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Nearly unbreakable

Researchers at Max Planck Institute found that bone stretches more than its fibers and mineral composition, allowing it to sustain large strains without breaking. The hierarchical structure of bone leads to a hierarchical deformation, with soft layers absorbing most of the strain, protecting the mineral phase from excessive loads.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 14, 2006

Bones at the nanoscale

Researchers at Max Planck Institute and ESRF study bone deformation using X-rays, revealing a hierarchical structure that allows bones to sustain large strains without breaking. The findings provide new insight into the design principles behind healthy bone fracture resistance.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 7, 2006

More human-Neandertal mixing evidence uncovered

New analysis of 30,000-year-old Romanian fossils reveals a mix of human and Neandertal features, challenging the hypothesis that Neandertals were simply replaced by modern humans in Europe around 35,000 years ago. The study also shows that these early humans lacked full anatomical adaptations for hunting with spears.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2006

New study finds a positive association between periodontal disease and coronary heart disease

Researchers found a positive association between periodontal disease and coronary heart disease, particularly in individuals under 60 with significant alveolar bone loss. The study suggests that chronic infections and inflammatory responses from periodontal disease may contribute to the development of atherosclerosis.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateSep 26, 2006

Skeletal microdamage stable after first year

New research suggests that skeletal microdamage resulting from bisphosphonate treatment may be maximal during the first year of treatment and not continue to accumulate with longer periods of treatment. The study found no increase in vertebral microcracks after 3 years of alendronate treatment compared to those treated for 1 year.

Estrens might not be the answer for osteoporosis

A new study questions the use of estrens as estrogen-like molecules for treating osteoporosis. Estrens improved bone strength in mice, but also caused adverse effects on reproductive organs and human breast cancer cells. Further clinical trials are needed to determine their safety.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 1, 2006

New research: Soy germ isoflavones reduce bone loss

A new study published in European Journal of Nutrition found that soy germ isoflavones supplementation decreased bone loss in postmenopausal women. The study used SoyLife&Reg; EXTRA and showed a dose-dependent effect on reducing bone loss in non-obese women.

SourceMWW Group·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJul 7, 2006

A new way to build bone

Researchers found that slightly increasing NFATc1 activity leads to massive bone accumulation in mice, suggesting potential new targets for treating osteoporosis. The study's findings may enable the development of drugs that promote bone formation without causing undesirable side effects.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJun 5, 2006

Low carbohydrate diet did not increase bone loss, study finds

A recent USF Health study published in Osteoporosis International found that low-carbohydrate diets do not increase bone loss. Patients on the diet lost significant weight without compromising their bone health. The study's lead author notes potential limitations, but emphasizes the benefits of a balanced approach to weight management.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateMay 24, 2006

A bone of contention in drug-induced osteomalacia

Researchers found that SXR inhibits VDR-mediated CYP24 activity in mice, contradicting previous studies. In humans, rifampicin treatment increases CYP3A4 expression but has no effect on CYP24 expression, suggesting a complex regulatory mechanism.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 11, 2006

JCI table of contents: May 4, 2006

Research reveals a previously unknown role for histamine receptors in asthma, suggesting that blocking these receptors could alleviate symptoms. Additionally, a novel peptide inhibitor has been discovered to prevent bone loss in osteoporosis by targeting the RANK/TNF pathway.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 4, 2006

Pituitary hormone implicated in bone loss after menopause

Researchers find that high FSH levels are necessary for bone loss in postmenopausal women, suggesting an alternative approach to prevent osteoporosis. The study reveals a direct link between pituitary-derived hormones and bone remodeling, revising the understanding of pituitary hormone physiology.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateApr 20, 2006

JCI Table of Contents, April 13, 2006

COX-2 inhibitors increase myocardial infarction and stroke risk due to suppression of prostacyclin and PGE2. Inhibiting microsomal PGE synthase-1 may offer anti-inflammatory effects without cardiovascular consequences, suggesting a potential alternative therapeutic option.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 13, 2006

Early California: A killing field

University of Utah archaeologist Jack M. Broughton's study of ancient Native American bird bones reveals that California wasn't always abundant in wildlife as settlers arrived. Indigenous people hunted some species to local extinction, and wildlife returned after European diseases decimated Indian populations.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalOrnithological Monographs·DateFeb 13, 2006

New position stand issued on the female athlete triad

The Female Athlete Triad combines disordered eating, absent menstrual periods, and bone loss, particularly affecting elite athletes struggling with eating disorders. The International Olympic Committee's new position statement prioritizes athlete health over performance.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders·DateFeb 9, 2006