Distribution Of Fractures Research Articles

Study on the instability mechanism and control technology of narrow coal pillar in double-roadway layout of Changping mine

To address the issue of roadway support failure in narrow coal pillars under dual-lane layout, this study takes the 4309 working face of Changping Coal Mine as the engineering background and employs theoretical calculations, numerical simulations, and on-site monitoring to investigate the instability mechanisms of narrow coal pillars under dual-lane conditions and to optimize technical solutions. The results indicate that the internal stress distribution within the coal pillar is influenced by the advanced support stress, and as the working face advances, the gradually increasing advanced support pressure causes the vertical stress peak within the coal pillar to shift away from the goaf area. Computational analysis reveals that the vertical stress in the top region of a 6 m narrow coal pillar is 38% higher than that in the bottom region, with an average stress of 16 MPa in the coal pillar. The asymmetric high-level stress concentration within the coal pillar significantly affects its stability. A UDEC (Universal Distinct Element Code) model was established to compare four simulation schemes with cut-off angles of 0°, 5°, 10°, and 15°. Based on the analysis of damage parameters and fracture distribution in the narrow coal pillar roadway, it was concluded that the stability is best when the cut-off angle is 10°. The dense drilling cut-off unloading technology was applied to the 4309 working face of the Changping Mine based on the aforementioned research. On-site monitoring results show that the relative deformation of the roof and bottom plates and the two sides of the test section were controlled within 267 mm and 198 mm, respectively, effectively resolving the deformation and instability issues of the narrow coal pillars.

High-resolution analysis of 3D fracture networks from Digital Outcrop Models, correlation to plate-tectonic events and calibration of subsurface models (Jurassic, Arabian Plate)

The performance of different reservoirs, both hydrocarbon and gas storage, is significantly influenced by the presence of natural fracture networks mainly originated in response to tectonic deformation. However, adequate characterization of fracture networks in the subsurface is often difficult since most of the used techniques are either spatially sparse (well and log data) or have limited resolution (seismic and well tests). In this study, we use UAV-based digital photogrammetry to reconstruct a 3D Digital Outcrop Model and characterize natural fracture sets of the late Jurassic Hanifa Formation (Tuwaiq Escarpment, Saudi Arabia). We analyzed the exposed fracture patterns in terms of fracture distribution, intensity, and lateral variability. The fracture dataset was collected using manual sampling approaches since the automatic sampling techniques are highly influenced by outcrop morphology thus not yet reliable to quantify and interpret fracture networks along reservoir outcrop analogues. The well-exposed late Jurassic outcrops in Wadi Birk, southern central Saudi Arabia, are considered analogous in depositional facies to subsurface reservoirs in the region. The observed fracture patterns are congruent with patterns reported from same-age formations in other parts of the Arabian Plate and hence can be related to plate-wide tectonic events that impacted Arabia during the Late Cretaceous (Alpine I) and the late Tertiary Period (Alpine II). This association provides support for using outcrop-based fracture studies as analogue scenarios for the orientation, distribution and intensity of fractures in subsurface reservoirs. The applied methodology for fracture network characterization have potential implications for hydrocarbon development, gas storage (H2) and Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS).

Hydration of mafic crustal rocks at high temperature during brittle‐viscous deformation along a strike‐slip plate boundary

