1. A test strip, comprising:

a substrate layer;

a first electrode pair disposed on the substrate layer;

at least one sensing chemistry selected based on an analyte of interest, the sensing chemistry disposed on at least a portion of the substrate layer and the sensing chemistry disposed on at least a portion of the first electrode pair, wherein the sensing chemistry comprises functionalized nanostructures to bind to an analyte to cause at least one of a change in resistance across the nanostructures and a redox reaction at the nanostructures;

at least one spacer layer disposed on at least a portion of the substrate layer and the at least one spacer layer disposed on at least a portion of the first electrode pair, and wherein the spacer layer is not in contact with at least a portion of the sensing chemistry; and

a protective layer disposed over the spacer layer, wherein the protective layer is not in contact with at least a portion of the sensing chemistry, wherein the protective layer is at least impermeable to an analyte of interest; and is

Wherein at least a portion of the substrate layer, at least a portion of the at least one spacer layer, and at least a portion of the protective layer define a chamber that surrounds at least a portion of the functionalized nanostructures.

2. The test strip of claim 1, wherein the protective layer is removable.

3. The test strip of claim 1, wherein the protective layer is a foil layer.

4. The test strip of claim 1, wherein the at least one sensing chemistry comprises at least one of:

an organic molecule having at least one of an aromatic compound, an ionic functional group, a metal oxide, a metal salt, a metal-ligand complex, an organic dye, a polymer, and/or a heterocyclic macrocycle.

5. The test strip of claim 1, wherein one or more of the at least one spacer layer and the protective layer is a film layer comprising at least one of: composite, fibrous material, woven fabric, non-woven fabric, polymer, adhesive, film, gel, PTFE, and silicone.

6. The test strip of claim 1, wherein the at least one sensing chemistry comprises:

an active sensing chemistry sensitive to an analyte of interest in a sample and forming a first nanonetwork in electrical communication with the first electrode pair; and

a reference sensing chemistry sensitive to an analyte in the sample and forming a second nanonetwork in electrical communication with a second electrode pair.

7. The test strip of claim 6, wherein the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprise the same material.

8. The test strip of claim 6, wherein the reference sensing chemistry is sensitive to a different set of analytes than the active sensing chemistry.

9. The test strip of claim 6, further comprising a circuit that cooperates with the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry to form a bridge circuit.

10. The test strip of claim 1, wherein the at least one sensing chemistry comprises:

an active sensing chemistry responsive to an analyte of interest in a sample and in electrical communication with the first electrode pair;

a reference sensing chemistry responsive to an analyte in the sample and in electrical communication with a second electrode pair; and is

At least one additional layer includes a barrier layer disposed over the reference sensing chemistry, the barrier layer for inhibiting contact between the reference sensing chemistry and at least one analyte in the sample.

11. The test strip of claim 1, further comprising a second protective layer disposed on the spacer layer, wherein the second protective layer is not in contact with at least a portion of the sensing chemistry, and wherein the second protective layer is at least permeable to an analyte of interest.

12. The test strip of claim 11, wherein the at least one sensing chemistry comprises at least one of:

an organic molecule having at least one of an aromatic compound, an ionic functional group, a metal oxide, a metal salt, a metal-ligand complex, an organic dye, a polymer, and/or a heterocyclic macrocycle.

13. The test strip of claim 11, wherein one or more of the at least one spacer layer and the second protective layer is a film layer comprising at least one of: porous polymers, non-porous polymers, composites, fibrous materials, woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics, polymers, adhesives, films, gels, PTFE, and silicones.

14. The test strip of claim 13, wherein the protective layer is a film layer comprising at least one of: composite, fibrous material, woven fabric, non-woven fabric, polymer, adhesive, film, gel, PTFE, and silicone.

15. The test strip of claim 13, wherein the membrane layer is permeable to at least an analyte of interest.

16. The test strip of claim 11, wherein the at least one sensing chemistry comprises:

an active sensing chemistry sensitive to an analyte of interest in a sample and forming a first nanonetwork in electrical communication with the first electrode pair; and

a reference sensing chemistry sensitive to an analyte in the sample and forming a second nanonetwork in electrical communication with a second electrode pair.

17. The test strip of claim 16, wherein the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprise the same material.

18. The test strip of claim 16, wherein the reference sensing chemistry is sensitive to a different set of analytes than the active sensing chemistry.

19. The test strip of claim 16, further comprising a circuit cooperating with the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry to form a bridge circuit.

20. The test strip of claim 11, wherein the at least one sensing chemistry comprises:

an active sensing chemistry responsive to an analyte of interest in a sample and in electrical communication with the first electrode pair;

a reference sensing chemistry responsive to an analyte in the sample and in electrical communication with a second electrode pair; and is

At least one additional layer includes a barrier layer disposed over the reference sensing chemistry, the barrier layer for inhibiting contact between the reference sensing chemistry and at least one analyte in the sample.

21. The test strip of claim 11, wherein the permeability of the second protective layer is provided by at least one window.

22. A method for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a fluid sample, the method comprising:

providing a test strip, the test strip comprising:

a substrate layer;

a first electrode pair disposed on the substrate layer;

at least one sensing chemistry selected based on an analyte of interest, the sensing chemistry disposed on at least a portion of the substrate layer and the sensing chemistry disposed on at least a portion of the first electrode pair, wherein the sensing chemistry comprises functionalized nanostructures to bind to an analyte to cause at least one of a change in resistance across the nanostructures and a redox reaction at the nanostructures;

at least one spacer layer disposed on at least a portion of the substrate layer and the at least one spacer layer disposed on at least a portion of the first electrode pair, and wherein the spacer layer is not in contact with at least a portion of the sensing chemistry; and

a protective layer disposed over the spacer layer, wherein the protective layer is not in contact with at least a portion of the sensing chemistry, wherein the protective layer is at least impermeable to an analyte of interest; and is

Wherein at least a portion of the substrate layer, at least a portion of the at least one spacer layer, and at least a portion of the protective layer define a chamber that surrounds at least a portion of the functionalized nanostructures; and

measuring at least one of a change in resistance across the nanostructure and a redox reaction at the nanostructure through the first electrode pair.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the protective layer is removable.

24. The method of claim 22, wherein the protective layer is a foil layer.

25. The method of claim 22, wherein one or more of the at least one spacer layer and the protective layer is a film layer comprising at least one of: composite, fibrous material, woven fabric, non-woven fabric, polymer, adhesive, film, gel, PTFE, and silicone.

26. The method of claim 22, wherein the at least one sensing chemistry comprises:

an active sensing chemistry sensitive to an analyte of interest in a sample and forming a first nanonetwork in electrical communication with the first electrode pair; and

a reference sensing chemistry sensitive to an analyte in the sample and forming a second nanonetwork in electrical communication with a second electrode pair.

27. The method of claim 24, wherein the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprise the same material.

28. The method of claim 24, wherein the reference sensing chemistry is sensitive to a different set of analytes than the active sensing chemistry.

29. The method of claim 22, wherein the at least one sensing chemistry comprises:

an active sensing chemistry responsive to an analyte of interest in a sample and in electrical communication with the first electrode pair;

a reference sensing chemistry responsive to an analyte in the sample and in electrical communication with a second electrode pair;

at least one additional layer comprising a barrier layer disposed over the reference sensing chemistry, the barrier layer for inhibiting contact between the reference sensing chemistry and at least one analyte in the sample; and is

The method also includes measuring at least one of a change in resistance across the nanostructure and a redox reaction at the nanostructure via a second electrode pair.

30. The method of claim 22, further comprising providing the fluid sample, and wherein at least one analyte is gaseous and is at least one of nitric oxide, hydrogen, and methane.

31. The method of claim 22, wherein the test strip further comprises a second protective layer disposed on the spacer layer, wherein the second protective layer is not in contact with at least a portion of the sensing chemistry, and wherein the second protective layer is permeable to at least an analyte of interest.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein one or more of the at least one spacer layer and the second protective layer is a film layer comprising at least one of: porous polymers, non-porous polymers, composites, fibrous materials, woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics, polymers, adhesives, films, gels, PTFE, and silicones.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein the protective layer is a film layer comprising at least one of: composite, fibrous material, woven fabric, non-woven fabric, polymer, adhesive, film, gel, PTFE, and silicone.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein the membrane layer is selectively permeable to at least an analyte of interest.

35. The method of claim 31, wherein the at least one sensing chemistry comprises:

an active sensing chemistry sensitive to an analyte of interest in a sample and forming a first nanonetwork in electrical communication with the first electrode pair; and

a reference sensing chemistry sensitive to an analyte in the sample and forming a second nanonetwork in electrical communication with a second electrode pair.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprise the same material.

37. The method of claim 35, wherein the reference sensing chemistry is sensitive to a different set of analytes than the active sensing chemistry.

38. The method of claim 31, wherein the at least one sensing chemistry comprises:

an active sensing chemistry responsive to an analyte of interest in a sample and in electrical communication with the first electrode pair;

a reference sensing chemistry responsive to an analyte in the sample and in electrical communication with a second electrode pair;

at least one additional layer comprising a barrier layer disposed over the reference sensing chemistry, the barrier layer for inhibiting contact between the reference sensing chemistry and at least one analyte in the sample; and is

Wherein the method further comprises measuring at least one of a change in resistance across the nanostructure and a redox reaction at the nanostructure via a second electrode pair.

39. The method of claim 31, further comprising providing the fluid sample, and wherein at least one analyte is gaseous and is at least one of nitric oxide, hydrogen, and methane.

Description of the related Art

There are many different types of sensors and techniques known in the art that can be used for gas and analyte detection. In the human medical industry, gas sensors are used in many fields, including anesthesia and respiratory care. The sensor is typically configured to monitor inhaled anesthetic agent, O₂、CO₂And N₂And O. Other examples include measuring nitric oxide in exhaled breath, which has recently acquired traction to diagnose and monitor patients with chronic respiratory diseaseInflammation of the airways. In order to measure nitric oxide in clinically relevant values, sensing technology must be able to detect limits as low as 1-300 parts per billion. There are currently two commercially available techniques for detecting nitric oxide in exhaled breath. The first technique measures chemiluminescence, in which a breath sample is mixed with ozone and the luminescent signal is monitored after excitation with incident light. A second available technique uses electrochemical signals, typically by cyclic voltammetry. The mechanisms of chemiluminescence and electrochemical sensing are known in the art.

