Abstract: Antiseptic compositions comprising at least one salt of EDTA are disclosed. These compositions have broad spectrum antimicrobial and antifungal activity and they also have anticoagulant properties. The antiseptic compositions have also demonstrated activity in penetrating and breaking down microbial slime, or biofilms. They are safe for human and medical uses and may be used as prophylactic preparations to prevent infection, or to reduce the proliferation of and/or eliminate existing or established infections.

Abstract: An apparatus for sanitizing a stethoscope head. The apparatus includes a housing, a reservoir disposed within the housing for containing the sanitizing fluid, one or more applicator pads mounted on the housing, and a dispensing valve for dispensing the sanitizing fluid from the reservoir onto the applicator pad.

Abstract: An appliance has a dispensing device that is configured for self-cleaning. In one embodiment, a flow regulator is fluidly connected to the dispensing device. The flow regulator has a first state in which a washing fluid is dispensed into the dispensing device and a second state in which the washing fluid is evacuated therefrom. To facilitate cleaning, the washing fluid flows through a spray device that is configured to direct the washing fluid onto a peripheral wall of a compartment in which an additive for the dispensing device can be disposed.

Abstract: An apparatus for sterilizing and disinfecting medical garments such as lab coats, shoes, and related medical equipment using an electrostatically charged nozzle to deliver high velocity air or steam carrying atomized chemical or antimicrobial treatments. The top chamber is designed to hold a removable supporting member or hanger which is used to hold the garments and equipment being sterilized and disinfected. The top chamber is both electrically and thermally insulated. The bottom chamber is designed to house the various reservoirs, pumps, and generators used to perform the treatment operations. The bottom chamber is a drawer so the reservoirs can easily be refilled and alternative pumps or generators can be installed.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for inhibiting sulfide biogeneration from biofilms are described, as well as methods for preparing the compositions. The compositions comprise anthrahydroquinone and a biocide. The compositions may also include anthraquinone.

Abstract: There is provided a method for sanifying/sterilizing cork stoppers, from the least expensive provided with an agglomerated body and washers to the finest made of high quality natural cork, used in bottle capping, and the cork stoppers thereby produced. The method includes applying a film having a reticulated structure with cells smaller than the cork cells of the stopper on the surface of the cork cells and on the outer surface of the stopper.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are materials and methods for reducing, preventing, or eliminating the biological contamination of surfaces in spaces that are reasonably partitioned, defined or contained. A reagent that includes peroxides or molecules that includes peroxide bonds are contacted with at least one surface of an article. Some of these methods include disinfection within an apparatus and may include the step of volatilizing the peroxide bond containing agent, through, for example, vapor pressure and vaporization or evaporation effects, the addition of volatilization aids, or passive or assisted diffusion at modest temperatures and relatively long exposure times measured in some embodiments on the order of hours, days, or months.

Abstract: The invention concerns a sterilizer unit (10) for sterilizing an absorbent body (30), such as a sponge. The sterilizer unit firstly comprises a container (12) for holding a disinfectant, the container providing a soak position (22) and a discharge position (26). The sterilizer unit also includes a discharge unit (14) for cooperation with the container, the discharge unit defines a compression compartment (28) in which the absorbent body can be held. The discharge unit is further movable between a release position in which the absorbent body can be located within the compression compartment and a compression position in which the discharge unit will apply a compressive force on the absorbent body inside the compression compartment. In use the compression compartment can be located within the soak position of the container when the discharge unit is located in its release position, thereby allowing the absorbent body to absorb an amount of disinfectant.

Abstract: A non-level multilayer antibacterial sheet comprises a high-fiber substrate, at least one oil absorption film located on the high-fiber substrate and a non-level oil absorption film located at one side of the oil absorption film remote from the high-fiber substrate. The oil absorption film can absorb anti-mildew essential oil. The non-level oil absorption film includes a non-level polyester layer and a second oil absorption layer. The non-level polyester layer and second oil absorption layer form a plurality of housing spaces between them to store the anti-mildew essential oil. Through the oil absorption film and non-level oil absorption film, total amount of absorbed essential oil can be increased to lengthen lifespan of the antibacterial sheet. The housing spaces can store more essential oil and also accelerate evaporation thereof. Thus the anti-mildew essential oil can be dispersed more efficiently to enhance mildew proof effect.

