Next Issue
Volume 8, January
Previous Issue
Volume 7, September
 
 

Bioengineering, Volume 7, Issue 4 (December 2020) – 49 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Our nanocarriers are metal oxide nanoparticles encapsulated by a bilayer shell that allows the embedment of hydrophobic drugs. The first shell is formed by a hydrophobic phosphonic acid. The second shell is composed of an amphiphilic molecule that forms the bilayer via self-aggregation driven by hydrophobic interactions between their hydrophobic moiety and the hydrophobic first shell. The resulting double layer provides hydrophobic pockets for the intake of hydrophobic drugs. These nanocarriers were loaded with anticancer drugs and incorporated in cancer cells. Irradiation with X-rays released anticancer drugs into the cytoplasm and considerably decreased the survival rate of cancer cells. View this paper
  • Issues are regarded as officially published after their release is announced to the table of contents alert mailing list.
  • You may sign up for e-mail alerts to receive table of contents of newly released issues.
  • PDF is the official format for papers published in both, html and pdf forms. To view the papers in pdf format, click on the "PDF Full-text" link, and use the free Adobe Reader to open them.
Order results
Result details
Section
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
15 pages, 8077 KiB  
Article
Manipulating Air-Gap Electrospinning to Create Aligned Polymer Nanofiber-Wrapped Glass Microfibers for Cortical Bone Tissue Engineering
by Houston R. Linder, Austin A. Glass, Delbert E. Day and Scott A. Sell
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040165 - 20 Dec 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2653
Abstract
Osteons are the repeating unit throughout cortical bone, consisting of canals filled with blood and nerve vessels surrounded by concentric lamella of hydroxyapatite-containing collagen fibers, providing mechanical strength. Creating a biodegradable scaffold that mimics the osteon structure is crucial for optimizing cellular infiltration [...] Read more.
Osteons are the repeating unit throughout cortical bone, consisting of canals filled with blood and nerve vessels surrounded by concentric lamella of hydroxyapatite-containing collagen fibers, providing mechanical strength. Creating a biodegradable scaffold that mimics the osteon structure is crucial for optimizing cellular infiltration and ultimately the replacement of the scaffold with native cortical bone. In this study, a modified air-gap electrospinning setup was exploited to continuously wrap highly aligned polycaprolactone polymer nanofibers around individual 1393 bioactive glass microfibers, resulting in a synthetic structure similar to osteons. By varying the parameters of the device, scaffolds with polymer fibers wrapped at angles between 5–20° to the glass fiber were chosen. The scaffold indicated increased cell migration by demonstrating unidirectional cell orientation along the fibers, similar to recent work regarding aligned nerve and muscle regeneration. The wrapping decreased the porosity from 90% to 80%, which was sufficient for glass conversion through ion exchange validated by inductively coupled plasma. Scaffold degradation was not cytotoxic. Encapsulating the glass with polymer nanofibers caused viscoelastic deformation during three-point bending, preventing typical brittle glass fracture, while maintaining cell migration. This scaffold design structurally mimics the osteon, with the intent to replace its material compositions for better regeneration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning for Tissue Engineering)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1772 KiB  
Article
Toward Spatial Identities in Human Brain Organoids-on-Chip Induced by Morphogen-Soaked Beads
by Lihi Ben-Reuven and Orly Reiner
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040164 - 18 Dec 2020
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4672
Abstract
Recent advances in stem-cell technologies include the differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) into organ-like structures (organoids). These organoids exhibit remarkable self-organization that resembles key aspects of in vivo organ development. However, organoids have an unpredictable anatomy, and poorly reflect the topography [...] Read more.
Recent advances in stem-cell technologies include the differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) into organ-like structures (organoids). These organoids exhibit remarkable self-organization that resembles key aspects of in vivo organ development. However, organoids have an unpredictable anatomy, and poorly reflect the topography of the dorsoventral, mediolateral, and anteroposterior axes. In vivo the temporal and the spatial patterning of the developing tissue is orchestrated by signaling molecules called morphogens. Here, we used morphogen-soaked beads to influence the spatial identities within hESC-derived brain organoids. The morphogen- and synthetic molecules-soaked beads were interpreted as local organizers, and key transcription factor expression levels within the organoids were affected as a function of the distance from the bead. We used an on-chip imaging device that we have developed, that allows live imaging of the developing hESC-derived organoids. This platform enabled studying the effect of changes in WNT/BMP gradients on the expression of key landmark genes in the on-chip human brain organoids. Titration of CHIR99201 (WNT agonist) and BMP4 directed the expression of telencephalon and medial pallium genes; dorsal and ventral midbrain markers; and isthmus-related genes. Overall, our protocol provides an opportunity to study phenotypes of altered regional specification and defected connectivity, which are found in neurodevelopmental diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organs-on-Chips, Volume 2)
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 1884 KiB  
Review
Engineered Collagen Matrices
by Vaidehi A. Patil and Kristyn S. Masters
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040163 - 16 Dec 2020
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 4826
Abstract
Collagen is the most abundant protein in mammals, accounting for approximately one-third of the total protein in the human body. Thus, it is a logical choice for the creation of biomimetic environments, and there is a long history of using collagen matrices for [...] Read more.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in mammals, accounting for approximately one-third of the total protein in the human body. Thus, it is a logical choice for the creation of biomimetic environments, and there is a long history of using collagen matrices for various tissue engineering applications. However, from a biomaterial perspective, the use of collagen-only scaffolds is associated with many challenges. Namely, the mechanical properties of collagen matrices can be difficult to tune across a wide range of values, and collagen itself is not highly amenable to direct chemical modification without affecting its architecture or bioactivity. Thus, many approaches have been pursued to design scaffold environments that display critical features of collagen but enable improved tunability of physical and biological characteristics. This paper provides a brief overview of approaches that have been employed to create such engineered collagen matrices. Specifically, these approaches include blending of collagen with other natural or synthetic polymers, chemical modifications of denatured collagen, de novo creation of collagen-mimetic chains, and reductionist methods to incorporate collagen moieties into other materials. These advancements in the creation of tunable, engineered collagen matrices will continue to enable the interrogation of novel and increasingly complex biological questions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomedical Applications of Collagen)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 3662 KiB  
Communication
Microfluidic Protein Imaging Platform: Study of Tau Protein Aggregation and Alzheimer’s Drug Response
by Shubha Jain, Sarpras Swain, Lopamudra Das, Sarita Swain, Lopamudra Giri, Anand Kumar Kondapi and Harikrishnan Narayanan Unni
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040162 - 13 Dec 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2881
Abstract
Tau protein aggregation is identified as one of the key phenomena associated with the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. In the present study, we performed on-chip confocal imaging of tau protein aggregation and tau–drug interactions using a spiral-shaped passive micromixing platform. Numerical [...] Read more.
