Abstract: A system, method and apparatus are provided for administering medical liquids to a patient. The invention is particularly apt for use in the intravenous administration of multiple doses of a flush solution over an extended period of therapy. In certain aspects of the invention methods and apparatus are directed to the provision and utilization of a packaged syringe filled with a medical liquid and having a tubing length interconnected thereto, wherein the volume of pre-filled medical liquid is sufficient to allow for multiple administrations to a given patient. By way of primary example, where the syringe is pre-filled with a flush solution, a volume of at least about 40 ml. is preferred. In other aspects, methods and apparatus are directed to the administration of medical liquids from a pre-filled syringe utilizing an apparatus that is particularly adapted for administering a medical liquid in successive increments over a plurality of separated time intervals.

Abstract: A method of disinfecting a contact lens including the steps of: preparing a disinfecting liquid which contains at least one suitably selected metal phthalocyanine compound and hydrogen peroxide, the at least one metal phthalocyanine compound being dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous medium; immersing the contact lens in the disinfecting liquid; and irradiating, with a light, the disinfecting liquid in which the contact lens is immersed.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for automatically washing, disinfecting and/or sterilizing health care equipment and/or cooking and catering utensils. The method includes the steps of placing the equipment to be washed in an enclosure; introducing a first electrochemically activated aqueous solution into the enclosure; and either sequentially or simultaneously introducing a second electrochemically activated aqueous solution into the enclosure. The first solution is characterised therein that it has dispersing or surfactant characteristics for at least partially dispersing a biofilm, pathogenic microorganisms, contamination or the like. The second solution is characterised therein that it has biocidal characteristics for killing microorganisms and disinfecting and/or sterilizing the equipment. The invention also extends to an apparatus for use in the above method.

Abstract: A chemical vapor sterilization process is enhanced by concentrating a germicide via condensation and re-vaporization thereof, exploiting the difference between the vapor pressures of the germicide and its solvent to extract some of the solvent during the condensation process. A heat pump coupled with the condensation surface enhances the speed and efficiency of condensing and revaporizing the germicide.

Abstract: A sterilization container for sterilizing, storing and transporting instruments is formed of a liquid crystal polymer, such as a wholly aromatic polyester. The container is strong yet has thin walls so that condensation is minimized. Suitable polymers include wholly aromatic polyesters such as: polybenzoate-naphthalate; polybenzoate-terephthalate-bisphenol-isophthalate; polybenzoate-terephthalate-ethylene glycol; and polynaphthalate-amino terephthalate.

Abstract: A gel formulation is combined with a bactericidal concentrate which is a liquid mixture of about 1000 parts by volume of ultra pure water having an electrical resistance of 16-26 megohms, total dissolved solids of less than 0.04 parts per million and a specific conductance of less than 0.10 mho with about 1.2 to 3 parts by volume of Willard Water as prepared in accordance with U.S. Pat. No. 3,893,943. The bactericidal liquid concentrate in the amount of 3.5 to 12 ml in one liter of gel formulation is applied directly to a skin surface area having a burn or other dermal lesion to protect the area from bacterial contamination.

Abstract: A method of deactivating chemical contaminants and biological agents from a target surface by aerosol spraying the target surface with a electrostatically charged, photosensitizer solution, and then illuminating the surface with ultraviolet light.

Abstract: A system and process is provided for removing or treating harmful biologic and organic substances within an enclosure, such as a container, building or vehicle. Air within the enclosure is heated to a predetermined temperature to kill organisms and cause harmful substances in the structure to migrate into the ambient air. Boric acid in combination with the heat may be used to kill mold and similar undesirable organisms. Temperature and pressure levels are monitored. The heated air carrying the harmful substances is passed through a filter to remove the harmful substances, and the heated air is re-circulated to enhance efficiency. The system effectively kills insects, molds, viruses and bacteria and reduces the levels of allergens and volatile organic compounds in the structure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for disinfecting and/or sterilizing the hydraulic circuit within a dental unit by using active solutions.

Abstract: A sterile packaging is provided. The sterile packaging includes one or several containers packaged in a gas-permeable and microbiologically impervious manner for sterilizing by means of plasma.

Abstract: A single or multiple source decontamination device for containment with a simple mailbox individual receptacle or a larger office environment receptacle. Sources such as a gaseous release, ultraviolet, infrared, microwave, ultrasonic, deionization, etc. are employed to decontaminate delivered packages within the receptacle. The device offers protection against packages potentially contaminated with bacterial or viral microorganism, anthrax being one example.

