Using Direct Contact With Electrical Or Electromagnetic Radiation Patents (Class 422/22)
  • Patent number: 8461550
    Abstract: Plastic containers fed by an article feeder housed in a shield chamber are sterilized by being irradiated with an electron beam that is radiated from an irradiation window of an electron beam irradiation unit which is coupled to an opening of the shield chamber. In a maintenance mode, an adjustment irradiation box is detachably mounted on the electron beam irradiation unit in covering relation to the irradiation window of the electron beam irradiation unit. The adjustment irradiation box houses therein an electron beam receiver for receiving the electron beam radiated from the irradiation window, a cooling mechanism for cooling the electron beam receiver, and an exhaust mechanism for discharging an atmosphere in the adjustment irradiation box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Shibuya Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yukinobu Nishino, Tokuo Nishi, Yukihiro Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20130144068
    Abstract: The present application is directed to methods of sterilizing bendamustine and its pharmaceutically acceptable salt forms. Preferred sterilization methods include dry heat sterilization, gamma irradiation, and e beam radiation. Sterile pharmaceutical compositions are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: Cephalon, Inc.
    Inventor: Cephalon, Inc..
  • Publication number: 20130138197
    Abstract: Sterilization methods for implantable prostheses are described, where a polymeric stent may be sterilized, e.g., via ETO sterilization, at a temperature below a glass transition temperature of the stent. A separate delivery catheter may be sterilized separately and the stent and delivery catheter may then be combined in an aseptic, or semi-aseptic environment and sterilized as an assembled system such that the requirements for sterilizing the system are relatively lower. Additionally and/or alternatively, valve and filter assemblies may be used with an optional mandrel assembly for maintaining sterility of the internal components of a catheter system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: AMARANTH MEDICAL PTE.
    Inventor: Amaranth Medical Pte.
  • Publication number: 20130129566
    Abstract: An apparatus for sterilising at least a segment of an inner wall and a segment of an outer wall of containers by accelerated charge carriers, includes at least one first external application device for sterilising at least a segment of an outer wall of containers and an internal application device for sterilising at least a segment of an inner wall of containers. The internal application device at least in portions is arranged to be introduced through an opening into the container in order to apply the emitted charge carriers to an inner wall of the container. The containers are transported along a transport path during their sterilisation, wherein along a segment of the transport path of the containers between the first external application device and the internal application device is arranged a pitch change device to change a distance between two containers succeeding each other along the transport path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: KRONES AG
    Inventor: KRONES AG
  • Publication number: 20130130395
    Abstract: Medical devices are typically sterilized in processes used to manufacture such products and their sterilization by exposure to radiation is a common practice. Radiation has a number of advantages over other sterilization processes including a high penetrating ability, relatively low chemical reactivity, and instantaneous effects without the need to control temperature, pressure, vacuum, or humidity. Unfortunately, radiation sterilization can compromise the function of certain components of medical devices. For example, radiation sterilization can lead to loss of protein activity and/or lead to bleaching of various dye compounds. Embodiments of the invention provide methods and materials that can be used to protect medical devices from unwanted effects of radiation sterilization.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: MEDTRONIC MINIMED, INC.
    Inventor: MEDTRONIC MINIMED, INC.
  • Patent number: 8440080
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable device for generating ozone in water, purifying the water and making it drinkable. The device comprises a housing; at least two electrodes, including an anode and a cathode extending from the housing into the water and each having semi-rough or rough surfaces in contact with the water. The device also comprises a power supply operatively connected to the electrodes for generating between them a difference of potential creating a current and the hydrolysis of the water creating ozone that purifies the water. The electrodes may have a plate or a rode and tube configuration with a plurality of holes with rough edges. The roughness of the surfaces and of the edges of the holes leads to a coalescence of tiny hydrogen bubbles into larger hydrogen bubbles. The hydrogen may be also removed by absorption in a conductive material and regenerated for reuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Ozomax Inc.
