Abstract: Acrolein-releasing emulsion homopolymers release acrolein in aqueous systems. They are produced by adding acrolein, at least 95% by weight pure, to a solution of an alkali hydroxide, with the temperature not exceeding 25.degree. C. during the addition, and then adjusting the pH to 5 to 7 by adding a mineral acid.

Abstract: A method of fumigation which will destroy microorganisms in the environment of hatching and newly hatched poultry whereby a disinfecting solution such as hydrogen peroxide is applied into the environment by a microaerosol. The method significantly reduces the level of microorganisms in the environment and reduces the risk of post hatch transfer of potentially disease causing microorganisms, without adversely affecting the viability of the newly hatched poultry.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for inhibiting microbial growth through the use of aromatic aldehydes or alcohols for the purpose of disinfecting contaminated environments. The methods include the step of contacting the unsterile area with an amount of a aromatic aldehyde or alcohol sufficient to control growth of pathogenic microbes. The aldehyde or alcohol can be provided in a variety of formulations.

Abstract: A portion of the endoscope that has been withdrawn from the human body is inserted into the tubular body of the device and pressurized water, a liquid detergent, a liquid disinfectant and air are sequentially forced through a water injecting pipe, an inlet pipe and injection pipes that communicate with the tubular body, whereby not only the outer surface of the endoscope but also the inner ducts through it are cleaned, disinfected and dried in a convenient and safe manner.

Abstract: The invention describes a process for controlling contamination of oil production system waters by sessile bacteria, comprisinga) addition of a slug dose of a biologically effective amount of a quick-kill biocide, simultaneously with or followed byb) intermittent addition of a biologically effective amount of a control biocide.This dosing regime is found to be surprisingly effective when compared with known dosing regimes.

Abstract: The invention is a system and method for real-time monitoring and control of sterilization cycle parameters within a load-simulation device that simulates the same conditions as those within an acceptable standard challenge load to be sterilized. Integration of the device into the sterilizer control system allows critical sterilization parameter levels to be achieved and maintained within the simulated load throughout a sterilization cycle, thus resulting in a significant reduction in the number of unsuccessful cycles. A redundant parameter-monitoring system within the device is included. When acceptable sterilization parameter levels are shown to have been met, the sterile load is automatically released for use immediately upon completion of the cycle, thus eliminating the need for biological indicators and chemical integrators.

Abstract: Compositions, devices, and methods are disclosed for achieving rapid cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization in aqueous solution. A device for reducing surface tension in liquids is also disclosed. An ethoxylated aliphatic amine is disclosed as the cationic surfactant of choice, preferably with a liquid soluble germicide simultaneously present in aqueous solution to accelerate sterilization at 25.degree. room temperature. One device includes a tablet; another device includes an absorbent body, or other carriers which can carry both cationic surfactants and germicides. Another device includes an hermetically sealable envelope, which contains both the cationic surfactant and a germicide which impregnates an absorbent liner. The composition includes a germicide and a cationic surfactant. Glutaraldehyde is the preferred germicide, while bis (2-hydroxyethyl) cocoamine and polyoxyethylene (5) cocoamine are, respectively, the cationic surfactant of choice.

Abstract: A composition which is capable of releasing acrolein and is easy to handle contains (i) an acetal of acrolein with a C.sub.1-6 alcohol with 1 to 4 hydroxyl groups and (ii) an acid soluble therein and chemically compatible with a pK.sub.s value of less than 4 and (iii) is anhydrous. A preferred composition contains 2-vinyl-1,3-dioxolane as acetal, anhydrous oxalic acid, fumaric acid or maleic acid or a mixture of mono- and di(C.sub.1 - to C.sub.3 -)alkyl phosphate as acid and, in addition, a non-ionic surfactant. The acrolein is released at the site of use upon contact with for example water for the purpose of combatting microbial, vegetable and animal pests.

Abstract: A formalin fluid recycler has a combination triple pipe nozzle for introducing dirty fluid into the recycler and for expelling concentrate and permeate fluid therefrom. Dirty fluid is pumped through a strainer, filtration module and charcoal filter to purify and clarify the dirty fluid. The formalin fluid can be recirculated in the system via the nozzle or be directed to a clean receptacle. Dirty formalin fluid is further cleansed by Ozone and ultraviolet light. Percent concentration and pH level of clean recycled formalin fluid is adjusted outside of the main recycling loop. Cleaning and preservative solutions are circulated through the recycler when necessary.

