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• BIPES has stable and repeatable mechanical properties. • BIPES has chameleon-inspired mechanochromic and conductive properties. • BIPES is capable of acting as a dual-signal strain sensor for motion monitoring. • BIPES realizes anti-disturbance temperature sensing for temperature monitoring. The growing interest in biological skin mimicry has greatly contributed to the creation of high-performance artificial skin. Here, inspired by the optical-electrical signal co-transmission of chameleon skins, a bilayer biomimetic ion-conductive photoelectronic skin (BIPES) was constructed by compositing the mechanochromic nano-structured silica photonic crystal film with an adhesive, flexible hydrogel by a layer-by-layer design strategy. The BIPES has a highly sensitive strain response on electrical and optical signals (GF = 3.27 at 0–100 %, Δ λ /Δ ε = 2.1 nm %–1) and temperature response (TCR = –2.27 % °C–1 at 0–50 °C). Importantly, through the temperature insensitivity of the mechanochromic film, the BIPES not only achieved dual-signal motion detection but also achieved real-time temperature monitoring excluding strain interference. This research provides new inspiration for the construction of multi-signal combined photoelectronic skins and further exploration for advanced accurate smart wearable electronics in applications, especially in health detection for patients with non-spontaneous body-trembling. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] A glucose-responsive "complex coacervate" based drug delivery system has tremendous potential to improve the quality of life and health. Polyquaternium-10, a cationic cellulose derivative offers a potential solution for creating a soluble, painless microneedle patch capable of responding to glucose levels and loaded with the enzyme glucose oxidase (GOx). The gelatin at pH 7.4 forms complex coacervate with polyquaternium at the ratio of 7:3 respectively. As the pH decreases to the isoelectric point of gelatin, the coacervate disassembles and enhances the release of the payload. Microneedles MNs were fabricated in a pyramid shape, containing complex coacervate improved the mechanical strength of MNs, enhancing penetration capability. The incorporation of GOx into the microneedles enabled glucose-responsive behavior. In vitro experiments with artificial skin demonstrated decreased pH within the buffer medium due to the generation of gluconic acid in the presence of GOx. This pH shift triggered enhanced drug release, especially under hyperglycemic conditions, making the system a valuable tool for regulating transdermal drug delivery. In summary, this innovative glucose-responsive drug delivery system based on complex coacervate of gelatin and polyquaternium combines pH-sensitive drug release, mechanical reinforcement, and real-time glucose monitoring, making it a promising solution for improving transdermal drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a discussion with four skilled embalmers regarding embalming and its significance in funeral service, addressing common myths and misconceptions about the process, and exploring some concerns, particularly related to the environment and the use of eco-friendly embalming fluids as alternatives to traditional ones.

In this study, we reported two types of PMNs based on polylactic acid (PLA) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), respectively. Parafilm M® film, porcine skin, and rats' models were operated to evaluate the mechanical properties in vitro and in vivo to find optimal parameters for efficient insertion. Insertion depth was measured using Digital Force Gauge by changing insertion force and speed, respectively. Results showed that increasing the insertion force and speed used for PMNs application led to a significant increase in the depth of insertion. A force of 18 N under a speed of 330 mm/min was the optimal condition for inserting PMNs array into Parafilm M® film and porcine skin. In addition, PLA-MNs exhibited higher robustness and enhanced homogeneity in insertion depth compared with PVA-MNs, but PVA-MNs were able to reach much deeper insertion depth. Moreover, Sprague Dawley (SD) rat experiments confirmed the effectiveness of optimal insertion parameters for transdermal drug delivery. This study illustrated not only the development of novel PMNs but also the mechanical evaluation for the design of PMNs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A patent application has been published online for a computer-assisted method of designing elastomeric skin for robots and robotic devices. The method involves receiving user input to define the design and control parameters of the mechanical assembly, as well as the design parameters for the skin. The computer program then generates an optimized design for the skin, including its shape and thickness, to match the desired outer surface shape during the operation of the mechanical assembly. This method aims to enhance the realism and expression of robotic devices covered in artificial skin. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Yamagata University in Japan has revealed new findings in the field of artificial skin. The researchers have developed a flexible pressure sensor using electret-type particles with self-power-generating properties. This sensor has an ultrafast response time and can detect tactile signals in both humans and robots. The study highlights the potential applications of high-performance flexible sensing technology in the future. The research was funded by various organizations and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Nanjing Tech University in China has yielded new findings on artificial skin for wound repair and tissue regeneration. The researchers used microfluidic spinning technology to create a multi-functional artificial skin with superior characteristics such as surface wettability, breathability, high mechanical strength, strain sensitivity, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. This innovative approach also allows for the controlled and sustained delivery of medications, which can accelerate the wound healing process. The study provides a new perspective on the combination of biomedical skin and electronic skin, broadening the application of artificial skin. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Kyonggi University have published a new study on artificial skin, focusing on integrating a temperature regulation system into the skin to mimic the natural temperature control of the human body. The method involves simulating blood vessels within the artificial skin, allowing water to flow through fibers and release controlled heat. This approach enhances the thermal characteristics of robotic faces and prosthetic hands, making them more human-like and improving interactions with humans. The study shows promising advancements in humanoid robotics and blurs the lines between artificial aids and natural biological systems. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences have developed a bionic artificial skin that imitates the features and functions of human skin. The artificial skin is designed to have skin-like mechanical properties, self-healing ability, and high sensitivity. The researchers used a combination of finite element analysis and direct ink writing 3D printing technology to create an ionogel composite with tailored mechanical properties and a robust interface. The artificial skin has the potential to be used in wearable human-machine interfaces and flexible sensors. The study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at CSIR - Central Leather Research Institute in Chennai, India have developed a new smart bio-composite material for artificial skin. The material is made from sustainable polyurethane and sugarcane waste, and does not require the use of solvents. The bio-composite exhibits self-healing, shape recovery, high thermal stability, and thermo-responsive properties, making it attractive for applications in artificial skin, sensors, and coatings. The material also has temperature-responsive shrinking capabilities, allowing it to lift loads 20 times its weight, which could have potential applications in actuator technology. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Shenzhen, China, has reported new findings in tissue engineering. The study focuses on the use of three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting to create artificial skin substitutes that replicate the structures and functions of native skin. The researchers developed a composite artificial skin substitute (CASS) by integrating patterned nanofibrous films with a printed hydrogel scaffold. The CASS showed improved mechanical properties and regulated cell behavior, making it a promising treatment for large-area skin defects. The study was supported by various funding sources and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Shanghai Jiao Tong University have developed a new system called EchoGest, which uses soft, stretchable, transparent artificial skin with integrated ultrasonic waveguides for hand gesture recognition. The system achieved high accuracy rates of 91.13% for daily life gestures and 88.5% for American Sign Language gestures in testing. The researchers believe that this technology has significant potential in rehabilitation, particularly for tracking and evaluating hand mobility, and could revolutionize applications such as real-time sign language translation and innovative rehabilitation techniques. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital in South Korea evaluated the effectiveness of a conservative treatment protocol for fingertip injuries with volar pulp defects. The protocol involved wound debridement, the application of artificial dermis, and a semi-occlusive dressing. The study found that the treatment resulted in considerable fingerprint regeneration, minimal sensory disturbances, low post-treatment pain, and high cosmetic satisfaction. The researchers concluded that this conservative treatment approach shows promise in managing fingertip injuries and achieving excellent functional and aesthetic outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Peshawar in Pakistan have developed a highly stretchable and tough conductive hydrogel for use in flexible sensors and artificial skin applications. The hydrogel, which incorporates bimetallic metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), overcomes the limitations of both MOFs and hydrogels, such as low dispersion and limited stretchability. The resulting hydrogel demonstrated impressive stretchability, toughness, conductivity, and sensitivity, making it suitable for wearable strain, pressure, and artificial skin sensors. The research highlights the potential of hydrogels in the development of flexible devices. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences in Beijing, China, has developed a multifunctional artificial skin that can improve the regenerative potential of full-thickness wounds. The artificial skin, called NIR-mFAS, has photothermal-triggered drug delivery capabilities and can actively promote wound healing and skin appendage regeneration. The study found that the artificial skin effectively encapsulates and sustains the release of epidermal growth factor (EGF) to accelerate re-epithelialization and neovascularization. Additionally, the controlled release of other pharmacological agents can modulate cell fate and promote hair follicle and sebaceous gland regeneration. The researchers concluded that NIR-mFAS can be used as an advanced delivery system for high-quality wound healing and appendage regeneration. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Visualizing Real World Sentiments Of Objects And Interactions Via Augmented Reality" has been made available online. The inventors describe a system, method, and computer product for visualizing the real-world sentiments of an inanimate object using augmented reality (AR). The system involves receiving sensor data from the object, analyzing the data to determine the object's status, generating an AR visualization with indicators of the status, and transmitting feedback to a wearable device for the user. The invention aims to provide interactive information about the condition of objects in the real world. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou, China discusses the development of artificial skin using hydrogels. The researchers propose a method of enhancing the stability of electronics devices by using electrochemical reactions between metals and hydrogels to achieve strong adhesion, low interfacial impedance, and local strain isolation. The treated samples showed increased adhesion energy, decreased interfacial impedance, and high-strain isolation efficiency. The prepared sensor array demonstrates multimodal sensing capabilities and has potential applications in health and environment monitoring. [Extracted from the article]

[Display omitted] In this study, functional montelukast (MTL) imprinted biomaterials were prepared using inulin (INL), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), MTL, sunset yellow FCF (SY) as a light stabilizer, plasticizers, and press needle (PN). INL-based biomaterials were synthesized with a casting method followed by heat curing. MTL and biomaterials were characterized by FE-SEM, FT-IR, and 1H NMR. In addition, MTL release properties on MTL imprinted biomaterials were examined at pH 5.5 at various temperatures. Results showed that MTL release (%) of SY added biomaterials was increased by 1.97 times compared to those of MTL imprinted biomaterials without the addition of SY. This might be because SY, a light stabilizer, could inhibit the degradation of MTL by light. Results of MTL release using artificial skin verified that MTL was released sustainably for 12 h. We further confirmed that MTL release at pH 5.5 at various temperatures followed the pseudo-Fickian diffusion mechanism, whereas MTL release using artificial skin followed the non-Fickian diffusion mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) have discovered a new method for growing donor skin that could improve the success of skin graft generation. In a study published in Nature Communications, the researchers found that growing donor skin in another species produces robust and functional skin grafts. They injected donor keratinocytes into mouse embryos, which resulted in the development of sheets of epidermis that could be used as autologous skin grafts. The researchers also found that injecting the same embryos with human skin cells yielded similar results. This research could potentially lead to the production of large human skin grafts without the need for human-animal chimeras. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the Korea Institute of Toxicology in Daejeon, South Korea, has explored the use of artificial skin for hair regeneration and integration. The study utilized hexanoyl glycol chitosan (HGC) to cultivate human hair follicle dermal papilla (HDP) cells in 3D spheroids, which successfully formed hair-like structures. The researchers also tested the effects of minoxidil on these spheroids and found enhanced hair growth when cocultured with keratinocytes. Transplantation of these spheroids into artificial skin models resulted in the formation of functional papilla structures, suggesting potential applications in hair loss treatment, cosmetic and pharmaceutical evaluations, and skin restoration therapies. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Inha University in South Korea has developed a 3D Artificial Skin Platform that can be used to investigate pigmentation in pregnant women. The researchers designed a bilayer hydrogel composed of collagen type I and fibrin to create stable artificial skin. They applied parameters such as oxygen concentration and 17b-Estradiol (E2) concentration, which are related to melanin production, to the cell culture process. The results showed that the 3D artificial skin platform exhibited a significant increase in melanin expression, similar to the trend observed in pregnant women. This research suggests that the 3D artificial skin platform has the potential to be used in various research fields related to the treatment of pigmentation. [Extracted from the article]

