Science Lab Training Protocols

In any data analytics project, documenting your work will save a lot of headaches in the long run. One of my favorite ways to do that is by using my a well written README file. Think about the README file as a “fools proof” recipe, where anyone can read and understand what your project is about. Here is what you can include: ⭐️ Project Overview: Start with a description of what the project goals are. In here you can put the scope of your analysis. ⭐️ Data Sources: Provide an overview of where the data comes from. This is specially helpful if you have multiple sources of data. ⭐️ Project Structure: Explain the organization of the project’s files and directories. This helps users know where to look for scripts, datasets, and outputs. ⭐️ Assumptions and Limitations: State any assumptions made during the analysis and acknowledge the project’s limitations, such as data quality or model constraints. ⭐️ Version Control: Maintain records of code and dataset versions to track changes and revert if necessary. ⭐️ ETL/Processing Pipelines: Document each step in data extraction, transformation, and loading processes, including the rationale behind any data cleaning, filtering, or transformation decisions. ⭐️ Business Logic: Clarify how the data connects to the business logic. For instance, how missing data is handled or the logic behind specific business rules applied to the data ⭐️ Analysis and Insights Documentation: Be clear about how the analyses was performed, which models were used, and how that relates to the project goals. This helps future users or team members understand how conclusions were reached. A solid documentation takes time. Remember that those tips are good not only for your coworkers, but your future self will also thank you Be curious and keep on nerding 😊

Microtomy Microtomy is a technique used to prepare thin sections of biological tissues for microscopic examination. It involves cutting extremely thin slices of a specimen using a specialized instrument called a microtome. These thin sections, typically ranging from 1 to 10 micrometers in thickness, are essential for studying cellular structures and tissue morphology in histology, pathology, and biological research. The process includes fixation (to preserve tissue structure), embedding (in paraffin or resin for support), sectioning (using a microtome), staining (to enhance contrast), and mounting on slides for observation. Different types of microtomes, such as rotary, cryostat, and ultramicrotomes, are used depending on the specimen and research requirements. Microtomy plays a crucial role in medical diagnostics, forensic investigations, and scientific studies by enabling detailed tissue analysis. #nature #research

RNA extraction, as shown in the image, involves multiple steps to isolate purified RNA from biological samples. The process includes the following key steps: 1. Cell Lysis • Lysis buffer is added to the sample (e.g., 30 mg of liver, gills, brain tissue). • The sample is homogenized and centrifuged to break open cells and release RNA. 2. Centrifugation • The mixture is centrifuged to separate cell debris, forming a pellet at the bottom. • The supernatant containing RNA is carefully transferred to a new tube. 3. Precipitation • 70% ethanol is added to the supernatant to help RNA precipitation. 4. RNA Binding • The solution is transferred to a spin column where RNA binds to the membrane inside. 5. Washing • A washing buffer is added to remove impurities. • The column is centrifuged, and the flow-through is discarded. 6. RNA Elution • RNase-free water is added to the column. • Another centrifugation step helps collect the purified RNA. 7. Final Purified RNA • The purified RNA is collected and ready for downstream applications like PCR, sequencing, and RNA interference studies. This process ensures high-quality RNA for further molecular biology experiments.

Understanding FTIR Spectroscopy and its Applications in Polymer Science 🌟 Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy is a versatile and powerful analytical technique widely used in various scientific fields, especially polymer science. By measuring how molecules absorb infrared radiation, FTIR helps us understand the molecular structure and chemical composition of polymers. Here’s how it works and where it excels: 🔍 How FTIR Works: FTIR measures the absorption of infrared light by different functional groups in a material, providing a molecular "fingerprint" that is unique to each polymer. With the help of a Fourier Transform algorithm, this data is processed to produce a spectrum that helps identify unknown polymers and determine their structural properties. Key Applications of FTIR in Polymer Science: Polymer Identification: FTIR can identify unknown polymer materials by comparing their spectra to reference databases, making it essential for recycling and quality control. Functional Group Characterization: FTIR is highly sensitive to specific functional groups like hydroxyl (-OH), carbonyl (-C=O), and amine (-NH2), helping us understand polymer structures and reactions. Monitoring Polymerization Reactions: Whether it’s addition or condensation polymerization, FTIR tracks chemical reactions in real-time, ensuring optimal production quality. Analyzing Polymer Blends and Composites: FTIR helps reveal how different polymers interact in blends and composites, offering insights into compatibility and filler dispersion. Crystallinity and Morphology Studies: FTIR can quantify the crystalline vs. amorphous regions of polymers, helping to determine properties like mechanical strength and durability. Degradation and Aging Studies: FTIR tracks the chemical changes during polymer degradation (oxidation, UV exposure, etc.), providing valuable information about material longevity. Curing and Crosslinking: It monitors curing processes in thermosetting polymers and elastomers, crucial for industries like automotive and electronics. Surface and Interface Analysis (ATR-FTIR): FTIR-ATR allows for surface-sensitive analysis, making it ideal for coatings, films, and studying modifications on polymer surfaces. 🌟 Why FTIR is Indispensable in Polymer Science: Non-destructive testing Real-time monitoring of processes High sensitivity to chemical changes Quantitative analysis of functional groups From research labs to industrial applications, FTIR spectroscopy provides critical insights that drive innovation in material science and polymer technology. Whether you're looking into polymer identification, degradation studies, or understanding complex polymer blends, FTIR is an essential tool for today’s material scientists. #polymerscience #FTIR #materialscience #analyticaltechniques Image credit:  © Copyright 2025, Master Organic Chemistry.

