Biomedical Engineering Research Articles

From viral assembly to host interaction: AFM's contributions to virology.

Viruses represent a diverse pool of obligate parasites that infect virtually every known organism, as such, their study is incredibly valuable for a range of fields including public health, medicine, agriculture, and ecology, and the development of biomedical technologies. Having evolved over millions of years, each virus has a unique and often complicated biology, that must be characterized on a case-by-case basis, even between strains of the same taxon. Owing to its nanoscale spatial resolution, atomic force microscopy (AFM) represents a powerful tool for exploring virus biology, including structural features, kinetics of binding to host cell ligands, virion self-assembly, and budding behaviors. Through the availability of numerous chemistries and advances in imaging modes, AFM is able to explore the complex web of host-virus interactions and life-cycle at a single virus level, exploring features at the level of individual bonds and molecules. Due to the wide array of techniques developed and data analysis approaches available, AFM can provide information that cannot be furnished by other modalities, especially at a single virus level. Here, we highlight the unique methods and information that can be obtained through the use of AFM, demonstrating both its utility and versatility in the study of viruses. As the technology continues to rapidly evolve, AFM is likely to remain an integral part of research, providing unique and important insight into many aspects of virology.

Advances in polysaccharide-based materials for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications: A comprehensive review.

Polysaccharides, the most abundant biopolymers in nature, have attracted the attention of researchers and clinicians due to its practicality in biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences. These biomaterials have high bioavailability and play structural and functional roles in living organisms. Polysaccharides are classified into several groups based on their origin, including plant polysaccharides and marine polysaccharides (like chitosan, hyaluronic acid, dextran, alginates, etc.) with specific applications. These biopolymers possess unique physicochemical (such as surface functional groups, solubility, and stability), mechanical (like mechanical strength and tensile), and biomedical (such as antioxidant activity, biocompatibility, biodegradability, renewability, and non-immunogenicity) characteristics which have made them excellent platforms for a wide variety of biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. Ease of extraction and different preparation approaches are mentioned as other potential properties of polysaccharides that further improved their practicality in biomedical sciences. They have high drug/bioactive encapsulation capacity and sustained/controlled release manner in in vivo microenvironments. The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulation, stimuli-responsive drug/bioactive release, and passive and active drug/bioactive delivery are considered the potential features of these biopolymers in pharmaceutical sciences. Polysaccharides have indicated practical applications in biomedical sciences, including biosensors, tissue engineering, implantation, wound healing, vascular grafting, and vaccines. This review highlights the advances of polysaccharide-based materials in biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences.

Bicuspid Aortic Valve – Therapeutic Options Today and Tomorrow

Bicuspid Aortic Valve (BAV) is the most common congenital heart defect, characterized by the presence of two cusps of the valve instead of three. This defect leads to hemodynamic and morphological disturbances, potentially resulting in serious health complications. BAV often remains asymptomatic for a long time, with symptoms eventually arising from valve degeneration along with the remodeling of the heart and aortic root, which are consequences of the initial condition. The aim of this study is to compile information regarding the defect, current treatment options, and potential new therapeutic directions. The classical approach for treatment is surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR), which involves replacing the abnormal valve with either a mechanical or biological prosthesis through access via sternotomy. Mechanical valves are characterized by their longer lifespan but require ongoing anticoagulant therapy, whereas biological valves do not necessitate anticoagulation, although they tend to have a shorter durability. An alternative to SAVR is minimally invasive transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), which offers a shorter recovery time but limited long-term durability data restricts its use in younger patients. Other treatment options include the Ross procedure and valvuloplasty procedures, which may serve as viable solutions for pediatric patients. Despite the availability of different treatment methods, the selection of an appropriate therapeutic strategy remains a challenge, as each option carries distinct benefits and risks. Patient education plays a crucial role in the decision-making process, helping to alleviate anxiety and improve treatment outcomes. Emerging fields such as medical bioengineering might offer promising solutions in the future for patients with BAV.

3D Biofabrication of Microporous Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering.

Microporous hydrogels have been utilized in an unprecedented manner in the last few decades, combining materials science, biology, and medicine. Their microporous structure makes them suitable for wide applications, especially as cell carriers in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Microporous hydrogel scaffolds provide spatial and platform support for cell growth and proliferation, which can promote cell growth, migration, and differentiation, influencing tissue repair and regeneration. This review gives an overview of recent developments in the fabrication techniques and applications of microporous hydrogels. The fabrication of microporous hydrogels can be classified into two distinct categories: fabrication of non-injectable microporous hydrogels including freeze-drying microporous method, two-phase sacrificial strategy, 3D biofabrication technology, etc., and fabrication of injectable microporous hydrogels mainly including microgel assembly. Then, the biomedical applications of microporous hydrogels in cell carriers for tissue engineering, including but not limited to bone regeneration, nerve regeneration, vascular regeneration, and muscle regeneration are emphasized. Additionally, the ongoing and foreseeable applications and current limitations of microporous hydrogels in biomedical engineering are illustrated. Through stimulating innovative ideas, the present review paves new avenues for expanding the application of microporous hydrogels in tissue engineering.

