Systems and methods for conditioning analytical gases - Patents.com

Abstract

Methods and systems for conditioning a gas sample for analysis and measurement, detection, and / or determination of the concentration of at least one analyte in the gas sample. The methods include combinations and / or repetitions of dehumidifying and / or humidifying the gas and / or performing a chemical reaction on the analyte, and measuring, detecting, and / or determining the concentration of the analyte or output analyte resulting from the chemical reaction. Systems for conditioning the humidity of a gas sample and / or performing a chemical reaction on an analyte and measuring, detecting, and / or determining the concentration of the analyte or output analyte resulting from the chemical reaction include a cartridge, capsule, test strip or test strip chamber, and one or more sensors. The systems may further include a humidity exchange material to further adjust humidity. The gas sample includes exhaled breath. The analyte includes nitric oxide. The output analyte includes nitrogen dioxide.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 797,147, filed January 25, 2019, entitled "System and Method for Conditioning Gas for Analysis," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Incorporation by Reference All patents, patent applications, and publications cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety in order to more fully describe the state of the art as known to those skilled in the art as of the date of the inventions described herein. No. PCT / US2015 / 000180, filed December 23, 2015, entitled "Mini Point of Care Gas Chromatographic Test Strip and Method to Measure Analytes," No. PCT / US2015 / 034869, filed June 9, 2015, entitled "Low Cost Test Strip and Method to Measure Analyte," and No. PCT / US2015 / 034869, filed July 19, 2017, claiming priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 363,971, filed July 19, 2016, entitled "Methods of and Systems for Measuring Analytes Using Batch Calibratable Test Strips," No. PCT / US2017 / 042830, entitled "Polyurethane Foam Strips," is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0003] The present technology relates generally to systems and methods for conditioning a gas for analysis and detecting and / or measuring at least one analyte in a gas sample, and more particularly, to systems and methods for conditioning a gas and determining the concentration of an analyte. [Background technology]

[0004] Many different types of sensors and techniques are known in the art that are available for gas and analyte detection. Challenges associated with these sensors and detection systems are discussed in the related applications incorporated above. Some of these drawbacks include cost, complexity, calibration, quality control, shelf life, and ease of use. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list.

[0005] One of the drawbacks of existing gas sensors is the cost and complexity of preconditioning gas to an acceptable humidity range. Existing sensors and sensing technologies cannot provide accurate measurements under high or dynamic humidity conditions, so samples must be preconditioned to provide accurate measurements. The challenge in analyzing exhaled gas is that the exhaled air leaves the mouth at 100% relative humidity and 37°C.

[0006] Preconditioning of analytes for analysis can be done with tubes made from humidity exchange materials such as perfluorosulfonic acids, perfluorocarboxylic acids, and polymers and copolymers made therefrom (e.g., Nafion®). Nafion® tubes allow samples to be dehumidified (e.g., for breath), humidified (e.g., for industrial gases purchased from vendors such as Air Liquide), or equilibrated to ambient conditions and humidity without affecting the concentration of the particular analyte. The efficiency of the Nafion® tube in humidifying or dehumidifying depends on its length, diameter, and gas flow rate. The higher the flow rate, the longer and larger the diameter of the Nafion® tube needs to be to equilibrate the sample to ambient conditions. Therefore, the longer the tube and the wider the diameter of the Nafion® tube, the higher the cost. Also, the flow rate is limited, which affects the amount of volume the sensor needs to perform the analysis.

[0007] Other desiccants and humectants have similar drawbacks. Their performance is based on the volume and surface area of ​​the desiccant / humectant material available to adsorb or desorb moisture from the sample. Their efficiency is affected by the ambient conditions. For single or limited use, the desiccant or humectant adsorbs or desorbs a certain amount of moisture (respectively) each time it is exposed to the sample. For example, if a patient's breath sample is saturated with 100% humidity, the desiccant can remove 40% of the humidity, reducing the sample to 60% relative humidity (RH). If the ambient humidity is 35% RH, there is a 25% delta between the relative humidity of the sample and the ambient conditions, hindering the sensor's ability to perform an analysis. Desiccant materials also have the drawback of only being able to reduce humidity, not equilibrate to ambient conditions. When the ambient humidity is high, the desiccant can cause the sample humidity to be lower than ambient, resulting in large fluctuations in the humidity passing over the sensor. Alternatively, the use of dynamic chemical moisture stabilizers or equilibrium stabilizers (e.g., wetting agent / desiccant sorbent packet combinations such as those under the trade name Propadyn®, clay composites, or salt / cellulose composites) fall under similar constraints of volume and surface area, as well as single or limited use and fixed humidity ranges, requiring the stabilizer to be "tuned" to a specific relative humidity, which may not match the ambient humidity on a given day.

[0008] To address these issues, the disclosed technology adjusts the incident gas flow to deliver a more suitable sample to the sensor or detector for analysis. One example of a single-use, disposable sensor and reusable measurement system has been previously described by International Patent Application No. PCT / US2015 / 000180, International Patent Application No. PCT / US2015 / 034869, and International Patent Application No. PCT / US2017 / 042830, which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. Adjusting the gas flow may include, but is not limited to, changing at least one of humidity, temperature, and / or pressure. Adjustment may also include chemically altering at least one analyte in the sample. Examples of humidity modifications include, but are not limited to, dehumidifying, humidifying, or equilibrating the sample with ambient conditions, or combinations thereof. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] International Patent Application No. PCT / US2015 / 000180 [Patent Document 2] International Patent Application No. PCT / US2015 / 034869 [Patent Document 3] International Patent Application No. PCT / US2017 / 042830 [Patent Document 4] European Patent No. 2,956,237(B1) Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In one embodiment, the present technology comprises: a test strip comprising one or more flexible layers defining one or more flexible layer apertures, and one or more of permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon disposed within the one or more flexible layer apertures; a tube in fluid communication with the test strip, the tube comprising one or more of a perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, a perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material; and one or more sensors that detect and / or measure an analyte.

[0011] In some embodiments, the permanganate on silica is deposited within one or more of the flexible layer holes. In some embodiments, the permanganate on silica is potassium permanganate.

[0012] In some embodiments, the one or more flexible layer apertures are tapered, hi some embodiments, the one or more flexible layer apertures are circular, oval, square, or rectangular.

[0013] In some embodiments, the system further includes one or more membrane layers. The one or more membrane layers include a first membrane layer and a second membrane layer, and the one or more flexible layers include a first flexible layer, the first flexible layer having a first upper surface, the first flexible layer having a first lower surface, the first flexible layer defining a first hole across the first upper surface and the first lower surface, the first membrane configured to overlie the first hole defined by the first upper surface of the first flexible layer, the second membrane layer having a first secondary membrane surface, the second membrane layer having a second secondary membrane surface, the first secondary membrane surface configured to overlie the first hole defined by the first lower surface of the first flexible layer. In some embodiments, one or more of permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon are deposited in the first hole. In some embodiments, the permanganate on silica is deposited in the first pores. In some embodiments, the permanganate on silica is potassium permanganate.

[0014] In some embodiments, the one or more flexible layers further include a second flexible layer, and the one or more membrane layers further include a third membrane layer, the second flexible layer having a second upper surface, the second flexible layer having a second lower surface, the second flexible layer defining a second hole traversing the second upper surface and the second lower surface, the second membrane layer being disposed between the first flexible layer and the second flexible layer, and the third membrane layer being configured to overly the second hole defined by the second lower surface of the second flexible layer.

[0015] In some embodiments, the one or more membrane layers further include a fourth membrane layer, the fourth membrane layer having a first quaternary membrane surface, the fourth membrane layer having a second quaternary membrane surface, the fourth membrane disposed between the second membrane layer and the second flexible layer, the second quaternary membrane surface configured to overly a second hole defined by a second top surface of the second flexible layer.

[0016] In some embodiments, the total number of the one or more flexible layers is n and the total number of the one or more membranes is m, where m is equal to n, n+1, or n-1.

[0017] In some embodiments, one or more of permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon are deposited in the second pores. In some embodiments, permanganate on silica is deposited in the second pores. In some embodiments, the permanganate on silica deposited in the second pores is potassium permanganate.

[0018] In some embodiments, the system further includes one or more protective layers, the one or more protective layers including a first protective layer configured to overlie the second surface of the first membrane layer. In some embodiments, the first protective layer defines a protective layer pore. In some embodiments, the protective layer pore defined by the first protective layer is configured to provide fluid communication between one or more of the permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon of the test strip and the tube.

[0019] In some embodiments, the sensor is a sensing layer. In some embodiments, the test strip includes a sensing layer. In some embodiments, the sensing layer defines one or more sensing layer holes. In some embodiments, the one or more sensing layer holes defined by the sensing layer are configured to provide fluid communication between one or more of the permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon of the test strip and the tube. In some embodiments, the sensing layer includes one or more electrodes. In some embodiments, the sensing layer includes one or more sensing chemicals. In some embodiments, the sensing layer further includes one or more electrodes, and the one or more sensing chemicals are configured to bridge the one or more electrodes.

[0020] In some embodiments, the test specimen includes one or more spacing layers, the one or more spacing layers defining one or more spacing layer holes.

[0021] In some embodiments, the system further includes a housing configured to provide fluid communication between one or more of the test strip, the one or more sensors, and the tube. In some embodiments, the housing configured to provide fluid communication between the test strip and the tube. In some embodiments, the system further includes a pump, blower, or fan connected to the housing, the pump, blower, or fan configured to advance the gas through the system.

[0022] In some aspects, the system further includes one or more chamber layers at least partially defining the chamber, the chamber including one or more of a chamber membrane, a chamber frit, or a chamber filter. In some aspects, the one or more chamber layers include one or more protective layers and / or one or more spacing layers. In some aspects, the chamber includes one or more of permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon. In some aspects, the chamber includes permanganate on silica. In some aspects, the chamber is tapered.

[0023] In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more of a pressure sensitive adhesive, a heat sensitive adhesive, a sonic welding agent, a bonding agent, a two-part adhesive, or a moisture curing adhesive. In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more humectants. In some embodiments, the one or more humectants comprise polypropylene glycol, glycerin, sodium hexamethyl phosphate, glycol, sugar alcohol, or glyceryl triacetate. In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more desiccants. In some embodiments, the one or more desiccants comprise silica gel, activated alumina, bentonite clay, calcium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, or sodium chloride. In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more humidity stabilizing materials. In some embodiments, the one or more humidity stabilizing materials comprise magnesium chloride, hydroxyl methyl cellulose composite, clay composite, silica gel, or Propadyn.

[0024] In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise a chemi-receptive sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise a metal oxide sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise an electrochemical sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise a chemiresistive sensor.

[0025] In one embodiment, the present technology is a system that includes a test strip including one or more flexible layers defining one or more flexible layer holes, one or more of permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon disposed within the one or more flexible layer holes, and one or more spacing layers defining one or more channels; and one or more sensors that detect and / or measure an analyte, wherein the one or more channels are configured to provide fluid communication for a gas between the test strip and the one or more sensors.

[0026] The one or more channels provide fluid communication for the gas to one or more sensors or sensing chemistries after the gas traverses one or more of the permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon of the test strip. In some embodiments, the permanganate on silica is deposited in the one or more flexible layer holes. In some embodiments, the permanganate on silica is potassium permanganate. In some embodiments, the one or more flexible layer holes are tapered. In some embodiments, the one or more flexible layer holes are circular, elliptical, square, or rectangular.

[0027] In some embodiments, the system further includes one or more membrane layers, the one or more membrane layers including a first membrane layer and a second membrane layer, the one or more flexible layers including a first flexible layer, the first flexible layer having a first upper surface, the first flexible layer having a first lower surface, the first flexible layer defining a first hole across the first upper surface and the first lower surface, the first membrane configured to overlie the first hole defined by the first upper surface of the first flexible layer, the second membrane layer having a first secondary membrane surface, the second membrane layer having a second secondary membrane surface, the first secondary membrane surface configured to overlie the first hole defined by the first lower surface of the first flexible layer.

[0028] In some embodiments, one or more of permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon are deposited in the first pores. In some embodiments, permanganate on silica is deposited in the first pores. In some embodiments, the permanganate on silica is potassium permanganate.

[0029] In some embodiments, the one or more flexible layers further include a second flexible layer, and the one or more membrane layers further include a third membrane layer, the second flexible layer having a second upper surface, the second flexible layer having a second lower surface, the second flexible layer defining a second hole traversing the second upper surface and the second lower surface, the second membrane layer being disposed between the first flexible layer and the second flexible layer, and the third membrane layer being configured to overly the second hole defined by the second lower surface of the second flexible layer.

[0030] In some embodiments, the one or more membrane layers further include a fourth membrane layer, the fourth membrane layer having a first quaternary membrane surface, the fourth membrane layer having a second quaternary membrane surface, the fourth membrane disposed between the second membrane layer and the second flexible layer, the second quaternary membrane surface configured to overly a second hole defined by a second top surface of the second flexible layer.

[0031] In some embodiments, the total number of the one or more flexible layers is n and the total number of the one or more membranes is m, where m is equal to n+1.

[0032] In some embodiments, one or more of permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon are deposited in the second pores. In some embodiments, permanganate on silica is deposited in the second pores. In some embodiments, the permanganate on silica is potassium permanganate.

[0033] In some embodiments, the system further includes one or more protective layers, the one or more protective layers including a first protective layer configured to overly the second primary membrane surface of the first membrane layer. In some embodiments, the first protective layer defines protective layer holes.

[0034] In some embodiments, the sensor is a sensing layer. In some embodiments, the test strip includes a sensing layer. In some embodiments, the sensing layer defines one or more sensing layer holes. In some embodiments, the sensing layer includes one or more electrodes. In some embodiments, the sensing layer includes one or more sensing chemicals. In some embodiments, the sensing layer further includes one or more electrodes, and the one or more sensing chemicals are configured to bridge the one or more electrodes.

