Organ Systems Research Articles

Neuropsychiatric involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus contributes to organ damage beyond the nervous system: a post-hoc analysis of 5 phase III randomized clinical trials.

To investigate the association between neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) and SLICC/ACR damage index (SDI) items, especially non-neuropsychiatric items. Baseline data from five phase III trials (BLISS-52, BLISS-76, BLISS-SC, BLISS-NEA, EMBRACE) were analysed. NPSLE involvement was defined as NP BILAG A/B/C/D (n = 272); NP BILAG E denoted non-neuropsychiatric SLE (n=3273). We employed multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusting for age, sex, disease duration, and ethnicity. The median (IQR) and mean±SD SDI scores were 0 (0-1) and 0.62 ± 1.09. Compared with the non-neuropsychiatric SLE group, NPSLE patients were more likely to develop damage (adjusted (a)OR = 2.86; 95% CI = 2.28-3.59). This held true also after suppression of the NP SDI items (aOR = 1.70; 95% CI = 1.36-2.12). Beyond the neuropsychiatric domain, NPSLE was associated with damage in the cardiovascular (aOR = 2.63; 95% CI = 1.75-3.95), musculoskeletal (aOR = 1.90; 95% CI = 1.43-2.52), and skin (aOR = 1.54; 95% CI = 1.06-2.22) SDI domains. Dissecting domains into items, NPSLE was associated with coronary artery disease (aOR = 3.08; 95% CI = 1.44-6.58), myocardial infraction (aOR = 3.11; 95% CI = 1.54-6.27), muscle atrophy (aOR = 3.34; 2.16-5.16), scarring alopecia (aOR = 1.79; 95% CI = 1.19-2.70), bowel infarction (aOR = 1.98; 95% CI = 1.20-3.26), retinopathy (aOR = 2.23; 95% CI = 1.15-4.32), and premature gonadal failure (aOR = 2.10; 95% CI = 1.11-3.90). The intricate association between NPSLE and damage accrual extends beyond the nervous system to also comprise the musculoskeletal, skin, and cardiovascular organ systems.

Insect tracheal systems as inspiration for carbon dioxide capture systems

Membrane technology advancements within the past twenty years have provided a new perspective on environmentalism as engineers design membranes to separate greenhouse gases from the environment. Several scientific journals have published articles of experimental evidence quantifying carbon dioxide (CO2), a common greenhouse gas, separation using membrane technology and ranking them against one another. On the other hand, natural systems such as the respiratory system of mammals also accomplish transmembrane transport of CO2. However, to our knowledge, a comparison of these natural organic systems with engineered membranes has not yet been accomplished. The tracheal respiratory systems of insects transport CO2at the highest rates in the animal kingdom. Therefore, this work compares engineered membranes to the tracheal systems of insects by quantitatively comparing greenhouse gas conductance rates. We demonstrate that on a per unit volume basis, locusts can transport CO2approximately ∼100 times more effectively than the best current engineered systems. Given the same temperature conditions, insect tracheal systems transport CO2three orders of magnitude faster on average. Miniaturization of CO2capture systems based on insect tracheal system design has great potential for reducing cost and improving the capacities of industrial CO2capture.

Quantitative non-contrast perfusion MRI in the body using arterial spin labeling.

Arterial spin labeling (ASL) is a non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) method that enables the assessment and the quantification of perfusion without the need for an exogenous contrast agent. ASL was originally developed in the early 1990s to measure cerebral blood flow. The utility of ASL has since then broadened to encompass various organ systems, offering insights into physiological and pathological states. In this review article, we present a synopsis of ASL for quantitative non-contrast perfusion MRI, as a contribution to the special issue titled "Quantitative MRI-how to make it work in the body?" The article begins with an introduction to ASL principles, followed by different labeling strategies, such as pulsed, continuous, pseudo-continuous, and velocity-selective approaches, and their role in perfusion quantification. We proceed to address the technical challenges associated with ASL in the body and outline some of the innovative approaches devised to surmount these issues. Subsequently, we summarize potential clinical applications, challenges, and state-of-the-art ASL methods to quantify perfusion in some of the highly perfused organs in the thorax (lungs), abdomen (kidneys, liver, pancreas), and pelvis (placenta) of the human body. The article concludes by discussing future directions for successful translation of quantitative ASL in body imaging.

