Abstract: Several embodiments of the invention relate to methods for removing compositions comprising dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or odors associated with same. In several embodiments, systems including activated carbon filters, adsorbents, odor adsorbing fabrics, masks, clean air members and clean air supply assemblies are provided in order to perform said methods. In some embodiments the systems and methods facilitating the treatment of traumatic brain injury, ischemic stroke, atherosclerosis, spinal cord trauma, and neurodegenerative illnesses with compositions comprising DMSO.

Abstract: Various equipment and methods associated with providing a concentrated product gas are provided. In one embodiment, the equipment includes an input device first and second sieve tanks, a variable restrictor, and a controller. In one embodiment, the method includes: a) selecting a desired output setting for the concentrated product gas from a plurality of output settings, b) separating one or more adsorbable components from a pressurized source gaseous mixture via first and second sieve tanks in alternating and opposing pressurization and purging cycles to form the concentrated product gas, and c) selectively controlling a variable restrictor based at least in part on the desired output setting to selectively provide flow between the first and second sieve tanks such that the flow for at least one output setting is different from the flow for at least one other output setting in relation to corresponding pressurization cycles.

Abstract: Internal nose filter mounting devices, methods and kits are provided. The nose filter mounting device includes first and second septum magnets, each septum magnet having two opposing faces and being configured to be inserted into a nostril of a user such that one face is adjacent the nasal septum therein and the first and second septum magnets may magnetically engage across the septum. The nose filter mounting device also includes first and second filter magnets connected to the first and second septum magnets, respectively, each filter magnet being configured to mate with filter elements in the nostrils of the user.

Abstract: A system for collecting nitrous oxide in exhalation air and subsequently delivering the nitrous oxide to further processing which comprises a number of mutually replaceable adsorption units (201). Every unit has a nitrous oxide reversible adsorbent (213a) and: i) an inlet port (214a) and an outlet port (214b) for exhalation air, ii) an inlet port (215a) and an outlet port (215b) for desorbing gas, together with A) a docking arrangement (202) which is associated with adsorption of nitrous oxide and used for connecting a face mask (204) to the inlet port (214a), and B) a docking arrangement (203) which is associated with desorption of nitrous oxide and used for connecting the outlet port (215b) to further processing of nitrous oxide. Another aspect is an adsorption unit (201,301,401) unit as defined in the preceding paragraph which is capable of being regenerated by passing a desorbing gas through the adsorbent.

Abstract: A saliva collector comprises a reservoir, a bubble barrier, and a membrane, where the bubble barrier and membrane are arranged in tandem on a flow path from an inlet to an outlet on the reservoir. Air aspirated from a patient's oral cavity enters the reservoir through the inlet, passes through the bubble barrier to remove foam and bubbles, passes through the membrane to remove entrained liquid saliva, and passes out through the outlet.

Abstract: Methods and devices to determine rate of particle production and the size range for the particles produced for an individual are described herein. The device (10) contains a mouthpiece (12), a filter (14), a low resistance one-way valve (16), a particle counter (20) and a computer (30). Optionally, the device also contains a gas flow meter (22). The data obtained using the device can be used to determine if a formulation for reducing particle exhalation should be administered to an individual.

Abstract: The invention features methods and apparatus for the treatment of asthma patients. A controlled supply of breathable air delivered to a patient interface or mask (4) is controlled for patient comfort to maintain a steady pressure level in a range 2 to 4 cm H2O to accommodate patient respiration. The breathable air is cleaned by a high efficiency particulate arresting filter (10) to remove allergens from the air supply. The apparatus may be programmed to automatically detect asthma-related symptoms such as an asthma attack by analyzing the respiratory flow of the patient. In response to the detection of such an attack, the apparatus may provide an audible warning or if configured with a treatment delivery module (14A, 14B), the device may administer a therapeutically effective dose of a drug or substance, for example, a broncho-dilator, to alleviate the patient's breathing difficulty. Preferred mask designs allow for proper CO2 washout to accommodate the low pressures supplied to the mask and prevent asphyxia.

