Abstract: To provide an exhaled-air pressure measuring device capable of deciding on exhaled-air pressure levels suitable for usage purposes. An exhaled-air pressure measuring device measures the pressure of air exhaled by a user, and on the basis of the measurement result, decides on an exhaled-air pressure level which corresponds to the pressure of the exhaled air. The exhaled-air pressure measuring device includes a measuring device body, and a mouthpiece portion from which the user exhales into the device. The measuring device body includes: a microcomputer which stores threshold data representing a threshold of the exhaled-air pressure level and decides on the exhaled-air pressure level corresponding to the exhaled-air pressure of a detection signal detected by a pressure sensor; and a USB terminal which is connected to an external storage device so as to change the threshold data stored in the microcomputer.

Abstract: A contactless cardiopulmonary signal estimation method and apparatus are provided. A cardiopulmonary signal estimation apparatus may estimate a cardiopulmonary signal of a user from a heartbeat signal and a respiratory signal of the user in response to movement of a chest based on a cardiopulmonary exercise of the user.

Abstract: A device for capturing and concentrating volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in a sample of breath air. The device includes an intake for accepting an air sample; a disposable mouth piece; a sensor array for measuring physical parameters of the air sample; an exhaled air sampler for capturing a pre-determined volume of air; a concentrator for concentrating VOCs in the air sample; and an ionic liquid collector, the latter of which may be removed from the device. The ionic liquid collector, which may have one compartment or multiple compartments, includes at least one ionic liquid. Analysis of VOCs in the ionic liquid or liquids may identify biomarkers that can provide a medical diagnosis for a human patient based on a sample of breath air.

Abstract: An acoustic sensor is provided according to certain aspects for non-invasively detecting physiological acoustic vibrations indicative of one or more physiological parameters of a medical patient. The sensor can include an acoustic sensing element configured to generate a first signal in response to acoustic vibrations from a medical patient. The sensor can also include front-end circuitry configured to receive an input signal that is based at least in part on the first signal and to produce an amplified signal in response to the input signal. In some embodiments, the sensor further includes a compression module in communication with the front-end circuitry and configured to compress portions of at least one of the input signal and the amplified signal according to a first compression scheme, the compressed portions corresponding to portions of the first signal having a magnitude greater than a predetermined threshold level.

Abstract: A device for combined respiratory gas analysis and lung function test includes a gas quantity measuring device, a gas analysis device, and a multi-way valve configured for placement at least between a first valve path combination and a second valve path combination. A first gas path between the gas quantity measuring device and a second combined inlet/outlet opening is established while by-passing the gas analysis device with the first valve path combination of the multi-way valve, and a second gas path is established between a first combined inlet/outlet opening, the gas analysis device, the gas quantity measuring device, and the second combined inlet/outlet opening with the second valve path combination of the multi-way valve.

Abstract: A respiratory gating system is disclosed that varies the orientation of a radiation emitting device according to a patient's natural breathing. A breathing respirator is provided that allows the patient's respiration amount to be measured. External markers are adhered to triangulation points around a radiation target region, such as a heart, of the patient. An image diagnosis device images the target region. A computed tomography device reveals movements of the target region caused by the respiration. Triangulations and polynomial approximations are used to estimate the trajectory of the target region in real time. Position coordinates derived from the estimated trajectory are transmitted to the radiation emitting device. The system increases the accuracy and stability of the entire radiation therapy result.

Abstract: A patient monitor for displaying a physiological signal can include a visual element having a middle portion indicative of a transition in the physiological signal between physiological states. The visual element can also include first and second extremity portions, the first extremity portion extending from the middle portion in a first direction and the second extremity portion extending from the middle portion in a second direction. The visual element can also include an actionable value indicator to specify a value about the middle portion and the first and second extremity portions. The patient monitor can also include a processor configured to cause the value indicator to actuate in both the first and second directions according to changes in the physiological signal.

Abstract: A medical system having a ventilator coupled to a breathing circuit is provided. The ventilator is configured to exchange gases with the patient via the breathing circuit. The system includes one or more sensors configured to acquire measurement data associated with the patient, and a memory storing the measurement data. The system further includes a monitor configured to display a tidal volume and lung compliance viewer, and a processor. The processor is programmed to display a virtual gauge within the tidal volume and lung compliance viewer displayed on the monitor. The virtual gauge having a tidal volume indicator and a tidal volume and compliance indicator. The tidal volume and compliance indicator includes a color pattern positioned along a side of the tidal volume indicator. The color pattern representing a degree of tidal volume and compliance relationship with respect to a position on the virtual gauge.