    Inventors: Amir Salama, Marianne Salama
  • Publication number: 20130115131
    Abstract: Solutions for limiting the undesirable spread of pathogens by indirect contact are provided. The solutions involve heat-sanitization of contact regions on articles or fixtures by flowing selected electromagnetic radiation energy through underlying waveguide structures substantially parallel to the contact regions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Michael C. Hegg, David R. Nash, Benjamin K. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20130108505
    Abstract: A disinfection method, a disinfection device, and a disinfecting agent which utilizes light, which can achieve a high disinfection effect within a short time are provided. A disinfecting agent containing catechins is brought into contact with an item to be disinfected, and then the disinfecting agent is irradiated with light. The disinfecting agent preferably comprises an aqueous proanthocyanidin solution produced by polymerizing multiple catechin molecules each having a gallate group. Particularly, the aqueous proanthocyanidin solution preferably has a proanthocyanidin concentration of 0.25 to 4 mg/mL. Light with which the disinfecting agent is irradiated preferably has a wavelength of 350 to 500 nm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventors: Taro Kanno, Keisuke Nakamura, Hiroyo Ikai, Masahiro Kono, Yoshimi Niwano
  • Publication number: 20130108504
    Abstract: An apparatus for sterilization of an inner wall of containers has a charge carrier source for generating charge carriers, with an acceleration device by which charge carriers are capable of being accelerated in the direction of a charge carrier emission window. The charge carrier emission window is arranged on a treatment device for introduction through an opening into the container along an insertion direction, in order to act upon an inner wall of the container with the charge carriers issuing from the charge carrier emission window. A is flowed into the region of the charge carriers issuing out of the charge carrier emission window for changing the dimension of a charge carrier cloud formed by the discharged charge carriers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: KRONES AG
    Inventor: KRONES AG
  • Publication number: 20130094993
    Abstract: An assembly of a support plate and an exit window foil for use in an electron beam generating device. The support plate is designed to reduce wrinkles in the foil. The foil is bonded to the support plate along a closed bonding line bounding an area in which the support plate is provided with a pattern of apertures and foil support portions alternately. When vacuum is created in the housing the pattern is adapted to form a topographical profile of the foil substantially absorbing any surplus foil. Another aspect involves a method in a filling machine for sterilizing a packaging material web.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: TETRA LAVAL HOLDINGS & FINANCE S.A.
    Inventors: Ulrika Linné, Werner Haag, Toni Waber, Mattias Henriksson, Kurt Holm, Krister Kristiansson
  • Patent number: 8416554
    Abstract: A method and system are provided for decontaminating at least a portion of an object. A misting device is configured to discharge a cloud formed from a plurality of cloud droplets. At least some of the cloud droplets include a decontaminating agent. A spraying device is configured to discharge a stream including a plurality of stream droplets into the cloud. At least some of the stream droplets have an electrostatic charge. At least some of the cloud droplets are deposited on the portion of the object to facilitate decontaminating the portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Leora Peltz, Shawn H. Park, John E. Kuhn
  • Publication number: 20130084211
    Abstract: A method of sterilizing containers (10), and in particular of plastics material containers, wherein an inner wall (10a) of these containers (10) is sterilized by being acted upon with charge carriers, and wherein a sterilization device is introduced to this end into the container (10) through an opening (10b) in this container (10), and this sterilization device (2) has a charge carrier generation device (12). According to the invention the charge carrier generation device (12) is introduced into the container (10) at least in part and generates the charge carriers in the interior of the container (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: KRONES AG
    Inventor: KRONES AG
  • Patent number: 8410458
    Abstract: The invention relates to an optical filter material made of doped quartz glass, which at a low dopant concentration exhibits spectral transmission as high as possible of at least 80% cm?1 for operating radiation of 254 nm, transmission as low as possible in the wave range below approximately 250 nm, and an edge wavelength ?c within the wave range of 230 to 250 nm. It was found that this aim is achieved by doping comprising a gallium compound, which in the wave range below 250 nm has a maximum of an absorption band and thus determines the edge wave range ?c.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Heraeus Quarzglas GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Christian Neumann
