FAZIO EUGENIO (IT)
| KR20190090665A | 2019-08-02 | |||
| US20170030555A1 | 2017-02-02 | |||
| US10413626B1 | 2019-09-17 | |||
| US20180164221A1 | 2018-06-14 |
| CLAIMS 1. System for generating light radiation to neutralize a microorganism, said system comprising: - a light source (1) for emitting a light radiation, - storage means (2) in which the following are stored: ■ one or more unique identification codes, each of which is associated with a respective microorganism, and ■ at least one respective wavelength range associated with said microorganism, - a logic control unit (3), connected to said light source (1) and to said storage means (2), and configured to: o select a wavelength range based on the microorganism to be neutralized, o activate said light source (1) in such a way that the light radiation emitted by said light source (1) has a wavelength within said selected wavelength range, so that, when the system is in use, said light radiation induces an optical resonance in the microorganism, causing a denaturation of the genetic patrimony of said microorganism. 2. System according to claim 1, wherein, when a plurality of wavelength ranges are associated with the same microorganism, said logic control unit (3) is configured to select a wavelength range between the wavelengths ranges of said plurality of wavelength ranges, in which said wavelength range has wavelength values greater than the wavelength values belonging to the other wavelength ranges of said plurality of wavelengths. 3. System according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said light source is a UV lamp or an LED light source wherein said system comprises filtering means (5) for filtering said light radiation, said filtering means comprising a band-pass filter for filtering the light radiation in such a way that said light radiation has a predetermined bandwidth, preferably less than or equal to 4nm, more preferably between 1 and 3nm. 4. System according to claim 3, wherein said system comprises an optical device (4), arranged between said light source (1) and said filtering means (5). 5. System according to claim 3, wherein said system comprises an optical device (4) and said filtering means (5) are arranged inside said optical device (4) 6. System according to claim 4 or 5, wherein said optical device (4) comprises at least one lens to decrease the diameter of the light radiation emitted by the light source (1) or at least one diverging lens to increase the diameter of the light radiation emitted by the light source (1). 7. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said system comprises an optical probe (6). 8. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is a SARS-COV 2 virus, and wherein said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 158nm and 162nm, and is preferably 160nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 111 nm and 115nm, and is preferably 113nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 96nm and 100nm, and is preferably 98nm. 9. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is a Mers or SARS-Cov virus, and wherein said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 172nm and 176nm, and is preferably 174nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 134nm and 138nm, and is preferably 136nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 126nm and 130nm, and is preferably 128nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 100nm and 104nm, and is preferably 102nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 84nm and 88nm, and is preferably 86nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 72nm and 76nm, and is preferably 74nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 56nm and 60nm, and is preferably 58nm. 10. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is a rotavirus, and wherein said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 112nm and 116nm, and is preferably 114nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 66nm and 70nm, and is preferably 68nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 52nm and 56nm, and is preferably 54nm. 11. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is a rhinovirus or aphthovirus or cardiovirus or hepatovirus or a poliovirus, and wherein said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 44nm and 48nm, and is preferably 46nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 30nm and 34nm, and is preferably 32nm. 12. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is a human cytomegalovirus, and wherein said wavelength falls within a range of wavelengths between 316nm and 320nm, and is preferably 318nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 216nm and 220nm, and is preferably 218nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 190nm and 194nm, and is preferably 192nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 165nm and 169nm, and is preferably 167nm. 13. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is a HIV virus, and wherein said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 149nm and 153nm, and is preferably 151nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 103nm and 107nm, and is preferably 105nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 92nm and 96nm, and is preferably 94nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 71 nm and 75nm, and is preferably 73nm. 14. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is a smallpox virus, and wherein, the control logic unit (3) is configured to store one or more dimensions of said smallpox virus in said storage means (2), and, based on a first dimension of said smallpox virus between 332, 5nm and 367, 5nm, said wavelength falls within a range of wavelengths between 515nm and 519nm, and is preferably 517nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 345nm and 349nm, and is preferably 347nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 265nm and 269nm, and is preferably 267nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 214nm and 218nm, and is preferably 216nm, or based on a second dimension of said smallpox virus between 304nm and 336nm, said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 506nm and 510nm, and is preferably 508nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 359nm and 363nm, and is preferably 361 nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 296nm and 300nm, and is preferably 298nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 241 nm and 245nm, and is preferably 243nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 215nm and 219nm, and is preferably 217nm. 15. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is a HBV virus, and wherein said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 67nm and 71 nm, and is preferably 69nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 38nm and 42nm, and is preferably 40nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 29nm and 32nm, and is preferably 31 nm. 16. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is an influenzavirus virus, and wherein said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 170nm and 174nm, and is preferably 172nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 119nm and 123nm, and is preferably 121nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 104nm and 108nm, and is preferably 106nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 81 nm and 85nm, and is preferably 83nm. 17. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is an adenovirus virus, and wherein said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 122nm and 126nm, and is preferably 124nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 85nm and 89nm, and is preferably 87nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 75nm and 79nm, and is preferably 77nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 58nm and 62nm, and is preferably 60nm. 18. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is a HCV virus, and wherein said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 77nm and 81 nm, and is preferably 79nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 49nm and 53nm, and is preferably 51 nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 38nm and 42nm, and is preferably 40nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 34nm and 38nm, and is preferably 36nm. 19. