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Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 7, Issue 1 | Pages 36 - 45
1 Jan 2018
Kleinlugtenbelt YV Krol RG Bhandari M Goslings JC Poolman RW Scholtes VAB

Objectives. The patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire are patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) used for clinical and research purposes. Methodological high-quality clinimetric studies that determine the measurement properties of these PROMs when used in patients with a distal radial fracture are lacking. This study aimed to validate the PRWE and DASH in Dutch patients with a displaced distal radial fracture (DRF). Methods. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used for test-retest reliability, between PROMs completed twice with a two-week interval at six to eight months after DRF. Internal consistency was determined using Cronbach’s α for the dimensions found in the factor analysis. The measurement error was expressed by the smallest detectable change (SDC). A semi-structured interview was conducted between eight and 12 weeks after DRF to assess the content validity. Results. A total of 119 patients (mean age 58 years (. sd. 15)), 74% female, completed PROMs at a mean time of six months (. sd. 1) post-fracture. One overall meaningful dimension was found for the PRWE and the DASH. Internal consistency was excellent for both PROMs (Cronbach’s α 0.96 (PRWE) and 0.97 (DASH)). Test-retest reliability was good for the PRWE (ICC 0.87) and excellent for the DASH (ICC 0.91). The SDC was 20 for the PRWE and 14 for the DASH. No floor or ceiling effects were found. The content validity was good for both questionnaires. Conclusion. The PRWE and DASH are valid and reliable PROMs in assessing function and disability in Dutch patients with a displaced DRF. However, due to the high SDC, the PRWE and DASH are less useful for individual patients with a distal radial fracture in clinical practice. Cite this article: Y. V. Kleinlugtenbelt, R. G. Krol, M. Bhandari, J. C. Goslings, R. W. Poolman, V. A. B. Scholtes. Are the patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) questionnaire used in distal radial fractures truly valid and reliable? Bone Joint Res 2018;7:36–45. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.71.BJR-2017-0081.R1


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 3 | Pages 179 - 188
7 Mar 2023
Itoh M Itou J Imai S Okazaki K Iwasaki K

Aims. Orthopaedic surgery requires grafts with sufficient mechanical strength. For this purpose, decellularized tissue is an available option that lacks the complications of autologous tissue. However, it is not widely used in orthopaedic surgeries. This study investigated clinical trials of the use of decellularized tissue grafts in orthopaedic surgery. Methods. Using the ClinicalTrials.gov (CTG) and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) databases, we comprehensively surveyed clinical trials of decellularized tissue use in orthopaedic surgeries registered before 1 September 2022. We evaluated the clinical results, tissue processing methods, and commercial availability of the identified products using academic literature databases and manufacturers’ websites. Results. We initially identified 4,402 clinical trials, 27 of which were eligible for inclusion and analysis, including nine shoulder surgery trials, eight knee surgery trials, two ankle surgery trials, two hand surgery trials, and six peripheral nerve graft trials. Nine of the trials were completed. We identified only one product that will be commercially available for use in knee surgery with significant mechanical load resistance. Peracetic acid and gamma irradiation were frequently used for sterilization. Conclusion. Despite the demand for decellularized tissue, few decellularized tissue products are currently commercially available, particularly for the knee joint. To be viable in orthopaedic surgery, decellularized tissue must exhibit biocompatibility and mechanical strength, and these requirements are challenging for the clinical application of decellularized tissue. However, the variety of available decellularized products has recently increased. Therefore, decellularized grafts may become a promising option in orthopaedic surgery. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(3):179–188


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 10 | Pages 588 - 595
17 Oct 2024
Breu R Avelar C Bertalan Z Grillari J Redl H Ljuhar R Quadlbauer S Hausner T

Aims. The aim of this study was to create artificial intelligence (AI) software with the purpose of providing a second opinion to physicians to support distal radius fracture (DRF) detection, and to compare the accuracy of fracture detection of physicians with and without software support. Methods. The dataset consisted of 26,121 anonymized anterior-posterior (AP) and lateral standard view radiographs of the wrist, with and without DRF. The convolutional neural network (CNN) model was trained to detect the presence of a DRF by comparing the radiographs containing a fracture to the inconspicuous ones. A total of 11 physicians (six surgeons in training and five hand surgeons) assessed 200 pairs of randomly selected digital radiographs of the wrist (AP and lateral) for the presence of a DRF. The same images were first evaluated without, and then with, the support of the CNN model, and the diagnostic accuracy of the two methods was compared. Results. At the time of the study, the CNN model showed an area under the receiver operating curve of 0.97. AI assistance improved the physician’s sensitivity (correct fracture detection) from 80% to 87%, and the specificity (correct fracture exclusion) from 91% to 95%. The overall error rate (combined false positive and false negative) was reduced from 14% without AI to 9% with AI. Conclusion. The use of a CNN model as a second opinion can improve the diagnostic accuracy of DRF detection in the study setting. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(10):588–595


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 8 | Pages 541 - 547
17 Aug 2022
Walter N Hierl K Brochhausen C Alt V Rupp M

Aims. This observational cross-sectional study aimed to answer the following questions: 1) how has nonunion incidence developed from 2009 to 2019 in a nationwide cohort; 2) what is the age and sex distribution of nonunions for distinct anatomical nonunion localizations; and 3) how high were the costs for surgical nonunion treatment in a level 1 trauma centre in Germany?. Methods. Data consisting of annual International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-10 diagnosis codes from German medical institutions from 2009 to 2019, provided by the Federal Statistical Office of Germany (Destatis), were analyzed. Nonunion incidence was calculated for anatomical localization, sex, and age groups. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were determined and compared with a two-sample z-test. Diagnosis-related group (DRG)-reimbursement and length of hospital stay were retrospectively retrieved for each anatomical localization, considering 210 patients. Results. In 2019, a total of 11,840 nonunion cases (17.4/100,000 inhabitants) were treated. In comparison to 2018, the incidence of nonunion increased by 3% (IRR 1.03, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.53 to 1.99, p = 0.935). The incidence was higher for male cases (IRR female/male: 0.79, 95% CI 0.76 to 0.82, p = 0.484). Most nonunions occurred at the pelvic and hip region (3.6/100,000 inhabitants, 95% CI 3.5 to 3.8), followed by the ankle and foot as well as the hand (2.9/100,000 inhabitants each). Mean estimated DRG reimbursement for in-hospital treatment of nonunions was highest for nonunions at the pelvic and hip region (€8,319 (SD 2,410), p < 0.001). Conclusion. Despite attempts to improve fracture treatment in recent years, nonunions remain a problem for orthopaedic and trauma surgery, with a stable incidence throughout the last decade. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(8):541–547


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 11 | Pages 632 - 646
7 Nov 2024
Diaz Dilernia F Watson D Heinrichs DE Vasarhelyi E

Aims

The mechanism by which synovial fluid (SF) kills bacteria has not yet been elucidated, and a better understanding is needed. We sought to analyze the antimicrobial properties of exogenous copper in human SF against Staphylococcus aureus.

Methods

We performed in vitro growth and viability assays to determine the capability of S. aureus to survive in SF with the addition of 10 µM of copper. We determined the minimum bactericidal concentration of copper (MBC-Cu) and evaluated its sensitivity to killing, comparing wild type (WT) and CopAZB-deficient USA300 strains.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 10 | Pages 636 - 643
10 Oct 2023
Hamilton V Sheikh S Szczepanska A Maskell N Hamilton F Reid JP Bzdek BR Murray JRD

Aims

Orthopaedic surgery uses many varied instruments with high-speed, high-impact, thermal energy and sometimes heavy instruments, all of which potentially result in aerosolization of contaminated blood, tissue, and bone, raising concerns for clinicians’ health. This study quantifies the aerosol exposure by measuring the number and size distribution of the particles reaching the lead surgeon during key orthopaedic operations.

Methods

The aerosol yield from 17 orthopaedic open surgeries (on the knee, hip, and shoulder) was recorded at the position of the lead surgeon using an Aerodynamic Particle Sizer (APS; 0.5 to 20 μm diameter particles) sampling at 1 s time resolution. Through timestamping, detected aerosol was attributed to specific procedures.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 5 | Pages 214 - 225
3 May 2024
Groven RVM Kuik C Greven J Mert Ü Bouwman FG Poeze M Blokhuis TJ Huber-Lang M Hildebrand F Cillero-Pastor B van Griensven M

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine the fracture haematoma (fxH) proteome after multiple trauma using label-free proteomics, comparing two different fracture treatment strategies.

Methods

A porcine multiple trauma model was used in which two fracture treatment strategies were compared: early total care (ETC) and damage control orthopaedics (DCO). fxH was harvested and analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Per group, discriminating proteins were identified and protein interaction analyses were performed to further elucidate key biomolecular pathways in the early fracture healing phase.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 11 | Pages 814 - 825
14 Nov 2022
Ponkilainen V Kuitunen I Liukkonen R Vaajala M Reito A Uimonen M

Aims

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to gather epidemiological information on selected musculoskeletal injuries and to provide pooled injury-specific incidence rates.

Methods

PubMed (National Library of Medicine) and Scopus (Elsevier) databases were searched. Articles were eligible for inclusion if they reported incidence rate (or count with population at risk), contained data on adult population, and were written in English language. The number of cases and population at risk were collected, and the pooled incidence rates (per 100,000 person-years) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by using either a fixed or random effects model.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 8 | Pages 411 - 426
28 Aug 2024
Liu D Wang K Wang J Cao F Tao L

Aims

This study explored the shared genetic traits and molecular interactions between postmenopausal osteoporosis (POMP) and sarcopenia, both of which substantially degrade elderly health and quality of life. We hypothesized that these motor system diseases overlap in pathophysiology and regulatory mechanisms.

Methods

We analyzed microarray data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), machine learning, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis to identify common genetic factors between POMP and sarcopenia. Further validation was done via differential gene expression in a new cohort. Single-cell analysis identified high expression cell subsets, with mononuclear macrophages in osteoporosis and muscle stem cells in sarcopenia, among others. A competitive endogenous RNA network suggested regulatory elements for these genes.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 4 | Pages 193 - 200
23 Apr 2024
Reynolds A Doyle R Boughton O Cobb J Muirhead-Allwood S Jeffers J

Aims

Manual impaction, with a mallet and introducer, remains the standard method of installing cementless acetabular cups during total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study aims to quantify the accuracy and precision of manual impaction strikes during the seating of an acetabular component. This understanding aims to help improve impaction surgical techniques and inform the development of future technologies.

Methods

Posterior approach THAs were carried out on three cadavers by an expert orthopaedic surgeon. An instrumented mallet and introducer were used to insert cementless acetabular cups. The motion of the mallet, relative to the introducer, was analyzed for a total of 110 strikes split into low-, medium-, and high-effort strikes. Three parameters were extracted from these data: strike vector, strike offset, and mallet face alignment.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 1 | Pages 5 - 8
1 Jan 2023
Im G

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(1):5–8.


