Dexmedetomidine (DEX) induces a distinct state of “arousable sedation,” yet the neural circuits that sustain arousal capacity remain unclear. Here, we identified that 40 μg/kg DEX produced sedation from which animals could be transiently aroused by tactile stimulation of the back, whereas 100 μg/kg induced deeper, unresponsive sedation. Functional mapping revealed selective activation of the central medial thalamus (CMT). Fibe...

Aim Woody plant encroachment is reshaping grassland ecosystem functions worldwide. While its aboveground impacts are well documented, how this process alters microbial communities—key drivers of belowground processes—remains poorly understood. We aimed to (1) quantify the general effects of global woody plant encroachment on soil microbial community attributes in grasslands and (2) identify the abiotic and biotic factors drivi...