Plant DNA Extraction (Part 1) 🔬 DNA Extraction Using the CTAB Method DNA extraction is the first and most crucial step in any molecular biology experiment. Among the various protocols available, the CTAB (Cetyltrimethylammonium Bromide) method remains a gold standard for extracting high-quality genomic DNA from plant tissues rich in polysaccharides and secondary metabolites. Here’s a quick breakdown of the standard CTAB protocol I follow in the lab: 🧪 Reagents Required: CTAB buffer (Tris-HCl, EDTA, NaCl, CTAB), Chloroform, Isopropanol, 70% ethanol, Sterile DD water. 🔬 Procedure Highlights: 1. Homogenization: Grind 0.1 g of tissue (preferably with liquid nitrogen) to a fine powder. 2. Lysis: Add 1 mL pre-warmed CTAB buffer and incubate at 65°C for 10 minutes with gentle mixing. 3. Phase Separation: Add chloroform, mix, and centrifuge to separate aqueous DNA-containing phase (A). 4. DNA Precipitation: Add isopropanol to precipitate DNA and incubate. 5. Washing: Use 70% ethanol to purify the DNA pellet (B). 6. Resuspension: Air dry and dissolve the DNA in sterile molecular-grade water. 📌 This method is reliable, cost-effective, and works particularly well for recalcitrant plant species. Feel free to comment if you’ve tried any variations or optimizations for different crop species! Part 2: 10 Things to Keep in Mind During Plant DNA Extraction (Coming soon) #PlantGenetics #MolecularBiology #DNAExtraction #CTAB #LabLife

We recently wrapped up usability testing for a client project. In the fast-paced environment of agency culture, the real challenge isn’t just gathering insights—it’s turning them into actionable outcomes, quickly and efficiently. Here’s how we ensured that no data was lost, priorities were clear, and progress was transparent for all stakeholders: 1️⃣ Organized Documentation: We broke the barriers— and documented on Excel sheet to categorize all observations into usability issues, enhancement ideas, and general comments. Each issue was tagged with severity (critical, high, medium, low) and frequency to highlight trends and prioritize fixes. 2️⃣ Action-Oriented Workflow: For high-severity and high-frequency issues, immediate fixes were planned to minimize potential impact. Ownership was assigned to specific team members, with timelines to ensure quick resolutions, in line with our fast-moving development cycle. 3️⃣ Client Transparency: A summarized report was shared with the client, showing the issues identified, the actions taken, and the progress made. This kept everyone aligned and built confidence in our iterative design process. Previously, I’ve never felt the level of confidence that comes from having such detailed and well-organized documentation. This documentation not only gave us clarity and streamlined our internal processes but also empowered us to communicate progress effectively to the client, reinforcing trust and showcasing the value of our iterative approach. It’s a reminder that thorough documentation isn’t just about organizing data—it’s about enabling smarter, faster decision-making. In agency culture, speed matters—but so does precision. How does your team balance the two during usability testing?