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is a respiratory syncytial virus, and wherein, the control logic unit (3) is configured to store one or more dimensions of said respiratory syncytial virus in said storage media (2), and, based on a first dimension of said respiratory syncytial virus between 47,5nm and 52,5nm, said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 98nm and 102nm, and is preferably 100nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 68nm and 72nm, and is preferably 70nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 59nm and 63nm, and is preferably 61 nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 52nm and 56nm, and is preferably 54nm; or, based on a second dimension of said respiratory syncytial virus comprised between 123,5nm and 136,5nm, said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 198nm and 202nm, and is preferably 200nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 138nm and 142nm, and is preferably 140nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 120nm and 124nm, and is preferably 122nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 106nm and 110nm, and is preferably 108nm, or, based on a third dimension of said respiratory syncytial virus between 247nm and 273nm, said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 404nm and 408nm, and is preferably 406nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 285nm and 289nm, and is preferably 287nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 243nm and 247nm, and is preferably 245nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 220nm and 224nm, and is preferably 222nm, or based on a fourth dimension of said respiratory syncytial virus between 370, 5nm and 409, 5nm, said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 606nm and 610nm, and is preferably 608nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 427nm and 431 nm, and is preferably 429nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 361 nm and 365nm, and is preferably 363nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 276nm and 280nm, and is preferably 278nm, or based on a fifth dimension of said respiratory syncytial virus between 494nm and 546nm, said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 814nm and 818nm, and is preferably 816nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 576nm and 580nm, and is preferably 578nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 490nm and 494nm, and is preferably 492nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 448nm and 452nm, and is preferably 450nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 378nm and 382nm, and is preferably 380nm, or based on a sixth dimension of said respiratory syncytial virus between 617,5nm and 682, 5nm, said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 1017nm and 1021nm, and is preferably 1019nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 721 nm and 725nm, and is preferably 723nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 614nm and 618nm, and is preferably 616nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 560nm and 564nm, and is preferably 562nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 474nm and 478nm, and is preferably 476nm, or based on a seventh dimension of said respiratory syncytial virus between 741 nm and 819nm, said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 1222nm and 1226nm, and is preferably 1224nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 866nm and 870nm, and is preferably 868nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 740nm and 744nm, and is preferably 742nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 568nm and 572nm, and is preferably 570nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 528nm and 532nm, and is preferably 530nm. 20. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is an Escherichia coli bacterium, and wherein said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 1679nm and 1683nm, and is preferably 1681nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 1153nm and 1157nm, and is preferably 1155nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 1120nm and 1124nm, and is preferably 1122nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 1086nm and 1090nm, and is preferably 1088nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 1066nm and 1070nm, and is preferably 1068nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 870nm and 874nm, and is preferably 872nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 810nm and 814nm, and is preferably 812nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 779nm and 783nm, and is preferably 781 nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 745nm and 749nm, and is preferably 747nm. 21. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is a salmonella bacterium, and wherein said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 1147nm and 1151 nm, and is preferably 1149nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 1065nm and 1069nm, and is preferably 1067nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 969nm and 973nm, and is preferably 971 nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 863nm and 867nm, and is preferably 865nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 773nm and 777nm, and is preferably 775nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 690nm and 694nm, and is preferably 692nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 542nm and 546nm, and is preferably 544nm. 22. System according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said microorganism is a Clostridium botulinum bacterium, and wherein said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 1726nm and 1730nm, and is preferably 1728nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 1548nm and 1552nm, and is preferably 1550nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 1418nm and 1422nm, and is preferably 1420nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 1253nm and 1257nm, and is preferably 1255nm, or said wavelength falls within a wavelength range between 1177nm and 1181 nm, and is preferably 1179nm. 23. System according to any one of claims 7-22, wherein said optical probe (6) is the optical probe of a bronchoscope or a laryngopharyngeal probe or a gastroesophageal probe or an endoscopic probe. 24. Hemodialysis machine comprising a dialyzer filter and a hydraulic circuit for withdrawing a quantity of blood from a first vascular access point and for pumping said quantity of blood towards said filter, as well as a system according to any one of the claims 1-22, in which said light source (1) is arranged in correspondence with said dialyzer filter. |
MICROORGANISMS
The present invention relates to a system for generating light radiation to neutralize microorganisms.
The term "microorganisms" refers to both bacteria and viruses, but also to any pathogen, such as fungi, algae, spores, toxins, proteins, helminths, etc.
In particular, the present invention relates to also the structure of a system configured to generate a light radiation with technical characteristics (such as weight length) such as to inhibit microorganisms, such as for example bacteria and viruses, in particular the SARS COV- coronavirus 2, through a denaturation of the genetic heritage of the microorganism itself. The expression "denaturation of the genetic heritage" means the denaturation of at least one nucleic acid (DNA or RNA).
In general, by means of the light radiation generated by the system it is possible to transfer an amount of energy to the microorganism that causes an optical resonance in the microorganism itself. The optical resonance causes an irreversible physiological and morphological transformation of the microorganism.
In the event that the microorganism is a virus and in particular a SARS COV-2 coronavirus, the light radiation generated by the system causes an irreversible damage to the genetic material of the SARS COV-2 coronavirus.
In the following description, reference will be made to the system used to neutralize any microorganism which is provided with at least one first membrane.
In fact, a microorganism can have a plurality of membranes. In case a microorganism has a first membrane and a second membrane, the first membrane can be the outer membrane and the second membrane can be the inner membrane, i.e. the second membrane is arranged in the internal volume delimited by the first membrane.
In one example, when the organism is a virus that has two membranes, the first membrane can be the pericapsid and the second membrane can be the capsid.
In a further example, when the organism is a virus that has three membranes, the first membrane is the supercapsid, the second membrane is the pericapsid, and the third membrane is the capsid.
The same system can be used with the same advantages for different purposes.