Aims

This study investigated vancomycin-microbubbles (Vm-MBs) and meropenem (Mp)-MBs with ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) to disrupt biofilms and improve bactericidal efficiency, providing a new and promising strategy for the treatment of device-related infections (DRIs).

Methods

A film hydration method was used to prepare Vm-MBs and Mp-MBs and examine their characterization. Biofilms of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Escherichia coli were treated with different groups. Biofilm biomass differences were determined by staining. Thickness and bacterial viability were observed with confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM). Colony counts were determined by plate-counting. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observed bacterial morphology.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 7 | Pages 362 - 371
17 Jul 2024
Chang H Liu L Zhang Q Xu G Wang J Chen P Li C Guo X Yang Z Zhang F

Aims

The metabolic variations between the cartilage of osteoarthritis (OA) and Kashin-Beck disease (KBD) remain largely unknown. Our study aimed to address this by conducting a comparative analysis of the metabolic profiles present in the cartilage of KBD and OA.

Methods

Cartilage samples from patients with KBD (n = 10) and patients with OA (n = 10) were collected during total knee arthroplasty surgery. An untargeted metabolomics approach using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was conducted to investigate the metabolomics profiles of KBD and OA. LC-MS raw data files were converted into mzXML format and then processed by the XCMS, CAMERA, and metaX toolbox implemented with R software. The online Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database was used to annotate the metabolites by matching the exact molecular mass data of samples with those from the database.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 12 | Pages 843 - 853
1 Dec 2022
Cai Y Huang C Chen X Chen Y Huang Z Zhang C Zhang W Fang X

Aims

This study aimed to explore the role of small colony variants (SCVs) of Staphylococcus aureus in intraosseous invasion and colonization in patients with periprosthetic joint infection (PJI).

Methods

A PJI diagnosis was made according to the MusculoSkeletal Infection Society (MSIS) for PJI. Bone and tissue samples were collected intraoperatively and the intracellular invasion and intraosseous colonization were detected. Transcriptomics of PJI samples were analyzed and verified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR).


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 5 | Pages 339 - 351
23 May 2023
Tan J Liu X Zhou M Wang F Ma L Tang H He G Kang X Bian X Tang K

Aims

Mechanical stimulation is a key factor in the development and healing of tendon-bone insertion. Treadmill training is an important rehabilitation treatment. This study aims to investigate the benefits of treadmill training initiated on postoperative day 7 for tendon-bone insertion healing.

Methods

A tendon-bone insertion injury healing model was established in 92 C57BL/6 male mice. All mice were divided into control and training groups by random digital table method. The control group mice had full free activity in the cage, and the training group mice started the treadmill training on postoperative day 7. The quality of tendon-bone insertion healing was evaluated by histology, immunohistochemistry, reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, micro-CT, micro-MRI, open field tests, and CatWalk gait and biomechanical assessments.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 11 | Pages 647 - 658
12 Nov 2024
Li K Zhang Q

Aims

The incidence of limb fractures in patients living with HIV (PLWH) is increasing. However, due to their immunodeficiency status, the operation and rehabilitation of these patients present unique challenges. Currently, it is urgent to establish a standardized perioperative rehabilitation plan based on the concept of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS). This study aimed to validate the effectiveness of ERAS in the perioperative period of PLWH with limb fractures.

Methods

A total of 120 PLWH with limb fractures, between January 2015 and December 2023, were included in this study. We established a multidisciplinary team to design and implement a standardized ERAS protocol. The demographic, surgical, clinical, and follow-up information of the patients were collected and analyzed retrospectively.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 4 | Pages 169 - 183
15 Apr 2024
Gil-Melgosa L Llombart-Blanco R Extramiana L Lacave I Abizanda G Miranda E Agirre X Prósper F Pineda-Lucena A Pons-Villanueva J Pérez-Ruiz A

Aims

Rotator cuff (RC) injuries are characterized by tendon rupture, muscle atrophy, retraction, and fatty infiltration, which increase injury severity and jeopardize adequate tendon repair. Epigenetic drugs, such as histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis), possess the capacity to redefine the molecular signature of cells, and they may have the potential to inhibit the transformation of the fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) within the skeletal muscle into adipocyte-like cells, concurrently enhancing the myogenic potential of the satellite cells.

Methods

HDACis were added to FAPs and satellite cell cultures isolated from mice. The HDACi vorinostat was additionally administered into a RC injury animal model. Histological analysis was carried out on the isolated supra- and infraspinatus muscles to assess vorinostat anti-muscle degeneration potential.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 10 | Pages 559 - 572
8 Oct 2024
Wu W Zhao Z Wang Y Liu M Zhu G Li L

Aims

This study aimed to demonstrate the promoting effect of elastic fixation on fracture, and further explore its mechanism at the gene and protein expression levels.

Methods

A closed tibial fracture model was established using 12 male Japanese white rabbits, and divided into elastic and stiff fixation groups based on different fixation methods. Two weeks after the operation, a radiograph and pathological examination of callus tissue were used to evaluate fracture healing. Then, the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were examined in the callus using proteomics. Finally, in vitro cell experiments were conducted to investigate hub proteins involved in this process.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 3 | Pages 199 - 201
7 Mar 2023
Brzeszczyńska J Brzeszczyński F

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(3):199–201.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 6 | Pages 372 - 374
8 Jun 2023
Makaram NS Lamb SE Simpson AHRW

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(6):372–374.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 9 | Pages 507 - 512
18 Sep 2024
Farrow L Meek D Leontidis G Campbell M Harrison E Anderson L

Despite the vast quantities of published artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms that target trauma and orthopaedic applications, very few progress to inform clinical practice. One key reason for this is the lack of a clear pathway from development to deployment. In order to assist with this process, we have developed the Clinical Practice Integration of Artificial Intelligence (CPI-AI) framework – a five-stage approach to the clinical practice adoption of AI in the setting of trauma and orthopaedics, based on the IDEAL principles (https://www.ideal-collaboration.net/). Adherence to the framework would provide a robust evidence-based mechanism for developing trust in AI applications, where the underlying algorithms are unlikely to be fully understood by clinical teams.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(9):507–512.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 12 | Pages 862 - 872
1 Dec 2022
Wang M Tan G Jiang H Liu A Wu R Li J Sun Z Lv Z Sun W Shi D

Aims

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease worldwide, which is characterized by articular cartilage lesions. With more understanding of the disease, OA is considered to be a disorder of the whole joint. However, molecular communication within and between tissues during the disease process is still unclear. In this study, we used transcriptome data to reveal crosstalk between different tissues in OA.

Methods

We used four groups of transcription profiles acquired from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, including articular cartilage, meniscus, synovium, and subchondral bone, to screen differentially expressed genes during OA. Potential crosstalk between tissues was depicted by ligand-receptor pairs.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 4 | Pages 184 - 192
18 Apr 2024
Morita A Iida Y Inaba Y Tezuka T Kobayashi N Choe H Ike H Kawakami E

Aims

This study was designed to develop a model for predicting bone mineral density (BMD) loss of the femur after total hip arthroplasty (THA) using artificial intelligence (AI), and to identify factors that influence the prediction. Additionally, we virtually examined the efficacy of administration of bisphosphonate for cases with severe BMD loss based on the predictive model.

Methods

The study included 538 joints that underwent primary THA. The patients were divided into groups using unsupervised time series clustering for five-year BMD loss of Gruen zone 7 postoperatively, and a machine-learning model to predict the BMD loss was developed. Additionally, the predictor for BMD loss was extracted using SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP). The patient-specific efficacy of bisphosphonate, which is the most important categorical predictor for BMD loss, was examined by calculating the change in predictive probability when hypothetically switching between the inclusion and exclusion of bisphosphonate.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 10 | Pages 657 - 666
17 Oct 2023
Sung J Barratt KR Pederson SM Chenu C Reichert I Atkins GJ Anderson PH Smitham PJ

Aims

Impaired fracture repair in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is not fully understood. In this study, we aimed to characterize the local changes in gene expression (GE) associated with diabetic fracture. We used an unbiased approach to compare GE in the fracture callus of Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats relative to wild-type (WT) littermates at three weeks following femoral osteotomy.

Methods

Zucker rats, WT and homozygous for leptin receptor mutation (ZDF), were fed a moderately high-fat diet to induce T2DM only in the ZDF animals. At ten weeks of age, open femoral fractures were simulated using a unilateral osteotomy stabilized with an external fixator. At three weeks post-surgery, the fractured femur from each animal was retrieved for analysis. Callus formation and the extent of healing were assessed by radiograph and histology. Bone tissue was processed for total RNA extraction and messenger RNA (mRNA) sequencing (mRNA-Seq).


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 7 | Pages 447 - 454
10 Jul 2023
Lisacek-Kiosoglous AB Powling AS Fontalis A Gabr A Mazomenos E Haddad FS

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly growing across many domains, of which the medical field is no exception. AI is an umbrella term defining the practical application of algorithms to generate useful output, without the need of human cognition. Owing to the expanding volume of patient information collected, known as ‘big data’, AI is showing promise as a useful tool in healthcare research and across all aspects of patient care pathways. Practical applications in orthopaedic surgery include: diagnostics, such as fracture recognition and tumour detection; predictive models of clinical and patient-reported outcome measures, such as calculating mortality rates and length of hospital stay; and real-time rehabilitation monitoring and surgical training. However, clinicians should remain cognizant of AI’s limitations, as the development of robust reporting and validation frameworks is of paramount importance to prevent avoidable errors and biases. The aim of this review article is to provide a comprehensive understanding of AI and its subfields, as well as to delineate its existing clinical applications in trauma and orthopaedic surgery. Furthermore, this narrative review expands upon the limitations of AI and future direction.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(7):447–454.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 5 | Pages 331 - 338
16 May 2023
Szymski D Walter N Krull P Melsheimer O Grimberg A Alt V Steinbrueck A Rupp M

Aims

The aim of this investigation was to compare risk of infection in both cemented and uncemented hemiarthroplasty (HA) as well as in total hip arthroplasty (THA) following femoral neck fracture.

Methods

Data collection was performed using the German Arthroplasty Registry (EPRD). In HA and THA following femoral neck fracture, fixation method was divided into cemented and uncemented prostheses and paired according to age, sex, BMI, and the Elixhauser Comorbidity Index using Mahalanobis distance matching.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 1 | Pages 19 - 27
5 Jan 2024
Baertl S Rupp M Kerschbaum M Morgenstern M Baumann F Pfeifer C Worlicek M Popp D Amanatullah DF Alt V

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical application of the PJI-TNM classification for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) by determining intraobserver and interobserver reliability. To facilitate its use in clinical practice, an educational app was subsequently developed and evaluated.

