Field Of Biomedical Engineering Research Articles

Leveraging DNA-encoded Cell-mimics for Environment-adaptive Transmembrane Channel Release-induced Cell Death.

The advancement of cell-mimic materials, which can forge sophisticated physicochemical dialogues with living cells, has unlocked a realm of intriguing prospects within the fields of synthetic biology and biomedical engineering. Inspired by the evolutionarily acquired ability of T lymphocytes to release perforin and generate transmembrane channels on targeted cells for killing, herein we present a pioneering DNA-encoded artificial T cell mimic model (ARTC) that accurately mimics T-cell-like behavior. ARTC responds to acidic conditions similar to those found in the tumor microenvironment and then selectively releases a G-rich DNA strand (LG4) embedded with C12 lipid and cholesterol molecules. Once released, LG4 effectively integrates into the membranes of neighboring live cells, behaving as an artificial transmembrane channel that selectively transports K+ ions and disrupts cellular homeostasis, ultimately inducing apoptosis. We hope that the emergence of ARTC will usher in new perspectives for revolutionizing future disease treatment and catalyzing the development of advanced biomedical technologies.

Acoustofluidic scanning fluorescence nanoscopy with a large field of view

Large-field nanoscale fluorescence imaging is invaluable for many applications, such as imaging subcellular structures, visualizing protein interactions, and high-resolution tissue imaging. Unfortunately, conventional fluorescence microscopy requires a trade-off between resolution and field of view due to the nature of the optics used to form the image. To overcome this barrier, we developed an acoustofluidic scanning fluorescence nanoscope that simultaneously achieves superior resolution, a large field of view, and strong fluorescent signals. The acoustofluidic scanning fluorescence nanoscope utilizes the superresolution capabilities of microspheres that are controlled by a programmable acoustofluidic device for rapid fluorescence enhancement and imaging. The acoustofluidic scanning fluorescence nanoscope resolves structures that cannot be resolved with conventional fluorescence microscopes with the same objective lens and enhances the fluorescent signal by a factor of ~5 without altering the field of view of the image. The improved resolution realized with enhanced fluorescent signals and the large field of view achieved via acoustofluidic scanning fluorescence nanoscopy provides a powerful tool for versatile nanoscale fluorescence imaging for researchers in the fields of medicine, biology, biophysics, and biomedical engineering.

A handy analytical approximate solution for the magnetohydrodynamic flow of blood in a porous channel

This work presents a new version of the Picard method, known as the boundary values problems Picard method (BVPP), to obtain an analytical approximate solution for a highly complex nonlinear differential equation that models the magnetohydrodynamic flow of blood through a porous channel. The proposed method is versatile and can produce compact and easily evaluated analytical expressions that accurately capture the scientific phenomena being studied, making it ideal for practical applications. BVPP transforms a differential equation into an integral equation and utilizes an iterative algorithm like that of the basic Picard method. However, unlike the basic method, BVPP allows for the selection of an appropriate initial function and involves several adjustable parameters that can be optimized to obtain a precise analytical approximate solution with minimal effort. Overall, BVPP represents a significant advancement in the analysis of complex nonlinear differential equations, particularly in the field of biomedical engineering.

Early automated detection system for skin cancer diagnosis using artificial intelligent techniques

Recently, skin cancer is one of the spread and dangerous cancers around the world. Early detection of skin cancer can reduce mortality. Traditional methods for skin cancer detection are painful, time-consuming, expensive, and may cause the disease to spread out. Dermoscopy is used for noninvasive diagnosis of skin cancer. Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays a vital role in diseases’ diagnosis especially in biomedical engineering field. The automated detection systems based on AI reduce the complications in the traditional methods and can improve skin cancer’s diagnosis rate. In this paper, automated early detection system for skin cancer dermoscopic images using artificial intelligent is presented. Adaptive snake (AS) and region growing (RG) algorithms are used for automated segmentation and compared with each other. The results show that AS is accurate and efficient (accuracy = 96%) more than RG algorithm (accuracy = 90%). Artificial Neural networks (ANN) and support vector machine (SVM) algorithms are used for automated classification compared with each other. The proposed system with ANN algorithm shows high accuracy (94%), precision (96%), specificity (95.83%), sensitivity (recall) (92.30%), and F1-score (0.94). The proposed system is easy to use, time consuming, enables patients to make early detection for skin cancer and has high efficiency.

