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Abstract In academia, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), writing accountability groups have emerged as an effective technique to enhance writing productivity by offering structure, increasing the commitment to write, and fostering social commitment. The rapid development of technology has introduced a new challenge across STEM fields: technostress, where individuals face heightened stress due to novel applications of technology. To address this, we introduce Technology Accountability Groups (TAGs), a novel form of community support for graduate students and faculty. TAGs are tailored to help individuals navigate technological innovations, alleviate technostress, acquire new skills, motivate, and connect with leaders in the field. This paper presents a framework for establishing, implementing, and sustaining TAGs in STEM. 

Abstract Proximity ligation assays (PLAs) use specific antibodies to detect endogenous protein‐protein interactions. PLAs are a highly useful biochemical technique that allow two proteins within proximity to be visualized with fluorescent probes amplified by PCR. While this technique has gained prominence, the use of a PLA in mouse skeletal muscle (SkM) is novel. In this article, we discuss how the PLA method can be used in SkM to study the protein‐protein interactions within mitochondria‐endoplasmic reticulum contact sites (MERCs). © 2025 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol: Proximity ligation assay for skeletal muscle tissue and myoblast for MERC proteins 

Abstract OPA1 is a dynamin‐related GTPase that modulates mitochondrial dynamics and cristae integrity. Humans carry eight different isoforms of OPA1 and mice carry five, all of which are expressed as short‐ or long‐form isoforms. These isoforms contribute to OPA1's ability to control mitochondrial energetics and DNA maintenance. However, western blot isolation of all long and short isoforms of OPA1 can be difficult. To address this issue, we developed an optimized western blot protocol based on improving running time to isolate five different isoforms of OPA1 in mouse cells and tissues. This protocol can be applied to study changes in mitochondrial structure and function. © 2025 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol: Western Blot Protocol for Isolating OPA1 Isoforms in Mouse Primary Skeletal Muscle Cells 

Abstract Junior faculty mentoring committees have important roles in ensuring that faculty thrive and adjust to their new positions and institutions. Here, we describe the purpose, structure, and benefits of junior faculty mentoring committees, which can be a powerful tool for early‐career academic investigators in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medical (STEMM) fields. There is a paucity of information about what mentoring committees are, how to use them effectively, what areas they should evaluate, and how they can most successfully help junior faculty progress in their careers. This work offers guidance for both junior faculty mentees and mentoring committee members on how to best structure and utilize mentoring committees to promote junior faculty success. A better understanding of the intricacies of the mentoring committee will allow junior faculty members to self‐advocate and will equip committee mentors with tools to ensure that junior faculty are successful in thriving in academia. 

Abstract Qualifying exams and thesis committees are crucial components of a PhD candidate's journey. However, many candidates have trouble navigating these milestones and knowing what to expect. This article provides advice on meeting the requirements of the qualifying exam, understanding its format and components, choosing effective preparation strategies, retaking the qualifying exam, if necessary, and selecting a thesis committee, all while maintaining one's mental health. This comprehensive guide addresses components of the graduate school process that are often neglected. 

Abstract While some established undergraduate summer programs are effective across many institutions, these programs may only be available to some principal investigators or may not fully address the diverse needs of incoming undergraduates. This article outlines a 10‐week science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM) education program designed to prepare undergraduate students for graduate school through a unique model incorporating mentoring dyads and triads, cultural exchanges, and diverse activities while emphasizing critical thinking, research skills, and cultural sensitivity. Specifically, we offer a straightforward and adaptable guide that we have used for mentoring undergraduate students in a laboratory focused on mitochondria and microscopy, but which may be customized for other disciplines. Key components include self‐guided projects, journal clubs, various weekly activities such as mindfulness training and laboratory techniques, and a focus on individual and cultural expression. Beyond this unique format, this 10‐week program also seeks to offer an intensive research program that emulates graduate‐level experiences, offering an immersive environment for personal and professional development, which has led to numerous achievements for past students, including publications and award‐winning posters. 

Abstract Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a global health issue, affecting over 6 million in the United States, with that number expected to increase as the aging population grows. As a neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory and cognitive functions, it is well established that AD is associated with cardiovascular risk factors beyond only cerebral decline. However, the study of cerebrovascular techniques for AD is still evolving. Here, we provide reproducible methods to measure impedance-based pulse wave velocity (PWV), a marker of arterial stiffness, in the systemic vascular (aortic PWV) and in the cerebral vascular (cerebral PWV) systems. Using aortic impedance and this relatively novel technique of cerebral impedance to comprehensively describe the systemic vascular and the cerebral vascular systems, we examined the sex-dependent differences in 5x transgenic mice (5XFAD) with AD under normal and high-fat diet, and in wild-type mice under a normal diet. Additionally, we validated our method for measuring cerebrovascular impedance in a model of induced stress in 5XFAD. Together, our results show that sex and diet differences in wildtype and 5XFAD mice account for very minimal differences in cerebral impedance. Interestingly, 5XFAD, and not wildtype, male mice on a chow diet show higher cerebral impedance, suggesting pathological differences. Opposingly, when we subjected 5XFAD mice to stress, we found that females showed elevated cerebral impedance. Using this validated method of measuring impedance-based aortic and cerebral PWV, future research may explore the effects of modifying factors including age, chronic diet, and acute stress, which may mediate cardiovascular risk in AD. New and NoteworthyHere, we presented a new technique which is an application of the concept of aortic impedance to determining cerebral impedance. While aortic PWV is typically utilized to study aortic stiffness, we also developed a technique of cerebral PWV to study cerebral vascular stiffness. This method may be useful in improving the rigor of studies that seek to have a dual focus on cardiovascular and cerebral function.