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20 pages, 1018 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Drug Release Kinetics of DOX-Loaded Graphene-Based Nanocarriers for Ovarian and Breast Cancer Therapeutics

by Katherine Taylor, Tanveer A. Tabish and Roger J. Narayan

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(23), 11151; https://doi.org/10.3390/app112311151 - 24 Nov 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3078

Abstract

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide despite extensive efforts at developing curative treatments. Chemotherapy, one of the most common forms of treatment, lacks specificity and can induce collateral damages to healthy surrounding tissues/cells and elicit off-target toxic side effects. [...] Read more.

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide despite extensive efforts at developing curative treatments. Chemotherapy, one of the most common forms of treatment, lacks specificity and can induce collateral damages to healthy surrounding tissues/cells and elicit off-target toxic side effects. The carbon-based nanomaterial graphene, can load aromatic drugs with high efficiency, has good biocompatibility, and can be easily functionalised with targeting ligands, antibodies, and biomolecules to increase the accuracy of targeting specific areas; graphene has therefore been explored as a nanocarrier for classical chemotherapy drugs. In this work, seventeen publications that report the release of doxorubicin (DOX) from 2D graphene-based nanohybrids (graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide) for the treatment of breast and ovarian cancers have been identified based on a range of inclusion and exclusion criteria. To aid in the clinical translation of proof-of-concept studies, this work identifies the pre-clinical experimental protocols and analyses the release kinetics of these publications. Fifteen of the papers utilised a change in pH as the stimulus for drug release, and two utilised either near infrared (NIR) or ultrasound as the stimulus. The extracted drug release data from these publications were fit to four known kinetic models. It was found that the majority of these data best fit the Weibull kinetic model. The agreement between the kinetic data in previously published literature provides a predictable estimation of DOX release from graphene-based nanocarriers. This study demonstrates the potential conjugation of graphene and DOX in drug delivery applications, and this knowledge can help improve to the design and formulation of future graphene-based nanocarriers. In addition, the use of further experimental testing and the standardisation of experimental protocols will be beneficial for future work. The incorporation of computational modelling prior to pre-clinical testing will also aid in the development of controlled and sustained DOX release systems that offer efficient and efficacious results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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16 pages, 569 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multiple Genetic Rare Variants in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Single-Center Targeted NGS Study

by Chiara Reale, Valeria Tessarollo, Sara Bulgheroni, Silvia Annunziata, Andrea Legati, Daria Riva, Chiara Pantaleoni, Barbara Garavaglia and Stefano D’Arrigo

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(17), 8096; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11178096 - 31 Aug 2021

Viewed by 2721

Abstract

Many studies based on chromosomal microarray and next-generation sequencing (NGS) have identified hundreds of genes associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk, demonstrating that there are several complex genetic factors that contribute to ASD risk. We performed targeted NGS gene panels for 120 [...] Read more.

Many studies based on chromosomal microarray and next-generation sequencing (NGS) have identified hundreds of genes associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk, demonstrating that there are several complex genetic factors that contribute to ASD risk. We performed targeted NGS gene panels for 120 selected genes, in a clinical population of 40 children with well-characterized ASD. The variants identified were annotated and filtered, focusing on rare variants with a minimum allele frequency <1% in GnomAD. We found 147 variants in 39 of the 40 patients. It was possible to perform family segregation analysis in 28 of the 40 patients. We found 4 de novo and 101 inherited variants. For the inherited variants, we observed that all the variants identified in the patients came equally from the paternal and maternal genetic makeup. We identified 9 genes that are more frequently mutated than the others, and upon comparing the mutational frequency of these 9 genes in our cohort and the mutational frequency in the GnomAD population, we found significantly increased frequencies of rare variants in our study population. This study supports the hypothesis that ASD is the result of a combination of rare deleterious variants (low contribution) and many low-risk alleles (genetic background), highlighting the importance of MET and SLIT3 and the potentially stronger involvement of FAT1 and VPS13B in ASD. Taken together, our findings reinforce the importance of using gene panels to understand the contribution of the different genes already associated with ASD in the pathogenesis of the disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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8 pages, 267 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reference Mapping Considering Swaps of Adjacent Bases

by Youngho Kim, Munseong Kang, Ju-Hui Jeong, Dae Woong Kang, Soo Jun Park and Jeong Seop Sim

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(11), 5038; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11115038 - 29 May 2021

Viewed by 1965

Abstract

Since the time of the HGP, research into next-generation sequencing, which can reduce the cost and time of sequence analysis using computer algorithms, has been actively conducted. Mapping is a next-generation sequencing method that identifies sequences by aligning short reads with a reference [...] Read more.

