Abstract: Heteromorphic sponges are described which have matrix structures with oriented substructures added to facilitate cellular invasion. A sponge may be used as a wound implant by cutting it to the shape of a wound bed and placing therein. The matrix structure provides conduits which assist invasion of the sponge by cells which degrade the sponge and lay down new tissue to replace it. The incorporation of active agents in the matrix and/or substructures enhances wound healing.

Abstract: The invention provides wound dressing and/or implant materials comprising a matrix structure of sponge, at least one substructure and at least one pharmacologically active agent, wherein both the matrix structure and the substructure are formed from bioabsorbable biopolymer materials. The substructure may, for example, comprise biopolymer films, flakes, fibres or microspheres embedded in the matrix structure of sponge. The pharmacologically active agent may comprise antiseptics, antibiotics, analgesics. One or more such active agents may be incorporated separately into the matrix and/or the substructure so as to achieve controlled or phasic release of the active agents into the wound.

Abstract: Absorbent articles, such as catamenial tampons, for absorbing body fluids are disclosed which include an effective amount of a nitrogen containing compound to substantially inhibit the production of exotoxins by Gram positive bacteria. The compound is one or more nitrogen containing compounds having the general formula ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1, inclusive of the carbonyl carbon, is an alkyl group having 8 to 18 carbon atoms and R.sub.2 and R.sub.3 can be the same or different. Moieties R.sub.2 and R.sub.3 can be selected from hydrogen and an alkyl group having 1 to about 12 carbon atoms which may contain one or more substituent groups selected from ester, ether, amine, hydroxyl, carboxyl, carboxyl salts, sulfonate, sulfonate salts and mixtures thereof. The compound is effective in substantially inhibiting the production of TSST-1 and Enterotoxin-B from S. aureus bacteria.

Abstract: Absorbent products, especially catamenial tampons, for absorbing body fluids, such as menstrual fluid, blood and wound exudates, comprise an amount of a compound effective to inhibit the production of toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria when the products are brought into contact with the bacteria. The compound is selected from the group consisting of monoesters of a polyhydric aliphatic alcohol and a C.sub.8 -C.sub.18 fatty acid; diesters of a polyhydric aliphatic alcohol and a C.sub.8 -C.sub.18 fatty acid; and mixtures thereof. The monoesters and diesters have at least one hydroxyl group associated with their aliphatic alcohol residue.

Abstract: A wet wipe which includes a pattern bonded polypropylene nonwoven web adapted to provide a sustained controlled release to a surface of an aqueous alcoholic composition contained within the nonwoven web. The nonwoven web has a basis weight of from about 17 to about 100 grams per square meter and includes polypropylene meltblown fibers having diameters in a range of from about 0.01 to about 50 micrometers. The aqueous alcoholic composition contained within the polypropylene nonwoven web is present in a range of from about 300 to about 600 weight percent, based on a dry weight of the nonwoven web of 34 grams per square meter. The wet wipe provides a first release of the aqueous alcoholic composition in a range of from about 40 to about 70 weight percent, a second release in a range of from about 10 to about 25 weight percent, and a third release in a range of from about 5 to about 18 weight percent, of the composition originally present in the nonwoven web.

Abstract: A diaper containing a liquid pervious topsheet coated with a lotion composition is disclosed. The lotion composition reduces the adherence of BM to the skin of the wearer, thereby improving the ease of BM clean up. The lotion composition comprises a plastic or fluid emollient such as mineral oil or petrolatum, an immobilizing agent such as a fatty alcohol or paraffin wax to immobilize the emollient on the surface of the diaper topsheet, and optionally a hydrophilic surfactant to improve wettability of the coated topsheet. Because the emollient is substantially immobilized on the surface of the topsheet, less lotion is required to impart the desired therapeutic or protective lotion coating benefits.

Abstract: Absorbent products, especially catamenial tampons, for absorbing body fluids, such as menstrual fluid, blood and wound exudates, comprise an amount of a compound effective to inhibit the production of toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria when the products are brought into contact with the bacteria. The compound is selected from the group consisting of monoesters of a polyhydric aliphatic alcohol and a C.sub.8 -C.sub.18 fatty acid; diesters of a polyhydric aliphatic alcohol and a C.sub.8 -C.sub.18 fatty acid; and mixtures thereof. The monoesters and diesters have at least one hydroxyl group associated with their aliphatic alcohol residue.

