Using Direct Contact With Electrical Or Electromagnetic Radiation Patents (Class 422/22)
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Patent number: 8241564Abstract: 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 evaporated in order 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: GrantFiled: February 17, 2012Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.Inventors: Shulin He, Shi-Shen Yau, Aiguo Wang, Daniel E. Lawrynowicz
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Patent number: 8241563Abstract: An air sanitization system including a housing having an inlet and an outlet, an ozone generator disposed in the housing and positioned between the inlet and outlet, at least one fiber optic cable positioned in visible proximity to the ozone generator, a visible light detector, and a controller. The housing is configured to receive a flow of an oxygen-containing gas through the inlet, and the ozone generator generates ozone from the flow of oxygen-containing gas. The at least one fiber optic cable is configured to receive and transmit visible light from the ozone generator. The visible light detector detects an amount of visible light transmitted by the at least one fiber optic cable. The controller is in communication with the visible light detector for determining whether the amount of visible light transmitted by the at least one fiber optic cable corresponds to a failure of the ozone generator.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2009Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Hussmann CorporationInventors: Michael P. Kolve, Nathan W. Provance, Dennis L. Wagner
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Publication number: 20120201714Abstract: To provide a method for inactivating a virus which is in contact with a photocatalyst material, the method including irradiating the photocatalyst material with light from a light source, and an article provided with an anti-viral property, the article containing a visible-light-responsive photocatalyst material deposited on the surface thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2010Publication date: August 9, 2012Applicant: The University of TokyoInventors: Kazuhito Hashimoto, Kayano Sunada, Yoshinobu Kubota, Hitoshi Ishiguro, Ryuichi Nakano, Jitsuo Kajioka, Yanyan Yao, Yasushi Kuroda, Yasuhiro Hosogi
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Patent number: 8236538Abstract: Provided are methods for sterilizing a material comprising a biologically-active agent comprising irradiating said material with ionizing radiation at a dose of about 5 kGy to about 25 kGy while maintaining said material in an atmosphere comprising at least 95% by volume inert gas and at a temperature of about 4° C. or lower. Also provided are sterilized materials comprising a biologically-active agent, wherein said materials exhibit substantially the same amount of biological activity as a non-sterilized control.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2008Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Advanced Technologies and Regenerative Medicine, LLCInventors: Alexander M. Harmon, Laura J. Brown, Charles J. Buckle, Frederick Halperin, Stanko Bodnar
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Patent number: 8236238Abstract: A drug deactivation system according to some embodiments includes at least one drug-retaining region of a drug delivery device and at least one energy source coupled to the at least one drug-retaining region. The at least one drug-retaining region may be configured to retain a drug. The at least one energy source may be configured to transmit energy to the drug. The drug is capable of being rendered ineffective in the presence of the transmitted energy.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2009Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Palo Alto Research Center IncorporatedInventors: Scott Albert Uhland, Eric Peeters, Francisco E. Torres, Philipp Helmut Schmaelzle
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Publication number: 20120187086Abstract: A plasma generation system and related method for generating plasma in a cavity of a narrow tube, the system including: a first electrode including a conductive member covered with an insulator or dielectric, the first electrode being inserted into the cavity of the narrow tube to generate the plasma; a power supply to apply an alternating voltage or pulse voltage to the first electrode; and a second electrode located outside the narrow tube and connected to the power supply, the power supply applying the alternating voltage or pulse voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the conductive member is made of a wire, a portion of the narrow tube is provided between the first electrode and the second electrode, and the second electrode is arranged and shaped so that a discharge is unevenly performed in a circumferential direction of the first electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2012Publication date: July 26, 2012Applicant: TOYO ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD.Inventors: Takehiko SATO, Tatsuyuki Nakatani, Tatsuo Kimura
