Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for the disinfection of irrigation water. Irrigation water is exposed to ozone, which disinfects and flocculates the water for improved removal of bacterial contamination. One or more ozone generators produce ozone gas that is injected into the flow of irrigation water at one or more points in an irrigation water treatment system. The ozone may be hyper concentrated, and the mixing of ozone and water may be optimized so that the maximum amount of water is exposed to a concentration of ozone that is high enough to disinfect the water over the period of contact. Ozonated water is then delivered to farm fields. No harmful residues remain in the water or soil after treatment.

Abstract: Disclosed is a composition of matter comprising a defined dispersion of lactoferria immobilized on a naturally occuring substrate via the N-terminus region of the lactoferrin. Compositions comprising immobilized lactoferrin (Im-LF) are used in a method for reducing the microbial contamination of a composition subject to microbial contamination, which is also disclosed, and which encompasses a method for reducing the microbial contamination of a foodstuff, such as a meat product. Foodstuffs treated by the method are disclosed, including meat products. A method of inhibiting the growth and/or adhesion of a microbial species on a food-contacting surface f a material for food packaging or food handling with Im-LF is also disclosed. Food containers and food-handling implements so treated are also disclosed, as are antimicrobial cleansers, polishes, paints, sprays, soaps, or detergents containing Im-LF for applying to an inanimate surface.

Abstract: Microbiological control in aqueous media and/or eradication or reduction of biofilm on a surface in contact with such media is achieved by introducing into the aqueous medium a microbiocidally effective quantity of one or more 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dialkylhydantoins where one of the alkyls is methyl and the other is a C1-4 alkyl, wherein (i) the molar quantity of 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dialkylhydantoin introduced is less than the molar quantity of N,N?-bromochloro-5,5-dimethylhydantoin that would be required to effect the same degree of microbiological control in that medium, (ii) the molar quantity of the 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dialkylhydantoin introduced releases an amount of “free chlorine” that is greater than the amount of “free chlorine” that would be released in that medium by an equimolar quantity of N,N?-bromochloro-5,5-dimethylhydantoin, and (iii) the amount of “free chlorine” released by the quantity of the 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dialkylhydantoin introduced is greater than the amount of “free chlorine” that could be predicte

Abstract: Contemplated compositions and methods include a catechin at a concentration effective to inactivate SARS at least by a factor of 2 log 10 units when the formulation is applied to a surface. Preferably, the catechins are provided as a complex mixture, and most preferably as a near-native catechin preparation from green tea.

Abstract: Controlled sanitizing by dispensing a germicide, such as a disinfectant, antibacterial solution or cleansing agent at intervals. A method of replacing an aerosol canister from a sanitizer mounted proximate to a door handle on a door is disclosed. The method includes pivoting a cover of the sanitizer in a first direction to expose the aerosol canister while a remainder of the sanitizer housing remains stationary relative to the door; moving a guide wheel to a loading position; removing the aerosol canister and a valve coupled thereto from a seat within the sanitizer housing; positioning a replacement aerosol canister in the seat so that a valve thereof is oriented toward the door handle; moving the guide wheel to an operative position in which it seats in rotatable proximity to the valve; and closing the cover by pivoting the cover in a second direction. The method ensures that a suitable aerosol can has been properly loaded in the dispenser.

Abstract: A small, lightweight sanitizing device that is adapted for attachment to a stethoscope. When the stethoscope is not being used the device covers the diaphragm and bell portions of the stethoscope with sanitizing pads that kill germs and prevent the spread of disease between patients that are examined with the stethoscope. When the health care provider needs to use the stethoscope, the device can be slid up a length of the stethoscope to a desired location so that the diaphragm is exposed for use. The device is advantageously produced with a narrow top that frictionally engages with the tube of the stethoscope so that the sanitizing device stays at the desired location until the user pulls the device back down over the diaphragm. The present sanitizing device can be used with both adult and pediatric stethoscopes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions for controlling plant pests containing the compound of the formula (I) in a mixture with specified fungicidally active compounds.

Abstract: When microbial contamination is introduced into a room (20*) of an enclosure, such as a building, an HVAC system including supply ductwork (16) and a return ductwork (34) is decontaminated with hydrogen peroxide vapor. A decontamination controller (46) operates controllable baffles (22) at outlet registers (20), temporary controllable baffles (44) at inlet registers (30), and a blower system (10) to circulate hydrogen peroxide vapor from hydrogen peroxide vapor generators (42) through the ductwork in both forward and reverse directions. Further, at least portions of the baffles are closed to create dwell times in which the hydrogen peroxide vapor resides in the ductwork with minimal or turbulent flow.