Since the time of the HGP, research into next-generation sequencing, which can reduce the cost and time of sequence analysis using computer algorithms, has been actively conducted. Mapping is a next-generation sequencing method that identifies sequences by aligning short reads with a reference genome for which sequence information is known. Mapping can be applied to tasks such as SNP calling, motif searches, and gene identification. Research on mapping that utilizes BWT and GPU has been undertaken in order to obtain faster mapping. In this paper, we propose a new mapping algorithm with additional consideration for base swaps. The experimental results demonstrate that when the penalty score for swaps was

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in paired-end alignment, for the human whole genome, SOAP3-swap aligned 4667, 2318, and 972 more read pairs, respectively, than SOAP3-dp, and for the drosophila genome, SOAP3-swap aligned 1253, 454, and 129 more read pairs, respectively, than SOAP3-dp. SOAP3-swap has the same functionality as that of SOAP3-dp and also improves the alignment ratio by taking biologically significant swaps into account for the first time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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12 pages, 5908 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Vital Sign Analysis System Based on Algorithm Block Broker for Interoperability between Algorithm Development Tools

by Moon-Il Joo and Hee-Cheol Kim

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(4), 1913; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11041913 - 22 Feb 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2068

Abstract

With the recent development of artificial intelligence and data mining technology, various and intelligent vital sign analysis technologies have been developed. Vital sign analysis algorithms and technologies are primarily developed using MATLAB and open source technologies, such as Python and R. The analysis [...] Read more.

With the recent development of artificial intelligence and data mining technology, various and intelligent vital sign analysis technologies have been developed. Vital sign analysis algorithms and technologies are primarily developed using MATLAB and open source technologies, such as Python and R. The analysis algorithms developed with such programming languages can only be employed and run in their own respective development environments and, hence, are unfortunately not considered as platform independent. In that respect, the interoperability between development tools is needed to ensure efficiency in terms of development time and efforts and reusability between analysis technologies and algorithms developed in different languages. This paper presents the development of a vital sign analysis system that ensures interoperability, which leads to one common environment connecting different development platforms. To maintain the interoperability between MATLAB and R programming, we designed and implemented the Algorithm Block Broker (AB Broker). AB Broker is composed of AB Adapter and AB Broker. Here, the AB Broker uses AB Adapter to request execution of analysis algorithms developed in different languages, such as MATLAB, R, and Python. It also searches and runs the algorithm, helping implement the requested analysis technique. The AB Broker-based vital sign analysis system enables the integrated management of analysis and data mining technologies developed in different languages. From a developer’s point of view, therefore, it is convenient and efficient to develop techniques using existing different programming technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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13 pages, 2824 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Study of the Mechanical Behavior of Subcellular Organelles Using a 3D Finite Element Model of the Tensegrity Structure

by Gholamreza Mohammadi Khunsaraki, Hanieh Niroomand Oscuii and Arkady Voloshin

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(1), 249; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11010249 - 29 Dec 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2630

Abstract

A tensegrity model can be used to describe the mechanical behavior of living cells. A finite element model (FEM) was used to assess the mechanical contribution of subcellular organelles. Continuum parts like the cytoplasm and membrane were modeled as continuous elements, while the [...] Read more.

A tensegrity model can be used to describe the mechanical behavior of living cells. A finite element model (FEM) was used to assess the mechanical contribution of subcellular organelles. Continuum parts like the cytoplasm and membrane were modeled as continuous elements, while the tensegrity was chosen to model the cytoskeleton and nucleoskeleton. An atomic force microscope load was implemented to simulate the external load. The cell components were loaded separately to evaluate their mechanical contributions. The analysis started with a single cytoplasm and each of the cell components was added in consecutive steps. The results showed that the cytoskeleton carried the largest part of the reaction force. The cytoplasm was the second important component of the cell’s mechanical response. It was shown that the nucleoskeleton has a stiffer structure than the membrane and cytoplasm. The cytoskeleton supported approximately 90% of the reaction force, while the cytoplasm carried 9% and the shell parts and nucleoskeleton were responsible for about 1%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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18 pages, 8324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Liquid–Solid Core-Shell Microcapsules of Calcium Carbonate Coated Emulsions and Liposomes

by Mark A. Bewernitz, Archana C. Lovett and Laurie B. Gower

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(23), 8551; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10238551 - 29 Nov 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3771

Abstract

Micron-sized core-shell particles consisting of a calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) mineral shell and a fluidic core were generated using a biomimetic approach, for the purpose of use as biodegradable microcapsules for release of active agents. Dinoflagellate cysts, unicellular organisms which deposit a [...] Read more.