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Publication number: 20120189492Abstract: In various embodiments, the present disclosure describes fullerene derivatives that are capable of photocatalytically generating reactive oxygen species in the presence of ultraviolet and/or visible light. In some embodiments, the fullerene derivatives are aminofullerenes containing a plurality of amine-terminated moieties covalently bonded to the fullerene cage. The fullerene derivatives may optionally be covalently bonded to a substrate surface for use in photocatalytic disinfection systems for removing various contaminants including, for example, bacteria, viruses, protozoa and chemical pollutants. Methods using the present fullerene and aminofullerene derivatives in various purification processes are also described herein.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2010Publication date: July 26, 2012Applicant: WILLIAM MARSH RICE UNIVERSITYInventors: Pedro J.J. Alvarez, Jaesang Lee, Lon J. Wilson, Yuri Mackeyev, Jaehong Kim
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Patent number: 8222614Abstract: The apparatus has a rotating body 11 in an irradiation processing chamber 10. Outside the rotating body 11, plural retaining mechanisms 2 are installed at regular interval to retain open-mouthed containers. Above the conveying path, an electron beam generating means 40 is arranged. The rotating body 11 has a rotary shaft 12 that penetrates into the electron beam generating means 40. On the rotary shaft 12, a grid plate 45 of an electron beam source 41 of the electron beam generating means 40 is rotatively installed. On the grid plate 45, plural emission holes 46 are provided at the same interval as that of the retaining mechanisms 2 on the rotating body 11. In an predetermined irradiation area, the emission holes 46 and a irradiation windows 43 on the irradiation processing chamber 10 and the retaining mechanism 2 for holding the container are aligned approximately on the same axes.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2008Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Japan AE Power Systems CorporationInventors: Shiro Eguchi, Tomoyuki Hikosaka, Satoru Gohzaki, Takayuki Suzuki, Shigekatsu Sato, Isao Hashimoto
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Patent number: 8221679Abstract: A free radical decontamination method and system. The system is comprised of a chamber defining a region, and a generator for generating free radical reach effluent from a free radical electric generator and hydrogen peroxide solution with water. A closed loop circulating system is provided for supplying the mixture of free radicals from the electric generator mixed with the hydrogen peroxide solution in the form of the effluent to the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2009Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Inventor: Czeslaw Golkowski
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Publication number: 20120171075Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2012Publication date: July 5, 2012Applicant: EMD MILLIPORE CORPORATIONInventor: Aaron Burke
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Publication number: 20120165186Abstract: The present invention provides a process for producing a concentrated aqueous nano titania sol in the mild pH range (4.0 to 10.0) comprising contacting an acidic nano titania sol with a dispersant and with an alkalizing agent, and subjecting the nano titania sol to membrane filtration until the nano titania sol contains more than 300 g TiO2 nanoparticles/dm3. The nano titania sol may further be subjected to a coating treatment within any of the steps of the above described process. The concentrated aqueous nano titania sol of this disclosure is suitable for use in a variety of applications, including providing UV protection and photochemically degrading or inactivating contaminants.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2010Publication date: June 28, 2012Applicant: Tioxide Europe LimitedInventors: John Edwards, Karl Lowry
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Publication number: 20120164022Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for applying radio frequency (RF) energy to an object in an energy application zone via at least one radiating element. The apparatus is selected from a group consisting of sterilizers, pasteurizers, drying cabinets, sintering furnaces, curing furnaces, soil remediation apparatuses, smelting furnaces, melting furnaces and plasma generators. The apparatus comprises at least one processor configured to determine a value indicative of energy absorbable by the object at least one of or each of a plurality of MSEs; and cause RF energy to be supplied to the at least one radiating element in at least a subset of the plurality of MSEs, wherein energy supplied to the at least one radiating element at each of the subset of MSEs is a function of the value indicative of energy absorbable at each MSE.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2011Publication date: June 28, 2012Inventors: Ginat MUGINSTEIN, Daniel Selinger, Eyal Torres, Ohad Karnielli
