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Little research has been conducted to examine the influence of various methods of providing nest materials-such as dispersing them, providing them as single units, or clustering them-on the behavior and welfare of group-housed mice. In this study, 6 wk-old C57BL/6NCrl mice were housed 3 per cage and randomized into 1 of 3 nest-material groups: 1) one facial tissue per cage (control; female mice, 3 cages; male mice, 3 cages); 2) an 8-g 'puck' of compressed nesting material and a facial tissue (females, 3 cages; males, 3 cages); or 3) 8 g of dispersed paper strips and a facial tissue (females, 3 cages; males, 3 cages). Mouse behavior (agonistic, stereotypic, nesting), physical examination data, and nest scores were evaluated over 16 d. The results showed that mice in the puck and control groups spent more time manipulating nest materials after cage changes than did mice in the paper-strip group. Average nest scores were highest in the paper-strip group compared with controls and puck cages. Female cages with pucks showed no barbering, whereas all other female mice cages demonstrated barbering. Overall, nest pucks may provide a time-consuming activity for mice and may help protect female C57BL/6 mice from barbering. However, more research is needed to replicate and expand these study results.

Introduction: The current study aimed at investigating the existence of the cross state-dependent learning between morphine and scopolamine (SCO) in mice by passive avoidance method, pointing to the role of CA1 area. Methods: The effects of pre-training SCO (0.75, 1.5, and 3 μg, Intra-CA1), or morphine (1, 3, and 6 mg/kg, intraperitoneal (i.p.) was evaluated on the retrieval of passive avoidance learning using step-down task in mice (n=10). Then, the effect of pretest administration of morphine (1.5, 3, and 6 mg/kg, i.p.) was examined on passive avoidance retrieval impairment induced by pre-training SCO (3 μg/mice, Intra-CA1). Next, the effect of pretest Intra-CA1 injection of scopolamine (0.75, 1.5, and 3 μg/mice) was evaluated on morphine (6 mg/kg, i.p.) pre-training deficits in this task in mice. Results: The pre-training Intra-CA1 injection of scopolamine (1.5 and 3 μg/mouse), or morphine (3 and 6 mg/kg, i.p.) impaired the avoidance memory retrieval when it was tested 24 hours later. Pretest injection of both drugs improved its pre-training impairing effects on mice memory. Moreover, the amnesia induced by the pre-training injections of scopolamine (3 μg/mice) was restored significantly (P

Objectives: This study aimed to elucidate the connection between osteoclastic forkhead transcription factor O1 (FoxO1) and periodontitis and explore the underlying mechanism by which FoxO1 knockdown regulates osteoclast formation. Materials and Methods: A conventional ligature‐induced periodontitis model was constructed to reveal the alterations in the proportion of osteoclastic FoxO1 in periodontitis via immunofluorescence staining. Additionally, RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) was performed to explore the underlying mechanisms of FoxO1 knockdown‐mediated osteoclastogenesis, followed by western blotting, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Results: FoxO1+ osteoclasts were enriched in the alveolar bone in experimental periodontitis. Moreover, FoxO1 knockdown led to impaired osteoclastogenesis with low expression of osteoclast differentiation‐related genes, accompanied by an insufficient osteoclast maturation phenotype. Mechanistically, RNA‐seq revealed that the nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) and nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain‐like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome signaling pathways were inhibited in FoxO1‐knockdown osteoclasts. Consistent with this, MCC950, an effective inhibitor of the NLRP3 inflammasome, substantially attenuated osteoclast formation. Conclusions: FoxO1 knockdown contributed to the inhibition of osteoclastogenesis by effectively suppressing NF‐κB signaling and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. This prospective study reveals the role of FoxO1 in mediating osteoclastogenesis and provides a viable therapeutic target for periodontitis treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There is evidence indicating that the rate of AD is lower in curry consuming populations. Then, there is an effort to elucidate if curcumin -as the main ingredient of turmericmight affect the process of AD. However, in clinical trials of AD, a six-month curcumin treatment failed to show any progress, which might be attributable to its low bioavailability. In this line, a recent human study revealed that a more bioavailable solid lipid curcumin enhances cognition in aged adults. By the application of Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA), the current study aimed at converting curcumin to nano sizes and assessing its protective effects against scopolamine-induced passive avoidance memory retrieval deficit. Methods: Nanocurcumin was prepared via dissolution method. Male NMRI mice (20-25 g body weight) were used. The effective doses of nanocurcumin were selected according to the initial pilot test. The mice were treated with nanocurcumin 15 or 20 mg/kg/p.o or distilled water for 10 days. The animals were habituated and trained in passive avoidance apparatus on the day 10. The retention test was performed 24 hours later. Scopolamine (1 mg/kg/i.p.) or saline was injected 30 minutes before memory retention trial. Results: The findings indicated that nanocurcumin in doses 15 or 20 mg/kg/p.o prevented the retrieval deficit induced by scopolamine while natural curcumin in its equivalent doses did not have such an effect. Furthermore, nanocurcumin by itself improved memory retention comparing with the control group. Conclusion: These findings implied that the potential anti-amnesic effects of curcumin might be observed by producing and using its nanoformulation form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to greatly decrease the use of physical devices. To achieve this, the approach of humancomputer interaction was employed, implementing a system that uses only finger movements to control the mouse pointer on the screen without relying on any hardware like a physical mouse. This system uses OpenCV as a medium for input obtained from a live camera and uses media pipe models to convert plane inputs from OpenCV into useful data, which is more efficient compared to traditional models like object and color detection. Along with the contactless mouse, this paper also implemented a voice system to support the contactless mouse in its activation and deactivation. This is achieved with the help of modules like speech recognition and PyAudio. This system also assists the user with simple tasks, such as opening Google or browsing content. By combining both voice recognition and a contactless mouse using hand movements, the system was converted into a seemingly contactless device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hemorrhage can occur as a consequence of innumerable conditions. It can lead to hemodynamic compromise and death unless treated promptly. Various traditional medicinal plants are being studied for their effects on hemostasis. Justicia adhatoda is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to control both external and internal bleeding such as peptic ulcers, piles, bleeding gums, and menorrhagia. Objective: The objective of this study was to observe the effect of Justicia adhatoda leaf extract on bleeding time in mice. Methods: An experimental study was conducted at PGMI, Lahore. Twenty Swiss albino mice were randomly divided to make four groups. Each group had five animals. Normal saline was administered to Group (I). Group (II) was given 50 mg/kg dose of leaf extract. Group (III) received 100 mg/kg dose of extract and Group (IV) was given 200 mg/kg dose of extract. One hour later, the tail was amputated after anesthetizing the animals. Bleeding time was estimated by gently placing Whatman filter paper on the edge of the