Abstract: A cartridge holder (30) for an automated endoscope reprocessor (10) is mounted on a movable rack (14). As the rack is wheeled into the chamber, a connector (164) on the cartridge holder (164) automatically makes a fluid connection with a connection port (158) within the chamber. The cartridge holder includes a base (42) and a lid (44), which is pivotally connected to the base by a hinge (110). A cartridge (40) holding a dose of a disinfectant concentrate or reagents is positioned in a well (50) defined by the base and the lid closed. Water flows through the cartridge holder via a fluid passageway (A) defined in part by the lid and in part by the hinge. The water mixes with the concentrate or reagents and the resulting disinfectant solution passes out of a lower end (205) of the cartridge into the well. The solution flows upwardly, around the cartridge, through an annular space (232) between the cartridge and the well, disinfecting the well in the process.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of Cu and the derivatives thereof, for the decontamination of prions, especially for decontaminating medical devices or medical surgical devices at risk, for decontaminating work surfaces, and for decontaminating any potentially infectious compound.

Abstract: A method of destroying target microorganisms comprises the step of contacting at least one target microorganism with at least one low molecular weight silanol end group containing molecule. The silanol containing molecule is selected from silanols (R1R2R3SiOH), siloxanediols HO(R1R2SiO)nH or siloxanols HO(R1R2SiO)nSiR1R2R3, where R1, R2 and R3 are selected from 1 to 4 carbon alkyl or fluoroalkyl moieties, or vinyl, or aryl groups and n is <6 . The silanol end group containing molecule can be triethylsilanol, diphenylmethylsilanol, t-butyldimethylsilanol, n-butyldimethylsilanol, n-propyldimethylsilanol, ethyldimethylsilanol, vinylphenylmethylsilanol, phenyldimethylsilanol, 3,3,3 trifluoro propyldimethylsilanol, benzyldimethylsilanol and phenethyldimethylsilanol, or mixtures thereof. A composition of matter includes a silanol end group containing molecule according to the invention blended with a polymer or dissolved in aqueous solution along with an ether-based cosolvent.

Abstract: A method for treating a gas characterized in that a low temperature plasma is generated in the presence of a metallic oxide oxidation catalyst, and an apparatus for treating a gas characterized by containing a low temperature plasma-generating unit carrying a metallic oxide oxidation catalyst are disclosed. According to the treating method and the treating apparatus, harmful components (such as carbon monoxide or a volatile organic compound) in a gas to be treated can be efficiently oxidized and rendered harmless, a foul odor may be rendered odorless, and further, microorganisms may be removed from and reduced in the treated gas.

Abstract: A method for inhibiting growth of microbes in a liquid having a pH equal to or greater than about 2.5 by using a filter bed assembly or filter for filtering the liquid having a metal-ion sequestering agent for removing designated metal ion from the liquid. The liquid is passed through the filter bed or filter for a sufficient time so as to substantially reduce the designated metal ion from the liquid.

Abstract: The present invention relates to antimicrobial compositions including carboxylic acids, such as fatty acid antimicrobial agents, and alkoxylated amines, and to methods using these compositions.

Abstract: A biocompatible material may be configured into any number of implantable medical devices including intraluminal stents. Polymeric materials may be utilized to fabricate any of these devices, including stents. The stents may be balloon expandable or self-expanding. The polymeric materials may include additives such as drugs or other bioactive agents as well as radiopaque agents. By preferential mechanical deformation of the polymer, the polymer chains may be oriented to achieve certain desirable performance characteristics.

Abstract: An improved method of altering a fluid-borne contaminant includes the steps of: providing a positive-displacement pump (21) having an inlet (22) and an outlet (23); connecting the pump inlet to a source (24) of contaminated fluid; operating the pump at a pressure ratio sufficient to elevate the pressure and temperature of the fluid and contaminants passing through the pump to alter or convert substantially all of the contaminants passing through the pump.

Abstract: This invention relates to a composition of matter comprising associated predominantly silver nanoparticles, and a method of making the nanoparticles. It further relates to articles comprising the nanoparticles.

Abstract: A method of making a disinfecting solution that is effective at disinfecting contact lenses. The method includes the step of combining water, one or more antimicrobial agents and a reduced amount of solid content into a dissolved liquid mixture. The process results in an improved disinfection efficacy compared to a reference solution.

