Abstract: A device for measuring breath alcohol has a mouthpiece (1) for picking up the exhaled respiratory gas volume flow of a person to be measured. The mouthpiece has a flow diaphragm (3). A pressure sensor (4) is connected via a first gas line to the mouthpiece (1) upstream of the flow diaphragm (3). A breath alcohol sensor (10) is connected via a inlet channel (6) to the mouthpiece (1) downstream of the flow diaphragm (3) and via a second gas line (11) to a sampling system (7, 8, 9) for a respiratory gas sample from the respiratory gas volume flow. An evaluation and control unit (5) receives the measured signals of the pressure sensor (4) and of the breath alcohol sensor (10) and actuates the sampling system (7, 8, 9). The sampling system (7, 8, 9) is designed such that two respiratory gas samples are fed, in a time sequence, into the breath alcohol sensor (10), whereby the volume of the first respiratory gas sample is at most 40% of the volume of the second one.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for non-invasively determining cardiac output using partial re-breathing techniques are disclosed in which the apparatus is constructed with an instantaneously adjustable deadspace for accommodating differences in breathing capacities of various patients. The apparatus is constructed of inexpensive elements, including a single two-way valve which renders the apparatus very simple to use and inexpensive so that the unit may be readily disposable. The method of the invention provides a novel means of estimating cardiac output based on alveolar CO2 values rather than end-tidal CO2 values as previously practiced. A program for calculating cardiac output is also disclosed.

Abstract: An indirect calorimeter for measuring the metabolic rate of a subject includes a disposable portion and a reusable portion. The disposable portion includes a respiratory connector configured to be supported in contact with the subject so as to pass inhaled and exhaled gases as the subject breathes. The disposable portion also includes a flow pathway operable to receive and pass inhaled and exhaled gases, having a first end in fluid communication with the respiratory connector and a second end in fluid communication with a source and sink for respiratory gases. The disposable portion is disposed within the reusable portion, which includes a flow meter, a component gas concentration sensor, and a computation unit. The flow meter generates a signal as a function of the instantaneous flow volume of respiratory gases passing through the flow pathway and the component gas concentration sensor generates a signal as a function of the instantaneous fraction of a predetermined component gas in the exhaled gases.

Abstract: A liquid separator for separating liquid from gases, comprises a water trap (1) that includes a container (3), a connector (5) for incoming gas flow, a separation chamber (4) that includes a filter and at least one connection passageway for leading separated gas to an analysis instrument. The water trap (1) can be removably fitted in a holder unit (2) connected to the analysis instrument, and the holder unit (2) includes connection devices (15, 16) for receiving the connection passageway.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an assay for evaluating alveolar exchange of oxygen. A 13C-labeled substrate, such as 13C-sodium bicarbonate is administered to a subject by oral or iv intake, and exhaled 13CO2 is measured. The 13CO2 in expired breath can be collected at various time points following administration of the substrate and measured in ? per mil with a mass analyzer or photometer, such as an IR spectrometer. This process can be used as a diagnostic test for the indication of, treatment and/or evaluation of the severity of respiratory tract diseases or infections.

Abstract: A heater for a window of an optical gas sensor is provided. The heater may be positioned over a portion of the window or may form at least a portion of the window. Alternatively, the heater may be separate from the optical gas sensor and positionable (e.g., by a transducer) over the window either in contact therewith or in close proximity thereto. The heater may be substantially transparent to the relevant wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation that are used in optical (e.g., infrared or luminescence quenching) monitoring of respiratory gases, anesthetic agents, or the like. Alternatively, the heater may be configured so as to provide a substantially unobstructed optical pathway through the window. Optical gas sensors and complementary transducers that include the healer are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for detecting ?-oxoaldehydes in the whole blood, blood plasma and/or serum of a patient. A respiratory air sample is analyzed for the presence of at least one ?-oxoaldehyde, and the presence of ?-oxoaldehydes in the whole blood, blood plasma and/or serum of the patient is determined from the results of the analysis.

