The retrosplenial cortex has been implicated in processing sensory information and spatial learning,with abnormal neural activity reported in association with psychedelics and in mouse and non-human primate models of ...The retrosplenial cortex has been implicated in processing sensory information and spatial learning,with abnormal neural activity reported in association with psychedelics and in mouse and non-human primate models of autism spectrum disorders(ASDs).The direct role of the retrosplenial cortex in regulating social behaviors remains unclear.In this work,we reveal that neural activity in the retrosplenial agranular cortex(RSA),a subregion of the retrosplenial cortex,is initially activated,then quickly suppressed upon social contact.This up-down phase of RSA neurons is crucial for normal social behaviors.Parvalbumin-positive GABAergic neurons in the hippocampal CA1 region were found to send inhibitory projections to the RSA.Blocking these CA1-RSA inhibitory inputs significantly impaired social behavior.Notably,enhancing the CA1-RSA inhibitory input rescued the social behavior defects in an ASD mouse model.This work suggests a neural mechanism for the salience processing of social behavior and identifies a potential target for ASD intervention using neural modulation approaches.展开更多
Synapse organizers are essential for the development,transmission,and plasticity of synapses.Acting as rare synapse suppressors,the MAM domain containing glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor(MDGA)proteins contributes t...Synapse organizers are essential for the development,transmission,and plasticity of synapses.Acting as rare synapse suppressors,the MAM domain containing glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor(MDGA)proteins contributes to synapse organization by inhibiting the formation of the synaptogenic neuroligin-neurexin complex.A previous analysis of MDGA2 mice lacking a single copy of Mdga2 revealed upregulated glutamatergic synapses and behaviors consistent with autism.However,MDGA2 is expressed in diverse cell types and is localized to both excitatory and inhibitory synapses.Differentiating the network versus cell-specific effects of MDGA2 loss-of-function requires a cell-type and brain region-selective strategy.To address this,we generated mice harboring a conditional knockout of Mdga2 restricted to CA1 pyramidal neurons.Here we report that MDGA2 suppresses the density and function of excitatory synapses selectively on pyramidal neurons in the mature hippocampus.Conditional deletion of Mdga2 in CA1 pyramidal neurons of adult mice upregulated miniature and spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic potentials,vesicular glutamate transporter 1 intensity,and neuronal excitability.These effects were limited to glutamatergic synapses as no changes were detected in miniature and spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic potential properties or vesicular GABA transporter intensity.Functionally,evoked basal synaptic transmission and AMPAR receptor currents were enhanced at glutamatergic inputs.At a behavioral level,memory appeared to be compromised in Mdga2 cKO mice as both novel object recognition and contextual fear conditioning performance were impaired,consistent with deficits in long-term potentiation in the CA3-CA1 pathway.Social affiliation,a behavioral analog of social deficits in autism,was similarly compromised.These results demonstrate that MDGA2 confines the properties of excitatory synapses to CA1 neurons in mature hippocampal circuits,thereby optimizing this network for plasticity,cognition,and social behaviors.展开更多
The present review provides a compilation of the published data on the ecology and social behavior of tamarisk gerbils. Both field studies anddirect observations under semi-natural conditions provide evidence that the...The present review provides a compilation of the published data on the ecology and social behavior of tamarisk gerbils. Both field studies anddirect observations under semi-natural conditions provide evidence that the tamarisk gerbil is a nocturnal herbivorous rodent that lives in highlyseasonal habitats and displays seasonal fluctuations in reproduction and spatial organization. A typical feature of the tamarisk gerbils’ spatialorganization is higher mobility of males during the breeding season (as compared with the nonbreeding period) and formation of temporaryaggregations of males competing for access to receptive females;the composition of these aggregations was variable and depended on thereproductive condition of the females. Females tend to occupy exclusive home ranges irrespective of their reproductive condition. The matingsystem of the species can be defined as scramble competition polygyny with some features of polygynandry and promiscuity. The tamariskgerbil has distinct features of a solitary species and its social structure is primarily based on aggressive interactions or mutual avoidance ofconspecifics resulting in a dominance hierarchy among males and site-dependent dominance among females during the breeding season. Bythe end of the breeding season, males become less mobile and occupy nearly exclusive home ranges, consistent with solitary living. The mainfeatures of the spatial and social organization of this species, which distinguish it from other solitary rodents, are the higher mobility of malesand the formation of temporary multimale–multifemale aggregations during the breeding season. Overall, the data presented expand our understanding of socioecology of gerbils.展开更多
Social behaviors are fundamental and intricate functions in both humans and animals,governed by the interplay of social cognition and emotions.A noteworthy feature of several neuropsychiatric disorders,including autis...Social behaviors are fundamental and intricate functions in both humans and animals,governed by the interplay of social cognition and emotions.A noteworthy feature of several neuropsychiatric disorders,including autism spectrum disorder(ASD)and schizophrenia(SCZ),is a pronounced deficit in social functioning.Despite a burgeoning body of research on social behaviors,the precise neural circuit mechanisms underpinning these phenomena remain to be elucidated.In this paper,we review the pivotal role of the prefrontal cortex(PFC)in modulating social behaviors,as well as its functional alteration in social disorders in ASD or SCZ.We posit that PFC dysfunction may represent a critical hub in the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders characterized by shared social deficits.Furthermore,we delve into the intricate connectivity of the medial PFC(mPFC)with other cortical areas and subcortical brain regions in rodents,which exerts a profound influence on social behaviors.Notably,a substantial body of evidence underscores the role of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors(NMDARs)and the proper functioning of parvalbumin-positive interneurons within the mPFC for social regulation.Our overarching goal is to furnish a comprehensive understanding of these intricate circuits and thereby contribute to the enhancement of both research endeavors and clinical practices concerning social behavior deficits.展开更多
