Wireless broadband acousto-mechanical sensing system for continuous physiological monitoring.

The human body generates various forms of subtle, broadband acousto-mechanical signals that contain information on cardiorespiratory and gastrointestinal health with potential application for continuous physiological monitoring. Existing device options, ranging from digital stethoscopes to inertial measurement units, offer useful capabilities but have disadvantages such as restricted measurement locations that prevent continuous, longitudinal tracking and that constrain their use to controlled environments. Here we present a wireless, broadband acousto-mechanical sensing network that circumvents these limitations and provides information on processes including slow movements within the body, digestive activity, respiratory sounds and cardiac cycles, all with clinical grade accuracy and independent of artifacts from ambient sounds. This system can also perform spatiotemporal mapping of the dynamics of gastrointestinal processes and airflow into and out of the lungs. To demonstrate the capabilities of this system we used it to monitor constrained respiratory airflow and intestinal motility in neonates in the neonatal intensive care unit (n = 15), and to assess regional lung function in patients undergoing thoracic surgery (n = 55). This broadband acousto-mechanical sensing system holds the potential to help mitigate cardiorespiratory instability and manage disease progression in patients through continuous monitoring of physiological signals, in both the clinical and nonclinical setting.

Interdisciplinary, Inclusive, and Innovative: Promoting a Paradigmatic Shift in Cancer Research Among Transgender and Gender Diverse Adolescents and Young Adults.

Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) adolescents and young adults (AYA) face heightened risks of cancer due to cissexism and transphobia in healthcare, low cancer screening rates, limited knowledge and awareness of cancer risk and screenings, poor healthcare experiences, and exposure to sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Despite this, TGD AYA cancer risk is relatively unexamined in oncology research. To intervene early and mitigate risk, we require holistic understandings of cancer risk among TGD AYA. This research brief engages with an interdisciplinary knowledge base to identify gaps and limitations warranting critical attention by TGD AYA and cancer scholars. The current literature on TGD AYA risks for cancer are explored with specific attention to the social environment and its impact on cancer risk. The brief ends with a call to action for a paradigmatic shift to promote inclusive, innovative, and interdisciplinary cancer research with TGD AYA.

Surgical implantation of wireless, battery-free optoelectronic epidural implants for optogenetic manipulation of spinal cord circuits in mice.

The use of optogenetics to regulate neuronal activity has revolutionized the study of the neural circuitry underlying a number of complex behaviors in rodents. Advances have been particularly evident in the study of brain circuitry and related behaviors, while advances in the study of spinal circuitry have been less striking because of technical hurdles. We have developed and characterized a wireless and fully implantable optoelectronic device that enables optical manipulation of spinal cord circuitry in mice via a microscale light-emitting diode (µLED) placed in the epidural space (NeuroLux spinal optogenetic device). This protocol describes how to surgically implant the device into the epidural space and then analyze light-induced behavior upon µLED activation. We detail optimized optical parameters for in vivo stimulation and demonstrate typical behavioral effects of optogenetic activation of nociceptive spinal afferents using this device. This fully wireless spinal µLED system provides considerable versatility for behavioral assays compared with optogenetic approaches that require tethering of animals, and superior temporal and spatial resolution when compared with other methods used for circuit manipulation such as chemogenetics. The detailed surgical approach and improved functionality of these spinal optoelectronic devices substantially expand the utility of this approach for the study of spinal circuitry and behaviors related to mechanical and thermal sensation, pruriception and nociception. The surgical implantation procedure takes ~1 h. The time required for the study of behaviors that are modulated by the light-activated circuit is variable and will depend upon the nature of the study.

