Fragment Size Research Articles

DRIMS: A Synthetic Biology Platform that Enables Deletion, Replacement, Insertion, Mutagenesis, and Synthesis of DNA.

DNA modification and synthesis are fundamental to genetic engineering, and systems that enable time- and cost-effective execution of these processes are crucial. Iteration of genetic construct variants takes significant time, cost and effort to develop new therapeutic strategies to treat diseases including cancer. Thus, decreasing cost and enhancing simplicity while accelerating the speed of advancement is critical. We have developed a PCR-based platform that allows for deletion, replacement, insertion, mutagenesis, and synthesis of DNA (DRIMS). These modifications rely on the recA-independent recombination pathway and are carried out in a single amplification step followed by DpnI digestion and transformation into competent cells. DNA synthesis is accomplished through sequential PCR amplification reactions without the need for a DNA template. Here, we provide proof-of-concept for the DRIMS platform by performing four deletions within DNA fragments of various sizes, sixty-four replacements of DNA binding sequences that incorporate repeat sequences, four replacements of chimeric antigen receptor components, fifty-one insertions of artificial microRNAs that form complex tertiary structures, five varieties of point mutations, and synthesis of eight DNA sequences including two with high GC content. Compared to other advanced cloning methods including Gibson and "in vivo assembly", we demonstrate the significant advantages of the DRIMS platform. In summary, DRIMS allows for efficient modification and synthesis of DNA in a simple, rapid and cost-effective manner to accelerate the synthetic biology field and development of therapeutics.

Development and validation of an AI-driven tool to evaluate chewing function: a proof of concept.

Masticatory function is an important determinant of oral health and a contributing factor in the maintenance of general health. Currently, objective assessment of chewing function is a clinical challenge. Previously, several methods have been developed and proposed, but implementing these methods in clinics may not be feasible. Therefore, more efforts are needed for accurate assessment of chewing function and clinical use. The study aimed to establish a proof of concept for development and validation of an automated tool for evaluating masticatory function. YOLOv8, a deep neural network, was fine-tuned and trained to detect and segment food fragments. The model's performance was assessed using bounding box recall metrics, segmentation metrics, confusion matrix, and sensitivity values. Additionally, a separate conversion test set evaluated the model's segmentation performance using physical units, demonstrated with Bland-Altman diagrams. The YOLOv8-model achieved recall and sensitivity rates exceeding 90 %, effectively detecting and classifying food fragments. Out of 316 ground truth fragments, 301 were correctly classified, with 15 missed and 5 false positives. The Bland-Altman diagram indicated general agreement but suggested a systematic overestimation in measuring the size of post-masticated food fragments. Artificial intelligence presents a reliable approach for automated analysis of masticatory performance. The developed application proves to be a valuable tool for future clinical assessment of masticatory function. The current study provides a proof of concept for development of an automated tool for clinical assessment of masticatory function.

Surrounded by invaders: marmoset conservation challenges in Brazilian Atlantic Forest fragments

Fragmented landscapes resulting from Atlantic Forest loss can facilitate biological invasions by certain species of the Callithrix genus. These primates demonstrate high invasion potential, spreading across Brazil, competing for resources, and even hybridizing with C. aurita, the only native species to Rio Doce State Park (RDSP). Using playback for data collection and occupancy models, we investigated whether the surrounding matrix type affected Callithrix spp. occupancy probability in RDSP’s surrounding fragments. We also assessed the influence of environmental conditions and fragment size on Callithrix spp. detection probability and identified regions vulnerable to new introductions. Notably, we found no C. aurita in the fragments surrounding the park, only hybrid individuals. Furthermore, western and southern forest remnants are most susceptible to the introduction of non-native marmosets. Our findings underscore a substantial threat to RDSP’s C. aurita population and other native marmoset species of the region. We advocate for controlling allochthonous marmosets in surrounding fragments to safeguard native species.