[0035] In some aspects, the system further includes one or more chamber layers at least partially defining the chamber, the chamber including one or more of a chamber membrane, a chamber frit, or a chamber filter. In some aspects, the one or more chamber layers include one or more protective layers and / or one or more spacing layers. In some aspects, the chamber includes one or more of permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon. In some aspects, the chamber includes permanganate on silica. In some aspects, the chamber is tapered.

[0036] In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more of a pressure sensitive adhesive, a heat sensitive adhesive, a sonic welding agent, a bonding agent, a two-part adhesive, or a moisture curing adhesive. In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more humectants. In some embodiments, the one or more humectants comprise polypropylene glycol, glycerin, sodium hexamethyl phosphate, glycol, sugar alcohol, or glyceryl triacetate. In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more desiccants. In some embodiments, the one or more desiccants comprise silica gel, activated alumina, bentonite clay, calcium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, or sodium chloride. In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more humidity stabilizing materials. In some embodiments, the one or more humidity stabilizing materials comprise magnesium chloride, hydroxyl methyl cellulose composite, clay composite, silica gel, or Propadyn.

[0037] In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise a chemi-receptive sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise a metal oxide sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise an electrochemical sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise a chemiresistive sensor.

[0038] In one embodiment, the present technique is a method of conditioning a gas sample, the gas sample having humidity and including one or more input analytes, the method comprising: a. providing a gas sample to a gas sample receiver; b. adjusting the humidity of the gas sample; c. providing the gas sample to a tube containing one or more of a perfluorosulfonic acid, a perfluorocarboxylic acid, or a humidity exchange material; d. Adjusting the humidity of the gas sample to a condition equal to or nearly equal to the ambient humidity; e. detecting or measuring the one or more readout analytes, wherein detecting or measuring the one or more readout analytes follows step (a) and step (b).

[0039] In some embodiments, the gas sample receiver comprises one of a cartridge or a capsule, the cartridge or capsule comprising one or more of a membrane, one or more frits, or one or more filters, and the gas sample passes through one or more of the membrane, one or more frits, or one or more filters in step (a). In some embodiments, the one or more membranes, one or more frits, or one or more filters comprise one or more of a humidity exchange material, a selective membrane, a size exclusion membrane, a particulate filter, or porous polypropylene.

[0040] In some embodiments, the gas sample receiver comprises a test strip, the test strip comprising one or more membranes, and the gas sample passes through the one or more membranes in step (a). In some embodiments, the one or more membranes comprise one or more of a humidity exchange material, a selective membrane, a size exclusion membrane, a particulate filter, or porous polypropylene.

[0041] In some embodiments, the cartridge or capsule comprises one or more conditioning materials, and the gas sample passes through the one or more conditioning materials in step (a). In some embodiments, the cartridge or capsule comprises one or more humectants, and the gas sample passes through the one or more humectants in step (a). In some embodiments, the cartridge or capsule comprises one or more desiccants, and the gas sample passes through the one or more desiccants in step (a). In some embodiments, the cartridge or capsule comprises one or more humidity stabilizing materials.

[0042] In some embodiments, the test strip includes one or more conditioning materials and the gas sample is passed through the one or more conditioning materials in step (a). In some embodiments, the test strip includes one or more wetting agents and the gas sample is passed through the one or more wetting agents in step (a). In some embodiments, the test strip includes one or more desiccants and the gas sample is passed through the one or more desiccants in step (a).

[0043] In some embodiments, the cartridge or capsule comprises one or more humidity stabilizing materials.

[0044] In some embodiments, the one or more humectants include polypropylene glycol, glycerin, sodium hexamethyl phosphate, glycol, sugar alcohol, or glyceryl triacetate. In some embodiments, the one or more desiccants include silica gel, activated alumina, bentonite clay, calcium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, or sodium chloride. In some embodiments, the one or more humidity stabilizing materials include magnesium chloride, hydroxyl methyl cellulose composite, clay composite, silica gel, or Propadyn.

[0045] In some aspects, adjusting the humidity of the gas sample in step (b) is a result of the gas sample passing through one or more conditioning materials. In some aspects, the one or more conditioning materials include one or more of permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon. In some aspects, the one or more conditioning materials include permanganate on silica. In some aspects, the permanganate on silica is potassium permanganate on silica.

[0046] In some aspects, steps (a) and (b) occur substantially simultaneously.

[0047] In some aspects, adjusting the humidity of the gas sample in step (b) decreases the humidity of the gas sample. In some aspects, adjusting the humidity of the gas sample in step (b) increases the humidity of the gas sample.

[0048] In some embodiments, the gas sample is passed through a tube in step (c).

[0049] In some embodiments, in step (d), adjusting the humidity of the gas sample to a condition equal to or nearly equal to ambient humidity is the result of passing through a tube.

[0050] In some embodiments, the one or more input analytes include a first input analyte, the one or more readout analytes include a first readout analyte, and the method further comprises: f. Prior to step (e), further comprising chemically altering the first input analyte, thereby providing a first readout analyte.

[0051] In some aspects, step (f) includes oxidizing the first input analyte. In some aspects, step (f) includes reducing the first input analyte. In some aspects, step (f) includes adsorbing one or more contaminants. In some aspects, the gas sample has a pH level and step (f) includes adjusting the pH level of the gas sample. In some aspects, the gas sample has an ionic charge and step (f) includes adjusting the ionic charge of the gas sample. In some aspects, step (f) includes one or more of oxidizing the first input analyte, reducing the first input analyte, adsorbing one or more contaminants, adjusting the pH level of the gas sample, or adjusting the ionic charge of the gas sample.

[0052] In some aspects, step (f) follows step (a) and step (b), and step (f) precedes step (c), step (d), and step (e). In some aspects, step (f) follows step (a), and step (f) precedes step (b), step (c), step (d), and step (e). In some aspects, steps (c) and (d) precede step (a) and step (b). In some aspects, step (f) occurs immediately before step (b). In some aspects, step (b) occurs immediately before step (f). In some aspects, steps (b) and (f) occur substantially simultaneously.

[0053] In some embodiments, the gas sample is a respiratory sample from a human or animal. In some embodiments, the gas sample is provided by pump, diffusion, or vacuum. In some embodiments, the first input analyte is nitric oxide. In some embodiments, the first readout analyte is nitrogen dioxide. In some embodiments, the concentration of nitric oxide in the respiratory sample is determined using the detection or measurement of nitrogen dioxide in step (e).

[0054] In some embodiments, the one or more input analytes include a first input analyte, the one or more readout analytes include a first readout analyte, and the first input analyte is the same as the first readout analyte. In some embodiments, the gas sample is a respiratory sample from a human or animal. In some embodiments, the gas sample is provided by pump, diffusion, or vacuum. In some embodiments, the first input analyte includes nitric oxide.

[0055] In some embodiments, the detection or measurement of the one or more readout analytes is performed by a chemi-receptive sensor. In some embodiments, the detection or measurement of the one or more readout analytes is performed by a metal oxide sensor. In some embodiments, the detection or measurement of the one or more readout analytes is performed by an electrochemical sensor. In some embodiments, the detection or measurement of the one or more readout analytes is performed by a chemiresistive sensor.

[0056] In one embodiment, the present technology comprises: a housing comprising one or more of a frit, a filter, or a membrane, and one or more of permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon; a tube in fluid communication with the housing, the tube comprising one or more of a perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, a perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material; one or more sensors for detecting and / or measuring an analyte; The housing is a system that is a cartridge or a capsule.

[0057] In some aspects, the housing defines an inlet. In some aspects, the housing defines an outlet.

[0058] In some embodiments, one or more of the frit, filter, or membrane comprises a first frit, first filter, or first membrane; one or more of the permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon comprises a first permanganate, a first silica, a first permanganate on silica, or a first activated carbon; and one or more of the frit, filter, or membrane comprises a second frit, second filter, or second membrane; and the first permanganate, first silica, first permanganate on silica, or first activated carbon is disposed between the first frit, first filter, or first membrane and the second frit, second filter, or second membrane.

[0059] In some embodiments, one or more of the frit, filter, or membrane define one or more pores. In some embodiments, one or more of the permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon have a particle size, and the one or more pores are less than the particle size of one or more of the potassium permanganate, silica, potassium permanganate on silica, or activated carbon. In some embodiments, the one or more pores have one or more pore sizes, and are configured to allow a gas sample passage to traverse one or more of the frit, filter, or membrane.

[0060] In some embodiments, the system further includes a housing configured to provide fluid communication between the housing and the tube. In some embodiments, the housing is further configured to provide fluid communication between the housing and the tube and the one or more sensors. In some embodiments, the system further includes a pump, blower, or fan connected to the housing, the pump, blower, or fan configured to advance the gas through the system.

[0061] In some embodiments, the housing is a capsule, the capsule including a cap portion and a body portion, the cap portion and the body portion configured to be press-fit together. In some embodiments, the cap portion defines one or more cap holes. In some embodiments, the body portion defines one or more body holes. In some embodiments, the body portion defines one or more body holes and the cap portion defines one or more cap holes. In some embodiments, the one or more cap holes include a first cap hole, and the cap portion and the body portion are press-fit together, thereby covering the first cap hole. In some embodiments, the one or more body holes include a first body hole, and the cap portion and the body portion are press-fit together, thereby covering the first body hole.

[0062] In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more of a pressure sensitive adhesive, a heat sensitive adhesive, a sonic welding agent, a bonding agent, a two-part adhesive, or a moisture curing adhesive. In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more humectants. In some embodiments, the one or more humectants comprise polypropylene glycol, glycerin, sodium hexamethyl phosphate, glycol, sugar alcohol, or glyceryl triacetate. In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more desiccants. In some embodiments, the one or more desiccants comprise silica gel, activated alumina, bentonite clay, calcium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, or sodium chloride. In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more humidity stabilizing materials. In some embodiments, the one or more humidity stabilizing materials comprise magnesium chloride, hydroxyl methyl cellulose composite, clay composite, silica gel, or Propadyn.

[0063] In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise a chemi-receptive sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise a metal oxide sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise an electrochemical sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise a chemiresistive sensor.

[0064] In some aspects, the housing comprises permanganate on silica, hi some aspects, the permanganate on silica is potassium permanganate.

[0065] In one embodiment, the present technology comprises: a housing comprising one or more of a frit, a filter, or a membrane, permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon; one or more sensors for detecting and / or measuring an analyte; The housing is a system that is a cartridge or a capsule.

[0066] In some aspects, the housing defines an inlet. In some aspects, the housing defines an outlet.

[0067] In some embodiments, one or more of the frit, filter, or membrane comprises a first frit, first filter, or first membrane; one or more of the permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon comprises a first permanganate, a first silica, a first permanganate on silica, or a first activated carbon; and one or more of the frit, filter, or membrane comprises a second frit, second filter, or second membrane; and the first permanganate, first silica, first permanganate on silica, or first activated carbon is disposed between the first frit, first filter, or first membrane and the second frit, second filter, or second membrane.

[0068] In some embodiments, one or more of the frit, filter, or membrane define one or more pores. In some embodiments, one or more of the permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon have a particle size, and the one or more pores are less than the particle size of one or more of the potassium permanganate, silica, potassium permanganate on silica, or activated carbon. In some embodiments, the one or more pores have one or more pore sizes, and are configured to allow a gas sample passage to traverse one or more of the frit, filter, or membrane.

[0069] In some embodiments, the housing is a capsule, the capsule including a cap portion and a body portion, the cap portion and the body portion configured to be press-fit together. In some embodiments, the cap portion defines one or more cap holes. In some embodiments, the body portion defines one or more body holes. In some embodiments, the body portion defines one or more body holes and the cap portion defines one or more cap holes. In some embodiments, the one or more cap holes include a first cap hole, and the cap portion and the body portion are press-fit together, thereby covering the first cap hole. In some embodiments, the one or more body holes include a first body hole, and the cap portion and the body portion are press-fit together, thereby covering the first body hole.

[0070] In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more of a pressure sensitive adhesive, a heat sensitive adhesive, a sonic welding agent, a bonding agent, a two-part adhesive, or a moisture curing adhesive. In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more humectants. In some embodiments, the one or more humectants comprise polypropylene glycol, glycerin, sodium hexamethyl phosphate, glycol, sugar alcohol, or glyceryl triacetate. In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more desiccants. In some embodiments, the one or more desiccants comprise silica gel, activated alumina, bentonite clay, calcium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, or sodium chloride. In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more humidity stabilizing materials. In some embodiments, the one or more humidity stabilizing materials comprise magnesium chloride, hydroxyl methyl cellulose composite, clay composite, silica gel, or Propadyn.

[0071] In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise a chemi-receptive sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise a metal oxide sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise an electrochemical sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise a chemiresistive sensor.