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Publication number: 20120156092Abstract: The invention relates to a sterilization coat (1) for sterilizing a device (2) like a medical detection device, wherein the sterilization coat (1) is adapted to be arranged on the device (2) and comprises a heating layer for sterilizing the device (2) by heating. If the sterilization coat (1) has been arranged on the device, several sterilization procedures can be performed by heating the sterilization coat (1) using the heating layer. Thus, it is not necessary to arrange sterile plastic drapes around the device (2) each time a sterile device is needed, for example, before each medical interventional procedure. If a sterilization of the device (2) is needed, the heating layer heats the device (2) for sterilizing. This simplifies the procedure for sterilizing the device (2).Type: ApplicationFiled: September 2, 2010Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.Inventor: Jan Frederik Suijver
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Publication number: 20120156091Abstract: Methods and devices for treating surfaces of objects using a non-thermal plasma are disclosed herein. The non-thermal plasma is generated through the use of an apparatus configured to generate a non-thermal plasma on its surface. The apparatus is comprised of a substrate that contains one or more electrodes of different polarity. The electrodes are placed within a layer of the substrate acting as a dielectric layer. The apparatus may also have additional layers to contain the dielectric layer. When an appropriate potential, being either an alternating current or pulsed high voltage potential, is applied and removed from the one or more electrodes, the gas on at least one surface of the apparatus becomes ionized and forms a non-thermal plasma. The electrodes can be configured to be of various shapes and sizes to modify or tune the plasma.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2010Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: Drexel UniversityInventors: Gregory Fridman, Alexander Fridman, Alexander F. Gutsol, Gennady Friedman
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Publication number: 20120141321Abstract: Device for emitting a plasma jet at ambient pressure and temperature, includes an electric-field generator for generating discharges between an anode assembly and a cathode assembly. The cathode assembly defines an inter-cathode dielectric space that extends inside the cathode assembly and is opposite at least one cathode surface of the cathode assembly, and has at least one cathode opening extending outside the inter-cathode space, the cathode opening being defined by at least one active edge of the cathode surface, the active edge(s) extending in a cathode opening plane. The anode assembly includes at least one pointed portion that is oriented toward the outside of the inter-cathode space and is laterally and deeply placed relative to the cathode opening. The pointed portion extends up to the cathode opening plane, for causing a plasma jet emission that is spontaneously sprayed in a predetermined direction toward the outside of the inter-cathode space.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2009Publication date: June 7, 2012Applicant: UNIVERSITE PAUL SABATIER TOULOUSE IIIInventors: Nofel Merbahi, Mohammed Yousfi, Olivier Eichwald
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Publication number: 20120134878Abstract: There is described a unit for sterilizing container closures comprising: a process chamber having an inlet for receiving a succession of closures to be sterilized and an outlet from which sterilized closures exit; conveying means for advancing the closures through the process chamber along a predetermined path (P); and radiation emitting means acting inside the process chamber, facing the closures moving along the above path (P) and which can be activated for directing sterilizing radiations on said closures to sterilize their surfaces; the conveying means comprise actuator means acting on each closure to produce a rolling movement thereof while it advances along its path (P).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2009Publication date: May 31, 2012Applicant: SIDEL S.P.A. Con Socio UnicoInventor: Angelo Silvestri
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Publication number: 20120134877Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2010Publication date: May 31, 2012Inventors: Mark A. SLOAN, Jeevalatha Vivekananda, Eric A. Holwitt, Johnathan L. Kiel
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Publication number: 20120128903Abstract: Adhesive 2-cyanoacrylate compositions are adjusted to a preferred initial viscosity of 400 to 600 centipoises by the addition of polycyanoacrylate thickeners, and are sterilized in a preferred method by heating them at a temperature of no greater than about 110° C. for no more than about 120 minutes. Articles of manufacture are vials or squeezable tubes made of compatible glass, aluminum, or plastic.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2012Publication date: May 24, 2012Applicant: CHEMENCE MEDICAL, INC.Inventor: Carlos R. Morales