AbstractThe Poroshiri ophiolite (Hidaka metamorphic belt, Japan) occurs within a crustal‐scale network of high‐temperature, dextral shear zones that accommodated hundreds of kilometres of displacement due to the opening of the Japan Sea in the Neogene. The opholitic rocks comprise ultramafic, mafic and sedimentary protoliths that have been variably hydrated and metamorphosed. This work investigates the mechanisms and timing of fluid influx relative to viscous deformation in metagabbros and amphibolites deformed during exhumation from granulite‐ to amphibolite‐facies conditions. We consider a range of microstructures, from low strain domains and 1–2 mm thick shear bands to mylonites with a thickness of a few meters. Low strain domains of metagabbros exhibit corona textures with symplectites consisting of pargasitic amphibole (Ed0.7) ‐ anorthitic plagioclase (An80–92) ± orthopyroxene ± clinopyroxene forming around olivine and igneous pyroxene and with similar plagioclase–amphibole‐orthopyroxene ± clinopyroxene granoblastic aggregates in micrometric‐thick fractures. These textures result from hydration under low fluid‐rock ratio, with elevated H2O content only occurring locally (H2O > 1–1.2 wt%). Igneous mineral replacement leads to grain size reduction from 1 mm to ~10 μm. Amphibole exhibits a strong core‐rim zonation primarily controlled by the high diffusivity of Fe, Mg and OH and the low diffusivity of Al. Mineral compositional equilibrium is achieved at the scale of 100–200 μm. In mm‐thick localized shear bands and in metric‐scale mylonitic amphibolites, the heterogeneous mineral composition of amphibole (Ed0.2–0.5) and plagioclase (An40−An80) indicates only partial re‐equilibration (at the scale of 200–500 μm) despite higher fluid‐rock ratios and more pervasive fluid percolation than in metagabbros. Plagioclase–amphibole thermometry and equilibrium phase diagrams indicate that the initial fluid infiltration and corona formation occurred at 800–850°C by fracturing and percolation along grain boundaries. This was followed by the main fluid percolation and mylonitization event, which occurred during exhumation and cooling at conditions of 720–580°C, ~4 kbar. Continuous hydration during retrogression was achieved by the influx of dominantly seawater‐derived fluid, as attested by the high chlorine (Cl) contents (>300–400 ppm) of amphiboles in fractures. The heterogeneous distribution of fractures controls the distribution of fluid from the earliest stages of hydration, creating positive feedback where the growth of hydrous minerals as amphibole (up to +300 vol% of amphibole in high strain areas relative to the low‐strain ones) and the formation of fine‐grained mixed domains that led to further localization of viscous strain and mass transfer (variations of ± 30–40% in major elements). The Poroshiri ophiolite therefore represents a good fossil example of a former transpressional plate boundary where coupled metamorphic and deformation processes were triggered by seawater‐derived fluid that percolated to depths of ~15 km.

Combined effects of the roughness, aperture, and fractal features on the equivalent permeability and nonlinear flow behavior of rock fracture networks

The hydraulic properties of a fractured rock mass are largely controlled by connected fracture networks. A thorough understanding of the physical flow processes in fracture networks is essential for assessing the transport capacity of the rock mass. However, the fracture surface roughness morphology, fracture distribution characteristics, and fluid flow regimes strongly influence the flow capacity of a fracture network. To this end, the rough topographic characteristics of fracture surfaces were quantified using fractal theory, and then the effective permeability model and nonlinear seepage effect assessment model of the rough fracture network for different flow regimes were developed based on the possible occurrence of laminar and turbulent flows in a single fracture. Finally, the influences of the geometric parameters of the fracture network on the effective permeability and nonlinear flow characteristics were analyzed. The results show that the prediction results of the proposed models are in good agreement with the field test data and can effectively reveal the seepage influence mechanisms under different flow regimes. Additionally, the results show that the effective permeability is closely related to the fractal dimension, relative roughness, aperture scale, distribution characteristics, and hydraulic gradient of the fractures. The nonlinear behavior of fluid flow significantly reduces the effective permeability of the rock mass. The proposed models can provide a reference for evaluating the transport capacity of rock masses under different fracture distributions and flow regimes.

Multiple-stage dynamic responses and failure behaviors of surrounding rocks subjected to development blasting: Exponential and triangular paths