Decellularized Cell‐Secreted Extracellular Matrices as Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is the naturally secreted biomaterial scaffold that provides support and regulates key aspects of cell behavior. This dynamic and complex network of structural proteins, proteoglycans, and soluble cues defines the cell microenvironment and is essential for tissue homeostasis. Because tissue engineering approaches aim to recapitulate aspects of the microenvironment to instruct tissue regeneration, ECM‐inspired or ‐derived scaffolds are some of the earliest tissue‐engineered constructs reported. However, conventional single‐protein constructs fail to provide the biochemical and structural complexity of the native ECM. Decellularized ECM is under investigation to improve cell adhesion, cell remodeling, migration, proliferation, and differentiation within tissue‐engineered constructs. However, challenges associated with poor mechanical properties and inherent chemical instability compared to synthetic or other natural polymers require additional considerations. This review describes the bioactive properties of ECM, current strategies to efficiently decellularize cell‐secreted and tissue‐derived ECM, standard fabrication techniques for ECM constructs, and current developments in the field of ECM‐based musculoskeletal platforms.

Ethical reflection of Chinese scientists on the dual-use concerns of emerging medical biotechnology

Emerging medical biotechnology typically exhibits a ‘dual-use’ nature, which, while promoting human well-being, concurrently presents potential risks of misuse or abuse, thereby posing significant threats. Globally, including in China, emerging...

Stomatocyte-Discocyte-Echinocyte Transformations of Erythrocyte Modulated by Membrane-Cytoskeleton Mechanical Properties.

Stomatocyte-discocyte-echinocyte (SDE) transformations in human red blood cells (RBCs) have significant influences on blood dynamics and related disorders. The mechanical properties of the RBC membrane, such as shear modulus and bending elasticity, play crucial roles in determining RBC shapes. Recent biophysical findings reveal that building a comprehensive model capable of describing SDE shape transformations is a challenging problem. Based on dissipative particle dynamics, this study develops a two-component RBC model considering the detachment between the lipid bilayer and cytoskeleton, as well as the cytoskeletal reorganization during echinocyte formation. This model is validated by comparing RBCs' geometric shape and the apparent membrane tension with previous experimental measurements. Results indicate that a complete SDE sequence represented by six typical shapes can be obtained by modulating the model's mechanical and geometric parameters. Furthermore, a phase diagram based on reduced variables is obtained using principal component analysis, demonstrating the phase transformations among SDE shapes. Our result suggests that the transformation from discocyte to stomatocyte is primarily influenced by dimensionless bending rigidity, whereas, during echinocyte formation, three key variables, i.e., dimensionless bending rigidity, targeting cytoskeleton shrinkage ratio, and connecting pattern, have joint impacts on the formation of spicules or bumps and the development of the cytoskeletal framework. The present two-component RBC model and the associated findings provide a perspective for a deeper understanding of the SDE transformation mechanism. This framework offers new insights into biological science and potential applications in the field of biomedical engineering.

Comprehensive Exploration of Biomedical Science in Transforming Global Health

Biomedical science has supervised tremendous changes in what the world considers health and how diseases are prevented, diagnosed, and treated. From the discovery of vaccines and diagnostic aids to innovations in genetics and genomic personalized medicine, spot the discipline as a key determinant of advancing the delivery and models of health Systems globally. This paper aims to review the effect of biomedical science on global health with a focus on retrospect and prospects of diseases, health, and crises. Thus, relying on up-to-date research, cases, and world health studies, the work reveals successes and failures. As for recommendations, they are to encourage innovation, extend the usage of biomedical technologies and involve individuals and disciplines expecting to make a positive change in the coming years that is stable and effective.Biomedical Science

Integrated Pacemaker System with Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting and Laser-Based Heartbeat Abnormality Detection

Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality globally, highlighting the critical need for innovative cardiac care technologies. This study presents an advanced pacemaker system integrating piezoelectric energy harvesting, chemical sensors, and laser-based heartbeat abnormality detection. By converting body thermal and mechanical energy into electrical power, the system ensures continuous operation. The integration of diode laser sensors provides non-invasive, real-time monitoring of blood flow and oxygen saturation, enabling early detection of arrhythmias. A mobile application supports remote monitoring and emergency alerts, enhancing patient safety. The system's novel architecture aims to reduce surgical interventions and improve cardiac outcomes, setting a benchmark for future advancements in biomedical engineering.

