Assist Device Research Articles

Examining Long-Term Influences of Frailty on Outcomes for Adults Undergoing Left Ventricular Assist Device Therapy.

Frailty is common in adults with end-stage heart failure receiving a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Short-term studies show frailty reversal post-LVAD. Little is known about long-term frailty and how frailty relates to key LVAD outcomes, including depression, quality of life (QoL), and cognition beyond 6 months. The purpose of this study was to examine physical frailty, depression, QoL, and cognition from pre-LVAD implantation to 3, 6, and 12 months post-LVAD implantation. Clinical data and measures of physical frailty, depression, QoL, and cognition pre- and post-LVAD were extracted from an existing institutional database. Descriptive statistics and tests for statistical significance were used to describe and compare changes over time. Frailty trajectories were identified to describe physical frailty from pre-LVAD to 12 months post-LVAD. The sample (n = 46) was predominantly male (76%), with a mean age of 64.7 ± 11 years, and over half (n = 25) were physically frail. Physical frailty was reduced by nearly half at 12 months. Frailty, depression, and QoL significantly improved at all time points (P < .001). Improvements in cognition did not reach statistical significance. Recipients of LVAD without improvement in frailty exhibited worse depression, QoL, and cognition scores at 12 months compared with those not frail pre-LVAD or no longer frail post-LVAD implantation. Some recipients of LVADs experienced physical frailty reversal with benefits sustained long-term. Those without improvement recorded worse long-term patient-reported outcomes. Identifying factors that predict physical frailty response to LVAD implantation is a key area of future research.

A reproducible extended ex-vivo normothermic machine liver perfusion protocol utilising improved nutrition and targeted vascular flows

BackgroundNormothermic machine perfusion of donor livers has become standard practice in the field of transplantation, allowing the assessment of organs and safe extension of preservation times. Alongside its clinical uses, there has been expanding interest in extended normothermic machine perfusion (eNMP) of livers as a potential vehicle for medical research. Reproducible extended normothermic machine perfusion has remained elusive due to its increased complexity and monitoring requirements. We set out to develop a reproducible protocol for the extended normothermic machine perfusion of whole human livers.MethodsHuman livers declined for transplantation were perfused using a blood-based perfusate at 36 °C using the Liver Assist device (XVIVO, Sweden), with continuous veno-venous haemofiltration in-parallel. We developed the protocol in a stepwise fashion.ResultsPerfusion techniques utilised included: targeted physiological vascular flows, phosphate replacement (to prevent hypophosphataemia), N-acetylcysteine (to prevent methaemoglobin accumulation), and the utilisation of sodium lactate as both a nutritional source and real-time measure of hepatocyte function. All five human livers perfused with the developed protocol showed preserved function with a median perfusion time of 168 h (range 120–184 h), with preserved viability throughout.ConclusionsLivers can be reproducibly perfused in excess of 120 (range 121–184) hours with evidence of preserved hepatocyte and cholangiocyte function.

HeartMate III Autonomy Assistant in a Hemiplegic Left Ventricular Assist Device Patient: A Case Report.

Terminal heart failure presents challenges, requiring cardiac transplantation, or mechanical circulatory support. Limited donor organ availability has made mechanical support crucial. Advances in centrifugal-flow systems, compared to axial-flow, have improved patient outcomes by reducing adverse events. Rehabilitation is vital for patient independence postimplantation. We developed a tool to aid hemiplegic patients in managing power sources. A 44 year old male with tritroncular ischemic heart disease and a 15% ejection fraction. He underwent a double bypass and left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation while awaiting a transplant. Postsurgery, the patient suffered a stroke, leading to left motor impairments. To assist in managing LVAD power sources, an autonomous tool with a Woodcast support base and antislip surface was developed. The tool improves autonomy and quality of life for motor-impaired patients. It is designed to be portable, adaptable, supporting various mobility levels. Real-world evidence shows it reduces time and alarms for battery changes, proving effective in home settings. The tool significantly enhances hemiparetic patients' self-care and independence, showing promise for motor-impaired individuals. Further research is needed to evaluate long-term benefits and challenges.