Abstract: The invention provides a sterilization process which is not carried out in a vacuum, including the steps of introducing an oxidizing agent in a gaseous state into a sterilization chamber or area to be sterilized, and introducing gas plasma into the sterilization chamber or area to be sterilized. An apparatus for carrying out the process is disclosed.

Abstract: A decontaminator and methods of decontamination of objects within a chamber, or the chamber itself. The decontaminator includes a decontaminant container for storing decontaminant. The container is connected to a valve to regulate the flow of decontaminant out of the container and into a vapor box or directly into a chamber. A heater heats the decontaminant in the vapor box to form a vapor. A fan may be implemented to disburse the vapor into the chamber. A decontaminant distribution device may also be included to improve circulation of the decontaminant within the chamber. A decontamination method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus or system for de-contaminating and/or sanitizing mail in which a quantity of mail is placed into a confined chamber and the atmosphere in the chamber is evacuated to provide a sub-atmospheric pressure. The chamber is filled with an active gas that deactivates or degrades targeted bio-hazardous materials, and, after a pre-selected perio of time, the gas is evacuated from the confined chamber.

Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus for delivery of a gas, e.g., carbon dioxide and/or chlorine dioxide, and methods of its use and manufacture. The apparatus includes a sachet constructed in part with a hydrophobic material. The sachet contains one or more reactants that generate a gas in the presence of an initiating agent, e.g., water. The apparatus can also include a barrier layer and/or a rigid frame. In another embodiment, the apparatus is combined with a reservoir that can be used to deliver a gas to the reservoir and, optionally, a conduit. In another embodiment, the apparatus is incorporated into a fluid dispersion system that includes a dispersion apparatus, e.g., a humidifier.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus are disclosed to reduced or eliminate the occlusion of the device in the container during the cleaning or sterilizing process, preferably with the use of a support and a controllable opening or interface. By changing the configuration of the support, the contact pattern between the device and the support can be modified to reduce occlusion during a cleaning, disinfecting or sterilization procedure.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a system and method is provided for producing a safely disposable end product from waste matter containing undesirable materials, such as infectious, biohazardous, hazardous, or radioactive elements. The method comprises the steps of providing a highly basic solvent, immersing the waste matter containing the undesirable materials within the highly basic solvent, and heating the solvent. The waste matter containing the undesirable materials is allowed to remain within the solvent until digested, thereby forming a solution void of any infectious or biohazardous elements and/or containing a concentration of radioisotope below the maximum permissible concentration (MPC) for release to a sanitary sewer as defined in applicable federal regulations.

Abstract: The present invention involves a system and method of treating a porous material of a vehicle wherein the porous material has microorganisms. The method includes providing first and second antimicrobial solutions. The method further includes applying the first antimicrobial solution to the porous material and scrubbing the first antimicrobial solution and the porous material so that the first solution contacts the microorganisms. The method further includes applying the second antimicrobial solution heated at a predetermined temperature to the porous material after a predetermined time upon applying the first solution. The method further includes removing the first and second antimicrobial solutions and the microorganisms from the porous material.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the sterilization and disinfection of agricultural and botanical products such as botanical powders. More particularly, the present invention is directed towards the use of HBS technology whereby contaminated agricultural products are contacted, at ambient pressure, with an oxidant such as nascent oxygen or hydroxyl radicals thus resulting in the oxidization and destruction of the contaminating microorganisms.

Abstract: Containers which are ready to be filled or a package material having a plastic surface can be sterilized by hydrogen peroxide in a gaseous phase. The hydrogen peroxide is supplied to the previously heated plastic surface. The entire sterilization procedure is performed with the hydrogen peroxide in a gaseous phase.

Abstract: A method for filling a container involves supplying a barrier layer to the inside of a container and irradiating the inside with a high energy ray to form a barrier layer on the inner surface of the container and simultaneously sterilizing the inside and discharging a residual barrier material precursor gas and a by-product gas from the container before or during the filling of liquid food into the container. The method allows the formation of a continuous barrier layer covering edges, gloves, clearances and gaps inside the container. Automatic and effective discharge of a residual barrier material precursor gas and a by-product gas from the container through the filling of liquid food is allowed. The method avoids the necessity of chemical disinfectants through sterilization of the inside of a container by irradiation with a high energy ray and thereafter filling a liquid food in an aseptic state.

Abstract: The present invention discloses the use of an electrolysis cell (30,40,50-52) to provide for super chlorination of cooling tower water. Halogens naturally present in the water are concentrated by evaporation and provide the starting material for the production of oxyhalite compounds (typically to a level of superchlorination) as a biocide. The biocide is recycled thereby avoiding the cost of chemicals. The level of atmospheric polluants, and particulate matter especially, is thought to be the determining factor in biocide consumption.

