bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic flow analysis of tuberous sclerosis complex in Japan: a retrospective claims database study
Authors: Okanishi Tohru , Fujimori Ikuo , Yamada Mariko , Tajima Takumi , Wataya-Kaneda Mari , Seyama Kuniaki , Hatano Takashi
Published: December 2024

Background

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare autosomal dominant genetic disorder that affects multiple organs. However, precise diagnosis is challenging owing to the lack of truly pathognomonic symptoms. This retrospective observational study aimed to explore the real-world diagnostic flow of Japanese patients with TSC by examining time to diagnosis (TTD) from the onset of each TSC-related manifestation to TSC diagnosis and the role of TSC clinic in timely diagnosis, using data from a health insurance database.

Methods

Analyses were performed using data derived from the JMDC Claims Database between January 2005 and December 2020. Patients with at least 1 confirmed diagnosis of TSC were stratified into 2 cohorts: Cohort 1 included cases diagnosed after 2 years of age, and Cohort 2 included cases diagnosed before 2 years of age. The primary endpoint was TTD in Cohorts 1 and 2. Secondary endpoints were the incidence of each manifestation in Cohort 1 and the incidence and risk ratios of TSC-unrelated symptoms in Cohort 2.

Results

Cohorts 1 and 2 included 106 and 42 patients, respectively. In Cohort 1, patients with a renal tumor diagnosis as a primary TSC-related manifestation had the longest TTD with a wide range (median: 23 months to up to 91 months); patients with non-specific TSC-related manifestations such as brain tumor/intraventricular tumor, epilepsy, or intellectual disabilities also experienced a delay in TTD. In patients with TSC who developed epilepsy, those attending facilities with a TSC clinic were diagnosed with TSC more quickly than those attending facilities without a TSC clinic (median: 11.5 and 19.0 months, respectively; p = 0.0379). Epilepsy was the manifestation with the highest incidence (29.2%) among Cohort 1 patients, while cardiac rhabdomyoma had the highest incidence (54.8%) among Cohort 2 patients. Dry skin was the most common TSC-unrelated symptom in Cohort 2, with a 1.7-fold higher incidence rate than that in controls (N = 619,936).

Conclusion

Japanese patients with renal lesions as a primary TSC-related manifestation had the longest delay for a definitive diagnosis of TSC, followed by those with epilepsy, brain tumor/intraventricular tumor, and intellectual disabilities. The TSC clinic played an important role in the early diagnosis of TSC.
Comprehensive pathogen identification and antimicrobial resistance prediction from positive blood cultures using nanopore sequencing technology
Authors: Liu Po-Yu , Wu Han-Chieh , Li Ying-Lan , Cheng Hung-Wei , Liou Ci-Hong , Chen Feng-Jui , Liao Yu-Chieh
Published: December 2024

Background

Blood cultures are essential for diagnosing bloodstream infections, but current phenotypic tests for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) provide limited information. Oxford Nanopore Technologies introduces nanopore sequencing with adaptive sampling, capable of real-time host genome depletion, yet its application directly from blood cultures remains unexplored. This study aimed to identify pathogens and predict AMR using nanopore sequencing.

Methods

In this cross-sectional genomic study, 458 positive blood cultures from bloodstream infection patients in central Taiwan were analyzed. Parallel experiments involved routine microbiologic tests and nanopore sequencing with a 15-h run. A bioinformatic pipeline was proposed to analyze the real-time sequencing reads. Subsequently, a comparative analysis was performed to evaluate the performance of species identification and AMR prediction.

Results

The pipeline identified 76 species, with 88 Escherichia coli, 74 Klebsiella pneumoniae, 43 Staphylococcus aureus, and 9 Candida samples. Novel species were also discovered. Notably, precise species identification was achieved not only for monomicrobial infections but also for polymicrobial infections, which was detected in 23 samples and further confirmed by full-length 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Using a modified ResFinder database, AMR predictions showed a categorical agreement rate exceeding 90% (3799/4195) for monomicrobial infections, with minimal very major errors observed for K. pneumoniae (2/186, 1.1%) and S. aureus (1/90, 1.1%).

Conclusions

Nanopore sequencing with adaptive sampling can directly analyze positive blood cultures, facilitating pathogen detection, AMR prediction, and outbreak investigation. Integrating nanopore sequencing into clinical practices signifies a revolutionary advancement in managing bloodstream infections, offering an effective antimicrobial stewardship strategy, and improving patient outcomes.
Mechanical Properties and Fire Resistance of 3D-Printed Cementitious Composites with Plastic Waste
Authors: Yaqub Walid , Aslani Farhad
Published: December 2024