incision every 30 seconds. The observation of no adherent blood was defined as bleeding time. Results: Bleeding time decreased in all the extract-treated groups. A maximum decrease was recorded in the group that received 200 mg/kg extract (1.9±1.03 minutes) versus normal control (6.H2.36 minutes), with p<0.01. Bleeding time decreased to 2.6±1.39 minutes with 100 mg/kg dose, withp<0.05. Conclusion: According to the results of this study, Justicia adhatoda leaf extract is effective in controlling excessive bleeding. However, further work needs to be performed to elucidate the underlying mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objectives] To explore the difference of purgative effect of Mongolian medicine Euphorbia pekinensis and Pharbitidis Semen(black) by animal experiment, taking Euphorbia pekinensis and Pharbitidis Semen(black) as the research object. [Methods] Sixty Kunming mice were randomly divided into blank group(n=20), Euphorbia pekinensis group(n=20) and Pharbitidis Semen(black) group(n=20). After fasted but provided with free acess to drinking water for 3 d, the mice were intragastrically administered with drinking water, Euphorbia pekinensis test solution and Pharbitidis Semen(black) test solution, respectively. The mice were then placed separately in a mouse cage covered with filter paper for purgation test and intestinal propulsion test. [Results] The time of the first purgation in the Euphorbia pekinensis group and the Pharbitidis Semen(black) group was longer than that in the blank group(P<0.05). The total times of purgation and defecation within 5 h in the Euphorbia pekinensis group and the Pharbitidis Semen(black) group were higher than those in the blank group(P<0.05); the purgation index and intestinal propulsion rate in the Euphorbia pekinensis group and the Pharbitidis Semen(black) group were higher than those in the blank group(P<0.05). [Conclusions] The Mongolian medicine Euphorbia pekinensis was similar to Pharbitidis Semen(black) in purgation test and intestinal propulsion test, and could play a substitute role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The current study aimed at investigating the existence of the cross state-dependent learning between morphine and scopolamine (SCO) in mice by passive avoidance method, pointing to the role of CA1 area. Methods: The effects of pre-training SCO (0.75, 1.5, and 3 μg, Intra-CA1), or morphine (1, 3, and 6 mg/kg, intraperitoneal (i.p.) was evaluated on the retrieval of passive avoidance learning using step-down task in mice (n=10). Then, the effect of pretest administration of morphine (1.5, 3, and 6 mg/kg, i.p.) was examined on passive avoidance retrieval impairment induced by pre-training SCO (3 μg/mice, Intra-CA1). Next, the effect of pretest Intra-CA1 injection of scopolamine (0.75, 1.5, and 3 μg/mice) was evaluated on morphine (6 mg/kg, i.p.) pre-training deficits in this task in mice. Results: The pre-training Intra-CA1 injection of scopolamine (1.5 and 3 μg/mouse), or morphine (3 and 6 mg/kg, i.p.) impaired the avoidance memory retrieval when it was tested 24 hours later. Pretest injection of both drugs improved its pre-training impairing effects on mice memory. Moreover, the amnesia induced by the pre-training injections of scopolamine (3 μg/mice) was restored significantly (P<0.01) by pretest injections of morphine (3 and 6 mg/kg, i.p.). Similarly, pretest injection of scopolamine (3 μg/mice) restored amnesia induced by the pre-training injections of morphine (6 mg/kg, i.p.), significantly (P<0.01). Conclusion: The current study findings indicated a cross state-dependent learning between SCO and morphine at CA1 level. Therefore, it seems that muscarinic and opioid receptors may act reciprocally on modulation of passive avoidance memory retrieval, at the level of dorsal hippocampus, in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging is associated with substantial physiological changes and constitutes a major risk factor for neurological disorders including dementia. Alterations in gene expression upon aging have been extensively studied; however, an in-depth characterization of post-transcriptional regulatory events remains elusive. Here, we profiled the age-related changes of the transcriptome and translatome in the female mouse hippocampus by RNA sequencing of total RNA and polysome preparations at four ages (3-, 6-, 12-, 20-month-old); and we implemented a variety of bioinformatics approaches to unravel alterations in transcript abundance, alternative splicing, and polyadenylation site selection. We observed mostly wellcoordinated transcriptome and translatome expression signatures across age including upregulation of transcripts related to immune system processes and neuroinflammation, though transcripts encoding ribonucleoproteins or associated with mitochondrial functions, calcium signaling and the cell-cycle displayed substantial discordant profiles, suggesting translational control associated with age-related deficits in hippocampal-dependent behavior. By contrast, alternative splicing was less preserved, increased with age and was associated with distinct functionally-related transcripts encoding proteins acting at synapses/dendrites, RNA-binding proteins; thereby predicting regulatory roles for RBM3 and CIRBP. Only minor changes in polyadenylation site selection were identified, indicating pivotal 3'-end selection in young adults compared to older groups. Overall, our study provides a comprehensive resource of age-associated post-transcriptional regulatory events in the mouse hippocampus, enabling further examination of the molecular features underlying age-associated neurological diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evlalate hepatoprotective effects of Zingiber officinale extract against acetaminophen- induced hepatotoxicity. Methods: B. preparation of Zingiber officinale extract. Maceration Method: In this method fresh ginger rhizome was cut into small peices, dried and then pulverized into coarse powder and weighing about 400 g of powder. It was macerated in 1000 ml hydroalcoholic solution (70%) Ethanol, 30% distilled water) for seventy two hours. The extract was then shaked, filtered by using filter paper and the solution was evaporated in a rotatory evaporator under reduced pressure until dryness. In this experiment mice of either sex weighing 25-30g were divided into three groups, each consisting of seven mice. The animals were fasted for twelve hours prior to the experiment with free access to water. 1. Control group: given normal saline containing 0.5 % Tween-80 (orally) in a dose of 1ml each mice. 2. Extract group: given hydroalcoholic extract of ginger in a dose of (300mg/kg ip) for 14 days followed by acetaminophen (300mg/kg i.p) on the 15th day from starting of the extract. 3. Acetaminophen group: given acetaminophen in single (i.p) injection of 300mg/kg. By the end of 24hr following the injection of acetaminophen, the number of death in each group was calculated, all animals were fasted for 18 hrs. before sacrifice. The collected blood used for measurement of liver transaminases and the livers were isolated, fixed in 10% formalin for histopathological analysis. Results: As present in this figure the levels of AST where 142± 8.95, 90.66±16.54, 471±80.84 unit/ ml in control, Zingiber officinale+ acetaminophen and acetaminophen treated group, whereas the level of ALT were 57.2±4.61, 31.66±9.36, 402±105.19 unit/ml in animal receiving the previously mentioned treatment respectively. By using one way ANOV and Post Hoc analysis, the level of AST and ALT was higher in acetaminophen treated group compared to the other group p≤ 0.001. Histological studies also provided evidence for the biochemical analysis . The control and Zingiber officinale treated groups showed the normal hepatocytes, portal tracts and central vein figure (A). Centrizonal necrosis accompanied by fatty changes were observed in the hepatocytes in the livers of mice in acetaminophen treated group figure (B).(C). The cellular necrosis was almost completely disappearing in the group treated with Zingiber officinale + acetaminophen groups figure (D). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