Tau protein aggregation is identified as one of the key phenomena associated with the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. In the present study, we performed on-chip confocal imaging of tau protein aggregation and tau–drug interactions using a spiral-shaped passive micromixing platform. Numerical simulations and experiments were performed in order to validate the performance of the micromixer design. We performed molecular modeling of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-induced tau aggregation in order to successfully validate the concept of helical tau filament formation. Tau aggregation and native tau restoration were realized using an immunofluorescence antibody assay. The dose–response behavior of an Alzheimer’s drug, methylthioninium chloride (MTC), was monitored on-chip for defining the optimum concentration of the drug. The proposed device was tested for reliability and repeatability of on-chip tau imaging. The amount of the tau protein sample used in our experiments was significantly less than the usage for conventional techniques, and the whole protein–drug assay was realized in less than two hours. We identified that intensity-based tau imaging could be used to study Alzheimer’s drug response. In addition, it was demonstrated that cell-free, microfluidic tau protein assays could be used as potential on-chip drug evaluation tools for Alzheimer’s disease. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 2434 KiB  
Article
Depletion of Boric Acid and Cobalt from Cultivation Media: Impact on Recombinant Protein Production with Komagataella phaffii
by Alexander Pekarsky, Sophia Mihalyi, Maximilian Weiss, Andreas Limbeck and Oliver Spadiut
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040161 - 13 Dec 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3341
Abstract
The REACH regulation stands for “Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals” and defines certain substances as harmful to human health and the environment. This urges manufacturers to adapt production processes. Boric acid and cobalt dichloride represent such harmful ingredients, but are commonly [...] Read more.
The REACH regulation stands for “Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals” and defines certain substances as harmful to human health and the environment. This urges manufacturers to adapt production processes. Boric acid and cobalt dichloride represent such harmful ingredients, but are commonly used in yeast cultivation media. The yeast Komagataella phaffii (Pichia pastoris) is an important host for heterologous protein production and compliance with the REACH regulation is desirable. Boric acid and cobalt dichloride are used as boron and cobalt sources, respectively. Boron and cobalt support growth and productivity and a number of cobalt-containing enzymes exist. Therefore, depletion of boric acid and cobalt dichloride could have various negative effects, but knowledge is currently scarce. Herein, we provide an insight into the impact of boric acid and cobalt depletion on recombinant protein production with K. phaffii and additionally show how different vessel materials affect cultivation media compositions through leaking elements. We found that boric acid could be substituted through boron leakiness from borosilicate glassware. Furthermore, depletion of boric acid and cobalt dichloride neither affected high cell density cultivation nor cell morphology and viability on methanol. However, final protein quality of three different industrially relevant enzymes was affected in various ways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Yeast to Biotechnology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

40 pages, 1631 KiB  
Review
Future Perspectives in Small-Diameter Vascular Graft Engineering
by Panagiotis Mallis, Alkiviadis Kostakis, Catherine Stavropoulos-Giokas and Efstathios Michalopoulos
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040160 - 10 Dec 2020
Cited by 58 | Viewed by 6420
Abstract
The increased demands of small-diameter vascular grafts (SDVGs) globally has forced the scientific society to explore alternative strategies utilizing the tissue engineering approaches. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) comprises one of the most lethal groups of non-communicable disorders worldwide. It has been estimated that in [...] Read more.
The increased demands of small-diameter vascular grafts (SDVGs) globally has forced the scientific society to explore alternative strategies utilizing the tissue engineering approaches. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) comprises one of the most lethal groups of non-communicable disorders worldwide. It has been estimated that in Europe, the healthcare cost for the administration of CVD is more than 169 billion €. Common manifestations involve the narrowing or occlusion of blood vessels. The replacement of damaged vessels with autologous grafts represents one of the applied therapeutic approaches in CVD. However, significant drawbacks are accompanying the above procedure; therefore, the exploration of alternative vessel sources must be performed. Engineered SDVGs can be produced through the utilization of non-degradable/degradable and naturally derived materials. Decellularized vessels represent also an alternative valuable source for the development of SDVGs. In this review, a great number of SDVG engineering approaches will be highlighted. Importantly, the state-of-the-art methodologies, which are currently employed, will be comprehensively presented. A discussion summarizing the key marks and the future perspectives of SDVG engineering will be included in this review. Taking into consideration the increased number of patients with CVD, SDVG engineering may assist significantly in cardiovascular reconstructive surgery and, therefore, the overall improvement of patients’ life. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 2901 KiB  
Article
Biomechanical Investigation of the Stomach Following Different Bariatric Surgery Approaches
by Ilaria Toniolo, Chiara Giulia Fontanella, Mirto Foletto and Emanuele Luigi Carniel
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040159 - 09 Dec 2020
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3292
Abstract
Background: The stomach is a hollow organ of the gastrointestinal tract, on which bariatric surgery (BS) is performed for the treatment of obesity. Even though BS is the most effective treatment for severe obesity, drawbacks and complications are still present because the intervention [...] Read more.
Background: The stomach is a hollow organ of the gastrointestinal tract, on which bariatric surgery (BS) is performed for the treatment of obesity. Even though BS is the most effective treatment for severe obesity, drawbacks and complications are still present because the intervention design is largely based on the surgeon’s expertise and intraoperative decisions. Bioengineering methods can be exploited to develop computational tools for more rational presurgical design and planning of the intervention. Methods: A computational mechanical model of the stomach was developed, considering the actual complexity of the biological structure, as the nonhomogeneous and multilayered configuration of the gastric wall. Mechanical behavior was characterized by means of an anisotropic visco-hyperelastic constitutive formulation of fiber-reinforced conformation, nonlinear elastic response, and time-dependent behavior, which assume the typical features of gastric wall mechanics. Model applications allowed for an analysis of the influence of BS techniques on stomach mechanical functionality through different computational analyses. Results: Computational results showed that laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty drastically alter stomach capacity and stiffness, while laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding modestly affects stomach stiffness and capacity. Moreover, the mean elongation strain values, which are correlated to the mechanical stimulation of gastric receptors, were elevated in laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding compared to other procedures. Conclusions: The investigation of stomach mechanical response through computational models provides information on different topics such as stomach capacity and stiffness and the mechanical stimulation of gastric receptors, which interact with the brain to control satiety. These data can provide reliable support to surgeons in the presurgical decision-making process. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 4135 KiB  
Article
Possible Early Generation of Physiological Helical Flow Could Benefit the Triflo Trileaflet Heart Valve Prosthesis Compared to Bileaflet Valves
by Ch. Bruecker and Qianhui Li
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040158 - 08 Dec 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3982
Abstract
Background—Physiological helical flow in the ascending aorta has been well documented in the last two decades, accompanied by discussions on possible physiological benefits of such axial swirl. Recent 4D-MRI studies on healthy volunteers have found indications of early generation of helical flow, early [...] Read more.
