Medical Design Briefs - March 2022 - 27

The facemask sends an
alert to the wearer via
their smartphone. (Credit:
University of Granada)
Smart Facemask Sends Alerts
A new mask sends an alert to the
wearer via their smartphone when
the recommended healthy CO2 limits
inside the facemask are exceeded.
The FFP2 facemask makes it possible
to ascertain the level of CO2 rebreathed
in real time, using a smartphone application.
This method - a wearable gasmonitoring
system that is characterized
by its low cost, scalability, reliability, and convenience - represents
a significant advance with important health benefits.
The proposed system is based on inserting a flexible tag into
a standard FFP2 mask. This tag comprises an innovative,
custom- developed opto-chemical CO2 sensor, together with
the necessary signal-processing electronics. Both the sensor
and the circuitry are fabricated onto a lightweight, flexible
polymeric substrate, forming the so-called sensing tag, which
causes no discomfort to the wearer.
The scientists have conducted preliminary tests of the smart
facemask on both subjects conducting sedentary activity and
those performing physical exercise. The facemask is 100 percent
environmentally friendly. It does not require batteries,
relying instead on standard wireless smartphone technology.
For more information, visit www.medicaldesignbriefs.com/
roundup/0322/facemask.
Precision matters.
COVID Breathalyzer Allows Mass
Screenings in Public
A breathalyzer distinguishes
volatile organic
compounds in the breath
of COVID-positive people
in less than 5 minutes.
(Credit: Shi Xuan Leong
and Yong Xiang Leong,
Nanyang Technological
University)
Researchers have developed a prototype
" breathalyzer " that can sensitively
and accurately diagnose COVID-19,
even in asymptomatic individuals, in
less than 5 minutes. The quick, convenient
and accurate breathalyzer test
would be suitable for on-site screening
of large numbers of people.
The handheld breathalyzer contains
a chip with three surface-enhanced
Raman scattering (SERS) sensors at -
tached to silver nanocubes. When a
person exhales into the device for 10 seconds, compounds in
their breath chemically interact with the sensors. Then, the
researchers load the breathalyzer into a portable Raman spectrometer
that characterizes the bound compounds based on
changes to the molecular vibrations of the SERS sensors.
The team found that Raman spectra from COVID-positive
and -negative people were different in regions responsive to
ketones, alcohols and aldehydes, which they used to develop a
statistical model for COVID diagnosis. The method had a 3.8
percent false-negative and 0.1 percent false-positive rate.
For more information, visit www.medicaldesignbriefs.com/
roundup/0322/breathalyzer.
Medical Extrusion Technologies-Texas, Inc.
(MET-Texas)
FEP Heat Shrink Tubing
The precision quality and consistency of the FEP heat
shrink you use matters. Just as important, working
with a partner well-versed in sophisticated medical
device industry standards. MET maintains precise, low
elongational growth and consistent recovery results for
I.D. and wall thickness. Manufactured at time of order
to your exact specifi cations. Precision also comes with
industry leading lead times, competitive pricing, and the
service levels you require. Need FEP? Contact MET.
MET Heat Shrink
Best in Performance
Best in Clarity at Expansion
Best in Finish at Recovery
Finish First with FEP from MET
Facilities: California | Minnesota | Texas
Please contact us today for samples, quotes or questions:
MET@medicalextrusion.com
TM
www.MedicalExtrusion.com
Medical Design Briefs, March 2022
Cov
ToC
26608 Pierce Circle, Murrieta, CA 92562
800-618-4346 | PH: 951-698-4346 | FX: 951-698-4347
Free Info at http://info.hotims.com/82319-759
27
Standard draw
down ratios:
1:3
1:6 Custom Sizes
Cut to length Scored on 2
sides (optional)
Easily Removable
http://www.medicaldesignbriefs.com/roundup/0322/facemask http://www.medicaldesignbriefs.com/roundup/0322/breathalyzer http://info.hotims.com/82319-759
Medical Design Briefs - March 2022

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Medical Design Briefs - March 2022
