinfecting systems which are designed to maintain a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide solution for a longer period of time before increasing the overall surface area of catalyst exposed to the hydrogen peroxide solution. The devices utilize pressure from expanding oxygen generated within the system through use of a small catalyst, or through exposure of only a small portion of a large catalyst, to control deployment of the large catalyst for completing disproportionation of the hydrogen peroxide.

Abstract: A pre-assembled orthopaedic implant adapted for improved gas sterilization. The implant includes a first component adapted for assembly with a second component such that a mating surface of the first component is in close proximity with a mating surface of the second component. At least one gas conduit associated with the mating surface of the first component facilitates a sterilizing gas to penetrate into and dissipate from the interface defined by the mating surfaces.

Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus for delivery of a gas, e.g., carbon dioxide and/or chlorine dioxide, and methods of its use and manufacture. The apparatus includes a sachet constructed in part with a hydrophobic material. The sachet contains one or more reactants that generate a gas in the presence of an initiating agent, e.g., water. The apparatus can also include a barrier layer and/or a rigid frame. In another embodiment, the apparatus is combined with a reservoir that can be used to deliver a gas to the reservoir and, optionally, a conduit. In another embodiment, the apparatus is incorporated into a fluid dispersion system that includes a dispersion apparatus, e.g., a humidifier.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for sterilizing an article inside a sealed container by placing a polyoxymethylene melt formable co-polymer that has been irradiated between about 1 and 200 kGy and then heated at from about 20° C. to about 90° C. for a selected period of time.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention generally provide an apparatus and method for decontaminating tubing. The invention is particularly suitable for decontaminating tubing in a test system used for certifying a filter in a containment system. In one embodiment, a test system for a containment system is provide that includes a sample system including equipment adapted for testing a filter disposed in a containment system utilizing samples obtained from a downstream sample port and a upstream sample port of the containment system, and a device for reversing a flow within the sample system. In another aspect of the invention, a method for decontaminating tubing is provided. In another embodiment, the method includes flowing a sterilization agent through tubing in a first direction and flowing the sterilization agent through tubing in a second direction.

Abstract: Biogenic sulfide production is synergistically inhibited by treating sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) with a biocide and a metabolic inhibitor. The biocide directly kills a first portion of the SRB. The metabolic inhibitor inhibits sulfate-reducing growth of a second portion of the SRB without directly killing the second portion of the SRB. The treatment of SRB with both a biocide and a metabolic inhibitor provides effective biogenic sulfide inhibition at significantly lower concentrations than would be required if the biocide or metabolic inhibitor was used alone.

Abstract: The invention concerns the use of a fibre modified with functions capable of interacting with microbial cell wall proteins for immobilising micro-organisms in hygiene products. Those functions are particularly capable of interacting with anionic groups and amine groups, and are especially cationic groups and aldehydes, respectively. The fibres may be synthetic or cellulosic. Also hygiene products containing these fibres are described.

Abstract: An endoscope reprocessor having a water supply disinfection filter and a method for self-disinfection of the filter employ a pair of connectors to switch from a normal operating mode into a self-disinfection mode in which circulating germicidal fluid within the reprocessor flows through the filter, while the water supply remains connected to the system and isolated from the circulating fluid.

Abstract: The disclosed technology relates to a genetically engineered biological indicator, comprising: at least one test organism and at least one reporter gene suitable for producing an indicator enzyme, the reporter gene being taken up by the test organism; and at least one repressor gene that inhibits expression of the reporter gene until the reporter gene is exposed to at least one inducer. A process and an apparatus for using the biological indicator are disclosed.

Abstract: As shown in FIG. 1 there is one embodiment of a fumigation apparatus in the form of a module (8) including a panel (10) which can be positioned in or at an opening of an enclosed space in use to define a fumigation chamber. Fumigant inlet means in the form of an orifice (12) are arranged in the panel (10) to allow a flow of a fumigant directly into the fumigation chamber. A nominal number of mixing fans, in this case two fans (16) and (18), thoroughly circulate gases within the fumigation chamber when operating. The module (8) includes a system control box (14) linked to the fumigant delivery orifice (12) and valve system which functions to control the flow of toxic gas into the fumigation chamber. The panel (10), when positioned in use, is secure against the passage of fumigant and gases by means of an inflatable rubber seal (22) which is located around a lip edge perimeter of the panel (10).

Abstract: A method of treating a biological tissue including contacting the biological tissue with an aqueous sterilizing solution, and maintaining the aqueous sterilizing solution at a temperature of about 50° C. for a time period of about 1 to 2 days. The method of treating a biological tissue may be utilized as a terminal sterilization step in a method for fixation of biological tissues, and bioprosthetic devices may be prepared by such fixation method. The fixation method may include the steps of A) fixing the tissue, B) treating the tissue with a mixture of i) a denaturant, ii) a surfactant and iii) a crosslinking agent, C) fabricating or forming the bioprosthesis (e.g., forming the tissue and attaching any non-biological components thereto) and D) subjecting the bioprosthesis to the terminal sterilization method. The aqueous sterilizing solution may be glutaraldehyde of about 0.625 weight percent buffered to a pH of about 7.4.