Women in engineering, science and technology in sub-Saharan Africa: cultural attitudes, challenges, and gaps affecting clinical engineering and medical devices maintenance practices

Abstract Purpose From previous studies, we had observed that the number of biomedical engineers and technicians (BMETs) skilled in the maintenance of medical devices (MDs) were limited in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and that a likely parallelism existed between BME maintenance-related tasks and house chores mainly carried out by women in daily life. Our objective in carrying out this study was to understand underlying local cultural and social factors and domestic traditions interfering with the inclusion of women in the field of clinical and biomedical engineering (BME), and to identify existing gaps in opportunities for women in Engineering, Science and Technology (EST) in this region. Methods We carried out an online survey involving 51 respondents (70.6% women, 29.4% men), to investigate gender-biased and cultural perceptions of maintenance-related tasks among engineers/technologists/technicians in BME and other allied professions in SSA​. The survey was refined through focus groups and pilot tests to assess its validity, and then shared among specific associations of women in engineering and other bodies in EST, as well as some hospital communities and institutions. Results The survey brought to light evidence of prejudices against women in the society and workplace and showed that the adoption of our parallelism hypothesis has potential for increasing medical device maintenance practices in SSA hospitals. Conclusions There is an apparent need to further study the possible effects of this sociological model through leveraging local culture and domestic traditions in ways that could ultimately increase the leadership and numbers of women BMETs in SSA.

Thermal performance of mixed convective radiative peristaltic flow of Bingham nanofluid

The significance of peristaltic phenomena has generated substantial interest within the fields of biological and biomedical engineering. Therefore, the present study deals with magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) peristaltic flow of Bingham nanofluid in a channel. Here the channel walls are symmetric and elastic in nature. Velocity slip, heat and mass convective conditions are enforced on channel walls. The aspects of dissipation, Joule heating and mixed convection is analyzed. Thermal transport included the features of thermal radiation, Brownian and thermophoresis motion. Analysis and modelling are investigated in the presence of the phenomenon heat generation and absorption. The analysis has been wrapped up under the assumptions of a long wavelength and a low Reynolds number. Numerical techniques are implemented for finding the solutions of governing differential system. Results for velocity, concentration, thermal field, rate of heat transfer, skin friction coefficient, Nusselt number and Sherwood number are analyzed subject to pertinent parameters. The study reveals that velocity is enhanced via both thermal Grashof number and velocity slip parameter. Temperature shows opposite behavior against radiation and Brinkman number. Rate of heat transfer enhances for larger values Brownian motion and Hartman parameters. This study's practical applications include the use of peristaltic pumps for drug delivery in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

Smart polyurethane endosponges for endoluminal vacuum therapy: Integration of a bacteria sensor

The development of smart biomedical devices as efficient tools in early diagnosis and therapy monitoring has recently witnessed unprecedented growth, becoming an emerging field in biomedical engineering. Sponges for endoluminal vacuum therapy, which are intended for transmitting negative pressure as trigger for tissue regeneration and for draining infections in anastomotic leakages, are massively used implants with very complex geometry and high risk of infection. In this work, commercial polyurethane (PU) sponges have been converted into smart biomedical devices by incorporating an electrochemical sensor to monitor the growth of bacteria. Such innovative approach, which allows to track the tissue healing process avoiding further infection development, has been performed applying a three-step process: 1) activation of PU using low pressure oxygen plasma; 2) incorporation of conducting polymer (CP) nanoparticles (NPs) at the surface of the activated PU by chemical oxidative polymerization; and 3) formation of a homogeneous electroactive coating using the CP NPs obtained in 2), as growth nuclei in an electrochemical polymerization. The functionalized PU sponge is able to monitor the bacteria growth in the surrounding media by detecting the concentration of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) from respiration reactions in the cytosol (i.e. bacteria do not have mitochondria). Conversely, respiration in normal eukaryotic cells takes place in the mitochondria, whose double membrane is not permeable to NADH. The sensing performance of the CP-coated PU sponges (limit of detection: 0.06 mM; sensitivity: 1.21 mA/cm2) has been determined in the lab using NADH solutions, while a proof of concept have been conducted using Escherichia coli bacteria cultures.