Methods

A total of ten orthopaedic surgeons classified 20 cases of PJI based on the PJI-TNM classification. Subsequently, the classification was re-evaluated using the PJI-TNM app. Classification accuracy was calculated separately for each subcategory (reinfection, tissue and implant condition, non-human cells, and morbidity of the patient). Fleiss’ kappa and Cohen’s kappa were calculated for interobserver and intraobserver reliability, respectively.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 6 | Pages 352 - 361
1 Jun 2023
Aquilina AL Claireaux H Aquilina CO Tutton E Fitzpatrick R Costa ML Griffin XL

Aims

A core outcome set for adult, open lower limb fracture has been established consisting of ‘Walking, gait and mobility’, ‘Being able to return to life roles’, ‘Pain or discomfort’, and ‘Quality of life’. This study aims to identify which outcome measurement instruments (OMIs) should be recommended to measure each core outcome.

Methods

A systematic review and quality assessment were conducted to identify existing instruments with evidence of good measurement properties in the open lower limb fracture population for each core outcome. Additionally, shortlisting criteria were developed to identify suitable instruments not validated in the target population. Candidate instruments were presented, discussed, and voted on at a consensus meeting of key stakeholders.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 7 | Pages 321 - 331
3 Jul 2024
Naito T Yamanaka Y Tokuda K Sato N Tajima T Tsukamoto M Suzuki H Kawasaki M Nakamura E Sakai A

Aims

The antidiabetic agent metformin inhibits fibrosis in various organs. This study aims to elucidate the effects of hyperglycaemia and metformin on knee joint capsule fibrosis in mice.

Methods

Eight-week-old wild-type (WT) and type 2 diabetic (db/db) mice were divided into four groups without or with metformin treatment (WT met(-/+), Db met(-/+)). Mice received daily intraperitoneal administration of metformin and were killed at 12 and 14 weeks of age. Fibrosis morphology and its related genes and proteins were evaluated. Fibroblasts were extracted from the capsules of 14-week-old mice, and the expression of fibrosis-related genes in response to glucose and metformin was evaluated in vitro.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 8 | Pages 486 - 493
4 Aug 2023
Yamanaka Y Tajima T Tsujimura Y Naito T Mano Y Tsukamoto M Zenke Y Sakai A

Aims

Dupuytren’s contracture is characterized by increased fibrosis of the palmar aponeurosis, with eventual replacement of the surrounding fatty tissue with palmar fascial fibromatosis. We hypothesized that adipocytokines produced by adipose tissue in contact with the palmar aponeurosis might promote fibrosis of the palmar aponeurosis.

Methods

We compared the expression of the adipocytokines adiponectin and leptin in the adipose tissue surrounding the palmar aponeurosis of male patients with Dupuytren’s contracture, and of male patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) as the control group. We also examined the effects of adiponectin on fibrosis-related genes and proteins expressed by fibroblasts in the palmar aponeurosis of patients with Dupuytren’s contracture.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 3 | Pages 127 - 135
22 Mar 2024
Puetzler J Vallejo Diaz A Gosheger G Schulze M Arens D Zeiter S Siverino C Richards RG Moriarty TF

Aims

Fracture-related infection (FRI) is commonly classified based on the time of onset of symptoms. Early infections (< two weeks) are treated with debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR). For late infections (> ten weeks), guidelines recommend implant removal due to tolerant biofilms. For delayed infections (two to ten weeks), recommendations are unclear. In this study we compared infection clearance and bone healing in early and delayed FRI treated with DAIR in a rabbit model.

Methods

Staphylococcus aureus was inoculated into a humeral osteotomy in 17 rabbits after plate osteosynthesis. Infection developed for one week (early group, n = 6) or four weeks (delayed group, n = 6) before DAIR (systemic antibiotics: two weeks, nafcillin + rifampin; four weeks, levofloxacin + rifampin). A control group (n = 5) received revision surgery after four weeks without antibiotics. Bacteriology of humerus, soft-tissue, and implants was performed seven weeks after revision surgery. Bone healing was assessed using a modified radiological union scale in tibial fractures (mRUST).


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 9 | Pages 512 - 521
1 Sep 2023
Langenberger B Schrednitzki D Halder AM Busse R Pross CM

Aims

A substantial fraction of patients undergoing knee arthroplasty (KA) or hip arthroplasty (HA) do not achieve an improvement as high as the minimal clinically important difference (MCID), i.e. do not achieve a meaningful improvement. Using three patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), our aim was: 1) to assess machine learning (ML), the simple pre-surgery PROM score, and logistic-regression (LR)-derived performance in their prediction of whether patients undergoing HA or KA achieve an improvement as high or higher than a calculated MCID; and 2) to test whether ML is able to outperform LR or pre-surgery PROM scores in predictive performance.

Methods

MCIDs were derived using the change difference method in a sample of 1,843 HA and 1,546 KA patients. An artificial neural network, a gradient boosting machine, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, ridge regression, elastic net, random forest, LR, and pre-surgery PROM scores were applied to predict MCID for the following PROMs: EuroQol five-dimension, five-level questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L), EQ visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS), Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score-Physical Function Short-form (HOOS-PS), and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score-Physical Function Short-form (KOOS-PS).


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 10 | Pages 535 - 545
2 Oct 2024
Zou C Guo W Mu W Wahafu T Li Y Hua L Xu B Cao L

Aims

We aimed to determine the concentrations of synovial vancomycin and meropenem in patients treated by single-stage revision combined with intra-articular infusion following periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), thereby validating this drug delivery approach.

Methods

We included 14 patients with PJI as noted in their medical records between November 2021 and August 2022, comprising eight hip and seven knee joint infections, with one patient experiencing bilateral knee infections. The patients underwent single-stage revision surgery, followed by intra-articular infusion of vancomycin and meropenem (50,000 µg/ml). Synovial fluid samples were collected to assess antibiotic concentrations using high-performance liquid chromatography.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 8 | Pages 467 - 475
2 Aug 2023
Wu H Sun D Wang S Jia C Shen J Wang X Hou C Xie Z Luo F

Aims

This study was designed to characterize the recurrence incidence and risk factors of antibiotic-loaded cement spacer (ALCS) for definitive bone defect treatment in limb osteomyelitis.

Methods

We included adult patients with limb osteomyelitis who received debridement and ALCS insertion into the bone defect as definitive management between 2013 and 2020 in our clinical centre. The follow-up time was at least two years. Data on patients’ demographics, clinical characteristics, and infection recurrence were retrospectively collected and analyzed.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 1 | Pages 22 - 32
11 Jan 2023
Boschung A Faulhaber S Kiapour A Kim Y Novais EN Steppacher SD Tannast M Lerch TD

Aims

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) patients report exacerbation of hip pain in deep flexion. However, the exact impingement location in deep flexion is unknown. The aim was to investigate impingement-free maximal flexion, impingement location, and if cam deformity causes hip impingement in flexion in FAI patients.

Methods

A retrospective study involving 24 patients (37 hips) with FAI and femoral retroversion (femoral version (FV) < 5° per Murphy method) was performed. All patients were symptomatic (mean age 28 years (SD 9)) and had anterior hip/groin pain and a positive anterior impingement test. Cam- and pincer-type subgroups were analyzed. Patients were compared to an asymptomatic control group (26 hips). All patients underwent pelvic CT scans to generate personalized CT-based 3D models and validated software for patient-specific impingement simulation (equidistant method).


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 11 | Pages 677 - 690
1 Nov 2023
Wang X Jiang W Pan K Tao L Zhu Y

Aims

Currently, the effect of drug treatment for osteoporosis is relatively poor, and the side effects are numerous and serious. Melatonin is a potential drug to improve bone mass in postmenopausal women. Unfortunately, the mechanism by which melatonin improves bone metabolism remains unclear. The aim of this study was to further investigate the potential mechanism of melatonin in the treatment of osteoporosis.

Methods

The effects of melatonin on mitochondrial apoptosis protein, bmal1 gene, and related pathway proteins of RAW264.7 (mouse mononuclear macrophage leukaemia cells) were analyzed by western blot. Cell Counting Kit-8 was used to evaluate the effect of melatonin on cell viability. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate the effect of melatonin on the apoptosis of RAW264.7 cells and mitochondrial membrane potential. A reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection kit was used to evaluate the level of ROS in osteoclast precursors. We used bmal1-small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to downregulate the Bmal1 gene. We established a postmenopausal mouse model and verified the effect of melatonin on the bone mass of postmenopausal osteoporosis in mice via micro-CT. Bmal1 lentiviral activation particles were used to establish an in vitro model of overexpression of the bmal1 gene.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 4 | Pages 137 - 148
1 Apr 2024
Lu Y Ho T Huang C Yeh S Chen S Tsao Y

Aims

Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) is known to induce several types of tissue regeneration by activating tissue-specific stem cells. Here, we investigated the therapeutic potential of PEDF 29-mer peptide in the damaged articular cartilage (AC) in rat osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) were isolated from rat bone marrow (BM) and used to evaluate the impact of 29-mer on chondrogenic differentiation of BM-MSCs in culture. Knee OA was induced in rats by a single intra-articular injection of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) in the right knees (set to day 0). The 29-mer dissolved in 5% hyaluronic acid (HA) was intra-articularly injected into right knees at day 8 and 12 after MIA injection. Subsequently, the therapeutic effect of the 29-mer/HA on OA was evaluated by the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) histopathological scoring system and changes in hind paw weight distribution, respectively. The regeneration of chondrocytes in damaged AC was detected by dual-immunostaining of 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) and chondrogenic markers.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 10 | Pages 624 - 635
4 Oct 2023
Harrison CJ Plessen CY Liegl G Rodrigues JN Sabah SA Beard DJ Fischer F

Aims

To map the Oxford Knee Score (OKS) and High Activity Arthroplasty Score (HAAS) items to a common scale, and to investigate the psychometric properties of this new scale for the measurement of knee health.

Methods

Patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) data measuring knee health were obtained from the NHS PROMs dataset and Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty Trial (TOPKAT). Assumptions for common scale modelling were tested. A graded response model (fitted to OKS item responses in the NHS PROMs dataset) was used as an anchor to calibrate paired HAAS items from the TOPKAT dataset. Information curves for the combined OKS-HAAS model were plotted. Bland-Altman analysis was used to compare common scale scores derived from OKS and HAAS items. A conversion table was developed to map between HAAS, OKS, and the common scale.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 7 | Pages 397 - 411
3 Jul 2023
Ruan X Gu J Chen M Zhao F Aili M Zhang D

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disease characterized by progressive cartilage degradation, synovial membrane inflammation, osteophyte formation, and subchondral bone sclerosis. Pathological changes in cartilage and subchondral bone are the main processes in OA. In recent decades, many studies have demonstrated that activin-like kinase 3 (ALK3), a bone morphogenetic protein receptor, is essential for cartilage formation, osteogenesis, and postnatal skeletal development. Although the role of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling in articular cartilage and bone has been extensively studied, many new discoveries have been made in recent years around ALK3 targets in articular cartilage, subchondral bone, and the interaction between the two, broadening the original knowledge of the relationship between ALK3 and OA. In this review, we focus on the roles of ALK3 in OA, including cartilage and subchondral bone and related cells. It may be helpful to seek more efficient drugs or treatments for OA based on ALK3 signalling in future.


