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Printing artificial bone

Researchers at MIT develop approach to print synthetic materials with fracture behavior similar to natural bone, using computer-optimized designs and 3-D printing. The new material exhibits a fracture resistance of up to 22 times larger than its strongest constituent material.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJun 17, 2013

Using clay to grow bone

Synthetic silicate nanoplatelets induce stem cell differentiation into bone cells, providing a potential therapeutic tool for tissue repair and regeneration. The study's findings offer new insights into the use of bioactive materials in medicine and biotechnology.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 14, 2013

Fossil of great ape sheds light on evolution

A University of Missouri expert analyzed the pelvis fragments of an early hominid fossil, revealing insights into the evolution of modern great apes. The study suggests that the ape's wider pelvis indicates greater lateral balance and stability, while its distinct finger bones indicate a different evolutionary path than initially thought.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateMay 1, 2013

Calculating phosphorus and calcium concentrations in meat and bone meal for pig diets

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed equations to calculate phosphorus and calcium concentrations in meat and bone meal. The study found that ash content is a reliable indicator of Ca and P concentrations, allowing producers to estimate mineral levels without harming pig growth.

Common osteoporosis drug slows formation of new bone

A recent study found that zoledronic acid, a common osteoporosis drug, not only slows bone loss but also increases levels of sclerostin, a biomarker that inhibits bone formation. This suggests that combination treatments may be needed to effectively treat osteoporosis and increase bone mass.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 17, 2013

Bioglass helping to mend bones

Researchers at UPV/EHU have created a biodegradable polymer/bioglass composite system that can help mend broken bones. The addition of bioglass to the polymer improves its mechanical properties, but it also reduces thermal stability, which could lead to degradation and harm to cells.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalPolymer Degradation and Stability·DateApr 2, 2013

Mystery of 'zombie worm' development unveiled

A new study elucidates the reproductive strategy of bone-eating worms, shedding light on their postembryonic development and sexual maturation. The researchers observed the duration of the larval stage, male dwarfism, and rapid female spawning, enabling effective reproduction in a food-rich but isolated habitat.

UCLA study finds endocrine disorder is most common cause of elevated calcium levels

A new UCLA study reveals that primary hyperparathyroidism is the leading cause of high blood-calcium levels, affecting mainly women and the elderly, particularly African American women over 50. The condition can lead to bone loss, depression, fatigue, and increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateFeb 21, 2013

Gains made towards treatment of rare bone disease

Scientists at McGill University and the Federal University of Sao Paulo have identified osteopontin as a key player in X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), a rare bone disease characterized by soft bones and tooth abnormalities. This discovery may lead to the development of an enzyme-replacement therapy to treat XLH patients.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateFeb 20, 2013

Building healthy bones takes guts

Scientists at Michigan State University found that a natural probiotic supplement can enhance bone density in male mice, but not female mice. The study suggests a possible new treatment for osteoporosis without the risks of traditional medications.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Cellular Physiology·DateFeb 14, 2013

Study reveals significance of second trimester markers for Down's syndrome

Researchers analyzed 48 studies on second trimester markers and found that most single markers have only a small effect on modifying the odds for Down's syndrome. However, some markers such as dilated brain ventricles, increased neck thickness, and absent nose bone significantly increase the risk by three- to four-fold.

SourceWiley·JournalUltrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 30, 2013