Background—Physiological helical flow in the ascending aorta has been well documented in the last two decades, accompanied by discussions on possible physiological benefits of such axial swirl. Recent 4D-MRI studies on healthy volunteers have found indications of early generation of helical flow, early in the systole and close to the valve plane. Objectives—Firstly, the aim of the study is to investigate the hypothesis of premature swirl existence in the ventricular outflow tract leading to helical flow in the valve plane, and second to investigate the possible impact of two different mechanical valve designs on the preservation of this early helical flow and its subsequent hemodynamic consequences. Methods—We use a pulse duplicator with an aortic arch and High-Speed Particle Image Velocimetry to document the flow evolution in the systolic cycle. The pulse-duplicator is modified with a swirl-generating insert to generate early helical flow in the valve plane. Special focus is paid to the interaction of such helical flow with different designs of mechanical prosthetic heart valves, comparing a classical bileaflet mechanical heart valve, the St. Jude Medical Regent valve (SJM Regent BMHV), with the Triflo trileaflet mechanical heart valve T2B version (Triflo TMHV). Results—When the swirl-generator is inserted, a vortex is generated in the core flow, demonstrating early helical flow in the valve plane, similar to the observations reported in the recent 4D-MRI study taken for comparison. For the Triflo trileaflet valve, the early helical flow is not obstructed in the central orifice, similar as in the case of the natural valve. Conservation of angular momentum leads to radial expansion of the core flow and flattening of the axial flow profile downstream in the arch. Furthermore, the early helical flow helps to overcome separation at the outer and inner curvature. In contrast, the two parallel leaflets for the bileaflet valve impose a flow straightener effect, annihilating the angular momentum, which has a negative impact on kinetic energy of the flow. Conclusion—The results imply better hemodynamics for the Triflo trileaflet valve based on hydrodynamic arguments under the discussed hypothesis. In addition, it makes the Triflo valve a better candidate for valve replacements in patients with a pathological generation of nonaxial velocity in the ventricle outflow tract. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Next Generation of Prosthetic Heart Valves)
Show Figures

Figure 1

3 pages, 178 KiB  
Editorial
Anaerobic Digestion in the 21st Century
by Marcell Nikolausz and Jörg Kretzschmar
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040157 - 07 Dec 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2685
Abstract
Despite being a mature biotechnological process, anaerobic digestion is still attracting considerable research attention, mainly due to its versatility both in substrate and product spectra, as well as being a perfect test system for the microbial ecology of anaerobes [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Advances in Anaerobic Digestion Technology)
24 pages, 1079 KiB  
Review
Best of Both Hydrogel Worlds: Harnessing Bioactivity and Tunability by Incorporating Glycosaminoglycans in Collagen Hydrogels
by Tanaya Walimbe and Alyssa Panitch
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040156 - 02 Dec 2020
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 7417
Abstract
Collagen, the most abundant protein in mammals, has garnered the interest of scientists for over 50 years. Its ubiquitous presence in all body tissues combined with its excellent biocompatibility has led scientists to study its potential as a biomaterial for a wide variety [...] Read more.
Collagen, the most abundant protein in mammals, has garnered the interest of scientists for over 50 years. Its ubiquitous presence in all body tissues combined with its excellent biocompatibility has led scientists to study its potential as a biomaterial for a wide variety of biomedical applications with a high degree of success and widespread clinical approval. More recently, in order to increase their tunability and applicability, collagen hydrogels have frequently been co-polymerized with other natural and synthetic polymers. Of special significance is the use of bioactive glycosaminoglycans—the carbohydrate-rich polymers of the ECM responsible for regulating tissue homeostasis and cell signaling. This review covers the recent advances in the development of collagen-based hydrogels and collagen-glycosaminoglycan blend hydrogels for biomedical research. We discuss the formulations and shortcomings of using collagen in isolation, and the advantages of incorporating glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in the hydrogels. We further elaborate on modifications used on these biopolymers for tunability and discuss tissue specific applications. The information presented herein will demonstrate the versatility and highly translational value of using collagen blended with GAGs as hydrogels for biomedical engineering applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomedical Applications of Collagen)
Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 2017 KiB  
Review
Three Decades of Research on Recombinant Collagens: Reinventing the Wheel or Developing New Biomedical Products?
by Andrzej Fertala
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040155 - 02 Dec 2020
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 6432
Abstract
Collagens provide the building blocks for diverse tissues and organs. Furthermore, these proteins act as signaling molecules that control cell behavior during organ development, growth, and repair. Their long half-life, mechanical strength, ability to assemble into fibrils and networks, biocompatibility, and abundance from [...] Read more.
Collagens provide the building blocks for diverse tissues and organs. Furthermore, these proteins act as signaling molecules that control cell behavior during organ development, growth, and repair. Their long half-life, mechanical strength, ability to assemble into fibrils and networks, biocompatibility, and abundance from readily available discarded animal tissues make collagens an attractive material in biomedicine, drug and food industries, and cosmetic products. About three decades ago, pioneering experiments led to recombinant human collagens’ expression, thereby initiating studies on the potential use of these proteins as substitutes for the animal-derived collagens. Since then, scientists have utilized various systems to produce native-like recombinant collagens and their fragments. They also tested these collagens as materials to repair tissues, deliver drugs, and serve as therapeutics. Although many tests demonstrated that recombinant collagens perform as well as their native counterparts, the recombinant collagen technology has not yet been adopted by the biomedical, pharmaceutical, or food industry. This paper highlights recent technologies to produce and utilize recombinant collagens, and it contemplates their prospects and limitations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomedical Applications of Collagen)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 3004 KiB  
Article
Proteomic Examination for Gluconeogenesis Pathway-Shift during Polyhydroxyalkanoate Formation in Cupriavidus necator Grown on Glycerol
by Nuttapol Tanadchangsaeng and Sittiruk Roytrakul
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040154 - 01 Dec 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2883
Abstract
Because of availability and inexpensiveness, glycerol can be considered as a suitable raw material for polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) production with bacterial fermentation. Nevertheless, compared to the production of glucose as a raw precursor, PHA produced from glycerol by Cupriavidus necator was found to produce [...] Read more.
