Bioengineering

27 pages, 4322 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adaptive Filtering with Fitted Noise Estimate (AFFiNE): Blink Artifact Correction in Simulated and Real P300 Data

by Kevin E. Alexander, Justin R. Estepp and Sherif M. Elbasiouny

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 707; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070707 (registering DOI) - 12 Jul 2024

(1) Background: The electroencephalogram (EEG) is frequently corrupted by ocular artifacts such as saccades and blinks. Methods for correcting these artifacts include independent component analysis (ICA) and recursive-least-squares (RLS) adaptive filtering (-AF). Here, we introduce a new method, AFFiNE, that applies Bayesian adaptive [...] Read more.

(1) Background: The electroencephalogram (EEG) is frequently corrupted by ocular artifacts such as saccades and blinks. Methods for correcting these artifacts include independent component analysis (ICA) and recursive-least-squares (RLS) adaptive filtering (-AF). Here, we introduce a new method, AFFiNE, that applies Bayesian adaptive regression spline (BARS) fitting to the adaptive filter’s reference noise input to address the known limitations of both ICA and RLS-AF, and then compare the performance of all three methods. (2) Methods: Artifact-corrected P300 morphologies, topographies, and measurements were compared between the three methods, and to known truth conditions, where possible, using real and simulated blink-corrupted event-related potential (ERP) datasets. (3) Results: In both simulated and real datasets, AFFiNE was successful at removing the blink artifact while preserving the underlying P300 signal in all situations where RLS-AF failed. Compared to ICA, AFFiNE resulted in either a practically or an observably comparable error. (4) Conclusions: AFFiNE is an ocular artifact correction technique that is implementable in online analyses; it can adapt to being non-stationarity and is independent of channel density and recording duration. AFFiNE can be utilized for the removal of blink artifacts in situations where ICA may not be practically or theoretically useful. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Advanced Computational Technologies for Biosignal Processing)

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10 pages, 1987 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ultrasound Elastography Assessment of Knee Intra-Articular Adhesions at Varying Knee Angles

by Jiling Ye, Linjing Peng, Angang Ding, Shijie Chen, Bin Cai and Yifei Yao

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 706; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070706 (registering DOI) - 12 Jul 2024

Abstract

We aimed to verify the feasibility of using shear wave elastography (SWE) to quantify knee scars and the elastic modulus of scar tissues. Overall, 16 participants underwent SWE assessments and range-of-motion measurement and completed the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score. The inter-rater [...] Read more.

We aimed to verify the feasibility of using shear wave elastography (SWE) to quantify knee scars and the elastic modulus of scar tissues. Overall, 16 participants underwent SWE assessments and range-of-motion measurement and completed the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score. The inter-rater reliability for SWE in the suprapatellar bursa, below the patellar tendon, and in the medial and lateral trochlear groove remained within 0.861–0.907. The SWE values in the four regions increased with increasing knee angle, and significant differences were observed between the values for below the patellar tendon and the suprapatellar bursa at knee flexion angles of 60° and 90°. The SWE values of the medial and lateral trochlear groove at 30°, 60°, and 90° knee flexion were higher on the affected side. A negative correlation was observed between the SWE values for the lateral trochlear groove at 0°, 30°, and 60° and those for below the patellar tendon at 0° and the suprapatellar bursa at 30° with both active and passive knee extension. The suprapatellar bursa value at 60° exhibited a positive correlation with both knee flexion and passive knee flexion, whereas that of the suprapatellar bursa at 90° exhibited a positive correlation with both the range of motion and passive range of motion. SWE is a replicable and effective method for detecting scar strength in the knee joint. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Biomechanics of Soft Tissues)

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24 pages, 4908 KiB

Open AccessReview

Emerging Biomedical and Clinical Applications of 3D-Printed Poly(Lactic Acid)-Based Devices and Delivery Systems

by Allan John R. Barcena, Prashanth Ravi, Suprateek Kundu and Karthik Tappa

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 705; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070705 (registering DOI) - 11 Jul 2024

Abstract

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is widely used in the field of medicine due to its biocompatibility, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. Three-dimensional (3D) printing or the systematic deposition of PLA in layers has enabled the fabrication of customized scaffolds for various biomedical and clinical applications. In [...] Read more.