Abstract: Formaldehyde-free tissue preservative compositions are useful in the fields of mortuary science and histology. The compositions disinfect and preserve animal (including human) tissues and remains, yet avoid the use of formaldehyde and formalin--potentially hazardous materials that are undergoing increasing regulatory review. A trio of compositions for use in embalming human bodies is disclosed, as is a composition for use in histological preservation.

Abstract: A process for plasma sterilization in which articles in a sterilizing chamber are taken through at least one combination sterilizing cycle. The articles to be sterilized may include the interior of a vessel or chamber. In that case, the vessel or chamber itself may serve as a sterilizing chamber and connects to the plasma generating chamber. Each combination sterilizing cycle includes a pulsed treatment with gaseous antimicrobial agent, removal of the gaseous antimicrobial agent, and a plasma treatment. The pulsed treatment includes one or more pulse-vacuum cycles, each pulse-vacuum cycle includes the steps of evacuating the sterilizing chamber and exposing the article to the gaseous antimicrobial agent with a predetermined pressure profile during a predetermined time. The gaseous antimicrobial agent is preferably carried in a gas mixture with a nonreactive carrier gas. In one embodiment, the predetermined pressure is pulsed. In another embodiment, it is ramped.

Abstract: A group of dialdehydes is disclosed having an even number of atoms in the shortest backbone chain connecting the two aldehyde groups which are useful as decontaminants, fixatives, preservatives, and embalming agents. Compared to conventional aldehydes having an odd number of backbone atoms, the even-numbered dialdehydes are approximately as effective in terms of decontaminant, fixative, preservative and embalming properties, yet they are substantially safer to people, animals, and plants, and the environment.

Abstract: Methods and kits for reducing the transmission of infectious agents contained in biological fluid samples are provided. The methods include contacting the biological sample with a fixative solution containing a fixative present at a concentration sufficient to simultaneously disinfect the sample and fix analytes contained therein.

Abstract: Stretches of flowing water are doped with acrolein for the purpose of preventing excessive growth of plants and algae. In order to avoid transport of acrolein, acrolein is produced at the site where it is required by deacetalation of an acrolein acetal in the presence of an aqueous mineral acid. No electrical energy is necessary for this process. An acrolein acetal and an aqueous mineral acid solution are delivered from compression-proof storage tanks into a mixing chamber by the application of pressure from a pressure cylinder. The mixture is passed through a deacetalation reactor unit which includes a tubular reactor part and a container-shaped reactor part.

Abstract: The present invention provides a composition and method of administering same for inhibiting the growth of microorganisms. The composition of the present invention includes sufficient amounts of a peracetic acid and a second organic biocide. The method of the present invention includes the step of adding sufficient amounts of the peracetic acid and the organic biocide to industrial process waters.

Abstract: Compositions, devices, and methods are disclosed for achieving rapid sterilization. A device for reducing surface tension in liquids is also disclosed. Both cationic and anionic surfactants are simultaneously present and used with a germicide to accelerate sterilization at room temperatures. One device includes a tablet, absorbent body, or other carrier which carries both an anionic surfactant and a cationic surfactant. Another device includes a hermetically sealable envelope which contains an anionic surfactant and a cationic surfactant, preferably with a germicide which impregnates an absorbent liner. The composition includes a germicide, an anionic surfactant, and a cationic surfactant. Glutaraldehyde solutions are the preferred germicides; sulfosuccinic acid, ester with ethoxylated lauryl alcohol, disodium salt is a preferred anionic surfactant; and, a quaternary ammonium salt is the preferred cationic surfactant. A sterilization method is performed by exposing an object to the disclosed compositions.

Abstract: A group of dialdehydes is disclosed having an even number of atoms in the shortest backbone chain connecting the two aldehyde groups which are useful as decontaminants, fixatives, preservatives, and embalming agents. Compared to conventional aldehydes having an odd number of backbone atoms, the even-numbered dialdehydes are approximately as effective in terms of decontaminant, fixative, preservative and embalming properties, yet they are substantially safer to people, animals, and plants, and the environment.

Abstract: Radiochemical sterilization is accomplished by exposing a sterilant gas releasing substrate to an effective gas releasing amount of ionizing radiation and contacting an object to be sterilized with the released sterilant gas. Objects to be sterilized may be subjected to a combination of ionizing radiation and gas sterilant which is released by the ionizing radiation.

