Abstract: An instrument reprocessor is disclosed. The instrument reprocessor includes a basin having a rim located in an inclined plane forming an acute angle with respect to a horizontal plane. At least one nozzle is disposed in a plane substantially parallel to the inclined plane. The at least one nozzle is configured to discharge a stream into the basin in a direction substantially parallel to the inclined plane. A lid assembly is also disclosed. The lid assembly may cover the basin in a close configuration.

Abstract: The invention features an empty device for receiving a bioactive agent. The device includes a biocompatible and semi-permeable membrane that defines an enclosed space; the membrane also has at least one end that defines an opening for introducing the bioactive agent into the enclosed space. The device is configured to be placed in an animal.In one embodiment of the invention, the membrane has an inner surface and an outer surface, where the inner surface defines the inner surface, and includes a biocompatible adhesive in the general region of the opening to allow sealing of the opening after the introduction of the bioactive agent into the enclosed space.Another embodiment of the invention includes a biocompatible frame mounted in supporting relationship to the membrane and defining an opening for introducing the bioactive agent into the enclosed space. The frame has greater porosity than the membrane.

Abstract: The invention relates to the safe and effective biotreatment of circulating fluids. In one general aspect of the invention, an apparatus (e.g., liver assist system) for circulating and bioprocessing a fluid (e.g., plasma) includes a conduit for circulating the fluid, an oxygenator for supplying oxygen to the fluid, a pump adapted to circulate the fluid through the conduit, a bioreactor unit, connected within the conduit, adapted to process the fluid, and a container connected within the conduit for receiving and releasing a portion of the fluid.

Abstract: The invention features a method of processing cells in a closed system that results in a suspension of cells in a transfer vessel containing a target number of cells. The number of cells in the closed vessel is determined from the cell concentration (i.e., the number of viable cells/mL) in the closed vessel and the total volume of the suspension in the closed vessel. The volume of the suspension in the closed vessel can be determined from the weight of the suspension and its density. In particular, the cells are preserved in a protective medium and are recovered substantially free of the protective medium in a closed vessel containing the known number of cells in a suspension.

Abstract: The invention relates to the safe and effective biotreatment of circulating fluids. In one general aspect of the invention, an apparatus (e.g., liver assist system) for circulating and bioprocessing a fluid (e.g., plasma) includes a conduit for circulating the fluid, an oxygenator for supplying oxygen to the fluid, a pump adapted to circulate the fluid through the conduit, a bioreactor unit, connected within the conduit, adapted to process the fluid, and a container connected within the conduit for receiving and releasing a portion of the fluid.