Micron-sized core-shell particles consisting of a calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) mineral shell and a fluidic core were generated using a biomimetic approach, for the purpose of use as biodegradable microcapsules for release of active agents. Dinoflagellate cysts, unicellular organisms which deposit a protective hard mineral shell around their soft and fluidic cellular interior, served as our inspiration. Using the biomimetic polymer-induced liquid-precursor (PILP) mineralization process, calcium carbonate coatings were deposited on charged emulsion droplets and liposomes. Light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, polarized light microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and confocal fluorescence microscopy were used to demonstrate that smooth CaCO₃ mineral coatings can be deposited onto the high curvature surfaces of emulsions and liposomes to yield micron-sized microcapsules for the effective entrapment of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic active agents. These biodegradable and biocompatible CaCO₃ microcapsules are novel systems for producing a powdered form of fluid-containing capsules for storage and transport of pharma/chemical agents. They may be used in lieu of, or in conjunction with, existing microcapsule delivery approaches, as well as providing a convenient foundation for which polymeric coatings could be further applied, allowing for more complex targeting and/or chemical-release control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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10 pages, 1682 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Insulin Secretion by β-Cell-Like Cells Derived from Pulp Stem Cells Depends on Augmented Cytosolic Zinc Levels than GABA Levels

by Gyuyoup Kim, Man-Kyo Chung and Eung-Kwon Pae

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(21), 7476; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10217476 - 24 Oct 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2024

Abstract

Background: Stem cells harvested from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) are pluripotent and can be differentiated into insulin-secreting β-cells, i.e., SHED β-cells. Previously, we showed that zinc upregulates insulin secretion from SHED β-cells, potentially providing an extra source for insulin. Rationale: In this [...] Read more.

Background: Stem cells harvested from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) are pluripotent and can be differentiated into insulin-secreting β-cells, i.e., SHED β-cells. Previously, we showed that zinc upregulates insulin secretion from SHED β-cells, potentially providing an extra source for insulin. Rationale: In this study, we determined the role of ionotropic γ-aminobutyric acid A (GABA_A) receptor in zinc-enhanced insulin secretion from SHED β-cells. Autocrine/paracrine activation of GABA_A receptors by GABA elevates calcium influx in pancreatic β-cells, in which intracellular chloride is maintained at high levels. Method and Findings: Differentiating SHED into SHED β-cells resulted in an increase in the expression of GABA_A receptor subunits and Zrt-/irt-like protein3 (ZIP3), a zinc uptake transporter. Zinc pretreatment elevated the insulin gene transcription, whereas knockdown of ZIP3 reduced levels of intracellular zinc, and concomitantly reduced insulin secretion by SHED β-cells. Zinc-pretreated SHED β-cells exhibited a GABA-induced increase in Ca²⁺ influx, detected with a ratiometric calcium-sensitive dye, suggesting zinc-mediated regulation of GABA_A receptors. Conclusion: Our results indicate that elevated levels of zinc and GABA_A receptors are indispensable for efficient insulin secretion by SHED β-cells. These findings suggest an opportunity for using SHED β-cells for treating diabetes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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14 pages, 1815 KiB

Open AccessArticle

(+)-(E)-Chrysanthenyl Acetate: A Molecule with Interesting Biological Properties Contained in the Anthemis secundiramea (Asteraceae) Flowers

by Michela Di Napoli, Viviana Maresca, Mario Varcamonti, Maurizio Bruno, Natale Badalamenti, Adriana Basile and Anna Zanfardino

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(19), 6808; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10196808 - 28 Sep 2020

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 3517

Abstract

Anthemis secundiramea is a perennial herb native widespread throughout the Mediterranean basin. The oil obtained from the flowers of this plant has antimicrobial properties against gram-positive and -negative bacteria, and inhibits the biofilm formation. The extract of A. secundiramea also has antioxidant activity—increasing [...] Read more.