Because of availability and inexpensiveness, glycerol can be considered as a suitable raw material for polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) production with bacterial fermentation. Nevertheless, compared to the production of glucose as a raw precursor, PHA produced from glycerol by Cupriavidus necator was found to produce lower PHA with low bacterial growth rates. According to our study, C. necator was able to synthesize glucose-like intermediates from glycerol via gluconeogenesis. This resulted in a decrease of the cell dry weight and the yield of PHA polymers, especially in the active cell growth phase. It was indicated that glycerol used as a carbon source of the PHA synthesis pathway has glucogenesis-shift, which causes a decrease of the PHA content and productivity. In this research, we investigated the proteins that were closely expressed with the increase of the intracellular PHA and glucose content. For solving the above problem, the proteins inside the bacterial cells were analyzed and compared to the database proteins via mass spectrometry. The proteins were isolated by 1-D SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) technique and identified by the liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) technique. By using bioinformatics validation, a total number of 1361 proteins were examined and found in the culture bacterial cells. Selective protein expression was correlated with the amount of PHA at each cultivation time and generating glucose by studying the 1361 proteins was elucidated in proteomic information. The results of the cluster of proteins were found to contain 93 proteins using the multiple array viewer (MEV) program with the KMS data analysis model. Protein species with the same expression pattern for PHA and six proteins with similar expression patterns were found to be correlated with generating glucose content. The associations of the two protein groups were then determined through a Stitch program. The protein and chemical associations were analyzed both directly and indirectly through different databases. The proteins of interest were found with research data linked between glycerol and glucose. Five protein types are connecting to glucose and glycerol shift pathway, two of which are glycosyl hydrolase (H16_B1563) and short-chain dehydrogenase (H16_B0687), both of which are enzymes used to break the bonds of complex sugars, possibly related to the partial conversion of glycerol to glucose. The two proteins found in the strains used in the Cupriavidus necator H16 experiment give rise to the break down the bonds of α,α-1,1-glucoside of malto-oligosyltrehalose and short-chain sugar molecules such as mannitol (C6H14O6), respectively. In this research, finding the associated expression proteins which is involved in changing the pathway of gluconeogenesis shift to PHA synthesis will be useful information on genetically modifying microorganisms to produce PHA more efficiently, leading to reduction of the production costs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Biopolymers: From Synthesis to Properties and Applications)
Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 2371 KiB  
Review
Paramagnetic Functionalization of Biocompatible Scaffolds for Biomedical Applications: A Perspective
by Simona Bettini, Valentina Bonfrate, Ludovico Valli and Gabriele Giancane
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040153 - 28 Nov 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3304
Abstract
The burst of research papers focused on the tissue engineering and regeneration recorded in the last years is justified by the increased skills in the synthesis of nanostructures able to confer peculiar biological and mechanical features to the matrix where they are dispersed. [...] Read more.
The burst of research papers focused on the tissue engineering and regeneration recorded in the last years is justified by the increased skills in the synthesis of nanostructures able to confer peculiar biological and mechanical features to the matrix where they are dispersed. Inorganic, organic and hybrid nanostructures are proposed in the literature depending on the characteristic that has to be tuned and on the effect that has to be induced. In the field of the inorganic nanoparticles used for decorating the bio-scaffolds, the most recent contributions about the paramagnetic and superparamagnetic nanoparticles use was evaluated in the present contribution. The intrinsic properties of the paramagnetic nanoparticles, the possibility to be triggered by the simple application of an external magnetic field, their biocompatibility and the easiness of the synthetic procedures for obtaining them proposed these nanostructures as ideal candidates for positively enhancing the tissue regeneration. Herein, we divided the discussion into two macro-topics: the use of magnetic nanoparticles in scaffolds used for hard tissue engineering for soft tissue regeneration. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1563 KiB  
Review
The Macro- and Micro-Mechanics of the Colon and Rectum II: Theoretical and Computational Methods
by Yunmei Zhao, Saeed Siri, Bin Feng and David M. Pierce
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040152 - 25 Nov 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3577
Abstract
Abnormal colorectal biomechanics and mechanotransduction associate with an array of gastrointestinal diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticula disease, anorectal disorders, ileus, and chronic constipation. Visceral pain, principally evoked from mechanical distension, has a unique biomechanical component that plays a critical [...] Read more.
Abnormal colorectal biomechanics and mechanotransduction associate with an array of gastrointestinal diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticula disease, anorectal disorders, ileus, and chronic constipation. Visceral pain, principally evoked from mechanical distension, has a unique biomechanical component that plays a critical role in mechanotransduction, the process of encoding mechanical stimuli to the colorectum by sensory afferents. To fully understand the underlying mechanisms of visceral mechanical neural encoding demands focused attention on the macro- and micro-mechanics of colon tissue. Motivated by biomechanical experiments on the colon and rectum, increasing efforts focus on developing constitutive frameworks to interpret and predict the anisotropic and nonlinear biomechanical behaviors of the multilayered colorectum. We will review the current literature on computational modeling of the colon and rectum as well as the mechanical neural encoding by stretch sensitive afferent endings, and then highlight our recent advances in these areas. Current models provide insight into organ- and tissue-level biomechanics as well as the stretch-sensitive afferent endings of colorectal tissues yet an important challenge in modeling theory remains. The research community has not connected the biomechanical models to those of mechanosensitive nerve endings to create a cohesive multiscale framework for predicting mechanotransduction from organ-level biomechanics. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2248 KiB  
Review
The Promise of Optogenetics for Bioproduction: Dynamic Control Strategies and Scale-Up Instruments
by Sylvain Pouzet, Alvaro Banderas, Matthias Le Bec, Thomas Lautier, Gilles Truan and Pascal Hersen
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040151 - 24 Nov 2020
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 5717
Abstract
Progress in metabolic engineering and synthetic and systems biology has made bioproduction an increasingly attractive and competitive strategy for synthesizing biomolecules, recombinant proteins and biofuels from renewable feedstocks. Yet, due to poor productivity, it remains difficult to make a bioproduction process economically viable [...] Read more.