Abstract: A method of sterilizing a site or contained volume includes providing an aqueous biocide solution containing a biocide agent such as hydrogen peroxide. A mist of reactive biocide droplets is generated by atomization at ambient pressure from the biocide solution and a flow of carrier medium or air is provided in communication with the mist. The flow of carrier medium is controlled to generate a biocide mist comprising a concentration of stable mist droplets within the carrier medium. By controlling aersolization, extraction and delivery of the stable mist droplets, a sufficient portion of the stable mist droplets for a sterilizing treatment of a designated site do not coalesce prior to treatment interaction with the treatment site. The process of formation, stabilization and extraction are done in-situ so that droplets do not coalesce during transport.

Abstract: A method for treating an article which involves exposing an article within a space to a concentration of chlorine dioxide gas that exceeds the IDLH, STEL or TLV, then reducing the concentration of chlorine dioxide gas within the space to a positive quantity below the IDLH, STEL or TVL. Thereafter, additional chlorine dioxide gas is introduced into the space, but the concentration within the space remains below the IDLH, STEL or TVL.

Abstract: Methods of detaching microorganisms (e.g., bacteria) from, or of inhibiting microbial (e.g., bacterial) attachment to, animal or poultry carcasses or seafood or parts thereof, wherein the method involves contacting animal or poultry carcasses or seafood or parts thereof at least once with at least one of the following: (i) a polysulfated polysaccharide, (ii) carboxymethyl cellulose, or (iii) guanidine or arginine, optionally together with sodium chloride and at least one non-ionic surfactant, or (iv) mixtures thereof, in an amount effective to detach microorganisms (e.g., bacteria) from, or inhibit microbial (e.g., bacterial) attachment to, animal or poultry carcasses or seafood or parts thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a hydrophilic antimicrobial coating composition for an air conditioner evaporator of a vehicle with improved durability. In one embodiment of the present invention, the antimicrobial composition comprises a hydrophilic organic polymer with molecular weight in the range of about 4,000 to 8,000, a smoothing agent, an antimicrobial agent, and deionized water. In particular, the degree of polymerization between the hydrophilic functional group and a crosslinking group of the hydrophilic organic polymer is greatly improved. The antimicrobial composition is prepared with particles with a diameter of a few nanometers, which increases the number of particles per unit area and reduces the decomposition rate of the coated layer.

Abstract: Controlled sanitizing by dispensing a germicide, such as a disinfectant, antibacterial solution or cleansing agent at intervals. A system can include a housing sized to seat an aerosol can and a control circuit that operates to momentarily open a valve on the aerosol can through action of a gear system upon an aerosol delivery tube. A sensor responds to displacement of the delivery tube to deliver state signals to the control circuit. The control circuit prevents action of the gear system in the event that the state signals fail at least one prescribed condition. A method registers at least the displacement of the delivery tube via the sensor and prevents subsequent displacements and hence subsequent sanitizing in the event that the sensor has not registered at least the displacement of the delivery tube. The method ensures that a suitable aerosol can has been properly loaded in the dispenser.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for disinfecting a cryostat is provided. The cryostat disinfecting device comprises an ultraviolet emitter, a pulsed power control system, a mirrored cover and a safety shield. The device is lowered into a cryostat chamber and produces high intensity pulsed UV energy, disinfecting the cryostat chamber. After disinfection, the device is removed from the cryostat for storage or use on another cryostat. This provides mobility and access for disinfecting cryostats under continuous daily use conditions, and reduces the exposure risk of biological and chemical hazards to the operator.

Abstract: The invention describes a device and a method for cleaning an oscillatable membrane (3) of a membrane aerosol generator (4) of an inhalation therapy device, in which a cleaning liquid is supplied to the membrane (3) on the aerosol side, and the membrane (3) is caused to oscillate in such a manner that the cleaning liquid is conveyed through the openings of the membrane (3) to the liquid side of said membrane.

Abstract: A method of microbially deactivating items and storing the same, comprising the steps of: a) placing items within a cavity in a sealable container having fluid access ports therein, the fluid access ports having a normally closed position and being moveable to an open position; b) placing the container having items to be microbially deactivated in the cavity into a reprocessor having a circulation system for circulating a microbial deactivation fluid during a deactivation cycle, wherein the fluid access ports in the container are moved to the open position to be in fluid communication with the circulation systems by contact with the reprocessor; c) circulating the microbial deactivation fluid through the cavity of the container; and d) removing the container from the reprocessor following a deactivation cycle, wherein removal of the container from the reprocessor causes the fluid access ports to assume the normally closed position.