Ventricular Assist Device Infections: Epidemiology, Treatment, and Outcomes in Transplant

Ventricular Assist Device Infections: Epidemiology, Treatment, and Outcomes in Transplant

Performance evaluation of an automatically controlled transcutaneous energy transfer system powering left ventricular assist device.

The survival rate of LVAD recipients may be improved by eliminating the infection failure mode at the percutaneous lead entry site. Wireless powering through a Transcutaneous Energy Transfer System (TETS) is a promising solution for achieving this. However, automatic controls need to be employed to compensate for the variations in efficiency and power transfer due to changes in load and coil-to-coil gaps. This article discusses the results of invitro and animal models performance evaluation of an automatically controlled TETS for powering a Left Ventricular Assist Device. It was found that power up to 20 W could be transferred at an axial gap of 30 mm. A 5% variation in speed and a 2% change in flow rate are observed with the change in tissue thickness, in porcine carcass model. The LVAD could be operated at the required RPM irrespective of the change in axial positions.

Measurement and performance evaluation of triple band differential integrated extraoral rectifying antenna for data transfer and RF energy harvesting for tongue drive system

Wearable assistive devices are vitally important for tetraplegic individuals to provide valuable insights into their intended directives tailored to tongue motions in wireless healthcare industries. The flexible differentially driven extraoral antenna and rectenna measurement system are developed to enable differential sensing and monitoring of the set of unique tongue gestures for extraoral tongue drive system (eTDS) applications in three frequency bands of Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) (915.0 MHz, 2400 MHz, and 5800 MHz). The performance analysis is carried out using the heterogeneous human head model. The differential rectifier is coplanarly integrated with the differential extraoral antenna on the same 0.254 mm thin and 9.5 mm wider Rogers RT/ Duroid 6010 LM substrate. The footprint of the fabricated differential rectenna is 0.135 \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\:{\\varvec{\\lambda\\:}}_{\\varvec{g}}\ imes\\:$$\\end{document} 0.082 \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\:{\\varvec{\\lambda\\:}}_{\\varvec{g}}$$\\end{document}\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\:\ imes\\:$$\\end{document} 0.002 \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\:{\\varvec{\\lambda\\:}}_{\\varvec{g}}$$\\end{document} where the planar size of differential rectifier is 15.75\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\:\\:\ imes\\:$$\\end{document} 2.5 mm2. The fabricated systems are situated closely to an artificial head model. The maximum conversion efficiency achieved at 2400 MHz and 5800 MHz is 83.45% and 74.8%, respectively, for 11 dBm of RF input power. Further, the link analysis, including interfacing circuit losses, was carried out theoretically at 915 MHz. Thus, the proposed differential extraoral systems can be employed to acquire and transmit the user intentions in eTDS inspired healthcare applications.

A Lightweight Blind Obstacle Detection Network for Mobile Side

Abstract. China has the longest and widest distribution of blind corridors in the world, but in many cities they are virtually non-existent, with all kinds of obstacles affecting the movement of the blind. Thus, guaranteeing safe traveling for the blind has become an increasingly important topic. Some existing assistive traveling devices for the blind have problems such as poor portability and low-cost performance. With the rise of the mobility era and the rapid development of deep learning technology, the target detection of blind obstacles on cell phones has become feasible. In this paper, we take the target detection model YOLOv8n as the base network, redesign the neck of the network, use GS convolution as the basis, adopt one-time aggregation and cross-channel branching to build a lightweight module, and use the CARAFE operator as the up-sampling method, and stack the lightweight module with CARAFE operator to build a new feature fusion layer, forming a lightweight feature-aware enhanced target detection network. The results show that the accuracy still reaches 99.5% of the original network under the premise that the model size is reduced by 1.2%, and the improved network achieves a balance between accuracy and lightweight.

HeartMate 3 Ventricular Assist Device in a Single-Ventricle and Single-Lung Patient Palliated With a Bidirectional Glenn.

We describe a 15 year old patient with failing second-stage single-ventricle palliation and left pulmonary artery thrombosis successfully supported with HeartMate 3 ventricular assist device and a Fontan completion as destination therapy.