✔ HPLC Technique Explanation HPLC (short for High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) is an analytical technique used for the separation, identification, and quantification of chemical compounds in a mixture. It is a fundamental tool in analytical chemistry and is widely applied in fields such as pharmaceuticals, food, biochemistry, and environmental science. ✔ Principle of HPLC: The technique relies on liquid chromatography, where compounds are separated based on their solubility or interaction between two main phases: Stationary Phase: A solid material or small particles inside the chromatographic column that remain fixed. Mobile Phase: A liquid that flows through the stationary phase, carrying the sample to be analyzed. Working Steps: Sample Preparation: The material to be analyzed is dissolved in a suitable solvent. Injection: The sample is injected into the system through a specific unit. Separation: The mobile phase flows through the column containing the stationary phase. The different components of the sample are separated based on their interactions with the stationary phase. ✔ Detection: The separated components are detected using a suitable detector, such as: UV detector. Conductivity detector. Fluorescence detector. ✔ Analysis: Results are typically displayed as a chromatogram (a graph) where each peak represents a specific compound, with the retention time and signal intensity providing information about the compound. ✔ Advantages of HPLC: High precision in separation and analysis. Capability to analyze complex mixtures. Suitable for small sample quantities. Ideal for analyzing heat-sensitive compounds, such as proteins. ✔ Applications of HPLC: Pharmaceutical Industry: For analyzing active ingredients in drugs. Food Industry: To detect contaminants or food components. Biochemistry: For separating proteins, amino acids, and hormones. Environmental Science: For analyzing pollutants in water or air. ✔ Types of HPLC Columns: Reversed-Phase HPLC Columns: The most commonly used type. Normal-Phase HPLC Columns. Ion-Exchange HPLC Columns. Size Exclusion HPLC Columns. #HPLC #Separation_method #Chemical_analysis #Chemistry

**DEA ANNOUNCES NEW TELEMEDICINE RULES** As a psychiatrist serving rural communities in South Carolina through telemedicine—and as an addiction specialist deeply troubled by “legal drug dealing” conducted since COVID-19 by unethical online pill mills— I’m conflicted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)'s proposed rules that aim to balance accessible care with patient safety. *Note that these rules only apply if a patient has never been seen in-person by the medical provider AND the patient is being prescribed controlled medication. Once a patient has had an in-person visit with a medical provider, the medical provider may prescribe any medications through telemedicine indefinitely. This is great! Here's my interpretation of the proposed rules: 1) BUPRENORPHINE: Patients with opioid use disorder can receive a 6-month supply of buprenorphine through a telemedicine consultation. After that, an in-person visit is required. This means many rural patients may have to travel far distances to get care. 2) SPECIAL TELEMEDICINE REGISTRATIONS: Providers can apply for special registrations to prescribe Schedule III–V controlled meds to patients without an in-person exam. An Advanced Telemedicine Prescribing Registration is available for Schedule II medications when the MD/DO/PA-C/PMHNP-BC is board certified in one of the following specialties: psychiatry; hospice care, long term care, or pediatrics for the prescribing of medications identified as the most addictive and prone to diversion to the illegal drug market. My question - does this exclude primary care, the largest providers of mental health and addiction treatment in the US?? 3) TELEMEDICINE PLATFORMS MUST REGISTER WITH THE DEA: Online platforms that facilitate connections between patients and medical providers that result in medication prescribing will be required to register with DEA. 4) NATIONAL PRESCRIPTION DRUG MONITORING PROGRAM (PDMP): This is awesome and necessary in my opinion. The establishment of a national PDMP will provide a unified way for pharmacists and providers to review a patient’s prescription history, reducing the risk of unsafe or fraudulent prescribing. 5) VETERANS AFFAIRS EXEMPTION: VA docs can continue to extend care through telemedicine for patients who’ve had at least one in-person visit at a VA facility. The proposed new DEA telemedicine rules are not finalized and comments may be submitted by March 18, 2025 at http://www.regulations.gov. Link to the DEA press release: https://lnkd.in/ePRc49rm. Link to the proposed rule: https://lnkd.in/em_KXXSc WHAT DO YOU THINK? #dea #telemedicine #psychiatry #addictiontreatment #ruralcare #pmhnp #aprn #publichealth #Buprenorphine #PatientSafety #AccessToCare #Telehealth #PrescriptionMonitoring #HealthcareReform