Anthemis secundiramea is a perennial herb native widespread throughout the Mediterranean basin. The oil obtained from the flowers of this plant has antimicrobial properties against gram-positive and -negative bacteria, and inhibits the biofilm formation. The extract of A. secundiramea also has antioxidant activity—increasing the activity of different enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPx). Surprisingly, in the oil extracted from the flowers, there is a single molecule, called (+)-(E)-chrysanthenyl acetate: This makes the A. secundiramea flowers extract extremely interesting for future topical, cosmetic, and nutraceutical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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14 pages, 4295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biomechanical Effect of Various Tibial Bearing Materials in Uni-Compartmental Knee Arthroplasty Using Finite Element Analysis

by Yoon Hae Kwak, Hyoung-Taek Hong, Yong-Gon Koh and Kyoung-Tak Kang

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(18), 6487; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10186487 - 17 Sep 2020

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3796

Abstract

This paper aimed to evaluate the biomechanical effects of tibial bearing materials, from ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) to poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) and carbon-fiber-reinforced poly-ether-ether-ketone (CFR-PEEK). The studies were conducted based on a validated finite element model. The geometry of the intact knee model was developed [...] Read more.

This paper aimed to evaluate the biomechanical effects of tibial bearing materials, from ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) to poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) and carbon-fiber-reinforced poly-ether-ether-ketone (CFR-PEEK). The studies were conducted based on a validated finite element model. The geometry of the intact knee model was developed from computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the left knee joint of a 37-year-old healthy male volunteer. Three different loading conditions, related to the loads applied in the experimental research, were applied to this study for model predictions and validation. The contact stress in the other compartments was under normal walking conditions. Also, stresses on five regions of the tibia bone were analyzed under normal walking conditions. The lowest contact stress between the lateral meniscus and tibial cartilage was achieved in the order of the use of CFR-PEEK, PEEK, and UHMWPE tibial bearings. Moreover, CFR-PEEK and PEEK tibial bearings indicated lower and greater stresses on cortical and trabecular bones, respectively, compared to the UHMWPE tibial bearing. These results show that CFR-PEEK can be used as a tibial bearing material as an alternative to UHMWPE, and such a change in the material may be a good method for reducing potential anteromedial pain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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14 pages, 1028 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Deterministic and Explicit: A Quantitative Characterization of the Matrix and Collagen Influence on the Stiffening of Peripheral Nerves Under Stretch

by Pier Nicola Sergi

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(18), 6372; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10186372 - 13 Sep 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2339

Abstract

The structural organization of peripheral nerves enables them to adapt to different body postures and movements by varying their stiffness. Indeed, they could become either compliant or stiff in response to the amount of external solicitation. In this work, the global response of [...] Read more.

The structural organization of peripheral nerves enables them to adapt to different body postures and movements by varying their stiffness. Indeed, they could become either compliant or stiff in response to the amount of external solicitation. In this work, the global response of nerves to axial stretch was deterministically derived from the interplay between the main structural constituents of the nerve connective tissue. In particular, a theoretical framework was provided to explicitly decouple the action of the ground matrix and the contribution of the collagen fibrils on the macroscopic stiffening of stretched nerves. To test the overall suitability of this approach, as a matter of principle, the change of the shape of relevant curves was investigated for changes of numerical parameters, while a further sensitivity study was performed to better understand the dependence on them. In addition, dimensionless stress and curvature were used to quantitatively account for both the matrix and the fibril actions. Finally, the proposed framework was used to investigate the stiffening phenomenon in different nerve specimens. More specifically, the proposed approach was able to explicitly and deterministically model the nerve stiffening of porcine peroneal and canine vagus nerves, closely reproducing (

R^{2} > 0.997

) the experimental data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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17 pages, 4767 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rapid Screening of Retrieved Knee Prosthesis Components by Confocal Raman Micro-Spectroscopy

by Calin Tudor Hozan, Simona Cavalu, Simona Cinta Pinzaru, Aurel George Mohan, Florin Beteg and Gelu Murvai

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(15), 5343; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10155343 - 3 Aug 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3695

Abstract

(1) Aim: To evaluate the failure reason and surface modifications of a retrieved knee prosthesis; (2) Methods: Rapid confocal Raman spectroscopy screening was applied on the surface of a retrieved knee prosthesis (both titanium and UHMWPE (Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene) component) in order to determine [...] Read more.