The study focuses on the development of cementitious composites using 3D printing and plastic waste as a sustainable aggregate substitute. This study involves experimenting with various percentages of plastic waste as a partial substitute for ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) in a control mix. The study examines the anisotropy of the 3D printing process, comparing it with properties of mold-cast samples. In addition, it assesses the fire resistance and mechanical properties of samples at elevated temperatures (100 °C, 300 °C, and 600 °C). Key mechanical properties, including 28-day compressive stress and flexural strength, are determined through experimental testing using a standard compression test and three-point bending test. The study also considers the modulus of elasticity (MOE) in compressive tests to evaluate a sample’s ability to deform elastically and the flexural toughness index to assess energy absorption and crack resistance of flexural samples. Following the experimental testing, the study’s key findings suggest that significant mass loss occurred at 300 °C and above, with plastic samples demonstrating increased mass loss at 600 °C. At 600 °C, plastic degradation led to the formation of voids and cracks within samples due to heightened internal pressure. Anisotropy was evident in 3D-printed samples, with loads parallel to the layer direction resulting in greater compressive strength and MOE. Furthermore, layer direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of flexural samples yielded higher flexural strength and flexural toughness. Mold-cast samples displayed superior compressive strength and stiffer behavior, with higher MOE compared to 3D-printed samples. However, 3D-printed plastic samples exhibited superior flexural strength compared to mold-cast samples, attributed to the alignment of plastic within the samples. The study also observed a reduction in compressive strength with the addition of plastic, explained by the poor bonding of plastic with cement due to its hydrophobic nature. Despite this, flexural strength generally improved with plastic addition, except at 600 °C, where plastic samples showed significant degradation in both compressive and flexural strength due to plastic degradation within the samples.
Improvement of antioxidant capability by dietary N-acetyl cysteine supplementation alleviates bone loss induced by chronic heat stress in finisher broilers
Authors: Zhang Huaiyong , Pertiwi Herinda , Michiels Joris , Gaublomme Djoere , Majdeddin Maryam , Hou Yuhuang , Boone Matthieu , Elewaut Dirk , Josipovic Iván , Degroote Jeroen
Published: December 2024

Background

Heat stress (HS) incidence is associated with the accumulation of reactive substances, which might be associated with bone loss. N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) exhibits strong antioxidants due to its sulfhydryl group and being as the precursor for endogenous glutathione synthesis. Therefore, interplay between oxidative stress and bone turnover of broilers and the effects of dietary NAC inclusion on antioxidant capability and “gut-bone” axis were evaluated during chronic HS.

Results

Implementing cyclic chronic HS (34 °C for 7 h/d) evoked reactive oxygen species excessive production and oxidant stress, which was accompanied by compromised tibia mass. The RNA-seq of proximal tibia also revealed the enrichment of oxidation–reduction process and inflammatory outbursts during HS. Although no notable alterations in the growth performance and cecal microbiota were found, the diet contained 2 g/kg NAC enhanced the antioxidant capability of heat-stressed broiler chickens by upregulating the expression of Nrf2 in the ileum, tibia, and bone marrow. Simultaneously, NAC tended to hinder NF-κB pathway activation and decreased the mRNA levels of the proinflammatory cytokines in both the ileum and bone marrow. As a result, NAC suppressed osteoclastogenesis and osteoclast activity, thereby increasing osteocyte-related gene expression. Furthermore, the inclusion of NAC tended to increase the ash content and density of the whole tibia, as well as improve cortical thickness and bone volume of the diaphysis.

Conclusions

These findings HS-mediated outburst of oxidant stress accelerates bone resorption and negatively regulates the bone quality of tibia, which is inhibited by NAC in broilers.

Graphical abstract
Microcirculatory parameters as risk factors for predicting progression of posterior staphyloma in highly myopic eyes: a case–control study
Authors: Li Haoru , Gao Nan , Li Ruixin , Luodian Luobu , Sui Jinyuan , Bai Yang , Wu Di , He Qing , Wang Yuxin , Li Zhiqing , Wei Ruihua
Published: December 2024

Background

To assess the rate of macular blood flow decreasing in adults with and without posterior staphyloma (PS) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and to identify risk factors associated with PS progression.

Methods

This longitudinal case-control study enrolled 122 eyes of 122 patients—64 patients with PS (PS group) and 58 patients without PS (NPS group). Participants underwent OCTA and clinical examinations at least twice, and those followed for at least one year were included in the analysis. Logistic regression analysis and machine learning were applied to explore the risk factors for PS and its progression.

Results

Patients in the PS group exhibited faster growth rates of spherical equivalent refraction (SER), axial length (AL), curvature index (CI), and posterior scleral height (PSH) as well as higher loss rates of choriocapillaris perfusion area (CCPA), choroid perfusion area (CPA) and choroidal vascularity index (CVI) compared to the NPS group (all P < 0.05). The baseline SER (B =  − 1.291, OR = 0.275, P = 0.008), baseline subfoveal scleral thickness (B =  − 1.621, OR = 0.198, P = 0.046), baseline PSH (B = 2.959, OR = 19.282, P = 0.001) and foveal CVI changes per year (B =  − 2.776, OR = 0.062, P < 0.001) were the risk factors for PS. Baseline AL (B = 0.561, OR = 1.752, P = 0.033), parafoveal choroidal thickness changes per year (B =  − 0.094, OR = 0.910, P = 0.032), foveal retinal vascular density changes per year (B = 0.104, OR = 1.110, P = 0.013) and foveal CCPA changes per year (B =  − 0.214, OR = 0.807, P = 0.038) were the risk factors for the PS progression.

