Abstract: A filter assembly for authenticating a filter cartridge includes a filter housing and an optical scanner mounted to the filter housing. A controller uses the optical scanner to take one or more digital images of the filter cartridge and obtain digital coded data identifying the filter cartridge. Specifically, the controller locates a functional locator on the filter cartridge, determines a location of an identifying region on the filter cartridge, reads the digital coded data by interrogating the identifying region with the optical scanner, and determines that the filter cartridge is authentic based at least in part on the digital coded data.

Abstract: In general, techniques are described for filter media monitoring within a filtration system. The filter media monitoring techniques described herein include, for example, direct contact with the filter media, e.g., a sensor may be located inside a boundary defined by a surface of the filter media, or indirect contact with the filter media, e.g., a sensor may be located outside the boundary defined by the surface of the filter media such that the sensor does not make direct physical contact with the filter media being monitored.

Abstract: The present application relates to systems and methods for processing organic material. The methods may include extraction of biochemical nutrients from organic material, such as food scraps. The method can include comminuting the organic material to form a slurry from components comprising liquid and organic material; combining the slurry with microorganisms, such as a yeast, under aerobic conditions to form a mixture of the slurry and yeast; aerating the mixture; and forming a biomass and a nutrient-rich broth, in which the biochemical nutrients are stabilized and anabolized. The systems may, in some embodiments, be configured to perform the methods of processing organic materials.

Abstract: A dialysis system comprises a filtration means, a pump and a sorbent device for performing a dialysis treatment and/or for regenerating a dialysate solution.

Abstract: A tubing set for use in a blood processing apparatus comprises a measurement device (8) having at least one chamber element (80, 81) for measuring a haematocrit value of a blood fluid, wherein the at least one chamber element (80, 81) extends along a longitudinal axis (L) and comprises a circumferential wall (804, 814) extending about the longitudinal axis (L) and encompassing a flow chamber (802, 812), the at last one chamber element (80, 81) further comprising an inlet port (800, 810) for allowing a flow of a blood fluid into the flow chamber (802, 812) and an outlet port (801, 811) for allowing a flow of a blood fluid out of the flow chamber (802, 812). The tubing set furthermore comprises an inlet-side tube section (21, 31) connected to the inlet port (800, 810) and an outlet-side tube section (22, 30) connected to the outlet port (801, 811).

Abstract: An imaging unit is configured to capture an image of a subject in the water. A lighting unit is configured to illuminate the subject. A histogram generator is configured to divide a range from the minimum to the maximum luminance values of a luminance signal, included in an image signal generated by capturing the image of the subject into a plurality of luminance groups, and to generate histogram data representing the distribution of frequencies of the plurality of luminance groups. Based on the generated histogram data, a histogram analyzer is configured to analyze the distribution of frequencies of the plurality of luminance groups. According to the result of the analysis for the histogram data by the histogram analyzer, a distance controller is configured to control to adjust the distance between the subject and the lighting unit.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and to a device for determining an optimum dialysate flow Qdopt for an extracorporeal blood treatment and to a blood treatment device comprising a device 18 for determining an optimum dialysate flow Qdopt. The optimum dialysate flow Qdopt is determined on the basis of a relationship describing the dependence of the clearance K on the dialysate flow Qd. The device according to the invention comprises a measurement device 18B for measuring at least one value which is characteristic of the clearance K, a calculation and/or evaluation unit 18A of the device according to the invention being configured in such a way that the clearance K is determined on the basis of the at least one value which is characteristic of the clearance.

Abstract: A liquid treatment device includes a base with a power source, a UV-LED module for providing UV-B or UV-C light to liquid, an LED for providing visible light, and a processor for selectively powering the UV-LED module and the LED, and having a UV transmissive material above the UV-LED module for allowing the UV-B or UV-C band light from the UV-LED module to be transmitted from the base housing, and a liquid storage housing removably coupled to the base housing with a storage portion configured to hold liquid and having a bottom portion comprising a UV transmissive material for allowing the UV-B or UV-C band light from the UV-LED module to be transmitted into the liquid, and an output coupled for restricting outflow of the liquid from the storage portion.