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is widely used in the field of medicine due to its biocompatibility, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. Three-dimensional (3D) printing or the systematic deposition of PLA in layers has enabled the fabrication of customized scaffolds for various biomedical and clinical applications. In tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, 3D-printed PLA has been mostly used to generate bone tissue scaffolds, typically in combination with different polymers and ceramics. PLA’s versatility has also allowed the development of drug-eluting constructs for the controlled release of various agents, such as antibiotics, antivirals, anti-hypertensives, chemotherapeutics, hormones, and vitamins. Additionally, 3D-printed PLA has recently been used to develop diagnostic electrodes, prostheses, orthoses, surgical instruments, and radiotherapy devices. PLA has provided a cost-effective, accessible, and safer means of improving patient care through surgical and dosimetry guides, as well as enhancing medical education through training models and simulators. Overall, the widespread use of 3D-printed PLA in biomedical and clinical settings is expected to persistently stimulate biomedical innovation and revolutionize patient care and healthcare delivery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Additive Manufacturing Technologies in the Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sectors)

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9 pages, 5297 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Single versus Double Plate Fixation in Condylar Neck Fractures: Clinical Results and Biomechanics Simulation

by Chien-Chung Chen, Ting-Han Chiu, Cheng-Yu Yan, Ya-Pei Hou and Ting-Sheng Lin

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 704; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070704 (registering DOI) - 11 Jul 2024

Abstract

The open reduction of mandibular condyle neck fractures is difficult due to the limited surgical field and complex facial nerve structures. The most effective fixation method for narrow fractured segments is debated as standard double four-hole plate fixation is often not feasible. This [...] Read more.

The open reduction of mandibular condyle neck fractures is difficult due to the limited surgical field and complex facial nerve structures. The most effective fixation method for narrow fractured segments is debated as standard double four-hole plate fixation is often not feasible. This research compared bone stability and force resistance between single-long-plate and double-short-plate fixations using clinical outcomes, a Sawbones mandible model, and finite element analysis. In patients with condyle neck fractures, nine were fixed with single-long-plate and twelve with double-short-plate fixations, with no significant differences in malocclusion and facial palsy rates. In compression tests with a Sawbones model, displacements in the posterior part were similar in both fixation groups. In contrast, the anterior part had significantly higher displacements in the single-long-plate group. Finite element analysis showed higher displacements in both anterior and posterior parts in the single-plate group compared to the double-short-plate group. Maximum stresses were at the second screw hole in single-long-plate fixation and the turning point of the upper plate at the condyle neck in double-short-plate fixation. Double-short-plate fixations demonstrated better stability and force resistance than single-long-plate fixations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials in Dental and Maxillofacial Surgery and Regenerative Medicine)

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18 pages, 6011 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Difficult Airway Assessment Based on Multi-View Metric Learning

by Jinze Wu, Yuan Yao, Guangchao Zhang, Xiaofan Li and Bo Peng

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 703; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070703 (registering DOI) - 11 Jul 2024

Abstract

The preoperative assessment of difficult airways is of great significance in the practice of anesthesia intubation. In recent years, although a large number of difficult airway recognition algorithms have been investigated, defects such as low recognition accuracy and poor recognition reliability still exist. [...] Read more.

The preoperative assessment of difficult airways is of great significance in the practice of anesthesia intubation. In recent years, although a large number of difficult airway recognition algorithms have been investigated, defects such as low recognition accuracy and poor recognition reliability still exist. In this paper, we propose a Dual-Path Multi-View Fusion Network (DMF-Net) based on multi-view metric learning, which aims to predict difficult airways through multi-view facial images of patients. DMF-Net adopts a dual-path structure to extract features by grouping the frontal and lateral images of the patients. Meanwhile, a Multi-Scale Feature Fusion Module and a Hybrid Co-Attention Module are designed to improve the feature representation ability of the model. Consistency loss and complementarity loss are utilized fully for the complementarity and consistency of information between multi-view data. Combined with Focal Loss, information bias is effectively avoided. Experimental validation illustrates the effectiveness of the proposed method, with the accuracy, specificity, sensitivity, and F₁ score reaching 77.92%, 75.62%, 82.50%, and 71.35%, respectively. Compared with methods such as clinical bedside screening tests and existing artificial intelligence-based methods, our method is more accurate and reliable and can provide a reliable auxiliary tool for clinical healthcare personnel to effectively improve the accuracy and reliability of preoperative difficult airway assessments. The proposed network can help to identify and assess the risk of difficult airways in patients before surgery and reduce the incidence of postoperative complications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biosignal Processing)