About 35% reduction in cancer deaths among patients having solid tumors is related to using aspirin, which encouraged us to develop a new specific tumor diagnostic radiopharmaceutical agent. This can be done by direct labeling of aspirin with technetium-99m using stannous chloride as a reductant at pH 9. At this pH, aspirin is saponificated to salicylate ions. Salicylate binds to pertechenetate to form 99mTc salicylate complex. The radiochemical yield (RCY, %) of 99mTc-salicylate complex obtained from aspirin was determined using paper chromatography, electrophoresis, and HPLC and was found to reach 90.2%. The 99mTc salicylate complex obtained from aspirin was stable for up to 5 h. The tumor uptake of the 99mTc salicylate complex obtained from aspirin was determined by ex-vivo study in tumor-bearing mice. This study showed that 99mTc salicylate complex was concentrated in tumor sites (ascites or solid), allowing tumor radioimaging. High target/non-target (tumor muscles/normal muscles) uptake ratio shows that 99mTc salicylate complex can be utilized for early detection of solid tumors. Molecular modeling and docking study conofirm the possibility of using the radiolabeled 99mTc salicylate complex for specific cancer imaging in binding with epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Schizophrenia is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder of unclear etiology. The strongest known genetic risk factor is the 22q11.2 microdeletion. Research has yet to confirm which genes within the deletion region are implicated in schizophrenia. The minimal 1.5 megabase deletion contains MIR185, which encodes microRNA 185. Methods: We determined miR-185 expression in embryonic and adult mouse brains. Common and rare variants at this locus were then investigated using a human genetics approach. First, we performed gene-based analyses for MIR185 common variants and target genes using Psychiatric Genomics Consortium genome-wide association data. Second, MIR185 was resequenced in German patients (n = 1000) and controls (n = 500). We followed up promising variants by genotyping an additional European sample (patients, n = 3598; controls, n = 4082). Results: In situ hybridization in mice revealed miR-185 expression in brain regions implicated in schizophrenia. Gene-based tests revealed association between common variants in 3 MIR185 target genes (ATAT1, SH3PXD2A, NTRK3) and schizophrenia. Further analyses in mice revealed overlapping expression patterns for these target genes and miR185. Resequencing identified 2 rare patient-specific novel variants flanking MIR185. However, follow-up genotyping provided no further evidence of their involvement in schizophrenia. Limitations: Power to detect rare variant associations was limited. Conclusion: Human genetic analyses generated no evidence of the involvement of MIR185 in schizophrenia. However, the expression patterns of miR-185 and its target genes in mice, and the genetic association results for the 3 target genes, suggest that further research into the involvement of miR-185 and its downstream pathways in schizophrenia is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2021, we published three papers related to the anti-inflammatory effects of food ingredients. The present paper reports the effects of vitamin E homologs and sweet basil powder. In these papers, we investigated whether inflammation occurs in the adipose tissue of mice fed a high-fat and high-sucrose diet for 16 weeks. Inflammatory cytokine gene expression was significantly higher in the epididymal fat of the high-fat and high-sucrose diet group than in that of the control diet group. However, the addition of α-tocopherol or δ-tocopherol to the diet could not restrain the inflammation of mice epididymal fats. Thereafter, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of α- and δ-tocopherols using the co-cultured cells. Consequently, we clarified that δ-tocopherol inhibited the increase in the gene expressions of inflammatory cytokines. We also examined the effect of sweet basil powder on a similar obese mice model. The final body weight in the high-fat and high-sucrose group that received sweet basil powder was significantly lower than that in the high-fat and high-sucrose diet group. Liver weights were also significantly lower in the high-fat and high-sucrose diet group that received sweet basil powder than in the high-fat and high-sucrose diet group, although adipose tissue weights were unchanged in both groups. Furthermore, sweet basil powder tended to inhibit in lipid synthesis in the mice livers. Therefore, we suggested that sweet basil powder inhibited fatty acid synthesis in mice livers, thereby suppressing liver enlargement, and resulting in body weight loss. Moreover, the gene expression of MCP-1 in the adipose tissue of mice fed a high-fat and high-sucrose diet added with sweet basil powder was significantly lower than that of mice fed a high-fat and high-sucrose diet for 12 weeks. Therefore, sweet basil powder inhibited inflammation onset in the adipose tissue of mice. Taken together, the results suggested that food ingredients, especially vitamin E homologs and sweet basil powder, have anti-inflammatory effects on mice adipose tissue and mice adipocyte-induced inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, as the non-face-to-face society persists due to the coronavirus (COVID-19), the Internet usage rate continues to increase, and input devices, such as keyboards and mice, are mainly used to authenticate users in non-face-to-face environments. Due to the nature of the non-face-to-face environment, important personal data are processed, and since these personal data include authentication information, it is very important to protect them. As such, personal information, including authentication information, is entered mainly from the keyboard, and attackers use attack tools, such as keyloggers, to steal keyboard data in order to grab sensitive user information. Therefore, to prevent disclosure of sensitive keyboard input, various image-based user authentication technologies have emerged that allow sensitive information, such as authentication information, to be entered via mouse. To address mouse data stealing vulnerabilities via GetCursorPos() function or WM_INPUT message, which are representative mouse data attack techniques, a mouse data defense technique has emerged that prevents attackers from classifying real mouse data and fake mouse data by the defender generating fake mouse data. In this paper, we propose a mouse data attack technique using machine learning against a mouse data defense technique using the WM_INPUT message. The proposed technique uses machine learning models to classify fake mouse data and real mouse data in a scenario where the mouse data defense technique, utilizing the WM_INPUT message in image-based user authentication, is deployed. This approach is verified through experiments designed to assess its effectiveness in preventing the theft of real mouse data, which constitute the user's authentication information. For verification purposes, a mouse data attack system was configured, and datasets for machine learning were established by collecting mouse data from the configured attack system. To enhance the performance of machine learning classification, evaluations were conducted based on data organized according to various machine learning models, datasets, features, and generation cycles. The results, highlighting the highest performance in terms of features and datasets were derived. If the mouse data attack technique proposed in this paper is used, attackers can potentially steal the user's authentication information from various websites or services, including software, systems, and servers that rely on authentication information. It is anticipated that attackers may exploit the stolen authentication information for additional damages, such as voice phishing. In the future, we plan to conduct research on defense techniques aimed at securely protecting mouse data, even if