Bioengineering

25 pages, 5165 KiB

Open AccessReview

Gelatin Methacryloyl Hydrogels for Musculoskeletal Tissue Regeneration

by Yang-Hee Kim, Jonathan I. Dawson, Richard O. C. Oreffo, Yasuhiko Tabata, Dhiraj Kumar, Conrado Aparicio and Isha Mutreja

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 332; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070332 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3980

Abstract

Musculoskeletal disorders are a significant burden on the global economy and public health. Hydrogels have significant potential for enhancing the repair of damaged and injured musculoskeletal tissues as cell or drug delivery systems. Hydrogels have unique physicochemical properties which make them promising platforms [...] Read more.

Musculoskeletal disorders are a significant burden on the global economy and public health. Hydrogels have significant potential for enhancing the repair of damaged and injured musculoskeletal tissues as cell or drug delivery systems. Hydrogels have unique physicochemical properties which make them promising platforms for controlling cell functions. Gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel in particular has been extensively investigated as a promising biomaterial due to its tuneable and beneficial properties and has been widely used in different biomedical applications. In this review, a detailed overview of GelMA synthesis, hydrogel design and applications in regenerative medicine is provided. After summarising recent progress in hydrogels more broadly, we highlight recent advances of GelMA hydrogels in the emerging fields of musculoskeletal drug delivery, involving therapeutic drugs (e.g., growth factors, antimicrobial molecules, immunomodulatory drugs and cells), delivery approaches (e.g., single-, dual-release system), and material design (e.g., addition of organic or inorganic materials, 3D printing). The review concludes with future perspectives and associated challenges for developing local drug delivery for musculoskeletal applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctional Scaffolds for Musculoskeletal Regeneration)

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17 pages, 3037 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Light Modulation for Bioactive Pigment Production in Synechocystis salina

by Joana Assunção, Fernando Pagels, Tânia Tavares, F. Xavier Malcata and A. Catarina Guedes

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 331; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070331 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1746

Abstract

Cyanobacteria are microorganisms that are well-adapted to sudden changes in their environment, namely to light conditions. This has allowed them to develop mechanisms for photoprotection, which encompass alteration in pigment composition. Therefore, light modulation appears to be a suitable strategy to enhance the [...] Read more.

Cyanobacteria are microorganisms that are well-adapted to sudden changes in their environment, namely to light conditions. This has allowed them to develop mechanisms for photoprotection, which encompass alteration in pigment composition. Therefore, light modulation appears to be a suitable strategy to enhance the synthesis of specific pigments (e.g., phycocyanin) with commercial interest, in addition to conveying a more fundamental perspective on the mechanisms of acclimatization of cyanobacterium species. In this study, Synechocystis salina was accordingly cultivated in two light phase stages: (i) white LED, and (ii) shift to distinct light treatments, including white, green, and red LEDs. The type of LED lighting was combined with two intensities (50 and 150 µmol_photons·m⁻²·s⁻¹). The effects on biomass production, photosynthetic efficiency, chlorophyll a (chl a) content, total carotenoids (and profile thereof), and phycobiliproteins (including phycocyanin, allophycocyanin, and phycoerythrin) were assessed. White light (under high intensity) led to higher biomass production, growth, and productivity; this is consistent with higher photosynthetic efficiency. However, chl a underwent a deeper impact under green light (high intensity); total carotenoids were influenced by white light (high intensity); whilst red treatment had a higher effect upon total and individual phycobiliproteins. Enhanced PC productivities were found under modulation with red light (low intensities), and could be achieved 7 days earlier than in white LED (over 22 days); this finding is quite interesting from a sustainability and economic point of view. Light modulation accordingly appears to be a useful tool for supplementary studies pertaining to optimization of pigment production with biotechnological interest. Full article

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13 pages, 1854 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Optical and Chemiluminescence Assay for Assessing the Cytotoxicity of Balamuthia mandrillaris against Human Neurospheroids

by Worakamol Pengsart and Kasem Kulkeaw

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 330; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070330 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1861

Abstract

A spheroid is a cell aggregate in a three-dimensional context; thereby, it recapitulates the cellular architecture in human tissue. However, the utility of spheroids as an assay for host–parasite interactions remains unexplored. This study demonstrates the potential use of neurospheroids for assessing the [...] Read more.

A spheroid is a cell aggregate in a three-dimensional context; thereby, it recapitulates the cellular architecture in human tissue. However, the utility of spheroids as an assay for host–parasite interactions remains unexplored. This study demonstrates the potential use of neurospheroids for assessing the cytotoxicity of the life-threatening pathogenic amoeba Balamuthia mandrillaris. The neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells formed a spheroid in a hanging drop of culture medium. Cellular damage caused by B. mandrillaris trophozoites on human neuronal spheroids was observed using microscopic imaging and ATP detection. B. mandrillaris trophozoites rapidly caused a decrease in ATP production in the spheroid, leading to loss of neurospheroid integrity. Moreover, 3D confocal microscopy imaging revealed interactions between the trophozoites and SH-SY5Y neuronal cells in the outer layer of the neurospheroid. In conclusion, the neurospheroid allows the assessment of host cell damage in a simple and quantitative manner. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 3D Cell Culture in Disease Modeling and Tissue Regeneration)

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13 pages, 956 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In-Silico Modeling to Compare Radiofrequency-Induced Thermal Lesions Created on Myocardium and Thigh Muscle

by Juan J. Pérez, Enrique Berjano and Ana González-Suárez

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 329; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070329 - 19 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1271

Abstract

Beating heart (BH) and thigh muscle (TM) are two pre-clinical models aimed at studying the lesion sizes created by radiofrequency (RF) catheters in cardiac ablation. Previous experimental results have shown that thermal lesions created in the TM are slightly bigger than in the [...] Read more.

Beating heart (BH) and thigh muscle (TM) are two pre-clinical models aimed at studying the lesion sizes created by radiofrequency (RF) catheters in cardiac ablation. Previous experimental results have shown that thermal lesions created in the TM are slightly bigger than in the BH. Our objective was to use in-silico modeling to elucidate some of the causes of this difference. In-silico RF ablation models were created using the Arrhenius function to estimate lesion size under different energy settings (25 W/20 s, 50 W/6 s and 90 W/4 s) and parallel, 45° and perpendicular catheter positions. The models consisted of homogeneous tissue: myocardium in the BH model and striated muscle in the TM model. The computer results showed that the lesion sizes were generally bigger in the TM model and the differences depended on the energy setting, with hardly any differences at 90 W/4 s but with differences of 1 mm in depth and 1.5 m in width at 25 W/20 s. The higher electrical conductivity of striated muscle (0.446 S/m) than that of the myocardium (0.281 S/m) is possibly one of the causes of the higher percentage of RF energy delivered to the tissue in the TM model, with differences between models of 2–5% at 90 W/4 s, ~9% at 50 W/6 s and ~10% at 25 W/20 s. Proximity to the air–blood interface (just 2 cm from the tissue surface) artificially created in the TM model to emulate the cardiac cavity had little effect on lesion size. In conclusion, the TM-based experimental model creates fairly similar-sized lesions to the BH model, especially in high-power short-duration ablations (50 W/6 s and 90 W/4 s). Our computer results suggest that the higher electrical conductivity of striated muscle could be one of the causes of the slightly larger lesions in the TM model. Full article

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8 pages, 241 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Advances in Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) Production, Volume 3

by Martin Koller

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 328; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070328 - 19 Jul 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2756

Abstract

Steadily increasing R&D activities in the field of microbial polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) biopolyesters are committed to growing global threats from climate change, aggravating plastic pollution, and the shortage of fossil resources. These prevailing issues paved the way to launch the third Special Issue of [...] Read more.