Conclusions

During the progression of myopia in adults, changes in the morphology of the eye's posterior pole are not limited to axial lengthening alone; there also will be a phase of compensatory lateral expansion. Baseline AL and changes in the microcirculation can be utilized to predict the progression of PS.
The risk of infective endocarditis according to blood pressure in patients with diabetes: a nationwide population-based study
Authors: Pyo Won Kyung , Kim Hee-Jung , Han Kyungdo , Kim Jin Nam , Lee Se Ju , Kim Jung Ho , Ku Nam Su , Lee Seung Hyun
Published: December 2024

Background

We aimed to assess the incidence of infective endocarditis (IE) and evaluate the impact of hypertension (HTN) with underweight on the risk of IE among patients with diabetic mellitus (DM) using a nationwide population-based cohort in Korea.

Methods

We identified 2,603,012 participants (57.4 ± 12.3 years) in the national health insurance database. Of these, 374,586 were normotensive, 750,006 were at pre-HTN status, and the remainder had HTN. The risk of IE was compared between the groups, and the impact of being underweight (body mass index < 18.5) was also evaluated.

Results

During follow-up (7.14 years; interquartile range 6.01–8.08 years), 1,703 cases of IE occurred; 168 (0.0647 person per 1000 person-years [PY]), 303 (0.05836 per 1000 PY), and 1,232 (0.12235 per 1000 PY) in normotensive, pre-HTN and HTN group, respectively. Hypertensive participants presented a higher risk of IE (subdistribution hazard ratio, 1.360; 95% confidence interval, 1.152–1.607) than normotensive participants. Being underweight increased the risk of IE by 90% among subjects with HTN. In subgroup analysis, age, duration of DM, insulin use, and habitual factors were not associated with the incidence of IE.

Conclusions

Diabetic patients may require rigorous blood pressure control and simultaneous avoidance of excessive weight loss to prevent IE.

Graphical abstract
The quantum circuit implementation and feasibility analysis of quantum public-key cryptosystem based on the $$QSCD_{ff}$$ problem
Authors: Li Anyi , Xia Qiqing , Zhu Qianru , Yang Li
Published: December 2024

The development of quantum computation enables exponential time complexity problems on classical computers to be solved in polynomial time on quantum computers. However, it also poses a threat to the security of classical cryptographic schemes based on integer factorization and discrete logarithms. In response to this challenge, quantum cryptographic schemes based on quantum computation and quantum communication environments have become a focal point of research. The quantum public-key cryptosystem based on the QSCDff problem stands as one of the influential schemes in the realm of quantum public-key cryptography, yet its feasibility remains unexplored in current literature. Our specific focus lies in the quantum circuit implementations and fault-tolerant construction, which serve as essential prerequisites for the physical feasibility of quantum cryptographic schemes. We provide quantum circuit implementations along with rigorous theoretical proofs for the computation of the permutation product operation and the permutation sign operation in quantum public-key cryptographic schemes. Based on the fault-tolerant quantum computation process of the aforementioned quantum circuit implementations, we propose two error-correction strategies and provide a theoretical feasibility analysis within a specified range in the ion-trap quantum computation environment, adhering to the theoretical limits of quantum computation. Rigorous proofs are presented to demonstrate the correctness and reliability of the proposed methods. Our contribution provides a theoretical foundation for the physical feasibility analysis of quantum cryptographic algorithms, offering insights into the challenges and prospects of implementing these algorithms in quantum computation environments.
The associations between oxidative stress and epilepsy: a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Lan , Zhang Ningning , Sun Xuyan , Chen Sirui , Xu Yuanhang , Liu Yaqing , Li Junqiang , Luo Dadong , Tian Xin , Wang Tiancheng
Published: December 2024

Background

Studies on the association between oxidative stress and epilepsy have yielded varied results. In this study, we aimed to investigate the causal relationship between oxidative stress markers and epilepsy.

Methods

A bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study was performed based on publicly available statistics from genome-wide association studies. To explore the causal effects, single nucleotide polymorphisms were selected as instrumental variables. Inverse-variance weighted method was performed for primary analysis, supplemented by weighted median, MR-Egger, simple mode, and weighted mode. Furthermore, sensitivity analyses were performed to detect heterogeneity and pleiotropy.

Results

Our results showed that part of the oxidative stress biomarkers are associated with epilepsy and its subtypes. Zinc is associated with increased risk of epilepsy and generalized epilepsy (odds ratio [OR] = 1.064 and 1.125, respectively). Glutathione transferase is associated with increased risk of generalized epilepsy (OR = 1.055), while albumin is associated with decreased risk of generalized epilepsy (OR = 0.723). Inverse MR analysis revealed that epilepsy is associated with increased levels of uric acid and total bilirubin (beta = 1.266 and 0.081, respectively), as well as decreased zinc level (beta =  − 0.278). Furthermore, generalized epilepsy is associated with decreased ascorbate and retinol levels (beta =  − 0.029 and − 0.038, respectively).

