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In the evolution of walking, the hip bone connected to the rib bones

A new reconstruction of the 375-million-year-old fossil fish Tiktaalik reveals that its ribs likely attached to its pelvis, enabling support of the body and potentially leading to the evolution of walking. This discovery provides insights into the major evolutionary transition from fish to four-limbed vertebrates.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2024

Bend and snap: New interventions for rib fractures

A new multicenter study finds that stabilizing fractured and partially dislocated ribs through surgical stabilization improves patient outcomes, with reduced pain, increased comfort, and lower complication rates. Patients who underwent the procedure experienced better quality of life and fewer complications compared to those who did not.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery·DateJan 21, 2020

Grow a better jawbone in your ribs

Researchers developed a technique to grow live bone in the rib area using 3D-printed bioreactors and stem cells. The new method aims to replace current reconstruction techniques that use harvested bone tissues from different areas, promoting natural healing powers.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 18, 2019

Ultrasound imaging of the brain and liver

Researchers have developed new noninvasive ultrasound techniques to image the brain and liver, overcoming limitations caused by bones in these areas. The DORT method uses a multi-element array to focus ultrasound waves through bones, while a lens-based transcranial focusing device has been patented for transskull imaging.

Indian dancing frog's secretive tadpoles unearthed from sand beds

Researchers have uncovered the first confirmed report of tadpoles from the Indian Dancing frog family, revealing unique adaptations such as muscular eel-like bodies and skin-covered eyes. These findings provide valuable information for conservation of ancient and endemic frogs in the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 30, 2016

Cancer patient receives 3-D printed ribs

A 54-year-old Spanish man received a revolutionary new implant made from 3D printed titanium alloy, designed to replicate the intricate structures of his sternum and ribs. The innovative prosthesis was created by medical device company Anatomics in collaboration with CSIRO's 3D printing facility Lab 22.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalEuropean Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery·DateSep 11, 2015

How the turtles got their shells

Researchers studied an extinct South African reptile, Eunotosaurus, to understand the evolution of the turtle shell. The findings revealed that the shell is made up of approximately 50 bones and was gradually modified over millions of years.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 30, 2013

Jaws -- 4 million B.C.

A 4m shark named Cosmopolitodus hastalis attacked an extinct dolphin species 2.8m long, causing severe damage and intense blood loss, researchers have found through forensic analysis of bite marks on the skeleton.

SourceWiley·JournalPalaeontology·DateMar 16, 2010

Study of oldest turtle fossil

Scientists have found evidence that turtle shells are bony extensions of their backbones and ribs. The oldest known turtle fossil, Odontochelys semitestacea, has a partial shell extending from its backbone and widening of ribs, suggesting it was a water dweller.

SourceField Museum·JournalNature·DateNov 26, 2008

How alligators rock and roll

Researchers discovered that alligators use a combination of muscles to shift their lungs and maneuver in the water. This unique ability allows them to dive, surface, and roll sideways without creating disturbance. The study highlights the importance of specialized muscles in aquatic animals for navigation and stealth.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateMar 13, 2008