Analysis of the presence of microplastics in different brands of bottled water in Regional 6 - Ecuador

Attributable to the immoderate insertion of plastics into the food chain humans, this investigation was conducted with the aim of assessing the presence of microplastics in bottled water in Regional 6 of Ecuador. Accordingly, 72 samples from four different brands of bottled water were analyzed, revealing various plastic particles (fibers and fragments) which were subsequently confirmed through FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared) Spectroscopy. Furthermore, a complete range of fragment sizes ranging from 4,4 µm to 248,29 µm and a complete range of fiber sizes from 102,64 µm to 840,20 µm were acquired., recognizing them as secondary microplastics. Nevertheless, upon comparing means regarding the fibers and fragments discovered in each brand, it was established that brand B had a greater quantity of microplastics, with an average of 233,1. Finally, polyethylene was identified as the most probable type of particle detected by FTIR.

Development and utilization of a multiplex PCR assay for detecting three feline enteroviruses.

Feline diarrhea is a common digestive tract disease in clinical practice, with watery feces as the main clinical manifestation. There are numerous pathogenic factors causing feline diarrhea, among which viral infections are prevalent, and feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) is the most common pathogen. In recent years, a variety of novel viruses have been detected in the intestines of cats with diarrhea. For example, feline kobuvirus (FKoV) and feline norovirus (FNoV) have been identified. These viruses may have a direct relationship with feline diarrhea or the connection has yet to be discovered. However, with the continuous emergence of these novel viruses and the frequent contact between pet cats and humans, it is prone to large-scale epidemics and outbreaks of viruses. Therefore, developing an accurate, rapid, and simple method to detect novel enteric viruses is of great significance for the early warning of emerging feline enteric viral infectious diseases. A detailed comparison of the genome sequences of the three aforementioned feline enteroviruses was conducted. Subsequently, three pairs of specific primers were designed by selecting the conserved gene regions, and the single and multiplex PCR amplification reaction systems as well as reaction conditions were repeatedly optimized. The target fragment sizes detected by the multiplex PCR method were 650bp for FPV, 500bp for FKoV, and 340bp for FNoV. Sensitivity tests demonstrated that the lower detection limit was one-tenth of that of single PCR. Meanwhile, the detection results for feline calicivirus (FCV), feline herpesvirus (FHV), and feline coronavirus (FCoV) were all negative. Testing of a total of 209 clinical samples from various regions in Shandong Province revealed that the detection rates of the three viruses were 13.4%, 4.8%, and 3.8%, respectively, and mixed infections were present. In this study, an epidemiological investigation of the three feline enteroviruses was performed, and a sensitive, specific, and reproducible multiplex PCR assay was developed, which can be utilized for the detection of clinical samples.

Type B ankle fractures with additional medium-sized posterior fragment: mid-term functional and radiological outcome after fixation versus no fixation of the posterior fragment.

Guidelines for treatment of medium-sized posterior fragments in trimalleolar fractures are scarce and show varying advice. Recent trials comparing fixation and no fixation of posterior fragments, show no difference in outcomes one year postoperatively. This study compares functional outcome and development of osteoarthritis in patients with fixation of a posterior malleolar fracture to patients without fixation of the posterior malleolus fracture. This retrospective cohort study included patients operated for type B ankle fractures with medium-sized (5-25% of joint surface) posterior malleolar fragments in a Dutch level-1 trauma center between 2014 and 2018. ORIF of posterior fragments (FIX) was compared to no fixation (NO-FIX). Choice of treatment was based on the surgeon's preference. Functional outcome was assessed using the AOFAS-score, OMAS-score and VAS-pain. Development of osteoarthritis was assessed on radiographs. A linear regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors for worse functional outcome and osteoarthritis. 27 patients were included in the FIX group and 58 patients in the NO-FIX group. After a median follow-up of 74 months (range 50-108), no difference was observed for functional outcome and pain (median AOFAS 90 vs. 95, OMAS 85 vs. 88, VAS-pain 1 vs. 1; all p > 0.05). Osteoarthritis rates were comparable (grade ≥ 2: 22% in FIX vs. 21% in NO-FIX, p = 0.87). Median fragment size was 15.7% versus 13.6% of the tibial articular surface after FIX and NO-FIX respectively. Median postoperative step-off on radiograph was 0.0mm after FIX and 0.8mm after NO-FIX (p = 0.20). Complication rates, including infection, secondary operation and hardware removal, were comparable. Postoperative step-off > 1mm increased the risk of osteoarthritis (odds ratio 3.9, 95% CI 1.2-12.7). The value of fixation of medium-sized posterior fragments in type B ankle fractures seems limited after mid-term follow-up, although functional impairment caused by osteoarthritis might develop in the long-term. Because postoperative step-off > 1mm increases the risk of osteoarthritis, restoration of the tibial plafond seems essential.