During the development blasting of circular tunnels, the detonation of multiple blastholes arranged on concentric circles induces a complex dynamic response in the surrounding rocks. This process involves multiple blast loadings, static stress unloadings, and stress redistributions. In this study, the dynamic stresses of the surrounding rocks during development blasting, considering multiple blasting-unloading stages with exponential paths and triangular paths (linear simplified paths of exponential paths), are solved based on the dynamic theory and the Fourier transform method. Then, a corresponding discrete element model is established using particle flow code (PFC). The multiple-stage dynamic stress and fracture distribution under different in situ stress levels and lateral coefficients are investigated. Theoretical results indicate that the peak compressive stresses in the surrounding rocks induced by both triangular and exponential paths are equal, while the triangular path generates greater additional dynamic tensile stresses, particularly in the circumferential direction, compared to the exponential path. Numerical results show that the exponential path causes less dynamic circumferential tensile damage and forms fewer radial fractures than the triangular path in the first few blast stages; conversely, it exacerbates the damage and instability in the final blast unloading stage and forms more circumferential fractures. Furthermore, the in situ stress determines which of the two opposite effects is dominant. Therefore, when using overly simplified triangular paths to evaluate the stability of surrounding rocks, potential overestimation or underestimation caused by different failure mechanisms should be considered. Specifically, under high horizontal and vertical stresses, the static stress redistribution with layer-by-layer blasting suppresses dynamic circumferential tensile and radial compressive damage. The damage evolution of surrounding rocks in multi-stage blasting under different in situ stresses is summarized and classified according to the damage mechanism and characteristics, which can guide blasting and support design.

Development characteristics and controlling mechanism of different microfracture combinations in shale reservoir: A case study of silurian longmaxi formation in Weiyuan area

Fractures in organic-rich shale are important reservoir spaces and seepage channels of shale gas, and they are closely related to the gas-bearing properties of shale. The development characteristics and laws of fractures are of great significance in the exploration and development of shale oil and gas. This study examines organic-rich shales of the Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation in the Weiyuan area of the Sichuan Basin. On the basis of two-dimensional large-area multi-scale combination electron microscopy characterization and digital core platform technology, the development degree and distribution of different fractures are quantitatively characterized. The results show the following. (1) The shale of the Wufeng and Longmaxi formations developed a variety of fractures with different occurrences, sizes, and origins. According to the number and combination relationship between fractures of different occurrences, the shale can be divided into four fracture combination types: horizontal bedding fractures; vein fractures; reticular fractures; and ring fractures. Of these, the horizontal bedding fracture group has the largest number of samples and a higher average fracture surface porosity. (2) The degree of fracture development in the shale is affected by many factors, such as the laminar type, mineral composition, mineral particle size, mineral distribution, and total organic carbon, and the controlling mechanisms of different fracture combination types differ. Factors such as horizontal stratification, high clay mineral content, and uneven mineral particle size are conducive to the development of horizontal bedding joints. (3) Differences in the sedimentary environment affect the variation laws of the vertical fracture combination types and density. The total organic carbon and organic quartz content of the Long111 layer with deeper sedimentary water is higher, and the vein fracture formation is more developed than in other small layers, while the clay mineral content of the Long112 and Long114 layers with shallower sedimentary water is higher and the horizontal layer is more developed; the fracture combination type is dominated by the horizontal bedding fracture combination. At the same time, the fractures at the junction of each layer of the Long11 sub-member are the most developed because sea level rise and fall make the mineral particle size heterogeneity most prominent at the junction of the small layer.

The Priority Areas for Groundwater Utilization in Fractured Rock Formation, Pangandaran Regency

Abstract Pangandaran Regency is one of the best tourist destinations in West Java; many tourist attractions and regional developments to facilitate visiting tourists increase the need for water. However, in some areas of Pangandaran Regency, it is included in the rare groundwater zone according to its aquifer productivity, especially in the fracture rock formation, so it is necessary to conduct research related to the presence of groundwater in the area. This study aims to determine priority areas for the development of groundwater utilization in fractured rock formations located in the Pangandaran Regency. The fracture rock formations in Pangandaran Regency are located from the northwest to the southeast; on the regional geological map, the formation’s name is the Jampang Formation. This study used the Groundwater Potential Index (GPI) method to determine groundwater potential and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method to determine water utilization area levels. The parameters used are fracture (F), lithology (L), drainage (D), topography (T), rainfall (R), water usage, land use, and population distribution. This research shows that areas with rare groundwater zones still have groundwater potential that can be developed to meet water needs. There are five priority area classifications: very high is 19 km2, high is 17.92 km2, medium is 67.90 km2, low is 70.99 km2, and very low is 162.40 km2.