Abstract: A fixative composition for light microscopy including an aqueous solution of glutaraldehyde, trichloroacetic acid, a metallic salt and a surfactant is disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for inhibiting the growth of filamentous microorganisms. The method includes the steps of adding effective amounts of a biocide and an enzyme. The enzyme of the present invention enhances the leakiness of the protective sheath around the filamentous microorganisms to allow the penetration of the biocide into the cells of the filamentous microorganisms.

Abstract: Liquids for cleaning, disinfecting and lubricating dentistry handpieces are distributed to the handpieces by a device which includes reservoirs for storing liquids for the cleaning, disinfection and lubrication procedures which are to take place, and a series of solenoid valves for sequentially opening at different stations according to a prescribed cycle. To this end, each liquid to be utilized is conveyed through each handpiece in actual liquid form, and not in an atomized form, and then atomized in the handpiece by compressed air entering through a conduit which is separate from the conduit for passing the liquids.

Abstract: A reaction chamber is disposed between a heating chamber and an outlet line of the heating chamber, and performs a reaction of ammonia gas vaporized in the heating chamber with formaldehyde circulated from a room to be sterilized. A filter is disposed between the reaction chamber and the outlet line.

Abstract: The invention is a process for cleaning and disinfection of heat and corrosion sensitive medical instruments, particularly endoscopes in which the surfaces of the medical instruments are contacted with a detergent and disinfectant solution. The solution has a pH of from 6 to 8 and contains a low foaming nonionic surfactant, a proteolytic enzyme, a complexing agent, and an aldehyde selected from the group consisting of formaldehyde and aliphatic dialdehydes containing 2 to 8 carbon atoms and, optionally, other standard detergent and disinfectant constituents. The cleaning solution is heated to 55.degree. to 65.degree. C. and kept at that temperature for 1 to 15 minutes during contact with the surfaces of a medical instrument. The surfaces are rinsed at least twice with water, the water being heated to 55.degree. to 65.degree. C. at least in the last rinse cycle and the medical instruments are dried with sterilized hot air at a temperature of 40.degree. to 60.degree. C. Water having a hardness of 3.degree.

Abstract: In the process disclosed, medical molding materials are treated with an aqueous solution of a disinfectant which contains, in addition, 0.1 to 15 wt.% of a soluble alcohol. This ensures high dimensional stability and good surface quality of the mold, even in the case of critical molding materials as alginates.

Abstract: Glutaraldehyde is effective in controlling Zebra mussels found in industrial process waters.

Abstract: A method for controlling biofouling in aqueous environments which comprises providing ortho-phthalaldehyde to aqueous systems susceptible to biofouling. The method of the invention is particularly well suited for use in industrial cooling water systems, paper manufacture and in secondary oil recovery processes.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for chemically fixating a plurality of tissue specimens in a multimode microwave oven. The tissue specimens are loaded in respective cassettes and then placed in radial alignment in a circular container that is filled with a fixation solution. Selective microwave shields such as metal disks with central apertures are located above and below the container which is then rotated on a turntable while being exposed to microwave energy in the microwave oven cavity. The shields are selected to provide a substantially uniform microwave field within the region occupied by the cassettes so that all of the tissue specimens are consistently and uniformly fixated.

Abstract: A method to preserve and sterilize biological tissues by exposing the tissue to microwave irradiation, thereby limiting tissue exposure to standard organic preservatives and retaining tissue pliability and other qualities that characterize natural, unpreserved tissue.

Abstract: Heat-labile articles are sterilized by subjecting them to pulses of sporicidal vapors and maintaining them for a holding period in contact with such vapors.

Abstract: A technique and receptacle for disinfecting biological fluids such as whole blood is described in which the disinfectant is prepositioned in a receptacle for biological fluids utilized for clinical evaluation in an amount which is sufficient to disinfect the fluid without interfering with subsequent clinical evaluation. The invention is specifically directed to disinfecting viral contaminants in blood by providing a closed container for the blood specimen which contains an amount of a disinfectant sufficient to destroy without otherwise affecting the integrity of the specimen for future evaluation. The amount of disinfectant positioned in the container is adjusted to provide an ultimate concentration in the blood specimen of aldehyde of about 0.001 to 5.0 weight percent and is buffered to a pH of about 7.2 to 8.5 percent preferably about 7.4.

Abstract: A broad spectrum preservative composition which comprises (a) a formaldehyde donor and (b) a halopropynyl compound; formulations containing such compositions, particularly personal care and household products; and a method of inhibiting the growth of microorganisms which includes contacting said microorganisms with the preservative composition.