Conclusions

Our study presented novel evidence of potential causal relationships between oxidative stress and epilepsy, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for epilepsy.
The chondrogenic differentiation of BMSCs in collagen hydrogels and the effect of MMPs among cell-material interactions
Authors: Tang Yajun , Wang Jing , Qiu He , Xu Yang , Liu Zhanhong , Song Lu , Lin Hai , Zhang Xingdong
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of the advanced structure of collagen on the chondrogenic differentiation of BMSCs encapsulated in collagen hydrogels, with an emphasis on MMPs which might affect the cell-material interactions. Collagen and gelatin-based hydrogels with comparable physicochemical properties but mainly distinctive in molecular structure were prepared and further utilized to load BMSCs to study the chondrogenesis. The detection results of MMPs in hydrogels with and without TIMP at both gene and protein levels suggested that MMPs were involved in cell recognition, adhesion, migration, proliferation and further remodeling of cell microenvironment. The chondrogenic gene detection, histological observation and extracellular matrix analysis indicated that the BMSCs were well differentiated into chondrocytes and maintained the phenotypes in collagen hydrogels (C group) which preserved the native structures, comparing with those results acquired from gelatin hydrogels (G group). Finally, the expression of several integrin subunits was investigated to analyze the connection of these cell membrane surface proteins and microenvironment remodeled by MMPs in collagen and gelatin hydrogels. The conclusion was drawn that the advanced structure of collagen affected the chondrogenesis of BMSCs via the cell-material interactions, among which MMPs were one of the major factors crucial to form appropriate microenvironment to modulate the BMSCs fate.

Graphical abstract
Thrombus aspiration in primary percutaneous coronary intervention in acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients with high thrombus burden: one-year outcomes in a tertiary healthcare center in Ho Chi Minh City
Authors: Le Duy Cao Phuong , Pham Giang Thai , Vo Quan Duy
Published: December 2024

Background

Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) can dislodge atherosclerotic debris, risking microvascular embolism. Thrombus aspiration (TA) before stenting in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients has been linked to reduced mortality, lower recurrence of heart attacks, and improved cardiac function. However, limited research exists on the effectiveness of TA in Vietnam, underscoring the need for further studies to enhance cardiovascular care. This prospective observational study was conducted to evaluate the role of TA in STEMI patients admitted with a substantial thrombus burden at Nguyen Tri Phuong Hospital.

Results

Out of 92 participants, 68 underwent TA treatment. Post-treatment, the TA group exhibited better TIMI and TMP flow grades and a higher rate of ST-segment normalization, with no significant difference in major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) at 30-day and 12-month follow-ups compared to those untreated.

Conclusions

TA during PCI enhances ST-segment normalization and TIMI and TMP scores in STEMI patients, improving myocardial perfusion. No difference in MACE occurrence was noted between groups after 30 days and 12 months, suggesting TA’s potential benefits without increasing adverse outcomes.
A novel proof of concept approach towards generating reference microplastic particles
Authors: Oster Simon D.J. , Bräumer Paul E. , Wagner Daniel , Rösch Max , Fried Martina , Narayana Vinay K.B. , Hausinger Eva , Metko Helena , Vizsolyi Eva C. , Schott Matthias , Laforsch Christian , Löder Martin G.J.
Published: December 2024

For almost two decades now, scientists have increasingly focused on the occurrence of microplastic particles (MPs) in the environment and their impact on environmental and human health. Currently, the variety of analytical methods used in microplastic research result in data of different quality. This largely hampers comparability between data sets and consequently prevents a reliable risk assessment. In this context, the lack of suitable reference microplastic particles (RMPs) that can be added as an internal standard in an exactly known number further prevents quality assessment of, and harmonization in terms of comparability between different analytical methods. Although this challenge has been widely recognized, the availability of RMPs is currently limited to commercially available particles in the form of micro-beads or -fragments (powders). Manual addition of such RMPs to samples in a precisely defined number as an internal standard is inefficient and the alternative use of MP suspensions does not allow for the addition of an exactly defined particle number. The optimum solution to solve this issue would be RMPs embedded in an easy-to-use soluble matrix in exact numbers. This would allow for evaluating analytical quality during microplastic analysis as well as establishing harmonization in terms of comparability between different methods. In the present study we focused on the development of such RMPs. We used computerized numerical controlled (CNC) milling to produce small diameter plastic columns followed by gelatine embedment and subsequent cryosectioning. This results in gelatin slices containing an exactly defined number of RMPs with well-defined size, shape and polymer type / chemical composition that can be added to a sample easily with the dissolution of the gelatine. We successfully produced square shaped RMPs in a size range of 125–1000 μm of five different polymers. The overall size-deviation of the RMPs never exceeded ± 11.2% from the mean value of a set of particles. The highest percentage mass-deviation was 25.5% from the mean value of a set of 125 × 125 × 20 μm polystyrene (PS) RMPs. Our approach allows for the production of RMPs tailored to specific needs of all different analytical methods used in current microplastic research. Beyond analytical method validation, these RMPs furthermore open possibilities for experiments on MPs in different fields.
Introduction to this special section: Reservoir characterization
Authors: Bedle Heather , Chopra Satinder , Davis Tom
Published: December 2024