Both of these techniques have the disadvantage of being complex and have high costs associated with the sensor itself and the system that delivers the gas to the sensor and provides an accurate reading. Current chemiluminescence and electrochemical sensing technologies require complex systems to accurately measure nitric oxide in breath. For example, sensing by chemiluminescence requires an ozone generator, vacuum pump, filter, microprocessor, power supply, photodetector, and the like. These items are housed in desktop-sized devices and can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Similarly, electrochemical sensors require very sensitive electronics, hermetically sealed analysis chambers, and complex signal processing. Furthermore, electrochemical sensors require an assembly process that is not suitable for high volume, low cost production. Similarly, electrochemical sensors and systems that process signals can cost thousands of dollars.

Both techniques also have the disadvantage of being cumbersome and unfriendly to the user (e.g., patient, technician, medical provider, etc.).

Chronic respiratory diseases, such as asthma and COPD, are diseases characterized by chronic underlying inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness and sudden obstruction and contraction. The goal of care is to achieve and maintain control. Control of the disease means reducing the frequency and intensity of symptoms and the risk of future attacks. To achieve and maintain control, a physician must select a medication from about class 9 drugs. Each drug class consists of multiple drugs, each with a different active ingredient. In most patients, multiple drugs from multiple classes are used in combination. In addition to the various options, the physician must select the most appropriate dosage and frequency of use.

Achieving and maintaining control is difficult for physicians as patient response and compliance with therapy are highly variable. Physicians rely heavily on information provided by patients between visits relating to the frequency and intensity of their symptoms. This information is used to guide the physician in making a decision to select the appropriate medication. The effectiveness and compliance of the treatment is unknown until a follow-up visit may occur due to an emergency or be planned weeks or months in the future.

The variability of the disease, available tools, and subjective data from the patient make achieving and maintaining control extremely difficult. The result is poor disease management and a substantial resource expenditure in the form of doctor office visits, emergency room use, hospital inpatient visits, prescription medicine, and missed work or school days. There is a need for a better method to monitor, manage and treat patients with chronic respiratory disease.

Summary of The Invention

One aspect of the present invention relates to low cost test strips and methods for measuring analytes.

In another aspect of the invention, a system for determining a concentration of at least one analyte in a fluid sample is disclosed, wherein the system comprises a base substrate, a first electrode pair disposed over the substrate, a second electrode pair disposed over the substrate, an active sensing chemistry responsive to the analyte in the sample and in electrical communication with the first electrode pair, a reference sensing chemistry responsive to the analyte in the sample and in electrical communication with the second electrode pair, and a barrier layer disposed over the reference sensing chemistry for inhibiting contact between the reference sensing chemistry and the at least one analyte in the fluid sample. In another embodiment, the system further comprises a membrane layer disposed over the sensing chemistry. In another embodiment, the system further comprises a protective layer defining a window disposed over the film layer.

In another embodiment of the system, a first electrode of a first electrode pair is in electrical communication with the active sensing chemistry, a first electrode of a second electrode pair is in electrical communication with the reference sensing chemistry, and a second electrode is in electrical communication with both the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry, the second electrode forming a second electrode of the first and second electrode pairs. In another embodiment of the system, at least a portion of the film layer is disposed over the barrier layer. In another embodiment of the system, the membrane layer is selectively permeable to at least one analyte in the fluid sample. In some embodiments of the system, the electrode comprises carbon. In some embodiments of the system, the electrode comprises silver. In some embodiments of the system, the electrode comprises gold.

In some embodiments, the system further comprises a dielectric layer disposed over at least a portion of the electrode. In some embodiments of the system, the space between the electrodes bridged by the sensing chemistry is less than or equal to 2.5 millimeters.

In some embodiments of the system, at least one of the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprises an organic molecule having at least one ionic functional group. In some embodiments of the system, at least one of the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprise an organic dye. In other embodiments of the system, at least one of the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprise an aromatic compound. In other embodiments of the system, at least one of the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprise a metal-ligand complex. In other embodiments of the system, at least one of the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprise a metal oxide. In other embodiments of the system, at least one of the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprise a metal. In other embodiments of the system, at least one of the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprise a metal salt. In other embodiments of the system, at least one of the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprise nanostructures. In other embodiments of the system, at least one of the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprise a polymer. In some embodiments of the system, the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprise the same material.

In some embodiments of the system, at least one of the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry comprise a heterocyclic macrocycle. In some embodiments of the system, the heterocyclic macrocycle is a porphyrin.

In some embodiments of the system, the volume of active sensing chemistry disposed on the substrate is less than or equal to 1 milliliter of material. In some embodiments of the system of claim 1, wherein the volume of the reference sensing chemistry disposed on the substrate is less than or equal to 1 milliliter of material.

In some embodiments of the system, the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry are responsive to at least one same analyte in the sample. In some embodiments of the system, the barrier layer disposed over the reference sensing chemistry is substantially impermeable to an analyte of interest in the fluid sample. In some embodiments of the system, a barrier layer disposed over the reference sensing chemistry defines a window to expose the active sensing chemistry to the fluid sample. In some embodiments of the system, the barrier layer disposed over the reference sensing chemistry comprises an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive is a pressure sensitive adhesive. In some embodiments of the system, the adhesive is a heat activated adhesive.

In some embodiments of the system, the membrane layer comprises at least one of a porous polymer, a non-porous polymer, a composite, a fibrous material, a woven fabric, a non-woven fabric, a polymer, an adhesive, a membrane, and a gel. In some embodiments of the system, the membrane layer comprises PTFE. In other embodiments of the system, the film layer comprises silicone. In some embodiments of the system, the silicone transfer layer attaches the film layer to at least one other layer. In some embodiments of the system, the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry are disposed on a test strip.

In another embodiment, the system further comprises a circuit cooperating with the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry to form a bridge circuit. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a meter configured to deliver at least a portion of the fluid sample to at least the sensing chemistry. In some embodiments of the system, at least a portion of the meter in contact with the fluid sample comprises stainless steel. In some embodiments of the system, at least a portion of the meter in contact with the fluid sample comprises aluminum. In some embodiments of the system, at least a portion of the meter in contact with the fluid sample comprises a siliconized material. In some embodiments of the system, at least a portion of the meter in contact with the fluid sample comprises glass. In some embodiments of the system, at least a portion of the meter in contact with the fluid sample comprises Teflon (Teflon). In some embodiments of the system, at least a portion of the meter in contact with the fluid sample comprises a teflon-coated material. In some embodiments of the system, at least a portion of the meter in contact with the fluid sample comprises a plastic. In some embodiments of the system, at least a portion of the meter in contact with the fluid sample comprises a K resin.

In some embodiments of the system, the meter is configured to receive a fluid sample from a human user. In some embodiments of the system, the fluid sample is exhaled breath from a human user. In some embodiments of the system, the meter is configured to apply the fluid sample to the test strip at a flow rate that is less than or equal to the flow rate of the exhaled breath. In some embodiments of the system, the flow rate is less than or equal to 3000 standard cubic centimeters per minute. In some embodiments of the system, the flow rate is less than or equal to 500 standard cubic centimeters per minute. In some embodiments of the system, the flow rate is less than or equal to 350 standard cubic centimeters per minute. In some embodiments of the system, the flow rate is less than or equal to a peak expiratory flow for a representative human.

In some embodiments of the system, the meter is configured to receive a sample volume less than or equal to a forced vital capacity of a representative human. In some embodiments of the system, the meter is configured to transfer only a portion of the exhaled breath sample to the sensing chemistry. In some embodiments of the system, the meter is configured to divert only the last 3 seconds of exhaled breath. In some embodiments of the system, the duration of the exhaled breath sample is 10 seconds. In some embodiments of the system, the meter is configured to control a flow rate of the fluid sample. In some embodiments of the system, the meter is configured to control the flow rate of the fluid sample to between about 2700 standard cubic centimeters per minute and about 3300 standard cubic centimeters per minute. In some embodiments of the system, the meter is configured to control the flow rate of the fluid sample to about 2850 standard cubic centimeters per minute to about 3150 standard cubic centimeters per minute. In some embodiments of the system, the meter is configured to positively limit the pressure of the fluid sample. In some embodiments of the system, the gauge is configured to positively limit the pressure from about 5 centimeters of water to about 20 centimeters of water.

In some embodiments, the system further comprises a filter to remove at least one selected analyte from the fluid sample. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a filter to remove at least one selected analyte from the fluid sample prior to the fluid sample contacting the active sensing chemistry. In some embodiments, the analyte of choice is nitric oxide. In some embodiments, the analyte of choice is nitrogen dioxide.

In some embodiments, the system further comprises a meter configured to provide an output related to the analyte concentration. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a meter configured to provide feedback regarding the input flow rate of the fluid sample. In some embodiments, the feedback is visual. In some embodiments, the meter further comprises a display that provides visual feedback. In some embodiments, the feedback is audio. In some embodiments, the feedback is a resistance to the input flow of the fluid sample.

In some embodiments, the system further comprises a chamber, the sensing chemistry being disposed within the chamber. In some embodiments of the system, the chamber is configured to generate turbulent flow. In some embodiments of the system, the chamber is configured to direct turbulent flow at the sensing chemistry. In some embodiments of the system, the chamber has an inlet path for the fluid sample. In some embodiments of the system, the chamber has an outlet path for the fluid sample. In some embodiments of the system, the active chemistry and the sensing chemistry are premixed prior to deposition on the substrate. In some embodiments of the system, the active and sensing chemistry are deposited in less than or equal to four steps.

Another aspect of the invention includes a method for determining a concentration of at least one analyte in a fluid sample, comprising providing a system for determining a concentration of at least one analyte in a fluid sample, the system comprising a base substrate, a first electrode pair disposed over the substrate, a second electrode pair disposed over the substrate, an active sensing chemistry responsive to an analyte in the sample and in electrical communication with the first electrode pair, a reference sensing chemistry responsive to the analyte in the sample and in electrical communication with the second electrode pair, a barrier layer disposed on the reference sensing chemistry, the barrier layer for inhibiting contact between the reference sensing chemistry and the at least one analyte in the fluid sample, measuring at least one of a voltage across the first electrode pair, a resistance across the first electrode pair, and a current across the first electrode pair, and measuring at least one of a voltage across the second electrode pair, a resistance across the second electrode pair, and a current across the second electrode pair. In some embodiments, the method the system further comprises a membrane layer disposed over the sensing chemistry.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises placing the system in the path of the fluid sample. In some embodiments, the fluid sample is a biological fluid. In some embodiments, the fluid sample is exhaled breath.