Steadily increasing R&D activities in the field of microbial polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) biopolyesters are committed to growing global threats from climate change, aggravating plastic pollution, and the shortage of fossil resources. These prevailing issues paved the way to launch the third Special Issue of Bioengineering dedicated to future-oriented biomaterials, characterized by their versatile plastic-like properties. Fifteen individual contributions to the Special Issue, written by renowned groups of researchers from all over the world, perfectly mirror the current research directions in the PHA sector: inexpensive feedstock like carbon-rich waste from agriculture, mitigation of CO₂ for PHA biosynthesis by cyanobacteria or wild type and engineered “knallgas” bacteria, powerful extremophilic PHA production strains, novel tools for rapid in situ determination of PHA in photobioreactors, modelling of the dynamics of PHA production by mixed microbial cultures from inexpensive raw materials, enhanced bioreactor design for high-throughput PHA production by sophisticated cell retention systems, sustainable and efficient PHA recovery from biomass assisted by supercritical water, enhanced processing of PHA by application of novel antioxidant additives, and the development of compatible biopolymer blends. Moreover, elastomeric medium chain length PHA (mcl-PHA) are covered in-depth, inter alia, by introduction of a novel class of bioactive mcl-PHA-based networks, in addition to the first presentation of the new rubber-like polythioester poly(3-mercapto-2-methylpropionate). Finally, the present Special Issue is concluded by a critical essay on past, ongoing, and announced global endeavors for PHA commercialization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) Production, Volume 3)

13 pages, 24055 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Brimonidine Modulates the ROCK1 Signaling Effects on Adipogenic Differentiation in 2D and 3D 3T3-L1 Cells

by Araya Umetsu, Yosuke Ida, Tatsuya Sato, Megumi Watanabe, Yuri Tsugeno, Masato Furuhashi, Fumihito Hikage and Hiroshi Ohguro

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070327 - 19 Jul 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1678

Abstract

The additive effects of an α2-adrenergic agonist, brimonidine (BRI), on the pan-ROCK inhibitor (ROCK-i), ripasudil (Rip), and the ROCK2-I, KD025, on adipogenic differentiation (DIF+) were examined using two- or three-dimension (2D or 3D) cultures of 3T3-L1 cells. The following analyses were carried out: [...] Read more.

The additive effects of an α2-adrenergic agonist, brimonidine (BRI), on the pan-ROCK inhibitor (ROCK-i), ripasudil (Rip), and the ROCK2-I, KD025, on adipogenic differentiation (DIF+) were examined using two- or three-dimension (2D or 3D) cultures of 3T3-L1 cells. The following analyses were carried out: (1) lipid staining (2D and 3D), (2) real-time measurements of cellular metabolism (2D), (3) mRNA expression of DIF+ related genes and extracellular matrix molecules (ECMs) including collagen (Col)-1, -4, and -6, and fibronectin (Fn), and (4) the sizes and physical properties of the 3D spheroids. The findings indicate that DIF+ induced (1) a substantial enhancement in lipid staining and enhanced expression of the Pparγ and Fabp4 genes, (2) significantly larger and softer 3D spheroids, and (3) down-regulation of Col1 and Fn and up-regulation of Col4 and Col6 genes. Treatment with Rip alone caused a significant enhancement in adipogenesis of both the 2D and 3D cultured 3T3-L1 cells and in the physical properties of the 3D spheroids; these effects were substantially inhibited by BRI, and the effects induced by BRI or KD025 were not insignificant. These collective findings indicate that the addition of BRI inhibited the Rip-induced enhancement of DIF+ in 3T3-L1 cells, presumably by modulating ROCK1 signaling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Organoid Research and Developmental Engineering)

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24 pages, 33188 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Pulsatile Flow Rate and Shunt Ratio in Bifurcated Distal Arteries on Hemodynamic Characteristics Involved in Two Patient-Specific Internal Carotid Artery Sidewall Aneurysms: A Numerical Study

by Hang Yi, Mark Johnson, Luke C. Bramlage, Bryan Ludwig and Zifeng Yang

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 326; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070326 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1890

Abstract

The pulsatile flow rate (PFR) in the cerebral artery system and shunt ratios in bifurcated arteries are two patient-specific parameters that may affect the hemodynamic characteristics in the pathobiology of cerebral aneurysms, which needs to be identified comprehensively. Accordingly, a systematic study was [...] Read more.

The pulsatile flow rate (PFR) in the cerebral artery system and shunt ratios in bifurcated arteries are two patient-specific parameters that may affect the hemodynamic characteristics in the pathobiology of cerebral aneurysms, which needs to be identified comprehensively. Accordingly, a systematic study was employed to study the effects of pulsatile flow rate (i.e., PFR−I, PFR−II, and PFR−III) and shunt ratio (i.e., 75:25 and 64:36) in bifurcated distal arteries, and transient cardiac pulsatile waveform on hemodynamic patterns in two internal carotid artery sidewall aneurysm models using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling. Numerical results indicate that larger PFRs can cause higher wall shear stress (

W S S

) in some local regions of the aneurysmal dome that may increase the probability of small/secondary aneurysm generation than under smaller PFRs. The low

W S S

and relatively high oscillatory shear index (

O S I

) could appear under a smaller PFR, increasing the potential risk of aneurysmal sac growth and rupture. However, the variances in PFRs and bifurcated shunt ratios have rare impacts on the time-average pressure (

T A P

) distributions on the aneurysmal sac, although a higher PFR can contribute more to the pressure increase in the ICASA−1 dome due to the relatively stronger impingement by the redirected bloodstream than in ICASA−2. CFD simulations also show that the variances of shunt ratios in bifurcated distal arteries have rare impacts on the hemodynamic characteristics in the sacs, mainly because the bifurcated location is not close enough to the sac in present models. Furthermore, it has been found that the vortex location plays a major role in the temporal and spatial distribution of the WSS on the luminal wall, varying significantly with the cardiac period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Insights into the Cellular Biology of Vascular Diseases)

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10 pages, 1617 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cell Viability Assay and Surface Morphology Analysis of Carbonated Hydroxyapatite/Honeycomb/Titanium Alloy Coatings for Bone Implant Applications

by Mona Sari, Chotimah, Ika Dewi Ana and Yusril Yusuf

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 325; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070325 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1859

Abstract

In this work, carbonated hydroxyapatite/titanium alloy (CHA/Ti) and carbonated hydroxyapatite/honeycomb/titanium alloy (CHA/HCB/Ti) plates were coated using the electrophoretic deposition dip coating (EP2D) method. Analysis of cell viability and surface morphology of CHA/Ti and CHA/HCB/Ti coatings were carried out using the MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) [...] Read more.