• A self-powered Bi-Te and porous microcone-based temperature/pressure sensor is presented. • A flexible TEG could harvest body heat to power pressure sensor and sense temperature. • Bi-Te based TE thin film with heat sink achieves a high-precision temperature sensor. • The porous microconed architectures greatly enhance the sensitivity of pressure sensor. Electronic skins are artificial skin-type multifunctional sensors, which hold great potentials in intelligent robotics, limb prostheses and human health monitoring. However, it is a great challenge to independently and accurately read various physical signals without power supplies. Here, a self-powered flexible temperature-pressure bimodal sensor based on high-performance thermoelectric films and porous microconed conductive elastic materials is presented. Through introducing flexible heat-sink design and harvesting body heat energy, the thin-film thermoelectric device could not only precisely sense temperature signal but also drive the pressure sensor for detecting external tactile stimulus. The integration of Bi-Te based thermoelectric film with high stability in wide temperature range enables the sensor to sense the ambient temperature with high resolution (<0.1 K) as well as excellent sensitivity (3.77 mV K–1). Meanwhile, the porous microconed elastomer responds to pressure variation with low-pressure detection (16 Pa) and a high sensitivity of 37 kPa–1. Furthermore, the bimodal sensor could accurately and simultaneously monitor human wrist pulse and body temperature in real time, which demonstrates promising applications in self-powered electronic skins for human health monitoring systems. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Stretchable capacitive tactile sensors are crucial for the current and future soft robotic technology, particularly for designing artificial electronic skin for robots. In this study, we fabricated stretchable electronic tactile sensors by spray coating of conductive graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) or carbon nanofibers (CNFs) with liquid natural rubber (NR) binder over stretchable nitrile rubber (NBR) sheets. CNF-based coatings showed remarkably low sheet resistance of 30 Ω sq−1 and much better current transmission patterns under elongation, with ~50% current transmission reduction under 50% elongation, compared to GNP-based coatings with 600 Ω sq−1 resistance and ~99% current transmission reduction under 50% elongation. Structural damages/cracks within the coatings due to repeated stretch-release cycles could be healed by a rapid convective heat annealing process, restoring to initial current. Haptic sensing properties of the fabricated flexible capacitive device based on CNFs-coated nitrile rubber were evaluated by connecting it to a printed circuit board (PCB). The device could easily sense tactile forces from tens of mN to a few N, corresponding to (10−2–10) kPa pressure range over curvilinear surfaces or under elongation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study conducted at Wuhan Fourth Hospital in China explored the use of artificial skin in the treatment of complex soft tissue defects with bone and tendon exposure. The study examined the clinical efficacy of combining negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), artificial dermis (ADM), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and split-thickness skin grafting (STSG) in the reconstruction of large traumatic extremity skin defects. The study included eight patients, with successful wound closure achieved without the need for flaps. The aesthetic and functional outcomes were acceptable, with only one patient experiencing a 35% loss of skin graft. The study suggests that ADM in conjunction with NPWT, PRP, and STSG could be a viable treatment option for large traumatic extremity wounds. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Beer-Sheva, Israel, discusses the effects of artificial skin-stretch on stiffness perception and grip force control. The researchers found that applying artificial skin-stretch in both directions increased the perceived stiffness of an object, but the effect was stronger with positive stretch compared to negative stretch. Participants also applied higher grip forces when interacting with positive skin-stretch. The findings have potential applications in tactile technologies for wearable haptic devices, teleoperation, and robot-assisted surgery. The research has been peer-reviewed and published in IEEE Transactions on Haptics. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for a deformable sensor that can simulate skin and has various applications. The sensor is designed to mimic human skin and can sense light touch, pressure, and shear. It can also differentiate between different materials, such as human skin and inanimate objects, which is useful for robots interacting with humans. The sensor uses a combination of capacitance to detect proximity, light touch, pressure, and shear. It has the ability to buckle and stretch like human skin. The patent was filed by inventors from the University of British Columbia. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Korea Basic Science Institute have conducted a study on the drug release properties of montelukast imprinted starch-based biomaterials. The biomaterials were synthesized using mungbean starch, polyvinyl alcohol, and melanin as a light stabilizer. The study found that the addition of melanin increased the release of montelukast from the biomaterials. The research concluded that the release of montelukast followed different diffusion mechanisms in buffer solution and artificial skin. This study provides valuable insights into the development of artificial skin for drug delivery purposes. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application has been filed for an invention related to an epithelial cell tube for tracheal transplantation. The invention aims to provide a method for preparing the cell tube by culturing epithelial cells on a support and differentiating them. The cell tube, which includes a whole layer of epithelial cells positioned on the outer surface of a columnar support, can be used to regenerate an injured airway or eliminate fibrosis caused by damage to the epithelial cells. The method involves linking both ends of the support to create the cell tube. The invention has the potential to reduce tracheal stenosis and inflammation. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University of Health Sciences investigated the use of artificial dermis and epidermal growth factor in the treatment of critical-sized calvarial defects. The researchers created 8 mm calvarial defects in male rats and filled them with different treatments. However, after 6 weeks, incomplete bone regeneration was observed in all groups, and there were no significant differences between the groups in terms of inflammation, new bone formation, or other factors. The study concluded that the combined use of epidermal growth factor with artificial dermis did not enhance osseous healing. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California has focused on the development of artificial skin for underwater haptic sensing. The researchers aimed to create intelligent robots with human-like perception to facilitate sustainable and eco-friendly exploitation of marine resources. By utilizing the giant magnetoelasticity in soft polymer systems, the team constructed a multimodal underwater robotic skin that demonstrated impressive classification rates in identifying marine creatures and litter. This breakthrough represents a significant milestone in the field of underwater haptic sensing and has the potential to revolutionize sustainable marine resource exploitation. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Xi'an Polytechnic University in China have made progress in the research and application of modified silk fibroin fibers for artificial skin. Silk fibroin is a biodegradable protein with skin-friendly and biocompatible properties, but it has limitations. The researchers have explored various physical and chemical modifications to improve the properties of silk fibroin, such as filling, blending, structural adjustment, crosslinking, and grafting. These modified silk fibroin fibers have potential applications in water and air filtration, sensors, wound dressings, and tissue scaffolds. The study provides valuable insights into using modified silk fibroin fibers to enhance filtration efficiency, sensor performance, and wound recovery. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University in China has found that the combination of artificial dermis and split-thickness skin autograft, along with vacuum sealing drainage, improves the treatment of hand thermal compression wounds. The study compared two groups of patients and found that the combination treatment resulted in a higher survival rate of skin grafting, reduced the number of operations, relieved wound pain, effectively controlled wound infection, and reduced the rate of skin graft rupture. However, this treatment strategy may prolong hospital stay and increase the total hospitalization cost. The researchers concluded that this treatment approach should be promoted and applied in clinical practice. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Tohoku University explores the stickiness caused by sweat between sportswear and the skin. The study aims to investigate the relationship between the adhesion force between human skin and fabrics and the sensation of stickiness, as well as the impact of fabric wettability and geometry on the adhesion force under wet conditions. The experiments reveal that fabrics with a lower adhesion force can be achieved by decreasing the load area ratio and increasing the contact angle and meniscus height. This research provides valuable insights for the development of more comfortable sportswear. [Extracted from the article]