the mouse data attack technique proposed in this paper is attempted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lewis serologic reagents frequently give inaccurate phenotyping results. Furthermore these serologic reagents are often used in nonserologic assays such as inhibition and immunohistochemistry. In both scenarios knowledge of the fine specificity and cross-reactivity of these reagents will improve the quality of results obtained.Study Design and Methods: A range of contemporary and historical workshop and developmental Lewis reagents including mouse monoclonal (MoAb) and human and goat polyclonal (PoAb) reagents were evaluated. All were evaluated both against Lewis kodecytes expressing only single Le(a) , Le(b) , ALe(b) , BLe(b) , Le(x) , Le(y) , ALe(y) , or BLe(y) antigens and against the same antigens inkjet printed on a paper-based microplate and analyzed by enzyme immunoassay. Nine clinical samples were also evaluated. A kodecyte antigen dilution sensitivity assay was used to establish the ratio of Le(b) antigen between group A1 /A2 and O RBCs.Results: A continuum of cross-reactivity from Le(x) through to H was observed with MoAbs. All PoAb and few MoAb anti-Le(a) samples and reagents cross-reacted to some degree with Le(b) antigen. Some PoAb and MoAb anti-Le(b) did not cross-react with Le(a) . All polyclonal goat anti-Le(b) reagents showed substantial activity against ALe(b) and BLe(b) , while no MoAb reagent had this activity. A1 RBCs had less than half the Le(b) antigen of A2 /O RBCs.Conclusions: Substantial cross-reactivity of both MoAbs and PoAbs with related antigens highlights the risks of using serologic reagents in nonserologic assays or against synthetic antigens. The lack of ALe(b) activity in anti-Le(b) MoAbs explains their poor performance against blood group A1 Le(a-b+) phenotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Caatinga is an exclusively Brazilian biome, and is the largest and most biodiverse Seasonal Tropical Dry Forest in the world. Despite that, the mammalian fauna, especially small mammals, is the least studied of all Brazilian biomes. In order to fill gaps and provide detailed information on small mammals (Didelphimorphia, Rodentia) in the Caatinga biome, we compiled reliable records focusing on richness, composition and some biometric data. These records came from mammal collections, papers, theses, books, and unpublished data, prioritizing records with vouchers housed in scientific collections. We compiled a total of 3133 records from 816 locations, resulting in a richness of 47 native species (12 marsupials and 35 rodents, plus three exotic rodents, Rattus rattus, Rattus norvegicus, and Mus musculus). This dataset includes records of three new species for the biome and its transition zone: the rodents Calomys mattevii, Holochilus oxe, and Nectomys squamipes. Of the total number of records, 1808 (57.71%) are from consulting activities, 95 (3.03%) are from zoonoses studies and 104 (3.32%) are from the National Plague Service (SNP). All nine Brazilian states with territory in the Caatinga have sampling data for small mammals, but the number of records and localities are unevenly distributed, with the state of Rio Grande do Norte having the lowest number of records and locations sampled. Our dataset is the first of its kind for the Caatinga biome and has considerable potential value for studies of habitat use, landscape ecology, macroecology, biogeography, and conservation. There are no copyright restrictions on the data. Please cite this data paper when the data are used in publications. We also request that researchers and teachers inform us of how they are using the data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adenostemma lavenia is a perennial herb belonging to the Compositae family and is widely distributed in the tropical parts of Asia. It has been widely used as medicine in Taiwan with the whole plant used to treat pulmonary congestion, pneumonia, bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, edema, and inflammation. This study sought to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of A. lavenia in vitro and in animal models. The anti-inflammatory effects of ethyl acetate fractions of A. lavenia (EAAL) were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) murine macrophages (RAW 264.7) and lung injury in mice. EAAL reduced proinflammatory cytokine responses. Preoral EAAL alleviated LPS-induced histological alterations in lung tissue and inhibited the infiltration of inflammatory cells and protein concentrations in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). EAAL prevented protein expression of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2); phosphorylation of I κ B- α , MAPKs, and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK); and activated anti-oxidant enzymes (catalase, SOD, and GPx), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in LPS-stimulated cells and lung tissues. Fingerprinting of EAAL was performed with HPLC to control its quality, and p -coumaric acid was found to be a major constituent. This study suggests that EAAL is a potential therapeutic agent to treat inflammatory disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ARID1B, a chromatin remodeler, is strongly implicated in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Two previous studies on Arid1b-mutant mice with the same exon 5 deletion in different genetic backgrounds revealed distinct synaptic phenotypes underlying the behavioral abnormalities: The first paper reported decreased inhibitory synaptic transmission in layer 5 pyramidal neurons in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) region of the heterozygous Arid1b-mutant (Arid1b+/-) brain without changes in excitatory synaptic transmission. In the second paper, in contrast, we did not observe any inhibitory synaptic change in layer 5 mPFC pyramidal neurons, but instead saw decreased excitatory synaptic transmission in layer 2/3 mPFC pyramidal neurons without any inhibitory synaptic change. In the present report, we show that when we changed the genetic background of Arid1b+/- mice from C57BL/6 N to C57BL/6 J, to mimic the mutant mice of the first paper, we observed both the decreased inhibitory synaptic transmission in layer 5 mPFC pyramidal neurons reported in the first paper, and the decreased excitatory synaptic transmission in mPFC layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons reported in the second paper. These results suggest that genetic background can be a key determinant of the inhibitory synaptic phenotype in Arid1b-mutant mice while having minimal effects on the excitatory synaptic phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An important step in brain image analysis is to divide specific brain regions by matching brain slices to standard brain reference atlases, and perform statistical analysis on the labeled neurons in each brain region. Taking mouse fluorescently labeled brain slices as an example, due to the noise and distortion introduced during the preparation of brain slices, and the modal differences with standard brain atlas, the brain slices cannot directly establish an accurate one-to-one correspondence with the brain atlas, which in turn affects the accuracy of the number of labeled neurons in each brain region. This paper introduces the idea of image representation, uses neural networks to realize the registration of different modal mouse brain slices and brain atlas, completes the regional localization of the brain slices, and uses threshold segmentation to detect and count the labeled neurons in each brain region. The method proposed in this paper can effectively solve the problem of large deviation of neurons count caused by the inaccurate division of brain regions in large deformed brain slices, and can automatically realize accurate count of labeled neurons in each brain region of brain slices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our research examined the nest-building characteristics of two mouse species native to Hungary, the mound-building mouse (Mus spicilegus) and the house mouse (Mus musculus), under laboratory housing conditions. In indoor housing, the nest-building material plays a very important role in the welfare of the animals. The present study examined how wild mouse species choose from natural nest material. In a three-way test, mice were able to choose whether to make their nest from long blades of hay, nonfibrous cotton, or paper strips. In addition, the effect of nest composition on its quality was also investigated. The test was run at the standard laboratory (21 °C) and lower (10 °C) temperatures, assuming that temperature influences the choice. Based on the results of the three-way selection tests, both species of wild mice chose hay nest material in the highest proportion, and it was also found that the increasing the hay proportion coincided with better nest quality. Mice kept in colder places used more hay nest material for their nests and built better quality nests. Our results show that wild mouse species prefer natural nest-building materials that meet their ecological needs even under laboratory conditions, resulting in a good quality nest. This finding is worth considering in designing appropriate enclosures for wild rodent species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chlamydia trachomatis imposes serious health problems and causes infertility. Because of asymptomatic onset, it often escapes antibiotic treatment. Therefore, vaccines offer a better option for the prevention of unwanted inflammatory sequelae. The existence of serologically distinct serovars of C. trachomatis suggests that a vaccine will need to provide protection against multiple serovars. Chlamydia spp. use a highly conserved type III secretion system (T3SS) composed of structural and effector proteins which is an essential virulence factor. In this study, we expressed the T3SS needle protein of Chlamydia muridarum, TC_0037, an ortholog of C. trachomatis CdsF, in a replication-defective adenoviral vector (AdTC_0037) and evaluated its protective efficacy in an intravaginal Chlamydia muridarum model. For better immune responses, we employed a heterologous prime-boost immunization protocol in which mice were intranasally primed with AdTC_0037 and subcutaneously boosted with recombinant TC_0037 and Toll-like receptor 4 agonist monophosphoryl lipid A mixed in a squalene nanoscale emulsion. We found that immunization with TC_0037 antigen induced specific humoral and T cell responses, decreased Chlamydia loads in the genital tract, and abrogated pathology of upper genital organs. Together, our results suggest that TC_0037, a highly conserved chlamydial T3SS protein, is a good candidate for inclusion in a Chlamydia vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graph: Figure 7 Immunization schedule and protective efficacy of immunization with LV20 in adjuvant DP against M. tuberculosis H37Ra infection. A VLP-Based Vaccine Displaying HBHA and MTP Antigens of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Induces Potentially Protective Immune Responses in M. tuberculosis H37Ra Infected Mice. After conducting an investigation in collaboration with the academic editors, the authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper: We changed the title of the paper from "A VLP-Based Vaccine Displaying HBHA and MTP Antigens of I Mycobacterium tuberculosis i Induces Protective Immune Responses in I M. tuberculosis i H37Ra Infected Mice" to "A VLP-Based Vaccine Displaying HBHA and MTP Antigens of I Mycobacterium tuberculosis i Induces Potentially Protective Immune Responses in I M. tuberculosis i H37Ra Infected Mice". [Extracted from the article]

Background: Excessive inflammation is a major cause of implant failure. The surface morphology, hydrophilicity, and loading of biomaterials are major properties modulating anti-inflammatory macrophage activation. This paper investigates the regulatory effects of modifying the surface of Titanium dioxide nanotubes (TNTs) with graphene oxide (GO) on the polarization of mouse monocyte macrophages (RAW264.7). Methods: TNT was produced by the anodic oxidation of titanium. GO was subsequently electrodeposited on the TNT to obtain a TNT–GO composite. The samples were characterised through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. RAW264.7 cells were separately seeded onto the surface of three groups of samples: pure Ti, TNT, and TNT–GO. Under the condition of lipopolysaccharide stimulation, the influence of the sample surfaces on the gene expression profiles was investigated through RNA sequence analysis. In addition, cell spreading was observed through SEM, cell adhesion and proliferation were analysed using the CCK8 assay, and the expression of inflammation-related factors was investigated by ELISA and cellular immunofluorescence staining. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the RAW264.7 cells on the surface of the three groups was detected via immunofluorescence staining. Results: The CCK8 results indicated that the adhesion and proliferation of the RAW264.7 cells were reduced on the TNT and TNT–GO surfaces. ELISA results revealed significant differences in the pro-inflammatory factors tumour necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 secretion among the three groups at 24 h (p < 0.05). The secretion of pro-inflammatory factors significantly reduced and the expression of anti-inflammatory factor IL-10 increased on the TNT and TNT–GO surfaces. The RNA sequencing, ELISA, and cell immunofluorescence staining test results suggested that the inflammatory response of M1 polarization was reduced and the M2 polarization of macrophages was induced on the TNT–GO surface, which may be attributed to the reduction in ROS production. Conclusions: Under lipopolysaccharide stimulation, the inflammatory response of the RAW264.7 cells was reduced and the M2 polarization of macrophages was promoted on the TNT–GO surface, which may be caused by the reduced ROS production. Consequently, the designed TNT–GO material is promising for implants owing to its excellent inflammation regulation ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We review the current usage of the species-group names Perognathus inornatus Merriam, 1889, for the San Joaquin Pocket Mouse and P. longimembris (Coues, 1875) for the Little Pocket Mouse. Wilfred Osgood, in two papers published 18 years apart at the beginning of the 20th Century, provided conflicting applications of these names, with his second assignments in common use since 1918. Contrary to this prevailing usage, we show that the skull of the holotype of longimembris is best allocated to the San Joaquin form, as Osgood had originally concluded in 1900. To maintain stability and universality of current usage (International Code of Zoological Nomenclature: Article 75.6), we propose a neotype from the Antelope Valley of California as a replacement for Coues's holotype of longimembris. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a detailed validation of the passive material properties of mice carotid arteries and constants of the Fung and Holzapfel hyperelastic material laws is conducted by means of static nonlinear FEM analyses. The response of the carotid arteries in an inflation test is studied here for the following mouse models: wild-type, mdx, sgcd−/−, Eln+/+, Eln+/−, Fbln5+/+, and Fbln5−/−. All FEM computations are conducted on models that have been preliminarily checked for their reliability. The results of the calculations, namely, the relation between the internal pressure and the artery outer diameter, are verified against experimental responses and the applicability of the laws is assessed. New sets of Holzapfel constitutive relation constants are proposed for Eln+/+ and Fbln5−/− mice. Finally, the problem of carotid artery buckling is also discussed. The buckling pressures of the arteries are predicted using FEM models and nonlinear static analyses. These values are compared with the reference experimental results, which allow for further validation of the constitutive relations. The research emphasizes that computations and numerical methods enable an accurate description of bioengineering processes and behaviors but only if the models used are appropriately validated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Retracted] Inhibition of RKIP aggravates thioacetamide-induced acute liver failure in mice Following an internal enquiry, the Editor of I Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine i has been able to verify the claims made by the interested reader; therefore, in view of the number of potential anomalies that have been identified and owing to a lack of overall confidence in the presented data, the Editorial Board have decided to retract the above paper from the publication. Exp Ther Med 16:2992-2998, 2018; DOI: 10.3892/etm.2018.6542 Following the publication of the above paper, an interested reader drew to our attention that a number of apparent anomalies existed with the data presented in the above paper. [Extracted from the article]