In this work, carbonated hydroxyapatite/titanium alloy (CHA/Ti) and carbonated hydroxyapatite/honeycomb/titanium alloy (CHA/HCB/Ti) plates were coated using the electrophoretic deposition dip coating (EP2D) method. Analysis of cell viability and surface morphology of CHA/Ti and CHA/HCB/Ti coatings were carried out using the MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. In a previous study, the thickness and average compressive strength values for the CHA/Ti and CHA/HCB/Ti plates were about 63–89 μm and 54–75 MPa, respectively. The result for thickness and compressive strength in this research followed the thickness and compressive strength parameters for coating in bone implants. In this work, the cell viability for incubation times during 24 h and 48 h of CHA/Ti plates is demonstrably superior to that of CHA/HCB/Ti plates, respectively, where the cell viability for CHA/Ti plates increased to ((67 ± 2)%) after incubation for 48 h. According to the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), the p-value was <0.05, indicating a significant difference in the average cell viability value across the three groups. Furthermore, the surface of CHA/Ti is not changed after the coating process. These results will yield many positive biomedical applications, especially in bone implants. Overall, CHA/Ti and CHA/HCB/Ti plates can be considered candidates for biomedical applications based on an analysis of surface morphology and cell viability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Sight of Implants and Bone Regeneration: Updates and Future Directions)

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22 pages, 132701 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bio-Mimicking Acellular Wet Electrospun Scaffolds Promote Accelerated Integration and Re-Epithelialization of Full-Thickness Dermal Wounds

by Jiah Shin Chin, Leigh E. Madden, Anthony R. J. Phillips, Sing Yian Chew and David L. Becker

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 324; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070324 - 18 Jul 2022

Viewed by 2106

Abstract

Scaffolds can promote the healing of burns and chronic skin wounds but to date have suffered from issues with achieving full skin integration. Here, we characterise the wound response by both tissue integration and re-epithelialization to a scaffold using wet electrospinning to fabricate [...] Read more.

Scaffolds can promote the healing of burns and chronic skin wounds but to date have suffered from issues with achieving full skin integration. Here, we characterise the wound response by both tissue integration and re-epithelialization to a scaffold using wet electrospinning to fabricate 3D fibrous structures. Two scaffold materials were investigated: poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) and PCL + 20% rat tail type 1 collagen (PCL/Coll). We assessed re-epithelisation, inflammatory responses, angiogenesis and the formation of new extracellular matrix (ECM) within the scaffolds in rat acute wounds. The 3D PCL/Coll scaffolds impeded wound re-epithelisation, inducing a thickening of wound-edge epidermis as opposed to a thin tongue of migratory keratinocytes as seen when 3D PCL scaffolds were implanted in the wounds. A significant inflammatory response was observed with 3D PCL/Coll scaffolds but not with 3D PCL scaffolds. Enhanced fibroblast migration and angiogenesis into 3D PCL scaffolds was observed with a significant deposition of new ECM. We observed that this deposition of new ECM within the scaffold was key to enabling re-epithelialization over the scaffold. Such scaffolds provide a biocompatible environment for cell integration to lay down new ECM and encourage re-epithelisation over the implanted scaffold. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Treatments and Current Advances in Wound Healing: Cellular Mechanisms and Pathological Outcomes)

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16 pages, 3096 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electroencephalogram-Based Motor Imagery Signals Classification Using a Multi-Branch Convolutional Neural Network Model with Attention Blocks

by Ghadir Ali Altuwaijri and Ghulam Muhammad

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 323; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070323 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2168

Abstract

Brain signals can be captured via electroencephalogram (EEG) and be used in various brain–computer interface (BCI) applications. Classifying motor imagery (MI) using EEG signals is one of the important applications that can help a stroke patient to rehabilitate or perform certain tasks. Dealing [...] Read more.

Brain signals can be captured via electroencephalogram (EEG) and be used in various brain–computer interface (BCI) applications. Classifying motor imagery (MI) using EEG signals is one of the important applications that can help a stroke patient to rehabilitate or perform certain tasks. Dealing with EEG-MI signals is challenging because the signals are weak, may contain artefacts, are dependent on the patient’s mood and posture, and have low signal-to-noise ratio. This paper proposes a multi-branch convolutional neural network model called the Multi-Branch EEGNet with Convolutional Block Attention Module (MBEEGCBAM) using attention mechanism and fusion techniques to classify EEG-MI signals. The attention mechanism is applied both channel-wise and spatial-wise. The proposed model is a lightweight model that has fewer parameters and higher accuracy compared to other state-of-the-art models. The accuracy of the proposed model is 82.85% and 95.45% using the BCI-IV2a motor imagery dataset and the high gamma dataset, respectively. Additionally, when using the fusion approach (FMBEEGCBAM), it achieves 83.68% and 95.74% accuracy, respectively. Full article

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9 pages, 1816 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Shock Acceleration and Attenuation during Running with Minimalist and Maximalist Shoes: A Time- and Frequency-Domain Analysis of Tibial Acceleration

by Liangliang Xiang, Yaodong Gu, Ming Rong, Zixiang Gao, Tao Yang, Alan Wang, Vickie Shim and Justin Fernandez

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 322; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070322 - 16 Jul 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2494

Abstract

Tibial shock attenuation is part of the mechanism that maintains human body stabilization during running. It is crucial to understand how shock characteristics transfer from the distal to proximal joint in the lower limb. This study aims to investigate the shock acceleration and [...] Read more.

Tibial shock attenuation is part of the mechanism that maintains human body stabilization during running. It is crucial to understand how shock characteristics transfer from the distal to proximal joint in the lower limb. This study aims to investigate the shock acceleration and attenuation among maximalist shoes (MAXs), minimalist shoes (MINs), and conventional running shoes (CONs) in time and frequency domains. Time-domain parameters included time to peak acceleration and peak resultant acceleration, and frequency-domain parameters contained lower (3–8 Hz) and higher (9–20 Hz) frequency power spectral density (PSD) and shock attenuation. Compared with CON and MAX conditions, MINs significantly increased the peak impact acceleration of the distal tibia (p = 0.01 and p < 0.01). Shock attenuation in the lower frequency depicted no difference but was greater in the MAXs in the higher frequency compared with the MIN condition (p < 0.01). MINs did not affect the tibial shock in both time and frequency domains at the proximal tibia. These findings may provide tibial shock information for choosing running shoes and preventing tibial stress injuries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics and Bionics in Sport and Exercise)

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19 pages, 1501 KiB

Open AccessReview

Paradoxical Duel Role of Collagen in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Cause of Inflammation and Treatment

by Jeevithan Elango, Camilo Zamora-Ledezma, Baolin Ge, Chunyu Hou, Zhilin Pan, Bin Bao, Carlos Pérez Albacete Martínez, José Manuel Granero Marín, José Eduardo Maté Sánchez de Val, Chunling Bao and Wenhui Wu

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 321; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070321 - 15 Jul 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3981

Abstract

In biology, collagen-biomaterial regulates several signaling mechanisms of bone and immune cells involved in tissue repair and any imbalance in collagen turnover may affect the homeostasis of cells, becoming a major cause of several complications. In this case, the administration of oral collagen [...] Read more.