A study of the correlation between phospholipase A2 enzyme activity and anti-complement antibodies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that affects multiple organs or organ systems. SLE and one of its most common complications, lupus nephritis (LN), are characterized by chronic inflammation due to the secretion of pro-inflammatory molecules and a tissue deposition of immune complexes formed by autoantibodies and their target antigens, such as double-stranded DNA, other nuclear antigens, and complement proteins. Increased activity of phospholipase A2 enzymes (PLA2) like calcium-independent PLA2 (iPLA2), secretory PLA2 (sPLA2), and cellular PLA2 (cPLA2) has a crucial role in the maintenance of the inflammatory process during the course of SLE. This study aimed to evaluate PLA2 activity and identify the dominant type of PLA2 enzymes in a cohort of Bulgarian patients with SLE and LN. Additionally, we investigated whether the increased PLA2 activity was correlated with the presence of autoantibodies specific to the complement proteins C3 and factor H.

Piloting a co-created local and alternative food network involving professional buyers in Norway: Forces and tensions influencing viability

We can obtain knowledge about how sustainability transitions can take place through experimenting with niche-activities. An alternative food network (AFN) called Green Parallel was co-created through action research in an agri-food living lab and was piloted in 2019 and 2020. The purpose was to contribute to more organic produce in localized food systems and improve communication between producers and professional buyers (e.g. specialty stores, restaurants, chain retails, private and public canteens) in the Vestfold region in Norway. This paper analyses the occurring forces and tensions that support or hinder the viability of the AFN.The methods of data collection were interviews, reflection notes and participants’ notes from the participatory processes. We utilized perspectives from field theory and institutional economy to understand individual behaviors in relation to internal and external forces and tensions in a multi-level perspective (MLP).A strong supportive force was the initial motivation participants in Green Parallel had to collaborate. In addition, we identified seven forces and tensions affecting the viability of Green Parallel. These forces and tensions worked through complex interdependencies within individuals and actor types and across actor types, as well as across internal and external niche spans. The study can inform further development of organic and local agri-food systems.

Nusinersen Improves Motor Function in Type 2 and 3 Spinal Muscular Atrophy Patients across Time

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a genetic disorder primarily caused by mutations in the SMN1 gene, leading to motor neuron degeneration and muscle atrophy, affecting multiple organ systems. Nusinersen treatment targets gene expression and is expected to enhance the motor function of voluntary muscles in the limbs and trunk. Motor skills can be assessed through specific scales like the Revised Upper Limb Module Scale (RULM) and Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale Expanded (HFMSE). This study aims to evaluate the influence of nusinersen on the motor skills of patients with SMA Type 2 and 3 using real-world data collected over 54 months. A prospective longitudinal study was conducted on 37 SMA patients treated with nusinersen, analyzing data with R statistical software. The outcomes revealed significant improvements in motor functions, particularly in SMA Type 3 patients with higher RULM and HFSME scores. Additionally, GEE analysis identified time, type, age, and exon deletions as essential predictors of motor score improvements. The extended observation period is both a major strength and a limitation of this research, as the dropout rates could present challenges in interpretation. Variability in responses, influenced by genetic background, SMA type, and onset age, highlights the need for personalized treatment approaches.

Therapeutic Value of Low-Dose Acetylsalicylic Acid for the Prevention of Preeclampsia in High-Risk Bulgarian Women.

Introduction Preeclampsia (PE) is a syndrome that affects pregnant women after 20 weeks of gestation and involves numerous organ systems. Screening for PE is essential to prevent complications and guide management. Some existing guidelines for screening have limitations in terms of detection rates and false positives. The aim of this study is to assess the therapeutic value of low-dose acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) for the prevention of PE in high-risk Bulgarian women. Methodology A prospective cohort research was carried out, encompassing women who were recruited from several routine consultations, such as booking, scanning, and regular prenatal visits. We utilized the purposive sampling technique to carefully choose potential participants. The study was conducted by a maternal-fetal medicine center located in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. The data-gathering period spanned from January 2018 to November 2020. At the appointment, the following procedures were conducted: 1) recording history; 2) assessing height, weight, and blood pressure; 3) collecting blood specimens for biochemical markers; and 4) ultrasound examination. Results A total sample size of 1,383 individuals was categorized into two distinct groups: high-risk patients (n = 506) and low-risk patients (n = 877). The mean uterine arterypulsatility index (UtA-PI) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) ratios were all greater in high-risk group women (p < 0.05). The data revealed that a significant number of high-risk women failed to adhere to the prescribed dosage or regular use of ASA as recommended by their doctor. There were only 384 (75.9%) high-risk women who took low-dose ASA regularly. Conclusion The findings emphasize the importance of personalized prenatal care and early risk assessment to improve maternal and fetal outcomes. Therefore, it is crucial to educate pregnant women, considering the benefits and risks of low-dose ASA when appropriately indicated.

