Any system that makes the delivery of vaccines easier is a boon to world health. [ + ]

A new mass spectrometer developed by Utretch University’s Heck Lab and Thermo Fisher is offering new insight into molecularly complex biomolecules. [ + ]

Composition-gradient static light scattering can be used to determine the binding affinity and stoichiometry of reversible protein complexes, without tagging, immobilisation or other modifications. The method can distinguish and quantify multiple simultaneous stoichiometries. [ + ]

In the 1950s and 60s, the CIA was covertly administering LSD to US citizens as it attempted to develop mind control technologies. One family is now alleging murder. [ + ]

The new Zetasizer Nano ZSP is designed for the measurement of size, mobility of proteins, zeta potential of nanoparticles and surfaces and microrheology of protein or polymer solutions.

By studying the exact synaptic conditions required in memory formation, researchers hope to develop models which will aid in the construction of artificial cognitive computers in the future. [ + ]

Sticky tape, that versatile household staple and a mainstay of gift wrapping, may have a new scientific application as a shape-changing ‘smart material’. [ + ]

Mass spectrometry has become a key tool for the analysis of biomolecules in applications that range from discovery of biomarkers to the analysis of drug metabolites. While many of the analytical benchmarks of the mass spectrometer - limit of quantitation or LOQ, signal-to-noise or S/N, dynamic range, mass resolution - are important for these applications, the absolute sensitivity is a key factor that drives these characteristics. [ + ]

Professor Brendan Crabb, incoming President of AAMRI, outlines the priorities he sees for health and medical research in Australia at a time of budget cuts and systemic challenges. [ + ]

Two Northwestern University researchers have discovered a remarkably easy way to make nanofluidic devices: using paper and scissors. And they can cut a device into any shape and size they want, adding to the method’s versatility. [ + ]

Exploring the evolutionary tree of life is now as easy as navigating an online map, thanks to a new interactive website which does away with giant pieces of paper and confusion. [ + ]

An automated segmented flow analyser, the AA3 from Seal Analytical, is being used at BASF’s manufacturing facility at Ludwigshafen in Germany to protect manufacturing equipment from corrosion or chemical attack from potential impurities in demineralised water, boiler feed water and steam condensate. [ + ]

Researchers at the University of Bonn have investigated a link between testosterone and self-serving lying. Surprisingly, the study revealed that a subject’s level of testosterone seems to be linked to his level of honesty. [ + ]

The history of our solar system is being uncovered using Australia’s only nuclear reactor. The Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) has partnered with Germany’s prestigious Max Planck Institute for Chemistry (MPIC) in order to analyse chondrules - multibillion-year-old particles from outer space. [ + ]

The latest in super-resolution microscope technology has allowed Australian researchers to rewrite the book on the process of bacterial cell division, potentially opening the door to new kinds of antibiotics. [ + ]