In June 2020, the small town of Merrillville, IN, received a visit from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM). Merrillville is home to Microbac, a laboratory that offers analytical testing services for food, environmental, antimicrobial products, and pharmaceuticals. With more than 20 facilities across the United States, they are required to follow local water regulations, in addition to safety data sheets. However, what the IDEM found was not in line with either.
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Ways that Labs Can Reduce Plastic Packaging Waste
Plastic packaging often gets a bad rap (wrap?). And rightly so — approximately 5.5 million tons of plastic is produced annually in life sciences laboratories. While it provides essential protection and labeling for products, its impact on the environment calls for action. Fortunately, there are ways laboratories can reduce their waste from plastic packaging.
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The Pros and Cons of Wet, Semi-dry and Dry Transfer for Western Blots
This widely used immunoassay to probe samples for specific proteins and posttranslational modifications has potential time and material savings associated with variations of the transfer step. Whether it’s a simple buffer switch, or a more involved equipment swap - it’s always worthwhile to explore lab workflow efficiencies. Just take care not to risk a successful blot!
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Fetal Bovine Serum : Is it time to find a new growth supplement?
Fetal bovine serum, or FBS, has been a staple in cell culture practices for decades. However, multiple ethical issues and market supply challenges surround its use. Here’s a rundown of the issues around FBS, why scientists are looking for other options, and some alternative products to consider.
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Alcohol-based tissue fixation in place of formaldehyde, that’s the spirit!
Formaldehyde fixation may be the gold standard for preserving cells and tissues but alcohol-based fixation can deliver improved results in many biomolecular techniques - with the benefit of safer, greener chemistry.
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Top 5 Sustainable Travel Tips for Scientists
When it comes to travel, there are many ways to be sustainable – here are some tips to keep in mind as you head out to your next tradeshow or conference.
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