In a first example, the system can be used to sanitize or sterilize any public or private environment, intended to receive people, such as hospices, hospital wards, operating theatres, laboratories, cinemas, theatres, airplanes, trains, restaurants, bars, discos, gyms, swimming pools, etc..
In a second example, the system can be used to sanitize or sterilize any object, such as an instrument, a product, or any fluid, such as a liquid or gas.
In a third example, the system can be used to sterilize food and drinks, even in an industrial production cycle (for example, sterilization of salmonella, botulin, etc.).
In a further example, said system can be used in the medical field to reduce a local viral load (for example present in the airways and/or in the pulmonary alveoli of a respiratory system and/or in the patient's blood) or to treat dermatological alterations or infected wounds.
Prior art
In general, microorganisms are organisms not visible to the human eye.
Said microorganisms contain genetic material, in particular at least one nucleic acid, for example DNA and/or RNA.
Bacteria can be between 0,2 and 10 pm in size and viruses between 0,015 - 0,25 pm.
As known viruses are microorganisms visible only under the electron microscope.
Furthermore, viruses are not capable of autonomous life, but require the metabolic apparatus of a cell. So a virus to live and replicate is forced to infect another organism.
It is also known that a UV light radiation is able to interact with nucleic acids, DNA and RNA, causing a denaturation of the genetic patrimony.
Consequently, systems capable of emitting a UV light radiation to denature the genetic heritage of microorganisms are known.
If on the one hand, the use of UV light radiation has the advantage of having a germicidal action against viruses or bacteria, on the other hand a disadvantage of using UV light radiation is that this UV light radiation interacts also with human DNA and RNA, so as to be harmful to people who are directly affected by said light radiation, even when the intensity of the light radiation is reduced.
Furthermore, the times of exposure to light radiation to obtain a significant decrease in the viral/bacterial population are sufficiently long.
Consequently, in the case of viruses such as coronaviruses and in particular SARS-CoV-2, emitting UV light radiation against these viruses on a human body tissue, would mean not only neutralizing the virus but also damaging said human body tissue, having a toxic-oncological action.
For this reason, i.e. due to the toxic-oncological action of a UV light radiation against a human body tissue, the use of this UV light radiation is prohibited in the presence of people and above all a direct use on the human body is prohibited.
The limits of use of a UV light radiation are stringent: a maximum dose of 30J/m 2 , calculated over a time interval of 8 hours.
Furthermore, in the case of the sanitization of surfaces or objects, made up of solid materials or glassy materials, it must be considered that a prolonged UV irradiation time may be capable of causing a structural change in said solid or glassy materials.
Additional systems can generate light radiation in order to sanitize or sterilize to neutralize viruses/bacteria.
These systems are provided with a light source which is a laser and has a wavelength such as to emit a blue or red light radiation that can cause the denaturation of the genetic heritage of microorganisms, as verified empirically but not theoretically.
However, in addition to the laser, it is necessary to use photo sensitizers or dyes or other substances that are not easy to find and therefore represent a limit of use for the system.
For example, the presence of photo-sensitizers is not necessary to emit blue light when a laser is a pulsed laser at high frequencies (of the order of magnitude of Femtoseconds).
However, a disadvantage is that it is difficult to find and use such a laser.
Furthermore, the use of wavelengths belonging to the visible spectrum or the infrared spectrum to inhibit microorganisms is not known.
Aim of the invention
Aim of the present invention it is to overcome said disadvantages, providing a system configured for emitting a light radiation capable to neutralize said microorganisms, particularly bacteria and viruses, and more particularly the SARS-COV 2 coronavirus, on an object or on a tissue of the human body, without that said tissue of the human body being damaged, when the light radiation is directed towards a person.
In particular, said system is designed to emit UV light radiation with a wavelength included in a narrow band, which allows said UV light radiation to interact with the microorganism and causes an optical resonance capable of neutralizing said microorganism.
On the one hand, an energy transfer from the light radiation to the microorganism allows to neutralize the microorganism and, on the other hand, although this light radiation has a high power density inside the microorganism as it is amplified inside the microorganism by effect of the resonance phenomenon, this light radiation is not harmful to healthy tissue and therefore is not harmful to people's health.
Object of the invention
It is therefore object of the invention a system for generating light radiation to neutralize microorganisms as claimed in claim 1.
Further embodiments are disclosed in the dependent claims.