[0072] In some aspects, the housing comprises permanganate on silica, hi some aspects, the permanganate on silica is potassium permanganate. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0073] [Figure 1] The performance of tubes containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or polymers or copolymers derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or polymers or copolymers derived therefrom, or humidity exchange materials is shown as a function of flow rate versus percent relative humidity at different tube lengths and diameters. [Diagram 2] 1 illustrates an exemplary example of a system or method that includes providing a gas sample, conditioning humidity, converting an analyte, conditioning humidity, and measuring an analyte, in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 3A]An illustrative example of a system or method is shown that includes, in a single step, adjusting humidity and converting an analyte using potassium permanganate on a silica gel substrate, adjusting humidity using a tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material, and measuring the converted analyte. [Figure 3B] 3B illustrates an embodiment of the use of the system of FIG. 3A to determine the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample, where at least a portion of the gas sample is moved through the system with the aid of a pump, blower, or fan. In this example, the sample is exhaled breath from an animal. In some embodiments, the sample is exhaled breath from a human. [Figure 4A] Illustrative examples of systems are shown that include adjusting humidity using silica gel, converting analytes using potassium permanganate on a silica gel substrate, adjusting humidity using a tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material, and measuring analytes. [Figure 4B] Illustrative examples of systems are shown that include adjusting humidity using silica gel and converting analytes using potassium permanganate on a silica gel substrate in a single cartridge, adjusting humidity using a tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material, and measuring analytes. [Diagram 5] 1 shows an illustrative example of a system including a first step of adjusting humidity and a second step of adjusting humidity, according to an embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 6A] 1 shows illustrative examples of cartridges, capsules, or test strips according to embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 6B] 1 shows illustrative examples of cartridges, capsules, or test strips according to embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 7] 1 shows the performance of one configuration of the present technology compared to two standard configurations that are unable to adequately regulate humidity. [Figure 8] 1 shows an illustrative example of layers within a test strip configured to regulate gas in a sample, in an exploded view. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates another example of layers within a test strip configured to regulate gas in a sample; [Figure 10] 1 shows an illustrative example of layers within a test strip configured to regulate gas in a sample with an additional protective layer, in an exploded view. [Figure 11] 1 shows an illustrative example of layers in a test strip configured to regulate gas in a sample having an additional protective layer, a spacing layer, or a flexible layer, and a gas sensing layer, which is an exploded view. [Figure 12] 1 shows an illustrative example of layers within a test strip configured to regulate gas in a sample with additional protective layers and gas sensors, in an exploded view. [Figure 13] 1 shows an illustrative example of layers in a test strip configured to modulate gas in a sample having multiple layers of modulating material, where combinations of multiple layers of modulating material are possible. [Figure 14] 1 shows an illustrative example of layers in a test strip configured to modulate gases in a sample where the modulating layer does not overlap with the sensing chemical; [Figure 15] 1 shows an illustrative example of layers within a test strip configured to modulate gas in a sample having a chamber containing at least one modulating material and additional layers as well as a gas sensor or gas sensing layer, in an exploded view. [Figure 16] 1 shows an illustrative example of layers in a test strip configured to modulate gas in a sample having a chamber including at least one modulating material and a gas sensor or gas sensing layer, in an exploded view. [Figure 17]1 shows an illustrative example of layers within a test strip configured to regulate gas in a sample having a chamber including at least one regulating material, a cover layer having at least one inlet or outlet allowing gas to enter and exit the regulating chamber, and a gas sensor, in an exploded view. [Figure 18] 1 shows an example of a layer of a test strip configured to condition a gas in a sample with an additional protective layer and a gas sensor or gas sensing layer, where the gas passes through the conditioning material and the test strip, is redirected to the sensing chemical through a tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material, passes through the layer of the test strip, and reaches the sensing chemical, which is an exploded view. [Figure 19] 1 shows an illustrative example of layers in a test strip configured to regulate gas in a sample with an additional protective layer and a gas sensor or gas sensing layer housed in the device, where the gas passes through a chamber in the device, the test strip, the regulating material in the test strip, and the remaining layers of the test strip, exits from the chamber in the device through a tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material, passes through the layers of the test strip, and returns to the chamber in the device, where the inlet and outlet of the tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material are in fluid communication with the chamber in the device, and the tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material is outside the chamber in the device. This is an exploded view. [Figure 20]1 shows an illustrative example of layers within a test strip configured to modulate gas in a sample with an additional protective layer and a gas sensor or gas sensing layer, where the regulated gas is directed down a channel formed by a flexible layer and over the sensor. This is an exploded view. [Figure 21] Illustrative examples of various inlet and outlet configurations for a gas regulating cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber are shown. [Figure 22] Illustrative examples of gas regulating cartridges or capsules are shown. [Figure 23] 1 illustrates one embodiment of a gas regulating cartridge or capsule. [Figure 24] 1 illustrates an embodiment of an integrated gas regulating test strip including a chamber, multiple flexible layers, a regulating material, and optionally a sensor or sensing layer. [Diagram 25] 1 shows an illustrative example of layers in a test strip configured to condition a gas in a sample with an additional protective layer and a gas sensor housed in the device, where the gas passes through a chamber in the device, the test strip, the chemically altered conditioning material, the remaining layers of the test strip, and exits from the chamber in the device through a tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material, through the layers of the test strip to the sensing chemical, and back to the chamber in the device. Here, the inlet and outlet of the tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material are connected to the chamber in the device, and the tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material is outside the chamber in the device. This is an exploded view. [Figure 26]FIG. 1 shows an exemplary implementation similar to the previous embodiment, except that the gas enters the bottom of the test specimen. This is an exploded view. [Figure 27] 20 and 24, where gas flows through channels in the sensor to the sensor or sensing chemistry. This is an exploded view. [Figure 28] 1 shows an illustrative example of an embodiment where a membrane, spacing layer, membrane combination is stacked multiple times on itself. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0074] definition One or more: As used herein, "one or more" means only one of a list, any combination of one of a list, or all of a list.

[0075] Cartridge and capsule: As used herein, a cartridge or capsule is a housing that includes at least one hollow cavity that holds at least one of a membrane, a filter, a frit, a material for regulating gas flow. The cartridge or capsule can be any number of shapes and sizes to hold at least one of a membrane, a filter, a frit, a regulating material, or a combination thereof. Examples include, but are not limited to, square, rectangular, or cylindrical. The cartridge or capsule can further include at least one inlet that is in fluid communication with at least one of a membrane, a filter, a frit, a regulating material. The cartridge or capsule can further include at least one outlet that is in fluid communication with at least one of a membrane, a filter, a frit, a regulating material. In some embodiments, the cartridge or capsule is in fluid communication with a device (e.g., a channel, a lumen, a pathway, or a passage). In some embodiments, the cartridge is in fluid communication with a tube made of one of perfluorosulfonic acid, perfluorocarboxylic acid, and polymers and copolymers made therefrom (e.g., Nafion®).

[0076] The capsule is composed of two components, a cap or cap portion and a body or body portion, where the cap and body are in fluid communication when fully assembled. In one embodiment, the body or cap has a slightly larger diameter or dimension than the corresponding body or cap, and the body and cap are configured to be snapped or pressed together. In one embodiment, the cap is combined with the body in such a way that it encloses at least one of the membrane, filter, frit, and regulating material. The cap or body of the capsule may also define a hole to allow air to escape when the cap and body are pressed together during manufacturing. The cap hole or body hole may be covered, sealed, and / or blocked when the body and cap are pressed together.

[0077] The interior of each cartridge or capsule may include a combination of filters, membranes, or frits to enclose liquid, powder, or gel materials. Materials are selected to regulate the gas flow so that the materials chemically react, dehumidify, humidify, or otherwise alter the gas flow, as described in the examples throughout this specification. The cartridge or capsule may further define ridges or internal structures to provide support for the filters, membranes, or frits. The walls of the capsule body or cap may further define at least one hole to allow the sample to traverse the capsule. Additional holes may be added to aid in the manufacturing process so that air can escape when the cap and body are joined via a rapid manufacturing process.

[0078] Examples of materials suitable for regulating gas flow within the system include, but are not limited to: a desiccant, including but not limited to silica gel, activated alumina, bentonite clay, calcium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, sodium chloride, or combinations thereof; an adsorbent, including, but not limited to, aluminum oxide, cellulose, polypropylene, molecular sieves, activated carbon, zeolites, carbon nanotubes, clays, bentonite clays, ceramic oxides, silica gel, or combinations thereof; a humectant, including but not limited to polypropylene glycol, glycerin, sodium hexamethyl phosphate, glycol, sugar alcohol, glyceryl triacetate, or combinations thereof; a dynamic humidity balancer, including, but not limited to, magnesium chloride, a hydroxymethyl cellulose composite, a clay composite, a silica gel, Propadyn®, or a combination thereof; a humidity exchange material, including, but not limited to, perfluorosulfonic acid, perfluorocarboxylic acid, polymers and copolymers of perfluorosulfonic acid, polymers and copolymers of perfluorosulfonic acid, or combinations thereof; and chemical modifying materials, including, but not limited to, permanganate, potassium permanganate, sodium permanganate, permanganate on silica gel, permanganate on alumina, permanganate supported on solid or porous particles, permanganate supported on a porous mesh or filter, silica gel, silica nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, nanoparticles, palladium powder, platinum powder, catalytic metals and metal oxides, reducing agents, oxidizing agents, complexing agents, ion exchange resins, pH modifiers, other chemically active species known in the art for transforming or modifying chemical species or combinations thereof, or combinations thereof.

[0079] The membrane, filter, or frit may also serve as a suitable material for regulating gas flow and / or encapsulating a suitable material for regulating gas flow. The membrane may regulate the gas flow in multiple ways, including but not limited to selectively allowing certain species to pass, only allowing species below a size threshold to pass, filtering particles, preventing species above a certain size threshold from passing, oxidizing, reducing, humidifying, dehumidifying, equilibrating with ambient conditions, heating, cooling, chemical complexing, condensing to a liquid, condensing to a solid, adjusting pH, converting from a liquid to a gas, converting from a solid to a liquid or gas, changing the chemical state, changing the physical state, or any combination thereof. Examples of suitable membrane or filter materials include, but are not limited to, polypropylene, nylon, polyester, polyethylene, PTFE, PET, natural fibers, cellulose, glass fibers, activated carbon, cotton, polyethersulfone, polyurethane, foam, polycarbonate, polystyrene, perfluorosulfonic acid polymers and copolymers, perfluorocarboxylic acid polymers and copolymers, Nafion®, or other membranes or filtration materials known in the art to be chemically compatible and with pore sizes small enough to prevent migration of the selected regulating material. The membranes or filters herein can be of any size or thickness required for a particular sensing application. For example, in some embodiments, the membrane or filter of the test strip can be 200 cm 2 In other embodiments, the membrane or filter on the test strip may be less than 1 cm wide by 10 cm long and less than 5 mm thick. In other embodiments, the membrane or filter in the cartridge spans the entire length and width of the interior of the cartridge and is less than 5 mm thick. In other embodiments, the membrane, or filter on the test strip. In some embodiments, the membrane, filter, or frit is sufficiently porous to trap material to regulate gas flow while allowing gas to pass through it.

[0080] Examples of suitable frit materials include, but are not limited to, UHMW, polyethylene or PE copolymers, glass, quartz, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), aluminum oxide, ceramics, and other materials known in the art. Examples include frits used in chromatography such as those supplied by GenPore (a division of General Polymeric Corporation). In some embodiments, the frit has a pore size of 5-50 microns. In some embodiments, the frit may be composed of a hydrophobic or hydrophilic formulation. In some embodiments, the frit is wide enough to span the width of a tube, cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber. In some embodiments, the frit is press fit into a cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber. In some embodiments, the frit is less than 5 cm in diameter. In some embodiments, the frit is less than 1 cm in diameter. In some embodiments, the frit is thick enough to prevent migration of the powder conditioning material. In some embodiments, the frit has a pore size of 1-5 microns.

[0081] Test Strips: Test strips are well known in the art and are used in medical diagnostics, life sciences, or environmental sciences. Examples include, but are not limited to, glucose sensors, lateral flow strips, and cartridges, as well as test strips for detecting creatinine, ketones, lactate, INR, and the like. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Test strips may include gas sensors, as previously described by the inventors. In this context, the test strips may include a combination of flexible layers and may further include elements for regulating the gas. Materials may be selected for low cost, flexibility, ease of use, or chemical compatibility with the target regulating material, analyte, or any associated sensor or sensor strip. Test strips may include various combinations of flexible layers. Examples of test strip materials include, but are not limited to, polyester, polyimide (e.g., under the brand name Kapton®), PET, polypropylene, polyethylene, thermoplastics, silicone, silicone or acrylic adhesives, medical tape, and other materials known in the art of test strips and cartridges for use in medical diagnostics, life, or environmental sciences. Examples of suitable materials are those provided by Tekra, 3M, Adhesives Research, or TekPak (e.g., under the brand name Melinex®). This is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Any combination of layers of the specimen may be bonded together by additional layers such as pressure or heat sensitive adhesives. Examples include, but are not limited to, silicone and acrylic adhesives. Layers may also be bonded together by other techniques such as thermal bonding, sonic welding, two-part adhesives, moisture curing adhesives, and other techniques known to those skilled in the art.

[0082] The layers of the specimen may be treated to create features such as partial or through holes, channels, depressions, single or multiple holes. The holes may be filled with a material to regulate gas flow. The holes may also be tapered. In some embodiments, the tapered holes are gradually smaller or narrower at one end. In some embodiments, the tapered holes have a first diameter on a first surface of the layer and the tapered holes have a second diameter on a second surface of the layer, the second diameter being less than the first diameter. In another embodiment, the second diameter is greater than the first diameter. Tapering of various degrees or angles is possible without departing from the spirit of the technology. Tapering of the holes allows for more efficient filling of the holes with a material to regulate gas flow during manufacturing. Tapered holes are possible in any of the configurations described.

[0083] The test strip may also include a sensing layer including at least one electrode disposed on the substrate. In this embodiment, the substrate is made of at least one flexible layer. The sensing layer may also contain at least one sensing chemical. In some embodiments, the sensing chemical is configured to bridge at least one electrode. The sensor or sensing chemical may be configured to sense any number of analytes in the gas stream or the product of any chemical or physical modification made by the gas regulation system.

[0084] A foil or other gas impermeable barrier can be incorporated into the test strip, test strip chamber, test strip layer, capsule or device, and in some embodiments, the device pierces the foil layer or barrier.

[0085] As used herein, a "gas sample receptor" may refer to a cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber. In some embodiments, the gas sample receptor is at least one of single use, limited use, disposable, reusable, recyclable, or unlimited use.

[0086] Sensors: Many types of sensors for analyte detection are known in the art and can be used in the systems described herein. Examples include, but are not limited to, metal oxide sensors (MOS, CMOS, etc.), electrochemical sensors, MEMS sensors, acoustic sensors, infrared sensors, laser sensors, colorimetric sensors, chemiluminescence sensors, GC / MS, field asymmetric ion mobility sensors, graphene sensors, optical sensors, FET, MOSFET, and ChemFET sensors, chemi-receptive sensors, chemiresistive sensors, and sensors previously described in International Patent Applications PCT / US2015 / 000180, PCT / US2015 / 034869, and PCT / US2017 / 042830, which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. Any suitable sensing layer or sensing chemistry can be replaced by sensors known in the art.