Green Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles using Aqueous Extract of <i>Allium tuberosum</i> Leaves

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have garnered significant interest in the field of biomaterials and biomedical engineering due to their wide-ranging applications, excellent biocompatibility, low toxicity, and customizable stability. This study focuses on synthesizing AuNPs through an environmentally friendly approach, specifically by utilizing the aqueous leaf extract of Allium tuberosum as both a reducing and capping agent. The synthesized AuNPs were characterized using UV-Vis Spectroscopy, revealing an absorption peak at 548 nm within the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of AuNPs. Morphological analysis conducted via SEM showed a mixture of rod-shaped and spherical-shaped AuNPs, with dimensions of 41.0 nm (width) and 181.6 nm (length) confirmed through DLS measurements. EDX analysis confirmed the high abundance of gold in the synthesized AuNPs. Furthermore, a zeta potential value of -26.2 mV indicates that the AuNPs have decent stability. Phytochemical analyses and FT-IR results implicated that the Saponin present in the Allium tuberosum leaf extract played a crucial role in reducing metal ions and stabilizing the AuNPs. The potential of Allium tuberosum leaf extract for synthesizing diverse metal nanoparticles highlights its promise for biomaterials and biomedical engineering. The synthesized AuNPs show versatility for applications like targeted drug delivery, non-invasive imaging, and emerging biomedical uses.

Análisis bibliométrico de la creación y captura de valor en la investigación en ingeniería biomédica

The field of biomedical engineering has brought about a paradigm shift in healthcare, revolutionizing the creation and appropriation of value within the medical sector. This study delves into this transformative phenomenon by conducting a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the biomedical engineering literature, aiming to elucidate the landscape of value creation and capture. Utilizing bibliometric tools and VOSviewer, we analyzed data from the Scopus database spanning from 2000 to 2024. Through citation analysis and keyword co-occurrence, we identified key authors, articles, journals, countries, and emerging trends in the realm of value creation and capture in biomedical engineering. Our findings not only shed light on the current state of research but also pinpoint areas for future investigation, thus contributing to the advancement of knowledge in this field. This paper serves as a roadmap for researchers, providing valuable insights into the dynamics of value creation and capture in biomedical engineering, and paving the way for future research endeavors.

Compact meta-differentiator for achieving isotropically high-contrast ultrasonic imaging

Ultrasonic imaging is crucial in the fields of biomedical engineering for its deep penetration capabilities and non-ionizing nature. However, traditional techniques heavily rely on impedance differences within objects, resulting in poor contrast when imaging acoustically transparent targets. Here, we propose a compact spatial differentiator for underwater isotropic edge-enhanced imaging, which enhances the imaging contrast without the need for contrast agents or external physical fields. This design incorporates an amplitude meta-grating for linear transmission along the radial direction, combined with a phase meta-grating that utilizes focus and spiral phases with a first-order topological charge. Through theoretical analysis, numerical simulations, and experimental validation, we substantiate the effectiveness of our technique in distinguishing amplitude objects with isotropic edge enhancements. Importantly, this method also enables the accurate detection of both phase objects and artificial biological models. This breakthrough creates new opportunities for applications in medical diagnosis and nondestructive testing.