Figure list
The present invention will be now described, for illustrative, but not limitative purposes, according to its embodiment, making particular reference to the enclosed Figures, wherein:
Figure 1 is a schematic view of the system, object of the invention;
Figure 2A is a schematic view showing a microorganism, represented by a sphere, and a light radiation, represented by a sine wave, in which the light radiation is generated by the system of Figure 1 and is about to hit the microorganism;
Figure 2B is a schematic view showing the microorganism in which the light radiation has been partially trapped, due to an optical resonance, and this light radiation bounces from a portion of the internal wall of the microorganism to another portion of the same internal wall, so that the intensity of light radiation increases and a quantity of energy is transferred in the form of heat on this internal wall, while a further light radiation is about to hit the microorganism;
Figure 2C is a schematic view showing the microorganism in which said further light radiation is partially trapped, while a further light radiation is about to hit the microorganism, so that the intensity of light radiation inside the membrane continues to increase and a quantity of energy transferred in the form of heat on the inner wall of the microorganism increases;
Figure 3 is a sectional front view of a SARS-COV2 virus model for numerical simulations;
Figure 4 shows a graph which represents a normalized electric field with respect to an input electric field, as a function of the wavelength of the light radiation emitted by the system object of the invention, in which said normalized electric field has been calculated by means of a plurality finite element numerical simulations on the SARS-COV2 virus model of Figure 3;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of a virus model of the Coronaviridae family for numerical simulations;
Figure 6 is a perspective view in transparency of a rotavirus virus model for numerical simulations;
Figure 7 is a perspective view in transparency of a virus model of the Picornavirinae family for numerical simulations;
Figure 8 is a perspective view of a virus model of the Flerpesviridae family for numerical simulations;
Figure 9 is a perspective view in transparency of an FI IV virus model for numerical simulations;
Figures 10A and 10B are respectively a perspective view of a first smallpox virus model for numerical simulations and a perspective view of a second smallpox virus model for numerical simulations, in which the second virus model has different dimensions from the first model ;
Figure 11 is a perspective view of an FIBV virus model for numerical simulations;
Figure 12 is a perspective view in transparency of a virus model of the Orthomyxoviridae family for numerical simulations; Figure 13 is a perspective view of an Adenovirus virus model for numerical simulations;
Figure 14 is a perspective view of an FICV virus model for numerical simulations;
Figure 15A is a perspective view of a first model variant of a respiratory syncytial virus RSV for numerical simulations;
Figure 15B is a perspective view of a second model variant of a respiratory syncytial virus RSV for numerical simulations;
Figure 15C is a perspective view of a third model variant of a respiratory syncytial virus RSV for numerical simulations;
Figure 15D is a perspective view of a fourth model variant of a respiratory syncytial virus RSV for numerical simulations;
Figure 15E is a perspective view of a fifth model variant of a respiratory syncytial virus RSV for numerical simulations;
Figure 15F is a perspective view of a sixth model variant of a respiratory syncytial virus RSV for numerical simulations;
Figure 15G is a perspective view of a seventh model variant of a respiratory syncytial virus RSV for numerical simulations;
Figure 16 is a perspective view of an Escherichia Coli bacterium for numerical simulations;
Figure 17 is a perspective view of a salmonella bacterium for numerical simulations;
Figure 18 is a perspective view of a Clostridium Botulinum bacterium for numerical simulations.
Detailed description of the invention
With reference to Figure 1 , a system for generating light radiation to neutralize microorganisms, in particular the SARS COV-2 coronavirus.
Said system comprises:
- a light source 1 for emitting a light radiation,
- storage means 2, in which the following are stored: ■ one or more unique identification codes, each of which is associated with a respective microorganism, and ■at least one respective wavelength range associated with said microorganism,
- a logic control unit 3, connected to said light source 1 and to said storage means 2, and configured to: o select a wavelength range based on the microorganism to be neutralized, o activate said light source 1 in such a way that the light radiation emitted by said light source 1 has a wavelength within said selected wavelength range, so that, when the system is in use, said light radiation induces an optical resonance in the microorganism, causing a denaturation of the genetic patrimony of said microorganism.
With reference to the light source 1 , said light source can be a UV lamp or a LED light source or a laser.
Particularly, said wavelength ranges were previously identified for each microorganism, such a way as to induce an optical resonance phenomenon within said microorganism, as better disclosed below.
A plurality of wavelength ranges can be associated with one or more microorganisms.
The values of the wavelengths of such wavelength ranges are chosen such a way as to induce an optical resonance within said microorganism.
When a plurality of wavelength ranges is associated with a microorganism, said logic control unit 3 can be configured to select a wavelength range between said plurality of wavelength ranges.
It is preferable that the logic control unit is configured to select the wavelength range whose wavelength values are greater than the wavelength values belonging to the other wavelength ranges of said plurality of wavelengths. In fact, a light radiation with a higher wavelength value may belong to the visible spectrum rather than the ultraviolet spectrum.
Therefore, the light radiation that radiates the microorganism is not harmful to human tissues.
It is preferable that the light source 1 is an LED light source since it is capable of emitting a light radiation having a narrower band than the light radiation emitted by a UV lamp and with a limited emission angle.
It is preferable that said bandwidth is less than or equal to 4nm and it is further preferable that it is between 1 nm and 3nm.
Advantageously, using a narrow bandwidth, in particular between 1nm and 3nm, it is possible to ensure on the one hand that the total dose of light radiation to which the patient is exposed is lower than the safety limits, and on the other hand that the microorganism is irradiated with a light radiation having a wavelength such as to induce said optical resonance.
In regards to the light radiation emitted by an LED light source, the bandwidth and the limited emission angle help to have a light radiation capable of having a greater sterilization or sanitization capacity.
In particular, the fact that the light radiation has a limited emission angle allows the light radiation to maintain a high power density even at a significant distance from the light source.
Furthermore, an LED light source consumes less energy than a UV lamp to emit light radiation with the same intensity.
From an energy point of view, it is further preferable that said light source 1 is a laser.
Therefore, the laser can be used to efficiently neutralize a microorganism belonging to the virus family called Coronaviridae, such as the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.
Said system can comprise at least one optical device 4 for focusing the light radiation emitted by the light source 1 on a human tissue or on an object to be sterilized or sanitized
Said optical device 4 is connected to the light source 1 through at least one first optical fibre.
Said optical device 4 can comprise one or more lenses.
Said one or more lenses can be convergent to decrease the diameter of the light radiation emitted by the light source 1 or divergent to increase the diameter of the light radiation emitted by the light source 1.
The system can comprise a plurality of optical devices, even different from each other, depending on the type of light source.
The system can comprise filtering means 5 for selecting a predetermined bandwidth so as to obtain an optical resonance in the microorganism.
Said filtering means are necessary when the light source is a UV lamp or an LED light source, while when the light source is a laser the presence of said filtering means is not necessary.
Said filtering means 5 can comprise a band-pass filter.