[0087] Sensing chemistry: Many sensing chemistries are available without departing from the spirit of the technology. In one embodiment, the sensing chemistry comprises a nanostructure functionalized to bind to an analyte that causes an electrical resistance change across the nanostructure. In another embodiment, the analyte causes a redox reaction at the nanostructure level that is measured. In another embodiment, the analyte causes a change in the surface electrons of the sensing chemistry, resulting in a change in an optical property that is measured. Nanostructures include, but are not limited to, carbon nanotubes (single wall, multi-wall, or multi-wall), nanowires, graphene, graphene oxide, and the like. Nanostructures can be assembled to form macroscopic features such as paper, foam, film, etc., or embedded within or deposited on macroscopic structures. Examples of functionalized materials include: Heterocyclic macrocycles, including but not limited to crown ethers, phthalocyanines, porphyrins, and the like, or combinations thereof; AgO, CeO 2 , Co 2 O 3 , CrO 2 , PdO, RuO 2 , TiO2 or combinations thereof; transition metals, including but not limited to Ag, Cu, Co, Cr, Fe, Ni, Pt, Ru, Rh, Ti, or combinations thereof; Carboxyl groups, including but not limited to carboxylic acids; Functional organic dyes, including but not limited to azo dyes, cyanine, fluorine, indigo dyes, photochromic dyes, phthalocyanines, xanthenes, etc., or combinations thereof; or combinations thereof, but are not limited to these.

[0088] The functionalized nanostructures, hereafter referred to as sensing chemicals, are disposed on a substrate or flexible substrate to form the basic building block of the sensing layer. The electrodes are capable of electrical communication with the sensing chemicals.

[0089] In another embodiment, the sensing chemical is a non-functionalized (i.e., unsensitized) nanostructure. This embodiment can be used in conjunction with functionalized nanostructures or alone.

[0090] Secondary additives may be used to affect the drying characteristics and processability of the sensing chemical to deposit on the substrate. Non-limiting examples of deposition methods include air knife coating, inkjet, curtain coating, knife over roll (tape casting), dip coating, lamination, doctor blade, Myers rod coating, drop casting, offset electrocoating, pad printing, electrophoretic deposition, press fitting, electrospray, roll coating, flexography, rotary screen, gravure, screen, hot melt, slot die, ink roller, spin coating, spray coating, or any other method known in the art. Additives may be used to modify viscosity, surface tension, wetting, adhesion, drying time, gelation, film uniformity, etc. These additives include, but are not limited to, secondary solvents, thickeners, polymers, salts, and / or surfactants. These additives may serve one or more purposes. Examples include: thickening agents (polymeric and non-polymeric), including but not limited to glycerol, polypropylene glycol, or any combination thereof; Ionic and non-ionic detergents, including but not limited to sodium dodecyl sulfate, Triton X-100, or any combination thereof; Additives, including, but not limited to, alkyltrimethylamine salts, anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, cellulose, clay, ethylene glycol, fluorosurfactants, glycerol, nonionic surfactants, organic solvents, polyacrylic acid, polyoxyethylenylphenyl ether, polysaccharides, polyurethanes, polyvinyl butyral, proteins, silica, silicones, sodium dodecyl sulfate, stearic acid, water, zwitterionic surfactants, or any combination thereof; or any combination thereof, including, but not limited to, these.

[0091] In some embodiments, the volume of sensing chemical disposed on the substrate may be 1 milliliter or less.

[0092] Device or Housing: As used herein, a device (e.g., a channel, lumen, pathway, or passageway) includes a gas sample inlet and a chamber in the device configured to accommodate at least one of a test strip, a test strip chamber, a cartridge, or a capsule. The device chamber may include any number of inlets and outlets to match the appropriate configuration of the cartridge, capsule, test strip, test strip chamber, or sensor. In some embodiments, the device chamber is not completely enclosed. In some embodiments, the device chamber defines a slot opening. In some embodiments, the device chamber is open on one surface. In some embodiments, the chamber in the device is configured to allow easy removal of the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber. In one embodiment, the device further includes a tube including at least one of perfluorosulfonic acid, perfluorocarboxylic acid, and polymers and copolymers made therefrom (e.g., Nafion®). In one embodiment, the chamber in the device is further configured to allow fluid communication between at least one of the gas sample inlet, the test strip, the test strip chamber, the cartridge, or capsule, the tube, and at least one of the sensor or sensing chemical. The device may include a gas sample outlet. The device may include a display screen, a pump, a power source, a wireless radio (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, or cellular, as a non-exhaustive list), a UV source, a plasma source, a combination of sensors measuring pressure, flow rate, temperature, humidity, an accelerometer, or an LED. The device may also be configured to modify the temperature, humidity, chemical composition, and pressure of the gas stream. The gas modification may be any combination of increasing, decreasing, equilibrating at least one of temperature, pressure, and humidity. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list.

[0093] Selective membrane: As used herein, selective membrane means a membrane that allows certain species to pass through it (e.g., a sodium selective membrane is configured to allow only or mainly sodium ions to pass through). Humidity exchange materials are selective membranes that allow moisture in a gas stream to pass in either direction, resulting in humidity equilibrium between the gas sample and the surrounding environment. Size exclusion membranes are selective membranes that allow only particles or molecules below a preselected size threshold to pass through and not larger species. Size exclusion membranes may be primarily used as membranes configured to allow species less than about 1 micron to pass through. Particulate filters are selective membranes similar to size exclusion membranes. When dealing with larger particles (e.g., less than 1 micron), specific filter membranes can be used.

[0094] An embodiment of the present technology includes a method and system for conditioning a gas for analysis and determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample. In general, determining the concentration of an analyte in a gas sample involves a combination and / or repetition of steps related to dehumidifying and / or humidifying the gas and / or performing a chemical reaction on at least one analyte and measuring the product of the chemical reaction or measuring at least one analyte without performing a chemical reaction. In one embodiment of the present technology, a chemical reaction is used to remove interferents from the gas sample. In another embodiment, the system is configured to dehumidify, chemically alter, and equilibrate the sample to ambient humidity. Other aspects of the technology may also vary the temperature of the gas. In one embodiment of the present technology, the method relates to measuring a single analyte or multiple analytes in exhaled breath. In one embodiment, the system is configured to measure nitric oxide in exhaled breath. In another embodiment of the system, the nitric oxide is configured to oxidize to nitrogen dioxide in exhaled breath. Other non-respiratory examples include analytes for environmental, fire and safety, defense / military, automotive, industrial, and agricultural purposes.

[0095] One aspect of this technology involves low-cost sensors and methods for modulating analytes in breath samples.

[0096] In another aspect of the present technology, a system for conditioning at least one analyte in a gas sample is disclosed, the system including a cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber for adjusting humidity and a tube including one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material.

[0097] In another aspect of the present technology, a system for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample is disclosed, the system including a cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber for adjusting humidity, a tube including one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material, and a sensor. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is configured to receive a gas sample from a human user, as previously described in the above-incorporated applications.

[0098] In another aspect of the present technology, a method of adjusting at least one analyte in a gas sample is disclosed, the method comprising adjusting humidity and converting the at least one analyte. In some embodiments, adjusting humidity and converting the at least one analyte occur in a single step.

[0099] In one embodiment, a method for determining a concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample is disclosed, the method including adjusting humidity, converting the analyte, adjusting humidity, and measuring the analyte.

[0100] In one embodiment, a method for determining a concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample is disclosed, the method including converting the analyte and adjusting the humidity in a single step, adjusting the humidity in a second step, and measuring the analyte. In some embodiments, adjusting the humidity includes at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient relative humidity.

[0101] In one embodiment, a method for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample is disclosed, the method includes converting the analyte and adjusting the humidity in a single step using at least one of permanganate on silica gel, adjusting the humidity using a tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material, and measuring the analyte using a sensor. In some embodiments, adjusting the humidity includes at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient relative humidity. In some embodiments, the method includes converting the analyte and adjusting the humidity in a single step using at least one of potassium and sodium permanganate on silica gel, adjusting the humidity using a tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material where the sample returns to ambient conditions, and measuring the analyte using a sensor.

[0102] In one embodiment, a method for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample is disclosed, the method comprising: adjusting the humidity using a tube comprising one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material; converting the analyte and adjusting the humidity in a single step using at least one of potassium and sodium permanganate on silica gel; and measuring the analyte using a sensor. In some embodiments, adjusting the humidity comprises at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient relative humidity. In some embodiments, the method comprises adjusting the humidity using a tube comprising one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material (e.g., Nafion® tube), converting the analyte and adjusting the humidity in a single step using at least one of potassium and sodium permanganate on silica gel where the sample returns to ambient conditions; and measuring the analyte using a sensor.

[0103] In one embodiment, a method for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample is disclosed, the method comprising: adjusting the humidity using a tube comprising one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material; converting the analyte and adjusting the humidity in a single step using at least one of potassium and sodium permanganate on silica gel; and measuring the analyte using a sensor. In some embodiments, adjusting the humidity comprises at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient relative humidity. In some embodiments, the method comprises adjusting the humidity using a tube comprising one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material; converting the analyte and adjusting the humidity in a single step using at least one of potassium and sodium permanganate on silica gel where the sample returns to ambient conditions; and measuring the analyte using a sensor.

[0104] In one embodiment, a method is disclosed for determining a concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample, the method comprising adjusting humidity using silica gel, converting the analyte using at least one of potassium and sodium permanganate on the silica gel, and measuring the analyte using a sensor. In some embodiments, adjusting humidity comprises at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient relative humidity. In some embodiments, the method comprises adjusting humidity using silica gel where the sample returns to ambient conditions, converting the analyte using at least one of potassium and sodium permanganate on the silica gel, and measuring the analyte using a sensor.

[0105] In one embodiment, a method for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample is disclosed, the method includes adjusting the humidity using silica gel, converting the analyte using silica gel functionalized with at least one of potassium and sodium permanganate, and at least one of potassium and sodium permanganate, and measuring the analyte using a sensor. In some embodiments, adjusting the humidity includes at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient relative humidity. In some embodiments, the method includes adjusting the humidity using silica gel where the sample returns to ambient conditions, and converting the analyte using silica gel functionalized with at least one of potassium, sodium permanganate, and at least one of potassium and sodium permanganate.

[0106] In one embodiment, a method for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample is disclosed, the method comprising: adjusting humidity using silica gel; converting the analyte on a silica gel substrate, optionally using at least one of potassium and sodium permanganate; adjusting humidity using a tube comprising one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material; and measuring the analyte with a sensor. In some embodiments, adjusting humidity comprises at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient relative humidity. In some embodiments, the method comprises adjusting humidity using silica gel; converting the analyte on a silica gel substrate, optionally using at least one of potassium and sodium permanganate; adjusting humidity using a tube comprising one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material where the sample returns to ambient conditions; and measuring the analyte with a sensor.

[0107] In one embodiment, a method for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample is disclosed, the method comprising a first step of adjusting humidity, a second step of adjusting humidity, and measuring the analyte. In some embodiments, the first step of adjusting humidity comprises at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient relative humidity through the use of a tube comprising a desiccant (e.g., silica gel, clay desiccant), a humectant (e.g., propylene glycol, glycerin, sodium hexametaphosphate, etc.), a dynamic chemical stabilizer (e.g., Propadyn®, MgCl2 / hydroxypropyl methylcellulose composite material disclosed in EP 2,956,237(B1), which is incorporated by reference in its entirety), or one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material. In some embodiments, the second step of adjusting humidity comprises at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient relative humidity.

[0108] In one embodiment, a method for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample is disclosed, the method comprising a first step of adjusting humidity using silica gel, a second step of adjusting humidity using a tube comprising one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material, and measuring the analyte. In some embodiments, the first step of adjusting humidity comprises at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient relative humidity. In some embodiments, the second step of adjusting humidity comprises at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient relative humidity.

[0109] In one embodiment, a method for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample is disclosed, the method comprising a first step of adjusting humidity using a tube comprising one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material, a second step of adjusting humidity using silica gel, and measuring the analyte. In some embodiments, the first step of adjusting humidity comprises at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient relative humidity. In some embodiments, the second step of adjusting humidity comprises at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient relative humidity.

[0110] In another aspect of the present technology, a method for determining a concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample is disclosed, the method including adjusting humidity, converting the at least one analyte, and measuring the at least one analyte. In some embodiments, adjusting humidity and converting the at least one analyte occur in a single step.

[0111] In some embodiments, humidity is regulated by silica gel. In some embodiments, humidity is regulated by functionalized silica gel. In some embodiments, humidity is regulated by tubes containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or polymers or copolymers derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or polymers or copolymers derived therefrom, or humidity exchange materials. In some embodiments, humidity is regulated by membranes and Nafion® tubes. In some embodiments, humidity is regulated by chambers or channels with large surface areas. In some embodiments, humidity is regulated by desiccants such as sodium chloride, activated alumina, activated carbon, calcium chloride, bentonite clay, etc. In some embodiments, humidity is regulated by humectants such as glycols, alpha hydroxy acids, polyols, and sugar polyols. In some embodiments, humidity is regulated by dynamic chemical stabilizers such as MgCl2 / cellulose composites, Propadyn®, or other humidity-balancing materials. In some embodiments, humidity is regulated by mechanical or electrical means such as evaporator and condenser coils.

[0112] In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is in fluid communication with the tube. In some embodiments, the fluid communication is with at least one of the inlet or outlet defined by the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber. In some embodiments, the fluid communication is with at least one of the inlet or outlet of the tube.

[0113] In some embodiments, the tube has a length of less than 24 inches. In some embodiments, the tube has a length of less than 18 inches. In some embodiments, the tube has a length of less than 12 inches. In some embodiments, the tube has a length of less than 6 inches.

[0114] In some embodiments, the tube has a diameter of less than 0.110 inches. In some embodiments, the tube has a diameter of less than 0.070 inches. In some embodiments, the tube has a diameter of less than 0.060 inches. In some embodiments, the tube has a diameter of less than 0.050 inches. Any of the diameters can be combined with any of the tube lengths described herein.