Abstract: Various systems, devices, NO2 absorbents, NO2 scavengers and NO2 recuperator for generating nitric oxide are disclosed herein. According to one embodiment, an apparatus for converting nitrogen dioxide to nitric oxide can include a receptacle including an inlet, an outlet, a surface-active material coated with an aqueous solution of ascorbic acid and an absorbent wherein the inlet is configured to receive a gas flow and fluidly communicate the gas flow to the outlet through the surface-active material and the absorbent such that nitrogen dioxide in the gas flow is converted to nitric oxide.

Abstract: An air cleaning apparatus capable of predicting a breakthrough time of a filtering portion is provided. Regarding a mask 1 as one example of the air cleaning apparatus, data on concentration of the poisonous gas element with which in ambient air (40) is contaminated on the upstream side of a filtering portion (3), a flow rate of the air (40) passing through the filtering portion (3), a temperature of the air (40), and relative humidity of the air (40) are input to an arithmetic processing unit (25). A breakthrough-time prediction formula in which the concentration, the flow rate, the temperature, and the relative humidity are provided as variables is programmed in the arithmetic processing unit (25), and the breakthrough time of the filtering portion (3) is calculated through the prediction formula, based on the data on the concentration and the like.

Abstract: Described herein are various embodiments of an oxygen concentrator system In some embodiment, an oxygen concentrator system includes improved charging and battery control circuits.

Abstract: A device (1) for separating moisture from breathing gas is improved in terms of the storage of water of condensation. A collection volume (5) is provided for water of condensation with a water-binding substance (6).

Abstract: In an airtight suction device and a rotary switch thereof, the airtight suction device includes a main body having a communication space and a plurality of connectors. These connectors include a suction connector, a respiratory connector, a cleaning connector, and a control valve connector. The rotary switch is provided on the control valve connector and includes a rotary cover and a hollow post. The hollow post has a peripheral wall and a blocking piece. The peripheral wall is provided with a pair of suction holes. The blocking piece is provided with a ventilation hole for allowing external air to flow into the suction holes.

Abstract: A filtration mask has a collapsible air guide and two filter supports connected at a hinge. The filter supports are movable between a storage position and a deployment position in which the angle between the filter supports being less in the deployment position than in the storage position. In an aspect of this invention, the filter support each have a recess at the hinging edge, and an exhale valve communicating with the air guide is mounted in the recess. In another aspect the exhale valve is connected to the filter supports by a flexible membrane. In a third aspect the air guide is formed by hinged panels.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein include air-treatment mask systems having at least one controllable air-treatment device that is controlled responsive to one or more signals from at least one pollutant sensor, and related methods of operation and air-treatment masks. In an embodiment, an air-treatment mask system includes a wearable air-treatment mask having a mask body including a face-securing member, and at least one controllable air-treatment device supported by the mask body. The air-treatment device is configured to treat incoming air. The system includes at least one pollutant sensor configured to sense ambient air for a presence of at least one pollutant and output one or more signals responsive to the sensing. The system includes control electrical circuitry operably coupled to the air-treatment device and the pollutant sensor and configured to control operation of the controllable air-treatment device responsive to receiving the signal(s) from the pollutant sensor.

Abstract: An arrangement and method for guiding expired gas flow in a breathing circuit through a housing assembly for removing an undesired gas component is disclosed herein, The housing assembly includes a first port and a second port, one of the ports receiving the flow and another discharging the flow. The arrangement includes a gas routing device in flow communication with the breathing circuit and the housing assembly. The routing device is provided with at least two different route options. According to a first option the gas is guided to the first port and through the housing assembly to the second port and to the gas routing device for guiding for the inspiration. According to a second option the gas is guided to the second port and through the housing assembly to the first port and to the gas routing device for guiding for the inspiration.

Abstract: There is provided a looped tether to prevent the over-withdrawal of a suction catheter from a connecting fitting in a closed suction catheter respiratory device. The looped tether is made from a single thread or strand that is looped or doubled in length with the two loose ends connected together to produce the loop. The looped tether provides better distribution of the forces at the ends of the device and is relatively simple to assemble. Also provided is a system for preventing the over-withdrawal of a suction catheter from a connecting fitting in a closed suction catheter respiratory device.