In some embodiments, the method comprises a meter. In some embodiments of the method, the meter provides an output. In some embodiments of the method, the output is based on at least one of: (i) measuring at least one of a voltage across the first electrode pair, a resistance across the first electrode pair, and a current across the first electrode pair, and (ii) measuring at least one of a voltage across the second electrode pair, a resistance across the second electrode pair, and a current across the second electrode pair. In some embodiments of the method, the output is qualitative. In some embodiments of the method, the output is quantitative.

In some embodiments, the method comprises determining the analyte concentration based on at least one of: (i) measuring at least one of a voltage across the first electrode pair, a resistance across the first electrode pair, and a current across the first electrode pair, and (ii) measuring at least one of a voltage across the second electrode pair, a resistance across the second electrode pair, and a current across the second electrode pair. In some embodiments, the method further comprises determining the analyte concentration based on performing the measuring step more than once.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises determining a change in at least one of a voltage across the first electrode pair, a resistance across the first electrode pair, a current across the first electrode pair, a voltage across the second electrode pair, a resistance across the second electrode pair, and a current across the second electrode pair. In some embodiments, the method further comprises: a first baseline measurement is determined of at least one of a first baseline voltage across the first electrode pair, a first baseline resistance across the first electrode pair, and a first baseline current across the first electrode pair, and a second baseline measurement is determined of at least one of a second baseline voltage across the second electrode pair, a second baseline resistance across the second electrode pair, and a second baseline current across the second electrode pair. In some embodiments, the method further comprises determining a change in at least one of a voltage across the first electrode pair relative to a first baseline voltage, a resistance across the first electrode pair relative to a first baseline resistance, a current across the first electrode pair relative to a first baseline current, a voltage across the second electrode pair relative to a second baseline voltage, a resistance across the second electrode pair relative to a second baseline resistance, and a current across the second electrode pair relative to a second baseline current.

In some embodiments of the method, a user of the system takes a plurality of measurements over the course of several hours. In some embodiments of the method, the user of the system takes a plurality of measurements over the course of at least one of more than one day, week, month, or year. In some embodiments of the method, the measuring step is performed in less than 1 day. In some embodiments of the method, the measuring step is performed between 30 and 60 minutes. In some embodiments of the method, the measuring step is performed between 10 and 30 minutes. In some embodiments of the method, the measuring step is performed between 1 and 10 minutes. In some embodiments of the method, the measuring step is performed in less than or equal to about 1 minute. In some embodiments of the method, the measuring step is performed in less than or equal to about 30 seconds. In some embodiments of the method, the measuring step is performed in less than or equal to about 10 seconds. In some embodiments of the method, the measuring step is performed in less than or equal to about 3 seconds.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises determining a concentration range among a plurality of analyte concentration ranges within which the concentration of the at least one analyte falls based on at least one of: (i) measuring at least one of a voltage across the first electrode pair, a resistance across the first electrode pair, and a current across the first electrode pair, and (ii) measuring at least one of a voltage across the second electrode pair, a resistance across the second electrode pair, and a current across the second electrode pair. In some embodiments, the method further comprises displaying the analyte concentration range determination as an output. In some embodiments of the method, the plurality of concentration ranges is dependent on the age of the patient providing the fluid sample. In some embodiments of the method, when the patient is less than 12 years of age, the plurality of analyte concentration ranges comprises: less than 20 parts per billion of an analyte, between 20 and 35 parts per billion of an analyte, and greater than 35 parts per billion of an analyte. In other embodiments of the method of claim 105, when the patient is older than or equal to 12 years, the plurality of analyte concentration ranges comprises: less than 25 parts per billion of an analyte, between 25 and 50 parts per billion of an analyte, and greater than 50 parts per billion of an analyte.

In some embodiments of the method, the analyte is nitric oxide. In some embodiments of the method, the plurality of analyte concentration ranges includes a first range below a specified analyte concentration and a second range above the specified analyte concentration.

In some embodiments of the method, the specified analyte concentration is selected from a concentration range between 1 part per billion and 50 parts per billion. In some embodiments, the analyte is nitric oxide.

In some embodiments of the method, the specified analyte concentration is 20 parts per billion. In some embodiments of the method, the analyte is nitric oxide.

In some embodiments of the method, the specified analyte concentration is 25 parts per billion. In some embodiments of the method, the analyte is nitric oxide.

In some embodiments of the method, the specified analyte concentration is 35 parts per billion. In some embodiments of the method, the analyte is nitric oxide.

In some embodiments of the method, the specified analyte concentration is 40 parts per billion. In some embodiments of the method, the analyte is nitric oxide.

In some embodiments of the method, the specified analyte concentration is 50 parts per billion. In some embodiments of the method, the analyte is nitric oxide.

In some embodiments of the method, the specified analyte concentration is 15 parts per million. In some embodiments of the method, the analyte is methane.

In some embodiments of the method, the specified analyte concentration is 20 parts per million. In some embodiments of the method, the analyte is hydrogen.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing a fluid sample. In some embodiments of the method, the at least one analyte is a gas. In some embodiments of the method, the at least one analyte is nitric oxide. In some embodiments of the method, the at least one analyte is hydrogen. In some embodiments of the method, the at least one analyte is methane. In some embodiments of the method, the at least one analyte comprises hydrogen and methane. In some embodiments of the method, the at least one analyte is present in a biological fluid. In some embodiments of the method, the biological fluid is exhaled breath. In some embodiments of the method, the at least one analyte is nitric oxide. In some embodiments of the method, the at least one analyte is hydrogen. In some embodiments of the method, the at least one analyte is methane. In some embodiments of the method, the at least one analyte comprises hydrogen and methane.

In some embodiments of the method, the active sensing chemistry and the reference sensing chemistry are disposed on a test strip. In some embodiments of the method, the test strip is configured for a single use. In some embodiments of the method, the test strip is configured for multiple uses. In some embodiments of the method, the test strip is configured for a specified number of uses. In some embodiments of the method, the test strip is configured for less than or equal to three uses.

Brief description of the drawings

In the drawings:

figure 1 is an example of one embodiment of the present invention in a larger system for monitoring a patient.

Fig. 2 is an example of an assembled device and test strip ready for use by a patient.

Fig. 3 is an example of a variation of the assembled device, test strip, and electronic reader.

Fig. 4a and 4b show examples of variations of electronic systems that provide a readout from a test strip.

Fig. 5a-5c show variations of mechanisms for controlling the flow of gas to the test strip and examples of methods of filtering the gas flow.

Fig. 6a shows an example of a test strip incorporated into a container.

Fig. 6b shows an example of a container connected to a reader.

Fig. 7 shows various orientations of the test strip within the device.

Fig. 8 is an example of a device configured to peel or puncture a protective layer from a test strip.

Figures 9a-b show various configurations of electrodes and chemicals on a test strip.

Fig. 9c shows an example of a test strip with integrated heater, sensor and electrical components.

Fig. 10 is an example of a sensing chemistry additive.

Fig. 11 and 11a show examples of test strips having multiple layers.

Fig. 12 shows an example of a fully assembled test strip.

Fig. 13a, 13b and 13c show examples of mass-produced test strips.

Fig. 14 provides an example of a coating technique for a test strip.

Figure 15 shows an example of transferring a portion of exhaled breath to a sensor.

Figure 16 shows an example of transferring a portion of exhaled breath to a sensor after inhalation through a filter.

Fig. 17 shows an embodiment of a folded device.

Fig. 17a shows an embodiment of the device folded and incorporating the design described in fig. 15 and/or fig. 16.

Figure 17b shows an embodiment of the invention in which the reader and gas conditioning system are incorporated into the device.

Figure 17c shows an embodiment of the invention wherein the output of the device is selected from multiple endpoints.

Fig. 18 depicts certain embodiments of a questionnaire survey.

Fig. 19 shows an example of combining similar data from multiple patients, sending the data to the cloud for analysis, and generating meaningful information for multiple parties such as payers, providers, patients, and industries (i.e., pharmaceutical and medical device companies).

Fig. 20 depicts certain embodiments of a mobile application that collects data in various forms and at different locations from a single patient. The data is sent to the cloud for storage and analysis.

Fig. 21 depicts certain embodiments of a medical professional monitoring data collected from a patient.

Fig. 22 depicts certain embodiments of software for a monitoring system to actively alert a patient, medical professional, and/or caregiver to a trend change in health status.

Detailed Description

The present invention relates to the field of gas detection and may be configured in various ways based on the gas of interest and the environment in which the test strip is placed. At the most basic level, the test strip contains a substrate and a sensing chemistry. In some embodiments, the test strip generally comprises a substrate, at least one electrical connection, at least one sensing chemistry, and at least one additional layer. In addition to providing spacers, e.g. between layers, one or more layers may serve a single purpose or multiple purposes, e.g. to protect the sensing chemistry from interfering substances. The combination of layers may provide selective permeability of gas to the sensing chemistry. The test strip may provide a quantitative and/or qualitative readout. The test strip may be stand alone or in combination with other devices. Examples of such devices include, but are not limited to, mechanisms to control gas flow, electronics to power the device and provide readout, temperature measurement and control, and/or mechanisms to filter the gas prior to readout.

One embodiment of the present invention is used in the medical industry. Which includes a test strip and a device configured to measure exhaled nitric oxide in human breath. The information from the test strip and device may be part of a larger monitoring system for patient health. The test strip is comprised of a substrate, zero or more electrodes, at least one sensing chemistry, and at least one layer that provides protection against interfering species. The test strip communicates with the device to provide signals and readouts, and controls the flow of gas to the sensor.

One embodiment of the present invention is a software application that combines biological, medical history and prescribed treatment, environmental and symptom data from individual patients. This data is sent to a remote server where it is stored and combined with similar data from other patients. Group data is analyzed and organized to create health management tools for healthcare providers, payers, patients, and industries.