Abstract: An aqueous ophthalmic composition comprising a branched, glycerol monoalkyl compound and a fatty acid monoester. The fatty acid monoester comprises an aliphatic fatty acid portion having six to fourteen carbon atoms and an aliphatic hydroxyl portion. The composition will also have an osmolality in a range from 200 mOsmol/kg to 400 mOsmol/kg. The invention is also directed to a method of inhibiting the formation of foam in an aqueous ophthalmic composition that includes a surfactant as well as to a method of enhancing the biocidal efficacy of an aqueous ophthalmic composition containing a fatty acid monoester.

Abstract: The invention concerns a peroxosilicated, optionally phosphatized, disinfecting compound with scale preventive effect obtained by reacting an alkaline or alkaline-earth metasilicate with an active oxygen-releasing compound, for example potassium monopersulphate and/or oxygen peroxide, in inert medium. The compound can be stabilized with sodium hexametaphosphate. Copper and aluminium in salt form can be encapsulated or complexed with the metasilicate so that the resulting peroxosilicated compound can be used for its disinfecting, scale preventive, anticorrosive, flocculating and algicidal properties for more than three weeks.

Abstract: An improved combination air sanitizer, soft surface sanitizer, soft surface deodorizer and hard surface disinfectant is disclosed. The preferred active ingredient for the air sanitization and soft surface odor treatment functions is triethylene glycol (TEG). The preferred active ingredient for soft surface sanitization and hard surface disinfection functions is a mixture of various alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium saccharinates. The formulation may be provided in an aerosol spray form and is useful for sanitizing and removing bacteria and malodorant molecules from the air as well as disinfecting hard surfaces. A unique combination of corrosion inhibitors is disclosed for convention steel or tin-plated steel cans. A single produce can be used as an air sanitizer/air freshener, a soft surface sanitizer, a soft-surface odor remover/reducer and, a hard surface disinfectant.

Abstract: A method of sorting mail according to the invention includes the steps of receiving a plurality of first mail pieces of unknown origin in a first apparatus for bulk processing of the mail pieces, processing the mail pieces in the first apparatus by one of testing the mail pieces to determine if a potentially dangerous microorganism is present, sterilizing the mail pieces to destroy microorganisms on mail pieces, or both, and then if no contamination is detected or if sterilization is carried out, combining first the mail pieces at a later stage of postal processing with second mail pieces from senders identified as having a lesser risk of contamination than the first mail pieces of unknown origin. The invention further provides mail contaminant detection and sterilization systems suitable for use in such a method.

Abstract: A system provides for high level disinfection or sterilization of an endoscope having a first portion adapted for immersion and a second portion not adapted for immersion. The system includes a container having a first basin sized and adapted to receive the first portion of the endoscope for immersion, a separate and adjacent second basin sized and adapted to receive the second portion of the endoscope, a wall between the first basing and the second basin, and a trough in an upper portion of the wall between the first basin and second basin through which a tube connecting the first portion of the endoscope and the second portion of the endoscope may extend.

Abstract: A method of decontaminating articles, comprising the steps of: (a) moving a plurality of articles having a known temperature along a first path; (b) conveying a carrier gas along a second path that includes an elongated plenum, the second path intersecting the first path downstream from the plenum; (c) heating the carrier gas to a temperature of at least about 105° C. at a location upstream of the plenum; (d) introducing into the carrier gas in the plenum an atomized mist of a liquid hydrogen peroxide of known concentration; and (e) controlling the following: (1) the volumetric flow of carrier gas along the second path; (2) the volume of hydrogen peroxide introduced into the carrier gas; and (3) the temperature of the carrier gas introduced into the plenum, such that the concentration of the vaporized hydrogen peroxide in the carrier gas where the first path intersects the second path has a dew point temperature below the known temperature of the articles.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for sterilizing a lumen device. A lumen and a container having an interface on a wall of the container are enclosed in a chamber. The lumen is placed across the interface so that one end of the lumen is in the container and the other end is in the chamber. Germicide is introduced into the chamber, and a pressure difference is created between the two ends of the lumen, so that the germicide flows through the lumen. The lumen may alternatively be placed across an interface which separates the chamber into two areas. Germicide is introduced into the chamber, and a pressure difference is created between the two areas of the chamber, causing the germicide to flow through the lumen.

