Multi-copy transgenes are poorly expressed in plants, Drosophila and mammals; this repression is relieved by reducing copy number, leading to chromatin remodeling and transcriptional activation. Host defense mechanisms monitor repeated sequences in the genome, modulating their chromatin packaging and functional capabilities.

Miniature synaptic events, resulting from spontaneous presynaptic release of neurotransmitter in the absence of an action potential, are often used to assay neural connectivity and are thought to play a pivotal role in the development and maintenance of neuronal circuits. In this issue of Neuron, Trigo et al. identify a new class of miniature synaptic event, called "preminis," that originate fr...

Rookie managers have a real knack for allowing immediate tasks to overshadow overarching initiatives. You've promoted your star performer into management. Now help him avoid the classic errors that beginners so often make.

Five statements measuring social distance from and prejudice against the ex-mentally ill were read to 137 psychiatric patients and relatives from urban background. Their agreement and disagreement with the five statements was analysed and compared with controls from an orthopaedic clinic.Maximum social distance was found on statements about establishing marital relationship with an ex-mental pa...

With all its faults, this study, begun in 1983, is the first attempt to reach a nationwide representation of lesbian elders in order to gather information about their background, their relationship with their families of origin, and, for those married to men, with their husbands, children, and grandchildren. It explores their sexual behavior, both their physical and psychological health, and ho...