Specific examples of collected data may include, but are not limited to: biological data in the form of biomarkers, such as serum periostin, exhaled nitric oxide, DPP4, blood eosinophils, blood neutrophils, sputum eosinophils, IgE or other biomarkers indicative of the presence or absence of eosinophils, neutrophils, oligodendrocytes (paucigranulocytic), mixed granulocytes, Th2 or Th1 type inflammation, spirometry and other pulmonary function tests, allergies, past medical history, currently prescribed medications including dose and frequency, tools to track medical use, genetic data, weather, allergen levels and particulate matter sensor data. This creates a database with more accurate data describing the patient's condition.

Additional embodiments may include alarm systems and services that monitor data to assist in the management of group health in traditional approaches or active interventions, such as trained healthcare professionals.

Embodiments of the present invention use materials and manufacturing techniques to mass produce test strips at low cost for measuring gases in various industries and environments. The test strip may measure a single gas or multiple gases. Embodiments of the present invention may apply different sensing chemistries, configurations, and layers to the test strip based on the gas of interest and the environment in which the test strip is to be placed. The test strip may be configured to provide qualitative and/or quantitative analysis of one or more gases. The test strip may be combined with other devices or used independently. Other devices may be used to control the delivery of the gas of interest to the test strip, or to process signals from the test strip. Control may include, but is not limited to, flow, filtration, pretreatment, and the like.

The system comprises the following steps: one embodiment of the present invention is a test strip for use in the medical industry for measuring nitric oxide exhaled in human breath. The test strip and accessory device may be for single patient or multiple patient use. The device, device components, and test strip may be disposable, reusable, or any combination. The data collected from the results of using the test strip (in this example, the exhaled nitric oxide breath test) may be part of a larger patient monitoring system, or may be independent. Fig. 1 provides an example of a patient monitoring system [101] in which a patient performs a nitric oxide breath test by inhaling and exhaling [102] by one embodiment of the present invention. The information is combined with additional data [103] from the patient and the data is stored remotely [104 ]. The stored data may be combined with information from multiple patients for analysis. It is possible to measure gases, the ratio of one or more gases and/or the duration of exhalation in the respiratory flow without departing from the spirit of the invention.

In another embodiment, the present invention is configured to perform a hydrogen breath test. The one or more test strips are configured to measure at least one of the following gases: hydrogen, methane, carbon dioxide. It is possible to measure gases, the ratio of one or more gases and/or the duration of exhalation in the respiratory flow without departing from the spirit of the invention.

In another embodiment, the invention is configured to perform a urea breath test. The one or more test strips are configured to measure at least one of the following gases: carbon dioxide, ammonia. In other embodiments, the system is configured to measure a ratio of carbon isotopes. In other embodiments, the system is configured to measure a plurality of ratios of carbon isotopes. It is possible to measure gases, the ratio of one or more gases and/or the duration of exhalation in the respiratory flow without departing from the spirit of the invention.

In another embodiment, the present invention is configured to perform a diabetic breath test. One or more test strips are configured to measure acetone in breath. It is possible to measure gases, the ratio of one or more gases and/or the duration of exhalation in the respiratory flow without departing from the spirit of the invention.

In another embodiment, the invention is configured to perform cancer breath testing. The one or more test strips are configured to measure volatile organic compounds in breath. It is possible to measure gases, the ratio of one or more gases and/or the duration of exhalation in the respiratory flow without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Equipment configuration: embodiments of the present invention may be configured in a variety of ways without departing from the spirit of the present invention. The configuration may be varied to optimize sensitivity and selectivity to the gas of interest, as well as to improve patient experience and ease of use. Fig. 2 is an example of one configuration. The patient [201] inhales and exhales through the top of the device [202], and the signals are captured by an electronic device [203] in communication with the test system [218 ]. The test system [218] may include an optional mouthpiece [205], a means [206] to control and regulate the flow of air, one or more test strips [208] placed inside the device, and electronics [204] for interpreting signals from the test strips. The electronic device [204] may communicate wirelessly or via a wired connection with another electronic device, such as a phone [203], tablet, or computer.

In one embodiment, the test strip [215] is connected to an electronic reading device [216] and placed within a gas conditioning and flow control unit [219 ]. The patient [209] inhales through the mouthpiece [220] thereby drawing air through the base [210] of the device. Air may be conditioned in the chamber [212] to remove one or more analyte gases from ambient air. The patient exhales through the mouthpiece [213 ]. The chamber [214] may be designed to control the flow rate to the test strip [215] and/or mechanically induce a set flow rate from the patient's respiratory airflow. The air may pass through the test strip [215] and exit the device [217], or some or all of the airflow may be captured for immediate or future analysis. In another embodiment, a portion of the airflow is diverted to the test strip as shown in fig. 15, 16, and 17.

Fig. 3 provides an example of a variation of the assembled device and test strip. The apparatus [311] may include a mouthpiece [301] that is removable and/or disposable. The unit [312] for controlling and regulating the gas flow may be a single component with a slot [310] for test strip insertion or multiple components [304 and 305] that may be separated to allow insertion of a test strip [303a ] into the gas flow [313 ]. The unit for controlling and regulating the gas may be a single chamber or multiple chambers [214] [212 ]. The electrical device [302] for reading the test strip output may be in wired or wireless communication with a telephone [308] or other device. In other embodiments, the electronics process the signal processing and display the results [309] or [307 ]. The test strip may be placed in the airflow in any orientation. Horizontal 303a and vertical 303c strip orientations are shown.

Electronic test strip reader: fig. 4a and 4b show examples of variations of an electronic test strip reader (hereinafter "reader"). Generally, the reader is designed to provide a signal output from the test strip. The reader may include means for providing power, collecting data, signal processing and interpretation, controlling the number of uses, running diagnostics, running measurements, communicating with another device (e.g., a phone or computer or tablet), etc. In one embodiment, the test strip and reader are configured to measure the change in resistance across two or more electrodes when a gas of interest interacts with the sensing chemistry. In another embodiment, the test strip and reader are configured to measure a current or voltage across two or more electrodes of the test strip when one or more analyte gases interact with the sensing chemistry. The electrodes may be configured as simple chemically sensitive resistors (chemiresistors), field effect transistors or wheatstone bridges, or working electrodes with counter electrodes, or working electrodes with counter and reference electrodes. Examples of detection methods (e.g., electronic and test strip configurations) are chemical resistance, field effect transistors, amperometric, potentiometric, or voltammetric signals. The test strip and corresponding electronics may be configured in a bridge circuit. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the electrodes may be made of a variety of conductive materials. In some embodiments, the electrode comprises carbon or silver or gold. In some embodiments, the electrode spacing is less than or equal to 2.5 millimeters.

In some embodiments, the resistance or voltage is measured at least once prior to application of the sample. In other embodiments, the resistance or voltage is measured at least once during application of the sample. In further embodiments, the resistance or voltage is measured at least once after the sample is applied. In some embodiments, a user of the system makes multiple measurements over the course of several hours. In some embodiments, a user of the system makes multiple measurements over the course of days, weeks, months, or years. In some embodiments, the total measurement time is less than 1 day, between 30 and 60 minutes, between 10 and 30 minutes, between 1 and 10 minutes, less than or equal to 1 minute, less than or equal to 30 seconds, less than or equal to 10 seconds, less than or equal to 3 seconds.

In one embodiment, a test strip [402a ] is inserted into a reader [404 ]. The reader [404] communicates with a mobile phone or other computing device [401] via a wired connection [403b ] or by wireless means [403c ]. Examples of wireless communication include, but are not limited to, bluetooth, WiFi, RFID, near field communication, and the like. The reader [404] may be configured as an adapter to connect the test strip to the mobile device via an audio output jack, micro-usb, or proprietary technology of the mobile handset manufacturer (e.g., Apple).

In another embodiment of the invention [405], the test strip [402b ] communicates directly with the computing device [406 ]. Communication may be established by docking the test strip directly into the mobile device or by integrating the wireless technology described above directly into the test strip.

Another embodiment of an electronic system includes an integrated reader [407] that receives a test strip [402c ]. The integrated reader [407] processes the measurements from the test strip [402c ] and interprets and displays the results of the test [408 ].

FIG. 4b shows various configurations of the bottom portion [305] of the device [311] previously described in FIG. 3. In one embodiment [413], the test strip [408a ] is vertically aligned in the gas stream and connected into the bottom portion [305] of the device [311 ]. The bottom portion of the apparatus [305] may consist of at least one chamber, or may have multiple chambers [411] and [412] to allow gas to flow through vents [414] and [409 ]. The gas may be filtered or conditioned during the inspiratory phase using a filter [410 ].

In another embodiment, the reader [415] does not receive the test strip directly. The reader [415] is configured to provide power and measurement capabilities via the electrical contacts [423 ]. The test strip [408b ] may be in electrical contact with the electrode [424] and connected to the measurement device by bonding the two electrodes [423] and [424 ]. The image [424] may also represent an aperture in the device [416] to allow the electrodes [423] to be connected to the test strip [408b ].

Image [419] shows one configuration of test strip [408d ], reader [420] and bottom portion of gas control device [425 ].

The electrical unit may also be integrated into the bottom part of the device, as shown in [417] and [421 ]. In the configuration shown in [417], the cell may be without a chamber. The electrical unit [421] may also house additional components such as temperature sensors [423], UV sources [426] or heating elements (not shown). The electrical unit may also be connected wirelessly to the device, e.g. via induction, whereby data and power may be transferred.

Fig. 17 shows one embodiment of an apparatus incorporating the concepts of fig. 15 and 16 described below. In one embodiment, the apparatus [1701] is folded. In one embodiment, the deployed device [1702] comprises an electronic reading portion [1703] and a gas conditioning portion [1704] coupled. In one embodiment, the gas conditioning section [1704] may receive a filter [1705 ]. The electronic reader can receive the test strip at various locations. Two examples [1706] and [1707] are shown, but this is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all configurations. Fig. 17a shows an embodiment of the concept described in fig. 15, fig. 16 and/or fig. 17. The patient [1730] exhales through the device [1708] and the respiratory flow is diverted [1710] over the sensor [1709 ].

In one implementation, the electronic reader shown in fig. 17a includes a display. In one embodiment, the display provides feedback related to the expiratory flow rate. In one embodiment, the display displays the results of the test.

The electrical unit [1703] may also be integrated into the device [1702] as a whole as shown in FIG. 17. In another embodiment, the signal may be from an optical measurement of the sensing chemistry.