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13 pages, 3858 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mixture Theory-Based Finite Element Approach for Analyzing the Edematous Condition of Biological Soft Tissues

by Satoko Hirabayashi, Masami Iwamoto and Xian Chen

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 702; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070702 (registering DOI) - 11 Jul 2024

Abstract

In hydrated soft biological tissues experiencing edema, which is typically associated with various disorders, excessive fluid accumulates and is encapsulated by impermeable membranes. In certain cases of edema, an indentation induced by pressure persists even after the load is removed. The depth and [...] Read more.

In hydrated soft biological tissues experiencing edema, which is typically associated with various disorders, excessive fluid accumulates and is encapsulated by impermeable membranes. In certain cases of edema, an indentation induced by pressure persists even after the load is removed. The depth and duration of this indentation are used to assess the treatment response. This study presents a mixture theory-based approach to analyzing the edematous condition. The finite element analysis formulation was grounded in mixture theory, with the solid displacement, pore water pressure, and fluid relative velocity as the unknown variables. To ensure tangential fluid flow at the surface of tissues with complex shapes, we transformed the coordinates of the fluid velocity vector at each time step and node, allowing for the incorporation of the transmembrane component of fluid flow as a Dirichlet boundary condition. Using this proposed method, we successfully replicated the distinct behavior of pitting edema, which is characterized by a prolonged recovery time from indentation. Consequently, the proposed method offers valuable insights into the finite element analysis of the edematous condition in biological tissues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Biomechanics, Volume II)

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17 pages, 1615 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Convolutional Neural Networks with Attention Mechanisms for Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Based Classification of Brain Tumors

by Zahid Rasheed, Yong-Kui Ma, Inam Ullah, Mahmoud Al-Khasawneh, Sulaiman Sulmi Almutairi and Mohammed Abohashrh

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 701; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070701 (registering DOI) - 10 Jul 2024

Abstract

The application of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the classification of brain tumors is constrained by the complex and time-consuming characteristics of traditional diagnostics procedures, mainly because of the need for a thorough assessment across several regions. Nevertheless, advancements in deep learning (DL) [...] Read more.

The application of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the classification of brain tumors is constrained by the complex and time-consuming characteristics of traditional diagnostics procedures, mainly because of the need for a thorough assessment across several regions. Nevertheless, advancements in deep learning (DL) have facilitated the development of an automated system that improves the identification and assessment of medical images, effectively addressing these difficulties. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have emerged as steadfast tools for image classification and visual perception. This study introduces an innovative approach that combines CNNs with a hybrid attention mechanism to classify primary brain tumors, including glioma, meningioma, pituitary, and no-tumor cases. The proposed algorithm was rigorously tested with benchmark data from well-documented sources in the literature. It was evaluated alongside established pre-trained models such as Xception, ResNet50V2, Densenet201, ResNet101V2, and DenseNet169. The performance metrics of the proposed method were remarkable, demonstrating classification accuracy of 98.33%, precision and recall of 98.30%, and F1-score of 98.20%. The experimental finding highlights the superior performance of the new approach in identifying the most frequent types of brain tumors. Furthermore, the method shows excellent generalization capabilities, making it an invaluable tool for healthcare in diagnosing brain conditions accurately and efficiently. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computer Vision and Machine Learning in Medical Applications)

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13 pages, 3733 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Potential of a New Natural Vessel Source: Decellularized Intercostal Arteries as Sufficiently Long Small-Diameter Vascular Grafts

by Yuan Xia, Haiyun Zhou, Jing-Song Ou and Yunqi Liu

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 700; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070700 (registering DOI) - 10 Jul 2024

Abstract

Small-diameter vascular grafts (SDVGs) are severely lacking in clinical settings. Therefore, our study investigates a new source of biological vessels—bovine and porcine decellularized intercostal arteries (DIAs)—as potential SDVGs. We utilized a combination of SDS and Triton X-100 to perfuse the DIAs, establishing two [...] Read more.

