Abstract: A dishcloth sanitizing frame is provided. The sanitizing frame comprises first and second panels, each panel comprising a generally open framework and inner and outer surfaces. The panels can be removably joined to each other so that, when the frame is in a closed position, a dishcloth can be held between and in contact with the inner surfaces of the panels. A dishcloth can be sanitized by introducing the dishcloth into the sanitizing frame between the inner surfaces of the panels. The dishcloth sanitizing frame and dishcloth are placed into an automatic dishwasher, and the dishcloth is washed, and optionally dried, in the automatic dishwasher.

Abstract: An apparatus for introducing an implant into tissue is provided. The apparatus comprises a cartridge having proximal and distal ends, inner and outer surfaces, and a central bore extending therethrough having proximal and distal ends. An implant having proximal and distal ends is within the central bore. A piston is provided proximal to the implant and slidably maintained within the bore, whereby, during operation, the piston moves distally through the bore and urges the implant distally through the bore. The distal end of the cartridge includes a pressure-activated tip section enclosing the distal end of the bore. The bore is enclosed such that sterility of the implant within the bore can be maintained until the implant is released from the cartridge into the patient.

Abstract: A method for inserting an implant into a patient utilizing an apparatus comprising a cartridge having a body with a central bore. The body comprises at its proximal end a retention shoulder or hub adapted for retention by an insertion tool. The body further comprises a closure plug received in the proximal end of the bore that seals the bore and that has an exposed surface to engage a plunger rod from an insertion tool. The body further comprises a sealed distal tip of decreasing diameter from the outer surface of the body that terminates in a point adapted for penetrating a pre-existing body orifice or for piercing tissue during insertion into a patient. The tip is frangible into a plurality of segments under pressure exerted by the distal end of the implant, allowing the implant to emerge from the cartridge.

Abstract: An apparatus for the insertion of sterile implants comprising a cartridge having a body with a central bore. The body comprises at its proximal end a retention shoulder or hub adapted for retention by an insertion tool. The body further comprises a closure plug received in the proximal end of the bore that seals the bore and that has an exposed surface to engage a plunger rod from an insertion tool. The body still further comprises a sealed distal tip of decreasing diameter from the outer surface of the body that terminates in a point adapted for penetrating a pre-existing body orifice or for piercing tissue during insertion into a patient. The tip is frangible into a plurality of segments under pressure exerted by the distal end of the implant, allowing the implant to emerge from the cartridge.

Abstract: Mold halves are formed from thin, flexibly stiff, rigid polyvinyl chloride film having a thickness of 0.010 .+-. 0.003 inch and which is deformed to conform to opposite surface contours of a structure to be produced. The mold halves mate along a parting line to define a mold chamber in the shape of the desired structure and are formed with an access opening to the chamber, marginal regions coextensive about the chamber from the parting line, and conjugate protuberances on the marginal regions. The film is thin and pliable enough for pins to be inserted cross-wise through the protuberances to secure together the mold halves, yet thick and rigid enough to support casting material poured therein and flexible enough to be peeled from the partially set product.