Progress in metabolic engineering and synthetic and systems biology has made bioproduction an increasingly attractive and competitive strategy for synthesizing biomolecules, recombinant proteins and biofuels from renewable feedstocks. Yet, due to poor productivity, it remains difficult to make a bioproduction process economically viable at large scale. Achieving dynamic control of cellular processes could lead to even better yields by balancing the two characteristic phases of bioproduction, namely, growth versus production, which lie at the heart of a trade-off that substantially impacts productivity. The versatility and controllability offered by light will be a key element in attaining the level of control desired. The popularity of light-mediated control is increasing, with an expanding repertoire of optogenetic systems for novel applications, and many optogenetic devices have been designed to test optogenetic strains at various culture scales for bioproduction objectives. In this review, we aim to highlight the most important advances in this direction. We discuss how optogenetics is currently applied to control metabolism in the context of bioproduction, describe the optogenetic instruments and devices used at the laboratory scale for strain development, and explore how current industrial-scale bioproduction processes could be adapted for optogenetics or could benefit from existing photobioreactor designs. We then draw attention to the steps that must be undertaken to further optimize the control of biological systems in order to take full advantage of the potential offered by microbial factories. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Yeast to Biotechnology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 827 KiB  
Article
Acid Resistance of Glass Ionomer Cement Restorative Materials
by Dinuki Perera, Sean C. H. Yu, Henry Zeng, Ian A. Meyers and Laurence J. Walsh
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040150 - 22 Nov 2020
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4094
Abstract
In view of the need for aesthetics, restorations of teeth will typically be completed using tooth colored restorative materials. With the advent of biomimetic restorative materials, such as glass ionomer cements (GIC), much greater emphasis is now being placed on how well such [...] Read more.
In view of the need for aesthetics, restorations of teeth will typically be completed using tooth colored restorative materials. With the advent of biomimetic restorative materials, such as glass ionomer cements (GIC), much greater emphasis is now being placed on how well such materials can resist the challenge of acids that are present in foods and drinks, or gastric contents that are regurgitated. This laboratory study compared the dissolution and behavior of five GIC materials (GC Fuji® VII, GC Fuji® Bulk, GC Fuji® IX Fast, Fuji® IX Extra and GC Equia® Forte Fil) when exposed to three acids (citric acid, phosphoric acid and lactic acid), versus ultrapure deionized water, which was used as a control. Discs of each material GIC were submerged in solutions and percentage weight changes over time determined. Subsequently, the GIC materials were also placed as a part of standardized Class II sandwich restorations in bovine teeth (n = 20), and submerged in the solutions, and the extent of GIC dissolution and protection of the adjacent tooth was scored. Weight loss increased with time and with acid concentration. Overall, the most soluble material was GC Fuji® IX Extra, while GC Fuji® IX Fast and GC Fuji® Bulk were less soluble, and the least soluble material was GC Equia® Forte Fil. The most destructive solution for both the discs and for GIC restorations in teeth was 10% citric acid, while the least destructive acid was 0.1% lactic acid. The more recent GIC materials GC Fuji® Bulk and GC Equia® Forte Fil showed increased acid resistance over the older GIC materials, and this further justifies their use in open sandwich Class II restorations in more hostile environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future Use of Technology and Materials for Dental Restoration)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 5493 KiB  
Article
Theoretical Simulation of the Near-Field Probe for Non-Invasive Measurements on Planar Layers with Biological Characteristics
by Aleksandr Gorst, Kseniya Zavyalova, Vladimir Yakubov, Aleksandr Mironchev and Andrey Zapasnoy
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040149 - 19 Nov 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2501
Abstract
The article presents the design of the near-field probe, which is a combined emitter (a combination of a symmetric dipole and an annular frame). The design of the probe allows forming a prolonged zone of the near-field. This effect can be used for [...] Read more.
The article presents the design of the near-field probe, which is a combined emitter (a combination of a symmetric dipole and an annular frame). The design of the probe allows forming a prolonged zone of the near-field. This effect can be used for in-depth penetration of the field in media with high absorption, without loss of information. Particular attention in this article is given to a detailed study of the interaction of the field created by this probe on plane-layered biological media. A theoretical analysis of the interaction of the electromagnetic field was carried out in a wide frequency band with a model plane-layer biological medium containing blood vessels of shallow depth using the proposed probe design. Conclusions are drawn about the depth of penetration of a useful signal into different media-analogs of biological tissue. This study is necessary to consider the possibility of using this probe for non-invasive measurements of blood glucose concentration. The studies were carried out using numerical simulation in the CST (Computer Simulation Technology) Microwave Studio environment. All biological tissues were simulated over a wide frequency range from 10 MHz to 10 GHz. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 586 KiB  
Article
Inference of Regulatory System for TAG Biosynthesis in Lipomyces starkeyi
by Sachiyo Aburatani, Koji Ishiya, Toshikazu Itoh, Toshihiro Hayashi, Takeaki Taniguchi and Hiroaki Takaku
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040148 - 19 Nov 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2646
Abstract
Improving the bioproduction ability of efficient host microorganisms is a central aim in bioengineering. To control biosynthesis in living cells, the regulatory system of the whole biosynthetic pathway should be clearly understood. In this study, we applied our network modeling method to infer [...] Read more.
Improving the bioproduction ability of efficient host microorganisms is a central aim in bioengineering. To control biosynthesis in living cells, the regulatory system of the whole biosynthetic pathway should be clearly understood. In this study, we applied our network modeling method to infer the regulatory system for triacylglyceride (TAG) biosynthesis in Lipomyces starkeyi, using factor analyses and structural equation modeling to construct a regulatory network model. By factor analysis, we classified 89 TAG biosynthesis-related genes into nine groups, which were considered different regulatory sub-systems. We constructed two different types of regulatory models. One is the regulatory model for oil productivity, and the other is the whole regulatory model for TAG biosynthesis. From the inferred oil productivity regulatory model, the well characterized genes DGA1 and ACL1 were detected as regulatory factors. Furthermore, we also found unknown feedback controls in oil productivity regulation. These regulation models suggest that the regulatory factor induction targets should be selected carefully. Within the whole regulatory model of TAG biosynthesis, some genes were detected as not related to TAG biosynthesis regulation. Using network modeling, we reveal that the regulatory system is helpful for the new era of bioengineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Yeast to Biotechnology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 5796 KiB  
Article
Proteomics Answers Which Yeast Genes Are Specific for Baking, Brewing, and Ethanol Production
by Svetlana Davydenko, Tatiana Meledina, Alexey Mittenberg, Sergey Shabelnikov, Maksim Vonsky and Artyom Morozov
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040147 - 18 Nov 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3654
Abstract
Yeast strains are convenient models for studying domestication processes. The ability of yeast to ferment carbon sources from various substrates and to produce ethanol and carbon dioxide is the core of brewing, winemaking, and ethanol production technologies. The present study reveals the differences [...] Read more.