Productivity and profitability of sesame (Sesamum indicum)- chickpea (Cicer arietinum) organic cropping system as influenced by nutrition and planting geometry

An experiment was conducted during 2021–22 and 2022–23 at the research farm of Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab to optimize organic nutrition and planting geometry for improved productivity and profitability of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)-chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) organic cropping system. The experiment was conducted in a split-plot design (SPD) with three organic nutrition management practices in main plots, viz. Application of farmyard manure (FYM) to supply recommended doses of nitrogen (RDN) i.e. 52.5 kg/ha for sesame and 15 kg/ha for chickpea; Application of FYM to supply RDN + natural farming concoctions (NFCs) i.e. beejamrit, ghanjeevamrit and jeevamrit; and Control i.e. without application of FYM and NFCs. In sub-plots, four planting geometries were evaluated for sesame (30 cm × 15 cm, 45 cm × 10 cm, 60 cm × 10 cm, and paired rows) and chickpea (30 cm × 10 cm, 45 cm × 7 cm, 60 cm × 7 cm, and bed planting). Application of FYM significantly improved growth, yield attributes and seed yield of sesame and chickpea compared to the control, whereas the addition of NFCs along with FYM did not further enhance these parameters significantly during both the years. Paired row sowing followed by (fb) bed formation led to notably higher seed yield in sesame, while chickpea sown at 30 cm × 10 cm spacing achieved the highest seed yield, statistically equivalent to sowing at 45 cm × 7 cm and bed planting. The most productive system, recorded a sesame equivalent yield of 18.1 q/ha, net returns of ₹1,06,224/ha, and a benefit cost (B:C) ratio of 1.51, achieved through paired row sowing of sesame and bed planting of chickpea. Conclusively, the optimized organic nutrition and planting geometry significantly enhanced the productivity and profitability of the sesame-chickpea cropping system, with paired row sowing and bed planting emerging as the most effective strategies.

Sustainability of athletic field turf comparing organic and synthetic practices under two heights of cut

AbstractLong‐term comparisons over several years between organic and synthetic management are lacking in sports turf research. Our objective was to investigate playing surface qualities and soil properties over an 8‐year period. For this trial, Kentucky bluegrass (KBG, Poa pratensis L.) sod was established and annually inter‐seeded with perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) and KBG. Factors included height of cut (3.2 and 6.4 cm) and management systems (MSs; synthetic and organic) with three replicates. Synthetic practices included chemical fertilizers and pesticides, while the organic system used hand‐weeding and biological fertilizers (leaf compost and naturally derived organics) with biological controls. In all years, wear was simulated in the fall using a slip‐wear machine and evaluated for playing qualities including visual wear tolerance, ball bounce (BB), surface hardness, and traction. Soil properties were evaluated in some years including pH, soil organic matter (SOM), soil bulk density, soil aggregate stability (SAG), and soil available P. Both MS received the same total N of 196 kg ha−1 year−1 but P applied varied with the MS (synthetic, 7.6 kg ha−1 year−1; organic, 23.2 kg ha−1 year−1). Synthetic practices provided acceptable visual wear tolerance (1–9, ≥6 acceptable) in 4 of 8 years compared to only 1 year for organic practices. Shorter cut grass (3.2 cm) consistently provided better visual wear tolerance (average = 5.6), harder surfaces (average = 51 g), and higher BB (average = 35.8%) consistent with accepted player standards. Synthetic practices afforded better tolerance to wear compared to organic practices in 5 of 8 years but little difference was observed in the other surface properties. Organic practices were consistently above 6.0 in soil pH (higher by 12%), 20% higher in soil available P, 25% higher in SOM, and with lower soil bulk density. SAG was higher following 8 years of simulated traffic by the last year of the test under organic practices. Results suggest competing benefits with synthetic practices affording better wear tolerance while organic practices promote better soil health.