In biology, collagen-biomaterial regulates several signaling mechanisms of bone and immune cells involved in tissue repair and any imbalance in collagen turnover may affect the homeostasis of cells, becoming a major cause of several complications. In this case, the administration of oral collagen may play a potential role in returning cells to their normal function. For several decades, the beneficial effects of collagen have been explored widely, and thus many commercial products are available in cosmetics, food, and biomedical fields. For instance, collagen-based-products have been widely used to treat the complications of cartilage-related-disorders. Many researchers are reporting the anti-arthritogenic properties of collagen-based materials. In contrast, collagen, especially type-II collagen (CII), has been widely used to induce arthritis by immunization in an animal-model with or without adjuvants, and the potentially immunogenic-properties of collagen have been continuously reported for a long time. Additionally, the immune tolerance of collagen is mainly regulated by the T-lymphocytes and B-cells. This controversial hypothesis is getting more and more evidence nowadays from both sides to support its mechanism. Therefore, this review links the gap between the arthritogenic and anti-arthritogenic effects of collagen and explored the actual mechanism to understand the fundamental concept of collagen in arthritis. Accordingly, this review opens-up several unrevealed scientific knots of collagen and arthritis and helps the researchers understand the potential use of collagen in therapeutic applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials for Bone Repair and Regeneration)

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28 pages, 2962 KiB

Open AccessReview

Nano-Based Theranostic Platforms for Breast Cancer: A Review of Latest Advancements

by Rabia Arshad, Maria Hassan Kiani, Abbas Rahdar, Saman Sargazi, Mahmood Barani, Shirin Shojaei, Muhammad Bilal, Deepak Kumar and Sadanand Pandey

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 320; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070320 - 15 Jul 2022

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 3811

Abstract

Breast cancer (BC) is a highly metastatic multifactorial disease with various histological and molecular subtypes. Due to recent advancements, the mortality rate in BC has improved over the past five decades. Detection and treatment of many cancers are now possible due to the [...] Read more.

Breast cancer (BC) is a highly metastatic multifactorial disease with various histological and molecular subtypes. Due to recent advancements, the mortality rate in BC has improved over the past five decades. Detection and treatment of many cancers are now possible due to the application of nanomedicine in clinical practice. Nanomedicine products such as Doxil^® and Abraxane^® have already been extensively used for BC adjuvant therapy with favorable clinical outcomes. However, these products were designed initially for generic anticancer purposes and not specifically for BC treatment. With a better understanding of the molecular biology of BC, several novel and promising nanotherapeutic strategies and devices have been developed in recent years. In this context, multi-functionalized nanostructures are becoming potential carriers for enhanced chemotherapy in BC patients. To design these nanostructures, a wide range of materials, such as proteins, lipids, polymers, and hybrid materials, can be used and tailored for specific purposes against BC. Selective targeting of BC cells results in the activation of programmed cell death in BC cells and can be considered a promising strategy for managing triple-negative BC. Currently, conventional BC screening methods such as mammography, digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), ultrasonography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are either costly or expose the user to hazardous radiation that could harm them. Therefore, there is a need for such analytical techniques for detecting BC that are highly selective and sensitive, have a very low detection limit, are durable, biocompatible, and reproducible. In detecting BC biomarkers, nanostructures are used alone or in conjunction with numerous molecules. This review intends to highlight the recent advances in nanomedicine in BC treatment and diagnosis, emphasizing the targeting of BC cells that overexpress receptors of epidermal growth factors. Researchers may gain insight from these strategies to design and develop more tailored nanomedicine for BC to achieve further improvements in cancer specificity, antitumorigenic effects, anti-metastasis effects, and drug resistance reversal effects. Full article

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14 pages, 2800 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Modular Tissue Phantom for Evaluating Vascular Access Devices

by Emily N. Boice, David Berard, Jose M. Gonzalez, Sofia I. Hernandez Torres, Zechariah J. Knowlton, Guy Avital and Eric J. Snider

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 319; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070319 - 15 Jul 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2494

Abstract

Central vascular access (CVA) may be critical for trauma care and stabilizing the casualty. However, it requires skilled personnel, often unavailable during remote medical situations and combat casualty care scenarios. Automated CVA medical devices have the potential to make life-saving therapeutics available in [...] Read more.

Central vascular access (CVA) may be critical for trauma care and stabilizing the casualty. However, it requires skilled personnel, often unavailable during remote medical situations and combat casualty care scenarios. Automated CVA medical devices have the potential to make life-saving therapeutics available in these resource-limited scenarios, but they must be properly designed. Unfortunately, currently available tissue phantoms are inadequate for this use, resulting in delayed product development. Here, we present a tissue phantom that is modular in design, allowing for adjustable flow rate, circulating fluid pressure, vessel diameter, and vessel positions. The phantom consists of a gelatin cast using a 3D-printed mold with inserts representing vessels and bone locations. These removable inserts allow for tubing insertion which can mimic normal and hypovolemic flow, as well as pressure and vessel diameters. Trauma to the vessel wall is assessed using quantification of leak rates from the tubing after removal from the model. Lastly, the phantom can be adjusted to swine or human anatomy, including modeling the entire neurovascular bundle. Overall, this model can better recreate severe hypovolemic trauma cases and subject variability than commercial CVA trainers and may potentially accelerate automated CVA device development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances of Medical Devices)

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20 pages, 4771 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Adipose Tissue Derived Stem Cells, and Cellular Stromal Vascular Fraction on the Repair of Acute Anal Sphincter Injury in Rats

by Wenbin Chen, Zijian He, Shuyu Li, Zixin Wu, Jin Tan, Weifeng Yang, Guanwei Li, Xiaoting Pan, Yuying Liu, Feng-Juan Lyu and Wanglin Li

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 318; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070318 - 15 Jul 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2077

Abstract

Background: Anal sphincter incontinence (ASI) can cause a serious decline in the quality of life and can cause a socioeconomic burden. Studies have shown that bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have significant therapeutic effects on ASI, but the cost and risk of [...] Read more.