  • Patent number: 8409500
    Abstract: A bottle, a system and a method sterilize a liquid. The bottle has an interior to hold the liquid and an ultraviolet light emitting lamp that extends into the interior. A cord may be attached to the bottle so that pulling the cord may power the ultraviolet light emitting lamp and/or charge a battery used to power the ultraviolet light emitting lamp. The bottle may have a status light that indicates that the ultraviolet light emitting lamp may have an amount of power equal to or greater than a threshold value, such as, for example, an amount of power necessary for the ultraviolet light emitting lamp to operate for ninety seconds. The bottle may have a removable lid located opposite to the ultraviolet light emitting lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Neverest Travel Solutions
    Inventor: Eric James
  • Patent number: 8409499
    Abstract: A method provides for sterilizing with radiation objects which have a low bioburden and which are sensitive to radiation. A dosage of radiation sufficient to ensure sterilization without damaging the object is determined by determining the bioburden upon one or more samples of the objects, determining an estimate of the dose that results in a preselected probability (e.g., 0.1, 0.01, 0.001, 0.0003162 . . . etc. (i.e., SAL=10?1, 10?2, 10?3, 10?3.5 . . . etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventor: John B. Kowalski
  • Patent number: 8410453
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an ultraviolet sterilizer having a vibration-proof function. The ultraviolet sterilizer includes an ultraviolet sterilization unit. The ultraviolet sterilization unit has an inlet through which ballast water is drawn thereinto, an outlet through which the ballast water is discharged therefrom, and an ultraviolet lamp located between the inlet and the outlet. The ultraviolet lamp applies ultraviolet rays to the ballast water. The ultraviolet sterilizer further includes a cap which supports each of the opposite ends of the ultraviolet sterilization unit, and a shock absorption unit which is elastically compressed at a first end thereof by the cap while a second end thereof compresses an end of the ultraviolet lamp. Thereby, even if the ultraviolet sterilization unit vibrates, the sleeve pipe or the ultraviolet lamp can be prevented from being damaged, and explosive gas which may cause the ultraviolet sterilizer to explode is also prevented from entering the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Panasia Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Soo-Tae Lee, Tae-Sung Pyo, Su-Kyu Lee
  • Publication number: 20130078141
    Abstract: A method for medical device sterilization comprises staggering a stack of packages so that a back surface of each package partially overlaps a front surface of another of the packages. Each package contains a medical device. The stack of packages are positioned so that the front surfaces of the packages face toward a radiation source. The packages are then exposed to radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc.
  • Patent number: 8404183
    Abstract: A reactor produces a surface corona for emitting UV light and for the production of ozone by passing air or oxygen through the surface corona. The emitted UV light activates a photocatalyst coated on a surface facing a surface with embedded electrodes which generate the surface corona. The photocatalyst is a thin film of nanoparticle TiO2 with primary particle size of 0.02 to 0.2 ?m was deposited on a substrate by a flame aerosol method. The method combines ozonation and photocatalysis to provide effective and efficient oxidation of alcohols and hydrocarbons to value added products. The method can also be used for air and water cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
    Inventors: Endalkachew Sahle-Demessie, Pratim Biswas, Unnikrishnan R. Pillai, Chulhan Kim
  • Patent number: 8404182
    Abstract: A sterilizing method and apparatus in which neutral atoms and anions are coupled to produce a sterilizing substance which is, in turn, used to remove an object to be removed by sterilization. The sterilizing apparatus includes a cation generator and an anion generator, which are separate from each other. Also disclosed as an air cleaning method and apparatus using the sterilizing method and apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Rae Eun Park, Jun Hyoun Kwon
  • Patent number: 8405508