Reservoir characterization is at the forefront of the energy transition, having evolved from its traditional role in hydrocarbon exploration to playing a vital role in developing subsurface energy solutions. As our industry navigates the complexities of meeting global energy demands while pursuing climate goals, the accurate characterization of subsurface formations has never been more important. The integration of multiple disciplines — from geophysics and geology to petrophysics and reservoir engineering — aids in the characterization framework for understanding the complex subsurface systems that will help power our future.
Integration of FWI-derived reflectivity in seismic interpretation
Authors: Kumar Dhananjay , Ali Raihaan
Published: December 2024

Full-waveform inversion (FWI) processing provides an improved and higher-resolution velocity model. This study focuses on how to use FWI products in seismic interpretation. One such product is FWI-derived reflectivity (FDR), which often has better illumination than migrated seismic images. We want to go beyond structural interpretation and utilize FDR data in reservoir characterization (e.g., fault imaging, resolution, and amplitude fidelity). FWI can be performed up to the maximum frequency available in the input seismic data. However, in the case of our study area in offshore Trinidad, the FDR data set is based on acoustic FWI with frequency only up to 10 Hz. While comparing amplitude extractions from full-stack and FDR data, we observe complementary amplitude distribution. Similar complementary information is found when we decompose the data in frequency bands (higher-frequency migrated seismic data and lower-frequency FDR data). We discuss the integration of the FDR volume in seismic interpretation with data examples. We combine FDR data with full-stack seismic data in two ways to generate new attributes for reservoir mapping and to reduce vertical and lateral uncertainty.
Seismic super-resolution method: Enhancing reservoir delineation and characterization through high-resolution seismic data
Authors: Li Chengbo , Medina Marina Ramirez , Warren Mark , Tasrianto Riki , Macy Brian , Bowling Jerry , Roy Baishali , Sena Arcangelo
Published: December 2024

Seismic resolution plays a crucial role in the successful development of both conventional and unconventional assets. The accuracy of structural and stratigraphic interpretations, as well as reservoir characterization, hinges on the resolution and quality of seismic data. In this study, we introduce an inversion-based method for enhancing seismic resolution, drawing inspiration from super-resolution techniques in computer vision. This method, termed seismic super-resolution (SSR), utilizes seismic data coupled with regularizations to drive the inversion, thereby avoiding bias from well data. Our approach has been adopted globally, ranging from conventional assets in Alaska and China to unconventional assets in the Eagle Ford Shale and Permian Basin, significantly impacting field development. This includes improved well planning, reduced drilling uncertainties, and enhanced reservoir delineation. This paper highlights the efficacy and practical applications of the SSR method across various geologic settings.
Numerical experiments on hydrogen storage characterization in porous media using elastic full-waveform inversion
Authors: Masaya Shogo
Published: December 2024

In recent years, underground hydrogen storage (UHS) has garnered significant attention as a concept for large-scale energy storage. Developing hydrogen characterization and monitoring methods specific to each target geologic formation (e.g., salt caverns, reservoirs in depleted oil/gas fields, and saline aquifers in porous media) is crucial for the safe operation of hydrogen storage. However, due to the limited number of actual operations and laboratory experiments (e.g., rock physics for hydrogen) related to UHS in porous media, the specifications required for seismic monitoring (e.g., P-/S-wave velocity and density changes generated by hydrogen injection) are not yet fully understood. A recent study showed the results of laboratory experiments on cyclic UHS in porous media. The experiments demonstrated that P-wave velocity decreases nonlinearly with increasing hydrogen saturation in sandstone specimens, with a reduction of up to 3.5% observed at 36% hydrogen saturation. This study presents hydrogen characterization in porous media with conditions similar to the experiment using elastic full-waveform inversion (FWI) for time-lapse surface seismic data. The shot data are generated by seismic forward modeling for several synthetic subsurface models that incorporate a hydrogen plume. The hydrogen plume assumes four velocity-density scenarios, partially based on the laboratory study results. Numerical experiments are conducted to explore the validity and challenges of hydrogen characterization using elastic FWI.
A time-lapse multicomponent (9C 4D) seismic study at Vacuum Field, New Mexico, USA
Authors: Roche Steven L.
Published: December 2024

In November and December 1995, the Reservoir Characterization Project (RCP) at the Colorado School of Mines acquired time-lapse multicomponent 3D surveys over the Central Vacuum Unit of Vacuum Field in Lea County, New Mexico. Two surveys were acquired — one before and one after the injection of 50 MMscf CO2 through a single wellbore into the San Andres Reservoir. The project determined that repeated multicomponent seismic surveys at the earth's surface can detect changes in bulk rock properties due to variations in reservoir pressures and fluid properties. Interpretation of the dynamic seismic response due to reservoir production processes over time provides an image of the relative permeability structure of the reservoir. Time-lapse multicomponent data were acquired using three-component geophones and vertically and horizontally actuated vibrator sources at the surface. A data processing flow was developed for time-lapse multicomponent 3D surveys. It uses surface-consistent processing algorithms and the source and receiver redundancy between initial and repeat surveys to derive surface-consistent corrections. Differences in S-wave polarization are measured between the initial and repeat surveys. S-wave data show sensitivity (through birefringence) to anisotropy caused by the orientation of fractures and low-aspect-ratio pore structure in a nonuniform stress field. The direction of fast S-wave polarization can be related to the direction of maximum horizontal stress and preferential permeability. Pore-pressure variations alter the effective stress. This varies the direction and intensity of open fractures and low-aspect-ratio pore structure within the current permeability structure of the reservoir, causing detectable changes in S-wave anisotropy. Anomalies in S-wave anisotropy, interpreted from time-lapse multicomponent 3D data, in conjunction with reservoir production data, are consistent with the fluid composition and pore-pressure changes associated with the CO2 injection program and reservoir processes in the survey area. Applications include monitoring hydrocarbon enhanced oil recovery; carbon capture, utilization, and storage; hydraulic stimulation; induced seismicity; and geothermal investigations.
Reviews
Authors: Aitken Julie
Published: December 2024