Special Issue on Robotics and Mechatronics Technology for Sports, Exercise, and Health Care (Part 2)

Robotics, mechatronics, and digital technologies are advancing significantly in sports, exercise, and healthcare, and offer innovative solutions that shape the future of these fields. In Part 2 of this special issue, we examine independent research and cutting-edge developments that address new challenges and provide unique contributions to these domains. Technological advancements in assistive devices and rehabilitation offer new solutions for improving the quality of life of individuals with physical challenges. Researchers of wearable assistive devices and prosthetics continue to devise methods to enhance mobility and support physical functions, thereby benefiting both users and healthcare providers. Sports and motion analysis remains a key focus area, where innovative technologies are employed to analyze and improve athletic performance. By capturing and evaluating detailed movement data, these technologies can help athletes refine their techniques and achieve greater precision in their sports, thus ultimately resulting in enhanced performance and injury prevention. As in Part 1, the studies presented in this issue demonstrate the practical applications of cutting-edge technologies and offer insights into their future potential. We hope that these contributions will inspire researchers and practitioners alike and provide a foundation for continued advancements in these exciting and impactful fields.

Accessibility in an Inclusive Academic Environment: The Case of Takoradi Technical University

This study examines the extent to which Takoradi Technical University (TTU) in Ghana has achieved an inclusive academic environment for students with disabilities. Despite Ghana's commitment to inclusive education and various policies supporting persons with disabilities (PWDs), there remains a significant research gap regarding the practical implementation and effectiveness of these policies at the university level. This research addresses this gap by evaluating TTU's accessibility measures and support services. The study employs a phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of students with disabilities, faculty, and staff at TTU. It investigates the alignment of TTU’s practices with national and international inclusive education policies, such as the Persons with Disability Act (715) and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The research focuses on three main objectives: identifying the teaching and learning needs of disabled students, assessing the accessibility of TTU's built environment, and evaluating the satisfaction of students with the available support services. Data were collected through qualitative interviews with 28 participants, including students with disabilities, lecturers, and support staff. Findings reveal that TTU has established various support services, including sign language interpretation, e-learning support, and assistive devices. However, students reported inadequacies in these services, citing needs for additional support such as braille services and extended examination time. Furthermore, the built environment at TTU was found to be largely inaccessible to students with physical disabilities, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among the student body. The study highlights that while TTU has made commendable efforts in providing institutionalized support for disabled students, significant gaps remain in service adequacy and physical accessibility. The findings underscore the need for enhanced strategies to improve inclusivity at TTU and similar institutions, aligning practical implementations with policy frameworks to better serve students with disabilities

Development and Evaluation of a Wearable Upper Limb Assistive Device with a Remote Center of Motion Mechanism

Workers in factories, construction sites, and farms are often exposed to the risk of physical disability and injury. Particularly, the lower back and shoulders require assistance, as injuries can make it difficult to continue working. While social concern about back injuries is high and preventive measures are taken, lesser attention is paid to shoulders, resulting in inadequate assistance and prevention mechanisms. Therefore, wearable, low-cost, and lightweight upper limb assistive devices that can be used in multiple scenarios are desired by workers. In this study, we proposed a device that uses a remote center of motion (RCM) mechanism, enabling the device to support user’s upper arm from below, and the rotational center of device to correspond with shoulder joint. The theoretical assist torque is designed to be sufficient for arm gravity compensation of Japanese males of standard body size. The calculated theoretical assist torque for each shoulder joint is about 8 Nm and maximum assist force for each arm was about 36.3 N (3.7 kgf). Experimental evaluation using a prototype of this device on three healthy adult males demonstrated a decrease in muscle activity of approximately 38% in the anterior deltoid, 31% in the middle deltoid, and 11% in the posterior deltoid as an average of all results in a dynamic experiment in which the participants performed the indicated movements.

Revived Role of Pulmonary Artery Band in Management of Heart Failure in Pediatric Dilated Cardiomyopathy.