Aims

To test the hypothesis that reseeded anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-derived cells have a better ability to survive and integrate into tendon extracellular matrix (ECM) and accelerate the ligamentization process, compared to adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs).

Methods

Acellularized tibialis allograft tendons were used. Tendons were randomly reseeded with ACL-derived cells or ADMSCs. ACL-derived cells were harvested and isolated from remnants of ruptured ACLs during reconstruction surgery and cultured at passage three. Cell suspensions (200 µl) containing 2 × 106 ACL-derived cells or ADMSCs were prepared for the purpose of reseeding. At days 1, 3, and 7 post-reseeding, graft composites were assessed for repopulation with histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Matrix protein contents and gene expression levels were analyzed.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 8 | Pages 514 - 517
10 Aug 2022
Little CB Zaki S Blaker CL Clarke EC

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(8):514–517.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 5 | Pages 317 - 326
23 May 2022
Edwards TC Guest B Garner A Logishetty K Liddle AD Cobb JP

Aims

This study investigates the use of the metabolic equivalent of task (MET) score in a young hip arthroplasty population, and its ability to capture additional benefit beyond the ceiling effect of conventional patient-reported outcome measures.

Methods

From our electronic database of 751 hip arthroplasty procedures, 221 patients were included. Patients were excluded if they had revision surgery, an alternative hip procedure, or incomplete data either preoperatively or at one-year follow-up. Included patients had a mean age of 59.4 years (SD 11.3) and 54.3% were male, incorporating 117 primary total hip and 104 hip resurfacing arthroplasty operations. Oxford Hip Score (OHS), EuroQol five-dimension questionnaire (EQ-5D), and the MET were recorded preoperatively and at one-year follow-up. The distribution was examined reporting the presence of ceiling and floor effects. Validity was assessed correlating the MET with the other scores using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient and determining responsiveness. A subgroup of 93 patients scoring 48/48 on the OHS were analyzed by age, sex, BMI, and preoperative MET using the other metrics to determine if differences could be established despite scoring identically on the OHS.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 8 | Pages 594 - 607
17 Aug 2022
Zhou Y Li J Xu F Ji E Wang C Pan Z

Aims

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease characterized by chronic inflammatory articular cartilage degradation. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been previously indicated to play an important role in inflammation-related diseases. Herein, the current study set out to explore the involvement of lncRNA H19 in OA.

Methods

Firstly, OA mouse models and interleukin (IL)-1β-induced mouse chondrocytes were established. Expression patterns of IL-38 were determined in the synovial fluid and cartilage tissues from OA patients. Furthermore, the targeting relationship between lncRNA H19, tumour protein p53 (TP53), and IL-38 was determined by means of dual-luciferase reporter gene, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. Subsequent to gain- and loss-of-function assays, the levels of cartilage damage and proinflammatory factors were further detected using safranin O-fast green staining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in vivo, respectively, while chondrocyte apoptosis was measured using Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) in vitro.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 7 | Pages 426 - 438
20 Jul 2022
Luo P Wang P Xu J Hou W Xu P Xu K Liu L

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that involves T and B cells and their reciprocal immune interactions with proinflammatory cytokines. T cells, an essential part of the immune system, play an important role in RA. T helper 1 (Th1) cells induce interferon-γ (IFN-γ), tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin (IL)-2, which are proinflammatory cytokines, leading to cartilage destruction and bone erosion. Th2 cells primarily secrete IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, which exert anti-inflammatory and anti-osteoclastogenic effects in inflammatory arthritis models. IL-22 secreted by Th17 cells promotes the proliferation of synovial fibroblasts through induction of the chemokine C-C chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2). T follicular helper (Tfh) cells produce IL-21, which is key for B cell stimulation by the C-X-C chemokine receptor 5 (CXCR5) and coexpression with programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) and/or inducible T cell costimulator (ICOS). PD-1 inhibits T cell proliferation and cytokine production. In addition, there are many immunomodulatory agents that promote or inhibit the immunomodulatory role of T helper cells in RA to alleviate disease progression. These findings help to elucidate the aetiology and treatment of RA and point us toward the next steps.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(7):426–438.


Aims

To identify the responsiveness, minimal clinically important difference (MCID), minimal clinical important change (MIC), and patient-acceptable symptom state (PASS) thresholds in the 36-item Short Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-36) (v2) for each of the eight dimensions and the total score following total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

There were 3,321 patients undergoing primary TKA with preoperative and one-year postoperative SF-36 scores. At one-year patients were asked how satisfied they were and “How much did the knee arthroplasty surgery improve the quality of your life?”, which was graded as: great, moderate, little (n = 277), none (n = 98), or worse.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 6 | Pages 409 - 412
22 Jun 2022
Tsang SJ Ferreira N Simpson AHRW


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 7 | Pages 439 - 452
13 Jul 2022
Sun Q Li G Liu D Xie W Xiao W Li Y Cai M

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a highly prevalent degenerative joint disorder characterized by joint pain and physical disability. Aberrant subchondral bone induces pathological changes and is a major source of pain in OA. In the subchondral bone, which is highly innervated, nerves have dual roles in pain sensation and bone homeostasis regulation. The interaction between peripheral nerves and target cells in the subchondral bone, and the interplay between the sensory and sympathetic nervous systems, allow peripheral nerves to regulate subchondral bone homeostasis. Alterations in peripheral innervation and local transmitters are closely related to changes in nociception and subchondral bone homeostasis, and affect the progression of OA. Recent literature has substantially expanded our understanding of the physiological and pathological distribution and function of specific subtypes of neurones in bone. This review summarizes the types and distribution of nerves detected in the tibial subchondral bone, their cellular and molecular interactions with bone cells that regulate subchondral bone homeostasis, and their role in OA pain. A comprehensive understanding and further investigation of the functions of peripheral innervation in the subchondral bone will help to develop novel therapeutic approaches to effectively prevent OA, and alleviate OA pain.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(7):439–452.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 7, Issue 6 | Pages 406 - 413
1 Jun 2018
Shabestari M Kise NJ Landin MA Sesseng S Hellund JC Reseland JE Eriksen EF Haugen IK

Objectives. Little is known about tissue changes underlying bone marrow lesions (BMLs) in non-weight-bearing joints with osteoarthritis (OA). Our aim was to characterize BMLs in OA of the hand using dynamic histomorphometry. We therefore quantified bone turnover and angiogenesis in subchondral bone at the base of the thumb, and compared the findings with control bone from hip OA. Methods. Patients with OA at the base of the thumb, or the hip, underwent preoperative MRI to assess BMLs, and tetracycline labelling to determine bone turnover. Three groups were compared: trapezium bones removed by trapeziectomy from patients with thumb base OA (n = 20); femoral heads with (n = 24); and those without (n = 9) BMLs obtained from patients with hip OA who underwent total hip arthroplasty. Results. All trapezium bones demonstrated MRI-defined BMLs. Compared with femoral heads without BMLs, the trapezia demonstrated significantly higher bone turnover (mean . sd. 0.2 (0.1) versus 0.01 (0.01) µm. 3. /µm. 2. /day), mineralizing surface (18.5% (13.1) versus 1.4% (1.3)) and vascularity (5.2% (1.1) versus 1.2% (0.6)). Femoral heads with BMLs exhibited higher bone turnover (0.3 (0.2) versus 0.2 (0.1) µm. 3. /µm. 2. /day), a higher mineralization rate (26.6% (10.6) versus 18.6% (11.9)) and greater trabecular thickness (301.3 µm (108) versus 163.6 µm (24.8)) than the trapezia. Conclusion. Bone turnover and angiogenesis were enhanced in BMLs of both the thumb base and hip OA, of which the latter exhibited the highest bone turnover. Thus, the increase in bone turnover in weight-bearing joints like the hip may be more pronounced than less mechanically loaded osteoarthritic joints demonstrating BMLs. The histological changes observed may explain the water signal from BMLs on MRI. Cite this article: M. Shabestari, N. J. Kise, M. A. Landin, S. Sesseng, J. C. Hellund, J. E. Reseland, E. F. Eriksen, I. K. Haugen. Enhanced angiogenesis and increased bone turnover characterize bone marrow lesions in osteoarthritis at the base of the thumb. Bone Joint Res 2018;7:406–413. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.76.BJR-2017-0083.R3


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 5 | Pages 260 - 269
3 May 2022
Staats K Sosa BR Kuyl E Niu Y Suhardi V Turajane K Windhager R Greenblatt MB Ivashkiv L Bostrom MPG Yang X

Aims

To develop an early implant instability murine model and explore the use of intermittent parathyroid hormone (iPTH) treatment for initially unstable implants.

Methods

3D-printed titanium implants were inserted into an oversized drill-hole in the tibiae of C57Bl/6 mice (n = 54). After implantation, the mice were randomly divided into three treatment groups (phosphate buffered saline (PBS)-control, iPTH, and delayed iPTH). Radiological analysis, micro-CT (µCT), and biomechanical pull-out testing were performed to assess implant loosening, bone formation, and osseointegration. Peri-implant tissue formation and cellular composition were evaluated by histology.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 3 | Pages 143 - 151
1 Mar 2022
Goetz J Keyssner V Hanses F Greimel F Leiß F Schwarz T Springorum H Grifka J Schaumburger J

Aims

Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are rare, but represent a great burden for the patient. In addition, the incidence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is increasing. The aim of this rat experiment was therefore to compare the antibiotics commonly used in the treatment of PJIs caused by MRSA.

Methods

For this purpose, sterilized steel implants were implanted into the femur of 77 rats. The metal devices were inoculated with suspensions of two different MRSA strains. The animals were divided into groups and treated with vancomycin, linezolid, cotrimoxazole, or rifampin as monotherapy, or with combination of antibiotics over a period of 14 days. After a two-day antibiotic-free interval, the implant was explanted, and bone, muscle, and periarticular tissue were microbiologically analyzed.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 4 | Pages 239 - 250
20 Apr 2022
Stewart CC O’Hara NN Bzovsky S Bahney CS Sprague S Slobogean GP

Aims

Bone turnover markers (BTMs) follow distinct trends after fractures and limited evidence suggests differential levels in BTMs in patients with delayed healing. The effect of vitamin D, and other factors that influence BTMs and fracture healing, is important to elucidate the use of BTMs as surrogates of fracture healing. We sought to determine whether BTMs can be used as early markers of delayed fracture healing, and the effect of vitamin D on BTM response after fracture.

