Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of aqueous solutions of hyperpolarized carboxylic organic acids ready for use in in-vivo MR diagnostic imaging, and the use of the corresponding anhydrides or esters as glass-forming agents.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel composition useful in targeted diagnostic and/or therapy of a target site, such as cancerous tissue. The composition and methods disclosed herein find particular use in diagnosing and imaging cancerous tissue. The present invention provides a new diagnostic tool for the utilization of positron emission tomography (PET) imaging technique.

Abstract: A method for sterilizing an antiseptic solution includes providing a plurality of containers containing the antiseptic solution, the antiseptic solution having an initial purity, selecting a sterilization temperature from about 85° C. to about 135° C. and an sterilization time from about 1 minute to about 19 hours, heating the antiseptic solution in the plurality of containers to the selected sterilization temperature, maintaining the temperature for the selected sterilization time, and terminating the heating of the antiseptic solution when the sterilization time expires. After terminating the heating, the antiseptic solution in the plurality of containers has a post-sterilization purity. The sterilization temperature and the sterilization time are selected such that after terminating the heating, the antiseptic solution is sterile and have a post-sterilization purity of at least about 92% and the percentage point change in purity from the initial purity to the post-sterilization purity is at most about 5%.

Abstract: Provided is a steam sterilizer for medical instruments including a feeding system configured to feed a sterilization chamber and including at least one main tank for containing a sterilization fluid; an evacuation system configured to evacuate a discharge fluid from the sterilization chamber; and a purification system configured to draw one of the fluids out of one of the systems and to introduce it into the main tank, and including cleaning means configured to filter the fluid.

Abstract: An apparatus for the sterilization of containers with a conveying device which conveys the containers along a pre-set conveying path, with at least one stressing device which acts upon the containers with radiation, for the purpose of the sterilization thereof, and with a screening device which screens off X-ray radiation which is formed in the context of the sterilization. The screening device has at least one outer wall which bounds the conveying path of the containers and which extends along the conveying path. The outer wall has at least one recess which forms a cavity which faces the conveying path of the containers in such a way that X-ray radiation formed during the sterilization can enter this cavity.

Abstract: Various devices for sterilizing a surface are disclosed. For example, a first device includes an ultraviolet light emitting unit, a processor and a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium stores instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations. The operations include detecting a proximity of a surface to the ultraviolet light emitting unit and activating the ultraviolet light emitting unit to sterilize the surface in response to the detecting. Another device includes an ultraviolet light emitting unit, a processor and a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium stores instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations.

Abstract: A writing instrument sterilizer and a method for using a writing instrument sterilizer are disclosed. The sterilizer comprises an illumination source, a collection frame, a discharge frame and a transport mechanism to transport the writing instrument between the collection frame and the discharge frame.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for reducing the population of (e.g., killing) arthropods employing compositions including medium chain peroxycarboxylic acid, and to the compositions. The methods include applying a medium chain peroxycarboxylic acid composition to an arthropod or a surface or area suspected of housing an arthropod.

Abstract: A method for disinfecting a room includes generating a fog from an enclosure having first and second air inlets and an air dispersion outlet including a fan configured to draw air into the enclosure through first and second air inlets and to force air out of the enclosure. A filter assembly is disposed relative to the second air inlet such that air that flows between the exterior and interior of the enclosure through the second air inlet passes through the filter assembly. The method further includes actuating an air intake assembly, activating the fan, actuating the air intake control assembly, and deactivating the fan.

Abstract: A method of disinfecting one or more surfaces and an apparatus for use in the method. The method includes a securing step arranged for creating an isolation of the surfaces to be disinfected, a disinfection step for emitting UV radiation for the generation of ozone and/or for the sterilization of air from one or more ultra violet (UV) light sources, and adding the generated ozone to the isolation, and a termination step arranged for terminating the generation of ozone and terminating the securing step.

Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for disinfecting an object by at least partially removing a biologically-active contaminant there from. A housing encloses a disinfection chamber in which a portion of the object is to be received to be disinfected, and includes an inlet aperture through which the object is introduced to the apparatus. An ultraviolet light source emits ultraviolet light to be imparted on the portion of the object introduced to the disinfection chamber for deactivating at least a portion of the biologically-active contaminant present on the object. A controller controls operation of at least one of a feeder and the ultraviolet light to achieve a level of disinfection of the object, rendering the object suitable for use in a substantially-sterile application.

Abstract: Air freshener compositions, devices, and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an aroma diffuser with direct diffusion of essential oil, and an aroma diffusing method. The aroma diffuser comprises a base, a housing mounted on the base and an electric control element disposed on the housing. An essential oil bottle and a gasification element are also disposed on the housing, a pump element is disposed inside the housing and the open end of the essential oil bottle is connected to the lower end of the gasification element. The pump element is connected to the gasification element and the electric control element respectively and communicates with the gasification element. The gasified essential oil gas may be diffused to ambient air directly, rather than through the housing, the diffusion is fast, and the directly diffused essential oil does not need the dilution of water, greatly raising the efficiency of aromatherapy and meeting people's use requirements.

Abstract: A modified kraft pulp fiber with unique properties is provided. The modified fiber can be a modified bleached kraft fiber that is almost indistinguishable from its conventional counterpart, except that it has a low degree of polymerization (DP). Methods for making the modified fiber and products made from it are also provided. The method can be a one step acidic, iron catalyzed peroxide treatment process that can be incorporated into a single stage of a multi-stage bleaching process. The products can be chemical cellulose feedstocks, microcrystalline cellulose feedstocks, fluff pulps and products made from them.

Abstract: A novel bio-based superabsorbent polymer material based on a proteinaceous natural polymer is introduced herein. There is further disclosed a method for the manufacture of such a bio-based crosslinked superabsorbent polymer material. The method includes, but not limited to, introducing polymerizable unsaturated groups onto the natural polymer or its derivative so as to yield a macromonomer. The macromonomer can be formed by covalently binding unsaturated carbon-carbon double bonds to a proteinaceous substrate through a reaction of a selected chemical compound and the amino group on the proteinaceous substrate. The macromonomer is then copolymerized with unsaturated co-monomer(s) to form a crosslinked superabsorbent material.

Abstract: Continuous processing methods are used for making absorbable polymeric non-wovens, with anisotropic properties, improved mechanical properties and without substantial loss of polymer molecular weight during processing. The method includes producing dry spun-non wovens from a polymer, and collecting the fibers using a rotating collector plate, preferably a rotating cylinder, to collect the non-woven instead of a fiberglass stationary collector plate. The non-wovens can be used for a variety of purposes including fabrication of medical devices.

Abstract: Calcium phosphate and related coating powder particles comprising a surface component comprising a silicate content, plasma sprayed coatings thereof on implantable medical/dental devices, and bone grafting materials of such coated particles. Optionally, biologically active agents such as bone morphogenetic proteins, growth factors, analgesics, and antibiotics can be incorporated therein.

Abstract: A biocompatible tissue repair implant or scaffold device is provided for use in repairing a variety of tissue injuries, particularly injuries to cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. The repair procedures may be conducted with implants that contain a biological component that assists in healing or tissue repair. The biocompatible tissue repair implants include a biocompatible scaffold and particles of living tissue, such that the tissue and the scaffold become associated. The particles of living tissue contain one or more viable cells that can migrate from the tissue and populate the scaffold.

Abstract: Provided is a method of manufacturing an allogeneic soft-tissue transplant having autologous stem cells transplanted therein using an allogeneic soft-tissue support that is obtained from an allogeneic organism. In this regard, an allogeneic soft-tissue transplant that can replace a damaged soft-tissue of a human body is manufactured.

Abstract: The biocompatible, biodegradable materials in the solid and/or liquid form are based on segmented linear polyurethanes and/or segmented crosslinked polyurethanes based on A) one or more biocompatible polyols susceptible to hydrolytic and/or enzymatic degradation having a molecular weight of 100 to 20,000 dalton and a number of active hydroxyl groups per molecule (functionality) of at least two or higher: B) one or more diisocyanates and/or triisocyanates; and C) one or more low molecular weight chain extenders having a molecular weight of 18 to 1000 dalton and the functionality of at least two or higher.