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Patent number: 8182744Abstract: Systems and methods to reduce bioburden on at least a portion of a fluid transfer port include supplying a dose of radiation to the portion in optical communication with at least one source of radiation. In an illustrative example, a medical container, such as a vial or IV bag, receives a dose of ultraviolet (UV) energy substantially at a predetermined region of a fluid transfer site. In some examples, such a sanitization process may precede a fluid transfer operation in which a fluid is transferred into or out of the medical container by passing through the sanitized region. Such fluid transfers may be used in automated or semi-automated pharmaceutical processes, such as drug reconstitution. Various embodiments may further include one or more seal assemblies, each seal assembly having an aperture through which the radiation dose is supplied from the source to a controlled region on the fluid transfer port.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2011Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: Intelligent Hospital Systems Ltd.Inventors: Lance R. Mlodzinski, Walter W. Eliuk, Alex H. Reinhardt, Ronald H. Rob, Robert Keith Davidson
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Patent number: 8178594Abstract: An antioxidant combined with UHMWPE prior to subjecting the UHMWPE to crosslinking irradiation. In one exemplary embodiment, the antioxidant is tocopherol. After the antioxidant is combined with the UHMWPE, the resulting blend may be formed into slabs, bar stock, and/or incorporated into a substrate, such as a metal, for example. The resulting product may then be subjected to crosslinking irradiation. In one exemplary embodiment, the UHMWPE blend is preheated prior to subjecting the same to crosslinking irradiation. Once irradiated, the UHMWPE blended product may be machined, packaged, and sterilized in accordance with conventional techniques.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2010Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: Zimmer, Inc.Inventors: Alicia Rufner, John Knight, Toni Rowe, Dirk Pletcher, Ray Gsell, Werner Schneider, Hallie E. Brinkerhuff
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Patent number: 8178854Abstract: The present invention relates to a cigar humidor, comprising: a hollow housing; a lid connected to the housing; a germicidal light assembly positioned inside the housing for disinfecting cigars; and a platform transparent to ultraviolet light produced by the assembly.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2011Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Inventor: Richard Eugene Elliott
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Publication number: 20120114524Abstract: Methods and systems for the terminal sterilization and surface decontamination of prefilled containers containing sensitive drug products, such as biotech drug products that are otherwise temperature or radiation sensitive, and thus not suitable for terminal sterilization by classical methods involving steam or gamma rays. The methods and systems are especially suited for prefilled containers in secondary packaging. Methods include terminal sterilization by exposing prefilled containers in secondary packaging to tunable-beta radiation and further include terminal sterilization by exposing prefilled containers to controllable vaporized-hydrogen peroxide, including application of measures to reduce or prevent diffusion of vaporized-hydrogen peroxide into prefilled containers.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2010Publication date: May 10, 2012Inventor: Juergen Sigg
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Publication number: 20120115901Abstract: Various porphyrin compounds comprising one or more pyridone moieties, intermediates thereof, compositions thereof, and, methods of making and using thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2008Publication date: May 10, 2012Inventors: ROBERT E. CONNORS, CHUCHAWIN CHANGTONG, JOHN L. LOMBARDI
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Publication number: 20120107829Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of a composition comprising (a) at least three different amino acids, (b) at least two different amino acids and a saponin or (c) at least one dipeptide or tripeptide for stabilizing biomolecules immobilized on a solid carrier. The invention furthermore relates to a method for producing stabilized biomolecules, comprising embedding the biomolecules in the composition according to the invention and a method of producing a solid carrier having biomolecules attached thereto. The invention furthermore relates to a solid carrier producible or produced by the method of the invention and a method of diagnosing a disease using the carrier of the invention.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2010Publication date: May 3, 2012Applicant: LEUKOCARE AGInventors: Stefan Margraf, Anja Breuer, Martin Scholz, Jens Altrichter