[0115] In some embodiments, the analyte is transformed by oxidation. In some embodiments, the analyte is transformed by reduction. In some embodiments, the analyte is transformed by the formation of a complex. In some embodiments, the analyte is transformed by covalent bonding. In some embodiments, the analyte is transformed by a chemical reaction. In some embodiments, the analyte is transformed by a change in physical state. In some embodiments, the analyte is condensed into a gas. In some embodiments, the analyte forms a plasma. In some embodiments, the analyte volatilizes a compound. In another aspect of the present technology, the analyte is transformed by humidity adjustment.

[0116] In one embodiment, nitric oxide in the exhaled breath is converted to nitrogen dioxide. In one embodiment, hydrogen is converted to at least one of water, reduced organic species, and reduced inorganic species (e.g., reduction of alcohols to hydrocarbons, reduction of metal oxides to metals, etc.). In one embodiment, methane is converted to at least one of hydrocarbon species, ketones, carbonyls, ethers, alcohols, halides, amines, aldehydes, amides, alkaloids, ions, radicals, and other reactive organic species. In one embodiment, ethylene is converted to at least one of hydrocarbon species, ketones, carbonyls, ethers, alcohols, halides, amines, aldehydes, amides, alkaloids, ions, radicals, and other reactive organic species. In some embodiments, nitric oxide in the exhaled breath is converted to nitrogen dioxide immediately before, immediately after, or substantially simultaneously with humidity adjustment. In some embodiments, hydrogen is converted to at least one of water, reduced organic species, and reduced inorganic species (e.g., reduction of alcohols to hydrocarbons, reduction of metals to metal oxides, etc.) immediately before, immediately after, or substantially simultaneously with humidity adjustment. In some embodiments, methane is converted to at least one of hydrocarbon species, ketones, carbonyls, ethers, alcohols, halides, amines, aldehydes, amides, alkaloids, ions, radicals, and other reactive organic species immediately before, immediately after, or substantially simultaneously with the humidity adjustment. In some embodiments, ethylene is converted to at least one of hydrocarbon species, ketones, carbonyls, ethers, alcohols, halides, amines, aldehydes, amides, alkaloids, ions, radicals, and other reactive organic species immediately before, immediately after, or substantially simultaneously with the humidity adjustment. In some embodiments, adjusting humidity includes at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient relative humidity. In some embodiments, adjusting humidity and converting at least one analyte occurs in a single step. In some embodiments, a method is disclosed for converting nitric oxide in exhaled breath to nitrogen dioxide, the method including passing a gas sample through at least one of potassium permanganate and sodium permanganate suspended on silica gel.

[0117] In some embodiments, the analyte is converted by potassium permanganate. In some embodiments, the analyte is converted by sodium permanganate. In some embodiments, the analyte is converted by a functionalized silica gel. In some embodiments, the functionalized silica gel comprises at least one of potassium permanganate, potassium permanganate, and sodium permanganate. In other embodiments, the analyte is converted by a UV source. In other embodiments, the analyte is converted by an infrared source. In other embodiments, the analyte is converted by a radio frequency source. In other embodiments, the analyte is converted by a corona discharge source.

[0118] In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a sensing technique known in the art. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a sensor, as previously described in the above-incorporated applications. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a metal oxide sensor (MOS, CMOS, etc.). In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by an electrochemical sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a MEMS sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by an acoustic sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by an IR sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a laser sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by chemiluminescence. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a GC / MS sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a field asymmetric ion mobility sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a graphene sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by an electrochemical sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by an optical sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a FET, MOSFET, and ChemFET sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a chemiresistive sensor.

[0119] In some embodiments, the gas sample is at least one of heated or cooled. In some embodiments, the difference between the relative humidity of the sample and the ambient conditions is about 3% RH. In some embodiments, the difference between the relative humidity of the sample and the ambient conditions is less than 5% RH. In some embodiments, the difference between the relative humidity of the sample and the ambient conditions is less than 10% RH. In some embodiments, the difference between the relative humidity of the sample and the ambient conditions is less than 15% RH. In some embodiments, the difference between the relative humidity of the sample and the ambient conditions is less than 20% RH.

[0120] In some embodiments, the analyte is converted in the form of a cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber and measured by a sensor as previously described in International Patent Applications PCT / US2015 / 000180, PCT / US2015 / 034869, and PCT / US2017 / 042830, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. In one embodiment, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber uses a powdered substance to adjust humidity. In one embodiment, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber uses a powdered substance to convert the analyte. In one embodiment, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber contains at least one of a permeable and semi-permeable material to hold the conversion medium in place. In one embodiment, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber contains at least one of a permeable and semi-permeable material to allow gas flow through the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber, and is a powdered medium. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber includes at least one of polymers, composites, fibrous materials such as paper or fiberglass, woven and non-woven fabrics, membranes, ceramics, metals, metal oxides, glasses, sintered materials, etched materials, perforated materials, and other gas porous or permeable materials. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber includes a frit. In some embodiments, at least one of the permeable and semi-permeable materials also assists in regulating humidity. In some embodiments, at least one of the permeable and semi-permeable materials also assists in regulating flow rate. In some embodiments, the exterior structure of the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber allows connection to a gas flow path. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is reusable. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is semi-reusable. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is single use.In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is disposable. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber can be removed from the system. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber cannot be removed from the system.

[0121] In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber contains 5 g or less of potassium permanganate or sodium permanganate. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber contains 1 g or less of potassium permanganate or sodium permanganate. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber contains 0.5 g or less of potassium permanganate or sodium permanganate. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber contains 0.1 g or less of potassium permanganate or sodium permanganate. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber contains 0.01 g or less of potassium permanganate or sodium permanganate.

[0122] In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber contains 5 g or less of potassium permanganate or sodium permanganate on silica gel (e.g., functionalized silica). In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber contains 1 g or less of potassium permanganate or sodium permanganate. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber contains 0.5 g or less of potassium permanganate or sodium permanganate on silica gel (e.g., functionalized silica). In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber contains 0.1 g or less of potassium permanganate or sodium permanganate on silica gel (e.g., functionalized silica). In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber contains 0.01 g or less of potassium permanganate or sodium permanganate on silica gel (e.g., functionalized silica).

[0123] In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber dimension of any one of length, width, or height is 7.62 cm or less. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is cylindrical with any one of length or diameter dimensions of 7.62 cm or less. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is cylindrical with any one of length or diameter dimensions of 2.54 cm or less. In another embodiment, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is cylindrical with a length of 2.54 cm or less and a radius of 1.27 cm or less. In another embodiment, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is cylindrical with a length of 1.5 cm or less and a radius of 1 cm or less. In another embodiment, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is cylindrical with a length of 1.5 cm or less and a radius of 0.5 cm or less. In another embodiment, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is cylindrical with a length of 1.5 cm or less and a radius of 2 cm or less. In another embodiment, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is cylindrical with a length of 1 cm or less and a radius of 2 cm or less.

[0124] In some embodiments, the gas sample moves through the system with the aid of at least one of a pump, a blower, or a fan. In some embodiments, the pump samples a side stream from the main gas stream, as previously described in the above-incorporated applications. In some embodiments, the blower samples a side stream from the main gas stream, as previously described in the above-incorporated applications. EXAMPLES

[0125] FIG. 1 shows the performance of Nafion® tubes at different flow rates where the sample inlet is saturated breath. The efficiency of the Nafion® tube in humidifying or dehumidifying depends on its length, inner diameter, outer diameter, and gas flow rate. The higher the flow rate, the longer the length of the Nafion® tube, and the larger the diameter, the more the sample can be equilibrated under ambient conditions. For example, Nafion® tubes with inner diameters of 1.07 mm, 1.32 mm, 1.52 mm, and 2.18 mm, and outer diameters of 1.35 mm, 1.60 mm, 1.83 mm, and 2.74 mm from Perma Pure LLC, Halma Company ME Moisture Exchanger series, differ in the percentage of relative humidity removed from the breath sample at higher flow rates. Similarly, Nafion® tubes with lengths of 6 inches, 12 inches, 18 inches, and 24 inches differ in the percentage of relative humidity removed from the breath sample at higher flow rates. Small diameter and short length Nafion® tubes perform better at lower flow rates, while larger diameter and longer lengths perform better at higher flow rates.

[0126] FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of a system or method for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample by adjusting humidity, optionally converting at least one analyte, adjusting humidity, and measuring at least one analyte. In some embodiments, adjusting humidity includes at least one of dehumidifying, humidifying, and equilibrating to ambient or near ambient relative humidity. In some embodiments, "near ambient relative humidity" means 50% relative humidity or less, 25% relative humidity or less, 20% relative humidity or less, 15% relative humidity or less, 10% relative humidity or less, 5% relative humidity or less, or 3% relative humidity or less. In some embodiments, the analyte is converted by oxidation. In some embodiments, the analyte is converted by reduction. In some embodiments, the analyte is converted by complex formation. In some embodiments, the analyte is converted by covalent bonding. In some embodiments, the analyte is converted by a chemical reaction. In some embodiments, the analyte is converted by a change in physical state. In some embodiments, the analyte is condensed from a gas to a liquid. In some embodiments, the analyte is condensed from a liquid to a solid. In some embodiments, the analyte forms a plasma. In some embodiments, the analyte volatilizes from a liquid or solid to a gas. In some embodiments, the analyte is converted from a solid to a liquid. In another aspect of the present technology, the analyte is converted by humidity adjustment. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a sensing technique known in the art. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a sensor as previously described in the above-incorporated applications. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a chemiresistive sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a metal oxide sensor (MOS, CMOS, etc.). In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by an electrochemical sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a MEMS sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by an acoustic sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by an IR sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by a laser sensor. In some embodiments, the analyte is measured by chemiluminescence.In some embodiments, the analytes are measured by a GC / MS sensor. In some embodiments, the analytes are measured by a field asymmetric ion mobility sensor. In some embodiments, the analytes are measured by a graphene sensor. In some embodiments, the analytes are measured by an electrochemical sensor. In some embodiments, the analytes are measured by an optical sensor. In some embodiments, the analytes are measured by a FET, MOSFET, and ChemFET sensor. In some embodiments, the analytes are measured by sensors previously described by the inventors.

[0127] FIG. 3A shows an embodiment of the use of the system to determine the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample by adjusting humidity using potassium permanganate on a silica gel substrate, adjusting humidity using a tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material, and measuring the analyte. In one embodiment, the patient's breath containing nitric oxide is blown or driven directly by a pump, fan, or blower and flows through a cartridge containing potassium permanganate on a silica gel substrate. Humidity is adjusted by dehumidification and nitric oxide is converted to nitrogen dioxide in a single step. Nitrogen dioxide flows through a tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material to equilibrate to ambient humidity. In one embodiment, the tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material dehumidifies the breath. In another embodiment, a tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material humidifies the breath. In one embodiment, the sensor measures at least one of nitric oxide or nitrogen dioxide.

[0128] FIG. 3B shows an embodiment of a system for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample, the gas sample moves through the system with the aid of a pump, fan, or blower. In some embodiments, the pump, fan, or blower samples a side flow from the main gas flow. For example, a human or animal exhales at 3 LPM, and the pump draws a side flow of less than 3 LPM. Other flow rates are possible without departing from the spirit of the technology. In some embodiments, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber serves the purpose of reducing flow rate and enabling more efficient humidity regulation by tubing containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or polymers or copolymers derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or polymers or copolymers derived therefrom, or humidity exchange materials.

[0129] 4A and 4B show alternative embodiments of a system for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample. In 4A and 4B, the gas sample is passed through silica gel to dehumidify, the analyte is chemically altered using potassium permanganate on a silica gel substrate, humidity is adjusted through a tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material, and the analyte is measured by a sensor. In 4B, the gas sample is passed through silica gel to dehumidify, and the analyte is converted in a single cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber using potassium permanganate on a silica gel substrate. In one embodiment of 4A or 4B, nitric oxide is converted to nitrogen dioxide, which is then measured.

[0130] FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of a system for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in a gas sample, in which a patient's breath containing nitric oxide is blown directly or pumped through at least one cartridge, capsule, or test strip containing a silica gel substrate to dehumidify the breath. The resulting gas sample flows through a tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material for equilibrating to ambient humidity. In one embodiment, the tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material dehumidifies the breath. In another embodiment, the tube containing one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material humidifies the breath. In one embodiment, the sensor measures at least one of nitric oxide or nitrogen dioxide.

[0131] FIG. 6A shows an example of a cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber described herein. The cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber includes an interface to a flow path, a functionalized silica gel in powder form, a permeable barrier or membrane to prevent gas from escaping the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber while allowing gas to flow through the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber, a functionalized silica gel or other desiccant (in this case, KMNO4 on silica), a second permeable barrier or membrane, and a second interface to the flow path. In some embodiments, the device chamber, cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber includes an interface with a press fit, push-to-connect, compression fit, luer, barbed, male or female, yo-lock, flare, quick disconnect, quick turn, socket, flange, threaded, sleeve, O-ring seal, seal, bead, push-on bar bed, threaded, screwed, grip lock, lock, solvent welded, heat welded, and / or bonded with an adhesive. Any other suitable structure or material known in the art may be used.

[0132] FIG. 6B shows an embodiment of a cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber. The embodiment includes an interface to a flow path, a permeable barrier or membrane to trap the powder (in this case, a silica desiccant) and prevents the powder from escaping the cartridge, capsule, or test strip while allowing gas to flow from the cartridge, capsule, or test strip, the silica or another desiccant, optionally through another permeable barrier or membrane, to a second desiccant or functionalized material, functionalized silica gel or other desiccant (in this case, KMNO4 on silica), the second permeable barrier or membrane, and a second interface to the flow path. The interface can be any of those described above.