In the embodiment being disclosed, said optical device 4 is arranged between said light source 1 and said filtering means 5.
However, said filtering means 5 can be positioned elsewhere.
For example, said filtering means 5 can be included in the optical device 4, without departing from the scope of the invention.
In fact, the light source 1 may be capable of emitting a light radiation having a broadband spectrum, comprising a plurality of wavelengths, and the filtering means 5 may comprise or consist of a band-pass filter configured to allow only the passage of wavelengths in a wavelength range.
As already mentioned, the bandwidth of the wavelength range is preferably less than or equal to 4nm, more preferably between 1nm and 3nm.
The system can comprise an optical probe 6. Said optical probe 6 can be connected to the filtering means 5, if said filtering means 5 are included in the system, or to the optical device 4, if said filtering means 5 are not included in the system (for example when the light source is a laser).
In particular, said optical probe 6 can be connected to the filtering means 5 or to said optical device 4 through a second optical fibre.
In a variant, the light radiation 1 can be included in said optical probe
6.
The optical probe can be a probe of a bronchoscope or a laryngopharyngeal probe or a gastroesophageal probe or an endoscopic probe.
Regardless of the type of probe mentioned above, the optical probe 6 is to be inserted in use in a patient, for example inside the airways, esophagus, hollow organs and/or blood vessels.
Regardless of the presence of the optical probe 6, the system can include a user interface module 7.
Said user interface module 7 can comprise a display device 7A to display the light radiation and one or more parameters associated with said light radiation, for example the wavelength, the optical power, the duration of the irradiation.
The system described above can be included in a dialyzer machine.
In general, a hemodialysis machine comprises:
- at least one dialyzer filter, and
- a hydraulic circuit to be connected to a first vascular access point of a patient and to a second vascular access point, different from the first vascular access point (for example the two vascular access points can be positioned at a arteriovenous fistula).
Through the hydraulic circuit a quantity of blood is withdrawn from the first vascular access point and pumped towards the dialyzer filter.
The dialyzer filter filters said quantity of blood before it is returned to the patient in the second vascular access point through the hydraulic circuit.
If the dialyzer machine comprises said system, the light source 1 is to be installed at said dialyzer filter, so that the patient's blood is irradiated before, during or after filtering.
Below are some examples of families of microorganisms and the wavelengths (expressed in nanometers) of the light radiation used to neutralize such microorganisms.
The wavelengths were identified through a modeling of the microorganism and a simulation of the system to solve, by means of a software for numerical simulations, one or more differential equations relating to the electromagnetic field associated with the light radiation to which said microorganism is subjected.
In other words, said numerical simulations simulate the propagation of a light radiation in a 3D model of at least one microorganism belonging to a predetermined family of microorganisms, within an environment.
Each microorganism was modeled using mean values for the size.
The results of the numerical simulations are applicable to microorganisms with dimensions similar to those of the microorganisms object of the numerical simulations.
In particular, these dimensions can vary in percentage terms by a factor of ± 5% with respect to the dimensions of the microorganisms subject to the numerical simulations.
Therefore, the results of the numerical simulations relating to a substantially spherical microorganism with an external diameter equal to 100nm can be applied to microorganisms having dimensions between 95nm and 105nm.
The environment was modeled as a cubic volume larger than the size of the microorganism, to which the physical properties of air or water were associated, to model the behaviour of the microorganism in air or water.
In the case of modeling a virus having an external diameter equal to 100nm, this environment can be for example a cube with dimensions equal to 800x800x800nm 3 .
In the event that said microorganism is a virus, modeling its behaviour in water is particularly advantageous, since, usually, the viruses are carried within fluids, such as salivary droplets.
Referring to Figure 5B, in the case of 3D modeling of a virus belonging to the virus family called "Coronaviridiae", and in particular of SARS-COV-2, such virus was modeled using two concentric spherical elements to define four distinct regions of the virus: a first spherical element having a first diameter, and a second spherical element having a second diameter smaller than said first diameter.
In particular, the shell of said first spherical element represents a first region of the virus associated with the pericapsid and said first diameter is between 95nm and 105nm, and in the specific case equal to 100nm.
The shell of said second spherical element represents a second region of the virus associated with the capsid and has a diameter between 85,5nm and 94,5nm and in the specific case equal to 90nm.
In fact, it has been assumed that each shell is associated with a membrane of the microorganism and has a membrane thickness of 5nm.
This assumption was also applied to the membrane models of further simulated viruses, better illustrated below.
A third region of the virus is between the shell of the first spherical element and the shell of the second spherical element and a fourth region of the virus is the interior of the second spherical element and is associated with the genetic material, which in this case is viral RNA.
Furthermore, the first spherical element comprises 100 protrusions, each having a length equal to 20nm to model the spikes of the SARS- COV2. These spikes were modeled as additional regions.
Other microorganisms can be modeled using 3D models other than the one just described. In particular, in the case of viruses comprising several membranes, the 3D model can provide a number of regions greater than the number of regions described above.
As said, the SARS-COV-2 virus has been modeled through a plurality of concentric elements having a spherical shape.
However, a microorganism can be modeled with one or more elements having an ellipsoidal shape, as explained below.
Each region of the virus has been associated with predetermined physical properties, and in particular a respective refractive index of the electromagnetic radiation.
For the SARS-COV2 virus and for all the other simulated viruses (better illustrated below), the refractive indices used are the following:
- refractive index of each viral membrane: 1.1 + j 0.001 ;
- refractive index of the genetic material: 1.53 + j 1.1 E-7;
- refractive index of the viral matrix: 1.37 + j 1.1 E-7; e
- refractive index of the spike proteins: 1.47 + j 0.00274.