(1) Aim: To evaluate the failure reason and surface modifications of a retrieved knee prosthesis; (2) Methods: Rapid confocal Raman spectroscopy screening was applied on the surface of a retrieved knee prosthesis (both titanium and UHMWPE (Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene) component) in order to determine predominate implant damage, along with the chemical composition of synovial fluid accumulated in the stem of the tibial component during the implantation period. Correlations between the medical records of the patient (clinical and radiographic information) and spectroscopic results are pointed out, the parameters being interpreted in the context of proper functioning and life span of knee prosthesis; (3) Results: The metallic tibial component does not show any modification during the implantation period, as demonstrated by the well preserved titanium component with signature of anatase phase detected in retrieved component, compared to unused piece. The spectral features of polymeric component (ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene, UHMWPE) revealed structural modification in crystallinity and amorphous phase accompanied by insignificant level of oxidation (OI < 1). Scratching, pitting and persistent organic spots as a result of mechanical and chemical deterioration were noticed on the surface of retrieved insert. Acrylic cement deterioration was also noticed. Synovial fluid collected from the stem of the tibial component demonstrated a lipidomic profile; (4) Conclusions: Combining the clinical evidences with confocal Raman spectroscopy allowed a rapid screening with high sensitivity and nondestructive measurements in the case of failure in TKA (total knee arthroplasty). The third body wear and lipidomic profile of synovial fluid are cumulative factors of failure in this case, resulting in an osteolysis that finally leads to an aseptic loosening. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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12 pages, 1449 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Platelet Rich STROMA, the Combination of PRP and tSVF and Its Potential Effect on Osteoarthritis of the Knee

by Hieronymus P. Stevens, Joeri van Boxtel, Robbert van Dijck and Joris A. van Dongen

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(14), 4691; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10144691 - 8 Jul 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3624

Abstract

(1) Background: osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a degenerative disease accompanied by pain, reduced mobility and subsequent decrease in quality of life. Many studies on OA of the knee have reported that using an intercellular acting-derivate like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) results in [...] Read more.

(1) Background: osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a degenerative disease accompanied by pain, reduced mobility and subsequent decrease in quality of life. Many studies on OA of the knee have reported that using an intercellular acting-derivate like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) results in a limited effect or none at all. Authors hypothesized that adding tissue-Stromal Vascular Fraction (tSVF) to PRP (Platelet Rich Stroma (PRS)) would reduce pain and improve functionality in osteoarthritis of the knee. (2) Methods: a consecutive case series of fifteen patients (aged 43–75 years) suffering from OA of the knee (Kellgren–Lawrence stage two to three) were treated with a single injection of autologous PRS. tSVF was mechanically isolated by means of the fractionation of adipose tissue (FAT) procedure. Clinical evaluation was done using a visual analogue score (VAS) score, an adapted Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) and Lysholm score at fixed time points: pre-injection as well as three, six and twelve months post injection. (3) Results: VAS and WOMAC scores improved significantly after twelve months (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05). Lysholm instability scores were also improved at twelve months (p > 0.05) in comparison to pre-injection measurements. No complications were seen in any of the patients. One patient was excluded due to a total knee arthroplasty. (4) Conclusions: a single injection with PRS for OA of the knee seems to lead to an improvement of function and simultaneous reduction of pain and joint stiffness for a period of twelve months. Further controlled trials are required to determine the optimal treatment regimen and evaluate long-term results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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10 pages, 2324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantitative Analysis of Movements in Children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Using a Smart Watch at School

by Lung-Chang Lin, Chen-Sen Ouyang, Ching-Tai Chiang, Rong-Ching Wu and Rei-Cheng Yang

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(12), 4116; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10124116 - 15 Jun 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3983