Abstract: HTLV-III virus in blood or blood components is inactivated by treatment with about 0.1-5% of phenol, formaldehyde, or mixtures thereof, at a temperature of about 2.degree.-40.degree. C. for at least about 5 minutes.

Abstract: Sulfate-reducing bacteria present in industrial waste waters can be controlled by using either the biocide glutaraldehyde or a blend of sodium dimethyldithiocarbamate and disodium ethylene bisdithiocarbamate.

Abstract: Sulfate-reducing bacteria present in industrial waste waters can be controlled by using hydrogen peroxide in combination with non-oxidizing organic biocides known to be effective against sulfate-reducing bacteria.

Abstract: Methods for sterilization wherein air is purged from the load to be sterilized prior to the addition of the sterilant and wherein residue chemical sterilants, such as ethylene oxide, are purged post-sterilization by introducing air and steam at pressures which cause the steam to condense on the interstices of the load and then vaporize to provide a carrier for trapped air (prior to sterilization) and residue chemical sterilant (post-sterilization).

Abstract: A case for sterilization and sterile storage of objects comprises a hermetic housing (1), a partition (7) with one or several holes (10) dividing the interior of the housing (1) into two sections (8, 9), one of the sections being occupied by a sterilizing liquid, whereas the other accommodating holders (20) for the objects being sterilized. The section (8) for the sterilizing liquid occupies the lower part of the housing. The holes (10) of the partition (7) are grouped in its central portion and each of these holes (10) is provided with a tube (11) facing by its free end the inside of the section (8). The section (8) has on its wall opposite to the partition (7) a spherical projection (12) facing by its convex side the interior of the section (8).

Abstract: Materials in a closed or semi-closed environment can be effectively disinfected by thermally depolymerizing solid polymeric aldehydes which are in equilibrium with gaseous monomer acting as the disinfecting agent. Glutaraldehyde is a particularly effective disinfectant, and polyglutaraldehyde maintains its effectiveness by releasing the gaseous monomer at a slow, controlled rate over many days.

Abstract: A technique and receptacle for disinfecting biological fluids such as whole blood is described in which the disinfectant is prepositioned in a receptacle for biological fluids utilized for clinical evaluation in an amount which is sufficient to disinfect the fluid without interfering with subsequent clinical evaluation. The invention is specifically directed to disinfecting viral contaminants in blood by providing a closed container for the blood specimen which contains an amount of an aldehyde based disinfectant such as glutaraldehyde sufficient to destroy without otherwise affecting the integrity of the specimen for future evaluation. The amount of aldehyde based disinfectant positioned in the container is adjusted to provide an ultimate concentration in the blood specimen of aldehyde of about 0.1 to 2.5 weight percent and is buffered to a pH of about 7.2 to 8.5 percent preferably about 7.4.

Abstract: A sterilization method comprising subjecting a sterilization chamber to an initial vacuum and then introducing steam to increase chamber pressure. The introduction of steam is interrupted and the chamber is brought into communication with a solution in a gaseous sterilant generator. The mixture of gaseous sterilant and chamber atmosphere are continuously circulated whereby equilibrium is established and the material to be sterilized is subject to constant temperature, pressure, sterilant concentration, and relative humidity for a period of time sufficient for sterilization. Also disclosed is an apparatus capable of performing the sterilization method comprising a sterilization chamber in combination with a gaseous sterilant generator. Formaldehyde is the preferred sterilizing agent.

Abstract: Containers used for storing and dispensing liquids for medical applications include a closure, and medical connection device include cooperating connector members. An article of manufacture and a method are provided where a plastic outer closure is applied over container closures or over connection devices. The application of the plastic outer closure exerts an antibacterial effect in the juncture area defined by the interface of the outer closure and the container inner closure and neck, or defined by the interface of the outer closure and the connection site of the connector members. The outer closure is of a type of plastic that releases an antibacterial agent, which exerts an antibacterial effect in the juncture area.

Abstract: An aqueous oxidation-reduction composition and method for removing hydrogen sulfide gas from a fluid stream by liquid phase oxidation of the hydrogen sulfide to elemental sulfur with a chelated polyvalent metal catalyst, such as iron, wherein the composition is stabilized against rapid loss of chelated polyvalent catalyst caused by contamination of the aqueous composition with micro-organisms, such as bacteria. The aqueous composition is stabilized by incorporating in the aqueous composition and adding throughout the normal usage thereof a broad spectrum biocide in an amount which acts as a bacteriostat to prevent rapid growth of bacteria in the aqueous composition and when the bacteria concentration rises above about 1.times.10.sup.6 colonies per ml.