Abstract: “Plug-in” fluid flow diverters are disclosed. Additionally disclosed is water purification equipment adapted to communicate with the diverters. Such equipment is especially (although not solely) useful in connection with circulating streams of water present in systems associated with swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas, as the circulating nature of the water permits more of its volume ultimately to be diverted into the equipment for purification. The diverters, furthermore, may have entrances oriented to receive fluid travelling in only one direction through a conduit and be keyed to one or more components of the equipment for purposes of identification, inventory control, or otherwise.

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.

Abstract: The present invention provides a universal decontamination formulation and method for detoxifying chemical warfare agents (CWA's) and biological warfare agents (BWA's) without producing any toxic by-products, as well as, decontaminating surfaces that have come into contact with these agents. The formulation includes a sorbent material or gel, a peroxide source, a peroxide activator, and a compound containing a mixture of KHSO5, KHSO4 and K2SO4. The formulation is self-decontaminating and once dried can easily be wiped from the surface being decontaminated. A method for decontaminating a surface exposed to chemical or biological agents is also disclosed.

Abstract: Method, composition and system for generating chlorine dioxide gas in a controlled release manner by combining at least one metal chlorite and a dry solid hydrophilic material that reacts with the metal chlorite in the presence of water vapor, but does not react with the metal chlorite in the substantial absence of liquid water or water vapor to produce chlorine dioxide gas in a sustained amount of from about 0.001 to 1,000 ppm.

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: This invention provides methods of inactivating a microorganism and preparing a vaccine including the step of applying to said microorganism a cross-linking agent simultaneously with a separate inactivant. This invention further relates to vaccines prepared by such methods and a kit including such inactivated microorganism. The cross-linking agent is typically formaldehyde (FA) and the inactivant typically binary ethyleneimine (BEI).

Abstract: A method for sanitizing a food processing environment includes preparing an ozonated foam sanitizing medium and applying the sanitizing medium to either objects in the food processing environment, such as food processing equipment, food contact surfaces, interior surfaces of the food processing facility, or the ambient environment within the food processing facility, or both the objects within the food processing facility and the ambient environment of the food processing facility. An ozonated foam sanitizing medium includes a foaming agent dissolved in an aqueous solution and an ozone concentration of at least about 0.1 ppm and is prepared by either injecting gaseous ozone or introducing an aqueous ozone solution into an aqueous solution containing a foaming agent. In a system for generating the ozonated foam medium, the gaseous ozone can be injected with a feed gas, such as oxygen, air, an inert gas, and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: The invention provides processes for treating commercial grade preservatives to remove the off-flavor and/or off-odor from the preservatives. The processes involve preparing a solution by dissolving the preservative in a suitable solvent, such as water or methanol or mixtures thereof. The preservative solution is then passed through a filter to separate and remove organic acid impurities from the preservative. The undesirable tastes and odors, principally caused by the organic acid impurities, are retained in the filter while the preservative passes through the filter. In one embodiment, the filter is a bed of anion exchange resin that reacts with and removes the organic acid impurities. In another embodiment, the filter contains a metal cation that converts the organic acid impurities into insoluble salts which remain in the filter. The solvent can be removed by evaporation after the preservative solution is passed through the filter.

Abstract: Sterilization or bacteriostasis is carried out using cellulose acetate. The cellulose acetate exhibits an excellent antibacterial property with respect to fungi such as Trichophyton, etc. and bacteria such as, for example, enteropathogenic Escherichia coli O-157 or Methicillin tolerance Staphylococcus aureus. The cellulose acetate may be mixed with resin such as, for example, polyethylene or polypropylene, and this mixture may be used to produce fibers. Then, a textile product may be manufactured using the fibers thus produced. The cellulose acetate may be dissolved in a mixed solvent of ethyl acetate, ethanol, and methyl alcohol, so that a coating material is prepared. This coating material is applied to an object to be sterilized and then is dried to form a coating film made of cellulose acetate. This coating film exhibits the antibacterial property.

Abstract: A chemical vapor sterilization process is enhanced by concentrating a germicide via exploitation of the difference between the vapor pressures of the germicide and its solvent. A diffusion restriction can be placed into the diffusion path to assist this process and the path then opened to provide rapid diffusion of the thus concentrated germicide.

Abstract: Composition and methods for improving air quality, disinfecting surfaces, and prevention of a respiratory infection. The method can decrease pathogen and/or parasitic concentrations in closed rooms and surfaces by the application of an antiseptic composition. The composition can be a pressurized or foaming solution containing a single terpene, a terpene mixture, and/or a liposome:terpene(s) combination with or without surfactant. The composition can be a true solution of an effective amount of an effective terpene and a carrier such as water. The composition can be a suspension or emulsion of terpene, surfactant, and carrier. Application can be, for example, by spraying a confined space with a solution of the present invention.