6 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗘𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆: 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁, 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀 Want proof that #VR, #MR, and #AI are transforming education and training? Here’s how global organisations are creating measurable impact with extended reality: 1️⃣ 𝗣𝘂𝗿𝗱𝘂𝗲 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗹 (𝗡𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻) ✦ 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲: Addressing nursing shortages and training working adults. ✦ 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: VR training with Meta Quest for clinical and soft skills, in partnership with PCS Spark and Oxford Medical Simulation. ✅ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁: 10–15% increase in national nursing exam pass rates. 4,000+ nurses trained. Marked improvements in student confidence and real-world preparedness. 2️⃣ 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗚𝗹𝗮𝘀𝗴𝗼𝘄 ✦ 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲: Physical constraints in teaching 3D subjects and remote learning accessibility. ✦ 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Mixed reality lab with Meta Quest headsets and 12 custom MR apps, developed with Edify. VR labs created in partnership with leading immersive tech companies, allowing teachers to lead 3D classes remotely. ✅ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁: Thousands of students taught per semester. £3.7M UK government investment. Recognized in The Times Higher Education Awards 2021. Students reported increased confidence and deeper understanding of material, even in remote settings. 3️⃣ 𝗡𝗬𝗨 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗗𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 ✦ 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲: Risky, limited traditional anesthetic training. ✦ 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: VR simulation for oral anesthesia using Meta Quest. ✅ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁: 1,200+ dental students trained. Greater student confidence. VR program licensed to other schools. 4️⃣ 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽 ✦ 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲: Making science practical for online and in-person learners. ✦ 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Mixed reality classes with Meta Quest, immersive views, and AI avatars. ✅ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁: 100% of teachers reported improved student confidence. 85% improvement in content recall. 94% of students learned better in VR. 5️⃣ 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 (𝗧𝗮𝗻 𝗧𝗼𝗰𝗸 𝗦𝗲𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹) ✦ 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲: Training efficiency and safety in healthcare settings. ✦ 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: VR modules for Lean principles with Meta Quest 2. ✅ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁: 100% of participants said VR deepened their understanding. Plans to expand VR training hospital-wide. 6️⃣ 𝗩𝗲𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 ✦ 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲: Scaling auto-mechanic training for formerly incarcerated people. ✦ 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: VR training with Meta Quest 2 and the EMPACT Immersive Training Platform. ✅ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁: Early graduates securing jobs quickly. Reduced recidivism rates. Major potential for broader socio-economic impact. #ExtendedReality #MetaForWork #EdTech #VRTraining #MixedReality #Impact

#LIMS- In a quality control lab within a pharmaceutical company, a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) serves as a vital tool for managing and streamlining various processes. LIMS is a software-based solution designed to efficiently capture, store, manage, and organize data related to laboratory operations. The primary purpose of LIMS in a quality control lab is to enhance the accuracy, reliability, and traceability of analytical data generated during testing. Here's an overview of how LIMS typically works in a pharmaceutical quality control lab: 1. #samplemanagement : LIMS facilitates sample tracking and inventory management from the moment they are received in the lab. It assigns unique identifiers, records sample details, and tracks their movement throughout various testing stages. 2. #TestScheduling & #Distribution: LIMS enables the lab to schedule and distribute tests based on predefined protocols. It ensures efficient resource allocation, prioritization, and timely completion of testing tasks. 3. #WorkflowManagement: LIMS assists in defining and managing the laboratory workflow. It provides a centralized platform to monitor the progress and status of tests, ensuring that each test follows the correct sequence of steps and protocols. 4. #InstrumentIntegration: LIMS integrates with various laboratory instruments and equipment, automating data capture and eliminating the need for manual transcription. This integration ensures real-time data acquisition and reduces the risk of transcription errors. 5. #DataManagement: LIMS serves as a centralized repository for all analytical data generated within the lab. It organizes, stores, and securely manages the vast amount of data, including test results, raw data, instrument logs, and quality control information. 6. #DataAnalysis and Reporting: LIMS offers powerful data analysis and reporting functionalities. It allows for the application of statistical analysis, trending, and data visualization techniques, aiding in quality control decision-making processes. LIMS also generates customizable reports, certificates of analysis, and audit trails for regulatory compliance purposes. 7. #QualityAssurance & #Compliance: LIMS plays a crucial role in ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements and quality standards. It enables traceability, version control of standard operating procedures (SOPs), and enforces data integrity and security measures. 8. #AuditTrail & #ElectronicSignatures: LIMS maintains a comprehensive audit trail, documenting all significant actions and changes made within the system. It supports electronic signatures, providing a secure and compliant platform for data review and approval processes. Overall, LIMS in a pharmaceutical quality control lab acts as a robust information management system, streamlining laboratory operations, improving data integrity, ensuring regulatory compliance, and enhancing overall efficiency and productivity. #qualitycontrol