A Fractal Model of Fracture Permeability Considering Morphology and Spatial Distribution

Summary In fractured reservoirs, the fracture system is considered to be the main channel for fluid flow. To better investigate the impacts of fracture morphology (tortuosity and roughness) and spatial distribution on the flow capacity, a fractal model of fracture permeability was developed. Based on micro-computed tomography (CT) images, the 3D structure of the fracture was reconstructed, and the fractal characteristics were systematically analyzed. Finally, the control of permeability by fracture morphology and spatial distribution in different fractured reservoirs was identified. The results demonstrate that the complexity of the fracture distribution in 2D slices can represent the nature of the fracture distribution in 3D space. The permeability fractal prediction model was developed based on porosity (φ), spatial distribution fractal dimension (Df), tortuosity fractal dimension (DT), and opening fractal dimension of the maximum width fracture (Db). The permeability prediction results of the fractal model for Samples L-01 (limestone), BD-01 (coal), BD-02 (coal), S-01 (sandstone), M-01 (mudstone), and C-01 (coal) are 0.011 md, 0.239 md, 0.134 md, 0.119 md, 1.429 md, and 27.444 md, respectively. For different types of rocks, the results predicted by the model show good agreement with numerical simulations (with an average relative error of 2.51%). The factors controlling the permeability of fractured reservoirs were analyzed through the application of the mathematical model. The permeability is positively exponentially correlated with the fractal dimension of spatial distribution and negatively exponentially correlated with the fractal dimension of morphology. When Df < 2.25, the fracture spatial structure is simple, and the morphology and spatial distribution jointly control the seepage capacity of fractured reservoirs. When Df > 2.25, the fracture spatial structure is complex, and the impact of morphology on seepage capacity can be disregarded. This work can effectively lay the foundation for the study of fluid permeability in fractured reservoirs by investigating the effects of fracture morphology (tortuosity and roughness) and spatial distribution on flow capacity.

Simulating a High-Resolution Tectonic Stress Field and Predicting the Fracture Distributions in Shale Reservoirs Based on a Heterogeneous Rock Mechanics Model with Adaptive Boundary Condition Constraints

Simulating a High-Resolution Tectonic Stress Field and Predicting the Fracture Distributions in Shale Reservoirs Based on a Heterogeneous Rock Mechanics Model with Adaptive Boundary Condition Constraints

Wellbore breakouts in heavily fractured rocks: A coupled discrete fracture network-distinct element method analysis

Wellbore breakout is one of the critical issues in drilling due to the fact that the related problems result in additional costs and impact the drilling scheme severely. However, the majority of such wellbore breakout analyses were based on continuum mechanics. In addition to failure in intact rocks, wellbore breakouts can also be initiated along natural discontinuities, e.g. weak planes and fractures. Furthermore, the conventional models in wellbore breakouts with uniform distribution fractures could not reflect the real drilling situation. This paper presents a fully coupled hydro-mechanical model of the SB-X well in the Tarim Basin, China for evaluating wellbore breakouts in heavily fractured rocks under anisotropic stress states using the distinct element method (DEM) and the discrete fracture network (DFN). The developed model was validated against caliper log measurement, and its stability study was carried out by stress and displacement analyses. A parametric study was performed to investigate the effects of the characteristics of fracture distribution (orientation and length) on borehole stability by sensitivity studies. Simulation results demonstrate that the increase of the standard deviation of orientation when the fracture direction aligns parallel or perpendicular to the principal stress direction aggravates borehole instability. Moreover, an elevation in the average fracture length causes the borehole failure to change from the direction of the minimum in-situ horizontal principal stress (i.e. the direction of wellbore breakouts) towards alternative directions, ultimately leading to the whole wellbore failure. These findings provide theoretical insights for predicting wellbore breakouts in heavily fractured rocks.

Natural fractures and their attributes in organic-rich shales: Insights from the Paleozoic Wufeng-Longmaxi formation, southeastern Sichuan Basin

Fractures in organic-rich shale affect the evolution of permeability and control shale gas preservation. We characterize fracture attributes in the Qiyue-Huaying Fold-Thrust belt in the southeastern Sichuan Basin, revealing the distribution, origin and factors controlling fracture localization through investigation of cores, image logs, and thin section petrography. We found that the deformation intensity, organic matter content and lithology are the major factors for controlling fracture occurrence and location in the Wufeng-Longmaxi deep shale. The major fracture pattern in the Fuling Block is characterized by abundant inclined shear fractures, bed-parallel shear fractures, and bed-normal extension fractures, while bed-parallel veins prevail in the Luzhou Block. In general, fracture density and size in the Fuling Block are larger than those in the Luzhou Block. The competent layers (siliceous shale with high TOC) have the highest fracture density, and noticeably, organic matter content controls bed-parallel vein localization. Based on the distribution of fractures in two blocks, we suggest that the dominant origin of fractures in organic-rich shale gradually changes from tectonic events to fluid pressure changes due to organic maturation (organic events), from the Fuling Block to the Luzhou Block.