Biodegradable suture development-based albumin composites for tissue engineering applications

Recent advancements in the field of biomedical engineering have underscored the pivotal role of biodegradable materials in addressing the challenges associated with tissue regeneration therapies. The spectrum of biodegradable materials presently encompasses ceramics, polymers, metals, and composites, each offering distinct advantages for the replacement or repair of compromised human tissues. Despite their utility, these biomaterials are not devoid of limitations, with issues such as suboptimal tissue integration, potential cytotoxicity, and mechanical mismatch (stress shielding) emerging as significant concerns. To mitigate these drawbacks, our research collective has embarked on the development of protein-based composite materials, showcasing enhanced biodegradability and biocompatibility. This study is dedicated to the elaboration and characterization of an innovative suture fabricated from human serum albumin through an extrusion methodology. Employing a suite of analytical techniques—namely tensile testing, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA)—we endeavored to elucidate the physicochemical attributes of the engineered suture. Additionally, the investigation extends to assessing the influence of integrating biodegradable organic modifiers on the suture's mechanical performance. Preliminary tensile testing has delineated the mechanical profile of the Filament Suture (FS), delineating tensile strengths spanning 1.3 to 9.616 MPa and elongation at break percentages ranging from 11.5 to 146.64%. These findings illuminate the mechanical versatility of the suture, hinting at its applicability across a broad spectrum of medical interventions. Subsequent analyses via SEM and TGA are anticipated to further delineate the suture’s morphological features and thermal resilience, thereby enriching our comprehension of its overall performance characteristics. Moreover, the investigation delves into the ramifications of incorporating biodegradable organic constituents on the suture's mechanical integrity. Collectively, the study not only sheds light on the mechanical and thermal dynamics of a novel suture material derived from human serum albumin but also explores the prospective enhancements afforded by the amalgamation of biodegradable organic compounds, thereby broadening the horizon for future biomedical applications.

Analysis of multi-bubble pulsations by the finite element method and bubble dynamics equations

Bubbles are widely used in industrial production, biomedical engineering, and many other fields. The analysis of the response of bubble clusters under acoustic waves is significant for the application of bubbles. In this paper, different bubble dynamics models are used to calculate the instantaneous radius of multi-bubbles, and the results corresponding to the different models are compared with those by the finite element method. In addition, the effect of bubble interactions on bubble pulsation is analyzed at different distances, and the effect of incident acoustic direction on the bubble's instantaneous radius is also investigated. The results show that time delays, which have often been neglected in previous work, should be considered except when the bubble spacing is minimal. The results calculated by the finite element method indicate that the attraction and repulsion between bubbles are alternating, which is related to the velocity field between bubbles. Moreover, the suppression or promotion of bubble interactions for bubble pulsation is affected by bubble distance under the same acoustic excitation conditions. Finally, for a bubble cluster with large bubble distances, its total scattered field relating to the incident acoustic wave can be approximated as the interference field of multiple secondary acoustic sources with the same waveform and different phases. If these bubbles are in random motion, the total scattered sound intensity of the bubble cluster is proportional to the number of bubbles.

Openable Double‐Microtube Structure Driven by Pneumatic Balloon Actuator Arrays for Tubular Organ‐on‐a‐Chip

Microfluidic platforms have revolutionized research in biomedical engineering, enabling efficient and controlled experimentation. Here, we present a novel microfluidic device, the double‐microtube, which offers parallel flow of different fluids. The device is fabricated by transforming a flat structure on a substrate using pneumatic balloon actuator arrays. The inner and outer tubes of the device can be independently controlled, allowing for individual opening and closing of each tubular structure. The inner and outer tubes have diameters of 1 mm and 3 mm, respectively. The device has been successfully tested for cell culture, showcasing its potential application for tubular organ‐on‐a‐chip studies, such as blood vessels and the small intestine. The presented double‐microtube structure promises a new level of control for microfluidic studies, offering exciting opportunities for researchers in the field of biomedical engineering. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.