[0133] Figure 7 shows the performance of one configuration of the present technology against two standard configurations of respiratory control. The first standard configuration includes 1 g of silica gel represented by the diamond data points and the dotted line. The second configuration is represented by Nafion® tubing manufactured by PermaPure, LLC (ME-50-06 (6 inch length, 1.07 mm ID, 1.35 mm OD)), triangular data points and dashed lines. One embodiment of the present technology is a cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber containing potassium permanganate on silica, and Nafion® tubing manufactured by PermaPure, LLC (ME-50-06 (6 inch length, 1.07 mm ID, 1.35 mm OD)), and circle data points and solid lines. In this embodiment, the system includes conversion / chemical change and humidity adjustment as the first step of humidity adjustment, followed by the second step. Three separate breath samples are passed through three separate configurations prior to measurement by the sensor. The inlet breath is at 100% relative humidity and 37° C. The patient exhales at 3 LPM and three side flows at 3 LPM or less are used. The pump siphons through the configuration and the relative humidity is monitored at the surface of the sensor. The ambient humidity is 50%. The performance of the technology in adjusting the gas flow for analysis is shown in Table 1. An exemplary embodiment of the technology produces a relative humidity difference between ambient and sample of 3% RH, while the silica and Nafion® tubes produce differences of 24% RH and 15% RH, respectively, as shown in Table 1. In one embodiment, the delta % RH between the sample and ambient humidity is 20% RH or less. In another embodiment, the delta % RH between the sample and ambient humidity is 15% RH or less. In a further embodiment, the delta % RH between the sample and ambient humidity is 10% RH or less. In yet another embodiment, the delta % RH between the sample and ambient humidity is 5% RH or less. In another embodiment, the delta % RH between the sample and ambient humidity is 3% RH or less. Table 1: Comparative performance of the technique, as demonstrated by a configuration in which potassium permanganate-functionalized silica gel is positioned proximal to a Nafion® tube (ME110-06 PermaPure, LLC). [Table 1]

[0134] FIG. 8 shows a non-limiting example of a test strip for regulating gas flow. In this embodiment, the test strip is a combination of flexible layers. Those skilled in the art of diagnostic sensors for blood, urine, and fecal analysis will understand the types of materials that may be used. These materials include, but are not limited to, those materials mentioned above. The test strip is shown with its layers separated and in two different orientations

[0801] and

[0802] . It includes two membrane layers

[0803] and

[0806] and a spacing layer

[0805] . The spacing layer

[0805] further defines at least one hole

[0804] . In some embodiments, the at least one hole is filled with at least one material to regulate the gas flow [0804a]. In this embodiment, the membrane layers

[0803] and

[0806] have a pore size larger than the pores

[0804] of the spacing layer

[0805] and sufficient to retain any material [0804a] included in the spacing layer

[0805] . The gas regulating material may include any number of combinations of the aforementioned materials. The layers of the strip may be bonded together by additional layers such as pressure or heat sensitive adhesives. The layers may also be bonded together by other techniques such as thermal bonding, sonic welding, two-part adhesives, moisture curing adhesives, and other techniques known to those skilled in the art. Various configurations are possible so that gas may pass through each of the layers

[0803] ,

[0805] ,

[0806] and through the material to regulate gas flow [0804a].

[0135] In one embodiment, the spacing layer is impregnated with a powder containing permanganate. In another embodiment, the spacing layer is impregnated with permanganate on a silica gel, substrate, or sphere (e.g., potassium permanganate functionalized silica gel, potassium permanganate impregnated silica, potassium permanganate functionalized silica, permanganate bound to silica, permanganate decorated silica, or permanganate adsorbed to silica). In another embodiment, the spacing layer is impregnated with a reactive or catalytic metal or metal oxide, such as palladium, platinum, or cerium oxide. In another embodiment, the spacing layer is impregnated with a chemical complexing agent. In another embodiment, the spacing layer is impregnated with an oxidizing agent. In another embodiment, the spacing layer is impregnated with a reducing agent. In another embodiment, the spacing layer is impregnated with a molecular sieve for adsorbing contaminant species. In another embodiment, the spacing layer is impregnated with an ion exchange resin. In another embodiment, the spacing layer is impregnated with a pH modifier. In another embodiment, the spacing layer is impregnated with a desiccant. In another embodiment, the spacing layer is saturated with a wetting agent. In another embodiment, the spacing layer is saturated with a dynamic humidity stabilizer. In another embodiment, the spacing layer is saturated with a mixture of compounds for carrying out a plurality of reactions. In some embodiments, the test strip 0801 further comprises a sensing layer (not shown).

[0136] Figure 9 shows another configuration of a test specimen

[0901] for regulating gas flow. This configuration is similar to Figure 8, except that the membrane layers

[0902] and

[0904] cover a larger area of ​​the spacing layer

[0903] , but still retain any material

[0905] included in the spacing layer

[0903] . In some embodiments, the membrane layers

[0902] and

[0904] have the same dimensions as the spacing layer

[0905] .

[0137] In some embodiments, the combinations of layers and membranes described in Figures 8 and 9 may be stacked on top of each other any number of times. For example, it is envisioned that the stack may include, in order, a first membrane layer, a first flexible layer, a second membrane layer, a second flexible layer, and a third membrane layer. In some embodiments, multiple membrane layers may be disposed between two flexible layers. For example, it is envisioned that the stack may include, in order, a first membrane layer, a first flexible layer, a second membrane layer, a third membrane layer, a second flexible layer, and a fourth membrane layer. In some embodiments, the number of membrane layers is m, the number of flexible layers is n, and m and n are equal. In some embodiments, the number of membrane layers is m, the number of flexible layers is n, and m is equal to n+1. In some embodiments, the number of membrane layers is m, the number of flexible layers is n, and m is equal to n-1.

[0138] FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of a test strip for regulating gas in a sample. The test strip

[1001] includes two membrane layers

[1008] and

[1006] , a spacing layer

[1003] , which further includes at least one hole filled with a material for regulating gas flow [1007 and 1007a]. Examples of suitable regulating materials include, but are not limited to, permanganate, permanganate on silica gel, permanganate on alumina, permanganate supported on solid or porous particle silica gel, silica nanoparticles, palladium powder, desiccants, wetting agents, dynamic humidity stabilizers, catalytic metals and metal oxides, reducing agents, oxidizing agents, complexing agents, ion exchange resins, pH modifiers, or other chemically active species known in the art for converting or altering chemical species or combinations thereof. Additionally, the test strip

[1001] includes at least one protective layer

[1002] or

[1004] , which further defines at least one hole [1009, 1005] for allowing the sample to pass into and out of the test strip. The protective layers

[1004] and

[1002] and the membrane layers

[1008] and

[1006] are joined or bonded using the methods described above. In some embodiments, the layer holes are in fluid communication to allow the sample to pass through the test strip.

[0139] In some embodiments, the protective layers

[1002] and

[1004] are porous membranes. In some embodiments, only the top protective layer

[1002] is present. In some embodiments, only the bottom protective layer

[1004] is present. In some embodiments, the protective layers do not contain pores, but are permeable enough to allow gas to pass through to the next layer. In some embodiments, the test strip

[1001] further comprises a sensing layer (not shown).

[0140] 11 shows another embodiment of a test strip for regulating gas in a sample. The test strip

[1101] includes a first protective layer

[1112] , a second membrane layer

[1114] , a third spacing layer

[1109] , a fourth membrane layer

[1115] , a fifth spacing layer

[1107] , and a sixth sensing layer

[1106] . The spacing layer

[1109] further includes at least one hole filled with a material to regulate gas flow [1110 and 1110a]. Examples of suitable conditioning materials include, but are not limited to, potassium permanganate, sodium permanganate, permanganate salts, permanganate salts on silica gel, permanganate salts on alumina, permanganate salts supported on solid or porous particulate silica gel, silica nanoparticles, palladium powder, desiccants, wetting agents, dynamic humidity stabilizers, catalytic metals and metal oxides, reducing agents, oxidizing agents, complexing agents, ion exchange resins, pH modifiers, or other chemically active species known in the art for transforming or altering chemical species or combinations thereof. The protective layer

[1112] , the second spacing layer

[1107] , and the sensing layer

[1106] further define at least one hole

[1113] ,

[1108] ,

[1105] configured to allow gas to traverse the protective layer, the second spacing layer, and the sensing layer and provide gas fluid communication to the test strip. The sensing layer further includes at least one electrode

[1103] and at least one sensing chemical

[1104] . The protective layer

[1112] , the first spacing layer

[1109] , and the second spacing layer

[1107] further include at least one hole

[1102] to allow fluid communication with the first spacing layer

[1109] and the sensing chemical

[1104] . In another embodiment, the fifth spacing layer

[1107] is not present.

[0141] 12 shows another embodiment of a test strip for regulating gas in a sample. The test strip

[1201] includes a first protective layer

[1202] , a second membrane layer

[1208] , a third spacing layer

[1203] , a fourth membrane layer

[1207] , a fifth spacing layer

[1204] , and a sixth sensing layer

[1206] . The sensing layer

[1206] further includes an electrode

[1205] and at least one sensing chemical

[1209] . The spacing layers [1202, 1203, and 1204] further define at least one pore. The at least one pore of the spacing layer

[1203] includes a material for regulating gas flow. Examples of suitable conditioning materials include, but are not limited to, permanganate, permanganate on silica gel, permanganate on alumina, permanganate supported on solid or porous particle silica gel, silica nanoparticles, palladium powder, desiccants, humectants, dynamic humidity stabilizers, catalytic metals and metal oxides, reducing agents, oxidizing agents, complexing agents, ion exchange resins, pH modifiers, and other chemically active species known in the art for transforming or modifying chemical species or combinations thereof. The protective layer

[1202] , the first spacing layer

[1208] , and the second spacing layer

[1204] further define at least one hole to allow fluid communication between the conditioned gas and the sensing chemical

[1209] . In another embodiment, the spacing layer

[1204] is not present.

[0142] 13 shows an embodiment of a test strip for regulating a gas in a sample. The test strip

[1301] includes a first protective layer

[1302] , a first membrane layer

[1307] , a first spacing layer

[1303] , a second membrane layer

[1309] , a second spacing layer

[1304] , a third membrane layer

[1311] , an nth spacer layer

[1305] , an nth membrane layer

[1312] , and an optional sensing layer

[1306] . The sensing layer

[1306] further includes an electrode and at least one sensing chemical. The spacing layers [1303, 1304, and 1305] further comprise at least one hole in any number of nth spacing layers, nth membrane layers, or up to n-1th membrane layers, and at least one hole in each layer [1303, 1304, and 1305] comprises at least one of the same or different conditioning materials in any order to regulate gas flow. Examples of conditioning materials include permanganate, permanganate on silica gel, silica gel, palladium powder, desiccants, humectants, dynamic humidity stabilizers, catalytic metals and metal oxides, reducing agents, oxidizing agents, complexing agents, ion exchange resins, pH modifiers, and other chemically active species known in the art for transforming or altering chemical species or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the conditioning materials are arranged such that

[1308] contains at least potassium permanganate,

[1310] contains at least silica gel, and

[1312] contains at least sodium hexametaphosphate. In some embodiments, the adjusting material is arranged such that

[1308] contains at least potassium permanganate,

[1310] contains at least silica gel on silica gel, and

[1312] contains at least sodium hexametaphosphate. In some embodiments, the adjusting material is arranged such that

[1308] contains at least silica,

[1310] contains at least one of permanganate on silica or permanganate, and

[1312] contains at least silica. In some embodiments, the adjusting material is arranged such that

[1308] contains at least silica,

[1310] contains at least one of permanganate on silica or permanganate, and [1312 and 1313] are absent.In some embodiments, the conditioning material is arranged such that

[1308] contains at least one of permanganate on silica or permanganate,

[1310] contains at least silica, and [1312 and 1313] are absent. The protective layer

[1302] , the spacing layers [1303, 1304, and 1305], and the sensing layer

[1306] further define at least one hole to allow gas to pass through the test strip. The protective layer

[1302] , the first spacing layer

[1303] , the second spacing layer

[1304] , and the nth spacing layer

[1305] each further define at least one hole to allow fluid communication between the conditioned gas and the sensing chemical (not shown).

[0143] In another embodiment, the test strip includes only two internal spacing layers

[1303] and

[1304] , three membrane layers

[1307] ,

[1309] , and

[1311] , and optionally at least one protective layer

[1302] and optionally one sensor

[1306] . The spacing layers

[1303] and

[1304] further include a material for regulating gas flow as described above. In one embodiment, the material of the spacing layer

[1303] includes one of permanganate on silica or permanganate (e.g., functionalized silica), and the material of the spacing layer

[1304] includes a desiccant material such as silica. In another embodiment, the material of the spacing layer

[1303] includes a desiccant material such as silica, and the material of the spacing layer

[1304] includes one of permanganate on silica or permanganate (e.g., functionalized silica).

[0144] FIG. 14 illustrates another embodiment of a test strip for modulating gas in a sample. The test strip

[1401] is configured such that the mounting layer

[1404] does not overlap the sensing chemical

[1403] , and the mounting layer

[1404] is any of the configurations described herein. In some embodiments, the configuration layers have at least two membranes and at least one spacing layer. The spacing layer of

[1404] further defines a hole. As illustrated by the figures above, a material suitable for modulating gas is disposed within the hole. The test strip

[1401] further includes a sensing layer

[1405] . The sensing layer further includes an electrode

[1402] and at least one sensing chemical

[1403] . The layer

[1404] and the sensing layer

[1405] further define at least one hole configured to allow gas to pass through the test strip.