Small-diameter vascular grafts (SDVGs) are severely lacking in clinical settings. Therefore, our study investigates a new source of biological vessels—bovine and porcine decellularized intercostal arteries (DIAs)—as potential SDVGs. We utilized a combination of SDS and Triton X-100 to perfuse the DIAs, establishing two different time protocols. The results show that perfusing with 1% concentrations of each decellularizing agent for 48 h yields DIAs with excellent biocompatibility and mechanical properties. The porcine decellularized intercostal arteries (PDIAs) we obtained had a length of approximately 14 cm and a diameter of about 1.5 mm, while the bovine decellularized intercostal arteries (BDIAs) were about 29 cm long with a diameter of approximately 2.2 mm. Although the lengths and diameters of both the PDIAs and BDIAs are suited for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), as the typical diameter of autologous arteries used in CABG is about 2 mm and the grafts required are at least 10 cm long, our research indicates that BDIAs possess more ideal mechanical characteristics for CABG than PDIAs, showing significant potential. Further enhancements may be necessary to address their limited hemocompatibility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biomedical Engineering and Biomaterials)

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13 pages, 5483 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using the Probability Density Function-Based Channel-Combination Bloch–Siegert Method Realizes Permittivity Imaging at 3T

by Jiajia Wang, Yunyu Gao and Sherman Xuegang Xin

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 699; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070699 (registering DOI) - 10 Jul 2024

Abstract

Magnetic resonance electrical properties tomography (MR EPT) can retrieve permittivity from the

B_{1}^{+}

magnitude. However, the accuracy of the permittivity measurement using MR EPT is still not ideal due to the low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of

B_{1}^{+}

magnitude. In [...] Read more.

Magnetic resonance electrical properties tomography (MR EPT) can retrieve permittivity from the

B_{1}^{+}

magnitude. However, the accuracy of the permittivity measurement using MR EPT is still not ideal due to the low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of

B_{1}^{+}

magnitude. In this study, the probability density function (PDF)-based channel-combination Bloch–Siegert (BSS) method was firstly introduced to MR EPT for improving the accuracy of the permittivity measurement. MRI experiments were performed using a 3T scanner with an eight-channel receiver coil. The homogeneous water phantom was scanned for assessing the spatial distribution of

B_{1}^{+}

magnitude obtained from the PDF-based channel-combination BSS method. Gadolinium (Gd) phantom and rats were scanned for assessing the feasibility of the PDF-based channel-combination BSS method in MR EPT. The Helmholtz-based EPT reconstruction algorithm was selected. For quantitative comparison, the permittivity measured by the open-ended coaxial probe method was considered as the ground-truth value. The accuracy of the permittivity measurement was estimated by the relative error between the reconstructed value and the ground-truth value. The reconstructed relative permittivity of Gd phantom was 52.413, while that of rat leg muscle was 54.053. The ground-truth values of relative permittivity of Gd phantom and rat leg muscle were 78.86 and 49.04, respectively. The relative error of average permittivity was 33.53% for Gd and 10.22% for rat leg muscle. The results indicated the high accuracy of the permittivity measurement using the PDF-based channel-combination BSS method in MR EPT. This improvement may promote the clinical application of MR EPT technology, such as in the early diagnosis of cancers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

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10 pages, 2021 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy in the Determination of the Dielectric Properties of Tau-441 Protein for Dielectrophoresis Response Prediction

by Zuriel Shee Da En, Ervina Efzan Mhd Noor, Aminuddin Ahmed Kayani, Mohd Hazwan Hussin and Mirza Farrukh Baig

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 698; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070698 (registering DOI) - 10 Jul 2024

Abstract

This study employs electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to probe the behavior of Tau-441 protein, a key component implicated in Alzheimer’s disease. Through meticulous experimentation and analysis, the impedance of Tau-441 protein suspension revealed a conductivity peak value of 1.02 S/m. The study demonstrates [...] Read more.