Abstract: A portable dialysis cabinet for use in dialysis. The portable dialysis cabinet can have a size and weight that facilitates easy movement of the cabinet from one location to another with relative ease. The portable dialysis cabinet can have additional features necessary to facilitate portability, such as wheels and a handle. In general, the portable dialysis cabinet can contain all the necessary components for performing a dialysis session.

Abstract: Systems, apparatus, methods, and kits are provided for automated mass spectrometric analysis of small volumes of liquid samples, such as biological samples. The systems, apparatus, and kits may be used in facilities where high throughput of samples, as well as reliable and repeatable assay results with little training of staff, are needed. Such facilities include hospital emergency wards.

Abstract: An air intake of an air handling or HVAC system, such as located in a ceiling of a structure, includes a movable filter housing. The filter housing comprises a grate configured to support one or more air filters at a top side thereof. The filter housing is mounted via one or more extendable connectors and includes a control tool mount. Connection of a control tool to the filter housing allows a user to pull the filter housing downwardly to a lowered position for replacing the air filter(s). The filter housing may be biased upwardly to its use position and may include a latch or lock to secure it in the use position.

Abstract: A dialysis machine comprising: a power supply for providing power to the dialysis machine, the power supply including a power supply cable that includes a first ground wire electrically connected to a first ground prong; and a hydraulics system for making dialysate, supplying the dialysate to a dialysate circuit, and draining spent dialysate from the dialysate circuit, the hydraulics system including a hydraulics grounding cable that includes a second ground wire electrically connected to a second ground prong.

Abstract: A system for blood treatment that includes a blood treatment machine. The blood treatment machine includes a receiver, a user interface configured to display information related to the blood pressure data received by the receiver, and a controller. The controller is configured to generate a notification to notify a user of an upcoming blood pressure measurement before the blood pressure measurement occurs. The blood treatment machine also includes a blood pressure monitoring device connected to the blood treatment machine, the blood pressure monitoring device configured to send signals containing blood pressure information to the receiver of the blood treatment machine.

Abstract: The present teachings provide a blood purification apparatus in which inadvertent replacement of a container bag attached to a hanger portion can be avoided the blood purification apparatus including a holding device capable of holding a container bag that contains a liquid for blood purification treatment, such as dialysate, substitution fluid, or anticoagulant, the blood purification apparatus being capable of performing blood purification treatment using the liquid in the container bag, and the holding device including a hanger portion including an attachment portion to which the container bag can be attached, and movable between a use position and a replacement position, a measuring device capable of measuring the weight of the container bag held by the hanger portion, and a restricting device that restricts attachment and detachment of the container bag to and from the attachment portion when the hanger portion is in the use position.

Abstract: A medical wetness sensing device includes a base adapted to be disposed on a wearer of the medical wetness sensing device. The base includes a first electrical conductor and a second electrical conductor electrically insulated from the first electrical conductor. The first electrical conductor includes a hinge portion enabling a first portion of the first electrical conductor to deflect, at the hinge portion, relative to a second portion of the first electrical conductor. The medical wetness sensing device includes a controller electrically connected to the first electrical conductor and the second electrical conductor. The controller is configured to detect a presence or an absence of a medical fluid electrically connecting the first and second electrical conductors.

Abstract: An extracorporeal blood treatment apparatus is provided comprising a filtration unit (2) connected to a blood circuit (17) and to a dialysate circuit (32), a preparation device (9) for preparing and regulating the composition of the dialysis fluid; a control unit (12) is configured for setting a sodium concentration value for the dialysis fluid in the dialysis supply line (8) at a set point; the setting of the sodium concentration includes the sub-step of calculating the sodium concentration value as an algebraic sum of a main contribution term based on the blood plasma conductivity and of an adjustment contribution term based on a concentration of at least a substance in the dialysis fluid chosen in the group including bicarbonate, potassium, acetate, lactate, citrate, magnesium, calcium, sulphate, and phosphate.