Assessment of cfDNA release dynamics during colorectal cancer surgery.

Approximately two-thirds of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) undergo resection with curative intent; however, 30% to 50% of these patients experience recurrence. The concentration of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) before and after surgery may be related to the prognosis of patients with CRC, but there is limited information regarding cfDNA levels at the time of surgery. Here, we analyzed surgical cfDNA release using plasma samples from 30 colorectal cancer patients at three key points during surgery: preoperative (immediately before surgery), intraoperative (during surgery), and postoperative (at the end of surgery). Automated electrophoresis was used to analyze cfDNA concentrations and fragment sizes, which were then correlated with clinical variables. Our findings indicate a significant increase in cfDNA release during and after surgery (2.8- and 2.2-fold higher respectively, p < 0.01). Characteristic fragments of cfDNA (<400 bp) predominated at all surgical stages; however, the release of genomic material (>400 bp) was also observed. We found that cfDNA concentration increases during and after surgery in patients over 60 years old (2.9-fold higher intraoperatively than preoperatively and 2.3 folds higher postoperatively than preoperatively, p < 0.01); in patients with comorbidities (3.0-fold higher intraoperatively and 2.3-fold higher postoperatively, p < 0.01); and in patients with CEA levels >5 ng/mL (3.1-fold higher intraoperatively and 1.3-fold higher postoperatively, p < 0.01). Interestingly, cfDNA release during surgery is significantly higher in patients with adverse clinical characteristics. Patients bearing locally advanced tumors or metastasis had a 3.1-fold increase in cfDNA release intraoperatively and 2.4-fold increase postoperatively, p < 0.01. cfDNA concentration also increases intraoperatively in patients with a high score of tumor buds (2.6 folds higher, p < 0.02), patients with perineural invasion (3.4-fold higher, p < 0.02) and in patients with lymphovascular invasion (3.1-fold higher, p < 0.05). Furthermore, we observed that cfDNA concentration may rise in correlation with the duration of the surgery, highlighting its potential as a marker of surgical quality. Taken together, our results suggest that in addition to physiological age, comorbidities and unfavorable clinical traits, intense surgical manipulation from the tumor's extent, may result in greater tissue damage and elevated cfDNA release.

Protein‐DNA Competition at the Bio‐Nano Interface: Structural and Biological Insights From Graphene Oxide Coronas

AbstractUnderstanding interactions between nanomaterials and biomolecules is essential for advancing biomedical nanotechnologies. This study investigates how double‐stranded DNA of varying sizes affects the protein corona (PC) surrounding Graphene Oxide (GO) nanosheets in DNA‐supplemented human plasma. The findings reveal that DNA plays a pivotal role in modulating the PC composition through dynamic competition governed by factors like surface charge, affinity, and DNA fragment size. At lower DNA concentrations, competition between DNA and proteins for binding sites on GO leads to a corona predominantly composed of proteins, with some DNA molecules also bound. However, as the DNA concentration increases beyond a threshold, a shift occurs. DNA increasingly outcompetes proteins for binding sites, resulting in a two‐component corona enriched with both DNA and proteins. Notably, the proportion of DNA within the corona progressively increases with rising DNA concentration, while the protein content decreases. This dynamic interplay between DNA and proteins has significant biological implications. A monotonic increase in Toll‐like receptor 9 (TLR9) activation is observed as the DNA content within the corona increases. As the corona composition and its influence on cellular responses are crucial, this study emphasizes the relevance of exploring competition at the bio‐nano interface for the advancement of these applications.

