Microflow Detects Medical Conditions And Will Soon Be Every Astronaut's Doctor

Microflow is a digital doctor capable of detecting medical conditions which include cancer, infections, stress and also, food quality. It is based on fiber optic technology and analysis of liquid for cells and molecules, which pass in a single file in front of a laser. Different detectors are used at the point where the stream meets laser to detect physical or chemical properties of the cells/molecules in the liquid. The device performs a run time analysis within 10 minutes, the results of which are sent to a USB key for a detailed study.

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Microflow is similar to a pre-existing technology called flow cytometer - an instrument used for a range of bioanalysis and clinical diagnosis. The bulky construction and heavy weight (hundreds of pounds) of cyometer restricts its application. The new device weights less than 10Kg and is size of a toaster which makes it highly appropriate to take-off with astronauts in outer space who don't have access to any kind of analysis equipments. Microflow is made capable to tackle weightlessness, hence the stream of liquid does not loose focus in absence of gravity and can be used by astronauts during their missions.

Along with the outer-space applications, the device can also be used on Earth to detect infections and diseases in remote areas reducing the cost of medical analysis.  It might also allow inspection of food quality in order to perform quality tests on site.

Via: NASA - Microflow: Diagnosing Medical Conditions on Earth and in Space | Image Credits: #-Link-Snipped-#