Abstract: A water quality measurement apparatus is provided. The apparatus comprises an electrochemical cell, a pH sensor, a temperature sensor, a control circuit, a power source, a database, and a warning device. The electrochemical cell comprises a working electrode, a reference electrode, and a counter electrode. The control circuit provides predetermined adjustable potentials between the reference electrode and the working electrode and measures electrochemical currents between the working electrode and the counter electrode, to form a current diagram based on the predetermined adjustable potentials and the electrochemical currents. The database stores predetermined reference diagrams based on various pH values and temperatures, and is in communication with the control circuit.

Abstract: Methods and systems for reducing bacterial contamination of platelets are disclosed. The methods and systems disclosed herein provide for the processing of a pre-determined volume of whole blood so as to reduce the risk that platelets separated and collected from the whole blood have a reduced risk of bacterial contamination.

Abstract: A solution for disinfecting a fluid, colloid, mixture, and/or the like using ultraviolet radiation is provided. An ultraviolet transparent enclosure can include an inlet and an outlet for a flow of media to be disinfected. The ultraviolet transparent enclosure can include a material that is configured to prevent biofouling within the ultraviolet transparent enclosure. A set of ultraviolet radiation sources are located adjacent to the ultraviolet transparent enclosure and are configured to generate ultraviolet radiation towards the ultraviolet transparent enclosure.

Abstract: A sealing arrangement and method of a measuring device are disclosed, the measuring device having one or more measuring elements that have a surface in contact with a fluid being measured, a fluid chamber for the fluid being measured, and a seal to seal the joint between the fluid chamber and the measuring element. Flow channels have been formed in the measuring device to lead the rinsing fluid in contact with the seal.

Abstract: A method reuses produced water resulting from a fossil fuel extraction operation. The method includes providing the produced water as an input to an electrodialysis system. The method also includes running the electrodialysis system to produce a diluate and a concentrate. The diluate is contaminated so as to have a conductivity of no less than 0.1 Siemens/meter. The method also includes reformulating the diluate to produce fossil fuel extraction fluid. The method also includes using the produced fossil fuel extraction fluid in the fossil fuel extraction operation. An electrodialysis system includes first and second stacks. The electrodialysis system also includes first and second voltage sources, coupled to the first and second stacks, so as to apply a first voltage to the first stack lower by at least about 10% than a second voltage to the second stack.

Abstract: A system and method for determining a concentration of total chlorine in dialysis water are provided. The system comprises a main unit housing an iodide/water sample chamber and a reducing agent chamber. An electrode pair bridges the two chambers and generates tri-iodide proportional to the amount of total chlorine in the dialysis water. The electrode pair detects the amount of tri-iodide generated in proportion to the amount of active chloride in the dialysis water. The system is suitable for use in connection with, or for incorporation into, a water purification system for generating dialysis fluid, and may include a display that alerts the user to stop or prevent a hemodialysis treatment if the total chlorine level exceeds a predetermined level.

Abstract: An endcap bypass plug is disclosed. The endcap bypass plug includes a body and a plurality of leg members. The body includes an upper surface, a lower surface and an outer side surface joining the upper surface to the lower surface. A central axis extends through an axial center of the body. The plurality of leg members are connected to and extends away from the upper surface of the body. Adjacent leg members of the plurality of leg members are spaced apart by a distance to thereby form a plurality of radial passages defining a plurality of radial fluid-flow paths there between. Each leg member of the plurality of leg members includes: a head portion having an upper surface. The head portion includes a nose portion extending radially outwardly from the head portion. The nose portion includes a ramp surface and a lower surface. The ramp surface of the nose portion is connected to the upper surface of the head portion to define an upper edge.

Abstract: Blood treatment apparatus and methods of using the same are described herein that include two or more intermediate containers located between a treatment solution source and a port through which the treatment solution is to be delivered with the blood treatment apparatus. The weight of the intermediate containers is measured and used to control the refilling and emptying of treatment solution in the intermediate containers.

