Abstract: A system and method for treating a fluid carrying a contaminant to which a photoactive material has been bound include a treatment device that defines a flow passage with a gap. The system and method operate to establish a flow of fluid from the inlet end of the gap to the outlet end of the gap. The system and method also channel the flow of fluid in the gap in succession through one or more flow paths. The system and method establish at least two discrete sources of radiation in the flow path at spaced apart locations along the direction of fluid flow. At least one of the radiation sources comprises a photodiode. The system and method further include a control for operating each discrete source of radiation at a selected wavelength within the prescribed range to activate the photoactive material bound to the contaminant. Upon activation, the material eradicates the contaminant.

Abstract: A system and method for treating a fluid carrying a biological contaminant to which a photoactive material has been bound include a treatment device that defines a flow passage with a gap. The system and method operate to establish a flow of fluid from the inlet end of the gap to the outlet end of the gap. The system and method expose the fluid, as it transits the gap, to a source of radiation that activates the photoactive material bound to the contaminant. The system and method also mix the fluid as it flows within the gap.

Abstract: Systems for treating a fluid carrying a contaminant to which a photoactive material has been bound include a treatment device that defines a relatively narrow, arcuately shaped flow path. These systems envelop the path with a radiation chamber that directs radiation from one or more sources into the fluid.

Abstract: A thin film or layer of white blood cells, such as the contaminating white cells in a platelet concentrate, is irradiated with ultraviolet radiation predominately of a wavelength of 280 to 320 nanometers, and preferably at an intensity of 4 to 20 milliwatts per square cm. to provide a total energy exposure of typically 800 to 20,000 millijoules per square cm. of ultraviolet radiation. The white blood cells so produced substantially lose their capability to set off an immune reaction in an alloimmunized patient. The white blood cells may preferably be placed into such film in a flat, flexible bag made of poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate) plastic, with the flat, flexible bag being stretched in a direction normal to the path of ultraviolet radiation. Novel irradiating devices are also disclosed.

Abstract: In a convoluted-membrane type diffusion device for blood, such as a blood oxygenator, in which the membrane is supported by a stiff, folded, integral backing having port means for fluid flow therethrough. The backing is provided with laterally positioned tabs on each edge thereof, the tabs being folded inwardly against inner portions of the backing and sealed thereto. This provides double thickness edge portions of the backing to provide spacing and a gasket seal at opposed edges of the stack of convoluted membrane layers. The backing may be coated with thermoplastic material, which may be used as an adhesive to hold the tabs in folded double thickness relation with the rest of the backing.