Abstract: Materials and methods for reducing or preventing bleeding and associated side effects during and after percutaneous medical procedures.

Abstract: Implantable medical devices include a substrate having applied thereto a coating including a polymeric material possessing a core and at least one functional group known to have click reactivity.

Abstract: A homecare suction device includes a main body having a housing. An air pump is mounted in the housing and in communication with an air outlet and an air inlet of the housing. A breast pump includes a cover mounted to an opening of a container for receiving a liquid. The cover includes a liquid sucking unit and an air sucking unit. The liquid sucking unit includes a liquid passage and a cup for contacting with an object. The air sucking unit includes an air passage and a connection port in communication with the air inlet of the main body. A funnel is mounted in the cover and in communication with the liquid passage, the air passage, and the interior of the container. The cover further includes a vent communicating the interior of the container with the outside. The air inlet is connected to the connection port by a hose.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for aspirating, irrigating and/or cleansing wounds is provided. The apparatus and method include one or more of the following: simultaneous aspiration and irrigation of the wound, supplying of thermal energy to fluid circulated through the wound; supplying physiologically active agents to the wound; a biodegradable scaffold in contact with the wound bed; and application of stress or flow stress to the wound bed.

Abstract: A pump drive for an extracorporeal blood pumping system including an adjustable drive magnet. The pump drive may be coupled to a blood pump which includes a pump impeller. The pump drive may include a stepper motor for dynamically adjusting the position of the drive magnet. The position of the drive magnet may be varied to vary the distance between the drive magnet and an impeller magnet of the pump impeller. Adjusting the position of the drive magnet may include dynamically adjusting the drive magnet and may include axially moving the drive magnet to thereby vary a magnetic attraction force between the drive magnet and the impeller magnet which may thereby minimize forces acting on one or more bearings of a pump impeller.

Abstract: The flow rate of blood in an implantable blood pump is determined at least in part based on a parameter related to thrust on the rotor of the pump. The parameter may be a parameter related to displacement of the rotor along its axis, such as a function of the back electromotive force generated in one or more coils of the stator. The back electromotive force may be measured during open-phase periods of a particular coil or set of coils, during which no power is applied to the coil or set of coils by the motor drive circuit. The parameter related to thrust may be used in conjunction with the speed of rotation of the rotor, the magnitude of current supplied to the rotor, or both to determine the flow rate. The pump may be controlled responsive to the determined flow rate.

Abstract: A peritoneal dialysis system includes: an enclosure including an actuation surface and a door; a stepper motor housed by the enclosure; a pump head and a solid pump piston structurally linking the pump head to the stepper motor; and a disposable unit accepted by the enclosure, the disposable unit including a flexible membrane attached to a rigid piece, the actuation surface of the enclosure and the disposable unit so configured and arranged that when the stepper motor turns and consequently translates the solid pump piston and the pump head towards the door, the pump head physically contacts and stretches the membrane from a relaxed position to a stretched position, and when the stepper motor turns and consequently translates the solid pump piston and the pump head away from the door, the membrane follows the pump head and transitions from the stretched position to the relaxed position.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device and a method for blood treatment in a single-needle operating mode. The blood treatment device has an extracorporeal blood circuit comprising a blood supply line leading to the inlet of a blood treatment unit and a blood return line leading away from the outlet of the blood treatment unit. Blood collecting means, for example a blood collecting container, is provided in the blood return line, said means being connected to means for storing gas, for example an air reservoir, by a flow line. The flow connection comprises two line branches, one branch being used to transfer gas from the air reservoir into the blood collecting container and the other branch being used to transfer gas from the blood collecting container into the air reservoir. The connection branch for transferring gas from the air store into the blood collecting container contains means for compressing air, for example a compressor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a medical treatment arrangement having at least three device parts, with the first device part being a device part which is not made for the treatment of a patient, with the second device part being made in conjunction with the third device part such that a treatment of a patient can be made with them, with the second device part being made movable relative to the first device part and relative to the third device part, and with provision furthermore being made that the first device part and the second device part and/or the second device part and the third device part being made such that energy and/or data can be unidirectionally or bidirectionally exchanged between them.