“You don't sound well, you should take the day off”: Automatic detection of upper respiratory tract infections from speech using time-frequency domain deep convolutional neural network

The acoustic-prosodic qualities of a speech signal are influenced by various health-related factors, owing to their complex and intricate nature. In the speech and health domain, machine learning research is active and expanding, with a focus on devising paradigms to objectively extract and measure such effects. The field of biomedical engineering has great promise in the development of non-invasive diagnostic procedures utilizing voice as a means of assessment. The utilization of speech signals for the purpose of screening for the upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) such as common cold may offer potential advantages in terms of mitigating its transmission. In this study, we have proposed a novel time-frequency domain deep convolutional neural network for URTI detection from speech using the Chirplet transform. The time-frequency representation of speech signal is achieved using the Chirplet transform. Then, a deep convolutional neural network is used for the classification of the time-frequency representation of healthy and URTI speech signals. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is assessed through the utilization of the URTIC database. We have achieved the UAR of 68.97% and 67.34% on the develop and test set of the URTIC database, respectively.

Production of nanocellulose from lignocellulosic biomass and its potential applications: A review

<p>Lignocellulosic biomass is a complex natural polymer primarily composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and various other chemical components. The cellulose in the lignocellulosic biomass can depolymerize into a nano-dimension biomaterial called nanocellulose, which possesses unique features with potential application in various fields. Nanocellulose production from lignocellulosic biomass has become the subject of extensive research in the last few decades in the fields of material sciences and biomedical engineering and has attracted the attention of scientists and technologists worldwide. This production faces many challenges in utilizing the cellulose from lignocellulosic biomasses and subsequent processing for their conversion into nanocellulosic materials and their further applications in various fields of science and technology. This current review not only focuses on the production of nanocellulose from lignocellulosic biomass through different production methods but also discusses various sources, types, properties, and their applications in material science and biomedical engineering. This research review certainly shows that in the future, nanocellulose has great potential to be used as a renewable source in the field of sustainable materials and nanocomposites.</p>

An Overview of Mechanical Engineering and its Latest Technologies

Mechanical Engineering plays a significant role in the advancement of cutting-edge technologies. Whether it is development in the field of nanotechnology, biomedical Engineering or renewable energy, Mechanical Engineers are at the forefront of innovation. Their ability to apply principles of physics and mathematics to solve complex problems make them indispensable in pushing the boundaries of technology and driving progress in various industries. Mechanical Engineering also contributes to economic growth and development. By designing efficient manufacturing processes and creating cost-effective solutions, Mechanical Engineers help businesses improve productivity and competitiveness. They contribute to job creation, as their skills are in demand across a wide range of industries. Mechanical Engineering has a strong focus on problem solving and critical thinking. The ability to analyze and solve complex problems is highly valued in today's dynamic and rapidly evolving world. Mechanical Engineers are trained to think analytically, work with precision and consider multiple factors when designing solutions. Their skill set is not only applicable to Mechanical systems but can be transferred to other disciplines as well.  Mechanical Engineering is a field that has evolved and transformed over centuries, shaping the world we live in today. From the earliest machines and inventions to the sophisticated technologies used in modern industries, Mechanical Engineering has played a pivotal role in shaping our society. This paper explores the rich history of Mechanical Engineering, highlighting key milestones, innovations and latest technologies that have propelled the field forward. 

Structuring and Shaping of Mechanically Robust and Functional Hydrogels toward Wearable and Implantable Applications.

Hydrogels possess unique features such as softness, wetness, responsiveness, and biocompatibility, making them highly suitable for biointegrated applications that have close interactions with living organisms. However, conventional man-made hydrogels are usually soft and brittle, making them inferior to the mechanically robust biological hydrogels. To ensure reliable and durable operation of biointegrated wearable and implantable devices, mechanical matching and shape adaptivity of hydrogels to tissues and organs are essential. Recent advances in polymer science and processing technologies have enabled mechanical engineering and shaping of hydrogels for various biointegrated applications. In this review, polymer network structuring strategies at micro/nanoscales for toughening hydrogels are summarized, and representative mechanical functionalities that exist in biological materials but are not easily achieved in synthetic hydrogels are further discussed. Three categories of processing technologies, namely, 3D printing, spinning, and coating for fabrication of tough hydrogel constructs with complex shapes are reviewed, and the corresponding hydrogel toughening strategies are also highlighted. These developments enable adaptive fabrication of mechanically robust and functional hydrogel devices, and promote application of hydrogels in the fields of biomedical engineering, bioelectronics, and soft robotics.