Real-Time UV Measurement With a Sun Protection System for Warning Young Adults About Sunburn: Prospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Melanoma is attributable to predisposing phenotypical factors, such as skin that easily sunburns and unprotected exposure to carcinogenic UV radiation. Reducing the proportion of young adults who get sunburned may reduce the incidence of melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer. Advances in technology have enabled the delivery of real-time UV light exposure and content-relevant health interventions. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to examine the feasibility of young adults performing the following tasks daily: wearing a UV dosimeter, receiving text messages and real-time UV-B doses on their smartphone, and responding to daily web-based surveys about sunburn and sun protection. METHODS: Young adults aged 18-39 years (n=42) were recruited in the United States in June 2020 via social media. Participants received the UV Guard sun protection system, which consisted of a UV dosimeter and a smartphone app. During 3 consecutive periods, intervention intensity increased as follows: real-time UV-B dose; UV-B dose and daily behavioral facilitation text messages; and UV-B dose, goal setting, and daily text messages to support self-efficacy and self-regulation. Data were self-reported through daily web-based surveys for 28 days, and UV-B doses were transmitted to cloud-based storage. RESULTS: Patients' median age was 22 years (IQR 20, 29), and all patients had sun-sensitive skin. Sunburns were experienced during the study by fewer subjects (n=18) than those in the preceding 28 days (n=30). In July and August, the face was the most commonly sunburned area among 13 body locations; 52% (22/42) of sunburns occurred before the study and 45% (19/42) occurred during the study. The mean daily UV-B dose decreased during the 3 periods; however, this was not statistically significant. Young adults were most often exercising outdoors from 2 to 6 PM, walking from 10 AM to 6 PM, and relaxing from noon to 2 PM. Sunburn was most often experienced during exercise (odds ratio [OR] 5.65, 95% CI 1.60-6.10) and relaxation (OR 3.69, 95% CI 1.03-4.67) relative to those that did not exercise or relax in each category. The self-reported exit survey indicated that participants felt that they spent less time outdoors this summer compared to the last summer because of the COVID-19 pandemic and work. In addition, 38% (16/42) of the participants changed their use of sun protection based on their app-reported UV exposure, and 48% (20/42) shifted the time they went outside to periods with less-intense UV exposure. A total of 79% (33/42) of the participants were willing to continue using the UV Guard system outside of a research setting. CONCLUSIONS: In this proof-of-concept research, young adults demonstrated that they used the UV Guard system; however, optimization was needed. Although some sun protection behaviors changed, sunburn was not prevented in all participants, especially during outdoor exercise. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03344796; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03344796.

Sun exposure reduction by melanoma survivors with wearable sensor providing real-time UV exposure and daily text messages with structured goal setting.

Despite knowledge of subsequent melanoma risk and the benefit of sun protection in risk reduction, melanoma survivors often do not engage in adequate sun protection and continue to sunburn at rates similar to individuals without a history of skin cancer. This novel intensive intervention provided a wearable UV sensor delivering real-time UV exposure with a smartphone and daily text messages. On days 1-10 (period 1), behavioral facilitation and outcome expectancies messages were provided. On day 10, participants reviewed and reflected on their daily UV exposure on the previous 10 days and set goals for improving sun protection. Then on days 11-21 (period 2) self-efficacy and self-regulation messages were provided. Sixty melanoma survivors were randomized (1:1) to receive structured or unstructured goal setting queries on day 10. Controlling for cloudy/rain conditions with less UV due to weather, there was a time effect with a significant decrease in UV exposure from periods 1-2 [period 1-2, F (59) = 22.60, p < 0.0001]. In this short-term study, melanoma survivors managed their daily UV exposure to stay below their maximum tolerated UV dose. ClinicalTrials.gov Protocol Record NCT0334796, date of registration Nov 15, 2017.

Wirelessly controlled, bioresorbable drug delivery device with active valves that exploit electrochemically triggered crevice corrosion.

Implantable drug release platforms that offer wirelessly programmable control over pharmacokinetics have potential in advanced treatment protocols for hormone imbalances, malignant cancers, diabetic conditions, and others. We present a system with this type of functionality in which the constituent materials undergo complete bioresorption to eliminate device load from the patient after completing the final stage of the release process. Here, bioresorbable polyanhydride reservoirs store drugs in defined reservoirs without leakage until wirelessly triggered valve structures open to allow release. These valves operate through an electrochemical mechanism of geometrically accelerated corrosion induced by passage of electrical current from a wireless, bioresorbable power-harvesting unit. Evaluations in cell cultures demonstrate the efficacy of this technology for the treatment of cancerous tissues by release of the drug doxorubicin. Complete in vivo studies of platforms with multiple, independently controlled release events in live-animal models illustrate capabilities for control of blood glucose levels by timed delivery of insulin.