Abstract: A smart pool maintenance monitor and alert system configured to communicate with an internet-connected device is described. The system employs a floating buoy for use within the water of a swimming pool or hot tub, and a gateway. The buoy is equipped with a variety of environmental sensors configured to accurately and expediently measure water temperature, pH, salinity, water level, air temperature, UV index, the ORP index of the water, and other environmental data. The data is conveyed via a wireless radio to the gateway, which interprets the data, stores the data in cloud storage, and relays it to a user's mobile device where it will be displayed by the applications downloaded to the respective user devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops and PCs, as well TV Set Top Boxes and wearable devices). The gateway is configured to convey alerts to the user when measurements are not consistent with those of a safe and hygienic pool.

Abstract: An autologous cell concentrating system and method are disclosed. The system has a blood separation component, a first vessel, a second vessel, a first valve, a second valve, and a concentration and flow logic and control component. The concentration and flow logic and control component is configured to: determine a first volume of a target cell-poor fraction in the first vessel to mix with a target cell-rich fraction in the second vessel in order to form a target cell-rich concentrate having a concentration of target cells that is within a target concentration range; and control the second valve to transfer the first volume of the target cell-rich fraction from the first vessel to the second vessel to form the target cell-rich concentrate. The target concentration range is between 1.0 and 1.5×106 target cells/?L.

Abstract: A drinking water vending dispenser for dispensing purified water comprising a coarse mechanical filter, an RO purification unit, an ozone purification unit, a UV purification unit, an active carbon filter, a chemical base purification unit and a fine mechanical filter.

Abstract: A seal assembly made up of multiple opposite oriented unidirectional seals. The assembly includes a dedicated test port for each of the unidirectional seals. Thus, a first test port may be directed at the first seal such that if the first seal leaks, the second seal is configured to collapse and allow a second test port coupled thereto to detect the leak of the first seal. By the same token, the first test port may be used to detect any leak in the second seal which is detectable as the first seal collapses as a result of the leak. This unique type of architecture allows for a reliable manner of testing a multiple seal assembly that may be prone to leaks from multiple directions, for example from either a bore or an annular side of a tubular. This renders the bidirectionally testable seal configuration beneficial for incorporation into downhole completions hardware such at the location of a test gauge secured to a carrier device.

Abstract: A membrane separation device is disclosed along with systems and methods employing the device in blood processing procedures. In one embodiment, a spinning membrane separator is provided in which at least two zones or regions are created in the gap between the membrane and the shell, such that mixing of the fluid between the two regions is inhibited by a radial rib associated with the membrane that decreases the gap between the membrane and the shell to define two fluid regions, the ridge isolating the fluid in the two regions to minimize mixing between the two. Automated systems and methods are disclosed for separating a unit of previously collected whole blood into components, such as concentrated red cells and plasma, for collecting red cells and plasma directly from a donor in a single pass, and for cell washing. Data management systems and methods and priming methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A filter cartridge (40) for filtering a fluid comprising a tubular filter wall (43) and at least a longitudinal core (45) inserted axially in the internal cavity of the filter wall (43), made of at least an electrically insulating material and provided with a plurality of radial openings (450), comprising at least a conductive strip (50), realized in an electrically conductive material, fixed to the longitudinal core and provided with at least a first portion (51) exposed from the longitudinal core externally of the internal cavity of the filter wall (43) and a second portion (52) exposed from the longitudinal core and axially located at a different height with respect to the first portion (51).

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a floating pool water controller for dispensing germicide and antimicrobial material into a swimming pool based upon real time pool conditions. The controller includes the ability to adjust to these ever changing conditions in real time, and, to do so remotely. The controller includes a housing adapted for floating on the pool water. Additionally, a dispenser is provided for dispensing Cu ion into the pool and includes a dispenser assembly connected to the housing. The controller is provided with a controller for adjusting the amount of Cu ion dispensed into the pool water. And, the controller includes a probe extending from the housing into the pool water for sensing pool conditions. Thus, upon sensing the pool conditions in real time, the controller can be adjusted to dispense the proper amount of Cu ion into the pool water.

Abstract: A concentration method of dielectrophoretic particles includes: providing a fluid pipe structure, wherein the fluid pipe structure has a protrudent structure lateral protruding inwardly so as to form a line-like gate; making a fluid containing particles to be measured flow through the fluid pipe structure; and applying an electrical field through the line-like gate so as to produce a dielectrophoresis force to concentrate the particles to be measured.