Abstract: The invention involves a device and method for ascertaining the functioning of the respiratory system and determining whether a pulmonary embolism is present. The device comprises an apparatus containing sensors which measure the amount of a particular gas expired from a patient's lungs, including a non-ambient gas which is previously provided to the patent. From this data, a processor computes the concentration of expired gas as a function of expired volume and displays the results on a screen. By comparing the results to predetermined values from afflicted and healthy patient populations, an accurate determination can be made regarding the presence of a pulmonary embolism.

Abstract: The invention provides an estimation of key flow-independent parameters characteristic of NO exchange in the lungs, namely: 1) the steady state alveolar concentration, Calv,ss; 2) the maximum flux of NO from the airways, JNO,max; and 3) the diffusing capacity of NO in the airways, DNO,air. The parameters were estimated from a single exhalation maneuver comprised of a pre-expiratory breathhold, followed by an exhalation in which the flow rate progressively decreased. The mean values for JNO,max, DNO,air, and Calv,ss do not depend on breathhold time for breathhold times greater than approximately 10 seconds. A priori estimates of the parameter confidence intervals demonstrates that a breathhold no longer than 20 seconds may be adequate, and that JNO,max be can estimated with the smallest uncertainty, and DNO,air the largest.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for detecting the presence of an analyte indicative of various medical conditions, including halitosis, periodontal disease and other diseases are also disclosed.

Abstract: A vapor sensing device that is sufficiently small and lightweight to be handheld, and also modular so as to allow the device to be conveniently adapted for use in sensing the presence and concentration of a wide variety of specified vapors. The device provides these benefits using a sensor module that incorporates a sample chamber and a plurality of sensors located on a chip releasably carried within or adjacent to the sample chamber. Optionally, the sensor module can be configured to be releasably plugged into a receptacle formed in the device. Vapors are directed to pass through the sample chamber, whereupon the sensors provide a distinct combination of electrical signals in response to each. The sensors of the sensor module can take the form of chemically sensitive resistors having resistances that vary according to the identity and concentration of an adjacent vapor.

Abstract: A breath measurement instrument using a combination of breath pressure, temperature, and humidity measurements to determine whether or not breath samples are human and properly delivered. Valid samples require maintenance of a threshold dynamic pressure of a sample being introduced for a predetermined time, a valid temperature of the sample and a valid humidity of the sample, wherein the range of valid sample temperatures is adjusted according to a measured sample humidity. Also disclosed is a breath alcohol instrument having an alcohol-specific fuel cell and a fuel cell circuit for generating a breath alcohol signal. Further disclosed is an interlock system for inhibiting operation of machinery such as a vehicle, and a method for screening breath samples and determining an alcohol content thereof.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a gas sampling system for conducting respiratory gases from a patient respiratory gas output mechanism to a respiratory gas monitoring device. A gas sampling tube is coupled to an input connector. The gas sampling tube is configured to conduct the respiratory gases from the patient to the gas monitoring device. An output connector couples the gas sampling tube to the monitor input connector. An output dryer tube is coupled between the gas sampling tube and the output connector. The output dryer tube is characterized by a tube length and a relative moisture removal efficiency. The relative moisture removal efficiency is dependent on the tube length. The tube length is selected to limit the moisture content of the respiratory gasses being directed into the respiratory gas monitor to a predetermined level.

Abstract: A device for measuring breath alcohol has a mouthpiece (1) for picking up the exhaled respiratory gas volume flow of a person to be measured. The mouthpiece has a flow diaphragm (3). A pressure sensor (4) is connected via a first gas line to the mouthpiece (1) upstream of the flow diaphragm (3). A breath alcohol sensor (10) is connected via a inlet channel (6) to the mouthpiece (1) downstream of the flow diaphragm (3) and via a second gas line (11) to a sampling system (7, 8, 9) for a respiratory gas sample from the respiratory gas volume flow. An evaluation and control unit (5) receives the measured signals of the pressure sensor (4) and of the breath alcohol sensor (10) and actuates the sampling system (7, 8, 9). The sampling system (7, 8, 9) is designed such that two respiratory gas samples are fed, in a time sequence, into the breath alcohol sensor (10), whereby the volume of the first respiratory gas sample is at most 40% of the volume of the second one.