Computer vision: applications in Biomedical Engineering

The focus of this study is the presentation of two systems, which use computer vision techniques. In the first, the authors applied these techniques to the acquisition and processing system of ovitrap images. However, the second system is a physiotherapeutic evaluation platform for dynamic monitoring of body balance. By using a depth image of the patient (based on a 3D camera), the algorithm can predict the exact positions of the joints of an individual, without temporal information. The two studies described presented showed promising results, which demonstrated that computer vision techniques are of great importance. The experiments with the Aedes Aegypti mosquito egg has allowed accurate detection and counting of them. The experiments with body balance analysis has allowed the tracking of the center of mass of an individual during physiotherapeutic exercises. Software has detected the movement of the center of mass, satisfying a physiotherapeutic need. The techniques developed for computer vision have many possible applications in different areas and different populations, not only in the areas presented in this study.

The Emerging of 2D Layer‐Blocked Frameworks

Blocked copolymers are a versatile and powerful class of materials, and their properties can be modified by carefully designing the molecular architecture. Their ability to self‐assemble into nanoscale structures and the multifunctionality make them invaluable in advanced materials science, nanotechnology, and biomedical engineering. Compared to traditional blocked copolymer morphologies such as linear, cyclic, and branched, 2D layer‐blocked frameworks provide materials with clear structure, permanent porosity, favorable chemical and thermal stability, larger surface area, ultra‐high carrier mobility, efficient charge separation and migration, and excellent photoexcitation response. In this concept article, we summarized the design concepts and state‐of‐the‐art strategies for the construction of 2D layer‐blocked frameworks and reviewed the development of some 2D‐like blocked frameworks and their applications in semiconductor, catalysis, energy storage, etc. Finally, we also outlook for the challenges of these materials in preparation and applications across different research fields.

Synergistic influence of gyrotactic microorganisms and bimolecular reaction on bidirectional tangent hyperbolic fluid with Nield boundary conditions: A biomathematical model

In biomedical engineering, the behaviour of gyrotactic microorganisms with non-Newtonian fluids such as tangent hyperbolic fluids improve the design of targeted drug delivery systems. In this system control over microorganism movement is essential. The present study deals with the synergistic influence of gyrotactic microorganisms and bimolecular reactions on the bidirectional flow of tangent hyperbolic fluids under Nield boundary conditions. Further, the flow characteristic of the non-Newtonian fluid is enhanced by incorporating the impact of thermal radiation, heat sources, Brownian motion, and thermophoresis. The presentation of these phenomena is vital for an extensive range of applications, including industrial processes, biomedical engineering, and environmental management. The analysis employs advanced mathematical modelling which needs suitable transformation rules to get the non-dimensional form and further numerical simulation is presented with the assistance of the “shooting-based fourth-order Runge-Kutta technique”. The results are depicted for the several contributing factors via the built-in in-house function bvp4c in “MATLAB”. The authentication of the study with the prior research is a benchmark to precede further research in this direction. However, the outstanding results are; the fluid velocity is controlled by increasing non-Newtonian Weissenberg number whereas the velocity slip shows dual characteristics on the axial velocity distribution. Further, the motile microorganism profile is controlled by the enhanced bioconvection Lewis number.

Extraction of type I collagen and development of collagen methacryloyl (ColMA)/PEGDA ink for digital light processing printing

The fabrication of three-dimensional (3D) biostructures through additive manufacturing relies on the critical role of ink development. With the growing demand for high-resolution manufacturing, digital light processing (DLP) technology has emerged as a promising technique requiring specialised photosensitive inks. Although gelatine methacryloyl (GelMA) has been the primary option for DLP, its mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and low stability still present limitations. The development of collagen-based ink is thus in high demand for a wider stiffness adjustment range, native bioactivities, and versatility in biomedical engineering applications. In this paper, we report a rapid and low-cost protocol for collagen methacryloyl (ColMA)/poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) ink for DLP printing. The ink demonstrated the highest printing resolution of ~50 μm by using 405 nm visible light. The printability, mechanical properties and cell viability of the DLP-printed ColMA/PEGDA structures were comprehensively evaluated. The printed ColMA/PEGDA structures reached a compressive modulus over 100 kPa with 0.6 wt% collagen. The printed ColMA/PEGDA scaffolds promoted the attachment and proliferation of 3 T3 fibroblasts, demonstrating their potential in future applications in biomedical engineering.