[0145] FIG. 15 illustrates another embodiment of a test strip for regulating gas in a sample using a chamber configured thereon. The chamber includes the aforementioned materials used to regulate gas flow and / or at least one of a filter, frit, or membrane. In some embodiments, the chamber is functionally equivalent to the aforementioned cartridge, capsule, or test strip. In some embodiments, the chamber is hollow. The chamber may be square, oblique, or angled. In some embodiments, the chamber includes at least one of ABS, acrylic, epoxy, metallized plastic, metallized polymer, polycarbonate, polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polystyrene copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, silicone, thermoplastic, thermoset polymer, or other materials known in the art. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list. In one embodiment, the chamber is at least one of homogenous triple layer laminate polystyrene and polycarbonate. The chamber

[1510] includes any number of configurations described within this application for a chamber, cartridge, test strip, or capsule suitable for containing at least one material to regulate gas flow. In some embodiments, the chamber

[1510] further defines at least one hole, opening, slot, or open surface. In one embodiment, the chamber includes at least one membrane. In one embodiment, the chamber includes a first and a second membrane. In some embodiments, the material for regulating gas flow is contained between the first membrane and the second membrane. In some embodiments, the material for regulating the test strip is contained by the at least one membrane. The membrane is selected with a pore size sufficient to encapsulate the contained material. The test strip

[1501] further optionally includes a sensing layer

[1508] . The sensor substrate layer further includes an electrode

[1502] that is at least one sensing chemical

[1503] . In some embodiments, the sensing layer

[1508] further defines at least one hole. The at least one chamber aperture may be at least one of an inlet or an outlet.In some embodiments, at least one hole may be on any surface of the chamber to allow gas to pass through the regulating material. Examples of hole locations include, but are not limited to,

[1511] ,

[1512] ,

[1513] . The test strip

[1501] further includes at least one top

[1504] or bottom

[1507] protective layer and at least one membrane layer [1505, and 1506]. The top

[1504] layer or bottom

[1507] layer further defines at least one hole. In some embodiments, the chamber

[1510] is bonded or adhered to at least one of the membrane, flexible layer, or sensing layer. The chamber may be bonded or adhered using techniques previously described for the chamber, capsule, or test strip.

[0146] In some embodiments, the chamber containing the material for regulating gas flow

[1510] is tapered. Various degrees of tapering are possible without departing from the spirit of the technology. The tapered shape of the chamber allows the chamber to be filled more efficiently with the material for regulating gas flow during manufacturing. Any chamber in any of the provided examples or embodiments of the technology may be tapered.

[0147] FIG. 16 illustrates another embodiment of a test strip for regulating gas in a sample including a chamber on the test strip. The test strip

[1601] includes a chamber

[1606] , and a sensing layer

[1605] . The chamber further defines at least one hole. The at least one chamber hole can be at least one of an inlet or an outlet. The sensing layer further includes at least one electrode

[1602] and at least one sensing chemical

[1603] . In some embodiments, the sensing layer

[1605] further defines at least one hole

[1604] . In some embodiments, the at least one hole in the sensing layer

[1604] is configured to allow fluid communication between the at least one chamber hole that defines the chamber inlet

[1607] . In some embodiments, the chamber further includes at least one of a membrane, a filter, or a frit positioned within the chamber. In some embodiments, the chamber

[1606] includes at least one of a material for regulating gas flow. The materials of the chamber may include those previously described for the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber. The configuration of the chamber may be the same as or similar to those previously described for the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber. In some embodiments, the chamber

[1606] is bonded or adhered to at least one of the membrane, flexible layer, or sensing layer. The chamber may be bonded or adhered using techniques previously described for the chamber, capsule, or test strip. In some embodiments, the chamber inlet

[1607] is in fluid communication with the tube. In some embodiments, at least one of the chamber outlets or at least one hole

[1604] in the sensing layer

[1605] is in fluid communication with the tube.

[0148] In one embodiment, the sensing layer

[1605] further defines a hole

[1604] to allow fluid communication between the chamber inlet

[1607] , the at least one sensing chemical

[1603] , and optionally the sensor electrode

[1602] . In one embodiment, there is at least one of a membrane, filter, or frit between the chamber

[1606] and the sensing layer

[1605] that covers, overlaps, or overlies at least one sensing layer hole

[1604] . In one embodiment, there is at least one of a membrane, filter, or frit contained within the chamber, where the at least one membrane, filter, or frit covers, overlaps, or overlies at least one hole that defines the chamber inlet

[1607] . In some embodiments, the membrane is sufficiently porous to trap the transduction material within the chamber

[1606] while still allowing gas to pass through it. In one embodiment, at least one membrane dimension is at least as large as the dimension of the bottom of the chamber

[1606] . In one embodiment, the length and width or diameter of the membrane is greater than the diameter of the holes 1604 in the sensing layer 1605. In one embodiment, the chamber 1606 includes an inlet 1607 to allow gas to enter. In some embodiments, the sensing layer 1605 is not present.

[0149] FIG. 17 illustrates another embodiment of a test strip for conditioning gas in a sample using at least one of a membrane, filter, or frit, and a chamber

[1705] configured to accommodate at least one of a material for conditioning the gas sample. In this embodiment, the chamber includes a membrane

[1706] positioned either internally or externally on the chamber

[1705] . The membrane has sufficient porosity to encapsulate the material for conditioning the gas sample while allowing gas to pass therethrough and into the chamber

[1705] . In one embodiment, the chamber

[1705] also includes at least one protective layer

[1707] and further defines at least one hole. In one embodiment, the at least one protective layer

[1707] includes at least one hole that is one or more of an inlet or outlet

[1708] for allowing gas to enter and exit the chamber

[1705] . In this example, the side of the chamber

[1705] opposite the protective layer

[1708] is sealed so that gas can only enter or exit through the holes

[1708] in the protective layer

[1707] .

[0150] FIG. 18 illustrates the flow of gas through a system for conditioning a gas sample. In this embodiment, the gas passes through the layers [1802, 1803, 1804, 1807] of the test strip

[1801] , through the tube

[1810] , through the test strip layers [1802, 1803, 1804] and back to the at least one sensing chemical

[1806] . In one embodiment, the test strip

[1801] includes a first protective layer

[1802] , a second membrane layer

[1809] , a third spacing layer

[1803] , a fourth membrane layer

[1808] , a fifth spacing layer

[1804] , and a sixth sensing layer

[1807] . The sensing layer

[1807] further includes at least one electrode

[1805] and at least one sensing chemical

[1806] . The protective layer

[1802] and the spacing layers [1803 and 1804] further define at least one hole, at least one of the at least one hole of the spacing layer

[1803] being filled with a material for regulating gas flow as described above. The protective layer

[1802] and the spacing layers [1803 and 1804] further define at least one first hole to allow fluid communication between the gas sample

[1811] , the test strip

[1801] and the tube

[1810] . The protective layer

[1802] and the spacing layers [1803 and 1804] further define at least one second hole to allow fluid communication between the tube

[1810] and the sensing chemical

[1806] . In this embodiment, gas passes through the test strip to the tube and back through the test strip, as indicated by the dotted arrows. The same flow path is possible in various sensor configurations depicted in any of the figures or described in any of the examples or elsewhere in the description. In one embodiment, layer 1804 is not present. In another embodiment, layer 1802 is not present.

[0151] FIG. 19 shows another embodiment of a test strip similar to FIG. 18, where the test strip is housed within a device chamber

[1901] , the device chamber configured to have at least one first inlet

[1902] , optionally at least one second inlet

[1905] , and optionally at least one outlet

[1903] . In some embodiments, the device chamber is not completely enclosed. The device chamber is further configured to align with the top

[1909] and bottom

[1908] layers of the test strip such that gas can flow through the layers of the test strip

[1906] ,

[1908] , and

[1911] into the device chamber inlet

[1902] and return through the device chamber outlet

[1903] . The first device chamber outlet

[1903] is further configured to be in fluid communication with the inlet of at least one tube

[1904] . The second device chamber inlet

[1905] is further configured to be in fluid communication with an outlet of at least one tube

[1910] . In some embodiments, the second device chamber inlet

[1905] is aligned with at least one of the test strip layers.

[0152] FIG. 20 shows another embodiment of a gas regulation system including a test strip, where at least one of the test strip layers

[2007] further includes a channel

[2008] , the channel being in fluid communication with a sensor or at least one sensing chemical. In one embodiment, the test strip

[2001] includes a first protective layer

[2012] , a first membrane layer

[2014] , a first spacing layer

[2009] , a second membrane layer

[2015] , optionally a second spacing layer

[2016] , a channel layer

[2007] , and optionally a sensing layer

[2006] . The first protective layer

[2012] defines at least one hole

[2013] for allowing gas to enter the test strip. The first spacing layer

[2009] further defines at least one hole, where the at least one hole is filled with a material for regulating gas flow [2010, 2011]. The first membrane layer

[2014] is configured to overlie at least one side of at least one hole [2010, 2011] in the first spacing layer

[2009] . The second membrane layer

[2015] is configured to overlie at least one side of at least one hole [2010, 2011] in the first spacing layer

[2009] . The optional spacing layer

[2016] defines at least one hole. The sensing layer

[2006] further includes at least one electrode

[2003] and at least one sensing chemical [2004, 2005]. The sensing layer optionally includes at least one hole. In some embodiments, the sensing layer is replaced by a second protective layer. The second protective layer optionally defines at least one hole. The channel layer

[2007] further defines a channel

[2008] in fluid communication with the sensing chemicals, and any one of the at least one hole in the aforementioned layers. In one embodiment, the channel

[2008] in the channel layer

[2007] is in fluid communication with the sensor or sensing chemicals and the flow path of gas through the test piece. In one embodiment, the channel

[2008] in the channel layer

[2007] is open at least on one end to allow gas to escape the test piece. In one embodiment, at least one channel

[2008] directs the flow of gas to at least one sensing chemical

[2004] and / or

[2005] or other type of sensor.In one embodiment of FIG. 20, gas enters the test strip through

[2013] , through layers [2012, 2009, 2016], and through membrane layers [2014, 2015], and is directed by channels

[2008] in the channel layer

[2007] to at least one sensing chemical [2004 or 2005], and exits the test strip. In the embodiment shown, the gas exits near the electrode

[2003] , but other exit paths are possible without departing from the spirit of the technology. In one embodiment, the channel layer

[2007] defines channels

[2008] that allow fluid communication for the gas to one or more sensors or to one or more sensors following the gas traversing holes in the first spacing layer

[2009] that is filled with a material to regulate gas flow. In one embodiment, the material is one or more of the permanganate, silica, permanganate on silica, or activated carbon of the test strip. In one embodiment, layer

[2016] is not present.

[0153] FIG. 21 shows top views of various configurations of at least one inlet hole and at least one outlet hole of a conversion cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber. In these configurations [2101, 2102, 2103, 2104], the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber may be cylindrical, square, rectangular, or other geometric shapes and profiles. The holes may be on any surface or side of the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip. This configuration defines at least one inlet [2106, 2108, 2110, 2112] and further defines at least one outlet [2107, 2109, 2111, 2113] in fluid communication with the inlet [2106, 2108, 2110, 2112]. The inlet and outlet positions may be interchangeable (e.g.,

[2107] may alternatively be an inlet and

[2106] may alternatively be an outlet). In some embodiments, the inlet and outlet are the same. In one embodiment

[2103] , the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip strip chamber defines at least one hole in at least one portion of the side of the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip strip chamber. In another embodiment, the at least one hole functions as an inlet

[2110] or an outlet

[2111] . The configurations [2101, 2102, 2103, and 2104] may include at least one of a membrane, filter, or frit [2114 and 2116], and at least one material for regulating gas flow

[2115] as described above. These membranes, filters, or frits may be disposed in close proximity to each other or may be separated by one or more non-membranes, non-filters, or non-frits. In some embodiments, at least one membrane, filter, or frit and at least one material for regulating gas are in the fluid pathway between the inlets [2106, 2108, 2110, and 2112] and the outlets [2107, 2109, 2111, 2113].

[0154] In one embodiment, the cartridge is matched with at least one of the device or device chamber. In another embodiment, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is matched with at least the test strip. In another embodiment, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is matched with at least one of the device, device chamber, and test strip. In one embodiment, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is matched with the sensor. In another embodiment, the cartridge, capsule, test strip, or test strip chamber is matched with the metal oxide sensing chemistry. In another embodiment, the cartridge is matched with the electrochemical sensing chemistry. In some embodiments, the interface provides fluid communication between the sensor and the gas sample. In some embodiments, the cartridge is adhered or bonded to the sensor or test strip using the methods described above.

[0155] FIG. 22 shows one embodiment of a capsule for regulating gas, showing a front view

[2201] and a perspective view

[2202] of the capsule. The embodiment includes two separate components, a cap

[2204] and a body

[2205] . The front view shows the cap

[2204] and the body

[2205] as separate components

[2207] . In one embodiment, the cap

[2204] has a slightly larger diameter than the body

[2205] to allow the body

[2205] to slide into the cap

[2204] and allow the cap and body to be press-fit together. Additionally, the cap

[2204] and the body

[2205] are hollow to allow additional components to be placed inside to regulate the gas sample and to allow fluid communication between the sample inlet

[2203] and the outlet

[2206] . In one embodiment, at least one of the cap

[2204] and the body

[2205] has an additional hole

[2208] to allow air to escape from the chamber when pressed together during assembly. In one embodiment, the additional hole

[2208] is located near the open edge

[2207] of the cap

[2204] so that they are sealed, covered or blocked by the body

[2205] when pressed together. In one embodiment, the additional hole

[2208] is located near the open edge

[2207] of the body

[2205] so that they are sealed, covered or blocked by the cap

[2204] when pressed together.