Abstract

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is primarily diagnosed using set criteria and checklists. However, authors have indicated that such criteria and checklists are subjective. In this study, data from the gyroscope and accelerometer in a smart watch were used to analyze the movements of [...] Read more.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is primarily diagnosed using set criteria and checklists. However, authors have indicated that such criteria and checklists are subjective. In this study, data from the gyroscope and accelerometer in a smart watch were used to analyze the movements of children with ADHD. This study cohort comprised 15 children with ADHD and 15 age- and sex-matched control participants. The children with ADHD and controls wore the watches on their non-writing hands simultaneously in class. The recordings of one patient and one control were tracked for 2 h daily for three consecutive days with desk and seated class activities. We compared the measurements of variance and the zero-crossing rate (ZCR) of the gyroscope and accelerometer between the children with ADHD and controls. All average variance and ZCR values of the three axes (x, y, and z) in the gyroscope and accelerometer were higher in children with ADHD than in the controls. Significant differences in average variance values on the y-axis (p < 0.001) and ZCR values on all three axes (x, p = 0.005; y, p = 0.003; and z, p = 0.004) of the gyroscope were observed. Similarly, significant differences in the average variance values on the three axes (x, p = 0.001; y, p < 0.001; and z, p < 0.001) and ZCR values on the z-axis (p = 0.006) of the accelerometer were observed. The proposed method is a promising tool to objectively analyze the movements of children with ADHD at school. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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14 pages, 2146 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Practical Guide to Class IIa Medical Device Development

by Adél Hinsenkamp, Dorottya Kardos, Zsombor Lacza and István Hornyák

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(10), 3638; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10103638 - 24 May 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5245

Abstract

There are many beneficial medical device ideas based on clinical needs and laboratory research, but medical device development is an expensive, time-consuming and complex challenge. Research and quality management, which are both needed to develop a medical device, are two distinct fields, initiated [...] Read more.

There are many beneficial medical device ideas based on clinical needs and laboratory research, but medical device development is an expensive, time-consuming and complex challenge. Research and quality management, which are both needed to develop a medical device, are two distinct fields, initiated by a researcher or a clinician having a concept for a medical device, and it is often challenging to find and achieve the proper steps to create a licensed product. Thus, in this paper, we demonstrate the required mindset and main steps of the medical device development procedure through an existing example, a Class IIa medical device, called hypACT Inject Auto. HypACT is a specific syringe, which is capable of blood drawing and serum from platelet-rich fibrin (SPRF) isolation in one step in a closed system. SPRF is intended to be used to improve joint functions in the case of musculoskeletal diseases, specifically osteoarthritis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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14 pages, 1474 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Photoplethysmographic Prediction of the Ankle-Brachial Pressure Index through a Machine Learning Approach

by David Perpetuini, Antonio Maria Chiarelli, Daniela Cardone, Sergio Rinella, Simona Massimino, Francesco Bianco, Valentina Bucciarelli, Vincenzo Vinciguerra, Giorgio Fallica, Vincenzo Perciavalle, Sabina Gallina and Arcangelo Merla

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(6), 2137; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10062137 - 21 Mar 2020

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3707

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death. Several markers have been proposed to predict cardiovascular morbidity. The ankle-brachial index (ABI) marker is defined as the ratio between the ankle and the arm systolic blood pressures, and it is generally assessed through sphygmomanometers. [...] Read more.

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death. Several markers have been proposed to predict cardiovascular morbidity. The ankle-brachial index (ABI) marker is defined as the ratio between the ankle and the arm systolic blood pressures, and it is generally assessed through sphygmomanometers. An alternative tool for cardiovascular status assessment is Photoplethysmography (PPG). PPG is a non-invasive optical technique that measures volumetric blood changes induced by pulse pressure propagation within arteries. However, PPG does not provide absolute pressure estimation, making assessment of cardiovascular status less direct. The capability of a multivariate data-driven approach to predict ABI from peculiar PPG features was investigated here. ABI was measured using a commercial instrument (Enverdis Vascular Explorer, VE-ABI), and it was then used for a General Linear Model estimation of ABI from multi-site PPG in a supervised learning framework (PPG-ABI). A Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis allowed to investigate the capability of PPG-ABI to discriminate cardiovascular impairment as defined by VE-ABI. Findings suggested that ABI can be estimated form PPG (r = 0.79) and can identify pathological cardiovascular status (AUC = 0.85). The advantages of PPG are simplicity, speed and operator-independency, allowing extensive screening of cardiovascular status and associated cardiovascular risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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Review

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21 pages, 523 KiB

Open AccessReview

Healthcare Applications of Artificial Intelligence and Analytics: A Review and Proposed Framework

by Sabrina Azzi, Stéphane Gagnon, Alex Ramirez and Gregory Richards

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(18), 6553; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10186553 - 19 Sep 2020

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 10709

Abstract

Healthcare is considered as one of the most promising application areas for artificial intelligence and analytics (AIA) just after the emergence of the latter. AI combined to analytics technologies is increasingly changing medical practice and healthcare in an impressive way using efficient algorithms [...] Read more.