Landslides: Detection, Prediction, and Monitoring, edited by P. Thambidurai and T. N. Singh, 2023
TRENDS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF ENERGY SUPPLY IN THE REGIONS OF THE WESTERN ARCTIC OF RUSSIA
Authors: Gasnikova Anastasia A.
Published: December 2024

Available and reliable energy supply is essential for the consumers in the Arctic regions that are characterized by a climate. The importance of the energy infrastructure is emphasized in the strategic planning documents. However, projects of constructing energy capacities are not always implemented. In the study an analysis of some energy development projects implementation in the regions of the Western Russian Arctic was performed; promising areas of energy development are also examined. In the medium term, fossil fuels and hydropower will continue to be the main sources of energy supply to consumers in the Western Arctic, while a significant share of nuclear power will remain in the Murmansk region. Under these circumstances, in the regions the tasks of providing gas supplies and increasing the use of local energy resources are set. Gas supplies methods as well as types of local energy resources may differ for different regions.
Purpose of the study it to find out trends in the development of energy supply in the regions of the Western Arctic of Russia in the medium term.
Methodology includes information analysis on the research topic, generalization, comparison, systematization.
Results: it was found that the trends in the development of energy supply in the regions of the Western Arctic were an increase in gas supplies and the use of local energy sources. The formulated criteria for choosing energy resources are accessibility, economic feasibility, and environmental acceptability.
Practical implications. The obtained results can be applied in making decisions on energy development in the Western Arctic regions, as well as to prepare courses on energy economics and regional economics.
IlluminOss photodynamic bone stabilization system improves pain and function in the treatment of humeral metastatic disease
Authors: Terek Richard M.
Published: December 2024

Aims

The aim of the LightFix Trial was to evaluate the clinical outcomes for one year after the treatment of impending and completed pathological fractures of the humerus using the IlluminOss System (IS), and to analyze the performance of this device.

Methods

A total of 81 patients with an impending or completed pathological fracture were enrolled in a multicentre, open label single cohort study and treated with IS. Inclusion criteria were visual analogue scale (VAS) Pain Scores > 60 mm/100 mm and Mirels’ Score ≥ 8. VAS pain, Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) Upper Limb Function, and The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QoL Group Bone Metastases Module (QLQ-BM22) scores were all normalized to 100, and radiographs were obtained at baseline and at 14, 30, 90, 180, and 360 days postoperatively.

Results

The mean VAS pain score decreased significantly from 84 (SD 15) to 50 (SD 29), 38 (SD 30), 31 (SD 29), 31 (SD 29), and 21 (SD 23) between the baseline and follow-up times (p < 0.001). The mean MSTS function scores significantly increased from 27 (SD 19) to 52 (SD 22), 60 (23), 67 (SD 23), 72 (SD 26), and 83 (SD 14) (p < 0.001). The pain and functional subscales of the QLQ-BM22 also significantly improved at most times. A total of 12 devices broke, giving an unadjusted device fracture rate of 15%.

Conclusion

Stabilization with the IS decreased pain and improved function with consistent results during the first postoperative year. IS is a new, minimally invasive type of internal fixation. The use of the IS alone may be better for impending rather than completed pathological fractures, and may be better in completed fractures if an added plate or more than the usual number of locking screws is required. Caution is warranted regarding its use alone in patients with a completed pathological fracture due to the rate of breakage of the device.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(12):1485–1492.
Willingness to participate in placebo-controlled surgical trials of the knee
Authors: Wall Laura , Bunzli Samantha , Nelson Elizabeth , Hawke Lyndon J. , Genie Mesfin , Hinwood Madeleine , Lang Danielle , Dowsey Michelle M. , Clarke Phillip , Choong Peter F. , Balogh Zsolt J. , Lohmander L. S. , Paolucci Francesco
Published: December 2024

Aims

Surgeon and patient reluctance to participate are potential significant barriers to conducting placebo-controlled trials of orthopaedic surgery. Understanding the preferences of orthopaedic surgeons and patients regarding the design of randomized placebo-controlled trials (RCT-Ps) of knee procedures can help to identify what RCT-P features will lead to the greatest participation. This information could inform future trial designs and feasibility assessments.

Methods

This study used two discrete choice experiments (DCEs) to determine which features of RCT-Ps of knee procedures influence surgeon and patient participation. A mixed-methods approach informed the DCE development. The DCEs were analyzed with a baseline category multinomial logit model.