    Abstract: A system and method for utilizing RFID tags in environments where radiation is used is disclosed. RFID tags are secured to various components of a pharmaceutical system, thereby enabling the customer to download pertinent information about the component, such as lot number, date of manufacturer, test parameters, etc. The tags can be applied to the component during or immediately after manufacture and can be subjected to the sterilization process without risk of data loss or corruption. The memory device within the tag utilizes a technology that does not rely upon charge storage as its mechanism to store information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventor: Aaron Burke
  • Publication number: 20130071286
    Abstract: A cold plasma sterilization device for sterilization of objects such as medical instruments. Gas is fed to a plasma chamber where it is energized by one or more electrodes coupled to a pulse source to thereby generate a cold plasma inside the plasma chamber. A dielectric barrier is sandwiched between the gas compartment and the electrodes to form a dielectric barrier discharge device. Inside the plasma chamber, one or more conductive stands that are coupled to ground hold the object to-be-sterilized. The cold plasma exits the plasma chamber, where it is recirculated for further use as a plasma source in subsequent cycles. Gases that can be used include noble gases such as helium, or combinations of noble gases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: Cold Plasma Medical Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory A. Watson, Marc C. Jacofsky, David J. Jacofsky
  • Patent number: 8399860
    Abstract: A fluororesin-coated electric wire cable is wound around a ring-shaped groove defined by an outer periphery of a cylinder and two flange edges immersed in an edible oil in a tank, forming each oscillating unit having a coil part; and the oscillating units are connected to an electromagnetic wave generator through a relay unit. Electromagnetic waves are irradiated from the coil parts based on an alternating current having a single frequency, an alternating current having a plurality of single frequencies different from one another, or an alternating current having a timewise varying frequency, the alternating currents each being within a frequency band of 4 kHz to 25 kHz, and a treatment based on a far-infrared heater or far-infrared ceramic is used combinedly therewith, to prevent deterioration of an edible oil or industrial oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: SKA Ltd.
    Inventors: Shimpei Fukamachi, Tetsuya Ogura, Yoshitane Kojima, Yoshimitsu Tachi
  • Patent number: 8399853
    Abstract: A UV sterilizer for oral appliances comprising, (a) a base including a UV source, (b) a lid, and (c) an appliance holder intermediate the lid and the base, the appliance holder being adapted to hold the oral appliance adjacent the UV source, wherein pressure exerted on the appliance holder can activate the UV source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: A.P.E. Enterprises Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Nick Roiniotis
  • Patent number: 8398918
    Abstract: A system and method for decontamination of chemical and biological agents over terrain in an outdoor environment is provided that utilizes ultraviolet radiation to break up hydrogen peroxide into radical species that interact with chemical and biological agents to render them harmless. In a preferred embodiment, peroxide is dispersed in a contaminated area and the peroxide is then exposed to ultraviolet radiation that causes the peroxide to dissociate into radical species. The interaction of the radical species formed by the peroxide dissociation with the chemical and biological agents renders them useless.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration Inc.
    Inventors: Louise C. Sengupta, Idan Mandelbaum, Yeshayahu Shyke Goldstein, Tadd Kippany
  • Publication number: 20130064711
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) for implants, where the implants have been machined out of UHMWPE blocks or extruded rods, has anthocyanin dispersely imbedded in the polyethylene. The implant is then exposed to ? ray or electron beam irradiation in an amount of at least 2.5 Mrad followed by a heat treatment to prevent the implant from becoming brittle in the long term as well as to improve strength and wear. The method includes mixing a powder or granulate resin of UHMWPE with an aqueous liquid that contains anthocyanin in a predetermined amount. The water is then evaporated to deposit the anthocyanin in a predetermined concentration on the polyethylene particles. The doped UHMWPE particles are compressed into blocks at temperatures in a range of approximately 135° C.-250° C. and pressures in a range of approximately 2-70 MPa. Medical implants are made from the blocks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: HOWMEDICA OSTEONICS CORP.
    Inventor: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.