Abstract: Chemical proportioning and dispensing systems discussed herein include systems for producing a desired admixture ratio of a first fluid and one or more other fluids. The systems may include one, two, or three eductors with each eductor including one or two suction inlet ports. An admixture of one or more than one fluids may be outputted via a common output header or from a single eductor outlet port having two suction inlet ports. The admixture may be used to sterilize or disinfect a number of equipment and surfaces including those found in a health care facility. Finally, the ratio of admixture may be adjusted by controlling the pressure drop of the suction inlets and/or the supply pressure of the motive source. Methods for utilizing the chemical proportioning and dispensing systems are also discussed.

Abstract: Synergistic mixtures of biocides and their use to control the growth of microorganisms in aqueous systems are disclosed. The method of using the synergistic mixtures entails adding an effective amount of a nitrogenous compound activated by an oxidant and at least one non-oxidizing biocide to an aqueous system. The amount of activated nitrogenous compound and non-oxidizing biocide is selected to result in a synergistic biocidal effect.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for improving the performance of filtration devices by adding P- and/or N-containing compounds to the medium to be filtered.

Abstract: An antifungal fragrance composition containing as its active ingredients: (a) at least one type of fragrance component selected from the group consisting of an aliphatic or aromatic aldehyde having 5 to 16 carbon atoms and an aliphatic or aromatic alcohol having 5 to 16 carbon atoms, and (b) at least one type of compound different from component (a) and selected from the group consisting of an aliphatic or aromatic aldehyde, an aliphatic or aromatic alcohol, acetal and ester that produces synergistic antifungal effects in the presence of said fragrance component (a). The present antifungal fragrance composition demonstrates antifungal activity by adding a small amount of oils and fragrant chemical products that have a minimal effect on the scent of the fragrance composition.

Abstract: A decontamination device for decontaminating medical apparatus includes a housing and a dispenser within the housing for contacting a portion of the medical apparatus with a decontaminating compound when the portion of the medical apparatus is placed within the housing. Structure for removably engaging the housing to the medical apparatus is provided. The decontamination device can be used with many different medical apparatus, such as stethoscopes. A method for decontaminating medical apparatus is also provided.

Abstract: A sterilization system uses a sterilization process monitoring device which is capable of indicating the efficacy of the sterilization process. To enhance accuracy of the monitoring function, the monitoring device is located in such a fashion that an antimicrobial agent used in the process can only reach the monitor through an area containing the article to be sterilized.

Abstract: A method for the preparation of polymers derived from acrolein and including poly(2-propenal, 2-propenoic acid), characterised in that the polymers are exposed to the presence of water, whereby such polymers exhibit increased antimicrobial activity. The polymers may be heated in the range of 40 to 150° C. Further, the polymers may be prepared in the presence of polyethylene glycols, polyols and/or alkanols.

Abstract: Adhesive compositions, particularly medical adhesive compositions, often include several components that may react differently to different sterilization processes, particularly when combined with one another. The present invention is directed to methods of sterilizing different components or groups of components of a final adhesive composition. The different components or groups of components may be sterilized in separate containers before packaging the components or groups of components within a kit, and thereafter sterilizing the kit.

Abstract: An electric submersible pump has one or more components coated with a biocide-incorporated coating for the purpose of controlling the activity of bacteria. The portions exposed to well fluid are coated for inhibiting bacteria from growing. Both centrifugal and progressing cavity pumps are applicable.

Abstract: The invention comprises a solidified melt mixture of OPA with compounds selected from the group of water soluble polymers, surfactants, carboxylic acids, and salts wherein the formulation contains from 0.1% to 99.9% OPA, better 10% to 50% OPA, best about 20 to 30% OPA.

Abstract: Nanobacteria contribute to pathological calcification in the human and animal body, including diseases such as kidney stones, salivary gland stones, dental pulp stones and atherosclerosis. The present invention provides methods for sterilizing articles contaminated with nanobacteria. The present invention also provides methods of treating patients infected with nanobacteria. In particular, the present invention provides a method for preventing the recurrence of kidney stones in a patient that has suffered from kidney stones, comprising administration of an antibiotic, a bisphosphonate, or a calcium chelator, either alone or in combination, in an amount effective to inhibit or prevent the growth and development of nanobacteria.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for disinfecting and/or sterilizing the hydraulic circuit within a dental unit by using active solutions.

Abstract: This invention provides methods of inactivating a microorganism and preparing a vaccine including the step of applying to said microorganism a cross-linking agent simultaneously with a separate inactivant. This invention further relates to vaccines prepared by such methods and a kit including such inactivated microorganism. The cross-linking agent is typically formaldehyde (FA) and the inactivant typically binary ethyleneimine (BEI).