Background: Anal sphincter incontinence (ASI) can cause a serious decline in the quality of life and can cause a socioeconomic burden. Studies have shown that bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have significant therapeutic effects on ASI, but the cost and risk of MSC harvest limit their further application. In contrast, adipose tissue derived stem cells (ADSC) and cellular stromal vascular fraction (CSVF) as stem cell sources have multipotency and the advantage of easy harvest. Objective: Here we aim to investigate the effects of ADSC and CSVF on treating ASI and compare them to that of bone marrow MSC. Methods: Bone marrow MSC, ADSC, and CSVF were obtained and labeled with green fluorescent protein (GFP), and CSVF was labeled with DIL. Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were divided into 5 groups. Four groups were injected with 0.2 mL phosphate buffer saline (PBS), 1 × 10⁷/0.2 mL of MSC, ADSC, or CSVF, respectively, after model establishment. The control group received no treatment. The repair was assessed by anal functional tests and immunostaining on day 5 and day 10 after injection. Results: MSC, ADSC, and CSVF significantly promoted tissue repair and the recovery of muscle contraction and electromyographic activity in ASI. The generation of myosatellite cells by injected MSC, ADSC, and CSVF was found in the wounded area. On day 5, CSVF showed highest therapeutic effect, while on day 10, MSC and ADSC showed higher therapeutic effects than CSVF. When comparing the effects of MSC and ADSC, ADSC was slightly better than MSC in the indexes of anal pressure, etc. Conclusion: ADSC and CVSF are alternative stem cell sources for ASI repair. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctional Scaffolds for Musculoskeletal Regeneration)

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19 pages, 3647 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of an In Vivo Model for Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

by Niels Oppel, Malena Ezzat, Philipp Krüger, Katharina Schmitt, Alexandra Napp, Friederike Pohl, Andre Bleich, Thomas Lenarz, Tobias Stein, Gerrit Paasche and Robert Schuon

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 317; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070317 - 15 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2016

Abstract

Otitis media is often connected to Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD). Until now, there was no large animal model available for the examination of new treatment methods such as stents for the Eustachian tube (ET). Thus, the aim of the study was to develop [...] Read more.

Otitis media is often connected to Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD). Until now, there was no large animal model available for the examination of new treatment methods such as stents for the Eustachian tube (ET). Thus, the aim of the study was to develop a method to reproducibly induce ETD by injection of fillers and without permanent closure of the ET. Tools for safe injection of hyaluronic acid (HA) in the surrounding of the ET were developed. In ex vivo experiments, HA mixed with Imeron^® was injected close to the nasopharyngeal orifice of the ET of blackface sheep. The established depot was visualized using cone beam computer tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, and stents could be placed into the ET. A reliable position of the HA depot was achieved. This method was transferred to in vivo, and middle ear ventilation was investigated by tympanometry. ETD was achieved with amounts of 2.5 mL HA or higher. None of the animals showed any sign of discomfort or complications. The induced ETD lasted for 3 to 13 (maximum observation period) weeks and was also combined with middle ear effusion. A model of ETD based on injection of HA next to the ET was successfully established and is now available to test novel treatment options for ET functionality. Full article

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20 pages, 6317 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Midpalatal Suture CBCT Image Quantitive Characteristics Analysis Based on Machine Learning Algorithm Construction and Optimization

by Lu Gao, Zhiyu Chen, Lin Zang, Zhipeng Sun, Qing Wang and Guoxia Yu

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 316; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070316 - 14 Jul 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1873

Abstract

Background: Midpalatal suture maturation and ossification status is the basis for appraising maxillary transverse developmental status. Methods: We established a midpalatal suture cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) normalized database of the growth population, including 1006 CBCT files from 690 participants younger than 24 years [...] Read more.

Background: Midpalatal suture maturation and ossification status is the basis for appraising maxillary transverse developmental status. Methods: We established a midpalatal suture cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) normalized database of the growth population, including 1006 CBCT files from 690 participants younger than 24 years old. The midpalatal suture region of interest (ROI) labeling was completed by two experienced clinical experts. The CBCT image fusion algorithm and image texture feature analysis algorithm were constructed and optimized. The age range prediction convolutional neural network (CNN) was conducted and tested. Results: The midpalatal suture fusion images contain complete semantic information for appraising midpalatal suture maturation and ossification status during the fast growth and development period. Correlation and homogeneity are the two texture features with the strongest relevance to chronological age. The overall performance of the age range prediction CNN model is satisfactory, especially in the 4 to 10 years range and the 17 to 23 years range, while for the 13 to 14 years range, the model performance is compromised. Conclusions: The image fusion algorithm can help show the overall perspective of the midpalatal suture in one fused image effectively. Furthermore, clinical decisions for maxillary transverse deficiency should be appraised by midpalatal suture image features directly rather than by age, especially in the 13 to 14 years range. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence Based Computer-Aided Diagnosis)

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18 pages, 4553 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantification of Intra-Muscular Adipose Infiltration in Calf/Thigh MRI Using Fully and Weakly Supervised Semantic Segmentation

by Rula Amer, Jannette Nassar, Amira Trabelsi, David Bendahan, Hayit Greenspan and Noam Ben-Eliezer

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 315; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070315 - 14 Jul 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2150

Abstract

Purpose: Infiltration of fat into lower limb muscles is one of the key markers for the severity of muscle pathologies. The level of fat infiltration varies in its severity across and within patients, and it is traditionally estimated using visual radiologic inspection. Precise [...] Read more.

Purpose: Infiltration of fat into lower limb muscles is one of the key markers for the severity of muscle pathologies. The level of fat infiltration varies in its severity across and within patients, and it is traditionally estimated using visual radiologic inspection. Precise quantification of the severity and spatial distribution of this pathological process requires accurate segmentation of lower limb anatomy into muscle and fat. Methods: Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (qMRI) of the calf and thigh muscles is one of the most effective techniques for estimating pathological accumulation of intra-muscular adipose tissue (IMAT) in muscular dystrophies. In this work, we present a new deep learning (DL) network tool for automated and robust segmentation of lower limb anatomy that is based on the quantification of MRI’s transverse (T₂) relaxation time. The network was used to segment calf and thigh anatomies into viable muscle areas and IMAT using a weakly supervised learning process. A new disease biomarker was calculated, reflecting the level of abnormal fat infiltration and disease state. A biomarker was then applied on two patient populations suffering from dysferlinopathy and Charcot–Marie–Tooth (CMT) diseases. Results: Comparison of manual vs. automated segmentation of muscle anatomy, viable muscle areas, and intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) produced high Dice similarity coefficients (DSCs) of 96.4%, 91.7%, and 93.3%, respectively. Linear regression between the biomarker value calculated based on the ground truth segmentation and based on automatic segmentation produced high correlation coefficients of 97.7% and 95.9% for the dysferlinopathy and CMT patients, respectively. Conclusions: Using a combination of qMRI and DL-based segmentation, we present a new quantitative biomarker of disease severity. This biomarker is automatically calculated and, most importantly, provides a spatially global indication for the state of the disease across the entire thigh or calf. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue AI in MRI: Frontiers and Applications)

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8 pages, 256 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sealing Ability of Bioactive Root-End Filling Materials in Retro Cavities Prepared with Er,Cr:YSGG Laser and Ultrasonic Techniques

by Ivona Bago, Ružica Lucić, Ana Budimir, Valentina Rajić, Merima Balić and Ivica Anić

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 314; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070314 - 14 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1617

Abstract

The aim of this in vitro study was to compare the apical sealing ability of total fill bioceramic root repair material (BC-RRM) and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), regarding the retrograde preparation technique used: ultrasonic or erbium, chromium: yttrium, scandium, gallium, or garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) [...] Read more.