  • Publication number: 20130065300
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to nutritive medium, medium supplement, media subgroup and buffer formulations. Specifically, powdered nutritive medium, supplement, subgroup formulations, cell culture media comprising all of the necessary nutritive factors for in vitro cell cultivation, buffer formulations that produce particular ionic and pH conditions upon reconstitution with a solvent are provided. Particularly, methods of production of these media, supplement, subgroup, buffer formulations and kits, and methods for the cultivation of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells using these dry powdered nutritive media, supplement, subgroup and buffer formulations are provided. Methods of producing sterile, powdered media or supplement (e.g., powdered FBS, powdered transferrin, powdered insulin, powdered organ extracts, powdered growth factors), media subgroup and buffer formulations by gamma irradiation are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: LIFE TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Richard FIKE, William Whitford, William Biddle
  • Publication number: 20130062267
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for providing an aseptic chromatography column, said method comprising the steps of: pre-sterilize an empty chromatography column; pre-sterilize a chromatography medium; introducing the pre-sterilized chromatography medium into the pre-sterilized chromatography column using aseptic equipment, thereby providing an aseptic chromatography column comprising chromatography medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: GE HEALTHCARE BIO-SCIENCES AB
    Inventor: GE HEALTHCARE BIO-SCIENCES AB
  • Patent number: 8394320
    Abstract: A method of preserving a biomaterial according to the present invention includes the step of simultaneously applying negative DC voltage and AC voltage to a biomaterial (O). It is preferable that in the simultaneous voltage application step, the biomaterial (O) is stored in a container (1) that surrounds at least the periphery of the biomaterial (O), and a voltage application plate (2) supplied with negative DC voltage and AC voltage in a superposed manner is placed along one outer surface of the container (1), so that the voltage is indirectly applied to the biomaterial (O).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignees: Kochi University, Yugengaisha Sun World Kawamura
    Inventors: Shiro Sasaguri, Hironori Maeda, Munetoshi Kawamura
  • Patent number: 8388900
    Abstract: An assembly and method for treating or otherwise improving an atmosphere contained within an enclosed space. The enclosed space can be a container such as a bag or other housing for equipment, food and/or suitable material. Ozone is generated within an atmosphere that is exposed to the material. The generated ozone is mixed with the atmosphere. At least a portion of the generated ozone is then removed from the mixed atmosphere. The assembly and method can be used to treat contaminated sports equipment and the like, as well as to treat food storage atmospheres, such as those exposed to fresh fruits and vegetables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Primaira, LLC
    Inventors: Karen Benedek, Philip C. Carbone, Derek Affonce
  • Patent number: 8388850
    Abstract: A mobile water treatment system is disposed on a trailer of a truck. There is an intake filter, an intake hose, a pump or multiple pumps for water intake and sending water throughout the system, a filtering section that may include sand and/or bag filter or other types of filters, an ozone treatment section after the filters, a holding tank after the ozone section, a UV treatment section after the holding tank, and a chlorination tank. The water may then be sent to a water storage facility or other place as desired. The system includes a generator for power to run the system, and a controller for the system. The ozone section makes use of a misting nozzle in order to increase ozone contact time, and decrease ozone breakdown. The UV section makes use of a slightly downward tilted table with UV bulbs and reflectors above it, and preferably is mounted on a leveling system. A method of treating water uses the mobile system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Neos International, LLC
    Inventor: Roger A. Delano
  • Patent number: 8389956
    Abstract: A laryngoscope disinfector characterized by a drawer that provides positioning for laryngoscopes in the drawer so that all surfaces of the laryngoscopes are exposed to ultraviolet radiation. The drawer provides for the laryngoscope blades to be positioned generally horizontally and generally vertically for disinfection of the blades. The drawer also provides, in some embodiments, positioning for the laryngoscope handles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventor: Robert Rife
  • Publication number: 20130053760
    Abstract: A device and method for generating a physical plasma in hoses of long and simultaneously constricted lumen, flexible or rigid dielectric hoses, tubes or other hollow bodies in the low, normal or overpressure range, which are partially or completely filled or flushed by process medium of gas or gas mixtures, one or more liquids, liquids including gas bubbles, liquid-gas mixtures, aerosols and/or foam, for purposes of cleaning, activating, coating, modifying and biologically decontaminating, disinfecting, sterilizing the inner walls of the hoses or the process medium itself. The device includes a high voltage supply and a process medium supply, at least one electrically conductive grounded electrode and at least one electrically conductive high voltage electrode, both embedded in the wall of the hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: Leibniz-Institut Fuer Plasmaforschung und Technologie e.V.