Abstract: Provided are a method and a device for sterilizing the surface of a space-to-be-sterilized which are safe to the human body, which are effective even for sterilizing spore-forming bacteria, which do not require the space-to-be-sterilized to be highly shielded, and which can sterilize the surface of the space efficiently with inexpensive equipment. The disclosed method involves: spraying a low-concentration sterilizing agent in the form of fine particles into the space-to-be-sterilized and making the sterilizing agent adhere to the surface thereof, the low-concentration sterilizing agent being any one of a 1-10 wt % aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide, a 0.1-1 wt % aqueous solution of peracetic acid, or a 0.01-0.1 wt % aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid; adjusting the humidity in the space-to-be-sterilized; and air-drying the sterilizing agent. Thus, a high level of sterilization can be achieved in a short time and at low cost.

Abstract: The present method relates to a novel means of safely applying peracetic acid (peroxyacetic acid or PAA) to inert solid surfaces and non-inert surfaces such as those found on various agricultural products including citrus fruit, pome fruit, potatoes, and vegetables to achieve an enhanced microbial effect. This is useful as a low cost means of sanitizing agricultural products in situ in the storage facility while simultaneously sanitizing the storage facility itself.

Abstract: This disclosure describes example antiseptic applicators that may be used in combination with one or more cleansing, antimicrobial and/or antiseptic agents to reduce or eliminate contaminates on a surface. According to some embodiments, the disclosure describes that the applicators may contain an impermeable layer and a permeable layer, where the impermeable layer prevents contaminates for transferring from a user's hand to the permeable layer and the surface.

Abstract: A smart home system having a controller which controls an ozone generator, gas supply outlets connected to gas supply outlets of the ozone generator via a pipe, and solenoid valves which control opening and closing of the gas supply outlets. The controller is connected with each of the solenoid valves and controls opening and closing of each of the solenoid valves. An operation method for the system discloses driving the ozone generator by the controller to generate ozone, controlling opening of the solenoid valves by the central processor when the central processor receives an external signal for opening the solenoid valves, reducing opening level of the solenoid valves when a gas flow sensor detects that the ozone flow rate passing through the gas inlet is greater than the flow rate threshold, and controlling closing of the solenoid valves by the central processor when the central processor receives a signal for closing the solenoid valves.

Abstract: To improve throughput of biomedical waste treatment, the present inventors devised an exemplary ozone-based system including a shredder, a roll-off treatment bin with ozone injectors, an ozone source, and a controller. The controller monitors electric current drawn by the shredder as shredded waste enters the ozone-enriched treatment bin. In response to current falling below a predetermined low level, indicating that a batch of waste has been shredded and loaded into the treatment bin, the controller starts a treatment timer. The timer measures elapsed ozone treatment or exposure time. If additional waste is added to the shredder and a subsequent low-current condition is detected, the controller restarts the treatment timer. Expiration of the timer indicates that the waste in the roll-off bin is sterilized and ready for transport to landfills. The exemplary system provides continuous waste processing and promises to boost throughput by 50% over some conventional ozone-based waste-treatment systems.

Abstract: The method and the apparatus serve for disinfecting packaging formed at least in part as packaging sleeves closed all the way around. A disinfectant is applied to the packaging. The packaging sleeves are opened in a longitudinal direction of the sleeve in the region of both ends during the disinfection process and are transported through a disinfection tunnel. The disinfectant is applied to the packaging sleeves inside the disinfection tunnel. Along the disinfection tunnel, disinfectant flowing out of an opened end section of a packaging sleeve is introduced into an opened end section of an adjoining packaging sleeve.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and devices for providing microbial control and/or disinfection/remediation of an environment. The methods generally comprise: generating a Purified Hydrogen Peroxide Gas (PHPG) that is substantially free of, e.g., hydration, ozone, plasma species, and/or organic species; and directing the gas comprising primarily PHPG into the environment such that the PHPG acts to provide microbial control and/or disinfection/remediation in the environment, preferably both on surfaces and in the air.