This study employs electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to probe the behavior of Tau-441 protein, a key component implicated in Alzheimer’s disease. Through meticulous experimentation and analysis, the impedance of Tau-441 protein suspension revealed a conductivity peak value of 1.02 S/m. The study demonstrates a high level of specificity and selectivity, particularly within the challenging nanomolar concentration range. Additionally, the EIS method enabled the prediction of Tau-441 protein’s dielectrophoresis (DEP) response and the determination of the associated frequency range of 1 kHz to 1 MHz. These findings contribute to advancing our understanding of the molecular intricacies surrounding Tau-441 and hold promise for unraveling implications related to Alzheimer’s disease. This study establishes a robust foundation for future research on neurodegenerative disease and biosciences, offering valuable insights into the electrochemical dynamics of Tau-441 protein. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biochemical Engineering)

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12 pages, 1646 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Adipose Tissue Derivatives in Peripheral Nerve Regeneration after Transection: A Systematic Review

by Rafael Silva de Araújo, Matheus Galvão Valadares Bertolini Mussalem, Gabriel Sant’Ana Carrijo, João Victor de Figueiredo Bani and Lydia Masako Ferreira

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 697; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070697 (registering DOI) - 10 Jul 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) is increasingly prevalent and challenging to treat despite advances in microsurgical techniques. In this context, adipose tissue derivatives, such as adipose-derived stem cells, nanofat, and stromal vascular fraction have been gaining attention as potential allies in peripheral nerve [...] Read more.

Introduction: Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) is increasingly prevalent and challenging to treat despite advances in microsurgical techniques. In this context, adipose tissue derivatives, such as adipose-derived stem cells, nanofat, and stromal vascular fraction have been gaining attention as potential allies in peripheral nerve regeneration. Objectives: This study aims to explore the use of adipose tissue derivatives in nerve regeneration following peripheral nerve transection in murine models. Thus, we assess and synthesize the key techniques and methods used for evaluating the obtained nerve regeneration to guide future experimental research and clinical interventions. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted in February 2024, adhering to the Cochrane and PRISMA 2020 guidelines, using the PubMed, SciELO, and LILACS databases. The focus was on experimental studies involving adipose tissue derivatives in nerve regeneration in animal models post-transection. Only experimental trials reporting nerve regeneration outcomes were included; studies lacking a comparator group or evaluation methods were excluded. Results: Out of 273 studies initially identified from MEDLINE, 19 were selected for detailed analysis. The average study included 32.5 subjects, with about 10.2 subjects per intervention subgroup. The predominant model was the sciatic nerve injury with a 10 mm gap. The most common intervention involved unprocessed adipose-derived stem cells, utilized in 14 articles. Conclusions: This review underscores the significant potential of current methodologies in peripheral nerve regeneration, particularly highlighting the use of murine models and thorough evaluation techniques. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Microsurgery, Breast Reconstruction & Tissue Engineering)

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12 pages, 610 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Internal and External Foot Rotation on Peak Knee Adduction Moments and Ankle Moments during Gait in Individuals with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Yongwook Kim

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 696; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070696 - 9 Jul 2024

Abstract

The aim of the study was to verify the effects of foot progression angle (FPA) modification during walking on the internal moments of the ankle and knee joints in individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Biomechanical changes such as increased knee adduction moment (KAM) [...] Read more.

The aim of the study was to verify the effects of foot progression angle (FPA) modification during walking on the internal moments of the ankle and knee joints in individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Biomechanical changes such as increased knee adduction moment (KAM) during walking are known to be involved in the development and severity of knee OA. Although various FPA modifications during gait have been applied to reduce peak KAM, few studies have investigated the effects of applying toe-in or toe-out walking modifications for knee OA on peak KAM and three-dimensional (3D) moments of the ankle joint. Kinetic moment variables were acquired from 35 individuals with medial knee compartment OA. A 3D motion analysis system and two force platforms were used to acquire KAM and 3D moments of both ankle joints during gait. Visual3D was used to obtain final moment data for statistical processing. Repeated-measures analysis of variance with Bonferroni adjustment was used to compare kinetic and kinematic values for each FPA walking condition. There was a significant decrease (p < 0.01) in first peak KAM when walking with an internal rotation foot position compared to normal foot position walking. Also, there was a significant decrease (p < 0.01) in second peak KAM when walking with an external rotation foot position compared to normal foot position walking. Compared to a normal foot position, peak ankle inversion moment of the external rotation foot position walking showed a significant decrease (p < 0.05). There were no interactive effects between FPA condition and limb sides for any KAM values (p > 0.05). The results showed no significant increase in the ankle joint moment value during gait for FPA modification conditions. Thus, the clinical implications of this study suggest that modification of the FPA in patients with OA to reduce KAM does not negatively impact the 3D ankle moments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics of Human Movement and Its Clinical Applications)

36 pages, 2812 KiB

Open AccessReview

Emerging Medical Technologies and Their Use in Bionic Repair and Human Augmentation

by Albert Manero, Viviana Rivera, Qiushi Fu, Jonathan D. Schwartzman, Hannah Prock-Gibbs, Neel Shah, Deep Gandhi, Evan White, Kaitlyn E. Crawford and Melanie J. Coathup

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 695; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070695 - 9 Jul 2024

Abstract

As both the proportion of older people and the length of life increases globally, a rise in age-related degenerative diseases, disability, and prolonged dependency is projected. However, more sophisticated biomedical materials, as well as an improved understanding of human disease, is forecast to [...] Read more.