Abstract: A filter device having a filter element received in a filter housing, the filter housing has an inlet and an outlet. The filter element separates a crude chamber that communicates with the inlet from a pure chamber that communicates with the outlet. The filter element has an axially and eccentrically projecting plug, which in an inserted state, is plugged into a plug receptacle formed within the filter housing, and wherein at least one signal generator recognizes at least one of a presence and an absence of the plug in the plug receptacle, generating at least one signal.

Abstract: A dialysis system including a housing, a dialysate pump disposed in the housing, and a dialysate line configured to be operatively connected to the dialysate pump such that the dialysate pump can pump dialysate through the dialysate line when the dialysate line is in fluid communication with a dialysate source.

Abstract: Certain embodiments herein relate to systems and methods for managing turbine intake filters. In one embodiment, a system can include at least one memory configured to store computer-executable instructions and at least one controller configured to access the at least one memory and execute the computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be configured to monitor an indication associated with air flow through at least one filter of a turbine intake system. The instructions may be further configured to facilitate in the execution of at least management task of the turbine intake system, based at least in part on the indication of air flow through the filter.

Abstract: A drainless reverse osmosis (RO) water purification system provides relatively pure water for on-demand dispensing, while recycling brine to a domestic hot water system. The drainless purification system includes a pre-filter catalyst cartridge for removing chlorine-based contaminants from a tap water supply upstream from an RO membrane. The catalyst is regularly refreshed by a high through-flow of water to a conventional cold water dispense faucet, thereby significantly prolonging the service life of the RO membrane. The RO membrane is incorporated into a multi-cartridge unit adapted for facilitated slide-out removal and replacement as needed. A control valve recycles brine from the RO membrane to the hot water system during pure water production, and recirculates tap water through the RO membrane when a pure water reservoir is substantially filled. The multi-cartridge unit may further include an air filtration system for providing a flow of filtered air.

Abstract: A refrigeration system includes a water circulation system and a replaceable water filter. The refrigerator includes a sensor that determines if a water filter is present, and a user interface that prompts a user to purge a water filter upon installation of a new water filter in the refrigerator. The water filter may include a memory storage device that stores information concerning the allowable life of the water filter, the remaining life of the water filter, and other information. Information concerning the remaining life of the water filter and other information can be displayed or otherwise communicated to a user by the user interface.

Abstract: A detection apparatus and method for the automatic detection of particles, in particular biological particles, in a sample. The detection apparatus comprises a detection device for recording the particles, and a fluidic device for automatically conveying the sample to the detection device. The fluidic device comprises a treatment device for the automatic treatment of the particles for the purpose of detection, and the detection device comprises a flow cytometer for recording at least one physical parameter of the treated particles. The detection method includes operations performed by the detection device, the fluidic device, the treatment device and the flow cytometer.

Abstract: A combination (10) of a replaceable filter element (21) and a core element (38) is provided, the filter element comprising a tubular wall (25) of filtration medium for collecting material in a fluid stream passing through the tubular wall (25), a first end part (26) and a second end part. The core element (38) comprises a perforated tube (39) having transverse outer dimensions smaller than transverse inner dimensions of the tubular wall (25), and a bypass valve member (35) provided at one end of the perforated tube (39). The bypass valve member (35) is tubular and moveably attached to the perforated tube (39) for movement in axial direction with respect to the perforated tube (39) between an extended position and a retracted position. The first end part (26) of the filter element (21) comprises an axial passage (29) configured to receive the bypass valve member (35) slideable and sealingly.

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices and methods for inspecting filters for extracorporeal blood treatment devices, e.g., filters for filtering dialysis fluid. The inspection of the filter according to the present invention is based on the measurement of the flow potential before and after changing the fluid flow of an electrolytic fluid between a transversal flow through the semi-permeable membrane of the filter and a longitudinal flow along the semi-permeable membrane of the filter, or vice versa. Changing the flow direction of the electrolytic fluid results in a change to the conductivity proceeding from a base value P to a higher value P2 or a lower value P1, wherein the conductivity readjusts to the base value P after a certain time interval T1, T2. An improper state of the filter is determined on the basis of the change in conductivity after changing the flow direction of the electrolytic fluid.