Abstract: A system and method to in-exsufflate a subject is described. The system provides an effective non-invasive alternative to invasive treatments such as a tracheostomy for ALS patients. The system detects airway collapse during exsufflation and adjusts in-exsufflation therapy settings to minimize airway collapse, thus maximizing the efficacy of the in-exsufflation therapy. In some embodiments, tidal volume, tidal flow rate, and/or other parameters are monitored during in-exsufflation. Exsufflation pressure is adjusted based on the monitored parameters to maintain an open airway during exhalation of the subject. Exsufflation pressure is adjusted based on a comparison of an actual exhalation tidal volume to a target exhalation tidal volume, an actual exhalation flow rate to a target exhalation flow rate, an actual inhalation tidal volume to a target inhalation volume, and/or other comparisons.

Abstract: An improvement for existing breathing therapy machines which allows the machine to determine a patient's dominant respiratory phenotype using an auto-titration mode and flow sensor.

Abstract: Certain aspects of a method and system for processing signals that control a device using human breath may include receiving at the device, one or more signals from a detection device operable to function as a human interface device (HID). The signals may be generated in response to detection of movement of air caused by expulsion of human breath. Human interfacing with a graphical user interface (GUI) of the device may be enabled via the received signals. The detection device may comprise a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) detector. The received signals may be formatted into a HID profile. The HID profile may comprise one or more drivers and/or libraries that enables the interfacing with the GUI of the device. The drivers may enable one or more of initiation, establishment and/or termination of communication by the device.

Abstract: Assessing the sleep quality of a user in association with an electronic device with one or more physiological sensors includes detecting an attempt by the user to fall asleep, and collecting physiological information associated with the user. The disclosed method of assessing sleep quality may include determining respective values for one or more sleep quality metrics, including a first set of sleep quality metrics associated with sleep quality of a plurality of users, and a second set of sleep quality metrics associated with historical sleep quality of the user, based at least in part on the collected physiological information and at least one wakeful resting heart rate of the user, and determining a unified score for sleep quality of the user, based at least in part on the respective values of the one or more sleep quality metrics.

Abstract: Methods and systems for targeting, accessing and diagnosing diseased lung compartments are disclosed. The method comprises introducing a diagnostic catheter with an occluding member at its distal end into a lung segment via an assisted ventilation device; inflating the occluding member to isolate the lung segment; and performing a diagnostic procedure with the catheter while the patient is ventilated. The proximal end of the diagnostic catheter is configured to be attached to a console. The method may also comprise introducing the diagnostic catheter into the lung segment; inflating the occluding member to isolate the lung segment; and monitoring blood oxygen saturation. The method may further comprise introducing the diagnostic catheter into the lung segment; determining tidal flow volume in the lung segment; determining total lung capacity of the patient; and determining a flow rank value based on the tidal flow volume of the lung segment and the total lung capacity.

Abstract: Spirometer apparatus comprising main inhale-exhale tube having first end, main interior, and second open end, a plurality of smaller tubes intersecting said main-inhale exhale tube at first and second respective locations and having a plurality of smaller interiors respectively, the first location being closer to the first end than is the second location, wherein each of the smaller interiors are in fluid communication with the main interior solely via at least one aperture formed in each of the intersecting tubes at locations facing said second end, the intersecting tubes having first and second external cross-sections, the main tube having first and second internal cross-sections, wherein said first external cross-section is smaller than said first internal cross-section, said second external cross-section is smaller than said second internal cross-section, and wherein said second external cross-section is smaller than said first external cross-section, and a differential pressure sensor sensing the pressur

Abstract: Methods, computer systems, and computer-readable storage media for monitoring and managing patient discomfort are provided. Inputs are received from ambient sensors located in a clinical care room. Based on a determination that the inputs exceed predetermined thresholds, it is determined that the patient is experiencing discomfort. Various measures are automatically initiated to help diminish the patient's discomfort. The measures include aromatherapy, visual relaxation therapy, audio therapy, and automatic administration of pain relief.

Abstract: A wearable sensor retaining device and techniques for integrating a wearable sensor retaining device into a first responder's garment, such as a firefighter's shirt. The wearable sensor retaining device may include a strap having a rigid connector having a male portion and a female portion (e.g. a side-release buckle) for adjustably securing the strap around a wearer's torso to ensure proper location of the wearable sensor and proper fit for the wearer. The strap has a portion for coupling to a wearable sensor and having sufficient tension to retain the wearable monitor in the proper location, while maintaining wearer comfort so as not to impede the range of motion of the wearer. The strap may include a length adjustment loop that provides the wearer a customized fit and quick, consistent application.