Abstract: The invention provides a novel apparatus and method for preparing a solution of a shear sensitive material.

Abstract: Disclosed is an antibacterial composition comprising titanium oxide particles immobilized with an antibody having affinity and cognitive power to a microorganism of interest, and a method for sterilizing the microorganism by using the same. In particular, the present invention relates to a method for preparing functional titanium oxide particles capable of recognizing a microorganism or a virus of interest, and a method for selectively and efficiently sterilizing the same by using the functional titanium oxide particles, and not for randomly sterilizing microorganisms or viruses by using conventional titanium oxide particles having no recognition power to a microorganism or a virus of interest.

Abstract: The invention relates to compositions including a charged oligo-phenylene ethynylene singlet-oxygen sensitizer and an oppositely-charged surfactant, which show an enhanced biocidal activity relative to a comparable concentration of the oligo-phenylene ethynylene without the oppositely-charged surfactant. The enhancement of biocidal activity is observed with an anionic oligo-phenylene ethynylene in the presence of a cationic surfactant such as TTAB, and with a cationic oligo-phenylene ethynylene in the presence of an anionic surfactant such as SDS.

Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus and method for decontaminating and sterilizing chemical and biological agents, which can efficiently decontaminate and sterilize high precision electronic devices, communication devices, computers or inside of vehicles and air planes contaminated with chemical and biological agent by using mixture of non-thermal atmospheric pressure air plasma and oxidizing peroxide vapor. The apparatus according to the present invention comprises a decontamination and sterilization chamber 10; a first fluid supplying line L1 and a second fluid supplying line L2, which are installed in the form of closed circuit between the inlet 11 and outlet 12 of the decontamination and sterilization chamber 10; a peroxide vapor supplier which is installed on the first fluid supplying line; and a non-thermal atmospheric pressure air plasma reactor 70 which is installed on the second fluid supplying line L2.

Abstract: Fumigation systems and processes that are especially applicable for the fumigation of perishable (or otherwise sensitive to temperature) agricultural products as the temperature conditions under which the product is being treated are closely controlled to advantageously prevent the product from being exposed to temperature drops and/or spikes during the fumigation cycle. In addition, the present invention incorporates an air filtration system as a part of the fumigation system to substantially remove the toxic fumigant residuals from the air before it is exhausted into the open atmosphere, which typically occurs at the completion of a fumigation cycle. As such, the harmful effect of the fumigant on the products and the surrounding environment and work areas is greatly minimized. In summary, the systems and processes of the present invention provide the ability to conduct fumigations in a well-controlled environment.

Abstract: A device for sanitation is provided whereby the device has a holder configured for mounting and dispensing a conventional roll of paper, a reservoir configured with an inlet and an outlet, whereby the reservoir holds a dispensing solution, a dispensing system for dispensing the dispensing solution through the reservoir outlet, an actuator operatively associated with the dispensing system; and a device outlet configured to deliver the solution from the device once the actuator initiates the dispensing system.

Abstract: A valve apparatus and methods associated thereof are provided. The valve apparatus includes a valve housing structure. A first valve portion is connected to the valve housing structure, wherein the first valve portion has a sealing edge. A second valve portion is positioned at least partially within the valve housing structure. A constrictable membrane has a pressurizable interior compartment, wherein the constrictable membrane supported by the second valve portion and positioned proximate to the first valve portion, wherein at least a portion of the constrictable membrane is movable to engageable with the sealing edge of the first valve portion.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a container suitable for use in the disinfection of blood glucose meters and other medical devices. In one embodiment, the container comprises a tray with a formed cavity in it, such that a blood glucose meter or medical device may be placed and retained in it. In certain related embodiments, the meter has been wrapped in a disinfection wipe prior to placement into the container.

Abstract: Separators and shakers are disclosed with real time monitoring of screen condition; killing apparatus for killing living things in fluid flowing from a separator or shaker; and/or heating apparatus for heating material fed to or flowing from a separator or shaker. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b).