Yeast strains are convenient models for studying domestication processes. The ability of yeast to ferment carbon sources from various substrates and to produce ethanol and carbon dioxide is the core of brewing, winemaking, and ethanol production technologies. The present study reveals the differences among yeast strains used in various industries. To understand this, we performed a proteomic study of industrial Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains followed by a comparative analysis of available yeast genetic data. Individual protein expression levels in domesticated strains from different industries indicated modulation resulting from response to technological environments. The innovative nature of this research was the discovery of genes overexpressed in yeast strains adapted to brewing, baking, and ethanol production, typical genes for specific domestication were found. We discovered a gene set typical for brewer’s yeast strains. Baker’s yeast had a specific gene adapted to osmotic stress. Toxic stress was typical for yeast used for ethanol production. The data obtained can be applied for targeted improvement of industrial strains. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Yeast to Biotechnology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1283 KiB  
Review
Novel Bionics Assessment of Anorectal Mechanosensory Physiology
by Hans Gregersen
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040146 - 14 Nov 2020
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3032
Abstract
Biomechatronics (bionics) is an applied science that creates interdisciplinary bonds between biology and engineering. The lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract is difficult to study but has gained interest in recent decades from a bionics point of view. Ingestible capsules that record physiological variables during [...] Read more.
Biomechatronics (bionics) is an applied science that creates interdisciplinary bonds between biology and engineering. The lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract is difficult to study but has gained interest in recent decades from a bionics point of view. Ingestible capsules that record physiological variables during GI transit have been developed and used for detailed analysis of colon transit and motility. Recently, a simulated stool named Fecobionics was developed. It has the consistency and shape of normal stool. Fecobionics records a variety of parameters including pressures, bending, and shape changes. It has been used to study defecation patterns in large animals and humans, including patients with symptoms of obstructed defecation and fecal incontinence. Recently, it was applied in a canine colon model where it revealed patterns consistent with shallow waves originating from slow waves generated by the interstitial Cells of Cajal. Novel analysis such as the “rear-front” pressure diagram and quantification of defecation indices has been developed for Fecobionics. GI research has traditionally been based on experimental approaches. Mathematical modeling is a unique way to deal with the complexity. This paper describes the Fecobionics technology, related mechano-physiological modeling analyses, and outlines perspectives for future applications. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 5624 KiB  
Article
Automated Conditional Screening of Multiple Escherichia coli Strains in Parallel Adaptive Fed-Batch Cultivations
by Sebastian Hans, Benjamin Haby, Niels Krausch, Tilman Barz, Peter Neubauer and Mariano Nicolas Cruz-Bournazou
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040145 - 11 Nov 2020
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3623
Abstract
In bioprocess development, the host and the genetic construct for a new biomanufacturing process are selected in the early developmental stages. This decision, made at the screening scale with very limited information about the performance in larger reactors, has a major influence on [...] Read more.
In bioprocess development, the host and the genetic construct for a new biomanufacturing process are selected in the early developmental stages. This decision, made at the screening scale with very limited information about the performance in larger reactors, has a major influence on the efficiency of the final process. To overcome this, scale-down approaches during screenings that show the real cell factory performance at industrial-like conditions are essential. We present a fully automated robotic facility with 24 parallel mini-bioreactors that is operated by a model-based adaptive input design framework for the characterization of clone libraries under scale-down conditions. The cultivation operation strategies are computed and continuously refined based on a macro-kinetic growth model that is continuously re-fitted to the available experimental data. The added value of the approach is demonstrated with 24 parallel fed-batch cultivations in a mini-bioreactor system with eight different Escherichia coli strains in triplicate. The 24 fed-batch cultivations were run under the desired conditions, generating sufficient information to define the fastest-growing strain in an environment with oscillating glucose concentrations similar to industrial-scale bioreactors. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1821 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Three Glycoproteomic Methods for the Analysis of the Secretome of CHO Cells Treated with 1,3,4-O-Bu3ManNAc
by Joseph L. Mertz, Shisheng Sun, Bojiao Yin, Yingwei Hu, Rahul Bhattacharya, Michael J. Bettenbaugh, Kevin J. Yarema and Hui Zhang
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040144 - 10 Nov 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3172
Abstract
Comprehensive analysis of the glycoproteome is critical due to the importance of glycosylation to many aspects of protein function. The tremendous complexity of this post-translational modification, however, makes it difficult to adequately characterize the glycoproteome using any single method. To overcome this pitfall, [...] Read more.
Comprehensive analysis of the glycoproteome is critical due to the importance of glycosylation to many aspects of protein function. The tremendous complexity of this post-translational modification, however, makes it difficult to adequately characterize the glycoproteome using any single method. To overcome this pitfall, in this report we compared three glycoproteomic analysis methods; first the recently developed N-linked glycans and glycosite-containing peptides (NGAG) chemoenzymatic method, second, solid-phase extraction of N-linked glycoproteins (SPEG), and third, hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) by characterizing N-linked glycosites in the secretome of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Interestingly, the glycosites identified by SPEG and HILIC overlapped considerably whereas NGAG identified many glycosites not observed in the other two methods. Further, utilizing enhanced intact glycopeptide identification afforded by the NGAG workflow, we found that the sugar analog 1,3,4-O-Bu3ManNAc, a “high flux” metabolic precursor for sialic acid biosynthesis, increased sialylation of secreted proteins including recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO). Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 6264 KiB  
Article
Correlating Grip Force Signals from Multiple Sensors Highlights Prehensile Control Strategies in a Complex Task-User System
by Birgitta Dresp-Langley, Florent Nageotte, Philippe Zanne and Michel de Mathelin
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040143 - 10 Nov 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2964
Abstract
Wearable sensor systems with transmitting capabilities are currently employed for the biometric screening of exercise activities and other performance data. Such technology is generally wireless and enables the non-invasive monitoring of signals to track and trace user behaviors in real time. Examples include [...] Read more.