Methods

A total of 102 participants aged 18 to 50 years (median 28 years (interquartile range 23 to 35)), receiving an intramedullary nail for a tibial or femoral shaft fracture, were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial comparing vitamin D3 supplementation to placebo. Serum C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX; bone resorption marker) and N-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen (P1NP; bone formation marker) were measured at baseline, six weeks, and 12 weeks post-injury. Clinical and radiological fracture healing was assessed at three months.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 2 | Pages 61 - 72
15 Feb 2022
Luobu Z Wang L Jiang D Liao T Luobu C Qunpei L

Aims

Circular RNA (circRNA) S-phase cyclin A-associated protein in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) (circSCAPER, ID: hsa_circ_0104595) has been found to be highly expressed in osteoarthritis (OA) patients and has been associated with the severity of OA. Hence, the role and mechanisms underlying circSCAPER in OA were investigated in this study.

Methods

In vitro cultured human normal chondrocyte C28/I2 was exposed to interleukin (IL)-1β to mimic the microenvironment of OA. The expression of circSCAPER, microRNA (miR)-140-3p, and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) was detected using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot assays. The extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, proliferation, and apoptosis of chondrocytes were determined using Western blot, cell counting kit-8, and flow cytometry assays. Targeted relationships were predicted by bioinformatic analysis and verified using dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. The levels of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) pathway-related protein were detected using Western blot assays.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 6, Issue 8 | Pages 464 - 471
1 Aug 2017
Li QS Meng FY Zhao YH Jin CL Tian J Yi XJ

Objectives. This study aimed to investigate the functional effects of microRNA (miR)-214-5p on osteoblastic cells, which might provide a potential role of miR-214-5p in bone fracture healing. Methods. Blood samples were obtained from patients with hand fracture or intra-articular calcaneal fracture and from healthy controls (HCs). Expression of miR-214-5p was monitored by qRT-PCR at day 7, 14 and 21 post-surgery. Mouse osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells were transfected with antisense oligonucleotides (ASO)-miR-214-5p, collagen type IV alpha 1 (COL4A1) vector or their controls; thereafter, cell viability, apoptotic rate, and the expression of collagen type I alpha 1 (COL1A1), type II collagen (COL-II), and type X collagen (COL-X) were determined. Luciferase reporter assay, qRT-PCR, and Western blot were performed to ascertain whether COL4A1 was a target of miR-214-5p. Results. Plasma miR-214-5p was highly expressed in patients with bone fracture compared with HCs after fracture (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). Inhibition of miR-214-5p increased the viability of MC3T3-E1 cells and the expressions of COL1A1 and COL-X, but decreased the apoptotic rate and COL-II expression (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). COL4A1 was a target of miR-214-5p, and was negatively regulated by miR-214-5p (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). Overexpression of COL4A1 showed a similar impact on cell viability, apoptotic rate, and COL1A1, COL-II, and COL-X expressions inhibiting miR-214-5p (p < 0.01). Conclusion. Inhibition of miR-214-5p promotes cell survival and extracellular matrix (ECM) formation of osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells by targeting COL4A1. Cite this article: Q. S. Li, F. Y. Meng, Y. H. Zhao, C. L. Jin, J. Tian, X. J. Yi. Inhibition of microRNA-214-5p promotes cell survival and extracellular matrix formation by targeting collagen type IV alpha 1 in osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells. Bone Joint Res 2017;6:464–471. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.68.BJR-2016-0208.R2


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 10, Issue 12 | Pages 797 - 806
8 Dec 2021
Chevalier Y Matsuura M Krüger S Traxler H Fleege† C Rauschmann M Schilling C

Aims

Anchorage of pedicle screw rod instrumentation in the elderly spine with poor bone quality remains challenging. Our study aims to evaluate how the screw bone anchorage is affected by screw design, bone quality, loading conditions, and cementing techniques.

Methods

Micro-finite element (µFE) models were created from micro-CT (μCT) scans of vertebrae implanted with two types of pedicle screws (L: Ennovate and R: S4). Simulations were conducted for a 10 mm radius region of interest (ROI) around each screw and for a full vertebra (FV) where different cementing scenarios were simulated around the screw tips. Stiffness was calculated in pull-out and anterior bending loads.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 2 | Pages 102 - 111
1 Feb 2022
Jung C Cha Y Yoon HS Park CH Yoo J Kim J Jeon Y

Aims

In this study, we aimed to explore surgical variations in the Femoral Neck System (FNS) used for stable fixation of Pauwels type III femoral neck fractures.

Methods

Finite element models were established with surgical variations in the distance between the implant tip and subchondral bone, the gap between the plate and lateral femoral cortex, and inferior implant positioning. The models were subjected to physiological load.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 10, Issue 12 | Pages 830 - 839
15 Dec 2021
Robertson G Wallace R Simpson AHRW Dawson SP

Aims

Assessment of bone mineral density (BMD) with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is a well-established clinical technique, but it is not available in the acute trauma setting. Thus, it cannot provide a preoperative estimation of BMD to help guide the technique of fracture fixation. Alternative methods that have been suggested for assessing BMD include: 1) cortical measures, such as cortical ratios and combined cortical scores; and 2) aluminium grading systems from preoperative digital radiographs. However, limited research has been performed in this area to validate the different methods. The aim of this study was to investigate the evaluation of BMD from digital radiographs by comparing various methods against DXA scanning.

Methods

A total of 54 patients with distal radial fractures were included in the study. Each underwent posteroanterior (PA) and lateral radiographs of the injured wrist with an aluminium step wedge. Overall 27 patients underwent routine DXA scanning of the hip and lumbar spine, with 13 undergoing additional DXA scanning of the uninjured forearm. Analysis of radiographs was performed on ImageJ and Matlab with calculations of cortical measures, cortical indices, combined cortical scores, and aluminium equivalent grading.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 10, Issue 12 | Pages 820 - 829
15 Dec 2021
Schmidutz F Schopf C Yan SG Ahrend M Ihle C Sprecher C

Aims

The distal radius is a major site of osteoporotic bone loss resulting in a high risk of fragility fracture. This study evaluated the capability of a cortical index (CI) at the distal radius to predict the local bone mineral density (BMD).

Methods

A total of 54 human cadaver forearms (ten singles, 22 pairs) (19 to 90 years) were systematically assessed by clinical radiograph (XR), dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), CT, as well as high-resolution peripheral quantitative CT (HR-pQCT). Cortical bone thickness (CBT) of the distal radius was measured on XR and CT scans, and two cortical indices mean average (CBTavg) and gauge (CBTg) were determined. These cortical indices were compared to the BMD of the distal radius determined by DXA (areal BMD (aBMD)) and HR-pQCT (volumetric BMD (vBMD)). Pearson correlation coefficient (r) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were used to compare the results and degree of reliability.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 10, Issue 12 | Pages 807 - 819
1 Dec 2021
Wong RMY Wong PY Liu C Chung YL Wong KC Tso CY Chow SK Cheung W Yung PS Chui CS Law SW

Aims

The use of 3D printing has become increasingly popular and has been widely used in orthopaedic surgery. There has been a trend towards an increasing number of publications in this field, but existing literature incorporates limited high-quality studies, and there is a lack of reports on outcomes. The aim of this study was to perform a scoping review with Level I evidence on the application and effectiveness of 3D printing.

Methods

A literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases. The keywords used for the search criteria were ((3d print*) OR (rapid prototyp*) OR (additive manufactur*)) AND (orthopaedic). The inclusion criteria were: 1) use of 3D printing in orthopaedics, 2) randomized controlled trials, and 3) studies with participants/patients. Risk of bias was assessed with Cochrane Collaboration Tool and PEDro Score. Pooled analysis was performed.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 10, Issue 8 | Pages 498 - 513
3 Aug 2021
Liu Z Lu C Shen P Chou S Shih C Chen J Tien YC

Aims

Interleukin (IL)-1β is one of the major pathogenic regulators during the pathological development of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). However, effective treatment options for IDD are limited. Suramin is used to treat African sleeping sickness. This study aimed to investigate the pharmacological effects of suramin on mitigating IDD and to characterize the underlying mechanism.

Methods

Porcine nucleus pulposus (NP) cells were treated with vehicle, 10 ng/ml IL-1β, 10 μM suramin, or 10 μM suramin plus IL-1β. The expression levels of catabolic and anabolic proteins, proinflammatory cytokines, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and nuclear factor (NF)-κB-related signalling molecules were assessed by Western blotting, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and immunofluorescence analysis. Flow cytometry was applied to detect apoptotic cells. The ex vivo effects of suramin were examined using IDD organ culture and differentiation was analyzed by Safranin O-Fast green and Alcian blue staining.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 4, Issue 4 | Pages 50 - 55
1 Apr 2015
Sekimoto T Kurogi S Funamoto T Ota T Watanabe S Sakamoto T Hamada H Chosa E

Objectives. Excessive acetabular coverage is the most common cause of pincer-type femoroacetabular impingement. To date, an association between acetabular over-coverage and genetic variations has not been studied. In this study we investigated the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of paralogous Homeobox (HOX)9 genes and acetabular coverage in Japanese individuals to identify a possible genetic variation associated with acetabular over-coverage. . Methods. We investigated 19 total SNPs in the four HOX9 paralogs, then focused in detail on seven of those located in the 3’ untranslated region of HOXB9 (rs8844, rs3826541, rs3826540, rs7405887, rs2303485, rs2303486, rs79931349) using a case-control association study. The seven HOXB9 SNPs were genotyped in 316 subjects who had all undergone radiological examination. The association study was performed by both single-locus and haplotype-based analyses. . Results. The genotype and allele frequencies of the five HOXB9 SNPs showed significant association with acetabular over-coverage compared with controls (rs7405887 OR = 3.16, p = 5.29E-6, 95% CI 1.91 to 5.25). A significant difference was also detected when haplotypes were evaluated (OR = 2.59, p = 2.61E-5, 95% CI 1.65 to 4.08). The two HOXB9 SNPs (rs2303485, rs2303486) were associated with decreased acetabular coverage (rs2303485 OR = 0.524, p = 0.0091, 95% CI 0.322 to 0.855; rs2303486 OR = 0.519, p = 0.011, 95% CI 0.312 to 0.865). . Conclusions. The five HOXB9 SNPs (rs8844, rs3826541, rs3826540, rs7405887, rs79931349) were associated with acetabular over-coverage. On the other hand, the two SNPs (rs2303485 and rs2303486) were associated with the lower acetabular coverage. The association of rs2303486 would be consistent with the previous study. Therefore, the HOXB9 SNPs might be involved in the morphogenesis of acetabular coverage, and could be an independent risk factor for developing pincer-type femoroacetabular impingement. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2015;4:50–5


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 10, Issue 2 | Pages 113 - 121
1 Feb 2021
Nicholson JA Oliver WM MacGillivray TJ Robinson CM Simpson AHRW

Aims

To evaluate if union of clavicle fractures can be predicted at six weeks post-injury by the presence of bridging callus on ultrasound.