Gender and genetic strain are two prominent variants that influence drug abuse. Although certain sexrelated behavioral responses have been previously characterized in ICR mice, little is known about the effects of sex...Gender and genetic strain are two prominent variants that influence drug abuse. Although certain sexrelated behavioral responses have been previously characterized in ICR mice, little is known about the effects of sex on morphine-induced behavioral responses in this outbred strain. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the sex differences of morphine-induced locomotion, anxiety-like and social behaviors in ICR mice. After morphine or saline exposure for four consecutive days（twice daily）, increased locomotion, more time spent in the central area, as well as attenuated rearing and self-grooming behaviors were found in morphine-treated females in an open field; no differences were found in locomotion and the time spent in the central area between male and female controls. When interacting with the samesex individuals, female controls were engaged in more social investigation, following, body contacting and self-grooming behaviors than controls; morphine exposure reduced contacting and self-grooming behaviors in females; in contrast, these effects were not found in males. These results indicate that female ICR mice are more prosocial and are more susceptible to morphine exposure than males.展开更多
C57BL/6J and BALB/cJ mice display significant differences in sociability and response to drugs, but the phenotypic variability of their susceptibility to cocaine is still not well known. In this study, the differences...C57BL/6J and BALB/cJ mice display significant differences in sociability and response to drugs, but the phenotypic variability of their susceptibility to cocaine is still not well known. In this study, the differences between these two mice strains in the persistence of cocaine-induced conditioned place preference （CPP）, as well as the locomotion and social behaviors after the 24-hour withdrawal from a four-day cocaine （20 mg/kg/day） administration were investigated. The results showed that the cocaine-induced CPP persisted over two weeks in C57BL/6J mice, while it diminished within one week among BALB/cJ mice. After 24-hours of cocaine withdrawal, high levels of locomotion as well as low levels of social interaction and aggressive behavior were found in C57BL/6J mice, but no significant changes were found in BALB/cJ mice, indicating that cocaine-induced CPP persistence, locomotion and social behavior are not consistent between these two strains, and that overall C57BL/6J mice are more susceptible to cocaine than BALB/cJ mice at the tested doses.展开更多
Adult male tree shrews vigorously defend against intruding male conspecifics. However, the characteristics of social behavior have not been entirely explored in these males. In this study, male wild-type tree shrews(T...Adult male tree shrews vigorously defend against intruding male conspecifics. However, the characteristics of social behavior have not been entirely explored in these males. In this study, male wild-type tree shrews(Tupaia belangeri chinensis)and C57 BL/6 J mice were first allowed to familiarize themselves with an open-field apparatus. The tree shrews exhibited a short duration of movement(moving) in the novel environment, whereas the mice exhibited a long duration of movement. In the 30 min social preference-avoidance test, target animals significantly decreased the time spent by the experimental tree shrews in the social interaction(SI)zone, whereas experimental male mice exhibited the opposite. In addition, experimental tree shrews displayed a significantly longer latency to enter the SI zone in the second 15 min session(targetpresent) than in the first 15 min session(targetabsent), which was different from that found in mice.Distinct behavioral patterns in response to a conspecific male were also observed in male tree shrews and mice in the first, second, and third 5 min periods. Thus, social behaviors in tree shrews and mice appeared to be time dependent. In summary,our study provides results of a modified social preference-avoidance test designed for the assessment of social behavior in tree shrews. Our findings demonstrate the existence of social avoidance behavior in male tree shrews and prosocial behavior in male mice toward unfamiliar conspecifics. The tree shrew may be a new animal model, which differs from mice, for the study of social avoidance and prosocial behaviors.展开更多
Stress from dominance ranks in human societies, or that of other social animals, especially nonhuman primates, can have negative influences on health. Individuals holding different social status may be burdened with v...Stress from dominance ranks in human societies, or that of other social animals, especially nonhuman primates, can have negative influences on health. Individuals holding different social status may be burdened with various stress levels. The middle class experiences a special stress situation within the dominance hierarchy due to its position between the higher and lower classes. Behaviorally, questions about where middle-class stress comes from and how individuals adapt to middle-class stress remain poorly understood in nonhuman primates. In the present study, social interactions, including aggression, avoidance, grooming and mounting behaviors, between beta males, as well as among group members holding higher or lower social status, were analyzed in captive male-only cynomolgus monkey groups. We found that aggressive tension from the higher hierarchy members was the main origin of stress for middle- class individuals. However, behaviors such as attacking lower hierarchy members immediately after being the recipient of aggression, as well as increased avoidance, grooming and mounting toward both higher and lower hierarchy members helped alleviate middle-class stress and were particular adaptations to middle-class social status.展开更多
Rapid advances in Ribonucleic Acid sequencing(or RNA-seq)technology for analyzing entire transcriptomes of desired tissue samples,or even of single cells at scale,have revolutionized biology in the past decade.Increas...Rapid advances in Ribonucleic Acid sequencing(or RNA-seq)technology for analyzing entire transcriptomes of desired tissue samples,or even of single cells at scale,have revolutionized biology in the past decade.Increasing accessibility and falling costs are making it possible to address many problems in biology that were once considered intractable,including the study of various social behaviors.RNA-seq is opening new avenues to understand long-standing questions on the molecular basis of behavioral plasticity and individual variation in the expression of a behavior.As whole transcriptomes are examined,it has become possible to make unbiased discoveries of underlying mechanisms with little or no necessity to predict genes involved in advance.However,researchers need to be aware of technical limitations and have to make specific decisions when applying RNA-seq to study social behavior.Here,we provide a perspective on the applications of RNA-seq and experimental design considerations for behavioral scientists who are unfamiliar with the technology but are considering using it in their research.展开更多
During the Sui and Tang dynasties,Buddhism and Zen poetry underwent great development.Zen poetry is diverse in form,strong in personality,and high in achievement.Among the types of Zen poetry are poems,lyrics,and pros...During the Sui and Tang dynasties,Buddhism and Zen poetry underwent great development.Zen poetry is diverse in form,strong in personality,and high in achievement.Among the types of Zen poetry are poems,lyrics,and prose,some of which have social attributes closely related to the development of Chinese Buddhism.An analysis reveals that the viewpoints and information conveyed in these poems,lyrics,and prose are positively correlated with the attitudes of the emperors towards Buddhism.When the attitude of the emperor towards Buddhism reached its peak of positivity during the Tang dynasty,there was a change towards a negative correlation with the viewpoints expressed in poetry.展开更多