Abstract: The invention relates to a shelf stable liquid disinfectant concentrate composition containing at least 1% by weight of a quat biocide (biocidally active quaternary ammonium compounds) and capable of dilution with 20 parts of water to 1 part of concentrate to produce a diluted solution, the diluted solution exhibiting a MIC after 24 hours in the presence of up to 2% tryptone (or the protein equivalent thereof) which is less than the MIC of a simple solution of the same concentration of the same quat biocide in water in the presence of the same concentration of the protein. The biocidal efficacy of the quat biocide may be protected by an “activity protector” selected from the group consisting of “enzyme stabilisers”, “enzyme stabilising systems”, micelle formation modifiers and inhibitors, and combinations thereof. The invention also relates to a disinfectant working solution prepared from the concentrate, and to a method of protecting a quat biocide from deactivation.

Abstract: A medical procedure kit incorporates one or more surgical tools necessary to perform at least part of a medical procedure, along with a container having a quantity of a medical adhesive. Medical adhesives are useful as an alternate or an adjunct to surgical sutures and/or staples in wound closure, as well as for covering and protecting surface wounds such as lacerations, abrasions, burns, stomatitis, sores, minor cuts and scrapes, and other wounds. As such, the inclusion of such an adhesive into a composite medical procedure kit can be of great assistance to a medical doctor or surgeon by providing in single kit form, tools necessary to complete many medical procedures, without having to use multiple procedure kits. The adhesive may be independently sterilized and wrapped from the other surgical tools of the resultant kit, and then associated into kit form, or assembled and sterilized together as a unitary kit.

Abstract: Described are synergistic antimicrobial-fragrance compositions including broad spectrum antimicrobial compositions containing salicylaldehyde and at least one organoleptically-compatible antimicrobial synergism cofactor substance. The weight ratio range of salicylaldehyde:synergism cofactors substance is from 1:10 up to 10:1. The cofactor substance is such that the degree of synergism of the resultant mixture is defined according to the IFF Antimicrobial Synergism Test wherein the difference between the actual and expected antimicrobial values of the mixture is greater than or equal to a multiple of (i) 0.05 and (ii) the expected antimicrobial value of the mixture. Cofactor substances include phenolics such as cresol, caravacrol and thymol; ethyl vanillin; benzyl alcohol; indol; &bgr;-orcinol; and terpinenol-4.

Abstract: The present invention introduces a class of compounds, 2-substituted carbonyl compounds, that are useful as disinfecting agents, and particularly useful in methods for the disinfection of biological fluids. Members of the class of compounds have been found to possess pathogen invactivating properties against a variety of pathogens. The compounds and methods disclosed herein are useful for disinfecting biological fluids such as blood and blood fractions, among others.

Abstract: A method of sterilizing absorbable sutures using a sterilant gas such as ethylene oxide gas. The method utilizes a first degassing step, and a second degassing step at elevated temperatures to remove residual sterilant gas, diluent gas, by-products and moisture.

Abstract: The present invention introduces a class of compounds, 2-substituted carbonyl compounds, that are useful as disinfecting agents, and particularly useful in methods for the disinfection of biological fluids. Members of the class of compounds have been found to possess pathogen inactivating properties against a variety of pathogens. The compounds and methods disclosed herein are useful for disinfecting biological fluids such as blood and blood fractions, among others.

Abstract: The invention involves a method for sterilizing biological tissues. The invention also includes sterilized biological tissues.

Abstract: A sterilization system using a sterilization process monitoring device which is capable of indicating the efficacy of the sterilization process in an enclosed sterilization container while still maintaining the sealed state of the sterilization container. The process monitoring device comprises at least one biological indicator and/or at least one chemical indicator. Upon completion of the sterilization cycle, the process monitoring device can be advantageously removed from the system to determine chemical and/or biological efficacy of the sterilization process. The removal of the biological and/or chemical indicators does not disturb the sterilized state of the articles inside the sterilization container.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a concentrated solid or semi-solid disinfectant or sterilant composition for use in an aqueous disinfecting or sterilizing solution, comprising an oxidant and a protected glutaraldehyde such as a glutaraldehyde bisulfite addition compound (GBS): ##STR1## or a glutaraldehyde dioxime compound (GDO): ##STR2## The present invention further provides a method for disinfecting or sterilizing a surface or apparatus comprising the steps of mixing a concentrated solid or semi-solid glutaraldehyde sterilant composition comprising an oxidizing compound and a protected sterilant with water to form a solution and bringing the solution into contact with the surface or apparatus.

Abstract: Disinfecting compositions comprising a peroxygen bleach, glutaraldehyde, an antimicrobial essential oil and an amphoteric surfactant, preferably useful in combination with an amine oxide surfactant. The compositions are especially for cleaning and disinfecting hard surfaces.

Abstract: A method for sterilizing collagen containing tissue includes crosslinking the tissue to form a crosslinked biological tissue. The tissue is maintained in a hydrated state. The crosslinked, collagen-containing tissue is sterilized by irradiating the tissue with a beam of accelerated electrons. The biological tissue exposed to accelerated electrons is suitable for surgical implantation. The irradiated biological tissue is not significantly degraded following irradiation. The irradiation can be performed on tissue that has been packed in a container in a hydrated state.

Abstract: A mixture of an oily fragrance liquid, an oily disinfestant and an organic blowing agent is heated by the heat of the reaction between calcium oxide and water, and the fragrance liquid is atomized by the blowing gas stream and made to adhere to the interior of the conveyance.