Abstract: A method to mount handling equipment on an interface of a confinement chamber that is to contain a sterile environment. In the method a unit including the handling equipment is prepared and sterilized, and the chamber and a hidden part of the interface are sterilized after coupling impervious tooling to a chamber flange and partially opening the chamber door. The unit is then coupled to the interface. Finally, the double door formed by the equipment door and the chamber door connected to one another is opened, using a handle provided for this purpose on the equipment door.

Abstract: The invention is of a stethoscope cleansing unit and of the use of the stethoscope cleansing unit as a novel business method for promoting a marketer's logo and advertisement to medical personnel and patients in the examining room or hospital. The system attaches such advertisements to a useful and conveniently used stethoscope cleansing unit that will be used by medical personnel to sterilize stethoscope diaphragms between patient assessments, thereby preventing the spread of infectious diseases. This apparatus can be utilized in a novel business method as a way for marketers to distinguish their product from the myriad of others by 1) attracting the attention of busy medical personnel during patient examinations, which is the exact time that medical product marketers would benefit most from such attention; and by 2) attracting the attention of the patient through its presence in the examining room at a time when the patient is typically waiting for attention and has time to notice such advertisements.

Abstract: This invention is directed to an aqueous composition and methods for clean lipid deposits on contact lenses. In particular, a combination of non-ionic surfactants, branched and/or straight poly(ethylene oxide-propylene oxide) (PEO-PPO) block copolymers having HLB value greater than or equal to 18, with an additional straight poly(ethylene oxide-propylene oxide) (PEO-PPO) block copolymers having HLB value less than or equal to 15, has been found to improve the lipid cleaning properties of an aqueous composition for contact lenses and prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria, yeast and molds without adversely affecting the comfort or safety in terms of the level of toxicity to eye tissue.

Abstract: Metal oxide area decontamination apparatus (10) is provided which is designed for rapid, emergency situation decontamination of areas contaminated with potentially harmful or lethal chemical and/or biological warfare agents or other hazardous substances. The apparatus (10) preferably includes a pressurizable metallic container (12) equipped with a valve-type delivery nozzle assembly (16), so that upon a manipulation of the assembly (16), a spray of metal oxide and/or metal hydroxide particles is generated; the particles are selected and sized in order to destroy or chemisorb the contaminating agents. The preferred decontamination agent is MgO aggregated to an average aggregate size of from about 50 nm-10 microns. The particles are mixed with a gaseous or liquid propellant within the container (12) allowing rapid and thorough particle cleanout when the nozzle assembly (16) is actuated.

Abstract: A method of treating an instrument after contamination of a surface thereof includes the steps of covering the surface with a foam and maintaining the foam on the surface to keep the surface moist prior to cleaning the instrument to prevent foreign matter thereon from becoming dried on and more difficult to remove during cleaning. The foam includes hydrogen peroxide, dissolves blood and provides antimicrobial effect.

Abstract: A method of treating an instrument after contamination of a surface thereof includes the steps of covering the surface with a foam and maintaining the foam on the surface to keep the surface moist prior to cleaning the instrument to prevent foreign matter thereon from becoming dried on and more difficult to remove during cleaning. The foam includes hydrogen peroxide, dissolves blood and provides antimicrobial effect.

Abstract: A method of treating an instrument after contamination of one of its surfaces includes the steps of placing the instrument into a container, covering the surface with a foam, maintaining the foam on the surface to keep the surface moist, after the foam has reduced in volume, reconstituting the foam. The foam keeps the instrument moist so that a subsequent cleaning will not be made more difficult by the contamination drying onto the surface.

Abstract: Methods of reducing smoke levels in smoke-affected areas, reducing the level of toxic compounds produced by fires, fire suppression, and increasing flame retardancy. In particular, methods according to the present invention comprise dispersing nanocrystalline particles in the areas affected by smoke for sorption of smoke particulates and toxic compounds produced from a fire. The nanocrystalline particles are also effective for use in methods of fire suppression and flame retardancy.

Abstract: In order to check endoscope channels, a predetermined quantity of liquid is led, at a predetermined pressure, through the channel that is to be checked, and the period of time for this is measured and evaluated. The predetermined quantity of liquid is determined via the volume of a liquid container whose outlet is capable of being connected to the channel that is to be checked. A compressed air source subjects the liquid in the container to a predetermined pressure. A sensor registers whether the liquid level in the container has dropped below a predefined value. A control unit measures the period of time within which the predetermined volume of liquid has flowed through the channel that is to be checked.