Abstract: A diaper containing a liquid pervious topsheet coated with a lotion composition is disclosed. The lotion composition reduces the adherence of BM to the skin of the wearer, thereby improving the ease of BM clean up. The lotion composition comprises a plastic or fluid polysiloxane emollient such as phenyl-functional polymethylsiloxanes, an immobilizing agent such as a fatty alcohol or paraffin wax to immobilize the emollient on the surface of the diaper topsheet, and optionally a hydrophilic surfactant to improve wettability of the coated topsheet. Because the polysiloxane emollient is substantially immobilized on the surface of the topsheet, less lotion is required to impart the desired therapeutic or protective lotion coating benefits.

Abstract: Absorbent articles, such as catamenial tampons, for absorbing body fluids are disclosed which include an effective amount of a compound to substantially inhibit the production of exotoxins by Gram positive bacteria. The compound is one or more ether compounds having the general formula:R.sub.1 --O--R.sub.2wherein R.sub.1 is a straight or branched chain alkyl group having from 8 to 18 carbon atoms, and R.sub.2 is selected from an alcohol, a polyalkoxylated sulfate salt and a polyalkoxylated sulfosuccinate salt.

Abstract: A diaper containing a liquid pervious topsheet coated with a lotion composition is disclosed. The lotion composition reduces the adherence of BM to the skin of the wearer, thereby improving the ease of BM clean up, and improves skin softness. The lotion composition comprises a liquid polyol polyester and an immobilizing agent such as a fatty alcohol or paraffin wax to immobilize the liquid polyol polyester on the surface of the diaper topsheet. The polyol polyester(s) remains at or near the skin surface, providing the desired BM cleaning and/or therapeutic benefits.

Abstract: Protective underwear made of air-tight polyurethane-coated nylon (10) with elastic sewn around the waist (12) and around the bifurcated legs (14a, 14b). An exit hole (24) for the flatus is cut from the back, near the bottom, of the underwear. The exit hole is covered with a pocket (16a, 16b) made of porous fabric, and designed in the same shape as the exit hole (24), only larger. The bottom layer of the pocket (16b) is sewn (22) around the edge of the exit hole (24) connecting it to the underwear. The top layer (16a) is sewn (20) around the edge of the bottom layer (16b) and onto the underwear, except at the top, leaving the pocket opening. The pocket opening is kept closed by a fastener. The replaceable filter is large all around than the exit hole (24), but smaller all around than the pocket (16). The top and bottom layers are of wool felt (26a, 26b); and both layers are cut larger than all other layers to facilitate sewing (28).

Abstract: A method of producing an absorbent composition. A polymeric material characterized as having surface anionic reactive sites is mixed with a source of multi-valent metal ions to render the polymeric material sorbent of aqueous liquids. A dispersant is then added to form a wet slurry which is subsequently dried to a granular consistency.

Abstract: Fibres which have an increased specific surface area and improved absorption properties, preferably intended for use in the form of fluff pulp in absorption articles such as diapers, incontinence guards, etc., in which the fibres present a porous layer of hydrophilic chemicals anchored on the fibre surface; a method of producing such fibres, their use in absorption articles and an absorption material which includes the fibres.

Abstract: The invention provides wound dressing and/or implant materials comprising a matrix structure of sponge, at least one substructure and at least one pharmacologically active agent, wherein both the matrix structure and the substructure are formed from bioabsorbable biopolymer materials. The substructure may, for example, comprise biopolymer films, flakes, fibres or microspheres embedded in the matrix structure of sponge. The pharmacologically active agent may comprise antiseptics, antibiotics, analgesics. One or more such active agents may be incorporated separately into the matrix and/or the substructure so as to achieve controlled or phasic release of the active agents into the wound.

Abstract: Absorbent products and components for use in absorbent products are disclosed. These absorbent products comprise pressure-sensitive adhesive microfibers and thermoplastic polymer microfibers, that when incorporated into absorbent products provide good liquid transport properties, resiliency, and attachment systems; and further mask odors associated with bodily fluids.

Abstract: An absorbent core for use in an absorbent product suitable for placement in a wearer's garment, and absorbent products utilizing the core, are disclosed. The core comprises an absorbent batt folded upon itself along a pair of generally parallel longitudinal fold lines to form a middle, body-facing panel and two side panels, which three panels are substantially equivalent in width at the central transverse axis of the batt. In various preferred embodiments, one or more of the panels are embossed with patterns that serve to direct fluid transport in the product.