Abstract: Chemical sensors for detecting the activity of a molecule or analyte of interest is provided. The chemical sensors comprise and array or plurality of sensors that are capable of interacting with a molecule of interest, wherein the interaction provides a response fingerprint. The fingerprint can be associated with a library of similar molecules of interest to determine the molecule's activity and diffusion coefficient.

Abstract: A system, device, and method for determining whether an individual has consumed, is intoxicated, or is otherwise impaired by alcohol is disclosed. Further, a device capable of positively identifying the person who provides the impairment test is disclosed. The impairment detection and interlock system disclosed accomplishes this with the use of a video camera that selectively saves images, and an attitude evaluator and, in some embodiments, an exposure evaluator, which ensures that the video camera captures the identity of the tester. A device holster may also be used to facilitate video surveillance.

Abstract: A Voice recognition Breathalyzer comprises of a microphone for transducing spoken expression into electronic signals and a breathalyzer sensor for transducing given breath content into electronic signals. An audio and breathalyzer sensor circuit for conditioning said electronic signals from said microphone and breathalyzer sensor; a memory storage for storing speech templates and toxic breath setting; a processor for processing said conditioned electronic signals and for simultaneously comparing the processed, conditioned electronic signals with said speech templates and said toxic breath setting threshold stored in said memory storage, said processor generating a unique signal when said processed, conditioned electronic signals are substantially similar to one of said speech templates and below said toxic breath setting threshold. In the preferred embodiment of invention said voice recognition breathalyzer is mobil and it's powered by a battery and said unique signals are transmitted by an RF link.

Abstract: An arrangement for the collection, concentration, and optional analysis of volatile organic components in alveolar breath includes a condensation unit which removes water vapor from the alveolar breath.

Abstract: A rapid, non-invasive breath-test method and device for diagnosing the presence or absence of H. pylori in a subject without administration of isotopic tracers is described. The device consists of a highly sensitive colorimetric ammonia sensor placed in contact with sampled subject breath. The sensor is measured using appropriate reflection spectroscopy instrumentation. The breath-test method consists of measuring a basal ammonia level with the device, administering non-isotopic urea and continuing measurement of the ammonia content in a plurality of consecutive breaths. Diagnostic differences in breath ammonia are identified between H. pylori infected and uninfected individuals.

Abstract: A top and bottom housing joined together have a patient port and ventilation port in axial alignment. The top housing contains dry indicator paper for changing color in response to the presence of CO2. In addition, a shaft having a pointer on a top portion rotates in response to air in the housing to indicate pressure. A helical outer wall of the shaft engages a notch in a hollow stem attached to a membrane in the lower housing so the shaft rotates in response to air pressure on the membrane.

Abstract: A new method and a device are disclosed to determine physiologic parameters of a subject by analyzing it's breathing gas with an electrochemical sensor. The measured components of the breathing gas allow for many conclusions about the condition of the subjects's pulmonary system. It is therefore an objective of this invention to determine physiologic parameters from measuring the partial pressure of oxygen in the mainstream of the breathing gas. According to the invention the measurement can be performed non invasive and allows for conclusions about the respiratory and metabolic system of a subject. The invention makes a continuous measurement of the oxygen partial pressure possible, that almost shows no time delay. The invention allows for instance the determination of parameters like the oxygen concentration in the breathing gas, the oxygen consumption of the subject, the heart frequency, the respiratory quotient, the compliance of the pulmonary tract and other physiologic parameters.

Abstract: The invention presents techniques for identifying and guiding treatment for medical conditions, based upon the carbon dioxide concentration in the patient's breath. In an exemplary application, the techniques of the invention may be used to distinguish obstructive lung disease from restrictive lung disease, even though the symptoms of the conditions are similar. The techniques of the invention may further be used to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment.

Abstract: The invention relates to an inexpensive method in which the partial pressure of a gas component in the air exhaled by a patient is determined per breath.