The aim of this in vitro study was to compare the apical sealing ability of total fill bioceramic root repair material (BC-RRM) and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), regarding the retrograde preparation technique used: ultrasonic or erbium, chromium: yttrium, scandium, gallium, or garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) laser. The study sample consisted of 48 human single-rooted teeth. After root-end resection, the samples were divided into two groups, according to the retrograde preparation technique used: Group 1: ultrasonic; Group 2: Er,Cr:YSGG laser. In each group, half of the retrograde cavities were filled with BC-RRM, and the other half were filled with MTA. The specimens were mounted in tubes and sterilized in plasma. The root canals were inoculated with Enterococcus faecalis, and the tubes were filled with fetal bovine serum, leaving the apical part of the root in the serum. After 30 days, the canals were sampled and cultured, and the colony forming units (CFUs) were counted with the additional polymerase chain reaction (PCR analysis). There was no significant difference between ultrasonic groups and the Er,Cr:YSGG-MTA group, regarding the number of CFUs (p > 0.05). The Er,Cr:YSGG-BC-RRM group showed the highest number of remaining viable bacteria (p < 0.001). Both filling materials filled in ultrasonic preparations presented similar sealing abilities. The BC-RRM showed more leakage when used in retro cavities prepared with the Er,Cr:YSGG laser. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Laser Therapy in Oral Diseases)

10 pages, 2816 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Generation of an Adequate Perfusion Network within Dense Collagen Hydrogels Using Thermoplastic Polymers as Sacrificial Matrix to Promote Cell Viability

by Marie Camman, Pierre Marquaille, Pierre Joanne, Onnik Agbulut and Christophe Hélary

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 313; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070313 - 14 Jul 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1461

Abstract

Dense collagen hydrogels are promising biomaterials for several tissue-engineering applications. They exhibit high mechanical properties, similar to physiological extracellular matrices, and do not shrink under cellular activity. However, they suffer from several drawbacks, such as weak nutrient and O₂ diffusion, impacting cell [...] Read more.

Dense collagen hydrogels are promising biomaterials for several tissue-engineering applications. They exhibit high mechanical properties, similar to physiological extracellular matrices, and do not shrink under cellular activity. However, they suffer from several drawbacks, such as weak nutrient and O₂ diffusion, impacting cell survival. Here, we report a novel strategy to create a perfusion system within dense and thick collagen hydrogels to promote cell viability. The 3D printing of a thermoplastic filament (high-impact polystyrene, HIPS) with a three-wave shape is used to produce an appropriate sacrificial matrix. The HIPS thermoplastic polymer allows for good shape fidelity of the filament and does not collapse under the mechanical load of the collagen solution. After the collagen gels around the filament and dissolves, a channel is generated, allowing for adequate and rapid hydrogel perfusion. The dissolution process does not alter the collagen hydrogel’s physical or chemical properties, and the perfusion is associated with an increased fibroblast survival. Here, we report the novel utilization of thermoplastics to generate a perfusion network within biomimetic collagen hydrogels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 3D Cell Culture in Disease Modeling and Tissue Regeneration)

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15 pages, 2939 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bag of Tricks for Improving Deep Learning Performance on Multimodal Image Classification

by Steve A. Adeshina and Adeyinka P. Adedigba

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 312; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070312 - 13 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1836

Abstract

A comprehensive medical image-based diagnosis is usually performed across various image modalities before passing a final decision; hence, designing a deep learning model that can use any medical image modality to diagnose a particular disease is of great interest. The available methods are [...] Read more.

A comprehensive medical image-based diagnosis is usually performed across various image modalities before passing a final decision; hence, designing a deep learning model that can use any medical image modality to diagnose a particular disease is of great interest. The available methods are multi-staged, with many computational bottlenecks in between. This paper presents an improved end-to-end method of multimodal image classification using deep learning models. We present top research methods developed over the years to improve models trained from scratch and transfer learning approaches. We show that when fully trained, a model can first implicitly discriminate the imaging modality and then diagnose the relevant disease. Our developed models were applied to COVID-19 classification from chest X-ray, CT scan, and lung ultrasound image modalities. The model that achieved the highest accuracy correctly maps all input images to their respective modality, then classifies the disease achieving overall 91.07% accuracy. Full article

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17 pages, 1682 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Storage Stability and In Vitro Bioaccessibility of Microencapsulated Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum L.) Pomace Extract

by Luiz C. Corrêa-Filho, Diana I. Santos, Luísa Brito, Margarida Moldão-Martins and Vítor D. Alves

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 311; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070311 - 13 Jul 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1931

Abstract

Tomato pomace is rich in carotenoids (mainly lycopene), which are related to important bioactive properties. In general, carotenoids are known to react easily under environmental conditions, which may create a barrier in producing stable functional components for food. This work intended to evaluate [...] Read more.

Tomato pomace is rich in carotenoids (mainly lycopene), which are related to important bioactive properties. In general, carotenoids are known to react easily under environmental conditions, which may create a barrier in producing stable functional components for food. This work intended to evaluate the storage stability and in vitro release of lycopene from encapsulated tomato pomace extract, and its bioaccessibility when encapsulates were incorporated in yogurt. Microencapsulation assays were carried out with tomato pomace extract as the core material and arabic gum or inulin (10 and 20 wt%) as wall materials by spray drying (160 and 200 °C). The storage stability results indicate that lycopene degradation was highly influenced by the presence of oxygen and light, even when encapsulated. In vitro release studies revealed that 63% of encapsulated lycopene was released from the arabic gum particles in simulated gastric fluid, whereas for the inulin particles, the release was only around 13%. The feed composition with 20% inulin showed the best protective ability and the one that enabled releasing the bioactives preferentially in the intestine. The bioaccessibility of the microencapsulated lycopene added to yogurt increased during simulated gastrointestinal digestion as compared to the microencapsulated lycopene alone. We anticipate a high potential for the inulin microparticles containing lycopene to be used in functional food formulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Formulations in Agri-Food-Pharma: Source and Applications, Volume II)

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11 pages, 2128 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An α2-Adrenergic Agonist, Brimonidine, Beneficially Affects the TGF-β2-Treated Cellular Properties in an In Vitro Culture Model

by Megumi Watanabe, Tatsuya Sato, Yuri Tsugeno, Megumi Higashide, Masato Furuhashi, Araya Umetsu, Soma Suzuki, Yosuke Ida, Fumihito Hikage and Hiroshi Ohguro

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 310; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070310 - 12 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1510

Abstract

We report herein on the effects of brimonidine (BRI), an α2-adrenergic agonist, on two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) cell-cultured TGF-β2-untreated and -treated human trabecular meshwork (HTM) cells. In the presence of TGF-β2 (5 ng/mL), (1) the effects of BRI on (1) the 2D HTM [...] Read more.

