Ontogenetic changes to bone microstructure in an archaeologically derived sample of human ribs.

Ontogenetic changes to bone microstructure in an archaeologically derived sample of human ribs. J Anat. 2019 Nov 15;: Authors: Beresheim AC, Pfeiffer S, Grynpas M Abstract There is considerable variation in the gross morphology and tissue properties among the bones of human infants, children, adolescents, and adults. Using 18 known-age individuals (nfemale  = 8, nmale  = 9, nunknown  = 1; birth to 21 years old), from a well-documented cemetery collection, Spitalfields Christ Church, London, UK, this study explores growth-related changes in cortical and trabecular bone microstructure. Micro-CT scans of mid-shaft middle thoracic ribs are used for quantitative analysis. Results are then compared to previously quantified conventional histomorphometry of the same sample. Total area (Tt.Ar), cortical area (Ct.Ar), cortical thickness (Ct.Th), and the major (Maj.Dm) and minor (Min.Dm) diameters of the rib demonstrate positive correlations with age. Pore density (Po.Dn) increases, but age-related changes to cortical porosity (Ct.Po) appear to be non-linear. Trabecular thickness (Tb.th) and trabecular separation (Tb.Sp) increase with age, whereas trabecular bone pattern factor (Tb.Pf), structural model index (SMI), and connectivity density (Conn.D) decrease with age. Sex-based differences were not identified for any of the variables included in this study. Some samples display clear evidence of diagenetic alteration without correspondi...
Source: Journal of Anatomy - Category: Anatomy Authors: Tags: J Anat Source Type: research