Figure 17b shows an embodiment of the invention in which the reader and gas conditioning system are incorporated into the device [1711 ]. The device includes a display [1712] connected to a base [1715 ]. In this example, display base [1715] is free of covers. The test strip [1713] is inserted into a chamber [1721] located in the device [1711 ]. The chamber may be designed to produce laminar or turbulent flow. The chamber may have an inlet path for the fluid sample. The chamber may also contain an outlet path for the fluid sample. In one embodiment, the device [1711] includes or receives a mouthpiece [1716] for inhalation and/or exhalation by the patient through the device. In one embodiment, the mouthpiece [1716] comprises a bacterial filter.

In one embodiment, the patient inhales through mouthpiece [1716 ]. The inhaled air stream passes through a passage [1718] before the mouthpiece [1716 ]. The patient then exhales through the mouthpiece and along the second passageway [1719 ]. In one embodiment, the second channel [1719] allows exhaled breath to leave the device. In another embodiment, the flow rate of the expired air is measured. In one embodiment, a portion of the exhaled gas stream may be diverted through the third channel [1720 ]. In one embodiment, channel [1720] is in fluid connection with chamber [1721 ]. In one embodiment, channel [1720] comprises a nafion tube. In another embodiment, channel [1720] comprises a filter for removing unwanted analytes. In another embodiment, channel [1720] is designed to perform multiple functions. In another embodiment, the channel [1720] is designed to dry the flow of breathing gas. In one embodiment, channel [1718] contains a filter to remove unwanted analytes from ambient air. In another embodiment, the chamber [1721] and/or the fluid channel [1718], [1719], [1720] and/or the mouthpiece [1716] may comprise a valve, a flow restrictor or a sensor. In another embodiment, the device [1711] comprises a vent.

In one embodiment, the display is folded on top of the base [1714 ].

In another embodiment, device [1711] contains additional sensors. Examples include, but are not limited to, temperature, humidity, flow, gas (e.g., carbon monoxide) sensors.

FIG. 17c shows an embodiment of the invention where the output [1727] of device [1722] is selected from multiple endpoints. In one embodiment, the measurement of resistance or voltage corresponds to at least one of a plurality of analyte concentration ranges. In one embodiment, the output is quantitative or semi-quantitative. In another embodiment, the output is qualitative. In another embodiment, the endpoint may be determined based on the age of the patient. Endpoints less than 12 years of age are associated with three ranges of analyte concentrations: (i) less than 20 parts per billion, (ii) between 20 and 35 parts per billion, and (iii) greater than 35 parts per billion of an analyte. Endpoints older than 12 years of age are associated with three ranges of analyte concentrations: (i) less than 25 parts per billion, (ii) between 25 and 50 parts per billion, and (iii) greater than 50 parts per billion of an analyte. In another embodiment, the device [1722] may determine the type of output based on input received from one or more sources. In some embodiments, the output is above or below the predetermined analyte concentration. In some embodiments, the predetermined analyte concentration is selected from a concentration range between 1 part per billion and 50 parts per billion. When the analyte is nitric oxide, the predetermined analyte concentration may preferably be 20 parts per billion, 25 parts per billion, 30 parts per billion, 35 parts per billion, 40 parts per billion, 50 parts per billion. When the analyte is methane, the preferred predetermined analyte concentration is 15 or 20 parts per million. When the analyte is hydrogen, the preferred predetermined analyte concentration is 15 or 20 parts per million.

In one embodiment, the test strip [1725] may contain electrodes of a particular configuration or particular resistance, indicating to the device the type of output [1727] to be displayed. In another embodiment, the barcode [1724] is used to determine the type of output to be displayed. The bar code may be located in any number of positions without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Examples include, but are not limited to, a test strip [1725] or a package [1723 ]. In another embodiment, a chip [1726] is inserted into the device [1722] to provide information about at least one of the plurality of outputs. In another embodiment, the type of output is manually entered into the device.

In another embodiment, the barcode or chip may also enable the device to utilize a specific calibration table. In another embodiment, the barcode or chip may contain information about the calibration table.

In another embodiment, information regarding the plurality of outputs or information regarding calibration is received from the paired mobile computing device.

Gas preparation, conditioning and flow control: various embodiments and configurations are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention. The configuration is determined by the characteristics of the test strip, the sensing chemistry, the analyte of interest, and the environment in which the cell is to be placed. In general, the gas preparation, conditioning and flow control devices can have a variety of shapes, sizes, and include any combination of chambers, structures, valves, filters, or vents designed to deliver analytes to the test strip. This apparatus will be referred to as a gas control apparatus hereinafter. A non-limiting list of examples of gas control apparatus includes: bowtie valve, mechanical iris, ball and cone, Leuver vent, filter, membrane, sieve (e.g., molecular sieve), activated carbon, swing gate, seeslow valve, poppet valve, diaphragm valve, conical cavity, fixed orifice size, variable orifice, piston valve, elastic container/tube/structure, iris and cam combination (two discs with aligned grooves, spring open, higher pressure/flow rotate disc to open, lower pressure/flow return disc spring to closed), flap valve, spring valve, mushroom valve, check valve, perforated bladder, bladder in bladder (optionally one bladder orifice), pressure regulator, mass flow controller, Bennet valve, port valve, choked flow, Sonic suppressor (Sonic choke), one-way valve, single stage pressure regulator, two stage pressure regulator, expandable reservoir, liquid vapor pressure, back pressure regulator/relief valve, a resilient flow regulator and a variable orifice valve. Springs may also be used in combination with the items listed above. Further, any combination of the above items may be used to achieve the desired pressure and/or flow rate. Further, those skilled in the art will recognize that numerous variations of the valves and valve concepts listed above are possible.

Fig. 5a and 5b show embodiments of various mechanisms for controlling the flow of gas to the test strip and methods of filtering the gas flow. Optional blowing nozzle [501 ]]May contain a bacterial filter [502]To enable sharing of the device between several patients or to provide a filtered environment to downstream devices. Optional blowing nozzle [501 ]]Located in a gas control plant [504]]Nearby. In one embodiment, a gas control apparatus [504]]Configured to measure exhaled nitric oxide in human breath. Gas control apparatus [504]]May consist of a series of mechanisms such as chambers, valves and/or filters. The filter may include items such as gas diffusion barriers, activated micro-and nanostructures, and selectively permeable membranes. Alternatively, the filter may be a high surface area material, such as a copper bead-polytetrafluoroethylene composite or a reactive metal mesh. Other embodiments may include filters or membranes that have been further impregnated, coated or treated for dual purposes (e.g., nafion coated PTFE). The patient positions their mouth proximate to and through the mouthpiece [501]And (6) sucking. Air through vent 515]Is pumped into the chamber [511]. The chamber may contain one or more filters [516] designed to remove ambient gases from the air]. Chamber [511]And [505 ]]Is fluidly connected so that air can pass through the one-way valve [503 ]]Is aspirated and enters the patient's lungs. The patient exhales immediately. Expiratory gas flow [506]Into the area [508]]And through, for example, a valve or series of valves [507]]The valve only allows gas to pass above a predetermined pressure at a predetermined flow rate. In a preferred embodiment, the flow rate is between 10ml/sec and 100ml/sec and the pressure is between 5 and 20cm H₂And O is between. Gas and sensor [513]And a one-way valve [509]]And (4) interaction. One-way valve [509]]May be designed to close when the patient exhalation pressure drops near the end of exhalation. This will result in the last few seconds of the respiratory airflow being trapped in the chamber [508]]And is composed of a test strip [513]And a reader (not shown). The trapped air allows diffusion of the gas through at least one layer on the sensor and/or allows time for chemical reactions to occur.

Another embodiment [504a ] is of similar design to the gas control unit [504 ]. The main difference is that the one-way valve [509a ] is located in the bottom part of the gas conditioning unit [513a ]. This allows gas to flow directly over the test strip and out through the bottom of the device. When the valve is closed, the exhaled breath is trapped in chamber [508a ].

Another embodiment does not involve trapping gas and is shown in example [504b ]. This embodiment is essentially the same as 504 and 504a, but it does not contain a valve [509] or [509a ] for trapping air in the chambers [508] and [508a ].

In one embodiment, the flow rate is measured by measuring the pressure across the orifice. In another embodiment, the flow rate is calculated by measuring the pressure before the orifice.

In another embodiment, the exhaled airflow is diverted as shown in fig. 15 and 16.

Further embodiments of the gas conditioning device are shown in FIGS. 5b [517], [518], [519], and [520 ]. The functions of examples [516], [517] and [518] are similar to [504 ]. The main difference of example [517] is that the valve arrangement [507] is replaced by at least one filter [521 ]. In addition to conditioning the gas sample, the filter may also control the gas flow. Examples of conditioning involve removal of water vapor and use as a diffusion barrier or semi-permeable membrane to remove interfering gases.

In another embodiment, the gas control unit is chemically treated (e.g., with Nafion to remove moisture from the gas stream) to provide a conditioning effect.

Example [518] differs from [504] in that the positioning of the filter and vent [523] is integrated into the top portion [524] of the gas conditioning apparatus, rather than the bottom portion of the gas conditioning apparatus.

Example [519] differs from [504] in that at least one filter [526] is placed in the exhaled airflow proximate to the test strip.

Example [520] shows an embodiment of a gas control unit with a single chamber [527], and a mechanism for controlling flow rate.

FIG. 5c shows two further embodiments [529] and [531 ].

Example [529] shows an embodiment of a gas control unit with a single chamber [530] that has no mechanism for controlling flow rate.

Example [531] shows an embodiment of a gas control unit having two chambers [532] and [533 ]. One chamber [533] allows suction through the device. Another chamber [532] allows exhalation through the device. In one embodiment, the test strip is placed in the fluid path of exhaled air.

Figure 6a shows an example of a test incorporated into a capsule or container. In one embodiment [601], a gas regulating device [604] as previously described is attached to the bladder [606 ]. The bladder is made of a material that will not interact with the gas of interest and will minimize diffusion of the gas through the sidewall. These materials may include, but are not limited to, plastics such as polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyimide, and the like, or metal foils such as copper, aluminum, and the like, or graphite materials such as graphene or graphene oxide films. In a preferred embodiment, the bladder is made of Teldar or Mylar. The bladder may be configured as a rolled tube [617] or an empty bag [606], and may have an open or closed end, as shown in [601], [602,609], [603,614 ].