Abstract: The disturbing influence or orally produced nitric oxide in the measuring of exhaled nitric oxide can be ameliorated or totally eliminated through the use of a method and composition according to the present invention. The production of NO in the oral cavity is temporarily inhibited by the application of a composition having anti-bacterial and/or pH increasing effect.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for assuring that a machine operator is not under the influence of a chemical, comprising a first sensor positioned proximally to the machine operator and adapted for, measuring a vapor concentration proximal thereto, a second sensor positioned distally from the machine operator and adapted for measuring the vapor concentration distally from the operator, a device for comparing the proximal and distal vapor concentrations, and an automated remediating device responsive to the comparing device when the ratio of the first and the second vapor concentrations are within a specified range.

Abstract: The presence of a pathologic process in a lung of a mammal is detected by applying exhaled gas of a mammal to an electronic nose. Data derived from the electronic nose is used to determine whether a pathologic process is present in the lung of the mammal. The pathologic process may be a lung infection such as pneumonia.

Abstract: A method for detecting the occurrence of a condition in a respiring subject includes the steps of: introducing emitted subject respiratory gases to a gas sensing device; detecting certain species present in the emitted subject respiratory gases with the gas sensing device; and correlating the presence of the species with the occurrence of the condition.

Abstract: A portable olfactometer for sensing and measuring odors by sniffing has a barrel which carries selectively different D/T ratios of odorous air to a nose mask and has a selective set of inserts for providing different D/T ratios at the input to the barrel.

Abstract: A method for determining the quantity and identity of an electrochemically convertible substance in a gas sample. The substance is converted in an electrochemical sensor producing an electrical output. The characteristic parameters of a curve-defining equation y(t)=k×(e−axt−e−bxt) are calculated based on three measurements of output at times t, 2t, and 4t. The integral under all or part of the curve is calculated to determine the quantity of the substance. The equation parameters are compared with standard values to determine the identity of the substance.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of spectroscopically determining the concentration of a volatile organic compound in a gas given off by a mammal. According to the invention, the spectroscopic technique applied is photoacoustic spectroscopy and the strength of the acoustic effect is determined by means of a microphone, as being the measure of the concentration of the organic compound.

Abstract: Device for measuring the alcohol vapor concentration in a sample, wherein the device comprises an electrochemical sensor capable of monitoring alcohol through a diffusion current, means for determining the limiting diffusion current and means for generating an alcohol vapor concentration signal from the determined limiting diffusion current.

Abstract: A device for collecting alveolar breath. Breath is expired into the inlet of a hollow body. The hollow body has two outlets, with a valve disposed in each outlet. The concentration of a specific gaseous component of expired breath is monitored by a gas concentration monitor as the expired breath passes through the hollow body to determine when alveolar breath is present in the hollow body. When alveolar breath is present in the hollow body, the valve in the second outlet is actuated to an open position to collect the alveolar breath in the collection reservoir affixed to the hollow body at the second outlet.

Abstract: The invention involves a device and method for ascertaining the functioning of the respiratory system and determining whether a pulmonary embolism is present. The device comprises an apparatus containing sensors for measuring the oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations as well as the volume of air inhaled and exhaled by a patient. From this data, a processor computes the ratio of carbon dioxide to oxygen for the volume of expired air and displays the results on a screen. By comparing the results to predetermined normal values, an accurate determination can be made regarding the presence of a pulmonary embolism.

Abstract: A high resolution biosensing system for detecting and identifying a biochemical material to be tested by using proportional relationship between frequency variation of oscillation and mass of the biochemical material to be tested comprises a biosensor; an oscillatorfor generating oscillation based on the sensed result; a phase-lock loop circuit receiving the oscillation of the oscillator and generating pulse signals;an ultra-high frequency counter for counting the pulse signals; and a microprocessor for storing and displaying output from the ultra-high frequency counter and for controlling the oscillator. The phase-lock loop circuit generates the pulse signals of a frequency, which is n times the frequency of the oscillator and with a constant phase difference therebetween to trigger the ultra-high frequency counter. Accordingly, the resolution can be raised up to n times.

Abstract: The invention presents techniques for identifying and guiding treatment for medical conditions, based upon the carbon dioxide concentration in the patient's breath. In an exemplary application, the techniques of the invention may be used to distinguish obstructive lung disease from restrictive lung disease, even though the symptoms of the conditions are similar. The techniques of the invention may further be used to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment.