The spring home range and social behavior of Hazel grouse, (Bonasa bonasia) were studied at Changbai Mountain using radiotelemetry in 1993–94. Flock dissolution and pair formation started in mid-March. Paired males h...The spring home range and social behavior of Hazel grouse, (Bonasa bonasia) were studied at Changbai Mountain using radiotelemetry in 1993–94. Flock dissolution and pair formation started in mid-March. Paired males held territories in spring, the area was from 3.2 hm2 to 17.3 hm2 (n=2). Hazel grouse was proved to be monogamous by radiotelemetry work. The overlap of home range between paired No.10 and No.8 was 82.4%. The time of birds being together was 83.0% of the time during the prelaying period (n=53), showing that the pair bond was stable. Unpaired males showed different behavior, held a territory or wandering, and they changed their behavior in early May. The study suggested that unpaired males gave up their reproduction goal, and the acquisition for survival became more important in early May, when female started incubation.展开更多
Autism is a highly heterogeneous condition,characterized by persistent challenges in social interaction[1].In recent years,there has been an emerging focus on the bidirectional communication between the brain and gast...Autism is a highly heterogeneous condition,characterized by persistent challenges in social interaction[1].In recent years,there has been an emerging focus on the bidirectional communication between the brain and gastrointestinal tract as well as its microbiome,known as the gut microbiome-brain(GMB)axis.GMB axis has been suggested to contribute to the etiology of autism[2],and the gut microbiome might take the mediating role in the context of GMB axis[3].展开更多
A growing number of studies have demonstrated that repeated exposure to sevoflurane during development results in persistent social abnormalities and cognitive impairment.Davunetide,an active fragment of the activity-...A growing number of studies have demonstrated that repeated exposure to sevoflurane during development results in persistent social abnormalities and cognitive impairment.Davunetide,an active fragment of the activity-dependent neuroprotective protein(ADNP),has been implicated in social and cognitive protection.However,the potential of davunetide to attenuate social deficits following sevoflurane exposure and the underlying developmental mechanisms remain poorly understood.In this study,ribosome and proteome profiles were analyzed to investigate the molecular basis of sevoflurane-induced social deficits in neonatal mice.The neuropathological basis was also explored using Golgi staining,morphological analysis,western blotting,electrophysiological analysis,and behavioral analysis.Results indicated that ADNP was significantly down-regulated following developmental exposure to sevoflurane.In adulthood,anterior cingulate cortex(ACC)neurons exposed to sevoflurane exhibited a decrease in dendrite number,total dendrite length,and spine density.Furthermore,the expression levels of Homer,PSD95,synaptophysin,and vglut2 were significantly reduced in the sevoflurane group.Patch-clamp recordings indicated reductions in both the frequency and amplitude of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents(mEPSCs).Notably,davunetide significantly ameliorated the synaptic defects,social behavior deficits,and cognitive impairments induced by sevoflurane.Mechanistic analysis revealed that loss of ADNP led to dysregulation of Ca^(2+)activity via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling,resulting in decreased expression of synaptic proteins.Suppression of Wnt signaling was restored in the davunetide-treated group.Thus,ADNP was identified as a promising therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of neurodevelopmental toxicity caused by general anesthetics.This study provides important insights into the mechanisms underlying social and cognitive disturbances caused by sevoflurane exposure in neonatal mice and elucidates the regulatory pathways involved.展开更多
Social behaviors,including social support and mating,play a critical role in survival and reproduction.Animals must make adaptive social decisions based on internal states and external contexts[1].The sex of a social ...Social behaviors,including social support and mating,play a critical role in survival and reproduction.Animals must make adaptive social decisions based on internal states and external contexts[1].The sex of a social partner is a crucial factor that shapes social decision-making,as oppositesex interactions are vital for fulfilling reproductive needs,whereas same-sex interactions are essential for both collaborative support and competitive behaviors.Under normal circumstances,mice typically exhibit a variety of prosocial behaviors that strengthen social bonds within their groups.展开更多
Social behaviors are crucial for gregarious animals,including humans.In order to exhibit appropriate behaviors in a complex social context,such as mating,aggression,avoidance,and cooperation,individuals need to rememb...Social behaviors are crucial for gregarious animals,including humans.In order to exhibit appropriate behaviors in a complex social context,such as mating,aggression,avoidance,and cooperation,individuals need to remember their previous experiences with other members and accurately recognize them when they meet again.This ability is called“social memory”[1].Many psychiatric disorders in humans,such as autism spectrum disorder,attention deficit hyperactivity disorder,and schizophrenia,are characterized by social memory impairments.Patients with these disorders,along with corresponding animal models,often show defects associated with the thalamic reticular nucleus(TRN).The TRN,a thin layer of neurons surrounding the thalamus,mainly regulates and coordinates the transfer of information between the cortex and the thalamus,playing a role in higher brain functions such as consciousness,attention,and sensory processing.However,whether the TRN is involved in social memory remains unknown.展开更多
Background: The use of social media platforms for health and nutrition information has become popular among college students. Although social media made information readily accessible in different formats, nutritional...Background: The use of social media platforms for health and nutrition information has become popular among college students. Although social media made information readily accessible in different formats, nutritional misinformation promoted by influencers and non-experts caused negative impact on diet behavior and perception of body image. Previous research indicated that extensive use of social media was positively linked to disordered eating behaviors. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram that allow users to follow celebrities intensified exposure to influencers’ messages and images and resulted in negative moods and body dissatisfaction. Objective: This paper aims to explore the impact of social media on college students’ dietary behaviors and body image. Participants: 18 undergraduate students from a public university in the Southern United States were recruited through a mass email. Methods: A cross-sectional qualitative study of three focus groups was conducted. The focus groups were based on guiding open-ended questions. Atlas.ti was used to code and analyze the data using inductive and deductive codes. Results: Three main themes were identified. The conditions theme included elements that explain why and how social media influences the participants’ actions. The actions theme included eating behavior, physical activity, and dietary supplement intake. The consequences theme describes anticipated or actual outcomes of actions such as body image and ideal weight. Conclusions: Social media has had a negative influence on diet behaviors and a positive influence on physical activity. Evidence-based nutrition and weight management information is needed to thwart potential misinformation.展开更多