Abstract: A method for disinfecting and/or sterilizing small objects such as medical and dental instruments and the like wherein the object to be disinfected and/or sterilized is contacted with a liquid, such as an aqueous solution of sodium dodecyl sulfate and carbamide, which is substantially transparent to ultraviolet radiation and has some bactericidal activity itself, at a temperature in the range from about 0.degree. C. to about 100.degree. C. and preferably at about 25.degree. C., and the object while contacted by the liquid is exposed simultaneously to ultrasonic radiation having a frequency in the range from about 8 kilohertz to about 300 kilohertz, preferably from 15 kilohertz to 60 kilohertz, with an energy density of application from about 10 watts/liter to about 5 watts/milliliter, and to ultraviolet radiation having a wavelength in the range from about 1500 .ANG. to about 4000 .ANG., preferably at about 2537 .ANG..

Abstract: An apparatus and method for sterilizing particles in an autoclave with an atmosphere of formaldehyde and water vapor so that the sterilized articles have tolerable quantities of residue of formaldehyde and paraformaldehyde thereon. In the process, formalin is used which is transformed to a gaseous condition and supplied to the autoclave. The apparatus is provided with a vaporizer for formalin in which the vaporizer is provided with a liquid trap so that the formalin becomes said water vapor and formaldehyde.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of disinfecting and a method for destroying bacteria and fungi employing certain 2-substituted glutaraldehydes having the formulas ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1 is selected from the group consisting of alkyl having from one to twelve carbon atoms, lower-alkoxyalkyl having from two to twelve carbon atoms, cycloalkyl having from three to twelve ring carbon atoms, and alkyl-substituted cycloalkyl having from three to eight ring carbon atoms and a total of from four to ten carbon atoms, and R.sup.3 is alkyl having from one to four carbon atoms.

Abstract: A method for purifying air by removing gaseous formaldehyde under ambient conditions, by bringing the air in contact with a solid shaped composition consisting essentially of one or more polyhydric water-soluble polymers and ambient moisture, in the absence and in the presence of a solid substrate.

Abstract: A blood gas control liquid comprises a stable oil-in-water emulsion that has an oxygen solubility coefficient of at least 10 ml O.sub.2 per 100 ml emulsion and a viscosity of less than 10 centipoises. The emulsion includes water, 5-40 percent by volume of a water-insoluble non-protein compound material, 0.25-10 percent by volume of a nonionic surfactant, a pH buffering agent and a preservative agent which is substantially non-reactive with the pH buffering agent. A preferred blood gas control liquid has a density of about 1.08. The blood gas control liquid has a pH in the range of 7-8, a partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the range of 15-80 millimeters Hg, and a partial pressure of oxygen in the range of 20-600 mm Hg.

Abstract: In a process and apparatus for obtaining sterilized and bacteria-free water suitable for medicinal injections and other purposes, deionized water is supplied to a reverse osmosis filter, which is impervious to attack by bacteria and which is arranged such that its entire surface may be sterilized, to obtain a sterile permeate and a portion of the deionized water supplied to the filter is recycled. The recycled portion of deionized water may be recycled through the deionization plant from which it is derived or through a closed circuit and may be recycled in combination with the sterile permeate.

Abstract: Disclosed are culture media comprising a gelling agent, germicidal bleach containing a halogen, a halogen-inactivating agent to inactivate residual halogen and conventional nutrients.Also disclosed is a method for sterilizing a culture medium without autoclaving same by dissolving a gelling agent in buffered water; adding thereto a germicidal bleach containing a halogen; thereby forming a suspension; heating the suspension to boiling; adding to the stirred and heated suspension an excess of halogen-inactivating agent to neutralize residual halogen and then adding nutrients.

Abstract: Indicators for the steam-formaldehyde sterilization process are provided which undergo a color change when placed in a steam-formaldehyde environment.

Abstract: A servicing composition which is sprayed from a container on or into a medical instrument e.g. a dental handpiece. The servicing composition includes an oil and propellant mixture for lubrication purposes but, for improved sterlizing purposes during subsequent hot-air heating and sterilizing of a medical instrument, an alcohol-aldehyde active substance combination in a proportion of 5 to 15% by weight is added to the mixture which is sprayed on the instrument. The preferred alcohol is isopropanol and the preferred aldehyde is formaldehyde or a succinic acid dialdehyde complex, and the preferred ratio of alcohol to aldehyde is 1:1.