Abstract: A noninvasive apparatus and method for measuring a subject's end tidal carbon monoxide concentration is disclosed, featuring the ability to (i) determine carbon monoxide concentration on a breath-by-breath basis, (ii) determine mean carbon monoxide concentration by averaging local carbon monoxide values, (iii) avoid the premature determination that an end tidal phase is over, and (iv) determine when breath variability or system variability will likely preclude accurate testing. The disclosed device and method allow for more robust determination of end tidal carbon monoxide concentration in subjects with turbulent or irregular breath patterns.

Abstract: The alkane profile (FIGS. 12-14) comprising the alveolar gradients of n-alkane in breath having 4 carbons to 20 carbons, and the methyl alkane profile (FIGS. 30-34) are determined for the diagnosis of disease in mammals, including humans.

Abstract: An apparatus for occupant classification in a vehicle, which together with a respective CO2 sensor serves to perform an occupant classification. Both the CO2 content and the profile over time of the signals are used for occupant classification. The CO2 sensors are advantageously arranged in front of the respective persons, making possible a simple measurement. The CO2 sensor can also be used in each case with a further different sensor for occupant classification, and here in particular for plausibility (testing). A processor that evaluates the signals from the CO2 sensors cyclically polls the CO2 sensors. For plausibility, the signals from all CO2 TV sensors present in the passenger compartment can also be taken into account.

Abstract: A system for sensing ambient conditions in a compartment, such as the trunk of an automobile, generates a control signal in response to the sensed conditions. This control signal actuates indicators to notify operators of the vehicle that there is a person trapped in the trunk. The control signal is also used to actuate a lamp inside the trunk to provide light for the trapped person. A trunk release is also actuated, by a control module, to free the trapped person. The trunk release of the automobile can be prevented from being actuated if the automobile is moving, which prevents the trunk lid from unexpectedly opening while the vehicle is in motion.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for detecting the presence of an analyte, such as for example, a lightweight device, including: a sample chamber having a fluid inlet port for the influx of the analyte; a fluid concentrator in flow communication with the sample chamber wherein the fluid concentrator has an absorbent material capable of absorbing the analyte and capable of desorbing a concentrated analyte; and an array of sensors in fluid communication with the concentrated analyte to be released from the fluid concentrator.

Abstract: The presence of a pathologic process in a lung of a mammal is detected by applying exhaled gas of a mammal to an electronic nose (12). Data derived from the electronic nose (12) is used to determine whether a pathologic process is present in the lung of the mammal. The pathologic process may also be a lung infection such as pneumonia. Also, a mammalian fluid sample obtained from the sinus or nose is applied to an electronic nose (12) to determine if the fluid sample contains significant amounts of cebrospinal fluid.

Abstract: In a method for determining the gas content, e.g. of oxygen in breathing gas in a breathing apparatus, and a breathing apparatus operating according to the method, the gas content is determined from the speed of sound in the breathing gas. In order to resolve the problems caused by temperature variations in gas samples, determination of the speed of sound is synchronized with one or more specific times in a respiratory cycle. Determination can then be made when conditions are most stable.

Abstract: A measuring system and process for measuring the size distribution of particles in an aerosol with a time-varying flow utilizing a measuring instrument that utilizes a time-invariant flow rate is provided. The process includes employing a vacuum source to establish a constant flow through the measuring instrument. The vacuum generated by the vacuum source is used to draw an aerosol stream through an inlet incorporating a second stream of relatively particle free gas. The first and/or the second stream may be adjusted so that at any instant of time, the sum of the two streams is a constant value equal to the flow rate through the measuring instrument.