Fertility control has been identified by studies in the laboratory and the field as a more appropriate and long-term control strategy for rodent pests than lethal control.In this study,we investigated the effects of q...Fertility control has been identified by studies in the laboratory and the field as a more appropriate and long-term control strategy for rodent pests than lethal control.In this study,we investigated the effects of quinestrol on mass of reproductive organs and on social behaviors in female and male Himalayan field rats(Rattus nitidus).A total of 16 adult females and 16 adult males were randomly assigned to 4 groups.One male and one female group were fed rice with 0.005%quinestrol by weight for 7 days,and another 2 groups were fed rice only.After 7 days,rats were assigned to 10 min dyadic encounters between groups,and investigation,aggression,defense and attack latency were quantified.All animals were killed on day 10,and reproductive organs were dissected and weighed.Dyadic encounter data showed that there were obvious changes in social behaviors of quinestrol-treated rats.Quinestrol significantly inhibited the investigative behavior of quinestrol-treated males toward control females in Rattus nitidus,but seldom affected investigation between control males and quinestrol-treated females.Aggression of control females toward quinestrol-treated males was higher than that of quinestrol-treated females,and defense of quinestrol-treated males toward control females was more remarkable than that of control males.Quinestrol remarkably decreased wet masses of epididymis and spermotophore in males and ovaries in females,but had no effect on wet masses of testes and uteri after quinestrol treatment.These results indicate that the anti-fertility effects of quinestrol on R.nitidus are attributed to not only suppressing reproductive organs but also impacting social behaviors associated with territory defense and mate choice.展开更多
This study is based on the emergence of teenagers1 behaviors which is deviated from the tradition of Minangkabau society.It aims to determine how hedonism affects Minangkabau's local pearls of wisdom.A qualitative...This study is based on the emergence of teenagers1 behaviors which is deviated from the tradition of Minangkabau society.It aims to determine how hedonism affects Minangkabau's local pearls of wisdom.A qualitative approach with phenomenology research design was used where 25 Minangkabau teenagers,religious and traditional leaders who live in Lima Puluh Kota,Tanah Datar,and Agam involved in the study.The data taken from observation,interview,and documentation.The results reveal that the paradigm shift of young Minangkabau's social behavior is caused by hedonism that can be seen in both positive and negative aspects.In positive ways,they live their lives mainly to fulfill their needs,add experiences,create a sense of secure for the community,and be open minded.Meanwhile,in negative ways,traditions based on Islamic laws and the Holly Quran were regarded only as symbols.Such hedonism tends to trigger crime,individualism,laziness,free-sex,insecurity,and consumptive.Thus,this kind of behavior was caused by the absence of religious and custom education they had in the family and social lives.展开更多
This study investigated the efects of boarding at school on students'prosocial behaviors in rural China using data from the National Children's Study of China.The instrumental variable(IV)approach was used to ...This study investigated the efects of boarding at school on students'prosocial behaviors in rural China using data from the National Children's Study of China.The instrumental variable(IV)approach was used to control for potential endogeneity,and the IVs were the proportion of boarding students in higher grades and the school area per student.The ordinary least squares and IV estimates showed that boarding students exhibited more prosocial behaviors,including compliance with rules,positive traits,and altruistic attitudes.These results were robust.Heterogeneity analyses suggested that students from low-income families,children who were not"left behind,"high-grade students,and female students were more likely to benefit from boarding.We found that these effects were primarily due to boarding students developing stronger feelings of trust and support from their peers and teachers and participating in more school-organized events and team activities.展开更多
In social groups,competition for individual advantage is balanced with cooperation,for the collective benefit.Selection against aggression has favored cooperation and non-aggressive competitive strategies.Because soci...In social groups,competition for individual advantage is balanced with cooperation,for the collective benefit.Selection against aggression has favored cooperation and non-aggressive competitive strategies.Because social play is a behavioral system that fluctuates between cooperation and competition,selection against aggression might have especially influenced this behavior.African savannah elephants(Loxodonta africana)are a low aggressive species,therefore suitable to investigate this aspect.We collected all occurrences observational audio-video data on social play,aggression/threats,and affiliation on an African elephant colony housed in a 25-ha open space at Parque de la Naturaleza de Cabarceno(Cantabria,Spain)and composed of 4 family groups(3 immature males,3 immature females,and 7 adult females)and 2 adult males.Anticipating the influence of reduced aggression,we found that social play decreased with age,persisting in adults,and that it was highest in males.Social play was associated with affiliation(informing cooperation).Indeed,individuals that were central in the social play network were also central in the affiliation network.For immature subjects,we found a correlation between social play and affiliation sociomatrices.However,such correlation was absent in adults and social play mostly occurred between families.Despite the limitations related to dealing with a small captive group,this study largely supports the idea that the features of social play in African savannah elephants may be related to low aggression.This investigation hints toward a non-purely cooperative use of play,possibly as a non-aggressive interaction that accommodates different levels of cooperation and competition.展开更多
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31625013,81941015,82021001)the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(XDB32060202)+1 种基金the Program of Shanghai Academic Research Leaders,and the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality(#2018SHZDZX05)supported by the GuangCi Professorship Program of Ruijin Hospital,Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine.