The present perspective article proposes that cachexia, muscle wasting in cancer, is mediated by dysregulated phosphate metabolism and phosphate toxicity that can damage tissues in most major organ systems. A diet high in phosphorus fed to mice deficient in klotho, a cofactor that regulates phosphate metabolism, accelerates aging, sarcopenia, general organ atrophy, kyphosis, and osteoporosis. Similar effects are seen in phenotypes of mutant p53 mice that overexpress the p53 tumor suppressor gene. Although mutant p53 mice do not develop tumors compared to wild-type mice, mutant p53 mice have shorter mean lifespans. Furthermore, tumorigenesis is associated with the sequestration of excessive inorganic phosphate, and dangerous levels of phosphate are released into circulation during tumor lysis syndrome. In total, this evidence implies that tumorigenesis may be a compensatory mechanism that provides protective effects against systemic exposure to dysregulated phosphate metabolism and phosphate toxicity related to cachexia in cancer. Moreover, the hypothetical protection against phosphate toxicity afforded by tumorigenesis also provides an alternate explanation for putative tumor evasion of the immune system. Insights proposed in this perspective paper provide new directions for further research, with potential to develop novel interventions and clinical applications that modify dietary phosphate intake to reduce cachexia in cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Figures 2, 4, 5 and 7: in the figures, change "PSA" to "KLK*"; in the figure captions, change "PSA" to "KLK* (*mouse KLK homologous protein recognized by the PSA/KLK3 antibody)". The word "PSA" mentioned in the article should be changed to "PSA homologous KLK protein" (or "KLK*" for short in the figures) and annotated "*mouse KLK homologous protein recognized by the PSA/KLK3 antibody" upon the first occurrence. In this paper, we used the PSA/KLK3 antibodies to label prostate luminal cells, as PSA is a marker of human prostate luminal cells. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Myocardial infarction (MI) is a major cause of heart failure. The carboxypeptidase cathepsin A is a novel target in the treatment of cardiac failure. We aim to show that recently developed inhibitors of the protease cathepsin A attenuate post-MI heart failure.Methods: Mice were subjected to permanent left anterior descending artery (LAD) ligation or sham operation. 24 h post-surgery, LAD-ligated animals were treated with daily doses of the cathepsin A inhibitor SAR1 or placebo. After 4 weeks, the three groups (sham, MI-placebo, MI-SAR1) were evaluated.Results: Compared to sham-operated animals, placebo-treated mice showed significantly impaired cardiac function and increased plasma BNP levels. Cathepsin A inhibition prevented the increase of plasma BNP levels and displayed a trend towards improved cardiac functionality. Proteomic profiling was performed for the three groups (sham, MI-placebo, MI-SAR1). More than 100 proteins were significantly altered in placebo-treated LAD ligation compared to the sham operation, including known markers of cardiac failure as well as extracellular/matricellular proteins. This ensemble constitutes a proteome fingerprint of myocardial infarction induced by LAD ligation in mice. Cathepsin A inhibitor treatment normalized the marked increase of the muscle stress marker CA3 as well as of Igγ 2b and fatty acid synthase. For numerous further proteins, cathepsin A inhibition partially dampened the LAD ligation-induced proteome alterations.Conclusions: Our proteomic and functional data suggest that cathepsin A inhibition has cardioprotective properties and support a beneficial effect of cathepsin A inhibition in the treatment of heart failure after myocardial infarction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have previously shown that ethanolic extract from bark (EEB) ofSalix aegyptiaca(Musk Willow) can inhibit proliferation and motility and induce apoptosis in colon cancer cells. Tandem mass spectrometry revealed EEB to be rich in catechin, catechol, and salicin. The present study investigated the chemopreventive effect of HPLC-fingerprinted EEB on 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH)-induced aberrant crypt foci (ACF) formation in mice. DMH (20 mg/kg body weight) was weekly injected subcutaneously to mice for the first 2 weeks. EEB (100 and 400 mg/kg body weight) was provided orally from the 7th to 14th week, after which colon tissues were evaluated histologically and biochemically. DMH treatment induced high number of ACF; EEB significantly reduced the number and multiplicity of ACF, along with a restoration in goblet cells and mucin accumulation. EEB supplementation improved the markers of inflammation (myeloperoxidase and neutrophil infiltration) and oxidative stress. More importantly, EEB amplified apoptosis of neoplastic cells in the colon mucosa of DMH-treated mice. It also lowered levels of markers for early transformation events such as EGFR, nuclear β-catenin, and COX-2 in colon cancer cell lines HT-29 and HCT-116. The innocuity of EEB (up to 1600 mg/kg) to mice reinforces its potential as a chemopreventive agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innate lymphoid cells type 3 (ILC3s) are the first line sentinels at the mucous tissues, where they contribute to the homeostatic immune response in a major way. Also, they have been increasingly appreciated as important modulators of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune responses, both locally and systemically. The proper identification of ILC3 is of utmost importance for meaningful studies on their role in immunity. Flow cytometry is the method of choice for the detection and characterization of ILC3. However, the analysis of ILC3-related papers shows inconsistency in ILC3 phenotypic definition, as different inclusion and exclusion markers are used for their identification. Here, we present these discrepancies in the phenotypic characterization of human and mouse ILC3s. We discuss the pros and cons of using various markers for ILC3 identification. Furthermore, we consider the possibilities for the efficient isolation and propagation of ILC3 from different organs and tissues for in-vitro and in-vivo studies. This paper calls upon uniformity in ILC3 definition, isolation, and propagation for the increased possibility of confluent interpretation of ILC3's role in immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fifty years ago, animal models studied in the lab were highly diverse, and biological insights were derived from experiments in many species. However, the pursuit of mechanistic explanations in organismal biology led to a shift in the species most commonly studied. The advent of genetic manipulations and economies of scale promoted the consolidation of research into fewer species (eg, Drosophila melanogaster, Mus musculus, Danio rerio, Caenorhabditis elegans). As a result, the tremendous variety of evolutionary adaptations across species provided insights into ultimate causes of evolution, but their proximate mechanisms have been understudied in recent decades. Within the last decade, developments in genome modifications have enabled