Early detection of canine hemangiosarcoma via cfDNA fragmentation and copy number alterations in liquid biopsies using machine learning.

Hemangiosarcoma is a highly malignant tumor commonly affecting canines, originating from endothelial cells that line blood vessels, underscoring the importance of early detection. This canine cancer is analogous to human angiosarcoma, and the development of liquid biopsies leveraging cell-free DNA (cfDNA) represents a promising step forward in early cancer diagnosis. In this study, we utilized Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) to analyze fragment sizes and copy number alterations (CNAs) in cfDNA from 21 hemangiosarcoma-affected and 36 healthy dogs, aiming to enhance early cancer detection accuracy through machine learning models. Our findings reveal that similar to trends in human oncology, hemangiosarcoma samples exhibited shorter DNA fragment sizes compared to healthy controls, with a notable leftward shift in the primary peak. Interestingly, canine hemangiosarcoma DNA fragment sizes demonstrated eight distinct periodic patterns diverging from those typically observed in human angiosarcoma. Additionally, we identified seven novel genomic gains and nine losses in the hemangiosarcoma samples. Applying machine learning to the cfDNA fragment size distribution, we achieved an impressive average Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.93 in 10-fold cross-validation, underscoring the potential of this approach for precise early-stage cancer classification. This study confirms distinctive cfDNA fragment size and CNA patterns in hemangiosarcoma-affected vs. healthy dogs and demonstrates the promise of these biomarkers in canine cancer screening, early detection, and monitoring via liquid biopsies. These findings establish a foundation for broader research on cfDNA analysis in various canine cancers, integrating methodologies from human oncology to enhance early detection and diagnostic precision in veterinary medicine.

Carbonless DNA.

Carbonless DNA was designed by replacing all carbon atoms in the standard DNA building blocks with boron and nitrogen, ensuring isoelectronicity. Electronic structure quantum chemistry methods (DFT(ωB97XD)/aug-cc-pVDZ) were employed to study both the individual building blocks and the larger carbon-free DNA fragments. The reliability of the results was validated by comparing selected structures and binding energies using more accurate methods such as MP2, CCSD, and SAPT2+3(CCD)δMP2. Carbonless analogs of DNA components, including cytosine, thymine, guanine, adenine, and deoxyribose, were investigated, showing strong resemblance to the carbon-based versions in terms of spatial structure, polarity, and molecular interaction capabilities. Complementary base pairs of the carbonless analogs exhibited a similar number and length of hydrogen bonds as those found in their carbon-containing counterparts, with binding energies for A-T and G-C analogs remaining comparable. Carbonless DNA fragments containing two and six base pairs were studied, revealing double-helix structures analogous to natural DNA. Structural parameters such as fragment size, hydrogen bond lengths, and rise per base pair were consistent with those observed in unmodified DNA. Docking simulations with a 12 base pair fragment and netropsin as a ligand indicated a slight shift in binding preference for the carbonless DNA through the minor groove, with an approximate 25% increase in binding affinity compared to natural DNA.

Clinical and radiological comparisons of isolated posterior malleolar fractures treated surgically and conservatively.

Isolated posterior malleolar (PM) fractures are rare fractures without consensus regarding treatment decisions and functional outcomes. The study aims to compare the clinical and radiological results of patients treated surgically or conservatively for isolated PM fractures. The study included 30 patients who presented with an isolated PM fracture and were treated conservatively (n = 15) or with surgery (n = 15). The two groups were compared regarding demographic data, clinical results, and radiological outcomes. The effect of PM fragment size covering less than or more than 25% of the joint surface on clinical and radiological outcomes was also evaluated. The Ankle Fracture Scoring System (AFSS), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and satisfaction scores of the patients in the surgical group were determined to be better than those of the conservatively treated group (p = 0.015, p = 0.029, p = 0.021). A higher rate of osteochondral lesion (OCL) in the talus was observed in the surgical group (p = 0.007). In the patients with fracture size > 25%, the AFSS-1, VAS, and patient satisfaction scores were found to be better in the surgical group than in the conservative group (p = 0.004, p = 0.036, p = 0.014), with no difference determined between the groups in respect of the OCL rate. Independently of the fracture size, surgical treatment of patients with PM fracture provides better clinical results. It does not change the joint ROM however may increase the OCL rate. While surgical treatment does not affect the clinical results in patients with a fracture size smaller than 25%, it positively affects the clinical results in patients with a larger fracture size. Level IV, retrospective cohort study.