As both the proportion of older people and the length of life increases globally, a rise in age-related degenerative diseases, disability, and prolonged dependency is projected. However, more sophisticated biomedical materials, as well as an improved understanding of human disease, is forecast to revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of conditions ranging from osteoarthritis to Alzheimer’s disease as well as impact disease prevention. Another, albeit quieter, revolution is also taking place within society: human augmentation. In this context, humans seek to improve themselves, metamorphosing through self-discipline or more recently, through use of emerging medical technologies, with the goal of transcending aging and mortality. In this review, and in the pursuit of improved medical care following aging, disease, disability, or injury, we first highlight cutting-edge and emerging materials-based neuroprosthetic technologies designed to restore limb or organ function. We highlight the potential for these technologies to be utilized to augment human performance beyond the range of natural performance. We discuss and explore the growing social movement of human augmentation and the idea that it is possible and desirable to use emerging technologies to push the boundaries of what it means to be a healthy human into the realm of superhuman performance and intelligence. This potential future capability is contrasted with limitations in the right-to-repair legislation, which may create challenges for patients. Now is the time for continued discussion of the ethical strategies for research, implementation, and long-term device sustainability or repair. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Medical Devices and Implants, 2nd Edition)

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16 pages, 2705 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Simulation of Thermal Therapy for Melanoma in Mice

by Yunfei Zhang and Mai Lu

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 694; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070694 - 9 Jul 2024

Abstract

In recent years, the progressively escalating incidence and exceptionally high fatality rate of cutaneous melanoma have drawn the attention of numerous scholars. Magnetic induction hyperthermia, as an efficacious tumor treatment modality, has been promoted and applied in the therapy of some tumors. In [...] Read more.

In recent years, the progressively escalating incidence and exceptionally high fatality rate of cutaneous melanoma have drawn the attention of numerous scholars. Magnetic induction hyperthermia, as an efficacious tumor treatment modality, has been promoted and applied in the therapy of some tumors. In this paper, the melanoma atop the mice’s heads was chosen as the research subject, and a magnetic induction hyperthermia approach based on Helmholtz coils as the magnetic field excitation was investigated and designed. The influence of the electromagnetic field and thermal field on organisms was addressed through modeling by COMSOL simulation software. The results showed that the maximum values of induced electric field and magnetic induction strength in mouse tumor tissues were 63.1 V/m and 8.5621 mT, respectively, which reached the threshold value of magnetic field strength required for magnetic induction hyperthermia. The maxima of the induced electric field and magnetic induction intensity in brain tissues are, respectively, 35.828 V/m and 8.57 mT. Approximately 93% of the tumor tissue can reach 42 °C, and the maximum temperature is 44.2 °C. Within this temperature range, a large quantity of tumor cells can be successfully induced to undergo apoptosis without harming normal cells, and the therapeutic effect is favorable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Biomimetic Approaches for Targeted Nanomedicine)

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15 pages, 12002 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Shark Cartilage-Derived Anti-Angiogenic Peptide Inhibits Corneal Neovascularization

by Yunxian Li, Aoke Chen, An Hong, Sheng Xiong, Xiaojia Chen and Qiuling Xie

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 693; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070693 - 9 Jul 2024

Abstract

Corneal neovascularization is a significant cause of vision loss, often resulting in corneal clouding and chronic inflammation. Shark cartilage is widely recognized as a significant natural source of anti-angiogenic compounds. Our previous studies have shown that a polypeptide from white-spotted catshark (Chiloscyllium [...] Read more.