functional genetic studies in a wide variety of species. This special issue combines papers derived from a symposium organized at the Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology conference in January 2023 in Austin, Texas. The symposium entitled "Neuroethology in the age of gene editing: New tools and novel insights into the molecular and neural basis of behavior" was convened to catalyze the transfer of knowledge and skills from researchers who have applied genome modification technologies in new model organisms to scientists who would like to bring these approaches to their own research programs. We highlight this work here, and suggest how the future of biological knowledge will be informed by these powerful experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Marijuana and alcohol are both substances that, when used during pregnancy, may have profound effects on the developing fetus. There is evidence to suggest that both drugs have the capacity to affect working memory, one function of the hippocampal formation; however, there is a paucity of data on how perinatal exposure to alcohol or cannabis impacts the process of adult neurogenesis. Methods: This systematic review examines immunohistochemical data from adult rat and mouse models that assess perinatal alcohol or perinatal marijuana exposure. A comprehensive list of search terms was designed and used to search 3 separate databases. All results were imported to Mendeley and screened by 2 authors. Consensus was reached on a set of final papers that met the inclusion criteria, and their results were summarized. Results: Twelve papers were identified as relevant, 10 of which pertained to the effects of perinatal alcohol on the adult hippocampus, and 2 pertained to the effects of perinatal marijuana on the adult hippocampus. Cellular proliferation in the dentate gyrus was not affected in adult rats and mice exposed to alcohol perinatally. In general, perinatal alcohol exposure did not have a significant and reliable effect on the maturation and survival of adult born granule neurons in the dentate gyrus. In contrast, interneuron numbers appear to be reduced in the dentate gyrus of adult rats and mice exposed perinatally to alcohol. Perinatal marijuana exposure was also found to reduce inhibitory interneuron numbers in the dentate gyrus. Conclusions: Perinatal alcohol exposure and perinatal marijuana exposure both act on inhibitory interneurons in the hippocampal formation of adult rats. These findings suggest simultaneous perinatal alcohol and marijuana exposure (SAM) may have a dramatic impact on inhibitory processes in the dentate gyrus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Toll-like receptor 4 deficiency ameliorates β2-microglobulin induced age-related cognition decline due to neuroinflammation in mice" published in the journal Molecular Brain. The authors identified errors in Figure 3a of the original article and have provided corrected versions of the images. The authors apologize for any confusion caused and confirm that the overall conclusions of the paper remain valid. The correction notice includes the incorrect and correct versions of Figure 3a. Springer Nature, the publisher, remains neutral regarding jurisdictional claims and institutional affiliations. [Extracted from the article]

Impaired healing wounds do not proceed through the normal healing processes in a timely and orderly manner, and while they do eventually heal, their healing is not optimal. Chronic wounds, on the other hand, remain unhealed for weeks or months. In the US alone, chronic wounds impact ~8.5 million people and cost ~USD 28–90 billion per year, not accounting for the psychological and physical pain and emotional suffering that patients endure. These numbers are only expected to rise in the future as the elderly populations and the incidence of comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity increase. Over the last few decades, scientists have used a variety of approaches to treat chronic wounds, but unfortunately, to date, there is no effective treatment. Indeed, while there are thousands of drugs to combat cancer, there is only one single drug approved for the treatment of chronic wounds. This is in part because wound healing is a very complex process involving many phases that must occur sequentially and in a timely manner. Furthermore, models that fully mimic human chronic wounds have not been developed. In this review, we assess various models currently being used to study the biology of impaired healing and chronic non-healing wounds. Among them, this paper also highlights one model which shows significant promise; this model uses aged and obese db/db−/− mice and the chronic wounds that develop show characteristics of human chronic wounds that include increased oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, damaged microvasculature, abnormal collagen matrix deposition, a lack of re-epithelialization, and the spontaneous development of multi-bacterial biofilm. We also discuss how important it is that we continue to develop chronic wound models that more closely mimic those of humans and that can be used to test potential treatments to heal chronic wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laboratory mice (Mus musculus) are preferred animals for biomedical research due to the close relationship with humans in several aspects. Therefore, mice with diverse genetic traits have been generated to mimic human characteristics of interest. Some genetically altered mouse strains, on purpose or by accident, have reproductive phenotypes and/or fertility deviating from wild-type mice. The distinct reproductive phenotypes of genetically altered male mice mentioned in this paper are grouped based on reproductive organs, beginning with the brain (i.e., the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary) that regulates sexual maturity and development, the testis where male gametes and sex steroid hormones are produced, the epididymis, the accessory sex glands, and the penis which involve in sperm maturation, storage, and ejaculation. Also, distinct characteristics of mature sperm from genetically altered mice are described here. This repository will hopefully be a valuable resource for both humans, in terms of future biomedical research, and mice, in the aspect of the establishment of optimal sperm preservation protocols for individual mouse strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, the existence and location of the type series of the Japanese dancing mouse or waltzer, Mus wagneri variety rotans Droogleever Fortuyn, 1912, are established, and a lectotype is designated. Available type specimens are measured, and some morphological parameters, sex, and general condition of the specimens are recorded. A literature survey was conducted, and an attempt is made to clarify the position of M. wagneri variety rotans in the taxonomy of Mus. A genetic analysis suggests that the type series of the Japanese dancing mouse represent a crossbred, or derivation of a crossbred, between the original Japanese dancing mouse of Mus musculus molossinus Temminck 1844 origin and European fancy or laboratory mice of Mus musculus domesticus Schwarz & Schwarz, 1943 origin. Much of their genome was replaced and occupied by Mus musculus domesticus type genome, probably through extensive breeding with European mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AIM: The paper is to explore a rapid and simple method for the culture of mouse primary thyroid cells. METHODS: Mouse thyroid cells were isolated by enzyme digestion and cultured with improved medium, and their morphology, characteristics and secretory function were observed within 14 d. RESULTS: In the cultures, the active primary cells were obtained from the thyroid tissue after digestion for 25 min; adherent growth was observed on the 2nd day. And secondary follicles appeared from the 5th to 7th day. Over 95% cells were detected with thyroglobulin. The secretion of total triiodothyronine and total thyroxine maintains over 60% in 7 d. The expression levels of specific genes can still maintain more than 50% in 10 d. CONCLUSION: Mouse thyroid primary cells can be rapidly cultured by this method, and the cells can be used for studying thyroid endocrine secretion within 7 d and studying thyroid genes within 10 d. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose an innovative AI-driven virtual mouse system that seamlessly integrates hand gestures and voice commands for intuitive interaction with computing devices. Traditional input methods such as physical mice and keyboards can be limiting for users with mobility impairments or in scenarios where hands-free operation is desired. Our system addresses these challenges by leveraging advancements in computer vision and natural language processing to enable users to control the mouse cursor and execute commands through hand gestures and voice input. The core of our system lies in the fusion of hand gesture recognition and voice assistant technologies, providing users with a versatile and efficient means of interacting with computers and other smart devices. Through a combination of depth sensing cameras and machine learning algorithms, the system accurately detects and interprets a wide range of hand gestures, allowing users to perform actions such as cursor movement, clicking, dragging, and scrolling with ease. Furthermore, security is a paramount concern in modern computing environments, especially with the increasing prevalence of AI-driven interfaces. To address this, our system incorporates robust security measures, including user authentication through voice biometrics and encryption of communication channels to safeguard sensitive data. Overall, our AI virtual mouse system represents a significant advancement in human-computer interaction, offering a seamless and secure interface that empowers users to interact with computing devices more naturally and efficiently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thanks to the availability of connectome data that map connectivity between multiple brain areas, it is now possible to build models of whole-brain activity. At the same time, advances in mean-field techniques have led to biologically based population models that integrate biophysical features such as membrane conductances or synaptic conductances. In this paper, we show that this approach can be used in brain-wide models of mice, macaques, and humans.We illustrate this approach by showing the transition from wakefulness to sleep, simulated using multi-scale models, in the three species. We compare the level of synchrony between the three species and find that the mouse brain displays a higher overall synchrony of slow waves compared to monkey and human brains. We show that these differences are due to the different delays in axonal signal propagation between regions associated with brain size differences between the species. We also make the program code—which provides a set of open-source tools for simulating large-scale activity in the cerebral cortex of mice, monkeys, and humans—publicly available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: TP is a widely utilized anticancer medication, particularly effective in treating HCC. Thorough investigation into TP's molecular mechanism in HCC treatment is crucial for precise and combination therapy. In this paper, we have unveiled a novel mechanism of TP in HCC treatment, where it inhibits tumor growth by reducing lipid accumulation. While the inhibition of P53 gene activity is commonly thought to be the reason for TP's effectiveness in treating HCC, this new mechanism serves as a significant complement to the current understanding, paving the way for innovative approaches to HCC treatment. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the world, presents a significant medical challenge. Triptolide (TP) has been identified as an effective therapeutic drug for HCC. However, its precise therapeutic mechanism is still unknown. Understanding the mechanism of action of TP against HCC is crucial for its implementation in the field of HCC treatment. We hypothesize that the anti-HCC actions of TP might be related to its modulation of HCC lipid metabolism given the crucial role that lipid metabolism plays in promoting the progression of HCC. In this work, we first demonstrate that, both in vitro and in vivo, TP significantly reduces lipid accumulation in HCC cells. Additionally, we notice that lipoprotein lipase (LPL) expression is markedly upregulated in HCC, and that its levels are positively connected with the disease's progression. It is interesting to note that TP dramatically reduces LPL activity, which in turn prevents HCC growth and reduces lipid accumulation. Additionally, the effect of TP on LPL is a direct correlation. These results definitely demonstrate that TP protects hepatocytes against abnormal accumulation of lipids by transcriptionally suppressing LPL, which reduces the development of HCC. This newly identified pathway provides insight into the process through which TP exerts its anti-HCC actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper focuses on the determinants of MICE tourism recovery post the COVID-19 pandemic. Using the case of South Africa, empirical data were collected by way of in-depth interviews with 19 key stakeholders in the MICE sector. The study findings reveal five key determinants of the recovery, (1) change in focus of geographical markets, (2) varied recovery of the different economic industries, (3) limited airline access and connectivity, (4) destination image and (5) level of confidence of MICE attendees to travel. The paper's theoretical significance lies in its timely contribution to studies on MICE tourism recovery and resilience, focusing on the developing nations' context. Further, the findings of the study, which delineate the recovery process of MICE events post-COVID-19 provide insights into building a resilient MICE sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rodent electroencephalography (EEG) in preclinical research is frequently conducted in behaving animals. However, the difficulty inherent in identifying EEG epochs associated with a particular behavior or cue is a significant obstacle to more efficient analysis. In this paper we highlight a new solution, using infrared event stamping to accurately synchronize EEG, recorded from superficial sites above the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, with video motion tracking data in a transgenic Alzheimer's disease (AD) mouse model. Epochs capturing specific behaviors were automatically identified and extracted prior to further analysis. This was achieved by the novel design of an ultra-miniature wearable EEG recorder, the NAT-1 device, and its in-situ IR recording module. The device is described in detail, and its contribution to enabling new neuroscience is demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vestibular lamina (VL) forms as an epithelial outgrowth parallel to the dental lamina (DL) in the oral cavity. During late development, it opens to create a furrow that divides the dental tissue from the cheeks and lips and is known as the vestibule. Defects in this process lead to failure in the separation of the teeth from the lips and cheeks, including the presence of multiple frenula. In this paper, the development of the VL is followed in the mouse, from epithelial placode in the embryo to postnatal opening and vestibule formation. During early outgrowth, differential proliferation controls the curvature of the VL as it extends under the forming incisors. Apoptosis plays a role in thinning the deepest part of the lamina, while terminal differentiation of the epithelium, highlighted by the expression of loricrin and flattening of the nuclei, predates the division of the VL into two to create the vestibule. Development in the mouse is compared to the human VL, with respect to the relationship of the VL to the DL, VL morphology and mechanisms of opening. Overall, this paper provides insight into an understudied part of the oral anatomy, shedding light on how defects could form in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]