Lack of appropriate durable Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs) that can be managed at home for very young children, and long wait times for transplant have led to search for alternate easily reproducible therapies. In the past decade or more, pulmonary artery banding (PAB), as a new indication of an old technology, has been gradually carried out worldwide as an alternative to mechanical circulatory support in children with end-stage left ventricular dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) complicated with heart failure(HF), and has achieved encouraging early and mid-term outcomes. Technically, PAB is simple, safe, and effective. This is a promising therapeutic strategy, especially in developing countries where heart transplantation is difficult to implement. As a transition before transplantation, and even a potential treatment, PAB brings more options and hope for children with heart failure who are waiting for transplantation and are refractory to drug therapy. This article reviews the past and current situation, the mechanism, the surgical timing, and application prospect of PAB in the treatment of DCM complicated with heart failure.

Facilitators and barriers to perform physical activity in patients post-heart transplantation: a qualitative study.

Most patients experience barriers for becoming physical active post-heart transplantation. Therefore, identifying barriers and facilitators can help healthcare professionals in developing physical activity programs. This study aimed to explore the physical activity experiences, perceived barriers, and facilitators to perform physical activity of patients' post-heart transplantation. A qualitative study was carried out using in-depth semi-structured interviews on 24 patients post-heart transplantation from October to December 2022. The data were analyzed using an inductive strategy for finding emerging themes. NVivo 12.0 software was used to analyze the data. The physical activity experiences included that (1) patients felt that they had to adapt to a new situation after the heart transplantation, (2) walking was a popular physical activity preferably outdoors, (3) participants preferred to perform physical activity regularly with others, and (4) they felt better since they perform physical activity. The facilitators were: (1) Desire to live; (2) Experiencing physical benefits; (3) Being physically active with others; (4) Use of mobility assistive devices resources. The barriers were: (1) Feeling not being able to perform former physical activity; (2) Complications and experiencing symptoms post-heart transplantation; (3) Unfavourable climate. Patients post-heart transplantation have various facilitators influencing their post-transplant experience to perform physical activity. Key facilitators include the desire to live, physical benefits, social activity, and external support. Yet, they also face barriers like lost abilities, post-transplant complications, and environmental challenges.

Impact of Heart Transplant Allocation Change on Waitlist Mortality and Posttransplant Mortality in Patients With Left Ventricular Assist Devices.

In October 2018, the US heart transplant (HT) allocation system was revised giving patients with left ventricular assist device (LVAD) intermediate priority status. Few studies have examined the impact of this policy change on outcomes among patients with LVAD. We sought to determine how the allocation change impacted waitlist and posttransplant mortality in patients with LVAD. We retrospectively assessed the United Network for Organ Sharing registry for patients with LVAD who were listed for or underwent HT between October 2016 and October 2021. We evaluated waitlist mortality using competing risks analysis and a multivariable Fine-Gray model, and posttransplant mortality using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and a multivariate proportional hazards model. We analyzed data from 3835 patients with LVAD listed for HT and 3486 patients with LVAD who underwent HT during the study period. Listing for HT preallocation change was significantly associated with an increased risk of waitlist mortality (Gray P=0.0058) compared with postallocation change. After adjustment for covariates, mortality differences by listing era were attenuated, but LVAD brand was significantly associated with waitlist mortality (HM3 versus HMII; hazard ratio, 0.38 [95% CI, 0.21-0.69]; P=0.002; HVAD versus HMII; hazard ratio, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.48-1.30]; P=0.36; overall P=0.004). In contrast, HT postallocation change was associated with increased posttransplant mortality (log-rank P=0.0172) compared with preallocation change. In a multivariable analysis, the association with posttransplant mortality between transplant eras was attenuated, but ischemic time (hazard ratio, 1.16 [95% CI, 1.07-1.26]; P<0.001) and status at time of HT (Status 1-3 versus 4; hazard ratio, 1.29 [95% CI, 1.04-1.61]; P=0.02) were significantly associated with posttransplant mortality. Among patients with LVAD, lower waitlist mortality postallocation change was likely driven by improved LVAD technology. Higher posttransplant mortality following the allocation change was largely attributable to longer ischemic times and patient acuity.