Embodiments may include a test strip [605] inserted into a gas regulating device [604] and connected to a measuring device (not shown). Another embodiment of the apparatus [602] includes a gas conditioning unit [608] connected to the bladder. The test strip [616] may be deposited directly on the pouch or pre-assembled and attached to the pouch. The distal end of the balloon has a mechanism [609] that allows exhaled air [615] to flow through the device. When the pressure changes from the last part of the breathing action (maneuver), the mechanism closes to capture the gas in the pouch with the test strip for reading. Another embodiment [603] comprises a container, tube or pouch [612] within another container, tube or pouch [616 ]. The inner vessel [612] is treated to selectively allow the gases of interest [615a ], [615b ] to pass through into the outer vessel [616] where it can interact with the sensor [610a ]. A portion of the gas stream [615a ] may also exit the apparatus.

Figure 6b is an example of one embodiment in which the bladder [622] is attached to a gas control device [621 ]. The patient fills the bladder with exhaled gas [622 ]. The test strip [619] is inserted into the reader [618] via the slot [620 ]. The capsule containing the exhaled breath is connected to a reader via an opening [612] for measurement. The sample may be introduced into the reader [618] via a pump or through a spring/wire in the capsule [622] that is designed to retract the capsule to a rolled position as shown [617 ].

In some embodiments, the system may further comprise a meter configured to deliver at least a portion of the fluid sample to at least the sensing chemistry. The gauge may comprise stainless steel, aluminum, siliconized material, glass, teflon coated material, plastic or K-resin. The meter receives a fluid sample from a human, which may be exhaled breath. The meter may be positively restrictive of the pressure of the fluid sample. Preferably, when the meter actively limits the pressure of the fluid sample, the pressure is between 5cm/H2O (centimeters of water column) and 20 cm/H2O. The meter may provide an output related to the concentration of the analyte.

Fig. 7 shows examples of various orientations of the test strip within the device. The test strip may be oriented horizontally [701], [703], [704], or vertically [702], or at some other angle. The sensing chemistry may be oriented toward the airflows [701] and [703] or away from the airflow [704 ].

Fig. 8 is an example of a device configured to peel or puncture a protective layer from a test strip. In one embodiment [801], the test strip [803] has a protective cap [804] that is pierced by structure [805] when the device is assembled for use. In another embodiment [802], the protective cover [807] on the test strip [804] is peeled away by the structure [806] when inserted into the device.

Figure 15 is an example of diverting airflow from exhaled breath to a sensor. In one embodiment, the patient [1501] exhales through a device described herein at a flow rate. A portion of the breath [1502] is transferred [1503] to the sensor [1504 ]. In one embodiment, the flow rate is 3000 standard cubic centimeters per minute (SCCM) ± 10%. In another embodiment, the flow rate is 3000SCCM 5%. In one embodiment, the diverted flow rate of the gas stream is less than the expiratory flow rate. In another embodiment, the diverted gas stream has a flow rate of less than 3000 SCCM. In another embodiment, the diverted gas stream has a flow rate of less than 500 SCCM. In another embodiment, the diverted gas stream has a flow rate of less than 350 SCCM. In another embodiment, the diverted gas stream has a flow rate between 1 and 3000 SCCM. In another embodiment, the diverted gas stream is passed through a Nafion tube.

FIG. 16 is similar to FIG. 15 and further includes a patient [1601]The suction action [1605 ]]To remove some of the ambient gas from the air. Expiration [1602]Is transferred [ 1603)]To the sensor [1604]. In one embodiment, the ambient gas is NO. In another embodiment, the ambient gas is NO₂. In another embodiment, NO and NO are removed₂And both.

Fig. 17 shows one embodiment of a device incorporating the concepts of fig. 15 and 16. In one embodiment, the apparatus [1701] is folded. In one embodiment, the deployed device [1702] comprises an electronic reading portion [1703] and a gas conditioning portion [1704] coupled. In one embodiment, the gas conditioning section [1704] may receive a filter [1705 ]. The electronic reader can receive the test strip at various locations. Two examples [1706] and [1707] are shown, but this is not intended to be exhaustive of all configurations. Fig. 17a shows an embodiment of the concept described in fig. 15, fig. 16 and/or fig. 17. The patient [1730] exhales through the device [1708] and the respiratory flow is diverted [1710] over the sensor [1709 ].

In one implementation, the electronic reader shown in fig. 17a includes a display. In one embodiment, the display provides feedback related to the expiratory flow rate. In one embodiment, the display displays the results of the test. The feedback may also be audio feedback or based on resistance.

Other embodiments allow for the elimination or separation of "dead space" in the airway to ensure that measurements are obtained from the alveolar space. The dead space is the volume of inhaled air that does not participate in the gas exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, as it remains in the proximal airway, or reaches the undiluted or hypoperfused alveoli. Dead zone separation or elimination may be accomplished mechanically or with software (e.g., calculating the duration of exhalation and ignoring the first portion of respiratory flow).

Test strip-generally: at its most basic level, the test strip contains a substrate/base and a sensing chemistry. Embodiments of the test strip include a substrate, a means of establishing an electrical connection (i.e., an electrode), at least one sensing chemistry, and at least one additional layer. The configuration and design may be modified based on the gases of interest and the environment in which the test strip is placed. The sensing chemistry is selected based on the gas of interest, and the electrodes are configured to measure the chemical reaction that occurs. One or more layers may be used for a variety of purposes including, but not limited to, supporting sensing materials and chemicals, sensing analytes, masking for chemical deposition, interlayer adhesion, protecting from interfering substances, enhancing selectivity and/or sensitivity of the test strip, and spacing. Details regarding the electrodes, chemicals, and layers are described below.

In some embodiments, the test strip is single use. In some embodiments, the test strip is multi-use. In some embodiments, the test strip is limited use. In other embodiments, the test strip may be used less than or equal to three times.

The test strip senses the chemistry: many sensing chemistries are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention. In one embodiment, the sensing chemistry comprises nanostructures functionalized to bind the analyte to cause a change in resistance across the nanostructures. In other embodiments, the analyte causes a redox reaction at the measured nanostructure level. In another embodiment, the analyte causes a change in surface electrons of the sensing chemistry, resulting in a change in the measured optical characteristic. Nanostructures may include, but are not limited to, carbon nanotubes (single, multi-or few-walled), nanowires, graphene oxide, and the like. The nanostructures may be assembled to form macroscopic features, such as paper, foam, films, and the like, or may be embedded or deposited on the macroscopic structures. Examples of functionalized materials include:

heterocyclic macrocycles

a. Examples include, but are not limited to: crown ethers, phthalocyanines, porphyrins, and the like.

Metal oxides

a. Examples include, but are not limited to: AgO, CeO₂,Co₂O₃,CrO₂,PdO,RuO₂,TiO₂Transition metal

a. Examples include, but are not limited to: ag, Cu, Co, Cr, Fe, Ni, Pt, Ru, Rh, Ti

Carboxyl group

a. Examples include, but are not limited to: carboxylic acids

Functional organic dye

a. Examples include, but are not limited to: azo dyes, cyanine dyes, fluorone dyes, indigo dyes, photochromic dyes, phthalocyanine xanthan gums, and the like.

Functionalized nanostructures (hereinafter referred to as sensing chemistry) are disposed over a substrate to form the basic component of a test strip. The electrodes are in communication with the sensing chemistry, as described below.

In another embodiment, the sensing chemistry is a non-functionalized (i.e., unsensitized) nanostructure. This embodiment may be used in conjunction with the functionalized nanostructure, or it may be used independently.

The second additive may be used to affect the drying characteristics and handling capabilities of the sensing chemistry for deposition onto the substrate. Non-limiting examples of deposition methods are listed in fig. 14. Additives can be used to modify viscosity, surface tension, wetting, adhesion, drying time, gelation, film uniformity, and the like. These additives include, but are not limited to, a second solvent, a thickener, a salt, and/or a surfactant. These additives may serve one or more purposes. Examples may include, but are not limited to, those in fig. 10 and:

thickeners-polymeric and non-polymeric

a. Glycerol

b. Polypropylene glycol

Surfactant-ionic and non-ionic

a. Sodium dodecyl sulfate

b.Triton X-100

In some embodiments, the volume of sensing chemistry disposed on the substrate can be less than or equal to 1 milliliter of material.

Test strip-substrate, electrode and sensing chemistry configuration: various configurations or combinations of substrates, electrodes, and chemical deposition are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. The configuration is determined by the characteristics of the sensing chemistry, the analyte of interest, and the environment in which the cell is to be placed. The sensing chemistry can also be coated to prevent analyte interaction, providing a reference, such as in a chemiresitive (chemiresitive) bridge circuit. Multiple sensing chemistries may be used or the same chemistry may be deposited more than once for use as a reference, for multiplexing analysis or for signal averaging. Fig. 9a and 9b show examples of various configurations of substrates, electrodes, and sensing chemistries [ 901-912 and 922-926 ] on one layer of the test strip.

In one embodiment [901], a substrate [913] comprises an electrode [914] and a sensing chemistry [915] deposited across the electrode [914] on one side. The back side of the substrate [916] also contains electrodes and sensing chemistry. The backside of the substrate [916] may be symmetrical or asymmetrical. The asymmetry may include different sensing chemistries, chemistries or electrode configurations, etc. The second sensing chemistry [917] can be the same or different from the first sensing chemistry [915 ]. This can be used to adjust the sensitivity and selectivity for the analyte of interest. In another embodiment [908], two test strips [932] [931] are fabricated separately and then assembled onto a separate substrate [918] to form a finished test strip. This can be done to increase the ease of manufacturability if the sensing chemistry is different. In another embodiment where the sensing chemistries are side by side [909], one of the two sensing chemistries [921] is capped. In another embodiment [911], the substrate [922] allows gas [921a ] to pass through it to the sensing chemistry. This allows the test strip to be placed away from the airflow as previously described in fig. 7([705 ]). Examples of additional configurations [922] and [923] are shown in which two chemicals are offset on a test strip sharing an electrode. In one example [923], one of two chemicals is covered. In another embodiment [924], a plurality of sensing chemistries are shown. In this example, the chemical species may share at least one electrode. In another embodiment [925], at least one chemical species is covered. In another embodiment [926], a chemical bridging three electrodes is shown. In this embodiment, the three electrodes may represent a working electrode, a reference electrode, and a counter electrode.

