Siemens Corporate Technology has created a sensor that can detect a coming asthma attack up to one day in advance. It works by sampling a patients breath and analyzing the Nitrogen Monoxide content. Samples as low as one part per billion (ppb) can be taken. The sensor takes the Nitrogen Monoxide and converts it to Nitrogen Dioxide, at which point the sample is pushed across a catalytic bead and changed the resistance of the bead itself. From there a voltage sample is taken and a result given. Although gas sensors of this nature have existed for some time, the devices size and application is unique. Ultimately the sensor will be released in a "cell-phone sized" package for easy transport. The medical usage should take this product to wide adoption. Siemens promises another version that detects levels of Acetone in the breath, which will indicate whether fat is burning in the body. And this version will have global impact for sure. More here.
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