Transforming rehabilitation: A narrative review on reversible knee flexor contracture assistive devices

Abstract: Joint contracture, marked by restricted joint movement due to connective tissue and muscle shortening, is a common complication in chronic musculoskeletal conditions such as osteoarthritis, osteonecrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, healed septic joint, and postsurgical complications. This limitation adversely impacts joint mobility and flexibility, increasing the likelihood of physical constraints. Contractures elevate the risk of impaired self-care, limited physical mobility, and hindered social activities, emphasizing the critical need to manage such contractures. The study aims to find the most appropriate, effective, user-friendly mechanical device to treat reversible knee flexor contracture. Method of a literature review was conducted utilizing PubMed, Google Scholar, and the physiotherapy evidence database (PEDro) up to April 2023. The inclusion criteria comprised studies related to flexion contracture (FC), written in English languages were included. The literature searched using the terms “flexion contracture, hamstring contracture, knee flexor contracture, burn contracture, knee joint hypomobility, and devices for flexion contracture.” Result after applying the selection criteria, the initial screening of literature gives 35,400 results on Google Scholar, PubMed, and PEDro. Subsequently, 128 articles underwent screening based on abstract and full-text availability in the English language. Following this, seven articles were selected and thoroughly reviewed, which included randomized control trials, systematic reviews, and exploratory studies. The study concluded the use of conventional physiotherapy interventions, coupled with assistive devices, diminishes the burden on physiotherapists and provides effective improvements to patients with FCs.

Microinstability of Major Joints in Movement Disorders: The Hidden Challenge.

Microinstability, characterized by subtle and often painful disturbances in joint stability, significantly impacts individuals engaged in activities requiring extensive ranges of motion, such as dancing or gymnastics, and is particularly prevalent in young female athletes. This condition, resulting from progressive microtrauma, architectural and functional abnormalities, or iatrogenic factors, is challenging to diagnose and often underreported. Understanding the biomechanical nuances of microinstability is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective management. Upper limb joints, including the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand, each exhibit unique anatomical and functional characteristics that contribute to their susceptibility to microinstability. Movement disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, dystonia, and cerebral palsy, exacerbate joint instability due to impaired proprioception, altered muscle tone, and uncoordinated muscle contractions. Effective diagnosis involves physical examination techniques and advanced imaging modalities. Therapeutic interventions encompass physical therapy, pharmacological treatments, surgical procedures, and assistive devices, tailored to enhance joint stability and improve the quality of life for affected individuals.

Balance impairment and associated factors among stroke survivors in public hospitals of Amhara regional state: a multicenter cross-sectional study

IntroductionBalance impairment is one of the common impairments in patients after stroke. It can lead to depression reduced speed of mobility, dependent on assistive device and reduce quality of life. However, evidence on balance impairment and its risk factors among stroke survivors in Ethiopia was lacking particularly in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate prevalence and associated factors of balance impairment among stroke survivor’s attendee at an outpatient clinic in Amara regional state comprehensive specialized hospital.MethodsAn institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted from April1-June 30, 2022. A total of 400 participants were selected using the systematic random sampling technique. Standard Berg balance scale tool and semi-structure questionnaire was used. Multicollinearity and model fitness were checked. Variables with a p-value of less than 0.25 in the Bivariable regression were entered into a multivariable logistic regression and p value < 0.05 was used as cutoff point for significant variables.ResultThe prevalence of balance impairment was 51.5% (95% CI (46.58, 56.39). Being depressed (AOR = 12.25:95% CI (4.727, 31.779), using walking aids (AOR = 8.76:95%CI3.469, 22.117)), abnormal speed (AOR = 6.73:95%CI (2.671, 16.977)), did not have physiotherapy treatment (AOR = 3.96:95%CI (1.483, 10.586), and unmarried (AOR = 2.71, 95% CI = 1.061, 6.903) were significantly associated with balance impairment.Conclusion and recommendationThe prevalence of balance impairment in the study was high. Being depressed, use walking aids, did not have physiotherapy treatment, abnormal speed of mobility, and unmarried were significantly associated factors. Therefore; it is better to give greater emphasis for those factors.

