By observing how cells manage to modify their function by partially changing their identity, Swiss researchers discovered a phenomenon of cell plasticity unknown until now. Although they only examined cells in the pancreas, such processes might characterize many other cell types in the body.

In a colourful solution to a dangerous problem, Australian scientists are adapting a component from cutting-edge solar cells to design a rapid, light-based detection system for deadly toxins.

Cuttlefish can delay gratification — wait for a better meal rather than be tempted by the one at hand — and those that can wait longest also do better in a learning test, scientists have discovered. This intriguing report marks the first time a link between self-control and intelligence has been found in an animal other than humans and chimpanzees.

Thermo Fisher Scientific announced the launch of two new gas chromatography (GC) high-resolution mass spectrometers (MS): the Orbitrap Exploris GC 240 MS and GC 240 MS.

Chemists from Itmo University have succeeded in creating hollow nanoparticles using liquid metals. The new method will not only make these particles easier to produce, but it will also allow the properties of metal nanocapsules to be modified.

Amyloid plaques are pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) — clumps of misfolded proteins that accumulate in the brain, disrupting and killing neurons and resulting in the progressive cognitive impairment that is characteristic of the widespread neurological disorder. In animal models, a new compound modulated a key enzyme, reducing or eliminating production of these problematic protein fragments.

Several proposals have emerged on how to distribute the Covid-19 vaccine, but they fall short in ensuring that the vaccine is distributed fairly. A team including Binghamton University professor Nicole Hassoun suggests three ways to more fairly and effectively distribute the vaccine so that people in poor countries get the vaccine as soon as possible.

In response to laboratories’ need to minimize in-person contact during the pandemic, Thermo Fisher Scientific now offers its Dionex Easion and Dionex Aquion Ion Chromatography (IC) systems through easy, online ordering.

The new HPPeco constant climate chamber and IPPeco cooled incubator operate with hitherto unrivalled efficiency, claims developer Memmert. In terms of energy consumption they are supposed to be far ahead of both compressor-cooled appliances and appliances with previous Peltier technology.

Swiss company Lonza has announced an expansion to its popular Pyrotec PRO Automated Robotic Solution for endotoxin testing. The new Pyrowave Reader add-on has been designed specifically for use with the sustainable Pyrogene Recombinant Factor C (rFC) Assay.