Methods

Adult patients managed nonoperatively with a displaced mid-shaft clavicle were recruited prospectively. Ultrasound evaluation of the fracture was undertaken to determine if sonographic bridging callus was present. Clinical risk factors at six weeks were used to stratify patients at high risk of nonunion with a combination of Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH) ≥ 40, fracture movement on examination, or absence of callus on radiograph.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 10, Issue 5 | Pages 307 - 309
3 May 2021
Eitner A Wildemann B


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 10, Issue 3 | Pages 192 - 202
1 Mar 2021
Slimi F Zribi W Trigui M Amri R Gouiaa N Abid C Rebai MA Boudawara T Jebahi S Keskes H

Aims

The present study investigates the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) gel without adjunct to induce cartilage regeneration in large osteochondral defects in a rabbit model.

Methods

A bilateral osteochondral defect was created in the femoral trochlear groove of 14 New Zealand white rabbits. The right knees were filled with PRP gel and the contralateral knees remained untreated and served as control sides. Some animals were killed at week 3 and others at week 12 postoperatively. The joints were harvested and assessed by Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue (MOCART) MRI scoring system, and examined using the International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) macroscopic and ICRS histological scoring systems. Additionally, the collagen type II content was evaluated by the immunohistochemical staining.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 10, Issue 4 | Pages 277 - 284
1 Apr 2021
Funk GA Menuey EM Ensminger WP Kilway KV McIff TE

Aims

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)-based bone cements are the industry standard in orthopaedics. PMMA cement has inherent disadvantages, which has led to the development and evaluation of a novel silorane-based biomaterial (SBB) for use as an orthopaedic cement. In this study we test both elution and mechanical properties of both PMMA and SBB, with and without antibiotic loading.

Methods

For each cement (PMMA or SBB), three formulations were prepared (rifampin-added, vancomycin-added, and control) and made into pellets (6 mm × 12 mm) for testing. Antibiotic elution into phosphate-buffered saline was measured over 14 days. Compressive strength and modulus of all cement pellets were tested over 14 days.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 10, Issue 4 | Pages 285 - 297
1 Apr 2021
Ji M Ryu HJ Hong JH

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by symmetrical and chronic polyarthritis. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes are mainly involved in joint inflammation and cartilage and bone destruction by inflammatory cytokines and matrix-degrading enzymes in RA. Approaches that induce various cellular growth alterations of synoviocytes are considered as potential strategies for treating RA. However, since synoviocytes play a critical role in RA, the mechanism and hyperplastic modulation of synoviocytes and their motility need to be addressed. In this review, we focus on the alteration of synoviocyte signalling and cell fate provided by signalling proteins, various antioxidant molecules, enzymes, compounds, clinical candidates, to understand the pathology of the synoviocytes, and finally to achieve developed therapeutic strategies of RA.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(4):285–297.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 10, Issue 3 | Pages 188 - 191
1 Mar 2021
Nicholson T Scott A Newton Ede M Jones SW


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 10, Issue 3 | Pages 218 - 225
1 Mar 2021
Wiesli MG Kaiser J Gautier E Wick P Maniura-Weber K Rottmar M Wahl P

Aims

In orthopaedic and trauma surgery, implant-associated infections are increasingly treated with local application of antibiotics, which allows a high local drug concentration to be reached without eliciting systematic adverse effects. While ceftriaxone is a widely used antibiotic agent that has been shown to be effective against musculoskeletal infections, high local concentrations may harm the surrounding tissue. This study investigates the acute and subacute cytotoxicity of increasing ceftriaxone concentrations as well as their influence on the osteogenic differentiation of human bone progenitor cells.

Methods

Human preosteoblasts were cultured in presence of different concentrations of ceftriaxone for up to 28 days and potential cytotoxic effects, cell death, metabolic activity, cell proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation were studied.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 10, Issue 2 | Pages 134 - 136
1 Feb 2021
Im G

The high prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA), as well as the current lack of disease-modifying drugs for OA, has provided a rationale for regenerative medicine as a possible treatment modality for OA treatment. In this editorial, the current status of regenerative medicine in OA including stem cells, exosomes, and genes is summarized along with the author’s perspectives. Despite a tremendous interest, so far there is very little evidence proving the efficacy of this modality for clinical application. As symptomatic relief is not sufficient to justify the high cost associated with regenerative medicine, definitive structural improvement that would last for years or decades and obviate or delay the need for joint arthroplasty is essential for regenerative medicine to retain a place among OA treatment methods.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(2):134–136.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 11 | Pages 761 - 767
1 Nov 2020
Hada M Mizu-uchi H Okazaki K Murakami K Kaneko T Higaki H Nakashima Y

Aims

This study aims to investigate the effects of posterior tibial slope (PTS) on knee kinematics involved in the post-cam mechanism in bi-cruciate stabilized (BCS) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using computer simulation.

Methods

In total, 11 different PTS (0° to 10°) values were simulated to evaluate the effect of PTS on anterior post-cam contact conditions and knee kinematics in BCS TKA during weight-bearing stair climbing (from 86° to 6° of knee flexion). Knee kinematics were expressed as the lowest points of the medial and lateral femoral condyles on the surface of the tibial insert, and the anteroposterior translation of the femoral component relative to the tibial insert.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 10 | Pages 667 - 674
1 Oct 2020
Antich-Rosselló M Forteza-Genestra MA Calvo J Gayà A Monjo M Ramis JM

Aims

Platelet concentrates, like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet lysate (PL), are widely used in regenerative medicine, especially in bone regeneration. However, the lack of standard procedures and controls leads to high variability in the obtained results, limiting their regular clinical use. Here, we propose the use of platelet-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) as an off-the-shelf alternative for PRP and PL for bone regeneration. In this article, we evaluate the effect of PL-derived EVs on the biocompatibility and differentiation of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs).

Methods

EVs were obtained first by ultracentrifugation (UC) and then by size exclusion chromatography (SEC) from non-activated PL. EVs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and the expression of CD9 and CD63 markers by western blot. The effect of the obtained EVs on osteoinduction was evaluated in vitro on human umbilical cord MSCs by messenger RNA (mRNA) expression analysis of bone markers, alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP), and calcium (Ca2+) content.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 10 | Pages 675 - 688
1 Oct 2020
Shao L Gou Y Fang J Hu Y Lian Q Zhang Y Wang Y Tian F Zhang L

Aims

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) (1-34) exhibits potential in preventing degeneration in both cartilage and subchondral bone in osteoarthritis (OA) development. We assessed the effects of PTH (1-34) at different concentrations on bone and cartilage metabolism in a collagenase-induced mouse model of OA and examined whether PTH (1-34) affects the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway in this process.

Methods

Collagenase-induced OA was established in C57Bl/6 mice. Therapy with PTH (1-34) (10 μg/kg/day or 40 μg/kg/day) was initiated immediately after surgery and continued for six weeks. Cartilage pathology was evaluated by gross visual, histology, and immunohistochemical assessments. Cell apoptosis was analyzed by TUNEL staining. Microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) was used to evaluate the bone mass and the microarchitecture in subchondral bone.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 7 | Pages 429 - 439
1 Jul 2020
Tahir M Chaudhry EA Zaffar Z Anwar K Mamoon MAH Ahmad M Jamali AR Mehboob G

Aims

We hypothesized that the wide-awake local anaesthesia with no tourniquet (WALANT) technique is cost-effective, easy to use, safe, and reproducible, with a low learning curve towards mastery, having a high patient satisfaction rate. Furthermore, WALANT would be a suitable alternative for the austere and developing nation environments where lack of funds and resources are a common issue.

Methods

This was a randomized control trial of 169 patients who required surgery for closed isolated distal radius fractures. The study was performed between March 2016 and April 2019 at a public sector level 1 trauma centre. General anaesthesia was used in 56 patients, Bier’s block in 58 patients, and WALANT in 55 patients. Data were collected on pre-, peri-, and postoperative parameters, clinical outcome, hospital costs, and patient satisfaction. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used with a p-value of 0.05 being significant.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 2, Issue 5 | Pages 79 - 83
1 May 2013
Goffin JM Pankaj P Simpson AHRW Seil R Gerich TG

Objectives. Because of the contradictory body of evidence related to the potential benefits of helical blades in trochanteric fracture fixation, we studied the effect of bone compaction resulting from the insertion of a proximal femoral nail anti-rotation (PFNA). . Methods. We developed a subject-specific computational model of a trochanteric fracture (31-A2 in the AO classification) with lack of medial support and varied the bone density to account for variability in bone properties among hip fracture patients. Results. We show that for a bone density corresponding to 100% of the bone density of the cadaveric femur, there does not seem to be any advantage in using a PFNA with respect to the risk of blade cut-out. On the other hand, in a more osteoporotic femoral head characterised by a density corresponding to 75% of the initial bone density, local bone compaction around the helical blade provides additional bone purchase, thereby decreasing the risk of cut-out, as quantified by the volume of bone susceptible to yielding. Conclusions. Our findings indicate benefits of using a PFNA over an intramedullary nail with a conventional lag screw and suggest that any clinical trial reporting surgical outcomes regarding the use of helical blades should include a measure of the femoral head bone density as a covariable


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 1, Issue 6 | Pages 111 - 117
1 Jun 2012
von Recum J Matschke S Jupiter JB Ring D Souer J Huber M Audigé L

Objectives. To investigate the differences of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of complex AO Type C distal radius fractures between two different models of a single implant type. Methods. A total of 136 patients who received either a 2.4 mm (n = 61) or 3.5 mm (n = 75) distal radius locking compression plate (LCP DR) using a volar approach were followed over two years. The main outcome measurements included motion, grip strength, pain, and the scores of Gartland and Werley, the Short-Form 36 (SF-36) and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH). Differences between the treatment groups were evaluated using regression analysis and the likelihood ratio test with significance based on the Bonferroni corrected p-value of < 0.003. Results. The groups were similar with respect to baseline and injury characteristics as well as general surgical details. The risk of experiencing a complication after ORIF with a LCP DR 2.4 mm was 18% (n = 11) compared with 11% (n = 8) after receiving a LCP DR 3.5 mm (p = 0.45). Wrist function was also similar between the cohorts based on the mean ranges of movement (all p > 0.052) and grip strength measurements relative to the contralateral healthy side (p = 0.583). In addition, DASH and SF-36 component scores as well as pain were not significantly different between the treatment groups throughout the two-year period (all p ≥ 0.005). No patient from either treatment group had a step-off > 2 mm. Conclusions. Differences in plate design do not influence the overall final outcome of fracture fixation using LCP.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 9 | Pages 572 - 577
1 Sep 2020
Matsumoto K Ganz R Khanduja V

Aims

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) describes abnormal bony contact of the proximal femur against the acetabulum. The term was first coined in 1999; however what is often overlooked is that descriptions of the morphology have existed in the literature for centuries. The aim of this paper is to delineate its origins and provide further clarity on FAI to shape future research.