Detailed effects of reservoir permeability distribution differences on enhanced geothermal systems performance

In enhanced geothermal systems, fractured reservoir permeability significantly affects geothermal exploitation efficiency. However, the detailed effects are not fully understood while most previous literature ignored the spatial differences of reservoir permeability because of the complexity and heterogeneity of fracture distribution. This study aims to reveal the quantitative relationship between the geothermal system’s heat extraction performance and the distributed permeability, through investigating heat extraction ratio and flow impedance by building a 3D thermal-hydraulic coupled model with discrete fracture network. The current study also compared the effects of twenty-nine kinds of fracture network distributions at various depths. It is found that higher fracture permeability around production well (800×10−12 m2) more significantly improves heat extraction rate by 30% rather than higher permeability in other areas in the first year. It is also found that fracture permeability changes on both sides of predominant flow regions cause a lower heat extraction rate. Lower fracture permeability at bottom and top layers (25×10−12 m2) increases the heat extraction rate by 1.17 MW in the 30th year. The proppant distribution affects the pressure distribution in fractured reservoirs. Permeability distribution variation has small effects on the heat extraction ratio. These results provided theoretical basis for fractured reservoir construction, optimal proppant pumping scheme and reservoir thermal output prediction.

Anatomical distribution and treatment of paediatric hand fractures: a multi-centre study of 749 patients in the Netherlands.

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Three-dimensional distribution of subchondral fracture lines in osteonecrosis of the femoral head

ObjectiveTo investigate the characteristics of three-dimensional distribution of subchondral fracture lines on the surface of the osteonecrosis femoral head, and to discuss the underlying mechanisms that contribute to its collapse. MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed computed tomography (CT) images from 75 patients (comprising a total of 77 femoral heads) diagnosed with Association Research Circulation Osseous (ARCO) stage IIIA or IIIB femoral head necrosis. The three-dimensional structures of both the femoral head and the subchondral fracture line were reconstructed and subsequently fitted into normal femoral head model. A heat map of fracture line was generated to visualize its spatial distribution across the femoral heads surface.to observe its distribution. In addition to that, the femoral head was partitioned into four zones, and the frequency of each fracture line traversing different zones was calculated and analysed. ResultsHighest and lowest density of subchondral fracture lines was demonstrated in anterolateral and posterolateral zone respectively. and most sparse in posterolateral. Furthermore, the three-dimensional heat map of fracture lines highlighted their most frequent occurrence in the anterolateral area, particularly near the junction of the femoral head and neck. One fracture line may pass through multiple areas, passage frequencies for fracture lines was observed in zones I, II, III and IV for 66 times (85.7 %), 52 times (67.5 %), 25 times (32.5 %) and 46 times (59.7 %), respectively, with a significant difference between zone I and other zones (P < 0.001). ConclusionSubchondral fracture line of femoral head occurs most frequently in anterolateral femoral head, suggesting that the anterolateral part may be the initial location of collapse. Translational potential of this articleWe found that the subchondral fracture line was most frequently located anterolateral to the femoral head, suggesting that this may be the site of initiation of collapse. Furthermore, we propose an innovative method for analyzing and visualizing subchondral fracture distribution in femoral head necrosis in the form of fracture line heat maps. By doing so, we provide a valuable reference for physicians, enabling them to enhance their management strategies for femoral head necrosis. Ultimately, this approach holds the promise of significantly improving the prognosis and outcomes for patients afflicted with this condition.