Fig. 9c shows an embodiment of a more complex configuration. In certain embodiments [927], [928], and [929], integrated heaters [931], [933], [934] are incorporated into the test strip on the same layer as sensing chemistries [932a ], [932b ], [932c ] (as shown in [928 ]), or into the test strip on different layers (as shown in [927 ]). In other embodiments [929], the test strip has additional sensor elements [935] and integrated electronics [936] on at least one layer. Examples of additional sensor elements [935] may include, but are not limited to, temperature and/or humidity sensors. Examples of integrated electronics [936] may include, but are not limited to, resistors, fuses, capacitors, switches, and the like. The test strip may also include a device (not shown) for managing or controlling the number of uses. Examples include RFID, bar code, circuit or fuse burn out, memory on test strip, serial number, switch, etc.

In other embodiments, the heater, additional sensor elements, and integrated electronics described herein are incorporated into a reader.

In other embodiments, the heater, additional sensor elements, and integrated electronics described herein are incorporated into the reader and/or chamber in which the test strip is placed.

Other examples (not shown) may include electrode configurations (i.e., working electrode, counter electrode, reference electrode) suitable for measuring electrochemical reactions.

In one embodiment, the test strip may include a substrate, at least one electrode, at least one sensing chemistry, and optionally at least one layer for protecting the sensing chemistry from interfering species. The sensing region may be comprised of at least two nanonetworks in electrical communication with one or more electrical contacts. One network will serve as an active sensing chemistry and will be sensitive to a particular set of analytes (e.g., nitric oxide). The additional network will be used as a reference, as a sensor for different analytes, or for the same analyte for signal averaging. The reference may be sensitive to different sets of analytes, such that actively sensing a differential signal between the chemical and the reference results in signal sensitivity for a single analyte, a small set of analytes, or a set of analytes to which the test strip is sensitive. In the case of multiplex analysis, more than one reference may be present.

In another embodiment, the test strip may comprise a substrate, at least one electrode, at least one sensing chemistry, and optionally at least one layer for protecting the sensing chemistry from interfering species. The sensing region may be comprised of at least two nanonetworks deposited between two or more electrodes. One network will serve as an active sensing chemistry and will be sensitive to a particular set of analytes (e.g., nitric oxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, or methane). The second network will be used as a reference. The reference may be composed of the same sensing chemistry as the active nano-network and may be covered or uncovered. The test strip and chemistry may be configured as a resistive circuit or a bridge circuit.

In some embodiments, the active chemistry and the sensing chemistry are pre-mixed prior to deposition on the substrate. In some embodiments, the active and sensing chemistries are deposited in less than or equal to four steps.

In another embodiment, the test strip and reader may be configured to measure gas concentrations in breath or flatulence (which is the result of an interaction between a substance (e.g., fructose, lactose, sucrose, isotopes, etc.) and the human or animal body). The substance may be inserted, ingested, digested, inhaled, injected or delivered through the dermis (i.e., transdermal patch). Examples include, but are not limited to, a hydrogen breath test (which may also include methane and/or carbon monoxide and/or carbon dioxide measurements) or a urea breath test. Other examples may include substances that interact with cancer, tumors, blood, viruses, bacteria, prions, parasites, etc. to produce a measured gas. In these embodiments, the gas delivery device is optional.

Test strip-layer: fig. 11 shows an example of a test strip having multiple layers. Depending on the sensing chemistry, electrode configuration, interferents, and manufacturing process, layers may be incorporated into the test strip for various reasons. Examples include, but are not limited to: masking for chemical deposition, support for chemical deposition, protection from interfering substances, enhancing selectivity and/or sensitivity of the test strip, use as a sensing chemistry, spacing, forming a gas cell(s), test strip stiffness or structural configuration. The layers may comprise porous and non-porous polymers, composites, fibrous materials such as paper or fiberglass, woven and non-woven fabrics, membranes, polymers, adhesives, membranes, gels, and the like. The layers may be modified, for example, by chemical treatment or coating and/or mechanical alteration. The layers may serve one or more purposes. For example, the layers may serve as structural members (e.g., to improve stiffness or as spacers) and selective gas permeable membranes. The layers may be used in conjunction with one another to provide selective permeability of the gas of interest while protecting the test strip from interfering substances. In some embodiments, there is a dielectric layer disposed over the electrode.

The spacer layer [1125] may also be used to create a single chamber or multiple chambers [1126], as shown in the dual chamber example [1121 ]. A spacer layer [1125] is disposed over the substrate [1127] having electrodes and sensing chemistry. The chamber may be uniformly covered or differentially covered 1135. In one embodiment, the differentially coated chambers allow different gases to diffuse into the different chambers for sensing by the sensing chemistry. In another embodiment [1122], a gas-selective layer [1130] is disposed over a substrate [1127] having electrodes and sensing chemistry. A spacer layer [1125] containing small individual chambers [1129] is disposed over the gas-selective layer [1130 ]. A humidity barrier is disposed over the spacer layer and covers the small chamber [1128 ]. In another embodiment [1123], two spacer layers [1125] are used. Two spacer layers can be used to create a larger chamber for gas accumulation at the sensor surface or to separate multiple diffusion layers. The spacer layer may also serve as a structural support for the test strip and its layers. A Nafion layer [1133] is disposed over a substrate [1127] having electrodes and sensing chemistry. A spacer layer [1125] is disposed over the Nafion layer [1133 ]. A selective diffusion layer [1132] is disposed over the first spacer layer [1125 ]. A second spacer layer [1125] is disposed above the selective diffusion layer [1132 ]. A foil barrier [1131] is disposed over the second spacer layer [1125 ]. In another embodiment [1124], different combinations of layers are used. A selectively permeable layer [1133] is disposed over a substrate [1127] having electrodes and sensing chemistry. Two selective diffusion layers [1132] and plugs [1134] are disposed over the spacer layer [1125 ]. In one embodiment, the plug [1134] serves as a sealing mechanism when the test strip is inserted into the chamber.

The layer may be designed to be reactive to certain gases.

The layers may be applied by various coating methods including, but not limited to, those shown in fig. 14.

Examples of interference may include, but are not limited to: gases, condensed liquids, dissolved solids, particulate matter, humidity, temperature changes, and the like. In an example of measuring nitric oxide in exhaled breath, examples of disturbances may include:

interfering substances for measuring nitric oxide in exhaled breath

Figure 11a shows a preferred embodiment. In this example [1100], the test strip includes a base substrate [1101] with electrodes [1106] and sensing chemistry [1108] and reference chemistry [1107], an optional dielectric layer [1102], a layer covering the reference chemistry [1103] and exposing the sensing chemistry [1110], a membrane layer [1104], and a protective layer [1105 ]. The protective layer [1105] employs means [1111] to allow gas to flow to the membrane layer [1104 ]. In one embodiment, the film layer [1104] comprises silicone.

Fig. 12 shows an example of an assembled test strip. [1201] The fully assembled test strip is depicted. Embodiment [1202] depicts a test strip with a foil barrier for puncturing with a mating device. Embodiment [1203] depicts a test strip with a foil barrier (with a manual removal tab). Embodiment [1204] depicts a test strip having electrodes in the measurement unit rather than on the test strip itself. In this latter embodiment, when the device and test strip are mated, the electrodes disposed in the mated device contact the sensing chemistry on the test strip.

Fig. 13, 13a, 13b and 13c show various layouts of test strips for mass production. A continuous substrate from a roll [1301] is provided for electroless deposition. The substrate may already include an electrode [1304 ]. The chemical [1302] is deposited on a continuous substrate using any number of the methods and coating techniques listed in fig. 14. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Individual test strips are cut using methods known in the art (e.g., die cutting) [1303 ]. Two chemistries can also be deposited [1302] on a continuous substrate from a roll [1301 ]. The layer [1305] may also be deposited on a continuous base substrate [1301] from a nip roll. Fig. 13b depicts an expanded example of a portion of a continuous drum. In this example, the portion includes an electrode [1304], a chemical [1302] disposed over the electrode [1304], and two layers [1305] and [1306] disposed over the chemical. FIG. 13c depicts the deposition of electrodes [1304] and chemicals [1302] in three rows on a sheet. Any number of rows is possible without departing from the spirit of the invention. The sheet containing the electrodes is fed into a machine designed for depositing chemical substances. The sheet with the chemical is then dried by any number of methods. Examples include, but are not limited to, air drying, convection, heat, infrared, ultraviolet, and the like. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that additional layers comprising pressure or heat sensitive materials may also be applied. The sheet material may be cut into smaller strips [1303] by any number of methods known in the art (e.g., die cutting).

In some embodiments, the layer covering the sensing chemistry is substantially permeable to the analyte of interest. In some embodiments, one of the layers is a barrier layer covering the reference sensing chemistry and having a window exposing the active sensing chemistry. In some embodiments, the barrier layer may comprise an adhesive. One skilled in the art will appreciate that any of a number of adhesives may be sufficient, including but not limited to heat-sensitive adhesives or pressure-sensitive adhesives.

In some embodiments, one layer may be a membrane layer that is selectively permeable to at least one analyte. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the membrane layer may comprise a variety of different materials, including but not limited to porous polymers, non-porous polymers, composites, fibrous materials, woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics, polymers, adhesives, membranes, gels, PTFE, and silicones. In some embodiments, a silicone transfer layer may be used to attach the film layer to at least one other layer.

The embodiments incorporated herein relate primarily to gas detection, however, the concepts, chemistries and sensor designs described may also be applied to detecting other fluids, analytes, etc. without departing from the spirit of the invention. The concepts, chemistries and sensor designs described in this invention can also be applied to detecting other gases, fluids, analytes, etc. without departing from the spirit of the invention. The following list provides examples of such applications. This list is not intended to be exhaustive. Industry (non-exhaustive list): industrial, automotive, environmental, military, agricultural, veterinary, and medical. In the medical industry, specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) include: 1) health diagnostics related to the following fields (non-exhaustive list): clinical chemistry and immunoassays, breath assays, hematology and hemostasis, urinalysis, molecular diagnostics, tissue diagnostics, point of care diagnostics, exhaled breath and/or coagulum, virology, analysis of proteins and/or antibodies, DNA/RNA, oncology, heart disease and metabolism, infectious diseases, inflammation and autoimmunity, feminine health, critical care and toxicology; 2) techniques (a non-exhaustive list) include: polymerase chain reaction (PCR & qPCR), nucleic acid amplification, ELISA and fluorescence; and 3) specific diseases (non-exhaustive list) including: STD, breath test, digestive disorder, urine LTE4, MRSA, influenza, virus detection, and bacteria detection.