Abstract: An ice dispensing system includes an ice hopper structure including a plurality of walls having inner surfaces that define an inner volume storing ice therein. The ice hopper may include a drain. A cleaning structure is coupled to the ice hopper structure. The cleaning structure includes a pump linked to a spray mechanism positioned within the inner volume of the ice hopper structure. The spray mechanism disperses a liquid on an inner surface of the ice hopper structure during a cleaning cycle of the ice dispensing mechanism.

Abstract: Rose Bengal for detecting a presence of and decomposing contaminants. A method of detecting the presence of a contaminant includes treating a substrate with Rose Bengal and exposing the substrate to a light having a wavelength within the visible spectrum. A response of the Rose Bengal is monitored during the light exposure. When a contaminant is present and is exposed to the light, a conversion of the Rose Bengal between a quinoid form and a lactone form is induced.

Abstract: A system and method for decontamination of isolation enclosures includes a recirculating isolator configured to allow injection of a sterilant gas into the isolator. Levels of humidity and sterilant gas are selected to avoid condensation of either within the isolator. In an embodiment, a positive pressure is maintained throughout the sterilization process.

Abstract: A method is provided for regenerating spent zirconium phosphate for reuse in sorbent dialysis treatments or other re-uses as a sorbent material. The method includes contacting spent zirconium phosphate with an aqueous disinfectant solution having at least one antimicrobial agent, and treating the resulting disinfected zirconium phosphate with an acidic solution to provide a treated zirconium phosphate that can be re-used as a sorbent material. Sorbent cartridge products containing the regenerated spent zirconium phosphate are also provided. Methods and systems for sorbent dialysis which re-use the regenerated zirconium phosphate such as part of sorbent cartridges, additionally are provided.

Abstract: A highly alkalized humic and fulvic filter reagent for the removal of multiple contaminants from a gas is provided. The contaminants removed from the gas stream may include, but are not limited to, Carbon Dioxide, Sulfur Oxide, Nitrogen Oxides, Hydrogen Sulfides, radionuclides, mercaptans, ammonia, toxic metals, particulates, volatile vapors, and organics. The present invention further includes the disposal of the filter reagent by way of using the highly alkalized humic and fulvic filter for soil fertility, releasing the carbon dioxide from the filter reagent, converting the liquid filter reagent into a solid for disposal or for use as a contaminant removal filter for waters, wastes, and chemicals.

Abstract: A method of decontaminating a room or space, comprising the steps of providing a cold-mist decontamination device capable of generating an atomized mist comprised of a decontaminant and water, inputting into an internal processor the parameters of the room or space and the concentration of the decontaminant in the decontamination solution, measuring the temperature and humidity in the room or space, and determining the maximum amount of the decontamination solution that can be introduced into the room or space in atomized form without condensing the decontaminant on surfaces within the room or space.

Abstract: A method and a system for producing a change in a medium disposed in an artificial container. The method places in a vicinity of the medium at least one of a plasmonics agent and an energy modulation agent. The method applies an initiation energy through the artificial container to the medium. The initiation energy interacts with the plasmonics agent or the energy modulation agent to directly or indirectly produce the change in the medium. The system includes an initiation energy source configured to apply an initiation energy to the medium to activate the plasmonics agent or the energy modulation agent.

Abstract: Flow cytometer systems are provided that mitigate aerosols generated during operation of a flow cytometer. A flow cytometer system can include various combinations of: a flow cytometer instrument base, a flow cytometer, and a biosafety hood (BSH). In some embodiments, a subject flow cytometer system includes a flow cytometer instrument base, a flow cytometer, and a BSH. In some embodiments, a subject flow cytometer system includes a flow cytometer instrument base and a flow cytometer. In some cases, a BSH includes an aerosol management system, which provides a redundant air filtration system. Also provided are components of a flow cytometer system (e.g., a BSH configured to attach to a flow cytometer instrument base, a flow cytometer instrument base configured to attach to a BSH, etc.). Also provided are methods, including methods of performing a flow cytometric procedure using a flow cytometer system; and methods of decontaminating a flow cytometer system.