Abstract: A germ cleanable pull cord includes an inner layer coated with an outer layer. Preferably, one end of the germ cleanable pull cord is knotted and retained in a call box or the like. The outer layer must have a smooth exterior surface free from ridges, pits, projections, or other surface irregularities to prevent germs from being retained thereupon after cleaning. The outer layer must also be able to endure multiple cleanings with a germicidal or antiseptic cleaning medium.

Abstract: Composition and method for simultaneously disinfecting and conditioning a wooden cutting surface, such as a cutting board or counter top. According to a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises a mixture of ethanol and food-grade mineral oil where the ethanol is present in an amount sufficient impart antiseptic properties. To the extent desired, other adjuvants, such as flavor enhancers, coloring agents, and the like may be added. The method comprises contacting the wooden cutting surface with such composition for a time sufficient to enable the ethanol to adequately disinfect the cutting surface. Preferably, such method may be performed by merely spraying or wiping the composition directly onto the wooden cutting surface.

Abstract: A method for forming a sterile fluid connection includes inserting a dispensing end of a fill tube into a cavity of a sterilizer. A sterilizing field is generated within the cavity of the sterilizer. A cap mounted on the end of the fill tube is removed from the fill tube while in the cavity. A fill port is disposed within the cavity. The fill tube is fluid coupled with the fill port in the cavity of the sterilizer while the dispensing end of the fill tube and the fill port are exposed to the sterilizing field. A fluid is passed from the fill tube to the fill port.

Abstract: A sterile water generator (B) generates a stream of sterile water on demand. A water heater (130) heats incoming, unsterile water to a sufficient temperature to achieve sterilization of the water. The sterile water is then passed through a heat exchanger (110) which transfers excess heat from the sterile water to the incoming water. This reduces the energy consumption of the water heater and reduces the temperature of the sterile water ready for use. The sterile water is delivered to a site (A), at which the water is to be used, through a sterile water delivery pathway (C) to avoid recontamination of the water. A first portion (162) of the pathway is pre-sterilized by flowing steam or hot water, generated by the water heater, along the pathway (C). A second portion (212) of the pathway is sterilized with a liquid antimicrobial from the site. The first and second portions of the pathway have at least one common leg (164).

Abstract: An apparatus for sterilizing or disinfecting a device has a chamber, a source of sterilant or disinfectant and ports for admitting and exhausting the sterilant or disinfectant but lacks a source of sterile rinse. A related method similarly lacks the step of rinsing with a sterile solvent yet leaves the device essentially free of the sterilant or disinfectant. Preferably the sterilant or disinfectant is removed from the device by vaporizing it and drawing it out of the chamber.

Abstract: A process for preventing formation of scale which comprises adding, into a water system in which ozone is used for disinfection, a polymeric scale inhibitor having a high molecular weight which gives an average molecular weight within an optimum range for preventing formation of scale after the polymeric scale inhibitor is decomposed with ozone. In accordance with the process, the polymeric scale inhibitor having an average molecular weight within the optimum range for preventing formation of scale is present in the water system in which ozone is used for disinfection and formation of scale is effectively prevented.

Abstract: Since the disinfectant solution bottle has a detachable section and a sealing section, the disinfectant solution bottle can be connected to the inlet of the disinfectant solution tank of the cleaning and disinfecting unit in a watertight manner; the mouth section of the bottle is closed with the sealing section before the disinfectant solution bottle is attached to the inlet of the disinfectant solution tank; and while the disinfectant solution is being connected to the inlet of the disinfectant solution tank, the disinfectant solution or concentrated disinfectant solution in the disinfectant solution bottle can flow into the disinfectant solution tank via the inlet because the inside of the disinfectant solution bottle and the inside of the disinfectant solution tank can communicate with each other in a watertight manner cut off from the outside, for example, due to automatic rupture of the sealing section when the disinfectant bottle is attached to the inlet of the disinfectant solution tank.