文摘The retrosplenial cortex has been implicated in processing sensory information and spatial learning,with abnormal neural activity reported in association with psychedelics and in mouse and non-human primate models of autism spectrum disorders(ASDs).The direct role of the retrosplenial cortex in regulating social behaviors remains unclear.In this work,we reveal that neural activity in the retrosplenial agranular cortex(RSA),a subregion of the retrosplenial cortex,is initially activated,then quickly suppressed upon social contact.This up-down phase of RSA neurons is crucial for normal social behaviors.Parvalbumin-positive GABAergic neurons in the hippocampal CA1 region were found to send inhibitory projections to the RSA.Blocking these CA1-RSA inhibitory inputs significantly impaired social behavior.Notably,enhancing the CA1-RSA inhibitory input rescued the social behavior defects in an ASD mouse model.This work suggests a neural mechanism for the salience processing of social behavior and identifies a potential target for ASD intervention using neural modulation approaches.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82001203,82173819,81871012,and 81571263)the Scientific Research Fund of Zhejiang Provincial Education Department(Y201839276)+3 种基金the Scientific Research Foundation of Zhejiang University City College(X-202103)the R&D Project of Zhejiang(2022C03034)the Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province(LQ23C090001)a Canada Research Chair Award(P2018-0246).
文摘Synapse organizers are essential for the development,transmission,and plasticity of synapses.Acting as rare synapse suppressors,the MAM domain containing glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor(MDGA)proteins contributes to synapse organization by inhibiting the formation of the synaptogenic neuroligin-neurexin complex.A previous analysis of MDGA2 mice lacking a single copy of Mdga2 revealed upregulated glutamatergic synapses and behaviors consistent with autism.However,MDGA2 is expressed in diverse cell types and is localized to both excitatory and inhibitory synapses.Differentiating the network versus cell-specific effects of MDGA2 loss-of-function requires a cell-type and brain region-selective strategy.To address this,we generated mice harboring a conditional knockout of Mdga2 restricted to CA1 pyramidal neurons.Here we report that MDGA2 suppresses the density and function of excitatory synapses selectively on pyramidal neurons in the mature hippocampus.Conditional deletion of Mdga2 in CA1 pyramidal neurons of adult mice upregulated miniature and spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic potentials,vesicular glutamate transporter 1 intensity,and neuronal excitability.These effects were limited to glutamatergic synapses as no changes were detected in miniature and spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic potential properties or vesicular GABA transporter intensity.Functionally,evoked basal synaptic transmission and AMPAR receptor currents were enhanced at glutamatergic inputs.At a behavioral level,memory appeared to be compromised in Mdga2 cKO mice as both novel object recognition and contextual fear conditioning performance were impaired,consistent with deficits in long-term potentiation in the CA3-CA1 pathway.Social affiliation,a behavioral analog of social deficits in autism,was similarly compromised.These results demonstrate that MDGA2 confines the properties of excitatory synapses to CA1 neurons in mature hippocampal circuits,thereby optimizing this network for plasticity,cognition,and social behaviors.
文摘The present review provides a compilation of the published data on the ecology and social behavior of tamarisk gerbils. Both field studies anddirect observations under semi-natural conditions provide evidence that the tamarisk gerbil is a nocturnal herbivorous rodent that lives in highlyseasonal habitats and displays seasonal fluctuations in reproduction and spatial organization. A typical feature of the tamarisk gerbils’ spatialorganization is higher mobility of males during the breeding season (as compared with the nonbreeding period) and formation of temporaryaggregations of males competing for access to receptive females;the composition of these aggregations was variable and depended on thereproductive condition of the females. Females tend to occupy exclusive home ranges irrespective of their reproductive condition. The matingsystem of the species can be defined as scramble competition polygyny with some features of polygynandry and promiscuity. The tamariskgerbil has distinct features of a solitary species and its social structure is primarily based on aggressive interactions or mutual avoidance ofconspecifics resulting in a dominance hierarchy among males and site-dependent dominance among females during the breeding season. Bythe end of the breeding season, males become less mobile and occupy nearly exclusive home ranges, consistent with solitary living. The mainfeatures of the spatial and social organization of this species, which distinguish it from other solitary rodents, are the higher mobility of malesand the formation of temporary multimale–multifemale aggregations during the breeding season. Overall, the data presented expand our understanding of socioecology of gerbils.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.81801355,U22A20306,and 3192010300)the Autism Research Special Fund of Zhejiang Foundation for Disabled Persons(Nos.2022001 and 2023002)+1 种基金the Research and Development Program of Guangdong Province(No.2019B030335001)the Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(No.2023-PT310-01)。
文摘Social behaviors are fundamental and intricate functions in both humans and animals,governed by the interplay of social cognition and emotions.A noteworthy feature of several neuropsychiatric disorders,including autism spectrum disorder(ASD)and schizophrenia(SCZ),is a pronounced deficit in social functioning.Despite a burgeoning body of research on social behaviors,the precise neural circuit mechanisms underpinning these phenomena remain to be elucidated.In this paper,we review the pivotal role of the prefrontal cortex(PFC)in modulating social behaviors,as well as its functional alteration in social disorders in ASD or SCZ.We posit that PFC dysfunction may represent a critical hub in the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders characterized by shared social deficits.Furthermore,we delve into the intricate connectivity of the medial PFC(mPFC)with other cortical areas and subcortical brain regions in rodents,which exerts a profound influence on social behaviors.Notably,a substantial body of evidence underscores the role of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors(NMDARs)and the proper functioning of parvalbumin-positive interneurons within the mPFC for social regulation.Our overarching goal is to furnish a comprehensive understanding of these intricate circuits and thereby contribute to the enhancement of both research endeavors and clinical practices concerning social behavior deficits.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31260513)the National Innovation Experiment Program for University Students(XJCX-2014-106)
文摘Gender and genetic strain are two prominent variants that influence drug abuse. Although certain sexrelated behavioral responses have been previously characterized in ICR mice, little is known about the effects of sex on morphine-induced behavioral responses in this outbred strain. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the sex differences of morphine-induced locomotion, anxiety-like and social behaviors in ICR mice. After morphine or saline exposure for four consecutive days（twice daily）, increased locomotion, more time spent in the central area, as well as attenuated rearing and self-grooming behaviors were found in morphine-treated females in an open field; no differences were found in locomotion and the time spent in the central area between male and female controls. When interacting with the samesex individuals, female controls were engaged in more social investigation, following, body contacting and self-grooming behaviors than controls; morphine exposure reduced contacting and self-grooming behaviors in females; in contrast, these effects were not found in males. These results indicate that female ICR mice are more prosocial and are more susceptible to morphine exposure than males.