    Inventors: Joerg Ehlbeck, Klaus-Dieter Weltmann, Manfred Stieber, Joern Winter, Kim Winterweber
  • Publication number: 20130052078
    Abstract: A control system for multiple sterilization chambers for the sterilization of medical and other instruments interact with a common vacuum pump, steam generator and ozone generator via a common controller. Instead of placing all instruments of one type in one large chamber and running one generic sterilization program followed by another such program, instruments may be grouped by the type of sterilization program needed and the sterilization programs may be run using a single pump and a single ozone generator fed into multiple sterilization chambers controlled by the controller. One smaller and less expensive vacuum pump and ozone generator may be sufficient to sterilize large amounts of medical equipment present in the total assembly of chambers. The controller may run sterilization programs in parallel fully or overlapping partially in time. Control valves governing flow passage of air, steam and ozone in and out of the chambers are also controlled by the controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicants: STERILION LTD., TUTTNAUER LTD.
    Inventors: Yuval Shilderman, Meni Perets, Uri Peiper, Yekutiel Alper, Meir Markovich
  • Patent number: 8383036
    Abstract: The present invention concerns methods, compositions and apparatus for neutralizing bioagents, wherein bioagents comprise biowarfare agents, biohazardous agents, biological agents and/or infectious agents. The methods comprise exposing the bioagent to an organic semiconductor and exposing the bioagent and organic semiconductor to a source of energy. Although any source of energy is contemplated, in some embodiments the energy comprises visible light, ultraviolet, infrared, radiofrequency, microwave, laser radiation, pulsed corona discharge or electron beam radiation. Exemplary organic semiconductors include DAT and DALM. In certain embodiments, the organic semiconductor may be attached to one or more binding moieties, such as an antibody, antibody fragment, or nucleic acid ligand. Preferably, the binding moiety has a binding affinity for one or more bioagents to be neutralized. Other embodiments concern an apparatus comprising an organic semiconductor and an energy source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Conceptual Mindworks, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark A. Sloan, Jeevalatha Vivekananda, Eric A. Holwitt, Johnathan L. Kiel
  • Patent number: 8383037
    Abstract: A system and method for implementing embedded electronics in environments where radiation or extreme temperatures are used is disclosed. Embedded electronics are affixed to various components of a pharmaceutical system, thereby enabling the customer to download pertinent information about the component, such as lot number, date of manufacturer, test parameters, etc. Additionally, these electronics allow an array of functions and features to be implemented, such as integrity tests and diagnostics. The electronics in the pharmaceutical components utilize a technology that is not as susceptible to radiation and extreme temperatures as traditional electronics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventor: Aaron Burke
  • Patent number: 8383038
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for efficiently supplying a liquid with ions or radicals generated by plasma and so on, or for effectively sterilizing microorganisms present in a liquid or on the surface thereof. The method includes generating plasma in a gas phase by a plasma generation device, producing ions or radicals in the gas phase by the plasma; electrophoresing the ions or radicals toward the liquid by an electric field applied to the produced ions or radicals; and diffusing the ions or radicals into the liquid. The liquid is adjusted to have a pH value of 4.8 or lower for effective sterilization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Osaka University
    Inventor: Katsuhisa Kitano
  • Patent number: 8382992
    Abstract: An apparatus for disinfecting a fluid has a fluid-containing structure; an inward-facing first electrically conductive cylindrical body contained within said fluid-containing structure; an outward-facing electrically conductive-second cylindrical body disposed within said first cylindrical body, in mutually facing parallel and coaxial relation thereto, and spaced apart therefrom to define a fluid-occupiable cavity; a power supply electrically coupled between said first cylindrical body and said second cylindrical body, said power supply producing therebetween an electric field, said field comprising a waveform approximating a series of alternating square wave pulses of opposite polarity, said pulses having a maximum absolute value of approximately 60 volts per centimeter, a complete cycle of said waveform, comprising a first pulse and a succeeding pulse of opposite polarity, recurring with a frequency of between about 2 kHz: and about 5 kHz and providing about 2 amps to about 4 amps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Bio Concept, LLC
    Inventor: Sven Mierswa
  • Patent number: 8378323