Abstract: A soil biocide formulation for aqueous delivery comprising from about 50 to 99% by weight of the formulation of a fumigant preferably selected from the group consisting of methyl bromide, chloropicrin, 1-3 dichloropropene (Telone), propargyl bromide, dimethyl disulphide methylisothiocyanate and mixtures of them; and from about 50 to 1% emulsifier with the emulsifier being comprised of non-ionic and anionic surfactants.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided for inactivation of pathogens in fluids containing blood products. Preferred methods include the steps of adding an effective, nontoxic amount of a photosensitizer such as riboflavin to the blood product and exposing the fluid to light having a peak wavelength.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for destroying biological agents such as toxins and bacteria are provided wherein the substance to be destroyed is contacted with finely divided metal oxide or hydroxide nanocrystals. In various embodiments, the metal oxide or metal hydroxide nanocrystals have reactive atoms stabilized on their surfaces, species adsorbed on their surfaces, or are coated with a second metal oxide. The desired metal oxide or metal hydroxide nanocrystals can be pressed into pellets for use when a powder is not feasible. Preferred metal oxides for the methods include MgO, SrO, BaO, CaO, TiO2, ZrO2, FeO, V2O3, V2O5, Mn2O3, Fe2O3, NiO, CuO, Al2O3, SiO2, ZnO, Ag2O, [Ce(NO3)3—Cu(NO3)2]TiO2, Mg(OH)2, Ca(OH)2, Al(OH)3, Sr(OH)2, Ba(OH)2, Fe(OH)3, Cu(OH)3, Ni(OH)2, Co(OH)2, Zn(OH)2, AgOH, and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: A container and method for cleaning, rinsing, disinfecting, or sterilizing a device disposes an instrument in a container below partition having an aperture for passing fluid. The container is filled to a level above the partition to ensure that the device is submerged in the fluid.

Abstract: A system and method for sterilizing to a desired level a food packaging area or room including the associated atmosphere that can be automated is provided. The method includes introducing the sterilizing agent as an aerosol suspension into the atmosphere of the food packaging area and exposed surfaces in the area, and then distributing the sterilizing agent to contact the surfaces therein that are to be sterilized with the sterilizing agent. The method may also include condensing the aerosol suspension to form a thin liquid film containing the sterilizing agent on exposed and nonexposed surfaces in the area or room to thereby effect sterilization of those surfaces.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing a contact surface which is continuously sanitized with a sanitizing fluid. A reservoir contains the sanitizing fluid. A contact material has a porous contact surface in fluid communication with the reservoir. A moisture control and fluid distribution system determines the moisture level of the porous surface and, upon determining that the moisture level thereof has reached a predetermined level, causes a flow of the sanitizing fluid from the reservoir to the contact material. The contact material comprises a durable, porous outer layer configured for evenly distributing the sanitizing fluid to the contact surface and a backing layer bonded to the outer layer to provide a seal there between.

Abstract: A device and method for cleaning and sterilizing tubular structures particularly, long, narrow tubular structures such as lumens of a medical device such as an endoscope by reversing the flow of fluid in interconnected tubular structures. The device comprises a first and second valve in fluid communication with a first and second tubular structure. The valves selectively switch between a first and second position causing a first and second flow path within the tubular structures, at least a part of the second flow path opposite the first flow path.

Abstract: During the treatment, in particular cleaning, disinfecting and drying, of used, dirty endoscopes, in order to render them suitable once again for subsequent use, the following steps take place: placing a used, dirty endoscope in a rack, connecting the passages of the endoscope to a connection block which is arranged in a fixed position in the rack, placing the rack, with the endoscope therein, in at least one device for treating the endoscope, the connection block being connected to a counter-connection block which is present in the treatment device, in order to bring about a connection between the endoscopes and the treatment device, subjecting the endoscope which is accommodated in the rack to a specific treatment in the treatment device, taking the rack with the endoscope therein out of the treatment device, and uncoupling the endoscope from the connection block after it has been taken out of the final treatment device.

Abstract: A water soluble sanitising composition comprises a chlorinated isocyanurate and an effervescent alkali base, the effervescent base comprising sodium carbonate agent, adipic acid and sodium bicarbonate in a weight ratio of approximately 1:1:1 to provide a sanitising solution having a pH of from 6.8 to 7.4. A method for sanitising a product such as in-ovo injection equipment comprises the step of dissolving the composition in water to form a sanitising solution and flushing the in-ovo injection equipment with the sanitising solution prior to each in-ovo injection.

Abstract: A dishcloth sanitizing frame is provided. The sanitizing frame comprises first and second panels, each panel comprising a generally open framework and inner and outer surfaces. The panels can be removably joined to each other so that, when the frame is in a closed position, a dishcloth can be held between and in contact with the inner surfaces of the panels. A dishcloth can be sanitized by introducing the dishcloth into the sanitizing frame between the inner surfaces of the panels. The dishcloth sanitizing frame and dishcloth are placed into an automatic dishwasher, and the dishcloth is washed, and optionally dried, in the automatic dishwasher.