Abstract: Disclosed is a filling and recirculation device of a fluid conducting system for blood treatment which has a fluid connector and a three-dimensional four-way valve with a first valve plane on which an inlet connector for the fluid container, an arterial line connector, and a valve-internal coupling connector are arranged and a second valve plane on which an outlet connector and a venous line connector are arranged. The venous line connector is permanently connected with the valve-internal coupling connector. A manually operable valve rotary piston of the four-way valve has a first control section assigned to the first valve plane and a second control section assigned to the second valve plane.

Abstract: A surgical pump system arrangement receives an inflow cassette and provides fluid flow to a surgical site in a joint of a patient. The arrangement calculates load coefficients for a pressure loss curve based on an identified inflow cannula and an identified endoscope utilized therewith. The arrangement determines if the cannula is disposed at a surgical site and if adequate fluid flow is provided. Further, the arrangement determines if the inflow cannula and endoscope are properly identified. The arrangement integrates with an identified or unidentified surgical device to adjust pump operation when the surgical device is operating. The arrangement maps actuators disposed on a surgical handpiece or footswitch to control operation of the pump system, including providing suction to an outflow path of a surgical device that is not operating. The arrangement also determines when an inflow pump cassette is not properly inserted into the pump.

Abstract: An intravenous line lifter system for supporting one or more IV lines that extend between a patient and patient care equipment is disclosed. The system can include a first elongated support member couplable to a support for the patient care equipment, a second elongated support member coupled to the first elongated support member, a first line retention device coupled to the first elongated support member, and a second line retention device coupled to the second elongated support member proximate the second end of the second elongated support member.

Abstract: According to preferred embodiments and methods of the present disclosure, a medical injection system employs a single pump for the injection of multiple fluids, rather than employing a pump for each type of fluid, for example, like the prior art system described above. Embodiments of pumps disclosed herein preferably include a disposable pump cartridge configured to be contained within a hull of a medical injection system, wherein the hull may be formed when a pressure plate member is closed against a base plate; and, when the pressure plate member is opened with respect to the base plate, the disposable pump cartridge may be removed and replaced.

Abstract: A fluid delivery device comprises a hydraulic pump chamber having a hydraulic fluid. A fluid reservoir is coupled to the hydraulic pump chamber and is configured to contain a fluid deliverable to a patient. A first actuator is coupled to the hydraulic pump chamber and is configured to pressurize the hydraulic pump chamber and configured to transfer energy through the hydraulic pump chamber to the fluid reservoir. A second actuator is coupled to the hydraulic pump chamber and is configured to pressurize the hydraulic pump chamber and configured to transfer energy through the hydraulic pump chamber to the fluid reservoir.

Abstract: A rugged elastomeric infusion pump capable of storing sterile fluids under pressure for intravenous medical use within an elastomeric bladder, wherein said elastomeric bladder is surrounded by a rugged outer shell having a proximal and distal parts with respect to the elastomeric bladder, said distal part comprising one or more of a flow regulator, a modulator, and a flow meter for regulating, smoothing, and measuring the flow of fluids effused from the elastomeric bladder, wherein said rugged proximal parts are capable of absorbing impacts to minimize the force imparted to the elastomeric infusion pump.

Abstract: An insertion mechanism for a drug pump includes an insertion mechanism housing; a manifold guide; an insertion biasing members initially held in an energized state; a retraction biasing member and a hub connected to a proximal end of a needle, wherein the retraction biasing member is held initially in an energized state between the hub and the manifold guide; and a manifold having a septum and a cannula, wherein the annular space between the septum and the cannula defines a manifold header. The needle and cannula are inserted into the body of a user by the insertion biasing member(s), after which only the needle is retracted. Retraction of the needle may open a fluid pathway from the manifold header to the body through the cannula. A drug delivery pump includes an activation mechanism, a drive mechanism, a fluid pathway connection, and the insertion mechanism. Assembly and operation methods are provided.