Contribution of Spectral and Temporal Cues in Timbre Recognition among Normal-Hearing and Hearing- Impaired People

Background and Aim: Timbre perception is a multidimensional feature of music perception and hearing loss may deteriorate timbre and instrument recognition. Deficits in timbre recognition may originate from poor temporal or spectral coding of musical notes subsequent to hearing loss However, it is not well understood which of these features are more dominant in instrument recognition with normal hearing and hearing loss. This study aimed to evaluate the relative importance of temporal and spectral cues instrument recognition in people with and without nearing loss. Methods: Two groups of adults with normal-hearing and hearing loss were tested with the timbre subtest of the Clinical Assessment of Music Perception (CAMP). Originally, a series of notes is played with eight musical instruments and participants were asked to identify the played instrument among them. In two other conditions, either the rise time or spectral cues of the same notes were masked using a special masking technique. Among eight instruments. Results: Instrument recognition scores were not significantly different between the original and spectral-manipulated conditions but were lower at the temporal-manipulated condition. The difference between the two groups was significant (p&lt;0.05), where the normal-hearing group recognized the musical instruments significantly better than participants with hearing loss group (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Temporal cues may have greater importance on timbre recognition regardless of hearing status. This suggests that the interventions and assistive devices which are designed to improve timbre recognition for people with hearing loss should prioritize improvement in temporal coding. Keywords: Timbre recognition; hearing loss; music; musical instrument; temporal; spectral

An intensive eye-tracking intervention in children with dyskinetic cerebral palsy: a multiple case study

This study aimed to explore the effects of a four-week intensive eye-tracking intervention on children with dyskinetic cerebral palsy (DCP), focusing on goal attainment, communication competencies, stress levels, subjective workload, and caregivers’ perception of psychosocial impact. A multiple case study design with non-concurrent, staggered multiple baselines was employed, involving three children aged 7, 12, and 13 years. The study included a randomized baseline period of two or three weeks, an intensive eye-tracking intervention, and a six-month follow-up. Two individual eye-tracking goals were identified and assessed using the Goal Attainment Scale, while communication competencies were evaluated with the Augmentative and Alternative Communication Profile: A Continuum of Learning. Stress levels were monitored through Heart Rate Variability measured by the Bittium Faros 360° ECG Holter during eye-tracking tasks. Subjective workload and psychosocial impact were assessed using pictograms and the Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale, respectively. Descriptive statistics were applied for analysis. All participants attained and retained their eye-tracking goals, regardless of their initial functional profiles or prior experience with eye-tracking technology. Post-intervention improvements in communication competencies were maintained at the six-month follow-up. Variations in stress levels, subjective workload, and psychosocial impact were observed among participants across different phases of the study, aiding the interpretation of the results. The study concludes that a structured, tailored, four-week intensive eye-tracking intervention can yield successful results in children with DCP, irrespective of their baseline communication abilities or functional profile. Recommendations for future research, including more robust methodologies and reliable computerized tests, are provided.

E-Skin and Its Advanced Applications in Ubiquitous Health Monitoring.

E-skin is a bionic device with flexible and intelligent sensing ability that can mimic the touch, temperature, pressure, and other sensing functions of human skin. Because of its flexibility, breathability, biocompatibility, and other characteristics, it is widely used in health management, personalized medicine, disease prevention, and other pan-health fields. With the proposal of new sensing principles, the development of advanced functional materials, the development of microfabrication technology, and the integration of artificial intelligence and algorithms, e-skin has developed rapidly. This paper focuses on the characteristics, fundamentals, new principles, key technologies, and their specific applications in health management, exercise monitoring, emotion and heart monitoring, etc. that advanced e-skin needs to have in the healthcare field. In addition, its significance in infant and child care, elderly care, and assistive devices for the disabled is analyzed. Finally, the current challenges and future directions of the field are discussed. It is expected that this review will generate great interest and inspiration for the development and improvement of novel e-skins and advanced health monitoring systems.