The influence of stress on the fracture and elastic properties of carbonate rocks controlled by strike-slip faults: a novel rock-physics modelling perspective

SUMMARY The fine-scale fractures within strike-slip faults substantially impact the flowing capacity. However, effective methods for their characterization are still lacking, making it challenging to predict hydrocarbon accumulation patterns. In this study, we conducted microscopic statistics, ultrasonic experiments and theoretical modelling to analyse the fracture density and elastic characteristics within the strike-slip fault and investigated the impact of stress. Our findings reveal that the fracture density in the fault core is 3–4 times higher than that in the damage zone, and the acoustic velocity is 13–18 per cent lower under atmospheric pressure. With the rising confining pressure, the fracture density initially decreases rapidly and then slowly, while the acoustic velocity follows the same increasing trend. The gradually slowing trend indicates that the majority of fractures close within the range of 0–20 MPa. Moreover, the stress sensitivity of the bulk modulus is higher than that of the shear modulus. The stress sensitivity is higher in the fault core than in the damage zone, which correlates strongly with the variation in fracture density. These indicate that the stress sensitivity in the fault-controlled rock is attributed to stress-induced fracture deformation, predominantly manifested as volumetric compression deformation. During the geological evolution, differences in tectonic faulting, fluid filling and compaction within the fault zone contribute to present heterogeneity in fracture density. Finally, our research demonstrates a strong correlation between theoretical prediction results and underground logging, drilling and core data. These findings can help predict the underground fracture distribution and elastic response of carbonate reservoirs controlled by strike-slip faults.

E-Scooter facial fractures: A comparative cohort study

It was the aim of the study to analyze the distribution and pattern of facial fractures following e-scooter trauma.Prospective audit data of facial fractures were retrospectively collected to investigate the impact of e-scooter hire, specifically in the form of facial fractures associated with their use. Data collected included patient demographics, mode of injury, date of injury, facial bones involved, presence of soft tissue injury, and factors associated with injury, including intoxication and helmet use.A total of 849 patients were treated for facial fractures during the study period, of which 34 were attributed to e-scooter use. One-half of those injured riding e-scooters were intoxicated, and one-quarter were wearing helmets. There have been an increasing number of facial fractures associated with e-scooter use following the start of the shared e-scooter trial. Zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures were the most common pattern of facial fracture seen.Most patients required surgical management of their injuries. Policymakers should consider how to improve the enforcement of current regulations, given the healthcare cost associated with the management of these preventable injuries.

Damage evolution of coal with a strong bursting liability and 3D measurement method for elastic deformation energy distribution

When coal with a strong bursting liability is disturbed by a load, catastrophic instability disasters and rockbursts can easily occur. Loaded coal with a strong bursting liability undergoes complex damage evolution and failure behavior due to the intricate interplay among loads, gangue, fractures, and the coal matrix. Intuitively quantifying and characterizing the complex discontinuous structural features, deformation fields, and energy fields within coal is the foundation for the scientific analysis and prevention of disaster mechanisms caused by rockbursts. Therefore, studying the distribution and evolutionary processes of deformation fields and energy fields caused by the evolution of discontinuous structures within coal is highly important for the prevention and control of coal mine rockburst disasters and the protection of coal mine safety during mining operations. In this study, a series of X-ray computed tomography (X-CT) tests were conducted on coal specimens with varying gangue contents under uniaxial compressive loading. The X-CT images clearly illustrated the internal damage evolution of coal with a strong bursting liability, revealing fracture propagation, shear bands, and localized failure under varying loading conditions. Image segmentation was employed to quantitatively analyze the development of damage in coal with a strong bursting liability, revealing the influence patterns of gangue content on the prepeak deformation localization and strength of coal. Additionally, using digital volume correlation, the 3D volumetric displacement and strain of loaded impact-prone coal were determined based on the changes in natural speckle images. The nonuniform distribution of strain was mainly caused by the nonuniform distribution of gangue and pore fractures at the microscopic scale, which explains the localized deformation in coal materials. Importantly, this study provides new full-field strain tensor data and a novel method for measuring the elastic deformation energy of the 3D deformation and cracking processes of loaded coal.

Descriptive epidemiology study of hand injuries sustained in Gaelic football referred to a hand therapy service over 1 year

ObjectivesGaelic football requires ball handling, such as bouncing, fist passing and catching. To date, no research has examined the types of injuries sustained to the hand in this sport. This...