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Publication number: 20120107465Abstract: An apparatus, system and method of using electrons to perform at least one operation are disclosed. An apparatus may include groups of carbon nanotubes capable of emitting a relatively large number of electrons for use in performing operations such as sterilization, purification, deodorization, cleaning, cross-linking, pest control, pathogen control, chain-scissioning associated with surface modification, waste treatment, etc. Each group of carbon nanotubes may be aligned with a respective opening in a member, where the member may be coupled with a membrane capable of transmitting electrons. Electrons may be emitted from the carbon nanotubes by applying a vacuum to the carbon nanotubes and also applying an electric potential between the carbon nanotubes and the member. As such, electrons from a plurality of groups of carbon nanotubes may generate an electron flow that can be used to perform one or more operations on a fluid, object, or other type of component.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2011Publication date: May 3, 2012Applicant: 4WIND SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING, LLCInventors: Cattien Van Nguyen, Bryan P. Ribaya
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Patent number: 8168129Abstract: An apparatus and method are for disinfection and purification of a liquid, gaseous or solid phase, or a mixture thereof. The apparatus includes: a central electrode, a dielectric layer adjacent to the electrode, a first area adjacent to the dielectric layer, and is configured to introduce a first medium into the first area, a second area adjacent to the first area. The apparatus is also configured to introduce a second medium into the second area, and for creating a plasma in the first medium, while the first medium is present in the first area, by applying a voltage between the first electrode and a second electrode. An injector injects the plasma into the second area, in order to be mixed with the second medium.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2006Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Vlaamse Instelling Voor Technologisch Onderzoek (Vito)Inventors: Dirk Vangeneugden, Robby Jozef Martin Rego, Danny Havermans, Herman Blok
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Publication number: 20120100395Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for monitoring integral value of time, temperature comprising at least one layer of polymer comprising a latent pigment capable of undergoing at least one colour change, and an organic acid; or comprising one layer of polymer comprising a latent pigment capable of undergoing at least one colour change, and one layer of polymer comprising an organic acid, wherein said latent pigment is converted to its pigmentary form which causes said colour change. The device can be used for monitoring sterilization of medical and kitchen supplies, canned foods and doneness of microwave foods.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2010Publication date: April 26, 2012Applicant: BASF SEInventors: Leonhard Feiler, Hans Reichert, Véronique Hall-Goulle, Thomas Raimann
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Publication number: 20120100039Abstract: Light-activated antimicrobial devices and articles are disclosed. The devices include a light source and a light-activated antimicrobial article comprising a photosensitizer and a viscoelastic material such as a pressure sensitive adhesive adapted to receive light from the light source. The viscoelastic material may be adapted to transport light by total internal reflection. The photosensitizer may comprise a dye, a metal oxide or a composition that comprises anions that oxidize or react to form a gas. Upon activation of the light source, the photosensitizer absorbs light from the light source such that antimicrobial activity is exhibited. The photosensitizer may be included in the light-activated antimicrobial article or it may be provided as a topical composition that is separate from the article. The light-activated antimicrobial articles and devices may have constructions similar to those of wound dressings.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2010Publication date: April 26, 2012Inventors: Maria A. Appeaning, Audrey A. Sherman, Michael A. Meis, Marie A. Boulos, Kevin D. Landgrebe, Kevin R. Schaffer, Matthew T. Scholz, Thu-Van T. Tran, Narina Y. Stepanova, Caroline M. Ylitalo
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Publication number: 20120100038Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and device for illuminating and at the same time purifying or disinfecting products such as air, flowers, food, vegetables, meat, poultry or fish. The method comprises the use of IR emitting LED elements.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2010Publication date: April 26, 2012Applicant: PURILL BVInventor: Vladimir Vasilenko
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Publication number: 20120100037Abstract: A system and process for disinfecting rooms such as health care facility rooms with an oxygen/ozone mixture is described, which is effective to combat “superbugs” such as Clostridium difficile (C. difficile); E. coli; Pseudomonas aeruginosa; methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA); and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE). In preferred embodiments, hydrogen peroxide is additionally used. The system and process is effective to destroy bacteria deposited on surfaces as biofilm, and, accompanied by physical agitation such as jet nozzle outlets, is effective to disinfect carpet, drapery and similar absorbent and porous surfaces.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2012Publication date: April 26, 2012Applicant: Medizone International, Inc.Inventors: Michael Edward Shannon, Dick Eric Zoutman