Wearable sensor systems with transmitting capabilities are currently employed for the biometric screening of exercise activities and other performance data. Such technology is generally wireless and enables the non-invasive monitoring of signals to track and trace user behaviors in real time. Examples include signals relative to hand and finger movements or force control reflected by individual grip force data. As will be shown here, these signals directly translate into task, skill, and hand-specific (dominant versus non-dominant hand) grip force profiles for different measurement loci in the fingers and palm of the hand. The present study draws from thousands of such sensor data recorded from multiple spatial locations. The individual grip force profiles of a highly proficient left-hander (expert), a right-handed dominant-hand-trained user, and a right-handed novice performing an image-guided, robot-assisted precision task with the dominant or the non-dominant hand are analyzed. The step-by-step statistical approach follows Tukey’s “detective work” principle, guided by explicit functional assumptions relating to somatosensory receptive field organization in the human brain. Correlation analyses (Person’s product moment) reveal skill-specific differences in co-variation patterns in the individual grip force profiles. These can be functionally mapped to from-global-to-local coding principles in the brain networks that govern grip force control and its optimization with a specific task expertise. Implications for the real-time monitoring of grip forces and performance training in complex task-user systems are brought forward. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multivariate Physiological Signal Analysis)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

11 pages, 2380 KiB  
Article
Assessment of the Highest Stress Concentration Area Generated on the Mandibular Structure Using Meshless Finite Elements Analysis
by Andrea Fabra Rivera, Frederico de Castro Magalhães, Amalia Moreno and Juan Campos Rubio
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040142 - 08 Nov 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3535
Abstract
Frequently, the oral cavity area can be affected by different diseases, so the patient needs to be submitted to surgery to remove a specific region of the mandibular. A complete or partial discontinuity of the mandibular bone can cause direct or indirect forces [...] Read more.
Frequently, the oral cavity area can be affected by different diseases, so the patient needs to be submitted to surgery to remove a specific region of the mandibular. A complete or partial discontinuity of the mandibular bone can cause direct or indirect forces variations during the mastication. The dental prosthesis is an alternative to generate an aesthetic or functional solution for oral cavity lesions. However, they can be wrongly designed, or they can lose the adjustment during their useful life, deteriorating the patient’s condition. In this work, the influence of the fixation components position for a dental prosthesis will be studied based on the finite element method. By means, it is possible to determine the area of the highest stress concentration generated on the mandibular structure. The temporomandibular image obtained by computational tomography was used as a 3D graphic whole model because in the medical area the morphological factors are extremely important. Vertical loads of 50, 100, 150 and 200 N were applied in three different regions: in the whole buccal cavity, simultaneously in the left and right laterals and only in the right lateral, to determine the values of von Mises stress in the mandible. These results were compared between three finite element software packages (Ansys®, SolidWorks® and Inventor®) and a meshless software (SimSolid®). They showed similar behaviors in the highest mechanical stress concentration in the same regions. Regarding the stress values, the percentage error between each software package was less than 10%. The use of SimSolid® software (meshless) proved to be better at identifying the higher stress generated by the dental prosthesis in the facial skeleton, so its computational efficiency, due to its geometric complexity, was highlighted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future Use of Technology and Materials for Dental Restoration)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 3625 KiB  
Article
Advanced Bioink for 3D Bioprinting of Complex Free-Standing Structures with High Stiffness
by Yawei Gu, Benjamin Schwarz, Aurelien Forget, Andrea Barbero, Ivan Martin and V. Prasad Shastri
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040141 - 07 Nov 2020
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 5351
Abstract
One of the challenges in 3D-bioprinting is the realization of complex, volumetrically defined structures, that are also anatomically accurate and relevant. Towards this end, in this study we report the development and validation of a carboxylated agarose (CA)-based bioink that is amenable to [...] Read more.
One of the challenges in 3D-bioprinting is the realization of complex, volumetrically defined structures, that are also anatomically accurate and relevant. Towards this end, in this study we report the development and validation of a carboxylated agarose (CA)-based bioink that is amenable to 3D printing of free-standing structures with high stiffness at physiological temperature using microextrusion printing without the need for a fugitive phase or post-processing or support material (FRESH). By blending CA with negligible amounts of native agarose (NA) a bioink formulation (CANA) which is suitable for printing with nozzles of varying internal diameters under ideal pneumatic pressure was developed. The ability of the CANA ink to exhibit reproducible sol-gel transition at physiological temperature of 37 °C was established through rigorous characterization of the thermal behavior, and rheological properties. Using a customized bioprinter equipped with temperature-controlled nozzle and print bed, high-aspect ratio objects possessing anatomically-relevant curvature and architecture have been printed with high print reproducibility and dimension fidelity. Objects printed with CANA bioink were found to be structurally stable over a wide temperature range of 4 °C to 37 °C, and exhibited robust layer-to-layer bonding and integration, with evenly stratified structures, and a porous interior that is conducive to fluid transport. This exceptional layer-to-layer fusion (bonding) afforded by the CANA bioink during the print obviated the need for post-processing to stabilize printed structures. As a result, this novel CANA bioink is capable of yielding large (5–10 mm tall) free-standing objects ranging from simple tall cylinders, hemispheres, bifurcated ‘Y’-shaped and ‘S’-shaped hollow tubes, and cylinders with compartments without the need for support and/or a fugitive phase. Studies with human nasal chondrocytes showed that the CANA bioink is amenable to the incorporation of high density of cells (30 million/mL) without impact on printability. Furthermore, printed cells showed high viability and underwent mitosis which is necessary for promoting remodeling processes. The ability to print complex structures with high cell densities, combined with excellent cell and tissue biocompatibility of CA bodes well for the exploitation of CANA bioinks as a versatile 3D-bioprinting platform for the clinical translation of regenerative paradigms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocomposite Inks for 3D Printing)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

14 pages, 15780 KiB  
Article
Biomechanical Force Prediction for Lengthening of Small Intestine during Distraction Enterogenesis
by Hadi S. Hosseini and James C. Y. Dunn
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040140 - 07 Nov 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3523
Abstract
Distraction enterogenesis has been extensively studied as a potential treatment for short bowel syndrome, which is the most common form of intestinal failure. Different strategies including parenteral nutrition and surgical lengthening to manage patients with short bowel syndrome are associated with high complication [...] Read more.
