The invention refers to an endoscope including at least one channel which may be contaminated in use, wherein the channel wall of the at least one channel is formed of a material having properties capable of photocatalysis. The invention further refers to a method for cleaning such an endoscope including the steps of: connecting the endoscope to a reprocessing device, performing a photocatalytic treatment at least in the at least one channel for the purpose of the decomposition of organic residues on the surface of the channel, and rinsing the endoscope. The invention further refers to a cleaning device for cleaning such an endoscope.

The invention refers to an endoscope including at least one channel which may be contaminated in use, wherein the channel wall of the at least one channel is formed of a material having properties capable of photocatalysis. The invention further refers to a method for cleaning such an endoscope including the steps of: connecting the endoscope to a reprocessing device, performing a photocatalytic treatment at least in the at least one channel for the purpose of the decomposition of organic residues on the surface of the channel, and rinsing the endoscope. The invention further refers to a cleaning device for cleaning such an endoscope.

A method of pairing bioabsorbable staples in a staple cartridge with the tissue being treated such that the staples are structurally sufficient during the healing window of the tissue but completely bioabsorb shortly thereafter.

A method for the removal of mycotoxins from a space associated with a built environment is disclosed. The method may include one or more of the steps of: filtering air within the space using a first filter including a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter and a second filter including a carbon filter; and, applying a cleaning product including a high alkaline product to one or more surfaces proximate the space.

A straw structure is provided. The straw structure includes a straw body, and the straw body has a first beveled edge at an opening of a bottom end of the straw body and a second beveled edge connected to a rear side of the first beveled edge. A puncturing end opening is formed at the first beveled edge and a side edge of the straw body, and the bottom end of the straw body has a beveled opening formed at the second beveled edge. The puncturing end opening is an acute angle that is less than 90 degrees, and a slope of the second beveled edge is greater than a slope of the first beveled edge.

Provided are 2-aminoimidazole-phenyl derivative compounds of Formula (I): which compounds are useful in methods of controlling microbial growth, such as by enhancing the effects of an antibiotic administered in combination with the compound. Compositions including these compounds, devices including these compounds, and methods of using the same are also provided. ##STR00001##

Provided are 2-aminoimidazole-phenyl derivative compounds of Formula (I): which compounds are useful in methods of controlling microbial growth, such as by enhancing the effects of an antibiotic administered in combination with the compound. Compositions including these compounds, devices including these compounds, and methods of using the same are also provided. ##STR00001##

A surgical staple comprising a substrate and one or more coatings which slows the bioabsorption of the substrate. The coating can be selected so as to affect the environment surrounding the staple once the staple is implanted in the patient. The effect on the environment can cause the bioabsorption to occur within a desired time frame.

A chair for particular use in clinical or hospital environments has a frame to which a support material is secured. The support material may form a chair back and/or a seat for the chair to provide support to the chair occupant. The support material may be made from a textile of interwoven strands wherein some of the interwoven strands include copper containing particles, such as copper iodide or copper oxide within the textile fibers.

Photosensitizers are incorporated into articles, such a personal protective equipment. A method of applying continuous and consistent light includes fitting the articles with light sources and optical fibers to apply light to the areas of the articles incorporated with the photosensitizers. Photosensitizers can be applied to articles by various applicators in either a gel or solution. A gel can be particularly effective when used on hydrophobic surfaces. Photodynamic reactor systems can be used to determine the effective doses of photosensitizers and the light dosimetry which can then be applied for use with the articles.