Milling of geosynthetic-reinforced asphalt layers: field operations and milling byproducts

With the increased use of geosynthetic interlayers, including geogrids, paving geocomposites and paving mats in asphalt rehabilitation works, an increase is also expected in projects involving the milling of asphalt layers that incorporate these geosynthetics. Although significant experience exists in milling conventional asphalt layers, such experience is limited when the milled material contains polymeric or fiberglass interlayers. Consequently, better understanding is needed on the differences in the milling process in asphalt layers with and without geosynthetics. In this study, an experimental field track was constructed at Salvador International Airport (Brazil), featuring five different geosynthetic-reinforced asphalt test sections that were milled after their construction. Evaluation of the field campaign results indicates that all geosynthetic interlayers proved to be “millable”. However, the milling operations exhibited varying milling efficiencies and resulted in milling byproducts (or Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement with Geosynthetics, G-RAP) with different physical characteristics. An average reduction of 18% in milling efficiency of reinforced asphalt layers was observed compared to that of unreinforced pavements. The G-RAP byproducts were found to include geosynthetic fragments of different sizes but maintained a particle size distribution similar to that of the control RAP. Furthermore, the collected G-RAP showed beneficial impact on mechanical characteristics of asphalt mixtures with 20% G-RAP, particularly in Marshall stability, flow, and indirect tensile strength, confirming their suitability for reuse in transportation applications.

Recombinant expression and characterization of an α-galactosidase from Thermoclostridium stercorarium subsp. thermolacticum DSM 2910 and its application in the hydrolysis of raffinose.

Soybean contains anti-nutritional factor raffinose oligosaccharide (RFOs), which can cause flatulence, gastrointestinal dysfunction and low feed utilization rate. However, α-galactosidase can hydrolyze raffinose oligosaccharides (RFOs). Therefore, in this study, a novel α-galactosidase from Thermoclostridium stercorarium subsp. thermolacticum DSM 2910 (TstGal) which can hydrolyze raffinose was cloned, expressed, purified, and characterized. The gene fragment size is 2208 bp, and the enzyme TstGal consists of 736 amino acids. Under the optimum culture conditions, the maximum enzyme activity of the target protein TstGal was 23.8 U/mL. The enzyme was purified 11.3-fold by Ni-NTA agarose resin with an overall recovery of 51.4% and specific activity of 9.0 U/mg, and its relative molecular weight was about 85kDa. The optimal temperature of TstGal was 70°C, and it exhibited excellent thermal stability at 60°C. Furthermore, The TstGal had the highest activity at pH 6.5 and good pH stability at pH 5.0-7.5. Besides, the enzyme has a good sugar tolerance to galactose and sucrose. In addition, K+ and Fe2+ could significantly enhance the enzyme activity at a concentration of 5mM. The values of KM, Vmax, kcat, and kcat/KM for pNPGal were found to be 0.507mM, 13.979 U/mg, 19.735 s-1, and 38.895 s-1mM-1, respectively. Under the optimum conditions, the maximum hydrolysis rate of raffinose by TstGal reached 99.8%, which shows that the enzyme had potential application value in food and feed industry.

A theory-data-integrated intelligent framework for prediction of blasting-induced rock fragment size

A theory-data-integrated intelligent framework for prediction of blasting-induced rock fragment size

Highly-multiplex detection of plasma cell-free human papillomavirus-16 DNA in oropharyngeal carcinoma.