The hidden impact of bullying and harassment in biotechnology and biomedical engineering

The adverse effects of academic bullying and harassment, which are longstanding issues within academic environments, on industry sectors have been inadequately addressed. This commentary explores the detrimental impacts of bullying and harassment in the biotech and biomedical engineering industries, including reduced employee morale, increased turnover, impaired collaboration, and hindered innovation.

Hybrid Silica‐Coated Nanomaterials: Pioneering Breakthroughs in Biomedical Technology

ABSTRACTThe field of biomedicine has extensively studied silica‐coated organic/inorganic nanoparticles due to their remarkable properties, such as biocompatibility, chemical stability, ease of functionalization, and thermal stability. Silica has been utilized to coat or encapsulate organic/inorganic nanoparticles, providing protection against aggregation and acid leaching while improving cytocompatibility. This review provides an overview of the manufacturing methods for silica nanoparticles, with a specific focus on surface strategies for core template nanomaterials (both hard and soft templates). These strategies involve the use of chemicals or biomolecules to guide nucleation and growth of silica at the interface of two phases. Furthermore, recent advancements in silica‐coated nanoparticles are discussed, emphasizing their applications in various areas such as bioimaging, drug delivery, biosensors, phototherapy, and hyperthermia.

Transcatheter Pulmonary Flow Restrictors: Current Trends and Future Perspectives.

Transcatheter Pulmonary Flow Restrictors (TPFRs) represent a significant advancement in managing pulmonary blood flow for congenital heart disease patients. However, there is a paucity of comprehensive studies addressing the diversity of these devices and identifying their critical features. This review aims to consolidate the existing knowledge on TPFRs, pinpoint crucial design and development aspects, identify gaps in current practices, and spotlight directions for future research and advancement. An exhaustive search was conducted across multiple databases, using specific search terms related to transcatheter and percutaneous pulmonary artery banding. Between 2005 and 2024, 82 patients were reported to have received TPFR implants, including fenestrated atrial septal defect occluders, diabolo-shaped stents, and MVP™ Micro Vascular Plug with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membranes partially removed. Microvascular plugs were the most commonly used and the most successful devices. However, the primary complications and challenges associated with MVPs included pulmonary overflow, unprotected flow to the right upper lobe, difficulty in creating an appropriately sized fenestration, the need for device replacement due to incorrect sizing, distal migration into the right pulmonary artery, left pulmonary artery stenosis, partial device collapse, thrombosis, jailing of the right upper lobe, potential injury to the pulmonary arterial wall, as well as device fracture and infection. TPFRs can be categorized based on the duration they are designed to remain within the pulmonary artery. Strategies should be devised to enable the device's easy removal without harming the pulmonary arterial wall while also preventing embolization. The ideal device should minimize migration, embolization, thrombosis, inflammation, and endothelialization risks. It should also prevent peri-device flow and adapt to the growth of the pulmonary artery, ensuring long-term efficacy and safety. The long-term outcomes and the potential for employing biodegradable and smart biomaterials remain areas for further investigation. Successful development of these devices requires a collaborative effort among biomaterial engineers, device developers, and interventional cardiologists.

A review of exploring the synthesis, properties, and diverse applications of poly lactic acid with a focus on food packaging application.

Polylactic acid (PLA) is an aliphatic polyester, which is primarily synthesized from renewable resources through the polycondensation or ring-opening polymerization of lactic acid (LA)/lactide. LA can be conveniently produced via the fermentation of sugars obtained from renewable sources such as corn and sugar cane. Due to its biodegradable and biocompatible nature, PLA exhibits a vast range of applications. Its advantages include non-toxicity, environmental safety, and compatibility with human biological systems. PLA finds significant use in various biomedical applications, including implants, tissue engineering, sutures, and drug delivery systems. Additionally, PLA serves as a renewable and biodegradable polymer of extensive utility in film production, offering an alternative to petrochemical-based polymers. Moreover, the properties of PLA-based films can be tailored by incorporating extracts, polysaccharides, proteins, and nano-particles. This review encompasses LA production, PLA synthesis, and diverse applications of PLA and further explores the potential of PLA in the realm of packaging.

Analyzing antimicrobial activity of ZnO/FTO, Sn-Cu-doped ZnO/FTO thin films: Production and characterizations.