The differential equations were solved by means of said software for numerical simulations.
In the embodiment being described, said software is a finite element software, in particular Comsol Multiphysics®, and more particularly Comsol Multiphysics® 5.5.
The Helmotz equation for the electromagnetic field was solved in the frequency domain or in the time domain starting from closed boundary conditions to simulate the propagation of light radiation in the microorganism inserted in said environment.
In particular, this equation has been solved in the frequency domain to reduce the calculation times necessary for processing the data obtained from the numerical simulations since the purpose of said numerical simulations is to observe the frequency behaviour of the microorganism exposed to the light radiation with a predetermined wavelength.
For each simulation, the presence of an electromagnetic field source having a predetermined wavelength and the fact that the wave was a plane wave were used as a boundary condition.
This source of electromagnetic field was placed at an infinite distance from the modeled microorganism, so as to assume that the wave front impacting this microorganism is locally flat.
In other words, the light source was placed at an infinite distance from the microorganism and emits a light radiation with said predetermined wavelength.
Furthermore, the "Perfectly Matched Layers" condition was used to model the behaviour of the external faces of the cube that represents the environment in which the microorganism is inserted.
Said condition requires a perfect absorption of the light radiations incident on said external faces of the cube with any incidence angle.
Through the aforementioned software for numerical simulations, it was possible to perform a frequency/wavelength scan of the light radiation to identify the frequency/wavelength at which the light intensity inside the microorganism has a relative maximum.
With reference to Figure 3 and to Figures from Figure 5 to Figure 18, the results of the simulations carried out for viruses or bacteria belonging to the most common families are shown below.
Figures 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10A, 10B, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15A, 15B, 15C, 15D, 15E, 15F, 15G, 16, 17 and 18 show a respective model of a virus or bacterium used to simulate an incident light radiation on such a virus or bacterium.
With reference to the virus family called “Coronaviridiae”, a SARS COV-2 virus, shown in Figure 3, was simulated with the characteristics already listed above. For said virus, the following table shows the wavelength values obtained by numerical simulations at which it is possible to obtain an optical resonance, as well as a respective value obtained from the ratio between the value of the same wavelength and the value of a diameter of a single membrane with which the virus was modeled.
The possible ranges of wavelengths centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following: · a first wavelength range: 158nm - 162nm,
• a second wavelength range: 111 nm - 115nm,
• a third wavelength range: 96nm - 10Onm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth of between 1nm and 3nm. The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is
160nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 113nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 98nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 160nm.
Each wavelength value corresponds to a peak of the simulated electromagnetic field Es (i.e. calculated by means of numerical simulations) normalized with respect to the electromagnetic input field Ein. Figure 4 shows a portion of the simulated electromagnetic field Es normalized with respect to the input electromagnetic field Ein with reference to the wavelengths of the visible spectrum. The simulated electromagnetic field Es normalized in Figure 4 has a plurality of peaks, each of which is at a respective wavelength value shown in the table shown above.
Below, for each simulated virus/bacterium with predetermined characteristics, there is a respective table showing one or more values referred to the wavelength, at which an optical resonance is obtained, as well as, for each wavelength value, at least one respective first value obtained from the ratio between the value of the same wavelength and the diameter of a first external membrane with which the virus has been modeled.
In the case of a microorganism with a membrane, d is the diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane.
In the case of a microorganism with two membranes, di is the diameter of a first spherical element representing a first membrane or outer membrane and d2 is the diameter of a second spherical element representing a second membrane, arranged in the internal volume defined by the first membrane.
Still with reference to the virus family called "Coronaviridiae", a MERS or SARS-COV virus, shown in Figure 6, has been modeled with the following characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane = 180nm, spike number = 98, spike length = 20nm.
The number of possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 172nm - 176nm,
• a second wavelength range: 134nm - 138nm,
• a third wavelength range: 126nm - 130nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 10Onm - 104nm,
• a fifth wavelength range: 84nm - 88nm,
• a sixth wavelength range: 72nm - 76nm,
• a seven wavelength range: 56nm - 60nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth of between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 174nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is
136nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 128nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 102nm. The preferred wavelength value for the fifth wavelength range is 86nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the sixth wavelength range is 74nm. The preferred wavelength value for the seventh wavelength range is
58nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 174nm.
With reference to the virus family called "Reovirinae", a rotavirus virus, shown in Figure 6, has been modeled with the following characteristics: di = diameter of a first spherical element representing a first membrane called supercapsid = 90nm, d2 = diameter of a second spherical element representing a second membrane called peripcapsid = 80nm. Furthermore, this virus has a capsid with a diameter of 30nm.
Flowever, the presence of the capsid was considered negligible for the modeling of the virus, as the results obtained do not change by omitting said capsid.
The possible wavelengths ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 112nm - 116nm,
• a second wavelength range: 66nm - 70nm, · a third wavelength range: 52nm - 56nm. In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 114nm. The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is
68nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 54nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 114nm. With reference to the virus family called "Picornavirinae", a rhinovirus or apthovirus or cardiovirus or hepatovirus or poliovirus, shown in Figure 7, has been modeled with the following characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element associated with a membrane = 30nm.
The possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 44nm - 48nm,
• a second wavelength range: 30nm - 34nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 46nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is
32nm. It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 46nm. With reference to the virus family called "Herpesviridae", a human cytomegalovirus virus, shown in Figure 8, has been modeled with the following characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane =
200nm, spike number: 200, length: 20nm.
The possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 316nm - 320nm,
• a second wavelength range: 216nm - 220nm, · a third wavelength range: 190nm - 194nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 165nm - 169nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 318nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 218nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 192nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 167nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 318nm. With reference to the virus family called "Retroviridae", an HIV virus, shown in Figure 9, has been modeled with the following characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane = 100nm.
The possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 149nm - 153nm,
• a second wavelength range: 103nm - 107nm,
• a third wavelength range: 92nm - 96nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 71 nm - 75nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 151nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 105nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 94nm. The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 73nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 151nm.
With reference to the virus family called "poxviridae", a smallpox virus, shown in Figure 10A, has been modeled with the following characteristics: di = the greatest diameter of a first ellipsoidal element representing a first membrane = 350nm, d2 = the greatest diameter of a second ellipsoidal element representing a second membrane, arranged in the internal volume defined by the first membrane = 270nm.
The possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 515nm - 519nm,
• a second wavelength range: 345nm - 349nm,
• a third wavelength range: 265nm - 269nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 214nm - 218nm. In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 517nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 347nm. The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 267nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 216nm. It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value, obtained by numerical simulations, is 517nm.
With reference to the virus family called "poxviridae", a smallpox virus shown in Figure 10B, it has been modeled with the following additional characteristics: di = the greatest diameter of a first ellipsoidal element representing a first membrane = 320nm d2 = the greatest diameter of a second ellipsoidal element representing a second membrane, arranged in the internal volume defined by the first membrane = 240nm.
The possible wavelengths range centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 506nm - 51 Onm,
• a second wavelength range: 359nm - 363nm,
• a third wavelength range: 296nm - 300nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 241 nm - 245nm,
• a fifth wavelength range: 215nm - 219nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 508nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 361nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 298nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 243nm. The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is
217nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 508nm.
With reference to the virus family called "hepadnaviridae", an HBV virus (known as hepatitis B), shown in Figure 11, has been modeled with the following additional characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane = 42nm, spike number = 80, spike length = 4nm.
The possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 67nm - 71 nm,
• a second wavelength range: 38nm - 42nm, • a third wavelength range: 29nm - 33nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 69nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 40nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 31nm. It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value, obtained by numerical simulations, is 69nm.
With reference to the virus family called "orthomyxonaviridae", an influenza virus, shown in Figure 12, has been modeled with the following additional characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane =
110nm, spike number= 200, spike length= 15nm.
The possible ranges of wavelengths centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 170nm - 174nm,
• a second wavelength range: 119nm - 123nm, • a third wavelength range: 104nm - 108nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 81 nm - 85nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm. The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is
172nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 121nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 106nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 83nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 172nm.
With reference to the virus family called "adenovirinae", an adenovirus virus shown in Figure 13, has been modeled with the following additional characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane = 80nm, spike number= 160, spike length = 20nm.
The possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following: • a first wavelength range: 120nm - 126nm,
• a second wavelength range: 85nm - 89nm,
• a third wavelength range: 75nm - 79nm,
• a fifth wavelength range: 58nm - 62nm. In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 124nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 87nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 77nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 60nm. It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 124nm.
With reference to the virus family called "flaviviridae", an HCV virus (known as hepatitis C), shown in Figure 14, has been modeled with the following additional characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane = 50nm.
The possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following: • a first wavelength range: 77nm - 81 nm,
• a second wavelength range: 49nm - 53nm,
• a third wavelength range: 38nm - 42nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 34nm - 38nm. In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 79nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 51 nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 40nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 36nm. It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 79nm.
With reference to the virus family called "paramyxoviridae" and to the subfamily called "pneumovirinae", a respiratory syncytial virus, shown in Figure 15A, and has been modeled with the following characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane = 50nm, spike number: 22.
The possible ranges of wavelengths centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 98nm - 102nm,
• a second wavelength range: 68nm - 72nm,
• a third wavelength range: 59nm - 63nm, · a fourth wavelength range: 52nm - 56nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 100nm. The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is
70nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 61 nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 54nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 100nm.
With reference to the virus family called "paramyxoviridae" and to the subfamily called "pneumovirinae", a respiratory syncytial virus, shown in Figure 15B, has been modeled with the following characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane =
130nm, spike number: 40.
The possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 198nm - 202nm,
• a second wavelength range: 138nm - 142nm,
• a third wavelength range: 120nm - 124nm, · a fourth wavelength range: 106nm - 110nm.
In forme di realizzazione alternative, tali intervalli possono avere una larghezza di banda compresa tra 1 nm e 3nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm. The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is
200nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 140nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 122nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 108nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 200nm.
With reference to the virus family called "paramyxoviridae" and to the subfamily called "pneumovirinae", a respiratory syncytial virus, shown in Figure 15C, has been modeled with the following characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane = 260nm, spike number: 80. The possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 404nm - 408nm,
• a second wavelength range: 285nm - 290nm, · a third wavelength range: 242nm - 247nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 220nm - 224nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 406nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 287nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 245nm. The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is
222nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 406nm.
With reference to the virus family called "paramyxoviridae" and to the subfamily called "pneumovirinae", a respiratory syncytial virus, shown in Figure 15D, has been modeled with the following characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane = 390nm, spike number: 120. The possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 606nm - 61 Onm,
• a second wavelength range: 427nm - 431 nm,
• a third wavelength range: 361 nm - 365nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 276nm - 280nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 608nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 429nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 363nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 278nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value, obtained by numerical simulations, is 608nm.