Abstract: An interface appliance is configured to deliver a flow of fluid to the airway of a subject. The generation of the flow of fluid may be controlled to provide a therapeutic benefit to the subject. The interface appliance is configured to carry one or more sensors (24) configured to detect one or more parameters related to the flow of fluid on the subject. The one or more parameters may then be used to control the generation and/or delivery of the flow of fluid.

Abstract: Method for detecting gaseous component levels in a breath, comprising: receiving a breath through a breath channel, wherein the breath channel is in fluid communication with a flow rate sensor and an electrochemical fuel cell gas sensor; measuring a flow rate of the breath received through the breath channel; measuring a first time, wherein the first time corresponds to an amount of time elapsed while receiving the breath in the breath channel; and calculating a current gaseous component level utilizing the flow rate, first time and an output from the gas sensor. Methods for detecting an error condition while measuring gaseous component levels in a breath comprising: determining if the peak output occurs while breath is still being received in the breath channel; and if the peak output occurs while breath is still being received in the breath channel, alerting a user of an error condition.

Abstract: The present description relates to a dysphagia rehabilitation apparatus to help tongue muscle rehabilitation exercise during dysphagia rehabilitation. More particularly, it relates to a device that when a patient wearing the dysphagia rehabilitation device contacts the tongue to a position sensing unit configured on the front of a mask, a sensing single according to a change of a physical value of resistance corresponding to the tongue's touching position from the position sensing unit. Then a control unit of a remote device generates a control signal through the transmitted sensing signal, thereby the remote device controls rehabilitation, games and programs of similar functions thereof and induce patient's interest of rehabilitation. Thus, effect of rehabilitation is improved.

Abstract: A method of determining the ventilatory threshold of a subject in real time during an exercise session wherein data relating to physiological parameters of said subject are acquired and stored in function of time during the exercise session, said data including at least data indicative of the respiration and of the heart beat rate.

Abstract: A pressure support device such as a CPAP machine, is provided, which includes a housing, and a controller enclosed by the housing. The controller operates the CPAP machine independently or in combination with an accessory such as, for example and without limitation, a humidifier. A user interface is operably coupled to the controller and includes a primary display, a secondary display and a single control. The single control is operable in a first mode of operation to adjust operating parameters of the CPAP machine, and in a second mode of operation to adjust operating parameters of the humidifier. The secondary display preferably comprises a dead front, which is operational (e.g., without limitation, visible) only in the second mode of operation. A method of operating a pressure support device is also disclosed.

Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus for breath training are disclosed. The systems and apparatus may comprise an output device, at least one sensor configured to detect physiological data from a trainee, and a data processor coupled to the output device and the at least one sensor, the data processor configured to provide instructions to a trainee through the output device based on a breath training regimen and to receive and analyze the physiological data detected from the at least one sensor. The methods may comprise the steps of instructing a trainee based on a breath training regimen, detecting physiological data from the trainee through at least one sensor, analyzing physiological data and providing feedback to the trainee based on the analyzed physiological data.

Abstract: An apparatus may include a sensing circuit and a processor. The sensing circuit is configured to generate a sensed physiological signal, wherein the physiological signal includes respiration information of a subject. The processor includes an end expiratory volume (EEV) module configured to determine a value of EEV of the subject using the sensed physiological signal, and a lung hyperinflation detection module configured to generate an indication of lung hyperinflation of the subject according to the value of EEV and provide the indication to at least one of a user or process.

Abstract: A breathing biofeedback device, having a microphone configured to acquire sounds of a user's breathing; a controller communicatively connected with the microphone, the controller processing the signals acquired by the microphone to produce an output signal, the controller processing the signal whereby the microphone signal is first pre-amplified to a voltage level that can be processed by an audio envelope detector circuit, the envelope detector signal is then fed into the analog-to-digital converter input of the controller allowing it to constantly sample the input volume level, the controller then controlling the output volume level fed to the headphones utilizing a digitally controlled variable-gain amplifier, wherein the output signal is not modified in any manner from the original input, except in volume; and a pair of earphones connected with the controller and configured to convey the output signal to the user.

