On the Blog

  1. Essential Tips for Choosing Quality Microcentrifuge Tubes

    Essential Tips for Choosing Quality Microcentrifuge Tubes

    Microcentrifuge Tubes (MCTs) are essential tools used in labs worldwide, playing a critical role in molecular biology, biochemistry, research, and clinical applications. However, not all MCTs are created equal, and selecting the right ones can make a significant difference in experimental outcomes. In this guide, we'll explore the essential factors to consider when choosing MCTs – and give you some tips on how to spot low-quality options.

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  2. Compatibility Myths: Debunking Four Common Misconceptions About Consumables in Laboratory Research

    Compatibility Myths: Debunking Four Common Misconceptions About Consumables in Laboratory Research

    As researchers work to advance our collective knowledge, they rely on various lab equipment and consumables to ensure the accuracy of their experiments and analyses. Yet, within this landscape, common misunderstandings about the compatibility of lab supplies persist. In this article, we debunk four common misconceptions surrounding the use of non-OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) consumables in the life science industry.

    For this article, we define Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) as the companies responsible for producing and supplying equipment (pipettes, thermal cyclers, plate readers, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, etc.) under their branding. OEM consumables refer to products produced by the same company that manufactures the associated equipment.

    1. Quality Assurance:

    Myth: Some researchers are brought to believe that the

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  3. Exploring the Future of Cell Culture with 3D, Lab-on-a-Chip, and Organ-on-a-Chip Technologies

    Exploring the Future of Cell Culture with 3D, Lab-on-a-Chip, and Organ-on-a-Chip Technologies

    The field of cell culture has undergone remarkable advancements in recent years, revolutionizing the way scientists study and understand cellular behaviour. This article explores the key concepts and advancements in 3D cell culture, Lab-on-a-Chip, and Organ-on-a-Chip technologies.

    What is 3D Cell Culture, and why is it different from 2D?

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  4. Tips for Setting up a New Lab: Key Considerations for Equipment and Supplies

    Tips for Setting up a New Lab: Key Considerations for Equipment and Supplies

    Starting a new lab can be exciting and challenging, especially when organizing the equipment and supplies necessary for your research. This article explores tips to help you streamline the setup process and create a strong foundation for productive research. However, it is essential to remember that each lab is unique, therefore adapt these general tips to suit your specific needs and research objectives.

    1. Assess your research requirements and create a comprehensive inventory roadmap:

    • Understand the nature of your experiments, the techniques you will be using, and the scale of your work. Then, create a detailed inventory list of the necessary equipment and supplies. 
    • Categorize your list into more manageable sections (ex: equipment, reusable items, and consumables). Noting like the items' urgency, importance and budget
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  5. Celebrating Interdisciplinary Research: 5 Collaborations That Prove We Go Farther Together

    Celebrating Interdisciplinary Research: 5 Collaborations That Prove We Go Farther Together

    Interdisciplinary collaboration has become a driving force in scientific research, allowing experts from diverse fields to join forces and tackle complex problems. By integrating knowledge, methodologies, and perspectives, interdisciplinary collaborations generate innovative solutions beyond individual fields' limitations. 

    In this article, we celebrate five examples of interdisciplinary research that prove "we go farther together." These collaborations have made significant breakthroughs in brain-computer interfaces, climate research, space science, genomic research, and cancer research, offering promising pathways to a brighter future.

    1.    Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs): 

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  6. Selecting the Perfect Pipette Tip: Purity Requirements, Low Retention, Aerosol Barrier Filters, Universal Fit and Packaging Considerations

    Selecting the Perfect Pipette Tip: Purity Requirements, Low Retention, Aerosol Barrier Filters, Universal Fit and Packaging Considerations

    Selecting the right pipette tips can be crucial for achieving accurate and efficient laboratory work. In this blog, we will delve into some of the most critical characteristics of pipette tips, including sterile and non-sterile options, low retention properties, aerosol barrier filters, universal fit tips and the advantages of different packaging formats.

    1. What are the most important factors when choosing sterile vs. non-sterile pipette tips?

    Choosing between sterile and non-sterile pipette tips depends on the specific requirements of your application and the level of contamination control needed. It is, however, essential to remember that not all sterile tips are created equal.

    · Quality control:

    Tip manufacturers regularly check the quality of their products and validate their sterilization procedures.

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  7. Upgrading Your Lab: The Benefits of Investing in Benchtop Equipment

    Upgrading Your Lab: The Benefits of Investing in Benchtop Equipment

    While upgrading your equipment may seem like a significant expense, using old equipment may cost you in more ways than one. This article will explore the benefits of updating your lab's benchtop equipment.

    1- Reduced maintenance costs:  

    • Investing in new equipment, which is often more durable and reliable, can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for maintenance and repairs on old or low-quality equipment, which will eventually need to be replaced. Frequent breakdowns can also result in lost productivity, impacting your bottom line.
    • New equipment is often designed to be maintenance-free or sold with a warranty, which can eliminate unexpected expenses related to the operation of your tool.
    • Newer equipment may also be more energy-efficient, which can help reduce your overall operating costs.

    2- Time-saving and increased efficiency: 

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  8. Maximize Your Lab’s Potential With Proper Storage of Laboratory Supplies

    Maximize Your Lab’s Potential With Proper Storage of Laboratory Supplies

    Have you ever had to deal with expired or contaminated laboratory supplies? If so, you know how frustrating it can be to repeat an experiment or waste time and money replacing your supplies. The solution is simple: proper storage. This article explores the importance of adequately storing laboratory supplies and offers tips for adequate storage and handling.

    Why proper storage is so important:

    1- Protect the integrity of your results:

    When it comes to laboratory supplies, the key to achieving accurate results is not just in the quality of the supplies themselves but also in how they are stored. Incorrectly stored supplies can become contaminated due to exposure to dust, moisture, heat, and other environmental factors. Using contaminated supplies can produce inaccurate results or compromise the integrity of numerous samples and instruments.

    2- Improve the s

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  9. Science in the Digital Spotlight: The Impact of Social Media on Scientific Progress

    Science in the Digital Spotlight: The Impact of Social Media on Scientific Progress

    The age of social media has brought about a new era in scientific communication and collaboration. Academics are increasingly turning to platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn to share their work with others, connect with colleagues, and engage with a broader audience. In this blog post, we'll explore the impact of social media on scientific progress and provide insights on how to make the most of this powerful tool.

    Benefits 

    Social media offers a unique opportunity to source data, advertise for research participants, and present new information. And with web-based broadcasting becoming the standard means of educating the public, researchers can expand their work's readership (and impact) far beyond what was previously possible. Expansion of communication and knowledge about scientific issues can also increase pressure on government bodies to prioritize matters of importance,

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  10. How To: Select a PCR Plate for Your Thermal Cycler

    How To: Select a PCR Plate for Your Thermal Cycler

    PCR technology is one of the most prevalent yet powerful molecular biological tools at our disposal. Despite our familiarity with the technology, selecting the right consumables for PCR analysis can remain a challenge. We are going to break down the different attributes to help you identify the best PCR/qPCR plastics for optimal performance.

    While we provide some selection tips in this article, it’s important to remember that the plate you select ultimately needs to be compatible with your thermal cycler or sequencer. Compatibility with your equipment is the most important consideration when selecting a plate. 

    1-     Size

    Well Count: PCR plates are available in a range of formats, at Ultident, we sell plates with 24, 48, 96 and 384 wells, however 96 and 384-well plates are the most used in Canada. We also carry perforated plates that can be easily divisible into strips of 8. Regardless o

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