Abstract: The present invention entails a panty having a crotch area that is specifically designed to kill and inhibit the growth of yeast, bacteria and fungi. In particular, the panty includes a crotch made up of an open knit construction that is formed of both treated and non-treated yarn. The treated yarn is treated with an antimicrobial agent that is capable of killing and inhibiting yeast.

Abstract: A method of producing an absorbent composition. A polymeric material characterized as having surface anionic reactive sites is mixed with a source of multi-valent metal ions to render the polymeric material sorbent of aqueous liquids. A dispersant is then added to form a wet slurry which is subsequently dried to a granular consistency.

Abstract: Compositions comprise carbon particles combined with white odor-controlling agents by means of binders. The preferred particle form of the compositions is substantially lighter in color than the original carbon, and the resulting particles are preferred for use in the manufacture of catamenials, diapers, bandages, and the like. Particles comprising carbon coated with zeolites are not only desirably lighter in color, but also control a broad spectrum of malodors associated with body fluids.

Abstract: Absorbent products, especially catemenial tampons, for absorbing body fluids, such as menstrual fluid, blood and wound exudates, comprise an amount of a compound effective to inhibit the production of Enterotoxin A, Enterotoxin B and/or Enterotoxin C by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria when the products are brought into contact with the bacteria. The compositions of this invention are also useful to inhibit production of Streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxins A, B and C, as well as hemolysins produced by Groups A, B, F and G streptococci in solution as well as being expected to be effective to inhibit such toxin and hemolysin production when used in conjunction with absorbent products. The compound is selected from the group consisting of monoesters of a polyhydric aliphatic alcohol and a C.sub.8 -C.sub.18 fatty acid; diesters of a polyhydric aliphatic alcohol and a C.sub.8 -C.sub.18 fatty acid; and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: An absorbent article is disclosed for absorbing and retaining human exudate. The article includes an absorbent having a first surface facing the body of a user and a second surface aligned approximately opposite to the first surface. A liquid-impermeable baffle is positioned adjacent to at least the second surface of the absorbent while a fluid-permeable cover is positioned adjacent to at least the first surface of the absorbent. A deodorizing mixture is positioned within the article and is positioned to remain dry for a substantial period of time. The mixture is an anhydrous, non-buffer blend of at least basic and pH neutral odor absorbing particles.

Abstract: An undergarment is arranged to have a continuous body panel to include a front panel and rear panel, with an elastomeric band at an upper end of the body panel, and a crotch web connecting lowermost ends of the body panel, and more specifically the front and rear panels together, with right and left leg openings directed through the body panel between the front and rear panels. A pocket member accessed through a flap is provided, with the pocket member flap selectively securable to the lowermost portion of the front panel to receive a flexible fibrous insert web having a fluid fragrance saturated therewithin.

Abstract: Sanitary towels in particular nappies, pants for infants, women, incontinent adults, treated with paraoxybenzoate of ethylene glycol phenyl undecyl ether, with chemical products in general having a bactericidal, fungicidal, antiseptic and antifermentative action.

Abstract: A diaper is formed having a flexible fluid impermeable pocket web mounted to an exterior surface of the diaper web and to a second end thereof spaced from the first end to receive the furled diaper web within the pocket subsequent to its use. A modification of the invention includes tubular pockets positioned within the pocket web receiving frangible capsules having deodorizing fluid therewithin for rupturing and dispersion into the diaper to minimize unpleasant odors emanating therefrom.

Abstract: A non-woven fabric of alginate staple fibres, characterized in that the absorbency of the fabric is greater than 25.0 grams of deionised water or 19.0 grams of saline water per gram of fabric as measured with reference to the test method depicted in FIG. 1, is prepared by a modified needle-tacking process. The fabric is useful for the preparation of wound and burn dressings.

Abstract: A method of producing an absorbent composition. A polymeric material characterized as having surface anionic reactive sites is mixed with a source of multivalent metal ions to render the polymeric material sorbent of aqueous liquids. A dispersant is then added to form a wet slurry which is subsequently dried to a granular consistency.