Abstract: Respiratory-based biofeedback devices, systems, and methods are provided. A respiratory biofeedback method includes producing a respiratory signal in response to a user's respiratory activity, generating an audio output signal that includes a modified version of the respiratory signal, and converting the audio output signal into sound waves output to the user to provide biofeedback. The sound waves can be output to the user in real time response to the user's respiratory activity. A microphone can be used to generate the respiratory signal. The generated audio output signal can includes the respiratory signal modified to increase a volume level of a portion of the respiratory signal where the volume level exceeds a specified volume level.

Abstract: In embodiments, an external medical device is intended to care for a patient. If it receives an input that signifies that ventilation artifact is present in a signal of the patient, it transmits a corrective signal responsive to the received input. In further embodiments, a patient signal is received, which is generated from a patient while the patient is or was receiving chest compressions at a frequency Fc, and also receiving ventilations at frequency Fv. At least one filter mechanism may be applied to the patient signal to substantially remove artifacts at a) frequency Fc, b) a higher harmonic of frequency Fc, and c) a third frequency substantially equaling frequency Fc plus or minus frequency Fv, while substantially passing other frequencies between them. As a result, the patient signal can be cleaner, for diagnosing the patient's state more accurately.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of ambulatory and non-invasive monitoring of a plurality of physiological parameters of a monitored individual. The invention includes a physiological monitoring apparatus with an improved monitoring apparel, the apparel having sensors for monitoring parameters reflecting pulmonary function and/or parameters reflecting cardiac function and/or parameters reflecting the function of other organ systems. The apparel is preferably also suitable for medical, athletic, and for other uses. The sensors include one or more inductive plethysmographic sensors positioned to monitor at least basic pulmonary parameters, and optionally also basic cardiac parameters. The sensors include one or more ECG sensor electrodes that preferably include a flexible, conductive fabric. The monitoring apparatus also includes an electronic unit for receiving data from the sensors and for storing the data in a computer-readable medium and/or wirelessly transmitted the data.

Abstract: Provided according to embodiments of the invention are photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors, systems and methods of using the same. In some embodiments of the invention, methods of obtaining a photoplethysmography (PPG) signals include securing a PPG sensor onto a nasal columella of an individual; and obtaining a PPG signal from the PPG sensor.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an electronic spirometer that empowers users to quantitatively track and proactively manage respiratory diseases via simple integration with mobile devices, tablets, and computers. In one aspect, patients will be able to connect with their doctors to determine medication dosage and efficacy, avoid environmental triggers, and prevent attacks and exacerbations.

Abstract: A system and method tracks touches in a healthcare environment in order to analyze paths of transmission and contamination for the purpose of eliminating and containing transmission of colonizing, drug-resistant pathogens. Touches are identified and tracked with the use of recording devices. Each touch is logged and a touch graph is generated to identify transmission paths.

Abstract: In embodiments, an external medical device is intended to care for a patient. If it receives an input that signifies that ventilation artifact is present in a signal of the patient, it transmits a corrective signal responsive to the received input. In further embodiments, a patient signal is received, which is generated from a patient while the patient is or was receiving chest compressions at a frequency Fc, and also receiving ventilations at frequency Fv. At least one filter mechanism may be applied to the patient signal to substantially remove artifacts at a) frequency Fc, b) a higher harmonic of frequency Fc, and c) a third frequency substantially equaling frequency Fc plus or minus frequency Fv, while substantially passing other frequencies between them. As a result, the patient signal can be cleaner, for diagnosing the patient's state more accurately.

Abstract: Methods and systems for visualizing mechanical ventilation information are provided. One system includes a user interface for a medical system having a ventilator is provided. The user interface includes a memory storing one or more sensor measurements for a patient and a processor. The processor is programmed to display a visualization of a tidal volume determined from one of the sensor measurements of the patient and display a visualization of lung compliance for the patient, wherein the tidal volume visualization and the lung compliance visualization are displayed concurrently.

Abstract: A method and device for determining dynamic hyperinflation during mechanical ventilation of a spontaneously breathing patient, wherein mechanical ventilation is removed during one breath of the patient, inspiratory and expiratory volumes of the patient are measured during the one breath, and a difference between the inspiratory and expiratory volumes measured during the one breath is calculated. Dynamic hyperinflation of the patient's lungs is indicated in relation to the calculated difference.

Abstract: A method for generating data indicative of lung function of a subject. The method comprises receiving first data which has been obtained from the subject, and inputting said first data to a model of lung function to generate said data indicative of lung function. The model of lung function comprises a first model component modelling transfer of gaseous oxygen from a gaseous space within the lung to biological material within the lung based upon quantitative data indicative of oxygen content in the inhaled gases and oxygen content in the biological material and a second model component modelling the transfer of oxygen from the lungs by oxygenation of venous blood to create oxygenated blood based upon quantitative data indicative of oxygen content in the venous blood.