Methods

A non-systematic search on PubMed was performed using keywords such as “impingement” or “tilt deformity” to find early anatomical descriptions of FAI. Relevant references from these primary studies were then followed up.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 10 | Pages 731 - 741
28 Oct 2020
He Z Nie P Lu J Ling Y Guo J Zhang B Hu J Liao J Gu J Dai B Feng Z

Aims

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a disabling joint disorder and mechanical loading is an important pathogenesis. This study aims to investigate the benefits of less mechanical loading created by intermittent tail suspension for knee OA.

Methods

A post-traumatic OA model was established in 20 rats (12 weeks old, male). Ten rats were treated with less mechanical loading through intermittent tail suspension, while another ten rats were treated with normal mechanical loading. Cartilage damage was determined by gross appearance, Safranin O/Fast Green staining, and immunohistochemistry examinations. Subchondral bone changes were analyzed by micro-CT and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, and serum inflammatory cytokines were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 11 | Pages 798 - 807
2 Nov 2020
Brzeszczyńska J Brzeszczyński F Hamilton DF McGregor R Simpson AHRW

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs that have emerged as potential predictive, prognostic, and therapeutic biomarkers, relevant to many pathophysiological conditions including limb immobilization, osteoarthritis, sarcopenia, and cachexia. Impaired musculoskeletal homeostasis leads to distinct muscle atrophies. Understanding miRNA involvement in the molecular mechanisms underpinning conditions such as muscle wasting may be critical to developing new strategies to improve patient management. MicroRNAs are powerful post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression in muscle and, importantly, are also detectable in the circulation. MicroRNAs are established modulators of muscle satellite stem cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation, however, there have been limited human studies that investigate miRNAs in muscle wasting. This narrative review summarizes the current knowledge as to the role of miRNAs in the skeletal muscle differentiation and atrophy, synthesizing the findings of published data.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2020;9(11):798–807.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 11 | Pages 778 - 788
1 Nov 2020
Xu H Yang J Xie J Huang Z Huang Q Cao G Pei F

Aims

The efficacy and safety of intrawound vancomycin for preventing surgical site infection in primary hip and knee arthroplasty is uncertain.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was conducted, indexed from inception to March 2020 in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Google Scholar databases. All studies evaluating the efficacy and/or safety of intrawound vancomycin in patients who underwent primary hip and knee arthroplasty were included. Incidence of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), superficial infection, aseptic wound complications, acute kidney injury, anaphylactic reaction, and ototoxicity were meta-analyzed. Results were reported as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The quality of included studies was assessed using the risk of bias in non-randomized studies of interventions (ROBINS-I) assessment tool.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 8 | Pages 524 - 530
1 Aug 2020
Li S Mao Y Zhou F Yang H Shi Q Meng B

Osteoporosis (OP) is a chronic metabolic bone disease characterized by the decrease of bone tissue per unit volume under the combined action of genetic and environmental factors, which leads to the decrease of bone strength, makes the bone brittle, and raises the possibility of bone fracture. However, the exact mechanism that determines the progression of OP remains to be underlined. There are hundreds of trillions of symbiotic bacteria living in the human gut, which have a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship with the human body that helps to maintain human health. With the development of modern high-throughput sequencing (HTS) platforms, there has been growing evidence that the gut microbiome may play an important role in the programming of bone metabolism. In the present review, we discuss the potential mechanisms of the gut microbiome in the development of OP, such as alterations of bone metabolism, bone mineral absorption, and immune regulation. The potential of gut microbiome-targeted strategies in the prevention and treatment of OP was also evaluated.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2020;9(8):524–530.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 10 | Pages 653 - 666
7 Oct 2020
Li W Li G Chen W Cong L

Aims

The aim of this study was to systematically compare the safety and accuracy of robot-assisted (RA) technique with conventional freehand with/without fluoroscopy-assisted (CT) pedicle screw insertion for spine disease.

Methods

A systematic search was performed on PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and WANFANG for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the safety and accuracy of RA compared with conventional freehand with/without fluoroscopy-assisted pedicle screw insertion for spine disease from 2012 to 2019. This meta-analysis used Mantel-Haenszel or inverse variance method with mixed-effects model for heterogeneity, calculating the odds ratio (OR), mean difference (MD), standardized mean difference (SMD), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The results of heterogeneity, subgroup analysis, and risk of bias were analyzed.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 7 | Pages 412 - 420
1 Jul 2020
Hefka Blahnova V Dankova J Rampichova M Filova E

Aims

Here we introduce a wide and complex study comparing effects of growth factors used alone and in combinations on human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) proliferation and osteogenic differentiation. Certain ways of cell behaviour can be triggered by specific peptides – growth factors, influencing cell fate through surface cellular receptors.

Methods

In our study transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were used in order to induce osteogenesis and proliferation of hMSCs from bone marrow. These cells are naturally able to differentiate into various mesodermal cell lines. Effect of each factor itself is pretty well known. We designed experimental groups where two and more growth factors were combined. We supposed cumulative effect would appear when more growth factors with the same effect were combined. The cellular metabolism was evaluated using MTS assay and double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) amount using PicoGreen assay. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, as early osteogenesis marker, was observed. Phase contrast microscopy was used for cell morphology evaluation.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 9 | Pages 578 - 586
1 Sep 2020
Ma M Liang X Wang X Zhang L Cheng S Guo X Zhang F Wen Y

Aims

Kashin-Beck disease (KBD) is a kind of chronic osteochondropathy, thought to be caused by environmental risk factors such as T-2 toxin. However, the exact aetiology of KBD remains unclear. In this study, we explored the functional relevance and biological mechanism of cartilage oligosaccharide matrix protein (COMP) in the articular cartilage damage of KBD.

Methods

The articular cartilage specimens were collected from five KBD patients and five control subjects for cell culture. The messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression levels were detected by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blot. The survival rate of C28/I2 chondrocyte cell line was detected by MTT assay after T-2 toxin intervention. The cell viability and mRNA expression levels of apoptosis related genes between COMP-overexpression groups and control groups were examined after cell transfection.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 8 | Pages 493 - 500
1 Aug 2020
Fletcher JWA Zderic I Gueorguiev B Richards RG Gill HS Whitehouse MR Preatoni E

Aims

To devise a method to quantify and optimize tightness when inserting cortical screws, based on bone characterization and screw geometry.

Methods

Cortical human cadaveric diaphyseal tibiae screw holes (n = 20) underwent destructive testing to firstly establish the relationship between cortical thickness and experimental stripping torque (Tstr), and secondly to calibrate an equation to predict Tstr. Using the equation’s predictions, 3.5 mm screws were inserted (n = 66) to targeted torques representing 40% to 100% of Tstr, with recording of compression generated during tightening. Once the target torque had been achieved, immediate pullout testing was performed.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 6 | Pages 322 - 332
1 Jun 2020
Zhao H Yeersheng R Kang X Xia Y Kang P Wang W

Aims

The aim of this study was to examine whether tourniquet use can improve perioperative blood loss, early function recovery, and pain after primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in the setting of multiple-dose intravenous tranexamic acid.

Methods

This was a prospective, randomized clinical trial including 180 patients undergoing TKA with multiple doses of intravenous tranexamic acid. One group was treated with a tourniquet during the entire procedure, the second group received a tourniquet during cementing, and the third group did not receive a tourniquet. All patients received the same protocol of intravenous tranexamic acid (20 mg/kg) before skin incision, and three and six hours later (10 mg/kg). The primary outcome measure was perioperative blood loss. Secondary outcome measures were creatine kinase (CK), CRP, interleukin-6 (IL-6), visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score, limb swelling ratio, quadriceps strength, straight leg raising, range of motion (ROM), American Knee Society Score (KSS), and adverse events.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 7 | Pages 368 - 385
1 Jul 2020
Chow SK Chim Y Wang J Wong RM Choy VM Cheung W

A balanced inflammatory response is important for successful fracture healing. The response of osteoporotic fracture healing is deranged and an altered inflammatory response can be one underlying cause. The objectives of this review were to compare the inflammatory responses between normal and osteoporotic fractures and to examine the potential effects on different healing outcomes. A systematic literature search was conducted with relevant keywords in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science independently. Original preclinical studies and clinical studies involving the investigation of inflammatory response in fracture healing in ovariectomized (OVX) animals or osteoporotic/elderly patients with available full text and written in English were included. In total, 14 articles were selected. Various inflammatory factors were reported; of those tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL)-6 are two commonly studied markers. Preclinical studies showed that OVX animals generally demonstrated higher systemic inflammatory response and poorer healing outcomes compared to normal controls (SHAM). However, it is inconclusive if the local inflammatory response is higher or lower in OVX animals. As for clinical studies, they mainly examine the temporal changes of the inflammatory stage or perform comparison between osteoporotic/fragility fracture patients and normal subjects without fracture. Our review of these studies emphasizes the lack of understanding that inflammation plays in the altered fracture healing response of osteoporotic/elderly patients. Taken together, it is clear that additional studies, preclinical and clinical, are required to dissect the regulatory role of inflammatory response in osteoporotic fracture healing.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2020;9(7):368–385.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 7 | Pages 341 - 350
1 Jul 2020
Marwan Y Cohen D Alotaibi M Addar A Bernstein M Hamdy R

Aims

To systematically review the outcomes and complications of cosmetic stature lengthening.

Methods

PubMed and Embase were searched on 10 November 2019 by three reviewers independently, and all relevant studies in English published up to that date were considered based on predetermined inclusion/exclusion criteria. The search was done using “cosmetic lengthening” and “stature lengthening” as key terms. The Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement was used to screen the articles.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 6 | Pages 272 - 278
1 Jun 2020
Tapasvi S Shekhar A Patil S Pandit H

Aims

The mobile bearing Oxford unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (OUKA) is recommended to be performed with the leg in the hanging leg (HL) position, and the thigh placed in a stirrup. This comparative cadaveric study assesses implant positioning and intraoperative kinematics of OUKA implanted either in the HL position or in the supine leg (SL) position.