Abstract: This invention relates to a protective undergarment for an individual who is bowel incontinent. The undergarment provides an elasticized, double panel pouch that is suspended from a waistband whereby the inner panel of the pouch is drawn between the buttocks of the individual. An elasticized slit opening on the inner panel of this pouch is thereby positioned adjacent to the individual's anus and permits the admission of fecal material directly into the pouch.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a disposable absorbent article, e.g., a diaper, comprising a flavonoid and a far-infrared radiating ceramic which has improved bacterial inhibition and deodorizing characteristics.

Abstract: A disposable garment shield for preventing garment soiling and combatting garment odors caused by perspiration comprising a laminated body having a layer of a non-absorbent polymer, an adhesive material on the non-absorbent layer for attaching the shield to a garment and a moisture absorbing layer of a fibrous material bonded to the non-absorbing polymeric layer, and a dry deodorant mixture which becomes activated by the perspiration of a wearer of a garment to absorb the perspiration and combat unpleasant body odors.

Abstract: An antimicrobially active wet wiper product having a fibrous wipe and a hypotonic liquid preservative composition for the wipe. The liquid preservative composition comprises: (i) water, (ii) a naturally occurring organic acid in an amount effective to be a preservative, and (iii) a naturally occurring salt in a concentration effective to increase the efficacy of the naturally occurring organic acid.

Abstract: Deodorant bedding of this invention comprises wadding having a first fiber retaining metal complex having oxidation-reduction power and a second fiber retaining metal ion. Therefore, foul smelling substances are oxidized by the metal complex and adsorbed by metal ion complex exchange reaction, and then the bedding will be deodorized.

Abstract: An antimicrobial superabsorbent composition of a cross-linked hydrophilic sodium salt form of a partially neutralized acrylic acid-based polymer gel having covalently bonded thereto a silane. The composition can be in the form of flakes, strips, powders, filaments, fibers, or films, and may be applied to a substrate in the form of a coating.

Abstract: An antimicrobial superabsorbent composition of a cross-linked hydrophilic sodium salt form of a partially neutralized acrylic acid-based polymer gel having covalently bonded thereto a silane. The composition can be in the form of flakes, strips, powders, filaments, fibers, or films, and may be applied to a substrate in the form of a coating.

Abstract: Discolsed are wet wiper products that incorporate antimicrobially-active nonwoven fabrics, preferably comprising: bonded fibers; a binder distributed on said fibers; and an antimicrobial agent distributed on from 10% through 50% of said fibers, said antimicrobial agent being substantive to said fibers such that said antimicrobial agent is prevented from substantially diffusing from said fabric.

Abstract: Zeolite particles retaining silver ions having bacteriostatic properties on their ion-exchangeable sites in an amount up to 41% of the zeolite's exchange capacity are described.

Abstract: Zeolite particles retaining at least one metal ion having bacteriostatic properties on their ion-exchangeable sites in an amount up to 41% of the zeolite's ion exchange capacity are described.

Abstract: Method for the preparation of an absorbent composition intended particularly to the absorption of physiological liquids such as urine, secretions from wounds, blood, etc. The method comprises the preparation of a concentrated solution of mono- and/or disaccharide in water, particularly saccharose. To said solution there is admixed a predetermined amount of superabsorbent up to obtaining a homogenous paste which is dried to an extent such that the water content is brought down to a value comprised between 2 and 15%. It is possible to introduce with the superabsorbent a portion of the oligosaccharide in the form of powder. The resultant mixture comprises less than 50% of superabsorbent and preferably between 1 and 30% in the case of a dressing.

Abstract: Absorbent articles containing both an acidic buffering agent and a non-toxic, non-irritating, non-volatile antimicrobial agent are disclosed. The acidic buffering agent is preferably also an absorbent gelling agent which can imbibe aqueous body fluids in addition to acting as a buffer. Such articles are especially suitable for maintaining the pH of urine and feces discharged into the article at value below about 7.5. This in turn helps to prevent or reduce diaper rash and control odor caused by the production of ammonia.

Abstract: An antimicrobially active wet wiper and a method of making the wiper. The wet wiper has an antimicrobially active non-woven web that includes: (i) bonded fibers; (ii) a binder in an amount effective to bind the fibers; and (iii) a first antimicrobial agent that is substantive to the fibers and to the binder when the web is either wet or dry. The web is maintained in a wet condition in a liquid containing a second antimicrobial agent until use.