Real-world pharmacovigilance analysis of galsulfase: a study based on the FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS) database

BackgroundAssociated with enzyme deficiencies causing glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) accumulation, mucopolysaccharidosis type VI (MPS VI) is lysosomal storage disorder. In the treatment of MPS VI, galsulfase (Naglazyme) is commonly used as an enzyme replacement therapy (ERT). There remains a need for comprehensive real-world data on its safety and associated adverse events (AEs).ObjectiveAn analysis of the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database will be conducted to identify potential risks and adverse reactions associated with galsulfase in real-life settings.MethodsThe FAERS database was used to extract data from Q2 2005 to Q4 2023. A total of 20,281,876 reports were analyzed after duplicate elimination, with 3,195 AE reports related to galsulfase identified. The association between galsulfase and AEs was investigated by utilizing four algorithms: reporting odds ratio (ROR), proportional reporting ratio (PRR), Bayesian confidence propagation neural network (BCPNN), and multi-item gamma Poisson shrinker (MGPS). The analysis focused on the timing of onset, signs of AEs, and clinical significance.ResultsTwenty seven organ systems were involved, and significant system organ classes (SOCs) included respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders, and infections and infestations. At the PT level, 72 PTs corresponding to 15 SOCs were identified, with some AEs not previously mentioned in the product label. AEs associated with galsulfase had a median onset time of 1,471 days, with over half of the cases occurred within the first 5 years of treatment initiation.ConclusionThis investigation delivers an exhaustive and indicative assessment of galsulfase’s safety profile, grounded in authentic, real-world evidence. The findings emphasis the importance of continuous safety surveillance and the emergence of new AEs. The identification of previously unreported urologic adverse events, such as glomerulonephritis membranous and nephritic syndrome, warrants further investigation. The study emphasizes the need for enhanced pharmacovigilance to ensure patient safety and the effectiveness of galsulfase treatment.

Nighttime Applications of Germicidal UV Light to Suppress Cercospora Leaf Spot in Table Beet.

Cercospora leaf spot (CLS), caused by the hemibiotrophic fungus Cercospora beticola, is a destructive disease affecting table beet. Multiple applications of fungicides are needed to reduce epidemic progress to maintain foliar health and enable mechanized harvest. The sustainability of CLS control is threatened by the rapid development of fungicide resistance, the need to grow commercially acceptable yet CLS-susceptible cultivars, and the inability to manipulate agronomic conditions to mitigate disease risk. Nighttime applications of germicidal UV light (UV-C) have recently been used to suppress several plant diseases, notably those caused by ectoparasitic biotrophs such as powdery mildews. We evaluated the efficacy of nighttime applications of UV-C for suppression of CLS in table beet. In vitro lethality of UV-C to germinating conidia increased with increasing dose, with complete suppression at 1,000 J/m2. Greenhouse-grown table beet tolerated relatively high doses of UV-C without lethal effects despite some bronzing on the leaf blade. A UV-C dose >1,500 J/m2 resulted in phytotoxicity severities greater than 50%. UV-C exposure to ≤750 J/m2 resulted in negligible phytotoxicity. Older (6-week-old) greenhouse-grown plants were more susceptible to UV-C damage than younger (2- and 4-week-old) plants. Suppression of CLS by UV-C was greater when applied within 6 days of C. beticola inoculation than if delayed until 13 days after infection in greenhouse-grown plants. In field trials, there were significant linear relationships between UV-C dose and CLS control and phytotoxicity severity, and a significant negative linear relationship between phytotoxicity and CLS severity at the final assessment. Significant differences between UV-C doses on the severity of CLS and phytotoxicity indicated an efficacious dose near 800 J/m2. Collectively, these findings illustrate significant and substantial suppression by nighttime applications of UV-C for CLS control on table beet, with potential for incorporation in both conventional and organic table beet broadacre production systems.

Signal mining and gender differences analysis of adverse events in NMIBC treatment with gemcitabine and BCG bladder instillation based on the FAERS database

ABSTRACT Objective To explore safety differences and perform a gender-based analysis of adverse events related to gemcitabine and Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine using the U.S. FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database. Methods Using the Reporting Odds Ratio (ROR) and Proportional Reporting Ratio (PRR) methods, adverse events associated with gemcitabine and BCG were mined from FAERS database reports spanning from Q1 2004 to Q3 2023. Results The study extracted 37,855 reports with gemcitabine and 5,455 reports with BCG as the primary suspected drugs. Adverse events were more prevalent in males (male-to-female ratio: gemcitabine 1.10, BCG 4.25). Differences in high-frequency adverse events among the top 20 signals were detected for both drugs. Both drugs affected similar organ systems, including potential pulmonary, ocular, and renal toxicity, with gemcitabine showing a broader range of adverse events. Gender analysis revealed fewer adverse reactions to gemcitabine in females, while males had fewer adverse reactions to BCG. Conclusion Differences in high-frequency adverse events between gemcitabine and BCG, including some not listed on drug labels, were observed. Both drugs affect similar organ systems, with gemcitabine showing a broader range of adverse events. Gender differences in adverse events were notable.