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Patent number: 8163235Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for removing chemical sterilant molecules from a medium, such as a carrier gas. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a housing that defines an internal cavity. The housing has an inlet and an outlet fluidly communicating with the internal cavity. An electrode is dimensioned to be received in the internal cavity of the housing. The electrode is made of a material that is chemically active with respect to molecules of a chemical sterilant and conductive to electricity. The electrode is connected to a source of an electrical charge such that an electrical field gradient is formed in a region of space surrounding the electrode. The electrical field gradient is operable to force the chemical sterilant molecule toward the electrode.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2011Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: STERIS CorporationInventors: Michael A. Centanni, Thaddeus J. Mielnik
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Publication number: 20120093803Abstract: The present invention, inter alia, relates to a closed sterilized container comprising at least one carrier which is a stabilizer; and at least one biomolecule reversibly attached to the carrier, wherein said carrier partially or completely covers the attached biomolecules and wherein said at least one carrier is selected from the group consisting of (poly)peptides such as dipeptides or tripeptides, amino acids, polyalcohols, polyethyleneglycols, ionic liquids, compatible solutes, saponins and a mixture thereof. The invention also relates to methods for producing sterilized containers according to the invention and uses thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2010Publication date: April 19, 2012Applicant: LEUKOCARE AGInventors: Jens Altrichter, Anja Breuer, Nicole Schaath, Julia Quathamer
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Patent number: 8147769Abstract: Stents and delivery systems with reduced chemical degradation and methods of sterilizing the same are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2007Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc.Inventors: Bin Huang, Lothar W. Kleiner, John Stankus
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Patent number: 8142715Abstract: A method of deactivating chemical contaminants and biological agents from a target surface by and aerosol spraying the target surface with an electrostatically charged, photosensitizer solution, and then illuminating the surface with ultraviolet light.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: BioMed Protect, LLCInventors: Randy Dale Curry, Jeffry Golden
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Patent number: 8142713Abstract: A germicidal system and method for deactivating pathogens on the surface of a bodily extremity protected by a prophylactic covering substantially opaque to UV-C radiation. The device includes an enclosure having one or more openings through which the extremity can be inserted. The enclosure contains a radiation source configured to produce germicidal radiation having a wavelength of about 253.7 nm. The openings are configured relative to the radiation source such that the inserted extremity is in close proximity to the radiation source. The prophylactic covered extremity is preferably a gloved hand thereby sanitizing the surface of the glove. The extremity inserted is preferably exposed for a predetermined period of time to ensure a desired level of sanitization. Optionally, the device can include an orientation detector to determine the position of the user's hand and the spread of the user's fingers, and a surface detector to determine whether the user's hand is covered by a glove.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2008Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: Germgard Lighting, LLCInventor: Eugene I. Gordon
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Publication number: 20120070338Abstract: An apparatus for emitting a controlled electric field upon a microbe-containing surface, and method of use thereof. The apparatus includes a control board and an electric field emitting component. The control board is configured to transmit an electric current to the emitting component, causing an electric field to be emitted therefrom. The electric field is of sufficient strength such that, when the emitting component of the apparatus is positioned proximate the microbe-containing surface, the electric field causes irreversible permeabilization of the cell membrane of microbes on the microbe-containing surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2011Publication date: March 22, 2012Inventors: Todd R. Schaeffer, Thomas R. Denison