Results

The proportion of respondents (surgeons n = 103; patients n = 140) who would not participate in any of the DCE choice sets (surgeons = 31%; patients = 40%), and the proportion who would participate in all (surgeons = 18%; patients = 30%), indicated strong views regarding the conduct of RCT-Ps. There were three main findings: for both surgeons and patients, studies which involved an arthroscopic procedure were more likely to result in participation than those with a total knee arthroplasty; as the age (for patients) and years of experience (for surgeons) increased, the overall likelihood of participation decreased; and, for surgeons, offering authorship and input into the RCT-P design was preferred for less experienced surgeons, while only completing the procedure was preferred by more experienced surgeons.

Conclusion

Patients and surgeons have strong views regarding participation in RCT-Ps. However, understanding their preferences can inform future trial designs and feasibility assessments with regard to recruitment rates.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(12):1408–1415.
Considerations of morphometry and phenotypes in modern knee arthroplasty
Authors: Chen Darren B. , Wood Jil A. , Griffiths-Jones William , Bellemans Johan , Haddad Fares S. , MacDessi Samuel J.
Published: December 2024

As advancements in total knee arthroplasty progress at an exciting pace, two areas are of special interest, as they directly impact implant design and surgical decision making. Knee morphometry considers the three-dimensional shape of the articulating surfaces within the knee joint, and knee phenotyping provides the ability to categorize alignment into practical groupings that can be used in both clinical and research settings. This annotation discusses the details of these concepts, and the ways in which they are helping us better understand the individual subtleties of each patient’s knee.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(12):1363–1368.
The National Joint Registry Data Quality Audit of elbow arthroplasty
Authors: Hamoodi Zaid , Shapiro Joanne , Sayers Adrian , Whitehouse Michael R. , Watts Adam C.
Published: December 2024

Aims

The aim of this audit was to assess and improve the completeness and accuracy of the National Joint Registry (NJR) dataset for arthroplasty of the elbow.

Methods

It was performed in two phases. In Phase 1, the completeness was assessed by comparing the NJR elbow dataset with the NHS England Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) data between April 2012 and April 2020. In order to assess the accuracy of the data, the components of each arthroplasty recorded in the NJR were compared to the type of arthroplasty which was recorded. In Phase 2, a national collaborative audit was undertaken to evaluate the reasons for unmatched data, add missing arthroplasties, and evaluate the reasons for the recording of inaccurate arthroplasties and correct them.

Results

Phase 1 identified 5,539 arthroplasties in HES which did not match an arthroplasty on the NJR, and 448 inaccurate arthroplasties from 254 hospitals. Most mismatched procedures (3,960 procedures; 71%) were radial head arthroplasties (RHAs). In Phase 2, 142 NHS hospitals with 3,640 (66%) mismatched and 314 (69%) inaccurate arthroplasties volunteered to assess their records. A large proportion of the unmatched data (3,000 arthroplasties; 82%) were confirmed as being missing from the NJR. The overall rate of completeness of the NJR elbow dataset improved from 63% to 83% following phase 2, and the completeness of total elbow arthroplasty data improved to 93%. Missing RHAs had the biggest impact on the overall completeness, but through the audit the number of RHAs in the NJR nearly doubled and completeness increased from 35% to 70%. The accuracy of data was 94% and improved to 98% after correcting 212 of the 448 inaccurately recorded arthroplasties.

Conclusion

The rate of completeness of the NJR total elbow arthroplasty dataset is currently 93% and the accuracy is 98%. This audit identified challenges of data capture with regard to RHAs. Collaboration with a trauma and orthopaedic trainees through the British Orthopaedic Trainee Association improved the completeness and accuracy of the NJR elbow dataset, which will improve the validity of the reports and of the associated research.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(12):1461–1468.
Clinical outcomes validate the RAND/UCLA appropriateness criteria algorithm for anatomical total shoulder arthroplasty for streamlining the clinical decision-making process
Authors: Mandalia Krishna , Le Breton Stephen , Roche Christopher , Shah Sarav S.
Published: December 2024

Aims

A recent study used the RAND Corporation at University of California, Los Angeles (RAND/UCLA) method to develop anatomical total shoulder arthroplasty (aTSA) appropriateness criteria. The purpose of our study was to determine how patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) vary based on appropriateness.

Methods

Clinical data from a multicentre database identified patients who underwent primary aTSA from November 2004 to January 2023. A total of 390 patients (mean follow-up 48.1 months (SD 42.0)) were included: 97 (24.9%) were classified as appropriate, 218 (55.9%) inconclusive, and 75 (19.2%) inappropriate. Patients were classified as “appropriate”, “inconclusive”, or “inappropriate”, using a modified version of an appropriateness algorithm, which accounted for age, rotator cuff status, mobility, symptomatology, and Walch classification. Multiple pre- and postoperative scores were analyzed using Pearson’s chi-squared test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Postoperative complications were also analyzed.

Results

All groups achieved significant improvement in mean PROM scores postoperatively. “Appropriate” patients experienced significantly greater improvement in visual analogue scale (VAS) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score compared to “inconclusive” and “inappropriate”. The appropriate group had a significantly greater proportion of patients who achieved minimal clinically important difference (MCID) (95.8%; n = 93) and substantial clinical benefit (SCB) (92.6%; n = 89). Overall, 13 patients had postoperative complications. No significant differences in postoperative complications among classifications were found.