Abstract: A control integrated circuit for a power factor correction converter has a pin for detecting an alternating-current information and a direct-current information of an input signal. The control integrated circuit comprises a signal peak detector for detecting a peak value of the input signal to the pin to obtain the direct-current information of the input signal. Since the alternating-current information and the direct-current information of the input signal can be obtained through the same pin, the pin count of the control integrated circuit can be decreased.

Abstract: A method and system for measuring changes in inspiratory load of a patient's respiratory system during mechanical ventilation. The method and system calculate a first relation between a measured inspiratory airway pressure and a measured electrical activity of respiratory muscle, and a second relation between a measured inspiratory volume and the measured electrical activity. A load index is calculated from the first and second relations. Changes in inspiratory load are determined based on the load index.

Abstract: Breathing effort of a patient, as determined (for example) from a photoplethysmograph (“PPG”) signal from the patient, can be calibrated in relation to air pressure in the patient's respiratory system. This calibration can be done by subjecting the patient to varying amounts of breathing resistance; and for each such amount, concurrently measuring (1) air pressure in the respiratory system (e.g., in the oral/nasal cavity) and (2) breathing effort (from the PPG signal). Use can be made of this calibration, e.g., during a sleep study of the patient. During such a study, breathing effort, again determined from the PPG signal and occurring, for example, during an apneic event of the patient, can be used to infer air pressure in the respiratory system by using the above calibration.

Abstract: A method for determining lung function in a patient is disclosed, in which a multi-lumen catheter with an expandable occluding element at its end is used to isolate a targeted lung compartment, and respiratory characteristics at the targeted lung compartment are measured over multiple respiratory cycles. The relation between various characteristics of the respiratory cycle is used to determine compliance of lung tissue within the targeted lung compartment.

Abstract: The present application is directed to a detector to detect or generate measuring signals that are indicative of the respiration of a person, wherein said detector can be used advantageously in view of hygiene and stands out due to a simple and robust configuration. According to a first aspect, the detector detects a signal that is indicative of the activity of the respiratory muscles of a person to be examined, the detector comprising a band which, in the application position, is passed around a torso region which widens and narrows when the person to be examined breathes, as well as a structure that is included in the band and loaded in accordance with the narrowing or widening of the torso region. The structure is configured such that it causes a change in the volume of a measuring space device depending on a tensile force.

Abstract: An oral-nasal cannula comprising at least one nasal breath inlet for carbon dioxide (CO2) sampling; and at least one nasal breath inlet for flow measurement, wherein said at least one nasal breath inlet for flow measurement is separated from said at least one nasal breath inlet for CO2 sampling, such that said cannula is configured to facilitate CO2 sampling and flow measurement essentially without cross-interference.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a device and method for acquiring and processing sensor signals on a host device. The device comprises a jack and connects to a socket on the host device. The device further comprises an instrumentation block which draws power from the host socket to power its operation. The instrumentation block further processes signals and conveys this information to the host device up on connecting the device jack to the host socket. The host device controls certain aspects of the electronics module for acquiring and processing plurality of signals. The instrumentation block in the device connects to one or more sensors through cables to sense at least one of electrocardiogram (ECG), Electroencephalography (EEG), motion, airflow of respiratory system, body temperature, light intensity of arterial oxygen saturation level, blood pressure and any other physiology signal.

Abstract: In an apparatus for assisting respirations of a subject in accordance with a predetermined reference respiration pattern defined as a sequence of reference respirations each having a reference respiratory volume for the subject, a respiration obtaining unit obtains, at a sampling time, an actual respiratory volume of the subject based on an actual respiration of the subject in accordance with the predetermined reference respiration pattern. A storing unit stores variation of the reference respiratory volumes for the subject. An assisting unit generates, based on the actual respiratory volume and the reference respiratory volumes, visual assist information indicative of a respiratory state of the subject relative to the predetermined reference respiration pattern, and provides the visual assist information to the subject.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for determining the occurrence of a closed or open apnea. Respiratory air flow from a patient is measured to give an air flow signal. The determination of an apnea is performed by applying an oscillatory pressure waveform of known frequency to a patient's airway, calculating a complex quantity representing a patient admittance (12) and comparing its value with ranges (14,16) indicative of open or closed apneas. The method distinguishes open from closed apneas even when the model used to calculate admittance is not based on details of the respiratory apparatus. In addition the patient admittance may be compared with admittance during normal breathing to avoid having to characterize the airway.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a spirometer comprising a piezoelectric sensor and the use of the spirometer in measuring a user's lung performance and/or tracking a user's lung performance over a period of time. The spirometer is configured so that fluid flow through a housing produces oscillating stresses in a piezoelectric material. The oscillating stresses produce an electric signal. Characteristics of the electric signal, such as the magnitude of the signal at particular frequencies, can be measured and used to determine the rate of fluid flow through the housing during inhalation or exhalation. The fluid flow characteristics may then be displayed on a variety of devices, such as a smartphone, a personal computer, etc.