基金Foundation items： This research was supported by the National Nat- ural Science Foundation of China （31260513）, the National Natural Science Foundation of Ningxia （NZ14077） and the Science Foundation of Beifang University of Nationalities （2012Y052）
文摘C57BL/6J and BALB/cJ mice display significant differences in sociability and response to drugs, but the phenotypic variability of their susceptibility to cocaine is still not well known. In this study, the differences between these two mice strains in the persistence of cocaine-induced conditioned place preference （CPP）, as well as the locomotion and social behaviors after the 24-hour withdrawal from a four-day cocaine （20 mg/kg/day） administration were investigated. The results showed that the cocaine-induced CPP persisted over two weeks in C57BL/6J mice, while it diminished within one week among BALB/cJ mice. After 24-hours of cocaine withdrawal, high levels of locomotion as well as low levels of social interaction and aggressive behavior were found in C57BL/6J mice, but no significant changes were found in BALB/cJ mice, indicating that cocaine-induced CPP persistence, locomotion and social behavior are not consistent between these two strains, and that overall C57BL/6J mice are more susceptible to cocaine than BALB/cJ mice at the tested doses.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81671344,31500859)Major International(Regional)Joint Research Project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81920108018)+1 种基金1.3.5 Project for Disciplines of Excellence,Special Foundation for Brain Research from the Science and Technology Program of Guangdong(2018B030334001)West China Hospital of Sichuan University(ZY2016103,ZY2016203)。
文摘Adult male tree shrews vigorously defend against intruding male conspecifics. However, the characteristics of social behavior have not been entirely explored in these males. In this study, male wild-type tree shrews(Tupaia belangeri chinensis)and C57 BL/6 J mice were first allowed to familiarize themselves with an open-field apparatus. The tree shrews exhibited a short duration of movement(moving) in the novel environment, whereas the mice exhibited a long duration of movement. In the 30 min social preference-avoidance test, target animals significantly decreased the time spent by the experimental tree shrews in the social interaction(SI)zone, whereas experimental male mice exhibited the opposite. In addition, experimental tree shrews displayed a significantly longer latency to enter the SI zone in the second 15 min session(targetpresent) than in the first 15 min session(targetabsent), which was different from that found in mice.Distinct behavioral patterns in response to a conspecific male were also observed in male tree shrews and mice in the first, second, and third 5 min periods. Thus, social behaviors in tree shrews and mice appeared to be time dependent. In summary,our study provides results of a modified social preference-avoidance test designed for the assessment of social behavior in tree shrews. Our findings demonstrate the existence of social avoidance behavior in male tree shrews and prosocial behavior in male mice toward unfamiliar conspecifics. The tree shrew may be a new animal model, which differs from mice, for the study of social avoidance and prosocial behaviors.
基金Foundation items： This study was supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology of China Grant （2012CB825500） and the Youth Innovation Promotion Association of Chinese Academy of Sciences （2012075）
文摘Stress from dominance ranks in human societies, or that of other social animals, especially nonhuman primates, can have negative influences on health. Individuals holding different social status may be burdened with various stress levels. The middle class experiences a special stress situation within the dominance hierarchy due to its position between the higher and lower classes. Behaviorally, questions about where middle-class stress comes from and how individuals adapt to middle-class stress remain poorly understood in nonhuman primates. In the present study, social interactions, including aggression, avoidance, grooming and mounting behaviors, between beta males, as well as among group members holding higher or lower social status, were analyzed in captive male-only cynomolgus monkey groups. We found that aggressive tension from the higher hierarchy members was the main origin of stress for middle- class individuals. However, behaviors such as attacking lower hierarchy members immediately after being the recipient of aggression, as well as increased avoidance, grooming and mounting toward both higher and lower hierarchy members helped alleviate middle-class stress and were particular adaptations to middle-class social status.
基金This work was supported by Yale-NUS College through grants R-607-265-225-121 and IG16-LR003.
文摘Rapid advances in Ribonucleic Acid sequencing(or RNA-seq)technology for analyzing entire transcriptomes of desired tissue samples,or even of single cells at scale,have revolutionized biology in the past decade.Increasing accessibility and falling costs are making it possible to address many problems in biology that were once considered intractable,including the study of various social behaviors.RNA-seq is opening new avenues to understand long-standing questions on the molecular basis of behavioral plasticity and individual variation in the expression of a behavior.As whole transcriptomes are examined,it has become possible to make unbiased discoveries of underlying mechanisms with little or no necessity to predict genes involved in advance.However,researchers need to be aware of technical limitations and have to make specific decisions when applying RNA-seq to study social behavior.Here,we provide a perspective on the applications of RNA-seq and experimental design considerations for behavioral scientists who are unfamiliar with the technology but are considering using it in their research.
基金北京市大学生创新训练项目-中国传统诗词文化中的“社交行为”研究,Serial NumberS202210015035北京大学生创新训练项目-大学生传统文化习得中的实践逻辑研究,Serial Number S200210015037北京市大学生创新训练项目-先秦子部“寓言”文本生成与传播路径研究,Serial Number S202210015036.
