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Morbidity and mortality of leprosy in the Middle Ages

A new study analyzing medieval skeletons found that contracting leprosy increased a person's chances of dying, but social status and sex also played roles. The researchers created a model to explore morbidity and mortality through a unique data set, shedding light on the complexities of the disease in the past.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateOct 3, 2017

Ancient petrified salamander reveals its last meal

A 35-million-year-old salamander fossil from France has yielded a unique glimpse into the life of an ancient creature. Researchers have successfully imaged the internal anatomy of the specimen using advanced x-ray imaging techniques, revealing that it fed on frogs - a rare food source for salamanders.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateOct 3, 2017

Seniors with Type 2 diabetes may have increased risk for fracture

A new study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that older adults with type 2 diabetes have deficits in cortical bone microarchitecture, increasing their risk of fractures. This is particularly concerning for hip fractures, which are a significant public health problem.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateSep 20, 2017

Improved dating of Neanderthal remains

Researchers used an improved dating technique to date Neanderthal remains from Vindija Cave in Croatia. The dates obtained were significantly older than previously reported, pushing back the timeline of Neanderthal presence in Central Europe. This challenges previous theories about the coexistence of Neanderthals and modern humans.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 4, 2017

Tears in tiny bone cells called osteocytes appear an important step to better bones

Researchers found that osteocytes, tiny bone cells with delicate membranes, experience membrane tears in response to mechanical loading. This tear triggers an increase in calcium levels, leading to bone remodeling and strengthening. The discovery sheds light on how bones adapt to gravity and physical activity.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Research®·DateAug 29, 2017

Link between cells associated with aging and bone loss

Researchers discovered a causal link between senescent cells and age-related bone loss in mice. Targeting these cells increased bone mass and strength. The study's findings suggest that senolytic drugs may have widespread application in treating multiple chronic diseases, including osteoporosis.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 21, 2017

Blood marker may predict postmenopausal women's risk of bone fractures

Researchers discovered a blood marker that can predict the risk of bone fractures in postmenopausal women, independent of other measures. High levels of periostin protein fragments were found to be associated with an increased risk of fractures, suggesting they reflect additional bone properties.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateAug 16, 2017

Chewing gum rapid test for inflammation

A new chewing gum-based diagnostic test can detect inflammation in the oral cavity within five minutes, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment. The test uses bittering agents to identify inflammatory conditions, which can help prevent serious complications such as bone loss.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 15, 2017

Weight loss surgery's effects on bone marrow fat and bone mass

Increases in bone marrow fat are associated with a decline in bone density after gastric bypass surgery, while improvements in blood sugar control are linked to reduced marrow fat levels. The study suggests that weight loss and blood sugar metabolism may influence bone health through changes in bone marrow fat.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateAug 9, 2017

DNA from Viking cod bones suggests 1,000-year history of European fish trade

A new study suggests a European stockfish trade existed for 1,000 years, with cod bones from Haithabu providing evidence of fish caught in northern Norway being consumed on mainland Europe. The findings support the idea that traded fish played a significant role in knitting the European continent together economically.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 7, 2017

Is bone strength hereditary?

A new study suggests bone strength is hereditary, with its genetic determinants similar to those affecting bone mineral density. This discovery has implications for understanding fracture risk and developing prevention strategies.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJul 19, 2017

Networking is key for cells during bone formation

Researchers have identified a universal mechanism behind bone cell organization, revealing a quantitative framework to assess bone quality. The study shows that different bone types exhibit varying levels of connectivity but similar efficiency in intercellular transport and communication.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateJul 18, 2017

Researchers recommend specific diabetes medications to protect bone health

A comprehensive review highlights the most effective treatment options for co-managing type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis. Researchers suggest using medications like Metformin and DPP-4 inhibitors to protect bone health. Meanwhile, insulin therapy is recommended for achieving glycemic control in patients with T2D and fractures.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJun 21, 2017

Increase in use of high-dose vitamin D supplements

The prevalence of daily supplemental vitamin D use above 1,000 IU increased from 0.3% in 1999-2000 to 18.2% in 2013-2014. Intake of 4,000 IU or more daily also rose, with 3.2% of participants using such supplements in 2013-2014. The trend was observed across most age groups, race/ethnicities, and sexes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 20, 2017