Abstract: A device for sanitizing a space includes a tank having an interior space for holding an aqueous sanitizing liquid, the tank having a bottom sector, a front sector having a rear wall, and a rear sector having a front wall, the rear sector front wall and the front sector rear wall forming a substantially “V”-shaped air pathway within the interior space. A reactor vessel is positioned within the bottom sector of the tank, a top edge of the reactor vessel in spaced relation from a notch in the “V”-shaped air pathway. A vibratable ultrasonic head array is positionable within and beneath a top edge of the reactor vessel and is submergable within the reactor vessel for vibrating the disc to form an atomized fog of particles from the liquid. Air can be drawn into the air inlet, and the formed atomized fog can be exhausted from the exhaust outlet.

Abstract: A biological fluid disposal system having a water flow line, a biological fluid line in fluid communication with the water flow line, a disinfectant line in fluid communication with the water flow line and the biological fluid line, and a venturi connected to one of the lines for creating a suction force so as to draw a biological fluid and a disinfectant in mixed relationship through the water flow line. The venturi includes a source of water pressure connected to the water flow line such that the water flow across an opening of either the biological fluid line and disinfectant line creates the suction force. The disinfectant line is connected to the biological fluid line between the water flow line and source of biological fluid.

Abstract: It is intended to provide a method of selecting a contact lens suitable for a wearer and/or a care system therefor, by which the occurrence of problems (for example, worsening in the feel during wearing, lowering in the oxygen permeability of the lens, shortening in the lens life, lowering in the visual acuity, corneal injury, etc.) can be minimized to thereby ensure a high safety for the eye, namely, a method which comprises collecting the lacrimal fluid of a wearer, detecting the protein content and/or the lipid content in the lacrimal fluid thus obtained (Step S5), estimating the dirt adhesion characteristics of the wearer to a contact lens based on the protein content and/or lipid content thus detected, and then selecting a contact lens suitable for the wearer and/or a care system therefor from among a plurality of contact lenses and a plurality of care systems (Step S6).

Abstract: A device for treating liquid medium has an ultrasound emitter located relative to a compartment of a container holding a liquid medium and a microbubble emitter located relative to the compartment. The ultrasound emitter emits high-frequency ultrasound between about 200 KHz and 10 MHz. The microbubble emitter emits bubbles with an average diameter of less than 1 mm.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for generating a homogeneous aqueous mist solution containing a solvent such as water and a biocide agent such as chlorine dioxide, which would otherwise be unstable. The unstable biocide agent or chlorine dioxide is quickly dissolved or mixed with a mist of solvent causing the biocide agent to co-exist or co-mist therewith. The mist microencapsulates the biocide gas so that it does not decompose in the fumigation volume or space. The resulting homogenous mist solution provides a mist for delivering the biocide agent in a chemically stable form. Methods for mixing the separately generated mist and biocide gas include combining the mists in a Y-tube and then mixing the combination in a baffled mixing chamber, combining the mists in an area above their points of generation and then further mixing, and providing a series of mist generation units connected by a conduit for a carrier medium to pass to and connect the units and cause the mists to combine.

Abstract: A dendrimer complex comprising a dendrimer and an antimicrobial agent with the dendrimer complex placeable directly into a fluid to inhibit growth of microbes or rid the fluid of microbes. In a further embodiment of the invention the dendrimer complex is secured to a carrier, which is placed in a body of fluid and allowed to dispense the antimicrobial agent into the fluid. Once the antimicrobial agent is dispensed, the dendrimer complex can be removed and recycled to add functional groups to the dendrimer so that the dendrimer can be reused.

Abstract: A method of sanitizing a drain having a drain conduit with a drain trap therein and an improved floor drain for use in the method of sanitizing. The method comprises the steps of (a) temporarily blocking the drain conduit at a position downstream of the trap and (b) at least partially back-filling the drain upstream of the blocked position with a sanitizing fluid.

Abstract: Apparatus transports rod(s) of ice of flaked or chipped ice through a tube to a remote ice bin, in which the ice is broken into nuggets. A method of cleaning the transport tube is also provided in which ice pushes a dry conformable article and a wet conformable articles carrying sanitizing solution through the tube, with the conformable articles preferably being sponges, and with the wet article sanitizing algae, bacteria, etc. during movement through the tube, and with the dry conformable article scraping debris from wall(s) of the tube during transport.