Abstract: A system includes an ultraviolet light source, such as light-emitting diodes, disposed between a first ionic grid and a second ionic grid. The first and the second ionic grids have opposite ionic charges and a plurality of silver nanoparticles disposed thereon. The ultraviolet light source is configured to emit, onto the first and the second ionic grids, ultraviolet radiation having a wavelength of between about 100 nm and about 280 nm. A biochemical detector may be located adjacent to the first ionic grid on a side of the first ionic grid opposite the ultraviolet light source. The ultraviolet light source, first ionic grid, and second ionic grid may be located within a housing connected to a gas mask, and a membrane filter may be disposed between the gas mask and housing. The housing may include a power source connected to the ultraviolet light source.

Abstract: Embodiments of oxygen concentrators having a sieve bed that includes a vessel filled with a separation medium are disclosed. The sieve bed vessel at least partially supports one chassis component of the oxygen concentrator with respect to another chassis component. of the oxygen concentrator.

Abstract: Various equipment and methods associated with providing a concentrated product gas are provided. In one embodiment, the equipment includes an input device first and second sieve tanks, a variable restrictor, and a controller. In one embodiment, the method includes: a) selecting a desired output setting for the concentrated product gas from a plurality of output settings, b) separating one or more adsorbable components from a pressurized source gaseous mixture via first and second sieve tanks in alternating and opposing pressurization and purging cycles to form the concentrated product gas, and c) selectively controlling a variable restrictor based at least in part on the desired output setting to selectively provide flow between the first and second sieve tanks such that the flow for at least one output setting is different from the flow for at least one other output setting in relation to corresponding pressurization cycles.

Abstract: A respiratory nasal filter including an outer ring having concentric outer periphery and inner periphery sized to the periphery of a user's nasal orifice, a filter layer having an outer periphery larger than the inner periphery of the outer ring, but smaller than the outer periphery of the outer ring and an adhesive applied to said outer ring for bonding the filter layer concentrically to the outer ring and for bonding the outer ring to the columella, a nasal sill, an alar sidewall and the facet of the user's nose.

Abstract: There is provided herein a dryer polymer substance including a hetero-phase polymer composition including two or more polymers wherein at least one of the two or more polymers include sulfonic groups, wherein the substance is adapted to pervaporate a fluid. The fluid may include water, water vapor or both. There is also provided herein a process for the preparation of a dryer polymer substance adapted to pervaporate a fluid (such as water, water vapor or both) the process includes mixing two or more polymers, wherein at least one of the two or more polymers may include groups which are adapted to be sulfonated, to produce a hetero-phase polymer composition and processing the polymer blend into a desired form.

Abstract: A breathing protector may include an inlet and an outlet, wherein an air flow may be configured to pass from the inlet to the outlet into a trachea. A filter housing may include an inner housing part, an outer housing part, and a filter body. The inner housing party may include the outlet, a tracheal tube fitting and a support structure extending longitudinally and distally from the tracheal tube fitting. A base plate may be arranged in a proximal zone of the tracheal tube fitting and extend radially outwards from the tracheal tube fitting. The outer housing part may include the inlet and form a cage enclosing the support structure. The filter body may be arranged between the support structure and the outer housing part.

Abstract: A filter element utilizes a porous shape-retaining self-supporting non-woven web. The web includes thermoplastic elastomeric polymer fibers and active particles disposed in the fibers. The web also possesses a three-dimensional deformation.

Abstract: This invention provides for a component forming a part of a breathing tube, or forming the breathing tube, for example as a part of a breathing circuit for respiratory therapy. The component comprising a tubular body having a foamed wall. The foamed wall can be formed from extrusion of a single extrudate. The foamed wall is of a sufficient minimum optical transparency such that, in use, there is enabled the visual detection of a liquid (or condensate that may have formed) within the tubular body.

Abstract: An exhalation valve assembly that controls the pressure of exhaled gas in a ventilation system is described. The exhalation valve assembly includes an actuator module that may be fixed to the ventilation system and a valve module, removable for cleaning or disposal, through which the exhaled gas flows and that controls the pressure and release of the exhaled as to the environment. Other components may also be incorporated into the assembly Including a filter module, a flow meter and a condensate trap.