文摘During the Sui and Tang dynasties,Buddhism and Zen poetry underwent great development.Zen poetry is diverse in form,strong in personality,and high in achievement.Among the types of Zen poetry are poems,lyrics,and prose,some of which have social attributes closely related to the development of Chinese Buddhism.An analysis reveals that the viewpoints and information conveyed in these poems,lyrics,and prose are positively correlated with the attitudes of the emperors towards Buddhism.When the attitude of the emperor towards Buddhism reached its peak of positivity during the Tang dynasty,there was a change towards a negative correlation with the viewpoints expressed in poetry.
文摘The spring home range and social behavior of Hazel grouse, (Bonasa bonasia) were studied at Changbai Mountain using radiotelemetry in 1993–94. Flock dissolution and pair formation started in mid-March. Paired males held territories in spring, the area was from 3.2 hm2 to 17.3 hm2 (n=2). Hazel grouse was proved to be monogamous by radiotelemetry work. The overlap of home range between paired No.10 and No.8 was 82.4%. The time of birds being together was 83.0% of the time during the prelaying period (n=53), showing that the pair bond was stable. Unpaired males showed different behavior, held a territory or wandering, and they changed their behavior in early May. The study suggested that unpaired males gave up their reproduction goal, and the acquisition for survival became more important in early May, when female started incubation.
基金supported by the Key-Area Research and Development Program of Guangdong Province(2023B0303020001)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82322035,62273076,and 62036003)the National Social Science Foundation of China(20&ZD296)。
文摘Autism is a highly heterogeneous condition,characterized by persistent challenges in social interaction[1].In recent years,there has been an emerging focus on the bidirectional communication between the brain and gastrointestinal tract as well as its microbiome,known as the gut microbiome-brain(GMB)axis.GMB axis has been suggested to contribute to the etiology of autism[2],and the gut microbiome might take the mediating role in the context of GMB axis[3].
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82171170,81971076,82371277 to H.Z.,82101345 to L.R.L.)。
文摘A growing number of studies have demonstrated that repeated exposure to sevoflurane during development results in persistent social abnormalities and cognitive impairment.Davunetide,an active fragment of the activity-dependent neuroprotective protein(ADNP),has been implicated in social and cognitive protection.However,the potential of davunetide to attenuate social deficits following sevoflurane exposure and the underlying developmental mechanisms remain poorly understood.In this study,ribosome and proteome profiles were analyzed to investigate the molecular basis of sevoflurane-induced social deficits in neonatal mice.The neuropathological basis was also explored using Golgi staining,morphological analysis,western blotting,electrophysiological analysis,and behavioral analysis.Results indicated that ADNP was significantly down-regulated following developmental exposure to sevoflurane.In adulthood,anterior cingulate cortex(ACC)neurons exposed to sevoflurane exhibited a decrease in dendrite number,total dendrite length,and spine density.Furthermore,the expression levels of Homer,PSD95,synaptophysin,and vglut2 were significantly reduced in the sevoflurane group.Patch-clamp recordings indicated reductions in both the frequency and amplitude of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents(mEPSCs).Notably,davunetide significantly ameliorated the synaptic defects,social behavior deficits,and cognitive impairments induced by sevoflurane.Mechanistic analysis revealed that loss of ADNP led to dysregulation of Ca^(2+)activity via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling,resulting in decreased expression of synaptic proteins.Suppression of Wnt signaling was restored in the davunetide-treated group.Thus,ADNP was identified as a promising therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of neurodevelopmental toxicity caused by general anesthetics.This study provides important insights into the mechanisms underlying social and cognitive disturbances caused by sevoflurane exposure in neonatal mice and elucidates the regulatory pathways involved.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32471074 and 32200825)the STI2030-Major Projects(2021ZD0203000 and 2021ZD0203002)+1 种基金the Shandong Provincial Taishan Scholars Project(tsqn202306174)the Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation(ZR2022QC173).
文摘Social behaviors,including social support and mating,play a critical role in survival and reproduction.Animals must make adaptive social decisions based on internal states and external contexts[1].The sex of a social partner is a crucial factor that shapes social decision-making,as oppositesex interactions are vital for fulfilling reproductive needs,whereas same-sex interactions are essential for both collaborative support and competitive behaviors.Under normal circumstances,mice typically exhibit a variety of prosocial behaviors that strengthen social bonds within their groups.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32125018 and 32071005)Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(LD24H090002)+3 种基金Nanhu Brain-computer Interface Institute(010904008)Innovative Research Team of High-level Local Universities in Shanghai(SHSMUZDCX20211102)Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(226-2024-00133)the MOE Frontiers Science Center for Brain Science&Brain-Machine Integration of Zhejiang University.
文摘Social behaviors are crucial for gregarious animals,including humans.In order to exhibit appropriate behaviors in a complex social context,such as mating,aggression,avoidance,and cooperation,individuals need to remember their previous experiences with other members and accurately recognize them when they meet again.This ability is called“social memory”[1].Many psychiatric disorders in humans,such as autism spectrum disorder,attention deficit hyperactivity disorder,and schizophrenia,are characterized by social memory impairments.Patients with these disorders,along with corresponding animal models,often show defects associated with the thalamic reticular nucleus(TRN).The TRN,a thin layer of neurons surrounding the thalamus,mainly regulates and coordinates the transfer of information between the cortex and the thalamus,playing a role in higher brain functions such as consciousness,attention,and sensory processing.However,whether the TRN is involved in social memory remains unknown.
