Understanding the spatial organization of gene expression with single nucleotide resolution requires localizing the sequences of expressed RNA transcripts within a cell in situ. Here we describe fluorescent in situ RNA sequencing (FISSEQ), in which stably cross-linked cDNA amplicons are sequenced within a biological sample. Using 30-base reads from 8,742 genes in situ, we examined RNA expression and localization in human primary fibroblasts using a simulated wound healing assay. FISSEQ is compatible with tissue sections and whole mount embryos, and reduces the limitations of optical resolution and noisy signals on single molecule detection. Our platform enables massively parallel detection of genetic elements, including gene transcripts and molecular barcodes, and can be used to investigate cellular phenotype, gene regulation, and environment in situ.

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Using a mobile device in a social context should not cause embarrassment and disruption to the immediate environment. Interaction with mobile and wearable devices needs to be subtle, discreet and unobtrusive. Therefore, we promote the idea of "intimate interfaces": discrete interfaces that allow control of mobile devices through subtle gestures in order to gain social acceptance. To achieve this goal, we present an electromyogram (EMG) based wearable input device which recognizes isometric muscular activity: activity related to very subtle or no movement at all. In the online experiment reported, the EMG device, worn on an armband around the bicep, was able to reliably recognize a motionless gesture without calibration or training across users with different muscle volumes. Hence, EMG-based input devices can provide an effective solution for designing mobile interfaces that are subtle and intimate, and therefore socially acceptable.

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are now feasible for use as an alternative control option for those with severe motor impairments. The P300 component of the evoked potential has proven useful as a control signal. Individuals do not need to be trained to produce the signal, and it is fairly stable and has a large evoked potential. Even with recent signal classification advances, on-line experiments with P300-based BCIs remain far from perfect. We present two potential methods for improving control accuracy. Experimental results in an evoked potential BCI, used to control items in a virtual apartment, show a reduced response exists when items are accidentally controlled. The presence of a P300-like signal in response to goal items means that it can be used for automatic error correction. Preliminary results from an interface experiment using three different button configurations for a yes/no BCI task show that the configuration of buttons may affect on-line signal classification. These results will be discussed in light of the special considerations needed when working with an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patient.

Neuronal regeneration occurs naturally in a few restricted mammalian brain regions, but its functional significance remains debated. Here we search for unique features in the synaptic outputs made by adult-born granule cell interneurons in the mouse olfactory bulb using optogenetic targeting of specific neuronal ages. We find that adult-born interneurons are resistant to presynaptic GABA B -mediated depression of GABA release compared with interneurons born just after birth that exhibit strong GABA B neuromodulation. Correlated with this functional change, we found altered localization of the GABA B R1 protein within adult-born granule cells. These results suggest that adult neurogenesis produces a population of functionally unique GABAergic synapses in the olfactory bulb.