We report herein on the effects of brimonidine (BRI), an α2-adrenergic agonist, on two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) cell-cultured TGF-β2-untreated and -treated human trabecular meshwork (HTM) cells. In the presence of TGF-β2 (5 ng/mL), (1) the effects of BRI on (1) the 2D HTM monolayers’ barrier function were investigated as estimated using trans-endothelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurement and FITC dextran permeability; (2) real-time analyses of cellular metabolism using a Seahorse Bioanalyzer; (3) the largeness and hardness of 3D spheroids; and (4) the expression of genes that encode extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, including collagens (COL) 1, 4, and 6; fibronectin (FN) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA); ECM modulators, including a tissue inhibitor of matrix proteinase (TIMP) 1–4; matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2, 9, and 14; and several endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related genes, including the X-box-binding protein 1 (XBP1), the spliced XBP1 (sXBP1), glucose-regulated protein (GRP)78, GRP94, and CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP). BRI markedly inhibited the TGF-β2-induced increase in the values of TEER of the 2D cell monolayer and the hardness of the 3D spheroids, although it had no effect on their sizes. BRI also cancelled the TGF-β2-induced reduction in mitochondrial maximal respiration but had no effect on the glycolytic capacity. In addition, the gene expression of these molecules was quite different between the 2D and 3D cultures of HTM cells. The present observations found in this study indicate that BRI may beneficially affect TGF-β2-induced changes in both cultures, 2D and 3D, of HTM cells, although their structural and functional properties that were altered varied significantly between both cultures of HTM cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Organoid Research and Developmental Engineering)

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14 pages, 2572 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Myocyte Culture with Decellularized Skeletal Muscle Sheet with Observable Interaction with the Extracellular Matrix

by Satoshi Nakada, Yuri Yamashita, Seiya Akiba, Takeru Shima and Eri Arikawa-Hirasawa

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 309; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070309 - 12 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1954

Abstract

In skeletal muscles, muscle fibers are highly organized and bundled within the basement membrane. Several microfabricated substrate models have failed to mimic the macrostructure of native muscle, including various extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Therefore, we developed and evaluated a system using decellularized muscle [...] Read more.

In skeletal muscles, muscle fibers are highly organized and bundled within the basement membrane. Several microfabricated substrate models have failed to mimic the macrostructure of native muscle, including various extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Therefore, we developed and evaluated a system using decellularized muscle tissue and mouse myoblasts C2C12 to analyze the interaction between native ECM and myocytes. Chicken skeletal muscle was sliced into sheets and decellularized to prepare decellularized skeletal muscle sheets (DSMS). C2C12 was then seeded and differentiated on DSMS. Immunostaining for ECM molecules was performed to examine the relationship between myoblast adhesion status, myotube orientation, and collagen IV orientation. Myotube survival in long-term culture was confirmed by calcein staining. C2C12 myoblasts adhered to scaffolds in DSMS and developed adhesion plaques and filopodia. Furthermore, C2C12 myotubes showed orientation along the ECM orientation within DSMS. Compared to plastic dishes, detachment was less likely to occur on DSMS, and long-term incubation was possible. This culture technique reproduces a cell culture environment reflecting the properties of living skeletal muscle, thereby allowing studies on the interaction between the ECM and myocytes. Full article

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16 pages, 10358 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Technique for Disinfection Treatment of Contaminated Dental Implant Surface Using 0.1% Riboflavin and 445 nm Diode Laser—An In Vitro Study

by Luka Morelato, Ana Budimir, Igor Smojver, Ivan Katalinić, Marko Vuletić, Muhamed Ajanović and Dragana Gabrić

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 308; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070308 - 12 Jul 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1883

Abstract

Background: Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been introduced as a potential option for peri-implantitis treatment. The aim of this study is to evaluate the antimicrobial effect of a novel technique involving a combination of 445 nm diode laser light with 0.1% riboflavin solution [...] Read more.

Background: Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been introduced as a potential option for peri-implantitis treatment. The aim of this study is to evaluate the antimicrobial effect of a novel technique involving a combination of 445 nm diode laser light with 0.1% riboflavin solution (used as a photosensitizing dye) as applied on a bacterial–fungal biofilm formed on implants and to compare the performance of this technique with that of the commonly used combination of 660 nm diode laser with 0.1% methylene blue dye. Methods: An in vitro study was conducted on 80 titanium dental implants contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus (SA) and Candida albicans (CA) species. The implants were randomly divided into four groups: negative control (NC), without surface treatment; positive control (PC), treated with a 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX)-based solution; PDT1, 660 nm (EasyTip 320 µm, 200 mW, Q power = 100 mW, 124.34 W/cm², 1240 J/cm²) with a 0.1% methylene blue dye; and PDT2, 445 nm (EasyTip 320 µm, 200 mW, Q power = 100 mW, 100 Hz, 124.34 W/cm², 1.24 J/cm²) with a 0.1% riboflavin dye. Results: The PDT1 and PDT2 groups showed greater reduction of SA and CA in comparison to the NC group and no significant differences in comparison to the PC group. No statistically significant differences between the PDT1 and PDT2 groups were observed. Conclusions: A novel antimicrobial treatment involving a combination of 445 nm diode laser light with riboflavin solution showed efficiency in reducing SA and CA biofilm formation on dental implant surfaces comparable to those of the more commonly used PDT treatment consisting of 660 nm diode laser light with methylene blue dye or 0.2% CHX treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Laser Therapy in Oral Diseases)

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13 pages, 2828 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rapid Degradation of Rhodamine B through Visible-Photocatalytic Advanced Oxidation Using Self-Degradable Natural Perylene Quinone Derivatives—Hypocrellins

by Zhixian Huang, Fan Zhang, Yanbo Tang, Yongdi Wen, Zhenqiang Wu, Zhen Fang and Xiaofei Tian

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 307; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070307 - 11 Jul 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2799

Abstract

Hypocrellins (HYPs) are natural perylene quinone derivatives from Ascomycota fungi. Based on the excellent photosensitization properties of HYPs, this work proposed a photocatalytic advanced oxidation process (PAOP) that uses HYPs to degrade rhodamine B (RhB) as a model organic pollutant. A synergistic activity [...] Read more.

Hypocrellins (HYPs) are natural perylene quinone derivatives from Ascomycota fungi. Based on the excellent photosensitization properties of HYPs, this work proposed a photocatalytic advanced oxidation process (PAOP) that uses HYPs to degrade rhodamine B (RhB) as a model organic pollutant. A synergistic activity of HYPs and H₂O₂ (0.18 mM of HYPs, 0.33% w/v of H₂O₂) was suggested, resulting in a yield of 82.4% for RhB degradation after 60 min under visible light irradiation at 470–475 nm. The principle of pseudo-first-order kinetics was used to describe the decomposition reaction with a calculated constant (k) of 0.02899 min⁻¹ (R² = 0.983). Light-induced self-degradation of HYPs could be activated under alkaline (pH > 7) conditions, promising HYPs as an advanced property to alleviate the current dilemma of secondary pollution by synthetic photocatalysts in the remediation of emerging organic pollutants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioengineering in Remediation of Polluted Environments)

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16 pages, 4362 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects and Prognostic Values of Circadian Genes CSNK1E/GNA11/KLF9/THRAP3 in Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma via a Comprehensive Analysis

by Shujing Li, Xianggang Wang, Qingqing Wang, Kaixin Ding, Xin Chen, Yun Zhao, Yu Gao and Yuanyuan Wang

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 306; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070306 - 11 Jul 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1992

Abstract

Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) is one of the most prevalent and deadly types of renal cancer in adults. Recent research has identified circadian genes as being involved in the development and progression of KIRC by altering their expression. This study aimed [...] Read more.

Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) is one of the most prevalent and deadly types of renal cancer in adults. Recent research has identified circadian genes as being involved in the development and progression of KIRC by altering their expression. This study aimed to identify circadian genes that are differentially expressed in KIRC and assess their role in KIRC progression. In KIRC, there were 553 differentially expressed rhythm genes (DERGs), with 300 up-regulated and 253 down-regulated DERGs. Functional enrichment analyses showed that DERGs were greatly enriched in the circadian rhythm and immune response pathways. Survival analyses indicated that higher expression levels of CSNK1E were related to shorter overall survival of KIRC patients, whereas lower expression levels of GNA11, KLF9, and THRAP3 were associated with shorter overall survival of KIRC patients. Through cell assay verification, the mRNA level of CSNK1E was significantly up-regulated, whereas the mRNA levels of GNA11, KLF9, and THRAP3 were dramatically down-regulated in KIRC cells, which were consistent with the bioinformatics analysis of KIRC patient samples. Age, grade, stage, TM classification, and CSNK1E expression were all shown to be high-risk variables, whereas GNA11, KLF9, and THRAP3 expression were found to be low-risk factors in univariate Cox analyses. Multivariate Cox analyses showed that CSNK1E and KLF9 were also independently related to overall survival. Immune infiltration analysis indicated that the proportion of immune cells varied greatly between KIRC tissues and normal tissue, whereas CSNK1E, GNA11, KLF9, and THRAP3 expression levels were substantially linked with the infiltration abundance of immune cells and immunological biomarkers. Moreover, interaction networks between CSNK1E/GNA11/KLF9/THRAP3 and immune genes were constructed to explore the stream connections. The findings could help us better understand the molecular mechanisms of KIRC progression, and CSNK1E/GNA11/KLF9/THRAP3 might be used as molecular targets for chronotherapy in KIRC patients in the near future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Life Science and Technology Research in Huazhong University of Science and Technology: Commemorating the University’s 70th Anniversary)

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20 pages, 2743 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analytical Studies of Antimicrobial Peptides as Diagnostic Biomarkers for the Detection of Bacterial and Viral Pneumonia

by Olalekan Olanrewaju Bakare, Arun Gokul and Marshall Keyster

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 305; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070305 - 11 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1775

Abstract

Pneumonia remains one of the leading causes of infectious mortality and significant economic losses among our growing population. The lack of specific biomarkers for correct and timely diagnosis to detect patients’ status is a bane towards initiating a proper treatment plan for the [...] Read more.

Pneumonia remains one of the leading causes of infectious mortality and significant economic losses among our growing population. The lack of specific biomarkers for correct and timely diagnosis to detect patients’ status is a bane towards initiating a proper treatment plan for the disease; thus, current biomarkers cannot distinguish between pneumonia and other associated conditions such as atherosclerotic plaques and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are potential candidates for detecting numerous illnesses due to their compensatory roles as theranostic molecules. This research sought to generate specific data for parental AMPs to identify viral and bacterial pneumonia pathogens using in silico technology. The parental antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) used in this work were AMPs discovered in our previous in silico analyses using the HMMER algorithm, which were used to generate derivative (mutated) AMPs that would bind with greater affinity, in order to detect the bacterial and viral receptors using an in silico site-directed mutagenesis approach. These AMPs’ 3D structures were subsequently predicted and docked against receptor proteins. The result shows putative AMPs with the potential capacity to detect pneumonia caused by these pathogens through their binding precision with high sensitivity, accuracy, and specificity for possible use in point-of-care diagnosis. These peptides’ tendency to detect receptor proteins of viral and bacterial pneumonia with precision justifies their use for differential diagnostics, in an attempt to reduce the problems of indiscriminate overuse, toxicity due to the wrong prescription, bacterial resistance, and the scarcity and high cost of existing pneumonia antibiotics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Machine Learning for Biomedical Applications)

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14 pages, 1719 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review of the Methods of Non-Invasive Assessment of Intracranial Pressure through Ocular Measurement

by Jinhui Dong, Qi Li, Xiaofei Wang and Yubo Fan

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 304; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070304 - 11 Jul 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2538

Abstract

The monitoring of intracranial pressure (ICP) is essential for the detection and treatment of most craniocerebral diseases. Invasive methods are the most accurate approach to measure ICP; however, these methods are prone to complications and have a limited range of applications. Therefore, non-invasive [...] Read more.

The monitoring of intracranial pressure (ICP) is essential for the detection and treatment of most craniocerebral diseases. Invasive methods are the most accurate approach to measure ICP; however, these methods are prone to complications and have a limited range of applications. Therefore, non-invasive ICP measurement is preferable in a range of scenarios. The current non-invasive ICP measurement methods comprise fluid dynamics, and ophthalmic, otic, electrophysiological, and other methods. This article reviews eight methods of non-invasive estimation of ICP from ocular measurements, namely optic nerve sheath diameter, flash visual evoked potentials, two-depth transorbital Doppler ultrasonography, central retinal venous pressure, optical coherence tomography, pupillometry, intraocular pressure measurement, and retinal arteriole and venule diameter ratio. We evaluated and presented the indications and main advantages and disadvantages of these methods. Although these methods cannot completely replace invasive measurement, for some specific situations and patients, non-invasive measurement of ICP still has great potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ophthalmic Engineering)

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13 pages, 3874 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Actuator and Contact Force Modeling of an Active Soft Brace for Scoliosis

by Athar Ali, Vigilio Fontanari, Werner Schmoelz and Marco Fontana

Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 303; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070303 - 11 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3424

Abstract

Scoliosis is an abnormality of the spinal curvature that severely affects the musculoskeletal, respiratory, and nervous systems. Conventionally, it is treated using rigid spinal braces. These braces are static, rigid, and passive in nature, and they (largely) limit the mobility of the spine, [...] Read more.

Scoliosis is an abnormality of the spinal curvature that severely affects the musculoskeletal, respiratory, and nervous systems. Conventionally, it is treated using rigid spinal braces. These braces are static, rigid, and passive in nature, and they (largely) limit the mobility of the spine, resulting in other spinal complexities. Moreover, these braces do not have precise control over how much force is being applied by them. Over-exertion of force may deteriorate the spinal condition. This article presents a novel active soft brace that allows mobility to the spine while applying controlled corrective forces that are regulated by varying the tensions in elastic bands using low-power light weight twisted string actuators (TSAs). This article focuses on the actuator and contact force modeling of the active soft brace (ASB). The actuator modeling is required to translate the twisting of string in terms of contraction of the string’s length, whereas the contact force modeling helps in estimating the net resultant force exerted by the band on the body using single point pressure/force sensors. The actuators (TSAs) are modeled as helix geometry and validated using a laser position sensor. The results showed that the model effectively tracked the position (contraction in length) with root mean square error (RMSE) of 1.7386 mm. The contact force is modeled using the belt and pulley contact model and validated by building a custom testbed. The actuator module is able to regulate the pressure in the range 0–6 Kpa, which is comparable to 0–8 Kpa pressure regulated in rigid braces. This makes it possible to verify and demonstrate the working principle of the proposed active soft brace. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioengineering for Physical Rehabilitation)

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