Healthcare is considered as one of the most promising application areas for artificial intelligence and analytics (AIA) just after the emergence of the latter. AI combined to analytics technologies is increasingly changing medical practice and healthcare in an impressive way using efficient algorithms from various branches of information technology (IT). Indeed, numerous works are published every year in several universities and innovation centers worldwide, but there are concerns about progress in their effective success. There are growing examples of AIA being implemented in healthcare with promising results. This review paper summarizes the past 5 years of healthcare applications of AIA, across different techniques and medical specialties, and discusses the current issues and challenges, related to this revolutionary technology. A total of 24,782 articles were identified. The aim of this paper is to provide the research community with the necessary background to push this field even further and propose a framework that will help integrate diverse AIA technologies around patient needs in various healthcare contexts, especially for chronic care patients, who present the most complex comorbidities and care needs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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Other

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9 pages, 12381 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Custom-Made Horizontal and Vertical Maxillary Augmentation with Smartbone^® On Demand^™: A Seven-Year Follow-Up Case

by Elias Messo, Carlo F. Grottoli, Giuseppe Perale and Jan-Michaél Hirsch

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(22), 8039; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10228039 - 13 Nov 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3272

Abstract

The presence of non-sufficient bone height and width requires an increase in the amount of bone available to insert an implant. Different materials are described in the literature, and the “custom-made bone graft approach” is a modern option which currently requires a preoperative [...] Read more.

The presence of non-sufficient bone height and width requires an increase in the amount of bone available to insert an implant. Different materials are described in the literature, and the “custom-made bone graft approach” is a modern option which currently requires a preoperative stage of studying the bone defect and designing the implant. SmartBone^® (SB^®) mimics the characteristics of healthy human bone. Thanks to the strong performance, high workability, resistance and shape retention of SB^®, it is possible to obtain SmartBone^® on Demand^TM, a bone graft uniquely shaped exactly to patient specifications, produced by following the data precisely and contoured to the bone defect site. The aim of this study was to determine the success over 7 years following a customized SmartBone^® on Demand^TM, a xeno-hybrid bone graft and installation of implants in a maxillary horizontal and vertical atrophy. This case study presents the diagnosis for a 60-year-old male patient requesting the rehabilitation of his edentulous maxilla with dental implants. Preoperative evaluation included the study of photographs, a radiological examination and 3D reconstruction to assess the missing bone, implant size, positioning of implants and anatomical landmarks. Rehabilitation included the insertion of a custom-made xeno-hybrid bone block into the maxilla in order to restore the anatomy prior to the implants’ placement. The newly developed bone substitute SB^® is a safe and effective material, and its custom-made variant SmartBone^® on Demand^TM has been shown to be a valid alternative to traditional autologous bone grafting techniques in terms of accuracy, absence of infection/rejection and overall clinical outcome. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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Open AccessCase Report

Clinical Case Employing Two Different Biomaterials in Bone Regeneration

by Roberto Ghiretti, Carlo F. Grottoli, Alberto Cingolani and Giuseppe Perale

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(13), 4516; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10134516 - 29 Jun 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2378

Abstract

The case of a 59-year-old woman lacking bone in the lower left side of her mandible, and treated with two different biomaterials for bone regeneration, is reported here. Specifically, two different anatomical sites damaged by two different pathologies were studied: a radicular fracture [...] Read more.

The case of a 59-year-old woman lacking bone in the lower left side of her mandible, and treated with two different biomaterials for bone regeneration, is reported here. Specifically, two different anatomical sites damaged by two different pathologies were studied: a radicular fracture and peri-implantitis. The sites were treated via xenograft bone substitute and calcium phosphosilicate, respectively. Follow-up evaluations showed that the two different methodologies employing different materials in the same organism undergoing the same metabolic processes achieved the same good results. This represents a significant change in current surgical strategies for the dental region: instead of focusing on a single gold-standard technique, it is possible to follow a hybrid approach by adapting the biomaterial and the protocol used to the specificities of the defect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences: Invited Papers in Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering Section)

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