Abstract: A method and device are disclosed for preventing a needle stick hazard in the event of a collapse of a protective needle flap of a portable drug pump. The device may include a needle guide, a secure space and/or a shield. A point of a needle is optionally deflected into a secure space upon collapse of the protective flap. The space may optionally be shielded. Optionally, the support linking the needle to the pump may pivot and/or translate. Optionally, there may be an exposing position wherein the needle protrudes through an opening in the flap. Optionally, the opening may be non-circular.

Abstract: A fluid guiding assembly for a drug delivery device is presented having a first member, a cover part adjacently disposed to the first member and being in non-bonded surface contact with a surface portion of the first member thereby forming an interface area, at least one channel structure extending along the interface area of first member and cover part and being formed by at least one recess in either the first member and/or in the cover part, and a second member being in contact with the cover part and being bonded to the first member by way of injection molding to fix the cover part relative to the first member.

Abstract: A medical syringe, having a syringe barrel, a piston, a plunger rod, and a plunger rod holder, wherein a barrel main body of the syringe barrel is formed to have a small inner diameter part and a large inner diameter part, the piston is formed such that the circular part is comprised of an elastic material and has an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the small inner diameter part of the barrel main body so that the outer periphery of the circular part can be brought into contact with the inner peripheral surface of the small inner diameter part by pressurizing, and the piston can be held in the large inner diameter part of the barrel main body in a state of being freely fitted thereto.

Abstract: An assembly for a drug delivery device, comprising a housing having a proximal end and a distal end, a piston rod and an indicator. The piston rod is adapted to be displaced distally with respect to the housing away from a proximal start position and towards a distal end position for delivering a drug. The indicator is adapted for indicating at least two different operation conditions of the assembly, the indicator being movable with respect to the housing from a first indication position for a first condition of the assembly into a second indication position for a second condition of the assembly. The piston rod and the indicator are configured to mechanically interact for converting movement of the piston rod into movement of the indicator. A first detent is provided which is configured to releasably secure the indicator in the first indication position such that movement into the second indication position is allowed.

Abstract: Described is an autoinjector comprising a case, a needle shroud slidably arranged in the case, a chassis slidably arranged in the case and rotatably coupled to the needle shroud, an outer plunger selectively engaged to the chassis, an inner plunger selectively engaged to the outer plunger, and a drive spring applying a biasing force to the outer plunger. The biasing force is applied to the inner plunger when the inner plunger is engaged to the outer plunger. Axial movement of the needle shroud relative to the case causes rotation of the chassis relative to the needle shroud. The rotation of the chassis causes the inner plunger to rotate relative to the outer plunger and disengage the outer plunger to remove the biasing force from the drive spring on the inner plunger.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices for providing subcutaneous hydration are disclosed. A system for providing subcutaneous hydration may include an infusion bag including a hydration fluid, a tubing removably connected to the infusion bag, a squeezable bulb at least partially encompassing the tubing for at least one of flushing and priming the tubing, and a deployment device including an integrated needle which is operative provide subcutaneous hydration through the needle. A deployment device for subcutaneous hydration includes a base may include a needle aperture, a spring-loaded barrel attached the base and including a needle, and a firing mechanism within the barrel for deploying the needle from the barrel and further operative to project the needle through the aperture only when a tent of skin has been raised within the aperture for injection. A method for providing subcutaneous hydration may include steps necessary to operate the systems and devices for subcutaneous hydration.

Abstract: In various embodiments, provided are topical gas delivery systems and methods for promoting wound healing. A provided gas delivery system comprises a gas reservoir comprising at least one chamber adapted to contain one or more therapeutic gases selected from NO, CO, O2, air, or combinations thereof, and at least one gas permeable membrane operably coupled to the reservoir. A provided method comprises using a provided gas delivery system to deliver the one or more therapeutic gases to a wound site such that a NO/ONOO? ratio suitable for promoting wound healing is achieved at the wound site.