Abstract: A system for collecting an anaesthetic agent, having at least one anaesthetic gas scavenging system (AGSS) for receiving exhaust gas from a plurality of sources, the exhaust gas including the anaesthetic agent to be collected, each AGSS comprising at least one power source for providing suction of the exhaust gas from the plurality of sources under negative pressure, and a central collection system for receiving the exhaust gas, the central collection system comprising at least one collector for collecting the anaesthetic agent from the exhaust gas, wherein the at least one collector is configured to adsorb the anaesthetic agent from the exhaust gas. The central collection system may be configured to received the exhaust gases from the at least one AGSS, with the central collection system being located downstream of the at least one AGSS.

Abstract: The present invention provides in some embodiments, an endotracheal tube with subglottic secretion suction and a detachable suction line. The endotracheal tube is an elongate tube having an outer wall defining an elongate central lumen and an elongate suction lumen. An inflatable cuff is attached near a distal end of the elongate tube. The shoulder of the inflatable cuff is inverted in order to increase the diameter of the cuff from its distal end to its proximal end. The endotracheal tube also includes a connector to couple the suction lumen to a source of suction to remove subglottic secretions from the area above the cuff.

Abstract: A breathing protector for use in a stoma of a laryngectomized or tracheotomised person is provided. This breathing protector is provided with an inlet and an outlet, such that an air flow in use will pass from the surroundings of said person through said inlet to said outlet, into trachea of said person. The breathing protector further comprises a heat-moisture exchanger (3) and a bacteriological filter (4), such that said air flow will pass through said heat-moisture exchanger and said bacteriological filter when said air flow in use passes through said inlet to said outlet. Also, the breathing protector is provided with a closing member (6) that may be activated to close the communication between said at least one inlet and said at least one outlet.

Abstract: A device for inserting into a tracheostoma prosthesis or a thracheostoma plaster comprises a cylindrical housing and a cylindrical valve element, the housing is provided with a first opening for the connection to the stoma of the patient and with at least one second opening on the opposite side, and the valve element in the second opening of the housing is provided to close the second opening . The valve element is configured so that it can be closed manually by means of a finger and can he opened by elastic return, and the housing surrounds the valve element and the valve element receives a moisture and heat exchanging filter. A cylindrical spring element is arranged between the housing and the valve element.

Abstract: A breathing mask is provided which prevents condensation in the interior space of the mask. The mask body (2) is provided in some sections with a material (8) that is waterproof but permeable to water vapor.

Abstract: A nasal cavity filter (2) having a substantially cylindrical supporting wall (4), which adheres to the walls of a nasal cavity, and an inner surface (5) of which defines a cavity (6) for the passage of air inhaled and exhaled by the user. The cavity (6) houses a number of fins (7), which generate turbulence in the air flowing through, and the surface of which impacted by the air retains particles present in the air.

Abstract: Several embodiments of the invention relate to systems and methods for removing compositions comprising dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or odors associated with same. In several embodiments, the systems include activated carbon filters, adsorbents, odor adsorbing fabrics, masks, clean air members and clean air supply assemblies. Methods for reducing the concentration of a DMSO metabolite, or the odors associated with said DMSO metabolite are provided in some embodiments. In some embodiments the systems and methods facilitating the treatment of traumatic brain injury, ischemic stroke, atherosclerosis, spinal cord trauma, and neurodegenerative illnesses with compositions comprising DMSO.

Abstract: An exhalation valve assembly that controls the pressure of exhaled gas in a ventilation system is described. The exhalation valve assembly includes an actuator module that may be fixed to the ventilation system and a valve module, removable for cleaning or disposal, through which the exhaled gas flows and that controls the pressure and release of the exhaled gas to the environment. Other components may also be incorporated into the assembly including a filter module, a flow meter and a condensate trap.

