Brain Waves and Bio Patches

Researchers from the University of Chicago have developed "living bioelectronics" that integrate living cells with electronic components to sense and heal skin. These patches, combining sensors, bacterial cells, and a gel, can monitor and treat psoriasis in mice. The bacteria reduce inflammation while the sensors track skin conditions. This innovation represents a significant advance in biomedical devices, offering non-invasive, storable, and effective treatment options. Potential applications include faster wound healing and devices for insulin production and neural interfacing.

Researchers from Northwestern University and Washington University School of Medicine have developed innovative shape-shifting ultrasound stickers to monitor post-surgical complications. These stickers, made of a flexible hydrogel embedded with metal disks, change shape in response to pH levels, indicating fluid leaks from surgical sites. Real-time monitoring is enabled through standard ultrasound imaging, allowing for early detection of complications such as anastomotic leaks, which are often undetectable by other imaging methods. Once the patient recovers, the bioresorbable stickers dissolve, eliminating the need for removal surgery. This technology aims to improve patient outcomes by enabling timely interventions and reducing hospitalization times​

Researchers from the Institute for Surface Technologies and Photonics in Austria and Osaka University in Japan have developed ultra-flexible e-health patches that monitor pulse and blood pressure. These patches utilize biomechanical energy harvested from natural body movements, eliminating the need for external power sources. They are extremely thin and comfortable, allowing for continuous health monitoring without discomfort. These patches can capture cardiovascular data multiple times a day and communicate wirelessly with smartphones or computers for real-time health tracking. This innovation has significant potential for improving the monitoring and management of chronic health conditions, such as heart disorders and stress-related issues​

Researchers from Tsinghua University and Imperial College London have developed a technique to enhance brain-computer interface (BCI) performance using brain-to-brain interactions. This approach leverages social connections, showing improved BCI accuracy during tasks when participants interact with familiar individuals. Enhanced neural synchronization and cortical activation were observed among friends, suggesting social engagement optimizes BCI functionality. This innovation has significant implications for cooperative tasks and rehabilitation, presenting a new avenue for impactful treatments by integrating interpersonal social interaction into BCI systems.