[0156] FIG. 23 shows one embodiment of a cartridge or capsule

[2301] for regulating gas. This embodiment demonstrates an assembled capsule or cartridge

[2301] that includes materials for regulating gas flow, including but not limited to membranes, filters, frits, and regulating materials as previously described. The capsule includes a cap

[2305] and a body

[2306] . The cap

[2305] and body

[2306] further define at least one gas inlet

[2302] and at least one gas outlet

[2303] in fluid communication through the capsule. The inlet

[2302] and outlet

[2303] are interchangeable and can be oriented in any configuration, as described in FIG. 21. The cap

[2305] further includes an outer wall

[2307] and a hollow recessed inner body

[2309] . The cap

[2305] or body

[2306] further includes at least one of a membrane, a filter, and / or a frit

[2310] , at least one of the aforementioned materials for conditioning the gas sample

[2311] , and at least one of a second membrane, a filter, and / or a frit

[2312] . In a preferred embodiment, the at least one material for conditioning the gas flow is permanganate, or permanganate on silica gel (e.g., functionalized silica gel, spheres, beads nanoparticles). In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one membrane, filter, or frit (

[2310] and

[2312] ) may condition the sample. Conditioning methods include, but are not limited to, oxidation, reduction, humidification, dehumidification, equilibration with ambient conditions, heating, cooling, chemical complexation, condensation to a liquid, condensation to a solid, adjustment of pH, conversion of liquid to gas, conversion of solid to liquid or gas, change of chemical state, change of physical state, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments,

[2310] and

[2312] are press-fit into at least one of the cap or body. In some embodiments, internal structures are built into the cap

[2305] or body

[2306] to prevent any of

[2310] ,

[2311] , and / or

[2312] from migrating within the capsule.Multiple layers and combinations of filters, membranes, frits, and materials to regulate gas flow are possible as described in the previous figures. In some embodiments, the cap

[2305] has a length of 12.95 mm and an outer diameter of 9.91 mm. In other embodiments, the cap

[2305] has a length of 11.74 mm and an outer diameter of 8.53 mm. In other embodiments, the cap

[2305] has a length of 10.72 mm and an outer diameter of 7.64 mm. In other embodiments, the cap

[2305] has a length of 9.78 mm and an outer diameter of 6.91 mm. In other embodiments, the cap

[2305] has a length of 8.94 mm and an outer diameter of 6.35 mm. In other embodiments, the cap

[2305] has a length of 8.08 mm and an outer diameter of 5.82 mm. In other embodiments, the cap

[2305] has a length of 7.21 mm and an outer diameter of 5.32 mm. In some embodiments, the cap 2305 has a length of less than 20 mm and an outer diameter of less than 20 mm. In some embodiments, the body 2306 has a length of 22.2 mm and an outer diameter of 9.55 mm. In some embodiments, the body 2306 has a length of 20.2 mm and an outer diameter of 8.18 mm. In some embodiments, the body 2306 has a length of 18.44 mm and an outer diameter of 7.34 mm. In some embodiments, the body 2306 has a length of 16.61 mm and an outer diameter of 6.63 mm. In some embodiments, the body 2306 has a length of 15.27 mm and an outer diameter of 6.07 mm. In some embodiments, the body 2306 has a length of 13.59 mm and an outer diameter of 5.57 mm. In some embodiments, the body 2306 has a length of 12.19 mm and an outer diameter of 5.05 mm. In some embodiments, the body 2306 has a length of less than 25 mm and an outer diameter of less than 25 mm. In some embodiments, the capsule 2301 has an internal volume capacity of 1370 ul and an overall closed length of 26.1 mm. In some embodiments, the capsule 2301 has an internal volume capacity of 910 ul and an overall closed length of 23.3 mm. In some embodiments, the capsule 2301 has an internal volume capacity of 680 ul and an overall closed length of 21.7 mm.In some embodiments, the capsule 2301 has an internal volume capacity of 500ul and an overall closed length of 19.4mm. In some embodiments, the capsule 2301 has an internal volume capacity of 370ul and an overall closed length of 18.0mm. In some embodiments, the capsule 2301 has an internal volume capacity of 300ul and an overall closed length of 15.9mm. In some embodiments, the capsule 2301 has an internal volume capacity of 210ul and an overall closed length of 14.3mm. In some embodiments, the capsule 2301 has an internal volume capacity of less than 2000ul and an overall closed length of less than 50mm. In some embodiments, the dimensions and volumes of the cap 2304, body 2306, and capsule 2301 may differ from those listed herein.

[0157] Cartridge or capsule dimensions may be selected to conform to standard sizes associated with pharmaceutical capsules to facilitate mass production. Examples include: [Table 2]

[0158] 24 shows an exploded perspective view

[2401] and a side view

[2402] of one embodiment of an integrated gas regulating test strip. The test strip includes a chamber

[2403] , a protective layer

[2404] , a spacing layer

[2405] , and a sensing layer

[2406] . The chamber

[2403] further defines at least one inlet hole

[2407] , at least one outlet hole (not shown), and includes at least one of a membrane, filter, or frit

[2408] , at least one of a material for regulating the gas

[2409] , and at least one of a second membrane, filter, or frit

[2415] for encapsulating the material

[2409] . The membrane, filter, or frit

[2408] and

[2415] can be internal or external to the chamber. The protective spacing layers

[2404] and

[2405] further define at least one hole

[2414] and

[2415] . The sensing layer

[2406] further defines at least one hole

[2416] . The sensing layer

[2406] is further comprised of at least one electrode [2413, 2411] and at least one sensing chemical [2410, 2412]. At least one hole in the layers [2404, 2405, 2406] is configured to allow fluid communication between the chamber inlet

[2707] and the additional layers [2404, 2405, 2406]. In one embodiment, the protective layer

[2404] and the spacing layer

[2405] further define at least one of the second holes [2413 and 2414]. At least one second hole in the layer is configured to allow fluid communication with the sensor (if a sensing layer is not present) or with the sensing chemicals [2410, 2412] on the sensing layer

[2406] (if present).

[0159] In preferred embodiments, the flow of regulated and unregulated gas through the sensor is as described in Figures 18, 19 and 25. In some embodiments, layer 2405 is not present. In some embodiments, sensing layer 2406 is not present.

[0160] 25 shows a preferred embodiment of a gas regulating system. The embodiment includes at least a first protective layer

[2507] , at least one first membrane layer

[2508] , at least one first spacing layer

[2509] further defining at least one hole in which at least one gas regulating material is disposed, at least one second membrane layer

[2514] , at least one second spacing layer

[2515] , and a sensing layer

[2506] further including at least one electrode

[2513] and at least one sensing chemical

[2506] . At least the first protective layer

[2507] , the second spacing layer

[2515] , and the sensing layer

[2506] further define at least one hole. In one embodiment, the second spacing layer

[2515] is not present. In one embodiment, the second spacing layer

[2515] and the sensing layer

[2510] are not present. In one embodiment, the sensing layer

[2510] is not present.

[0161] In this embodiment, the test strip

[2501] (combined with the sensing layer

[2513] ) is inserted into the device chamber

[2502] as described above. The unregulated gas

[2503] enters the device chamber

[2513] and at least one first protective layer of the test strip

[2507] , passes through at least one first membrane layer

[2508] , and is passed through at least one spacing layer containing a material to regulate the gas flow

[2509] through holes defined therein as described above. The regulated gas

[2504] passes through at least one second membrane layer

[2514] , at least one second spacing layer

[2515] , and the sensing layer

[2510] , passes through holes defined therein, and exits the device chamber

[2512] into the tube

[2511] where it is regulated a second time. The twice conditioned gas

[2505] enters the device chamber

[2512] a second time and is passed through layer

[2501] to at least one sensing chemical

[2506] for analysis.

[0162] In one embodiment, the material of the first spacing layer

[2509] is one of silica, permanganate, or permanganate sold on silica, and the tube comprises one or more of perfluorosulfonic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, perfluorocarboxylic acid or a polymer or copolymer derived therefrom, or a humidity exchange material.

[0163] FIG. 26 shows a preferred embodiment of a gas regulation system. It is similar to FIG. 25, except that gas flows into the opposite end of the test strip. The test strip

[2601] (combined with the sensing layer

[2613] ) is inserted into the device chamber

[2602] as previously described. The unregulated gas

[2603] enters the device chamber

[2610] , passes through the holes in the sensing layer

[2613] , through the first membrane layer

[2608] , and into the spacing layer containing material to regulate gas flow

[2609] as previously described. In a preferred embodiment, the material contains at least one of permanganate on silica, permanganate. The regulated gas

[2604] passes through the remaining layers

[2607] and

[2611] , exits the device chamber

[2612] , and enters the tube

[2614] where a second regulation takes place. The twice conditioned gas

[2605] enters the device chamber

[2513] a second time and is passed through layer

[2601] to at least one sensing chemical

[2606] for analysis.

[0164] FIG. 27 illustrates one embodiment of a gas regulation system. The test strip is disposed within a device chamber

[2701] that includes a protective layer

[2707] , a first membrane layer

[2708] , a first spacing layer

[2709] , a second membrane layer

[2710] , a second spacing layer

[2711] , a third spacing layer

[2712] , and a sensing layer

[2706] . The first spacing layer

[2709] further defines at least one hole through the layer, where a material for regulating gas flow is disposed within the hole. Suitable materials have been previously described. In a preferred embodiment, the material includes at least one of permanganate on silica, permanganate. In a preferred embodiment, the permanganate is potassium. The first protective layer

[2707] , the second spacing layer

[2711] further include at least one hole, and the third spacing layer

[2712] includes a channel in fluid communication with the sensing chemical. The test strip is configured such that at least one hole in layers

[2707] ,

[2709] ,

[2711] and a channel in layer

[2712] are in fluid communication, such that a gas sample

[2703] provided by a device (not shown) may pass through the protective layer

[2707] , the first membrane layer

[2708] , the first spacing layer

[2709] , the second membrane layer

[2710] , the second spacing layer

[2711] , and the third spacing layer

[2712] into the chamber

[2714] to the sensing chemical

[2702] located on the sensing layer

[2713] . In one embodiment, the second spacing layer

[2711] is not present.

[0165] Aspects of the techniques and systems relating to measuring the concentration of an analyte in a fluid sample and / or performing a calibration on a device as disclosed herein may be implemented as a computer program product for use with a computer system or computerized electronic device, for example using a processor / microprocessor. Such implementations may include a series of computer instructions, or logic, fixed on a tangible / non-transitory medium such as a computer readable medium (e.g., a diskette, CD-ROM, ROM, flash memory, or other memory or fixed disk) or transmittable to a computer system or device via a modem or other interface device, e.g., a communications adapter connected to a network via the medium.

[0166] The medium may be either a tangible medium (e.g., optical or analog communications lines) or a medium implemented with wireless technology (e.g., Wi-Fi, cellular, microwave, infrared, or other transmission technology). A set of computer instructions embodies at least a portion of the functionality described herein with respect to the system. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that such computer instructions can be written in a number of programming languages ​​for use with many computer architectures or operating systems.

[0167] Such instructions may be stored in any tangible memory device, such as semiconductor, magnetic, optical, or other memory device, and may be transmitted using any communications technology, such as optical, infrared, microwave, or other transmission technology.

[0168] It is contemplated that such computer program products may be distributed as removable media with accompanying printed or electronic documentation (e.g., reduced package software), preloaded onto a computer system (e.g., on a system ROM or fixed disk), or distributed from a server or bulletin board over a network (e.g., the Internet or the World Wide Web). Of course, some embodiments of the invention may be implemented as a combination of both software (e.g., computer program products) and hardware. Still other embodiments of the invention are implemented entirely as hardware, or entirely as software (e.g., computer program products).

[0169] As will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding this disclosure, the present disclosure may be embodied in forms other than those specifically disclosed above.The specific embodiments described above should therefore be considered as illustrative and not limiting.Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to ascertain, using only routine experimentation, numerous equivalents to the specific embodiments specifically described herein.

Claims

1. 1. A method for conditioning a gas sample, comprising: one or more input analytes, said method comprising: providing the gas sample to a gas sample receiver, the gas sample receiver comprises one of a cartridge or a capsule; the cartridge or capsule includes one or more of one or more membranes, one or more frits, or one or more filters; the gas sample passes through the one or more of the one or more membranes, the one or more frits, or the one or more filters; The cartridge or capsule contains one or more modulating materials; the gas sample passes through the one or more conditioning materials; the one or more conditioning materials include permanganate on silica; To provide and b. adjusting the humidity of the gas sample and chemically altering the gas sample with the permanganate on silica; c. providing the gas sample to a tube containing one or more of a perfluorosulfonic acid, a perfluorocarboxylic acid, or a humidity exchange material; d. adjusting the humidity of the gas sample to a condition equal to or nearly equal to ambient humidity; e. detecting or measuring one or more readout analytes, wherein the detecting or measuring the one or more readout analytes follows steps (a) and (b), and the detecting or measuring the one or more readout analytes is performed by a chemisensory or chemiresistive sensor.

2. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more membranes, one or more frits, or one or more filters comprise one or more of a humidity exchange material, a selective membrane, a size exclusion membrane, a particulate filter, or porous polypropylene.

3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the cartridge or capsule comprises one or more humidity stabilizing materials.

4. 4. The method of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the adjusting of the humidity of the gas sample in step (b) is a result of the gas sample passing through the one or more conditioning materials.

5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the one or more conditioning materials further comprise one or more of a humectant, a desiccant, a dynamic humidity balance agent, a humidity exchange material, a chemically modifying material, and a humidity stabilizing material.

6. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein steps (a) and (b) occur substantially simultaneously.

7. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein adjusting the humidity of the gas sample in step (b) reduces the humidity of the gas sample.

8. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the gas sample is passed through the tube in step (c).

9. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein in step (d), the adjusting of the humidity of the gas sample to a condition equal to or nearly equal to ambient humidity is the result of passing through the tube.

10. The one or more input analytes include a first input analyte, the one or more readout analytes include a first readout analyte, and the method further comprises: f. The method of any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising, prior to step (e), chemically altering said first input analyte, thereby providing said first readout analyte.

11. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein step (f) comprises one or more of: oxidizing the first input analyte, adsorbing one or more contaminants of the gas sample, or adjusting the ionic charge of the gas sample.

12. 12. The method of claim 10 or claim 11, wherein step (f) precedes or follows any of steps (a), (b), (c), or (d).

13. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the gas sample is a respiratory sample of human or animal origin.

14. The method of any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the gas sample is provided by pump, diffusion or vacuum.

15. the one or more input analytes comprises a first input analyte; the one or more readout analytes include a first readout analyte; The method of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first input analyte is the same as the first readout analyte.

16. the one or more input analytes include nitric oxide; the one or more readout analytes include at least one of nitric oxide or nitrogen dioxide; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images