Abstract: An applicator assembly may include a body having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, an actuator operatively coupled to the body, a container disposed within the body, an application member attached to the distal end portion, and a valve disposed between the container and the application member. Actuation of the actuator opens the valve and places the interior of the container in fluid communication with the application member by way of a compressive force applied to the body. A method of applying a solution to a surface may include actuating the actuator, wherein actuation of the actuator applies a compressive force to the body that opens the valve and places the interior of the container in fluid communication with the application member, and contacting the application member to the surface, thereby applying the solution to the surface.

Abstract: The use of poly(oxybutylene)-poly(oxyethylene)-poly(oxybutylene) block copolymers in pharmaceutical compositions useful, for modifying the surfaces of contact lenses and other medical devices is disclosed. The present invention is based in-part on a discovery that this class of compounds is particularly efficient in wetting hydrophobic surfaces, such as the surfaces of silicone hydrogel contact lenses and other types of ophthalmic lenses, but do not induce foaming when used in conjunction with a peroxide-based contact lens disinfection regimen. Such compounds may also be useful for cleaning purposes. The use of the compounds as surfactants in peroxide-based compositions for disinfecting contact lenses therefore represents a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Abstract: There is provided a renewable sensor for sensing or selectively capturing a targeted bacteria in a fluid. The renewable sensor includes a surface, the surface includes a substrate, a biologically or bacterially non-adhesive feature disposed on or in functional proximity to at least a portion of the substrate; and an adhesive elements disposed on or in functional proximity to the non-adhesive feature, a flow channel in operative contact with the surface; and a detector configured to detect the targeted cell type captured on the surface. Also provided are method for using the sensor and the surface.

Abstract: A process to preserve a carbohydrate feedstock against contaminant microorganisms comprises contacting the carbohydrate feedstock with a stabilized chlorine dioxide at a pH of at least 2.6. The carbohydrate feedstock preferably comprises a naturally-occurring carbohydrate, particularly a carbohydrate having a reducing end group. The process is particularly suitable to treat feedstocks used in biorefining processes, such as in ethanol fermentation.

Abstract: A process for treating sports equipment and sports facility rooms to inactivate “superbug” bacteria such as MRSA, VRE and P. aeroginosa, which comprises subjecting the equipment or the room, and surfaces therein, to a disinfecting atmosphere which includes ozone at a concentration of 2-350 ppm by weight and hydrogen peroxide at an amount of 0.2-10 wt. %, at a relative humidity of at least 60%, and for a period of at least 30 minutes sufficient for an effective kill of the bacteria; and subsequently removing ozone from the atmosphere, down to 0.04 ppm or less.

Abstract: Provided are methods for decontamination of compartments, such as aircraft compartments and other types of compartments, and systems for implementing these methods. In some embodiments, a method involves detecting presence of one or more contaminants in a compartment. This information is used to select various decontamination conditions. In some embodiments, additional information, such as the type of the compartment (e.g., an aircraft compartment), temperature, and humidity, may be also considered while selecting the decontamination conditions. The decontamination conditions include identification of one or more decontaminating agents to be dispensed in the compartment, temperature profile of the air to be flown into the compartment, and timing of the decontaminant dispensing and air flowing operations. These conditions are selected to increase efficacy of the selected decontaminating agents with respect to the one or more detected contaminants and reduce impact on the aircraft compartment.

Abstract: A water filter-pitcher includes a water pitcher with at least two chambers separated by at least one filter, and an ozone generator to generate ozone for sanitizing at least internal surfaces of said two chambers.

Abstract: A sterilization treatment method includes producing a plasma-treated solution in which biocidal activity is held by diffusing, in a liquid, superoxide anion radicals (O2?.) or a precursor of the superoxide anion radicals (O2?.) by plasma generated in a vicinity of or in a manner to make contact with the liquid; freezing the plasma-treated solution to produce solid ice and store the solid ice in a frozen state; thawing the solid ice to the plasma-treated solution in which biocidal activity by the superoxide anion radicals (O2?.) or the precursor of the superoxide anion radicals (O2?.) is held; and applying a sterilization treatment by any one of the following: allowing the plasma-treated solution to have a pH value of 4.8 or lower to apply the resultant plasma-treated solution to an object, and applying the plasma-treated solution to an object of which a pH value is 4.8 or lower.