Abstract: A surgical device and a method for using the surgical device are disclosed. In an embodiment the device for applying a substance (X) in a hollow space of a body cavity such as a hollow organ, in particular a therapeutic pneumoperitoneum, includes a trocar system with a trocar sleeve, the trocar system having a gas connection to which an insufflation gas-supply line can be connected and a nozzle system, which in its interior forms a lumen with a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the nozzle system has a needle nozzle fixed at the distal end of the lumen, and wherein the nozzle system is guided by the trocar sleeve.

Abstract: A breath-powered, dry powder inhaler, a cartridge, and a pulmonary drug delivery system are provided. The dry powder inhaler can be provided with or without a unit dose cartridge for using with the inhaler. The inhaler and/or cartridge can be provided with a drug delivery formulation comprising, for example, a diketopiperazine and an active ingredient, including, peptides and proteins such as insulin and glucagon-like peptide 1 for the treatment of diabetes and/or obesity. The dry powder inhaler is compact; can be provided in various shapes and sizes, colors, and comprises a housing, a mouthpiece, a cartridge placement area, and a mechanism for opening and closing the medicament cartridge. The device is easy to manufacture, provides a pre-metered single unit dose, it is relatively easy to use, and can be reusable or disposable.

Abstract: A nozzle comprising a thin, flexible substantially planar polymeric film having a plurality of pores with structures allowing for generation of an aerosol at reduced extrusion pressure is disclosed. The pores can comprise at least two sections, or steps, in which the thickness of the membrane is reduced in stepwise fashion, or the pores can be tapered. Nozzles formed comprising pores having such structures permit aerosol generation at lower extrusion pressures, thereby allowing for decreased weight of aerosolization devices, increased efficiency, increased portability and increased battery life. The pore structures also allow for the use of thicker, more easily processed polymeric films in manufacturing while having a thinner, more efficient aerosolization area. The use of decreased extrusion pressures also results in increased uniformity in aerosol generation and improved reliability of other components.

Abstract: A tracheal tube assembly includes an outer cannula configured to be positioned in a patient airway and an inner cannula configured to be disposed inside the outer cannula. The tracheal tube assembly further includes a flange member secured about the outer cannula, and a connector coupled to a proximal end of the outer cannula. The connector is configured to provide a view of the inner cannula, and the inner cannula and the connector form a contiguous passageway for exchanging fluid with the patient airway in operation.

Abstract: A breathing assistance device includes a patient breathing tube having a leading end in fluid communication with a face mask. A source of air under pressure is connected to a first port formed integrally with a valve in fluid communication with the breathing tube and a nebulizer is connected to a second port formed integrally with the valve. A compartment holding a medicinal compound in liquid fluid form is connected to the nebulizer. A valve actuator has an open position where gaseous fluid and aerosolized medicine from the nebulizer flow to the patient through the breathing tube and a closed position where only gaseous fluid without medication is delivered. Medication can therefore be administered to or withheld from the patient by manipulating the valve actuator. The valve construction enables the patient to exhale against pressure slightly above atmospheric pressure.

Abstract: A system and a method include a display configured to display video and/or still images, and an image source that is in communication with the display and configured to allow content of the image source to be displayed on the display. Further, the system and method include a physiological information gatherer configured to obtain a current physiological information of a patient when the patient is positioned to see the video and/or still image on the display. A processor is configured to receive the current physiological information from the physiological information gatherer, and the processor, being in communication with the image source, is further configured to transmit to the display the current physiological information and a target breathing rate.

Abstract: A catheter assembly includes a catheter attached to a connector and a package. The catheter has a proximal end sized for insertion into a bladder though a urethra and a distal end opposite of the proximal end. The connector is attached to the distal end of the catheter. The package is sized to receive the catheter and the connector, with the package including an opening sized for removal of the catheter and the connector from the package. A tab is placed over the opening of the package to seal the catheter and the connector inside of the package. An extractor has a first portion connected to the tab and a second portion coupled to the catheter proximal of the connector.