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Publication number: 20120063949Abstract: A method of sterilisation, decontamination and/or sanitation of an enclosed environment, the method comprising the steps of measuring the temperature of an enclosed environment to be treated; calculating the relative humidity required to provide a desired partial pressure at the measured temperature, the actual desired partial pressure required being based on a predetermined optimum partial pressure at a base temperature corresponding to an optimum operating temperature for that environment; introducing a predetermined quantity of water to the environment to provide the calculated relative humidity for the measured temperature; discharging ozone into the humidified environment; maintaining the ozone level at a concentration that will achieve the required degree of decontamination, sterilisation and/or sanitation of the humid environment; and reducing the ozone level to an acceptable safe exposure level.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2010Publication date: March 15, 2012Applicant: STERITROX LIMITEDInventor: James Robert Jennings
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Patent number: 8133435Abstract: A sterile device immersed in a sterile buffer and a method for providing same. The sterile device may be a medical device such as a biosensor having a biomolecule as a sensing element such as, for example, a glucose oxidase enzyme. The buffer may be a bicarbonate solution. Both the device and the buffer may be packaged and stored over long term while maintaining sterilization. The sterilization method may comprise a combination of gaseous, liquid and light sterilization.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2004Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Medtronic MiniMed, Inc.Inventors: Jennifer M. Reynolds, Aaron Swanson, Rajiv Shah
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Patent number: 8133436Abstract: 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 in order 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: GrantFiled: August 5, 2008Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.Inventors: Shulin He, Shi-Shen Yau, Aiguo Wang, Daniel E. Lawrynowicz
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Patent number: 8129468Abstract: The disclosure is directed to a sterilized medical device including a non-polymerized blend including a silicone matrix material and a radiation resistant component.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2011Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics CorporationInventor: Mark W. Simon
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Patent number: 8128869Abstract: An air sanitization system including a reactive oxygen species generator, a variable speed fan, a pathogen sensor and a controller. The reactive oxygen species generator generates reactive oxygen species from an oxygen-containing gas and discharges the reactive oxygen species to a conditioned space. The variable speed fan directs the oxygen-containing gas to the reactive oxygen species generator at a controlled speed. The pathogen sensor senses a level of airborne pathogens in the conditioned space and generates a signal indicative of the level of pathogens sensed. The controller receives the signal from the pathogen sensor and varies the speed of the variable speed fan in response to the signal to decrease a speed of the variable speed fan in response to an increase in the level of airborne pathogens sensed by the pathogen sensor.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2009Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Hussmann CorporationInventor: Ted Wayne Sunderland
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Patent number: 8129440Abstract: An antioxidant combined with UHMWPE prior to subjecting the UHMWPE to crosslinking irradiation. In one exemplary embodiment, the antioxidant is tocopherol. After the antioxidant is combined with the UHMWPE, the resulting blend may be formed into slabs, bar stock, and/or incorporated into a substrate, such as a metal, for example. The resulting product may then be subjected to crosslinking irradiation. In one exemplary embodiment, the UHMWPE blend is preheated prior to subjecting the same to crosslinking irradiation. Once irradiated, the UHMWPE blended product may be machined, packaged, and sterilized in accordance with conventional techniques.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2009Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Zimmer, Inc.Inventors: Alicia Rufner, John Knight, Toni Rowe, Dirk Pletcher, Ray Gsell, Werner Schneider, Hallie E. Brinkerhuff
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Patent number: 8124013Abstract: A plasma generating system and a method of generating a plasma on a surface is provided. A surface-wave medium is laminated to a surface for propagating electromagnetic surface waves. The surface-wave medium includes a dielectric and a metallic pattern on the dielectric for increasing an inductive reactance of the surface-wave medium. The plasma generating surface further includes a microwave power source. A coupler couples the microwave power source to the surface-wave medium. A plurality of field enhancement points are located on the surface-wave medium. The plurality of field enhancement points include microwave resonant structures that couple to the electromagnetic surface waves.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2008Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: HRL Laboratories, LLCInventors: Daniel J. Gregoire, Kevin W. Kirby