Corneal neovascularization is a significant cause of vision loss, often resulting in corneal clouding and chronic inflammation. Shark cartilage is widely recognized as a significant natural source of anti-angiogenic compounds. Our previous studies have shown that a polypeptide from white-spotted catshark (Chiloscyllium plagiosum Bonnet) has the potential to inhibit the angiogenesis of breast tumors. This study applied this peptide (SAIF) to a corneal alkali injury model to assess its effect on corneal neovascularization. Results revealed that SAIF inhibits endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation. SAIF inhibited VEGF-induced angiogenesis in the matrigel plug. Using the corneal alkali injury model, SAIF significantly inhibited corneal vascular neovascularization in mice. We found that SAIF not only significantly inhibited the upregulation of pro-angiogenic factors such as VEGF, bFGF, and PDGF expression induced by alkali injury, but also promoted the expression of anti-angiogenesis factor PEDF. Moreover, we also analyzed the MMPs and TIMPs involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, angiogenesis, and lymphangiogenesis. We found that SAIF treatment inhibited the expression of pro-angiogenic factors like MMP1, MMP2, MMP3, MMP9, MMP13, and MMP14, and promoted the expression of anti-angiogenesis factors such as MMP7, TIMP1, TIMP2, and TIMP3. In conclusion, SAIF acts as an anti-angiogenic factor to inhibit the proliferation, migration, and tube formation of endothelial cells, inhibit pro-angiogenic factors, promote anti-angiogenic factors, and regulate the expression of MMPs, ultimately inhibiting corneal neovascularization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biologically Active Constituents and Their Applications for Skin Regeneration and Repair)

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14 pages, 852 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Large-Scale Expansion of Human Liver Stem Cells Using Two Different Bioreactor Systems

by Jan Thorbow, Andrea Strauch, Viktoria Pfening, Jan-Philip Klee, Patricia Brücher, Björn Boshof, Florian Petry, Peter Czermak, Maria Beatriz Herrera Sanchez and Denise Salzig

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 692; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070692 - 9 Jul 2024

Abstract

The assessment of human liver stem cells (HLSCs) as cell therapeutics requires scalable, controlled expansion processes. We first focused on defining appropriate process parameters for HLSC expansion such as seeding density, use of antibiotics, optimal cell age and critical metabolite concentrations in conventional [...] Read more.

The assessment of human liver stem cells (HLSCs) as cell therapeutics requires scalable, controlled expansion processes. We first focused on defining appropriate process parameters for HLSC expansion such as seeding density, use of antibiotics, optimal cell age and critical metabolite concentrations in conventional 2D culture systems. For scale-up, we transferred HLSC expansion to multi-plate and stirred-tank bioreactor systems to determine their limitations. A seeding density of 4000 cells cm⁻² was needed for efficient expansion. Although growth was not significantly affected by antibiotics, the concentrations of lactate and ammonia were important. A maximum expansion capacity of at least 20 cumulative population doublings (cPDs) was observed, confirming HLSC growth, identity and functionality. For the expansion of HLSCs in the multi-plate bioreactor system Xpansion (XPN), the oxygen supply strategy was optimized due to a low k_La of 0.076 h⁻¹. The XPN bioreactor yielded a final mean cell density of 94 ± 8 × 10³ cells cm⁻², more than double that of the standard process in T-flasks. However, in the larger XPN50 device, HLSC density reached only 28 ± 0.9 × 10³ cells cm⁻², while the glucose consumption rate increased 8-fold. In a fully-controlled 2 L stirred-tank bioreactor (STR), HLSCs expanded at a comparable rate to the T-flask and XPN50 processes in a homogeneous microenvironment using advanced process analytical technology. Ultimately, the scale-up of HLSCs was successful using two different bioreactor systems, resulting in sufficient numbers of viable, functional and undifferentiated HLSCs for therapeutic applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cell Processes)

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15 pages, 2381 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intuitionistic Fuzzy Biofeedback Control of Implanted Dual-Sensor Cardiac Pacemakers

by Hussain Alshahrani, Amnah Alshahrani, Mohamed Esmail Karar and Ebrahim A. Ramadan

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 691; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070691 - 8 Jul 2024

Abstract

Cardiac pacemakers are used for handling bradycardia, which is a cardiac rhythm of usually less than 60 beats per minute. Therapeutic dual-sensor pacemakers aim to preserve or restore the normal electromechanical activity of the cardiac muscle. In this article, a novel intelligent controller [...] Read more.