Distraction enterogenesis has been extensively studied as a potential treatment for short bowel syndrome, which is the most common form of intestinal failure. Different strategies including parenteral nutrition and surgical lengthening to manage patients with short bowel syndrome are associated with high complication rates. More recently, self-expanding springs have been used to lengthen the small intestine using an intraluminal axial mechanical force, where this biomechanical force stimulates the growth and elongation of the small intestine. Differences in physical characteristics of patients with short bowel syndrome would require a different mechanical force—this is crucial in order to achieve an efficient and safe lengthening outcome. In this study, we aimed to predict the required mechanical force for each potential intestinal size. Based on our previous experimental observations and computational findings, we integrated our experimental measurements of patient biometrics along with mechanical characterization of the soft tissue into our numerical simulations to develop a series of computational models. These computational models can predict the required mechanical force for any potential patient where this can be advantageous in predicting an individual’s tissue response to spring-mediated distraction enterogenesis and can be used toward a safe delivery of the mechanical force. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 902 KiB  
Review
Instrumented Analysis of the Sit-to-Stand Movement for Geriatric Screening: A Systematic Review
by Brajesh Shukla, Jennifer Bassement, Vivek Vijay, Sandeep Yadav and David Hewson
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040139 - 06 Nov 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3762
Abstract
The Sit-to-Stand (STS) is a widely used test of physical function to screen older people at risk of falls and frailty and is also one of the most important components of standard screening for sarcopenia. There have been many recent studies in which [...] Read more.
The Sit-to-Stand (STS) is a widely used test of physical function to screen older people at risk of falls and frailty and is also one of the most important components of standard screening for sarcopenia. There have been many recent studies in which instrumented versions of the STS (iSTS) have been developed to provide additional parameters that could improve the accuracy of the STS test. This systematic review aimed to identify whether an iSTS is a viable alternative to a standard STS to identify older people at risk of falling, frailty, and sarcopenia. A total of 856 articles were found using the search strategy developed, with 12 articles retained in the review after screening based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Six studies evaluated the iSTS in fallers, five studies in frailty and only one study in both fallers and frailty. The results showed that power and velocity parameters extracted from an iSTS have the potential to improve the accuracy of screening when compared to a standard STS. Future work should focus on standardizing the segmentation of the STS into phases to enable comparison between studies and to develop devices integrated into the chair used for the test to improve usability. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 1247 KiB  
Communication
Influence of Liquid-to-Gas Ratio on the Syngas Fermentation Efficiency: An Experimental Approach
by Spyridon Achinas, Sytse Jelmer Mulder and Gerrit Jan Willem Euverink
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 138; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040138 - 31 Oct 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2526
Abstract
Syngas fermentation by methanogens is a novel process to purify biogas. Methanogens are able to ferment non-desirable CO2, H2, and CO to methane. However, to use methanogens on an industrial scale, more research has to be done. There are studies [...] Read more.
Syngas fermentation by methanogens is a novel process to purify biogas. Methanogens are able to ferment non-desirable CO2, H2, and CO to methane. However, to use methanogens on an industrial scale, more research has to be done. There are studies that discuss the growth of methanogens on syngas in combination with acetate. In this research, growth of methanogens on syngas as sole carbon source is discussed. Effluent of an anaerobic fed-batch was selectively cultivated with syngas in 400 mL Eppendorf© bioreactors. After a period of 7 days, fifteen 120 mL flasks were filled with three different liquid-to-gas ratios (1:1, 1:3, 1:5). Results showed that different liquid-to-gas ratios change the metabolic preference of the anaerobic microbial community. Moreover, complete conversion in a four-to-eight-day period, via the carboxidotrophic pathway, was observed in all three liquid-to-gas ratios. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass Conversion)
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 3943 KiB  
Review
Genetic Engineering and Synthetic Genomics in Yeast to Understand Life and Boost Biotechnology
by Daniel Schindler
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040137 - 29 Oct 2020
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 7552
Abstract
The field of genetic engineering was born in 1973 with the “construction of biologically functional bacterial plasmids in vitro”. Since then, a vast number of technologies have been developed allowing large-scale reading and writing of DNA, as well as tools for [...] Read more.
The field of genetic engineering was born in 1973 with the “construction of biologically functional bacterial plasmids in vitro”. Since then, a vast number of technologies have been developed allowing large-scale reading and writing of DNA, as well as tools for complex modifications and alterations of the genetic code. Natural genomes can be seen as software version 1.0; synthetic genomics aims to rewrite this software with “build to understand” and “build to apply” philosophies. One of the predominant model organisms is the baker’s yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Its importance ranges from ancient biotechnologies such as baking and brewing, to high-end valuable compound synthesis on industrial scales. This tiny sugar fungus contributed greatly to enabling humankind to reach its current development status. This review discusses recent developments in the field of genetic engineering for budding yeast S. cerevisiae, and its application in biotechnology. The article highlights advances from Sc1.0 to the developments in synthetic genomics paving the way towards Sc2.0. With the synthetic genome of Sc2.0 nearing completion, the article also aims to propose perspectives for potential Sc3.0 and subsequent versions as well as its implications for basic and applied research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Yeast to Biotechnology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 2934 KiB  
Article
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)-Based Optimization of Injection Process during Endoscopic Mucosal Therapy
by Mohamad Aghaie Meybodi, Rohit Saini, Amirfarhang Mehdizadeh and Reza Hejazi
Bioengineering 2020, 7(4), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering7040136 - 27 Oct 2020
Viewed by 2784
Abstract
Creation of a submucosal plane to separate the lesion from the deeper muscle layer in gastrointestinal tract is an integral and essential part of endoscopic resection therapies such as endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Thereby, an optimized submucosal injection [...] Read more.
Creation of a submucosal plane to separate the lesion from the deeper muscle layer in gastrointestinal tract is an integral and essential part of endoscopic resection therapies such as endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Thereby, an optimized submucosal injection technique is required to ensure a successful process. In this study, the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technique is employed as a foundational step towards the development of a framework that can provide useful directions to optimize the injection process. Three different lifting agents, including Glycerol, Eleview®, and ORISE® gel have been used for this study. The role of different injection angles, injection dynamics, and effect of temperature are studied to understand the lifting characteristic of each agent. The study shows that Eleview® provides the highest lifting effect, including the initial injection period. To evaluate the impact of the injection process, two cases are simulated, termed static injection and dynamic injection. Under static injection, the injection angle is investigated from lower to higher angles of injection. In the dynamic injection, two cases are modulated, where a continuous change of injection angle from lower to higher degrees (denoted as clockwise) and vice-versa in the anti-clockwise direction are investigated. Increased lifting characteristics are observed at decreasing/lower angle of injection. Further, the correlation between temperature of the lifting agents and their lifting characteristics is investigated. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Previous Issue
Next Issue
Back to TopTop