In the developing field of nanotechnology, ZnO (zinc oxide) based semiconductor samples have emerged as the foremost choice due to their immense potential for advancing the development of cutting-edge nanodevices. Due to its excellent chemical stability, low cost, and non-toxicity to biological systems, it is also utilized in various investigations. In this study, the successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method was used to generate FTO (fluorine-doped tin oxide)/ZnO, and tin (Sn)-copper (Cu)-doped ZnO thin films at varying concentrations on FTO substrates. After being stacked 40 times in varying concentrations on the FTO substrate, FTO/ZnO thin films and Sn-Cu-doped thin films were annealed at 300°C. Using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy-(EDS), the agar diffusion test, and the viability cell counting method, the minimum inhibitory concentration, structural properties, surface morphology, antibacterial properties, bacterial adhesion, and survival organism count of FTO/ZnO thin films and Sn-Cu-doped thin films were investigated. Both doped and FTO/ZnO films with varying Sn-Cu concentrations expanded harmonically on the FTO substrate, according to the SEM-EDS investigation. The doping concentration affected their morphological properties, causing changes depending on the doping level. Antibacterial activity was observed in the powder metals, but no antibacterial activity was found in the thin film form. The highest adhesion rate of bacterial organisms on the produced samples was observed when the FTO/ZnO/Sn-Cu doping rate was 1%. In addition, the lowest adhesion rate was observed when the FTO/ZnO/Sn-Cu additive ratio was 3%. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: ZnO based semiconductors highlight significant potential in advancing nanodevice technology due to their chemical stability, cost-effectiveness, and biocompatibility. Employing the SILAR method, the study innovatively fabricates FTO/ZnO and Sn-Cu-doped ZnO thin films on FTO substrates, exploring a novel approach in semiconductor manufacturing. Post annealing at 300°C, the research examines the structural and surface morphological changes in the films, contributing to the understanding of semiconductor behavior under varying conditions. The study delves into the antibacterial properties of ZnO thin films, offering insights into the potential biomedical applications of these materials. SEM-EDS analysis reveals that doping concentrations crucially influence the morphological properties of ZnO thin films, shedding light on the optimization of semiconductor performance. Findings indicate a specific doping rate (1% Sn-Cu) enhances bacterial adhesion, while a 3% additive ratio minimizes it, suggesting implications for biomedical device engineering and antibacterial surface design.

Bacterial cellulose: A versatile biomaterial for biomedical application

Bacterial cellulose, a unique biomaterial produced by several bacteria, has garnered biomedical interest to its versatility. This could be used in healthcare packaging, and textiles. Bacterial cellulose extraction is effective and affordable since it lacks lignin and hemicellulose. In wound healing, tissue engineering, drug delivery, and regenerative medicine, this material’s unique properties have drawn interest. Bacterial cellulose has been studies as a skin substitute for severe burns and non-woven bandages for persistent wounds. In addition, bacterial cellulose has been used to make artificial skin, blood arteries, and wound dressings. Bacterial cellulose is ideal for biopolymer production due to its clean chemical composition, nano-fibrillar structure, and crystalline characteristics. This review explores the processing, content, characteristics, and applications of bacterial cellulose, revealing its function in tissue regeneration and disease resistance. Through careful inquiry and analysis, this work seeks to comprehend bacterial cellulose and its impact on biomedical research and technology.

To spill or not: Short-time pouring dynamics of a toppled liquid bottle

A typical culinary setting involves liquid condiments with different constitutive behaviors stored in jars, bottles, pitchers, or spouts. In the dynamic kitchen environment, handling these condiments might require pouring, drizzling, squeezing, or tapping, demonstrating the interplay of the container geometry, the fluid properties, and the culinary expertise. There is, of course, the occasional accidental toppling. We investigate the combined effects of surface properties, fluid properties, and confinement dimensions on the short-time spilling or pouring dynamics of a toppled cuvette. While attesting to the fact that smaller cuvettes (which can be termed as capillaries as well) do not spontaneously spill, larger cuvettes exhibit spilling dynamics that are dependent on the surface property, fluid viscosity, and flow rheology. For Newtonian liquids, it is observed that the spilling dynamics are determined largely by the coupling of viscous and gravity forces with surface properties, inducing non-intuitive behavior at higher conduit dimensions. The inclusion of rheology for non-Newtonian liquids in the soup makes the spilling dynamics not only an interplay surface and fluid properties but also a function of meniscus retraction demarcating a “splatter” of three regimes “not spilling,” “on the verge of spilling,” and “spontaneous spilling.” We not only delineate the interactions leading to meniscus motion but also provide a mapping on whether or not a container would spill if it is momentarily toppled and then immediately returned to upright position. This study aids in understanding the fascinating physics of fluid pouring dynamics and could lead to new kitchen, biomedical, and industrial technologies.