Methods

A total of 16 fresh-frozen knees in eight human cadavers, without macroscopic anatomical defects, were selected. The knees from each cadaver were randomized to have the OUKA implanted in the HL or SL position.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 8, Issue 12 | Pages 573 - 581
1 Dec 2019
de Quadros VP Tobar N Viana LR dos Santos RW Kiyataka PHM Gomes-Marcondes MCC

Objectives

Insufficient protein ingestion may affect muscle and bone mass, increasing the risk of osteoporotic fractures in the elderly, and especially in postmenopausal women. We evaluated how a low-protein diet affects bone parameters under gonadal hormone deficiency and the improvement led by hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with 17β-oestradiol.

Methods

Female Wistar rats were divided into control (C), ovariectomized (OVX), and 17β-oestradiol-treated ovariectomized (OVX-HRT) groups, which were fed a control or an isocaloric low-protein diet (LP; 6.6% protein; seven animals per group). Morphometric, serum, and body composition parameters were assessed, as well as bone parameters, mechanical resistance, and mineralogy.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 8, Issue 12 | Pages 582 - 592
1 Dec 2019
Sansone V Applefield RC De Luca P Pecoraro V Gianola S Pascale W Pascale V

Aims

The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature for evidence of the effect of a high-fat diet (HFD) on the onset or progression of osteoarthritis (OA) in mice.

Methods

A literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus to find all studies on mice investigating the effects of HFD or Western-type diet on OA when compared with a control diet (CD). The primary outcome was the determination of cartilage loss and alteration. Secondary outcomes regarding local and systemic levels of proteins involved in inflammatory processes or cartilage metabolism were also examined when reported.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 9, Issue 1 | Pages 23 - 28
1 Jan 2020
Kurosawa T Mifune Y Inui A Nishimoto H Ueda Y Kataoka T Yamaura K Mukohara S Kuroda R

Aims

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the in vitro effects of apocynin, an inhibitor of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (NOX) and a downregulator of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), on high glucose-induced oxidative stress on tenocytes.

Methods

Tenocytes from normal Sprague-Dawley rats were cultured in both control and high-glucose conditions. Apocynin was added at cell seeding, dividing the tenocytes into four groups: the control group; regular glucose with apocynin (RG apo+); high glucose with apocynin (HG apo+); and high glucose without apocynin (HG apo–). Reactive oxygen species production, cell proliferation, apoptosis and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of NOX1 and 4, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were determined in vitro.


Objectives

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported as key regulators of bone formation, signalling, and repair. Fracture healing is a proliferative physiological process where the body facilitates the repair of a bone fracture. The aim of our study was to explore the effects of microRNA-186 (miR-186) on fracture healing through the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling pathway by binding to Smad family member 6 (SMAD6) in a mouse model of femoral fracture.

Methods

Microarray analysis was adopted to identify the regulatory miR of SMAD6. 3D micro-CT was performed to assess the bone volume (BV), bone volume fraction (BVF, BV/TV), and bone mineral density (BMD), followed by a biomechanical test for maximum load, maximum radial degrees, elastic radial degrees, and rigidity of the femur. The positive expression of SMAD6 in fracture tissues was measured. Moreover, the miR-186 level, messenger RNA (mRNA) level, and protein levels of SMAD6, BMP-2, and BMP-7 were examined.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 8, Issue 6 | Pages 255 - 265
1 Jun 2019
Hernigou J Schuind F

Objectives

The aim of this study was to review the impact of smoking tobacco on the musculoskeletal system, and on bone fractures in particular.

Methods

English-language publications of human and animal studies categorizing subjects into smokers and nonsmokers were sourced from MEDLINE, The Cochrane Library, and SCOPUS. This review specifically focused on the risk, surgical treatment, and prevention of fracture complications in smokers.


Objectives

Platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM) has been proved to enhance tenocyte proliferation but has mixed results when used during rotator cuff repair. The optimal PRFM preparation protocol should be determined before clinical application. To screen the best PRFM to each individual’s tenocytes effectively, small-diameter culture wells should be used to increase variables. The gelling effect of PRFM will occur when small-diameter culture wells are used. A co-culture device should be designed to avoid this effect.

Methods

Tenocytes harvested during rotator cuff repair and blood from a healthy volunteer were used. Tenocytes were seeded in 96-, 24-, 12-, and six-well plates and co-culture devices. Appropriate volumes of PRFM, according to the surface area of each culture well, were treated with tenocytes for seven days. The co-culture device was designed to avoid the gelling effect that occurred in the small-diameter culture well. Cell proliferation was analyzed by water soluble tetrazolium-1 (WST-1) bioassay.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 8, Issue 8 | Pages 367 - 377
1 Aug 2019
Chen M Chang C Chiang-Ni C Hsieh P Shih H Ueng SWN Chang Y

Objectives

Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is the most common cause of arthroplasty failure. However, infection is often difficult to detect by conventional bacterial cultures, for which false-negative rates are 23% to 35%. In contrast, 16S rRNA metagenomics has been shown to quantitatively detect unculturable, unsuspected, and unviable pathogens. In this study, we investigated the use of 16S rRNA metagenomics for detection of bacterial pathogens in synovial fluid (SF) from patients with hip or knee PJI.

Methods

We analyzed the bacterial composition of 22 SF samples collected from 11 patients with PJIs (first- and second-stage surgery). The V3 and V4 region of bacteria was assessed by comparing the taxonomic distribution of the 16S rDNA amplicons with microbiome sequencing analysis. We also compared the results of bacterial detection from different methods including 16S metagenomics, traditional cultures, and targeted Sanger sequencing.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 8, Issue 7 | Pages 304 - 312
1 Jul 2019
Nicholson JA Tsang STJ MacGillivray TJ Perks F Simpson AHRW

Objectives

The aim of this study was to review the current evidence and future application for the role of diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasound in fracture management.

Methods

A review of relevant literature was undertaken, including articles indexed in PubMed with keywords “ultrasound” or “sonography” combined with “diagnosis”, “fracture healing”, “impaired fracture healing”, “nonunion”, “microbiology”, and “fracture-related infection”.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 8, Issue 6 | Pages 232 - 245
1 Jun 2019
Lu C Zhang T Reisdorf RL Amadio PC An K Moran SL Gingery A Zhao C

Objectives

Re-rupture is common after primary flexor tendon repair. Characterization of the biological changes in the ruptured tendon stumps would be helpful, not only to understand the biological responses to the failed tendon repair, but also to investigate if the tendon stumps could be used as a recycling biomaterial for tendon regeneration in the secondary grafting surgery.

Methods

A canine flexor tendon repair and failure model was used. Following six weeks of repair failure, the tendon stumps were analyzed and characterized as isolated tendon-derived stem cells (TDSCs).


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 8, Issue 5 | Pages 199 - 206
1 May 2019
Romanò CL Tsuchiya H Morelli I Battaglia AG Drago L

Implant-related infection is one of the leading reasons for failure in orthopaedics and trauma, and results in high social and economic costs. Various antibacterial coating technologies have proven to be safe and effective both in preclinical and clinical studies, with post-surgical implant-related infections reduced by 90% in some cases, depending on the type of coating and experimental setup used. Economic assessment may enable the cost-to-benefit profile of any given antibacterial coating to be defined, based on the expected infection rate with and without the coating, the cost of the infection management, and the cost of the coating. After reviewing the latest evidence on the available antibacterial coatings, we quantified the impact caused by delaying their large-scale application. Considering only joint arthroplasties, our calculations indicated that for an antibacterial coating, with a final user’s cost price of €600 and able to reduce post-surgical infection by 80%, each year of delay to its large-scale application would cause an estimated 35 200 new cases of post-surgical infection in Europe, equating to additional hospital costs of approximately €440 million per year. An adequate reimbursement policy for antibacterial coatings may benefit patients, healthcare systems, and related research, as could faster and more affordable regulatory pathways for the technologies still in the pipeline. This could significantly reduce the social and economic burden of implant-related infections in orthopaedics and trauma.

Cite this article: C. L. Romanò, H. Tsuchiya, I. Morelli, A. G. Battaglia, L. Drago. Antibacterial coating of implants: are we missing something? Bone Joint Res 2019;8:199–206. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.85.BJR-2018-0316.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 8, Issue 3 | Pages 136 - 145
1 Mar 2019
Cerquiglini A Henckel J Hothi H Allen P Lewis J Eskelinen A Skinner J Hirschmann MT Hart AJ

Objectives

The Attune total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been used in over 600 000 patients worldwide. Registry data show good clinical outcome; however, concerns over the cement-tibial interface have been reported. We used retrieval analysis to give further insight into this controversial topic.

Methods

We examined 12 titanium (Ti) PFC Sigma implants, eight cobalt-chromium (CoCr) PFC Sigma implants, eight cobalt-chromium PFC Sigma rotating platform (RP) implants, and 11 Attune implants. We used a peer-reviewed digital imaging method to quantify the amount of cement attached to the backside of each tibial tray. We then measured: 1) the size of tibial tray thickness, tray projections, peripheral lips, and undercuts; and 2) surface roughness (Ra) on the backside and keel of the trays. Statistical analyses were performed to investigate differences between the two designs.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 8, Issue 2 | Pages 101 - 106
1 Feb 2019
Filardo G Petretta M Cavallo C Roseti L Durante S Albisinni U Grigolo B

Objectives

Meniscal injuries are often associated with an active lifestyle. The damage of meniscal tissue puts young patients at higher risk of undergoing meniscal surgery and, therefore, at higher risk of osteoarthritis. In this study, we undertook proof-of-concept research to develop a cellularized human meniscus by using 3D bioprinting technology.

Methods

A 3D model of bioengineered medial meniscus tissue was created, based on MRI scans of a human volunteer. The Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) data from these MRI scans were processed using dedicated software, in order to obtain an STL model of the structure. The chosen 3D Discovery printing tool was a microvalve-based inkjet printhead. Primary mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were isolated from bone marrow and embedded in a collagen-based bio-ink before printing. LIVE/DEAD assay was performed on realized cell-laden constructs carrying MSCs in order to evaluate cell distribution and viability.


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 7, Issue 8 | Pages 501 - 507
1 Aug 2018
Phan C Nguyen D Lee KM Koo S

Objectives

The objective of this study was to quantify the relative movement between the articular surfaces in the tibiotalar and subtalar joints during normal walking in asymptomatic individuals.

Methods

3D movement data of the ankle joint complex were acquired from 18 subjects using a biplanar fluoroscopic system and 3D-to-2D registration of bone models obtained from CT images. Surface relative velocity vectors (SRVVs) of the articular surfaces of the tibiotalar and subtalar joints were calculated. The relative movement of the articulating surfaces was quantified as the mean relative speed (RS) and synchronization index (SIENT) of the SRVVs.