Abstract: A respirator assembly is composed of a respirator, an air purifier, and a connection tube. The respirator includes a first housing having an inflow unit and an air intake. A first pumping unit is located in the first housing for sucking the air through the inflow unit and exhausting the air through the air outtake. The air purifier includes a second housing having an air intake and an outflow unit. A second pumping unit is located in the second housing for sucking the air through the air intake and exhausting the air through the outflow unit. The outflow unit includes a natural-air outlet and a respirator outlet. The connection tube includes two ends, one of which is connected with the respirator outlet and the other is connected with the inflow unit. Accordingly, the respirator assembly can reduce the frequency of replacing the respiratory screen and enhance the quality of filtering the air.

Abstract: A filter cartridge 12 that has a first and second layer of filter media 38, 40 that each have first and second major surfaces 32, 44 and a perimeter 46 and that each contain active particulate that is bonded together. A plenum 42 is disposed between the first and second layers of filter media 38, 40 such that the plenum 42 interfaces with the second major surface 44, 44? of each layer of filter media. A housing sidewall 30 extends from the first layer of filter media 38 to the second layer of filter media 40 and is secured to the perimeter 46 of the first and second layers of filter media. The first major surfaces 32, 32? of the first and second layers of filter media 38, 40 are each fluid permeable and are each in fluid communication with an exterior gas space. A filter cartridge 12 having such a construction provides a bifurcated flow pattern in a higher volume structure.

Abstract: A respiratory device filter (10) comprises a housing (12) having a mouthpiece (16) and a body (18). The housing (12) defines an inner sidewall (34) and a conical filter (14) is disposed within the housing (12). The conical filter (14) includes a first end that defines an apex (42) and a second end that defines an opening (44). An apex retention member (46) extends from the inner sidewall (34) and is secured to the apex (42) of the conical filter (14).

Abstract: An exhalation valve assembly that controls the pressure of exhaled gas in a ventilation system is described. The exhalation valve assembly includes an actuator module that may be fixed to the ventilation system and a valve module, removable for cleaning or disposal, through which the exhaled gas flows and that controls the pressure and release of the exhaled gas to the environment. Other components may also be incorporated into the assembly including a filter module, a flow meter and a condensate trap.

Abstract: Preferred embodiments of the invention relate to systems for removing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or odors associated with same. The systems include adsorbents, odor adsorbing fabrics, masks, clean air members and clean air supply assemblies.

Abstract: A respirator service lift indication system comprises a breathing apparatus comprising an air purifying element; and a service life indicator arranged in a parallel flow configuration with the breathing apparatus. The service life indicator comprises a sacrificial cartridge, and a sensor disposed downstream of the sacrificial cartridge and configured to detect a contaminant concentration above a predetermined threshold in an gas stream passing through the sacrificial cartridge.

Abstract: A system for collecting an anaesthetic agent, having at least one anaesthetic gas scavenging system (AGSS) for receiving exhaust gas from a plurality of sources, the exhaust gas including the anaesthetic agent to be collected, each AGSS comprising at least one power source for providing suction of the exhaust gas from the plurality of sources under negative pressure, and a central collection system for receiving the exhaust gas, the central collection system comprising at least one collector for collecting the anaesthetic agent from the exhaust gas, wherein the at least one collector is configured to adsorb the anaesthetic agent from the exhaust gas. The central collection system may be configured to received the exhaust gases from the at least one AGSS, with the central collection system being located downstream of the at least one AGSS.

Abstract: A self-calibrating powered air purifying respirator (PAPR). The PAPR comprises an electric motor mechanically coupled to a blower; an air flow sensor, and a controller coupled to the air flow sensor and to the electric motor. The controller is configured to automatically execute a one-time self-calibration by driving the electric motor to a predefined operation point, receiving an indication from the air flow sensor, determining a reference parameter based on the indication from the air flow sensor, and storing the reference parameter, wherein after completion of the one-time self-calibration the controller controls the electric motor based on the stored reference parameter.

Abstract: Devices, methods and systems for creating a zone of filtered air proximate a head of a user including an air filtration device including a blower being configured to be disposed within, below, or affixed to a bedding structure, an air plenum in flow communication with the blower and in support of the head of the user and having an air delivery surface configured to distribute the air flow to the zone of filtered air, and a filter disposed within the device for filtering the air flow before it is distributed to the zone of filtered air.