Abstract: A separating device for separating a multiphase medium includes a cyclone separating device (1) that provokes an at least partial distribution of at least two phases of the medium with the formation of a vortex flow for the medium. Each phase having a lower density compared to the other phase is separated from the other phase and can be guided out of the separating device by a collecting device (35, 37).

Abstract: Certain disclosed embodiments concern systems and methods of preparing dialysate for use in a home dialysis system that is compact and light-weight relative to existing systems and consumes relatively low amounts of energy. The method includes coupling a household water stream to a dialysis system; filtering the water stream; heating the water stream to at least about 138 degrees Celsius in a non-batch process to produce a heated water stream; maintaining the heated water stream at or above at least about 138 degrees Celsius for at least about two seconds; cooling the heated water stream to produce a cooled water stream; ultrafiltering the cooled water stream; and mixing dialysate components into the cooled water stream in a non-batch process.

Abstract: A filter device includes a filter element (9) received in a housing (1). The housing can be closed by a cover part (3) having fluid ducts (35, 41). A connecting unit is provided to create a fluid-conducting connection between the filter element (9) and an associated fluid duct (35) of the cover part (3). The connecting unit is in the form of a coupling having a movable coupling part (33) creating the fluid connection in the functional state.

Abstract: A ductless fume hood suitable for the removal of various chemical materials including toxic and non-toxic gases, vapors, particles, dust and unpleasant odors from a fluid stream. The ductless fume hood uses electronic devices and software to enable real time monitoring of gas levels in parts per million.

Abstract: A system is provided for controlling fluid flow in a flow circuit of the type including at least two flexible containers which are fluidly connected by a conduit. The system includes a pressure chamber having an interior which receives one of the containers of the flow circuit. The pressure chamber has at least one port which communicates between the interior of the pressure chamber and the outside environment and receives at least a portion of the conduit of the flow circuit. The pressure chamber also includes a pressure/vacuum source for increasing the pressure in the interior of the pressure chamber above atmospheric pressure and decreasing the pressure in the interior of the pressure chamber below atmospheric pressure. The pressure chamber may include other elements, such as interface detectors, clamping devices, sealing devices, and access devices for automatically processing fluid, such as separated blood.

Abstract: Parallel modules for in-line recharging of sorbent materials using alternate duty cycles for a sorbent cartridge. The sorbent cartridge can have two or more modules contained therein having connectors connecting each of the modules. One or more of the modules can be reusable and the sorbent materials therein can be recharged.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for restoring the extractive potential of organic hydroxyoxime-based extraction solution used in the recovery of metals by liquid-liquid extraction are provided. The method is two-stage, in which an aqueous solution of hydroxylamine or some hydroxylamine compound is used in the reaction stage, and the removal of the undesirable compounds generated in the reaction occurs in the second stage by adsorption purification. The reaction stage and the adsorptive stage are carried out in a mixing tank.

Abstract: A supporting plate of a device is suggested. The device has at least one component and a housing for at least partly protecting the component. The supporting plate has at least one receiving element adapted for accepting the at least one component of the device in at least one of the following manners: in a form-closed manner, in a force-closed manner. The supporting plate is part of the housing.

Abstract: An oil spill clean-up apparatus and method, and more specifically to a self-contained oil spill clean-up vessel with ice displacement capabilities. One preferred oil spill clean-up system includes a vessel subsystem, an ice displacement subsystem, and an oil spill skimming subsystem. Preferred oil spill clean-up systems may include at least one storage subsystem. Preferred oil spill clean-up systems may include an oil/water separation and removal subsystem.

Abstract: The present invention relates to water filter comprises an electrical conductivity meter and a filter cartridge core for water treatment comprises one or more of the following group: filter gauze, carbonate filter, ceramic filter and Silifos balls. In addition, the invention relates to a filter cartridge core for water treatment which including one or more of the following group: filter gauze, carbonate filter, ceramic filter and Silifos balls which intended to be inserted in a filter housing that combines an electrical conductivity meter.