Conclusion

Our data clinically validate the RAND/UCLA aTSA appropriateness criteria algorithm, allowing for more rapid and reliable determination of aTSA candidacy. “Appropriate” patients were more likely to achieve MCID and SCB for ASES scores compared to “inappropriate” patients. Among “appropriate” patients who did not achieve SCB, 50% (n = 4) had a postoperative complication. There was a significantly higher proportion of postoperative complications among those who did not achieve SCB across all three groups. Only 7.1% (n = 1) of patients who did not achieve SCB in the inappropriate group had a postoperative complication. Thus, it can be inferred that the failure to reach SCB in the appropriate group was likely to be due to a postoperative complication, whereas for patients deemed “inappropriate”, failure to reach SCB may be secondary to factors accounted for within our algorithm.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(12):1451–1460.
Day-case knee and hip replacement
Authors: French Jonathan M. R. , Woods Amy , Sayers Adrian , Deere Kevin , Whitehouse Michael R.
Published: December 2024

Aims

Day-case knee and hip replacement, in which patients are discharged on the day of surgery, has been gaining popularity during the last two decades, and particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. This systematic review presents the evidence comparing day-case to inpatient-stay surgery.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed of MEDLINE, Embase, and grey literature databases to include all studies which compare day-case with inpatient knee and hip replacement. Meta-analyses were performed where appropriate using a random effects model. The protocol was registered prospectively (PROSPERO CRD42023392811).

Results

A total of 38 studies were included, with a total of 83,888 day-case procedures. The studies were predominantly from the USA and Canada, observational, and with a high risk of bias. Day-case patients were a mean of 2.08 years younger (95% CI 1.05 to 3.12), were more likely to be male (odds ratio (OR) 1.3 (95% CI 1.19 to 1.41)), and had a lower mean BMI and American Society of Anesthesiologists grades compared with inpatients. Overall, day-case surgery was associated with significantly lower odds of readmission (OR 0.83 (95% CI 0.73 to 0.96); p = 0.009), subsequent emergency department attendance (OR 0.62 (95% CI 0.48 to 0.79); p < 0.001), and complications (OR 0.7 (95% CI 0.55 to 0.89) p = 0.004), than inpatient surgery. There were no significant differences in the rates of reoperation or mortality. The overall rate of successful same-day discharge for day-case surgery was 85% (95% CI 81 to 88). Patient-reported outcome measures and cost-effectiveness were either equal or favoured day-case.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of the literature, in particular the substantial risk of selection bias, the outcomes following day-case knee and hip replacement appear not to be inferior to those following an inpatient stay. The evidence is more robust for unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR) than for total knee replacement (TKR) or total hip replacement (THR). The rate of successful same-day discharge is highest in UKR, followed by TKR and comparatively lower in THR.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(12):1385–1392.
Modified Frailty Index as a novel predictor for the incidence and severity of postoperative complications after spinal metastases surgery
Authors: Matsuo Tomoya , Kanda Yutaro , Sakai Yoshitada , Yurube Takashi , Takeoka Yoshiki , Miyazaki Kunihiko , Kuroda Ryosuke , Kakutani Kenichiro
Published: December 2024

Aims

Frailty has been gathering attention as a factor to predict surgical outcomes. However, the association of frailty with postoperative complications remains controversial in spinal metastases surgery. We therefore designed a prospective study to elucidate risk factors for postoperative complications with a focus on frailty.

Methods

We prospectively analyzed 241 patients with spinal metastasis who underwent palliative surgery from June 2015 to December 2021. Postoperative complications were assessed by the Clavien-Dindo classification; scores of ≥ Grade II were defined as complications. Data were collected regarding demographics (age, sex, BMI, and primary cancer) and preoperative clinical factors (new Katagiri score, Frankel grade, performance status, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, spinal instability neoplastic score, modified Frailty Index-11 (mFI), diabetes, and serum albumin levels). Univariate and multivariate analyses were developed to identify risk factors for postoperative complications (p < 0.05).

Results

Overall, 57 postoperative complications occurred in 47 of 241 (19.5%) patients. The most common complications were wound infection/dehiscence, urinary tract infection, and pneumonia. Univariate analysis identified preoperative radiotherapy (p = 0.028), mFI (p < 0.001), blood loss ≥ 500 ml (p = 0.016), and preoperative molecular targeted drugs (p = 0.030) as potential risk factors. From the receiver operating characteristic curve, the clinically optimal cut-off value of mFI was 0.27 (sensitivity, 46.8%; specificity, 79.9%). Multivariate analysis identified mFI ≥ 0.27 (odds ratio (OR) 2.94 (95% CI 1.44 to 5.98); p = 0.003) and preoperative radiotherapy (OR 2.11 (95% CI 1.00 to 4.46); p = 0.049) as significant risk factors. In particular, urinary tract infection (p = 0.012) and pneumonia (p = 0.037) were associated with mFI ≥ 0.27. Furthermore, the severity of postoperative complications was positively correlated with mFI (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The mFI is a useful tool to predict the incidence and the severity of postoperative complications in spinal metastases surgery.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(12):1469–1476.