    Abstract: The sterilizing toybox apparatus addresses illness risk, especially with children, by providing UV light sterilization within. UV lighting is offered both above and beyond toys within the apparatus. A time-release latch ensures exposure for a time determined to be optimal for UV exposure of contents. The apparatus provides UV lighting both in the bottom of the chest and in the lid. The clear shelf above the lower UV bulbs is in communication with the vibrator that jostles any toys so that full UV exposure is ensured. Reflective material distributed fully within the chest further guarantees full exposure of contents to sterilization. Additionally, the optional mesh basket is selectively suspended within the chest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventors: Robert L. Spann, Alfreda B. Spann
  • Patent number: 8377375
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for determining an effective dose of monochromatic or polychromatic light from one or more light sources to inactivate microorganisms present in a biological fluid, preferably a non-transparent fluid. Moreover, there is provided a method for the inactivation of microorganism in a biological fluid in a flow-through-reactor. Moreover, the invention advantageously provides a flow-through-reactor with one or more thermostated light sources. The invention further provides a method of controlling the light sum dose of monochromatic or polychromatic light emitted from one or more light sources to effectively inactivate microorganisms present in a biological fluid in a batch reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare S.A.
    Inventors: Heinz Anderle, Peter Matthiessen, Hans-Peter Schwarz, Peter Turecek, Thomas Kreil, Daniel R. Boggs
  • Patent number: 8376013
    Abstract: A method and a system for producing a change in a medium disposed in an artificial container. The method places in a vicinity of the medium at least one of a plasmonics agent and an energy modulation agent. The method applies an initiation energy through the artificial container to the medium. The initiation energy interacts with the plasmonics agent or the energy modulation agent to directly or indirectly produce the change in the medium. The system includes an initiation energy source configured to apply an initiation energy to the medium to activate the plasmonics agent or the energy modulation agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignees: Duke University, Immunolight, LLC
    Inventors: Frederic Avery Bourke, Jr., Tuan Vo-Dinh
  • Patent number: 8366995
    Abstract: The removal of moisture from an object to be sterilized is provided through at least the steps of placing the load in the chamber, reducing the pressure within the chamber to increase the rate of evaporation of moisture from the load, monitoring over a predetermined period of time the increase in the quantity of vapor within the chamber resulting from evaporation of moisture from the load, admitting gas into the chamber and repeating the steps following placing the load into the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Sterilucent, Inc.
    Inventors: Jami McLaren, Steven J. Olson, Michelle Meyer, Kent Larson
  • Publication number: 20130022495
    Abstract: A surgical system includes a surgical instrument, a generator, and a sterilization case. The surgical instrument includes an end effector assembly adapted to connect to a source of energy. The generator is configured to couple to the surgical instrument to supply energy to the end effector assembly of the surgical instrument. The sterilization case is configured to retain the surgical instrument therein and is configured to couple to the generator. The generator is further configured to supply energy to the sterilization case when coupled thereto to sterilize the surgical instrument disposed therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: TYCO Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: James D. Allen, IV, Robert M. Sharp, Glenn A. Horner, Duane E. Kerr, Arlan J. Reschke, Robert B. Stoddard
  • Publication number: 20130024004
    Abstract: A method of disinfecting a biological material provides disposing at least a portion of the biological material in the path of the gas cluster ion beam or in the path of the accelerated neutral beam so as to irradiate at least a portion of the biological material to disinfect the irradiated portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: EXOGENESIS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Joseph Khoury, Sean R. Kirkpatrick
  • Publication number: 20130022494
    Abstract: Methods and systems for sterilization of objects by gas-cluster ion-beam (GCIB) irradiation or by accelerated Neutral Beam are disclosed. The sterilization may be in conjunction with other beneficial GCIB surface processing of the objects. The objects may be medical devices or surgically implantable medical prostheses. The accelerated Neutral Beam is derived from an accelerated GCIB.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: EXOGENESIS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Sean R. Kirkpatrick, Richard C. Svrluga, Joseph Khoury
  • Patent number: 8357330