Abstract: Devices, system, and methods generate expiratory flow-based pulmonary function data by processing a digital audio file of sound of a subject's forced expiratory maneuver. A mobile device configured to generate expiratory flow-based pulmonary function data includes a microphone, a processor, and a data storage device. The microphone is operable to convert sound of the subject's forced expiratory maneuver into a digital data file. The processor is operatively coupled with the microphone. The data storage device is operatively coupled with the processor and stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to process the digital data file to generate expiratory flow-based pulmonary function data for assessing pulmonary function of the subject. The sound of the subject's forced expiratory maneuver can be converted into the digital data file without contact between the subject's mouth and the mobile device.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to devices and methods for monitoring, identifying, and determining risk of congestive heart failure (CHF) hospitalization. Methods include determining physiological values of a patient by electrocardiogram (ECG), bioimpedance, and 3-axis accelerometer, filtering the physiological values, comparing physiological values to baseline parameters and determining CHF risk. Devices include a 3-axis accelerometers, bioimpedance sensors, and an electrocardiogram, each capable of measuring patient physiological values, and one or more processors to receive the measured physiological values.

Abstract: Continuous measurement of breathing impedance with extremely high precision is enabled by executing noise elimination. A loudspeaker applies an air vibration pressure by an oscillation wave to an oral cavity, the oscillation wave being obtained by frequency-cuffing so executed that the oscillation wave has only the frequency component that is left after the culling is executed from a plurality of different frequencies and being generated by a pulse signal for pulse drive with pulses made positive and negative separately in correspondence to the time of exhalation and the time of inhalation. A pressure inside the oral cavity is detected and a breathing flow is detected, and a signal obtained by the detection is Fourier-transformed to obtain a spectrum. Analysis of the spectrum is performed to obtain breathing impedance.

Abstract: Methods are provided herein for treating an individual having a disease, disorder or condition affecting the lungs, wherein said disease, disorder, or condition of the lung is an acute lung injury. In specific embodiments, the acute lung injury is chemical induced acute lung injury (CIALI). In some embodiments, the methods are provided for treating or protecting a subject from chemical induced acute lung injury that include administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a phosphatase located on chromosome 10 (PTEN) inhibitor such as N(9,10-dioxo-9,10-di-hydrophenanthren-2-yl)pivalamide (SF1670). In some embodiments, the method products a subject from CAILI or reduces CAILI that results from a subsequent exposure to a chemical that induces chemical induced acute lung injury.

Abstract: A human body support, such as a chair, has a plurality of support segments that are arranged in an array. Each support segment has a protrusion elevation that is independently variable and controllable in its distance of protrusion elevation against the supported human body. A sensor is connected to a human body on the support and senses a human body parameter that can indicate the presence of drowsiness. A controller analyzes the sensed parameter to detect whether the sensed parameter is within a range indicating the presence of drowsiness. The controller applies a wave of varying segment protrusion elevation against the human body in response to the detection of drowsiness. The wave progresses in a direction from an inferior location on the human body toward a more superior location. Alternatively, a wave of electrical stimuli is applied by similarly positioned electrodes and causes periodic tightening and relaxing of proximate muscles.

Abstract: In a method for determining the ventilation of a lung of an object under examination by magnetic resonance imaging, at least two first lung-representing image data sets are acquired at different intervals of the breathing phase. The density change of the lung tissue is automatically determined from the signal difference between the image signals of the first image data sets in at least one corresponding region of the first lung-representing image data set. The lung or the thorax volume is automatically determined using at least two of the first image data sets, or using at least an additional second lung-representing image data set in a breathing phase that corresponds with the breathing phase of a first image data set. The localized, quantitative ventilation of the lung is automatically calculated depending on the density change of the lung tissue and the change of the lung or thorax volume.