Ameliorative effects of mesenchymal stromal cells on senescence associated phenotypes in naturally aged rats

BackgroundAging is a multifaceted process that affects all organ systems. With the increasing trend of population aging, aging-related diseases have resulted in significant medical challenges and socioeconomic burdens. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), due to their antioxidative stress, immunoregulatory, and tissue repair capabilities, hold promise as a potential anti-aging intervention.MethodsIn this study, we transplanted MSCs into naturally aged rats at 24 months, and subsequently examined levels of aging-related factors such as β-galactosidase, superoxide dismutase, p16, p21 and malondialdehyde in multiple organs. Additionally, we assessed various aging-related phenotypes in these aged rats, including immune senescence, lipid deposition, myocardial fibrosis, and tissue damage. We also conducted a 16 S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) analysis to study the composition of gut microbiota.ResultsThe results indicated that MSCs significantly reduced the levels of aging-associated and oxidative stress-related factors in multiple organs such as the heart, liver, and lungs of naturally aging rats. Furthermore, they mitigated chronic tissue damage and inflammation caused by aging, reduced levels of liver lipid deposition and myocardial fibrosis, alleviated aging-associated immunodeficiency and immune cell apoptosis, and positively influenced the gut microbiota composition towards a more youthful state. This research underscores the diverse anti-aging effects of MSCs, including oxidative stress reduction, tissue repair, metabolic regulation, and improvement of immune functions, shedding light on the underlying anti-aging mechanisms associated with MSCs.ConclusionsThe study confirms that MSCs hold great promise as a potential anti-aging approach, offering the possibility of extending lifespan and improving the quality of life in the elderly population.

The Benefits of Physical Activity for Patients with Cystic Fibrosis: A Literature Review

Introduction Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a complex and progressive genetic disorder that significantly impacts multiple organ systems, particularly the lungs and digestive tract. Despite advances in treatment and improved life expectancy, CF remains incurable, necessitating ongoing research and comprehensive management strategies. One of the key components in managing CF is the incorporation of physical activity (PA). Aim of the study The aim of the study is to investigate the role of physical activity in in the management of cystic fibrosis. Materials and methods This study underscores the critical role of physical activity (PA) in the management and overall well-being of individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF). It provides a comprehensive review of the multifaceted benefits of PA for CF patients, highlighting its positive impact on exercise tolerance, pulmonary function, cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, and quality of life. PubMed and Google Scholar database was searched for articles written in English. The search included the keywords. Results The data suggest that while CF patients face unique challenges, including muscle weakness and exercise intolerance, regular PA can mitigate these effects and improve overall health outcomes. Supervised exercise programs have demonstrated significant improvements in exercise tolerance and respiratory muscle endurance without adverse effects, indicating their feasibility and safety for CF patients. Studies have shown that patients with CF who engage in regular PA experience slower declines in lung function, fewer hospitalizations, and better nutritional status. Specific types of exercise, such as anaerobic training, have been particularly effective in increasing muscle strength and body weight.

Recent trends in AI applications for pelvic MRI: a comprehensive review.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an essential tool for evaluating pelvic disorders affecting the prostate, bladder, uterus, ovaries, and/or rectum. Since the diagnostic pathway of pelvic MRI can involve various complex procedures depending on the affected organ, the Reporting and Data System (RADS) is used to standardize image acquisition and interpretation. Artificial intelligence (AI), which encompasses machine learning and deep learning algorithms, has been integrated into both pelvic MRI and the RADS, particularly for prostate MRI. This review outlines recent developments in the use of AI in various stages of the pelvic MRI diagnostic pathway, including image acquisition, image reconstruction, organ and lesion segmentation, lesion detection and classification, and risk stratification, with special emphasis on recent trends in multi-center studies, which can help to improve the generalizability of AI.

Multiorgan biological age shows that no organ system is an island.

Multiorgan biological age shows that no organ system is an island.

