Abstract: A dispenser box for suture packages includes an outer casing and drawer portion slidably disposed within the outer casing. The dispenser preferably includes at least two access portals for withdrawal of the suture packages. A first access portal allows the suture packages to be withdrawn in accordance with the U.S. preferred mode, wherein the dispenser box disposed so that the suture packages are stacked in a vertical array and withdrawn horizontally. A second access portal allows the suture packages to be withdrawn in accordance with the European preferred mode, wherein the suture packages are stacked in a horizontal array and are withdrawn vertically.

Abstract: A bellows-type valve includes several additional safeguards in the form of back-up seals which are effective to prevent in- or out-leakage should the bellows fail. Some of the seals can be changed while the valve remains closed. There is provision for testing the integrity of the seals while the valve remains operative.

Abstract: C.sub.2 -C.sub.6 monocarboxylic and dicarboxylic acids are scrubbed from gas phase mixtures of such acids and water by gas absorption techniques utilizing a liquid solvent comprising a polyoxyalkylene glycol or a monoalkyl or dialkyl ether thereof. The solvent enriched with the acid is subjected to distillation to recover a substantially anhydrous acid product.