文摘Background: The use of social media platforms for health and nutrition information has become popular among college students. Although social media made information readily accessible in different formats, nutritional misinformation promoted by influencers and non-experts caused negative impact on diet behavior and perception of body image. Previous research indicated that extensive use of social media was positively linked to disordered eating behaviors. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram that allow users to follow celebrities intensified exposure to influencers’ messages and images and resulted in negative moods and body dissatisfaction. Objective: This paper aims to explore the impact of social media on college students’ dietary behaviors and body image. Participants: 18 undergraduate students from a public university in the Southern United States were recruited through a mass email. Methods: A cross-sectional qualitative study of three focus groups was conducted. The focus groups were based on guiding open-ended questions. Atlas.ti was used to code and analyze the data using inductive and deductive codes. Results: Three main themes were identified. The conditions theme included elements that explain why and how social media influences the participants’ actions. The actions theme included eating behavior, physical activity, and dietary supplement intake. The consequences theme describes anticipated or actual outcomes of actions such as body image and ideal weight. Conclusions: Social media has had a negative influence on diet behaviors and a positive influence on physical activity. Evidence-based nutrition and weight management information is needed to thwart potential misinformation.
基金supported by National Basic Research Program of China(2007CB109105)Guangdong Provincial Public Laboratory on Wild Animal Conservation and Management(Grant No.2009002)+2 种基金Science&Technology Planning Project of Guangzhou(2008Z1-E101)Guangdong(2010B020311003,2011B090300039)Guangdong Natural Science Fund(10151026001000006).
文摘Fertility control has been identified by studies in the laboratory and the field as a more appropriate and long-term control strategy for rodent pests than lethal control.In this study,we investigated the effects of quinestrol on mass of reproductive organs and on social behaviors in female and male Himalayan field rats(Rattus nitidus).A total of 16 adult females and 16 adult males were randomly assigned to 4 groups.One male and one female group were fed rice with 0.005%quinestrol by weight for 7 days,and another 2 groups were fed rice only.After 7 days,rats were assigned to 10 min dyadic encounters between groups,and investigation,aggression,defense and attack latency were quantified.All animals were killed on day 10,and reproductive organs were dissected and weighed.Dyadic encounter data showed that there were obvious changes in social behaviors of quinestrol-treated rats.Quinestrol significantly inhibited the investigative behavior of quinestrol-treated males toward control females in Rattus nitidus,but seldom affected investigation between control males and quinestrol-treated females.Aggression of control females toward quinestrol-treated males was higher than that of quinestrol-treated females,and defense of quinestrol-treated males toward control females was more remarkable than that of control males.Quinestrol remarkably decreased wet masses of epididymis and spermotophore in males and ovaries in females,but had no effect on wet masses of testes and uteri after quinestrol treatment.These results indicate that the anti-fertility effects of quinestrol on R.nitidus are attributed to not only suppressing reproductive organs but also impacting social behaviors associated with territory defense and mate choice.
文摘This study is based on the emergence of teenagers1 behaviors which is deviated from the tradition of Minangkabau society.It aims to determine how hedonism affects Minangkabau's local pearls of wisdom.A qualitative approach with phenomenology research design was used where 25 Minangkabau teenagers,religious and traditional leaders who live in Lima Puluh Kota,Tanah Datar,and Agam involved in the study.The data taken from observation,interview,and documentation.The results reveal that the paradigm shift of young Minangkabau's social behavior is caused by hedonism that can be seen in both positive and negative aspects.In positive ways,they live their lives mainly to fulfill their needs,add experiences,create a sense of secure for the community,and be open minded.Meanwhile,in negative ways,traditions based on Islamic laws and the Holly Quran were regarded only as symbols.Such hedonism tends to trigger crime,individualism,laziness,free-sex,insecurity,and consumptive.Thus,this kind of behavior was caused by the absence of religious and custom education they had in the family and social lives.
基金by the Science and Technology Project of Chongqing Municipal Education Commission(Nos.KJQN202100309 and KJZD-K202200307)the Chongqing Education Science Project(No.2018-GX-006)the Southwestern University of Finance and Economics under the 111 Project Research Base(No.B16040).
文摘This study investigated the efects of boarding at school on students'prosocial behaviors in rural China using data from the National Children's Study of China.The instrumental variable(IV)approach was used to control for potential endogeneity,and the IVs were the proportion of boarding students in higher grades and the school area per student.The ordinary least squares and IV estimates showed that boarding students exhibited more prosocial behaviors,including compliance with rules,positive traits,and altruistic attitudes.These results were robust.Heterogeneity analyses suggested that students from low-income families,children who were not"left behind,"high-grade students,and female students were more likely to benefit from boarding.We found that these effects were primarily due to boarding students developing stronger feelings of trust and support from their peers and teachers and participating in more school-organized events and team activities.
基金Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology(DBIOS),University of Torino,Italy(Grant No.NORI_RILO_22_01).
文摘In social groups,competition for individual advantage is balanced with cooperation,for the collective benefit.Selection against aggression has favored cooperation and non-aggressive competitive strategies.Because social play is a behavioral system that fluctuates between cooperation and competition,selection against aggression might have especially influenced this behavior.African savannah elephants(Loxodonta africana)are a low aggressive species,therefore suitable to investigate this aspect.We collected all occurrences observational audio-video data on social play,aggression/threats,and affiliation on an African elephant colony housed in a 25-ha open space at Parque de la Naturaleza de Cabarceno(Cantabria,Spain)and composed of 4 family groups(3 immature males,3 immature females,and 7 adult females)and 2 adult males.Anticipating the influence of reduced aggression,we found that social play decreased with age,persisting in adults,and that it was highest in males.Social play was associated with affiliation(informing cooperation).Indeed,individuals that were central in the social play network were also central in the affiliation network.For immature subjects,we found a correlation between social play and affiliation sociomatrices.However,such correlation was absent in adults and social play mostly occurred between families.Despite the limitations related to dealing with a small captive group,this study largely supports the idea that the features of social play in African savannah elephants may be related to low aggression.This investigation hints toward a non-purely cooperative use of play,possibly as a non-aggressive interaction that accommodates different levels of cooperation and competition.