    Abstract: An exterior container has a primary base, side walls and an open top. A primary floor is located in the exterior chamber and forms an operational chamber. An interior container has a square secondary floor, side walls and top. The interior container is removably received within the exterior container. A retainer is positioned within the interior chamber for receiving a catheter. A source of light is provided within the exterior chamber to irradiate the catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Inventors: Kelly Erdlen, Susan Wren-Carpenter
  • Patent number: 8357329
    Abstract: An apparatus for destroying bacteria is provided which includes a neutron generator and a target polymer film which will receive the impact of neutron emissions. Neutrons impacting the target film produce a second emission of high energy protons which are made to move through an electromagnetic field external to the neutron tube thereby accelerating and steering a generated proton spray. This embodiment is well-suited for treating physical locations known to be infected by pathogenic microorganisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: System Planning Corporation
    Inventor: Manmohan S. Chawla
  • Patent number: 8354060
    Abstract: A modular germicidal light grid system for use inside an air treatment apparatus that has a plenum in which a stream of air is enclosed. The system comprises at least one elongate member and at least one lamp assembly. Each lamp assembly comprises a housing defining at least one socket and is mounted to one elongate member at a predetermined position. The system further comprises at least one linear germicidal light source. Each light source has a longitudinal axis and a distal end constructed and arranged to mount within one socket of the housing. The elongate member is mounted within the plenum and the lamp assembly is mounted to the elongate member such that the longitudinal axis of the light source extends therein the stream of air and is positioned at an acute light angle relative to the direction of flow of the stream of air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Purgenix, Inc.
    Inventors: Joel E. Horne, Richard P. Sutton
  • Publication number: 20130011871
    Abstract: In one non-limiting aspect, sterilizable reagent materials for diagnostic elements are provided. In other aspects, sterilized diagnostic elements and techniques for the production of the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a sterilized diagnostic element includes a chemical detection reagent including at least one component that is sensitive to ionizing radiation. The sterilized diagnostic element is also mediator-free and the at least one component sensitive to ionizing radiation is present in a functional form in a proportion of ? 80% based on the total amount of the respective component in the diagnostic element before sterilization. In certain aspects, the at least one component sensitive to ionizing radiation includes one or both of an enzyme and a coenzyme. Other aspects include, but are not limited to, unique methods, techniques, products, systems and devices involving sterilizable reagent materials or sterilized diagnostic elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2012
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Inventors: Carina Horn, Nelli Steinke
  • Publication number: 20130011296
    Abstract: Methods of sterilizing articles such as wound dressings, include the steps of providing an article that includes a polymer layer, applying an aqueous solution to the polymer layer and applying electron beam radiation to the article. The polymer layer includes a hydrophobic organic matrix that includes an elastomeric polymer and hydrophilic polymeric microparticles dispersed within the elastomeric polymer. Applying the aqueous solution to the polymer layer at least partially swells the hydrophilic microparticles of the polymer layer. In some articles the polymer layer includes an elastomeric polymer, hydrophilic polymeric microparticles dispersed within the elastomeric polymer, and hydrophilic polymer particles with greater than 10 micrometers average particle size dispersed within the hydrophobic organic matrix. These articles may be sterilized by applying either electron beam or gamma radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2011
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Inventor: David R. Holm
  • Patent number: 8349253
    Abstract: A product package is provided for containing a product or object. The package contains a first agent that is energizably convertible by an energy source to a sanitizing agent including ozone in the package. The sanitizing agent including ozone in the package is transferred to the product or object while in the package. The first agent can include oxygen. The oxygen converts to ozone after being energized by ultraviolet radiation energy inside the package. The ultraviolet radiation energy can be radiated from outside the package, through the package, and into the package to energizably convert the oxygen to ozone in the package. The product or object in the package can be treated with the sanitizing agent including ozone in the package to provide a sanitizing, disinfecting, or sterilizing treatment, in the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: Jose Gutman