A study from CBMA-University of Minho highlights the need for diverse sampling strategies in monitoring marine non-indigenous species (NIS). Using five sample types, including hard and artificial substrates, water, and zooplankton, researchers identified 628 species, with five NIS potentially recorded in Portugal for the first time. Discover how this research advances marine biodiversity surveillance.

Researchers from the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), have developed a high-throughput yeast assay to quickly assess the reproductive toxicity of chemicals. This innovative approach tested 179 environmental chemicals, identifying 57 with reproductive effects, and offers a promising alternative to traditional animal testing. Explore how this method could revolutionize chemical safety evaluations.

A plasmid DNA production process was performed comparing conventional Erlenmeyer flasks with LB medium and the Thomson’s Ultra Yield® system. E. coli cells were cultivated in both systems in the INFORS HT Multitron incubator shaker, bacterial growth was monitored, and the plasmids were purified at the end of cultivation. Subsequently, the quality of the isolated plasmids was analyzed by HPLC. The combination of the Ultra Yield® flasks with the enriched Plasmid+® medium and the AirOtop® enhanced seal led to higher cell densities and a 21-fold higher amount of plasmid than in Erlenmeyer shake flasks with LB medium.

The Multitron incubator shaker remains uniquely popular since its launch in 1991. The original concept was to offer maximum shake flask capacity whilst occupying minimum space within the laboratory. A number of other new features were launched alongside the Multitron, and since have become firm favourites with users. Some of the best loved capabilities of the Multitron are listed below.