Abstract: The invention provides a solvating system for the removal of biofilms which solvates the extracellular polysaccharide matrix holding it to a surface. The aqueous solvating system comprises water, a metal ion sequestering agent, and a solvating agent for an extracellular polysaccharide matrix, which is gentle enough to be used directly on human tissues, but which may also be used on hard or soft non-tissue surfaces to breakdown, and/or remove biofilms.

Abstract: An umbrella valve includes an umbrella-valve body having a stem, a flexible umbrella, and a flange. The umbrella and the flange are each attached to, and extend radially outward from, the stem. The flange has at least one fluid passage. The umbrella valve can be placed in a valve housing having a sealing-surface portion. The umbrella, when the umbrella-valve body is placed in the valve housing, is pushed away from the sealing-surface portion under a forward fluid flow and is pushed against the sealing-surface portion under a reverse fluid flow. An umbrella-valve assembly includes the umbrella valve and the valve housing.