Abstract: A fluid dispensing machine, such as a peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis machine, includes a dispenser or cassette that pumps a medical fluid for dialysis or other treatments for patients. The machine includes and uses an autoconnect device for connecting containers of liquid, such as bags of dialysis fluid or medication fluids, to the machine, while maintaining the sterility of the connection. The autoconnect device removes the cap from the fluid bag and pierces the scaling membrane on tubing from the bag. This makes it easier for patients to receive treatment, especially home treatment. Other embodiments are useful for dispensing other liquids from other types of dispensing or pumping machines.

Abstract: A disposable pumping cassette in one embodiment includes a pump chamber; and a valve chamber in communication with the pump chamber, the valve chamber including an inlet and first and second outlets. A disposable pumping cassette in another embodiment includes a first valve chamber including an inlet and first and second outlets; and a second valve chamber including an inlet and an outlet, the second valve chamber openable to allow dialysis fluid to flow through one of the first and second outlets of the first valve chamber, through the outlet of the second valve chamber. A disposable pumping cassette in a further embodiment includes a valve chamber including a fluid inlet and first and second fluid outlets; and a flexible sheet openable to open and close only one of the first and second outlets.

Abstract: A dialysis fluid heating system includes a plurality of conductive tubes; first and second end caps located at first and second ends of the tubes, respectively, the first end cap including a dialysis fluid inlet and a dialysis fluid outlet, the end caps and the tubes configured such that dialysis fluid can flow from the fluid inlet of the first end cap, through at least one first tube to the second end cap, and through at least one second tube back to the first end cap; a conductive wire wound around an outside of the conductive tubes; and electronics configured to supply power to the conductive wire, the wire forming a primary coil of a transformer, the tubes forming a secondary coil of the transformer.

Abstract: Flow-through systems for processing biological fluid are disclosed. The flow-through systems include a removal device in the flow path for removing unwanted compounds and agents. The removal device includes a removal media contained within a housing made of two separate portions sealed together. The housing is maintained in a substantially vertical disposition, thereby ensuring substantially uniform and complete exposure of the fluid to the media.

Abstract: A bearing supports a rotating element. The bearing comprises an inner annular body and an outer annular body about the inner annular body. A bearing surface, which is located between the inner annular body and the outer annular body, supports the outer annular body for rotation about the inner annular body. A cage supports the bearing surface during rotation of the outer annular body about the inner annular body. The cage includes a material that imparts increased flexural modulus that resists deformation during rotation.