Miniaturized, light-adaptive, wireless dosimeters autonomously monitor exposure to electromagnetic radiation.

Exposure to electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from the sun and from artificial lighting systems represents a modifiable risk factor for a broad range of health conditions including skin cancer, skin aging, sleep and mood disorders, and retinal damage. Technologies for personalized EMR dosimetry could guide lifestyles toward behaviors that ensure healthy levels of exposure. Here, we report a millimeter-scale, ultralow-power digital dosimeter platform that provides continuous EMR dosimetry in an autonomous mode at one or multiple wavelengths simultaneously, with time-managed wireless, long-range communication to standard consumer devices. A single, small button cell battery supports a multiyear life span, enabled by the combined use of a light-powered, accumulation mode of detection and a light-adaptive, ultralow-power circuit design. Field studies demonstrate single- and multimodal dosimetry platforms of this type, with a focus on monitoring short-wavelength blue light from indoor lighting and display systems and ultraviolet/visible/infrared radiation from the sun.

Wireless, battery-free, flexible, miniaturized dosimeters monitor exposure to solar radiation and to light for phototherapy.

Exposure to electromagnetic radiation can have a profound impact on human health. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun causes skin cancer. Blue light affects the body's circadian melatonin rhythm. At the same time, electromagnetic radiation in controlled quantities has beneficial use. UV light treats various inflammatory skin conditions, and blue light phototherapy is the standard of care for neonatal jaundice. Although quantitative measurements of exposure in these contexts are important, current systems have limited applicability outside of laboratories because of an unfavorable set of factors in bulk, weight, cost, and accuracy. We present optical metrology approaches, optoelectronic designs, and wireless modes of operation that serve as the basis for miniature, low-cost, and battery-free devices for precise dosimetry at multiple wavelengths. These platforms use a system on a chip with near-field communication functionality, a radio frequency antenna, photodiodes, supercapacitors, and a transistor to exploit a continuous accumulation mechanism for measurement. Experimental and computational studies of the individual components, the collective systems, and the performance parameters highlight the operating principles and design considerations. Evaluations on human participants monitored solar UV exposure during outdoor activities, captured instantaneous and cumulative exposure during blue light phototherapy in neonatal intensive care units, and tracked light illumination for seasonal affective disorder phototherapy. Versatile applications of this dosimetry platform provide means for consumers and medical providers to modulate light exposure across the electromagnetic spectrum in a way that can both reduce risks in the context of excessive exposure and optimize benefits in the context of phototherapy.

Ultraminiaturized photovoltaic and radio frequency powered optoelectronic systems for wireless optogenetics.

OBJECTIVE: Wireless control and power harvesting systems that operate injectable, cellular-scale optoelectronic components provide important demonstrated capabilities in neuromodulatory techniques such as optogenetics. Here, we report a radio frequency (RF) control/harvesting device that offers dramatically reduced size, decreased weight and improved efficiency compared to previously reported technologies. Combined use of this platform with ultrathin, multijunction, high efficiency solar cells allows for hundred-fold reduction of transmitted RF power, which greatly enhances the wireless coverage. APPROACH: Fabrication involves separate construction of the harvester and the injectable µ-ILEDs. To test whether the presence of the implantable device alters behavior, we implanted one group of wild type mice and compared sociability behavior to unaltered controls. Social interaction experiments followed protocols defined by Silverman et al. with minor modifications. MAIN RESULTS: The results presented here demonstrate that miniaturized RF harvesters, and RF control strategies with photovoltaic harvesters can, when combined with injectable µ-ILEDs, offer versatile capabilities in optogenetics. Experimental and modeling studies establish a range of effective operating conditions for these two approaches. Optogenetics studies with social groups of mice demonstrate the utility of these systems. SIGNIFICANCE: The addition of miniaturized, high performance photovoltaic cells significantly expands the operating range and reduces the required RF power. The platform can offer capabilities to modulate signaling path in the brain region of freely-behaving animals. These suggest its potential for widespread use in neuroscience.