The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) regulates osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation, and is the molecular target of thiazolidinediones (TZDs), insulin sensitizers that enhance glucose utilization and adipocyte differentiation. However, clinical use of TZDs has been limited by side effects including a higher risk of fractures and bone loss. Here we demonstrate that the same post-translational modifications at S112 and S273, which influence PPARγ pro-adipocytic and insulin sensitizing activities, also determine PPARγ osteoblastic (pS112) and osteoclastic (pS273) activities. Treatment of either hyperglycemic or normoglycemic animals with SR10171, an inverse agonist that blocks pS273 but not pS112, increased trabecular and cortical bone while normalizing metabolic parameters. Additionally, SR10171 treatment modulated osteocyte, osteoblast, and osteoclast activities, and decreased marrow adiposity. These data demonstrate that regulation of bone mass and energy metabolism shares similar mechanisms suggesting that one pharmacologic agent could be developed to treat both diabetes and metabolic bone disease.

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This paper describes the design, manufacturing, testing, and evaluation of a novel trailing pressure measurement system by a team of student engineers as part of an undergraduate senior capstone design project. The system is intended to be self-contained, housing all transducers and subsystems internally, with the capability to mount to any Part 23 and Part 25 aircraft. The system trails behind an aircraft during flight to obtain accurate atmospheric data. The system utilizes a series of pitot-static tubes that relay information to static and differential pressure transducers. In addition to detailing the engineering design of the drogue, this paper outlines the testing campaign to validate its functionality.

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