Cardiac pacemakers are used for handling bradycardia, which is a cardiac rhythm of usually less than 60 beats per minute. Therapeutic dual-sensor pacemakers aim to preserve or restore the normal electromechanical activity of the cardiac muscle. In this article, a novel intelligent controller has been developed for implanted dual-sensor cardiac pacemakers. The developed controller is mainly based on intuitionistic fuzzy logic (IFL). The main advantage of the developed IFL controller is its ability to merge the qualitative expert knowledge of cardiologists in the proposed design of controlled pacemakers. Additionally, the implication of non-membership functions with the uncertainty term plays a key role in the developed fuzzy controller for improving the performance of a cardiac pacemaker over other fuzzy control schemes in previous studies. Moreover, the proposed pacemaker control system is efficient for managing all health-status conditions and constraints during the different daily activities of cardiac patients. Consequently, the healthcare of patients with implanted dual-sensor pacemakers can be efficiently improved intuitively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Cardiac Assist Devices)

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18 pages, 3315 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predicting Aneurysmal Degeneration in Uncomplicated Residual Type B Aortic Dissection

by Arianna Forneris, Ali F. Hassanabad, Jehangir J. Appoo and Elena S. Di Martino

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 690; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070690 - 8 Jul 2024

Abstract

The formation of an aneurysm in the false lumen (FL) is a long-term complication in a significant percentage of type B aortic dissection (AD) patients. The ability to predict which patients are likely to progress to aneurysm formation is key to justifying the [...] Read more.

The formation of an aneurysm in the false lumen (FL) is a long-term complication in a significant percentage of type B aortic dissection (AD) patients. The ability to predict which patients are likely to progress to aneurysm formation is key to justifying the risks of interventional therapy. The investigation of patient-specific hemodynamics has the potential to enable a patient-tailored approach to improve prognosis by guiding disease management for type B dissection. CFD-derived hemodynamic descriptors and geometric features were used to retrospectively assess individual aortas for a population of residual type B AD patients and analyze correlations with known outcomes (i.e., rapid aortic growth, death). The results highlight great variability in flow patterns and hemodynamic descriptors. A rapid aortic expansion was found to be associated with a larger FL. Time-averaged wall shear stress at the tear region emerged as a possible indicator of the dynamics of flow exchange between lumens and its effect on the evolution of individual aortas. High FL flow rate and tortuosity were associated with adverse outcomes suggesting a role as indicators of risk. AD induces complex changes in vessel geometry and hemodynamics. The reported findings emphasize the need for a patient-tailored approach when evaluating uncomplicated type B AD patients and show the potential of CFD-derived hemodynamics to complement anatomical assessment and help disease management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Cardiovascular Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine)

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17 pages, 809 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Shared-Task Self-Supervised CNN-LSTM for Monitoring Free-Body Movement UPDRS-III Using Wearable Sensors

by Mustafa Shuqair, Joohi Jimenez-Shahed and Behnaz Ghoraani

Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 689; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070689 - 7 Jul 2024

Abstract

The Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) is used to recognize patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and rate its severity. The rating is crucial for disease progression monitoring and treatment adjustment. This study aims to advance the capabilities of PD management by developing [...] Read more.

The Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) is used to recognize patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and rate its severity. The rating is crucial for disease progression monitoring and treatment adjustment. This study aims to advance the capabilities of PD management by developing an innovative framework that integrates deep learning with wearable sensor technology to enhance the precision of UPDRS assessments. We introduce a series of deep learning models to estimate UPDRS Part III scores, utilizing motion data from wearable sensors. Our approach leverages a novel Multi-shared-task Self-supervised Convolutional Neural Network–Long Short-Term Memory (CNN-LSTM) framework that processes raw gyroscope signals and their spectrogram representations. This technique aims to refine the estimation accuracy of PD severity during naturalistic human activities. Utilizing 526 min of data from 24 PD patients engaged in everyday activities, our methodology demonstrates a strong correlation of 0.89 between estimated and clinically assessed UPDRS-III scores. This model outperforms the benchmark set by single and multichannel CNN, LSTM, and CNN-LSTM models and establishes a new standard in UPDRS-III score estimation for free-body movements compared to recent state-of-the-art methods. These results signify a substantial step forward in bioengineering applications for PD monitoring, providing a robust framework for reliable and continuous assessment of PD symptoms in daily living settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Advanced Computational Technologies for Biosignal Processing)

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