Abstract: A microfibrillar high molecular weight chitosan-based textile can be used as a hemostat. The chitosan has been treated in a nitrogen field by applying energy to ionize nitrogen in and around the chitosan textile. A single or multiple such treatments may be employed. For example, the chitosan textile may be irradiated under nitrogen using ?-irradiation, treated under a nitrogen plasma, or both.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of disinfecting a surface and to an antibacterial composition. Essential oils, which are used as antibacterial actives, are also known for their strong odour; using high amounts of these gives a strong smell to the product that is not always appreciated by the consumer. It is therefore an object of the invention to provide an antibacterial composition, having good anti-bacterial properties, at very low levels of essential oil actives. The present inventors have achieved this using a synergistic combination of select anti-bacterial actives, specific polymers and select hydrotropes.

Abstract: The disclosure is directed to machines for manufacturing a flexible pouch that sterilizes the flexible pouch material, seals the fitment within the pouch, and inspects the fitment installation. A sterilization chamber in the machine a box having an oxygen supplied entry compartment, a hydrogen peroxide supplied center compartment, and an oxygen supplied exit compartment. To a secure the fitment within the flexible pouch, a seal bar including a center cavity disposed between a pair of sideways L-shaped portions is used. After the fitment is installed into the flexible pouch, it is inspected with a digital photograph analysis apparatus.

Abstract: A system and method delivers an atomized solution to the interior volume of a building or room utilizing a venturi effect for the atomization.

Abstract: A sterile barrier packaging system includes a container configured to hold at least one object to be sterilized, and a respective mating component for the object. The container is configurable in an expanded configuration, wherein the object and the mating component are held spaced apart in mutual registration. The container is further configurable in a compressed configuration, wherein the object and mating component are mated. A method of sterilizing an object includes sterilizing the object in a container holding the object and a mating component spaced apart in mutual registration and subsequently compressing the container to mate the component with the object.

Abstract: A flexible bottle for containing a disinfecting liquid that can be used to disinfect a toothbrush. The bottle has a large reservoir for contain the disinfecting liquid and a small, secondary reservoir that is located proximate to the top of the bottle and which can be filled by squeezing the flexible bottle to force a quantity of the disinfecting liquid into the small, secondary reservoir. There is a cap that is designed to accept a toothbrush for entry into the container and which may have a slot formed therein or flexible flaps. The bottle can, therefore, be filled with disinfecting liquid and a toothbrush introduced into the small reservoir for disinfecting the toothbrush. The disinfecting liquid can then be discarded from the small reservoir and the secondary reservoir refilled as needed by the user.

Abstract: A decontamination system for decontaminating at least one contaminant in a process stream. Decontaminant liquid is dispersed into the process stream sing atomization. Differential injection pressure and/or injection flow rate are monitored to help ensure that the atomization process is optimized.

Abstract: According to the present invention, an arbitrary active constituent is sprayed stably so as to treat a target space. A method of the present invention, for treating a target space, includes the step of spraying, in the target space, a composition in an effective amount, the composition containing (i) a solvent and (ii) an electrolyte having a pK of not less than ?10 but not more than 7, which pK is a dissociation constant with respect to water, the composition being sprayed as liquid particles in a mist form, which liquid particle have (I) an average particle diameter of not less than 100 nm but not more than 10 ?m and (II) an average charge number of not less than +40 but not more than +40000.

Abstract: The present technology provides an illustrative method for treating air. The method includes providing untreated air and producing an oxygen-enriched sample from the untreated air. The method further includes generating ozone in the oxygen-enriched sample to produce an ozone-enriched sample and contacting the ozone-enriched sample and a fraction of the untreated air to produce a treated sample. The fraction of the untreated sample includes a fraction removed from the untreated air when producing the oxygen-enriched sample. The method also includes removing ozone from the treated sample to form a purified sample of air.