Research Update: Analysis Shows the Power of Metagenomic Approaches
Today’s powerful sequencing machines can rapidly read the genomes of entire communities of microbes, but the challenge is to extract meaningful information from the jumbled reams of data. In a paper appearing in Nature Biotechnology, a collaboration headed by researchers at the University of Washington and the Joint Genome Institute describes a novel approach for extracting single genomes and discerning specific microbial capabilities from mixed community (“metagenomic”) sequence data. More>
DOE Update: Agency to Pursue Zero-Net Energy Commercial Buildings
The Department of Energy (DOE) recently announced the launch of its Zero-Net Energy Commercial Building Initiative with establishment of the National Laboratory Collaborative on Building Technologies Collaborative. These two efforts both focus on DOE’s ongoing efforts to develop buildings that use cutting-edge efficiency technologies and on-site renewable energy generation to offset their energy use from the electricity grid by 2025. Berkeley Lab is among the participants in the initiative. More>
Employee Activity: Lab’s Tennis Club Sponsors Tournament
Staff who enjoy playing tennis are invited to participate in the Lab Tennis Club’s eighth annual tournament next Tuesday and Wednesday (Aug. 26-27) from 5 to 8 p.m. Competition will take place on the campus’s Channing Courts, at the intersection of Channing and Ellsworth. Lab guests and contractors, as well as employee friends and families, are invited to participate. To register, send e-mail with your name, phone number, and playing level by Monday at 5 p.m.
Philanthropy Club: Chemo Caps Aid Cancer Victims, Build Community
The Lab’s Chemo Cap Project brings together staff who knit hats for cancer patients who have lost their hair as part of treatment of the disease. The project, part of the Philanthropy Club, not only comforts patients, but has also helped employees learn new skills and meet others at the Lab. The project meets today at noon in the cafeteria lower level. More>
Special Event: Stress-Reduction Class Held Onsite on Aug. 26
The Lab’s Health Care Facilitator is hosting a wellness brown-bag meeting entitled “Stress: How to Relax and Reduce.” The event takes place Tuesday, Aug. 26 from noon to 1 p.m. in Perseverance Hall. Participants will learn to identify stressors, understand the effects of stress on health, and choose positive coping strategies, among other topics. Guest speaker is Jennifer Slovis, M.D., a physician from Kaiser Permanente East Bay Medical Center and professor at UCSF Department of Family & Community Medicine.
Purchasing: Use eBuy to Procure Dell Computers, Vacuum Components
The entire Dell catalog (except for software) can now be purchased directly through the Anacapa Micro Products eBuy site. When using ebuy, your order is submitted directly to Anacapa and Dell within minutes after departmental approval. Also, users of high and ultra-high vacuum components are reminded that Nor-Cal products are available on eBuy. Included are flanges, valves, fittings, and custom items. For more information, call Theresa Hatch (x4513).