Abstract: A wet wiper product of the type having a fibrous wipe, a liquid preservative composition, and an enclosure for the fibrous wipe and the liquid preservative composition. The liquid preservative composition consists essentially of: (a) a mixture of citric acid and sorbic acid as the preservative component; (b) water; and (c) optional ingredients selected from the group consisting of skin moisturizers and fragrance compounds.

Abstract: A method of deodorizing articles, devices, and solutions involved in or used in medical and biological procedures including endoscopic procedures and associated solutions and materials. The method is to treat the materials and solutions to be deodorized with 2,5-hexanedione or with 2,3-pentanedione as a chemical deodorant. In a preferred treating composition the chemical deodorant is used as an aqueous solution containing a small amount of an essential oil-type masking agent and an oil solubilizing surfactant.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a new family of crystalline, microporous silaceous materials of regular geometry which are substantially hydrophobic, and methods for their preparation. These compounds may be prepared from natural or synthetic hydrated aluminous tectosilicates.

Abstract: An antimicrobially active, non-woven web, a wet wiper containing the web, and a method of making the web. The method includes the steps of forming an unbonded fibrous web; applying throughout the unbonded fibrous web an uncured polymeric binder; applying a leachable catalyst to catalyze the cross-linking of the binder during curing, the leachable catalyst being antimicrobial; and curing the binder to cross-link the binder and bind the fibers together to form an antimicrobially active, non-woven web.

Abstract: An antimicrobially active, non-woven web, a wet wiper containing the web, and a method of making the web. The method includes the steps of forming an unbonded fibrous web; applying throughout the unbonded fibrous web an uncured polymeric binder; applying a leachable catalyst to catalyze the cross-linking of the binder during curing, the leachable catalyst being antimicrobial; and curing the binder to cross-link the binder and bind the fibers together to form an antimicrobially active, non-woven web.

Abstract: A wet wiper product of the type having a fibrous wipe, a liquid preservative composition, and an enclosure for the fibrous wipe and the liquid preservative composition. The liquid preservative composition consists essentially of: (a) a mixture of citric acid and sorbic acid as the preservative component; (b) water; and (c) optional ingredients selected from the group consisting of skin moisturizers and fragrance compounds.

Abstract: A disposable treated insert for use with a supporter, brief, undergarment or the like having an insert body member of foam material treated with fungicide and deodorant materials and comprising a lower pouch portion for enclosing and supporting male genitals and an upper panel portion for conforming the body member to an adjacent body surface to stabilize the position of the pouch portion when held in position by support means.

Abstract: An antimicrobially active, non-woven web, a wet wiper containing the web, and a method of making the web. The method includes the steps of forming an unbonded fibrous web; applying throughout the unbonded fibrous web an uncured binder and an antimicrobial agent, the antimicrobial active agent being substantive to the fibers of the web and to the binder; and curing the binder material to bind the fibers together to form an antimicrobially active, non-woven web. A preferred antimicrobial agent is an organo-silicon quaternary ammonium salt, especially a 3-(trimethoxylsilyl) propyldidecylmethyl ammonium chloride or a 3-(trimethoxysilyl) proplyloctadecyldimethyl ammonium chloride.

Abstract: Absorbent articles containing both pH control agents and substantially water-insoluble, highly neutralized hydrogel material as a fluid-absorbing polymer are disclosed. By placing pH control agents and hydrogel in distinct discrete zones within the article, absorbent products such as diapers can be realized which are highly effective for absorbing discharged body fluids and which also serve to prevent or reduce diaper rash.

Abstract: A method of deodorizing articles, devices, and solutions involved in or used in medical and biological procedures including endoscopic procedures and associated solutions and materials. The method is to treat the materials and solutions to be deodorized with 2,4-pentanedione as a chemical deodorant. In a preferred treating composition the 2,4-pentanedione is used as an aqueous solution containing a small amount of an essential oil-type masking agent and an oil solubilizing surfactant.

Abstract: A method for absorbing bodily secretions while hindering the generation of odors and growth of microbes comprising applying a fibrous mass having copper cations bound through selected anions, preferably carboxymethyl, the amount of chemically bound copper being between 0.1 and 3% by weight. The fibrous mass can be in the form of a catamenial device, bandage, diaper, shoe liner, or the like.