With reference to the virus family called "paramyxoviridae" and to the subfamily called "pneumovirinae", a respiratory syncytial virus, shown in Figure 15E, has been modeled with the following characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane = 520nm, spike number: 190. The possible ranges of wavelengths centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 814nm - 818nm,
• a second wavelength range: 576nm - 580nm, · a third wavelength range: 490nm - 494nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 448nm - 452nm,
• a fifth wavelength range: 378nm - 382nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm. The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is
816nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 578nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 492nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 450nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fifth wavelength range is 380nm. It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 816nm.
With reference to the virus family called "paramyxoviridae" and to the subfamily called "pneumovirinae", a respiratory syncytial virus, shown in Figure 15F, has been modeled with the following characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane = 650nm, spike number: 240.
The possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 1017nm - 1021 nm, · a second wavelength range: 721 nm - 725nm,
• a third wavelength range: 614nm - 618nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 560nm - 564nm,
• a fifth wavelength range: 474nm - 478nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1 nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 1019nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 723nm. The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is
616nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 562nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fifth wavelength range is 476nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value, obtained by numerical simulations, is 1019nm.
With reference to the virus family called "paramyxoviridae" and to the subfamily called "pneumovirinae", a respiratory syncytial virus, shown in Figure 15F, has been modeled with the following characteristics: d = diameter of a spherical element representing a membrane = 780nm, spike number: 280.
The possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 1222nm - 1026nm,
• a second wavelength range: 866nm - 870nm,
• a third wavelength range: 740nm - 744nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 568nm - 572nm,
• a fifth wavelength range: 528nm - 532nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 1224nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 868nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 742nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 570nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fifth wavelength range is 530nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value, obtained by numerical simulations, is 1224nm.
With reference to the family of bacteria called "Escherichia coli", an "Escherichia coli" bacterium, shown in Figure 16, was modeled with the following characteristics: di = the greatest diameter of a first ellipsoidal element representing a first membrane = 3 pm, d2 = the greatest diameter of a second ellipsoidal element representing a second membrane, arranged in the internal volume defined by the first membrane = 1 pm, flagellum number: 6, flagellum length: 3 pm.
The possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 1679nm - 1683nm, · a second wavelength range: 1153nm - 1157nm,
• a third wavelength range: 1120nm - 1124nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 1081 nm - 1090nm,
• a fifth wavelength range: 1066nm - 1070nm,
• a sixth wavelength range: 870nm - 874nm, · a seven wavelength range: 81 Onm - 814nm,
• an eighth wavelength range: 779nm - 783nm, • a ninth wavelength range: 745nm - 749nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 1681nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 1155nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 1122nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 1088nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fifth wavelength range is 1068nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the sixth wavelength range is 872nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the seventh wavelength range is 812nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the eighth wavelength range is 781nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the ninth wavelength range is 747nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 1681 nm.
The data relating to simulated bacterial models are shown below. In particular, it was assumed that all bacteria have external membranes with a thickness of 50nm and internal membranes with a thickness of 30nm, that the refractive index for bacterial membranes is equal to 1.365 + j 0.001 , and that the refractive index for the cytoplasm is equal to 1.37 + j 1.1 E-7.
With reference to the family of bacteria called "salmonella", a salmonella bacterium, shown in Figure 17, has been modeled with the following characteristics: di = the greater diameter than a first ellipsoidal element representing a first membrane = 2 pm, d2 = the greatest diameter of a second ellipsoidal element representing a second membrane, arranged in the internal volume defined by the first membrane = 0,5 pm, flagellum number: 10, flagellum length: 2 pm.
The possible wavelength ranges centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 1147nm - 1151 nm,
• a second wavelength range: 1065nm - 1069nm, · a third wavelength range: 969nm - 972nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 863nm - 867nm,
• a fifth wavelength range: 773nm - 777nm,
• a sixth wavelength range: 690nm - 694nm,
• a seven wavelength range: 543nm - 547nm. In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the first wavelength range is 1149nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 1067nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 971nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 865nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fifth wavelength range is 775nm. The preferred wavelength value for the sixth wavelength range is
692nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the seventh wavelength range is 544nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value, obtained by numerical simulations, is 1149nm.
With reference to the family of bacteria called "Clostridium botulinum", a "Clostridium botulinum" bacterium, shown in Figure 18, was modeled with the following characteristics: di = the greatest diameter of a first ellipsoidal element representing a first membrane = 5 pm, d2 = the greatest diameter of a second ellipsoidal element representing a second membrane, arranged in the internal volume of the first membrane = 1 pm. The possible ranges of wavelengths centred around a respective wavelength value with a bandwidth equal to 4nm are the following:
• a first wavelength range: 1726nm - 1730nm,
• a second wavelength range: 1548nm - 1552nm,
• a third wavelength range: 1418nm - 1422nm,
• a fourth wavelength range: 1253nm - 1257nm,
• a fifth wavelength range: 1177nm - 1181 nm.
In alternative embodiments, such ranges can have a bandwidth between 1nm and 3nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the second wavelength range is 1728nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the third wavelength range is 1550nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fourth wavelength range is 1420nm.
The preferred wavelength value for the fifth wavelength range is 1179nm.
It is further preferable that the preferred wavelength value is 1728nm.
Advantages
Advantageously, as already mentioned, through the system object of the invention it is possible to neutralize a microorganism by means of a light radiation emitted by the system when in use.
A second advantage is given by the fact that, when the system is used to neutralize a microorganism present in the human body, the light radiation emitted by this system is not harmful to the health of a healthy tissue.
A further advantage is given by the fact that said system can be used to sanitize any environment or product or food or drink.
The present invention has been described for illustrative, but not limitative purposes, according to its preferred embodiment, but it is to be understood that variations and/or modifications can be carried out by a skilled in the art, without departing from the scope thereof, as defined according to enclosed claims.