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Publication number: 20120045362Abstract: Methods are disclosed for chemically stabilizing a polymer stent after sterilization. The stent is exposed to a temperature above ambient for a period of time after radiation sterilization. The exposure reduces the concentration of free radicals generated by the radiation.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2010Publication date: February 23, 2012Inventors: Lothar W. Kleiner, Fuh-Wei Tang
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Publication number: 20120045431Abstract: The present invention provides a method for sterilizing a protein-containing bioerodible implant. The sterilization is accomplished using ?-radiation, or high energy electrons. Following sterilization the implant can be used in a variety of methods for the sustained release of a therapeutic protein to treat a disease or condition in a human or non-human subject. The sterilization process is compatible with proteins containing one or more disulfide bonds or easily oxidized methionine residues.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2011Publication date: February 23, 2012Inventors: Robert T. Lyons, John T. Trogden
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Publication number: 20120039747Abstract: The invention relates to a treating device (1) for treating a body part of a patient with a non-thermal plasma, particularly for sterilizing a hand of a human being, said treating device (1) comprising a housing (2) for temporarily receiving the body part within the housing (2) during the treatment and for applying the plasma to the body part within the housing (2), and an inlet opening (3) being arranged in the housing (2) for introducing the body part through the inlet opening (3) into the housing (2).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2009Publication date: February 16, 2012Applicant: Max-Planck-Gesellschaft Zur Forderung der Wissenschaften e.V.Inventors: Gregor Morfill, Bernd Steffes, Tetsuji Shimizu
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Patent number: 8114358Abstract: An apparatus and method for sanitizing, decontaminating, deodorizing, conditioning, drying, treating, cleaning, modifying and/or otherwise improving an atmosphere within a container. The container can be a bag or other housing for equipment, food and/or suitable material. Ozone is generated within an atmosphere that is exposed to the materials. The generated ozone is mixed with the atmosphere. At least a portion of the generated ozone is then removed from the mixed atmosphere. The apparatus and method of this invention 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: GrantFiled: November 21, 2007Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Primaira, LLCInventors: Karen Benedek, Philip C. Carbone
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Patent number: 8114346Abstract: Solutions for limiting the undesirable spread of pathogens by indirect contact are provided. The solutions involve event-controlled self-sterilization of contact regions on articles or fixtures. A self-sterilizing article structure, in response to a contact event, allows sterilizing UV energy to controllably flow from a UV generator within the article to a portion of the contact region.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2008Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr., Victoria Y. H. Wood
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Patent number: 8114297Abstract: A system and method for the treatment of soot containing an insoluble metal. The soot is formed into a soot slurry and a characteristic of the soot slurry is maintained to solubilize at least a portion of the metal to act as a catalyst. The soot slurry with the soluble metal is wet oxidized.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2006Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.Inventors: Chad L. Felch, Bruce Brandenburg, Philip Rettger, Bryan Kumfer, Curtis Cooley, Timothy Schleusner, Mark Clark
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Patent number: RE43332Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for disinfecting and purifying liquids and gasses comprising; a) passing said liquids or gasses through a reactor or a combination of reactors, having a truncated compounded concentrator geometry; and b) simultaneously delivering and concentrating diversified electromagnetic and acoustic energies into a specific predetermined inner space of said compounded concentrator reactor, forming a high energy density zone in said reactor or reactors over a predetermined period of time. The reactor according to the present invention is preferably a compounded parabolic concentrator or a compounded ellipsoidal concentrator. The electromagnetic energy delivered and concentrated into and inside the reactor can be of any range of the electromagnetic spectrum, such as ultra-violet, visible, infra-red, microwave etc., or combination thereof. The acoustic energy is of any suitable frequency.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2000Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Atlantium Technologies Ltd.Inventors: Zamir Tribelsky, Michael Ende