Plasma cell-free Human Papillomavirus DNA (cfHPVDNA) is a biomarker for oropharyngeal carcinoma. Existing diagnostics may be limited by inadequate sensitivity or high cost/complexity for longitudinal monitoring. We hypothesized that sensitive and specific plasma cfHPVDNA detection may be achieved via a highly-multiplex qPCR method. We designed and validated a single-tube one-step genotype-specific qPCR assay for detection of cfHPV16DNA in human plasma using >8,000 genomes spanning 18 genotypes. Amplicons were optimized for cfHPVDNA fragment size. The cfHPV16DNA qPCR amplicons spanned 16 % of the HPV16 genome. Amplicons were conserved in a median of 99.0 % of 3,944 genomes in silico. The 95 % lower limit of detection was 0.35 genome copies/reaction and the limit of blank was 0. Multiplexing achieved a tenfold improvement in sensitivity compared with single amplicons using in silico simulations of cfHPVDNA fragmentation, which was in close agreement with experimental observations. An assay was replicated for HPV18 with similar observations. Among 36 patients with head/neck mucosal carcinomas (26 HPV-positive, 12 HPV-negative), there was 100 % concordance with tissue HPV status and with NavDx digital PCR. Pre-treatment specimens with sub-genomic cfHPVDNA concentration were detected. False negatives were observed with single amplicons but not with this multiplexed method. Among 17 patients with post-treatment landmark specimens, there was 100 % PPV and 100 % NPV for recurrence. This assay is specific for plasma cfHPVDNA detection and prognostic for recurrence. Sub-genomic sensitivity was in close agreement with in silico simulations. The format might be more accessible than dPCR or NGS for longitudinal testing.

Minimizing community impact: A new approach to blasthole diameter selection.

This study introduces a comprehensive methodology for selecting blasthole diameters in open-pit mining, aiming to reduce the environmental impact while addressing the limitations of traditional empirical methods that often yield suboptimal productivity, cost efficiency. By integrating critical parameters such as bench height, rock and explosive properties, desired fragmentation size, production scale, and operational specifics, the methodology seeks to minimize negative effects on nearby communities while optimizing blasting practices. The methodology consists of four key steps: calculating potential diameters based on bench height, verifying influential factors affecting diameter selection, assessing environmental impacts of blasting activities, such as blasting-induced vibration and flyrock, and ultimately choosing the optimal diameter. This systematic approach ensures that all relevant aspects, including explosive critical diameter and velocity of detonation, are considered. The integration of environmental and geotechnical limitations and parameters enhances its practical applicability. Validation was performed at an open-pit iron mine situated near a populated area, demonstrating the methodology's effectiveness in achieving reduction in environmental impacts while adhering to fragmentation requirements. The results indicate its broad applicability across various mining operations, effectively balancing community safety with technical requirements. In conclusion, this study significantly advances the field of environmental and mining engineering by providing a scientifically grounded approach to blasthole diameter selection. The findings highlight the importance of a holistic perspective that encompasses environmental, technical and economic factors in blasting operations. By adopting this methodology, mining companies can mitigate their environmental footprint and fostering better relationships with surrounding communities while enhancing operational efficiency.

Plasmid Library Construction From Genomic DNA.

Functional genomic approaches have been effective at uncovering the function of uncharacterized genes and identifying new functions for known genes. Often these approaches rely on an in vivo screen or selection to associate genes with a phenotype of interest. These selections and screens are dependent upon the expression of proteins encoded in genomic DNA from an expression vector, such as a plasmid. Despite the utility of genomic DNA plasmid libraries, the protocols for their construction have remained unchanged in the past 40 years. Here, we present a procedure for constructing plasmid libraries from genomic DNA. This procedure is scalable and relies on simple techniques and common laboratory equipment and reagents. Briefly, the genomic DNA is extracted and then physically fragmented with a g-TUBE, overhangs are repaired, and fragments are selectively purified with magnetic beads to obtain an average fragment size of 2.5 kb. Blunted fragments are ligated into a blunt-end-digested and dephosphorylated vector. Finally, the library is amplified by electroporating the ligation into a high-transformation-efficiency Escherichia coli strain and extracting the plasmid DNA from the transformants. As a proof of concept, we built and sequenced three genomic libraries from different genomes and calculated their coverage using a next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflow. © 2025 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol: Plasmid library construction Alternate Protocol: Selection of gDNA fragments using SageELF gel fractionator Support Protocol 1: Extraction of gDNA with phenol/chloroform Support Protocol 2: Vector preparation.