Assessment of Functional Outcome and Postoperative Complications in Proximal Humerus Fracture Patients Managed With Proximal Humerus Internal Locking System (PHILOS) Plating.

Proximal humerus fractures are primarily common in the oldage group. The appropriate approach to managing such displaced and comminuted fracture patterns is often questionable. Hence, this study was conducted to assess the functional outcome of proximal humerus fractures following treatment with a proximal humerus locking plate and to assess the frequency of complications in such patients. In this robust study, 33 cases of proximal humerus fractures underwent surgical management at a prestigious teaching hospital from February 2021 to August 2022 utilizing a proximal humerus internal locking system (PHILOS) plate. The NEER classification was employed to categorize the fractures, and the NEER score was used for functional assessment. It's crucial to note that individuals with pathological fractures, associated injuries in the ipsilateral limb,nerve injuries, and cases of open fracture were rigorously excluded from the study. The mean age was 47 ± 5.2 years. Based on NEER's classification, the distribution of fractures was as follows: two-part fractures accounted for 18.18% (n = 6) of cases, three-part fractures for 54.54% (n = 18) of cases, and four-part fractures for 27.27% (n = 9) of cases. A history of road traffic accidents and falls was reported in 54.54% (n = 18) and 45.45% (n = 15) of cases, respectively. Functional outcome assessment utilizing NEER's scorerevealed a minimum score of 48 and a maximum of 96, with an average score of 82.96 ± 12.73. Notably, 39% of patients demonstrated excellent results, 27% exhibited satisfactorily, 21% manifested unsatisfactorily, and 12.12% presented failure outcomes. Of the 33 operated cases, 81.8% (n = 27) exhibited no complications during follow-up. The predominant complication observed was shoulder stiffness (9.09%, n = 3), followed by Varus mal-union (6.06%, n = 2), and superficial surgical site infection (3.03%, n = 1), managed with debridement and antibiotics leading to subsequent resolution. Managing proximal humerus fractures has consistently posed a formidable challenge. Our study indicates that using the PHILOS plate represents a reliable option for addressing such fractures. This plate provides sturdy fixation, facilitates early mobilization, and culminates in exceptional functional outcomes.The insights gained from this study can inform clinical decision-making and guide orthopedic surgeons in selecting theappropriate treatment strategy for proximal humerus fracture patients.

Integrated Insights into Lithofacies, Fracture Networks, and Reservoir Productivity in Basement Reservoirs: A Comprehensive Case Study from the Cauvery Basin, India, Using Well Logs, Petrographic Studies, and Production Logs

Summary The architecture and heterogeneity of basement rocks can play a crucial role in reservoir evaluation and hydrocarbon exploration. This study focuses on the comprehensive characterization of basement reservoir heterogeneities and fracture networks in the Cauvery Basin using a combination of petrophysical and geochemical analyses. The intricate interplay of lithological variations and chemical alteration processes in basement rocks significantly influences their complex nature. In this study, openhole log data acquired in the basement section from wells within the Cauvery Basin were analyzed. These log data were correlated with core studies to understand the lithofacies heterogeneities present within the basement reservoir. Furthermore, fracture data obtained from resistivity image log data were examined to understand the distribution and properties of fractures in relation to lithofacies heterogeneities. Notably, a higher fracture density was observed in the mafic-rich sections compared to the felsic-rich sections. The integration of resistivity image log data with lithofacies contributed to the understanding of the reservoir architecture. Additionally, elemental spectroscopy logging facilitated geochemical analysis, providing measurements of the elemental composition of basement, which were incorporated into the study. Production logging (PL) was performed in the study wells to ascertain the production from the basement reservoir. This analytical approach augmented the characterization of the basement reservoir and contributed to a holistic understanding of its properties. This study emphasizes the role of conducting a thorough analysis of petrophysical log responses in conjunction with detailed core studies to characterize basement reservoirs. The study successfully differentiated two distinct lithofacies units within the Cauvery Basin’s basement reservoirs: mafic-mineral-dominated and felsic-mineral-dominated and their impact on reservoir heterogeneities. Production log data validated hydrocarbon contributions primarily from felsic rocks, underscoring the importance of lithological variations.