Performance and Sustainability of Organic and Conventional Cotton Farming Systems in Egypt: An Environmental and Energy Assessment

Cotton cultivation is resource-intensive, posing significant environmental challenges, especially with conventional farming methods. Growing interest in sustainable agriculture drives the exploration of organic farming as a potential alternative with lower environmental impacts. Despite its benefits, organic farming often faces criticism for lower crop yields, sparking debates on the trade-offs between productivity and environmental impact. This study hypothesizes that organic cotton farming will have a smaller environmental footprint and higher energy efficiency compared to conventional methods. To test this hypothesis, a cradle-to-farm gate energy analysis and life cycle assessment (LCA) were conducted on both organic and conventional seed cotton production systems in the Beheira governorate of Egypt. The ReCiPe 2016 midpoint and endpoint characterization model was used for an environmental impact assessment. The impacts were evaluated using two functional units: one ton of seed cotton and one hectare of cultivated cotton. The findings revealed that organic cotton outperforms conventional cotton in net energy gain, efficiency, and profitability, with higher productivity and lower energy intensity. Regardless of the functional unit used (mass- or land-based), the assessed organic systems generally show a better environmental performance than the conventional systems in the local context, even when accounting for data uncertainty. This is due to lower input intensity and the use of less energy-intensive organic fertilizers and bio-fertilizers. Fertilization and irrigation are key factors influencing environmental impacts, with fertilization affecting midpoint impacts and irrigation affecting endpoint impacts. Therefore, precision fertilization, efficient irrigation practices, and effective nutrient and soil moisture management are recommended to minimize environmental impacts. Subsequent studies could explore whether similar patterns are observed in different geographic regions and evaluate additional social and economic aspects of cotton sustainability beyond environmental impacts. Future agricultural LCAs should use both mass-based and area-based functional units to capture a broader range of environmental effects and evaluate the co-benefits and trade-offs between organic and conventional practices.

Extrarenal manifestations in inherited kidney diseases.

Monogenic kidney diseases result from an abundance of potential genes carrying pathogenic variants. These conditions are primarily recognized for manifesting as kidney disorders, defined as an impairment of the structure and/or function of the kidneys. However, the impact of these genetic disorders extends far beyond the kidneys, giving rise to a diverse spectrum of extrarenal manifestations. These manifestations can affect any organ system throughout the body, leading to a complex clinical presentation that demands a comprehensive understanding and interdisciplinary management of affected persons. The intricate interplay between genetic variants, molecular pathways, and systemic interactions underscores the importance of exploring the extrarenal aspects of inherited kidney diseases. This exploration not only deepens our comprehension of the diseases themselves but also opens avenues for more holistic diagnostics, treatment strategies, and improved interdisciplinary patient care. This article delves into the intricate realm of extrarenal manifestations in inherited kidney diseases, shedding light on the far-reaching impacts that these genetic conditions can exert beyond the confines of the kidney system.

The long-chain polyfluorinated alkyl substance perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS) promotes bone marrow adipogenesis

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) bioaccumulate in different organ systems, including bone. While existing research highlights the adverse impact of PFAS on bone density, a critical gap remains in understanding the specific effects on the bone marrow microenvironment, especially the bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT). Changes in BMAT have been linked to various health consequences, such as the development of osteoporosis and the progression of metastatic tumors in bone. Studies presented herein demonstrate that exposure to a mixture of five environmentally relevant PFAS compounds promotes marrow adipogenesis in vitro and in vivo. We show that among the components of the mixture, PFHxS, an alternative to PFOS, has the highest propensity to accumulate in bone and effectively promote marrow adipogenesis. Utilizing RNAseq approaches, we identified the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling as a top pathway modulated by PFHxS exposure. Furthermore, we provide results suggesting the activation and involvement of PPAR-gamma (PPARγ) in PFHxS-mediated bone marrow adipogenesis, especially in combination with high-fat diet. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate the potential impact of elevated PFHxS levels, particularly in occupational settings, on bone health, and specifically bone marrow adiposity. This study contributes new insights into the health risks of PFHxS exposure, urging further research on the relationship between environmental factors, diet, and adipose tissue dynamics.

Methodological Solutions for Predicting Energy Efficiency of Organic Rankine Cycle Waste Heat Recovery Systems Considering Technological Constraints

Methodological Solutions for Predicting Energy Efficiency of Organic Rankine Cycle Waste Heat Recovery Systems Considering Technological Constraints