Bone Cements Used in Vertebral Augmentation: A State-of-the-art Narrative Review.

Vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) are common in osteoporotic patients, with a frequency projected to increase alongside a growing geriatric population. VCFs often result in debilitating back pain and decreased mobility. Cement augmentation, a minimally invasive surgical technique, is widely used to stabilize fractures and restore vertebral height. Acrylic-based cements and calcium phosphate cements are currently the two primary fill materials utilized for these procedures. Despite their effectiveness, acrylic bone cements and calcium phosphate cements have been associated with various intraoperative and postoperative incidents impacting VCF treatment. Over the past decade, discoveries in the field of biomedical engineering and material science have shown advancements toward addressing these limitations. This narrative review aims to assess the potential pitfalls and barriers of the various types of bone cements.

Building a Partnership Between a University and Local High School to Foster and Grow Interest in Biomedical Sciences and Engineering.

To help foster interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), it is important to develop opportunities that excite and teach young minds about STEM-related fields. Over the past several years, our university-based research group has sought to help grow excitement around the biomechanics and biomedical engineering fields. The purposes of this technical brief are to (1) discuss the development of a partnership built between a St. Louis area high school and biomechanics research lab and (2) provide practical guidance for other researchers looking to implement a long-term outreach program. The partnership uses three different outreach opportunities. The first opportunity consisted of 12th-grade students visiting university research labs for an up-close perspective of ongoing biomedical research. The second opportunity was a biomedical research showcase where research-active graduate students traveled to the high school to perform demonstrations. The third opportunity consisted of a collaborative capstone project where a high school student was able to carry out research directly in a university lab. To date, we have expanded our reach from 19 students to interacting with over 100 students, which has yielded increased interest in STEM related research. Our postprogram survey showed that outreach programs such as the one described herein can increase interest in STEM within all ages of high school students. Building partnerships between high schools and university researchers increases the interest in STEM amongst high school students, and gives graduate students an outlet to present work to an eager-to-learn audience.

Dansylated Nitrile N-Oxide as the Fluorescent Dye Clickable to Unsaturated Bonds without Catalyst.

Fluorescent polymeric materials have been exploited in the fields of aesthetical purposes, biomedical engineering, and three-dimensional printing applications. While the fluorescent materials are prepared by the polymerization of fluorescent monomer or the blending a fluorescent dye with common polymer, the covalent immobilization of fluorescent dye onto common polymers is not the practical technique. In this paper, dansylated nitrile N-oxide (Dansyl-NO) has been designed and synthesized to be a stable nitrile N-oxide as the derivative of 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde. While Dansyl-NO shows good reactivity to an alkene and an alkyne to give fluorescent Dansyl-Ene and Dansyl-Yne, respectively, it hardly reacts to a nitrile. The results indicate that Dansyl-NO serves as a fluorescent dye clickable to alkenes and alkynes. To know the effects of solvent on the fluorescent properties, the UV-vis and fluorescence spectra of Dansyl-Ene are measured in three solvents. Dansyl-Ene shows fluorescent solvatochromism, which appears to be red-shifted along with the increase in solvent polarity. Poly(styrene-co-butadiene) directly reacts with Dansyl-NO to give fluorescent modified SB. The emission spectrum of modified SB is blue-shifted compared with that of Dansyl-Ene. The blue-shift could be possibly attributed to the presence of less polar polymer skeleton around the dansyl moieties of modified SB.