Abstract: A heater wire for removing condensation from a respiratory gas conduit. The heater wire includes at least one groove disposed thereon. The heater wire is positioned in a respiratory gas conduit.

Abstract: A filter mask includes an oronasal cup, an inhalation directional cover, and an exhalation diverter body. The oronasal cup encloses a nose and mouth of a user. The oronasal cup is fluidly coupled with a filter. The inhalation directional cover is configured to be joined to the filter. The inhalation directional cover includes an elongated wing portion that is oriented in an inhalation direction that is angled with respect to the center axis of the filter. The exhalation diverter body is fluidly coupled with the oronasal cup. The exhalation diverter body defines an exhalation duct that directs exhaled air out of the oronasal cup along an exhalation direction. The inhalation direction and the exhalation direction are oriented away from a plane of interaction between the user and another person.

Abstract: Face masks that are provided in a generally flat configuration and are capable of being expanded to a cup-shaped configuration. Such masks include at least one porous layer that includes at least one pleat and that is capable of being expanded by at least partially unfolding the at least one pleat. The mask further includes at least one stiffening element that comprises at least one engaging feature. Upon expanding the porous layer, the engaging feature engages with the porous layer so as to enhance the ability of the mask to maintain the expanded, cup-shaped configuration.

Abstract: A breathing apparatus simulator unit (BASU) comprises a mouthpiece/noseclip subassembly and a cartridge subassembly. The mouthpiece/noseclip subassembly includes the same mouthpiece/noseclip subassembly that is utilized in an actual self-contained self-rescuer (SCSR) device. The cartridge subassembly comprises a container containing a reactionary material. The reactionary material reacts with at least one product of a user's exhalation to generate heat and resistance, thereby providing sensations to simulate the use of an actual SCSR.

Abstract: A high efficiency gas concentrating apparatus includes an air compressor for supplying high pressure air, first and second adsorption towers that are disposed above the air compressor and communicating with the air compressor to adsorb nitrogen and concentrate oxygen as the high pressure air is alternately supplied thereto, first and second concentrating passages that are disposed above the respective first and second adsorption towers to discharge the concentrated oxygen, and a cleaning tank that is disposed between the first and second concentrating passages to receive a portion of the concentrated oxygen from one of the first and second adsorption towers, temporarily store the received concentrated oxygen therein, and alternately remove adsorbed nitrogen by supplying the temporarily concentrated oxygen to the other of the first and second adsorption towers.

Abstract: A flexible pneumostoma management device maintains the patency of a pneumostoma while controlling the flow of material through the pneumostoma. The pneumostoma management device includes a pneumostoma vent having a tube which enters the pneumostoma to allow gases to escape the lung, a flange and a filter/valve to control flow of materials through the tube. The flange is a thin flexible patch which conforms and attaches to the chest of the patient. The flange secures the tube in position in the pneumostoma. The device has features to control secretions from the pneumostoma. The secretion management features include, ridges, pores, absorbent materials, and combinations thereof.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus for removing volatile anesthetics from an anesthesia or ventilation system to minimize the effects of malignant hyperthermia in susceptible patients. According to one aspect of the present invention, a system for removing volatile anesthetics is provided. A first filter component placed in fluid communication with an inspiratory limb of an anesthesia or ventilation system such that volatile anesthetics will pass through the first filter component during operation of the anesthesia or ventilation system. A second filter component is operably coupled to the expiration port of the anesthesia or ventilation system such that gases passing through the expiratory limb of the anesthesia or ventilation system pass through the second filter component. The first filter component and second filter component are adapted to effectively remove volatile anesthetics passing through the respective filters.

Abstract: A pneumostoma management device for maintaining the patency of a pneumostoma while controlling the flow of gases and discharge through the pneumostoma. The pneumostoma management device includes a bulb connected to a tube which enters the pneumostoma. A flow control device regulates air flow in and out of the pneumostoma via the tube. A hydrophobic filter traps discharge in the bulb while allowing gases to escape.