A Morphologic Analysis of Thumb Ulnar Collateral Ligament Avulsion Fracture Fragments and Risk Factors for Surgical Treatment.

There is debate regarding nonoperative versus surgical treatment of thumb ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tears with avulsion fractures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the fragment size in relation to the UCL footprint size in patients with an avulsion fracture injury and to find risk factors associated with surgical treatment. In a cohort of avulsion fracture injury patients, the largest side of the fragment was divided by the average reported UCL footprint size (ff-ratio), and a logistic regression was performed to find variables associated with surgery. The mean ff-ratio was 1.1 in 114 patients with an avulsion fracture injury. Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint instability, rather than the largest fragment side, was a significant risk factor for surgery. An avulsion fracture fragment associated with thumb UCL injury approximates the dimensions of the UCL footprint. In addition, MCP joint instability was associated with surgery in patients with avulsion fracture injuries.

CfDNA fragmentation patterns correlate with tumor burden measured via PSMA PET/CT volumetric parameters in patients with biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer

BackgroundProstate cancer recurrence following primary treatment poses a significant clinical challenge, particularly when detected through biochemical recurrence at low PSA levels. Conventional imaging modalities often fail to localize the disease at this early stage. PSMA PET has demonstrated superior sensitivity in detecting recurrent lesions, even in patients with low PSA. Concurrently, liquid biopsy, through analysis of cell-free DNA (cfDNA), offers a minimally invasive approach for monitoring disease. There is scarce evidence about the association between liquid biopsy and PSMA PET/CT findings. This study aimed to assess the correlation between liquid biopsy and tumor burden assessed by PSMA PET/CT in early recurring prostate cancer patients.ResultsPSMA PET/CT and liquid biopsies of 32 patients in biochemical recurrence were analyzed. 12 patients (37.5%) had no PSMA PET-measurable disease. Four patients (12.5%) presented local recurrence, seven (21.9%) had recurrence in pelvic lymph nodes, one of whom also had local recurrence. Nine patients (28.1%) presented metastatic recurrence, with or without local or nodal recurrence. PSA levels correlated with molecular imaging data (p < 0.05), including whole body PSMA-TV, whole body PSMA-TL, whole body SUVmean and whole body SUVmax. The mean cfDNA fragment size fraction was inversely correlated with tumour burden measured with whole body PSMA-TV, with a Spearman correlation coefficient of -0.451 and a p-value of 0.009. No correlation was found between cfDNA concentration and PET-PSMA data.ConclusionThis prospective study demonstrated a statistically significant negative correlation between cfDNA fragmentation patterns and PSMA PET/CT volumetric parameters in patients with presumed localized prostate cancer with early biochemical recurrence. These findings underscore the potential of liquid biopsy as a biomarker and a complementary tool to PSMA PET/CT to assess disease progression during the follow-up of these patients.

Mechanical Characterization of a Tunable 3-D Collagen-Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel for Use in Cell Culture

Many cells demonstrate variances in behavior due to their cell culture environment. To provide a mechanically-tunable, tissue-like environment, a 3D hydrogel for cell culture was formulated using collagen (Col) and hyaluronic acid (HA) to help provide a system for studying these dynamic cellular responses in a soft-tissue environment. A design of experiments was organized to study the effects of collagen concentration, HA fragment size, and Col: HA mass ratio on the hydrogel mechanical properties. Mechanical characterization of the gels was conducted using rheology and found that collagen concentration, but not HA content, directly modulated the hydrogel storage and loss modulus. The pore size of the hydrogels was also evaluated and found to trend directly with collagen concentration.