The above-described techniques, devices, and systems have been described with respect to detecting analytes in exhaled breath of a patient. However, the techniques, apparatus and systems may also be used in any application where it is desirable to detect the presence and/or amount of a particular compound in a gas stream, such as in the industrial, automotive, environmental, military, fire and safety, agricultural and veterinary fields.

Examples of industrial applications include, but are not limited to, industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing processes, power generation, chemicals, base materials, mining, commercial construction, and the like. One embodiment of the apparatus is for detecting hazardous gases in a coal mine and is worn by miners. In another embodiment, the test strip is configured to measure gas for quality control purposes in manufacturing processes requiring high purity gas.

Examples of automotive applications include, but are not limited to, monitoring air quality in an automobile cab and/or monitoring exhaust flow from an engine.

Examples of environmental applications include home safety, air pollution and air quality. In one embodiment, test strips and readers are placed in multiple locations in an urban area and data is transmitted to a central location to monitor air quality.

Examples in the agricultural industry include, but are not limited to, the agricultural production and food packaging and processing industries. In one embodiment, the test strip and reader are packaged with food to monitor spoilage. In another embodiment, the test strip is part of an RFID tag that is packaged with food to monitor spoilage and read remotely. In another embodiment, the test strip and reader are configured to measure methane or other gas concentrations in livestock waste.

In one embodiment of the military and fire and security industries, the test strip is combined with a robot/drone or other device (e.g., a ball that can be thrown). The test strip is then sent into the area to detect the gas of interest without the presence of a person.

Some aspects of the techniques and systems disclosed herein may be implemented as a computer program product for use with a computer system or computerized electronic device. Such implementations may include a series of computer instructions or logic fixed either on a tangible medium, such as a computer readable medium (e.g., a diskette, CD-ROM, flash memory or other memory or fixed disk) or transmittable to a computer system or device via a modem or other interface device, such as a communications adapter connected to a network over the medium.

The medium may be a tangible medium (e.g., optical or analog communications lines) or a medium implemented with wireless techniques (e.g., Wi-Fi, cellular, microwave, infrared or other transmission techniques). The series of computer instructions embodies at least part of the functionality described herein with respect to the system. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that such computer instructions can be written in a number of programming languages for use with many computer architectures or operating systems.

Further, such instructions may be stored in any tangible memory device, such as a semiconductor, magnetic, optical, or other memory device, and may be transmitted using any communications technology (e.g., optical, infrared, microwave, or other transmission technology).

It is expected that such a computer program product may be distributed as a removable medium with accompanying printed or electronic documentation (e.g., shrink wrapped software), preloaded with a computer system (e.g., on system ROM or fixed disk), or distributed from a server or electronic bulletin board over the network (e.g., the internet or world wide web). Of course, some embodiments of the invention may be implemented as a combination of software (e.g., a computer program product) and hardware. Other embodiments of the invention are implemented as entirely hardware, or entirely software (e.g., a computer program product).

Further, the techniques and systems disclosed herein may be used with a variety of mobile devices. For example, mobile phones, smart phones, personal digital assistants, and/or mobile computing devices capable of receiving the signals discussed herein may be used to implement the present invention.

Embodiments of the present invention facilitate the collection of biological, medical, treatment, environmental and symptom data through a combination of mobile and web-based software applications. The collection of genetic data is also within the scope of the present invention. Information is collected through a combination of manual and automatic input from various interfaces and platforms. It is also within the scope of the invention for the information to be collected directly from the device. Data from one or more patients is stored remotely in an electronically readable directory, such as a database. The system generates relevant information to allow providers, payers, patients and industries to monitor, manage and treat chronic respiratory disease patients.

In one embodiment, physicians can use the present invention to monitor the effectiveness of their prescribed treatments and find the most effective treatment based on individual patient characteristics. The system provides this information by tracking trends in the collected data (i.e., symptoms, biomarkers, etc.) and correlating the information to prescribed treatments. The system may compare the effectiveness of treatment between a set of patients or between individual patients. The system will allow the physician to enter the characteristics of a single patient and implementations of the invention will find similar patients and show successful and unsuccessful treatment. This allows the physician to enter characteristics about a given patient and obtain a successful treatment plan from the population in the collection to reduce the need for trial and error.

Physicians may also use the present invention to identify the root cause of a patient's symptoms. In this embodiment, the system may compare the symptoms to trends in the biological data, correlate them to prescribed treatments, review environmental data and/or prescription use.

Other embodiments use the collected information to compare drug effectiveness, monitor compliance with therapy, create risk reports (i.e., for insurance purposes), or establish payment based on the results.

Other embodiments use the collected information to determine an optimal dose of the drug based on the patient's response to the treatment as determined by a combination of the biomarker values or information collected by the present invention. Examples of biomarkers include, but are not limited to, serum periostin, exhaled nitric oxide, DPP4, blood eosinophils, blood neutrophils, sputum eosinophils, IgE, or other biomarkers indicating the presence or absence of eosinophil, neutrophil, oligodendrocyte, mixed granulocyte, Th2, or Th 1-type inflammation.

Other embodiments use biomarkers or combinations of biomarkers to predict drug response. Biomarker measurements may be made at a single point in time or across multiple points. Examples of biomarkers have been described previously, but are not intended to be an exhaustive list. Examples of drug responses may be defined as improvement in lung function, reduction in exacerbations, reduction in need for steroids or salvage drugs. Drugs may include those therapies designed to treat chronic respiratory diseases.

Other embodiments use the collected information to determine patient compliance or compliance with therapy. Compliance may be determined by taking one or more measurements of one or more biomarkers over time and comparing the measurements to a baseline or known biomarker threshold for the patient. Measurements below baseline indicate compliance with treatment. Measurements above baseline may indicate non-compliance with treatment. Examples of biomarkers have been described previously. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list.

Other embodiments of the invention use the collected information to diagnose or identify steroid refractory and/or steroid insensitive asthma. In one embodiment, steroid refractory or insensitive asthma may be determined by the patient continuing to show symptoms of asthma despite the high dose of steroid and compliance demonstrated by the biomarker or biomarker panel. This embodiment may also include recording the use of the biomarker or biomarker panel to predict response and/or monitor compliance with steroids as the dose increases throughout the course of treatment. This data may be combined with other information collected by the present invention.

Other embodiments of the invention may be used to diagnose or identify a particular asthma phenotype.

Other embodiments of the invention may be used to diagnose or identify the presence or absence of eosinophilic airway inflammation.

Other embodiments of the invention may be used to determine the likelihood of response to biological treatment. Examples of biological therapies include, but are not limited to, those targeting high Th2 or low Th2 inflammation. Specific examples include, but are not limited to, IL-13, IL-4, IL-5, IgE, TLR9, TSLP, and the like.

Other embodiments of the invention may use the collected information to determine the level of disease control in a patient or patient population.

Other embodiments of the invention can be used to identify treatment failures for inhaled corticosteroids.

In another embodiment of the invention, the information collected can be used to determine the effectiveness of a treatment or the failure of a treatment. Effectiveness can be determined by the ability of the drug to maintain one or several biomarkers at or below the baseline reading. The ineffectiveness or failure of a treatment can be determined by biomarker measurements above the baseline reading for a particular patient.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the collected information may be used to determine the appropriate inhaler technology. In this embodiment, one or more biomarkers may be used to confirm drug deposition to the lung or pharmacodynamic effects.

In one embodiment, exhaled nitric oxide is used as a biomarker to predict response and monitor adherence and efficacy to inhaled corticosteroids. This information can be combined with other data collected by the present invention.

Other embodiments use this data to generate data for pharmaceutical and medical technology research and development, identify patients for clinical trials, and communicate with patients and physicians for marketing purposes.

Patients can use implementations of the invention to view information about the state and progression of their condition over time and enter information about themselves, as well as to find effective treatments based on the population in the database.

In another embodiment of the invention, trained medical professionals can work in conjunction with system monitoring software to identify trends and actively intervene before a patient presents a health problem or consumes expensive medical resources (e.g., emergency room visits). FIG. 18 is an example of the type of information collected from a patient.

FIG. 19 illustrates an exemplary implementation of the present invention in a mobile application [1907] that collects data [1901,1902,1903] from individual patients [1904,1905,1906] and sends the data [1908] to a remote database [1909] that can be analyzed and queried by payers, providers, patients, and industry [1910 ].

Fig. 20 shows an example of different types of data collected for each patient by manual or automatic collection. Biological data [2001] is collected from a single patient [2011] at home, at a doctor's office, or at a pharmacy. Biomarkers such as exhaled nitric oxide measurements from breath tests [2004] and periostin from blood [2005] and pulmonary function, i.e. spirometry [2006] can be collected from devices connected to a computing device (i.e. phone, computer, tablet, etc.), or test results can be entered manually. It is possible to collect additional biomarkers without departing from the spirit of the invention. Data collected regarding medical history and prescribed treatments [2002] can be collected at home and/or at a doctor's office and supervised by a doctor [2007 ]. This data may be manually entered or automatically extracted from the medical record. Environmental and symptom data are collected automatically and manually [2003 ]. Environmental data [2008] may include weather, air pollution, and/or allergen indices. The location data may be provided by sensors within the smartphone and overlaid onto the environmental data. The particulate matter may be synchronized by a device with an embedded sensor located in the patient's home. Symptom data is collected by querying patients between visits for their frequency and severity of symptoms and how much the condition impairs their daily lives 2009. All of this information is sent to a remote server for storage and analysis [2010 ].

Fig. 21 shows a monitoring system for chronic respiratory diseases. Data is collected and transmitted [2104] from a patient [2102] in various methods described in the present invention. This information is stored [2103] remotely and monitored by health professional [2101] as a service item. The health professional can communicate with the patient for various reasons relating to their health status 2105.

Figure 22 shows a software-based monitoring system for chronic respiratory disease. Data is collected and transmitted [2202] from a patient [2303] in various methods as described herein. The data is stored and monitored remotely [2205] and an alarm system is triggered [2206] when the patient's information trends or exceeds a predetermined threshold. Medical professionals and/or caregivers [2201] and individual patients [2208] may be alerted when an alarm is triggered. Health professionals and/or caregivers can communicate with patients for various reasons related to their health status 2207.