Abstract: A system for monitoring carbon monoxide in an environment which includes an apparatus emitting carbon monoxide, such as an internal combustion engine. A carbon monoxide sensor measures a concentration of carbon monoxide in the environment and provides an electrical signal to a processor that is representative of the measured concentration of carbon monoxide. The processor determines the concentration of carbon monoxide corresponding to the electrical signal, provides an output signal at or above predetermined carbon monoxide concentration thresholds, calculates an estimated carboxyhemoglobin level for the operator corresponding to the carbon monoxide concentrations calculated over time, and provides an output signal at or above predetermined carboxyhemoglobin thresholds. The signals are then received by one or more devices which provide textual, visual, and/or audible warnings indicating that environmental concentrations of carbon monoxide have caused a predetermined warning threshold to be met or exceeded.

Abstract: In a respiratory air flow measuring monitor, a subassembly for analyzing certain respiratory gases through infrared spectroscopy includes an infrared emitter and an infrared detector, the amount of energy detected by the detector corresponding to the concentration of the gas selected for analysis. The subassembly includes a gas sample chamber that utilizes an elliptical reflecting surface for the infrared light source. The light source and detector are both oriented longitudinally along the axis of the ellipse and the light source and detector are each located at the two focal points of the ellipse in order to optimize the light absorption reading. The gas content analyzer subassembly additionally incorporates various compensatory features, allowing for automatic temperature and pressure compensation.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device for determination of the content of higher oxides of nitrogen in exhaled breath condensate which comprises a conduit having an exhalate condensing portion with an inlet and an outlet (the inlet can be configured to fit with a mechanical respirator or, for direct use by the patient, an inlet assembly providing one-way ingress of ambient atmosphere to the device can be associated with the inlet of the conduit exhalate condensing portion); a coolant jacket coaxially surrounding said exhalate condensing portion; a gas release port; and, in enclosed fluid communication with said conduit exhalate condensing portion outlet, a sample assay assembly comprising (i) a translucent analysis chamber attached to the outlet to receive condensate fluid and having a reagent entry port, (ii) a reagent chamber in enclosed fluid communication with the reagent entry port and (iii) a pliable element connecting the outlet and the analysis chamber and forming a portion of the reagent chamber such that flexion of

Abstract: In a respiratory air flow measuring monitor, a subassembly for analyzing certain respiratory gases through infrared spectroscopy includes an infrared emitter and an infrared detector, the amount of energy detected by the detector corresponding to the concentration of the gas selected for analysis. The subassembly includes a gas sample chamber that utilizes an elliptical reflecting surface for the infrared light source. The light source and detector are both oriented longitudinally along the axis of the ellipse and the light source and detector are each located at the two focal points of the ellipse in order to optimize the light absorption reading. The gas content analyzer subassembly additionally incorporates various compensatory features, allowing for automatic temperature and pressure compensation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for detecting the presence of an analyte, including: a sample chamber having a fluid inlet port for the influx of the analyte; a fluid concentrator in flow communication with the sample chamber wherein the fluid concentrator has an absorbent material capable of absorbing the analyte and capable of desorbing a concentrated analyte; and an array of sensors in fluid communication with the concentrated analyte.

Abstract: An apparatus for in vivo measurement of carbon monoxide production rate comprising a first gas detector for detecting the concentration of a first selected gas in at least first and second gas samples, the first gas detector being adapted to provide output signals corresponding to the first selected gas concentration in the first and second gas samples; a second gas detector adapted to substantially simultaneously detect the concentration of at least second and third selected gases in the first and second gas samples, the second gas detector being further adapted to provide output signals corresponding to the second and third selected gas concentrations in the first and second gas samples; means for providing the first and second gas samples to the first and second gas detectors; and processing means for determining the rate of carbon monoxide production in at least the second sample in response to the first and second gas detectors output signals.

Abstract: A medical breath component analyzer which maintains a data-base profile of a patient over time. The apparatus may be used chronically by a patient so that a baseline status for that patient may be determined. Acute variations from the baseline are identified as clinically significant. The acquired data can be reported to the patient using the device at home and transmitted electronically to a physician or health care provider. Multiple tests may be provided, ranging from quantitative tests to qualitative tests to quantitative approximations using qualitative devices. A set of tests is selected for a particular patient, and may be customized to the patient's condition. One of the tests may include passing multiple laser beams of differing wavelengths through a breath sample and using pattern recognition to correlate from spectral analysis of all the laser beams.